Absorbent Pad For External Or Internal Application And Supports Therefor (e.g., Catamenial Devices, Diapers, Etc.) Patents (Class 604/358)
  • Patent number: 8674169
    Abstract: Absorbent core for disposable absorbent articles, for example for the absorption of menses or blood.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: The Procter and Gamble Company
    Inventors: Jonathan Paul Brennan, Giovanni Carlucci, Maurizio Tamburro
  • Patent number: 8664467
    Abstract: Absorbent articles incorporating sensory element members are disclosed. The absorbent articles may be disposable pant like garments designed to assist urinary toilet training such as of young children. Upon urination by the wearer, the article produces a feedback response which is transmitted to the wearer by the sensory element member. Wetness based, temperature based and other feedback responses are disclosed. The feedback response should be immediate and unmistakable to the wearer and also be temporary and harmless.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Donald Carroll Roe, Jennifer Joan Nandrea, Masaharu Nishikawa
  • Patent number: 8653320
    Abstract: The invention relates generally to an odor-absorbing superabsorbing composition, a process for production of an odor-absorbing superabsorbing composition, a composite comprising an odor-absorbing superabsorbing composition, a hygiene article comprising a composite, chemical products comprising or based on an odor-absorbing superabsorbing composition or a composite, as well as the use of an odor-absorbing superabsorbing composition or of a composite in chemical products.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Evonik Degussa GmbH
    Inventors: Franck Furno, Felix Müller, Jörg Peggau, Michael Keup, Harald Schmidt
  • Patent number: 8632514
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an absorbent article comprising a liquid impervious backsheet formed from a laminate. The liquid impervious backsheet may include at least three layers, a first layer forming the wearer facing side of the backsheet, a second layer forming the garment facing side of the backsheet, and a third layer partially but not fully covering the garment facing surface of the second layer. The first layer may include at least one first indicium on a garment-facing surface thereof and only present on a front half of the backsheet, the at least one first indicium being visible through said second and third layers when looking at the absorbent article from the garment facing side of backsheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Sofie Gilberte Snauwaert, Robert René Van Pappelendam, Markus Hermann Borbach
  • Patent number: 8632733
    Abstract: The present invention provides for a device and a kit for collecting body fluids. The device includes a body fluid collection portion comprising a body fluid absorbing material. The body fluid connecting portion has a free edge and is hingedly connected at the edge opposite to the free edge to a first support panel and a second support panel. A base panel is hingedly connected to the first support panel or the second support panel. In a first folded condition the body fluid collection portion is sandwiched between the first support panel and the second support panel in a substantially face contacting relationship.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: Labor Diagnostika Nord GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Bernhard Manz, Matthias Kuper
  • Patent number: 8628507
    Abstract: A disposable nursing pad is provided. The nursing pad of the present disclosure is thin, flexible, absorbent, breathable, hypoallergenic, and environmentally friendly. The pad of the present disclosure is composed of multiple layers—a cotton inner layer worn against the skin of the user, an absorbent middle layer, and a waterproof and breathable outer layer. The pad comprises a variety of embossed channels—one in the center of the pad, one along the perimeter of the pad, and radial channels extending from the perimeter channel towards the center channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: NuAngel, Inc.
    Inventor: Teresa P. Carroll
  • Patent number: 8628506
    Abstract: Monitoring the status of an absorbent article can be desirable to various users in various situations. A monitoring device for use with an absorbent article is provided. The monitoring device includes a sensing device and a signaling device. The sensing device is configured to sense a physiological indication related to the absorbent article wearer. The functionality of the monitoring device may be updateable, for instance, by utilizing firmware updates, hardware or user interface changes, software installations, etc. Thus, the monitoring device of the present invention may be utilized over an entire lifespan from infants to elderly without the need for costly replacement or installation of an entirely new monitoring system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas M. Ales, III, Andrew M. Long
  • Patent number: 8623290
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a color-changing material and to a multiple-component material that includes a color-changing composition. The color-changing materials and color-changing compositions are capable of changing color in order to indicate a change in condition, such as a change in pH. The color-changing materials and color-changing compositions include a hydrogel-forming composition, a charged colorant and a pH adjuster. The hydrogel-forming composition includes at least one charged species.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Xuedong Song, Kaiyuan Yang, Stephanie M. Martin, Maia Bageant
  • Patent number: 8622982
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a disposable article for absorbing a liquid, wherein the article has a substantially non-liquid permeable layer forming an outer packaging surface of the article, and an absorptive material, wherein the outer packaging surface surrounds at least one side of the absorptive material, and wherein said outer packaging surface further includes an opening, through which liquid can pass into the absorptive material. The invention also relates to a method of producing an article and the use of said article in for example the plumbing business, as a drip absorbent, as a residual liquid absorbent, and as a condensate absorbent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: MSL Polymer Business
    Inventor: Martin Sibast Laugesen
  • Patent number: 8618351
    Abstract: A disposable absorbent product (20) such as, e.g. a baby diaper, an adult incontinence pad, a sanitary napkin or the like, includes a liquid pervious topsheet (24), a liquid impervious backsheet (26), and an absorbent core (28) positioned between the topsheet (24) and the backsheet (26). The absorbent core (28) has a liquid receiving surface directed towards said topsheet (24), and the absorbent core (28) is provided with at least one embossing (50) forming a channel for liquid drainage at said receiving surface. Preferably an acquisition layer (40) is provided between the topsheet (24) and the absorbent core (28). The acquisition layer preferably extends into the embossing (50), while a resilient absorbent member (30) is preferably provided between the absorbent core (28) and the acquisition layer (40) in the form of stripes arranged longitudinally spaced along the upper longitudinal sides of the channel (50) formed by the embossing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: The Procter and Gamble Company
    Inventors: Remo Di Girolamo, Ivana Spinelli, Fabrizio Tinghino
  • Publication number: 20130345657
    Abstract: An absorbent article includes a chassis having a substantially rectangular shape a first portion, a second portion and a crotch portion extending between the first and second portion, a portion of the chassis being configured to absorb fluids. The absorbent article includes a first securement portion operatively coupled to the first portion of the chassis. The absorbent article includes a second securement portion operatively coupled to the second portion of the chassis and configured to releasably attach to the first securement portion. The chassis is configured to include one of a first chassis length or a second chassis length. When the chassis includes the first length, the chassis includes a first width and the first securement portion includes a second width, and when the chassis includes the second length, the chassis includes the first width and the first securement portion includes a third width, greater than the second width.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Applicant: Medline Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher J. Nelson, William Rovero, Daniel B. Love
  • Patent number: 8613736
    Abstract: The present invention relates to disposable absorbent articles such as diapers and adult incontinence products, which collect and retain urine and fecal material deposited thereon by the wearer. The disposable absorbent articles of the present invention comprise a color-pigmented backsheet, which further comprises visually discernible ornamental designs printed thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Martin Schnabel, Radhakrishnan Janardanan Nair, Kesyin Fugger Hsueh
  • Patent number: 8613711
    Abstract: A stool sample collector is comprised of a sheet of water-soluble material such as heavy-weight polyvinyl alcohol film, six to nine inches by 20 to 26 inches. In use, the strip is positioned across the toilet bowl against the bowl's back rim, the front edge of the strip drooping down to a few inches above the toilet water. The strip is affixed across the bowl by moistening at each end and pressing against the sides of the bowl. Positioning of the strip is facilitated by markings on the strip. Retention of stool samples is enhanced by dimples or riffles in the strip. After use, the strip may be removed and flushed in a domestic toilet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Inventor: Lee L. Babcock
  • Patent number: 8604267
    Abstract: A cylindrical absorbent cotton nasal pack has a rounded tip for a patient's self application in controlling epistaxis. The pack comprises compressed absorbent cotton or cellulosic fiber in the shape of a bullet or capsule to prevent sticking to nasal wall and absorption of blood. One end has a rounded tip and the other end has a flat bottom section (optional dual rounded ends). The flat bottom section has a plastic coating or plastic sleeve made of polyurethane to help grip the nose pack, conceal the site of blood, prevent blood leakage, and prevent contact of blood when disposing of the nose pack. The nose pack is simply inserted with the cotton rounded side up into the bleeding nasal cavity while applying a gentle pushing force until pack is snug at top of nasal cavity. The constant pressure applied from the pack to the nostril wall assists in the coagulation process, which helps stop the nosebleed. The nose pack is sized to be placed within the nasal cavity upon occurrence of a nosebleed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Inventor: Merrie Kay East
  • Patent number: 8603054
    Abstract: A delivery product is used to deliver a skin composition to the skin of a user. The delivery product includes a thermo-responsive polymer film. The polymer film is solid at room temperature but, once contacted with the skin, increases in temperature and degrades. A skin composition is associated with the polymer film. The skin composition can be applied to a surface of the film or can be incorporated into the film. The skin composition is released by the polymer film for treating the skin of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Sarah Anne Lemke, Kroy Donald Johnson
  • Patent number: 8597267
    Abstract: A tampon having at least one physical discontinuity is provided. The physical discontinuity, or physical discontinuities, are located in the compressed absorbent member and may be made in the tampon pledget before the pledget is compressed into the absorbent member. The physical discontinuities partially isolate a portion, or portions, of the tampon from the rest of the tampon. The partial isolation of a portion of the tampon reduces the amount of menses absorbed by that portion, which could be transported to the rest of the tampon through wicking. The concentration of menses absorption in a portion allows that portion have a higher level of expansion than the rest of the tampon to prevent menses from leaking out of the vaginal opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: John Richard Noel, Leslie Lynn Crosby
  • Publication number: 20130317406
    Abstract: Dressings, systems, and methods for treating a tissue site on a patient involve allowing liquids from the tissue site or a priming fluid to evaporate and exit the dressing through a liquid-impermeable, vapor-permeable membrane. The dressing is able to process more liquids than would otherwise be possible without evaporation and potentially to create reduced pressure. Other dressings, systems, and methods are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2011
    Publication date: November 28, 2013
    Inventors: Christopher Brian Locke, Timothy Mark Robinson, Aidan Marcus Tout
  • Patent number: 8592641
    Abstract: A film that is biodegradable and water-sensitive (e.g., water-soluble, water-dispersible, etc.) in that it loses its integrity over time in the presence of water is provided. More specifically, the film contains a combination of a biodegradable polyester and a water-sensitive thermoplastic starch. The desired water-sensitive attributes of film may be achieved in the present invention by selectively controlling a variety of aspects of the film construction, such as the nature of the components employed, the relative amount of each component, the manner in which the film is formed, and so forth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: James H. Wang, Bo Shi
  • Patent number: 8568384
    Abstract: Disposable absorbent articles comprising a liquid pervious topsheet, a liquid impervious backsheet that is at least partially joined to the topsheet, an absorbent core disposed at least partially between the topsheet and the backsheet, and a wetness indicator printed onto a surface of the backsheet wherein the wetness indicator comprises a graphic that further comprises at least one responsive color composition and a varnish coating disposed adjacent to the responsive color composition; wherein upon wetting, the graphic becomes visible to the unaided eye.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventor: Kuang-Kai Liu
  • Patent number: 8568362
    Abstract: The present invention generally provides methods and devices for removing fluid from a surgical instrument. Surgical access devices and seal systems are generally provided having one or more valves or seal assemblies to create a closed system between the outside environment and the environment in which the surgical access device is being inserted. The devices of systems can also include a fluid remover in the form of a sorbent element, a scraper element, a wicking element, or any combination thereof that is configured to remove fluid from a working channel of the device or system and/or from a surgical instrument inserted therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Cesar E. Moreno, Jr., Patrick J. Minnelli, Thomas A. Gilker, Daniel J. Mumaw, Rebecca J. Mollere, Randall Tanguay, Paul T. Franer
  • Patent number: 8557374
    Abstract: Disclosed are multicomponent fibers derived from a blend of a sulfopolyester with a water non-dispersible polymer wherein the as-spun denier is less than about 6 and wherein the water dispersible sulfopolyester exhibits a melt viscosity of less than 12,000 poise measured at 240° C. at a strain rate of 1 rad/sec, and wherein the sulfopolyester comprising less than about 25 mole % of residues of at least one sulfomonomer, based on the total moles of diacid or diol residues. The multicomponent fiber is capable of being drawn at a relatively high fiber speed, particularly at least about 2000 m/min, and may be used to produce microdenier fibers. Fibrous articles may be produced from the multicomponent fibers and microdenier fibers. Also disclosed is a process for multicomponent fibers, nonwoven fabrics, and microdenier webs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Eastman Chemical Company
    Inventors: Rakesh Kumar Gupta, Scott Ellery George, Daniel William Klosiewicz, Kab Sik Seo, Coralie McKenna Fleenor, Allen Lynn Crain
  • Patent number: 8551608
    Abstract: It is intended to provide a composite sheet which is excellent in comfort to the skin face when used in an absorbent article such as a disposable diaper. A composite sheet (1) fabricated by bonding stretchable nonwoven fabric (2) to a non-stretchable sheet (3) using an adhesive (4). The stretchable nonwoven fabric (2) is bonded in the stretched state to the non-stretchable sheet. The composite sheet (1) has a contact area ratio of 65% or more and an air permeation resistance of 0.20 KPa·s/m or less. By satisfying these numerical requirements, the composite sheet shows excellent sweat absorption properties and air permeability when used as a constituting member of an absorbent article such as a disposable diaper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Uni-Charm Corporation
    Inventors: Yusuke Kawakami, Kozo Abe, Minako Sagisaka
  • Patent number: 8552250
    Abstract: An absorbent article comprises a first location of a first portion of a visual fullness indicating area that is configured to change to a subsequent visual state when indicating the presence of a bodily exudate. At the first location, the first portion has a first overall width. The absorbent article also comprises a second location of a second portion of a visual fullness indicating area that is configured to change to a subsequent visual state when indicating the presence of a bodily exudate. The second location is outboard from the first location. The second location has a second overall width that is wider than the first overall width.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Miguel Alvaro Robles, Mattias Schmidt, Donald Carroll Roe, Kara Marie Cain
  • Patent number: 8541642
    Abstract: A method is disclosed for modifying the physical characteristics of a web which involves passing the web between at least one pair of interengaged rolls to incrementally stretch the web, and then withdrawing the incrementally stretched web from between the rolls under tension. A web modified according to the disclosed method has desirable breathability and liquid impermeability, as well as extensibility and a soft, cloth-like textured surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Barry Jay Anderson, Todd Leon Mansfield, George Christopher Dobrin, Suna Polat
  • Patent number: 8519211
    Abstract: An absorbent article, such as a wound pad, comprising a body of compressed thermoplastic or thermo-set open-celled foam is described, wherein the body has a pattern of ultrasonically made depressions in two opposite sides thereof, the depressions in the opposite sides being coaxial to each other and separated from each other by a common bottom portion which is compressed to a higher extent than the remaining parts of said body. A method for manufacturing such a body is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Mölnycke Health Care AB
    Inventors: Ulf Johannison, Magnus Paledzki, Eva-Karin Daun
  • Patent number: 8501648
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to pre-moistened webs and wipes having visible compressed sites that provide the perception of a cloth-like texture. The disclosure also relates to a nonwoven web made of non-thermoplastic fibers with at least one compressed site on the surface of the web that remains visible when the web is pre-moistened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventor: Jonathan Paul Brennan
  • Patent number: 8497409
    Abstract: Absorbent articles incorporating a wetness sensor for indicating the presence of a body fluid are disclosed. The wetness sensor includes an olfactory signaling device that produces a scent or odor when a body fluid is detected. For instance, in one embodiment, an odorous composition can be contained in a water degradable pouch that releases the odorous composition when contacted with moisture. Once released, the odorous composition can produce a desired scent. In other embodiments, the odorous composition can be encapsulated within a water degradable material or can be coated on a substrate. The scent or odor that is released by the odorous composition can vary depending upon the particular application. The scent, for instance, may be pleasant or unpleasant. In one embodiment, the olfactory signaling device may be used to assist in toilet training a child.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard D. Mosbacher, Andrew Mark Long, Kelly Branham, Jessica Sara Van Handel, Darold D. Tippey
  • Patent number: 8481664
    Abstract: As a characteristic that had not been known conventionally at all, “permeability potential under pressure (PPUP)” of a particulate water absorbing agent is regulated, and further, “range of particle size distribution” and “coloring” are concomitantly regulated. The present invention is directed to a particulate water absorbing agent having the following (a) to (c): (a) permeability potential under pressure (PPUP) being 50 to 100%; (b) yellowness index (YI) being 0 to 10, and rate of change of yellowness index (?YI) being 100 to 150% following a coloring acceleration test for 14 days at 70±1° C. and the relative humidity of 95±1%; and (c) particles of smaller than 150 ?m specified by standard sieve classification accounting for 0 to 5% by weight, weight average particle diameter (D50) being 200 to 550 ?m, and logarithmic standard deviation (??) of particle size distribution being 0.20 to 0.40.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Nippon Shokubai Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yorimichi Dairoku, Hirotama Fujimaru, Kunihiko Ishizaki
  • Patent number: 8469915
    Abstract: A device for treatment of wounds using reduced pressure is provided. The device includes a pump, a reservoir connected to said pump for collecting exudate from a wound, an inlet to the reservoir for connecting the reservoir with the wound so as to allow the pump to expose the wound to the reduced pressure, a wound pad to be arranged in the wound cavity, and a sealing covering the wound and the wound pad. The wound pad consists of an open-cell polyurethane foam which is fully impregnated with a soft hydrophobic silicone gel, and the foam has a hardness of 1.0-6.0 kPa measured according to ISO 3386-1 at at 40% compression The wound pad can be used with an absorbent member. A method is also provided for manufacturing the wound pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Molnlycke Health Care AB
    Inventors: Ulf Johannison, Sofia Frantzich
  • Publication number: 20130143461
    Abstract: Propylene-based polymer compositions are provided comprising propylene and from about 5 wt % to about 20 wt % of one or more C2 and/or C4-C12 ?-olefins. The polymer compositions have a triad tacticity greater than about 90%, a heat of fusion less than about 75 J/g, and a melt flow rate (MFR) greater than or equal to about 25 g/10 min (230° C., 2.16 kg). Further, the polymer compositions are reactor grade compositions comprising a reactor blend of a first polymer and a second polymer, preferably where both of the first and second polymers are prepared using the same catalyst system. Meltspun nonwoven fabrics, such as meltblown or spunbond fabrics, comprising such polymer compositions are also provided, as well as processes for forming the nonwoven fabrics.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2011
    Publication date: June 6, 2013
    Inventors: Galen C. Richeson, Rainer Kolb, Jean-Roch Schauder, Thomas T. Sun
  • Publication number: 20130072887
    Abstract: In one embodiment, taped and pant articles of the present disclosure may comprise first and second chassis that are at least substantially identical.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2012
    Publication date: March 21, 2013
    Inventors: Gary Dean LaVon, Michale Gray Nease, Gene Xiaoqing Huang, Jacob Alan Barnhorst, Masaharu Nishikawa
  • Patent number: 8395012
    Abstract: Stable odor controlling compositions, methods for incorporating the compositions, and disposable absorbent articles, which release perfume and subsequently are able to minimize odor caused from bodily fluids via the presence of an oil-in-water emulsion that serves as a carrier and preservation system for the perfume. The stable odor controlling emulsion compositions include an oil-in-water emulsion comprising: a) an aqueous phase comprising a modified starch and water; b) an oil phase comprising a perfume; c) an effective amount of a rheology modifier; d) an effective amount of a co-surfactant; and e) an effective amount of an antimicrobial agent; wherein said emulsion composition is applied to said article in the form of stable emulsion droplets having an median size of less than about 1 ?m and dries to form a discontinuous film.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Dennis Ray Bacon, Matthew Joel Taylor
  • Patent number: 8388589
    Abstract: Disclosed is a pet sheet including a backsheet, a liquid-permeable topsheet and a liquid absorbent layer which is smaller than the backsheet and disposed between the backsheet and the topsheet. The backsheet extends beyond the liquid absorbent layer to provide side regions outside the liquid absorbent layer. A hydrophilic sheet is provided above the backsheet in the side regions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Uni-Charm Corporation
    Inventors: Shinya Kaneko, Takeshi Ikegami
  • Patent number: 8388585
    Abstract: A disposable urine collection device may include an absorbent pad disposed proximate to the inner surface of a shell. The device may be contoured to be positioned against and enclose the urinary area of a user such that the absorbent pad may absorb a quantity of urine associated with a complete urinary discharge from the user. The absorbent pad may be formed from one or more commercially available diapers. One or more elastic cuffs may be provided to conform to the user's urinary area and to help contain the flow of urine as it is discharged from the user. An invertible bag may be attached to the bottom of the shell so that the user may conveniently enclose the absorbent pad after use and dispose of the device in a sanitary manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Inventors: Kimberly L. Tomes, Theresa Ernest
  • Patent number: 8382731
    Abstract: Provided is a device for treatment of wounds using reduced pressure, which includes a pump, a gas barrier cover, a first compressible material which expands after compression, and a second material capable of absorbing wound fluids several times its own weight. The first and second materials are arranged inside the cover and form a reservoir connected to the pump. The device also includes an inlet for connecting the reservoir with a wound, a wound pad to be arranged in the wound cavity, and a sealing covering the wound and the wound pad. A third material with high liquid spreading capability is arranged around at least a major part of the first material, and the second material is in the form of at least one layer arranged outside the third material and separated from the first material by the third material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Molnlycke Health Care AB
    Inventor: Ulf Johannison
  • Patent number: 8383877
    Abstract: An absorbent composite includes a water-insoluble fibrous matrix, a superabsorbent polymer composition that has an initial absorbent capacity of at least about 5 grams of saline per gram of superabsorbent polymer composition; and a first triggering mechanism having a first release time of between about 5 and 60 minutes, where the superabsorbent polymer composition has a second absorbent capacity that is at least about 25 % greater than the first absorbent capacity as measured by the mCRC Test.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Arvinder P. Singh Kainth, Richard N. Dodge, II, David L. Zenker
  • Patent number: 8383876
    Abstract: An absorbent article comprises a number of visual fullness indicating areas arranged in a distinct pattern. The pattern has an overall shape that is triangular or trapezoidal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Miguel Alvaro Robles, Mattias Schmidt, Donald Carroll Roe
  • Patent number: 8377015
    Abstract: To provide a wound dressing having absorbability and improved so as not to be adhere to wounds, a wound dressing 10 is provided, which includes a perforated material 20 having a top face and a bottom face and having plural through-holes 21, and an absorbent material 30 disposed on the top face of the perforated material, and in which at least the bottom face of the perforated material 20 is coated with a silicone resin 40 except leaving at least a part of the through-holes so as not to block up all the through-holes, and at least a part 31 of the absorbent material facing the through-holes of the perforated material is coated with the silicone resin 40, and to allow fluid penetration from the bottom face side of the perforated material into the inside of the absorbent material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Alcare Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Atsushi Ueda, Toshimichi Matsuzaka
  • Patent number: 8378166
    Abstract: An absorbent article including features facilitating toilet training of a wearer is provided. The article includes at least a first appearing graphic that changes from an initial, less visible state to a subsequent, more visible state in the absence of wetness, thereby to provide positive encouragement to a child during toilet training. The appearing graphic becomes less visible if subjected to liquid. A wetness sensation member may also be provided to give tactile, negative sensation to the child, thereby giving feedback received by at least two different senses. Additionally or alternatively, a second appearing graphic, different from the first appearing graphic, may be provided to increase a child's interest in the toilet training process. The first and second appearing graphics may become visible at different times, thereby providing a sequential or spaced reveal of the image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Donald Carroll Roe, Thomas James Klofta, Mark John Ciesko, Barry Robert Feist, Kathleen Quinlan Ames-Ooten, Mathilde Clarisse Delhoume
  • Publication number: 20130030340
    Abstract: Nonwoven fibrous webs including a multiplicity of randomly oriented discrete fibers and a multiplicity of chemically active particulates secured to the web, and methods of making and using same. In some embodiments, more than 0% and less than 10% wt. of the nonwoven fibrous web is made of multi-component fibers having at least a first region exhibiting a first melting temperature and a second region exhibiting a second melting temperature greater than the first melting temperature. In other embodiments, the discrete fibers include a first population of monocomponent thermoplastic fibers having a first melting temperature, and a second population of monocomponent fibers having a second melting temperature greater than the first melting temperature. In certain embodiments, at least some of the particulates are bonded to the fibers. In other embodiments, at least some of the particulates are secured within interstices of the fibrous web, without substantial bonding to the fibers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: 3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANY
    Inventors: Bernard Vincent, Lahoussaine Lalouch, Tien T. Wu, Eric M. Moore
  • Patent number: 8357129
    Abstract: Skin rejuvenation system and method in which a pure plant collagen carrier is saturated with a solution of collagen, allantoin, amino acid, propanediol, glycerin, algae, plant DNA living cells, epidermal growth factor, Vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, rose essential, water, and peptide, and the saturated carrier is applied to the skin to be rejuvenated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Assignee: Physicans Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Janet R. Graham, Douglas A. Ginter
  • Patent number: 8357132
    Abstract: A urine capturing assembly includes a sleeve that has an upper edge, a lower edge and a perimeter wall extending between the upper and lower edges. The upper and lower edges define openings in the sleeve. A penis is positionable in the sleeve to direct urine from the penis toward the lower edge. A pouch has an open top end. The pouch is integrally coupled to the perimeter wall and the top end is positioned adjacent to the upper edge of the sleeve. A scrotum is positionable in pouch through the top end. A conduit is fluidly coupled to and extends between the sleeve and the pouch to direct urine held in the pouch into the sleeve. A collection bag is fluidly couplable to the lower edge of the sleeve to collect and retain urine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Inventor: Agatha N. Lekweuwa
  • Patent number: 8353884
    Abstract: An anal patch comprising an absorbent pad (3) in a shape with two substantially parallel flat surfaces and a contact surface perpendicular to the flat surfaces, the area of the contact surface being smaller than each of the two parallel flat surfaces, an adhesive part, comprising an adhesive coated backing layer (4), having a central aperture (8) wherein at least a part of the contact surface of the absorbent pad is aligned with the aperture of the adhesive part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: Coloplast A/S
    Inventors: Michael Hansen, Peter Kragh, Claus Bo Voege Christensen
  • Patent number: 8353886
    Abstract: A hygienic article for personal wear by a male includes an elongate fabric sleeve having a first end, a longitudinally opposite second end, and a central passage extending longitudinally between the first and second ends of the sleeve. The first end of the sleeve is open to the central passage to permit the wearer's penis to extend through the open first end into the central passage of the sleeve with the first end of the sleeve nearer to the base of the wearer's penis than the second end of the sleeve. The second end of the sleeve is also open to the central passage to permit the wearer to urinate through the open second end. A dispenser is adapted for holding a plurality of such hygienic articles and facilitating sequential dispensing of the hygienic articles, one at a time, from the dispenser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth W. Bester, Jr., Joseph DiPalma, MaryAnn Zunker
  • Patent number: 8348920
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a disposable absorbent article comprising a liquid pervious topsheet, a liquid impervious backsheet that is at least partially joined to the topsheet, an absorbent core disposed at least partially between the topsheet and the backsheet, and a wetness indicator printed onto a surface of said backsheet wherein the wetness indicator comprises a graphic that further comprises at least one responsive color composition and a varnish coating disposed adjacent to said responsive color composition; wherein upon wetting, said graphic becomes visible to the unaided eye.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventor: Kuang-Kai Liu
  • Patent number: 8343118
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided that includes an enclosure with an aperture which is adapted for being placed in communication with an anus for the purpose of directing fecal matter into the enclosure. In one embodiment, the enclosure may include a polyethylene material with a thickness of less than 50 microns. In another embodiment, the enclosure may include an air hole formed therein for remaining open to allow air to escape therefrom upon the receipt of the fecal matter into the enclosure. In still yet another embodiment, the aperture may be circular and the enclosure may include a flexibility sufficient to allow the enclosure to be placed on an intended wearer in any orientation about an axis defined by the aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Inventor: Joseph Eugene Davis
  • Patent number: 8338658
    Abstract: A diaper changing mat comprising an attached, flexible and infant-drapeable, fold-over urine shield structured and arranged to prevent urine exposure from infant-generated urine while still providing easy access to the infant's diaper area. The diaper changing mat is preferably disposable. A preferred heart-shaped urine shield blocks urine streams without hindering access to the infant's diaper area. Alternately preferably, the diaper changing mat may be reusable and washable or preferably comprise a removable waterproof insert. The diaper changing mat may also attach to a changing-table element, such as, for example, a foam pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Inventor: Lisa L. Kruger
  • Patent number: 8338659
    Abstract: Disclosed is an absorbent article for preventing leakage, the article including an absorbent assembly having an absorbent assembly perimeter and a leakage warning element disposed adjacent a portion of the perimeter, wherein the leakage warning element is adapted to provide a physical sensation indicating a fullness level of the absorbent assembly. Also disclosed is an absorbent article for providing a wearer with a warning of potential leakage, the article including an absorbent assembly and a leakage warning element disposed adjacent the absorbent assembly, wherein the leakage warning element is adapted to impart a physical sensation to the wearer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Meghan Elizabeth Collins, Richard Dickerson Mosbacher, Andrew Mark Long, Darold Dean Tippey, Shirlee Ann Weber, Jessica Sara Van Handel
  • Patent number: 8334424
    Abstract: An animal incontinence device comprises a base layer of a liquid-impervious polymer film, an intermediate absorbent layer comprising superabsorbent polymer particles intermediate a plurality of layers of tissue, and a top layer comprising a porous, hydrophilic, woven or non-woven polymer fiber mat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Assignee: Principle Business Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Andrew J Szypka
  • Patent number: 8324445
    Abstract: Absorbent articles having a pouch for the collection of bodily waste are generally disclosed. The pouch can generally be located on or within the wearer contacting surface of an absorbent article. The pouch can have an opening ready to receive the bodily waste or can include a pouch opening mechanism. Additionally, a pouch closing mechanism can be included within the absorbent article to close the opening of the pouch upon collection of the bodily waste.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: John Gavin MacDonald, Andrew Mark Long, Jessica Sara Van Handel