Abstract: A disposable diaper, having a body covering a desired part of the human body, a central absorber provided at the center of the body, expandable portions provided to the opposite sides of the central absorber, and peripheral absorbers extending outside the expandable portions. The diaper has an improved fit and feel, and an improved closeness of boundary fit so as to better prevent urine leaks.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for producing sanitary articles having a body contact layer of a body fluid permeable sheet, an absorptive pad and a cover layer of a body fluid impermeable sheet are disclosed. The apparatus includes a drum having a stationary flange and a rotatable drum portion. A plurality of dies are mounted on the circumferential surface of the rotable drum in a side-by-side relationship. A strip of fluid impermeable sheet is wound around about half of the circumference of the rotary drum. As the rotary drum rotates, the fluid impermeable sheet is forced by fluid pressure into the cavities of the dies, deforming the sheet to form pockets therein for receiving the absorptive pads. The fluid permeable sheet is brought into contact with the fluid impermeable sheet near the bottom of the drum while introducing absorptive members into the formed pockets. The superposed sheets are thermally fused together by means of a heat seal roller.