Absorbent article with structural elastic-like film web waist belt

Absorbent device with a mesh waistband made of a semi-elastic construction membrane

Full description

Background of the invention

The present invention relates to absorbent articles such as diapers, incontinence briefs, training briefs, etc. More specifically, with absorbents that have a stretchable waist shape and provide a kinetic seal around the wearer as well as improved fit features for the absorbent.

Infants and other incontinent individuals wear absorbent items such as diapers to receive and contain urine and other bodily secretions. The function of absorbent devices is to contain materials emerging from the body and isolate these materials from the wearer's body and from the wearer's clothing and bed mattresses. There are disposable absorbents with many different basic designs known in technology. For example, U.S. Patent No. 26,152.Re titled “Disposable Diaper” issued to Baker Duncan on January 31, 1976, describes a disposable diaper that has gained widespread acceptance and achieved widespread commercial success. U.S. Patent No. 3,860,003, “Contractible Side Portions For Disposable Diaper,” issued to Buell on January 14, 1975, describes a sanitary diaper with elastic legbands that has achieved widespread commercial acceptance and success.

However, absorbent devices have a tendency to sag or separate away from and slide down the wearer's body during wear. This drooping/separation and deflection/sliding is due to the relative movements of the wearer with breathing, movement and changing positions of the wearer, and is accomplished by the downward forces generated when the absorbent devices are loaded with bodily secretions, and by the deformation of the absorbent materials themselves when subjected to those movements of the wearer. This drooping/separation and misalignment/slippage of the absorbent can result in leakage before saturation of the absorbent and poor grip of the absorbent around the wearer in the waist and leg areas of the absorbent.

In order to achieve a greater fit of absorbent devices around the wearer, some commercially available absorbent devices are equipped with elastic properties. An example of a disposable diaper with elastic side panels is shown in US Patent No. 5,151,092, titled:

Absorbent Article With Dynamic Elastic Waist Feature Having Predisposed&

&Flexural Hinge

Issued to Clear, Buell, and Falcone on September 22, 1992. However, flexible materials are expensive and need a certain degree of processing and handling during assembly. Additionally, while the elastic materials provide a degree of tension to the absorbent device, the absorbent components associated with the elastic materials are not completely elastic such that the elastic materials must be pre-stretch before attaching to the absorbent device or the inelastic components must be subjected to kinetic tension ( For example, toroidal winding) to enable the added elastic material to be effective. Otherwise, the added elastic material is limited by the inelastic components.

Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to provide a relatively low-cost, easy-to-manufacture absorbent device that has a permanent kinetic seal around the wearer during use.

An additional objective of the present invention is to provide an absorbent device with a unique waist feature that, without the use of an elastic material, provides a permanent kinematic seal and improved resistance to leakage during use due to the conformability of the material forming the waist due to its fully stretchable nature.

There is also an additional objective of the present invention to provide a waisting feature in an absorbent device that exhibits a 'semi-elastic' behavior in the direction of the applied force or lengthening without the use of additional elastic material.

These and other objectives of the present invention will become more readily apparent when considered with reference to the following description and when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

General description of the invention

The present invention provides absorbent devices such as disposable diapers, incontinence briefs, diaper grippers, training briefs, sanitary gowns, etc., having a unique waist feature that improves the motor seal as well as the containment features of the absorbent device. These absorbents include a structure assembly that preferably includes a liquid-permeable top layer, a liquid-impermeable back layer, and an absorbent core located between the top and back layers; Stretchable waist belt; And a closure system to keep the absorbent device on the wearer. The absorbent tool also has side edges and waist edges.

In a particularly favorable application of the present invention, the absorbent device is T-shaped including a body assembly and a stretchable waistband disposed in a second waist area. It provides a belt

The stretchable waist is a stretchable feature that provides a comfortable fit and a greater fit to the body, primarily by securing the diaper to a comfortable degree to the wearer and maintaining this tightness. The stretchable waistband also provides and retains wear forces which increase the tensile forces generated and retained by the closure system. The adjustable waistband also provides more efficient use of the diaper. While each adjustable waistband is composed of a number of elastic materials, the stretchable waistband may preferably include a mesh fabric of semi-elastic construction membrane.

The structural semi-elastic film (SELF) mesh fabric exhibits semi-elastic behavior in the stretching direction without the use of added elastic materials. The SELF retina may exhibit prolongation and recovery with a specific and sudden increase in resistive force to the stretch, where this specific and sudden increase in resistive force is limited to additional stretch forces to relatively small forces. The sudden, specific increase in the force resisting the extension is referred to as “wall force”. As used here, the term 'force wall'. It refers to the behavior of the resistive force of the SELF mesh material during stretching such that at some point in the stretch, different from the unstressed point or starting point, the resulting resistive force of stretching increases suddenly. After reaching the strength wall, further stretching of the SELF mesh material is achieved only by an increase in the stretching force to overcome the greater resistive force of the SELF mesh fabric.

The SELF mesh fabric of the present invention includes a tensile mesh having at least two distinct regions consisting of the same material composition. The first region is oriented substantially parallel to the stretching axis such that it will undergo molecular-plane deformation in response to the resulting axial stretching in a direction substantially parallel to the stretching axis before a substantial section of the second region undergoes any substantial molecular-plane deformation. As used here, the term “substantially parallel” refers to a direction between two axes such that the corresponding angle formed by the two axes or an extension of the two axes is less than 45. In the case of a linear curvature element it may be more convenient to use a linear axis that represents the average value of the linear curvature element. The second regions initially undergo fundamental geometric deformation in response to the resulting lengthening in a direction substantially parallel to the axis.

In one particular application, the second zone of the SELF mesh fabric consists of an assembly of raised elements near the ribs. As used here, the term is a rib-like element

rib-like element refers to a protrusion, relief, or combination thereof that has a major axis and a minor axis. Preferably, the primary axis should be at least as long as the secondary axis. The principal axes of rib-like elements should preferably be oriented substantially perpendicular to the axis of the resulting lengthening. Both the major axis and the minor axis of rib-like elements may be linear, linear-curvilinear, or a mixture of linear and curvilinear forms. As used here, the term "substantially perndicular" refers to a direction between two axes such that the corresponding angle formed by the two axes or an extension of the two axes is greater than 45. In the case of a linear curved element it may be more appropriate to use a linear axis that represents an average value of the linear curved element.

The rib-like elements allow the second region to undergo “substantially geometric deformation,” resulting in significantly lower resistance forces to the applied stretching than those exhibited by “molecular-level deformation” of the first region. As used here, &molecular-level deformation refers to a deformation that occurs at a level

It is molecular and cannot be distinguished by the ordinary naked eye - that is, even if the individual is able to identify it

The effect of distortion at the molecular level, for example: lengthening of the SELF retina, the individual is not able to distinguish the distortion that allows this to occur or causes it. This is the opposite of “geometric distortion”. As used herein, the term “geometric deformation” refers to deformations of the SELF mesh that are generally recognizable to the normal naked eye when the SELF mesh or instruments using the SELF mesh are subjected to applied stretching. Types of geometric deformation include, but are not limited to, curvature, extension, or rotation.

The SELF mesh fabric preferably exhibits at least two significantly different phases of resistive force to stretching applied along at least one axis when undergoing stretching applied in a direction parallel to the axis. The SELF mesh fabric includes a tensile mesh with at least two distinct areas. One of the two regions is formed such that it exhibits resistive forces in response to applied axial stretching in a direction parallel to the axis before a substantial section of the other region shows appreciable resistive forces to the applied stretching. At least one of the two regions has a surface path length greater than that available

For the other area as measured essentially parallel to the axis when the material is in an unstressed state.

A region that exhibits a longer surface path length includes one or more rib-like elements extending beyond the plane boundaries of the other region. The SELF mesh tissue exhibits initial resistance forces to the applied stretch until the stretching of the mesh tissue becomes sufficient to introduce a substantial portion of the area that has a longer superficial path length into the axis of the applied stretch (i.e., it becomes essentially coplanar with the axis of the applied stretch), at which point the tissue appears SELF mesh forces a second resistance for additional stretching. The total resistive force to the stretch is greater than the initial resistive force to the stretch provided by the first zone.

The first region preferably has a first surface path length, LI, as measured substantially parallel to the predetermined axis while the SELF mesh is in untensioned state. The second region has a second surface path length, L2, as measured substantially parallel to the predetermined axis while the SELE mesh is in an untensioned state. The length of the first surface path is; LI, less than the length of the second surface path, L2. Preferably, the first region has a modulus of elasticity El. The first region has a cross-sectional area Al. The first region itself produces a resisting force, P1, due to molecular-level deformation in response to applied axial stretching, D. The second region produces a resisting force, P2, due to geometric deformation in response to applied axial stretching, D. The second region also preferably has a modulus of elasticity, E2, And the cross-sectional area is A2. The resistive force, PI, is significantly larger than the resistive force, P2, as long as (D + L1) is less than L2.

Preferably, when (D+L1) is less than L2, the first zone provides an initial resistance force to the applied axial stretching, D, essentially satisfying the equation Al×El×D)/L1. When (D+L1) is greater than

L2 The first and second zones provide a combined total resisting force, PT, to the applied axial stretch, D, satisfying the equation:

<img file="SA422B1_D0001.tif" />

In a preferred application, the SELF mesh fabric exhibits a Poisson lateral contraction effect of less than about 0.4 at 20% stretch as measured perpendicular to the stretch axis. As used here, the 'Poisson effect' describes the behavior of lateral contraction of a habit subject to applied lengthening. Preferably,

The SELF mesh fabric shows a Poisson lateral contraction effect of about 0.4 when lengthened by 60% as measured perpendicular to the lengthening axis.

The surface path length of the second zone is at least about 15% greater than that of the first zone as measured parallel to the stretching axis while the SELF mesh is in untensioned state. Preferably, the surface path length of the second zone should be at least about 30% greater than that of the first zone as measured parallel to the stretching axis while the SELF mesh fabric is in untensioned state.

Preferably, the absorbent device should have a tip in a first waist area and a tip in a second waist area. Preferably, the distance between one of the waist edges of the absorbent pulp and the adjacent end edge of the absorbent device in the first waist area should be A. And the separation distance between the other waist edge of the absorbent pulp and the adjacent end edge of the absorbent device in the second waist area should be at least 2A.

Brief explanation of the drawings

Although the specification concludes with claims that specifically and clearly claim the subject matter of the invention contemplated as constituting the present invention, it is believed that the invention will be better understood by the following description in connection with the accompanying drawings in which similar signs are used to symbolize elements Fundamentally similar, in which:

Figure 1 is a top view of an application of a disposable diaper of the present invention with parts thereof detached to expose the substructure, with the inner surface of the diaper facing the viewer;

Figure 2 is a sectional view of the disposable sanitary napkin shown in Figure 1 taken along sector line 2-2 of Figure 1;

Figure 3 is a top view of an alternative diaper application of the present invention; Figure 4 is a top view of an additional replacement diaper application of the present invention; Figure 5 is a drawing of a top view of a preferred application of a SELF mesh fabric having the tensile mesh of the present invention with the deformations facing the viewer;

Figure 5a is a segmented perspective drawing of the SELF mesh fabric from Figure 5 in the untensioned state;

Figure 5b is a segmented perspective drawing of the SELF mesh from Figure 5 in tension corresponding to phase I on the force-extension curve described in Figure 6;

Figure 5 is a segmented perspective drawing of the SELF mesh from Figure 5 in tension corresponding to stage II of the force-extension curve described in Figure 6;

Figure 6 is a graph of resistive force versus percentage elongation comparing the behavior of the SELF mesh fabric of the present invention as shown in Figure 5, with an otherwise similar planar base polymeric mesh material;

Figure 7 is a graph of the elastic hysteresis behavior of the SELF mesh fabric from Figure 6 when subjected to 60% stretching and tested for hysteresis response;

Figure 8 is a simplified vertical side view of a preferred device used to create that section of the SELF mesh fabric of the present invention;

Figure 9 is a top view of the opposing interlocking plates of the device of Figure 8 placed side by side with their interlocking surfaces exposed;

Figure 10 is a simplified vertical side view of a static compressor used to convert at least a section of the base membrane into the SELF mesh fabric of the present invention;

Figure 11 is a simplified vertical side view of a continuous motion compactor used to convert pre-selected sections of basement membrane into the SELF mesh fabric of the present invention;

Figure 2 1 is a simplified drawing of a device used to convert at least a portion of a base membrane into a SELF mesh fabric of the present invention;

Figure 3 1 is a simplified drawing of another additional device used to convert at least a portion of a base membrane into a SELF mesh fabric of the present invention;

Figure 4 1 is a graph of resistive force versus percentage elongation to compare the behavior of an alternative SELF mesh material. It is a sheet consisting of a layer of a polymeric membrane, an adhesive-secured non-woven layer and a tensile mesh of the present invention with a base, flat mesh material. , unformed, otherwise similar.

Figure 15 is a graph of the hysteresthesia behavior of the mesh fabric material having the tensile mesh of Figure 4 1 when subjected to 60% stretching and tested for hysteresis elastic response; And

Figure 16 is a drawing of a side view of the wearer's torso.

Detailed description of the invention

As used herein, the term absorbent article refers to devices that absorb and contain bodily secretions, and, more specifically, to devices placed against or near the wearer's body to absorb and contain various secretions from the body. The term 'disposable' is used here to describe absorbent items that are not intended to be washed or otherwise recovered or reused as an absorbent item (i.e., intended to be disposed of after a single use and, preferably, to be recycled, disposed of or otherwise disposed of in an environmentally appropriate manner). ). A unitary absorbent refers to absorbents that consist of separate parts that come together to form a cohesive whole that does not require separate parts for manual adjustment, such as a separate gripper and liner. A preferred application of the absorbent device of the present invention is the unitary disposable absorbent device, the diaper 20, shown in Figure 1. As used herein, the term “diaper” refers to an absorbent device generally worn by infants and incontinent persons and worn around the torso The wearer's bottom. It must be realized, however, that the present invention can also be applied to other absorbent devices such as incontinence briefs, training briefs, feminine sanitary gowns, etc.

Figure 1 is a top view of the diaper 20 of the present invention in a flat, uncontracted state (i.e., contraction due to elasticity stretched out) with sections of the construction separated to more clearly show the construction of the diaper 20 and such that the section of the hygienic diaper 20 in contact with the wearer, the inner surface, Facing the viewer. As shown in Figure 1, the diaper 20 generally has a 'T' shape and includes (a) a body assembly 22 preferably comprising: a liquid-permeable top layer 24, an impermeable back layer 26 in contact with the top layer 24, an absorbent core 28 located between the upper layer 24 and the back-layer 26, and elastic bands for the legs 30; (b) Stretchable waistband 32; and (c) a closure system to secure the diaper to the wearer including a pair of 34-bar tabs.

The diaper 20 is shown in Figure 1 as having an inner surface 36 (facing the viewer in Figure 1), an outer surface 38 corresponding to the inner surface 36, then a first waist area 0 4, a second waist area 42 corresponding to the first waist area 40, and a circumference defined by the outer edges. For diaper 20 it symbolizes

The longitudinal edges are numbered 44 and the end edges are numbered 46. Although a skilled manufacturer will realize that the diaper is usually described as having a pair of waist zones and a slit area between the two waist zones; However, in this application, for simplicity of nomenclature, the diaper 20 is described as having only waist areas, each of the waist areas including a section of the diaper typically symbolized as part of the relief area. The inner surface 36 of the diaper 20 includes that section of the diaper 20 that is positioned adjacent to the wearer's body during use (i.e., the inner surface 36 generally consists of at least a section of the fold layer 24 and other components in contact with the upper layer 24). The outer surface 38 includes that section of the diaper 20 located away from the wearer's body (i.e., the outer surface 38 generally consists of at least a section of the back layer 26 and other components in contact with the back layer 26). The first waist region 40 and the second waist region 42 extend, respectively, from the peripheral edges 46 of the circumference to the lateral center line 48 of the diaper 20. The lateral direction (direction x or width) is defined as the direction parallel to the lateral center line 48 of the diaper 20 and the longitudinal direction (direction y or length) as the direction parallel to the longitudinal center line 49; The axial direction (z-direction or thickness) is defined as the direction extending through the thickness of the diaphragm 20).

Figure 1 shows a preferred application of the structure assembly 22 in which the top layer 24 and back layer 26 have generally greater length and width dimensions than those of the absorber core 28. The top layer 24 and back layer 26 extend beyond the edges of the absorbent core 28 to form sections of the circumference of the diaper. The outer circumference or, in other words, defines the edges of the diaphragm 20. The circumference includes the longitudinal edges 44 and the end edges 46.

Figure 2 is a cross-section view of the diaper 20 taken along the line of section 2-2 in Figure 1 at the second waist area 42. Figure 2 shows the installation of the chassis assembly 22, the waist belt 32, and the connection of the waist belt 32 to the chassis assembly 22. The structure assembly 22 includes the top layer 24, the back layer 26, and the absorbing core 28 (generally shown in Fig. 2). The top layer 4 2 and the back layer 26 preferably extend longitudinally outward beyond the waist edge 59 of the absorbent core 28 to form an end flap 62; The end flange 60 forms the body assembly 22

At the distal edge 63 of the end flap 62 from the edge of the top layer 24 and the back layer 26. The waist belt 32 connects to the end flap 62 of the body assembly 22 adjacent to the side flange 60.

As shown in Figure 2, the waistband 32 is preferably connected directly to the back layer 26 by a belt attachment element 50. The waistband 32 is also shown in Figure 2 as including a semi-elastic structural membrane (SELF) mesh fabric 52 (as described herein). Hereinafter) preferably includes a foil of two or more layers, and in the application shown in Figure 2 includes 3 layers: an inner layer 53, an outer layer 55, and a support layer 54 between the inner layer 53 and the outer layer 55. The inner layer 53 is the layer connected to the back layer 26 by the belt attachment element 50.

The body assembly 22 of the diaper 20 is shown in Figure 1 as including the main body (chassis) of the diaper 20. The body assembly 22 includes at least an absorbent core 28, preferably an outer covering layer including a pleat layer 24 and a back layer 26, and more preferably elastic leg collars 30. The frame assembly 22 also has a pair of leg flanges 61 typically forming a section of the longitudinal flanges 44 of the diaper and a pair of side flanges 60. In the application shown in Figure 1, the stretchable waistband 32 is connected to one of the side edges while the other side edge forms one of the end edges 46 of the diaper 0 2, thus, the body assembly 22 includes the main construction of the diaper with other shapes added to form the composite diaper construction. An exemplary example of a body assembly of the present invention is given in U.S. Patent No. 3,860,003, issued to Kenneth B. Buell on January 14, 1975, and that patent is incorporated herein by reference.

Diaper 20, as shown in Figure 1, generally has a “T-shape”. The distance between the waist edge 59 of the absorbent core 28 in the first waist area 0 4 and the adjacent end edge 46 of the diaper 20 in the first waist area is A, indicated by the number 110 in Figure 1. Preferably, the distance A should be in the range from about 1.5 cm to 8 cm, more preferably from about 1.5 cm to 5 cm, and most preferably about 2 cm. The distance between the outer waist edge 59 of the absorbent core 28 in the second waist area 42 and the adjacent peripheral edge 46 of the diaper 20 in the second waist area is indicated by the number 112. It is preferable that the distance 112 be at least twice the distance A, most preferably at least three times the distance A, and most preferably about four times the distance A.

The distance 112, which is the distance between the waist edge 59 of the absorbent core in the second waist area 42 and the adjacent peripheral edge 46 of the diaper in the second waist area, does not necessarily depend on or

By dimension A, (i.e. the distance between the waist edge of the absorbent core in the first waist area and the adjacent end edge of the diaper in the first waist area). It is preferable that the distance be at least 112.6 cm; The most preferable is at least 7 cm, and the most preferable is at least 8 cm. The particular preferred application for a 20 disposable diaper is a 112 distance of approximately 9 cm.

Referring now to Figure 1, the structure 22 has a length 115 extending between the end edges 46 located at the first waist area 42 and the second waist area 42, respectively. The structure 22 has a splay width 117, measured at the narrowest section of the structure between the leg edges 61. The limits of the relief width 117 and the relief length 115 define the core portion of the structure which typically contains a core section and, invariably, the entire absorbent core.

Absorptive pulp 28 may be any absorbent media capable of absorbing and retaining fluids such as urine and certain other bodily secretions. The absorbent core 28 has a dress surface, a body surface, side edges 58, and waist edges 59. The absorbent core 28 may be made of a wide variety of sizes and shapes (e.g., rectangular, hour glass, T-shaped, asymmetrical, etc.) and from a wide variety of liquid absorbent materials commonly used in disposable diapers and other absorbent devices such as Wood pulp is generally referred to as airfelt. Examples of other suitable absorbent materials include creped cellulose wadding, meltblown polymers including ductile cross linked cellulose fibers, tissue including tissue wraps and tissue laminates, absorbent foams, and absorbent sponges. sponges, as well as super absorbent polymers, absorbent gelling materials, or any equivalent material or mixtures combinations of equivalent substances. The shape and composition of the absorbent pulp may also vary. For example, the absorbent pulp may have bands of different thicknesses, a water-absorbent gradation, a super-absorbent gradation, or lower average density and lower average basic weight gain bands; Or it may ignite one or more layers or structures. The total absorbent capacity of the absorbent core 28 must, however, be compatible with the design load and intended use of the diaper 20. In addition, it may vary

Size and absorbent capacity of the 28" absorbent core to adapt to wearers ranging from infants to adults. The preferred application of the diaper is that it has a rectangular absorbent core.

A useful absorbent structure such as the absorbent core 28 of the present invention has achieved widespread commercial acceptance and success is described in U.S. Patent No. 4,610,678 entitled "High-Density Absorbent Struchrres" issued to Weisman and Goldman on September 9, 1986. US Patent No. 4,673,402, entitled "Absorbent Articles With Dual-Layered Cores" issued to Weisman, Houghton, and Geliert on June 16, 1987. U.S. Patent No. 4,888,231 entitled "Absorbent Core Having A Dusting Layer" issued to Angstadt on December 19, 1989; And US Patent No. 4,834,735, entitled:

High Density Absorbent Members Having Lower Density and Lower Basis&amp;

,&amp;Weight Acquisition Zones

issued to Alemany and Berg on May 30, 1989, which also describes adsorbent constructions useful in the present invention. The absorbent core 28 shall preferably be the dual-layer absorbent construction described in U.S. Patent No. 5,234,423 entitled "Absorbent Article With Elastic Waist Feature and Enhanced Absorbency", issued to Clear Alemany on August 10, 1993. Each of these references is incorporated herein by reference.

The back layer 26 is located adjacent to the surface of the garment to the absorbent core 28 and is preferably connected to it by means of attachment (not shown) such as those well known in the technology. For example, the backing layer 26 may be tightly bonded to the absorbent core 28 with a corresponding continuous adhesive layer, a patterned adhesive layer, or a combination of stripes, spirals or discrete patches of adhesive. Adhesives that achieve this purpose are manufactured by HB Fuller Company of St. Paul, Minn. and are sold under the name 1258-HL. The means of fastening preferably include an open pattern adhesive filament web as described in U.S. Patent No. 4,573,986 entitled "Disposable Waste-Containment Garment" issued to Tucker Minetola on March 4, 1986, and incorporated herein by reference. Typical open-pattern filament bonding methods include numerous lines of adhesive filaments wound in a helical pattern as shown by the Apparatus and Methods

Described in U.S. Patent No. 173,1,391 issued to Sprague, Jr, on October 7, 1975; U.S. Patent No. 4,785,996 issued to Ziecker, et al. on November 22, 1,978; and U.S. Patent No. 4,842,666 issued to Werenicz on June 27, 1989. Each of these patents is incorporated herein by reference. Alternatively, the bonding means may include heat bonding, pressure bonding, ultrasonic bonding, dynamic bonding, or other suitable bonding means or mixtures thereof known in the art.

The backing layer 26 is impermeable to liquids (e.g., urine) and is preferably made of a thin plastic membrane, although other flexible materials that are impermeable to liquids can also be used. As used here, the term flexible refers to materials that are soft and conform perfectly to the general shape and contours of the human body. The back layer 26 prevents absorbed secretions contained in the absorbent core 28 from causing wetness to items in contact with the diaper 20 such as bedding and undergarments. The back layer 26 may therefore include spun or non-woven material, polymeric films extending thermoplastic films of polyethylene or polypropylene, or composite materials extending non-woven material covered by a film. The back layer should preferably be a thermal insulation film with a thickness of from about 0.012 millimeters (0.5 mils) to about 0.051 millimeters (2 mils).

The upper layer 24 is placed adjacent to the body surface of the absorbent core 28 and is preferably connected to it and to the back layer 26 by means of connection (not shown) such as those well known in the technology. Suitable means of attachment are described in relation to the attachment of the back layer 26 to the absorbent core 28. As used herein, the term “joined” includes forms by which one element can be joined directly to another element by joining the element directly to another element, and forms by which an element can be joined indirectly to another element by joining the element to a member ( organs) medially, which is in turn attached to the other element. In a preferred application of the present invention, the top layer 24 and the back layer 26 are in direct contact with each other in the circumference of the diaper and indirectly in contact with each other by connecting directly to the absorbent core 28 by means of bonding (not shown).

The top layer 24 is soft, smooth to the touch and is not irritating to the wearer's skin. In addition, the top layer 4 2 is permeable to fluids and allows fluids (e.g., urine) to penetrate easily

Throughout its thickness, a suitable top layer may be made from a wide range of materials, such as porous foams; or mesh foams; or perforated elastic membranes; Or mesh fabrics spun or unspun from natural fibers (such as wood or cotton fibers) and synthetic fibers such as polyester or polypropylene, or a mixture of natural and synthetic fibers. The upper layer 4 2 should preferably be made of a water-repellent material to isolate the wearer's skin from liquids that pass through the upper layer and are contained in the absorbent core 28 (i.e., prevent re-wetting). If the topping is made of a waterproof material, at least the top surface is treated to become a water-absorbent material so that liquids move through the topping more quickly. This reduces the possibility of bodily secretions flowing out of the upper layer rather than being drawn through the upper layer and absorbed into the absorbent core. The top layer can be made water absorbent by treating it with a surfactant. Proper methods for treating the top coat with a surfactant include spraying the material with the surface activator and dipping the material in the surface activator. A more detailed explanation of this treatment and water absorption feature is given in US Patent No. 4,988,344, entitled "Absorbent Articles With Multiple Layer Absorbent Layers" issued to Reising, et al., on January 29, 1991.

A number of manufacturing techniques can be used to manufacture the top layer 24. For example,

The upper layer 24 may be of unspun fiber mesh fabric. When the upper layer includes an unspun mesh fabric, the mesh fabric may be spun, combed, wet-laid, melt-swollen, water-crosslinked, or mixtures of the following. Above, etc. The preferred top layer is combed and heat bonded by means well known to those skilled in textile technology. A preferred top layer includes long-staple polypropylene fibers having a denier of about 2.2 denier. As used herein, the term “staple length fibers” refers to those fibers that are at least about 15.5 millimeters (0.625 in) long, preferably The top layer should have a basic weight of about 18 to about 25 grams/square meter. A suitable top layer is made by:

Veratec, Inc., a division of lnternational Paper Company, of Walpole, Mass, under the designation P-8.

P 8 in the name of

Preferably, the body kit 22 also includes elastic leg collars 30 to provide improved containment of fluids and other bodily secretions. Each 30 leg elastic band may have many different applications to reduce the leakage of body secretions into the leg areas. Leg collars, sometimes referred to as leg harnesses, can be side flaps, stop collars, or elastic collars. U.S. Patent No. 3,860,003, titled “Contractible Side Portions For a Disposable Diaper,” issued to Buell on February 14, 1975, describes a disposable diaper that provides a contractible leg opening having a side flap and one or more elastic members to provide an elastic collar for the legs (cuff). U.S. Patent No. 4,909,803, titled "Disposable Absorbent Article Having Elasticized Flaps" issued to Aziz and Blaney on March 20, 1990, describes a disposable diaper that has "upright" elastic flaps (barrier collars) to improve containment of the leg areas. U.S. Patent No. 4,635,278, titled "Absorbent Article Having Dual Cuffs" issued to Lawson on September 22, 1987, describes a disposable diaper having dual collars including an insulating collar and a barrier collar. U.S. Patent No. 4,704,115, entitled "Disposalbe Waist Containment Garment" issued to Buell on November 3, 1987, discloses a disposable sanitary diaper or incontinence garment having drinking-proof side edge channels designed to contain bulk liquids within the garment. Each of these patents is incorporated herein by reference. While each elastic leg collar 30 may be designed to be similar to any of the leg straps, side flaps, buffer collars, or elastic collars described above, each elastic leg collar 30 preferably includes the buffer collar as described in U.S. Pat. No. 3860003 referred to above.

Each rubber leg collar 30 is shown in Figure 1 as igniting one elastic element 31.

In some applications it may be required that each rubber leg gasket 30 include a group of elastic elements 31. The elastic elements 31 extend beyond the waist edge 59 of the absorbent core 28 into the stretchable waistband 32. Prior to use, the outermost inward facing elastic elements 31 positioned on opposite sides of the absorbent core are substantially linear and substantially parallel to each other throughout their length. Before use, the 31 flexible elements are also lined up essentially parallel to each

From the longitudinal edges 58 of the absorbing core 28 and the edges of the legs 61 of the body assembly 22 throughout its length.

The distance between the elastic members furthest inward opposite each other is essentially the same throughout their length before use. The distance between the elastic members farthest inward opposite each other is indicated by the number 105 in Figure 1. The distance between the elastic elements farthest inward opposite each other is measured through the absorbent core 28 parallel to the lateral center line 48 of the diaper and during use. , the stretchable waistband 32 extends or becomes extended in the side direction when worn by the wearer or placed over the wearer. When the waist belt 32 adjusts sideways during use, the distance between the furthest inward facing elastic elements located in the adjustable waist belt increases, while the remaining portion of the furthest inward facing elastic elements remains substantially unchanged. Therefore, during use, the dimension between the outermost inward facing elastic elements located in the stretchable waistband is greater than the dimension between the remaining section of the outermost facing inward elastic elements, e.g., the section of elastic elements located adjacent to the side edges of the absorbent core.

The diaper ignites 0 2 additionally. A stretchable waistband 32 provides improved sealing and containment. The stretchable waistband 32 is located at least laterally outward from each leg edge 1 6 of the body assembly 22 and preferably longitudinally outward from one of the end edges of the body assembly 22. Therefore, in the application shown in Figure 1, the stretchable waistband 32 includes that section of the diaper that extends at least from the lateral edge 6 0 of the body assembly 22 in the second waist area 42 to the end edge 46 of the diaper 20 and is intended to be positioned adjacent to the wearer's waist. While the disposable diaper of the present invention can be made with a stretchable waistband 32 attached to each side edge 60 of the body assembly 22, the explanation of the stretchable waistband 32 focuses on a diaper having a single adjustable waistband designed according to the invention. Current in order to form a "T-shaped" diaper. Also, while the waist belt or any of its constitutive elements may be made as an extension of other elements of the diaper extending the back layer 6 2 or the top layer 24 or both as set forth in US Patent No. 3860003 referred to above, the waist belt 32 will be described For a preferred application in which the waist belt is a separate component connected to the body assembly 22.

The waist belt provides 32 stretchable cuffs that provide a more comfortable fit and a better fit with the body’s circumference, primarily by tightening the diaper in a way that matches the wearer and maintaining this tightness throughout the period of wearing and also after loading the diaper with secretions, because the stretchable waist belt allows the sides of the diaper to expand and contract without the use of elastic materials. additional. Additionally, the stretchable waistband creates and retains wear (tension) forces. The tension forces caused and retained by the closure system to retain the diaper 20 on the wearer increase and eliminate. Tighten the diaper around the wearer's waist. The stretch waistband also provides more efficient use of the diaper 20 because even if the wearer pulls one side (side panel) of the stretch waistband more than the other during use (asymmetrically), the diaper 20 will “adjust itself” during wear. While it is preferable for the diaper 20 of the present invention to have a stretchable waistband 32 located in the second waist area 42 , alternatively, the diaper 20 may be provided with a stretchable waistband located in the first waist area 4 0 or one located in each of The first waist area is 40 and the second waist area is 42.

As shown in Figure 1, the waist belt 32 has a center waist panel 56 and a pair of side panels 57, one positioned on each side of the center waist panel 56. The center waist panel 56 is that section of the waist belt 32 located between the edges of the legs. 61 for chassis group 22. Therefore, the center waist panel 56 is co-boundary with or equiextended with the width of the body assembly 22 at the side edge 60. The side panels 57 extend laterally outward from the center waist panel 56 beyond the boundaries of the leg edges 61 of the body assembly 22. In order to provide the benefits of tightness and containment to the waist belt as explained, here at least the side panels 57 of the waist belt 32 must be stretchable. In the preferred application shown in Figure 1, the center waist panel 56 as well as the side panels 57 are preferably stretchable to provide an overall waist shape that conforms to the wearer to provide the benefits of sealing and containment.

The waist belt 32 may be made in a number of different sizes, shapes and shapes and can be made from a number of different materials. For example, the waist belt may consist of one or more separate members, including sections of the structure assembly 22, connected together to form a coordinated entity; Or, the waistband 32, as shown in Figure 1, may include a single piece of material. The waist belt may also have different widths and lengths to provide a secure fit for a different range of wearers or

Because of cost or containment. In addition, the shape of the waistband can vary greatly from having curves and compound angles to being merely rectangular, as shown in Figure 1. Examples of useful combination forms of waist belt shape are shown in U.S. Patent Application No. 08/044562 titled &amp;Fitted Belt For Absorbent Garment filed by New, et al. on April 7, 1993, and that application is incorporated herein by reference.

While the waistband 32 may be composed of a number of different stretch materials as is known in the technology, the waistband, for reasons of performance and cost, is preferably composed of a SELF semi-stretch structural membrane mesh fabric. The term “web” here refers to a layer-like material that includes one layer of material or a sheet of two or more layers.

Figure 5 shows a preferred application of SELF mesh fabric 52 of the present invention consisting of a single layer of a formed polymeric material. The SELF 52 mesh fabric is shown in an untensioned state. The fabric

The retina has two central lines, a longitudinal central line, 1, and a transverse or lateral central line, t, which is vertical.

Generally on the longitudinal center line. The mesh fabric is preferably composed primarily of linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) although it can also be composed of other polyolefins such as polyethylenes including low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and ultra-low-density polyethylene (ULDPE). , high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or polypropylene and/or blends of the above materials and other materials. Examples of other suitable polymeric materials include, but are not limited to, polyesters, polyurethanes, compostable or biodegradable polymers, and breathable polymers.

Referring to Figures 5 and 5a, the SELF mesh fabric includes a tensile mesh of clear areas. As used herein, the term strainable network refers to a group of interconnected and interconnected areas capable of stretching to a useful degree in a predetermined direction to provide the SELF with a quasi-elastic behavior in response to induced and subsequently released stretching. The tensile mesh includes at least a first region 64 and a second region 66. The SELF mesh fabric 52 includes a transition zone 65 at the interface between the first zone 64 and the second zone 66. The transition zone 65 will show, to a similar degree, complex combinations of the behavior of both

The first region and the second region. It will be noted that every application of the present invention will have transition zones, but the present invention is largely determined by the behavior of the mesh material in the zones. Obvious (for example, first zone 64 and second zone 66). Therefore, the following description of the present invention will concern the behavior of the mesh material in the first and second regions only because it does not depend to a large extent on the composite behavior of the mesh material in the transition regions65.

The SELF 52 mesh fabric has a first surface and a second corresponding surface. In the preferred application shown in Figures 5 and 5a, the tensile mesh includes a number of first regions 64 and a number of second regions 66. The first regions 64 have a first axis 68 and a second axis 69, and it is preferable for the first axis 68 to be larger than the second axis 69. The first axis 68 of the first region 64 is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the SELF mesh fabric 52 while the second axis 69 is substantially parallel to the transverse axis of the SELF mesh fabric 52. Preferably, the second axis of the first zone, (i.e., the width of the first zone), should be from about 0.01 inch to about 0.5 inch, and more preferably from about 0.03 inch to about 0.25 inch. The second regions 66 have a first axis 70 and a second axis 71. The first axis 70 is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the SELF mesh fabric 52, while the second axis 71 is substantially parallel to the transverse axis of the SELF mesh fabric 52. It is also preferable that the second axis of the second zone (i.e., the width of the second zone), be from about 0.01 inch to about two inches, and preferably more, from about 0.125 inch to about one inch. In the preferred application of Figure 5, the first regions 64 and the second regions 66 are substantially linear, and are continuous in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the SELF mesh 52.

The first region 64 has a modulus of elasticity El and a cross-sectional area Al. The second region 66 has a modulus of elasticity E2 and a cross-sectional area A2.

In the illustrated application, a portion of the SELF mesh 52 is configured such that the SELF mesh 52 exhibits a resisting force along an axis, which in the case of the illustrated application is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the SELF mesh, when subjected to a resulting axial stretch in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis. As used herein, the term ''forming'' refers to creating a desired structure or geometry for the SELF mesh fabric that substantially maintains the desired structure or geometry in the absence of any stretching or externally applied forces. The tissue is formed

The retinal SELF of the present invention consists of at least a first and related second region, such that the first region is visually distinct from the second region. As used herein, the term “visually distinct” refers to features of the SELF mesh material that are fully recognizable to the normal naked eye when the SELF mesh material or objects embodying such SELF mesh material are exposed to normal use. Preferably, the first region has a surface-pathlength

Less than that of the second region, as measured parallel to a pre-determined axis when the material is in a state of non-tension. As used here, the term surface-pathlength refers to a measure across the topographic surface of the area under consideration in a direction parallel to an axis. A method for determining the surface path length for special areas is given in the Test Methods section of the following parts of the present standard.

Methods of forming SELF mesh fabric materials include, but are not limited to, forming projections by interlocking plates or cylinders, by thermoforming, high-pressure hydroforming, or molding. While the entire section of the SELF mesh fabric 52 undergoes a shaping process, the present invention can also be practiced by subjecting to shaping only a section thereof, for example, a section of a back layer of a diaper.

In the preferred application shown in Figures 5 and 5a, the first 64 regions are essentially planar. That is, the material in the first zone 64 is in essentially the same state before and after the shaping step to which the SELF mesh fabric 52 undergoes. The second zones 66 include a number of raised, rib-like elements 74. The 74 rib-like elements may be prominent, non-protruding, or a combination thereof. The rib-like elements 74 have a first or major axis 76 substantially parallel to the transverse axis of the SELF mesh 52 and a second or secondary axis 77 substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the SELF mesh 52. The first axis 76 of side-like elements 74 is at least equal to, and preferably longer than the second axis 77. It is also preferable to have a ratio of the axis lengths

The first 76 to the second axis 77 is at least about 1:1, or greater, and more preferably at least about 1:2 or greater.

The rib-like elements 74 in the second region 66 may be separated from each other by unformed areas, essentially unprotruded or removed, or simply formed as spacer spaces. It is preferable that the elements that resemble sides 4 7 are adjacent to each other and separated by an unformed space.

Less than 0.1 inch as measured perpendicular to the major axis 76 of the side-like element 74, and, more preferably, the side-like element 74 touching without unformed spaces between them.

In each first region there are 64 and second regions 66 projected pathlengths. As used here, the term projected pathlength refers to the length of the shadow of an area caused by parallel light. The length of the salient path of the first region 64 is equal to the length of the salient path of the second region 66.

The first region 64 has a surface path length, L1, that is less than the surface path length, L2, of the second region 66 as measured topographically in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the SELF mesh fabric while the SELF mesh fabric is in a state of non-tension and the surface path length of the second region is preferred. 66 At least about 15% larger than that of the first region 64, more preferably at least about 30% larger than that of the first region, and most preferably at least about 70% larger than that of the first region. In general, the larger the surface path length of the second zone, the greater the lengthening of the SELF mesh before reaching the force wall.

What makes SELF mesh so well suited for use as a waist belt32 is that it exhibits a modified Poisson lateral contraction effect substantially lower than that of a similar undeformed basal mesh with a similar material composition. As used here, the term Poisson lateral contraction effect describes the lateral contraction behavior of a material subjected to an applied stretch. Methods for determining the Poisson effect of a material are given in the Test Methods section mentioned in later parts of the present standard. Preferably, the Poisson effect of the SELF mesh of the present invention should be less than about 0.4 when the SELF mesh is subjected to a lengthening of about 20%. Preferably, the SELF mesh should exhibit a Poisson effect of less than about 0.4 when the mesh is subjected to SELF to lengthen by about 40, 50 or even 60%. The Poisson lateral contraction effect of the retinal tissue of the present invention is determined by the amount of retinal material occupied by the first and second regions, respectively. The more area of the SELF mesh material we occupy in the first zone, the greater the effect of lateral Poisson contraction also increases. Conversely, the more area the SELF mesh material takes up, the less the second zone

Poisson lateral contraction effect. Preferably, it should be a percentage of the area of the mesh material

SELF We occupy the first zone from about 2% to about 90%, and preferably more than about 5%.

To about 50%.

Prior art mesh materials that have at least one layer of elastic material will generally have a large Poisson lateral contraction effect, that is, they will 'form a neck down' as they elongate in response to the force applied. The SELF mesh materials of the present invention can be designed to modify, unless removal is substantial, the effect of lateral Poisson contraction to a reasonable degree.

For the SELF mesh fabric 52, the direction of the resulting axial stretching, D, indicated by arrows 80 in Figure 5, is substantially perpendicular to the first axis 76 of the rib-like elements 74. The rib-like elements 74 are capable of not bending or deforming geometrically in a direction substantially perpendicular to their first axis 76 to allow for stretching in the SELF mesh fabric 52.

In Figure 6, shown is a graph of the resistive stretching force curve 720 for a polymer SELF mesh fabric formed from the present invention along with a curve 710 for a basal mesh material, i.e., not having first and second zones, having a similar material composition. Specifically, Samples are polymeric mesh materials consisting essentially of linear low-density polyethylene, approximately 0.001 inch thick, sold under the designation 1401 Sample by Clopay Corporation of Cincinnati, Ohio. Methods for generating strength-resistance-extension curves are provided in the Test Methods section mentioned in later parts of the present standard. Now referring to the 720 force-stretch curve, there is an initial phase I which is substantially less linear force versus stretch symbolized by 720a, a transition zone symbolized by 720b indicating meeting the force wall, and a phase II that is essentially linear symbolized by 720c showing substantially greater force versus extension behavior.

As shown in Figure 6, the SELF mesh fabric exhibits different tensile mesh and stretching behavior in the two phases when subjected to applied stretching in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the SELF mesh fabric. The resistance force exerted by the SELF mesh fabric on the resulting elongation is significantly lower in the phase I (720a) region versus the phase II (720c) region of the 720 curve. In addition, the resistance force exerted by the SELF mesh fabric to the applied stretch is as described in

Stage I (720a) in curve 720 is significantly less than the resistive force exerted by the basal mesh as described in curve 710 at the stretch limit in stage 1. As the SELF mesh undergoes additional applied stretching and enters stage II (720c) the resisting force increases It is caused by the SELF reticular tissue and is close to the resistance force caused by the basal reticular tissue. The applied stretching resistance force of the phase I region (720a) of the SELF mesh is provided by the molecular level deformation of the first region of the SELF mesh and the geometric deformation of the second region of the SELF mesh. This is in contrast to the force of resistance to applied stretch provided by the basal retina, described at section 710 in Figure 6, resulting from a molecular-level deformation of the entire retina. The mesh materials of the present invention can be designed to produce virtually any resistance force in phase I that is less than that of the base mesh material by adjusting the percentage of the mesh surface consisting of the first and second regions, respectively. The force-extension behavior of stage I can also be controlled by adjusting the width, cross-sectional area, spacing of the first zone, and composition of the basal retina.

Now referring to Figure HB, with the SELF mesh undergoing a resulting axial stretching, 5, indicated by the arrows 80 in Figure 5, the first region 64 that has the shortest surface path length, LI, provides the majority of the initial resisting force, PI, as a result of the in-plane deformation Molecular lengthening applied corresponding to phase I. During phase I, the rib-like elements 74 in the second region 66 undergo geometric deformation, or non-bending, and provide minimal resistance to the applied stretch. In the transition region (720b) between phases I and II, the rib-like elements 74 become in a straight line with the applied stretch. That is, the second region shows a change from a geometric deformation to a deformation at the molecular level. This is the beginning of the wall of power. In stage II, as shown in Figure 5c, the rib-like elements 74 that are in the second region 66 become substantially in line with the axis of the applied stretching (i.e., the second region reaches its geometric deformation limit) and begin to resist further stretching through deformation. At the molecular level. SECOND REGION 66 We now introduce, as a result of a deformation at the molecular level, a second resistive force, P2, for further elongation. applied. The resistive forces to extension described in stage II by both the molecular level deformation of the first region 4 6 and the molecular level deformation of the second region 66 provide a total resisting force, PT, greater than the resistive force described in

Phase I is provided by a molecular-level deformation of the first region 64 and a geometric deformation of the second region 66. Accordingly, the slope of the force-extension curve in phase II is significantly greater than the slope of the force-extension curve in phase I.

The resistive force P1 is substantially greater than the resistive force P2 when (D+L1) is less than L2, and while (D+L1) is less than L2, the first region 64 provides an initial resisting force, P1, that generally satisfies the equation:

<img file="SA422B1_D0002.tif" />

When (D+L1) is greater than L2, the first and second regions provide a combined total resisting force, PT, for the applied lengthening D, generally satisfying the equation:

<img file="SA422B1_D0003.tif" />

The maximum stretch produced during Phase I is referred to as the “available stretch” of the mesh (SELF). The available tension corresponds to the distance over which geometric deformation of the second region occurs. The available tension can be determined to an effective extent by examining the force-extension curve 720 as shown in Figure 6. The approximate point at which an inflection occurs in the transition zone between phase I and phase II is the point of percentage lengthening of "available tension". The available tension range can vary from about 10% to 100% or more; This range of semi-elastic response is often important in disposable absorbents, and can be largely controlled to the extent that the L2 surface path length in the second region 66 is greater than the LI surface path length in the first region 64 and the composition of the basement membrane. The term 'available tension' is not intended to specify a limit on the stretching to which the SELF mesh fabric of the present invention may be subjected because there are applications that require stretching beyond the limits of available tension.

Curves 730 and 735 of Figure 7 show the elastic hysteresis behavior exhibited by a SELF mesh of the present invention that is generally similar to the SELF mesh used to generate curve 720 of Figure 6. The SELF mesh fabric has been tested for elastic hysteresis behavior at 60% elongation. Curve 730 represents the response to stretch produced and released during the first cycle and Curve 735 represents the response to stretch produced and released during the second cycle. The force relaxation during the first cycle 731 and the adjustment percentage or deformation percentage 732 are depicted in Figure 7.

It is noted that significant recoverable stretching, or beneficial elasticity, occurs at relatively low forces over multiple cycles, meaning that the SELF mesh fabric can easily stretch and contract to a reasonable degree. A method for generating hysteresis elastic behavior is provided in the Test Methods section of a later section of the specification.

When the SELF mesh is subjected to applied stretching, the SELF mesh displays a quasi-elastic behavior as it stretches in the direction of the resulting stretch and returns to its substantially untensioned state once the stretch is removed, unless the SELF mesh is stretched beyond the yield point. The SELF mesh fabric is also able to go through multiple cycles of resultant stretching without losing its ability to recover substantially. Accordingly, the SELF mesh tissue is able to return to its essentially unstretched state once the stretch or force is no longer present.

While the SELF mesh can easily stretch reversibly in the direction of the resulting axial stretch, in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first axis of the rib-like elements, the SELF mesh does not stretch as easily in a direction substantially parallel to the first axis of the rib-like elements. The configuration of the rib-like elements allows the rib-like elements to deform geometrically in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first or major axis of the rib-like elements, while requiring deformation at the molecular level to expand in a direction substantially parallel to the first axis.

For elements we resemble sides.

The amount of applied force required for multiple SELF mesh fabrics depends on the composition and cross-sectional area of the mesh material that forms the SELF mesh material and the width and spacing of the first zones, with narrower and more widely spaced first zones requiring less stretching forces applied to achieve the required stretching. The first axis (i.e., length) of the first zones should preferably be larger than the second axis (i.e., width) of the first zone with a preferred length-to-width ratio of about

1:5 or greater.

The depth and frequency of the rib-like elements can also be varied to control the tension available to the SELF mesh fabric. This available tension increases - for a specific repetition rate of the rib-like elements - with the increase in the height or degree of deformation of the rib-like elements.

Ribs. Similarly, the available tension increases - for a given height or degree of deformation - as the repetition rate of the rib-like elements increases.

While the overall SELF mesh fabric includes a tensile mesh consisting of first and second zones, the present invention can also be practiced by providing special sections of the SELF mesh fabric with a tensile mesh consisting of first and second zones. For example, only the side panels 57 of the waist belt 32 need to include separate tensionable webs. Therefore, all or part of the stretchable belt may include a tensile mesh consisting of first and second regions to provide a stretchable waistband that exhibits a controlled stretch response along a predetermined axis subject to an applied axial stretch.

The SELF mesh fabric does not need to be stretchable only in the direction parallel to the lateral center line of the diaper as shown in Figure 1. For example, the longitudinal axis and the transverse axis of the SELF mesh fabric may be placed at an angle to the longitudinal centerline and the lateral centerline of the diaper 20, respectively. Therefore, the SELF mesh fabric may have axial elongation across a line at an angle with the lateral center line of the diaper. It is preferable that this angle be between about zero and about 30 for the diapers of the present invention. In addition, sections of the SELF mesh fabric may have different stretch angles. For example, in side panels, the section of the side panel closest to the end edge of the diaper, the waist panel, may be stretchable in a direction parallel to the side center line of the diaper, but the section of SELF mesh fabric closest to the side center line, the thigh panel, may have The stretchability of the equipment is not parallel to the direction of stretchability of the waist plate so that it is located at an angle with the lateral center line. This multi-directional SELF panel can provide matching to your waist and legs.

Referring now to Figure 8, a device 400 is shown used to form the SELF mesh fabric 52 shown in Figure 5. The device 400 includes panels 401, 402. Plates 401, 402 include a number of interlocking teeth 403, 404, respectively. The panels 401, 402 are placed together under pressure to form the basement membrane 406.

Referring now to Figure 9, it is clear that panels 401 and 402 each have a longitudinal axis &amp;1&amp; and a transverse axis &amp;t&amp; that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The plate 401 includes indented areas

407 and hollow regions 408 each extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the plate 401. In the serrated areas 407 of the plate 401 there are a number of teeth 403. The plate 402 includes teeth 404 that interlock with the teeth 403 of the plate 401 and when the basement membrane 406 is formed between the plates 401 and 402, the sections of the basement membrane 406 placed in the recessed regions 408 of the plate 401 and the teeth 404 of the plate 402 remain undeformed. These regions also correspond to the first regions 64 of the SELF mesh fabric 52 shown in Figure 5. Sections of the basement membrane 406 placed between the serrated regions 407 of the plate 401 and the denticles 404 of the plate 402 are increasingly shaped and plastically to create rib-like elements 74 in the second regions 66 of the SELF mesh tissue 52.

The shaping method can be performed in a static manner, where one separate section of the basement membrane is deformed at a time. An example of this method is shown in Figure 10. A static compressive device generally symbolized as 415 includes an axially movable plate or member 420 and a fixed plate 422. The panels 401 and 402 are connected to the members 420 and 422, respectively. When the panels 401 and 402 are separate, the basement membrane 406 is inserted between the panels 401, 402. The panels are then placed together under pressure, generally referred to as &amp;P&amp;. The upper plate 401 is then lifted axially away from the plate 402, allowing the polymer mesh formed between the plates 401 and 402 to be removed.

Figure 1 1 is an example of a kinetic compactor for intermittently making contact with the moving mesh and forming the basal material 406 into a shaped mesh similar to the SELF mesh 52 in Figure 5. The polymeric film 406 is fed between plates 401 and 402 in a direction generally indicated by arrow 430. The plate 401 is fixed with a pair of rotatably mounted arms 432, 434 we move in a clockwise direction and the plate 401 moves in a similar clockwise motion. The plate 402 is connected to a pair of rotating arms 436, 438 which move in a counterclockwise direction and move the plate 402 in a counterclockwise direction. Therefore, as the mesh 406 moves between the panels 401 and 402 in the direction indicated by the arrow 430, a section of the basement membrane is formed between the panels and is then released such that the panels 401 and 402 may move back and grab and deform another section of the basement membrane 406. This method has the advantage of allowing virtually any pattern to be created in any combination in a continuous process, for example, one-way, two-way, and multi-way patterns.

The kinematic press tool of Figure 11 can be used on a completed absorbent tool to create tensile webs in the completed product. For example, all or a portion of the completed absorbent device may be sandwiched between plates 401 and 402 to generate a tensile mesh in all layers of the absorbent device.

Another method of forming the base material in SELF mesh fabric is vacuum forming. An example of a vacuum forming method is given in U.S. Pat. No. 4, 434,231, issued to Radel et al. on August 3, 1982. Alternatively, the SELF mesh fabric of the present invention may be hydraulically shaped according to U.S. Pat. No. 4,609,518, issued to Curro et al. on September 2. 1986. Each of the above patents is incorporated herein by reference.

In Figure 12 there is another device generally referred to 500 for forming the basement membrane into a SELF formed mesh. The device 500 includes pairs of cylinders 502, 504. The cylinder 502 includes a plurality of serrated regions 506 and a plurality of hollow regions 508 extending substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis passing through the center of the cylindrical cylinder 502. The dentate regions 506 include a number of teeth 507. The cylinder 504 includes a number of teeth 510 that interlock with threads 507 on the cylinder 502. As the basement membrane passes between the interlocking cylinders 502 and 504, the hollow regions 508 will leave sections of the membrane undistorted to produce the first regions of the SELF retina 52 of Figure 5. Sections of the membrane passing between the serrated regions 506 and the teeth 510 will be formed by the teeth 507 and 510, respectively, to produce the rib-like elements in the second regions of the SELF mesh fabric 52.

Alternatively, the cylinder 504 may consist of soft rubber. As the basilar membrane passes between the toothed roller 502 and the rubber roller 504, the membrane is kinematically shaped in the pattern provided by the toothed roller 502. The membrane in the hollow regions 508 will remain undeformed, while the membrane in the serrated regions 506 will be shaped to produce rib-like elements in the second regions.

Referring now to Figure 13, an alternative device commonly referred to as 550 is shown for shaping the basement membrane into a SELF mesh fabric according to the instructions of the present invention. The device includes 0 55 pairs of cylinders 552, 554. Each of the cylinders 552 and 554 has a number of serrated regions 556 and hollow regions 558 extending around the circumference of the cylinders 552 and 554, respectively. With the passage of the basement membrane

Between the cylinders 552 and 554, the hollow regions 558 will leave sections of the membrane undeformed, while sections of the membrane passing between the serrated regions 556 are formed to produce rib-like elements in the second regions 66.

The mesh material of the present invention may consist of polyolefins such as polyethylenes, including linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), low density polyethylene (LDPE), and ultra-low density polyethylene (ULDPE). ultra low density polyethylene), high density polyethylene (HDPE), or polypropylene and combinations of the above materials with other materials. Examples of other suitable polymeric materials that may also be used include, but are not limited to, polyesters, polyurethanes, compostable or biodegradable polymers, heat shrink polymers, thermoplastic elastomers, polymers They are catalyzed by metallocene catalyst-based polymers (eg, INSITE® from Dow Chemical Company and EXXACT® from Exxon), and breathable polymers. Mesh materials may also consist of synthetic woven, synthetic knit, nonwoven material, apertured film, macroscopically expanded three-dimensional formed film, absorbent or fibrous material. fibrous absorbent material, foam filled composition or lamin'ates and/or combinations thereof. Nonwoven materials may be prepared but not limited to by any of the following methods: spunlace, spunbond, meltblown, carded and/or air-through or calender bonded, the preferred application being crosslinked material By spinning with loosely bound fibers.

Although the SELF mesh fabric has been described as a single base layer of an essentially planar polymeric membrane, the present invention can also be practiced to an equal extent with other base materials.

Or with chips of material. Examples of base materials from which the SELF mesh fabric of the present invention can be fabricated include two-dimensional perforated films and multiple macroscopically shaped three-dimensional perforated films. Examples of macroscopically expanding three-dimensional perforated formed membranes are given in US Patent No. 3,929,135, issued to Thompson on December 30, 1975; U.S. Patent No. 4,324,246, issued to Mullane et al on April 13, 1982; US Patent No. 4,342,314, issued to Radel et al on August 3, 1982; US Patent No. 4,463,045, issued to Ahr et al on July 31, 1984; and US Patent No. 5,006,394, issued to Baird on April 9, 1991. Each of these patents is incorporated by reference. Examples of other suitable base materials include composite constructions or films of polymeric films and non-spun materials, and polymer films and non-spun materials. Polymer film films and non-woven materials may also include absorbent or absorbent fibrous materials, foams, or other compositions. Additional reinforcement elements may also be added for durability and recovery benefits.

Base materials may also be used, including perforated film films and non-woven materials, so that in the process of forming these materials, the bonds between a number of non-spun fibers are broken so that they protrude slightly through the holes of the perforated film.

In some applications a SELF mesh fabric that exhibits a certain degree of bulk may be required. Polymer film films with high-height non-woven materials, and films with multiple layers of non-woven materials are ways to provide increased bulk. Other methods for providing bulkiness include forming a single layer of a polymer membrane in the manner of this invention followed by pre-tensioning the membrane and then applying the unspun material to one or both sides while the polymer membrane is in a pre-tensioned state. When stretched, the unwoven material forms wrinkles that give the material additional bulk. Another way to form large chips is to form individual polymeric membrane layers in the manner of this invention, followed by the formation of a laminated structure from multiple layers of these materials. 3D perforated membranes formed using the method described here also provide good bulkiness in a lamellar construction.

Other materials that can undergo the deformation processes described here to produce mesh fabrics that exhibit quasi-elastic behavior in the direction of the applied force include polymeric foams and thermally bonded air-bonded fibrous constructs.

Figure 14 shows the force-stretching behavior of both the basal mesh described by curve 830 and the formed SELF mesh described by curve 840, where both meshes consist of a laminated construction of Clopay 1401 polyethylene blend film bonded by molten glue available from Findley Adhesives, of Wauwautosa. ,

Sample 2301, Wis., with a layer of non-spun material made primarily from polypropylene fibers available from Mass. Veratec of Walpole, under the designation 11-P. Now referring to curve 840, there is an initial substantially linear I phase of lesser force-extension denoted by 840A, a transition zone denoted by 840B, and a substantially linear II phase denoted by 840C. For this lamellar mesh fabric, it is observed that the less strong two-stage behavior characteristic of the SELF mesh fabric formed is provided in the first stage I (840a) by a combination of molecular level deformation of the first region and geometric deformation of the second region and then in stage II (740c) by a molecular level deformation of both The first zone and the second zone as described in curve 840 compared to the molecular level deformation of the basal retina as described in curve 830. Curves 850 and 855 in Figure 15 show the elastic hysteresis behavior of a shaped mesh material similar to the shaped mesh material used to generate curve 840 in Figure 14 tested at 60% stretch. Curve 850 represents the response to a stretch used and released during the first cycle and Curve 855 represents the response to a stretch used and released during the second cycle. The force relaxation during the first cycle851 and the percentage adjustment of the mesh after the first cycle852 are shown in Figure 15. It is noted that this lamellar mesh fabric exhibits very useful elastic recovery over the observed range of stretching over multiple cycles.

In a preferred application of the present invention, as shown in Figure 2, the SELF mesh fabric includes a 3-layer laminated construction including an inner layer 53, an outer layer 55, and a reinforcement layer 54. Preferably, the inner layer 53 is a non-woven material such as the usual 8-P described previously. It is also preferable that the outer layer 55 be the base polymeric membrane as described here with reference to Figure 5. The backing layer 54 is preferably a formed membrane such as DM-WEAVE sold commercially by Proctor and Gamble of Ohio, Cincinnati. Alternatively, the backing layer may be removed to provide a two-layer laminated construction of less expensive non-spun material and polymeric base membrane. In addition, a non-woven layer may be added over the outer layer to provide...

Smoother surface feel. External waist belt. Laminated constructions may be joined by any of a number of joining methods known to those skilled in the technique. These bonding methods include but are not limited to heat bonding or adhesive bonding (using any of a number of adhesives including but not limited to spray adhesives, hot melt adhesives, latex-based adhesives, etc.); Or connect to sound waves; Formation of extrusion films such that the polymeric film is molded directly over a non-spun substrate and, while also still in a state of partial melt, is bonded to one side of the non-spun matrix or such that a fusion-swollen spun material is directly bonded to a polymeric fabric.

The waist belt 32 connects to the body assembly 22 with a belt attachment element 50. The belt fastening element 50 may include any of the known fastening means as described herein including an adhesive, heat bonds, pressure bonds, ultrasonic bonds, dynamic kinetic bonds or combinations thereof. Preferably, the bonding element of the belt should be an adhesive, preferably an open pattern mesh of adhesive threads as described here. The waist belt 32 is preferably in direct contact with the body assembly 22 such that the inner layer 53 is in direct contact with the upper layer 26. Alternatively, the waistband 32 may be attached between the top layer 24 and the back layer 26, between other elements of the diaper 20, or directly to other elements of the diaper including, for example, directly attaching the outer layer 55 to the top layer 24.

It is also preferable to provide the diaper 20 with a closure system to secure the diaper to the wearer. While the closure system may take a number of forms such as adhesive tape ends, kinetic closure tape ends, fixed position fasteners, or any other closure means as known in the art, and as shown in Figure 1, the closure system is preferably The adhesive tape end includes a pair of tape ends 34 and a landing area (not shown) located in the first waist area 40 of the hull assembly 22.

Examples of suitable adhesive tape end mounting systems are indicated in US Patent No. 3,848,594 issued to Buell on November 19, 1974; US Patent No. 4,662,875 issued to Robertson Hirotsu on May 5, 1987; Both are included herein by reference. Examples of other closing systems, including kinetic closing systems, useful in the present invention, are described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,869,724 issued to Scripps

On September 26, 1989; US Patent No. 4,848,815 issued to Scripps on July 1, 1989; and the nickel anchor system described in U.S. Patent No. 5,242,436 issued to Falconej, Clear, Buell, and Well on September 7, 1993; Each of them is listed by reference here.

It is preferable to place the sanitary diaper 2 0 on the wearer by placing one of the waist areas, preferably the second waist area 42, under the wearer's buttocks and pulling the rest of the diaper between the wearer's legs so that the other waist area, preferably the first waist area 4 0, is located across the wearer's front. The end sections of the tape ends 34 are then released from the release section. The diaper wearer then wraps the adjustable waistband 32 around the wearer, while still holding the hem section. The 32 Adjustable Waist System will typically stretch and tighten during this process to conform to the wearer's size and shape. The end of the strap 34 is flush with the berthing area on the body assembly 22 to create a lateral closure. The process is then repeated with the other end of the tape. This seals the diaper to the wearer and the SELF 32 mesh waistband provides the sealing and containment benefits as described here.

Alternatively, the waist belt may be provided with a closure system that allows the side panels to first come into contact with each other. The diaper wearer then places the frame assembly between the wearer's legs and attaches the frame assembly to the outer layer of the waistband. This configuration and method of installation are furthermore fully described in the above-referenced US patent application, serial number 08/044562, filed by New et al.

For comparison purposes, a number of commercially available large disposable diaper products denoted by Samples AF and a large diaper product of the present invention denoted by Sample X were measured. Data from these measurements are provided in the following tables:

<img file="SA422B1_D0004.tif" />

<img file="SA422B1_D0005.tif" />

Referring to Table 1, the commercially available products tested are all indicated for use in large infants on their respective packages. Sample The structure area of the diaper is determined by first freezing and then removing the elastic elements from each diaper. The absorbent pulp is then removed from each diaper. After that, each diaper is placed in its unfolded state on a piece of paper with a known area and basic weight. The circumference of the diaper structure is then outlined on top of the paper. Then the paper is cut across the marked line. The separated piece of paper was weighed into pieces and the area of the structure was calculated based on the known basic area and weight of the piece of paper before it was cut. A similar procedure is then used to calculate the area of the absorbent pulp.

As can be seen from the data in Table 1, the Sample Other applications of disposable diapers of the present invention preferably have a ratio of absorbent core area to shell area less than about 0.4:1, more preferably less than about 0.39:1; The most preferable is less than about 1:0,38. One application of a disposable diaper has a ratio of absorbent core area to shell area of approximately 1:0.38.

Referring again to Table 1, it is noted that the Sample Due to the unique design of the diaper of the present invention, the absorbent core of the diaper of the present invention is able to cover a substantial amount of the wearer's release area while using significantly less frame material and significantly less absorbent core material.

Referring now to Figure 16, what is shown is a drawing of a side view of the wearer's torso, generally indicated by the number 120. The torso 120 is shown while the body is erect or in a standing position. The wearer or torso has a vertical axis 122. The wearer's vertical axis 122 extends through the torso in a direction substantially perpendicular to the surface on which the wearer is standing, such as the floor of a room or the surface of the floor. The pubic bone is indicated by the number 124. Level 126, which defines the extreme upper end

For the diastasis area, it extends from the pubic bone 124 through the trunk in a direction perpendicular to the vertical axis 122.

For comparison purposes, the relief area covered by the absorbent core of the Sample The data from the measurements are listed in the following table:

<img file="SA422B1_D0006.tif" />

Referring to Table 2, the area of the covered relief zone is determined using an experimental computer model. The data entering the model is the geometric properties and physical properties of the diaper, and a group of babies including their weights and shapes. The model then places the diaper on the babies and measures various parameters such as the area of relief covered by the absorbent pulp. While a computer model was used to generate the data in Table 2, data may also be generated by manually measuring the area of the relief zone covered by the absorbent core. As can be seen from the data in Table 2, the area of the relief area covered by the Sample X diaper is less than the area of the relief area covered by the Sample D diaper.

The Sample The efficiencies of the Sample

<img file="SA422B1_D0007.tif" />

Referring now to Table 3, we will notice that the ratios of the wearer’s relief area covered with absorbent pulp to the area of the absorbent pulp of the Sample It is preferable for the diapers of the present invention to have a ratio of the area of the wearer's relief area covered by the absorbent pulp to be at least 1:0.4.

<img file="SA422B1_D0008.tif" />

Referring now to Table 4, it will be noted that the Sample For other applications of disposable diapers of the present invention, the ratio of the width of the structure in the first waist area to the ratio of the width of the structure in the second waist area is preferably at least 1:1.3, and more preferably at least 1:1.5, and most preferably at Minimum 1:1,7.

<img file="SA422B1_D0009.tif" />

Referring now to Table 5, it will be noted that the Sample Another application of disposable diapers of the present invention would preferably have a body length to body area ratio of at least 1:0.45 (cm/cm2), more preferably at least 1:0.48 (cm/cm2), and most preferably At least 1:0.5 (cm/cm2). An application of the disposable diaper of the present invention has a frame length to frame area ratio of approximately 1:0.51 (cm/cm2).

Figure 3 shows an alternative application of the present invention in which the waist belt 332 consists of separate materials joined together. In this application, each of the side panels 357 is a separate material, preferably SELF mesh fabric 52 as described herein, attached adjacent to the edge of the legs 61 of the frame assembly 22. The center waist plate 356 consists of a section of the body assembly 22, which in this application is the end flap 62 formed along the fold layer 24 and back layer 26 beyond the boundary of the waist edge 59 of the absorber core 28. Therefore, in this application, the center waist panel 356 is not stretchable but the side panels 357 are stretchable because they are made of SELF mesh fabric 52.

Figure 4 shows an alternative additional application of the present invention in which the waist belt 432 consists of a continuous SELF mesh fabric and a section of the body assembly 22. In this application, the SELF 52 mesh fabric extends across the entire diaper in the second waist area 42 . The body assembly 22 connects with the SELF mesh fabric 52 in the central waist panel 456. While the center waist panel 456 may be non-stretchable because the components of the body assembly 22 are not machined, in the preferred application shown in Figure 4, the center waist panel 456 is subjected to kinetic tension to allow the waist panel to

The central 456 shall have some ability to be stretchable or for SELF operations as described herein so that the waist belt 432 is entirely of SELF mesh fabric. This stretchability is shown by the dashed lines in Figure 4. The side edge 60 of the body assembly 22 in the first waist area 40 is also provided with an elastic waistband 462 that is operationally attached to an elastic member 464 with the body assembly 22, preferably with the fold layer 24, the back layer 26, or both, more preferably between the layers. The upper layer is 24 and the back layer is 26. Examples of such elastic waist belts are included in U.S. Patent No. 5,151,092 issued to Clear, Buell, and Falcone on September 29, 1992; or in US Patent No. 4,515,595 issued to Kievit and Osterhage on May 7, 1985; Each is incorporated herein by reference. Alternatively, the side edge of the body assembly in the first waist area may also include SELF mesh fabric as described herein.

In an alternative application of the present invention, the diaper may also be provided with ear-like flaps extending laterally outward from each leg edge of the frame assembly in the first waist area. Ear-like flaps provide a construction to which the waist belt can attach to form a circle around the wearer's legs and waist. Ear flaps can come in a number of different sizes, shapes, shapes and materials. The ear flaps may include a section of material forming one or more elements of the diaper, including a top layer and a back layer. Alternatively, ear flaps may include a separate element or a number of elements fastened to the diaper. Materials suitable for use as ear-like flaps include spun mesh fabrics, non-woven mesh fabrics, films including polymeric films, foams, laminar materials including film films, non-spun films, or zero-tension films, elastic materials, composite materials, and SELF mesh fabrics; Or any combination of these materials. The ear-like flaps may connect to the body assembly by any means known to the art; For example, ear-like flaps may be bonded continuously or intermittently to the structure by pressure bonding, ultrasonic bonding, dynamic bonding, or any other method known to the art.

Test methods

Surface path length

Path length measurements of regions of formed material are determined by selecting and preparing representative samples from each distinct region and analyzing these samples by micrograph analysis methods.

Samples must be selected so that they are representative of every surface engineering structure in an area. in general,

Transition zones must be avoided because they will naturally contain characteristics of both zones one and two. The sample to be measured is cut and separated from the area of interest. The measured edge must be cut to a degree parallel to a specified lengthening axis. This axis is usually parallel to the primary axis formed by either the first region or the second region. The “gage marked” length of an unstretched sample must be one-half inch perpendicular to the “measure edge”: During bonding with the mesh material, it is carefully cut and removed from the material area.

The measuring samples are then placed over the long edge of a glass microscope slide. The measured edge should extend slightly (about 1 mm) outward from the edge of the slice. A thin layer of pressure-sensitive adhesive is applied to the edge of the glass face to provide adequate support for the sample. For highly shaped areas of the sample, it has been shown that it is required for the sample to gently stretch in its axial direction (without imposing a significant force) at the same time in order to contact and bond the sample with the edge of the slide. This allows for improved edge identification during image analysis and avoids possible “crumpling” of edge sections that requires additional interpretive analysis.

Images of each specimen should be obtained as views of a “measured edge” taken with the “edge on” of the support strip using suitable microscopic measurement methods of sufficient quality and magnification. The data presented here is produced using the following equipment: a 6100-Keyence VH video unit (x20 lens), with a video image printed with the Sony Video Printer Mavigraph unit. Video prints are image scanned with the Hewlett Packard ScanJet IIP scan tool. The image is analyzed on a Macintosh IICi computer using NIH MAC Image software model 1.45.

Using this equipment, a calibration image is initially taken with a grid scale length of 0.500&amp;

With increment marks of 0.005&amp; for use to adjust the calibration of the analysis software. Computer image. All samples to be measured are then videotaped and the video image is printed. After that, all editions

Video is scanned at 100 dpi (gray level -256) in a suitable Mac image log format. Finally, analyze each image record (including the calibration record) using the Mac Image 1.45 computer program. All samples are measured with a selected hand line measuring instrument. Samples are measured on both side edges and the lengths are recorded. Simple, film-like samples (thin, constant thickness) only need to measure one end edge. Laminated and thick foam samples are measured on both edges of the side. Length measurement recordings are also made across the full length of the cut specimen. In cases of severely deformed specimens, multiple images (partially overlapping) may be needed to include the entire cut specimen. In these cases, selected characteristics common to each of the overlapping images are used as markers to allow readouts along adjacent, but not overlapping, images.

The final determination of the path length for each zone is obtained by averaging the lengths of 5 separate half-inch samples for each zone. Each calibration sample's pathlength is the average of the surface path lengths for each side edge. Poisson lateral contraction effect

Poisson lateral contraction is measured on an Instron 1122 model, available from Instron Corporation, Canton, Mass., tuned to a Gateway 2000 486/33HZ computer available from Gateway 2000, s. Dak,N. Sioux, using Test Works™ software available from Sintech, NC, Research Triangle Park. All key parameters required for testing are entered into the TestWorks™ software for each test and data is collected through manual sample width and extension measurements performed by TestWorks™.

The specimens used in this test are 1 inch wide x 4 inches long with the long axis of the specimen cut parallel to the direction of the first zone of the specimen. Samples must be cut with a sharp knife or cutting tool sharp enough to cut a fine sample one inch wide. It is important to cut out a “representative sample”. So that an area is formed that resembles the overall pattern of the deformed area. There will be cases (due to variations in the size of the deformed section or the relative geometries of Zones I and II) where it will be necessary to cut samples either larger or yellower than suggested here. In this case it is very important to specify (along with any prescribed data) the sample size, and what area of the deformed area it was taken from and preferably include a diagram of the representative area used.

For sample. In general, the aspect ratio (2:1) of the actual multiple tension section (11:w1) should be maintained as much as possible. 5 samples are tested.

Instron grips consist of air-operated grips designed to concentrate all the holding force along a single line perpendicular to the direction of the stretch test having one flat surface and an opposing surface from which a semicircle protrudes. It is not allowed to slip between the sample and the handles. The distance between the lines of holding force must also be 2 inches, as measured with a steel ruler placed next to the handles. This distance is henceforth referred to as the gage length.

The specimen is placed in the handles so that its long axis is perpendicular to the direction of the applied stretch. There must be a similar area between the handles that represents the overall geometry of the pattern. The cowl speed is set at 10 inches/min. The cowl moves to the specified tension (measurements are made at every 20 and 60% stretch). The width of the sample is measured at its narrowest point (w2) and was determined to be approximately 0.02 inches using a steel ruler. Stretches are recorded in the direction of stretch used to the nearest 0.02 inch on TestWorks™ software. The lateral contractile effect (PLCE) is calculated using the following formula:

<img file="SA422B1_D0010.tif" />

Where w2 - width of the sample under applied longitudinal stretching

wl = original width of the sample

l2 = length of specimen under applied longitudinal stretching

l1 = original length of sample (standard length)

Measurements are made at both 20 and 60% elongation using 5 different samples for each specific elongation. The lateral contractile effect (PLCE) at a given length is the average of 5 measurements. Hysteresis test

Hysteresis test is used to measure the percentage of adjustment and percentage of relaxation of a material. Tests are conducted on an Instron model 1122, available from Instron, Canton, Mass, interfaced with a Gateway 2000 486/33 Hz computer available from 2000 Gateway, s. Dak 57049,N. Sioux, using available Test Works™ software

Sintech, NC 27709, Research Triangle Park. All key parameters required for testing are entered into the TestWorks™ software for each test (i.e., cowl speed, maximum extension percentage and point and stop times). Also, all data collection, data analysis and data plotting are conducted using TestWorks™ software.

The specimens used for this test are 1 inch wide x 4 inches long with the long axis of the specimen cut parallel to the direction of maximum stretchability of the specimen. Samples should be cut with a sharp precision knife or other suitably sharp cutting tool designed to cut a fine sample one inch wide. (If there is more than one direction of stretchability of the material, samples must be taken parallel to each direction of tension.) The sample must be cut so that we form a representative area that matches the overall pattern of the deformed area. There will be cases (due to variations in the size of the deformed section or the relative geometric structures of the first and second areas) in which it is necessary to cut samples that are either larger or smaller than suggested here. In this case, from It is very important to determine (along with any prescribed data) the size of the sample, and any area of the deformed area from which it was taken, and it is preferable to include a diagram of the representative area used. Typically, each sample has 3 separate tests at 20, 60, and 100% tension. These samples are tested for a specific substance at each percentage of elongation.

Instron grips consist of air-actuated grips designed to concentrate the total holding force along a single line perpendicular to the stress test direction having one flat surface and a corresponding surface from which a semicircle protrudes to minimize sample slippage. The distance between the lines of holding force must be two inches as measured using a steel ruler placed next to the handles. This distance will henceforth be referred to as "gage length". The sample is placed in the handles with its long axis perpendicular to the direction of the stretch percentage used and the speed of the cowl is set at 10 inches/min. The cowl moves to a specified maximum extension percentage and the sample is held at this extension percentage for 30 seconds. After 30 seconds, the cowl returns to its original position (extension percentage is zero) and remains in this position for 0.6 seconds. The cowl returns to the same percentage of maximum stretch as used in the first session, holds for 30 seconds and then returns to zero.

A graph of the two cycles is generated. A representative graph is shown in Figure 7. The percentage of force relaxation is determined by the following calculation of force data from the first cycle:

<img file="SA422B1_D0011.tif" />

The adjustment percentage is the percentage of stretching of the sample in the second cycle at which the sample begins to resist stretching. The adjustment percentage and force relaxation percentage are also graphed in Figures 7 and 15. The average force extension percentage and adjustment percentage for three samples are recorded for each maximum extension percentage value tested. tensile test

Tensile testing is used to measure the strength versus percent-extension and percent-tensile properties of a material. Tests are performed on the Instron Model 1122, available from Instron, Mass. Canton, tuned to the Gateway 2000 486/33 Hz computer available from 2000 Gateway of s. Dak,N. Sioux, using Test Works™ software available from Sintech, NC, Research Triangle Park. All basic criteria required for testing are entered into the TestWorks™ software for each test. Also, data collection, analysis and data graphing are conducted using TestWorks™ software. Specimens used for this test are 1 inch wide x 4 inches long, with the long axis of the specimen cut parallel to the direction of maximum stretchability of the specimen. Specimens must be cut with a sharp precision knife or other suitably sharp cutting tool designed to cut a fine specimen one inch wide. (If there is more than one direction of stretchability of the material, samples must be taken parallel to each direction of tension.) The sample must be cut so that we form a shell area to match the overall pattern of the deformed area. There will be cases (due to variations in the size of the deformed section or relative geometric structures For Zones I and II) it is necessary to cut samples either larger or smaller than suggested here. In this case, it is very important to specify (along with any data decided) the sample size, i.e. the area of the deformed area from which it was taken and preferably include a diagram of the representative area used for the sample. You test 3 samples of the specified substance.

Instron grips consist of air-actuated grips designed to concentrate the total holding force along a single line perpendicular to the direction of the stress test. They have one flat surface and a corresponding surface from which one half protrudes.

Circle to minimize sample slippage. The distance between the lines of holding force must be two inches as measured using a steel ruler placed next to the handles. This distance will henceforth be referred to as "gage length". The sample is placed in the handles with its long axis perpendicular to the direction of the stretching percentage used. The cowl speed is set at 10 inches/min. The cowl causes elongation of the sample until the sample disintegrates, at which point the cowl stops and returns to its original place (percentage of elongation is zero).

The percentage of available tension is the point at which an inflection occurs in the force-stretch curve, and after this point there is a rapid increase in the amount of force required to further lengthen the sample. Record the average percentage of available tension for three samples.

While the test methods described above may be used for many mesh fabric materials of the present invention, it is noted that the test methods may be modified to accommodate some of the more complex SELF mesh fabric materials within the scope of the present invention.

While special applications of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many other changes and modifications are possible without abandoning the essence and scope of the invention. It is intended, therefore, to include elements of protection complementary to the subject matter, all those changes and modifications that are within the scope of this invention.

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