Absorbent garments with tailored stretch properties in the lateral direction

US8377023B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc. · US

Inventors

• Lawrence Howell Sawyer · Neenah, US
• Robert Lee Popp · Hortonville, US
• Christopher Peter Olson · Neenah, US
• James Carr · Kaukauna, US
• Mark M. Mleziva · Appleton, US
• Michael John Faulks · Neenah, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jun 30, 2004
• Grant date: Feb 19, 2013
• Expiry date: Jul 17, 2028

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61F13/49012
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

Absorbent articles with carefully controlled stretch properties are disclosed. In particular, the absorbent articles have a percentage of stretch in the lateral direction at the widest portion in the front region of the article and/or in the back region in the range of from about 25% to about 150%. Additionally, at least about 70% of the above stretch resides in a first edge zone and in a second edge zone of the chassis. The first edge zone and the second edge zone are separated by a middle zone. The middle zone, which has the same length as each edge zone, is stretchable, but to a lesser extent than the edge zones. Through this construction, the absorbent article exhibits improved fit and appearance. Of particular advantage, the carefully controlled stretch properties prevent sagging or drooping of the crotch region, even after the crotch region has been wetted.