Absorbent article having finger tabs and methods of manufacturing same.

(54) Title: ABSORBING ARTICLE THAT HAS TABS FOR FINGERS AND METHODS TO MANUFACTURE THEM.

(54) Title: ABSORBENT ARTICLE HAVING FINGER TABS AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURING SAME.

(57) Summary

One method of making an absorbent article includes transporting a first weft of material in a machine direction, transporting a second weft of material in the machine direction, the second weft separating from the first weft by a gap, coupling a absorbent assembly to the first frame and the second frame so that the absorbent assembly encompasses the space between the first and second frames, form a partial cut line through the second frame, folding the first frame in a face-to-face relationship with the second frame after forming the partial cut line, and cutting the first and second frames after folding the first frame in a face-to-face relationship with the second frame to separate the article absorbent of the first and second frames. The partial cut line defines at least one finger tab on the absorbent article.

(57) Abstract

A method of manufacturing an absorbent article includes feeding a first web of material in a machine direction, feeding a second web of material in the machine direction, the second web being spaced from the first web by a gap, attaching an absorbent assembly to the first web and the second web such that the absorbent assembly spans the gap between the first and second webs, forming a partial cut Une through the second web, folding the first web into face-to-face relationship with the second web after forming the partial cut Une, and cutting the first and second webs after folding the first web into face-to-face relationship with the second web to separate the absorbent article from the first and second webs. The partial cut line defines at least one finger tab on the absorbent article.

PATENT TITLE No. 360520

Headlines):

Home:

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KIMBERLY-CLARK WORLDWIDE, INC.

2300 Winchester Road, Neenah, Wisconsin, 54956, USA

<td>Denomination:</td><td>ABSORBENT ITEM THAT HAS TABS FOR FINGERS AND METHODS TO MANUFACTURE THEM.</td>

Classification:

Inventor (s):

A61F13 / ^ 5; A61F13 / 494 A01 R.13 / 60

A61FÍ3 / 66 $ A61 ή 3/155 ^ 5f Áé1 F, 1 | Z1 / 6Q0; A61F13 / 15739

JUSTIN M.4 / IUÉLLER; BLAKE WILLIA¿l'J. SlEYER; BRIAN K. RHODES;

SARAH KLEUSKENS ' ^?

CIP:

CPC:

Number:

MX / a / 2017/006064

Validity: Twenty years

Date of Vf | k0 | miegtd: 26 &lt;..

ExMI Date &lt;^ tion: ^ eSi ^ lembre

The patent of refererMtteegattrga with furAmei ^ to in the Pursuant to áttoekhb 0 la Leyóla Prtff from the date of preserM ^ n «t» la solioH | i &lt;lantern Who subscribes the present title. (Official Gazette of the Federation 01/25/2006, 06/06/2009, 06/01/201 and 12th sections I and III of the Regulations. 07/28/2004 and 09/07/2007); articles 1, 3, ”4»&gt; 9Ί. Industnal Property (DOF 12/27/1999, powers in the Adju General Directors, Departmental Coordinators and other subordinates (07/29/2004, 08/04/2004 and 09/13/2007).

ntertia ^ ionali

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ables, counted at validity

Industrial.

^ a * Uy of Industrial Property 1999, 01/26/2004, 06/16/2005, os 1 °, 3^or fraction V subsection a), 4 of 07/01/2002, 07/15/2004, of the Instituto Mexicano de la, 3 ° y 5^or subsection a) of the Agreement that delegates Regional, Divisional Deputy Directors,. (DOF 12/15/1999, amended on 02/04/2000,

This letter is signed with an advanced electronic signature (FIEL), based on articles 7 BIS 2 of the Industrial Property Law; 3 of its Regulations, and 1 fraction III, 2 fraction V, 26 BIS and 26 TER of the Agreement establishing the guidelines for the use of the Electronic Payment and Services Portal (PASE) of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property, in the procedures indicated.

THE DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OF PATENTS

NAHANNY CANAL REYES

<img file="MX360520B_D0003.tif" />

Original string:

NAHANNY MARISOL CANAL REYES | 00001000000403252793 | Administration Service

Tax | 1695 || MX / 2019/6698 | MX / a / 2017/006064 | PCT patent title | 1220 | RRGO | Page (s) | DrxVI / U / DDmE1TSIdOEQhMgYg1c =

Digital stamp:

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<img file="MX360520B_D0004.tif" />

Arenal No. 550. Floor 1, Pueblo Santa María Tepepan, Xochiniilco, 16020.

Mexico City.

(55) 53340700 www.gob.mx/impí

MX / 2019/6698 i

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ARTICLE

ABSORBENT THAT HAS TABS FOR FINGERS

METHODS TO MANUFACTURE THEM

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The field of description generally refers to absorbent articles intended for personal use, and more specifically to absorbent articles having finger tabs and methods of making such articles.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Absorbent articles, such as diapers, incontinence garments, training pants, and the like are well known in the art. These disposable items are capable of absorbing and retaining fluids and other bodily secretions. Some absorbent items are designed to look and feel like conventional underpants for a variety of reasons, such as to promote a greater sense of normality (in the case of incontinence garments) or to encourage a child who is in the process of learning to use the toilet.

Some absorbent items, such as incontinence garments and toilet training pants, come preassembled in a use configuration to more closely resemble conventional briefs. Particularly, the front and rear regions of the REF: 276642

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MWICANO INSTITUTE

Dt LA MOPISDAD

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Such waist training pants are typically attached at a seam (either permanently or resuspendable) to define a wear configuration of the pants that has a waist opening and leg openings. Such seams can be configured for selective manual separation to allow a donned absorbent article to be removed without having to remove clothing or shoes from the wearer.

Some users may find the joint difficult to open because the joint is designed to resist the stresses placed on the joint by movement of the wearer without the need for it to be unintentionally opened (i.e. seam separation). Accordingly, some absorbent articles include a finger tab to assist users in opening the joint.

In some absorbent articles, the finger tabs are formed separately from and attached to the article during the manufacturing process. The manufacture of such articles, however, requires additional complicated processing steps (eg, forming the finger tabs, registering the finger tabs with a weft or movable article, and attaching the finger tabs to the weft. or mobile item) compared to items without finger tabs. As a result, certain absorbent articles, such as articles manufactured in a cross-machine direction (i.e., processes in which the direction i

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longitudinal of the article is oriented. perpendicular to the transport direction of the process), they lack satisfactory means of separating the seams of the article.

Therefore, there is a need for an absorbent article that has finger tabs that facilitate seam separation from the article. Furthermore, there is a need for a simplified process to manufacture such articles that do not require complicated processing steps.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In one aspect, a method of making an absorbent article is provided. The method includes transporting a first weft of material in one machine direction, transporting a second weft of material in the machine direction, the second weft separating from the first weft by a gap, attaching an absorbent assembly to the first weft and second weft so that the absorbent assembly spans the space between the first and second wefts, form a partial cut line through the second weft, folding the first frame in a face-to-face relationship with the second frame after forming the partial cut line, and cutting the first and second frames after folding the first frame in a face-to-face relationship with the second frame to separate the article absorbent of the first and second frames. The partial cut line defines at least one finger tab on the absorbent article.

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BELAHROFUBA ·

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In another aspect, a „ma.tx&gt; do - is provided to f atei-oar an absorbent article. The method includes transporting a first weft of material in one machine direction, transporting a second weft of material in the machine direction, the second weft separating from the first weft by a gap, attaching an absorbent assembly to the first frame and second frame so that the absorbent assembly spans the space between the first and second frames, folding the first frame into a face-to-face relationship with the second frame, and cutting the first and second wefts while the first and second wefts are in a face-to-face relationship to separate the absorbent article from the first and second wefts, where the cutting of the first and second wefts form finger tabs on the absorbent article.

In yet another aspect, a method of making an absorbent article is provided. The method includes transporting a first weft of material in one machine direction, transporting a second weft of material in the machine direction, the second weft separating from the first weft by a gap, attaching an absorbent assembly to the first frame and second frame so that the absorbent assembly spans the space between the first and second frames, folding the first frame into a face-to-face relationship with the second frame, and forming a wavy cut line through at least one of the first weft and the second weft to form a tab for the

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INTHTUT · MBMCANO M LA mvurnuAi

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integral fingers on the absorbent article.

In yet another aspect, an absorbent article is provided. The absorbent article defines a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction. The absorbent article includes a front panel, a rear panel, a longitudinally extending absorbent assembly interconnecting the front panel and the rear panel, and a gripping element. The front panel defines a front waist edge and the first and second front side edges separated in the transverse direction. The back panel defines a trailing waist edge spaced from the first waist trailing edge in the longitudinal direction, and the first and second lateral trailing edges spaced in the transverse direction. The front panel is connected to the rear panel by a pair of side seams when the absorbent article is in a configuration of use to define a waist opening and a pair of leg openings. Each side seam runs between one of the leg openings and the waist opening. The grip element includes a pair of finger tabs integrally formed with one of the front panel and the rear panel. The pair of finger tabs includes a first finger tab extending transversely out from the front panel or

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INSTITUTO M1XICANO D £ LA INDUSTRIALITY

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rear panel along the first side edge of the corresponding front panel or rear panel, and a second finger tab extending transversely out of the front panel or rear panel along the second side edge of the corresponding front panel or rear panel .

In yet another aspect, a method of making an absorbent article is provided. The method includes transporting a weft of material in a machine direction, the weft defining a first portion, and a second portion separated from the first portion in a machine transverse direction, coupling an absorbent assembly to the weft such that the Absorbent assembly is oriented in the transverse direction to the machine, forming a partial cut line through the first portion of the weft, fold the first portion of the weft in face-to-face relationship with the second portion of the weft after forming the partial cut line, and cut the weft after folding the first portion in face-to-face relationship with the second portion to separating the absorbent article from the weft, the partial cut line defining at least one finger tab on the absorbent article.

In yet another aspect, an absorbent article is provided. The absorbent article defines a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction. Article

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IMPI

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absorbent includes a frame, an ebsUlbénue set, and a grip element. The frame includes a front portion, a rear portion, and a portion of the crotch that extends between and interconnects the front portion and the rear portion. The front portion defines the first and second spaced lateral front edges in the transverse direction, and the rear portion defines the first and second spaced lateral side edges in the transverse direction. The front portion is connected to the rear portion by a pair of side seams when the absorbent article is in a configuration of use to define a waist opening and a pair of leg openings. Each side seam runs between one of the leg openings and the waist opening. The absorbent assembly is attached to the frame along at least the crotch portion. The grip element includes a pair of finger tabs integrally formed with one of the front portion and the rear portion of the frame. The pair of finger tabs includes a first finger tab extending transversely out of the front or rear portion along the first side edge of the corresponding front or rear portion, and a second finger tab. extending transversely out of the front portion or rear portion along the second lateral edge of the

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INSTITUTO MBXICANO DC LA PtOPIIDAfr INDUSTtlAL front portion or posterior portion rnrrRspnndípTitp

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Figure 1 is a top plan view of a suitable embodiment of an absorbent article in accordance with the present disclosure in the form of a diaper type brief, the diaper type underwear is illustrated in a flat and open condition to show an interior surface of the Diaper-type underpants that face the wearer when wearing the diaper-type underpants.

Figure 2 is a front view of the diaper type underpants in a use configuration.

Figure 3 is a front view of the diaper-type underpants of Figure 2 having finger tabs on a front panel and a rear panel of the diaper-type underpants.

Figure 4 is a front view of the diaper-type underpants of Figure 3 having non-attachable side seams.

Figure 5 is a schematic illustrating a suitable method of manufacturing the diaper-type underpants of Figures 1 and 2.

Figure 6 is a schematic illustrating a suitable method of manufacturing the diaper-type underpants of Figure 3.

Figure 7 is a schematic illustrating a suitable method of manufacturing the diaper-type underpants of Figure 4.

Figure 8 is a top plan view of another suitable embodiment of an absorbent article according to the present disclosure in the form of a diaper-type brief, the

IMPI

MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL MONEDAD

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Diaper type underpants are illustrated in a flat, open condition to show an inner surface of the diaper type that faces the wearer when the diaper type is worn.

Figure 9 is a front view of the diaper type underpants in a use configuration.

Figure 10 is a schematic illustrating a suitable method of manufacturing the diaper-type underpants of Figures 9 and 10.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring now to the Figures, Figures 1 and 2 illustrate a suitable embodiment of an absorbent article of the present disclosure in the form of a diaper-type brief, generally indicated at 10. Although the present disclosure will be made in the context of the diaper-type underpants 10, it should be understood that aspects of the present disclosure may apply to other absorbent articles, such as, for example, restrainable diapers, adult incontinence garments, training underpants. for children, bathing trunks, feminine care items and the like.

In a suitable embodiment, the diaper brief 10 is a disposable absorbent article. As used herein, the term "disposable absorbent article" refers to articles that absorb and contain body exudates and are intended to be disposed of after a limited period of use. Items are not intended for

<img file="MX360520B_D0015.tif" />

wash or otherwise recover for reuse. The articles can be placed against or in proximity to the body of a wearer to absorb and contain various exudates excreted from the body. It is understood that in other suitable embodiments, the diaper type underpants 10 (or more broadly, the absorbent article) can be reused. That is, the absorbent article can be intended for multiple uses without departing from certain aspects of this description.

Figure 1 illustrates the diaper type underpants 10 in a flat and open condition to show an inner surface of the diaper that faces the wearer when the diaper is worn. As seen therein, the diaper type underpants 10 have a longitudinal direction 30 and a transverse or lateral direction 32. In the longitudinal direction 30, the diaper-like underpants 10 define a front region 12, a rear region 14, and a crotch region 16 that extends between and connects the front region 12 and the rear region 14. The front region 12 of the diaper-type underpants 10 is intended to be located generally at the front of a wearer during use; the posterior region 14 is intended to be located generally at the rear of the wearer during use; and the crotch region 16 is intended to be located generally between the wearer's legs during use.

In the front region 12, the diaper type 10 has

IMPI

MEXICAN INSTITUTE Dt LA INDUSTRIAL FROMRDAD

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a front edge of the waist 18 and the first and second transversely opposite lateral front edges 20, 22. A posterior edge of the waist 24 and the first and second transversely opposite lateral rear edges 26, 28 are located in the posterior region 14 of the underpants diaper type 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the leading edge of waist 18 and the trailing edge of waist 24 are straight edges. That is, the leading edge of waist 18 and the trailing edge of waist 24 are substantially free of bends, bends, angles, notches, or irregularities. It is understood, however, that the leading edge of the waist 18 and / or the trailing edge of the waist 24 can be cut in any suitable way as is known in the art (eg, arched).

In the illustrated embodiment, the diaper brief 10 includes a central absorbent assembly, generally indicated at 34, that extends longitudinally from the front region 12 through the crotch region 16 to the rear region 14. The central absorbent assembly 34, in the illustrated embodiment, comprises an outer shell 42 and a body-facing shell 44 connected to the outer shell 42 in a relationship superimposed by suitable means such as adhesives, ultrasonic joints, thermal bonds, pressure bonds , and their combinations. An absorbent structure 46 is disposed between the outer shell 42 and the body-facing shell 44.

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A portion of the liner facing the body 44 is shown cut in Figure 1 to expose the underlying absorbent structure 46 and the outer liner 42. In a suitable embodiment, the edges of the body facing liner 44 are wrapped around and secured to a lower portion of the absorbent structure 46, and the edges of the outer shell 42 are wrapped around the edges of the body facing liner 44 and the absorbent structure 46, and are secured to an upper part of the absorbent structure 46. The absorbent structure 46 can also be wrapped or surrounded by a suitable core wrap (not shown) that helps maintain the integrity and shape of the absorbent structure.

<td>In</td><td>a</td><td colspan="2">proper modality,</td><td>the regions</td><td>front and</td>

<td>later</td><td> 12,</td><td>14 of</td><td>type pants</td><td>diaper 10 se</td><td>build to</td>

<td>from</td><td>the</td><td>panels</td><td>front and</td><td colspan="2">posterior separated 36, 38,</td>

respectively, which are interconnected by the absorbent assembly 34. That is, the front region 12 is formed from the front panel 36 and the rear region 14 is formed from the separate rear panel 38. In other suitable embodiments, the front and rear regions 12, 14 of the diaper-type underpants 10 can be constructed from a single continuous sheet of material, such as a liquid-impervious material, having cuts formed therein to define the openings. of the legs (see, for example, Figures 8

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INSTITUTO MEXICANO StAHIOmOAD INDUSTRIAL

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and 9). ...

In the illustrated embodiment, each panel 36, 38 is attached to the outer covering 42 of the absorbent assembly 34 by suitable means such as adhesives, ultrasonic bonds, thermal bonds, pressure bonds, and combinations thereof. In other suitable embodiments, panels 36, 38 can be attached to other portions of central absorbent assembly 34, such as body-facing liner 44. As seen in Figure 1, the front panel 36 separates from the rear panel 38 to define a space 52. The absorbent assembly 34 spans the space 52 and connects the front panel 36 to the rear panel 38.

The diaper type underpants 10 illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 also includes a fastening system 60 to facilitate the securing and removal of the diaper type underpants 10 around the waist of the wearer. In the illustrated embodiment, the fastening system 60 includes a pair of first fastening assemblies 62 arranged on the rear panel 38 and a pair of second fastening assemblies 64 arranged on the front panel 36. Each first fastening assembly 62 is configured to mate so as to coincide with one of the second fastening assemblies 64 to re-securely secure the diaper type 10 in the use configuration (shown in Figure 2). In other suitable embodiments, the diaper may include only a first pair of sets

IMPI MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY

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fasteners 62 disposed on one of the front panel 35 ..-. and rear panel 38, and configured to mate so as to match each other of the front panel 36 and the rear panel 38. In some embodiments, the diaper type 10 may be manufactured in a previously fastened configuration by coupling the first fastener assemblies 62 to the second fastener assemblies 64 during the manufacturing process.

As seen in Figure 2, the front region 12 of the diaper-style underpants 10 is joined to the rear region 14 by a pair of restrainable seams 40 to define a configuration similar to a diaper-style underpants of the diaper-type underpants 10 having an opening of the waist, indicated at 48, and two leg openings, indicated at 50. More specifically, the front panel 36 and the rear panel 38 are releasably attached to each other by the fastening system 60. In other suitable embodiments, the front region 12 of the diaper-type underpants 10 can be joined to the rear region 14 by a pair of non-attachable side seams (see, eg, Figure 4).

With the diaper-style underpants 10 in the undergarment-like configuration (or in use) illustrated in Figure 2, the front region 12 comprises the portion of the diaper-like underpants 10 that, when worn, is positioned at least at part at the front of the wearer while the posterior region

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it comprises the portion of the diaper-type underpants 10 that is positioned at least in part at the rear of the wearer. The crotch region 16 of the diaper-type underpants 10 comprises the portion of the diaper-like underpants 10 that is positioned between the wearer's legs and covers the wearer's lower torso.

As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the diaper brief 10 also includes a seam gripping or detachment element shown in the form of a pair of integrally formed finger tabs 66. The finger tabs 66 facilitate the removal of the diaper-type underpants 10 by facilitating manual separation of the seams 40. In particular, the finger tabs 66 provide the wearer with a tab that allows the wearer to easily apply a peel or tear force to the seams 40 of the diaper type underpants 10. As described in more detail in the present disclosure, the method of manufacturing the diaper-type underpants 10 facilitates integrally forming the finger tabs 66 with one or both of the front panel 36 and the rear panel 38, reducing the number of steps and complexity of the manufacturing process compared to the processes used to manufacture diaper-type underpants having finger or grip tabs formed separately from and attached to the diaper-type underpants.

Still referring to Figures 1 and 2, the assembly

IMPI

MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY

<img file="MX360520B_D0021.tif" />

central absorbent 34 is configured to contain and / or absorb segregated exudates from the wearer. The outer covering 42 suitably comprises a material that is substantially impermeable to liquids. The outer covering 42 may be a single layer of liquid impervious material, but more suitably comprises a multilayer laminated structure in which at least one of the layers is liquid impervious.

The inner layer of the outer covering 42 can be both liquid and vapor impermeable, or it can be liquid impervious and vapor permeable. The inner layer can be made from a thin plastic film, although other flexible liquid impervious materials can also be used. The inner layer, or the liquid-impermeable outer coating 42 when single-layer, prevents waste materials from wetting articles, such as sheets and clothing, as well as the wearer and caregiver.

If the outer covering 42 is a single layer, it may be embossed and / or matted to provide a more cloth-like appearance. As mentioned above, the liquid impervious material can allow vapors to escape from the interior of the disposable absorbent article, as it prevents liquids from passing through the outer covering 42. A material s

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INSTITUTO MRXK-ANC Dtu MONEDAD industrial

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Suitable breathable is made up of a microporous polymer film or a non-woven fabric that has been coated or otherwise treated to impart a desired level of liquid impermeability.

The liquid-permeable body-facing liner 44 is illustrated as covering the outer shell 42 and the absorbent structure 46, and may, but need not, have the same dimensions as the outer shell 42. The body-facing shell 44 is suitably compatible, soft to the touch and non-irritating to the wearer's skin. Body-facing liner 44 is furthermore sufficiently liquid permeable to allow liquid body exudates to easily penetrate through its thickness into absorbent structure 46. Furthermore, body-facing liner 44 may be less hydrophilic than structure absorbent 46 to present a relatively dry surface to the wearer and to allow the liquid to easily penetrate through its thickness. The hydrophilic / hydrophobic properties can vary across the length, width and / or depth of the body facing liner 44 and the absorbent structure 46 to achieve the desired moisture sensation or leakage behavior.

Body facing liner 44 can be manufactured from a wide selection of materials from

IMPI

INSTI '¹*¹ MEXICAN

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wefts, such as porous foams, rutilated ujn.j.ibimaü, perforated plastic films, woven and non-woven wefts, or a combination of any such material. For example, the body facing liner 44 may comprise a blown fused weft, a spun bonded weft, or a heat bonded carded weft comprised of natural fibers, synthetic fibers, or combinations thereof. Body-facing coating 44 can be composed of a substantially hydrophobic material, and the hydrophobic material can optionally be treated with a surfactant or otherwise processed to impart a desired level of wettability and hydrophilicity to it. The surfactant can be applied by any conventional means, such as spraying, printing, brushing, or the like. The surfactant can be applied to the entire body-facing coating 44 or can be selectively applied to particular sections of the body-facing coating 44, such as the intermediate section along the longitudinal centerline.

The absorbent structure is suitably compressible, adaptable, non-irritating to the wearer's skin, and capable of absorbing and retaining fluids and certain bodily wastes. For example, the absorbent structure 46 may comprise cellulosic fibers (eg, wood pulp fibers), other natural fibers, synthetic fibers, sheets

IMPI MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL MtOHEDAD

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woven or non-woven, gauze meshes or other stabilizing structures, superabsorbent material, binder materials, surfactants, selected hydrophobic materials, pigments, lotions, odor control agents or the like, as well as combinations thereof.

Materials can be formed into a weave structure by employing various conventional methods and techniques. For example, the absorbent structure 46 can be formed with a dry forming technique, an air forming technique, a wet forming technique, a foam forming technique, or the like, as well as combinations thereof. Furthermore, the absorbent structure 46 can itself encompass multiple layers in a Z direction (eg, thickness) of the absorbent structure 46. Such multiple layers can take advantage of differences in absorbent capacity, such as by placing one layer of lower absorbent material closer to the body facing liner 44 and higher absorbent material closer to the outer liner

42. Similarly, discrete portions of a single-layer absorbent structure can encompass absorbents of higher capacity, and other discrete portions of the structure can encompass absorbents of lower capacity.

In a suitable embodiment, the superabsorbent material is present in the absorbent structure 46 in an amount

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from about 0 to about LOO.

based on the total weight of the absorbent structure 46. The absorbent structure 46 can suitably have a density within the range of about 0.10 to about 0.60 grams per cubic centimeter. Super absorbent materials are well known in the art and can be selected from natural, synthetic, and modified natural materials and polymers. The superabsorbent materials can be inorganic materials, such as silica gels, or organic compounds, such as crosslinked polymers. Typically, a superabsorbent material is capable of absorbing at least about 10 times its weight in liquid, and preferably is capable of absorbing more than about 25 times its weight in liquid.

The absorbent structure 46 may comprise a coform material. The term coform material generally refers to composite materials that comprise a stabilized mixture or matrix of thermoplastic fibers and a second non-thermoplastic material. As an example, coform materials are manufactured by a process in which at least one blow-melt die head is disposed near a hopper through which other materials are added to the weft while forming. Such other materials may include, but are not limited to, fibrous organic materials, such as woody or non-woody pulp such as cotton, rayon, paper.

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INSTITUTO MBtICANO DI LA FROMIDAD industrial

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recycled, fluff in pulp and also super absorbent particles, inorganic absorbent materials, treated polymeric short fibers and the like. Any of a variety of synthetic polymers can be used as the spunbond component of the coform material. For example, in certain aspects, thermoplastic polymers can be used. Some examples of suitable thermoplastics that can be used include polyolefins, such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polybutylene, and the like; polyamides; and polyesters. In one embodiment, the thermoplastic polymer is polypropylene.

Absorbent assembly 34 may further include an absorbent layer (not shown) located adjacent to absorbent structure 46 (eg, between absorbent structure 46 and body facing liner 44) to help decelerate and diffuse inflows or jets of liquids that can be rapidly introduced into the absorbent structure 46 of the diaper-type underpants 10 by the wearer. Conveniently, the absorption layer can quickly accept and temporarily contain the liquid before releasing the liquid into the storage or retention portions of the absorbent structure 46. Examples of suitable absorption layers are described in US Patent No. 5,486,166 issued January 23, 1996 to Bishop et al .; United States Patent No. 5,490,846

IMPI

MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL MOMITY

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granted on February 13, 1996 to Ellis &amp; utrosr; —and US paLeute no. 5,820,973 issued on October 13, 1998 to Dodge, II et al., All of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

Absorbent assembly 34 may further include a pair of containment fins (not shown) extending longitudinally along absorbent assembly 34 and adapted to provide a barrier to lateral flow of body exudates as known in the art . The containment fins can be connected to body-facing liner 44 or other components of absorbent assembly 34. Suitable configurations of the containment fins are described, for example, in US Patent No. 5,599,338 issued on February 4, 1997 to K. Enloe, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Front panel 36 can be formed from a single piece of material or can be formed as a laminate consisting of two or more layers. The layers of the laminate may be of the same material or of a different material. In one embodiment, the front panel 36 comprises a laminate formed of two or more elastic strands arranged between two nonwoven layers. The non-woven layers can be a single non-woven layer, such as spunbond wefts, or non-woven laminates, such as spunbond laminates (eg, spunbond

IMPI

ΤΟυΤΟ MMCANO • E INDUSTRIAL MENwAD

<img file="MX360520B_D0028.tif" />

spinning / spunbond / spunbond (SSS) i and spunbond / blown-fused laminates (eg, spunbond / blownfused / spunbond (SMS)). The elastic strands can be formed from LYCRA® (available from Invista of Wichita, Kansas, United States), or a similar material. The diameter and / or configuration of the cross section of the elastic strands, the decitex (weight in grams per 10,000 meters) of the elastic strands, and the separation between the elastic strands and the tension imparted on the elastic strands can all be varied to satisfy the needs of a particular product. The exact number of elastic strands used must be sufficient to ensure that the diaper type 10 fits snugly on the wearer's torso.

In other embodiments, the front panel 36 comprises an elastomeric film disposed between two nonwoven liner layers. An example of an elastomeric film laminate is described in US Patent No. 7,803,244 issued on September 28, 2010 to Siqueira et al., Which is hereby incorporated in its entirety by reference.

The front panel 36 can be formed from a breathable or non-breathable material. In some embodiments, the front panel 36 is formed from a breathable material or a material that is treated or processed

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MIAENHIBAD INBUTHUAL to make it breathable. Suitable mataa-jalad tüPamBpiuab'l'es include, but are not limited to, yarn-bonded wefts, heat-bonded carded wefts, and yarn-bond / blow-melt / yarn-bond laminates. Other suitable materials from which the front panel 36 can be formed include woven and non-woven materials formed from natural or synthetic fibers; polyolefins, such as polypropylene or polyethylene; thermoplastic films; as well as other materials known to those skilled in the art.

In the illustrated embodiment, the front panel 36 is formed of a single sheet or continuous laminate extending from the first lateral leading edge 20 of the leading region 12 to the second lateral leading edge 22 of the leading region.

The rear panel 38 can be constructed from the same materials and have the same configuration as the front panel 36. That is, the rear panel 38 can be formed from a single piece of material or it can be formed as a laminate consisting of two or more layers. Back panel 38 may comprise a laminate formed of two or more elastic strands arranged between two nonwoven layers. In other embodiments, the back panel 38 may comprise an elastomeric film disposed between two nonwoven liner layers.

IMPI INSTITUTO MEXICANO OS LA «OMEOa INDUSTRIAL

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The back panel 3 8 can be formed from either breathable or non-breathable material. In some embodiments, the back panel 38 is formed from a breathable material or a material that is treated or processed to be breathable. Other suitable materials that can be used to form the back panel 38 include woven and non-woven materials formed from natural or synthetic fibers; polyolefins, such as polypropylene or polyethylene; thermoplastic films; as well as other materials that are known to those skilled in the art.

In the illustrated embodiment, the rear panel 38 is formed of a single sheet or continuous laminate extending from the first lateral posterior edge 26 of the posterior region 14 to the second lateral posterior edge 28 of the posterior region 14.

The first fastening assemblies 62 comprise the first fastening components 68 configured to repeatedly couple and disengage a second fastening component 70 from the second fastening assemblies 64. In one embodiment, a surface of each of the fastening components 68, 70 includes a plurality of coupling elements arranged on that surface. For example, in a suitable embodiment, the first fastening components 68 each include female fasteners, such as clip-on fasteners, and the second fastening components 70 each

IMPI

INSTITUTO MHUCANO DS LA FRDF1WAD INDUSTRIAL

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includes complementary male bras, such as hook-type bras. In another suitable embodiment, such as the embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 2, the first fastening components 68 each include male fasteners and the second fastening components 70 each include complementary female fasteners.

Clip fasteners typically include a fabric or material that has a base or backing structure and a plurality of clip members that extend outward from at least one surface of the backing structure. The bartack material can be formed from any suitable material, such as acrylic, nylon, or polyester, and can be formed by methods such as warp knitting, knitting, or punching. A suitable particular loop fastener is an unbound pattern non-woven weave (PUB). Examples of suitable PUB materials are described in US Patent No. 5,858,515 issued to Stokes et al. On January 12, 1999, and U.S. Patent No. 6,921,570 issued to Belau et al. On July 26, 2005, descriptions of which are hereby incorporated in their entirety.

Hook fasteners typically include a fabric or material having a base or support structure and a plurality of hook members that extend outward from at least one surface of the back structure. The

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IMPI

MEXICAN INSTITUTE

OF THE PROPERTY

INDUSTRIAL

<img file="MX360520B_D0033.tif" />

Hook material may include an elastic material to minimize inadvertent decoupling of the fastener components as a result of the hook material deforming. The term elastic as used in the present disclosure refers to an interlocking material that has a predetermined shape and the property of the interlocking material to resume the predetermined shape after it engages and disengages from a complementary contact interlocking material. The suitable hook material can be molded or extruded from nylon, polypropylene, or other suitable material. Suitable hook materials are marketed by Velero USA Inc., Manchester, New Hampshire, United States, or its affiliates.

In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first fastening components 68 comprises a hook-like strip of material configured to releasably engage the second fastening components 70. In addition, each of the fastening components 68 is disposed on the sheets respective carriers 72 which are attached to the rear panel 38. More specifically, each carrier sheet 72 is attached to the body facing side of the rear panel 38 along one of the first or second lateral rear edges 26, 28 by any suitable means such as, for example, adhesives, ultrasonic bonds, thermal unions, unions by pressure, or their combinations. More particularly, each sheet

ΙΜΡΙ

MEXICAN INSTITUTE M LA MONEDAD INDUSTRIAL

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Carrier 72 includes a first £ 156 ^ 74- ^ 1113 ^^ 31 ^ 3 ^ 61 'trailing edge 38, and a second free edge 76 opposite the first edge 74. In the illustrated embodiment, the first edge 74 of each carrier sheet 72 it is contiguous with one of the lateral posterior edges 26, 28 of the posterior region 14, although in other embodiments the first edge 74 may be separated from a corresponding lateral edge 26 or 28 of the posterior region. Each first fastening component 68 is attached to one of the carrier sheets 72 by suitable means such as, for example, adhesives, ultrasonic bonds, thermal bonds, pressure bonds, or combinations thereof. In addition, each first fastening component 68 is attached proximal to the free edge 76 of the respective carrier sheet 72 so that the first fastening components 68 can be detached from the body facing side of the rear panel 38 when the diaper type 10 is in usage settings (shown in Figure 2). As a result, the forces imparted in the fastening system 60 during the use of the diaper-type underpants 10 tend to have a greater shear component (i.e., parallel to the plane of the fastening components 68, 70) rather than one component. tensile or detachable (ie, perpendicular to the plane of fastener components 68, 70), thereby reducing the likelihood of seams 40 unintentionally opening.

In other modalities, the first components of

IMPI

MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF MONEDAD INDUST1UAL

<img file="MX360520B_D0035.tif" />

Fastening 68 can be directly attached to the 'TadónDrienVáHo^-Towards the body of the rear panel 38 (ie without an interconnect carrier sheet). In such embodiments, one or both of the first fastening components 68 may comprise a sheet of fastening material (eg, clip or hook type material) having a first edge or fixed edge contiguous with one of the lateral trailing edges 26 , 28 of the posterior region 14, and a second edge or free edge opposite the fixed edge. Additionally or alternatively, one or both of the second fastening components 70 may comprise a sheet of supplemental fastening material (eg, clip or hook type material) having a first edge or fixed edge contiguous with one of the leading front edges. 20, 22 of the front region 12, and a second edge or free edge opposite the fixed edge. Suitably, in the modalities where one of the first fastening components 68 and the second fastening components 70 have a free edge, the other of the first fastening components 68 and the second fastening components 70 have both edges attached to a front panel. corresponding 36 or rear panel 38.

In the illustrated embodiment, each of the second fastening components 70 comprises a sheet of clip-like fastening material attached to a body-facing surface of the front panel 36. The second fastening components

IMPI

MEXICAN INSTITUTE

D £ LA MOF1SDA ·

INDUSTRIAL

<img file="MX360520B_D0036.tif" />

fastening 70 are attached to the front panel— ·&gt; &amp; ·· ροί.- suitable · means such as adhesives, ultrasonic bonds, thermal bonds, pressure bonds, or combinations thereof. One of the second clamping components 70 extends to and is contiguous with the first lateral leading edge 20, and the other second clamping component 70 extends towards and is contiguous with the second lateral leading edge 22. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the second fastening components 7 0 is attached to the front panel 3 6 over the entire surface of the second fastening component 70. In other embodiments, the second fastening components 70 may comprise a strip of material of fastening (eg, loop or hook type material) separated from the respective side edges 20, 22 of the front region 12.

As mentioned above, the diaper-style underpants 10 include integrally formed finger tabs 66 that facilitate manual detachment of the clamping seams 40 to remove the diaper-like underpants 10 from the wearer. The term "integrally formed" as used herein with reference to finger tabs means that the finger tabs are formed unitarily or continuously with the panel from which the finger tabs extend, rather than to be formed separately and attached to, placed with, or placed near the panel. In the modality illustrated in Figure 1, for

IMPI

ΙΝΤΠΤυτο MtMCANO DELA MONEDAD industrial

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For example, the finger tabs 66 are formed from the same weft or sheet of material from which the front panel 36 is formed.

Finger tabs 66 extend transversely out of front panel 36 along first and second side edges 20, 22, and are suitably sized and formed to allow a user to grasp finger tabs 66 and apply a breakout force or tear to the same. In the illustrated embodiment, each finger tab 66 has a generally arcuate shape, and more specifically, a semicircular shape, although it is contemplated that the finger tabs 66 may be of any suitable shape that allows the finger tabs 66 to function. as described in the present description. In a suitable embodiment, for example, the finger tabs 66 have a generally square, triangular or rectangular shape.

Each finger tab 66 is partially defined by a cut 78 extending transversely into the front panel 36 along one of the first and second lateral leading edges 20, 22. Each cut 78 is formed in a complementary manner to the corresponding finger tab 66 partially defined by cut 78. In addition, each cut 78 is formed in a complementary manner to finger tab 66 provided on the side edge

IMPI

MEXICAN INSTITUTE

M LA MONEDAD

INDUSTRIAL

<img file="MX360520B_D0038.tif" />

opposite front panel 36 cut 78.

As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the finger tab 66 disposed on the first lateral leading edge 20 is displaced longitudinally (i.e. in the longitudinal direction 30 of the diaper-type underpants 10) of the finger tab 66 provided at the second lateral front edge 22. In addition, the finger tab 66 provided on the first lateral leading edge 20 is laterally aligned (i.e. in the lateral direction 32 of the diaper type 10) with the cut 78 provided on the second lateral leading edge 22, and the tongue for fingers 66 provided on second lateral leading edge 22 is laterally aligned with cut 78 provided on first lateral leading edge 20. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the finger tabs 66 and cuts 78 give the first and second side leading edges 20, 22 a wobbly or wavy appearance.

In other suitable embodiments, the finger tab 66 on one side of the front panel 3 6 may be laterally aligned other than cut 78 on the opposite side edge of the front panel 36, and / or the finger tab 66 on a side edge of the Front panel 36 can move longitudinally other than finger tab 66 on the other side edge of front panel 36.

In use, the previously attached diaper-type underpants 10 are put on by inserting a user's legs into

IMPI

INSTITUTO MCXiCANO kla rMn »AD mwusTUAi

<img file="MX360520B_D0039.tif" />

through the leg openings. leilM.daaliiaami pull the diaper type 10 up and around the wearer's waist. To remove the diaper type 10 from a wearer (for example, after the diaper type 10 becomes dirty with body exudates), the reattachable seams 40 are separated by grasping and pulling the finger tabs 66 away from the sheet Carrier 72 with sufficient force to weaken the engagement between the first fastener assemblies 62 and the second fastener assemblies 64. The diaper type underpants 10 can then be removed from the carrier.

Although the illustrated diaper type 10 is illustrated as including the finger tabs 66 on the front panel 36, it is contemplated that the diaper type 10 may include the finger tabs 66 on the rear panel 38, in addition or as a alternative to finger tabs 66 on front panel 36.

In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 3, for example, the diaper brief 10 includes the finger tabs 66 on each of the first and second lateral trailing edges 26, 28, additionally the finger tabs 66 on the first and second lateral leading edges 20, 22. In this embodiment, the retainable seams 40 can be separated by grasping one of the finger tabs 66 on the front panel 36 with one hand, holding one of the finger tabs 66 on the rear panel

IMPI

MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL ΡΧΟΕΙΕΟΑΓ

<img file="MX360520B_D0040.tif" />

with the other hand, and pull the finger tabs 66 apart from each other with enough force to pull the resusable seam 40 apart. Alternatively, the restraint seams 40 can be separated by pulling one of the finger tabs 66 on the front panel 36 or back panel 38 away from seam 40.

Figure 4 is a front view of the diaper type underpants 10 with the non-attachable side seams 90. More specifically, the front panel 36 is permanently bonded to the back panel 38 along the seams 90 by suitable means such as adhesives, bonds ultrasonic, thermal bonding, pressure bonding, and combinations thereof. The term permanently attached is synonymous with terms such as permanently attached and permanently attached permanently coupled and is intended in the present description to refer to a coupling that is generally not releasable without damage or that substantially reduces the functionality of the components that are attached permanently to the absorbent article.

Figure 5 schematically illustrates a suitable method 100 for manufacturing the diaper type underpants 10 shown in Figures 1 and 2.

Method 100 includes conveying a first weft 102 of material in a machine direction 101, and conveying a second weft 104 of material in the machine direction

101. The first frame 102 and the second frame'nj4 are fed from the respective supply sources (not shown). Any suitable apparatus can be used to feed the first frame 102 and the second frame 104 in the machine direction.

101, including, but not limited to, laminating rollers,

IMPI iNsrrnjTO msxkanc

INDUSTRIAL KLAfROHlDAD

<img file="MX360520B_D0041.tif" />

tension rollers, and their combinations.

As shown in Figure 5, the first frame 102 and the second frame 104 are separated from each other while being entered in the machine direction 101. That is, the first frame 102 is separated from the second frame 104 by a space 106 in the machine transverse direction (ie, the direction substantially perpendicular to the machine direction 101). The gap 106 between the first frame 102 and the second frame 104 can have substantially the same dimensions as the gap 52 between the front panel 36 and the rear panel 38 (all are shown in Figure 1). The first frame 102 and second frame 104 each include laterally opposed side edges 108 and 109, respectively, extending in the machine direction.

101.

The first frame 102 of material can be constructed from the same materials as the front panel 36 and rear panel 38 described above. That is, the first weft 102 of material can be formed from a single piece of material or can be formed as a laminate that

IMPI

ΙΝΓΠΤυΤΟ MEXICANO tK LA INDUSTRIAL MOHtDAD

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It consists of two or more layers. The layers of the laminate may be of the same material or of a different material. In one embodiment, the first weft 102 comprises an elastomeric laminate formed of two or more elastic strands arranged between two layers of non-woven liner. The non-woven layers can be single-layer non-woven, such as yarn-bonded wefts, or non-woven laminates, such as yarn-bond laminates (eg, yarn bond / yarn bond / yarn bond (SSS) ) and spunbond / blown fused laminates (for example, spunbond / blownfused / spunbond (SMS)). The elastic strands can be formed from LYCRA® (marketed by Invista of Wichita, Sansas, United States), or a similar material. The diameter and / or configuration of the cross section of the 15 elastic strands, the decitex (weight in grams per 10,000 meters) of the elastic strands, and the separation between the elastic strands and the tension imparted on the elastic strands can all be varied to meet the needs of a particular product. The exact number of elastic strands used must be sufficient to ensure that the diaper type 10 fits snugly on the wearer's torso.

In other embodiments, the first frame 102 comprises a nonwoven liner. An example of an elastomeric film laminate is described in US Patent No.

<img file="MX360520B_D0043.tif" />

elastomeric film arranged between two layers of

IMPI

MEXICAN INSTITUTE

M THE NONITY

INDUSTRIAL

<img file="MX360520B_D0044.tif" />

7,803,244 issued on September 28, a &amp; i6 to Oiquaiim et al.

The first material web 102 may be formed from a breathable or non-breathable material. In some embodiments, the first screen 102 is formed of a breathable material or a material that is treated or processed to be breathable. Suitable breathable materials include, but are not limited to, yarn-bonded wefts, heat-bonded carded wefts, and SMS laminates. Other 10 suitable materials from which the first weft 102 can be formed include woven and non-woven materials formed from natural or synthetic fibers; polyolefins, such as polypropylene or polyethylene; thermoplastic films; as well as other materials known to those skilled in the art.

The second material screen 104 may comprise the same materials as the first screen 102. In some embodiments, the second material screen 104 is the same material as the first material screen 102. In 20 other embodiments, the second material screen 104 is a different material than that of the first material screen 102.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first screen 102 of (shown in Figure 1) and the second screen 104 of material defines the front panel 36 (shown in Figure 1). In

<img file="MX360520B_D0045.tif" />

Material defines the back panel 38 of the diaper type 10

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ΙΝΓΠΤυΤ · ΜΙΧΚΑΝΟ m la η · π · »Α · INDUSTRIAL

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Other modalities, the first frame 102 can d &amp; frin. the front panel 36 (shown in Figure 1) and the second frame can define the rear panel 38 (shown in Figure

1) ·

Method 100 further includes coupling an absorbent assembly 112 to the first frame 102 and second frame 104 at a docking station of the absorbent assembly 110. The absorbent assembly 112 may have the same construction and comprise the same materials as the described absorbent assembly 34 above with reference to Figures 1 and 2. In some embodiments, absorbent assembly 112 is adhesive bonded to first screen 102 and second screen 104. In such embodiments, an adhesive is applied to the first screen 102, the second screen 104, and / or the absorbent assembly 112 before the absorbent assembly 112 is attached to the first screen 102 and the second screen 104. In other embodiments, coupling The absorbent assembly 112 to the first frame 102 and the second frame 104 at the docking station of the absorbent assembly 110 includes the ultrasonic bond, thermal bond, pressure bond, and combinations thereof. The absorbent assembly docking station 110 may include any suitable apparatus for coupling the absorbent assembly 112 to the first screen 102 and second screen 104, including, but not limited to, adhesive applicators, compression rollers, laminating rollers , laminating rollers, cooling rollers,

IMPI

<img file="MX360520B_D0047.tif" />

ultrasonic horns, anvils, and their combinations ......—

As shown in Figure 5, absorbent assembly 112 spans or fills space 106 that separates first frame 102 and second frame 104. Absorbent assembly 112 joins first frame 102 and second frame 104 while frames they move in the machine direction 101.

As shown in Figure 5, method 100 further includes coupling a first clamp component 116 to the first frame 102 in a first clamp component docking station 114, and coupling a second clamp component 120 to the second frame 104 in a second docking station of the clamping component 118. The first and second fastening components 116, 120 are configured to releasably bond to each other, and may comprise the same materials and configurations as the first and second fastening components 68, 70 described above. The first fastening component 116 is attached to the first screen 102 through the use of suitable means such as adhesives, ultrasonic bonds, thermal bonds, pressure bonds, or combinations thereof. The second fastening component 120 is attached to the second screen 104 through the use of suitable means such as adhesives, ultrasonic bonds, thermal bonds, pressure bonds, or combinations thereof. The docking stations of the clamping components 114, 118 can include any suitable apparatus for docking the first

IMPI

MRXlCANí INSTITUTE

DELAPROMEDAD

INDUSTRIAL

<img file="MX360520B_D0048.tif" />

clamping component 116 to the first frame 1Ü2 and the * S ^ cfunid «clamping component 120 to the second frame 104, including, but not limited to, adhesive applicators, compression rollers, laminating rollers, laminating rollers, rollers cooling, ultrasonic horns, anvils, and their combinations. In the illustrated embodiment, the first two clamping components 116 are attached to the first frame 102 at the first clamping component coupling station 114. The first clamping components 116 can be joined in a single stage (ie, simultaneously), or in separate stages (ie, individually).

In some embodiments, such as the embodiment illustrated in Figure 5, coupling the first fastening component 116 to the first frame 102 includes coupling a carrier sheet 122 to the first frame 102, and coupling the first fastening component 116 to the carrier sheet 122. As shown in Figure 5, carrier sheet 122 includes a leading edge 124 and a trailing edge 126, and is attached to first weft 102 such that leading edge 124 and trailing edge 126 are free edges. In the illustrated embodiment, carrier sheet 122 is attached to first screen 102 along a bonding area 128 located approximately halfway between leading edge 124 and trailing edge 126 of carrier sheet 122, which leaves the edge front 124 and trailing edge 126 as free edge. As shown in Figure 5, a couple of firsts

IMPI MEXICAN INSTITUTE M LA MONEDAD INDUSTRIAL

<img file="MX360520B_D0049.tif" />

fastening components 116 is attached to the "carrier sheet 122. In the illustrated embodiment, one of the first fastening components 116 is attached near the leading free edge 124 of the carrier sheet 122, and the other first fastening component 116 is attached close to the rear free edge 126 of the carrier sheet 122. In other suitable embodiments, the first fastening components 116 may be attached to the carrier sheet 122 at any suitable location between the joint region 128 and one of the leading edge 124 and the trailing edge 126. The first fastening components 116 can be attached to the carrier sheet 122 after the carrier sheet 122 is attached to the first screen 102 or, as shown in Figure 5, the first fastening components 116 can be attached to the carrier sheet 122 before the carrier sheet 122 to be attached to the first screen 102.

Method 100 further includes forming a partial cut line 132 through second screen 104 at a first cut station 130. The term "partial cut line" refers to a cut line that does not completely cut second screen 104 in two. separate pieces. Partial cut line 132 can extend across the entire thickness of second frame 104, but does not continuously extend from one side edge 109 to the other side edge 109. In the illustrated embodiment, the partial cut line 132 is separated from each of the side edges 109 of the second frame 104. The first

IMPI

MEXICAN INSTITUTE Df LA MONEDAD INDUSTRIA!

<img file="MX360520B_D0050.tif" />

cutting station 130 may include any suitable equipment to form the partial cutting line 132 in the second frame 104, including, but not limited to, knife rollers and anvil rollers.

Partial cut line 132 is formed through both the second frame 104 and the second fastener component 120. The partial cut line 132 is located approximately halfway between a leading edge 134 of the second fastener component 120 and an edge rear 136 of the second clamping component 120.

As shown in Figure 5, the partial cut line

132 defines a finger tab 66 and a cut 78 in the diaper type 10 when the diaper type 10 is formed. More specifically, the partial cut line 132 defines a finger tab 66 and a cut 78 in the two pants. Separate diaper type 10 i.e. a front breech and a finger tab type 66 in both a front diaper breech and rear diaper breech, the partial cut line 132 includes a corrugated region 142. The corrugated region 142 defines a finger tab 66 and a cut 78 in both a front diaper type 10 and a rear diaper type 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the partial cut line 132 has rounded corrugations, which give the wavy region 142 the appearance of a sine wave,

IMPI

MEXICAN INSTITUTE

M THE INDUSTRIAL NOMOAD

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although it is understood that the pirriBi cut line 132 may have any suitable configuration that forms a finger tab 66 in a front diaper type 10 and a rear diaper type 10. In other suitable embodiments, for example, the partial cut line 132 may have square-shaped undulations, which give the undulating region 142 the appearance of a square wave, or triangular-shaped undulations, giving the undulating region 142 the appearance of a zigzag line. In still other suitable embodiments, the partial cut line 132 may define a finger tab 66 and / or a cut 78 in only a diaper-type underpants. In a suitable embodiment, for example, a first partial cut line 132 defines a finger tab 66 and a cut 78 at the trailing edge of a front diaper brief 10, and a second partial cut line 132 defines a tab for fingers 66 and a cut 78 at the front edge of a rear diaper brief 10.

In the illustrated embodiment, the partial cut line 132 is formed through the second frame 104 after the absorbent assembly 112 is attached to the first and second frames 102, 104. In other suitable embodiments, the partial cut line 132 may be formed before the absorbent assembly 112 is coupled to the first and second frames 102, 104.

As shown in Figure 5, method 100 also includes forming a cut line 146 through the first&gt;

IMPI MEXICAN INSTITUTE Dt LA MOHEDA D INDUSTRIAL

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Screen 102 at a second cutting station 144. As Ge shows in Figure 5, cut line 146 is a partial cut line. The second cutting station 144 may include any suitable apparatus for forming the cutting line 146 in the first frame 102, including, but not limited to, knife rollers and anvil rollers.

In the illustrated embodiment, the cut line 146 in the first frame 102 is generally formed in the middle between a pair of the first fastening components 116, and is formed through both the first frame 102 and the carrier sheet 122. More specifically, cut line 146 is formed along a joint area 128 used to couple carrier sheet 122 to first screen 102. The illustrated cut line 146 is a substantially straight line extending generally perpendicular to the machine direction 101, although it is contemplated that the cut line 146 may have other shapes and orientations.

As shown in Figure 5, method 100 further includes folding first screen 102 into face-to-face relationship with second screen 104 at a folding station 148 after forming partial cut line 132 and cut line 146. Folding the first frame 102 into a face-to-face relationship with the second frame 104 at the folding station 148 causes the first fastening components 116 to be releasably attached to the second fastening components 120,

IMPI

INSTITUTO MiUCANO

MLAFMRMAD INDUSTIJAL.

<img file="MX360520B_D0053.tif" />

thereby providing a pre-attached honeycomb brief 10. When the first frame 102 is folded in a face-to-face relationship with the second frame 104, the partial cut line 132 in the second frame 104 is substantially aligned with the cut line 146 in the first frame 102.

Folding the first frame 102 into a face-to-face relationship with the second frame 104 includes rotating one of the first frame 102 and the second frame 104 around a fold line 150 that extends parallel to the direction of the machine 101. In the illustrated embodiment, second frame 104 is shown to be rotated around fold line 150, although it is contemplated that first frame 102 can be rotated around fold line 150 instead of second frame 104. The folding station 148 can include any suitable folding mechanism to fold the first frame 102 into a face-to-face relationship with the second frame 104.

Method 100 further includes cutting the first frame 102 and the second frame 104 is a third cutting station 152 while the first and second frames 102, 104 are in a face-to-face relationship to separate a front diaper-type underpants 10 from a underpants rear diaper type 10. As shown in Figure 5, the partial cut line 132 formed in the second weft 104 defines a finger tab 66 on each of the front diaper type 10 and the diaper type underwear

IMPI rwsrmrro muucano DEunon »* · MUSTUAl.

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rear 10. Partial cut line 'Ί32' taillLlSri I cut a cut 78 in each of the diaper shorts 10. The third cut station 152 may include any apparatus suitable for cutting the first frame 102 and the second frame 104, which includes, but is not limited to, knife rollers and anvil rollers.

In the illustrated embodiment, cutting the first and second frames 102, 104 at the third cutting station 152 includes forming cuts 154 along the laterally opposite side edges 108 and 109 of each of the first frame 102 and the second frame 104 . Cuts 154 intersect partial cut line 132 formed in second screen 104, and cut line 146 formed in first screen 102, thereby forming a continuous cut line extending around each of the first frame 102. and second frame 104. In other suitable embodiments, cutting the first and second frames 102, 104 may include forming a cut 154 along only one of the side edges 108 or 109 of the first and second frames 102 , 104. In still other suitable embodiments, cutting the first and second frames 102, 104 may include forming one or more linear cut lines that intersect the partial cut line 132 and cut line 146 to form continuous cut lines extending around each of the first frame 102 and the second frame 104.

Method 100 illustrated in Figure 5 provides the

ΙΜΡΙ

MUICANO MUNICIPALITY

OF THE MOPIWAC fNtHjSTlIAL

<img file="MX360520B_D0055.tif" />

Integrally turned toe tabs 6e which 'facilitate detachment of the clawable seams 40 from the diaper-style underpants 10 (shown in Figures 1 and 2) when a user wishes to remove the diaper-like underpants 10. Forming a partial cut line 132 in the second frame 104, rather than a complete cut line, allows the finger tabs 66 to selectively form into only one of the front panel 36 and the rear panel 3 8 of the diaper brief. 10, depending on which panel is formed from the second frame 104. In the illustrated embodiment, the second weft 104 forms the front panel 36 of the diaper-type underpants 10, and therefore the finger tabs 66 are formed on the front panel 36. In other embodiments, the finger tabs 66 may be formed on the rear panel 38, for example, by forming the rear panel 38 of the diaper type 10 of the second weft 104. In another suitable embodiment, the partial cut line 132 can be formed in the first frame 102, and the cut line 146 can be formed in the second frame 104.

Figure 6 schematically illustrates a suitable method 200 for manufacturing the diaper type underpants 10 shown in Figure 3 having the finger tabs 66 on the front panel 36 and the rear panel 38. The method 200 illustrated in Figure 6 is substantially identical to method 100 is shown in Figure 5, except that method 200 in Figure

IMPI

INFTtTUTO MUICANO M LA INDUSTRIAL rtOMWAD

<img file="MX360520B_D0056.tif" />

it uses a single-stage cutting process to smoke the finger tabs 66 on both the front panel 36 and rear panel 38 of the diaper brief 10 (shown in Figure 3).

More specifically, method 200 includes conveying the first frame 102 of material in the machine direction 101, conveying the second frame 104 of material in the machine direction 101, coupling the absorbent assembly 112 to the first frame 102 and the second weft 104 at the docking station of the absorbent assembly 110, fold the first weft 102 into a face-to-face relationship with the second weft 104 at the bending station 148, and cut the first and second wefts 102, 104 at a cutting station 202 while the first and second frames 102, 104 are in a face-to-face relationship.

The first frame 102 and the second frame 104 can have substantially the same construction as those described above with reference to Figure 5. In addition, transporting the first frame 102 in the machine direction 101, transporting the second frame 104 in the machine direction, coupling the absorbent assembly 112 to the first frame 102 and the second frame 104 in the docking station of the absorbent assembly 110, and folding the first frame 102 into a face-to-face relationship with the second frame 104 at the folding station 148 can be carried out in the same manner as described

IMPI

MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL LIFE

<img file="MX360520B_D0057.tif" />

above with reference to Figure^-*?

As shown in Figure 6, method 200 may also include coupling a first clamp component 116 to the first frame 102 at the first clamp component docking station 114, and coupling a second clamp component 120 to the second frame 104 at the second docking station of the clamping component 118, both of which can be carried out in the same manner as described above with reference to Figure 5.

Cutting the first frame 102 and the second frame 104 at the cutting station 202 includes forming a wavy cut line 2 04 that extends through both the first frame 102 and the second frame 104. In the illustrated embodiment, the line shear cut 204 also extends through the carrier sheet 122 and the second fastening component 120.

As shown in Figure 6, cutting the first and second wefts 102, 104 with the corrugated cut line 204 separates a front diaper type 10 from a rear diaper type 10, and forms a finger tab 66 on each the front diaper type 10 and the rear diaper type 10. More specifically, cutting the first and second wefts 102, 104 at the cutting station 202 forms a finger tab 66 on both the front panel 36 and the rear panel 38 (shown in Figure 3) of each,

IMPI

MEXICAN INSTITUTE Say LA MONEDAD INDUSTRIA!

<img file="MX360520B_D0058.tif" />

one of the front diaper type 10 and the rear diaper type 10.

In the illustrated embodiment, wavy cut line 2 04 has rounded ripples, which give cut line 204 the appearance of a sine wave, although it is understood that cut line 204 may have any suitable configuration that forms a tab for fingers 66 in a front diaper type 10 and a rear diaper type 10. In other suitable embodiments, for example, wavy cut line 204 may have square shaped undulations, which give cut line 204 the appearance of a square wave, or triangular shaped undulations, which give cut line 204 the appearance of a zigzag line. In still other suitable embodiments, the wavy cut line 202 may define a finger tab 66 and / or a cut 78 in only a diaper-type underpants.

As shown in Figure 6, corrugated cut line 204 has a machine direction width 206 defined by the opposite ends of cut line 204. Bonding region 128 used to engage carrier sheet 122 to the first frame 102 also has a width 208 in the machine direction 101. The width 206 of the corrugated cutting line 204 is less than the width 208 of the joint area 128 to ensure that the carrier sheet 122 does not separate from the first weft 102 along the first and second edges.

IMPI

M ^ UCANC INSTITUTE

OF THE PROFLETITY

INDUSTRIAL

<img file="MX360520B_D0059.tif" />

posterior laterals 26, 28 of the pañaT * 10 'brief (all are shown in Figure 3).

The method 200 illustrated in Figure 6 provides the integrally formed finger tabs 66 on both the front panel 36 and rear panel 38 of the diaper brief 10 (shown in Figure 3). Finger tabs 66 facilitate releasable seams 40 from diaper type 10 when a user wishes to remove diaper type 10. By cutting the first weft 102 and the second weft 104 with a wavy cut line 204 after the first weft 102 is folded into a face-to-face relationship with the second weft 104, the integral finger tabs 66 can be formed in both the front panel 36 as in rear panel 3 8 in a single stage cutting process.

Figure 7 schematically illustrates a suitable method 300 for manufacturing the diaper type underpants 10 shown in Figure 4 having non-clamping side seams 90. Method 300 is substantially similar to method 200 shown in Figure 6, except that The method of Figure 7 uses non-clamping side seams to couple the first frame 102 to the second frame 104. More specifically, method 300 includes conveying the first weft 102 of material in the machine direction 101, conveying the second weft 104 of material in the machine direction

IMPI

Ü MÜUCANO

M THE NONITY

INBUSWAL

<img file="MX360520B_D0060.tif" />

101, couple the absorbent assembly 112 to Id pillliyid ί'Γ3Τη? Γ "Τυ2 and the second frame 104 in the docking station of the absorbent assembly 110, fold the first frame 102 in a face-to-face relationship with the second frame 104 in the folding station 148, joining the first weft 102 to the second weft 104 in a first seam 3 04 and a second seam 3 06 in a joining station 302, and cutting the first weft 102 and the second weft 104 between the first seam 304 and the second seam 306 at a cutting station 308 while the first weft 102 and the second weft 104 are in a face-to-face relationship.

The first frame 102 and the second frame 104 can have substantially the same construction as those described above with reference to Figure 5. In addition, transporting the first frame 102 in the machine direction 101, transporting the second frame 104 in the machine direction, coupling the absorbent assembly 112 to the first frame 102 and the second frame 104 in the docking station of the absorbent assembly 110, and folding the first frame 102 into a face-to-face relationship with the second frame 104 at the folding station 148 can be carried out in the same manner as described above with reference to Figure 5.

As shown in Figure 7, join the first frame

102 to the second frame 104 at the junction station 302 includes joining the first frame 102 to the second frame 104 in the first

IMPI

INSTITUTO MSX1CJ.no DE LA MONEDAD INDUSTRIAL

<img file="MX360520B_D0061.tif" />

seam 304 and second seam 306. The first — seam '304 is separated from the second seam 3 06 in the machine direction 101 by a distance 310. Particularly, the inner edges of the first seam 304 and the second seam 306 are separated by distance 310 in the machine direction

101. The first screen 102 can be attached to the second screen 104 by any suitable means including adhesives, ultrasonic bonds, thermal bonds, pressure bonds, and combinations thereof. Bonding station 302 may include any suitable apparatus for bonding first frame 102 to second frame 104, including, but not limited to adhesive applicators, compression rollers, laminating rollers, laminating rollers, quenching rollers, ultrasonic horns , anvils, and their combinations.

Cutting the first frame 102 and the second frame 104 at the cutting station 308 includes cutting the first frame 102 and the second frame 104 between the first seam 304 and the second seam 306. Cutting the first frame 102 and the second frame 104 in the cutting station 308 also includes forming a wavy cutting line 312 that extends through both the first frame 102 and the second frame 104.

In the illustrated embodiment, the junction station 302 and the cutting station 308 are illustrated as a single station.

In other words, the steps of joining the first frame 102 to the second frame 102 and cutting the first frame 102 and the

IMPI insthvt · mbucano DFtA INDUSTRIAL FRONITY

<img file="MX360520B_D0062.tif" />

second frame 104 are performed in a 'station' in the illustrated mode. In other suitable embodiments, the joining station 302 and the cutting station 308 may be separate discrete stations, and the steps of joining the first frame 102 to the second frame 104 and cutting the first frame 102 and the second frame 104 can be done in different seasons. In a suitable embodiment, for example, the first frame 102 is joined to the second frame 104 at a joining station, and subsequently, the first frame 102 and the second frame 104 are cut at a cutting station.

As shown in Figure 7, cutting the first and second wefts 102, 104 with the wavy cut line 312 separates a front diaper type 10 from a rear diaper type 10, and forms a finger tab 66 at each one of the front diaper type 10 and the rear diaper type 10. More specifically, cutting the first and second wefts 102, 104 form a finger tab 66 on both the front panel 36 and the rear panel 38 (shown in Figure 4) of each of the front diaper shorts 10 and the rear diaper shorts 10.

In the illustrated embodiment, the wavy cut line 312 has rounded undulations, which give the cut line 312 the appearance of a sine wave, although it is understood that the cut line 312 can have any suitable configuration that forms a tongue for the 66 fingers in a brief

IMPI

MEXICANC INSTITUTE

OF THE HtORBOAL

Industrial

<img file="MX360520B_D0063.tif" />

Front diaper type 10 and a rear diaper type 10. In other suitable embodiments, for example, wavy cut line 312 may have square shaped undulations, which give cut line 312 the appearance of a square wave, or undulations triangular in shape, giving cut line 312 the appearance of a zigzag line. In still other suitable embodiments, the wavy cut line 312 can define a finger tab 66 and / or a cut 78 in just a diaper-type brief.

As shown in Figure 7, the corrugated cut line 312 has a width 314 in the machine direction 101 defined by the opposite ends of the cut line 312. The width 314 of the corrugated cut line 312 is less than the distance 310 between the first seam 304 and the second seam 306 to ensure that the cut line 312 does not cut the side seams 90 of the diaper brief 10 (shown in Figure 4).

The method 300 illustrated in Figure 7 provides the integrally formed finger tabs 66 on both the front panel 36 and the rear panel 38 of the diaper brief 10 with the non-clamping side seams 90 (shown in Figure 4). Finger tabs 66 facilitate separating the nonsubjectible seams 90 from the diaper type 10 when a user wishes to remove the diaper type 10.

IMPI tNSTITUT · M1XCANO

Hunriw

INDUSOUM

<img file="MX360520B_D0064.tif" />

Figure 8 is a top plan view of another suitable modality of an absorbent article shown in the form of a diaper type underpants, generally indicated at 400. Figure 9 is a front view of the diaper type underpants 400 in a configuration of use. Unless otherwise indicated, the diaper type underpants 400 illustrated in Figures 8 and 9 are substantially identical to the diaper type underpants 10 illustrated and described above with respect to Figures 1 and 2.

As shown in Figure 8, the diaper brief 400 includes a front region 402, a rear region 404, and a crotch region 406 that extends between and interconnects the front region 402 and the rear region 404. In the In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 8, the front region 402, the rear region 404, and the crotch region 406 are formed from a single backsheet or continuous frame 408. Frame 408 includes a front portion 410, a rear portion 412, and a longitudinally extending center portion 414 that extends between and interconnects front portion 410 and rear portion 412. Front portion 410 defines a leading edge of the waist 416 and the first and second transversely opposite lateral leading edges 418, 420. The posterior portion 412 defines a posterior edge of the waist 422 and the first and second transversely opposite lateral posterior edges.

424, 426.

*

IMPI

INMfflllAt

<img file="MX360520B_D0065.tif" />

An absorbent assembly 428 is attached to frame 408 along at least central portion 414 by use of suitable coupling means including, but not limited to, adhesives, ultrasonic bonds, thermal bonds, pressure bonds, and combinations thereof. . The absorbent assembly 428 is substantially identical to the absorbent assembly 34 described above with reference to Figures 1 and 2, which includes an outer shell 430, a body facing liner 432, and an absorbent structure 434 disposed between the body facing shell. 432 and the absorbent structure 434. A portion of the body facing liner 432 is shown cut away in Figure 8 to expose the underlying absorbent structure 434 and the outer liner 430. In some embodiments, the outer liner 430 may

<td>omit</td><td>of the</td><td>absorbent set</td><td> 428,</td><td>and</td><td>the structure</td>

<td>absorbent</td><td> 434</td><td>can be inserted</td><td>between</td><td>the</td><td>coating</td>

<td>oriented</td><td>toward</td><td colspan="2">body 432 and frame</td><td> 408 .</td><td></td>

The diaper type underpants 400 illustrated in Figures 8 and 9 also include a restraint system 436. The restraint system 436 is substantially identical to the restraint system 60 described above with reference to Figures 1 and 2, which includes a pair of toppers fastener assemblies 62 arranged in the rear portion 412 of the frame 408 and a couple of second fastener assemblies 64 disposed in the

IMPI

MUICAN INSTITUTE ·

MLAMOnUM ·

INDUSTRIAL

<img file="MX360520B_D0066.tif" />

front portion 410 of frame 408.

As shown in FIG. 9, the front region 402 of the diaper-style underpants 400 is joined to the rear region 404 by a pair of re-attachable seams 438 to define a configuration similar to a diaper-type underpants 400 having an opening. waist, indicated at 440, and two leg openings, indicated at 442. More specifically, the front portion 410 of the frame 408 and the rear portion 412 of the frame 408 are releasably attached to each other by the fastening system 436. In other suitable embodiments, the front region 402 of the diaper-type underpants 400 can be attached to the posterior region 404 by a pair of non-clamping side seams similar to the diaper type underpants 10 shown and described above with reference to Figure 4.

The diaper type underpants 400 illustrated in Figures 8 and 9 also include a pair of integrally formed finger tabs 444. The finger tabs 444 have substantially the same configuration and function in substantially the same manner as the finger tabs 66 described above with reference to Figures 1 and 2. Finger tabs 444 extend transversely out of front portion 410 of frame 408 along first and second side leading edges 418, 420, and are appropriately sized and shaped

IMPI Mexican nwrrrvTO DE LA MOREDA »INDUSTRY!

<img file="MX360520B_D0067.tif" />

to allow a user to grasp the finger tabs 444 and apply a peeling or tearing force thereto. Each finger tab 444 is partially defined by a cut 446 extending transversely inward from the front portion 410 along one of the first and second side leading edges 418, 420. Each cut 446 is formed in a complementary manner to the corresponding finger tab 444 partially defined by the cut 446. Furthermore, each cut 446 is formed in a complementary manner to the finger tab 444 provided on the opposite side edge of the front portion 410 of the cut 446.

As shown in Figures 8 and 9, the finger tab 444 disposed on the first lateral leading edge

418 it is displaced longitudinally (i.e., in the longitudinal direction of the diaper-type underpants 400) from the finger tab 444 provided on the second lateral leading edge 420. Furthermore, the finger tab 444 provided on the first lateral leading edge 418 is laterally aligned (i.e., in the lateral direction of the diaper-type underpants 400) with the cut 446 provided on the second lateral leading edge 420, and the tongue for fingers 444 arranged on the second lateral leading edge 420 is laterally aligned with the cut

446 disposed on the first lateral leading edge 418. As shown in Figures 8 and 9, the finger tabs

444 and cuts 446 give the first and second edges

IMPI mlafwrwap

INDUSTRIAL

<img file="MX360520B_D0068.tif" />

418, 420 side fronts a rocking or wavy appearance.

In other suitable embodiments, finger tab 444 on one side of front portion 410 may be laterally aligned other than cut 446 on the opposite side edge of front portion 410, and / or finger tab 444 on a side edge. The front portion 410 may move longitudinally other than the finger tab 444 on the other side edge of the front portion 410.

As mentioned above, the front region 402, the rear region 404, and the crotch region 406 of the diaper-style underpants 400 are constructed from a single backsheet or continuous frame 408. Frame 408 can be constructed from a variety of suitable materials, including liquid permeable materials and liquid impervious materials. Suitable materials include, but are not limited to, a single nonwoven layer, such as yarn-bonded wefts, or nonwoven laminates, such as yarn-bond laminates (eg, yarn-bond / yarn-bond / yarn-bond) (SSS)) and spunbond / blown fused laminates (for example, spunbond / blownfused / spunbond (SMS)). Frame 408 may be treated to impart a desired level of liquid permeability or impermeability to frame 408. In embodiments where outer coating 430 is omitted

IMPI «UTUTO MEXICANO

OF THE INDUSTRIAL ntOniCAB

<img file="MX360520B_D0069.tif" />

of absorbent assembly 428, frame 408 is suitably constructed of a liquid impervious material, and can generally be constructed of the same materials as the outer shell 42 described above with reference to Figures 1 and 2. In embodiments where absorbent assembly 428 includes a liquid impervious outer shell 430, frame 408 can be constructed from either liquid permeable materials and liquid impervious materials, or only liquid permeable materials.

Frame 408 can also be formed of a breathable or non-breathable material. In some embodiments, frame 408 is formed from a breathable material or a material that is treated or processed to be breathable. Other suitable materials that can be used to form framework 408 include woven and nonwoven materials formed from natural or synthetic fibers; polyolefins, such as polypropylene or polyethylene; thermoplastic films; as well as other materials that are known to those skilled in the art.

In the illustrated embodiment, frame 408 is formed from a single sheet or continuous laminate that extends from the leading edge of the waist 416 to the trailing edge of the waist 422, and from the first lateral leading edge and trailing edge 418, 424 to the second leading edge and trailing rear edge 420, 426.

IMPI iNrrrrUTQ Mexican Df LA MONEDAD tNWtynuAi

<img file="MX360520B_D0070.tif" />

Figure 10 schematically illustrates a suitable method

500 for manufacturing the diaper type underpants 400 shown in Figures 8 and 9.

Method 500 includes transporting a web 502 of material in a machine direction 501. Web 502 defines a first portion 504 and a second portion 506 separated from the first portion 504 in a direction transverse to machine 503. Web 502 also includes laterally opposite side edges 508 extending in the machine direction 501. Screen 502 is powered from a power source (not shown) by using any suitable apparatus, including, but not limited to, laminating rollers, tension rollers, and combinations thereof.

The weft 502 of material forms the frame 408 of the diaper type underpants 400 (Figures 8 and 9). Therefore, frame 502 can be constructed from the same materials as frame 408 (Figures 8 and 9) described above. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 10, the first portion 504 of the frame 502 defines the rear portion 412 of the frame 408 of the diaper type 400 (Figures 8 and 9), and the second portion 506 defines the front portion 410 of the frame 408 (Figures 8 and 9). In other suitable embodiments, the first portion 504 of frame 502 can define front portion 410 of frame 408, and second portion 506 can define rear portion 412 of frame 408.

<img file="MX360520B_D0071.tif" />

IMPI κτπτυτ · mujcano

BE LA nOHtBAB INBUSTWA1.

<img file="MX360520B_D0072.tif" />

Method 500 further includes coupling an absorbent assembly 510 to frame 502 at a docking station of absorbent assembly 512. Absorbent assembly 510 is attached to frame 502 such that absorbent assembly 510 is oriented in the transverse direction to the machine. 503. Absorbent assembly 510 may have the same construction and comprise the same materials as absorbent assemblies 34, 428 described above with reference to Figures 1 and 2 and Figures 8 and 9. Absorbent assembly 510 can be attached to frame 502 by using any of the appropriate coupling methods, such as those described above with reference to Figure 5.

As shown in FIG. 10, method 500 further includes forming leg cuts 514 in frame 502 at a leg cutting station 516. Leg cut 514 is formed in frame 502 between first portion 504. and the second portion 506, and defines the leg openings 442 (Figure 9) of the diaper brief 400 when the diaper brief 400 is formed. Leg cutting station 416 can include any suitable apparatus for forming leg cutting 514 including, but not limited to, knife rollers, anvil rollers, die cutters, and combinations thereof.

Method 500 further includes coupling a first

IMPI

INDUSTRIAL

<img file="MX360520B_D0073.tif" />

fastening component 518 to the first pUf't'lon bu4 of the frame 502 in a first coupling station of the clamping component 520, and coupling a second clamping component 522 to the second portion 506 of the frame 502 in a second station coupling component 524. The first fastening component 518 and the second fastening component 522 can be attached to the frame 502 in substantially the same manner as the first fastening component 116 and the second fastening component 120 described above with reference to Figure 5. In some embodiments, for example, coupling the first fastening component 518 to the first portion 504 of the weft 502 includes coupling a carrier sheet 526 to the first portion 504 of the weft 502, and coupling the first fastening component 518 to the sheet. carrier 526. The docking stations of the clamping components 520, 524 can include any suitable apparatus for coupling the first clamping component 518 to the first portion 504 of frame 502 and the second clamping component 522 to the second portion 506 of frame 502 , which include, but are not limited to, adhesive applicators, compression rollers, laminating rollers, laminating rollers, quenching rollers, ultrasonic horns, anvils, and combinations thereof.

Method 500 further includes forming a partial cut line 528 through second portion 506 of frame 502.

ΙΜΡΙ

INSTITUTO MUICAND M LA NOMBDAD INDUSTRIAL

<img file="MX360520B_D0074.tif" />

in a first cutting station 530. The partial cutting line 528 can be formed in substantially the same way as the partial cutting line 132 described above with reference to Figure 5. The first cutting station 530 can include any suitable apparatus for forming the partial cut line 528 in the second portion 506 of the frame 502, which includes, but is not limited to, knife rollers and anvil rollers. As shown in Figure 10, the partial cut line 528 defines a finger tab 444 and a cut 446 in the diaper type 400 when the diaper type 400 is formed. More specifically, the partial cut line 528 defines a finger tab 444 and a cut 446 in the two separate diaper pants 10 - ie, a front diaper type pant and a rear diaper type pant. In other suitable embodiments, the partial cut line 528 can define a finger tab 444 and / or a cut 44 6 in only a diaper-type underpants.

As shown in Figure 10, method 500 also includes forming a cut line 532 through first portion 504 of frame 502 at a second cut station 534. As shown in Figure 10, the cut line 532 is a partial cut line. Cut line 532 can be formed in substantially the same way as cut line 146 described above with reference to Figure 5. The second cut station 534 can include any suitable apparatus

IMPI mnnUT · MDUCANO

MLAriOHflDA »

INDUSTRIAL

<img file="MX360520B_D0075.tif" />

to form cut line 532 in first portion 5Ó4 of frame 502, including, but not limited to, knife rollers and anvil rollers.

As shown in Figure 10, method 500 further includes folding first portion 504 of weft 502 into face-to-face relationship with second portion 506 of weft 502 at a folding station 536 after forming the cut line. 528 and cut line 532. Folding the first portion 504 of the frame 502 into a face-to-face relationship with the second portion 506 of the frame 502 at the folding station 536 causes the first clamping components 518 to be releasably attached to the second clamping components 522 , thereby providing a pre-attached diaper type underpants 400. Furthermore, when the first portion 504 of the frame 502 is folded in a face-to-face relationship with the second portion 506 of the frame 502, the partial cut line 528 in the second portion 506 of the frame 502 is partially aligned with the line cutting 532 in the first portion 504 of the frame 502.

Folding the first portion 504 of the frame 502 into a face-to-face relationship with the second portion 506 of the frame 502 includes rotating one of the first portion 504 of the frame 502 and the second portion 506 of the frame 502 around a line. folding station 538 extending parallel to the machine direction 501. The folding station 536 can

IMPI iwrnvr · muugano

M LA TROHSDad

INDUSTRIAL

<img file="MX360520B_D0076.tif" />

include any folding mechanism "suitable for folding the first portion 504 of the frame 502 in a face-to-face relationship with the second portion 506 of the frame 502.

The method 500 further includes cutting the weft 502 is a third cutting station 540 while the first portion 504 of the weft 502 is positioned in a face-to-face relationship with the second portion 506 of the weft 502 to separate the diaper type underpants 10 of frame 502 and, in the illustrated embodiment, separating a front diaper type underpants 400 from a rear diaper type underpants 400. The third cutting station 540 may include any apparatus suitable for cutting the first screen 502, including, but not limited to, knife rollers and anvil rollers.

In the illustrated embodiment, cutting weft 502 at third cutting station 540 includes forming cuts 542 along the laterally opposite side edges 508 of weft 502. Cuts 542 intersect partial cut line 528 formed in second portion 506 of frame 502, and cut line 532 formed in first portion 504 of frame 502, thereby forming a continuous cut line that it extends around each of the first portion 504 of the frame 502 and the second portion 506 of the frame 502. In addition, as shown in Figure 10, one of the cuts 542 adjoins the cut of the legs 514 formed in plot 502. In other suitable modalities, cut the weft

IMPI rwniuiu MBUCANO OtLAFWNlBAO tmumuAi

<img file="MX360520B_D0077.tif" />

502 may include forming a 542 ~ cut to length US UU1U¹ one of the side edges 508 of weft 502. In still other suitable embodiments, cutting weft 502 may include forming one or more linear cut lines intersecting partial cut line 528 and cut line 532 to form cut lines. streams extending around each of the first portion 504 of frame 502 and the second portion 506 of frame 502.

The method 500 illustrated in FIG. 10 provides a diaper-style underpants 400 having a single continuous shell 408 with integrally formed finger tabs 444 that facilitate separation of the restrainable seams 438 from the diaper-like underpants 400 (shown in the Figures). 8 and 9) when a user wishes to remove the diaper type underpants 400. Forming a partial cut line 528 in second frame 502, rather than a full cut line, allows finger tabs 444 to selectively form on only one of front portion 410 of frame 408 and rear portion 412 of the frame 408. The methods illustrated and described above with reference to Figures 6 and 7 can also be carried out by using a single weft to provide a diaper-type brief having a single continuous frame with integrally formed finger tabs at the front portion and the back portion of the frame, and a diaper-type brief that has the portions

IMPI ικπτυτο mmucamo

INDUSniAt

<img file="MX360520B_D0078.tif" />

front and rear single-frame-eent-i-nuo-attached-by non-attachable side seams.

When elements of the present invention or the preferred embodiment (s) of these are introduced, it is understood that the articles a, the and the one (s) indicate that there is one or more elements. The terms you understand, include and have are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional items other than the items listed.

As various changes can be made in the above constructions without departing from the scope of the invention, it is intended that all the technique contained in the above description or shown in the attached figures should be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.

This written description uses examples to describe the invention, which include the best mode, and also to allow any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, which includes making and using any of the devices or systems and carrying out any of the built-in methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. The other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that are not

<img file="MX360520B_D0079.tif" />

they differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements without substantial differences from the literal languages ​​of the claims.

It is noted that in relation to this date, the best method known by the applicant to put the aforementioned invention into practice, is the one that is clear from the present description of the invention.