Apparatuses and methods for bonding substrates

Background to the invention

Various types of products can be combined on the assembly line, such as diapers and other absorbent articles, by adding elements and / or otherwise modifying a continuous, continuous web of material. In some processes, moving webs of material combine with other moving webs of material. In other processes, individual elements formed from moving webs of material combine with moving webs of material that in turn merge with other moving webs of material. In some cases, individual elements formed of a traveling web or webs are combined with other individual elements formed by the second traveling web or bands. The material webs and components used to make diapers may include: layers of trousers, outer layers, leg cuffs, waist straps, absorbent elements, front and / or back ear lobes, fastening elements and various types of ribbons and elastic elements, such as leg elastics, leg cuffs, stretchy side panels, and elastics at the waist. After the desired components have been combined, the moving web or webs and components are subjected to a final cut with a knife so as to divide the web or webs into separate diapers or other absorbent articles. stretchy side panels and elastics in the waist. After the desired components have been combined, the moving web or webs and components are subjected to a final cut with a knife so as to divide the web or webs into separate diapers or other absorbent articles. stretchy side panels and elastics in the waist. After the desired components have been combined, the moving web or webs and components are subjected to a final cut with a knife so as to divide the web or webs into separate diapers or other absorbent articles.

In some processing configurations, the separate bases are spaced apart in the longitudinal direction and aligned in the longitudinal axis parallel to the transverse direction. Opposed areas comprising a waist of separate bases are then connected to continuous sections of elastically stretchable webs of the anterior and posterior belts traveling in the longitudinal direction. When connected to the base of the front and rear web belts, they are held in the fully stretched state along the longitudinal direction, forming a continuous

EP 2 911 630 section of absorbent articles. The continuous length of absorbent articles can then be folded in the transverse direction. During the assembly process, in some processing configurations, one of the webs of the front and rear lanes is in a relationship facing each other with the opposite belt. The front and back straps can then be stitched together to create side seams on diapers.

The parts of the front and back straps may be partially melted or pressed together to form lateral seams. The stapling process may involve moving the front and back strips forward through a gap that has been formed between the rotating counter roller and the rotating pressing tool. When the front and rear straps pass through the slot, the tightening tool can press the front and back straps to the stopper roller. The retaining roller and the pressing tool are made of a rigid material. In some processes, the time by which the front and back straps are pressed may leave the strength and quality of the seam. In particular, a longer clamping time can improve the quality and strength of the seam. However, in fast manufacturing processes using a rigid counter roller and a rigid clamping tool, the thrust roll and the pressing tool can be spaced apart to prevent interference between the thrust roller and the pressing tool. As a result, the clamping time can be virtually instantaneous when the front and back straps pass through a gap formed between the support roll and the pressing tool.

In some processes, pressing the substrates forwardly in a direction that is not tangent to either the outer surface of the pressing tool or the outer peripheral surface of the counter roll can improve the quality and strength of the seam. However, in a process using a rigid clamping tool separated from each other and a rigid counter roller to prevent interference, the substrate can be pressed in a direction that is tangential to both the outer surface of the counter roller and the pressing tool.

WO2011 / 156299 published on December 15, 2011 discloses a seam consisting of at least two porous, at least partially molten materials with substantially the same melting temperature, and a seam formation process using heated fluid for bonding all materials to the seam or bonding only selected layers laminate in the seam.

EP 2 911 630

Therefore, it will be advantageous to provide the device and methods to increase the down time to bond the substrates to each other to form a side seam in a fast manufacturing process. In addition, it will also be advantageous to provide a process and apparatus for pressing the substrates in a direction that is not tangential to the outer surface of the pressing device and the outer peripheral surface of the support roll.

Summary of the invention

Aspects of the present disclosure include a method that consists of the following steps: rotating the drum about the axis of rotation, the drum consisting of a fluid spray nozzle and a pressure element, wherein the pressure element has an outer surface; rotating the retaining roll about an axis of rotation adjacent to the drum, the thruster roll having a compliant outer peripheral surface, and a gap is formed between the counter roller and the drum; advancing the first layer in the longitudinal direction on the drum, the first substrate having an inner surface and an outer surface, where the outer surface of the first substrate borders the drum; moving the second layer forward in the longitudinal direction, wherein the second substrate layer has an inner surface and an outer surface and the first substrate layer is between the second substrate layer and the drum, and the first and second substrate layers have a combined under-thickness thickness; wrapping the first and second substrate layers around a portion of the drum; heating the liquid to a temperature sufficient to at least partially melt the first and second substrate layers;

moving the nozzle to spray the fluid radially outward relative to the axis of rotation of the drum; directing the flow of heated fluid onto the first and second substrate layer; partial fusion of the first and second parts of the substrate;

withdrawing the nozzle to spray the fluid radially inwardly relative to the axis of rotation of the drum; moving the pressure element radially outward relative to the rotation axis of the drum; advancing the first and second substrate layers forward through the slot; and compressing the first and second substrate layers between the pressure element and the thrust roll and deforming the susceptible outer peripheral surface of the support roll.

EP 2 911 630

Aspects of the present disclosure include a device for bonding the first and second substrates to each other, the first and second substrates having a combined hypothetical thickness. The device consists of a drum having an outer peripheral surface and a drum opening in the outer peripheral surface, the drum being adapted to rotate about the axis of rotation. The device has a fluid spray nozzle movably connected to the drum, radially inwardly relative to the drum opening, and adapted to direct the fluid radially out through the drum openinga. The device also consists of a thrust bearing having an outer circumferential surface located near the drum, so that a gap is defined between the support roll and the drum. The thrust roll is adapted to rotate about the axis of rotation and has a compliant sleeve that defines the outer peripheral surface of the retaining roller. The outer peripheral surface of the counter roller is deformable towards the axis of rotation of the counter roller. The device has a pressure element connected movably to the drum, arranged radially inwardly with respect to the drum aperture and adapted to run through the drum aperture.

A brief description of the drawings

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of pant diapers.

FIG. 2A shows a partially cut-out view of the diaper pants shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 2B shows a partially cut-out top view of the second configuration of the diaper pants.

FIG. 3A shows a cross-sectional view of diaper pants

FIG. 2A and 2B, along line 3A-3A.

FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view of diaper pants

FIG. 2A and 2B, along line 3B-3B.

FIG. 4 is a schematic side view of a processing device adapted to produce pre-fastened diaper pants.

FIG. 5A is a view of a continuous section of bases from

FIG. 4, along the AA line.

FIG. 5B1 is a view of the separate base of FIG. 4, along line B1-B1.

FIG. 5B2 is a view of the separate base of FIG. 4, along the B2-B2 line.

EP 2 911 630

FIG. 5C is a view of the continuous sections of the moving front and rear side panel material of FIG. 4, along the CC line.

FIG. FIG. 5D is a view of a plurality of separate bases spaced apart along the longitudinal direction MD and interconnected material of the anterior and posterior side panels of FIG. 4, along the DD line.

FIG. FIG. 5E shows a view of a plurality of separate bases with the material of the anterior and posterior lateral lobes facing each other in FIG. 4, along the EE line.

FIG. 5F is a view of two separate absorbent articles moving in the longitudinal direction MD of FIG. 4, along the FF line.

FIG. 5G is a view of the overlapping region of the first and second substrates of FIG. 5D along line 5G-5G.

FIG. 6A is a schematic side view of a bonding device adapted to connect pre-fastened diaper pants by means of seams. FIG. 6A1 is a detailed schematic side view of the bonding device of FIG. 6A.

FIG. FIG. 6B is a side elevational view of the stapling station of FIG. 6A.

FIG. 6B1 shows a detailed elevational view of the stapling station of FIG. 6B.

FIG. 7 shows a detailed exploded view of the stitching station.

FIG. 8 shows an exploded view of the stitching station.

FIG. 9 shows a partial exploded view from the side of the pressure element and the counter roller, which are configured to deform the first and second substrate layers in the z direction.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the stitching station in a first configuration.

FIG. 11 is a schematic side view of a bonding device adapted to connect pre-fastened diaper pants with seams. FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the stitching station in a second configuration.

EP 2 911 630

FIG. 13 is a partial exploded view from the side of the pressure element and the rotary roller.

FIG. 14 shows a partial exploded view from the side of the pressure element and the rotary roller.

FIG. 15 is a partial exploded view from the side of the pressure element and the rotary roller.

FIG. 16-19 are perspective views on the side of a bonding device adapted to connect pre-fastened diaper pants by means of seams.

Detailed description of the invention

This application claims the benefit of US Provisional Application No. 61/717, 268 filed on October 23, 2012, all of which is incorporated herein by reference.

The following definitions may be useful in understanding the present disclosure: "Absorbent article" is used herein to refer to consumer products whose primary function is the absorption and retention of waste and waste. "Diaper" is used in the present description to refer to an absorbent article essentially worn by infants and non-physiologic persons on the lower torso. The term "disposable" is used in the present description to describe absorbent articles that are not primarily intended to be washed or otherwise restored or reused as an absorbent article (i.e. they are intended to be disposed of after one use and may be also configured for recycling,

A "flexible", "elastomer" or "elastomeric" refers herein to a material which, after applying a force on its initial length in a relaxed state, may extend or extend to an elongated length by more than 10% greater than its initial length and substantially return to its initial length after releasing the applied force.

As used herein, the term "linked" includes configurations in which the element is directly attached to another element by affixing the element, and configurations in which

The element is indirectly attached to another element by attaching the element to the element or intermediate elements, which in turn are attached to another element.

"Oblong" means the direction extending substantially perpendicular from the waist edge to the longitudinally opposite waist edge of the absorbent article when the article is in a stretched, uncontracted state, or from the waist edge to the underside of the crotch, i.e. the fold line, in the double folded article. Directions within 45 degrees from the longitudinal direction are considered to be "longitudinal". "Transverse" means the direction extending from the longitudinally extending side edge to the laterally opposed, longitudinally extending side edge of the article and substantially at right angles to the longitudinal direction. Directions within 45 degrees of the transverse direction are considered to be "transverse".

"Radiant" means the direction running from the center of the drum towards the outer peripheral surface.

The term "substrate" is used herein to describe materials that are mainly two-dimensional (i.e. in the XY plane) and whose thickness (in the Z direction) is relatively small (i.e., 1/10 or less) compared to their length ( in the X direction) and width (in the Y direction). Non-limiting examples of substrates include a web, layer or layers or fibrous materials, nonwovens, films, such as polymeric films or metal foils. These materials may be used alone or may contain at least two laminar materials. Accordingly, the web is a substrate.

The term "nonwoven" as used herein refers to a material made of continuous (long) filaments (fibers) and / or discontinuous (short) filaments (fibers) by methods such as mass molding, thermothermal blowing, carding and the like. The nonwovens do not have a woven or knitted pattern of filaments.

The term "longitudinal direction" (MD) is used herein in relation to the direction of material flow during the process. In addition, the relative position and movement of the material can be described as extending in the longitudinal direction during the process from the initial stages of the process to downstream process steps.

EP 2 911 630

The term "transverse direction" (CD) is used herein in relation to a direction that is not parallel and is usually perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

The term "underwear" (also referred to as "training pants", "pre-closed diaper", "diaper pants", "diaper pants" and "diaper pants") refers here to disposable absorbent products with a continuous circumferential waist opening and continuous peripheral leg openings for infants or adult wearers. The underwear can be configured with a continuous or closed waist opening and at least one continuous closed leg opening before the article is worn on the wearer. Underwear can be pre-formed with various techniques, including joining parts of the product together by means of any repeatedly fastened and / or fixed closing element (e.g. seams, welds, welds, adhesives, adhesive joints, mechanical fasteners, etc.).

"Pre-fastened" refers in this description to pant diapers manufactured and supplied to consumers in a configuration in which the front area comprising the waist and the rear area including the waist are fastened or joined together in a package prior to application to the wearer. Accordingly, the diaper pants may have a continuous circumferential waist opening and continuous peripheral leg openings for infants or adult wearers. As discussed in more detail below, diaper pants can be pre-formed by various techniques, including but not limited to joining parts of a diaper together by means of multiple fastened and / or fixed closing elements (e.g. seams, welds, welds, adhesives, adhesive joints, mechanical fasteners, etc.). In addition, the pant diapers may be pre-formed anywhere on the perimeter of the area including the waist (e.g.

In this document, the term "susceptible" refers to any material with a hardness between 20 and 100 measured in accordance with the international ASTM designation: D2240 for type A hardness testers.

EP 2 911 630

The present disclosure relates to methods and apparatuses for bonding substrates together. As discussed in more detail below, the bonding devices may comprise a drum and a retaining roller in the vicinity of the drum. Each of the support roll and drum may include an outer peripheral surface. The drum may also include an opening on the outer peripheral surface and one or more stitching stations positioned radially inwardly from the outer peripheral surface of the drum. The outer circumferential surface of the counter roller can be made of a compliant material. As discussed in more detail below, the stitching station may include a fluid spray nozzle operatively connected to the pressure element. During the bonding operation, the drum rotates around the rotation axis, and the first substrate layer moves in the longitudinal direction to the outer peripheral surface of the drum. The second substrate layer is also advanced forward in the longitudinal direction in which the first substrate layer is between the second substrate layer and the drum. The fluid is heated to a temperature sufficient to at least partially melt the substrates. As the drum rotates, the fluid spray nozzle moves radially outward toward the opening on the outer peripheral surface of the drum. The fluid spray nozzle directs the flow of heated fluid through the opening and into the overlapping region of the first and second substrate layers, partially melting the overlap region. As the drum continues to rotate, the fluid spray nozzle retracts radially inward from the hole,

The partially molten overlap region then moves forward through the gap formed between the pressure element and the counter roller, thereby compressing the overlap region of the first and second substrates between the pressure element and the counter roller. The pressure element can press the overlap region against the counter roller in such a way that the outer surface of the counter roller deforms radially inwards towards the axis of rotation of the counter roller. The pressure element may deform the outer peripheral surface of the support roll with a radial thickness of at least 25% of the thickness of the non-blown, unmelted layers of the first and second substrates. At the same time, the first and second substrates can be deformed in the direction of

EP 2 911 630

As a result, separate seam or seam areas are formed between the first and second substrates. The drum continues to rotate and the pressure element retracts radially inward from the opening.

It should be noted that, although the bonding methods and apparatus in the present specification can be configured to bond different types of substrates, methods, and devices herein, are discussed below in the context of the preparation of absorbent articles. In particular, these methods and devices have been discussed in the context of bonding belt substrates to each other in order to form side seams when the continuous sections of absorbent articles are displaced during manufacture. As discussed below, a moving, continuous stretch of absorbent articles may include a plurality of bases connected to the continuous substrate of the first belt and the continuous substrate of the second belt. The continuous substrates of the first and second strips can be separated from each other along the transverse direction while moving forward along the longitudinal direction. Each base may extend in the transverse direction and may include opposed first and second end regions separated by a central area, where the first end regions are joined to the first lane substrate and the second end regions are connected to the second lane substrate. The bases can also be spaced apart along the longitudinal direction.

The folding device functions to fold the base about the fold axis along the central areas and to bring the second strip base and the second base region toward the relationship facing each other with the first lane substrate and the first end region of the base. In some example configurations, the first lane substrate, the second lane substrate, the folded base moves forward in the longitudinal direction to the outer peripheral surface of the rotating drum as described above. As the drum rotates, the fluid spray nozzle moves radially outward toward the opening on the outer peripheral surface of the drum. The fluid spray nozzle directs the flow of heated fluid through the opening and onto the overlapping region of the first and second belt substrates that partially melts the overlap region. As the drum continues to rotate, the fluid spray nozzle retracts radially inwardly from the opening and the pressure element moves radially out through the opening. The partially molten overlap region is then pressed

EP 2 911 630 between the pressure element and the retaining roller to form separate seam or seam areas between the substrates of the first and second lanes. The drum continues to rotate and the pressure element retracts radially inwardly from the opening, and a continuous length of substrates of the first and second belt moves from the drum to the knife roller. The bonded regions are cut with a knife roller along the transverse direction so as to form the first side seam on the absorbent article and a second side seam on the subsequently moving absorbent article.

While the present discussion relates to bonding at least one substrate layer, it should be noted that in certain example configurations disclosed herein, devices and methods can be used to emboss or deform a single substrate layer.

The processes and devices discussed herein may be used for bonding various types of substrate configurations, some of which may be used in the production of various types of absorbent articles. To help provide additional context for later discussing the process configuration, a general description is given below of absorbent articles in the form of diapers that include elements that can be bonded in accordance with the methods and devices disclosed herein.

FIG. 1 and 2A illustrate an example of a diaper pants 100 that can be combined and folded in accordance with the devices and methods disclosed herein. In particular FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a diaper 100 in a pre-fastened configuration, and FIG. 2A is a plan view of diaper pants 100 with a portion of the diaper that faces out from the wearer and faces the viewer. Diaper pants 100 shown in FIG. 1 and 2A comprise a base 102 and an annular elastic belt 104. As discussed below in more detail, the first elastic belt 106 and the second elastic belt 108 are connected to each other to form an annular elastic belt 104.

Still referring to FIG. 2A, the base 102 includes a first area 116 including the waist, a second area 118 including the waist, and an area 120 comprising a crotch positioned between the first and second waist region. The first area 116 including the waist may be configured as the front region comprising the waist and the second area 118

EP 2 911 630, including the waist, may be configured as a rear region comprising the waist. In some configurations, the length of each of the anterior area comprising the waist, the rear area comprising the waist, and the crotch-encompassing region may be 1/3 of the length of the absorbent article 100.

the diaper 100 may also include a transversely extending front waist edge 121 in the front region 116 including the waist and a longitudinally opposite and transversely extending rear waist edge 122 in the rear region 118 including the waist. To provide a reference for this discussion, the diaper 100 and the base 102 of FIG. 2A is shown with the longitudinal axis 124 and the transverse axis 126. In some example configurations, the longitudinal axis 124 can pass through the front waist edge 121 and over the rear waist edge 122. In contrast, the transverse axis 126 can pass through the first longitudinal or right side edge 128 and through the midpoint. the other longitudinal or left side edge 130 of the base 102.

As shown in FIG. 1 and 2A, the diaper pants 100 may include an inner surface 132 facing the body and an outer surface 134 facing the garment. The base 102 may include a backsheet 136 and a top layer 138. The base 102 may also include an absorbent assembly 140, including an absorbent core 142 positioned between a portion of the top layer 138 and the backsheet 136. As discussed in more detail below, the diaper 100 may also include other items such as leg elastics and / or leg cuffs to increase the fit around the wearer's legs.

As shown in FIG. 2A, the base rim 102 may be defined by a first longitudinal side edge 128, a second longitudinal side edge 130, a first transversely extending end edge 144 positioned in a first waist region 116 and a second transversely extending end edge 146 located in a second waist region 118 including the waist . Both lateral edges 128 and 130 extend longitudinally between the first end edge 144 and the second end edge 146. As shown in FIG. 2A, the transversely extending end edges 144 and 146 are arranged longitudinally inwardly from the transversely extending front waist edge 121 in the front region 116 including the waist and the transversely extending rear waist edge 122 in the rear region 118 covering the waist.

EP 2 911 630 are worn at the bottom of the wearer's torso, the front waist edge 121 and the rear waist edge 122 of the base 102 may surround a portion of the wearer's waist. At the same time, the side edges 128 and 130 of the base may surround at least a portion of the legs of the wearer. In contrast, the crotch region 120 may be substantially placed between the legs of the wearer, with an absorbent core 142 extending from the front region 116 covering the waist through an area 120 including the crotch to the rear region 118 comprising the waist.

The diaper pants may be manufactured with an annular elastic band 104 and provided to consumers in a configuration in which the front region 116 comprising the waist and the rear area 118 comprising the waist are joined together in a package before being worn on the wearer. Accordingly, the pant diapers may have a continuous circumferential waist aperture 110 and continuous peripheral leg openings 112 such as shown in FIG. 1.

The annular elastic belt 104 is defined by a first elastic belt 106 connected to the second elastic belt 108. As shown in FIG. 2A, the first elastic band 106 defines the opposing first and second end regions 106a, 106b and the central area 106c, and the second elastic belt 108 defines opposite first and second end regions 108a, 108b and the central region 108c.

The center region 106c of the first elastic band is connected to the first region 116 comprising the base waist 102, and the central area 108c of the second elastic belt 108 is connected to the second area 116 comprising the base waist 102. As shown in FIG. 1, the first end region 106a of the first elastic belt 106 is connected to the first end region 108a of the second elastic band 108 at the first side seam 178, and the second end region 106b of the first elastic band 106 is connected to the second end region 108b of the second elastic band 108 at the second seam. lateral 180 to define the annular elastic belt 104, as well as the waist opening 110 and leg openings 112. The first elastic belt 106 may define the inner surface 117a and the outer surface 119a.

EP 2 911 630

As shown in FIG. 2A, 3A and 3B, the first elastic belt 106 also defines the outer side edge 107a and the inner side edge 107b, and the second elastic belt 108 defines an outer side edge 109a and an inner side edge 109b. The outer side edges 107a, 107b may also define a front waist edge 120 and a laterally extending rear waist edge 122. Each of the first elastic belt and the second elastic belt may also comprise an outer layer 162 facing the garment and an inner layer 164 facing the wearer. It should be noted that the first elastic belt 106 and the second elastic belt

108 may consist of the same materials and / or may have the same structure. In some example configurations, the first elastic belt 106 and the second elastic belt may consist of different materials and / or may have different structures. It should also be noted that the first elastic belt 106 and the second elastic belt 108 can be made of a variety of materials. For example, the first and the second belt may be manufactured from materials such as plastic films; plastic films with holes; woven or nonwoven webs of natural materials (e.g., wooden or cotton fibers), synthetic fibers (e.g., polyolefins, polyamides, polyester, polyethylene or polypropylene fibers) or combinations of natural and / or synthetic fibers; or coated woven or nonwoven webs. In certain example configurations, the first and second elastic bands comprise a nonwoven web of synthetic fibers and may include a non-woven non-woven fabric. In other exemplary configurations, the first and second elastic bands include an internal, hydrophobic, non-woven, non-woven fabric, and an outer, hydrophobic, non-woven, non-woven fabric.

Each of the first and second elastic belts 106, 108 may also comprise a belt elastic material disposed between the outer layer 162 and the inner layer 164. The elastic material of the belt may include one or more elastic elements, such as strands, webs or panels extending over the lengths of the elastic belts. .

As shown in FIG. 2A, 3A and 3B, the elastic material of the belt may include a plurality of resilient bands 168, which may be referred to herein as the outer elastics 170 in the waist and the inner elastics 172 in the waist. As shown in FIG. 2A, the elastic bands 168 extend transversely continuously between opposed end regions

The first elastic 106 and between the first and second opposed end regions 108a, 108b of the second elastic band 108. In some example configurations, some resilient bands 168 may be configured with discontinuities in areas such as e.g. where the first and second elastic belts 106, 108 overlap the absorbent assembly 140. In some example configurations, the elastic bands 168 may be arranged at fixed intervals in the longitudinal direction. In some example configurations, the resilient bands 168 may be spaced differently in the longitudinal direction. The elastic material of the belt in its stretched state can be placed and connected between the uncovered outer layer and the uncontracted inner layer. When the elastic material of the belt is relaxed, the elastic material of the belt returns to its unstretched state and shrinks the outer layer and the inner layer. The elastic material of the belt can provide a desired change in the contracting force in the area of ​​the annular elastic band.

It should be noted that the base 102 and the elastic belts 106 and 108 may be configured in different ways other than those shown in FIG. 2A. For example, FIG. 2B is a plan view of a diaper 100 with the same elements as described above with reference to FIG. 2A, except that the first transversely extending end edge 144 of the base 102 is arranged along the outer side edge 107a of the first elastic belt 106 and coincides therewith and the second transversely extending end edge 146 is aligned along the outer side edge 109a of the second leg 108 and coincides with it.

The devices and methods of the present disclosure may be used to connect different pre-fastened elements, multiple-buttoned diaper pants 100. For example, FIG. 4 is a schematic view of a processing device 300 adapted to fabricate a pant diaper 100. The method of operation of the processing device 300 can be described with reference to the various elements of the pant diaper 100 described above and shown in FIG. 1 and 2A. Although the methods below are provided in the context of the diaper pants 100 shown in FIG. 1 and 2A, it should be noted that according to the method disclosed in this document

EP 2 911 630, various configurations of pant diapers may be made, such as, for example, absorbent articles disclosed in US Patent No. 7.569,039 filed on November 10, 2004; US Patent Publication No. 2005 / 0107764A1 filed on November 10, 2004; U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 221,127 filed on August 30, 2011; and U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 221,104 filed on August 30, 2011.

As described in more detail below, the processing device 300 shown in FIG. 4 acts to advance the separate base 102 along the longitudinal direction MD so that the transverse axis of each base 102 is parallel to the longitudinal direction and wherein the bases 102 are spaced apart along the longitudinal direction (MD). Opposite areas 116, 118 comprising a waist of spaced bases 102 are then joined to the continuous sections of the moving substrates of the first and second elastic belts 406, 408. The base 102 then folds along the transverse axis to bring the first and second elastic waist 406, 408 to the relationship facing each other, and the substrates of the first and the second elastic band are joined together along regions 336 arranged irregularly along the longitudinal direction. Each area 336 may include at least one separate seam place 336a. In contrast, the substrates of the elastic belts 406, 408 are cut along the areas 336 to form separate diapers 100, such as shown in FIG. 1.

As shown in FIG. 4 and 5A, a continuous length of the base assemblies 30 moves in the longitudinal direction MD to the support device 308 and slits into separate bases 102 of the knife roller 306. The continuous portion of the base assemblies may include absorbent assemblies 140 disposed between the top layer material 138 and the backsheet material 136. , leg bands, limiting leg cuffs and the like. A part of the base assembly is cut away to reveal a portion of the material 138 of the top layer and the absorbent assembly 140.

After cutting the separate absorbent base 102 with the knife roller 306, the carrier device 308 rotates and moves the separate base 102 in the longitudinal direction MD in the orientation shown in FIG. 5B1, in which the longitudinal axis 124 of the base 102 is substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction MD. Although the base 102 shown in FIG. 5B1 is shown with a second transversely extending end edge 146 as the fore and aft edge

EP 2 911 630 with the transversely extending end edge 144 as the rear edge, it should be noted that in other configurations the base 102 may be moved in other orientations. For example, the base may be oriented such that the second transversely extending end edge 146 is the rear edge and the first transversely extending end edge 144 is the front edge. The support device 308 also rotates, changing the orientation of the advancing base 102. The support device 308 can also vary the speed at which the base 102 moves in the longitudinal direction MD. It should be noted that various forms of support devices, such as, for example, support devices disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 7,587,966, can be used in the methods herein. FIG. 5B2 shows the orientation of the base 102 on the carrier device 308 when moving in the longitudinal direction. More specifically, FIG. 5B2 shows a base 102 with a transverse axis 126 of a base 102 substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction MD, and wherein the second longitudinal side edge 130 is a forward edge and the first longitudinal side edge 128 is a rear edge.

As discussed below with reference to FIG. 3, 5C, 5D, 5E and 5F, the bases 102 are transferred from the support device 308 and connected to moving, continuous sections of substrates 406, 408, which are then cut to form first and second elastic belts 106, 108 on diapers 100.

Referring to FIG. 4 and 5C, the bases 102 are transferred from the carrier device 308 to the slot 316 between the carrier device 308 and the carrier device 318 on which the base 102 connects to the continuous sections of the moving base material of the front belt 406 and the rear belt.

408. Each of the backsheet 406 and the backsheet 408 may define a surface 312 facing the wearer and an opposite surface 314 facing the garment. The surface 312 facing the wearer of the first waist 406 may be joined to a surface 134 facing the base garment 102 along the first waist area 116 and the surface facing the second substrate waist 312 may be bonded to a surface 134 facing the base garment 102 along a second region 118 comprising the waist. As shown in FIG. 4, the adhesive 320 may be applied intermittently to the surface 312 facing the wearer

EP 2 911 630 of the first and second belts 406, 408 before being connected to a separate base 102 in the slot 316 between the roller 318 and the supporting device 308.

Referring to FIG. 4 and 5D, the continuous length of the absorbent article 400 is defined by a plurality of separate bases 102 spaced apart along the longitudinal direction MD and the second leg lands 408 connected to each other and the first lane substrate 406. As shown in FIG. 4, a continuous stretch of absorbent articles 400 moves from the slot 316 to the folding device 500. In the folding device 500, each base 102 is folded in the transverse direction CD along the transverse axis.

126 so as to place a first region 116 comprising the waist, and in particular, an inner surface 132 facing the body in a portrait orientation facing towards itself with an inner surface 132 facing the body of the second area 118 comprising the waist. The folding of the base also causes the setting of the surface 312 facing the wearer of the second waist 408 extending between each base 102 facing away from the surface 312 facing the wearer the first waist 406 extending between each base 102. Referring to FIG. . 4, 5D and 5E, the folded separate bases 102 connected to the substrates of the first and second belts 406, 408 move from the folding device 500 to the bonding device 334. The bonding device 334 operates as to weld the overlap region 362, thereby forming separate bonding spots 336A. The overlap region 362 includes a first substrate layer 407 and a second substrate layer 409 that are depicted in FIG. 5G as part of the substrate of the second belt 408 extending between each base 102 and a portion of the first belt substrate 406 extending between each base 102.

The overlap region 362 can be determined by the thickness C, as shown in FIG. 5G. The thickness C is the combined thickness of the unstressed and unmelted first and second substrates 406, 408 as shown in FIG. 5G. Referring to FIG. 4 and 5F, the continuous lengths of absorbent articles moves from the sealing device 334 to the knife roller 338, in which the regions 336 are cut along the transverse direction so as to form the first side seam 178 on the absorbent article 100 and the second side seam 180 on then sliding into I will make it absorbent in front.

EP 2 911 630

Although the absorbent article has been described as comprising a first and a second belt substrate, it should be noted that the absorbent article may comprise only one strip of substrate. In addition, it should be noted that the base and the backing of the absorbent article may be one continuous substrate so that the overlap region is formed from the same substrate. Accordingly, the bonding device may act to weld a continuous substrate in the overlap region to form one or more separate bonding locations.

With reference to FIG. The processing device 4 may include a bonding device 334. For example, FIG. FIG. 6A shows a detailed schematic side view of a joining device 334 that can be used in the methods and devices described herein. As shown in FIG. 6A, the bonding device 334 may include a drum 364 and a thrust roll 368 disposed near the drum 364. A thrust roll 368 has an outer circumferential surface 370 and is configured to rotate about a pivot axis 372. A thrust roll 368 with an outer peripheral surface 370 may be made of a compliant material. material. The drum 364 may also have an outer peripheral surface 376 and is adapted to rotate about the axis of rotation 374. The drum 364 may have at least one drum opening 366 on the outer peripheral surface 376. In addition, a plurality of stitching stations 348 are radially inwardly positioned from the outer peripheral surface 376 and drum openings 366. As discussed in more detail below with reference to FIG. 6B, each stapling station 348 may include a fluid spray nozzle 378 and a thrust element 380. Though the drum 364 depicted in FIG. 6A includes six stitching stations 348, it should be understood that the drum 364 may be configured to include more or less than six stitching stations 348. Although the drum 364 depicted in FIG. 6A includes six stitching stations 348, it should be understood that the drum 364 may be configured to include more or less than six stitching stations 348. Although the drum 364 depicted in FIG. 6A includes six stitching stations 348, it should be understood that the drum 364 may be configured to include more or less than six stitching stations 348.

In operation, the drum 364 can rotate about the rotation axis 374 and the abutment roller 368 can rotate about the rotation axis 372 in the directions depicted in FIG. 6A. Absorbent articles 400 may move in the longitudinal direction MD on the outer peripheral surface 376, the substrate of the first strip 406 being between the second belt substrate 408 and the outer circumferential surface 376. During rotation of the drum 364 the fluid spray nozzles 378 of the suturing station 348 move

The radiator outwards towards the drum opening 366 on the outer peripheral surface 376 as shown in FIG. 6B. The fluid is heated to a temperature sufficient to at least partially melt the overlap region. The fluid spray nozzles 378 direct the stream of heated fluid through the drum opening 366 and the overlap region of the first and second substrates 406, 408 to partially melt the overlap region.

Referring to FIG. 6A and 6B, while rotation of the drum 364, the fluid spray nozzles 378 retract radially inward from the opening

366 the drum and the drum 112 continues to rotate around the axis of rotation 374 and the pressure element moves radially out through the drum opening 366. Subsequently, the absorbent articles 400 pass through a gap 332 formed between the pressure element 380 and the counter roller 368 as shown in FIG. 6A. The biasing member 380 presses the partially molten overlap region to the outer peripheral surface 370 to form one or more separate seam points 336a between the substrates of the first and second strips 406, 408. When the pressing member 380 presses the partially molten overlap region against the outer peripheral surface 370, the biasing member 380 may deform the outer peripheral surface 370 of the counter roller 368 radially inwardly toward the axis of rotation 372. At the same time, the overlap region of the first and second substrates 406, 408 is deformed in the Z direction that is not tangential to the outer surface 425 of the pressure element 380 and the outer peripheral surface 370 of the counter roller 368 as described in more detail below. As a result, the pressing element 380 presses the overlap region for more than a moment as the absorbent articles 400 advance forward through the gap 332. The drum 364 rotates further, and the pressure element retracts radially inward from the drum opening 366.

Each stitching station of the drum has a nozzle and a pressure element.

FIG. 7 is a detailed exploded view of the stitching station 348. As shown in FIG. 7, the stitching station 348 includes a base member 340 that is fixedly connected to and rotating with the drum. The base element 340 is substantially square in shape and is defined by the surface

EP 2 911 630 upper 382 and the bottom surface 383 of the base element. The base element 340 includes a base opening 350 extending through the top and bottom surfaces 382, ​​383 of the base member, such that the fluid spray nozzle 384 and the biasing member 380 may protrude through the base opening 350. In addition, the bottom surface 383 of the base element is fixedly connected to the base adapter 352. As discussed below, one end of the base connector 352 is connected to the bottom surface 383 of the base member, and the other end of the base connector 352 is operably connected to the first sliding connector 354.

Still referring to FIG. 7, stitching station 348 also includes a pusher element 358 and first and second displacement roller pusher assemblies 388, 390 connected to the pusher element 358. Pusher element 358 is substantially T-shaped and is defined by first pusher element 360, second 362 member pusher and top surface 363 of the pusher element. The first part

360 of the pusher element is functionally connected to the first sliding connector 354 and the first set of cam followers 388 in the same position on the pusher element 358. Furthermore, the second set of roller pushers 390 is operably connected to the second pusher body 362 in a radially outward position from the first pusher set. The set of second slide fasteners 356 operably links the base member 340 to the first portion 360 of the pusher element in a relatively external position from the second set of roller followers 390.

As discussed in more detail below with reference to FIG. 6A1 and 6B, the first and second sets of roller followers 388, 390 are configured to roll along the stationary cam track during rotation of the drum 364. The stationary cam track 293 surrounds the rotation axis 374 and is determined by the inner circumferential surface 395 and the radius R, which extends from the inner circumferential surface 395 of the stationary cam track 392 to the axis of rotation 374, as shown in FIG. 6A1. In some example configurations, the fixed cam track 392 may include a plurality of various curved and / or straight areas such that the fixed cam track 392 is determined by relatively longer and shorter radii R at different points.

EP 2 911 630 on the inner peripheral surface 395 of the stationary cam track 392. The first and second disc follower sets 388, 390 roll over the stationary cam track 392 as the drum 364 rotates. The first, second and third slide linkers 354, 356, 385 rotate where the ray is

The fixed cam track 392 increases or decreases during the rolling of the first and second sets of roller followers 388, 390 along the fixed cam track 392. At the same time, in areas where the fixed cam track 392 is determined by relatively longer radii, R, the push rod component 385 moves radially out through the base opening. However, in areas where the fixed cam track 392 is determined by relatively shorter radii, R, the pusher element moves radially inward through the base aperture. It should be noted that the cam track 392 can be configured to have a variety of other shapes and sizes. For example, in some example configurations, the cam track 392 may be configured to have a circular shape,

Referring to FIG. 7 and 8, the stitching station 348 may further include a spring element 394. The spring member 394 may be substantially U-shaped and may be defined by an upper surface 410 of the spring element, a lower surface 411 of the spring element, and a side opening 412 of the spring element. Referring to FIG. 7, the bottom surface 411 of the spring element is fixedly connected to the top surface 363 of the pusher element. The spring member 394 may extend over the entire top surface 363 of the pusher element. As discussed in more detail below, the side opening 412 of the spring element allows the spring member 394 to bend when the pressure element is pressed against the outer peripheral surface by pressing the pressure element partially over the molten overlap region. The stitching station also includes a pressing element 380, as shown in FIG. 7. The pressure element 380 may have a substantially rectangular shape and may be defined by an upper surface 420 of the pressure element, a lower surface 421 of the pressure element, and

EP 2 911 630 length 387 of the pressure element. The biasing member 380 may include protrusions 423 in a substantially square shape extending outwardly from the top surface 420 of the platen member. The protrusions 423 may be defined by an outer surface 425 that radially is the outermost face of the lip 423. In some example configurations, the protrusions 423 may have a flat outer surface 425 as shown in FIG. 6B. However, in other example configurations, protrusions 423 may have a curved outer surface. The bottom surface 421 of the pressure element is fixedly connected to the upper surface 410 of the spring element. The biasing member 380 may extend over the entire top surface 410 of the spring element. As discussed in more detail below, protrusions 423 may be arranged in two rows, as shown in FIG. 7. The projections 423 may include compliant material from which the outer surface 425 of projections 423 may be formed.

Still referring to FIG. 7, stitching station 348 may also include heating devices 384. As discussed in more detail below, each heating device 384 is a pressurized fluid source for supplying heated pressurized fluid, such as air, to the fluid spray nozzle 378. In some examples configurations, the valve may regulate the outflow of fluid from the heating device 384 and the fluid spray nozzle 378. Each heating device 384 is operably connected to the base member 340 by third set of sliding switches 385. Each third sliding connector 385 is operably connected to one end of one heating device 384 and also with the second part 365 of the pusher element.

Referring to FIG. 7, the stitching station also includes a fluid spray nozzle 378. The fluid spray nozzle 378 may include one or more orifices for delivering fluid 424 where heated fluid under pressure is released from the fluid delivery nozzle 378. Each heating device 384 is fixedly connected. with a separate fluid spray nozzle 378. As shown in FIG. 7, the fluid delivery orifices 424 may be circular and may extend in a row along the spray nozzle 378.

Referring to FIG. 6A and 9, the thrust roll 368 includes a compliant material 342. The pervious material 342 defines an outer surface

The material can be, for example, silicone, natural rubber, synthetic rubber (e.g., perbunan, butadiene styrene rubber, nitrile rubber, neoprene), polyurethanes, ABS plastic.

The susceptible material may exhibit a Shore hardness in the range of 20 to 100 measured with a type A hardness tester or equivalent hardness. In some example configurations, the compliant material 342 may form a sleeve 343 of the resistance roller 368 as shown in FIG. 6A. The sleeve 343 can define the outer turning face 370 of the support roll

368. In some example configurations, the thrust roll 368 can be made entirely of a compliant material.

During operation, the absorbent articles are advanced forward in the MD longitudinal direction to the bonding device 334. Referring to FIG. 6A, the absorbent articles 400 move forward in the longitudinal direction MD to the outer peripheral surface 376 during rotation of the drum 364 about the axis of rotation 374.

The base of the first belt 406 is between the substrate of the second belt 408 and the outer circumferential surface 376. More specifically, the outer layer 162 of the first belt 406 may be in direct contact with the outer circumferential surface 376. The inner layer 164 of the first belt 406 may be in direct contact with the inner layer 164 of the second belt 408. The outer circumferential surface 376 moves at the same speed as the moving absorbent articles 400 so that the position at which the absorbent articles 400 are received at the outer peripheral surface 376 remains constant until removal. absorbent articles 400 from drum 364 at a later stage. Area overlapping the first and second lane 406 substrates, 408 is located on the outer peripheral surface 376 coincident with the drum opening 366. As discussed in more detail below, the stitching station 348, radially inward from the drum opening 366, is configured to bond a portion of the overlap region when the absorbent articles 400 move along the drum 364. The stitching station 348 is set in the first configuration during receipt absorbent products on the drum 364.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a stitching station

348 in the first configuration. Referring to FIG. 8 and 10, in the first configuration

EP 3 911 630 the fluid spray nozzles 378 are arranged radially outward near the drum opening 366 and the outer peripheral surface 376, while the pressing element 380 is arranged radially inwardly away from the drum opening 366 and the outer peripheral surface 376. Furthermore, the nozzles for The fluid spray 378 is positioned at the same location around the periphery 423 of the pressure element 380 so that the heated fluid is directed to the same locations in the overlap region, which will then be pressed against the pressure element 380.

Referring to FIG. 6A and 6B, during further rotation of the drum 364, the absorbent articles 400 wrap around the outer peripheral surface 376. At the same time, the flow of heated pressurized fluid is directed from the heating devices 384 out of the fluid spray nozzles 378 and onto the overlapping of the first and second substrate substrates 406, 408. The fluid spray nozzles 378 are maintained at a preselected distance Y from the outer layer 162 of the first belt substrate 406 to control the pressure exerted on the overlapping region by the heated fluid, as shown in FIG. 6B1. In some example configurations, the distance Y between the outer layer 162 of the substrate of the first belt 406 and the fluid spray nozzles 378 may be maintained within a range of 3 mm of the preselected distance Y.

The position-adjusting device may be used to hold the absorbent articles at a constant distance from the outer peripheral surface of the drum while heating the area of ​​the fluid overlap. In some example configurations, the device for adjusting the position 450 may be a tape device 451, as shown in FIG.

11. The position adjusting device 450 may be located close to the drum 364 and may take the form of at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface 376. The position control device can hold the absorbent articles 400 at a distance of 0 millimeters to about 10 millimeters from the outer peripheral surface of the drum; at a distance of about 0.5 millimeter to about 5 millimeters from the outer peripheral surface.

When the overlap region is at least partially molten and during further rotation of the drum 364, the stitching station moves to the second configuration. Referring to FIG. 6A, 6A1, 6B and 6B1, the first and second set of roller pushers 388, 390 are

EP 2 911 630 on a fixed cam track 392 during rotation of the drum 364. The stationary cam track 392 remains stationary when the first and second disk roller sets 388, 390 roll along a stationary cam track 392. During rolling of the first and second disc follower sets.

388, 390 from the areas in which the radius R of the fixed cam track 392 is determined by the relatively short radii R, to the areas in which the radius R of the fixed cam track 392 is determined by relatively longer radii R, first, second and third slide adapters 354, 356, 385 are rotating. Referring to FIG. 6B, the first sliding connector 354 rotates at the base connector 352 and at the pusher element 358, the second slide block assembly 356 rotating at the pusher element 358 and at the base portion 340. At the same time, the pusher element 358 moves radially outward toward the outer peripheral surface 376. The third sliding link 385 also rotates at the pusher element 358, causing the radial heating devices 384 to move inwardly,

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of stitching station 348 in a second configuration. Referring to FIG. 12, in a second configuration, the pressure element 380 protrudes through the drum aperture beyond the outer peripheral surface, the heating devices 384 are arranged radially inwardly away from the drum opening 366, and the fluid spray nozzles 378 are located on both sides of the pusher element adjacent to the outer surface peripheral 366.

EP 2 911 630

Referring to FIG. 6A and 6B, when the drum 364 is still rotating and the stitching station 348 is in the second configuration, the partially molten overlap region approaches the stop roller 368 near the drum 364. As the absorbent articles 400 advance through the gap 332 formed between the counter roller 368 and the drum 364, a pressure element 380 that protrudes radially out of the drum opening 366, presses the partially molten overlap region against the outer peripheral surface 370. As shown in FIG. 9 and 13-15, when the absorbent articles 400 advance forward through the gap 332 between the rotating counter roller 368 and the pressure element 380 of the stitching station 348,

The thrust roll 368 may be configured to deform towards the axis of rotation 372 by a radial thickness RT that constitutes at least 25% of the thickness C of the combined non-pressurized and unmelted first and second substrates 406, 408. In some example configurations, the thrust roll 368 may deform by a radial thickness RT, which is at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80% of the thickness C of the unpressed, first and second unstressed substrates 406, 408.

The projections 423 of the biasing member 380 are configured to contact at the same locations of the overlap region that have been at least partially fused by the heated fluid as depicted in FIG. 6B, thereby forming separate seam points 336a in the overlap region. The spring element 394 can be used to apply a predetermined force to the overlap region between the pressure element 380 and the thrust roll 368. After being clamped, the absorbent articles evolve from the outer peripheral surface of the drum. The drum continues to rotate, and the stitching station moves back to the first configuration to form separate seam locations in the next absorbent article.

EP 2 911 630

In some example configurations, the distance from the absorbent articles to the fluid spray nozzle may be, for example, in the range of 0 millimeters to about 20 millimeters or in the range from about 0 millimeters to about 5 millimeters, or in the range from about 0.5 millimeter to about 3 millimeters.

Checking the distance between the first and second substrates and the fluid delivery orifice 424 can also lead to a relatively more predictable fluid stream and melting profile during the heating process.

The heated fluid may include atmospheric air or other gases. It should be understood that the fluid can be heated to various temperatures and compressed to various pressures. For example, in some example configurations, the fluid may be heated to a temperature in the range from the lower melting point of the first and second strip substrates minus 30 ° C to the lower melting point of the first and second strip substrates plus 100 ° C. In some example configurations, the fluid pressure may be in the range of 0.1x105 N / m² up to 1x106 N / m². In certain example configurations, the heated fluid may be directed towards at least one of the first and second lane substrates for a period ranging from 10 to 1000 milliseconds or longer. Shorter or longer periods may be used.

In some example configurations, the pressure element may press the partially molten overlap region against the outer peripheral surface under pressure in the range of about 1x105 N / m.² to about 1x108 N / m². In some example configurations, the pressure element 366 may press the substrates of the first and second lanes for a period ranging from 10 to 1000 milliseconds or more. Shorter or longer periods may be used.

Referring to FIG. 10, it should be noted that the projections 423 may be arranged regularly or irregularly in various configurations and may be oriented in different directions. The protrusions 423 may have circular, oval or various other shapes. In some example configurations, the lips of the pressure element can have a smooth surface, so separate seam points will be flat. However, in some example configurations, the lips of the pressure element can have a rough surface, so separate seam locations will have a texture. Referring to FIG. 10, the projections 423 may have a height of 440

EP 2 911 630 in the range from about 0.5 millimeter to about 5 millimeters. In some example configurations, the projections may have a width 442 in the range of about 2 millimeters to about 10 millimeters or in the range of about 4 millimeters to about 6 millimeters.

Although in FIG. 8 and 12 show that the spring element 390 is U-shaped, it should be noted that various other spring elements may be used to dampen the pressure exerted by the pressing element 380 pressing against the overlap between the outer peripheral surface. By adjusting the magnitude of the force exerted on the overlapping area, it is possible to apply sufficient force to form separate bonding points to minimize damage to the substrates and / or the formation of relatively inadequate separate welds.

The fluid temperature and pressure are maintained within the specified range after selecting the nominal setpoints. For example, the setpoint can be selected from the ranges discussed above, and the temperature can then be kept within a fixed range close to the nominal setpoint, such as ± 30 ° C, and the pressure can be kept within a set range close to the nominal setpoint, such as ± 100 kPa (± 1 bar). The permissible range will depend on the relationship between properties such as the softening temperature and / or the melting point, the materials to be bonded and the selected nominal setpoint. E.g, a nominal setpoint above the melting point of one or more bonded materials may require a narrower adjustment range than the nominal setpoint well below the melting point of one or more bonded materials. The adjustment range can be asymmetrical around the nominal setpoint. By sufficient heating, it is meant that the fluid is heated to a temperature that will allow at least partially melting, or at least softening, the substrates or substrates. Sufficient heat can change with the materials and devices used. For example, if the heated fluid is applied almost immediately to the substrate or substrate, with little or no time to cool, the liquid can be heated to almost the softening temperature or almost to the melting point of the substrate or substrates. If the heated fluid is directed to the substrate or substrate at a certain time or distance, so that the heated fluid may cool slightly before impacting the substrate

EP 2 911 630 or the substrate, it may be necessary to heat the liquid above, if possible significantly above, the softening point or the melting temperature of the substrate or substrate.

The time of energy transfer in the method described herein can be a dynamic process and can cause a temperature gradient in the cross-sections of the fusible elements. This means that the cartridge from the fusible elements may remain in the solid state, while the outer surface of the fusible elements may melt or approach the melting state. The outer surface can reach a softening point even below the melting point, so that the permanent deformation of the material can occur at a significantly lower load than with the same material at ambient temperature. Accordingly, if one or more materials to be bonded exhibit a softening point, the method can be adjusted to achieve a temperature in at least a portion of the substrates of the first and second lanes 406, 408,

Using a temperature equal to or above the softening point, but below the melting point of one or more fusible elements may allow the formation of a permanent weld between the substrates of the first and second strip 406, 408, with less damage to the structure of the fusible elements, e.g. thinning or weakening of the hot melt elements in a different manner .

Referring to FIG. 4 and 5F, after creating separate bonding spots

336a absorbent articles 400 move in the longitudinal direction MD to the knife roller 338, in which the regions 336 are cut along the transverse direction so as to form the first side seam 178 on the absorbent article 100 and the second side seam 180 on the subsequently displaceable absorbent article. In some example configurations, it should be noted that the knife roller can be integrated with the pressure element, so that the pressure element presses the overlap region against the overlapping region.

In some example configurations, the biasing member 580 may be in the form of a rotating drum 520. As shown in FIG. The rotary drum 520 may have an outer circumferential surface 522 and a plurality of protrusions 523 projecting radially outward from the outer peripheral surface 522 of the rotary drum 520. In this exemplary configuration, a thrust roller 568 having an outer circumferential surface 570 may be located near the rotating drum 520 so that formed

There is a gap 532 between them. The stop element 568 can be made of a compliant material. In other exemplary configurations, the thrust roll 668 in the outer peripheral surface 670 may have a plurality of holes 534 as shown in FIG. 17. The openings 534 may be configured to fit the protrusions 523 of the rotating drum 520. In some example configurations, the thrust roll 668 shown in FIG. 17 may be made of a rigid material such as metal.

In yet further exemplary configurations, the biasing member 780 may be in the form of a first conveyor 720 as shown in FIG.

18. The first conveyor 720 may have an outer surface 722 and a plurality of projections 723 projecting radially outward from the outer surface 722 of the first conveyor 720. The rotary roller 730 may be configured as a second conveyor 740 that may be located near the first conveyor 720, thereby between it will form a slot 732. The second conveyor 740 may have an outer surface 742. The second conveyor 740 may be made of a compliant material. In other example configurations, the second conveyor 840 in the outer peripheral surface 842 may have a plurality of holes 834 as shown in FIG. 19. The openings 736 in the second conveyor 840 may be configured to match the protrusions 723 of the first conveyor 720. In some example configurations, the second conveyor 840 shown in FIG. 19 may be made of a rigid material such as metal.

It should be noted that the methods and devices disclosed herein can be used with various suturing devices.

For example, the methods and devices disclosed herein may be used with reference to U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 401,907 filed on February 22, 2012 and U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 402,056 filed February 22, 2012.

Although the bonding device is described in the context of bonding the strips so as to form side seams, it should be understood that the methods and devices described herein can be used to bond different elements and substrates together. The devices and bonding methods disclosed herein can also be configured to operate in accordance with the device and

EP 2 911 630 by methods disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 6,248,195 and U.S. Patent Application No. 2012-0021186 filed on June 7, 2010.

Although particular embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it should be clear to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. For this reason, it is intended to include all such changes and modifications within the scope of the present invention to the appended claims.

EP 2 911 630