Abstract: A disposable absorbent article to be worn about the lower torso of a wearer that facilitates an easy, intuitive change is provided. The disposable absorbent article includes at least one serviceable indicium that facilitates an easy change by providing alignment of the article relative to an anatomical feature of the wearer or by externally highlighting one or more components of the article thereby indicating alignment and fit about the wearer's lower torso.

Abstract: A wetness event counter, which can be utilized in a disposable absorbent article, has at least one indicating member. The indicating member can provide a first indication to a caregiver for a first wetness event and a second indication, which is different from the first indication, to a caregiver upon a second wetness event.

Abstract: A system for interactively training a child and a caregiver to assist the child to overcome bedwetting. The system includes an absorbent article, a urine insult detector, a urine insult event communicator and a urine insult event alarm. The urine insult event alarm includes a local alarm proximate the child and a remote alarm proximate the caregiver. The urine insult event alarm can inform both the child and the caregiver upon occurrence of a urine insult event and thereby provide a first interactive training opportunity to assist the child to overcome bedwetting. The local alarm includes a sensor which senses a condition of the child's environment in conjunction with the occurrence of the urine insult event and wherein the remote alarm can be selectively deactivated based on the condition and thereby provide a second interactive training opportunity to assist the child to overcome bedwetting.

Abstract: Sanitary articles such as sanitary napkins including several layers, wherein an ink is applied on at least one of the layers. The ink application area is situated at least partially above the core and extends outwardly across at least a portion of the periphery of the core, but does not entirely cover the core. The ink is visible in the finished article. The ink provides improved resistance to re-wet of the topsheet and side leakage of the core.

Abstract: An absorbent article of the present invention may comprise a backsheet, a wetness indicator composition, and an absorbent core. The wetness indicator composition may comprise a stabilizer, a colorant, and a matrix. The absorbent core may comprise a nonwoven layer and a complex of absorbent polymer material and thermoplastic adhesive material. The wetness indicator composition may be in direct contact with an inner surface of the backsheet and an outer surface of the nonwoven layer. And, the complex of absorbent polymer material and thermoplastic adhesive material may be in direct contact with an inner surface of the nonwoven. Further, the absorbent core may be cellulose free.

Abstract: An absorbent article of the present invention may comprise a backsheet and a wetness indicator composition. The wetness indicator composition may comprise a stabilizer, a colorant, and a matrix. And, a wetness indicator sample, according to the Wetness Indicator Sample Test (Phosphate), may have a phosphate content of 10% or less. Further, the wetness indicator sample, according to the Wetness Indicator Sample Test (Nitrogen), may have a nitrogen content of 3% or less.

Abstract: A tampon that has a sensor and a signal line that peripherally connects the sensor with a peripheral signal processor. The sensor provides a blood wetting signal in response to a progressing blood saturation boundary in the tampon. The signal may be resistive, capacitive or optic. The simple sensor has two proximal signal terminals separated by a fluid responsive medium in wetting communication with the tampon's body. The tampon may be removed by use of the signal line. From signal timing and/or signal gradient the processor may predict when the tampon needs to be changed.

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and method for removably attaching one or more electronic components to an article of clothing. Opposing magnets and attachment members for the magnets are placed on opposite sides of clothing.

Abstract: The invention is directed to an absorbent article which has an outer cover, an inner absorbent material and a sensing system. The sensing system has a measuring device, a monitoring area and a warning device. The monitoring area has a plurality of conductors which are in electrical engagement with the measuring device. The conductors of the monitoring area are spaced apart to sense if an insult has occurred and to sense the size of the insult. A warning device is electrically connected to the measuring device. The warning device provides information to the caregiver regarding the occurrence and size of the liquid or solid insult.

Abstract: A method for detecting and conveying an alarm signal, when an absorbent article is unfastened or, completely removed from the body of the wearer. The method is intended to be used in parallel with a method for detecting wetness in the absorbent article and further relates to an integrated detection-and-alarm method for detecting unfastening and/or wetness in an absorbent article. A system for detecting and conveying an alarm signal when an absorbent article is unfastened or removed from the body of the wearer and/or when the article is wet. The system includes (a) and absorbent article having at least one absorbent layer, the object to be displaced, such as a fastening system, one or more sensoring devices, one or more transmitting devices, and (b) a remote receiver. Furthermore, the system relates to the use of the system in the care of children and adults suffering from incontinence and/or psychological illnesses.

Abstract: An array of disposable absorbent articles. The array has a first absorbent article and a second absorbent article. The first absorbent article is enclosed in a first package having i.) an outer surface wherein the outer surface has an outer surface area and ii.) a first identifier having a first surface area. The first identifier is disposed on the first absorbent article and corresponds to a first absorbency. The first identifier is disposed on the first package. A second absorbent article is enclosed in a second package having i.) an outer surface wherein the outer surface has an outer surface area and ii.) a second identifier having a second surface area. The second identifier is disposed on the second absorbent article and corresponds to a second absorbency. The first surface area of the first absorbent article is different than the second surface area of the second absorbent article.

Abstract: An absorbent article for absorbing liquid, typically body liquid, with a loading indicator, said article includes 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 color to the color of the absorbed liquid.

Abstract: A disposable absorbent article including a wetness sensation member and visible highlighting indicating the presence of the wetness sensation member to facilitate an opportunity for the toilet training of the wearer. The wetness sensation member includes a permeable layer and a flow control layer. Urine deposited on the wetness sensation member can penetrate through the permeable body-facing layer in a z direction away from the wearer to the flow control layer. The flow control layer retards the passage of the urine through the wetness sensation member in the z direction while supporting the movement of the urine in an x-y plane to increase the wetted area contacting the wearer's skin and thereby enhance the wearer's awareness that urination has occurred. The visible highlighting is visible when viewing a body-facing surface of the article and may be associatively correlated with an externally visible marking and/or with the concept of toilet training.

Abstract: A disposable article adapted to receive bodily exudates which provides improved management of such bodily exudates by including an effective amount of one or more agents which act to modify the physical properties of feces or other bodily wastes which may be deposited in the article, or by including one or more compositions such as the aforesaid one or more agents which enhance the removability of bodily waste, such as feces, from the skin of the article's wearer.

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: A disposable absorbent article including a wetness sensation member and visible highlighting indicating the presence of the wetness sensation member to facilitate an opportunity for the toilet training of the wearer. The wetness sensation member includes a permeable layer and a flow control layer. Urine deposited on the wetness sensation member can penetrate through the permeable body-facing layer in a z direction away from the wearer to the flow control layer. The flow control layer retards the passage of the urine through the wetness sensation member in the z direction while supporting the movement of the urine in an x-y plane to increase the wetted area contacting the wearer's skin and thereby enhance the wearer's awareness that urination has occurred. The visible highlighting is visible when viewing a body-facing surface of the article and may be associatively correlated with an externally visible marking and/or with the concept of toilet training.

Abstract: A disposable absorbent article having improved interactive graphics is disclosed. The disposable absorbent article defines a front waist end, a back waist end, and a length which extends between the front and back waist ends. In particular embodiments, the article includes an active graphic disposed on the bodyside liner and/or outer cover, and the active graphic is positioned within one of a frontmost 30% and a backmost 30% of the article's length. In particular embodiments, the article includes an active graphic disposed on the article's bodyside liner and/or outer cover, and the active graphic consists essentially of insoluble ink. In particular embodiments, the article includes an active graphic disposed on the article's bodyside liner and/or outer cover, and the article is adapted to provide for an at least partial disappearance of the active graphic without requiring that the active graphic directly contact liquid to effect the at least partial disappearance.

Abstract: A disposable wearable absorbent article including a visual wetness indicator and gender specific indicia.

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.

Abstract: An absorbent article with a primary visual fullness indicator and a secondary visual wetness indicator.

Abstract: An absorbent article comprises a visual fullness indicator along with primary visual indicia and a secondary visual indicium.

Abstract: A signaling device for sensing and indicating the presence of a body exudate in an absorbent article includes a housing and a paired IR generator/detector disposed within the housing, the paired IR generator/detector adapted to sense a change in infrared light reflectance due to an insult to the absorbent article, the paired IR generator/detector including an infrared-generating light-emitting diode and an infrared-detecting phototransistor. In addition, a body exudate collection and detection system includes an absorbent article and a signaling device adapted to be used in conjunction with the absorbent article for detecting the presence of a body exudate therein, the signaling device including a housing and a paired IR generator/detector disposed within the housing, the paired IR generator/detector including an infrared-generating light-emitting diode and an infrared-detecting phototransistor.

Abstract: A disposable wearable absorbent article including a gender specific visual wetness indicating area.

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.

Abstract: A disposable wearable absorbent article comprises a topsheet, an absorbent core, an outer cover, a waist opening, leg openings, a first visual fullness indicating area, and a second visual fullness indicating area. The first visual fullness indicating area is configured to change to a first subsequent color when indicating the presence of a bodily exudate. The second visual fullness indicating area is configured to change to a second subsequent color when indicating the presence of a bodily exudate. The second subsequent color is visually distinguishable from the first subsequent color. At least a portion of each of the visual fullness indicating areas is visible from outside of the disposable wearable absorbent article when the article is worn by a wearer.

Abstract: Signaling systems are disclosed that indicate a change in an absorbent article, such as the presence of a body fluid. The various different signaling systems disclosed do not include any conductive elements contained on the interior of the article as were required in the past. Instead, the changes are monitored from the outer cover of the article. In one aspect, for instance, a signaling device is provided for sensing and indicating the presence of a body exudate in an absorbent article, the device including a housing and a capacitive sensor disposed within the housing, the capacitive sensor adapted to sense a change in capacitance due to an insult to the absorbent article. The signaling device can include an attachment mechanism for removably attaching the housing to the absorbent article.

Abstract: The present invention includes a hygiene apparatus, more specifically, the hygiene apparatus includes a housing and replaceable absorbent portion. The hygiene apparatus can include an electronic monitoring system and sensory feedback system. The absorbent portion and electronic monitoring system are retained within the housing. The electronic monitoring system includes an electronic portion which detects fluids and activates a sensory feedback signal to the user when fluids contact the system and can thereby warn the user before leakage of fluids beyond the article occurs. The user can remove and replace the absorbent cartridge accordingly. The electronic monitoring system can also include a biosensor to analyze the fluids discharged, process the analyzed information, and provide the physiological information regarding the fluids to the user. The electronic monitoring system can also transfer the information to a remote device so that the user can view the results of system's analysis.

Abstract: An insert for sensing a bodily fluid or condition and for use in conjunction with an undergarment or a disposable absorbent article is provided, the insert including a first substrate having a first substrate article-facing surface and a first substrate body-facing surface, a second substrate having a second substrate body-facing surface, and an absorbent element disposed between the first and second substrates. The insert also includes two conductive elements disposed between the second substrate body-facing surface and the first substrate article-facing surface, wherein the conductive elements are adapted to be removably connectable to a signaling device. Also provided is an insert including a first substrate having a first substrate article-facing surface; and two conductive elements disposed on the first substrate, wherein each conductive element comprises conductive paper or tissue, and wherein the conductive elements are adapted to be removably connectable to a signaling device.

Abstract: An absorbent article includes an absorbent body in contact with a moisture activatable shrinking yarn in the form of a metering string. The metering string includes a hanging portion that is at least initially visible to a user when the absorbent article is in use. By observing the change in length of the hanging portion, a user wearing the absorbent article can determine how saturated the absorbent article has become. The metering string may be used with absorbent articles such as tampons and diapers.

Abstract: An absorbent article is provided including a liquid impermeable outercover, an absorbent body disposed on the outercover, and a body-facing inner surface including body adhesive disposed thereon. The absorbent article also includes a physical sensation member disposed between the absorbent body and the wearer, the physical sensation member adapted to provide a physical sensation to the wearer when the physical sensation member is contacted by a bodily exudate. The absorbent article is also provided including a liquid impermeable outercover, an absorbent body disposed on the outercover, and a physical sensation member disposed on the absorbent body, the physical sensation member adapted to provide a physical sensation to the wearer. The absorbent article also provides a liquid permeable, wherein the liner includes a body-facing inner surface including body adhesive disposed thereon.

Abstract: An absorbent article for preventing leakage is provided, 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 includes a dimension change member adapted to dimensionally change upon liquid contact to produce a transition in the absorbent article between an activated state and an un-activated state, thereby producing a physical sensation indicating a fullness level of the absorbent assembly. The absorbent article also provides an absorbent assembly having an absorbent assembly perimeter and a leakage warning element including a stored energy device and a dimension change member, the dimension change member disposed along a portion of the perimeter, wherein the dimension change member is adapted to break upon liquid contact to produce a transition in the leakage warning element from an un-activated state to an activated state.

Abstract: Absorbent articles comprising one or more sensors capable of detecting the presence of a body waste in the absorbent article are described. In particular, the absorbent articles comprise at least one chemiresistor capable of detecting the presence of volatile organic compounds associated with a body waste. When a body waste is detected, an indicator means signals a caregiver and/or a user of the absorbent article that an insult has occurred.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for alerting a colostomate or medical attendant to the presence of fecal matter. The device includes a hollow plug detachably securable to a flexible port positioned about the stoma. The port carries an alarm circuit which is triggered when fecal matter enters the plug lumen which will alert the colostomate to an impending episode. The signal may be vibratory, audible or visible and may be transmitted to a remote location. The device includes an inflatable air cuff which, when inflated, presents a physical barrier to the passage of fecal matter. Gas may pass through filters in the tube. The method involves positioning the device in the stoma, inflating the cuff and generating an alarm when matter is sensed.

Abstract: An absorbent article is provided which has such a structure that a bled portion of the colored indicator is unnoticeable. The absorbent article includes a liquid permeable top sheet, a liquid impermeable back sheet, an absorbing core interposed between the two sheets, and an indicator making it possible to visually ascertain that the absorbing core is in the wet state. The back sheet has an average hole diameter of 0.3 ?m to 3 ?m, and has a light transmittance of not less than 20% and not more than 45% in a state in which the absorbing core is dry.

Abstract: A three-dimensional fluidic assay device or sensor is described. The sensor has a porous substrate with a first face or plane defined along x-y coordinate axes, and a second face remote in a z-direction from the first face. The first face contains a sample deposition zone and the second face has at least one detection zone, such that when a fluid sample is deposited in the sample deposition zone, fluid is transported by means of capillary action along the z-direction to the detection zone and manifests a signal development. An absorbent article, such as a diaper or feminine hygiene product, having such a three-dimensional sensor integrated across the thickness of the absorbent article, from an inner layer to an outer layer, is also described.

Abstract: An absorptive article which includes a locking part disposed on one end in the longitudinal direction so as to face the side of a wearing object and a locking part disposed on the other end in the longitudinal direction so as to face a side opposite to the wearing object. The care system includes the first locking part (251) disposed at an input terminal (250) fitted to an output terminal part (115) disposed on one end in the longitudinal direction (X) of the urine pad (100) so as to face the side of the wearing person and the second locking part disposed on the surface of a side opposite to the side of the wearing person, that is the other end in the longitudinal direction (X) of the urine pad (100). The urine pad (100) is used while the first locking part (251) is locked to a belt-like member put on the waist of the wearing person, and the second locking part is locked to the inner surface of an outer member so disposed as to cover the urine pad (100).

Abstract: An absorbent article has an outer cover at least in part defining the outer surface of the article and a liner in opposed relationship with the outer cover and at least in part defining the inner surface of the article. An absorbent structure is disposed between the liner and the outer cover. At least one graphic is visible from the inner surface of the article. The at least one graphic disposed intermediate the inner surface and the outer surface of the article and being free from direct contact with the liner. The article being configured such that the graphic is visible from the inner surface of the article. A process for manufacturing an absorbent article having a graphic visible from the inner surface of the article is provided.

Abstract: A disposable absorbent article includes an absorbent chassis and a fastening system that together define a refastenable pant. The refastenable pant includes a pair of elastomeric front side panels extending from the waist opening to each leg opening, a pair of elastomeric back side panels extending from the waist opening to each leg opening, and a pair of refastenable seams extending from the waist opening to each leg opening and positioned between the elastomeric front and back side panels.

Abstract: A potty training insert for a diaper and a combination thereof is provided. The potty training insert comprises a sensor and a detector. The sensor is adapted to be coupled to the diaper. The sensor comprises a pair of electrically conductive cloth strips adjacent to each other and a pair of insulative layers sandwiching the pair of electrically conductive cloth strips. The detector is operatively coupled to the pair of electrically conductive cloth strips of the sensor. The detector is adapted to produce a customized alarm signal when the pair of electrically conductive cloth strips senses moisture in the diaper. The customized alarm signal enables a child to restrain excretory movements for becoming potty trained.

Abstract: The present subject matter relates to absorbent articles and signaling devices for use therewith. An absorbent article may be provided with selected electrical components used as wetness or other type sensors which may be determined by a coupled signaling device. An attached signaling device may automatically determine physiological changes of a wearer of the absorbent article including increases in void volume over time, increases in time between voids and proximity to bathroom fixtures. The signaling device may provide data analysis and/or display, and may provide remote alarm functions.

Abstract: In accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure an absorbent article capable of indicating the presence or absence of urine as well as impending leakage of urine is disclosed. The absorbent article includes a substantially liquid impermeable layer, a liquid permeable layer, and an absorbent core positioned between the substantially liquid impermeable layer and the liquid permeable layer. A plurality of sensors are integrated into the article across the width of the article and positioned such that the sensors are in fluid communication with urine when provided by a wearer of the article. At least one of the sensors comprises a pH indicator. At least one of the sensors is capable of indicating the presence or absence of urine and at least one of the sensors is capable of indicating impending leakage of urine from the article.

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: An example embodiment of the invention provides a system and method for detecting a liquid leak that includes a sensor with a passive resonant circuit having a resonant frequency, an interrogation unit to transmit a radio frequency (RF) wave corresponding to the resonant circuit's resonant frequency, and a receiver to measure the resonant circuit's response. A determination unit is configured to determine the presence of liquid based on the measured response. In the absence of liquid, the resonant circuit radiates a signal corresponding to its resonant frequency; however, in the presence of liquid, the resonant circuit's electrical characteristics change such that the resonant circuit does not resonate at its resonant frequency. The resonant circuit may include inductive and capacitive elements formed on a substrate using electrically conductive materials. Thus, the system may quickly, safely and accurately detect potentially life-threatening blood leaks that may occur during, for example, hemodialysis.

Abstract: A wetness monitoring system is provided for an absorbent article, the wetness monitoring system including a signaling device including a counter to count the number of discrete insults, a timer to monitor the elapsed time that the article has been worn, and an alarm to indicate that the number of discrete insults has reached an insult limit or that the elapsed time has reached an elapsed time limit, whichever occurs first. The signaling device can be adapted to indicate one of first, second, and third conditions, the first condition being that the number of discrete insults has reached an insult limit, the second condition being that the elapsed time has reached an elapsed time limit, and the third condition being the first to occur of either of the first and second conditions, and wherein the condition to be indicated is selected by the wearer or by a caregiver.

Abstract: The present disclosure is generally directed to a process for controlling the quality of manufactured absorbent articles, the process including incorporating into an absorbent article at least a portion of a wetness sensing system that is configured to detect the presence of a substance, the wetness sensing system comprising at least one metallic conductive element; and passing the absorbent article in proximity to a foreign material sensor employing x-ray technology, the foreign material sensor adapted to detect the presence of foreign material to confirm whether foreign material has been incorporated into the article.

Abstract: A canine diaper, comprising: (a) an outer liner, wherein the outer liner is substantially liquid impermeable; (b) an inner liner, wherein the inner liner is substantially liquid permeable, and wherein the inner liner comprises an outer perimeter secured to the outer liner to enclose a cavity therebetween; (c) a cavity positioned between the inner liner and the outer liner; (d) an absorbent core, wherein the absorbent core is retained within the cavity; and (e) at least one tab which secures the outer liner of the canine diaper substantially around a torso of a dog.

Abstract: An absorptive article in which a terminal section of a sensor is less likely to be damaged in production, packaging, and transportation. An output terminal (115) of a sensor member (110) is placed at a side end of a front edge (180) of a urine pad (100). The side end of the front edge (180) is constructed only from a front face sheet (105) and a rear face sheet (106). The front face sheet (105) and the rear face sheet (106) are not joined together and are separably arranged. When the urine pad (100) is not in use, the output terminal (115) is covered by the front face sheet (105) and the rear face sheet (106). In use, the front face sheet (105) and the rear face sheet (106) are separated in the thickness direction and the output terminal (115) of the sensor member (110) is exposed.

Abstract: A wound dressing comprising: a water-absorbent fabric comprising at least about 10 wt. % of hydrogel-forming absorbent fibers based on the dry weight of the fabric; and an adhesion-resistant, water-permeable wound contacting surface textile layer that is substantially continuously bonded to at least one surface of said fabric. The surface textile layer may be formed by surface treatment of the fabric, or by bonding a suitable textile web to the surface of the fabric.

Abstract: In the operation input device of the prior art, the input of a position and the input of an attitude are mixed up and both the position and attitude may be changed by the result of the input of a change in attitude. Therefore, the intention of an operator cannot be reflected accurately. To solve the above problem, an operation input device of the present invention has a first movement detection unit for detecting the position and attitude of a first operation input unit and a second movement detection unit, connected to the first movement detection unit, for detecting the position and attitude of a second operation input unit to separate a part for inputting a position from a part for inputting an attitude.

Abstract: The present subject matter relates to absorbent articles and signaling devices for use therewith. An absorbent article may be provided with selected electrical components used as wetness or other type sensors and may also incorporate one or more electrical components, characteristics of which may be determined by a coupled signaling device. An attached signaling device may automatically determine a product identification based on characteristics of the electrical components detected and adjust operating characteristics or parameters for the sensing device. Determinations could be made based on gender, age and approximate weight of the user of the absorbent device. In addition automatic checks can be made to determine mutual operability of the signaling device with an associated absorbent article or visa-versa.