Containing Layers Having Differing Absorption Characteristics (e.g., Flow Control, Wicking, Etc.) Patents (Class 604/378)
  • Patent number: 8409158
    Abstract: An ostomy device that comprises an adhesive wafer for attaching to the skin around the stoma. The wafer comprises an adhesive layer having a proximal adhesive side and a distal side, where the distal side is covered with a backing layer. The wafer comprises a central portion and a peripheral portion, and it comprises a proximal section located on the proximal side of the central portion and a distal section visually arranged on the distal side of peripheral portion, wherein the distal section changes colour when the proximal section is exposed to fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: Coloplast A/S
    Inventors: Henrik Edvardsen, Michael Hansen, Danuta Ciok, Lene Feldskov Nielsen, Kent Hoeier Nielsen
  • Publication number: 20130066291
    Abstract: A process comprising treating a lignocellulosic material preferably pulp in the presence of a transition metal catalyst with a oxidizing agent selected from a group consisting of hydrogen peroxide, hypochlorite, hypochlorous acid and any combination thereof to form a treated lignocellulosic material having a viscosity equal to or less than about 17 cp and having reducing functional groups selected from the group consisting of aldehyde and aldehyde type functional groups at the C6 and C1 positions but predominating at the C1 position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: International Paper Company
    Inventors: ZHENG TAN, Damaris Lorenzoni, Gopal Goyal, Sen Yang
  • Patent number: 8395014
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a system suitable for monitoring multiple leakage events such as wetting of a diaper or alike sanitary product. The system includes two or more than two electrodes that are supported in a spaced apart relationship and a liquid permeable substrate between the electrodes that lacks or has a low capacity for holding or storing liquid. In the event of liquid leakage, an electrical bridge connecting the electrodes can be formed by the liquid, and before the product becomes saturated liquid can freely drain from the permeable substrate and disconnect the electrodes. Upon further liquid leakage, electrical connection between the electrodes can be reformed indicating multiple liquid leakage events. In the situation where the sanitary product becomes saturated and liquid is prevented from draining from the permeable substrate, the electrical connection will continue, indicating that the sanitary product requires changing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation
    Inventors: Richard James Neil Helmer, Michael Anthony Mestrovic, Pamela Margaret Petersen
  • Publication number: 20130060218
    Abstract: An absorbent article that includes a first absorber. The first absorber is disposed over an excretion opening contact region in the absorbent article and a posterior region. In a width direction of the absorbent article, the first absorber is configured to be longer than a second absorber. The second absorber is not disposed in the excretion opening contact region but disposed in the posterior region. A liquid-penneable sheet is disposed farther inwardly of the skin contact surface side of the absorbent article than the second absorber over the excretion opening contact region and the posterior region. In the width direction, the liquid-penneable sheet is configured to be shorter than the first absorber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2011
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Inventors: Jun Kudo, Hideyuki Kinoshita, Yuji Takahashi, Mari Minami
  • Patent number: 8383227
    Abstract: A composite particularly suited for use as a transfer layer in an absorbent article has a first layer comprising a formed film having a plurality of capillary-sized apertured protuberances and a plurality of two-dimensional drains, and a second layer in intimate contact with an apertured end of said capillary-sized protuberances and spaced from the first layer in a z-direction, the second layer is either a three-dimensional apertured formed film or a nonwoven web. In embodiments where the second layer is a three-dimensional formed film, the film contains a plurality of capillary sized protuberances that are of smaller diameter compared to the protuberances in the first layer and optionally also contains a plurality of drains, which can be either two-dimensional or three-dimensional, or combinations thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Tredegar Film Products Corporation
    Inventors: Rickey J. Seyler, William C. Ancarrow, III
  • 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: 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: 8383878
    Abstract: An absorbent article such as a diaper, training pant, and the like comprises a containment member that has a central zone and a barrier zone. The central zone has greater air flow according to the Air Permeability Test than the barrier zone. The barrier zone a greater hydrohead according to the Hydrostatic Head Pressure Test than the central zone. The containment member may be used for absorbent core formation and may have portions configured to serve as barrier leg cuffs for the finished absorbent article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Donald Carroll Roe, Michael Dale Trennepohl, Olaf Erik Alexander Isele, Kenneth Michael Hamall, Angelli Sue Denmon
  • Publication number: 20130041336
    Abstract: A disposable diaper has a central elastic member formed along the lengthwise direction L so that the absorber can be curved to be convex in the inward direction, and a pair of side slits formed along the lengthwise direction L so that the absorber can be curved to be convex in the outward direction. A thickness of the absorber at the central portion and at the side edge portions are smaller than a thickness of the absorber at the middle portions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2011
    Publication date: February 14, 2013
    Applicant: UNICHARM CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hirotomo Mukai, Takaya Arayama
  • Publication number: 20130012902
    Abstract: A wound dressing can include a backing layer, a facing layer which is permeable for wound exudate and blood and which, when in use, is in contact with the wound, and an absorbent core. The backing layer and the facing layer can be joined together in order to form a pouch. The absorbent core can be located within the pouch and can include at least a first layer and a second layer. The first layer can be located closer to the facing layer than the second layer. The first layer can be configured to provide a flow of liquid predominantly in a direction perpendicular to the extension of the facing layer. The second layer can be configured to provide a flow of liquid predominantly in a direction parallel to the extension of the facing layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2011
    Publication date: January 10, 2013
    Applicant: VIR I KINDA AB
    Inventor: Rolf Rovaniemi
  • Publication number: 20130012903
    Abstract: A reusable diaper may include at least one fluid-absorbing insert or layer coupled to one or more inner portions of the diaper for use in absorbing fluids. The fluid-absorbing insert may be adjustable for accommodating use by a male and/or a female. In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid-absorbing insert has a first end portion and a second end portion opposite the first end portion. The first end portion is fastened to the diaper at a first location adjacent the forward waist portion. The second end portion is fastened to the diaper at a second location adjacent the rearward waist portion. The fluid-absorbing insert includes a portion between the first and second end portions that is adjustable relative to the crotch portion between the first and second locations for selectively changing an overlapped region of the at least one fluid-absorbing insert to accommodate use by a male and/or a female.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2012
    Publication date: January 10, 2013
    Inventors: Jennifer Lynn Labit, James Andrew Labit
  • Patent number: 8344203
    Abstract: Three-dimensional formed films particularly useful as transfer layers in absorbent articles comprise a base plane having land areas defining a plurality of protuberances having sidewalls and a bottom wall, a plurality of the protuberances having an aperture in substantially at least one sidewall. In preferred embodiment, the film further comprises a plurality of capillaries, which can originate in the base plane or in a secondary plane spaced from the base plane. In preferred embodiments, the capillaries terminate in a common plane with the bottom surfaces of the protrusions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Tredegar Film Products Corporation
    Inventors: Rickey J. Seyler, Gregory M. Rieker, Andrew J. Peacock
  • Patent number: 8343125
    Abstract: An absorbent article (100) includes a topsheet (101), a backsheet (102), and an absorbent core (10). The absorbent core (10) includes a number of discretely and independently arranged absorbent members (30) located across a planar direction of the article (100). An intermediate sheet (20) is disposed between the topsheet (101) and the absorbent core (10) or between the backsheet (102) and the absorbent core (10). The absorbent members (30) are fixed to the intermediate sheet (20). It is preferable that an absorption rate of physiological saline solution measured by D/W method of each of the topsheet (101), the intermediate sheet (20), and the absorbent core (10) satisfies the following relationship: the topsheet (101)<the intermediate sheet (20)<the absorbent core (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Kao Corporation
    Inventors: Masashi Kawazoe, Takuya Kouta, Takeshi Miyamura
  • Publication number: 20120330260
    Abstract: An absorbent article having improved leakage protection when the wearer of the absorbent article is lying on their side. The absorbent article has a surge layer in liquid communication with a portion of the garment facing region and a portion of a side edge of the absorbent core.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2011
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Inventors: David Fleger Bishop, Brooke Ashley Zimmer, Angela Ann Johnston, Marcille Faye Ruman, Stephen Carl Baumgartner, Mary Alice Berceau, Joseph Daniel Coenen, Richard Norris Dodge, II, Adrienne Rae Loyd, Connie May McMorrow, Sara Jane Wille Stabelfeldt, Katherine Carol Wheeler
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20120323202
    Abstract: An absorbent article including a liquid permeable cover layer, a liquid impermeable barrier layer, an absorbent core arranged adjacent to the cover layer, the absorbent core including a material-free zone extending, a transfer layer arranged between the core and the barrier layer, the transfer layer including a planar portion having an upper surface and a lower surface and a protrusion extending upwardly from the upper surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2011
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Inventors: Kofi Bissah, John Poccia, Fernanda Wiermann Paques, Francisco J.V. Hernandez
  • Publication number: 20120323201
    Abstract: An absorbent article including a liquid permeable cover layer, a liquid impermeable barrier layer, an absorbent core arranged adjacent to the cover layer, the absorbent core including a material-free zone extending, a transfer layer arranged between the core and the barrier layer, the transfer layer including a planar portion having an upper surface and a lower surface and a protrusion extending upwardly from the upper surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2011
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Inventors: Kofi Bissah, John Poccia, Fernanda Wiermann Paques, Francisco J.V. Hernandez
  • Patent number: 8329979
    Abstract: An absorbent pad having a periphery and useful as a feminine hygiene article. The pad comprises a body-contacting surface comprising fibers from a first web of fibrous material, an absorbent portion comprising fibers from a second web of fibrous material, and a bottom surface comprising fibers from the first web of fibrous material. The absorbent portion is disposed intermediate the body-contacting surface and the bottom surface and extends to the periphery, the surfaces and absorbent portion being joined to one another at portions of the first web that penetrate through the absorbent portion at a plurality of discrete locations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: The Procter and Gamble Company
    Inventors: Christopher Phillip Bewick-Sonntag, Thomas Ward Osborn, III
  • Patent number: 8329978
    Abstract: An absorbent product has a top sheet, an absorbent core and a back sheet. The absorbent core includes 40% by weight or more of high absorbent resin powder and it is possible to slim down the absorbent core while keeping a sufficient amount of absorption to thereby achieve slimming down of the absorbent product. A top sheet lower part contacting the high absorbent resin powder in the absorbent core includes hydrophilic fibers having water retention characteristics, and moisture is temporarily retained in the top sheet lower part before reaching the absorbent core and rapidly disperses in a range facing the absorbent core of the top sheet lower part. As a result, it is possible to reliably absorb the moisture of excrement in the absorbent core and to simplify a structure of the absorbent product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Livedo Corporation
    Inventors: Kenichi Uchimoto, Yasuji Yasumitsu
  • Publication number: 20120310197
    Abstract: The application relates to absorbent articles and in particular to absorbent articles containing a transfer layer having a three-dimensional structure that is orientated for improved directional flow of bodily fluids and distribution within the absorbent article.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2012
    Publication date: December 6, 2012
    Inventor: Paul Eugene Thomas
  • Patent number: 8319006
    Abstract: An absorbent article including a cover layer, a barrier layer and an absorbent system arranged between the cover layer and the barrier layer, the absorbent article being drapeable and possessing the absorbency attributes required of a sanitary napkin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: McNeil-PPC, Inc.
    Inventors: Leonard G. Rosenfeld, Hien V. Nguyen
  • Patent number: 8319005
    Abstract: An absorbent article, preferably a disposable absorbent article such as a diaper, is disclosed that provides an improved immobilization of absorbent polymer material when the article is fully or partially urine loaded. This absorbent core is useful for providing an absorbent article of increased wearing comfort. Specifically disclosed is an absorbent core useful for an absorbent article comprising a substrate layer and absorbent material, the absorbent material comprising an absorbent polymer material, the absorbent material optionally comprising absorbent fibrous material, the absorbent fibrous material not representing more than 20% of the weight of absorbent polymer material, wherein the absorbent material is immobilized when wet such that the absorbent core achieves a wet immobilization of more than 50%, preferably of more than 60%, 70%, 80% or 90% according to the Wet Immobilization Test described herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Uwe Jurgen Becker, Ludwig Busam, Bruno Johannes Ehrnsperger, Torsten Lindner, Siegfried Link, Volker Maier, Sanaul Kabir Siddiquee, Gabriele Stiehl, Thomas Tombuelt
  • Publication number: 20120296304
    Abstract: An absorbent article that contains a topsheet having embossed regions is provided. The embossed regions propagate in a longitudinal direction of the article in the form of a wave having one or more alternating crests (peaks) and troughs (valleys). Such a wave pattern helps slow down the flow of bodily fluid by directing it along a tortuous path defined by the densified edges rather than in a straight line. Among other things, this reduction in flow rate can help provide sufficient time for the absorbent core to absorb the fluid, which is particularly helpful when it is already partially filled with fluid. Nevertheless, bodily fluids can still sometimes pool near the crests and/or troughs and result in leakage. To help counteract this tendency, the present inventors have discovered that a plurality of apertures can be employed in the topsheet that are arranged in a column that generally extends in a longitudinal direction of the article.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2011
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: KIMBERLY-CLARK WORLDWIDE, INC.
    Inventors: Priscilla Goh Eng Choo, YeinSze Ong, Meijia Ng, SangWook Lee, DooHong Kim, Franz Aschenbrenner
  • Publication number: 20120296303
    Abstract: An absorbent article that is capable of inhibiting leakage of a fluid insult is provided. The absorbent article contains a fluid-shrinkable member, topsheet, and a base pad that includes a baffle and an absorbent core positioned between the topsheet and the baffle. The fluid-shrinkable member extends in a longitudinal direction of the article so that at least a portion of the member is located adjacent to an end of the topsheet. At least a portion of the end of the topsheet remains generally unbonded to the baffle. Thus, when the fluid-shrinkable member contracts upon contacting a fluid insult, the end of the topsheet can rise outwardly from the plane of the absorbent article. The raised area creates a barrier to the leakage of fluids from the center of the article towards its end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2011
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: KIMBERLY-CLARK WORLDWIDE, INC.
    Inventors: Meijia Ng, Sangwook Lee, YeinSze Ong, Doohong Kim, Priscilla Goh Eng Choo, Franz Aschenbrenner
  • Patent number: 8303560
    Abstract: The composite material comprises an elastic film (F), made of polymer material, and a coating made of flocked fibers (13) on at least one face. The fibers are fixed to the film by a layer (C) of bonding material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Fintex & Partners Italia S.p.A.
    Inventors: Riccardo Cecconi, Barbara Bulleri, Chiara Allegrini, Stefano Muroni, Claudio Giacometti
  • Publication number: 20120277711
    Abstract: An absorbent article with an annular absorbent member. The absorbent article has a liquid-permeable top sheet, a liquid-impermeable back sheet, an annular absorbent member and a second absorbent member. The annular absorbent member is disposed between the top sheet and the back sheet. The annular absorbent member absorbs and retains a liquid passing through the top sheet. The annular absorbent member defines an aperture in a central portion thereof. The second absorbent member is disposed between the annular absorbent member and the back sheet. The second absorbent member has a visible area aligned with a position of the aperture of the annular absorbent member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2010
    Publication date: November 1, 2012
    Applicant: YUHAN-KIMBERLY, LIMITED
    Inventors: Hyong Bom Kim, Eun Jung Kang, Hyung Woo Park, Seong Dae Roh
  • Publication number: 20120277699
    Abstract: A super-absorbent dressing assembly for use with a reduced-pressure wound treatment system includes a breathable, fluid restricted dry layer for placement against a wound, a super-absorbent layer, and a non-breathable layer, and a drape extending over the non-breathable layer. A reduced-pressure interface is available to fluidly couple the super-absorbent layer to a reduced-pressure subsystem. The super-absorbent dressing assembly preferably supplies a compressive force when placed under reduced pressure. A reduced-pressure treatment system uses a super-absorbent bolster to treat wounds, e.g., linear wounds.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2012
    Publication date: November 1, 2012
    Inventors: Larry Tab Randolph, Justin Alexander Long
  • Patent number: 8293969
    Abstract: An absorbent product has a top sheet, an absorbent core and a back sheet. The absorbent core includes 40% by weight or more of high absorbent resin powder and it is possible to slim down the absorbent core while keeping a sufficient amount of absorption to thereby achieve slimming down of the absorbent product. A top sheet lower part contacting the high absorbent resin powder in the absorbent core includes hydrophilic fibers having water retention characteristics, and moisture is temporarily retained in the top sheet lower part before reaching the absorbent core and rapidly disperses in a range facing the absorbent core of the top sheet lower part. As a result, it is possible to reliably absorb the moisture of excrement in the absorbent core and to simplify a structure of the absorbent product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Livedo Corporation
    Inventors: Kenichi Uchimoto, Yasuji Yasumitsu
  • Patent number: 8292864
    Abstract: An absorbent article and method of making an absorbent article. The absorbent article has a first layer and a second layer in facing relationship with one another. The first layer has a first imparted colored region coincident with the longitudinal centerline. The second layer has a second imparted colored region laterally more extensive in a direction orthogonally away from the longitudinal centerline than the first imparted colored region. The second imparted colored region extends across the longitudinal centerline and has free ends. The absorbent article has a background region. The first imparted colored region and the second imparted colored region differ in color as compared to the background region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: The Procter and Gamble Company
    Inventors: Lisa June Hood, David Christopher Oetjen, Signe Christina Larson, John Lee Hammons
  • Patent number: 8282774
    Abstract: A process comprising treating a lignocellulosic material preferably pulp in the presence of a transition metal catalyst with a oxidizing agent selected from a group consisting of hydrogen peroxide, hypochlorite, hypochlorous acid and any combination thereof to form a treated lignocellulosic material having a viscosity equal to or less than about 17 cp and having reducing functional groups selected from the group consisting of aldehyde and aldehyde type functional groups at the C6 and C1 positions but predominating at the C1 position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: International Paper Company
    Inventors: Zheng Tan, Damaris Lorenzoni, Gopal Goyal, Sen Yang
  • Publication number: 20120253304
    Abstract: An improved sanitary pad for use in a thong-style pair of underwear to absorb and retain anticipated menstrual flow volume and at the anticipated flow rate contains a double layer of absorbent material in a waisted, water impervious flexible channel. The waisting of the channel is sized to accommodate the narrow lateral width of the thong saddle. The upright substantially flat or otherwise smooth sides of the channel guide flow entering a capture zone of the pad saddle away from the capture zone to longitudinally outer reservoir zones formed in the front and rear of the pad. In one embodiment flexible guides, which may be longitudinal rails of a flexible water-impervious substance or material, run longitudinally or substantially parallel to the sides of the channel, spaced inwardly therefrom, to assist in guiding or urging flow in and below the capture zone longitudinally towards the reservoir zones.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2012
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Inventors: Hilary Brenda Scott, Maxine Bobbie Clare Wheaton
  • Patent number: 8277432
    Abstract: An absorbent article includes a liquid-permeable topsheet, a liquid-impermeable backsheet and an absorbent core located therebetween. The fluid-permeable topsheet and fluid-impermeable backsheet extend beyond the absorbent core in at least the width (X) direction and are joined to one another in the area outside the absorbent core to form an edge-seam. The absorbent article also includes two elastic members, each elastic member extending along one longitudinal edge of the absorbent core such that—along a major portion of the extension of the elastic members in the length (Y) direction—the elastic members overlie both a portion of the absorbent core and a portion of the edge-seam in the width (X) direction. This arrangement provides improved three-dimensional forming of the article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: SCA Hygiene Products AB
    Inventors: Maria Gustin Bergström, Carin Håkansson, Paulina Halleröd (NeéLjungberg)
  • Patent number: 8273942
    Abstract: A disposable absorbent article, such as a disposable diaper. The disposable absorbent article has a topsheet with apertures large enough for low-viscosity fecal material to pass through to a fecal material storage element. The fecal material storage element immobilizes the fecal material in position for dewatering, so that the solid components of the fecal material are separated from the liquid components of the fecal material and the liquid components can be absorbed by an absorbent core. This arrangement provides for easier cleaning of the wearer when the soiled disposable absorbent article is removed. The fecal material storage element may extend beyond one or more edges of the absorbent core.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventor: Donald Carroll Roe
  • Patent number: 8273941
    Abstract: The invention provides a nonwoven fabric having good fluid drawing properties, in which fluid hardly remains, a method for producing a nonwoven fabric, and an absorbent article. The nonwoven fabric has a thickness direction and a planar direction perpendicular to the thickness direction, and includes a high density region having a higher fiber density than an average fiber density. The high density region penetrates from one side to another side in the thickness direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Assignee: Uni-Charm Corporation
    Inventors: Katsuhiro Uematsu, Hideyuki Ishikawa, Kouichirou Tani
  • Patent number: 8273943
    Abstract: It is intended to provide an absorbent article provided with a composite sheet which comprises a film sheet and a fiber mass and is excellent in the ability to draw in a liquid and the ability to prevent the backward flow. Namely, an absorbent article provided with a composite sheet comprising a film sheet having multiple pores formed therein and a fiber mass laminated on one side of the film sheet, wherein the fiber mass has a projected section in which a part of the fiber mass projects through the multiple pores toward the other side of the film sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Assignee: Uni-Charm Corporation
    Inventors: Yuki Noda, Kenichiro Kuroda
  • Publication number: 20120238984
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to absorbent articles with embossed topsheets. Such absorbent articles may be fabricated with a continuous topsheet web having a first surface and an opposing second surface advanced in a machine direction. A liquid acquisition layer and an absorbent core are combined with the continuous topsheet web. And the combined continuous topsheet web, liquid acquisition layer, and absorbent core advance through the embossing nip to emboss a pattern in the continuous topsheet web. As the combined continuous topsheet web, liquid acquisition layer, and absorbent core advance through the embossing nip, the rotating patterned embossing roll contacts the continuous topsheet web. And the rotating anvil roll contacts the absorbent core. By advancing the topsheet together with the acquisition layer and absorbent core through the embossing nip, a relatively deeper pattern can be embossed into the topsheet than otherwise might be possible when embossing relatively thin topsheet web materials.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2011
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Inventor: Sohini Paldey
  • Publication number: 20120238985
    Abstract: An article such as an article to be worn on the lower torso of a wearer, such as pants or diapers. The article has a flexible faeces separation member, such as a faeces trap sheet, which is attached in a particular way such that an effective separation of faeces and skin respective genitals can be achieved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 24, 2010
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Applicant: CONCEPTS FOR SUCCESS (C4S)
    Inventor: Christoph Schmitz
  • Patent number: 8263820
    Abstract: Absorbent core for disposable absorbent articles. The core comprises a substrate layer and a non uniform layer of absorbent material comprising an absorbent polymer material and a first and second surface. The non uniform layer of absorbent material comprises a layer of a thermoplastic material comprising a layer of thermoplastic material first surface and a layer of thermoplastic material second surface. The non uniform layer of absorbent material second surface is in at least partial contact with the substrate layer. Portions of the layer of thermoplastic material second surface are in direct contact with the substrate layer first surface and portions of the layer of thermoplastic material second surface are in direct contact with the non uniform layer of absorbent material first surface. The substrate layer comprises a fibrous material substantially free of cellulose fibers, the substrate layer having a basis weight from about 25 g/m2 to 120 g/m2.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: The Procter and Gamble Company
    Inventors: Giovanni Carlucci, Maurizio Tamburro, Alessandro Gagliardini, Evelina Toro, Pancrazio Veronese
  • Patent number: 8262633
    Abstract: An absorbent article having a central colored region, an intermediate colored region, an outer colored region, and a background region. The intermediate colored region can be between the central colored region and the outer colored region. The intermediate colored region can substantially circumscribe the central colored region. The central colored region, intermediate colored region, and outer colored region differ in color from the background region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: The Procter and Gamble Company
    Inventors: Signe Christina Larson, Lisa June Hood, David Christopher Oetjen, John Lee Hammons
  • Patent number: 8262635
    Abstract: A reusable diaper may include an inner layer and an outer layer. A fluid-absorbing insert may be coupled to the inner layer for use in absorbing fluids. The inner layer may be disposed generally between the outer layer and the fluid-absorbing insert such that both the fluid-absorbing insert and the inner layer are in position for absorbing fluids. The fluid-absorbing insert may be adjustable relative to the inner layer for accommodating use by a male and/or a female. The reusable diaper may also include forward and rearward waist portions generally defined by the inner and outer layers. Liquid-resistant regions may be disposed adjacent the waist portions, generally between the waist portions and the fluid-absorbing insert, for resisting movement of fluid from the fluid-absorbing insert to the waist portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Inventors: Jennifer Lynn Labit, James Andrew Labit
  • Patent number: 8257330
    Abstract: The absorbent article provides a signal viewable from the top surface of the absorbent article which gives a perception of depth within the absorbent article. This creation of depth perception is accomplished by the use of at least two tones within a color and/or by the use of multiple tones and multiple colors operating together to create a perception of depth within the absorbent article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: The Procter and Gamble Company
    Inventors: Patricia Lee Christon, Bryan Keith Feller, Ronda Lynn Glassmeyer, Rosa Alejandra Hernandez
  • Patent number: 8258368
    Abstract: A reusable and absorptive mat for the absorption, dispersion and retention of a liquid is disclosed. The absorptive mat comprises a plurality of non-woven layers, of carded and randomly laid viscose rayon fibres having a cross-section of substantially rigid multi-limbed configuration. The layers are stitchbonded in an as laid state, thereby substantially limiting entanglement and breaking of individual fibres. The stitchbonding is performed with a thread under limited tension so as to maintain uniformity of the absorptive mat. Also disclosed is a method of manufacturing a reusable and washable article for the absorption, dispersion and retention of a liquid comprising providing a plurality of viscose rayon fibres, carding the plurality of fibres, randomly laying the carded fibres into a continuous random web structure and stitchbonding the continuous random web structure in an as laid state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Inventor: Suzanne Gillies
  • Publication number: 20120215193
    Abstract: An automatically self-adjusting variable permeability providing (AVPP) layer is provided over and in operative interaction with a wound site containing a wound to the integumentary system of a living creature such as the skin of a human patient. The AVPP layer has the capability of automatically changing in respective fluid permeability characteristics provided by respective subregions of the AVPP layer where the changes are in reaction to extant or changed conditions in corresponding micro-zones of the wound site. The automatic self-adjusting behaviors of the respective subregions of the AVPP layer can include providing a faster rate of vapor removal for micro-zones of the wound site that are too wet and providing a slower rate of vapor removal or essentially no vapor removal for micro-zones of the wound site that are too dry.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2012
    Publication date: August 23, 2012
    Inventors: Oleg Siniaguine, Elena Kachiguina
  • Patent number: 8246593
    Abstract: An absorbent article providing improved body fit. The absorbent article includes an extensible fluid permeable facing layer and a first absorbent layer joined to the facing layer. The first absorbent layer includes zones of extensibility. Each zone of extensibility is a region of the first absorbent layer of relatively higher extensibility than regions of first absorbent layer adjacent to the zone of extensibility. A liquid impermeable backsheet is joined to the facing layer at the periphery. The liquid impermeable backsheet has a garment facing surface. A fastening means is disposed on at least a portion of the garment facing surface of the liquid impermeable backsheet. The fastening means defines attachment zones. At least a portion of the first absorbent layer is decoupled from the attachment zones of the fluid impermeable backsheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventor: Bruce William Lavash
  • Patent number: 8247642
    Abstract: A fluid management device for use in a mammalian body has at least one fluid transport element capable of interfacing with a mammalian body element to provide a substantially uninterrupted fluid conduit. The fluid conduit provides a fluid path between at least one fluid transport element and the storage element. A distal portion of the at least one fluid transport element is capable of extending away from the fluid storage element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: McNeil-PPC, Inc.
    Inventors: David J. Chase, Erin Marsee, Tara Glasgow
  • Patent number: 8235957
    Abstract: An absorbent article includes a backsheet and a sublayer. The sublayer including at least a first acquisition layer and a second acquisition layer. The sublayer includes one or more areas with a plurality of combined holes. The combined holes are formed by holes extending through the first acquisition layer and holes in or extending through the second acquisition layer, or by holes in or extending through the second acquisition layer and indentations in the first acquisition layer. The combined holes have an average smallest dimension of at least 2 mm, and the surface areas of the holes through the first layer, or of the indentations in the first layer, are less than the corresponding surface areas of the holes in or through the second layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Ekatarina Anatolyevna Ponomarenko, Monika Imgard Johanning, Ralf Geilich
  • Patent number: 8237012
    Abstract: An absorbent article having a substantially oblong shape, which is superior in liquid-proof performance and fitness, includes a liquid permeable top sheet, a back sheet, an absorbent body having elasticity disposed between the top sheet and the back sheet, and a compressed portion compressing the top sheet and the absorbent body. The compressed portion is disposed continuously to form a protrusion in a longitudinal direction to define a substantially U shape. The absorbent portion has a low elasticity portion, disposed on one part of the absorbent body, and formed so that elasticity weakens when compression to a prescribed thickness is carried out. The low elasticity portion is disposed in the vicinity of an end protruding the most in the longitudinal direction of the substantially U shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Uni-Charm Corporation
    Inventors: Takuya Miyama, Jun Kudo, Chiemi Habu, Kumiko Nishikawa
  • Patent number: 8231593
    Abstract: An absorbent article that has a thin, conformable absorbent core where the core has at least two layers, both of which are substantially free of cellulosic fibers. The absorbent article has a Circular Bend Flexibility of less than about 15 N and an acquisition rate on the third gush of less than about 170 seconds and/or on the fourth gush of less than about 190 seconds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Yasue Nakagawa, Holger Beruda
  • Patent number: 8227658
    Abstract: A film that is formed from a biodegradable polymer blend of different aliphatic-aromatic copolyesters is provided. More specifically, the blend contains a first copolyester formed from a terephthalic acid monomer. The use of a terephthalic acid monomer results in a polymer chain containing 1,4-(para-) terephthalate units linked in a generally linear configuration (e.g., ˜180°). The blend also contains a second aliphatic-aromatic copolyester formed from a phthalic acid and/or isophthalic acid monomer. The use of such a monomer results in a polymer chain containing 1,2-(ortho-) and/or 1,3-(meta-) linked units. The inclusion of 1,2-(ortho-) and/or 1,3-(meta-) linked units into the polymer backbone of the second copolyester introduces an angle or “kink” (e.g., ˜120° kink for a 1,3-linkage) into the otherwise linear polymer chain. The “kinks” in the second copolyester backbone reduce its melting point and degree of crystallinity, which have an influence on its physical properties (e.g.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc
    Inventors: Bo Shi, James H. Wang
  • Publication number: 20120184934
    Abstract: An absorbent core includes a width, a length, an elongate liquid holding formation and an outer region of fibrous material located outward of the liquid holding formation. The outer region of the absorbent core has, in cross-section taken across the width of the absorbent core, a first thickness. The liquid holding formation has, in cross-section taken across the width of the absorbent core, second and third thicknesses. The second and third thicknesses of the liquid holding formation are greater than the first thickness of the outer region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2012
    Publication date: July 19, 2012
    Applicant: KIMBERLY-CLARK WORLDWIDE, INC.
    Inventors: Michael B. Venturino, Susan J. Daniels, Steven P. Milanowski