Containing Layers Having Differing Absorption Characteristics (e.g., Flow Control, Wicking, Etc.) Patents (Class 604/378)
  • Patent number: 7670665
    Abstract: An absorbent article having a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core disposed between the topsheet and the backsheet. The topsheet has a first side and a second side, the first side being a body-facing side. The topsheet defines a CD-MD plane and includes a fibrous nonwoven web and tufts, the tufts having fibers of the fibrous nonwoven web. The topsheet further includes first, second and third zones, each zone being characterized in a Z-direction by the zone fiber orientation, wherein the first and third zones are displaced relative to each other and each include fibers having portions orientated substantially parallel to said CD-MD plane of the topsheet. The second zone is intermediate and adjacent to the first and third zones, the second zone including substantially reoriented fibers that are substantially vertically oriented with respect to the CD-MD plane of said topsheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Jody Lynn Hoying, John Lee Hammons, Susan Nicole Lloyd, Robert Haines Turner, John Joseph Curro
  • Patent number: 7670324
    Abstract: A disposable absorbent article adapted to be worn about a lower torso of a human body and having a chassis, a non-removable absorbent core component disposed in a crotch region of the chassis, and a replaceable absorbent core component disposed in capillary liquid communication with the non-removable absorbent core component and having longitudinally disposed regions of liquid permeability and liquid impermeability on the same surface. The replaceable absorbent core component may be removed and a like component may be substituted without the removal of the absorbent article from the wearer. The replaceable absorbent core component may be disposed inside an openable chassis pocket, with access for its removal and replacement provided by an aperture in a backsheet, an openable end of an external pocket, or an openable end of an internal pocket formed at an area of a waist end edge where the backsheet and a topsheet may be separated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: The Procter and Gamble Company
    Inventors: Gary Dean LaVon, Theodora Beck, Gerald Alfred Young, Stephen Lebeuf Hardie, Thomas Henrich, Edward John Milbrada
  • Publication number: 20100049154
    Abstract: A dynamically deformable sanitary napkin for insertion within a person's intergluteal cleft has a plurality of functional layers serving absorbent, protective, and mechanical purposes and is held in position by the restorative force of a spring means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2008
    Publication date: February 25, 2010
    Inventor: Judy Burd
  • Patent number: 7666174
    Abstract: Here is disclosed a disposable diaper, which includes a liquid-absorbent zone in a crotch region having first through fourth sections. A stiffness of the first and second sections formed from top- and backsheets is lower than a stiffness of the third and fourth sections formed from the top- and backsheets and an absorbent core. Stretchably elastic members extending in a longitudinal direction are contractibly attached to the fourth section. A liquid-absorbent zone in the crotch region is formed with a concavity (feces pocket) as the fourth section contract in the longitudinal direction under a contractile force of the elastic members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: Uni-Charm Corporation
    Inventors: Kazuaki Onishi, Yusuke Kawakami
  • Patent number: 7663016
    Abstract: A disposable absorbent article 10 that includes an absorbent mat 13 between a liquid permeable top sheet 11 and a liquid impermeable back sheet 12, the absorbent mat 13 including a sheet-like water absorbent layer 15 that contains water absorbent resin powders 14 but that does not contain pulp fibers therein, and fiber assembly layers 17A and 17B each of which mainly consists of the pulp fibers 16, sequentially from the side of the top sheet 11, the sheet-like water absorbent layer 15 alternately including a plurality of water absorbent resin powder existing regions 15a, in each of which the water absorbent resin powders 14 are wrapped in two non-woven fabric sheets 20 and 21, and a plurality of water absorbent resin powder non-existing regions 15b, in each of which the water absorbent resin powders 14 are not wrapped in the two non-woven fabric sheets 20 and 21, in a width direction, wherein rising flaps 18 are provided on both sides of the sheet-like water absorbent layer 15, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Assignee: Livedo Corporation
    Inventor: Taichiro Suzuki
  • Patent number: 7662136
    Abstract: A disposable absorbent article having a liner, an outer cover and an absorbent body therebetween for absorbing liquid body waste penetrating the liner. In one embodiment, the absorbent body has an inner layer and an outer layer. The inner layer has a lower absorbent capacity per unit weight than the outer layer. A flow control layer between the inner layer and the outer layer at least retards the flow of liquid body waste from the inner layer to the outer layer to facilitate a prolonged feeling of wetness to the wearer. In another embodiment, a surge layer lies between the liner and an absorbent body. A flow control layer between the liner and the surge layer, or between the surge layer and the absorbent body, at least retards the flow of liquid body waste through the surge layer toward the absorbent body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard L. Underhill, Michael J. Niemeyer, Marianne K. Leick
  • Publication number: 20100036339
    Abstract: An absorbent article having a topsheet in facing relationship with an absorbent core. The topsheet has a pair of tuft region lateral boundaries. Each tuft region lateral boundary is defined by a line or a portion of a line separating a plurality of first tufts from a plurality of second tufts, first tufts and second tufts differing in either height or area density. The tuft region lateral boundaries are on opposing sides of the longitudinal centerline. The tuft region lateral boundaries extend longitudinally along transversely opposite sides of the topsheet and are spaced apart from each other by a distance gradually increasing or gradually decreasing from a minimum or maximum, respectively, at a parallel transverse axis towards longitudinally opposing ends of the tuft region lateral boundaries. The tufts have fibers integral with and extending from the fibrous nonwoven web.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2009
    Publication date: February 11, 2010
    Inventors: John Lee Hammons, Luisa Valerio Gonzalez, Sybille Fuchs
  • Publication number: 20100036347
    Abstract: An absorbent article having a topsheet and an absorbent core. The topsheet has a pair of tuft region lateral boundaries. Each tuft region lateral boundary is defined by a line or a portion of a line separating a plurality of the tufts from a portion of the topsheet devoid of tufts. Tuft region lateral boundaries are symmetrically disposed on opposing sides of the longitudinal centerline. Tuft region lateral boundaries extend longitudinally along at least part of the longitudinal centerline. Tuft region lateral boundaries are spaced apart from each other by a distance gradually increasing from a minimum at a parallel transverse axis to a maximum at longitudinally opposing ends of the tuft region lateral boundaries or are spaced apart from each other by a distance gradually decreasing from a maximum at a parallel transverse axis to a minimum at longitudinally opposing ends of the tuft region lateral boundaries.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2009
    Publication date: February 11, 2010
    Inventors: John Lee Hammons, Sybille Fuchs, Luisa Valerio Gonzalez
  • Publication number: 20100036348
    Abstract: An absorbent article including an absorbent core having a plurality of first regions and a second region, each one of said first regions being arranged in spaced relationship from each of the other first regions and each of the first regions being entirely surrounded by the second region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2009
    Publication date: February 11, 2010
    Inventors: Antonio Carlos Ribeiro De Carvalho, Marcia Helena Teixeira Fajolli, Maria Marcia R. Caldas Salles
  • Publication number: 20100036346
    Abstract: An absorbent article having a liquid pervious topsheet having a first portion and a second portion. The first portion differs in structure from the second portion. The topsheet has a longitudinal centerline and a transverse centerline. The second portion has a first structurally modified zone, a second structurally modified zone, a third structurally modified zone, and a fourth structurally modified zone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2008
    Publication date: February 11, 2010
    Inventors: John Lee Hammons, Sybille Fuchs, Luisa Valerio Gonzalez
  • Publication number: 20100030177
    Abstract: [Problems] To provide an absorbent article that is favorably effective in body pressure dispersion [Means for Solving Problems] An absorbent article X1 having an absorber 3 in which plurality of absorbent cores 3A, 3B each including a fiber base material 31 and an absorbent polymer 30 are layered in such a manner that the polymer 30 swells by gelation due to liquid absorption and expands up to one surface F of the fiber base material 31 through inter-fiber gaps thereby to form a polymer layer 40 on the fiber base material surface F while the absorbent polymer expanding surfaces of adjacent absorbent cores are opposed to each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2008
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Inventors: Hiromi Sanada, Keita Mizobuchi
  • Publication number: 20100030189
    Abstract: A multi-layered, absorbent perineal pad is disclosed that has a generally ovate cross-section. In disclosed embodiments, the pad has an absorbent outer layer, antimicrobial intermediate layer, and absorbent inner layer. At least two opposing edges of the pad are sealed to one another so that the absorbent inner layer encloses an internal cavity within the pad. The pad may be used to absorb liquids from perineal structures (such as vaginal or anal liquids) or administer agents to perineal structures. Liquids that are absorbed in the pad can be subjected to diagnostic assays.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2008
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Inventor: William H. Fleming
  • Publication number: 20100030174
    Abstract: Multi-ply fibrous structures, more particularly to embossed multi-ply fibrous structures and processes for making same are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2008
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Inventors: Patrick J. Buschur, Kevin Benson McNeil
  • Publication number: 20100030178
    Abstract: A composite article comprises a fluid transport layer having first and second surfaces and a hydrophobic layer applied to the first surface of the fluid transport layer. When the composite article is used as a wound dressing, the first surface of the fluid transport layer provides a skin-facing surface. The hydrophobic layer comprises a plurality of discontinuities, and at least a portion of the discontinuities have a dimension sufficient to permit the passage of fluid through the hydrophobic layer and into the fluid transport layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2009
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Inventors: Robert M. MacMeccan, Le Last, Keith A. Keller, Martin E. Cowan, T. Andrew Canada
  • Publication number: 20100030171
    Abstract: A composite article comprises a fluid transport layer, a fluid retentive layer, and, optionally, a moisture vapor permeable film. The first surface of the fluid transport layer provides a fluid contacting surface. The fluid retentive layer is positioned so that the first surface layer of the fluid retentive layer is adjacent to the second surface of the fluid transport layer. The moisture vapor permeable film is positioned so that it is adjacent to the second surface of the fluid retentive layer. The composite article is suitable for use as a wound dressing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2009
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Inventors: T. Andrew Canada, Martin E. Cowan, Robert M. MacMeccan, Le Zhang
  • Publication number: 20100010463
    Abstract: The invention includes an absorbent article 1 in which an undergarment 90 can be prevented from getting dirty with fluid that has been absorbed by an absorbent body 20, without a decrease in the amount of fluid that can be absorbed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2007
    Publication date: January 14, 2010
    Applicant: UNI-CHARM CORPORATION
    Inventors: Jun Kudo, Hideyuki Kinoshita, Akira Hashino
  • Publication number: 20100010461
    Abstract: Superabsorbent polymer particles having a transient hydrophobicity, excellent gel integrity, and free swell gel bed permeability are disclosed. A method of producing the superabsorbent polymer particles by applying a polyamine coating and a cosolvent to the particles also is disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2007
    Publication date: January 14, 2010
    Applicant: BASF SE
    Inventors: Norbert Herfert, Martin Wendker, Richard Goodwin, Ma-Ikay Kikama Miatudila, Michael A. Mitchell, William G.J. Chiang
  • Publication number: 20100004615
    Abstract: An absorbent product having an extent in a plane in the longitudinal direction and the lateral direction when the product is positioned in a plane position and a thickness perpendicular to the plane. The absorbent product includes a backing layer and a top layer and between them an absorption body, the absorbent product being divided up in the longitudinal direction into a rear section, a front section and positioned between them a central section, and being divided up in the lateral direction into a first lateral zone, a second lateral zone and positioned between them a central zone. The top layer includes slits in an area which fully or partially encloses that part of the absorbent product that is formed by the section of the central zone and the central section, and which constitutes the wet area of the product.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2006
    Publication date: January 7, 2010
    Inventor: Elisabeth Boissier
  • Patent number: 7642398
    Abstract: An elasticized web has a gatherable substrate and a multi-strand elastic yarn affixed to the gatherable substrate at a plurality of fixation locations. So that the yarn can be affixed to the substrate without the use of an adhesive, the yarn is subjected to forces to create partial delamination of the yarn at the fixation locations and a portion of the gatherable substrate is caused to pass between the thus delaminated strands of the multi-strand elastic yarn. The elasticized web of the present invention is particularly suitable for use in disposable absorbent articles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: SCA Hygiene Products AB
    Inventors: Christian Järpenberg, Michael Linder, José-Maria Mansisidor, Åsa Lindström, Karin Lindmark, Ingemar Fernfors, Kenneth Strannemalm
  • Publication number: 20090312732
    Abstract: An absorbent article may comprise an absorbent assembly comprising an absorbent core. The article may also comprise a chassis formed by a web comprising at least one continuous layer that forms a portion of a water-impermeable backsheet and a portion of laterally opposing side flaps. The chassis may further comprise a longitudinal axis, a lateral axis, a front waist region comprising a front waist edge, a back waist region comprising a back waist edge, a crotch region between the waist regions, laterally opposing side edges extending between the front waist edge and the back waist edge, an exterior surface, and an interior surface to which the absorbent assembly is attached. The attachment of the absorbent assembly may be shaped. The chassis may further comprise a continuously activated region disposed in one or both of the front and back waist regions of the article.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2009
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Inventors: Gary Dean LaVon, Thomas Henrich, Luke Nogales, Kevin Michael Smith, John Strube
  • Publication number: 20090312728
    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: May 29, 2009
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Inventors: Larry Tab Randolph, Justin Alexander Long
  • Publication number: 20090312729
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a sanitary napkin whose securing means includes a “braid” of absorbent material. The braid structure maximizes absorbency, while minimizing bulk and thus allows the pad to be comfortably held in place during use, in much the same way that the popular underwear are held.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2007
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Applicant: Merimont US
    Inventor: Gabriela Roche del Ayala
  • Patent number: 7632258
    Abstract: An absorbent feminine care article (20) having a longitudinal direction (22), a lateral direction (24), first and second longitudinally opposed end portions (72, 72a), and an intermediate portion (76) located between the end portions. The article (20) comprises an absorbent body structure (30) sandwiched between a cover (26) and a baffle (28). In a particular aspect, the absorbent structure (30) can include an intake layer (32) and a shaping layer (36). In other aspects, the intake layer (32) and shaping layer (36) can have differently configured absorbent capacities, differently configured densities, differently configured basis weights and/or differently configured sizes which are selectively arranged to provide desired combinations of liquid intake rate, absorbent retention capacity, shape maintenance, and aesthetics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Jennifer L. Misek, Danielle G. Finger, Alice Y. Romans-Hess, Mary A. Berceau, Jamie L. Gloede, Candace D. Krautkramer, Jason M. English, Jennifer E. Pozniak, Stuart J. Burgan, Peter S. Gebhardt, Patsy A. Krautkramer, Wendy L. Hamilton, Amanda J. Carlson
  • Patent number: 7632979
    Abstract: A body fluid absorbing article, which is improved in the spot absorptivity and in the diffusivity in an absorbent, and which is improved in the characteristics of a body fluid migration to the absorbent. The body fluid absorbing article comprises an absorbent sandwiched between a body fluid permeable surface member and a body fluid impermeable back member. Said absorbent includes an upper layer and a lower layer sequentially from the side of said body fluid permeable surface member, and said lower layer has a higher density than that of said upper layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Assignee: Daio Paper Corporation
    Inventors: Takako Fujii, Satoko Konawa, Masanori Kondo
  • Publication number: 20090306615
    Abstract: An absorbent product such as a panty liner, incontinence pad, sanitary towel or the like comprising a top layer consisting of a first material layer and a second material layer, the first material layer being attached directly to the second material layer. The first material layer has a first part and a second part, where the first part and/or the second part contains openings, and where the first part is folded over the second part along a fold line, the first material layer being attached directly to the second material layer adjacent to at least one line extending in the longitudinal direction in an inner joining zone. A method for the manufacture of an absorbent product of this kind.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2006
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Applicant: SCA Hygiene Products AB
    Inventor: Ken Olsson
  • Publication number: 20090306616
    Abstract: A pant type absorbent article having a core region includes an absorbent core and a chassis region surrounding the core region. The article in at least a part of the chassis region includes a coversheet in the form of an elastic laminate constituting the sole component of the chassis in at least 20% of the total surface area of the article. The elastic laminate has a tensile strength of at least 15 N/25 mm both in the longitudinal and transverse directions of the article and a tensile strength in the transverse direction of the article which is no more than 2.5 times and preferably no more than 2 times higher than the tensile strength in the longitudinal direction of the article. The force required to extend the elastic laminate 10% in the longitudinal direction of the article is no more than 5 N/25 mm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2006
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Applicant: SCA Hygiene Products AB
    Inventor: Margareta Wennerbäck
  • Publication number: 20090306614
    Abstract: An absorbent product such as a panty liner or a sanitary towel or the like having two lateral zones and situated between them a central zone, the absorbent product having a top layer consisting of a laminate of a first layer of material containing openings and a second layer of material. The first layer of material covers at least the two lateral zones, and in that the second layer of material covers both the two lateral zones and the central zone, the top layer being folded over itself in such a way that an overlap is formed with a Z-shaped cross section, the overlapping parts being joined together via an inner joining zone. A method for the manufacture of such an absorbent product.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2006
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Applicant: SCA Hygiene Products AB
    Inventor: Elisabeth Boissier
  • Patent number: 7628777
    Abstract: An absorbent article is elongated to have longitudinally opposed front and rear edges and transversely opposed left and right edges. The absorbent article includes a stack of: a backsheet having a liquid barrier effect; a liquid absorbent layer; a hydrophilic intermediate sheet including fibers; and a hydrophilic topsheet including fibers. The absorbent article has a central region of a predetermined width, which is spaced apart from the left and right edges and formed with a plurality of liquid passage holes continuously extending from the topsheet to the intermediate sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Assignee: Uni-Charm Corporation
    Inventors: Hideki Kondo, Jun Kudo
  • Publication number: 20090299313
    Abstract: A reusable sanitary garment is provided, having a three-part construction, incorporating an outer garment portion, a sling portion, and at least one pad, supported within the sling, which, in turn, is affixed to, and supported within, the outer garment. Both the outer garment portion and the sling portion are preferably fabricated, in an ecologically sustainable manner, from recycled plastics materials. The at least one pad may be fabricated as a reusable, washable article, or may be fabricated as a disposable article, preferably from recycled, and easily recyclable or biodegradable materials. The outer garment portion, the sling portion and/or the reusable pad may be fabricated to incorporate bamboo charcoal material, having enhanced antibacterial, deodorant, wicking and absorptive qualities.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2008
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Applicant: FAKTORIE CORPORATION
    Inventors: Cher Anne Caylin Knightingale, Ellis Charles Hanna Knightingale
  • Publication number: 20090299316
    Abstract: A three-dimensional film for use as a transfer layer in an absorbent article has a continuous surface and a discontinuous surface disposed generally parallel to and spaced from said continuous surface; both the continuous surface and the discontinuous surface have large scale apertures defined by sidewalls originating on the surface and extending outwardly therefrom and sized to permit acquisition of fluids by gravity, and optionally each surface also includes small scale apertures sized to acquire fluids by capillary action.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2009
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Applicant: TREDEGAR FILM PRODUCTS CORPORATION
    Inventor: Rickey J. Seyler
  • Patent number: 7626073
    Abstract: The present invention relates to absorbent articles which include one or more components that have been treated with a hydrophobic surface coating intended to render such components impermeable to liquids having relatively low surface tensions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Co.
    Inventor: Kemal Vatansever Catalan
  • Publication number: 20090292267
    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: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2009
    Publication date: November 26, 2009
    Inventor: Donald Carroll Roe
  • Publication number: 20090292265
    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: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2007
    Publication date: November 26, 2009
    Applicant: Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization
    Inventors: Richard James Neil Helmer, Micheal Anthony Mestrovic, Pamela Margaret Petersen
  • Publication number: 20090287174
    Abstract: Absorbent core for disposable absorbent articles, particularly for the absorption of menses or blood, including an absorbent polymer and a cationic polysaccharide.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2009
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Inventors: Giovanni Carlucci, Alessandro Gagliardini, Emma Somma, Maurizio Tamburro
  • Publication number: 20090287175
    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: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2009
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Inventors: Leonard G. Rosenfeld, Hien V. Nguyen
  • Patent number: 7619132
    Abstract: A multilayer film includes a plastic layer and an elastomeric layer. The plastic layer can contain a co-polyester of terepthalic acid, adipic acid and butanediol, and the elastomeric layer can contain a polyurethane elastomer. The plastic layer and/or the elastomeric layer can contain filler particles, and may be present as a bilayer laminate. The plastic layer and a filled elastomeric layer can also be combined with an unfilled elastomeric layer to form a tri-layer laminate. The multilayer films can provide breathable films with improved degradability, stretchability and recoverability, and tactile feel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Vasily A. Topolkaraev, Patrick Martin Downey
  • Patent number: 7615039
    Abstract: A body attachable absorbent article including a cover layer, a barrier layer and an absorbent layer 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: June 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2009
    Assignee: McNeil-PPC, Inc.
    Inventors: Leonard G. Rosenfeld, Theresa Wysocki, Morris Yang, Marina Nikitina, John Poccia
  • Patent number: 7615040
    Abstract: An absorbent article having a thin, flexible absorbent pad that can accommodate one or two insults with a low probability of leakage. The absorbent article can be less than about 5 millimeters thick, with the absorbent pad being less than about 3 millimeters thick. The absorbent article has a low absorbent capacity of, for example, less than three times an anticipated single insult volume, or less than twice an anticipated single insult volume. The absorbent article is particularly suitable for use as a toilet training aid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2009
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher Peter Olson, Lawrence Howell Sawyer, Shirlee Ann Weber
  • Patent number: 7612249
    Abstract: A disposable absorbent article has a liner, an outer cover and an absorbent body therebetween for absorbing liquid body waste penetrating the liner. A flow control layer having lateral side edges is positioned between the liner and the absorbent body, with at least a portion of each lateral side edge of the flow control layer spaced laterally inward from lateral side edges of the absorbent body. The flow control layer is at least in part liquid impermeable to retard the flow of liquid body waste penetrating the liner toward the absorbent body whereby at least a portion of the liquid body waste that penetrates the liner is directed by the flow control layer to migrate laterally outward toward the lateral side edges of the flow control layer for subsequent flow around the flow control layer toward the absorbent body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard L. Underhill, Michael J. Niemeyer, Marianne K. Leick
  • Publication number: 20090270828
    Abstract: It is an object of the present invention to provide an absorbent article having an excellent utilization efficiency of an absorber. The object is attained by an absorbent article including: a leak preventer including a bottom surface part extending in a front-rear direction, and side parts raised to an upper side at both left and right sides of the bottom surface part; an absorber containing super absorbent polymer for absorbing a body fluid placed in an internal space formed by the bottom surface part and the side parts of the leak preventer in at least one layer; and a liquid guide unit placed in a front body part of the internal space, at a position where a flow of discharged urine directly collides with the liquid guide unit, for moving, when urine is discharged, the urine from the position where the urine has collided therewith to other positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2006
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventors: Migaku Suzuki, Katsumi Ando
  • Publication number: 20090270825
    Abstract: A disposable absorbent article is provided having an absorbent core located in a chassis and including absorbent particulate polymer material defining at least one cavity for improved isolation of fecal matter or other body exudates. The absorbent core may be substantially cellulose free. Methods for making such an absorbent core and corresponding disposable absorbent article are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2009
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventors: Maja Wciorka, Carsten Heinrich Kreuzer, Udo Friedel Schoenborn
  • Publication number: 20090270822
    Abstract: The present invention is a solution for continence problems. A supporting structure can be in the form of a modified jock strap or biker's shorts. It includes a male version (bag) and a unisex version (wicking pad). The male model can do alright with gravity alone. The unisex model uses wicking through micro channels to a trigger device in a small bag. This is made of highly porous hydrophilic material that allows flow to drain downward for disposal but not wet backwards It would be advantageous to provide a solution whereas the users would have a comfortable and efficient way to dispose of their urine without getting their garments wet without having to throw something away like absorption pad. It would also be convenient and cost effective to provide a way of using the same device without changing anything all day long.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2009
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventor: Lester William Medeiros
  • Patent number: 7608748
    Abstract: The invention relates to a disposable absorbent sanitary product for absorbing bodily fluids, such as diapers, incontinence pads, sanitary towels or panty liners. The product comprises a top sheet, at least sections of which are permeable to liquid, a bottom sheet, at least sections of which are liquid-tight and an absorbent body that is situated between the top sheet and the bottom sheet. According to the invention, the absorbent body comprises a first storage layer (20, 26, 30) for permanently storing bodily fluids, the layer containing 5-30 wt. % hydrophilic melt-blown microfibers (22), 70-95 wt. % particulate super-absorbent material (24) and optionally a maximum 10 wt. % particulate or fibrous component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Assignee: Paul Hartmann AG
    Inventors: Matthias Zoch, Wolfgang Ostertag
  • Publication number: 20090264845
    Abstract: An absorbent composite comprising a bound particulate absorbent polymer in which two or more nearly spherical absorbent polymer particles are bound to each other and a web-like absorbent polymer, wherein the bound particulate absorbent polymer and the web-like absorbent polymer are bound to a substrate. The composite has a large absorption and a high absorbing speed in which the absorbent polymer is kept uniformly dispersed on the support throughout before and after absorption.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2005
    Publication date: October 22, 2009
    Applicant: Mitsubishi Chemical
    Inventors: Shunichi Himori, Kiichi Itoh, Yasunari Sugyo, Taisuke Ishii
  • Publication number: 20090259208
    Abstract: A nonwoven fabric comprising at least 50% by weight microfibers having a fineness of 1.0 dtex or less and a length of at least 30 mm and having been combined by hydroentangling. The fabric is apertured by said hydroentangling, and has been carded before hydroentangling. The fabric may be used as a topsheet material on an absorbent article.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2006
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Applicant: SCA HYGIENE PRODUCTS AB
    Inventors: Jeanette Hellstrom, Ulrika Persson, Niclas Horle
  • Patent number: 7601144
    Abstract: Absorbent article, such as a sanitary towel, with a stiffening area which is intended to contribute to the three-dimensional shape of the article during its use. The stiffening area is in a plane state before use of the article. The stiffening area comprises a first part area and a second part area which extends in the longitudinal direction of the article over the crotch portion and is separate from the first part area. The first stiffening part area has a width which exceeds the distance between the muscle tendons of the wearer on both sides of the crotch of the wearer in the groin of the latter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2009
    Assignee: SCA Hygiene Products AB
    Inventor: Solgun Drevik
  • Patent number: 7597689
    Abstract: A disposable absorbent article with a backsheet and a first topsheet, is capable of being at least partially in contact with the wearer's skin when in use. The first topsheet being a fibrous three-dimensional web, having bonded regions where the fibers are bonded to another, and unbonded regions, where the fibers are unbonded to one another. The fibers extend from at least one unbonded region into at least two bonded regions, typically in the form of loops. The bonded regions form the support structure for the unbonded regions, and the surface area of the unbonded regions is at least 2 mm2. The topsheet has a thickness (caliper) of between 0.1 and 5 mm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Anja Hoffmann, Joerg Mueller, Heike Opper, Georg Pescher, Mattias Schmidt
  • Patent number: 7598427
    Abstract: The invention relates to an absorbent article for taking up body fluids, with a longitudinal direction, a transverse direction, a crotch portion (8) and two end portions (6, 7), and having side edges (9, 10) extending in the longitudinal direction and end edges (11, 12) extending in the transverse direction, and comprising a liquid-permeable cover sheet (2) and a liquid-tight cover sheet (3), and an absorbent body (4) arranged between the cover sheets (2, 3), and further comprising barriers which are arranged along the side edges (9, 10) of the article and which are raised up from the liquid-permeable cover sheet (2). The liquid-permeable cover sheet (2) has a central zone (30) which is arranged essentially in the crotch portion (8) of the article, and two end zones (31, 32) which are arranged at the end portions (6, 7) of the article, the liquid-permeable cover sheet (2) being more hydrophilic in the central zone (30) than in the end zones (31, 32).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: SCA Hygiene Products AB
    Inventors: Christina Ragnarson, Kent Hermansson, Åsa Lindström
  • Patent number: 7598428
    Abstract: An absorbent article having a first liquid permeable surface layer, a essentially liquid impermeable backing layer and, located between said liquid permeable surface layer and said liquid impermeable backing layer, an absorbent body having at least one layer. The absorbent article has cavities which are essentially cone-shaped and extend at least through part of the absorbent body, said cavities having a tip part and a base, the tip part being located towards or in the liquid permeable surface layer and the base being located away from the liquid permeable surface layer. A method of production of an absorbent article with cone-shaped cavities is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: SCA Hygiene Products AB
    Inventors: Anette Gustavsson, Solgun Drevik
  • Publication number: 20090247978
    Abstract: An absorbent product having an extent in a plane in the longitudinal direction and the lateral direction and a thickness perpendicular to the plane when the product is positioned in a plane position. The absorbent product includes a backing layer and a top layer, the absorbent product exhibiting in the longitudinal direction a rear section, a front section and positioned between them a central section, and exhibiting in the lateral direction a first lateral zone, a second lateral zone and positioned between them a central zone. The top layer includes slits as the only openings in an area which fully or partially encloses that part of the absorbent product that is formed by the section of the central zone and the central section, and which constitutes the wet area of the product. Lotion is placed directly under the top layer within the area containing slits.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2006
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Applicant: SCA HYGIENE PRODUCTS AB
    Inventor: Elisabeth Boissier