Abstract: Each package in a plurality of packages includes a plurality of absorbent articles and at least one premium located within an interior space. Each package further includes at least one opening means to transition the package from a closed condition to an open condition and create an opening to access the interior space. The premium in each package is not directly attached to the absorbent articles or the package and the premium is consistently positioned and is immediately accessible through the opening when the package is first transitioned from the closed condition to the open condition.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is disclosed for forming an article such as a tampon having a securely attached string. The method includes intermittently feeding filler members into one end of a hollow tube which is open at both ends. A sheet of heat sealable material is advanced towards the tube and folded so as to cylindrically wrap about the tube. The abutting edges of the material are fused together to form a cylindrical casing into which the filler members enter upon exiting the tube. Apertures are then transversely formed in the casing between the adjacent filler members and a string is inserted through the apertures. The casing is then heated and compressed against the string to form a permanent bond. After the bond is formed, the casing is severed to form individual articles which are sealed at both ends and have a string attached to one of the ends.

Abstract: The invention provides a method and apparatus to wrap a filler material with a porous gauze and attach a handling cord. The gauze material is thermoplastic and is heat sealed around the filler material. A string is then pierced through the gauze wrapping in a location exterior to the filler. The sides of the wrapping are then brought together surrounding the pierced string or cord to fuse the cord to the wrapping gauze.In a preferred form, the filler material is an absorbent for a tampon. After the fusing of the tampon withdrawal cord to the wrapping material, the tampon is compressed to the size conventionally utilized for a tampon and may be utilized either in a digital or applicator-type tampon.

Abstract: The invention provides a method and apparatus to wrap a filler material with a porous gauze and attach a handling cord. The gauze material is thermoplastic and is heat sealed around the filler material. A string is then pierced through the gauze wrapping in a location exterior to the filler. The sides of the wrapping are then brought together surrounding the pierced string or cord to fuse the cord to the wrapping gauze.In a preferred form, the filler material is an absorbent for a tampon. After the fusing of the tampon withdrawal cord to the wrapping material, the tampon is compressed to the size conventionally utilized for a tampon and may be utilized either in a digital or applicator-type tampon.