WO2009091796A2 - Elastic laminate - Google Patents

Abstract

An elastic laminate (10) elongates in the cross direction (CD) upon application of an elongation force and recovers upon release of the elongation force. The laminate's intermediate layer (40) is positioned between fabric layers (20, 30) and comprises lanes (41/42) extending in the machine direction (MD). At least one of these lanes is a film lane (41 ) and at least one of these lanes is a fabric lane (42). Each film lane (41 ), an accumbent region (21 ) of the first fabric layer (20), and an accumbent region (31 ) of the second fabric layer (30) can form at least part of an elastic zone (11 ). A stretchable laminate (208) can comprise an elastic layer (220), fabric layers (230, 240), and unpatterned adhesive layers (253, 254). The fabric layers (230, 240) may include scored interruptions (232/233) extending partially through the fabric-layer thickness. A laminate (408/410) can comprise an elastic layer (420), a first fabric layer (430), and a second fabric layer (440). The fabric layers (430, 440) can have scored regions (431, 441 ), extending partially through their layer thickness and reinforcement ribs (439, 449) formed within the scored regions (431, 441 ).

Description

ELASTIC LAMINATE

RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority upon US provisional application numbers

61/040,830 filed March 31 , 2008, 61/020,846 filed January 14, 2008, 61/040,854 filed March 31 , 2008, 61/032,634 filed February 29, 2008, 61/040,831 filed March 31 , 2008, and 61/032,575 filed February 29, 2008

[0002] The entire disclosures of each of these applications are hereby incorporated by reference

FIELD

[0003] Various multilayer laminates are described In particular, an elastic laminate is disclosed that elongates in the cross direction (CD) upon application of an elongation force in this direction and that recovers upon release of the elongation force

BACKGROUND

[0004] An elastic laminate can be used in a variety of situations where elasticity is required or desired for one reason or another For example, in the field of disposable absorbent articles (e g , diapers, incontinence briefs, etc ), an elastic laminate can be used as, or incorporated into, a side panel or a belt for attachment to a rear chassis portion A fastening tape, for attaching a rear chassis portion to a front chassis portion, can also comprise a stretchable laminate A stretchable laminate can be used to form the diaper/brief chassis itself, or portions/regions thereof (e g , waist regions in a front or rear chassis portion, leg-opening regions in a crotch portion, etc ) With these and other applications, it is often necessary or desirable to use a fabric layer (e g , a nonwoven fabric layer) as the skin contact layer and/or the exposed layer

SUMMARY

[0005] In one aspect of the invention, an elastic laminate is provided having an intermediate layer that comprises various film and fabric lanes The film lane(s) can be elastic and dimensioned (in the cross direction) to provide the desired elasticity The fabric lane(s) can occupy the remaining area of the intermediate layer which, in many cases, will be greater than the area occupied by the film lane(s) While lanes may have overlapping margin interfaces, most of the area occupied by the fabric lane(s) is outside the reach of the film lane(s), wherein the use of expensive elastic film material is minimized The fabric lane(s) can be constructed from relatively inexpensive materials (e g , inelastic nonwoven fabrics) and serve as supporting trusses for the film lane(s) bridging therebetween, a sturdy substratum for surrounding fabric layers, and secure installation stages during later product assembly All of these features are described in greater detail herein [0006] In another aspect of the invention, a stretchable laminate comprising an elastic layer and one or more fabric layers with interruptions formed therein is provided The stretchable laminate, when activated, forms an elastic laminate that can be used in applications where elasticity is required or desired Significantly, activation steps are not performed in-line with the other manufacturing steps of the stretch laminate Thus, the stretchable laminate is characterized by not being mechanically activated during specific post-manufacturing stages

[0007] The stretchable laminate can be non-elastic during continuous-format-compiling steps (e g , winding), material shipping steps, garment-piece-making steps, garment-piece- assembling steps, garment-packaging steps, package-shipping steps, and/or retail-shelving steps The laminate's non-elastic behavior (e g , it retains basically the same shape) will facilitate many of these steps by providing more predictable and/or firm dimensions The laminate's compact non-activated condition can also result in a reduction in shipping/storage size

[0008] The fabric layer(s) can be spunlace nonwoven layers having a structure of individual fibers physically entangled without thermal bonding The fibers can include high- melt-temperature fibers (e g , polyester) so that the fabric layer(s) can have a surprisingly high level of laminate elongation without any compromise in cross-directional strength Thus, stretchable laminates can be made without any reinforcement in nonwoven-only portions (ι e , nonwoven portions extending beyond the elastic layer in the cross direction) other than fabric-to-fabric bonding

[0009] The interruptions (e g , partial scores) in the fabric layer(s) allow activation to be accomplished without any special equipment or skills Specifically, for example, the stretchable laminate can be activated by pulling in the cross direction (CD), whereby end- user activation is possible When a garment includes the stretchable laminate, activation can be performed during fitting And as a result of the interruptions, the fitting force required for activation is not noticeably greater (e g , less than 1 N) than that needed if the laminate was pre-activated

[0010] The fabric layer(s) can be laminated to the elastic layer with a nonpattemed adhesive layer Thus, no special adhesive-patterning equipment is necessary and peel- strength issues (sometimes present with striped adhesive patterns) are not a concern Moreover, substantially less fitting force can be required for activation (e g , up to several N) of the stretchable laminate when compared to a non-interrupted laminate with adhesive patterning (and no interruptions).

[0011] Thus the stretchable laminate provides the advantages associated with non- activation, while still being sufficiently strong in the cross direction and without requiring a significantly higher activation force than that required for garment fitting. All of these features are described in greater detail herein.

[0012] In yet another aspect of the invention, a stretchable laminate and/or an elastic laminate are provided that comprises a fabric layer having reinforcement ribs formed therein. The reinforcement ribs can be constructed by scoring the fabric layer (partially through the layer thickness) and then forming the ribs. The reinforcement ribs can be formed during standard laminating steps, whereby no separate reinforcement material is required. For example, laminating adhesive or extruded elastic can seep into the scores while in a molten state and then harden to form the reinforcement ribs. The scores can be positioned so that the ribs will strengthen, stiffen, or otherwise reinforce desired areas of the laminate. All of these aspects are described in greater detail herein.

DRAWINGS

[0013] Figures 1 A - 1 B, 2A - 2B, 3A - 3B, 4A - 4B, 5A - 5B, 6A - 6B, 7A - 7B, and 8A -

8B are each a schematic view of a preferred embodiment elastic laminate 10 comprising a first fabric layer 20, a second fabric layer 30, and intermediate layer 40, the elastic laminate 10 being shown in a non-elongated condition in the A drawings and being shown in an elongated condition in the B drawings.

[0014] Figures 1 C - 1 D, 2C - 2D, 3C - 3D, 4C - 4D, 5C - 5D, 6C - 6D, 7C - 7D, and 8C

- 8D are each a schematic view of a sheet 110 for making a plurality of the elastic laminates 10 shown in the corresponding drawing set, the sheet 110 shown in the C drawings making an even number of elastic laminates 10 and the sheet 110 shown in the D drawings making an odd number of elastic laminates 10.

[0015] Figures 1 E, 2E, 3E, 4E, 5E, 6E, 7E, and 8E are each a schematic view of a method of making the elastic laminate 10 shown in the corresponding drawing set. [0016] Figures 1 F - 1L, Figures 3F - 3K, Figures 4F - 4H, Figures 5F - 5Q, Figures 6F -

6P, Figures 7F - 7P, and Figures 8F - 8K are some alternate versions of the elastic laminate 10 shown in the corresponding drawing set.

[0017] Figures 9A - 9I are schematic views of some possible activation arrangements for the first fabric layer 20, with Figures 9J - 9K being schematic close-up views of versions of the activating interruptions shown in Figures 9D - 9F and Figures 9L - 9O being schematic close-up views of the activating interruptions shown in Figures 9G - 9I. [0018] Figures 10A - 101 are schematic views of some possible activation arrangements for the second fabric layer 30, with Figures 10J - 10K being schematic close- up views of versions of the activating interruptions shown in Figures 10D - 10F and Figures 10L - 10O being schematic close-up views of the activating interruptions shown in Figures 10G - 101

[0019] Figures 11A - 11G are schematic views of different lane layouts for intermediate layer 40

[0020] Figures 12A - 12G are schematic views of different lane-level landscapes for the intermediate layer 40

[0021] Figures 13A - 13K are schematic views of some possible pre-compιlatιons of the first fabric layer 20 with intermediate layers/lane(s), when pre-formed film-lane material is used

[0022] Figures 14A - 14C are schematic views of some possible pre-compilations of the second fabric layer 30 with intermediate layers/lane(s), when pre-formed film-lane material is used

[0023] Figures 15A - 15D are schematic views of some possible pre-compilations of the first fabric layer 20 with intermediate layers/lane(s), when film-lane material is extruded onto the fabric

[0024] Figures 16A - 16F are schematic views of some possible pre-compilations of the second fabric layer 30 with intermediate layers/lane(s), when film-lane material is extruded onto the fabric

[0025] Figures 17A - 17B are views of side panels 60 including the elastic laminate 10, and Figures 17C and 17D are views of absorbent disposable articles each of which has a pair of side panels installed thereon

[0026] Figure 18A is a view of a fastening tape 70 including the elastic laminate 10, and Figure 18B is a view of an absorbent disposable article having a pair of the fastening tapes 70 installed thereon

[0027] Figures 19A - 19B are views of belts 80 that each includes the elastic laminate

10, and Figures 19C and 19D are each a view of an absorbent disposable article with the belt(s) 80 installed thereon

[0028] Figure 20 is a view of a diaper chassis 90 including the elastic laminate 10 and/or having it installed thereon

[0029] Figure 21 A is a side schematic view of another preferred embodiment stretchable laminate 208, the laminate 208 comprising an elastic layer 220 and fabric layers 230/240 laminate thereto [0030] Figure 21 B is a greatly enlarged side schematic view of the laminate 208, showing distal scored regions in the fabric layers 230/240.

[0031] Figure 21 C is a schematic diagram of a method of making the stretchable laminate 208.

[0032] Figures 21 D and 21 E are each a side schematic view of a laminate sheet 308 for making a plurality of the stretchable laminates 208.

[0033] Figures 22A and 22B are each a side schematic view of the stretchable laminate 208, the laminate in Figure 22A having proximal scored regions in its fabric layers

230/240, and the laminate in Figure 22B having both distal and proximal scored regions.

[0034] Figures 23A - 23I are schematic side views of the fabric layers 230/240 showing some of the possible arrangements of the scored regions.

[0035] Figures 24A - 24C are each side schematic views of various versions of the elastic layer 220.

[0036] Figures 25A, 25C, and 25E are each a side schematic view of another preferred embodiment elastic laminate 210 produced by activation of the stretchable laminate 208.

[0037] Figures 25B, 25D, and 25F are greatly enlarged side schematic views of the elastic laminate 210 in the conditions shown in Figures 25A, 25C, and 25E, respectively.

[0038] Figures 26A, 26C, and 26E are each a side schematic view of an elastic laminate 210 produced by activation of the stretchable laminate 208.

[0039] Figures 26B, 26D, and 26F are greatly enlarged side schematic views of the elastic laminate 210 in the conditions shown in Figures 26A, 26C, and 26E, respectively.

[0040] Figures 27A, 27C, 27E, 27G, 27I, and 27K are each a side schematic view of an elastic laminate 210 produced by activation of the stretchable laminate 208.

[0041] Figures 27B, 27D, 27F, 27H, 27J and 27L are greatly enlarged side schematic views of the elastic laminate 210 in the conditions shown in Figures 27A, 27C, 27E, 27G, 27I, and 27K, respectively.

[0042] Figures 28A - 28B are views of side panels 260 including the stretchable laminate 208, and Figures 28C and 28D are views of absorbent disposable articles each of which has a pair of side panels installed thereon.

[0043] Figure 29A is a view of a fastening tape 270 including the stretchable laminate

208, and Figure 29B is a view of an absorbent disposable article having a pair of the fastening tapes 270 installed thereon.

[0044] Figures 3OA - 3OB are views of belts 280 that each includes the stretchable laminate 208, and Figures 3OC and 3OD are each a view of an absorbent disposable article with the belt(s) 280 installed thereon. [0045] Figure 31 is a view of a diaper chassis 290 including the stretchable laminate

208 and/or having it installed thereon

[0046] Figures 32-35 plot extension forces and retraction forces for various stretchable laminates and elastic laminates (formed by activation thereof)

[0047] Figure 32 compares non-activated laminate A and non-activated laminate B

[0048] Figure 33 compares activated laminate A and activated laminate B

[0049] Figure 34 compares non-activated laminate B and activated laminate B

[0050] Figure 35 compares non-activated laminate A and activated laminate A

[0051] Figure 36 illustrates laminates A and B

[0052] Figures 37A - 37X and Figures 38A - 38X are schematic side views of yet another preferred embodiment stretchable laminate 408 and/or elastic laminate 410 comprising an elastic layer 420 and fabric layers 430 and 440

[0053] Figures 39A - 39D and 4OA - 40D are schematic diagrams of methods of making the stretchable laminate 408 and/or the elastic laminate 410

[0054] Figures 41 A - 41 L are close-up views of scored regions 431/441 and reinforcement ribs 439/449

[0055] Figures 42A - 42I are schematic side views of the fabric layers 430/440 showing some of the possible arrangements of the scored regions 431/441

[0056] Figures 43A - 43C are each side schematic views of the elastic layer 420 shown in Figures 37A - 37X

[0057] Figures 44A - 44B are views of side panels 460 including the laminate 408/410, and Figures 44C and 44D are views of absorbent disposable articles each of which has a pair of side panels installed thereon

[0058] Figure 45A is a view of a fastening tape 470 including the laminate 408/410, and Figure 45B is a view of an absorbent disposable article having a pair of the fastening tapes 470 installed thereon

[0059] Figures 46A - 46B are views of belts 480 that each include the laminate

408/410, and Figures 46C and 46D are each a view of an absorbent disposable article with the belt(s) 480 installed thereon

[0060] Figure 47 is a view of a diaper chassis 490 including the laminate 408/410 and/or having it installed thereon

DESCRIPTION

[0061] Generally, a preferred embodiment elastic laminate 10 in accordance with the present invention is shown in Figures 1A-8K More particularly, the elastic laminate 10 is shown in a non-elongated state (e g , a pre-elongation state or a recovered post-elongation state) in the A drawings and is shown in an elongated state in the B drawings The laminate 10, as a whole, elongates in the cross direction (CD) upon application of an elongation force and recovers upon release of the elongation force This can be seen by comparing the overall laminate cross-direction dimension in the A drawings to those of the corresponding B drawings

[0062] The elastic laminate 10 has an elastic zone 11 that elongates upon laminate elongation and retracts upon laminate recovery (Compare the cross-direction dimension of the zone 11 in the A drawings to the longer cross-direction dimension of the zone 11 in B drawings ) The entire laminate 10 need not consist of only elastic zones In the illustrated embodiment, the elastic laminate 10 also has inelastic zones 12 The inelastic zones 12 do not extend upon laminate elongation and/or do not retract upon laminate recovery (Compare the cross-direction dimensions of the zones 12 in the A drawings to the substantially equal cross-direction dimensions of the corresponding zones 12 in B drawings ) [0063] The terms "elastic" and "inelastic" (and/or related-root words) characterize the propensity of a component (e g , a laminate, a zone, a lane, a fabric, a film, etc ) to recover after elongation in the cross direction (CD) The term "elastic" means that a component can elongate without breaking to at least 150% of its original length upon application of a certain elongation force, and then recover at least 50% of the elongation upon release of the elongation force For example, a 20 cm component is elastic if it can be elongated to 30 cm and then recover back to 25 cm (or less) Of course, many elastic materials can be elongated much more and/or recover much more elongation The term "inelastic" or "nonelastic' means that component is not elastic

[0064] The elastic laminate 10 comprises a first fabric layer 20 (e g , a nonwoven fabric layer), a second fabric layer 30 (e g , a nonwoven fabric layer), and an intermediate layer or region 40 therebetween The intermediate layer 40 comprises lanes 41 and 42 extending in the machine direction (MD) and positioned alongside each other in the cross direction (CD) At least one of these lanes is a film lane 41 and at least one of these lanes is a fabric lane 42 Adhesive sublayers 51 - 53 can be situated between layers 20/30/40 and/or between the lanes 41/42

[0065] The thicknesses of the layers 20/30/40, the lanes 41/42, the adhesive sublayers 51-53 (and also the joining strips 44 described later herein) are greatly exaggerated in the drawings for ease of explanation The thicknesses of these layers will usually be in the range of, for example, about 2 5 micrometers to about 100 micrometers or more If these thicknesses were drawn to scale with the illustrated lengths, it would be difficult to decipher and/or number the layers Also, neighboring laminate layers will generally be positioned flush against each other, even though some of the figures may give the impression that certain aligned layer sections and/or areas are separated by spaces or gaps and do not contact one another

[0066] Preferably, the elastic laminate 10 elongates in the cross direction (CD) upon application of an elongation force and recovers upon release of the elongation force The elastic laminate 10 preferably comprises a first fabric layer 20, a second fabric layer 30, and at least one intermediate layer 40 therebetween The intermediate layer(s) comprise lanes

41/42 extending in the machine direction (MD) and are positioned alongside each other in the cross direction (CD) Preferably, at least one of these lanes is a film lane 41 and at least one of these lanes is a fabric lane 42 As described in greater detail herein, each film lane

41 , an accumbent region 21 of the first fabric layer 20, and an accumbent region 31 of the second fabric layer 30 form at least part of an elastic zone 11 which extends upon laminate elongation and retracts upon laminate recovery

[0067] The preferred embodiment laminate includes numerous variations For example, one or more film lanes 41 may be an elastic lane It is also contemplated that each film lane 41 is an elastic lane It is also preferred that the first fabric layer 20 comprises a nonwoven fabric And, it is preferred that the second fabric layer 30 comprises a nonwoven fabric In certain embodiments, the fabric lane(s) 42 are nonelastic lanes

[0068] Yet another preferred embodiment includes an elastic laminate 10 in which each fabric lane 42, an accumbent region 22 of the first fabric layer 20, and an accumbent region 32 of the second fabric layer 30 form at least part of an inelastic zone 12 which does not extend upon laminate elongation and/or which does not retract upon laminate recovery

[0069] Additional embodiments are contemplated in which at least one fabric lane 42 is a nonstretchable lane And, each inelastic lane 42 may be a nonstretchable lane These terms are described in greater detail herein

[0070] It is further envisioned that at least one fabric lane 42 may be a nondeformable lane And, in other embodiments, each fabric lane 42 may be a nondeformable lane These terms are described in greater detail herein

[0071] In the various elastic laminates 10 as described herein, at least one outermost lane, in the cross direction (CD), may be a fabric lane 42 It is also contemplated that both outermost lanes, in the cross direction (CD), are fabric lanes 42

[0072] Another preferred embodiment is a laminate 10 comprising a first fabric layer

20, a second fabric layer 30, and lanes 41 , 42 situated between the fabric layers 20/30 The lanes 41/42 extend in the machine direction (MD) and positioned alongside each other in the cross direction (CD) At least one of these lanes is a film lane 41 and at least one of these lanes is a fabric lane 42

[0073] In yet another preferred embodiment, a laminate 10 is provided consisting essentially of a first fabric layer 20, a second fabric layer 30, lanes 41 ,42 situated between the fabric layers 20,30, and adhesive sublayer(s) 51/53 bonding the fabric layers 20,30 to the lanes 41 ,42. The lanes 41 , 42 extend in the machine direction (MD) and are positioned alongside each other in the cross direction (CD). At least one of these lanes is a film lane 41 and at least one of these lanes is a fabric lane 42.

[0074] In either of these two previously described embodiments, the fabric lanes 42 consist essentially of one or more fabric layers. Additionally, at least the film lane(s) 41 allow laminate elongation in the cross direction (CD) upon application of an elongation force and recovery upon release of such elongation force. In certain versions, at least one film lane(s) 41 is an elastic lane. In this regard, each lane 41 may be an elastic lane. In the previously described embodiments, at least one of the fabric lane(s) 42 may be less elastic than the film lane(s) 41. Or, each of the fabric lane(s) 42 is less elastic than the film lane(s) 41. It is also contemplated that at least one of the fabric lane(s) 42 is an inelastic lane. Or, each fabric lane 42 may be an inelastic lane.

The Fabric Layers 20/30

[0075] Referring to the accompanying figures, the fabric layers 20/30 can be nonwoven layers. And/or they can comprise, for example, polyolefins, such as polyethylene and/or its copolymers, or polypropylene and/or its copolymers, or mixtures of the aforementioned polyolefins, polyurethanes, polyester, polyether or polyamide. The nonwoven materials can comprise, for example, spunbonded webs, meltblown webs, air-laid layer webs, bonded carded webs, hydroentangled webs, wet-formed webs or any combination thereof. The nonwoven layers can have a weight of about 10 gsm to about 100 gsm and the layers 20/30 can vary in weight.

[0076] The layers 20/30 can be fabric monolayers that are a single layer of fabric rather than a laminate of a plurality of sublayers. For example, a monolayer structure wherein fibers or other filaments are fused or otherwise integrated into a single substrate layer can be employed. While monolayer constructions will be preferred in many situations, the layers 20/30 could alternatively have a multilayer construction (i.e., a compilation or lamination of layers wherein different layers are distinguishable and/or separable). [0077] The fabric layers 20/30 can be inherently elastic fabric layers. (A fabric is inherently elastic when it comprises mostly elastic fibers.) Elastic fabric layers 20/30 (e.g., elastic nonwoven layers) can be significantly more expensive than inelastic fabric layers. But they can accommodate the elongation recovery of the elastic film lane(s) 41 without further manipulation, modification, or alteration. In the laminate-making method described in detail herein, the fabric layers 20/30 can be dispensed from rolls (or other formats capable of continuous supply) for immediate lamination to the intermediate layer 40 (or lanes 41/42 thereof), without intermediate steps or equipment. [0078] The fabric layers 20/30 can be elasticized fabric layers. The fabric layer 20 and/or the fabric layer 30 can each be made from an inelastic fabric (e.g., inelastic nonwoven fabric) that is manipulated to behave elastically by elasticizing steps. The elasticizing steps can comprise heating the inelastic fabric in an oven and simultaneously drawing it in the MD. This heating-drawing reorients most of the fabric's inelastic fibers in the machine direction (MD). The elasticizing steps can be performed inline with film-formation steps and/or fabric- lamination steps. But off-line performance (and providing the fabric layers in a format suitable for continuous supply) may be best. In some cases, the cost and/or the inconvenience of elasticizing steps may be well worth the money saved by not using elastic fabrics. Additionally, elasticized fabrics are often better at insuring uniaxial elasticity (i.e., elastic behavior in the cross direction (CD) but not the machine direction (MD)) than inherently elastic fabrics.

[0079] The fabric layer 20 and/or the fabric layer 30 can each be made from an inelastic fabric (e.g., an inelastic nonwoven fabric). The film-lane-accumbent region 21/31 of an inelastic fabric layer 20/30 will have to accommodate the expansion-retraction of an elastic film lane(s) 41. In some cases, the fabric layer 20/30 will be inherently extendable (although not elastic). If not, as shown in Figures 9A - 90 and Figures 10A - 10O, the fabric layer 20/30 can be mechanically altered and/or arranged to provide extensibility in at least the region 21/31.

[0080] The fabric layer 20/30 can be permanently elongated (Figures 9A - 9C and

Figures 10A - 10C) to extend-contract in a pleat-like fashion during laminate elongation- recovery. Such permanent elongation can be accomplished by incremental stretching (e.g., ring-rolling), region-specific stretching, and/or integrative stretching). Alternatively, an elastic film lane 41 can be attached to fabric layer 20/30 in an elongated state. In either case, the effected fabric regions will usually take on a wavy, creased, or wrinkled geometry when the laminate 10 is in a relaxed (recovered) condition.

[0081] The fabric layer 20/30 can be provided with interruptions that extend only partially through the fabric thickness (e.g., 20%, 40%, 80%, 90%, etc.) to provide the fabric with enough "give" to extend during laminate elongation. (Figures 9D - 9F and Figures 10D - 10F.) The partial interruptions can be in the form of scores (Figure 9J and Figure 10J), in the form of ruptures (Figure 9K and Figures 10K), or any other suitable form. The scored portions are formed by severing (e.g., cutting, slitting, scoring, etc.) by means of a tool (e.g., rotary or stationary knife or blade) applying a force in the normal direction (ND) and are defined primarily by cleanly severed fibers. The ruptured portions are formed by rupturing (e.g., breaking, tearing, ripping, fracturing, etc.) by applying a tension in the cross direction (CD) and are defined primarily by uneven and ruptured fibers. Various contemplated configurations and locations for the interruptions, scored portions, ruptures, and the like are described in greater detail with regard to additional embodiments of the present invention. [0082] The fabric layer 20/30 can be provided with interruptions that extend completely through the fabric thickness. (Figures 9G - 91 and Figures 10G - 101). In this case, the fabric layers 20/30 can be divided into separate fabric segments that diverge upon laminate elongation and converge upon laminate recovery. The interruptions can comprise complete cuts (Figures 9L), a scored portion and a ruptured portion (Figures 9M and 9N), or complete ruptures (Figure 90). The fabric layer 20/30 can have only its region 21/31 (Figures 9A, 9D, 9G, and Figures 10A, 10D, 10G), more than just its region 21/31 (Figures 9B, 9E, 9H and Figures 10B, 10E, 10H), or all of its regions (Figures 9C, 9F, 9I and Figures 10C, 10F, 101) mechanically altered.

[0083] For embodiments utilizing adjacent interruptions, they are preferably spaced a distance between about 1 mm and about 10 mm.

[0084] The fabric layer 20 and the fabric layer 30 can be supplied in a format suitable for continuous supply (e.g., a roll). (That being said, in-line production of the fabric layer 20 and/or the fabric layer 30 is possible and contemplated.) The fabric layers 20 and 30 can be the same fabric, and supplied from the same stock. If supplied from the same stock, a single roll can be split (in-line or off-line) to provide the fabric layers 20/30.

[0085] The first fabric layer 20 may extend across the entire laminate width in the cross direction (CD). The second fabric layer 30 may extend across the entire laminate width in the cross direction (CD). It is also contemplated that the first fabric layer 20 may not extend across the entire laminate width in the cross direction (CD). For certain preferred embodiments, the first fabric layer 20 has fabric-lane-accumbent regions 22. In this regard, it may be desirable that the first fabric layer 20 has only fabric-lane-accumbent regions 22. Similarly, the second fabric layer 30 may extend across the entire laminate width in the cross direction (CD). Alternatively, the second fabric layer 30 may not extend across the entire laminate width in the cross direction (CD). For certain preferred embodiments, the second fabric layer 30 has fabric-lane-accumbent regions 32. In this regard, it may be preferred that the second fabric layer 30 has only fabric-lane-accumbent regions 32.

The Intermediate Layer 40

[0086] Referring to the accompanying figures, the intermediate layer 40 comprises at least one film lane 41 and at least one fabric lane 42. The film lane(s) 41 can be elastic lanes and, if so, the lane(s) 41 and accumbent regions 21/31 of the fabric layers 20/30, can form the laminate's elastic zone 11. The film regions 21/31 will travel with their accumbent lane(s) 41 during laminate elongation and laminate recovery. [0087] The fabric lane(s) 42 can be less elastic than the film lane(s) 41 and/or they can be inelastic lanes If a fabric lane 42 is inelastic, this fabric lane 42, and accumbent regions 22/32 of the fabric layers 20/30 can form inelastic zones 12 The inelastic-lane-accumbent regions 32/42 will travel with, or remain with, their fabric lane(s) 42 during laminate elongation-retraction Thus, if a fabric lane 42 does not elongate or stretch, the accumbent fabric regions 22/32 will not either

[0088] For a given laminate length, the film lane(s) 41 need only be wide enough to provide the desired property For example, if the film lane 41 is to impart elasticity, it only need be wide enough to provide the laminate elongation-recovery, with the fabric lane(s) 42 occupying the rest of the laminate 10 Elastic film materials are often significantly more expensive than fabric materials (especially non-elastic fabric materials) For required elongation-recovery specifications, lane layout can be economically optimized by considering not only elastic-film costs, but also the needed film-lane width In any event, the laminate 10 allows a wide spectrum of elastic-film materials to be considered, thereby allowing more flexibility regarding other design issues

[0089] The fabric lanes 42 can serve as supporting trusses for a film lane 41 bridging therebetween This provides a sturdy substratum that can improve material handling by limiting material stretching in the machine direction (MD) during later conversion steps (e g , winding, die cutting, ring rolling, stretching, rupture inducing, dispensing, etc ) [0090] The fabric lane(s) 42 can also enhance assembly steps performed to incorporate the laminate 10 into a final product In many applications, an elastic laminate is connected, joined, or otherwise merged with other product parts For example, if the laminate 10 is the dominant piece of a side panel (e g , a side panel 60 such as is shown in Figures 17A - 17D), a fastening tape (e g , tape 70 such as is shown in Figures 18A - 18B), or a belt (e g , a belt 80 such as is shown in Figures 19A - 19D), assembly may include joining the laminate 10 to a diaper chassis Additionally or alternatively, the hooks or other fastening elements can be connected to the laminate 10 Common laminate assembly techniques (e g , welding, stitching, heatbonding, adhesion) can often be complicated by yielding films and/or wrinkling fabrics With the laminate 10, the fabric lane(s) 42 provide secure installation stages for these assembly operations

[0091] Certain laminate architectures may be better able to take full advantage of the space-filling, foundation, installation, and/or anchoring functions of the fabric lane(s) 42 For example, each film lane(s) 41 can be flanked on either side by a fabric lane 42, and/or at least the laminate's outermost lanes can be fabric lanes 42

[0092] In addition to being inelastic, a fabric lane 42 can also be a nonstretchable

The terms "stretchable" and "nonstretchable" (and/or related-root terms) are used to categorize a component's elongation ability, regardless of what happens thereafter in terms of recovery. A component is "stretchable" if it can elongate to at least 110% of its original length upon application of an elongation force that would be reasonable in common use, and "nonstretchable" if it cannot. (In some instances, a stretchable component becomes a nonstretchable component after prestretching steps.) Nonstretchable fabric lane(s) 42 can gain significance when, for example, predictable lane dimensions are required in spite of various tensions that may occur during lamination, dispensing, assembly, or packaging. [0093] A fabric lane 42 can further be nondeformable. The terms "deformable" and

"non-deformable" (and/or related-root words) refer to the misshaping suffered (or not) by a component as the result of elongation. A component is "deformable" if elongation comes at the expense of significant necking (i.e., 10% or more reduction in the dimension perpendicular to the direction of stretching), noticeable voids (i.e., openings whose largest dimension is 10 cm or more), and/or full-thickness tears. Nondeformability of fabric lane(s) 42 can become important when, for example, they are outermost lanes and a stable material is required for laminate-conversion steps and/or assembly steps.

[0094] The illustrated intermediate layers 40 may appear to have equal-width lanes

41/42 (when the film lane 41 is not elongated) that are symmetrically situated relative to a laminate centerline running in the machine direction (MD). An almost infinite number of lane layouts are possible for the intermediate layer 40. (See Figures 11A - 11 G.) Unequal-width lanes 41/42 (Figures 11 A - 1 1 F), unequal-width film lanes (Figures 11 F), and/or unequal- width fabric lanes 42 (Figures 11D - 11G), are possible and contemplated. [0095] It is contemplated that for some embodiments, the lanes 41/42 have approximately the same width. It is also contemplated that the fabric lanes 42 have approximately the same width. Furthermore, the lanes 41/42 may have different widths. It is also contemplated that in other embodiments, the fabric lanes 42 may have different widths. The film lanes 41 may have the same width or different widths as compared to each other. [0096] The lanes 41/42 can be symmetrically situated (Figure 11 A - 11 C and 11 F), with the machine-direction centerline passing through a film lane 41 (Figures 11A - 11 C) or passing through a fabric lane 42 (Figure 11 F). The lanes 41/42 can instead by unsymmetrically situated relative to the machine-direction centerline. Specifically, the lanes 41/42 of the intermediate layer 40 may be disposed such that they are symmetrical about a centerline in the machine direction (MD). It is also contemplated that the various layers may be disposed such that the machine-direction centerline passes through a film lane 41. It is further contemplated that the machine-direction centerline may pass through a fabric lane 42. [0097] In certain embodiments, the various layers can be arranged such that at least one film lane 41 of the intermediate layer 40 extends the full laminate length in the machine- direction (MD) In this regard, each film lane 41 of the intermediate layer 40 may extend the full laminate length in the machine-direction (MD)

[0098] It is also contemplated that the cross-direction edges of the film lane(s) 41 may be parallel with each other In this regard, the cross-direction edges of the film lane(s) 41 may be parallel with the machine-direction (MD)

[0099] Furthermore, the various layers can be arranged such that at least one fabric lane 42 of the intermediate layer 40 extends the full laminate length in the machine direction

(MD) In this regard, each fabric lane 42 of the intermediate layer 40 can extend the full laminate length in the machine direction (MD)

[00100] And, it is contemplated that the cross-direction edges of the fabric lane(s) 42 can be parallel with each other In this regard, the cross-direction edges of the fabric lane(s)

42 may be parallel with the machine direction (MD)

[00101] The intermediate layer 40 can have an odd number of film lane(s) 41 (Figures

1 1 A - 1 1 E and 1 1 G) or an even number of film lanes 41 (Figure 11 F), and/or it can have an even number of fabric lanes 42 (Figures 11 A - 11 E and 11 G) or an odd number of fabric lane(s) 42 (Figure 1 1 F)

[00102] In certain embodiments, it may be preferred that the lanes 41/42 comprise a film lane 41 and a fabric lane 42 on either side thereof The film-layer lanes 41/42 may consist of a film lane 41 and a fabric lane 42 on either side thereof It is also contemplated that the various layers can be arranged such that the machine-direction centerline passes through a film lane 42 And, the layers can be arranged such that the lanes 41/42 are symmetrical about the machine-direction centerline It is also contemplated that in certain embodiments, the film lane(s) 41 and the fabric lane(s) 42 may alternate in the cross direction (CD)

[00103] Although the present invention includes film lane(s) and fabric lane(s) having a wide range of dimensions, various dimensions are representative for the preferred embodiments described herein The cross-direction dimension of at least one or each film lane 41 can be greater than 10 mm, greater than 25 mm, greater than 40 mm, greater than

50 mm, greater than 75 mm, or greater than 130 mm The cross-direction dimension of at least one or each film lane 41 can be and is typically less than 250 mm

[00104] The cross-direction dimension of at least one or each fabric lane 42 can be greater than 5 mm, greater than 8 mm, greater than 9 mm, greater than 10 mm, or greater than 25 mm The cross-direction dimension of at least one or each fabric lane 42 can be less than 130 mm, or less than 80 mm, or less than 50 mm

[00105] The combined cross-direction dimensions of the film lane(s) 41 can be less than or equal to the combined cross-direction dimensions of the fabric lane(s) 42 For example, the combined cross-direction dimensions of the film lane(s) 41 can be less than 90%, less than 80%, less than 70%, less than 60%, or less than 50% of the combined cross- direction dimensions of the fabric lane(s) 42

[00106] In certain embodiments, it is also contemplated that the combined cross- direction dimensions of the film lanes 41 may be greater than the combined cross-direction dimensions of the fabric lanes 42 For example, the combined cross-direction dimensions of the film lanes 41 may be 10% greater than the combined cross-direction dimensions of the fabric lanes 42 Or, the combined cross-direction dimensions of the film lanes 41 may be 20% greater than the combined cross-direction dimensions of the fabric lanes 42 Alternatively, the combined cross-direction dimensions of the film lanes 41 may be 30% greater than the combined cross-direction dimensions of the fabric lanes 42 It is also contemplated that the combined cross-direction dimensions of the film lanes 41 may be 40% greater than the combined cross-direction dimensions of the fabric lanes 42 Or, the combined cross-direction dimensions of the film lanes 41 may be 50% greater than the combined cross-direction dimensions of the fabric lanes 42

[00107] In certain embodiments, the combined cross-direction dimension of the film lanes 41 is within 10% of the combined cross-direction dimension of the fabric lanes 42 In other embodiments, it is contemplated that the combined cross-direction dimension of the film lanes 41 is within 8% of the combined cross-direction dimension of the fabric lanes 42 And, it is envisioned that the combined cross-direction dimension of the film lanes 41 may be within 5% of the combined cross-direction dimension of the fabric lanes 42 Further, the combined cross-direction dimension of the film lanes 41 may be within 3% of the combined cross-direction dimension of the fabric lanes 42 And, in certain other embodiments, it is contemplated that the combined cross-direction dimension of the film lanes 41 is within 1 % of the combined cross-direction dimension of the fabric lanes 42

[00108] The film lane(s) 41 and the fabric lane(s) 42 can each have a thickness (/ e , a dimension in the normal direction (ND) in the range of, for example, about 2 5 μm to about 3 mm Lane-to-lane thickness may be substantially the same, as illustrated If the lanes 41/42 have relatively flat surfaces, this topography may facilitate lamination steps as it provides a level platform for fabric introduction and adherence Also, with constant-gauge fabric layers 20/30, the elastic laminate 10 can have a planar construction familiar to consumers and/or an appearance free of distinct zones

[00109] Lane-to-lane thicknesses can also differ (See Figures 12A - 12G ) For example at least one film lane 41 can be thicker than at least one fabric lane 42 (Figures 12A, 12B, and 12E) and/or each film lane 41 can be thicker than each fabric lane 42 (Figures 12A and 12B) At least one film lane 41 can be thinner than at least one fabric lane 42 (Figures 12C, 12D, 12F, and 12G) and/or each film lane 41 can be thinner than each fabric lane 42 (Figures 12C, 12D, and 12G) wherein each film lane 41 is thinner than each fabric lane 42. All of the fabric lanes 42 can have the same thickness (Figures 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D, and 12G) or one fabric lane 42 can be thicker than another (Figures 12E and 12F). Varying thickness can be advantageous, and may be worth intentionally introducing. For example, the eventual attachment of the laminate 10 to another component may be enhanced if the lane used for attachment is thicker. In this case, the outermost lane could be a fabric lane 42 that is thicker than the other lanes 41/42 (Figure 12F). [00110] The film lane(s) 41 can comprise an elastomeric polymer and the fabric lane(s) 42 can each comprise a nonelastomeric polymer. The film-lane material can comprise block copolymers (A-B or A-B-A block copolymers), such as styrene/isoprene, butadiene or ethylene-butylene/styrene (SIS, SBS or SEBS). Other useful elastomeric materials can include elastomeric polyurethanes, ethylene copolymers such as ethylene vinyl acetates, ethylene/propylene copolymer elastomers or diene copolymer elastomers, and/or blends of these elastomers with each other or with modifying non-elastomers.

[00111] The film lane(s) 41 can comprise a vinyl arene-containing block copolymer, and be substantially free of a tackifying amount of a tackifier. The film-lane material can be a mixture including SBS and/or SEBS with (or without) an additive including one or more of polystyrene, poly-(alpha-methyl)styrene, an ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, an ethylene- methyl(meth)acrylate copolymer, an ethylene-ethyl(meth)acrylate copolymer, an ethylene- (meth)acrylic acid copolymer.

[00112] The film lane(s) 41 can be formed from any suitable polyvinyl arene) and poly( conjugated diene) or poly(olefinic), for example, elastomeric (polystyrene/poly(ethylene- butylene)/polystyrene) (SEBS) block copolymers and/or

(polystyrene/poly(butadiene)/polystyrene) (SBS) block copolymers. Commercial examples of such elastomeric copolymers are, for example, those known as KRATON® materials, such as, for example KRATON® G-1657, which are available from KRATON Polymers of Houston, Texas. KRATON® block copolymers are available in a variety of different formula numbers and grades. A compounded composition containing a suitable elastomeric copolymer is DRYFLEX® 9381 15, available from VTC Elastoteknik AB of Amal, Sweden. DRYFLEX® 938115 is a proprietary blend of SEBS and other polymers.

[00113] One or more of the film lanes 41 may be a skinless film lane. It is also contemplated that each film lane 41 can be a skinless film lane. Alternatively, one or more of the film lanes 41 may be a skinned film lane. And it is contemplated that each film lane 41 may be a skinned film lane.

[00114] The fabric lane(s) 42 can be nonwoven lanes. They can be made of the same material as the fabric layers 30 and 20, as this may conveniently allow them to be made from the same stock. But in many situations, it will be more prudent to use a different fabric for the lane(s) 42, due to the different functions. As the lane(s) 42 are located in the laminate's interior, properties such as appearance and skin-comfort are not as important as they may be in the layers 20/30. Also, if the fabric lane(s) 42 are located only in the laminate's inelastic zones 12, stretchability, elongation, elasticity and/or activate-ability will not be crucial. Moreover, if the fabric lane(s) 42 are to serve, for example, as sturdy platforms or reinforcement trusses, these properties could be unwanted.

[00115] In any event, the fabric lane(s) 42 can comprise, for example, polyolefins, such as polyethylene and/or its copolymers, or polypropylene and/or its copolymers, or mixtures of the aforementioned polyolefins, polyurethanes, polyester, polyether or polyamide. The nonwoven materials can comprise, for example, spunbonded webs, meltblown webs, air-laid layer webs, bonded carded webs, hydroentangled webs, wet-formed webs or any combination thereof. The nonwoven layers can have a weight of about 10 gsm to about 100 gsm and the layers 20/30 can vary in weight. The fabric lane(s) 42 can be less elastic than the film lane(s) 41 , inelastic, non-stretchable, and/or nondeformable.

[00116] The margin regions of adjacent lanes can overlap at their interface as shown in Figures 1A - 1 L, Figures 6A - 6L, Figures 7A - 7G, and Figures 8A - 8G. More specifically, the elastic laminate 10 can have an overlapping interface 43 between at least one film lane 41 and a neighboring fabric lane 42, and/or between each film lane 41 and its neighboring fabric lane(s) 42. The span of the overlap in the cross direction (CD) can be more than incidental to provide joint strength to the interface and can be less than that of the primary lanes 41/42 so as to not overshadow their properties. For example, the combined cross- direction dimensions of the overlapping interfaces 43 can be less than, less than 40% of, less than 30% of, less than 20% of, less than 10% of, and/or less than 5% of the combined cross-direction dimensions of the film lane(s) 41 and/or the fabric lane(s) 42. The cross- direction dimension of at least one, and/or each, overlapping interface 43 is typically greater than 1 mm, greater than 2mm, greater than 3mm, greater than 4mm, greater than 5mm, greater than 6mm, and typically less than 20 mm, less than 15mm, less than 10 mm, and/or less than 5 mm.

[00117] The edge regions of adjacent lanes 41/42 can abut with each other in a non- overlapping interface, such as shown in Figures 2A - 2E, Figures 4A - 4H, Figure 6M, Figure 7H, and Figure 8H. In the noted figures, in all but those of Figures 4A - 4H, the film lane(s) are constructed from pre-formed film. Absent other seam reinforcement, the elastic laminate 10 may only be able to tolerate a limited amount of tension with such abutting interfaces. In Figures 4A - 4H, the film lane(s) 41 can be extruded directly onto the fabric layer 20/30. With pre-laid fabric lane(s) 42, the extruded film material may seep into the margin areas of adjacent fabric lane(s) 42, thereby reinforcing the seam. A similar interfacing may occur if the fabric lane(s) 42 are formed in-line with the film-lane lamination, with both pre-formed and extrusion-laid lanes 41. [00118] The intermediate layer 40 can further comprise joining strips 44 spanning the interface between film lane(s) 41 and fabric lane(s) 42 For example, Figures 3A-3K, 5A-5Q, 7I-7P, 8I-8K and others, depict various versions of the joining strips 44 The joining strips 44 strengthen the seam between the interfacing lanes 41/42 without requiring an overlap thereof In this manner, the joining strips 44 can be made of material directed towards the interfacing function, rather than a compromise between this and another lane function [00119] The combined cross-direction dimensions of the joining strips 44 can be less (e g , 80% less, 60% less, 40% less, 20% less, and/or 10% less) than the combined cross-direction dimensions of the film lane(s) 41 and/or than the combined cross-direction dimensions of the fabric lane(s) 42 The cross-direction dimension of at least one of the joining strips 44, and/or each of the joining strips 44, can be greater than 1 mm, greater than 2mm, greater than 3 mm, greater than 4 mm, greater than 5 mm, greater than 6 mm, and less than 25 mm, less than 20 mm, less than 15 mm, and/or less than 10 mm [00120] The cross-directional span of a joining strip 44 across a film lane 41 can be the same as its span across the interfacing fabric lane 42, as illustrated in the accompanying figures Instead of substantially equal spans, the strip's span across the film lane 41 can be greater (e g , 10% greater, 20% greater, 30% greater, 40% greater, 50% greater) than its span across the interfacing fabric lane 42) Or the strip's span across the fabric lane 42 can be greater than (e g , 10% greater, 20% greater, 30% greater, 40% greater) its span across the interfacing film lane 41

[00121] The joining strιp(s) 44 can comprise fabric and/or film strips If a joining strip 44 is a fabric strip, it can be made from the same material (and possibly the same stock) as the fabric layers 20/30 and/or the fabric lane(s) 42 If a joining strip 44 is a film strip, it can be made from the same material (and possibly the same stock) as the film lane(s) 41 At least one (and/or each) joining strip 44 can be an elastic joining strip, but less elastic than the interfaced film lane 41 At least one (and/or each) joining strip 44 can be a stretchable joining strip that is more stretchable than the interfaced fabric lane 42 In either or any case, at least one (and/or each) joining strip 44 can be made from a polyolefin (e g , polyethylene, polypropylene, polybutylene, etc ) and/or a polyamide (e g , nylon, polyester, polyacrylate) [00122] A wide array of configurations is contemplated for the film lanes 41 and fabric lanes 42 The elastic laminate 10 may be formed such that the film lane 41 is not a duplex layer comprised of film and fabric Alternatively, the use of such duplex constructions is contemplated It is also contemplated that the film lane 41 may consist essentially of a skinned film layer comprising an elastic core and at least one film skin Furthermore, the film lane 41 may consist essentially of monolayer film Furthermore, the fabric lane(s) 42 may or may not comprise a substantially coextensive film layer that is stiffened by the fabric lane(s) Adhesive Sublayers 51 , 52, 53

[00123] Referring further to the accompanying figures, the elastic laminate 10 can include one or more of an adhesive sublayer 51 , an adhesive sublayer 52, and an adhesive sublayer 53.

[00124] The adhesive sublayer 51 is situated between the first fabric layer 20 and the intermediate layer 40. The adhesive sublayer 51 can extend completely (Figures 1 A - 11, 2A - 2E, 3A - 3G, 4A - 4F, 5A - 5G, and 7A - 7K) or only partially (Figures 1 J - 1 L, 3H - 3K, 4G - 4H, 5H - 5Q, 6A - 6P, 7L - 7M, 8A - 8K) across the laminate's width in the cross direction (CD). The adhesive sublayer 51 can occupy only areas accumbent with the film lane(s) 41 (Figures U - 1 L, 3H - 3I, 5L - 5M, 7L - 7M), only areas accumbent with the fabric lane(s) 42 (Figures 3J - 3K₁ 4G - 4H, 5H - 5K, 6A - 61, 6M -60, 7N - 70, and 8A - 8J ), only areas accumbent with an overlapping lane interface 43 (Figures 6J - 6L, and 8G), or only areas accumbent with a joining strip 44 (Figures 5N - 5Q, 6P, 7P and 8K). [00125] The adhesive sublayer 52 is situated within the intermediate layer 40. The adhesive sublayer 52 can bond the overlapping interfaces of lanes 41/42 (Figures 1A - 1 L, 6A - 6L, 7A - 7G, and 8A - 8G) or to bond joining strips 44 to the lane interface (Figures 3A - 3K, 5A - 5Q, 6N - 6P, 7I - 7P, and 8I - 8K). The adhesive sublayer 52 can extend completely (Figures 1 A - 1 F, 1 J, 1 K, 3A - 3E, 3H, 3J, 5A - 5E, 5N, 50, 6A - 6F, 6J, 6K, 7I₁ 7L, 7N, and 7P) or only partially (Figures 1 G - 11, 1 L, 3F, 3G, 3I, 3K, 5F - 5M, 5P, 5Q, 6G - 6I, 6L, 6N - 6P, 7A - 7G, 7J, 7M, 7O, and 8A - 8K) across the laminate's width in the cross direction (CD). The adhesive sublayer 52 can occupy only areas accumbent with the film lane(s) 41 (Figures 1 G, 1 H, 3K, 5J, 5K, 6G, 6H and 70), only areas accumbent with the fabric lane(s) 42 (Figures 1 L, 3K, 5L, 5M, 5P, 5Q, 6L, 6N, 6P, 7F, 7J, 7M, 8A - 8E, 8G, 8I, and 8K), only areas between an overlapping lane interface 43 (Figures 11, 6I, 7G, and 8F), or only areas accumbent with a joining strip 44 (Figures 3G, 5F - 5I, 6I, 60, 7G, 7K, 8F and 8J). If the laminate 10 includes, for example, a non-overlapping abutting interface, an adhesive sublayer 52 may not be necessary (Figures 2A - 2E, 4A - 4E, 6M, 7H, and 8H). [00126] The adhesive sublayer 53 is situated between the second fabric layer 30 and the intermediate layer 40. The adhesive sublayer 53 can extend completely (Figures 1 A - 1 E, 1 G, 11, U, 1 L, 2A - 2E, 3A - 3K, 4A - 4E, 4G, 5A - 5F, 5H, 5J, 5L, 5N, 5P, 6A - 6E, 6G, 6I, 6J, and 6L - 6P ) or only partially (Figures 1 F, 1 H, 1 K, 4F, 4H, 5G, 5I, 5K₁ 5M, 50, 5Q, 6E, 6H, 6K, 7A - 7P and 8A - 8K) across the laminate's width in the cross direction (CD). If the adhesive sublayer 53 extends only partially across the laminate's width, it can occupy areas accumbent with the fabric lane(s) 42.

[00127] The adhesive sublayers 51/52/53 can comprise hot-melt adhesives (e.g., hot- melt rubber-based materials or acrylic-based materials) and/or non-hot-melt adhesives, such as pressure sensitive adhesives, polyurethane adhesives and structural adhesives. The adhesive can be solid or continuous in the bonding area, or it can be applied in intermittent adhesive patterns (e g , stripes, spots, swirls, islands, grids, checkerboard, voids, random, semi-random, etc )

[00128] Non-adhesive bonding steps are possible and contemplated For example, instead of being supplied as preformed film material, the film-lane material can be extruded directly into the laminate construction (Figures 4A - 4H and 5A - 5Q) If so, the film-lane- accumbent region 21 of the first fabric layer 20 can be extrusion bonded to the film lane(s) 41 (Figures 4G, 4H, 5H, 5I₁ 5P₁ and 5Q) and/or the film-lane-accumbent region 31 of the second fabric layer 30 can be extrusion bonded to the film lane(s) 41 (Figures 4F, 4H, 5G, 5I, 5K, and 5M) But even with direct extrusion, an adhesive sublayer can be used in conjunction therewith For example, an adhesive sublayer 51 can be used to bond the first fabric 20 to the film lane(s) 41 (Figures 4A - 4F, 5A - 5G, 5L, and 5M), an adhesive layer 52 can be situated accumbent to the film lane(s) 41 (Figures 5A - 5E, 5J, 5K₁ 5N, and 50), and/or an adhesive layer 53 can be used to bond the second fabric 30 to the film lane(s) 41 (Figures 4A - 4E, 4G, 5A - 5F, 5H, 5J₁ 5L, 5N, and 5Q)

[00129] Instead of adhesive or extrusion bonding, radiant heat can be used to melt the inner surfaces of the fabric layers 20/30 and/or the facing surfaces of the lanes 41/42 into a molten state which will then bond the layers together upon cooling Ultrasonic bonding and/or welding can also be used when laminating the fabric layer(s) 20/30 to the lanes 41/42 Similar bonding techniques can be used to secure the overlapping interfaces 43 and/or the strips 44

Laminate Construction

[00130] The elastic laminate 10 can be made as a laminate sheet 110 having a continuous length and capable of continuous supply Such a format is compatible with mass production and thus often desired by product manufacturers

[00131] The laminate sheet 1 10 can have a cross-direction construction corresponding to single elastic laminate 10 In this case, the laminate sheet 110 can be separated (in the machine direction (MD)) into a plurality of laminate pieces for product incorporation [00132] The laminate sheet 110 can instead have a cross-direction construction corresponding to plurality of elastic laminates 10 (See Figures 1 C - 1 D, 2C - 2D, 3C - 3D, 4C - 4D, 5C - 5D, 6C - 6D, 7C - 7D₁ and 8C - 8D) This sheet 110 is separated both in the cross direction (CD) (see dashed lines in C - D figures) and in the machine direction (MD) to provide a plurality of laminate pieces for product incorporation These separation steps can be performed simultaneously or sequentially, and/or they can be performed at the same or remote locations For example, the laminate manufacturer could separate the sheet 110 in the machine direction (MD), compile it in a continuous format suitable for continuous supply (e g a roll), and ship it to a product manufacturer (e g , a diaper manufacture) The product manufacturer (e g , diaper manufacturer) could perform the cross-direction separation in-line (or off-line) from the rest of the product assembly steps

[00133] With such a "plural laminate" sheet 110, the width (/ e , cross-direction dimension) of the outermost zones can correspond to the width of the outermost zones of the laminate 10 Intermediate sheet zones, which will be divided to form a laminate's outermost zone, can correspond to twice this width The laminate sheet 110 can be made for division into an even number of elastic laminates 10 (C figures) or for division into an odd number of elastic laminates 10 (D figures) Additionally or alternatively, the sheet's centerline (in the machine direction (MD)) can pass through a fabric lane section (C figures) or a film lane section (D figures)

[00134] A method of making the elastic laminate 10 and/or the laminate sheet 110 can comprise the steps of laminating the first fabric layer 20 to the film lane(s) 41 , laminating the first fabric layer 20 to the fabric lane(s) 42, laminating the second fabric layer 30 to the film lane(s) 41 , and laminating the second fabric layer 30 to the fabric lane(s) 42 If the lanes 41/42 have an overlapping interface, the method can include the additional step of laminating the overlapping lane margins to each other If the joining strips 44 are used, the method can include the further steps of laminating the joining strips 44 to the lane-to-lane interfaces, and laminating the joining strips 44 to a fabric layer In the illustrated embodiments, the fabric layer to which the strips 44 are laminated is the top (or first) fabric layer 20 (but layer orientation has no significance)

[00135] Laminate-making steps can be performed by sequentially compiling the fabric layers 20/30, lanes 41/42, joining strips 44 (if used), and adhesive sublayers 51/52/53 (See Figures 1 E, 2E, 3E, 4E, 5E, 6E, 7E, and 8E) The compiling steps can be performed in-line with each other if an adequate number of dispensing stations, splitters, and/or adhesive- coating stations are available If so, the slowest steps (e g , film extrusion and/or film lamination) will dictate production rate

[00136] When only a limited number of stations are available (and/or when certain steps are significantly slower than others), in-line performance of all of the laminate-making steps may not be possible and/or practical (See Figures 13A - 13K ) If so, the method can include the step of compiling some (but not all) of the layers 20/30 and lanes 41/42 in a format suitable for continuous supply (e g , a roll) The compiled layers can then later be dispensed from the continuous-supply-format for performance of the remaining steps [00137] Generally (and/or usually), the intermediate compilation must be such that an adhesive sublayer 51/52/53 is not exposed Otherwise, the exposed adhesive is likely to bond, or at least stick, to the surface it encounters in the continuous-supply format This can create blocking issues preventing efficient production practices For example, if the stock is in a roll format, exposed adhesive can inhibit unwinding steps, and thus dispensing [00138] The laminate-making method can include compiling the first fabric layer 20, with the film lane(s) 41 laminated thereto, into a format suitable for continuous supply (Figures 13A - 131 ) The first-fabric-film-lane compilation can be done prior to the performance of all of the other lamination steps (Figure 13A) If an adhesive layer 51 is used, and it only occupies a film-lane accumbent area, no adhesive will be exposed

[00139] The laminate-making method can include compiling the first fabric layer 20, with the fabric lane(s) 42 laminated thereto, into a format suitable for continuous supply (Figures 13B - 13J ) This compilation step can be done prior to performance of all other lamination steps (Figure 13J) If an adhesive layer 51 is used, and it only occupies fabric-lane accumbent areas, no adhesive will be exposed

[00140] The laminate-making method can include compiling the first fabric layer 20, with both the film lane(s) 41 and the fabric lane(s) 42 laminated thereto, into a format suitable for continuous supply (Figures 13B - 131 ) Such a compilation can prevent adhesive exposure even with a full-width adhesive sublayer 51 and/or full-width adhesive sublayer 52 [00141] The laminate-making method can include compiling the first fabric layer 20, with joining strips 44 laminated thereto, into a format suitable for continuous supply (Figures 13C - 13K ) If no other laminations are performed, and if an adhesive layer 51 occupies only strip-accumbent areas, no adhesive will be exposed (Figure 13K) Otherwise, the compilation of the film lane(s) 41 and the fabric layer(s) 42 may be necessary to cover the adhesive sublayer 51 and/or the adhesive sublayer 52 (Figures 13C - 131) [00142] After first fabric compilation step, the first fabric layer 20 (with the lane(s) 41 , the lane(s) 42, and/or the strips 44 laminated thereto) can be dispensed, from its continuous- supply format The remaining laminating steps (e g , lane-laminating, strip-laminating, and/or second-fabπc-laminating steps) can then be performed on the dispensed material [00143] Additionally or alternatively, pre-compilation and compilation steps can be performed on the second fabric layer 30 (Figure 14A - 14C ) Specifically, for example, joining strips 44 (Figure 14C), film lane(s) 41 (Figure 14B), and/or fabric lane(s) 42 (Figure 14C), can be laminated to the fabric layer 30 Thereafter, the fabric layer 30 can be compiled in a format suitable for continuous supply, and later dispensed for performance of remaining laminating steps

[00144] In the instances above (and elsewhere), the film-lane material can be a preformed film adhesively or otherwise bonded to the fabric layer 20/30 If so, it may be necessary for the film-lane material itself to be supplied in a format suitable for continuous supply (e g , a roll) This may preclude the use of film-lane materials that are tacky and susceptible to blocking when individually compiled in a format suitable for continuous supply For example, with elastic film lane(s) 41 , providing a continuous supply of preformed skinless film material (e g , monolayer) may not be possible or practical

[00145] Extrusion of the film lane(s) 41 in-line with the rest of the lamination steps can allow the use of a skinless film-material But extrusion equipment (as compared to adhesive or other laminating equipment) can be quite expensive Many laminate manufacturers do not wish to shoulder such a capital outlay and/or to invest in the know-how necessary for operation Moreover, extrusion can often be the slowest step in the lamination process and thus could retard production rate if performed in-line with other steps [00146] A practical (and economical) solution can be extruding the film lane(s) 41 directly onto a fabric layer 20/30, and then compiling the fabric layer 20/30 into a format suitable for continuous supply (e g , a roll) The compiled fabric layer 20/30 (with the film lane(s) 41 laminated thereto), can then be dispensed for performance (perhaps in-line performance) of remaining laminating steps This also allows the extrusion steps to be performed at a separate location than the rest of the laminating steps Thus, a film manufacturer can perform the extruding and fabric-compilation steps and ship the compilation to the laminate manufacturer

[00147] The fabric compilations shown in Figures 15A - 15D (for the first fabric layer 20) and in Figures 16A - 16F (for the second fabric layer 30) are adapted to accommodate a post-extrusion compilation step Because the exposed surface of the film lane(s) 41 will contact a fabric layer 20/30 when placed in its continuous-supply format, blocking issues are eliminated When the fabric layer 20/30 includes only the film lane(s) 41 in its compiled format (with or without adhesive layer 51/53), the film manufacturer can perform a minimum amount of steps (Figures 15A, 15B, 16A, and 16B ) When the fabric lane(s) 42 are also laminated to the fabric layer 20/30 prior to compilation, the even thickness of the intermediate laminate may facilitate compilation and/or disbursement If the fabric layer(s) 42 are laminated to the fabric layer 20/30 prior to extrusion of the film lane(s) 41 , this may enhance lane-alignment Specifically, for example, the fabric lane(s) 42 can provide a channel- shaped, mold-like, cavity for receipt of the molten film-material

Garment Pieces and Garments

[00148] With further reference to the accompanying figures, and in particular Figures 17A - 20, the present invention provides various garment pieces which include the previously described laminates For example, a garment piece 60, 70, 80, 90 may comprise the laminate 10 Alternatively or in addition, the garment piece may be in the form of a side panel 60 Alternatively or in addition, the garment piece may be in the form of a fastening tape 70 Alternatively or in addition, the garment piece may be in the form of a belt 80 Alternatively or in addition, the garment piece may be in the form of a chassis 90 It is also contemplated that a garment 65, 75, 85, 95 may incorporate one or more of the garment pιece(s) 60, 70, 80, 90 as previously described Such a garment 65, 75, 85, 95 may be in the form of a disposable absorbent article Particularly preferred garment pieces are described as follows

The Side Panel 60

[00149] A diaper side panel 60 can include the elastic laminate 10 (Figures 17A - 17B ) The illustrated side panel 60 comprises a proximal edge 61 , a distal edge 62, an upper edge 63, and a lower edge 64 With the side panel 60, the laminate's cross direction (CD) corresponds to the proximal-distal direction, whereby the panel 60 elongates and recovers in this direction Thus, the machine direction (MD) is the upper-lower direction [00150] The side panel 60 can carry fastening means 65 adjacent its distal edge 62 Alternatively, a fastening tape (not shown) can be attached to its distal edge 62 [00151] It is also contemplated that the side panel 60 may further comprise a fastener 65 The fastener 65 is preferably carried by an inelastic zone 12 of the elastic laminate 10 [00152] Figures 17C and 17D illustrate an absorbent article 66 comprising a chassis having a front portion 67, a rear portion 68, and a crotch portion 69 The proximal edge 61 of a side panel 60 is joined to each lateral edge of the chassis rear portion 68 With a baby diaper (Figure 17C), the upper edge 63 and/or the lower edge 64 of the side panel 60 can be convexly curved (Figure 17A) With an adult incontinence brief (Figure 17D), the upper edge 63 and the lower edge 64 can be parallel and substantially perpendicular to the proximal edge 61 and/or the distal edge 62 (Figure 17B) In certain versions, the side panel 60 may define an outer edge of an inelastic zone 12 of the elastic laminate 10 which forms the proximal edge 61 and an outer edge of another inelastic zone 12 of the elastic laminate 10 forms the distal edge 62

[00153] The elastic laminate 10 of the side panel 10 can comprise a three-lane construction with two fabric lanes 42 and an elastic film lane 41 therebetween (See e g , Figure 1 1 A - 11 E ) Alternatively, the side panel 60 can incorporate an elastic laminate with a plurality of elastic film lanes 41 In either or any event, the end lanes can be fabric lanes 42 to facilitate, for example, assembly of the side panel 60 to the diaper chassis and/or assembly of the fastening means 63 to the side panel 60

The Fastening Tape 70

[00154] A diaper fastening tape 70, having a manufacturer end 71 and a user end 72, can include the elastic laminate 10 (Figure 18A ) The tape's length (/ e between the manufacturer end 71 and the user end 72) corresponds to the laminate's cross direction (CD) whereby it elongates-recovers in this direction The fastening tape 70 can carry fastening means 75 adjacent its user end 72 An absorbent article 76 (comprising a chassis having a front portion 77, a rear portion 78, and a crotch portion 79), can include a pair of the fastening tapes 70 (Figure 18B ) Each tape 70 would be attached, via its manufacturer's end 71 to a respective edge of the diaper's rear portion 78 Alternatively, each tape can be attached to the distal edge of a (not shown) side panel During use of the article 76, the user end 72 of each tape 70 can be selectively attached, via the fastening means 75, to the diaper's front portion 77

[00155] The tape 70, like the side panel 60, can incorporate a laminate structure having a middle elastic film lane 41 and a fabric lane 42 on either side thereof In some cases, a plurality of lanes 41 and 42 (see e g , Figure 11G) may be preferred The manufacturer's end 71 can aligned with a fabric lane 42 and, if the user's end is to function as a fingerlift, it can also be aligned with a fabric lane 42

[00156] It is contemplated that a wide array of disposable absorbent articles may further comprise the fastening tape 70 or variations thereof

The Diaper Belt 80

[00157] A belt 80, or each of a pair of belts 80, can include an elastic laminate 10 (Figures 19A, and 19B ) The belt's length (/ e , direction between the manufacturer end 81 and the user end 82) corresponds to the laminate's cross direction (CD) whereby the belt 80 elongates-recovers in this direction At least one belt 80 (Figure 19B) can comprise fastening means 85 adjacent its user end 82 In an absorbent disposable article 86 (comprising a chassis having a front portion 87, a rear portion 88, and a crotch portion 89 therebetween), the manufacturer end 81 of each belt 80 is joined to respective edges of the rear portion 88 (Figure 19C ) One belt 80 (Figure 19A) can be folded around the user's waist and the other belt 80 (Figure 19B) can be folded thereover and secured to the other belt by the fastening means 85 A laminate 10 with its elastic film lane 41 offset towards the user's end 82 may be preferred for such belts 80

[00158] Alternatively, a single belt 80 can have its bottom edge attached to the top edge of the rear portion 88 At least one end section comprises a fastening means 85 adjacent its user end 82 In use, the belt 80 will extend completely around the user's waist, end sections folded over each other and secured by the fastening means 85 (Figure 19D ) A laminate 10 having a wide intermediate fabric lane 42 (for attachment to the top edge of the rear portion 88) could be used for such a belt construction (See e g , Figures 11 E or 11 F ) The Diaper Chassis 90

[00159] A diaper chassis 90 itself can incorporate the elastic laminate 10 (Figure 20 ) For example, the elastic laminate 10 be at least part of the front portion 97 and/or at least part of the rear portion 98 to form an elastic waist for a diaper 96

[00160] In this case, the laminate's cross direction (CD) would be perpendicular to the front-rear direction of the chassis 90 The elastic laminate 10 can be part of the crotch portion 99 to form elastic leg opening regions for the diaper 96, and its cross direction (CD) would run parallel to the chassis front-rear direction It might also be possible for the elastic laminate 10 to form the entire chassis 90 (or other item), if the lane materials do not interfere with other intended properties (e g , fluid absorption)

RFID Device 100

[00161] It is also contemplated that a laminate 10 and/or any of the sheets, garments, or garment pieces described herein may further comprise an RFID device 100 For example, a laminate 10 comprising a first fabric layer 20, a second fabric layer 30, and a layer 40 therebetween including an elastic zone 11 , can be provided in which the laminate 10 further comprises an RFID device 100 In this regard, the laminate 10 can be constructed such that the layer 40 includes a film lane 41 And, the RFID device 100 is positioned between the film layer 20 and the fabric layer 20/30 Additional embodiments are contemplated in which the laminate 10 includes an inelastic portion and wherein the RFID device 100 is situated in the inelastic portion Specifically, the fabric layer 20/30 may include a non-scored portion and wherein the RFID device 100 is situated in this non-scored portion [00162] The invention also includes a laminate 10, a garment piece 60, 70, 80, 90 and/or a garment 65, 75, 85, 95 as previously described for example in which the RFID device 100 has information written to it prior to incorporation into the laminate, the garment piece, or the garment Alternatively or in addition, the RFID device 100 has information written to it after incorporation into the laminate, the garment piece, or the garment Alternatively or in addition, the RFID device 100 has information written to it during incorporation into the laminate, the garment piece, or the garment

[00163] The information written to the RFID device 100 may comprise information about the film layer 20 and/or the fabric layer(s) 20/30, such as, for example, stock/batch, specifications, source, and/or purchase order information Furthermore, the information written to the RFID device 100 may comprise information about manufacture, such as, for example, place of manufacture, date of manufacture, machine operating personnel, and/or machine settings Moreover, the information written to the RFID device 100 may comprise information about an intended customer, such as, for example, customer name, customer location, and/or customer contact It is also contemplated that the information written to the RFID device 100 may include information about inventory, such as, for example, product number, and/or store-shelf counting mechanism In addition, the information written to the RFID device 100 may comprise information about an end user, such as, for example, name, medication, dietary restrictions, last-change time, emergency contact information, allergies, living will provisions, and/or temperature

[00164] The RFID can be initiated or otherwise activated in numerous fashions For example, the RFID device 100 is activatable by, for example, moisture, gasses, breathing movement, temperature, and/or movement through a security boundary [00165] The RFID may also comprise additional components For example, the RFID device 100 may include a sensor and store information sensed by the sensor, such as, for example, temperature, breathing, pulse, and/or movement/location [00166] The RFID device 100 can be configured to operate in numerous ways For example, the RFID device 100 may be configured to use an operating parameter that is changed upon occurrence of a predetermined event such as, for example, activation, unfolding, moisture, temperature, and/or movement through a security boundary Furthermore, the RFID device 100 may include an alterable portion that, upon the occurrence of a predetermined event (e g , physical, chemical, electric, etc ), the device is inactivated Moreover, the alterable portion may affect the range in which the device may be read It is also contemplated that the RFID device 100 can be configured so that a user can inactivate the alterable portion so that the device 100 cannot be read at a long range Furthermore, it is contemplated that the RFID device 100 may include a permanent portion that remains activatable In this regard, the permanent portion may be configured such that such portion cannot be read at long range without the alterable portion prior to inactivation In addition, it is contemplated that the alterable portion may be antennaless and the permanent portion may include an antenna

[00167] Details as to RFID devices, their manufacture, design, and configuration are set forth in one or more of the following US Patents - 6,687,983, 6,914,562, 6,940,408, 6,951 ,596, 7,059,518, 7,088,248, 7,120,987, 7,158,037, 7,224,280, 7,298,266, 7,307,527, 7,333,061 , 7,368,032, 7,443,299, and 7,460,015

[00168] Although the elastic laminate 10 (and/or, zones 11/12, layers 20/30/40, lanes 41/42, interfaces 43, strips 44, products 60/70/80/90, related methods and steps, etc ) have been shown and described with respect to a certain embodiment or embodiments, it will be understood that equivalent alterations and modifications will occur to others skilled in the art upon the reading and understanding of this specification and the referenced drawings In regard to the various functions performed by the above described elements (e g , components, assemblies, systems, devices, compositions, etc ), the terms (including a reference to a "means") used to describe such elements are intended to correspond, unless otherwise indicated, to any element which performs the specified function of the described element (/ e , that is functionally equivalent), even though not structurally equivalent to the disclosed structure which performs the function In addition, while a particular feature of the invention may have been described above with respect to only one or more of several illustrated embodiments, such feature may be combined with one or more other features of the other embodiments, as may be desired and advantageous for any given or particular application

ADDITIONAL EMBODIMENTS

[00169] The present invention provides additional embodiments such as stretchable laminates 208 and 210 described in Figures 21A-36 These laminates and several of their variants are described herein and referenced in the accompanying figures Many aspects and details of the previously described fabric layer(s) 20 and 30, and adhesive layer(s) 51 , 52, and 53 are applicable for the laminates 208 and 210, and so are not repeated Figure 21 A is a side schematic view of the stretchable laminate 208, the laminate 208 comprising an elastic layer 220 and fabric layers 230/240 laminate thereto Fabric segments 231/241 result from scored regions described in greater detail below Adhesive layers 253/254 may also be provided as shown

[00170] Figure 21 B is a greatly enlarged side schematic view of the laminate 208, showing distal scored regions 233/243 in the fabric layers 230/240 Proximal tendon regions 234/244 in the fabric layers are also illustrated

[00171] Figure 21 C is a schematic diagram of a method of making the stretchable laminate 208 As depicted in that figure, fabric layers 230 and 240 are provided Distal scored regions 233/243 or interruptions 232/242 are formed in each of the fabric layers, thereby providing fabric segments 231/241 Adhesive layers 253 and 254 are applied or otherwise positioned along proximal faces of the fabric layers 230/240 The elastic layer 220 is disposed between the proximally directed faces of the fabric layers 230 and 240 containing or otherwise in contact with the adhesive layers 253 and 254

[00172] Figures 21 D and 21 E are each a side schematic view of a laminate sheet 308 for making a plurality of the stretchable laminates 208 Figure 21 D illustrates sheet 308 including an odd number of laminates 208, and Figure 21 E shows the sheet 308 with an even number of the laminates 208

[00173] Figures 22A and 22B are each a side schematic view of the stretchable laminate 208, the laminate in Figure 22A having proximal scored regions 233/243 in its fabric layers 230/240, and the laminate in Figure 22B having both distal and proximal scored regions 233/243 to thereby result in the noted fabric segments 231/241 [00174] Figures 23A - 23I are schematic side views of the fabric layers 230/240 showing some of the possible arrangements of the scored regions 233/243 and/or interruptions 232/242

[00175] Figures 24A - 24C are each side schematic views of the elastic layer 220 The elastic layer 220 in Figure 24A is a monolayer (ι e , skinless) film 221 , the elastic layer 220 in Figure 24B is a skinned film 221 (with skins 222), and the elastic layer 220 in Figure 24C is a film 221 with a fabric liner 223

[00176] Figures 25A, 25C, and 25E are each a side schematic view of an elastic laminate 210 produced by activation of the stretchable laminate 208, wherein such activation causes mechanical straining of tendon regions 234/244 Figure 25A shows the elastic laminate 210 upon initial elongation (activation) of the stretchable laminate 208 Figure 25C shows the elastic laminate 210 upon recovery after its initial elongation Figure 25E shows the elastic laminate 210 upon subsequent non-activating elongation [00177] Figures 25B, 25D, and 25F are greatly enlarged side schematic views of the elastic laminate 210 in the conditions shown in Figures 25A, 25C, and 25E, respectively In Figure 25B (initial elongation), the tendon regions 234/244 are mechanically strained upon separation of the fabric segments 231/241 formed from the scored interruptions 232/242 In Figure 25D, (initial recovery), the tendon regions 234/244 are shown relaxed and somewhat crimped to accommodate increased length caused by mechanically straining In Figure 25E, (subsequent elongation), the tendons 234/244 are again elongated to accommodate the separation of the fabric segments 231/241

[00178] Figures 26A, 26C, and 26E are each a side schematic view of an elastic laminate 210 produced by activation of the stretchable laminate 208, wherein such activation causes rupturing of the tendon regions 234/244 Figure 26A shows the elastic laminate 210 upon initial elongation (activation) of the stretchable laminate 208 Figure 26C shows the elastic laminate 210 upon recovery after its initial elongation Figure 26E shows the elastic laminate 210 upon subsequent non-activating elongation

[00179] Figures 26B, 26D, and 26F are greatly enlarged side schematic views of the elastic laminate 210 in the conditions shown in Figures 26A, 26C, and 26E, respectively In Figure 26B (initial elongation), the tendon regions 234/244 are ruptured In Figure 26D, (initial recovery), the ruptured tendon sections reunite (but do not rejoin) In Figure 26F, (subsequent elongation), the ruptured tendon sections again separate with the fabric segments 231/241

[00180] Figures 27A, 27C, 27E, 27G, 27I, and 27K are each a side schematic view of an elastic laminate 210 produced by activation of the stretchable laminate 208, wherein such activation causes both mechanical straining and rupturing of the tendon regions 234/244 Figure 27A shows the elastic laminate 210 upon initial elongation (activation) of the stretchable laminate 208 Figure 27C shows the elastic laminate 210 upon recovery after its initial elongation Figures 27E, 27G, 27I, and 27K show the elastic laminate 210 upon subsequent elongation, recovery, elongation, and recovery

[00181] Figures 27B, 27D, 27F, 27H, 27J and 27L are greatly enlarged side schematic views of the elastic laminate 210 in the conditions shown in Figures 27A, 27C, 27E, 27G, 27I, and 27K, respectively In Figure 27B (initial elongation), the tendon regions 234/244 are slightly ruptured, but mostly mechanically strained In Figure 27D, (initial recovery), the ruptured tendon sections reunite and the rest of tendon regions 234/244 crimp to accommodate their strained dimensions In Figure 27F (subsequent elongation), the tendon regions 234/244 rupture a bit more and then reunite/crimp in Figure 27H (recovery) In

Figure 27J (further elongation), the tendon regions 234/244 completely rupture and then reunite in Figure 27L (recovery)

[00182] Please note that in the above-described Figures 21 A to 27L, the thickness of the elastic layer 220, the fabric layers 230/240, and the adhesive layers 253/254 are greatly exaggerated for ease of illustration If they were drawn to scale with the given widths/lengths, it would be difficult to decipher the drawings

[00183] The modifiers "distal and proximal" use the elastic layer 220 as the reference layer Each fabric layer 230/240 will have a proximal side located closest to the elastic layer

220 and a distal side located away from the elastic layer 220 The thickness of the fabric layer 230/240 is the distance between its proximal and distal sides

[00184] Figures 28A - 28B are views of side panels 260 including the stretchable laminate 208, and Figures 28C and 28D are views of absorbent disposable articles 266 each of which has a pair of side panels installed thereon Various components and portions of the articles 266 correspond to those with like numbers in Figures 17C and 17D, respectively

[00185] Figure 29A is a view of a fastening tape 270 including the stretchable laminate

208, and Figure 29B is a view of an absorbent disposable article 276 having a pair of the fastening tapes 270 installed thereon Various components and portions of the article 276 correspond to those with like numbers in Figures 18A and 18B, respectively

[00186] Figures 3OA - 3OB are views of belts 280 that each include the stretchable laminate 208, and Figures 3OC and 3OD are each a view of an absorbent disposable article

286 with the belt(s) 280 installed thereon Various components and portions of the articles

286 correspond to those with like numbers in Figures 19A-19D, respectively

[00187] Figure 31 is a view of a diaper chassis 290 of a diaper 296 including the stretchable laminate 208 and/or having it installed thereon Similarly, reference is made to

Figure 20 [00188] In all of the previously noted garment pieces, garments, and other items, one or more RFID devices 300 may be incorporated therein The RFID device 300 can correspond to the previously described RFID device 100

[00189] In order to further evaluate the features and benefits of the various laminates generally referred to herein as laminates 208/210, a series of laminate samples were constructed, and then a portion of the samples were activated as described herein Specifically, a first laminate construction designated as laminate A was used And, another laminate construction, designated as laminate B was also used The activated samples were then compared to non-activated samples, and the results are as follows [00190] Figures 32-35 plot extension forces and retraction forces for stretchable laminates and elastic laminates (formed by activation thereof) Figure 32 compares non- activated laminate A and non-activated laminate B Figure 33 compares activated laminate A and activated laminate B Figure 34 compares non-activated laminate B and activated laminate B Figure 35 compares non-activated laminate A and activated laminate A [00191] Figure 36 illustrates laminate 208a designated as laminate A, and laminate 208b designated as laminate B The laminates 208a and 208b generally correspond to the previously described laminate 208 Thus, layers 230a, 230b, 240a, and 240b are fabric layers And, layers 253a, 253b, 254a, and 254b are adhesive layers And, layers 220a and 220b are elastic layers The only difference between laminates A and B is that the laminate A utilizes non-patterned adhesive layers 253a and 254a, and interrupted fabric layers 230a and 240a having partial scores 2 mm apart In contrast, laminate B utilizes patterned adhesive layers 253b and 254b with 1 mm stripes separated by 2 mm, and non-interrupted fabric layers 230b and 240b

[00192] Referring further to Figures 32-35, the tested laminates were of the same construction (except as noted herein) and of the same dimensions Specifically, each laminate comprises the same spunlace nonwoven fabric layers (50% polyester, 50% polypropelene, 30 gsm), the same hot melt adhesive, and the same elastic layer In all of the sample laminates, the nonwoven fabric layers have a cross-directional dimension of 80 mm, and the elastic layers have a cross-directional dimension of 50mm The elastic layers are coextensive with the nonwoven fabric layers in the machine direction MD and centrally located relative to the fabric layers in the cross direction CD The activation areas (ι e , either scored fabric or striped adhesive) extend continuously in the machine direction MD, have a cross-direction dimension of approximately 34 mm, and are centrally located relative to the elastic layer

[00193] The hysteresis tests used to obtain the data for the graphs were performed on a tensile tester with a load cell 100 N, a cross head speed of 300 mm/m, an initial clamp separation of 30 mm, and a maximum cross head displacement of 60 mm Test samples each had a width of 25 mm and a minimum length of 50 mm, and were conditioned for at least 24 hours at 23° C (± 2° C) and relative humidity of 50%. During the testing, the cross head moved the sample (clamped in the grips of the tensile tester) to a predetermined maximum position, held the sample in this position for 30 seconds, and released the retaining force allowing the sample to retract. A subsequent cycle began after the sample rested in its retracted condition for 30 seconds.

[00194] Referring to the results of this testing presented in Figures 32-35, and specifically Figures 34 and 35, it can be seen that activation of the laminate significantly reduces the force necessary to elongate the laminate. For example, in Figure 34, in order to elongate laminate B (prior to activation) a distance of 60 mm, a force of 8 N was required. After activation, the force required to elongate the laminate the same distance was significantly reduced, to only about 5 N. Similarly, elongation forces for laminate A (for a distance of 60 mm) were also significantly reduced from nearly 6 N (prior to activation) to about 4.5 N (after activation). As shown in Figures 32 and 33, laminate B exhibits greater elongation forces than laminate A for both pre- and post-activation states. [00195] Although the stretchable laminate 208, the elastic laminate 210, the layers 220, 230, 240, 253, 254, the garment pieces 260, 270, 280, 290, the garments 265, 275, 285, 295, the laminate sheet 308, associated components or elements, and/or corresponding methods/steps have been shown and described with respect to certain embodiments, it will be understood that equivalent alterations and modifications will occur to others skilled in the art upon the reading and understanding of this specification and the accompanying drawings. [00196] Figures 37A - 37X and Figures 38A - 38X are schematic side views of yet another preferred embodiment for various stretchable laminates 408 and/or elastic laminates 410 comprising an elastic layer 420 and fabric layers 430 and 440. These laminates and their variants are described herein and referenced in the accompanying drawings. Many aspects and details of the previously described fabric layer(s) 20 and 30; and adhesive layer(s) 51 , 52, and 53 are applicable for laminates 408 and 410, and so are not repeated for purposes of brevity. The fabric layers 430/440 have scored regions 431/441 and reinforcement ribs 439/449 within these regions. In Figures 37A - 37X, the reinforcement ribs 439/449 are hardened adhesive from the adhesive layers 453/454 used for fabric lamination. In Figures 38A - 38X, the reinforcement ribs 439/449 are hardened extrudate from the extrusion of the portions 421/422 of the elastic layer 420. [00197] Figures 39A - 39D and 40A - 4OD are schematic diagrams of methods of making the stretchable laminate 408 and/or the elastic laminate 410. [00198] Figures 41 A - 41 L are close-up views of scored regions 431/441 and the reinforcement ribs 439/449. [00199] Figures 42A - 42I are schematic side views of the fabric layers 430/440 showing some of the possible arrangements of the scored regions 431/441. [00200] Figures 43A - 43C are each side schematic views of the elastic layer 420 shown in Figures 37A - 37X. The elastic layer 420 in Figure 43A is a monolayer (i.e., skinless) film 426, the elastic layer 420 in Figure 43B is a skinned film 426 (with skins 427), and the elastic layer 420 in Figure 43C is a film 426 with a fabric liner 428. [00201] Please note that in the above-described figures 37A - 43C, the thickness of the elastic layer 420, the fabric layers 430/440, the scores 431/441 , the reinforcement ribs 439/449, the adhesive layers 453/454 and other elements are greatly exaggerated for ease of illustration. If they were drawn to scale with the given widths/lengths, it would be difficult to decipher the drawings.

[00202] The modifiers "distal and proximal" use the elastic layer 420 as the reference layer. Each fabric layer 430/440 will have a proximal side located closest to the elastic layer 420 and a distal side located away from the elastic layer 420. The thickness of the fabric layer 430/440 is the distance between its proximal and distal sides.

[00203] Figures 44A - 44B are views of side panels 460 including the laminate 408/410, and Figures 44C and 44D are views of absorbent disposable articles 466 each of which has a pair of side panels 460 installed thereon. Various components and portions of the articles 466 correspond to those with like numbers in Figures 17C and 17D, respectively. [00204] Figure 45A is a view of a fastening tape 470 including the laminate 408/410, and Figure 45B is a view of an absorbent disposable article 476 having a pair of the fastening tapes 470 installed thereon. Various components and portions of the tape 470 and article 476 correspond to those with like numbers in Figures 18A and 18B, respectively. [00205] Figures 46A - 46B are views of belts 480 that each include the laminate 408/410, and Figures 46C and 46D are each a view of an absorbent disposable article 486 with the belt(s) 480 installed thereon. Various components and portions of the belts 480 and articles 486 correspond to those having like numbers in Figures 19A-19D, respectively. [00206] Figure 47 is a view of a diaper chassis 490 of a diaper 496 including the laminate 408/410 and/or having it installed thereon. Similarly, reference is made to previously described Figure 20.

[00207] In all of the previously noted garment pieces, garments, and other items, one or more RFID devices 500 can be incorporated therein. The RFID device can correspond to the previously described RFID device 100.

[00208] Although the stretchable laminate 408, the elastic laminate 410, the layers 420, 430, 440, 453, 454, the scored regions 431/441 , the reinforcement ribs 439/449, the garment pieces 460, 470, 480, 490, the garments 465, 475, 485, 495, the laminate sheet, associated components or elements, and/or corresponding methods/steps have been shown and described with respect to certain embodiments, it will be understood that equivalent alterations and modifications will occur to others skilled in the art upon the reading and understanding of this specification and the annexed drawings In regard to the various functions performed by the above described elements (e g , components, assemblies, systems, devices, compositions, etc ), the terms (including a reference to a "means") used to describe such elements are intended to correspond, unless otherwise indicated, to any element which performs the specified function of the described element (/ e , that is functionally equivalent), even though not structurally equivalent to the disclosed structure which performs the function In addition, while a particular feature of the invention may have been described above with respect to only one or more of several illustrated embodiments, such feature may be combined with one or more other features of the other embodiments, as may be desired and advantageous for any given or particular application If ιncorporated-by- reference subject matter is inconsistent with subject matter expressly set forth in the written specification and drawings of this disclosure, the latter governs to the extent necessary to eliminate indefiniteness and/or clarity-lacking issues

[00209] Many other benefits will no doubt become apparent from future application and development of this technology

[00210] All patents, published patent applications, and articles referenced herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety

[00211] Any and all aspects of any of the structures, products, and processes described herein can be combined with one or more aspects of any of the other structures, products, and processes described herein

[00212] As described heremabove, the present invention solves many problems associated with previous type laminates, garments, methods and associated systems However, it will be appreciated that various changes in the details, materials and arrangements of parts, which have been herein described and illustrated in order to explain the nature of the invention, may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the principle and scope of the invention, as expressed in the appended claims

Claims

1 An elastic laminate (10) which elongates in the cross direction (CD) upon application of an elongation force and which recovers upon release of the elongation force, the elastic laminate (10) comprising a first fabric layer (20), a second fabric layer (30), and at least one intermediate layer (40) therebetween, the intermediate layer(s) comprising lanes (41/42) extending in the machine direction (MD) and positioned alongside each other in the cross direction (CD), wherein at least one of these lanes is a film lane (41 ) and at least one of these lanes is a fabric lane (42), each film lane (41 ), an accumbent region (21 ) of the first fabric layer (20), and an accumbent region (31 ) of the second fabric layer (30) forming at least part of an elastic zone (11 ) which extends upon laminate elongation and retracts upon laminate recovery

2 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 1 , wherein at least one film lane

(41 ) is an elastic lane

3 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 1 , wherein at least one of the first fabric layer (20) and the second fabric layer (30) comprises a nonwoven fabric

4 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 1 , wherein the fabric lane(s) (42) are nonelastic lanes

5 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 1 , wherein each fabric lane (42), an accumbent region (22) of the first fabric layer (20), and an accumbent region (32) of the second fabric layer (30) form at least part of an inelastic zone (12) which does not extend upon laminate elongation and/or which does not retract upon laminate recovery

6 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 1 , wherein at least one fabric lane

(42) is a nonstretchable lane

7 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 1 , wherein at least one fabric lane (42) is a nondeformable lane

8 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 1 , wherein at least one outermost lane, in the cross direction (CD), is a fabric lane (42)

9 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in any of the preceding claims 1-8, wherein each film lane (41 ) comprises an elastomeric polymer

10 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 9, wherein the film-lane-mateπal comprises block copolymers (A-B or A-B-A block copolymers)

11 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 10, wherein the block copolymers comprise styrene/isoprene, butadiene or ethylene-butylene/styrene (SIS, SBS or SEBS)

12 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 9, wherein the film-lane-mateπal comprises elastomeric polyurethanes, ethylene copolymers such as ethylene vinyl acetates, ethylene/propylene copolymer elastomers or thylene/propylene/dieneter polymer elastomers, and/or blends of these elastomers with each other or with modifying non-elastomers

13 A laminate (10) as set forth in any of the preceding claims 1-8, wherein at least one film lane (41 ) is a skinless film lane

14 A laminate (10) as set forth in any of the preceding claims 1-8, wherein at least one fabric lane (42) is a nonwoven fabric lane

15 A laminate (10) as set forth in claim 14, wherein each nonwoven fabric lane (42) comprises spunbonded webs, meltblown webs, air laid layer webs, bonded carded webs hydroentangled webs, wet-formed webs or any combination thereof

16 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 14, wherein each nonwoven fabric lane (42) comprises polyolefin, such as polyethylene and/or its copolymers, or polypropylene and/or its copolymers, or mixtures thereof

17 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in any of the preceding claims 1-8, wherein the lanes (41/42) of the intermediate layer (40) are symmetrical about a centerline in the machine direction (MD)

18 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in any of the preceding claims 1-8, wherein the machine-direction centerline passes through a film lane (41 )

19 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in any of the preceding claims 1-8, wherein the machine-direction centerline passes through a fabric lane (42)

20 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in any of the preceding claims 1-8, wherein the lanes (41/42) comprises a film lane (41 ) and a fabric lane (42) on either side thereof

21 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 20, wherein the machine-direction centerline passes through a film lane (42)

22 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 21 , wherein the lanes (41/42) are symmetrical about the machine-direction centerline

23 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in any of the preceding claims 1-8, wherein the film lane(s) (41 ) and the fabric lane(s) (42) alternate in the cross direction (CD)

24 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in any of the preceding claims 1-8, wherein the combined cross-direction dimensions of the film lanes (41 ) is less than or equal to the combined cross-direction dimensions of the fabric lanes (42)

25 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in any of the preceding claims 1-8, wherein the combined cross-direction dimensions of the film lanes (41 ) is greater than the combined cross-direction dimensions of the fabric lanes (42)

26 An elastic laminate ( 10) as set forth in any of the preceding claims 1 -8, wherein the combined cross-direction dimensions of the film lanes (41 ) is within 10% of the combined cross-direction dimensions of the fabric lanes (42)

27 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in any of the preceding claims 1-8, wherein at least one film lane (41 ) of the intermediate layer (40) extends the full laminate length in the machine-direction (MD)

28 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in any of the preceding claims 1-8, wherein the cross-direction edges of the film lane(s) (41 ) are parallel with each other

29 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 28, wherein the cross-direction edges of the film lane(s) (41 ) are parallel with the machine-direction (MD)

30 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in any of the preceding claims 1-8, wherein at least one fabric lane (42) of the intermediate layer (40) extends the full laminate length in the machine direction (MD)

31 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in any of the preceding claims 1-8, wherein the cross-direction edges of the fabric lane(s) (42) are parallel with each other

32 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 31 , wherein the cross-direction edges of the fabric lane(s) (42) are parallel with the machine direction (MD)

33 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in any of the preceding claims 1-8, wherein the thickness of the lanes (41 , 42) are each in the range of about 2 5 μm to about 3 mm

34 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in any of the preceding claims 1-8, wherein the intermediate layer (40) comprises an overlapping interface (43) between at least one film lane (41 ) and its neighboring fabric lane(s) (42)

35 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 34, wherein the combined cross- direction dimensions of the overlapping ιnterface(s) (43) is less than the combined cross- direction dimensions of the film lane(s) (41 )

36 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 34, wherein the combined cross- direction dimensions of the overlapping interface (43) is less than the combined cross- direction dimensions of the fabric lane(s) (42)

37 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 34, further comprising an adhesive sublayer (52) situated between the lane margins forming at least one overlapping interface (43)

38 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 37, wherein the adhesive sublayer (52) extends at least partially across the laminate's width in the cross direction (CD)

39 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 38, wherein the adhesive sublayer (52) occupies only areas accumbent with the film lane(s) (41 )

40 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 38, wherein the adhesive sublayer (52) occupies only areas between an overlapping lane interface (43)

41 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 38, wherein the adhesive sublayer (52) occupies only areas accumbent with fabric lane(s) (42)

42 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in any of the preceding claims 1-8, wherein the intermediate layer (40) comprises an abutting non-overlapping interface between at least one film lane (41 ) and its neighboring fabric lane(s) (42)

43 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in any of the preceding claims 1-8, wherein the intermediate layer (40) further comprises joining strips (44) spanning the interface between at least one film lane (41 ) and a neighboring fabric lane (42)

44 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 43, wherein the combined cross- direction dimensions of the joining strips (44) is less than the combined cross-direction dimensions of the film lane(s) (41 )

45 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 43, wherein the combined cross- direction dimensions of the joining strips (44) is less than the combined cross-direction dimensions of the fabric lane(s) (42)

46 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 43, wherein the cross- dimensional span of at least one joining strip (44) across a film lane (41 ) is approximately the same as its span across the interfacing fabric lane (42)

47 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 43, wherein the cross- dimensional span of at least one joining strip (44) across a film lane (41 ) is greater than its span across the interfacing fabric lane (42)

48 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 43, wherein the cross- dimensional span of at least one joining strip (44) across a fabric lane (42) is greater than its span across the interfacing film lane (41 )

49 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 43, further comprising an adhesive sublayer (52) between at least one joining strip (44) and the underlying lane portions

50 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 49, wherein the adhesive sublayer (52) extends at least partially across the laminate's width in the cross direction (CD)

51 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 50, wherein the adhesive sublayer (52) occupies only areas accumbent with the film lane(s) (41 )

52 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 50, wherein the adhesive sublayer (52) occupies only areas accumbent with a joining strip (44)

53 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 50, wherein the adhesive sublayer (52) occupies only areas accumbent with fabric lane(s) (42)

54 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 43, wherein at least one joining strip (44) comprises a fabric strip

55 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 54, wherein the fabric strip is a nonwoven fabric strip

56 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 55, wherein the nonwoven fabric strip comprises spunbonded webs, meltblown webs, air laid layer webs, bonded carded webs, hydroentangled webs, wet-formed webs or any combination thereof

57 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 43, wherein at least one joining strip (44) comprises a film strip

58 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 43, wherein at least one joining strip (44) is an elastic joining strip

59 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 58, wherein the joining strip (44) is less elastic than the interfaced film lane (41 )

60 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 43, wherein at least one joining strip (44) is a stretchable joining strip

61 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 60, wherein the joining strιp(s) 44 are more stretchable than the interfaced fabric lane (42)

62 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 43, wherein the at least one joining strip (44) comprises a polyester strip

63 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 3, wherein the nonwoven fabric comprises spunbonded webs, meltblown webs, air laid layer webs, bonded carded webs, hydroentangled webs, wet-formed webs or any combination thereof

64 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 63, wherein the fabric layer (20/30) comprises polyolefin, such as polyethylene and/or its copolymers, or polypropylene and/or its copolymers, or mixtures thereof

65 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claims 3 and 63-64, wherein the fabric layer (20/30) has a weight of about 10 gsm to about 100 gsm

66 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in any of the preceding claims 1-8, wherein at least one of the first fabric layer (20) and the second fabric layer (30) is a monolayer fabric

67 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 1 , wherein at least one of the first fabric layer (20) and the second fabric layer (30) is an inherently elastic fabric comprising mostly elastic fibers

68 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 67, wherein at least one of the first fabric layer (20) and the second fabric layer (30) is an elastically-behaving fabric

69 An elastic laminate ( 10) as set forth in claim 1 , wherein at least one of the first fabric layer (20) and the second fabric layer (30) comprises mostly inelastic fibers

70 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 1 , wherein at least one of the first fabric layer (20) and the second fabric layer (30) has its fibers consolidated in the cross direction (CD) and/or oriented in the machine direction (MD)

71 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in any of the preceding claims 1-8, wherein at least the first fabric layer (20) and the second fabric layer (30) is an inelastic fabric comprising mostly inelastic fibers

72 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in any of the preceding claims 1-8, wherein each film-lane-accumbent region (21/31 ) of the fabric layer (20/30) is stretched in the cross direction (CD) to allow it to extend upon laminate elongation and retract upon laminate recovery

73 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 72, wherein each film-lane- accumbent region (21/31 ) of the fabric layer (20/30) is integratively stretched

74 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 72, wherein each film-lane- accumbent region (321/341 ) is locally stretched

75 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 72, wherein each film-lane- accumbent region (21/31 ) of the fabric layer (20/40) is incrementally stretched

76 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 75, wherein each film-lane- accumbent region (21/31 ) of the fabric layer (20/30) is incrementally stretched by pressing a series of stretching elements against the fabric layers (20/30) along the cross direction (CD)

77 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 1 , wherein the fabric layer (20/30) has interruptions in its film-lane-accumbent regιon(s) (21/31 )

78 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 77, wherein the interruptions completely occupy the film-lane-accumbent regιon(s) (21/31 )

79 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 77, wherein the interruptions form fabric segments in the film-lane-accumbent regιon(s) (21/31 ) of the fabric layer (20/30)

80 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 79, wherein the film lane (41 ) is visible between the fabric segments upon laminate elongation

81 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 79, wherein the film lane (41 ) is hidden by the fabric segments upon laminate recovery

82 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 1 , wherein the fabric layer (20/30) has interruptions in its fabric-lane-accumbent regιon(s) (22/32)

83 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 82, wherein the fabric layer (20/30) has interruptions extending entirely across its dimension in the cross direction (CD)

84 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 82, wherein the interruptions do not completely occupy the fabric-lane-accumbent regιon(s) (22/32)

85 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 82, wherein the interruptions in the fabric-lane-accumbent regιon(s) (22/32) are positioned immediately adjacent the film- lane-accumbent regιon(s) (21/31 )

86 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in any of claims 77-85, wherein the interruptions comprise severed portions

87 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 86, wherein the interruptions also comprise ruptured portions

88 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 87, wherein the severed portions are distal portions and the ruptured portions are proximal portions

89 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 87, wherein the severed portions are proximal portions and the ruptured portions are distal portions

90 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in any of claims 77-85, wherein the interruptions include ruptured portions

91 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in any of the preceding claims 1-8, wherein at least one of the first fabric layer (20) and the second fabric layer (30) extends across the entire laminate width in the cross direction (CD)

92 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 91 , wherein the first fabric layer (20) has fabric-lane-accumbent regions (22)

93 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 91 , wherein the second fabric layer (30) has fabric-lane-accumbent regions (32)

94 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in any of the preceding claims 1-8, further comprising an adhesive sublayer (51 ) between the first fabric layer (20) and the intermediate layer (40)

95 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 94, wherein the adhesive sublayer (51 ) extends at least partially across the laminate's width in the cross direction (CD)

96 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in any of claim 94, wherein the adhesive sublayer (51 ) occupies areas accumbent with the fabric lane(s) (42)

97 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in any of claim 94, wherein the adhesive sublayer (51 ) occupies areas accumbent with the film lane(s) (41 )

98 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 94, wherein the adhesive sublayer (51 ) occupies areas accumbent with a lane overlap (43) or a joining strip (44)

99 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in any of the preceding claims 1-8, wherein the film-lane-accumbent region (21 ) of the first fabric layer (20) is extrusion bonded to the film lane (41 )

100 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in any of the preceding claims 1-8, further comprising an adhesive sublayer (53) between the second fabric layer (30) and the intermediate layer (40)

101 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 100, wherein the adhesive sublayer (53) extends at least partially across the laminate's width in the cross direction (CD)

102 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 100, wherein the adhesive sublayer (53) occupies areas accumbent with the fabric lane(s) (42)

103 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in any of the preceding claims 1-8, wherein the film-lane-accumbent region (31 ) of the second fabric layer (30) is extrusion bonded to the film lane (41 )

104 A laminate sheet (1 10) for forming a plurality of the elastic laminates (10) as set forth in any of the preceding claims 1-8

105 A laminate sheet (110) as set forth in claim 104, wherein the sheet (110) has a continuous length and is capable of continuous supply

106 A laminate sheet (110) as set forth in claim 104, wherein the sheet (110) has a cross-direction construction corresponding to a single elastic laminate (10)

107 A method of making a plurality of elastic laminates (10) from the laminate sheet (1 10) as set forth in claim 104, said method comprising the step of separating the laminate sheet (1 10), in the machine direction (MD), into pieces corresponding to the laminate's desired machine-direction dimension

108 A laminate sheet (110) as set forth in claim 104, wherein the sheet (110) has a cross-direction construction corresponding to plural elastic laminates (10)

109 A method of making a plurality of elastic laminates (10) from the laminate sheet (110) as set forth in claim 104, said method comprising the step of separating the laminate sheet (110), in the machine direction (MD) and separating the laminate sheet (110) in the cross direction (CD) into pieces corresponding to the laminate's desired machine-direction and cross-direction dimensions

1 10 A method of making the elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claim 1 , and/or the laminate sheet (110) as set forth in claim 104, said method comprising laminating the first fabric layer (20) to the film lane(s) (41 ), laminating the first fabric layer (20) to the fabric lane(s) (42), laminating the second fabric layer (30) to the film lane(s) (41 ), and laminating the second fabric layer (30) to the fabric lane(s) (42)

11 1 A method as set forth in claim 110, further comprising compiling the first fabric layer (20) with the film lane (41 ) laminated thereto into a format suitable for continuous supply

112 A method as set forth in claim 111 , wherein the first-fabric-film-lane compiling step is performed after the first-fabric-film-lane laminating step and before the first-fabnc- fabnc-lane laminating step

1 13. A method as set forth in claim 11 1 , further comprising the step of dispensing the first fabric layer (20), with the film lane (41 ) laminated thereto, from the continuous- supply-format prior to the first-fabric-fabric-lane laminating step.

114. A method as set forth in claim 110, wherein the second-fabric-film-lane laminating step and the second-fabric-fabric-lane laminating step are performed after the first-fabric-film-lane laminating step.

115. A method as set forth in claim 110, wherein the second-fabric-film-lane laminating step and the second-fabric-fabric-lane laminating step are performed after the first-fabric-fabric-lane laminating step.

1 16. A method as set forth in claim 110, further comprising compiling the first fabric layer (20) with the fabric lane(s) (42) laminated thereto into a format suitable for continuous supply.

1 17. A method as set forth in claim 111 , further comprising the step of dispensing the first fabric layer (20), with the film lane (41 ) laminated thereto, from the continuous- supply-format prior to the first-fabric-film-lane laminating step.

1 18. A method as set forth in claim 110, further comprising compiling the first fabric layer (20) with the film lane(s) (41 ) and the fabric lane(s) (42) laminated thereto into a format suitable for continuous supply.

1 19. A method as set forth in claim 118, further comprising the step of dispensing the first fabric layer (20), with the film lane (41 ) and fabric lane(s) (42) laminated thereto, from the continuous-supply-format prior to the second-fabric-film-lane laminating step and the second-fabric-fabric-lane laminating step.

120. A method as set forth in claim 110, further comprising the step of compiling the second fabric layer (30) with the fabric lane(s) (42) laminated thereto into a format suitable for continuous supply.

121. A method as set forth in claim 120, further comprising the step of dispensing the second fabric layer (30), with the film lane (41 ) laminated thereto, from the continuous- supply-format prior to the second-fabric-film-lane laminating step.

122 A method as set forth in claim 110, further comprising laminating joining strips (44) to interfaces between film lane(s) (41 ) and fabric lane(s) (42) and laminating joining strips (44) to the fabric layer (20)

123 A method as set forth in claim 122, further comprising the step of compiling the fabric layer (20) with the joining strips (44) laminated thereto into a format suitable for continuous supply

124 A method as set forth in claim 123, further comprising the step of dispensing the fabric layer (20), with the joining strips (44) laminated thereto, from the continuous- supply-format prior to the joining-stπp-lane-interface laminating step

125 A method as set forth in claim 122, further comprising the step of compiling the second fabric layer (30) with the joining strips (44) laminated thereto into a format suitable for continuous supply

126 A method as set forth in claim 125, further comprising the step of dispensing the second fabric layer (30), with the joining strips (44) laminated thereto, from the continuous-supply-format prior to the joining-strip-first-fabric laminating step

127 A method as set forth in claim 110, further comprising the step of compiling some but not all, of the layers and lanes in a format suitable for continuous supply, the compilation being such that each film lane (41 ) will be positioned adjacent a fabric in the continuous-supply format

128 A side panel (60) having a proximal edge (61) for attachment to a lateral edge of a rear portion of a chassis of an absorbent article, a distal edge (62), an upper edge (63), and a lower edge (64), wherein the side panel (60) comprises the elastic laminate (10) set forth in any the preceding claims 1-8

129 A side panel (60) as set forth in claim 128, wherein the cross direction (CD) is the proximal-distal direction and/or the machine direction (MD) is the upper-lower direction

130 A side panel (60) as set forth in claim 128, wherein the lower edge (64) is convexly curved

131 A side panel as set forth in claim 128, wherein the upper edge (63) and the lower edge (64) are parallel and substantially perpendicular to the proximal edge (61 ) and/or the distal edge (62)

132 A side panel (60) as set forth in claim 128, wherein an outer edge of an inelastic zone (12) of the elastic laminate (10) forms the proximal edge (61 ) and an outer edge of another inelastic zone (12) of the elastic laminate (10) forms the distal edge (62)

133 A side panel (60) as set forth in claim 128, further comprising a fastener (65)

134 A side panel (60) as set forth in claim 133, wherein the fastener (65) is carried by an inelastic zone (12) of the elastic laminate (10)

135 A disposable absorbent article (66) comprising a chassis having a front portion (67), a rear portion (68), a crotch portion (69), and side panels (60) as set forth in claim 128, the side panels (60) being attached to each lateral edge of the rear portion (68)

136 A fastening tape (70) comprising a manufacturer end (71 ) for connection to the rear chassis portion (78) or a side panel of a disposable absorbent article (76), and a user end (72) for selective attachment to the front portion (77) of the disposable absorbent article (76) by a user, wherein the fastening tape (70) comprises the laminate (10) set forth in any of the preceding claims 1-8

137 A fastening tape (70) as set forth in claim 136, further comprising fastening means (75) adjacent its user end (72)

138 A disposable absorbent article (76) comprising a chassis having a front portion (77), a rear portion (78), and a crotch portion (79), the disposable absorbent article (76) further comprising the fastening tape (70), as set forth in claim 136, attached to the rear portion (77) or a side panel attached thereto

139 A belt (80) comprising a manufacturer end (81 ) for connection to the rear chassis portion (88) of a disposable absorbent article (86), and a user end (82), wherein the belt (80) comprises the elastic laminate (10) as set forth in claims 1-8

140 A belt (80) as set forth in claim 139, further comprising fastening means (85) adjacent its user end (82)

141 A disposable absorbent article (86) comprising a chassis having a front portion (87), a rear portion (88), and a crotch portion (89), the disposable absorbent article (86) further comprising a pair of the belts (80) set forth in claim 139, attached to the rear portion (88)

142 A diaper chassis (90) having a front portion (97), a rear portion (98), and a crotch portion (99), wherein the chassis (90) comprises the elastic laminate (10) set forth in any of the preceding claims 1-8

143 A diaper chassis (90) as set forth in claim 142, wherein the elastic laminate (10) forms at least part of the front portion (97)

144 A diaper chassis (90) as set forth in claim 142, wherein the laminate (10) forms a waist region of the front portion (97)

145 A diaper chassis (90) as set forth in claim 142, wherein the elastic laminate (10) forms at least part of the rear portion (98)

146 A diaper chassis (90) as set forth in claim 142, wherein the elastic laminate (10) forms a waist region of the rear portion (98)

147 A diaper chassis (90) as set forth in claim 142, wherein the elastic laminate (10) forms at least part of the crotch portion (99)

148 A diaper chassis (90) as set forth in claim 147, wherein the elastic laminate (10) forms leg-opening margins of the crotch portion (99)

149 A disposable absorbent article (96) comprising the chassis (90) set forth in claim 142

150 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in any of claims 1 -8, characterized by the film lane (40) not being a duplex layer comprised of film and fabric

151 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in any of claims 1 -8, wherein the film lane (40) consists essentially of a skinned film layer comprising an elastic core and at least one film skin

152 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in any of claims 1-8, wherein the film lane (40) consists essentially of monolayer film

153 An elastic laminate (10) as set forth in any of claims 1-8, characterized by the fabric lane(s) (42) not comprising a substantially coextensive film layer that is stiffened by the fabric lane(s)

154 A laminate (10) comprising a first fabric layer (20), a second fabric layer (30), and lanes (41 ,42) situated between the fabric layers (20/30), wherein the lanes (41/42) extend in the machine direction (MD) and positioned alongside each other in the cross direction (CD), and wherein at least one of these lanes is a film lane (41 ) and at least one of these lanes is a fabric lane(42)

155 A laminate (10) consisting essentially of a first fabric layer (20), a second fabric layer (30), lanes (41 ,42) situated between the fabric layers (20,30), and adhesive sublayer(s) (51/53) bonding the fabric layers (20,30) to the lanes (41 ,42), wherein the lanes (41 , 42) extending in the machine direction (MD) and are positioned alongside each other in the cross direction (CD), and wherein at least one of these lanes is a film lane (41 ) and at least one of these lanes is a fabric lane(42)

156 A laminate (10) as set forth in either claim 154 or claim 155, wherein the fabric lanes (42) consist essentially of one or more fabric layers

157 A laminate (10) as set forth in any of claims 154-155, wherein at least the film lane(s) (41 ) allow laminate elongation in the cross direction (CD) upon application of an elongation force and recovery upon release of such elongation force

158 A laminate (10) as set forth in any of claims 154-155, wherein at least one film lane(s) (41 ) is an elastic lane

159 A laminate (10) as set forth in any of claims 154-155, wherein at least one of the fabric lane(s) (42) is less elastic than the film lane(s) (41 )

160 A laminate (10) as set forth in any of claims 154-155, wherein at least one of the fabric lane(s) (42) is an inelastic lane

161 A laminate (10) as set forth in any of the preceding claims 1-8, further comprising an RFID device (100)

162 A laminate (10) comprising a first fabric layer (20), a second fabric layer (30), and a layer (40) therebetween including an elastic zone (1 1 ), the laminate (10) further comprising an RFID device (100)

163 A laminate (10) as set forth in claim 162, wherein the layer (40) includes a film lane (41 )

164 A laminate (10) as set forth in any of the preceding 162-163 claims, wherein the RFID device (100) is positioned between the film layer (20) and the fabric layer (20/30)

165 A laminate (10) as set forth in any of the preceding 162-164 claims, having an inelastic portion and wherein the RFID device (100) is situated in the inelastic portion

166 A laminate (10) as set forth in any of the preceding 162-165 claims, wherein the fabric layer (20/30) has a non-scored portion and wherein the RFID device (100) is situated in this non-scored portion

167 A garment piece (60, 70, 80, 90) comprising the laminate (10) set forth in any of the preceding 162-166 claims

168 A garment piece (60, 70, 80, 90) as set forth in claim 167, wherein the garment piece is a side panel (60)

169 A garment piece (60, 70, 80, 90) as set forth in claim 167, wherein the garment piece is a fastening tape (70)

170 A garment piece (60, 70, 80, 90) as set forth in claim 167, wherein the garment piece is a belt (80)

171 A garment piece (60, 70, 80, 90) as set forth in claim 167, wherein the garment piece is a chassis (90)

172 A garment (65, 75, 85, 95) incorporating the garment piece (60, 70, 80, 90) set forth in any of claims 167-171

173 A garment (65, 75, 85, 95) as set forth in claim 172, wherein the garment is a disposable absorbent article

174 A laminate (10), a garment piece (60, 70, 80, 90) and/or a garment (65, 75, 85, 95) as set forth in any of the preceding 161 -173 claims, wherein the RFID device (100) has information written to it prior to incorporation into the laminate, the garment piece, or the garment

175 A laminate (10), a garment piece (60, 70, 80, 90) and/or a garment (65, 75, 85, 95) as set forth in any of the preceding 161-174 claims, wherein the RFID device (100) has information written to it after incorporation into the laminate, the garment piece, or the garment

176 A laminate (10), a garment piece (60, 70, 80, 90) and/or a garment (65, 75, 85, 95) as set forth in any of the preceding 161-175 claims, wherein the RFID device (100) has information written to it during incorporation into the laminate, the garment piece, or the garment

177 A laminate (10), a garment piece (60, 70, 80, 90) and/or a garment (65, 75, 85, 95) as set forth in any of the claims 174-176, wherein the information written to the RFID device (100) comprises information about the film layer (20) and/or the fabric layer(s) (20/30), such as, for example, stock/batch, specifications, source, and/or purchase order information

178 A laminate (10), a garment piece (60, 70, 80, 90) and/or a garment (65, 75, 85, 95) as set forth in any of the claims 174-177, wherein the information written to the RFID device (100) comprises information about manufacture, such as, for example, place of manufacture, date of manufacture, machine operating personnel, and/or machine settings

179 A laminate (10), a garment piece (60, 70, 80, 90) and/or a garment (65, 75, 85, 95) as set forth in any of the claims 174-178, wherein the information written to the RFID device (100) comprises information about an intended customer, such as, for example, customer name, customer location, and/or customer contact

180. A laminate (10), a garment piece (60, 70, 80, 90) and/or a garment (65, 75, 85, 95) as set forth in any of the claims 174-179, wherein the information written to the RFID device (100) comprises information about inventory, such as, for example, product number, and/or store-shelf counting mechanism.

181. A laminate (10), a garment piece (60, 70, 80, 90) and/or a garment (65, 75, 85, 95) as set forth in any of the claims 174-180, wherein the information written to the RFID device (100) comprises information about an end user, such as, for example, name, medication, dietary restrictions, last-change time, emergency contact information, allergies, living will provisions, and/or temperature.

182. A laminate (10), a garment piece (60, 70, 80, 90) and/or a garment (65, 75, 85, 95) as set forth in any of the preceding 161-181 claims, wherein the RFID device (100) is activatable by, for example, moisture, gasses, breathing movement, temperature, and/or movement through a security boundary

183. A laminate (10), a garment piece (60, 70, 80, 90) and/or a garment (65, 75, 85, 95) as set forth in any of the preceding 161-182 claims, wherein the RFID device (100) includes a sensor and stores information sensed by the sensor, such as, for example, temperature, breathing, pulse, and/or movement/location.

184. A laminate (10), a garment piece (60, 70, 80, 90) and/or a garment (65, 75, 85, 95) as set forth in any of the preceding 161-183 claims, wherein the RFID device (100) has an operating parameter that is changed upon occurrence of a predetermined event such as, for example, activation, unfolding, moisture, temperature, and/or movement through a security boundary.

185. A laminate (10), a garment piece (60, 70, 80, 90) and/or a garment (65, 75, 85, 95) as set forth in any of the preceding 161-184 claims, wherein the RFID device (100) includes an alterable portion that, upon the occurrence of predetermined event (e.g., physical, chemical, electric, etc.) it inactivated.

186. A laminate (10), a garment piece (60, 70, 80, 90) and/or a garment (65, 75, 85, 95) as set forth in claim 185, wherein the alterable portion affects the range in which the device may be read. 187 A laminate (10), a garment piece (60, 70, 80, 90) and/or a garment (65, 75, 85, 95) as set forth in claim 186, wherein a user can inactivate the alterable portion so that the device (100) cannot be read at a long range

188 A laminate (10), a garment piece (60, 70, 80, 90) and/or a garment (65, 75, 85, 95) as set forth in any of claims 185-187, wherein the RFID device (100) includes a permanent portion that remains activatable

189 A laminate (10), a garment piece (60, 70, 80, 90) and/or a garment (65, 75, 85, 95) as set forth in claim 188, wherein the permanent portion cannot be read at long range without the alterable portion (prior to inactivation)

190 A laminate (10), a garment piece (60, 70, 80, 90) and/or a garment (65, 75, 85, 95) as set forth in either of claims 188-189, wherein the alterable portion is antennaless and wherein the permanent portion is an antenna