Patent Publication Number: US-2023157900-A1

Title: Method and apparatus for assembling absorbent articles

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/830,452, filed on Jun. 2, 2022, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/350,240, filed on Jun. 17, 2021, now issued U.S. Pat. No. 11,328,798 on Jul. 12, 2022, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16,740,814, filed on Jan. 13, 2020, now issued as U.S. Pat. No. 11,071,654, on Jul. 27, 2021, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/674,563, filed on Aug. 11, 2017, now issued as U.S. Pat. No. 10,568,775, on Feb. 25, 2020, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Nos. 62/374,010, filed on Aug. 12, 2016; 62/406,025, filed on Oct. 10, 2016; and 62/419,515, filed on Nov. 9, 2016, the entireties of which are all fully incorporated by reference herein. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present disclosure relates to methods for manufacturing absorbent articles, and more particularly, to apparatuses and methods for assembling elastic laminates for making absorbent article components. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Along an assembly line, various types of articles, such as for example, diapers and other absorbent articles, may be assembled by adding components to and/or otherwise modifying an advancing, continuous web of material. For example, in some processes, advancing webs of material are combined with other advancing webs of material. In other examples, individual components created from advancing webs of material are combined with advancing webs of material, which in turn, are then combined with other advancing webs of material. In some cases, individual components created from advancing web or webs are combined with other individual components created from other advancing web or webs. Webs of material and component parts used to manufacture diapers may include: backsheets, topsheets, leg cuffs, waist bands, absorbent core components, front and/or back ears, and fastening components. Once the desired component parts are assembled, the advancing web(s) and component parts are subjected to a final knife cut to separate the web(s) into discrete diapers or other absorbent articles. 
     Some diaper components, such as leg elastics, barrier leg cuff elastics, stretch side panels, and waist elastics, are constructed from elastic laminates. Such elastic laminates may be assembled in various ways depending on the particular diaper design. For example, some elastic laminates may be constructed from one or more nonwoven substrates bonded to an elastic film. In some configurations, the elastic film may be stretched and then bonded with the nonwoven substrates to form an elastic laminate. 
     Some existing elastic laminate assembly operations may have certain drawbacks. For example, manufacturing operations may be configured with machines adapted to grip and stretch the films before bonding. However, while gripping the films during the stretching operation, the machines may tear or pierce the films. In addition, with some gripping operations, relatively large portions of the film may remain unstretched in the assembled elastic laminate. As such, the unstretched and/or damaged portions of the film may add no benefit with respect to the desired elasticity of the assembled elastic laminate, and thus, may represent wasted material and expense. In some assembly operations, the elastic laminate may be slit through both the film and nonwovens along the machine direction into two lanes, wherein each lane of elastic laminate may then be combined with additional components and/or substrates, and subsequently converted into discrete diaper components. However, the slit edge of the elastic laminate having exposed elastic film may detract from the aesthetics of the final component assembly incorporating the slit laminate. 
     Consequently, it would be beneficial to provide methods and apparatuses for assembling elastic laminates that are configured to minimize damaged and/or unstretched portions of films incorporated therein, and may also be configured to eliminate the need to slit the laminate through the film to help maximize the aesthetic appearance of the laminate when placed in an assembled product. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present disclosure relates to assembling elastic laminates that may be used to make absorbent article components. Aspects of the apparatus and method involve an anvil adapted to rotate about an axis of rotation, wherein first and second spreader mechanisms adjacent the anvil roll are axially and angularly displaced from each other with respect to the axis of rotation. During the assembly process, at least one substrate, such as a nonwoven, may be advanced in a machine direction onto the rotating anvil. The first spreader mechanism operates to stretch a first elastic material in the cross direction, and the second spreader mechanism operates to stretch a second elastic material in the cross direction. In some configurations, the first and/or second elastic materials may be elastic films and/or elastic laminates. The stretched first and second elastic materials advance from the spreader mechanisms and onto the at least one substrate on the anvil roll. The combined at least one substrate and elastic materials may then be ultrasonically bonded together on the anvil to form at least one elastic laminate. 
     In one form, a method for assembling elastic laminates comprises the steps of: providing a first substrate a comprising a first surface and an opposing second surface, and defining a width in a cross direction; wrapping the first surface of the first substrate onto an outer circumferential surface of an anvil; providing a first elastic material and a second elastic material, the first elastic material and the second elastic material each comprising a first edge region and a second edge region separated from the first edge region in the cross direction by a central region; stretching the central region of the first elastic material in the cross direction; and stretching the central region of the second elastic material in the cross direction. The method may include advancing the first elastic material onto the anvil at a first application zone, wherein the stretched central region of the first elastic material is positioned in contact with the second surface of the first substrate; and advancing the second elastic material onto the anvil at a second application zone downstream of the first application zone, wherein the stretched central region of the second elastic material is positioned in contact with the second surface of the first substrate, and wherein the second elastic material is separated from the first elastic material in a cross direction. The stretched central regions of the first and second elastic materials may be ultrasonically bonded with the first substrate, forming an elastic laminate. The elastic laminate may be cut in the machine direction into a first elastic laminate and a second elastic laminate. 
     In another form, a method for assembling elastic laminates comprises the steps of: providing a first substrate a comprising a first surface and an opposing second surface, and defining a width in a cross direction; wrapping the first surface of the first substrate onto an outer circumferential surface of an anvil; providing a first elastic material and a second elastic material, the first elastic material and the second elastic material each comprising a first edge region and a second edge region separated from the first edge region in the cross direction by a central region; stretching the central region of the first elastic material in the cross direction; and stretching the central region of the second elastic material in the cross direction. The method may include advancing the first elastic material onto the anvil, wherein the stretched central region of the first elastic material is positioned in contact with the second surface of the first substrate; and advancing the second elastic material onto the anvil, wherein the stretched central region of the second elastic material is positioned in contact with the second surface of the first substrate, and wherein the second elastic material is separated from the first elastic material in a cross direction. The stretched central regions of the first and second elastic materials may be ultrasonically bonded with the first substrate to form an elastic laminate, and the elastic laminate may be cut along the machine direction into a first elastic laminate and a second elastic laminate. 
     In yet another form, a method for assembling elastic laminates comprises the steps of: advancing a first substrate in a machine direction onto a rotating anvil; providing a first elastic material and a second elastic material, the first elastic material and the second elastic material each comprising a first edge region and a second edge region separated from the first edge region in the cross direction by a central region; and providing a first spreader mechanism and a second spreader mechanism, the first and second spreader mechanisms each comprising a first disk and a second disk canted relative each other, each disk comprising an outer rim, wherein as the first and second disks rotate, the outer rims are separated from each other by a distance that increases from a minimum distance at a first location to a maximum distance at a second location. The method further includes advancing the first elastic material onto the first spreader mechanism at or downstream of the first location; stretching the central region of the first elastic material in the cross direction by rotating the first disk and the second disk of the first spreader mechanism; removing the first elastic material from the first spreader mechanism at or upstream of the second location; and transferring the first elastic material from the first spreader mechanism onto the first substrate on the anvil at a first application zone. The method may also include advancing the second elastic material onto the second spreader mechanism at or downstream of the first location; stretching the central region of the second elastic material in the cross direction by rotating the first disk and the second disk of the second spreader mechanism; removing the second elastic material from the second spreader mechanism at or upstream of the second location; and transferring the second elastic material from the second spreader mechanism onto the first substrate on the anvil at a second application zone. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG.  1 A  is a schematic side view of an apparatus for assembling an elastic laminate. 
         FIG.  1 B  is a top side view of the apparatus from  FIG.  1 A  taken along line  1 B- 1 B. 
         FIG.  1 C  is a left side view of the apparatus from  FIG.  1 B  taken along line  1 C- 1 C. 
         FIG.  1 D  is a right side view of the apparatus from  FIG.  1 B  taken along line  1 D- 1 D. 
         FIG.  1 E  is a detailed view of a first spreader mechanism from  FIG.  1 C  taken along line  1 E- 1 E. 
         FIG.  1 F  is a detailed view of a second spreader mechanism from  FIG.  1 D  taken along line  1 F- 1 F. 
         FIG.  1 G  is a detailed view of radially protruding nubs on an outer rim of a disk. 
         FIG.  1 HA  is a detailed view of an anvil from  FIG.  1 B  taken along line  1 HA- 1 HA. 
         FIG.  1 HB  is a detailed view of the anvil from  FIG.  1 HA  taken along line  1 HB- 1 HB. 
         FIG.  2 A  is a schematic side view of an apparatus operating to assemble an elastic laminate. 
         FIG.  2 B  is a left side view of the apparatus from  FIG.  2 A  taken along line  2 B- 2 B. 
         FIG.  2 C  is a right side view of the apparatus from  FIG.  2 A  taken along line  2 C- 2 C. 
         FIG.  2 D  is a top side view of the elastic laminates and apparatus from  FIG.  2 A  taken along line  2 D- 2 D. 
         FIG.  2 E  is a detailed view of a first elastic material advancing on a first spreader mechanism from  FIGS.  2 B and  3 B  taken along line  2 E- 2 E. 
         FIG.  2 F  is a detailed view of a second elastic material advancing on a second spreader mechanism from  FIGS.  2 C and  3 C  taken along line  2 F- 2 F. 
         FIG.  2 G  is a cross sectional view of the first elastic laminate and the second elastic laminate from  FIG.  2 A  taken along line  2 G- 2 G. 
         FIG.  2 H  is a cross-sectional view of the first elastic laminate and the second elastic laminate from  FIG.  2 G  in a relaxed, contracted condition. 
         FIG.  3 A  is a schematic side view of an apparatus operating to assemble elastic laminates. 
         FIG.  3 B  is a left side view of the apparatus from  FIG.  3 A  taken along line  3 B- 3 B. 
         FIG.  3 C  is a right side view of the apparatus from  FIG.  3 A  taken along line  3 C- 3 C. 
         FIG.  3 D  is a top side view of the elastic laminate and apparatus from  FIG.  3 A  taken along line  3 D- 3 D. 
         FIG.  3 E  is a cross sectional view of an elastic laminate from  FIG.  3 A  taken along line  3 E- 3 E. 
         FIG.  3 F  is a cross sectional view of the first elastic laminate and the second elastic laminate from  FIG.  3 A  taken along line  3 F- 3 F. 
         FIG.  3 G  is a cross-sectional view of the first elastic laminate and the second elastic laminate from  FIG.  3 F  in a relaxed, contracted condition. 
         FIG.  3 H  is a cross-sectional view of the elastic laminate from  FIG.  3 E  in a relaxed, contracted condition. 
         FIG.  4 A  is a partially cut away plan view of an absorbent article in the form of a taped diaper that may include one or more elastic laminates manipulated during manufacture according to the apparatuses and methods disclosed herein with the portion of the diaper that faces away from a wearer oriented towards the viewer. 
         FIG.  4 B  is a plan view of the absorbent article of  FIG.  4 A  that may include one or more elastic laminates manipulated during manufacture according to the apparatuses and methods disclosed herein with the portion of the diaper that faces toward a wearer oriented towards the viewer. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     The following term explanations may be useful in understanding the present disclosure: 
     “Absorbent article” is used herein to refer to consumer products whose primary function is to absorb and retain soils and wastes. “Diaper” is used herein to refer to an absorbent article generally worn by infants and incontinent persons about the lower torso. The term “disposable” is used herein to describe absorbent articles which generally are not intended to be laundered or otherwise restored or reused as an absorbent article (e.g., they are intended to be discarded after a single use and may also be configured to be recycled, composted or otherwise disposed of in an environmentally compatible manner). 
     An “elastic,” “elastomer” or “elastomeric” refers to materials exhibiting elastic properties, which include any material that upon application of a force to its relaxed, initial length can stretch or elongate to an elongated length more than 10% greater than its initial length and will substantially recover back to about its initial length upon release of the applied force. 
     As used herein, the term “joined” encompasses configurations whereby an element is directly secured to another element by affixing the element directly to the other element, and configurations whereby an element is indirectly secured to another element by affixing the element to intermediate member(s) which in turn are affixed to the other element. 
     The term “substrate” is used herein to describe a material which is primarily two-dimensional (i.e. in an XY plane) and whose thickness (in a Z direction) is relatively small (i.e. 1/10 or less) in comparison to its length (in an X direction) and width (in a Y direction). Non-limiting examples of substrates include a web, layer or layers or fibrous materials, nonwovens, films and foils such as polymeric films or metallic foils. These materials may be used alone or may comprise two or more layers laminated together. As such, a web is a substrate. 
     The term “nonwoven” refers herein to a material made from continuous (long) filaments (fibers) and/or discontinuous (short) filaments (fibers) by processes such as spunbonding, meltblowing, carding, and the like. Nonwovens do not have a woven or knitted filament pattern. 
     The term “machine direction” (MD) is used herein to refer to the direction of material flow through a process. In addition, relative placement and movement of material can be described as flowing in the machine direction through a process from upstream in the process to downstream in the process. 
     The term “cross direction” (CD) is used herein to refer to a direction that is generally perpendicular to the machine direction. 
     The present disclosure relates to apparatuses and methods for manufacturing absorbent articles, and more particularly, apparatuses and methods for assembling elastic laminates that may be used to make absorbent article components. Particular aspects of the present disclosure involve an anvil adapted to rotate about an axis of rotation. First and second spreader mechanisms adjacent the anvil roll are axially and angularly displaced from each other with respect to the axis of rotation. During the assembly process, at least first and second substrates may be advanced in a machine direction onto the rotating anvil, wherein the substrates are separated from each other in a cross direction. In some configurations, the substrates may be nonwovens. The first spreader mechanism operates to stretch a first elastic material in the cross direction, and the second spreader mechanism operates to stretch a second elastic material in the cross direction. In some configurations, the first and/or second elastic materials may be elastic films and/or elastic laminates. The stretched first and second elastic materials advance from the spreader mechanisms and onto respective first and second substrates on the anvil roll. The combined substrates and elastic materials are then ultrasonically bonded together on the anvil to form first and second elastic laminates. In some configurations, a single elastic laminate may be assembled on the anvil and subsequently slit into two or more separate elastic laminates. For example, a first substrate may be advanced in a machine direction onto the rotating anvil, and stretched first and second elastic materials advance from the spreader mechanisms onto the first substrate on the anvil roll. A second substrate is combined with the first substrate, first elastic material, and second elastic material and ultrasonically bonded together to form an elastic laminate. The elastic laminate is then separated along the machine direction in a central region between the first and second elastic materials to form first and second elastic laminates. The first and second elastic laminates may then advance from the anvil and may be subject to subsequent manufacturing operations and converted into absorbent article components. 
     As discussed below in more detail, the spreader mechanism configurations help to minimize damaged and/or unstretched portions of elastic materials incorporated into the elastic laminates. In some configurations, the relative placement of the spreader mechanisms help to enable the assembly of more than one elastic laminate on a single anvil, and thus, may eliminate the need to create more than one elastic laminate by subsequently slitting an assembled elastic laminate. In other configurations, the relative placement of the spreader mechanisms help to enable the assembly of one elastic laminate on a single anvil that is subsequently slit into more than one elastic laminate without having to cut through both the elastic materials and substrates. 
     It is to be appreciated that aspects of the methods and apparatuses herein may be configured in various ways. To help provide additional context to a subsequent discussion of the method configurations, the following provides a description of apparatuses that may be configured to operate in accordance with the methods disclosed herein. 
       FIGS.  1 A- 1 D  show schematic side views of an apparatus  100  configured to assemble elastic laminates. As shown in  FIGS.  1 A- 1 D , the apparatus includes an anvil  102  having a cylindrically-shaped outer circumferential surface  104  and adapted to rotate in a first direction Dir 1  about a first axis of rotation  106 . Although the first direction Dir 1  is depicted in  FIG.  1 A  as clockwise, it is to be appreciated that the anvil  100  may be configured to rotate such that the first direction Dir 1  is counterclockwise. The anvil roll  100  may extend axially for a length between a first end  108  and a second end  110 . As discussed in more detail below, substrates and elastic materials may be combined on the rotating anvil  102  to form at least two elastic laminates. It is to be appreciated that the substrates and elastic materials may be configured in various ways. For example, the substrates may be configured as nonwovens, and the elastic materials may be configured as elastic films and/or elastic laminates. As shown in  FIG.  1 B , the anvil  102 , and more particularly, the outer circumferential surface  104  may also be fluidly connected with a vacuum pressure source  105 . As such, vacuum air pressure may be used to help hold the substrates and elastic materials onto the outer circumferential surface  104  of the anvil  102  during operation. 
     With continued reference to  FIGS.  1 A- 1 D , the apparatus  100  may also include a first spreader mechanism  112  and a second spread mechanism  114 . As discussed in more detail below, the first and second spreader mechanisms  112 ,  114  operate to stretch elastic materials during the elastic laminate assembly process, and the stretched elastic materials are advanced from the spreader mechanisms  112 ,  114  onto substrates on the rotating anvil  102 . As shown in  FIG.  1 A , the first spreader mechanism  112  is angularly displaced from the second spreader mechanism  114  with respect to the first axis of rotation  106 . It is to be appreciated that the apparatus  100  may be configured with various different angular displacements between the first spreader mechanism  112  and the second spreader mechanism  114 . As shown in  FIG.  1 B , the first spreader mechanism  112  is also axially displaced from the second spreader mechanism  114  along the first axis of rotation  106 . 
     As shown in  FIGS.  1 A- 1 F , each spreader mechanism  112 ,  114  includes a first disk  116  and a second disk  118 , wherein the first disk  116  is displaced from the second disk  118  along the axis of rotation  106 . The first disk  116  is adapted to rotate about an axis of rotation  116   a  and the second disk  118  is adapted to rotate about an axis of rotation  118   a , wherein the first and second disks  116 ,  118  rotate in a second direction Dir 2  that is opposite the first direction Dir 1 . Although the second direction Dir 2  is depicted in  FIG.  1 A  as counterclockwise, it is to be appreciated that the disks  116 ,  118  may be configured to rotate such that the second direction Dir 2  is clockwise. In addition, the first disk  116  includes an outer rim  116   b  extending axially between an inner edge  116   c  and an outer edge  116   d , and the second disk  118  includes an outer rim  118   b  extending axially between an inner edge  118   c  and an outer edge  118   d.    
     As shown in  FIGS.  1 A,  1 B,  1 E, and  1 F , the first disk  116  and the second disk  118  are canted relative to each other such that the outer rims  116   b ,  118   b  are separated from each other by a distance D that increases from a minimum distance Dmin at a first location  120  to a maximum distance Dmax at a second location  122 . As discussed below, elastic materials, such as elastic films, are advanced in a machine direction MD onto the outer rims  116   b ,  118   b  during operation. Because the first and second disks  116 ,  118  are canted, rotation of the disks  116 ,  118  causes the rims  116   b ,  118   b  to pull on edges regions of elastic materials and stretch the elastic materials in a cross direction CD before the elastic materials advance onto the anvil  102 . As such, the disks  116 ,  118  may also be configured to help grip opposing edge regions of the elastic material during operation. For example, with particular reference to  FIGS.  1 E and  1 F , the first disk  116  and the second disk  118  may each include a channel  124  extending radially inward from the rims  116   b ,  118   b . In turn, the channels  124  may be fluidly connected with a vacuum pressure source  129 . As such, vacuum air pressure may be used to help hold the elastic materials onto the rims  116   b ,  118   b  during operation. The disks  116 ,  118  may also include support members  126  extending across the channels  124  to the help prevent the elastic materials from being drawn into the channels  124  by the vacuum air pressure. As shown in  FIGS.  1 E,  1 F, and  1 G , the disks  116 ,  118  may also include nubs  128  that protrude radially outward from the rims  116   b ,  118   b . As such, the nubs  128  may also act to help prevent the edge regions of the elastic materials from sliding along the rims  116   b ,  118   b  while stretching the elastic materials. It is to be appreciated that additional nubs  128  may be positioned inboard or outboard of the channels  124 . In addition, nubs  128  may also be positioned on the support members  126 . 
     As mentioned above, stretched elastic materials and substrates are combined on the anvil  102 . The combined substrates and elastic materials may then be ultrasonically bonded together on the anvil  102  to form elastic laminates. As shown in  FIGS.  1 A,  1 C, and  1 D , the apparatus  100  may include one or more ultrasonic mechanisms  130  adjacent the anvil  102 . It is to be appreciated that the ultrasonic mechanism  130  may include a horn  132  and may be configured to impart ultrasonic energy to the combined substrates and elastic materials on the anvil  102 . As shown in  FIGS.  1 HA and  1 HB , the anvil roll  102  may include a plurality of pattern elements  134  extending radially outward from the outer circumferential surface  104  of the anvil  102 . As such, the ultrasonic mechanism may apply energy to the horn  132  to create resonance of the horn at frequencies and amplitudes so the horn  132  vibrates rapidly in a direction generally perpendicular to the substrates and elastic materials being advanced past the horn  132  on the rotating anvil  102 . Vibration of the horn  132  generates heat to melt and bond the substrates and elastic material together in areas supported by the pattern elements  134  on the anvil  102 . It is to be appreciated that aspects of the ultrasonic mechanisms may be configured in various ways, such as disclosed for example in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,113,225; 3,562,041; 3,733,238; 6,036,796; 6,508,641; and 6,645,330. In some configurations, the ultrasonic mechanism may be configured as a linear oscillating type sonotrode, such as for example, available from Herrmann Ultrasonic, Inc. In some configurations, the sonotrode may include a plurality of sonotrodes nested together in the cross direction CD. 
     As previously mentioned, the apparatus  100  described above with reference to  FIGS.  1 A- 1 HB  may operate to assemble elastic laminates configured in various ways. For example,  FIGS.  2 A- 2 F  show various schematic views of the apparatus  100  operating to assemble a first elastic laminate  200  and a second elastic laminate  202 . 
     As shown in  FIGS.  2 A and  2 B , a first substrate  204  and a second substrate  206  advance in a machine direction MD onto the rotating anvil  102 . More particularly, the first substrate  204  includes a first surface  208  and an opposing second surface  210 , and the first substrate  204  advances to wrap the first surface  208  onto the outer circumferential surface  104  of the rotating anvil  102 . Similarly, the second substrate  206  includes a first surface  212  and an opposing second surface  214 , and the second substrate  206  advances to wrap the first surface  212  onto the outer circumferential surface  104  of the rotating anvil  102 . As shown in  FIG.  2 B , the first substrate  204  and the second substrate  206  are separated from each other in the cross direction CD. It also to be appreciated that the first substrate  204  and the second substrate  206  may be formed by slitting a single substrate along the machine direction MD before or after advancement onto the anvil  102 . 
     As shown in  FIGS.  2 A- 2 C , during the assembly process, a first elastic material  216  is stretched in the cross direction CD and is positioned into contact with the second surface  210  of the first substrate  204 . With particular reference to  FIG.  2 E , the first elastic material  216  includes a first edge region  216   a  and a second edge region  216   b  separated from the first edge region  216   a  in the cross direction CD by a central region  216   c . As shown in  FIG.  2 A , the first elastic material  216  advances in a machine direction MD onto the first spreader mechanism  112  at or downstream of the first location  120 . In particular, the first edge region  216   a  of the first elastic material  216  advances onto the outer rim  116   b  of the first disk  116  of the first spreader mechanism  112 , and the second edge region  216   b  advances onto the outer rim  118   b  of the second disk  118 . As previously discussed with reference to  FIG.  1 E , the outer rims  116   b ,  118   b  of the first and second disks  116 ,  118  of the first spreader mechanism  112  may include channels  124  fluidly connected to a vacuum pressure source  129  and may include radially protruding nubs  128 . Thus, as shown in  FIG.  2 E , the first edge region  216   a  of the first elastic material  216  may be held in position on the outer rim  116   b  with vacuum air pressure in the channels  124  and with the radially protruding nubs  128 . Similarly, the second edge region  216   b  of the first elastic material  216  may be held in position on the outer rim  118   b  with vacuum air pressure in the channels  124  and with the radially protruding nubs  128 . 
     With continued reference to  FIG.  2 E , as the first disk  116  and the second disk  118  of the first spreader mechanism  112  rotate, the central region  216   c  of the first elastic material  216  is stretched in the cross direction CD. Because the first and second edge regions  216   a ,  216   b  are held in position on the outer rims  116   b ,  118   b , some portions of the first and second edge regions  216   a ,  216   b  may remain unstretched in the cross direction CD as the first and second disks  116 ,  118  rotate. Referring now to the  FIGS.  2 A and  2 B , the first elastic material  216  advances from the first spreader mechanism  112  and is transferred onto the second surface  210  of the first substrate  204  on the anvil  102  at a first application zone  136 . It is to be appreciated that during the transfer from the first spreader mechanism  112  to the anvil  102 , the first elastic material  216  may be removed from the first spreader mechanism  112  at or upstream of the second location  122 . As previously mentioned, the outer circumferential surface  104  of the anvil  102  may be fluidly connected with the vacuum source  105 , and as such, vacuum air pressure may be applied to the first substrate  204  on the anvil  102 . In addition, when the first substrate  204  is configured as a porous substrate, such as a nonwoven, vacuum air pressure may also be applied to the first elastic material  216  on the anvil  102 , and as such, may help maintain the stretched condition of the central region  216   c  of the first elastic material  216  while on the anvil  102 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  2 A and  2 C , during the assembly process, a second elastic material  218  is stretched in the cross direction CD and is positioned into contact with the second surface  214  of the second substrate  206 . With particular reference to  FIG.  2 F , the second elastic material  218  includes a first edge region  218   a  and a second edge region  218   b  separated from the first edge region  218   a  in the cross direction CD by a central region  218   c . As shown in  FIG.  2 A , the second elastic material  218  advances in a machine direction MD onto the second spreader mechanism  114  at or downstream of the first location  120 . In particular, the first edge region  218   a  of the second elastic material  218  advances onto the outer rim  116   b  of the first disk  116  of the second spreader mechanism  114 , and the second edge region  218   b  advances onto the outer rim  118   b  of the second disk  118 . As previously discussed with reference to  FIG.  1 F , the outer rims  116   b ,  118   b  of the first and second disks  116 ,  118  of the second spreader mechanism  114  may include channels  124  fluidly connected to a vacuum pressure source  129  and may include radially protruding nubs  128 . Thus, as shown in  FIG.  2 F , the first edge region  218   a  of the second elastic material  218  may be held in position on the outer rim  116   b  with vacuum air pressure in the channels  124  and with the radially protruding nubs  128 . Similarly, the second edge region  218   b  of the second elastic material  218  may be held in position on the outer rim  118   b  with vacuum air pressure in the channels  124  and with the radially protruding nubs  128 . With continued reference to  FIG.  2 F , as the first disk  116  and the second disk  118  of the second spreader mechanism  114  rotate, the central region  218   c  of the second elastic material  218  is stretched in the cross direction CD. Because the first and second edge regions  218   a ,  218   b  are held in position on the outer rims  116   b ,  118   b , some portions of the first and second edge regions  218   a ,  218   b  may remain unstretched in the cross direction CD as the first and second disks  116 ,  118  rotate. As previously mentioned, nubs  128  and/or vacuum air pressure in the channels  124  may be used to help held the elastic materials  216 ,  218  onto the rims  116   b ,  118   b  during operation. As such, the nubs  128  and channels  124  may be configured to help reduce widths of unstretched portions of the first and second edge regions  216   a ,  216   b ,  218   a ,  218   b  in the cross direction CD. For example, in some configurations, the widths of unstretched portions of the first and second edge regions  216   a ,  216   b ,  218   a ,  218   b  in the cross direction CD may about 3 mm or less. 
     As shown in  FIGS.  2 E and  2 F , the outer rims  116   b ,  118   b  of the first and second disks  116 ,  118  may extend outboard in the cross direction CD from the outer edges of the elastic materials  216 ,  218 . The extended portions of the outer rims  116   b ,  118   b  may help provide additional support for the elastic materials  216 ,  218  and may help prevent edge foldovers during the transition to the anvil  102 . In some configurations, a series of grooves may be cut into the rims  116   b ,  118   b  help constrain the edge regions  216   a ,  216   b ,  218   a ,  218   b  of the elastic materials  216 ,  218 . 
     Referring now to the  FIGS.  2 A and  2 C , the second elastic material  218  advances from the second spreader mechanism  114  and is transferred onto the second surface  214  of the second substrate  206  on the anvil  102  at a second application zone  138 . As previously mentioned, the first spreader mechanism  112  is angularly displaced from the second spreader mechanism  114  with respect to the first axis of rotation  106 . As such, the second application zone  138  is positioned downstream of the first application zone  136 . It is to be appreciated that during the transfer from the second spreader mechanism  114  to the anvil  102 , the second elastic material  218  may be removed from the second spreader mechanism  114  at or upstream of the second location  122 . As previously mentioned, the outer circumferential surface  104  of the anvil  102  may be fluidly connected with the vacuum source  105 , and as such, vacuum air pressure may be applied to the second substrate  206  on the anvil  102 . In addition, when the second substrate  206  is configured as a porous substrate, such as a nonwoven, vacuum air pressure may also be applied to the second elastic material  218  on the anvil  102 , and as such, may help maintain the stretched condition of the central region  218   c  of the second elastic material  218  while on the anvil  102 . 
     As shown in  FIGS.  2 A- 2 C , the first elastic laminate  200  may be formed by ultrasonically bonding the first substrate  204  and first elastic material  216  together with a third substrate  220  on the anvil  102 , and the second elastic laminate  202  may be formed by ultrasonically bonding the second substrate  206  and second elastic material  218  together with a fourth substrate  222  on the anvil  102 . More particularly, the third substrate  220  includes a first surface  224  and an opposing second surface  226 , and the third substrate  220  advances to position the first surface  224  in contact with first elastic material  216  and the second surface  210  of the first substrate  204 . In addition, the fourth substrate  222  includes a first surface  228  and an opposing second surface  230 , and the fourth substrate  222  advances to position the first surface  228  in contact with second elastic material  218  and the second surface  214  of the second substrate  206 . It is also to be appreciated that the third substrate  220  and the fourth substrate  222  may be formed by slitting a single substrate along the machine direction MD before or after advancement onto the anvil  102 . 
     With continued reference to  FIGS.  2 A- 2 C , as the anvil  102  rotates, the first substrate  204 , the first elastic material  216 , and the third substrate  220  are advanced between the outer circumferential surface  104  of the anvil  102  and the ultrasonic horn  132 . In addition, the second substrate  206 , the second elastic material  218 , and the third substrate  222  are advanced between the outer circumferential surface  104  of the anvil  102  and the ultrasonic horn  132 . In turn, the ultrasonic horn  132  bonds the first substrate  204 , the first elastic material  216 , and the third substrate  220  together to form the first elastic laminate  200 . Similarly, the ultrasonic horn  132  bonds the second substrate  206 , the second elastic material  218 , and the fourth substrate  222  together to form the first elastic laminate  200 . As shown in  FIGS.  2 A,  2 E, and  2 G , the first elastic laminate  200  and the second elastic laminate  202  may then advance from the anvil  102 .  FIG.  2 H  also shows the first elastic laminate  200  and the second elastic laminate  202  in relaxed states wherein the central region  216   c  of the first elastic material  216  is contracted in the cross direction CD and wherein the central region  218   c  of the second elastic material  218  is contracted in the cross direction CD. 
     During the ultrasonic bonding process, it is to be appreciated that bonds imparted into the first and second elastic laminates  200 ,  202  from the ultrasonic horn  132  may correspond with patterns and/or shapes defined by the plurality of pattern elements  134  extending radially outward from the outer circumferential surface  104  of the anvil  102 . It is to be appreciated that the first elastic laminate  200  may include various portions of components bonded together in various ways and with differing or identical bond patterns. For example, the unstretched portions of the first and second edge regions  216   a ,  216   b  of the first elastic material  216  may be bonded together with the first and/or third substrates  204 ,  220 . In addition, the stretched central region  216   c  of the first elastic material  216  may be bonded together with the first and/or third substrates  204 ,  220 . Further the first substrate  204  may be bonded directly to the third substrate  220  in areas of the first elastic laminate  200 . It is also to be appreciated that the second elastic laminate  202  may include various portions of components bonded together in various ways and with differing or identical bond patterns. For example, the unstretched portions of the first and second edge regions  218   a ,  218   b  of the second elastic material  218  may be bonded together with the second and/or fourth substrates  206 ,  222 . In addition, the stretched central region  218   c  of the second elastic material  218  may be bonded together with the second and/or fourth substrates  206 ,  222 . Further the second substrate  206  may be bonded directly to the fourth substrate  222  in areas of the second elastic laminate  202 . It is to be appreciated that the apparatus  100  may be adapted to create various types of bond configurations, such as disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 6,572,595. 
     As previously mentioned, the apparatus  100  described above with reference to  FIGS.  1 A- 1 HB  may operate to assemble elastic laminates configured in various ways. For example,  FIGS.  3 A- 3 F  show various schematic views of the apparatus  100  operating to assemble an elastic laminate  232  that is subsequently slit along the machine direction MD into a first elastic laminate  200  and a second elastic laminate  202 . 
     As shown in  FIGS.  3 A and  3 B , a first substrate  234  advances in a machine direction MD onto the rotating anvil  102 . More particularly, the first substrate  234  includes a first surface  236  and an opposing second surface  238 , and the first substrate  234  advances to wrap the first surface  236  onto the outer circumferential surface  104  of the rotating anvil  102 . As described above with reference to  FIGS.  2 A and  2 E , the first elastic material  216  advances in a machine direction MD onto the first spreader mechanism  112  and is stretched in the cross direction CD. As shown in  FIGS.  3 A- 3 C , the first elastic material  216  advances from the first spreader mechanism  112  and is transferred onto the second surface  238  of the first substrate  234  on the anvil  102  at the first application zone  136 . As shown in  FIG.  3 B , the first substrate  234  may be wider than the first elastic material  216  along the cross direction CD. As described above with reference to  FIGS.  2 A and  2 F , the second elastic material  218  advances in a machine direction MD onto the second spreader mechanism  114  and is stretched in the cross direction CD. As shown in  FIGS.  3 A and  3 C , the second elastic material  218  advances from the second spreader mechanism  114  and is transferred onto the second surface  238  of the first substrate  234  on the anvil  102  at the second application zone  138 . The second elastic material  218  may be axially separated or spaced from the first elastic material  216  in the cross direction CD such that a cross directional gap exists between the first elastic material  216  and the second elastic material  218 . 
     As shown in  FIGS.  3 A- 3 C , an elastic laminate  232  may be formed by ultrasonically bonding the first substrate  234 , the first elastic material  216 , and the second elastic material  218  together with a second substrate  240  on the anvil  102 . More particularly, the second substrate  240  includes a first surface  242  and an opposing second surface  244 , and the second substrate  240  advances to position the first surface  242  in contact with first elastic material  216 , the second elastic material  218 , and the second surface  238  of the first substrate  234 . As the anvil  102  rotates, the first substrate  234 , the first elastic material  216 , the second elastic material  218 , and the second substrate  240  are advanced between the outer circumferential surface  104  of the anvil  102  and the ultrasonic horn  132 . In turn, the ultrasonic horn  132  bonds the first substrate  234 , the first elastic material  216 , and the second substrate  240  together and also bonds the first substrate  234 , the second elastic material  218 , and the second substrate  240  together to form the elastic laminate  232 , such as shown in  FIG.  3 E . 
     As shown in  FIGS.  3 A and  3 D , the elastic laminate  232  may then advance from the anvil  102  to a cutter  140 . In turn, the cutter  140  separates the elastic laminate  232  into the first elastic laminate  200  and the second elastic laminate  202 . It is to be appreciated that the cutter  140  may be configured in various ways. For example, in some embodiments the cutter  140  may be a slitter or a die cutter that separates the elastic laminate  232  into the first elastic laminate  200  and the second elastic laminate with either a straight line cut and/or a curved line cut extending in machine direction MD. The cutter  140  may also be configured as a perforator that perforates the elastic laminate  232  with a line of weakness and wherein the elastic laminate  232  is separated along the line of weakness in a later step. It is also to be appreciated that the cutter  140  may be configured to cut elastic laminate  232  into the first and second elastic laminates  200 ,  202  while the elastic laminate  232  is positioned on the anvil  104 . 
     In some configurations, the cutter  140  may cut the elastic laminate  232 , such as shown in  FIG.  3 E  along a line extending in the machine direction MD through a central region or location  232   c  of the elastic laminate  232 . As such, the elastic laminate  232  may be separated into the first elastic laminate  200  and the second elastic laminate  202 , such as shown in  FIG.  3 F . After slitting the elastic laminate  232 , the first elastic laminate  200  and the second elastic laminate  202  may be allowed to relax or contract in the cross direction CD, wherein the central region  216   c  of the first elastic material  216  is contracted in the cross direction CD and wherein the central region  218   c  of the second elastic material  218  is contracted in the cross direction CD, such as shown in  FIG.  3 G . In some configurations, such as shown in  FIG.  3 H , the elastic laminate  232  may be allowed to relax or contract in the cross direction CD before being separated by the cutter  140  into the first elastic laminate  200  and the second elastic laminate  202  such as shown in  FIG.  3 G . 
     As shown in  FIGS.  3 E and  3 H , the central region or location  232   c  of the elastic laminate  232  may be defined by an area between the first elastic material  216  and the second elastic material  218  where first substrate  234  and the second substrate  240  are bonded directly to each other. As such, slitting the elastic laminate  232  with the cutter  140  along the central region  232   c  may eliminate the need to also cut through the first elastic material  216  and/or the second elastic material  218  when creating the first and second elastic laminates  200 ,  202 . As such, the slit edges of the first and second elastic laminates  200 ,  202  may not have exposed elastic material  216 ,  218  and thus, may be relatively more aesthetically pleasing. 
     It is to be appreciated that aspects of the apparatus  100  herein may be configured to assemble elastic laminates from various types of material and/or components. For example, it is to be appreciated that the first substrate  204 , the second substrate  206 , the third substrate  220 , and/or the fourth substrate  222  discussed above with reference to  FIGS.  2 A- 2 HB  may be configured as the same or different types of materials. Similarly, it is to be appreciated that the first substrate  234  and the second substrate  240  discussed above with reference to  FIGS.  3 A- 3 H  may be configured as the same or different types of materials. For example, the substrates  204 ,  206 ,  220 ,  222 ,  234 ,  240  may be configured as single layer or multi-layer nonwovens. In some examples wherein the elastic laminates  200 ,  202  may be used to manufacture diaper components, the substrates  204 ,  206 ,  234  may define garment facing surfaces of the elastic laminates  200 ,  202  in diaper components, whereas the substrates  220 ,  222 ,  240  may define body facing surfaces of the elastic laminates  200 ,  202  in diaper components. As such, the substrates  204 ,  206 ,  234  may be configured as a relatively high cost, premium material for aesthetic purposes, such as soft feel and appearance. In contrast, the substrates  220 ,  222 ,  240  may be configured as a cost optimized nonwoven, a premium nonwoven marketed as soft against a wearer&#39;s skin, or a high coefficient of friction nonwoven for improved fit. In some examples, the substrates may be configured as a relatively low basis weight nonwoven intended define a wearer facing surface, which may help to reduce the changes of pressure marks on the baby&#39;s skin from corrugations in the elastic laminates. A relatively low basis weight nonwoven may also have a relatively low bending stiffness, and thus any corrugations against the wearer&#39;s skin collapse at a relatively lower forces. 
     As previously mentioned the first and second elastic materials  216 ,  218  may be configured in various ways and from various materials. For example, the elastic materials may be formed by any suitable method in the art, for example, by extruding molten thermoplastic and/or elastomeric polymers or polymer blends through a slit die and subsequently cooling the extruded sheet. Other non-limiting examples for making film forms include casting, blowing, solution casting, calendaring, and formation from aqueous or, non-aqueous cast dispersions. The elastomer composition of the present invention may be made into a film having a basis weight of from about 5 to about 150 g/m 2 . The elastic material can also be an apertured film made of elastomeric material to provide breathability. In some configurations, the first and second elastic materials include a nonwoven web of synthetic fibers. The web can be made of fibers from elastomers or can be mixture of elastomeric fibers with plastic fibers. The first and second elastic materials may also be configured as laminates including elastic material connected with and/or interposed between an outer layer and an inner layer. The elastic material may include one or more elastic elements such as strands, ribbons, or panels. Suitable elastomeric compositions for making elastic materials comprise thermoplastic elastomers selected from the group consisting of Styrenic block copolymers, poly-esters, polyurethanes, polyether amides, polyolefin elastomers, and combinations thereof. 
     It is to be appreciated that aspects of the apparatus  100  herein may be configured in various ways and may operate to assemble elastic laminates  200 ,  202  from various types of material and/or components. For example, it is to be appreciated that the in some configurations, the elastic laminate assembly operations may be performed separate to a final assembly process, such as for example, assembling the elastic laminates offline wherein the elastic laminates may be stored until needed for production. For example, elastic laminate assembly operations may be accomplished on discrete assembly lines, separately from converting lines that may be dedicated to manufacturing disposable absorbent articles. After assemblage on the discrete lines, the elastic laminates may be delivered to the absorbent article converting lines, such as in a form of rolls of continuous elastic laminates. It is to be appreciated that such rolls of continuous elastic laminates may be planetary wound or traversely wound. It is also appreciated that the elastic laminate assembly process may be done online during the article assembly process. 
     As discussed above, the first spreader mechanism  112  and the second spreader mechanism  114  are axially and angularly displaced from each other with respect to the axis of rotation  106  of the anvil  102 . Because the first spreader mechanism  112  is angularly displaced from the second spreader mechanism  114  with respect to the first axis of rotation  106 , the distance in the cross direction CD between the second disk  118  of the first spreader mechanism  112  and the first disk  116  of the second spreader mechanism  114  may be minimized without physical interference between the spreader mechanisms  112 ,  114 . In turn, the distance in the cross direction CD between inboard edges of the first elastic material  216  and second elastic material  218  on the anvil  102  may be minimized. 
     It is also to be appreciated that aspects of the spreader mechanisms  112 ,  114  may be configured to be independently controlled. For example, the cross direction CD positions of the spreader mechanisms  112 ,  114  relative to each other and/or the anvil  102  may be adjustable. In addition, the cross direction CD positions of the disks  116 ,  118  of each of the spreader mechanisms  112 ,  114  may be adjustable relative to each other. In addition, canting angles of the disks  116 ,  118  of each of the spreader mechanisms  112 ,  114  may be adjustable. The canting angle of the first disk  116  may be defined as an angular offset between the axis of rotation  116   a  of the first disk  116  and the axis of rotation  106  of the anvil  102 , and the canting angle of the second disk  118  may be defined as an angular offset between the axis of rotation  118   a  of the second disk  118  and the axis of rotation  106  of the anvil  102 . In some configurations, radial clearances between the outer circumferential surface  104  of the anvil  102  and the outer rims  116   b ,  118   b  of the first and second disks  116 ,  118  of the first and/or second spreader mechanisms  112 ,  114  may be adjustable, wherein the positions of the disks  116 ,  118  may be configured to be independently or collectively adjustable. In some configurations, the radial clearance between the outer circumferential surface  104  of the anvil  102  and the outer rims  116   b ,  118   b  may be zero or greater than zero. 
     It is to be appreciated that various drives may be used to control the rotation of the disks  116 ,  118  of the first spreader mechanism  112  and/or the second spreader mechanism  114 . For example, the disks  116 ,  118  of the first spreader mechanism  112  and/or the second spreader mechanism  114  may be driven by one or more motors, such as a servo motor. In some configurations, motors may be directly connected with the disks  116 ,  118 , and in some configurations, motors may be indirectly connected with the disks  116 ,  118 , such as through belts, pulleys, and/or gears. The disks  116 ,  118  may be driven as a pair through the use of a common driveshaft with a coupling between the disks. In some configurations, a common jackshaft may be used to drive both disks  116 ,  118  together with a single motor. In some configurations, drives of the anvil  102  and spreader mechanisms  112 ,  114  may be operatively connected, and may be configured with a single motor. In some configurations, the disks  116 ,  118  of the first spreader mechanism  112  and/or the second spreader mechanism  114  may be driven only by the advancement of the first elastic material  216  and second elastic material  218 . In some configurations, the disks  116 ,  118  of the first spreader mechanism  112  and/or the second spreader mechanism  114  may be driven by rotation of the anvil  102  or an infeed idler. Other drives may include surface driving through a jackshaft with a friction material in operative contact with disks  116 ,  118 . 
     As discussed above, the disks  116 ,  118  of the first spreader mechanism  112  and/or the second spreader mechanism  114  may include various quantities of nubs  128  that protrude radially outward from the rims  116   b ,  118   b , wherein the nubs  128  may help prevent the edge regions of the elastic materials from sliding along the rims  116   b ,  118   b  while stretching the elastic materials  216 ,  218 . It is to be appreciated that the nubs  128  may be configured in various shapes and sizes, spacing, and may be constructed from various types of materials. In some configurations, the nubs  128  may be configured with a radial height of about 0.85 mm and a cross directional width of about 0.70 mm. In addition, the nubs  128  may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other by about 4 mm. In some configurations, the nubs  128  may be made from a relatively soft material, such as polyurethane. As such, nubs  128  made from a relatively soft material may help reduce occurrences wherein nubs  128  pierce the elastic materials  216 ,  218 . In addition, nubs  128  made from a relatively soft material may be sacrificed in the event of unintended contact between the nubs  128  and pattern elements  134  on the anvil  102  while protecting the pattern elements  134  from damage. In some configurations, the nubs  128  may be made from a relatively hard material, such as steel, and the support members  126  extending across the channels  124  may be made from a relatively soft material. 
     As discussed above, the disks  116 ,  118  of the first spreader mechanism  112  and/or the second spreader mechanism  114  may include channels  124  extending radially inward from the rims  116   b ,  118   b , wherein the channels  124  may be fluidly connected with a vacuum pressure source  129 . It is to be channels and vacuum pressure source may be configured in various ways to help hold the elastic materials  216 ,  218  in position on the disks  116 ,  118  and/or help transfer the elastic materials  216 ,  218  to the anvil  102 . For example, in some configurations, the channels  124  may be a single slot broken into segments by commutator elements, which define a plurality of consecutive vacuum chambers. Each segment may then be controlled for the on and off timing of vacuum as the disks  116 ,  118  rotate. Each segment or a plurality of segments may also be selected for a blow-off function at an angle of rotation of the disks  116 ,  118  help the transfer of the elastic materials  216 ,  218  from the disks  116 ,  118  to the anvil  102 . Blow-off may also be used to clean the ports, or prevent the wrapping of the elastic materials  216 ,  218  on the disks  116 ,  118 . Such blow-off may be configured as a venting of a vacuum chamber by opening a port to atmosphere. In some configurations, such blow-off may be configured as a positive air pressure, such as from a compressed air line. In some configurations, the disks  116 ,  118  may be connected with one or more vacuum hoses. For example, one of the vacuum hoses may be provided adjacent the first and/or second application zones  136 ,  138 , which may help ensure sufficient static pressure to operatively grip the elastic materials  216 ,  218  with the disks  116 ,  118 , even when a substantial amount of the channels  124  are exposed to atmospheric pressure. A flow limiting device, such as a venturi element, may be used to restrict the maximum volumetric flow rate of air in the vacuum manifold. Such flow restriction may function to ensure sufficient static pressure is available to operatively engage the elastic materials  216 ,  218  with the disks. The flow limiting device may be configured as a small diameter port or tube, such as a 3 mm diameter tube, intermediate the vacuum plenum and channels  124  which operatively engages the elastic materials  216 ,  218 . Such contraction may be of a small length in the MD and may have chamfered or curved edges, both of which may serve to minimize pressure drop. The pressure in the vacuum system may range from about 2 kPa to about 20 kPa. In some configurations, the vacuum system may operate in the range of about 12 kPa to about 16 kPa or higher. The width of the channels  124  in the cross direction CD may be from about 0.7 mm to about 2.0 mm, and may be from about 1.4 mm to about 1.7 mm wide. In some configurations, the combined widths of the nubs  128  and the channels  124  in the cross direction CD may be from about 1 mm to about 7 mm, and may be about 1.5 mm to about 2 mm. 
     As previously mentioned, the anvil  102 , and more particularly, the outer circumferential surface  104  may be fluidly connected with a vacuum source  105 , wherein vacuum air pressure may be used to help held the substrates and elastic materials onto the outer circumferential surface  104  during operation. Thus, in some configurations, the outer circumferential surface  104  may include a pattern of vacuum holes. Such a pattern may allow a wide variety of film widths and cross direction placements with a single anvil. The anvil  102  may also include a plurality of internal tubes to define one or more vacuum regions on outer circumferential surface  104 . In some configurations, each tube may have a first vacuum region adjacent inboard edges of the elastic materials  216 ,  218 , and a second vacuum region adjacent outboard edges of the elastic materials  216 ,  218 . In some configurations, the vacuum regions may be externally adjustable. 
     As mentioned above, apparatuses and methods of the present disclosure may be utilized to assembly various forms of elastic laminates used in the manufacture of absorbent articles. Such elastic laminates may be utilized in absorbent article components such as, for example: backsheets, topsheets, absorbent cores, front and/or back ears, fastener components, and various types of elastic webs and components such as leg elastics, barrier leg cuff elastics, and waist elastics. For the purposes of a specific illustration,  FIGS.  4 A and  4 B  show an example of a disposable absorbent article  250  in the form of a diaper  252  that may be constructed from such elastic laminates manipulated during manufacture according to the apparatuses and methods disclosed herein. In particular,  FIG.  4 A  is a partially cut away plan view of an absorbent article in the form of a taped diaper that may include one or more elastic laminates assembled during manufacture according to the apparatuses and methods disclosed herein with the portion of the diaper that faces away from a wearer oriented towards the viewer.  FIG.  4 B  is a plan view of the absorbent article of  FIG.  4 A  that may include one or more elastic laminates assembled during manufacture according to the apparatuses and methods disclosed herein with the portion of the diaper that faces toward a wearer oriented towards the viewer. 
     As shown in  FIGS.  4 A- 4 B , the diaper  252  includes a chassis  254  having a first ear  256 , a second ear  258 , a third ear  260 , and a fourth ear  262 . To provide a frame of reference for the present discussion, the chassis is shown with a longitudinal axis  264  and a lateral axis  266 . The chassis  254  is shown as having a first waist region  268 , a second waist region  270 , and a crotch region  272  disposed intermediate the first and second waist regions. The periphery of the diaper is defined by a pair of longitudinally extending side edges  274 ,  276 ; a first outer edge  278  extending laterally adjacent the first waist region  268 ; and a second outer edge  280  extending laterally adjacent the second waist region  270 . As shown in  FIGS.  4 A- 4 B , the chassis  254  includes an inner, body-facing surface  282 , and an outer, garment-facing surface  284 . A portion of the chassis structure is cut-away in  FIG.  4 A  to more clearly show the construction of and various features that may be included in the diaper. As shown in  FIGS.  4 A- 4 B , the chassis  254  of the diaper  252  may include a topsheet  288  defining the inner, body-facing surface  282 , and a backsheet  290  defining the outer, garment-facing surface  284 . An absorbent core  292  may be disposed between a portion of the topsheet  288  and the backsheet  290 . As discussed in more detail below, any one or more of the regions may be stretchable and may include an elastomeric material or laminate as described herein. As such, the diaper  252  may be configured to adapt to a specific wearer&#39;s anatomy upon application and to maintain coordination with the wearer&#39;s anatomy during wear. 
     The absorbent article  250  may also include an elastic waist feature  202  shown in  FIG.  4 B  in the form of a waist band and may provide improved fit and waste containment. The elastic waist feature  202  may be configured to elastically expand and contract to dynamically fit the wearer&#39;s waist. The elastic waist feature  202  can be incorporated into the diaper and may extend at least longitudinally outwardly from the absorbent core  292  and generally form at least a portion of the first and/or second outer edges  278 ,  280  of the diaper  252 . In addition, the elastic waist feature may extend laterally to include the ears. While the elastic waist feature  202  or any constituent elements thereof may comprise one or more separate elements affixed to the diaper, the elastic waist feature may be constructed as an extension of other elements of the diaper, such as the backsheet  290 , the topsheet  288 , or both the backsheet and the topsheet. In addition, the elastic waist feature  202  may be disposed on the outer, garment-facing surface  284  of the chassis  254 ; the inner, body-facing surface  282 ; or between the inner and outer facing surfaces. The elastic waist feature  202  may be constructed in a number of different configurations including those described in U.S. Patent Publication Nos. US2007/0142806A1; US2007/0142798A1; and US2007/0287983A1, all of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein. 
     As shown in  FIGS.  4 A- 4 B , the diaper  252  may include leg cuffs  296  that may provide improved containment of liquids and other body exudates. In particular, elastic gasketing leg cuffs can provide a sealing effect around the wearer&#39;s thighs to prevent leakage. It is to be appreciated that when the diaper is worn, the leg cuffs may be placed in contact with the wearer&#39;s thighs, and the extent of that contact and contact pressure may be determined in part by the orientation of diaper on the body of the wearer. The leg cuffs  296  may be disposed in various ways on the diaper  202 . 
     The diaper  252  may be provided in the form of a pant-type diaper or may alternatively be provided with a re-closable fastening system, which may include fastener elements in various locations to help secure the diaper in position on the wearer. For example, fastener elements  298  may be located on the ears and may be adapted to releasably connect with one or more corresponding fastening elements located in the first or second waist regions. For example, as shown in  FIG.  4 A , the diaper  252  may include a connection zone  282 , sometimes referred to as a landing zone, in the first waist region  268 . It is to be appreciated that various types of fastening elements may be used with the diaper. 
     The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as “40 mm” is intended to mean “about 40 mm.” 
     Every document cited herein, including any cross referenced or related patent or application and any patent application or patent to which this application claims priority or benefit thereof, is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited. The citation of any document is not an admission that it is prior art with respect to any invention disclosed or claimed herein or that it alone, or in any combination with any other reference or references, teaches, suggests or discloses any such invention. Further, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assigned to that term in this document shall govern. 
     While particular embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is therefore intended to cover in the appended claims all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of this invention.