MXPA06007311A - An elastic composite for a disposable absorbent garment, and a system and process for making the elastic composite and a garment having the elastic composite - Google Patents

Abstract

A method is provided for making an elastic composite for incorporation into a disposable absorbent garment. An elastic element applicator is provided that is configured to move a section of a continuous strand of elastic element generally about a plane. A first web of material is conveyed in a first web moving direction such that the first web intersects the plane. Then, the applicator is operated to move the elastic element about the plane, thereby applying the section of elastic element onto the first web along a direction generally transverse to the web moving direction and such that the first web draws the continuous elastic strand from the elastic element applicator as the first web is conveyed away from the plane. The elastic element applicator may be in the form of a spin cylinder or bracket that is operated to spin the elastic element about the moving first web, thereby applying the elastic element on the first web.

Description

A MIXED ELASTIC MATERIAL FOR A DISPOSABLE ABSORBENT GARMENT, AND A SYSTEM AND PROCEDURE TO MAKE THE MIXED ELASTIC MATERIAL AND A GARMENT THAT IT HAS THE MIXED MATERIAL THE STICO BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present application claims the benefit of the filing date of United States Provisional Application Series No. 60 / 532,480 filed December 24, 2003 (now pending) (which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes and made a part of the present description). The present invention relates generally to disposable absorbent articles or articles such as baby diapers and trainers. More particularly, the present invention relates to an elastic component that can be employed in one or more areas of the garment. The present invention also relates to a system and method for making the elastic component and a garment employing the elastic component. Disposable absorbent garments contemplated by the invention include disposable diapers, disposable garments, and the like. These garments are used approximately down the wearer's torso or waist to receive and contain urine and other body wastes. The benefits provided by the use of a disposable diaper on a child are well known and its use has expanded in the past decades. Disposable positioning garments include trainers, training diapers, disposable underwear, and adult incontinence garments. It is generally expected that the user of any of these garments will be able to put on and take off the garment on its own. As for the trainers, these garments are used by young people to facilitate the transition of children from using diapers to regular underwear (that is, during bathroom training). The trainers (and other disposable underpants) have closed sides for the user or caregiver to lift the garment near the wearer's legs to place it and slide the garment down the user's legs to remove it. The main elements of a typical disposable absorbent garment include a liquid permeable inner layer (or top sheet), an outer liquid impermeable layer (or back sheet), and an absorbent core sandwiched between the inner and outer layers. The elastic members can be incorporated in different parts of the garment. For example, the elastic members may be placed longitudinally along a diaper, generally facing away from the absorbent core to present a seal around the user's thighs, legs, or both. In addition, several elastic members (eg, in the form of elongated elastic strands or strands) can be placed laterally across the waist regions (including the lateral waist regions) of a disposable absorbent garment. The resulting elasticity allows the garment to stretch when placed and then during use. In this way, the garment can be stretched to accommodate variations in the waist size and size of the wearer's leg, while tight fitting around the waist and legs. When the elastic members are incorporated into a part or area of the garment, that part or area typically becomes a distinct functional component of the garment. These elastic components include the side panels or ear portions, waist band, and the holding tabs. The elastic components to which the present invention is directed are generally elongated, and may be a different portion of a unit longer piece, or a separate, unible component. In addition, the elastic component typically contains one or more sections or layers in addition to the elastic members. With respect to this, such an elastic component can be referred to as an elastic mixed material.

LAJ COMPLETION VENTION Therefore, it is an object of the invention to provide an improved disposable absorbent garment such as a diaper or an adult incontinence garment, and in addition, such garment incorporating an improved elastic composite material as one or more of its components. For purposes of the present description, the term "elastic band" or "elastic composite material" refers to a multi-layer construction of the disposable absorbent garment. In this construction, a plurality of elastic members, such as rows or strands, is disposed adjacent to one or more layers, for example back sheet and top sheet. In this way, the elastic members impart elasticity to the adjacent layers of that shape, to that part of the disposable absorbent garment. Such an elastic structure may be a unible component different from the garment or may be a different portion or section of the garment body or a longer unitary component of the garment body. In one aspect of the invention, a composite elastic material is provided in a disposable absorbent garment such as a diaper or trainers. The elastic composite material has a base layer, an upper layer, an elastic construction disposed therebetween. The elastic construction includes a plurality of spaced elastic elements (eg, preferably of generally or equally spaced shape) (for example strands or rows) that are generally aligned in parallel relation. In addition, the upper and base layers define a first side edge, a second side edge, and a longitudinal center line therebetween. The elastic construction is disposed between the two layers and extends in a direction that is between the lateral edges and is generally parallel with or corresponds to (i.e., overlaps) the longitudinal center line. In addition, the elastic elements are oriented along a lateral direction crossing the lateral edges and longitudinal center line (for example, so that the elastic element is oriented or aligned along the direction that is generally perpendicular to the lateral edges). ). Preferably, the elastic composite material includes at least one elasticized region, wherein the elastic construction is disposed, ie spaced inwardly from the side edges and, in some embodiments, generally positioned towards the center between the side edges. Such a mixed elastic material also includes a first non-elasticized region disposed between the first lateral edge and the elasticized region, and a second non-elasticized region disposed between the second lateral edge and the elasticized region. In certain embodiments, the first and second non-elastic regions provide fastening regions that are generally planar relative to the elastic regions, and may be equipped as a fastening element such as adhesives or a hook or twist element. More preferably, the elastic elements are attached to at least one of the upper and base layers so that the elasticized region is adjusted when the elastic mixed material is disposed in a relaxed, non-stretched state. In other embodiments a second elasticized region is provided between the side edges and a third non-elastic region is provided between the first and second elasticized regions.

In preferred embodiments the elastic construction has a central line extending therethrough which is spaced generally equidistantly from each side and the elastic threads are distributed along this central line and generally in perpendicular relation with the same. Preferably, the direction of this central line corresponds to a machine direction of the elastic mixed material web or more specifically, the web material for which the elastic mixed material web is cut. Even in another aspect of the invention, a disposable absorbent garment with a topsheet is provided., a backsheet, and an absorbent core disposed therebetween, the topsheet and the backsheet and such and the longitudinal center of the garment extends through the topsheet, backsheet, and absorbent core. Together, the top sheet, or back sheet, and absorbent core provide a central body of the disposable absorbent garment. The inventive garment also includes a band of elastic mixed material that is attached to the central body. The band of elastic composite material has a first side edge, a second side edge, and a center line of mixed material that extends between the side edges. The band of elastic composite material includes a base layer, an upper layer, and an elastic construction disposed between the upper and base layers and is passed inwardly from each side edge. The elastic construction includes a plurality of spaced elastic elements that are distributed in a direction extending between the side edges and each is generally aligned in perpendicular relationship with the centerline of the mixed material. Preferably, the band of elastic composite material includes an elasticized region that is generally positioned toward the center between the first and second side edges, and where the elasticized region is disposed. The elastic composite material also has a first non-elasticized region positioned between the first lateral edge and the elasticized region and a second non-elasticized region positioned between the second lateral edge and the elasticized region. In some embodiments, the elastic composite web is attached adjacent one end of the garment (eg, along a waist line) and provides along the same an elastic waistband on the garment. In other embodiments, the garment has two bands of elastic mixed material each joined along a lateral margin of the garment. In these embodiments, the elastic composite material band provides an elastic waist fastening portion of the diaper, such as a plastic side panel or ear portion of the garment or elastic fastening tab. In a particular embodiment, the elastic composite material is provided as the central chassis or central body of the leg. The present invention also relates to a system or method for making the elastic composite material and / or the garment incorporating the elastic composite material.

In one part of the present invention, a method for making a composite elastic material is provided. The elastic mixed material is made for incorporation into a disposable absorbent garment. The method includes the step of providing an elastic element applicator configured to move a section of a continuous strand of elastic element generally about a plane. A first web of material (e.g., nonwoven material) is transported in a direction that moves to the web so that the first web crosses the plane. Then, the elastic element applicator is operated to move the elastic element around the plane, thereby applying to the elastic element section in the first band along a section generally transverse to the direction of web movement. Preferably, the elastic element is applied so that the elastic element section is retained by the first band and the first band pulls out the continuous elastic stretch of the elastic element applicator while the first band is transported away from the plane. More preferably, the elastic element applicator is a rotating cylinder or bracket, which is operated to rotate the elastic element around the first moving band, with it applying the elastic element to the first band. In another aspect of the present invention, another method for making a composite elastic material for incorporation of a disposable absorbent garment is provided. The method includes the step of transporting a first web of material and folding each side edge of the first web along a line of doubles laterally and inward towards an inner surface of the first web. This creates a pair of bent edges adjacent to the inner surface and an exposed outer surface having a defined width between the lines of doubles doubles (ie, the bent side edges). A plurality of spaced elastic strands is subsequently applied across the width of the exposed external surface. Then, the applied elastic strands are cut close to each of the doubles lines of the first band (i.e., along the folded side edges), so that the lengths of the elastic strands are generally equal to the width of the strand. external surface. After that, the bent edges of the first band are unfolded so that the first resulting band has, applied thereon, a plurality of centrally located elastic R's and un-elasticized side regions generally defined outwardly of the double lines. Preferably, the elastic R's are applied in spaced relation generally parallel. In addition, the elastic strands are preferably applied by rotating a continuous elastic thread around the first band.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 is a plan view of a disposable absorbent garment in the unfolded configuration; according to the present invention; Figure 2A is a plan view of a composite elastic material according to the present invention; Figure 2B is a plan view of the elastic composite material of Figure 2A shown in an extended, stretchable condition; Figure 3 is a perspective view of the elastic composite material of Figure 2A with a cut detail to show an elastic construction; Figure 4 is a plan view of an alternative disposable absorbent garment according to the invention; Figure 4A is a plan view of a disposable absorbent garment convertible or converted according to the invention; Figure 5 is a plan view of another alternative disposable absorbent garment, according to the invention, incorporating a mixed elastic material such as a waistband; Figure 6 is a plan view even of another alternative disposable absorbent garment, according to the invention and in addition a composite elastic material is incorporated as a central body chassis; Figure 6A is a plan view of an absorbent garment of a disposable garment convertible or converted according to the invention; Figure 7 is a plan view of an alternative elastic composite material according to the present invention; Figure 8 is a perspective view even of another alternative elastic composite material according to the invention; Figure 8A is a perspective view even of another alternative elastic composite material according to the invention; Figures 9A-9C are plan views of alternative disposable absorbent garments, according to the invention; Figure 10 is a simplified scheme of a system for manufacturing the elastic composite material according to the present invention; Figure 11 is a top plan view of an elastic element applicator assembly for use with the system of Figure 10; Figure 12 is a side view of the assembly of Figure 11; Figure 13 is an illustration of the simplified procedure for making the elastic composite material according to the invention; Figure 14 is a detailed view of a conveyor assembly for the system of Figure 1 according to the invention; Figure 15 is a top plan view of an alternative elastic element applicator assembly for use with the system of Figure 10, according to the invention; Figure 16 is a simplified illustration of a doubles guide assembly for use with the system and method according to the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Each of Figures 1 and 4-9 illustrates a disposable absorbent garment representing various aspects of the present invention. More particularly, each of these Figures illustrates such a garment incorporating a structure of elastic composite material or elastic composite material according to the present invention. In Figure 1, a disposable absorbent garment 110 is shown to be suitable for the invention and in the form of a diaper having one or more elastic composite materials incorporated therein. The elastic composite material in Figures 1-8 has sides and end edges, and thus can be referred to herein as elastic composite webs. Figures 9-16 illustrate a system and method for making the elastic composite material (and a garment having the elastic composite material) according to the present invention. The disposable absorbent garment 110 in Figure 1 is of a type that can be placed against or in close proximity to a wearer's body to absorb and contain various exudates from the body. However, it should be noted, that the present invention is applicable to a variety of disposable absorbent articles and garments, including trainers and a variety of adult incontinence products. As will be described later, the inventive elastic composite material or band of elastic composite material may be provided with a side panel or ear portion, a waist band, a fastening tab or band, or other elastic component other than the garment or Article. The inventive elastic composite material may also be incorporated into an ear portion to elasticize the ear portion or to supplement the ear portion with an elasticized fastening tab. Accordingly, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the structures and methods specifically described and illustrated herein. For purposes of description, however, the following discussion will be directed to an illustrative disposable diaper only. In addition, the invention will be described in the context of its various configurations and aspects. It should be appreciated that the alternative orders of the inventive disposable absorbent garment and such a band of elastic composite material may comprise various combinations, including one or more of the various configurations of aspects of the invention. Figure 1 is introduced to illustrate some basic characteristics of a disposable diaper 110, most of which are also applicable to other disposable absorbent garments contemplated by the invention. The diaper 110 includes three major regions at least along an imaginary or planar longitudinal axis AA. These regions include a first waist region 112 (typically on the front of the user when the garment 110 is worn), a rear waist region 114, and a back region 116. The diaper 110 is also characterized by a front edge 114 , a rear longitudinal edge 42, or a lateral or side edge or lateral margin 144, and a second lateral or side edge or side margin Along the lateral direction, the diaper 110 includes ear regions or ear portions 110 extending laterally of the waist regions, 112,114. Together, the waist regions 112,114 and rear region 116 may be referred to as forming a central body portion 120 of the garment 110 that is connected within the side edges, 144, 146. The body portion 120 may also be referred to as formed by an inner layer permeable to liquid or an upper sheet 152, an outer layer impervious to the liquid or back sheet (not shown), and absorbent core 154 that is placed between the two layers. The ear portions 118 further include fastening tabs 124 for attaching the waist regions 112, 114. The diaper 110 also has an elastic waist band 130 generally positioned along the rear edge 142 to facilitate fastening and to improve fit and sealing the diaper 110. When the hourglass-shaped diaper 110 is used, the rear region 116 fits around the user's back region, and the front and rear waist regions, 112 and 114, fit around the back. the corresponding waist areas. The ear portions 118, on the other hand, are gripped around the wearer and the securing tabs 124 are interconnected to form a complete waistline, all around the diaper 110. Figure 2A illustrates a band of typical elasticised composite material 210. according to the invention. More particularly, the elastic composite material web 210 is a particularly suitable for use as a side panel or fastening tab of a disposable absorbent garment (see, eg, Figure 1). Figure 3 provides a perspective view and partial section of the band of elastic composite material 210. The band of elastic composite material 210 can be characterized by an imaginary central line LL. In one aspect of the invention, the central line LL preferably corresponds to the machine direction of the elastic mixed material web 210 during manufacture. The elastic band 210 also has longitudinally extending side or side edges 210a and 210b and laterally extending end edges 210c and 210d. In Figure 1 the elastic mixed material web 210 shows in the stretched state, for example, when a garment incorporating the elastic mixed material web 210 is used. In this state, the elastic mixed material web 210 is stretched, in the lateral or cross machine direction (denoted by arrows XX). As used herein, the term "machine" address refers to the direction in which the component, or more particularly, the web of material from which the elastic composite material is derived (e.g., cut from) is directed in an assembly line during manufacturing. The term "transverse directional machine direction" or "transverse directional", on the other hand, refers to the direction that is perpendicular to the machine direction. With reference to the elastic composite material 20 of Figure 2, the cross machine direction is the direction XX extending laterally or perpendicularly relative to the longitudinal line XX.

The band of elastic mixed material 210, according to the The invention has a central region 214 in which an elastic construction is placed. Extending laterally from this central elastic or elastic region 214 are regions 216 and 218, which are substantially non-elasticized. As shown in Figure 2A the regions 216, 218 occupy the space between the central elastic region 214 and the side edges 210a, 210b. Now with reference to Figure 3, the elastic composite material web 210 has an upper layer 318 and a lower or base layer 320. The two layers 318, 320 preferably extend the overall width and length of the elastic mixed material web 210. , thereby providing the side edges 210a, 210b, and the end edges 210c, 210d. Both of these base layers 320 and upper layer 318 preferably are of a breathable nonwoven material, available such as propylene, non-woven polyethylene / breathable polypropylene films, or non-porous films (or combinations of these materials). The base layer 320 and the top layer 318 adhere to one another, thereby sandwiching and securing a plurality of elastic strands 322 therebetween.

The elastic strands 322 may be substituted, in alternative embodiments, by suitable elastic elements such as elastic strands, rows, strips, and elastic glue beads.

In one aspect of the invention, the elastic members or strands 322 distribute along a direction extending between the side edges 210a, 210b and parallel with (correspond to) the centerline LL. In addition each elastic member 322 is generally aligned or oriented in a direction corresponding to the lateral or transverse machine direction ie, in a direction generally perpendicular to the longitudinal center line LL and crossing the side edges 210a, 210b. Preferably, the strands 322 are disposed in generally parallel relationship and spaced apart equally along the longitudinal direction. More preferably, the elastic strands 322 are of generally equal length. Accordingly, when the elastic mixed material web 210 is used, the strands 322 impart elasticity in the structure that allows the web 210 to stretch in the lateral or transverse machine direction XX. The elastic strands 322 are preferably tensioned during the securing between the upper and base layers 318, 320. Figure 2B illustrates the band of elastic mixed material 210 in a laterally stretched condition. In this condition, the central elastic region 214 has a width that is almost equal to the non-elasticized zones 216 and 218. When returning to the non-stretched or relaxed condition, as shown in Figure 2A, to the central elastic region. 214 contracts and adjusts to a substantially reduced width. In this condition or condition, the contracted elastic strands 322 conform to the elastic composite material 210 and provide pleats 234 in the contracted elastic region 214. The elastic composite material band 210 may originate from a web of material that is used in reels or festoons. Typically the user of such material will cut the material to a required length of a particular application. Some applications, one of such a web of material can provide the source of multiple components of the inventive disposable absorbent garment. Returning to Figure 1, the inventive disposable absorbent garment 110 employs one or more bands of elastic composite material according to the invention, as described above. The disposable absorbent garment 110 employs in each of the ear portions 118, a fastening tab 124 having the construction of inventive elastic composite material. Like the locking tab 124, the elastic composite web is configured so that an unstretched region 124a is joined and overlaps the central body 120 of the garment 110 while a second non-elastic region 124b is placed out of the lateral margins. 144, 146. An elasticized region 124c, as shown in Figure 1, provides elasticity, and is thereby stretched in the lateral or transverse machine direction (of the elastic composite material). With respect to the rest of the garment 110, the elasticity or flexibility provided by the central elastic region 124c directed along a direction that is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal centerline AA of the garment 110, and corresponds to a direction that is held around the user's waistline. The disposable absorbent garment 110 in Figure 1 also provides an elastic composite material, according to the invention, as the waistband 130. The waistband 130 positioned centrally in the waist region 114. In addition, the waistband of mixed elastic material 130 is arranged so that the non-elasticized regions 130a, 130b are placed outwardly of the longitudinal line AA of the garment 110 while an elasticized region 130c is centrally positioned across the longitudinal center line AA. In addition, the elasticized region 130c is configured so that the elastic strands align or orient in a direction that is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal center line AA. In this way, the elastic composite waistband 130 imparts elasticity around the waist region 114 of the garment 110, and in a direction corresponding to the direction of the waistline around the wearer. Figure 4 illustrates a disposable absorbent garment 410 according to the invention. Specifically, Figure 4 illustrates a disposable absorbent garment 410 employing elastic composite materials according to the invention as attachable ear portions or side panels 414. The elastic composite material side panels 414 are separate components that are attached to a central body. 420 of the garment 410. The elastic composite side panels (or ear portions) 414 are joined near a waist edge 442 of the garment 410 and so that the center line AA of the side panel 414 is generally parallel with the line of longitudinal center AA of the garment 410. In addition each of the side panels of elastic composite material 414 has a non-elasticized region 414a which is positioned outwardly from the lateral margins 446 of the garment 410 and a second non-elasticized region 414b which is joins in lateral margin 446 (or lateral margin 444). In that way, a central elastic region 414c is placed out of side margin 446 and not directly attached thereto. When the garment 410 is in use the central elastic region 414a allows the side panel to stretch in a transverse machine or lateral direction corresponding to the lateral direction relative to the longitudinal centerline AA of the garment 410. Therefore, when the garment 410 is used, the elastic side panel 414 allows stretching around the user's waist line. Figure 5 illustrates even another alternative embodiment of a disposable absorbent garment 510 according to the invention. The disposable absorbent article 510 is a diaper partially defined by end or waist edges 540, 542, (not shown) and side margins 544, 546. In addition, the inventive disposable article 510 has a central body 520 and an elastic waistband unible separate 530. Similar to garments 110, 410 in Figures 1 and 4 respectively, garment 510 employs a composite elastic material such as elastic waistband 530. The inventive elastic waistband 530 is attached adjacent a waist edge 542 of the garment 510 and placed centrally around the longitudinal center line AA. The elastic composite waistband 530 is positioned so that the non-elasticized regions 530a, 530c extend laterally past the lateral margins 544, 546, respectively. The central elastic region 530c is centrally positioned within the central body 520 and the lateral margins 544, 546. The elastic strands of the central elastic region 530c are furthermore positioned so that the elastic region 530c provides elasticity or flexibility in a lateral direction relative to the longitudinal center line AA. Again, in this way the elastic composite waistband 530 according to the invention allows the garment to fit snugly and effectively around the wearer's waist line. Figure 6 illustrates an alternative disposable absorbent garment 610, according to the invention (in which similar reference numerals are used to indicate similar elements), in which the band of inventive elastic composite material is incorporated in several areas or as several components of pledge The garment 610 has a front waist region 112, a waist region 114, and a back region 116 positioned therebetween. As with garment 410 of Figure 4, a band of elasticized composite material 614 is attached to each lateral margin 144, 146, near the trailing edge 140, as an elasticized side panel 614. A second pair of elastic mixed material webs is joins as an elasticized panel 660 along the opposite end edge 42 of the garment 610. Figure 6 also illustrates the use of the inventive elastic composite material band to provide an elastified center body or chassis 680 at or below the rear region 116 of the garment 610 and in support of an absorbent core (not shown to clearly present the chassis 680). The absorbent core preferably adheres to and moves with the elasticized chassis 680. Thus the core preferably is a comfortable body (changes shape according to external force), elastic, or extensible (eg pushed or permanently stretched), as it is generally known in the art. In this way, the main or central body of the garment 610 is elastified in a lateral direction XX which is generally perpendicular to a longitudinal center line AA of the garment 610. In garment 610 of Figure 6, the band of mixed material Inventive provides the full length of the central body or chassis 680. The chassis of elastic mixed material 680 has an elasticized region 680c positioned between two non-elastic regions 680a, 680b. Preferably, the elasticized region 680c provides an elastic construction of a plurality of elastic strands as previously described with respect to the embodiments of Figures 1-5. In the illustrated embodiment, the elasticized region 680c extends between the end edges, 140, 142, thereby imparting lateral elasticity (flexibility) throughout the entire garment length. Now changing to Figure 4A, the disposable absorbent garment 410 premium is provided with fastening means 460 along the margins 444, 446, and near an opposite end of the side panels of elastic composite material 414. The provision of the fastening means 460 allows the fastening of the ends of the garment. Accordingly, this particular garment 410 is referred to as a convertible or convertible garment, in which the garment is allowed to be used as a diaper and alternatively as a trainer pant type garment. The fastening means 460 can be provided with fasteners such as hooks or turns that can be adhered accordingly or join the non-elasticized areas 414a, 414b or the side panels 414. The garment 410 'can come with fastening means 460 joined with the side panels 414 in the form of a trainer briefs. In addition, the fasteners 460 can be released from the side panel 414, in the form of a diaper. Now combined with Figure 6A, the disposable absorbent garment 610 'is also fastened with means 660 on the elastic composite material side panel 614. The fastening means 660 may include fastening elements such as hooks or twists, which can be adhered and join the non-elastic zone 641a, 614b of the corresponding side panel 614. Figure 7 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a band of elastic composite material according to the present invention. The elastic composite material web 710 illustrated therein differs in the previously described elastic composite material web (see, for example, Figure 2 and Figure 2a) wherein the elastic mixed material web 710 includes two elasticized regions 714a and 714b . The elasticized region 714a, 714b is preferably spaced equidistantly on either side of the longitudinal center line AA. The spacing of the elasticized regions 714a, 714b creates non-elasticized left-right regions or dead regions 716, 718, as well as a central non-elastic region 750. The elasticized regions 714a, 714b impart electricity to the band of elastic mixed material 710a in the directions laterals XX, and in the central non-elastic region 750, also in the opposite lateral direction VV. Figure 8 illustrates another embodiment of a band of elastic composite material 810 according to the invention. The inventive elastic composite material web 810 has as in previously described embodiments, a central elastic or elastic region 814 and regions 816 and 818 that are substantially non-elasticized and extend laterally from the central elasticized region 814. The elasticized region 814 is again composed of a plurality of elastic strands 322 which are generally arranged in parallel relation, and generally perpendicular to a longitudinal center line LL of the elastic material band 810 (and elasticized region 814). The elastic mixed material web 810 also has end side edges 810a like 810b, and end edges 810c, 810d. In yet another aspect of the invention, the elastic mixed material web 810 is further comprised of base layer 820 and top layer 824. As shown in Figure 8, the base and top layers 820, 824 are sandwiched between the layers 820 and 824. elastic strands 822. In contrast to the previously described modalities, layers 820 and 824 are equivalent with respect to one another. Specifically, the two layers 820, 824 are not placed square or fixed, one on top of the other but overlap. In this form, the band of elastic mixed material 810 is made wider. In particular, by equating the two layers 820, 824 the non-elasticized regions 816, 818 extend and may be referred to as having an outer section (eg, 818a) formed by one of the layers 820, 824 and an inner section (eg example, 818b) having both an upper and a lower layer 820, 824. Preferably, the two layers 820, 824 are two folds of non-woven material. The larger non-elastic non-woven regions 816, 818 provide a work area in which the fastening materials and other accessories or structural attributes of the disposable absorbent garment can be replaced. In various embodiments the equivalent or overlap of the two layers 820, 824 can be varied to create non-elastic regions 816, 818 of various widths. In addition, a wider band of mixed elastic material (and specifically, non-elasticized regions of the band of elastic mixed material) is obtained, without increasing the size of the non-woven layers. Figure 8A illustrates another variation of the elastic composite material web 810 in Figure 8, in accordance with the present invention. Specifically, Figure 8 illustrates a band of inventive elastic composite material 810 'having a central elastic or elasticized region 814' and regions 816 'and 818' that are substantially unstretched ("dead zones") and extend laterally from the region. central elastic 814 '. The elasticized region 814 'again comprises a plurality of elastic strands 822' which are arranged in generally parallel and generally perpendicular relationship with a longitudinal centerline LL of the elastic composite material band 810 '(and the elasticized region 814'). In this particular embodiment of the invention, the elastic mixed material web 810 'includes a base layer 820' and an upper layer 824 'which is significantly narrower than the base layer 820'. The base and top layers 820 'and 824' are sandwiched between elastic strands 822 'therebetween. Preferably the width of the top layer 824 'is not less than 5 mm wide than the width of the central elastic region 814'. This design further illustrates other aspects of the invention, and a manufacturing process, which results in a reduction of the incomplete material costs of the disposable absorbent garments and more specifically the elastic mixed material band 810 '. Figures 9A-9 C are provided to illustrate other embodiments of the present invention. More specifically, Figures 9A-9C provide alternate, specifically alternate, forms of the band of the inventive elastic composite material. In these Figures, similar elements are named using similar numbers.

Referring to Figures 9A and 9B, a disposable absorbent garment 910 is shown having a central body 920 and bands of elastic composite material in the form of ears or side panels 924. The ears 924 have internal and external non-elastic regions 924a, 924b, and an elasticized central region 924c positioned therebetween. These two Figures illustrate a band of elastic composite material according to the invention having non-elastic regions 924a and 924b that are different from one another or do not provide side edges of the band of elastic composite material 924 that are generally in parallel relation. In both designs, the lateral edge of the outer non-elastic regions 924b are rounded or curved. The shape of the bands of elastic mixed material 924 in these two Figures provides among other advantages, a more attractive product as perceived by the customer. Now changing to Figure 9c, there is even shown another variation of the elastic composite material band 924 applied to training pants 910. Specifically, the inventive elastic composite material band 924 has non-elasticized regions 924a and 924b of different geometries. This design of the elastic mixed material webs 924 provides an aesthetic as well as a functional advantage. The functional advantage comes in the form of an improved fit around the user's leg, particularly due to the shape of the elastic composite material band 924. Figures 10-16 illustrate a system and system components, and illustrate a method or Method of making or making the elastic composite material according to one embodiment of the invention. In one aspect of the inventive process, two elastic mixed material web outputs 1031 of four stopped non-woven web entries 1003a, 1003b, 1003c, and 1003d are produced. To facilitate the description of the present invention, reference will be made to the patent of E.U.A. Nos. 3,627,621 and 2,902,395, each of which discloses certain features of the prior art system and methods for making a lamination and / or mixed material having non-woven materials. Each of these patents is incorporated herein by reference and will become a part of the present disclosure. In particular, reference may be made to certain basic components of the system or apparatus for handling non-woven materials or fibers. Referring first to Figure 10, a system 1001, according to the invention, senses four separate nonwoven web entries 1003a-1003b, which provides a web or web of nonwoven material of the elastic composite material. The system further includes an exit assembly or rail 1005 that receives two bands of elastic mixed material 1031 from the remainder of the process. These two separate elastic bands can be fixed together to produce the type of mixed material described with respect to Figure 7 (or kept in separate forms). Central to inventive system 1001 is a conveyor assembly 1009 for receiving, handling, and transporting each of the inlets of non-woven webs. The conveyor assembly 1009 is positioned and operatively associated with an elastic element applicator such as a rotating head assembly 1007, which applies elastic fibers or strands on, in, and integrally with the nonwoven web entries. The rotating head assembly 1007 further includes a rotating head 1017, preferably in the form of a rotating bracket, or cylinder 1017 and the like. The rotating cylinder 1017 is configured to maintain an "end section" of the continuous strand WW of elastic and move it around a generally vertical plane XX in a reciprocal or repetitive pattern (relative to the conveyor assembly 1009). This XX plane is defined by the area of the rotating perimeter of the cylinder 1017 and which is traced by the outermost bracket or eye 1017b to secure the elastic thread WW to the rotating cylinder 1017. The trajectories of the rotary head 1017 and the suction of the elastic thread retained thereby provide in the XX plane. As shown in the scheme of Figure 10, the non-woven intakes 1003a, and 1003b are fed by using a series of rolls, in the conveyor assembly 1009. Before the two non-woven webs are fed into the conveyor assembly 1009, the webs are directed through the folding guides or plates 1039. The bending guides 1039 serve to effectively reduce the total width of the non-woven web by bending the side or side edges between a line of longitudinally predetermined extending sideways doubles YY. The first bending guide 1039a initiates the first 90 degree turn while the second double guide 1039b initiates a second 90 degree turn. The roll 1039 disposed between the guide 1039a, 1039b facilitates the bending procedure. The two bending guides 1039 and roll 1369 can be referred to together as an assembly of bending guides. Figure 16 illustrates even another typical folding guide assembly. The bending assembly 1639 includes bending plates 1639 and a roll 1669 upstream of the bending plates 1639. A band 1603 is passed around the narrow bead 1669, thereby the width of the bead 1669 helps to determine the width of the band 1603 between the VV folds (i.e., the exposed outward surface width 1689 defined between the double YY lines). The width of the roll 1669 is substantially less than the width of the non-woven web 1603. As a result, the edges of the non-woven web 1603 are enlisted and wound around the edges of the roll 1669. Thus they initiate the folding process. The flat plates 1639 then help complete the folding and keeping the edges bent down. Another double key (not shown) can be provided in an upstream position of the unfolded roll 1669 to help find or initiate the folding procedure. For purposes of the present description, the internal surface 1679 is the surface of the side of the web 1603 towards which the shown folds VV are rotated. The exposed outward surface 1689 is the opposite surface of the 1679 inward surface.

The conveyor assembly 1009 is established to guide these two nonwoven webs 1003a and 1003b through the center of the assembly 1009 toward and eventually into the elastic rotary cylinder 1007 (in the tissue path). Once inside the rotating cylinder 1017 the conveyor assembly 1009 delivers the nonwoven webs to the outside, top, and bottom faces (faces facing away) of the conveyor assembly 1009. At this point the direction of web travel nonwovens are reversed and the strips are routed away from the rotating cylinder 1007. While the nonwoven webs exit the rotating cylinder 1017, an elastic thread WW is drawn around the complete conveyor assembly 1009, and while contacting the upper and lower face of the platform of band gets in touch with the non-woven band. As shown in several of the Figures, the elastic thread WW is applied crosswise or laterally in the band, and crosswise to the direction of the movement band. The friction between the tensioned elastic strand and the nonwoven webs on the upper and lower faces of the conveyor assembly leads to the "wrapped" elastic thread of the rotating cylinder 1017 and there to the contact with other bands 1003c and 1003d. The non-woven webs 1003c and 1003d are operatively positioned upstream of an adhesive applicator 1013. By using a system of rolls in conjunction therewith, the non-woven inlets 1003c, 1003d and adhesive applicators 1013 apply a web of material prepared with non-glue. tissue in the conveyor assembly 1009 and in the elastic thread drawn around the nonwoven webs 1003a and 1003b. In addition, the system 1001 employs an elastic input source, for example, an elastic yarn spool, which feeds elastic strands or fibers WW into the tension / speed control unit 1037 and then to the rotating cylinder or the rotating head 1017, to applying the WW strands to the conveyor assembly 1009 and the nonwoven webs transported therethrough. The elastic is removed from the coil or positive unit system is fed through a voltage and speed control motor to the rotating cylinder 1017. The elastic WW is delivered through a hollow shaft in the motor that controls the rotating cylinder 1017. The elastic WW then passes in the rotating cylinder 1017 and is guided by the eyes rollers or other suitable mechanisms around the inner face of the rotating cylinder 1017 In alternative embodiments of the invention the above components can be positioned differently with respect to one of the other, and can employ other standard components not discussed here. In addition, the illustrated system and method can be quickly integrated into or with various known systems and methods for making disposable absorbent articles and garments. Such integration will be apparent to a person skilled in the art in the relevant consumer product or other relevant technique, with reading and observation of the present disclosure.

Figures 11 and 12 provide alternate views of the rotary head assembly 1007 and conveyor assembly 1009. As discussed above, the conveyor assembly 1009 receives four separate strips of nonwoven materials and two output strips 1031 of elastic composite material. Figures 13 and 14 are provided to further illustrate the process of making elastic composite material according to the invention. These Figures, more particularly Figure 13, illustrate the routes taken by the nonwoven web materials to and from the conveyor assembly 1009. Referring to Figure 13, the AG reference letters are used to refer to steps in the procedure and as a whole with the description of the procedure. As discussed above, the bands of incomplete non-woven material are fed into the process in step A. These bands provide 4 separate non-woven web entries in the process. The non-woven webs 1 and 3 are combined to make an output of elastic mixed material 1 (ie called in the Figures as the WRAP output). Non-woven 2 and 4, which are both below the rotary head assembly 1007 and conveyor assembly 1009, combine to make a second output of elastic composite material 2 (i.e., WRAP 2). In step B, the nonwoven webs 1 and 2 are folded before going to the conveyor assembly 1009. A predetermined width of the nonwoven is folded on each side of the web to make two folded folds VV. The width of the bend VV determines the width of the dead zone or non-elastic region described previously, while the width of the nonwoven, after the bend, determines the width of the elasticized region. In step c, the nonwoven webs 1 and 2 are fed into the conveyor assembly 1009 in particular to the middle or within the conveyor assembly 1009 with the folded side of each web facing outward or away from the conveyor assembly 1009. It should be Note that in this step C the non-woven bands 1 and 2 do not bind. The conveyor 1009 then feeds the non-woven webs 1 and 2 to the rotary head assembly 1007. In step D, the non-woven webs 1 and 2 have traveled almost the length of the conveyor assembly 1009 and progress in the rotary path of the tubing assembly. rotary head 1007 and cross the vertical plane "swivel" XX of the elastic thread WW. In addition, at the end of the conveyor assembly 1009, the belts 1 and 2 are directed away from each other and towards the exterior of the conveyor 1009 and away from the rotating head 1007. The non-woven web 1 is ignited on the upper side of the conveyor assembly 1009, while the non-woven web 2 travels along the underside of the conveyor assembly 1009. In step E, an elastic yarn WW is wound around non-woven bent 1 and 2, while these bands pass through the spinning head of the vertical plane XX. The elastic thread WW applies to the moving bands 1 and 2 through directionally crossing the direction of the moving band. The movements of the strips 1 and 2 away from the inside of the rotating cylinder 1017 present the elastic thread "wrapped" outside the rotating cylinder 1017. Now changing to the non-woven strips 3 and 4, these strips are provided to the conveyor assembly 1009 with adhesive applied on one side (ie, applied by the adhesive applicator 1013). In step F, the nonwoven webs 3 and 4 are brought into contact with webs 1 and 2, respectively, and the elastic webs WW. As a result, bands 1 and 3 are placed between the elastic strands WW on the upper side of the conveyor assembly 1009, and the nonwoven webs 2 and 4 are placed between elastic strands WW on the bottom side of the conveyor assembly 1009. The elastic strands WW run between the 2 mixed non-woven elastic nonwoven materials (crossing direction), but then cut by a knife (see knife 1410 in Figure 14, as described, below), thereby separating the two mixed materials wrapped . In the upper case stage G, the mixed materials 1 and 2 are fed away from the conveyor assembly 1009 and the folded folds in the webs 1 and 2 are unfolded, with the guide, to form a flat nonwoven mixed material. Subsequently, the mixed materials are guided from the rotary head assembly 1007 and conveyor assembly 1009 and in other methods. As shown in Figure 10, the elastic exit bands arrive through a roller system on an elastic mixed material exit rail 1005. Figure 14 provides an alternate view of the conveyor assembly 1009. This Figure further illustrates a movement of non-woven webs 1-4, and the application of elastic threads in a generally parallel pattern mutually and generally spaced from one another. After cutting the elastic with the knife 1410, the two elastic mixed materials are directed away from the conveyor assembly 1009. It should also be noted that the inventive system advantageously allows control improved flexibility of the elastic strands. As shown in Figures 11 and 14 the conveyor assembly 1009 preferably includes two web movement platforms 1412 that are juxtaposed to provide an interface therebetween. Each web motion platform 1412 includes a continuous belt 1414 supported around a plurality of rollers 1416 to be capable of reciprocal movement. The two web motion platforms 1412 are generally of the same length and juxtaposed to accommodate the nonwoven webs 1 and 2 along them from one end to the other end. Preferably, a roller 1416 is placed around the middle between the ends of the web motion platform to deliver the non-woven webs 3 and 4 respectively to the web movement platform. As shown in Figures 10 and also in Figure 14, the rotary head assembly 1007 is positioned approximately and in proximity to one end of the conveyor assembly 1009. In • operation, the rotating head 1017 rotates about the vertical plane XX which crosses the ends of the band moving platform 1412 to deliver the elastic strands WW around and close to both band moving platforms 1412. In operation, the first and second nonwovens move along the exterior or exposed surfaces or sides of the web movement platforms 1412 and receives the elastic strands WW delivered by the rotating head 1017. By way of this movement away from the rotary head 1017, the movement band is presented in the continuous elastic thread WW of the rotating head 1017. Al prepopulate the two protected bands that are fed into the interior of the conveyor assembly 1009, it is possible to create a mixed elastic material with flexibility Directional crossing that has non-elastic regions ("dead zones") around each edge. The width of the central elastic region is fixed to the width of the conveyor platform 1412. The width of the non-elasticized regions of their dead zones is determined by the width of doubles VV. The VV fold the nonwoven is retained by the conveyor assembly 1009 during the application of the elastic element and is applied in such a way that the folded edge of the nonwoven is not in contact with the elastic element WW. The fold VV is then allowed to open after the mixed material leaves the conveyor assembly 1009 to provide a flat elastic mixed material with non-elastic regions. Altering the alignment of the materials while entering the conveyor assembly 1009 or changing the widths of the materials used, you may see several designs of mixed material. The procedure described above provides an elastic mixed material with properties of directional floor flexibility. The process also provides non-elastic regions on either latitudinal side of the central elasticized zone of the mixed material. For the purposes of the description the term "non-woven" is used to describe the main material used in the construction of the elastic composite material. However, it should be noted that this invention is not limited to non-woven materials but can be applied to any material that is available in the form of a web. Other suitable materials for this application include PE films, laminates of PE / non-woven and woven films.

Figure 15 illustrates a conveyor assembly 1509 and an elastic element applicator in the form of a rotating head assembly 1507, in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention. As understood by one skilled in the art, the rotating head assembly 1507 is operable to transport or transmit elastic threads on a belt moving platform 1512 of the conveyor assembly 1509. As previously, the conveyor assembly 1509 preferably employs two platforms web movement 1512, which are juxtaposed to provide an interface between them. The conveyor assembly 1509 is similar to that illustrated in Figures 10 and 11. On the other hand, the conveyor assembly 1509 is operated in a different manner in which more than one elastic thread WW is applied and approached in the belt moving platforms. 1512 at a time. The rotating head assembly 1507 includes a rotating head in the form of a rotating bracket 1517 having a plurality of arms 1517a. The rotating bracket 1517 receives elastic strands 1553 of an axis 1551a of a motor 1551. The motor 1551 feeds the two lines of elastic strands 1553 to the rotary bracket 1517, and the two feeds of elastic strands 1553 are guided together through the assembly of rotating head 1517 (where the two lines rotate together). As shown in Figure 15 the two strands 1533 move close to a vertical plane then delivered, together, in a nonwoven web 1544 that moves horizontally in the web movement platform 1512. Preferably, both lines of elastic strands 1553 are fed into the same arm 1517a of the rotating bracket assembly 1517 (rather than on opposite sides). In this way, separate feeds or lines of elastic strands 1553 are prevented from rotating together possibly from breaking. By applying two lines (or more) of elastic strands on the moving nonwoven web, the speed of the manufacturing process increases. Specifically, the speed at which the mixed material is manufactured can be increased up to 100%, without increasing the speed at which the rotating head assembly rotates and without changing the total number of elastic threads in the final mixed material. Table 1, below, provides two examples of the result in a different way in which more than one elastic thread WW is applied and approaches in the 1512 band motion platforms at one time. The rotating head assembly 1507 includes a rotating head in the form of a rotating bracket 1517 having a plurality of arms 1517a. The rotating bracket 1517 receives elastic strands 1553 of an axis 1551a of a motor 1551. The motor 1551 feeds the two lines of elastic strands 1553 to the rotary bracket 1517, and the two feeds of elastic strands 1553 are guided together through the assembly of rotating head 1517 (where the two lines rotate together). As shown in Figure 15 the two strands 1533 move close to a vertical plane then delivered, together, in a nonwoven web 1544 that moves horizontally on the web movement platform 1512. Preferably, both lines of elastic strands 1553 are fed into the same arm 1517a of the rotating bracket assembly 1517 (rather than on opposite sides). In this way, separate feeds or lines of elastic strands 1553 are prevented from rotating together possibly from breaking. By applying two lines (or more) of elastic strands on the moving nonwoven web, the speed of the manufacturing process increases. Specifically, the speed at which the mixed material is manufactured can be increased up to 100%, without increasing the speed at which the rotating head assembly rotates and without changing the total number of elastic threads in the final mixed material. Table 1, below, provides two examples of the result of a procedure of applying the elastic WW strands in a nonwoven web, according to the present invention. The rotary head assembly 1517 operates at the same rotational speed in both procedures. However, the pitch (ie, the spacing between elastic strands WW) is doubled for alternative procedures (where a pair of elastic strands is applied to the non-woven band). By using the alternative procedures, the total machine output is also doubled (ie, 40m / min of mixed material at 80m / min). In both examples, the total amount or length of WW elastic strands used or applied to the mixed material is generally the same. Consequently, the final mixed material by both subprocedures has the same, or at least similar tension characteristics.

Table 1 It will be apparent to one skilled in the art, upon reading the present description and / or review of the accompanying drawings, that the above alternative sub-procedures can be modified to feed or apply a different number of elastic strands in the non-woven web. That is, three or more elastic threads can be fed through the rotating head assembly and applied to the nonwoven web. In addition, it is contemplated that elastic strands may be separated within the rotating head and independently directed to opposite sides of the nonwoven web. In such a case, it is preferred that the assembly 1507 including the elastic coils / rail and tensioners and guides the elastic threads on the motor 1551 (or more appropriately, the motor shaft 1551a), is rotated at the same speed and at the same speed. direction that the rotary head 1517. In this way, the risk of twisting the threads together inside the rotary head 1517 is minimized. The foregoing description of the present invention is presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is noted that the description is not intended to limit the invention to the various apparatuses and methods described herein. Various aspects of the invention as described above, may be applicable to other types of disposable absorbent articles and garments, and methods for doing the same. For example, the elastic composite material described above can be incorporated into other disposable absorbent garments such as trainers, etc. or in other areas or as other components of the garment. In addition, the various procedural aspects described with respect to Figures 10-16 can be used to produce compositions, garments and articles different from those described herein. Such variations of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the relevant consumer product art provided with the present disclosure. Accordingly, the variations and modifications commensurate with the above teachings, and the skill and knowledge of the relevant art are within the scope of the present invention. The embodiments described and illustrated herein are further intended to explain the best modes for practicing the invention, and to enable others skilled in the art to utilize the invention and other embodiments and with various other modifications required by the particular applications or uses of the present invention.

Claims (29)

1. - A method for making a composite elastic material for incorporation into a disposable absorbent garment, said method comprising the steps of: providing an elastic element applicator configured to move a section of a continuous strand of elastic element generally about a plane; transporting a first web of material in a direction of web movement so that the first web crosses the plane; and operating the elastic element applicator to move the elastic member near said plane, thereby applying the elastic element section in the first band along the direction generally transverse to said direction of web movement.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the section of elastic element is applied in the first band so that the section of elastic element is retained thereby and the first band present the continuous strand of elastic element for the applicator of elastic element while the first band is transported away from said plane.

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein the elastic element is rotated around the first band with the operation of the applicator of the elastic element.

4. The method according to claim 1, wherein the elastic member moves around the plane in a reciprocal pattern to periodically apply the elastic on the first band, thereby applying a plurality of elastic strands on the first band.

5. The method according to claim 4, wherein the elastic strands are applied in generally parallel relation in the first band.

6. The method according to claim 4, further comprising the step of cutting each applied section of elastic element at opposite ends applied near the lateral side edges of the first band, thereby separating each section of the continuous strand. and creating a plurality of spaced elastic elements in the first band.

7. The method according to claim 4, further comprising the step of applying a second band of material in the first band having a plurality of elastic elements applied therein, thereby providing a band of elastic composite material that it comprises at least two layers of material and a plurality of elastic strands sandwiched therebetween.

8. The method according to claim 7, further comprising the step of applying adhesive to the second band before said step of applying the second band in the first band, so that in the second band and the first band subsequently adhere

9. The method according to claim 1, further comprising the step of transporting a second band of material spaced from the first band and along a direction parallel with the second direction of web movement, thereby, the step operating the applicator to move the elastic element applies the elastic element on the outer faces of the first and second material webs.

10. The method according to claim 9, wherein each of the first and second bands are moved by a pair of juxtaposed transport platforms that cross the plane of the elastic movement element.

11. The method according to claim 10, further comprising the steps of first transporting the first and second webs on internal faces of the pallet in an initial web movement direction opposite to the first web movement direction, with the first and second bands are redirected to the external faces and in the first direction of band movement when reaching one of the ends of the platforms.

12. The method according to claim 1, further comprising the steps of folding each of the edges of the first band along a line of doubles on the side and inwards an outer surface of the band to create a pair of folded folds adjacent to the outer surface, so that in said step of operating the elastic element applicator, the elastic element is applied across the width of an exposed external surface of the first band, the exposed external surface has a width defined between the lines of doubles.

13. The method according to claim 12, further comprising the steps of: cutting each section of elastic element near each doubling line of the first band, thereby separating each section of the continuous strand and creating a plurality of Elastic elements separated on the outer surface of the first band, thereby the lengths of the elastic elements are generally equal to the width of the outer surface; unfolding the folded folds of the first band so that the first resulting band has thereon applied a plurality of centrally located elastic strands and non-elasticized lateral regions generally defined outwardly of the double lines.

14. The method according to claim 13, further comprising the step of applying a second band of material in the first band having a plurality of elastic elements applied therein, thereby providing a band of elastic composite material comprising at least two layers of material and a plurality of elastic strands sandwiched therebetween.

15. The method according to claim 1, wherein the elastic element applicator is configured to rotate sections of two separate continuous strands so that, during the operation step, a pair of spaced apart sections of elastic element is applied at the first band generally simultaneously and wherein said operation step is repeated by applying a plurality of pairs of elastic elements in the first band in generally parallel spaced relationship.

16. A method of making an elastic mixed material to be incorporated in a disposable absorbent garment, said method comprising the steps of: transporting a first band of material; folding each of the edges of the first band along a line of doubles laterally and inward towards an inner surface of the first band to create a pair of folded folds adjacent to the inner surface of an exposed external surface having a defined width between the lines of doubles; applying a plurality of elastic strands spaced across the width of the exposed external surface; cutting the elastic strands applied near each of the doubles lines of the first band, so that the lengths of the elastic strands are generally equal to the width of the external surface; unfolding the folded folds of the first band so that the first resultant band has applied thereon a plurality of centrally located elastic strands and non-elasticized lateral regions generally defined external to the double lines.

17. - The method according to claim 16, further comprising the step of applying a second band of material in the first band having a plurality of elastic strands applied therein, thereby providing a band of elastic composite material that includes at least two layers of web material and a plurality of elastic bands sandwiched therebetween.

18. The method according to claim 16, wherein said step of applying the elastic strands includes applying the strands on the outer surface in generally parallel spaced relationship.

19. The method according to claim 16, wherein said step of applying the elastic strands includes repeatedly rotating a continuous elastic strand near the first band, and wherein said cutting step includes cutting the elastic strands to separate the strands. elastics applied to the outer surface of the continuous strand and to the elastic strands applied adjacent to the first band.

20. The method according to claim 19, wherein said step of transporting includes transporting the first band in the path of the rotating continuous strand, thereby causing the elastic strand to be applied in the first band.

21. The method according to claim 19, wherein said step of applying elastic strands includes applying the elastic strand so that it is retained by the first strand and so that the first strand removes the elastic strand as the first strand is pulled. transports away from a source of the continuous strand.

22. The method according to claim 16, further complying in the steps of: providing a conveyor assembly for transporting the first web material, the conveyor assembly has two web movement platforms, each having a first side of platform and a second platform side disposed opposite the first platform side and capable of reciprocal movement, the platform being juxtaposed so that one platform side of each platform band is placed opposite another and provides an interface between them: feeding the platform first band and a second band of the band material in the conveyor assembly so that it is directed in a first direction of web movement between and along said interface of one end of the conveyor assembly to an opposite end; feeding a third band of the web material and a fourth band of the web material into the conveyor assembly on an opposite side of a web movement platform so that each of the third web material and fourth web material are directed along platform side exposed in an opposite direction of the direction of travel of the first and second web material through the interface; directing each first and second web material on the exposed side of a moving web platform so that the first and second web material moves in a second direction opposite the first direction, thereby the step of applying a plurality of threads elastic applies elastic strands in both the first and second web materials, as the first and second web material move along the second direction through the web movement platforms; and applying the third and fourth web material in the first and second material, respectively, after the continuous elastic strands are applied thereto.

23. The method according to claim 16, wherein said step of applying the elastic strands includes rotating a continuous strand near the first band.

24. A system for making an elastic mixed material to be incorporated in a disposable absorbent garment, said system comprises: a source of a first band of material; a belt conveyor assembly including a first belt moving platform for moving said first belt therein, said platform being adapted for reciprocal movement so that the first belt moves initially in a first direction then moves in a second opposite direction of the first movement of direction; and a rotary head assembly for applying a continuous elastic strand near said belt conveyor assembly and said first belt moving therein, said rotary head assembly positioned so that a first band is transported on said platform and moves in the trajectory of elastic thread that is rotated by the rotating head assembly.

25. The system according to claim 24, further comprising an assembly of doubles operatively placed between said source of said first band and said belt conveyor assembly, said assembly of doubles being adapted to bend lateral edges of said first band to create folded folds before the first band is directed to the conveyor assembly.

26. The system according to claim 24, wherein said web movement platform includes a continuous movable belt.

27. The system according to claim 24, further comprising: an input source of a second web of material; and a conveyor assembly for transporting the second band to the band conveyor assembly and interfered therewith so that the second band is applied to the first band after the elastic strands are applied therein.

28. The system according to claim 28, further comprising an adhesive applicator positioned between said input source of the second band and the belt conveyor assembly, said adhesive applicator being operatively associated with said conveyor assembly for applying adhesive to a surface of the second band before the application of said surface to the first band.

29. - The system according to claim 24, further comprising a source of a second web of material; wherein the band conveyor assembly includes a first web movement platform and a second web movement platform, said webs being positioned to provide an interface therebetween for moving said first and second web materials therealong. , said first and second web movement platforms being adapted for reciprocal movement; wherein said web movement platforms are positioned relative to the rotating head assembly so that the rotary head assembly is adapted to apply a continuous elastic thread near the first and second web movement platforms.