Abstract: “Hygienic Diaper or Sensor Pad With Alert For Treating, Caring For Wetness, Feces, & Disease”; with one or more “sensors” detecting diseases, ketone levels, sugar levels, blood, body fluids, liquids, gasses, drugs, bacteria, viruses, toxins or other agents; a powered “circuit card unit” and transmission circuitry connected to diaper and to sensors in diaper to alert caregivers when diaper becomes wet or full; audio-visual wetness/bowel movement alert circuitry; algorithms to identify what sensor(s) discover and report it to the “Nurse Remote Wand” or to wireless/wired receiver links to computer database(s); a software-database system to allow staff to input data relating to treatment plans, diagnoses, notes, and to track editable patient data which is password protected; a database where sensor data on each patient is stored; a “Nurse Remote Wand” receives sensor data which is downloaded to a computer patient treatment and planning database; read

Abstract: Disclosed is a method of inkjet printing of tone and/or color images at a high efficiency production of hygienic articles. The method provides a reliable system of combining inkjet-printing operations with converting operations on a converting line producing hygienic articles having tone and/or color print images. The method utilizes at least two-inkjet print heads capable of switching between the print heads during malfunctions or maintenance procedures of one of the print heads to provide production continuity at a minimum production loss of hygienic articles.

Abstract: In a method for alerting the wearer of an absorbent article to the wearer's release of liquid body waste to the article, a flow control layer is placed between a liner and an absorbent body of the article to substantially retard the flow of liquid body waste from the liner to the absorbent body. Liquid body waste is pooled adjacent the liner whereby the pooled liquid body waste flows back through the liner and contacts the wearer's skin to thereby alert the wearer to the release of liquid body waste.

Abstract: An absorbent device for insertion into a vaginal cavity, the absorbent device having an absorbent body; and an indicator structure arranged and configured within the absorbent body, the indicator structure having a resilient member having a first arm having a rough surface and a second arm, the first and second arms being maintained in a strained configuration by a restraint; wherein the restraint weakens upon exposure to moisture and the resilient member is capable of articulating to a relaxed configuration upon the weakening of the restraint in a movement in which the rough surface of the first arm traverses the second arm to generate vibration discernible to the user.

Abstract: An absorbent article which includes a thermal cell actuator capable of adding or removing heat to or from at least a portion of the absorbent article to perform a useful function on the article. The thermal cell actuator may be activated by an action of the wearer or caregiver or by environmental conditions between the article and wearer.

Abstract: A disposable article to be fitted to a wearer comprising a biosensor including at least one bio-recognition element. The biosensor is adapted to detect a target biological analyte in bodily waste or on the wearer's skin.

Abstract: A patient fluid discharge monitoring method and apparatus includes at least one article configured to be worn by a patient, the article having absorbent material and a RF tag received adjacent the absorbent material. The RF tag is excited with an excitation signal and the response of the RF tag to the excitation signal is detected. The detected response of the RF tag is compared to a predetermined response. The RF tag has a first detected response when the absorbent material has no fluid therein and a second detected response when the absorbent material has fluid therein.

Abstract: A manufacturing method of an electronic diaper is to provide a sensor feeding band or box supplying a diaper body with a sensor which will be in advance attached on the upper or the lower dry layer of the diaper body for carrying out a sequent process of automatically manufacturing an electronic diaper. The electronic diaper includes an upper and lower dry layer and an sbsorbing layer sandwiched between the two dry layers, a sensor attached on the upper or the lower dry layer. The sensor has a connecting member for connecting with a controller. Sensing the diaper body wetted, the sensor will give a signal to the controller which will immediately give out warning signals to remind a nurse that the diaper is wet and needs to be replaced with a new one so that a user may feel comfortable in using the electronic diaper.

Abstract: An indicator interposed between a liquid-impervious sheet and an absorbent core of a body fluid absorbent article includes a water-absorbent sheet and indication elements held in close contact with the water-absorbent sheet. The water-absorbent sheet is preferably formed from porous thermoplastic films having a total luminous transmittance of 40% or lower in a dry state and 60% or higher in a wet state.

Abstract: A moisture sensing and indicating system for signaling to a caretaker that a diaper has moisture therein. The moisture sensing and indicating system includes a casing having a plurality of apertures therein for accessing an interior of the casing. The casing is positioned between absorbent material and watertight material of a diaper. A sensor for detecting moisture is positioned in the casing. Moisture actuates the sensor by completing a circuit. A transmitter for transmitting a signal is positioned in the casing and operationally coupled to the sensor. A housing has a top wall, a bottom wall and a peripheral wall extending between integrally coupled to the top and bottom walls. The top wall has a plurality of openings therein. A receiver for receiving a signal from the transmitter is positioned in the housing. A speaker for emitting a sound is securely positioned in the housing and traverses the openings in the top wall. The speaker is operationally coupled to the receiver.

Abstract: A disposable undergarment that includes a liquid-impervious base sheet and a liquid-absorbent structure lying on a wearer's skin side surface of the base sheet. The base sheet includes a breathable but liquid-impervious plastic film and a fibrous nonwoven fabric joined to the plastic film to define an undergarment side surface, the base sheet having a total luminous transmittance in a range between 60 and 85%.

Abstract: The product includes a material on the outside front of the diaper/training pant that allows color to be seen thru it from outside the diaper. Behind this material will be litmus paper or a color changing ink. Behind this litmus paper or color changing ink will be the urine absorbing material. The intent being that when the urine has sufficiently passed the layer of urine absorbing material and makes contact with the litmus paper or color changing ink a reaction will occur that will change the color of the litmus paper or the color changing ink. This color change would be visible from outside the diaper indicating that the diaper has been soiled.

Abstract: The present invention relates to absorbent articles, such as sanitary napkins, panty-liners, nursing pads, baby diapers and the like, comprising an agent able to convey a perception to the wearer, without the need to create the external condition perceived by the wearer.

Abstract: A system and method for assessing fluid distribution. According to one aspect of the disclosure, a fluid detection network is used to assess the fluid distribution of a fluid collection article having a plurality of tested regions. Each tested region of the fluid collection article is serviced by the fluid detection network. The fluid detection network is configured to indicate a fluid distribution of the fluid collection article. According to another aspect of the disclosure, a monitoring subsystem assesses a fluid distribution of a test area serviced by a fluid detection network, wherein the fluid detection network has a net characteristic indicative of the fluid distribution of the test area.

Abstract: A system for detecting wetness in an absorbent article has an absorbent structure, at least one sensor in contact with the absorbent structure, a remote interrogating device, and a reporting element coupled to the interrogating device. The at least one sensor provides a variable electrical output dependent upon an amount of aqueous liquid associated with the absorbent structure. The remote interrogating unit is capable of detecting changes in the variable electrical output of the at least one sensor.

Abstract: An intravaginal disposable article, e.g., useful as a sanitary protection device. The intravaginal disposable article has a primary structure and a liquid-sensitive signaling element in liquid communication with the primary structure. The liquid-sensitive signaling element is capable of expanding significantly after exposure of the signaling element to a saturating amount of 0.9 wt-% saline solution.

Abstract: A disposable article, e.g., useful as a sanitary protection device. The disposable article has a primary structure and a liquid-sensitive signaling element in liquid communication with the primary structure. Upon exposure to fluid, the liquid-sensitive signaling element expands to signal the user that the article is approaching capacity.

Abstract: This invention relates to the field of absorbent articles in general, and more particularly to absorbent articles that have wetness/dryness indicators disposed thereon. Preferably, the disposable absorbent article, for example, a training pant, includes a disappearing wetness/dryness indicator that disappears when the article is wetted, and an appearing wetness/dryness indicator that appears when the article is wetted. The wetness/dryness indicators preferably allow a caregiver to interact with a child to promote toilet training. The wetness/dryness indicators are graphic elements that may or may not be related to one another, and that may or may not be related to other graphic elements on the article.

Abstract: A disposable article to be fitted to a wearer comprising a biosensor including at least one bio-recognition element. The biosensor is adapted to detect a target biological analyte in bodily waste or on the wearer's skin.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to ion-sensitive, water-dispersible polymers. The present invention is also directed to a method of making ion-sensitive, water-dispersible polymers and their applicability as binder compositions. The present invention is further directed to fiber-containing fabrics and webs comprising ion-sensitive, water-dispersible binder compositions and their applicability in water-dispersible personal care products.

Abstract: A disposable absorbent article such as a training pant includes active graphics that can change color during use and can provide an interactive training aid. The active graphics in particular embodiments can comprise moisture sensitive color change compositions that disappear from view or blend in with background graphics upon activation. In particular embodiments, the active graphics comprise at least two compositions that have different post-activation colors.

Abstract: A process for placement of indicator elements in a disposable wearing article includes a step in which indication sheets each having the pair of indicator elements are placed on an outer web, a step in which the indication sheets are joined to the outer web, a step in which the outer web is cut together with the indication sheet to obtain first and second outer webs, a step in which the first and second outer webs are separated from each other, a step in which an inner web is placed upon and joined to the first and second outer webs to obtain a composite web, a step in which a liquid-absorbent panels are joined onto the inner web and a step in which the composite web and the panel are cut together to obtain individual articles.

Abstract: A wearable article useful for facilitating toilet training. The wearable article includes a temperature change element providing a cool/wet signal when wetted which causes discomfort to the wearer. The temperature change element comprises a temperature change substance disposed on an impermeable material in order to maximize the thermal signal provided to the skin of the wearer.

Abstract: An electronic diaper and its manufacturing method includes a diaper body and sensing wires positioned on the diaper body, and an electronic device to connect with the sensing wires so as to get signal from the sensing wires about the condition of the diaper body. If the sensing wires are connected electrically by urine absorbed by the diaper body, then the electronic device gets signal from the sensing wires to operate to light up an LED or let a speaker sound out so as to give out an alarm that the diaper body has wetted to be replaced with a new one. The electronic device is separatively combined with the diaper body so as to be used repeatedly in spite of the diaper body having to be discarded when wetted by urine.

Abstract: A luminous phosphorescent color monitoring system build into or added to a cloth or disposable absorbent diaper or any personal hygiene utensil to confirm the state of the apparatus. The functioning bright color indicating system is also detectable in the dark and develops when body secretions are effecting the apparatus and the built in system registers the interface of the natural human secretions which catalyst and develops the positive visual format on the outer stratified layer of the utensil. The functioning pigments are water compatible, non toxic or detrimental to humans and calls for the observance of a bright luminous color emitted mostly in the inner surface of the outer layer of a diaper liner or commercially available pamper.

Abstract: A process for manufacturing a toilet training article in the form of a toilet training pad containing an astringent agent or source thereof is disclosed. The toilet training pad, which may be an insertable pad or integrated directly into an undergarment, contains an astringent agent or source thereof which does not contact the wearer's skin until urination occurs at which time a tingling or other sensation is felt on the skin. To prevent contact of the astringent agent with the wearer's skin until urination, the astringent agent may be microencapsulated into a dissolvable shell or may be inserted into a microsponge.

Abstract: An in-vitro method is provided for determining an optimal combination of materials with respect to a particular menstrual flow condition for use in a feminine care absorbent article. The method involves using a simulated menstrual fluid at a controlled subject flow rate that corresponds to an actual menstrual flow condition, and observing the performance of different material combinations in the in-vitro test as an indication of their respective performance in actual use.

Abstract: The present invention relates to shape deformable materials, which are capable of (1) being deformed, (2) storing an amount of shape deformation, and (3) recovering at least a portion of the shape deformation when exposed to a humid environment. The shape deformable materials can advantageously be in the form of films, fibers, filaments, strands, nonwovens, and pre-molded elements. The shape deformable materials of the present invention may be used to form products, which are both disposable and reusable. More specifically, the shape deformable materials of the present invention may be used to produce products such as disposable diapers, training pants, incontinence products, and feminine care products.

Abstract: A sheet including a substrate having on one face a multiplicity of tangible signalers for signaling the wearer on occurrence of urination. The substrate has urine-soluble matter on the face establishing a non-signaling condition of the tangible signalers. The urine-soluble matter is dissolved by the urine on urination enabling signaling by the tangible signalers.

Abstract: A toilet training article in the form of a toilet training pad containing an astringent agent or source thereof is disclosed. The toilet training pad, which may be an insertable pad or integrated directly into an undergarment, contains an astringent agent or source thereof which does not contact the wearer's skin until urination occurs at which time a tingling or other sensation is felt on the skin. To prevent contact of the astringent agent with the wearer's skin until urination, the astringent agent may be microencapsulated into a dissolvable shell or may be inserted into a microsponge.

Abstract: A wetness indicating hot melt adhesive composition comprising a pH adjusting component and an indicating agent which is capable of changing color in response to changes in pH. The adhesive composition may comprise 20 to 80% by weight of a sulfonated polyester, 3 to 30% by weight of an acidic plasticizer and 0.05 to 3% by weight of an indicator.

Abstract: A wound dressing is formed from a covering release layer, a dressing layer, an indicator layer, a transparent or translucent indicator bonding layer and a transparent or translucent outer covering. The indicator layer contains a dye which changes colour on contact with water. When the dressing layer becomes saturated, water permeates the indicator layer and triggers a colour change. The colour change is visible through the indicator bonding layer and outer covering and shows a carer that the dressing needs to be replaced.

Abstract: A wearable article useful for facilitating toilet training is provided. The wearable article includes a temperature change element providing a cool/wet signal when wetted which causes discomfort to the wearer. The temperature change element comprises a temperature change substance disposed on an impermeable material in order to maximize the thermal signal provided to the skin of the wearer.

Abstract: A disposable absorbent article such as a training pant includes wetness indicating graphics that provide an interactive training aid. The interactive graphics can include a permanent character graphic and one or more active object graphics, which “appear” or “disappear” from view in response to exposure to urine or the environment. The interactive graphics can also include a story line in which the permanent character graphic is illustrated performing an activity involving the active object graphic. The wetness indicating feature and the graphic story line allow the caregiver to interact with the child in an educational and motivational manner to enhance the toilet training process.

Abstract: A wearable article useful for facilitating toilet training is provided. The wearable article includes a wetness sensation member held in close contact with a wearer's skin during use that enhances the wearer's awareness that urination has occurred. The wetness sensation member includes a permeable layer and an impermeable layer. During insults of urine, the permeable layer allows urine to penetrate in the z-direction and provides a medium for the flow of urine in the x-y plane via wicking. The impermeable layer supports the flow of liquid between the permeable and impermeable layers and retains the liquid thereby increasing the wetted area contacting the wearer's skin.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for gauging the levels of pH in the interiors of articles such as diapers, incontinence garments, pads, catamenial products, bedding, and would dressings are disclosed. This method and apparatus include sensing devices and relay systems for displaying the pH on the outside of the articles that provide visual and/or audible warnings that toxic levels are approaching and that it is time to remove and replace the article.

Abstract: A wearable article comprising a dehydration indicator adapted to measure a urine ionic strength correlated to a specific gravity of the wearer's urine and provide a visible signal when the urine ionic strength reaches a value corresponding to a predetermined threshold of the specific gravity. The wearable article may be a disposable absorbent article. The dehydration indicator may also be comprised in an insert for use with a wearable article. The dehydration indicator may provide qualitative or quantitative information about the ionic strength of the wearer's urine.

Abstract: A toilet training article in the form of a toilet training pad containing an effervescent agent is disclosed. The toilet training pad, which may be an insertable pad or integrated directly into an undergarment, contains an effervescent agent which releases gas upon being contacted by urine. The effervescent agent may be in the form of a compound containing a substantially inert gas, or may be a combination of compounds that, upon being contacted by urine, produce a gas.

Abstract: Methods for identifying and monitoring increased or decreased levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase in biological samples are provided. A collection device for detecting inducible nitric oxide synthase in biological samples is also provided. Detection of inducible nitric oxide synthase is useful in the diagnosis of inflammatory responses such as infections mediated by bacteria, yeast or viruses, transplant rejection, rheumatoid arthritis, interstitial cystitis and cancer.

Abstract: There is provided a tampon that comprises an absorbent pledget and a removal string having a menstrual fluid indicator associated therewith. The absorbent pledget has a proximal end that is placed near the cervical bone and a distal end opposite the proximal end. The indicator is formed on or in the removal string. Preferably, the indicator is formed over the entire length and circumference of the removal string. The indicator provides a sensory signal to the user when the capacity of the absorbent pledget of the tampon is exhausted, or when by-pass leakage is about to commence.

Abstract: A disposable absorbent article such as a training pant includes a liquid soluble wetness indicator and one or more, masking techniques for minimizing the likelihood of smudges appearing after activation. The techniques include masking graphics and peripherally disposed adhesive patterns.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for gauging the levels of pH in the interiors of articles such as diapers, incontinence garments, pads, catamenial products, bedding, and would dressings are disclosed. This method and apparatus include sensing devices and relay systems for displaying the pH on the outside of the articles that provide visual and/or audible warnings that toxic levels are approaching and that it is time to remove and replace the article.

Abstract: A toilet training wetness indicator for alerting a wearer to urination and a garment incorporating such an element. The toilet training wetness indicator, which may be an insertable wetness indicator or integrated directly into a garment, such as training pants, comprises a liquid permeable enclosure having a liquid absorbent body enclosed therein. The liquid absorbent body absorbs liquid within the pants and applies hydraulic pressure to the enclosure upon absorption of a preselected amount of liquid. The enclosure limits expansion of the absorbent body so that the wetness indicator stiffens as liquid is absorbed. The wetness indicator has a first stiffness and is relatively pliable when dry and a second stiffness greater than the first stiffness upon absorption of the preselected amount of liquid.

Abstract: There is provided a tampon that comprises an absorbent pledget and a removal string having a menstrual fluid indicator associated therewith. The absorbent pledget has a proximal end that is placed near the cervical bone and a distal end opposite the proximal end. The indicator is formed on or in the removal string. Preferably, the indicator is formed over the entire length and circumference of the removal string. The indicator provides a sensory signal to the user when the capacity of the absorbent pledget of the tampon is exhausted, or when by-pass leakage is about to commence.

Abstract: A method of providing a series of types of pant-like garments and corresponding information to consumers. The series includes two or more pant-like garments, each of the garments corresponding to a stage of toilet training. Each of the garments in the series may differ from one another in terms of absorbent capacity, size, and/or features. The information provided to the consumer helps the consumer discern which garment from the series is most appropriate for a child in a specific stage of the toilet training process.

Abstract: The present invention encompasses an absorbent article for absorbing liquid, typically body liquid, with a loading indicator, said article comprising a dark topsheet having an L Hunter value of less than 60, preferably being black, an underlying layer comprising a light layer having an L Hunter value of 60 or more and a backsheet, all layers being coextensive to have a common peripheral edge. By this execution the light layer is noticeable along the peripheral edge of the article, thereby providing said loading indicator by changing colour to the colour of the absorbed liquid.

Abstract: A disposable absorbent article having a generally liquid permeable liner, an outer cover and an absorbent body between the liner and outer cover for absorbing liquid body waste penetrating the liner. In one embodiment, the absorbent body has a first zone and a second zone, with the first zone having a lower absorbent capacity per unit weight than the second zone and being capable of facilitating the flow of liquid body waste from the first zone back through the liner. In another embodiment, the absorbent body comprises a mixture of hydrophilic fibers and superabsorbent material. The mixture has a concentration of superabsorbent material of between about one percent and about fifteen percent by weight of the mixture to facilitate the flow of liquid body waste from the absorbent body back through the liner.

Abstract: A wetness monitoring system for a disposable diaper includes an elongated compliant sensor installable within the front portion of the diaper and having an inner conductive layer, a hydrophilic porous middle layer containing a water-soluble ionizable salt, and an outer conductive layer. The several layers are non-conductively interbonded at discontinuous sites. The upper extremity of the sensor provides electrical connector terminals. When urine contacts the sensor, the salt dissolves to form a highly conductive volume of solution that causes an electrical short circuit between inner and outer layers. The short circuit enables a low voltage direct current to activate an alarm mechanism.

Abstract: A toilet training article in the form of a toilet training pad containing an effervescent agent is disclosed. The toilet training pad, which may be an insertable pad or integrated directly into an undergarment, contains an effervescent agent which releases gas upon being contacted by urine. The effervescent agent may be in the form of a compound containing a substantially inert gas, or may be a combination of compounds that, upon being contacted by urine, produce a gas.

Abstract: A backsheet of a disposable diaper comprises a stretched plastic film containing grains of inorganic filler wherein the backsheet presents surfaces roughed by the presence of the grains and has a moisture permeability of 800-3000 g/m2·24 hr and a total light transmissivity of 60-85%.