Compressed Layer Patents (Class 604/379)
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Publication number: 20100082005Abstract: A disposable hygiene article has an absorbing element component (12) which is used for storing body liquids and can also contain superabsorbent materials. The absorbing element component (12) is provided with a first area (18, 20), an absorbent material of which has a mass per unit area that increases towards the lateral edges in the transversal direction (16) of the hygiene article. The storage capacity of a section (44) which extends along 20 to 100 percent of the length of the absorbing element component (12) in the longitudinal direction (14) is substantially constant relative to the longitudinal direction (14).Type: ApplicationFiled: September 30, 2009Publication date: April 1, 2010Inventor: Carsten Wendelstorf
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Patent number: 7686790Abstract: 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 one or more distinctively configured embossment regions (34), and the embossment regions can be distributed along the intermediate portion (76) of the article.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 2003Date of Patent: March 30, 2010Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.Inventors: Shelley R. Rasmussen, Marcus D. Weiher, Teresa M. Zander, Laura J. Walker
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Publication number: 20100057031Abstract: An absorptive article in which an absorptive body is deformed into a stable recessed shape to prevent leakage of a large amount of discharged bodily wastes including bodily fluid. The absorptive article has a front side sheet at least a portion of which is liquid permeable and that is placed on the skin contact surface side, a liquid non-permeable back side sheet placed on the clothing contact surface side, and a liquid retainable absorptive body placed between the front side sheet and the back side sheet. The absorptive body has a compression section formed, when compressed from the clothing contact surface side to the skin contact surface side, into a projected shape projected on the clothing contact surface side, toward the skin contact surface side, and the absorptive body also has a space section formed, when compressed from the skin contact surface side to the clothing contact surface side, into a recessed shape recessed on the skin contact surface side, toward the clothing contact surface side.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 22, 2007Publication date: March 4, 2010Applicant: UNI-CHARM CORPORATIONInventors: Kenichiro Kuroda, Yuki Noda
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Publication number: 20100049154Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: August 22, 2008Publication date: February 25, 2010Inventor: Judy Burd
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Patent number: 7662136Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: October 18, 2004Date of Patent: February 16, 2010Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.Inventors: Richard L. Underhill, Michael J. Niemeyer, Marianne K. Leick
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Publication number: 20100036309Abstract: An improved light duty tampon is defined by a quantity of an absorbent material arranged in substantially cylindrical form and having a lower dry bulk density, lower expansion values, and lower fluid absorption rates, as compared to similar absorbent capacity tampon pledgets. A method of testing a light duty tampon includes determining absorbent capacity, density, radial expansion width, and expansion rate of the tampon.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 9, 2009Publication date: February 11, 2010Applicant: PLAYTEX PRODUCTS, LLCInventors: Robert T. Jorgensen, JR., Yinka Abdul, Philip Burkhardt
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Publication number: 20090326495Abstract: Absorbent articles having a pouch for the collection of bodily waste are generally disclosed. The pouch can generally be located on or within the wearer contacting surface of an absorbent article. The pouch can have an opening ready to receive the bodily waste or can include a pouch opening mechanism. Additionally, a pouch closing mechanism can be included within the absorbent article to close the opening of the pouch upon collection of the bodily waste.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 30, 2008Publication date: December 31, 2009Applicant: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.Inventors: John Gavin MacDonald, Andrew Mark Long, Jessica Sara Van Handel
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Patent number: 7632979Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 29, 2003Date of Patent: December 15, 2009Assignee: Daio Paper CorporationInventors: Takako Fujii, Satoko Konawa, Masanori Kondo
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Publication number: 20090287171Abstract: An absorbent article in which a plurality of absorbent components is layered, and the absorbent component on top is peeled off after use. The article is configured to inhibit twisting or wrinkling during use. In the absorbent article, the upper absorbent component is layered on the skin-facing surface of the bottom absorbent component and peelably bonded by the temporal adhesive member. The bottom absorbent component has higher flexural rigidity than the upper absorbent component, and the compression recovery rate of the bottom absorbent component is also set so as to be higher than that of the upper absorbent component. It is thereby possible to prevent the bottom absorbent component from twisting and wrinkling when the upper absorbent component is placed against the discharge area, and after the upper absorbent component is peeled off, the volume of the bottom absorbent component is restored, and comfort during contact thereof with the discharge area is improved.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 17, 2009Publication date: November 19, 2009Applicant: Uni-Charm CorporationInventors: Yukihiro Ito, Makoto Suekane, Masataka Kinoshita
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Publication number: 20090281474Abstract: A feminine hygiene product is presented. The feminine hygiene product includes a body having a mass of compressed fibrous material, an insertion end and a withdrawal end. The body has an overall length L. The insertion end has a diameter A and the withdrawal end has a diameter B. In an initial state, diameter B is at least about equal to up to about ten percent greater than the diameter A. When exposed to a fluid, diameter B radially expands such that a ratio of diameter B to the diameter A is about 1.25 to 1. In one embodiment, the feminine hygiene product is a vaginal tampon and when exposed to a fluid, diameter B expands more rapidly than diameter A to substantially seal a bottom portion of a vaginal cavity and prevent bypass leakage.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 7, 2008Publication date: November 12, 2009Applicant: PLAYTEX PRODUCTS, INC.Inventors: Eugene Dougherty, JR., Keith Edgett, Robert Jorgensen
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Publication number: 20090281513Abstract: An absorbent article having colored regions. The absorbent article has at least three colored regions. The colored regions are spaced apart from one another. Each colored region has a major axis. The major axis of each colored region converges towards a common focal region on the longitudinal centerline of the absorbent article.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 7, 2008Publication date: November 12, 2009Inventor: Naomi Ruth Nelson
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Patent number: 7615040Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 19, 2001Date of Patent: November 10, 2009Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.Inventors: Christopher Peter Olson, Lawrence Howell Sawyer, Shirlee Ann Weber
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Patent number: 7612249Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: May 28, 2004Date of Patent: November 3, 2009Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.Inventors: Richard L. Underhill, Michael J. Niemeyer, Marianne K. Leick
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Publication number: 20090259165Abstract: A tampon having an auxiliary patch. The tampon can include a compressed absorbent member having an insertion end, a withdrawal end, a longitudinal axis, and a body disposed between the insertion end and the withdrawal end. The compressed absorbent member can have an exterior surface. In addition, the tampon can include an auxiliary patch that can partially cover the exterior surface of the compressed absorbent member. The tampon can also include an overwrap.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 14, 2008Publication date: October 15, 2009Inventors: Ryo Minoguchi, Kelyn Anne Arora
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Patent number: 7601144Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 6, 2002Date of Patent: October 13, 2009Assignee: SCA Hygiene Products ABInventor: Solgun Drevik
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Patent number: 7598428Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: October 18, 2005Date of Patent: October 6, 2009Assignee: SCA Hygiene Products ABInventors: Anette Gustavsson, Solgun Drevik
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Patent number: 7597690Abstract: A sanitary napkin includes a surface element that is formed of a liquid-permeable topsheet covering a liquid absorbent layer. The surface element is raised from the skin-side surface of a napkin body by an elastic force of an elastic member to form a protuberance having a front end and a rear end. The protuberance fits in the intergluteal cleft and prevents rearward leakage of menstrual blood.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2005Date of Patent: October 6, 2009Assignee: Uni-Charm CorporationInventors: Toshiyuki Tanio, Wataru Yoshimasa, Kenichiro Kuroda, Shinobu Fujikawa
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Patent number: 7589250Abstract: An absorbent article having a first essentially liquid permeable surface layer (13), a backing layer (14) and, located between said liquid permeable surface layer (13) and said liquid impermeable backing layer (14), an absorbent body (15). The absorbent body has cavities (20) which are essentially cone-shaped and extend at least through part of the absorbent body (15), said cavities (20) having a tip part (21) and a base (22), the tip part (21) being located towards or in the liquid permeable surface layer (13) and the base (22) being located away from the liquid permeable surface layer (13). The inner surface of said cavities (20) is treated with at least one functional substance.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2002Date of Patent: September 15, 2009Assignee: SCA Hygiene Products ABInventors: Solgun Drevik, Anette Gustavsson, Pontus Winqvist
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Publication number: 20090209928Abstract: An absorbent article in which a plurality of absorbent components is layered, and the absorbent component on top is peeled off after use. The article is configured to inhibit twisting or wrinkling during use. In the absorbent article, the upper absorbent component is layered on the skin-facing surface of the bottom absorbent component and peelably bonded by the temporal adhesive member. The bottom absorbent component has higher flexural rigidity than the upper absorbent component, and the compression recovery rate of the bottom absorbent component is also set so as to be higher than that of the upper absorbent component. It is thereby possible to prevent the bottom absorbent component from twisting and wrinkling when the upper absorbent component is placed against the discharge area, and after the upper absorbent component is peeled off, the volume of the bottom absorbent component is restored, and comfort during contact thereof with the discharge area is improved.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 27, 2009Publication date: August 20, 2009Applicant: Uni-Cham CorporationInventors: Yukihiro Ito, Makoto Suekane, Masataka Kinoshita
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Publication number: 20090209927Abstract: An absorbent article in which a plurality of absorbent components is layered, and the absorbent component on top is peeled off after use. The article is configured to inhibit twisting or wrinkling during use. In the absorbent article, the upper absorbent component is layered on the skin-facing surface of the bottom absorbent component and peelably bonded by the temporal adhesive member. The bottom absorbent component has higher flexural rigidity than the upper absorbent component, and the compression recovery rate of the bottom absorbent component is also set so as to be higher than that of the upper absorbent component. It is thereby possible to prevent the bottom absorbent component from twisting and wrinkling when the upper absorbent component is placed against the discharge area, and after the upper absorbent component is peeled off, the volume of the bottom absorbent component is restored, and comfort during contact thereof with the discharge area is improved.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 27, 2009Publication date: August 20, 2009Applicant: Uni-Cham CorporationInventors: Yukihiro Ito, Makoto Suekane, Masataka Kinoshita
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Publication number: 20090209929Abstract: An absorbent article in which a plurality of absorbent components is layered, and the absorbent component on top is peeled off after use. The article is configured to inhibit twisting or wrinkling during use. In the absorbent article, the upper absorbent component is layered on the skin-facing surface of the bottom absorbent component and peelably bonded by the temporal adhesive member. The bottom absorbent component has higher flexural rigidity than the upper absorbent component, and the compression recovery rate of the bottom absorbent component is also set so as to be higher than that of the upper absorbent component. It is thereby possible to prevent the bottom absorbent component from twisting and wrinkling when the upper absorbent component is placed against the discharge area, and after the upper absorbent component is peeled off, the volume of the bottom absorbent component is restored, and comfort during contact thereof with the discharge area is improved.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 27, 2009Publication date: August 20, 2009Applicant: Uni-Cham CorporationInventors: Yukihiro Ito, Makoto Suekane, Masataka Kinoshita
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Publication number: 20090157022Abstract: Absorbent articles including a wetness indicator are generally described. The wetness indicator of the present invention is configured to expand toward the skin of the wearer (i.e., in the z-direction of the absorbent article perpendicular to the plane of the absorbent article) upon contact with a liquid. However, the expansion of the wetness indicator is substantially limited to the z-direction. That is, the wetness indicator does not substantially expand in any direction parallel with the plane of the article (i.e., the x- and y-directions). As such, the wetness indicator does not significantly interfere with the absorbent capabilities of the absorbent article. Thus, the wetness indicator can be included within conventional absorbent articles without significantly sacrificing the absorbency characteristics of the article.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 13, 2007Publication date: June 18, 2009Applicant: KIMBERLY-CLARK WORLDWIDE, INC.Inventors: John Gavin MacDonald, Terry Lee Combs, Andrew Mark Long, Mary L. McDaniel, Jaeho Kim
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Publication number: 20090157032Abstract: Absorbent articles including a compressed tablet are generally described. The compressed tablet of the present invention is configured to expand toward the skin of the wearer (i.e., in the z-direction of the absorbent article perpendicular to the plane of the absorbent article) upon contact with a liquid. However, the expansion of the compressed tablet is substantially limited to the z-direction. That is, the compressed tablet does not substantially expand in any direction parallel with the plane of the article (i.e., the x- and y-directions). As such, the compressed tablet does not significantly interfere with the absorbent capabilities of the absorbent article. Thus, the compressed tablet can be included within conventional absorbent articles without significantly sacrificing the absorbency characteristics of the article.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 13, 2007Publication date: June 18, 2009Applicant: KIMBERLY-CLARK WORLDWIDE, INC.Inventors: John Gavin MacDonald, Terry Lee Combs, Andrew Mark Long, Mary L. McDaniel, Jaeho Kim
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Patent number: 7534928Abstract: A topsheet for absorbent articles is disclosed. The topsheet is used on the side of an absorbent article to be brought into contact with a wearer's body. The topsheet has an air permeability of 10 ml/cm2·sec or more in the horizontal direction under a pressure of 10 cN/cm2. The topsheet also has an air permeability of 10 to 500 ml/cm2·sec in the horizontal direction under a pressure of 50 cN/cm2.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2002Date of Patent: May 19, 2009Assignee: Kao CorporationInventors: Noriko Sakamoto, Hiroko Sugiura, Yasuo Toyoshima, Shoichi Taneichi, Wataru Saka
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Publication number: 20090105678Abstract: Tampons having a zoned apertured overwrap. The tampons can include a compressed absorbent member having an insertion end, a withdrawal end, a longitudinal axis, and a body disposed between the insertion end and the withdrawal end. The body can have a perimeter disposed substantially perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis and an exterior surface. The tampons can further include an overwrap covering at least a portion of the exterior surface. The overwrap can have a first zone and a second zone, the first zone having a plurality of apertures of a first diameter and the second zone having a plurality of apertures of a second diameter. In addition, the first zone and the second zone can be spaced apart from one another.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 17, 2007Publication date: April 23, 2009Inventors: Ryo Minoguchi, Kelyn Anne Arora, Letha Margie Hines, Ricky Alan Pollard, Karen Denise McAfry, John Richard Noel
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Publication number: 20090024103Abstract: A tampon suitable for feminine hygiene and/or medical purposes is disclosed having a longitudinal body provided with a dome-shaped insertion end and a withdrawal end, from which withdrawal end a withdrawal cord extends. The tampon has compressed absorbent fibrous material and has an outer circumferential surface which is at least partially provided with longitudinal grooves that are separated from each other by longitudinal ribs. The path of the grooves and ribs of the tampon in the longitudinal direction are inclined and correspond to a continuous curved line that has only one point of inflection defining one convex part and one concave part that preferably does not show a maximum or a minimum.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 1, 2007Publication date: January 22, 2009Applicant: Ontex Hygieneartikel Deutschland GmbHInventors: Werner Van Ingelgem, Annick De Poorter, Steven Smet
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Patent number: 7479578Abstract: An absorbent core comprising fluff pulp fiber treated with polysiloxane, wherein the absorbent core has a density of about 0.15 g/cm3 or greater and a Young's modulus of about 75 psi or less. The polysiloxane may comprise an amino-functional moiety, The absorbent core may comprise superabsorbent, and may be employed in a disposable absorbent product.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2003Date of Patent: January 20, 2009Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.Inventors: Gil Bernard Didier Garnier, Elizabeth Ann Allison, Mary Alice Berceau, Troy Michael Runge
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Publication number: 20080312626Abstract: A disposable diaper comprising a liquid permeable topsheet 2, a liquid impermeable backsheet 3, and a liquid retentive absorbent member 4 and having a substantially oblong shape, the absorbent member 4 in the crotch portion having a middle absorbent portion 42 which occupies the middle 3/7 of the width of the absorbent member 4 and side absorbent portions 43 which each occupy the outermost 1/7 of the width of the absorbent member 4, wherein each side absorbent portion 43 has a larger unit absorption capacity than the middle absorbent portion 42, hydrophobic sheets 3 and 21 are disposed on the lateral outer edge of each side absorbent portion 43 to cover from the upper to lower surfaces of the edge, and an elastic member 71 is disposed in the part having each side absorbent portion 43 in the longitudinal direction of the side absorbent portion 43.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 24, 2008Publication date: December 18, 2008Inventors: Takao KOYAMA, Hidekazu Ito, Hiroshi Inada, Takahiro Arimura
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Patent number: 7462755Abstract: The present invention relates to absorbent articles, typically for feminine protection, comprising a topsheet, a backsheet, an absorbent element positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet, and at least a fluid acquisition/distribution layer. The absorbent article also comprises edge barrier elements for intercepting fluids. The edge barrier elements comprise a liquid absorbent thermoplastic composition comprising a polymeric base material having particles of water-insoluble water-swellable absorbent material dispersed therein, and are comprised between the absorbent core and the at least one fluid acquisition/distribution layer.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2005Date of Patent: December 9, 2008Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Carlo Toro, Enzo Pompei, Giovanni Carlucci, Marco Digiacomantonio, Fiorello Salone
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Publication number: 20080300562Abstract: The present invention relates to a nonwoven material intended for use in absorbent products produced by the hydroentangling of a substrate web comprising at least one layer of fibres selected from amongst synthetic fibres, regenerated fibres and natural fibres, wherein the nonwoven material (1) has a base level h0 with protuberances (2, 3) on one side, wherein the protuberances (2, 3) form at least a first and a second surface structure respectively in the form of first (2) and second (3) protuberances from the base level h0, wherein the first protuberances (2) have a height h1 from the base level and the second protuberances (3) have a height h2 from the base level h0, where h2 is higher than h1, and each of the second protuberances (3) occupies an area of the surface of the base level at least 4 times greater than each of the first protuberances (2). The invention also relates to an absorbent product containing a nonwoven material in accordance with the above.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 7, 2005Publication date: December 4, 2008Applicant: Sca Hygiene Products ABInventors: Hannu Ahoniemi, Daniel Burman, Mikael Strandqvist
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Publication number: 20080287902Abstract: The present invention provides a tampon pledget with one or more of the following properties: increased absorbency rate; high absorbent capacity and fluid retention; rapid expansion potential; and ease of ejection of the pledget from the applicator. Surprisingly, the one or more properties are achieved by using a modified dual cross-pad, folded, compressed tampon pledget design.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 19, 2008Publication date: November 20, 2008Applicant: Playtex Products, Inc.Inventors: Keith Edgett, Robert Jorgensen, Eugene Dougherty, JR., Yinka Abdul
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Patent number: 7432413Abstract: A disposable absorbent article worn about the lower torso of a wearer includes at least one pair of side panels connecting a first waist region to a second waist region forming a waist opening and a pair of leg openings. Each side panel includes a waist region, a hip region and a leg region wherein the waist region, the hip region and the leg region differs structurally, functionally and visually to provide an improved initial fit and sustained fit while exhibiting a garment-like appearance.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2005Date of Patent: October 7, 2008Assignee: The Procter and Gamble CompanyInventors: Donald Carroll Roe, Barry Robert Feist, Krista Beth Comstock, Lisa Jane Goodlander
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Patent number: 7431715Abstract: An absorbent article includes an absorbent core (4) including a fluid storage member (18), a fluid distribution layer (17) and a fluid receiving layer (16). The distribution layer (17) is disposed to extend in the crotch portion (7) and in at least a substantial portion of one of the waist portions (5 or 6) of the article and is absent in at least a substantial part of the opposite waist portion of the article so as to promote fluid flow from the crotch portion (7) towards the one waist portion (5 or 6). A fluid barrier (19) is arranged at or in close proximity to one transverse end edge of the fluid distribution layer (17), located in or adjacent the crotch portion (7) of the article, the fluid barrier (19) extending through at least a substantial part of the thickness of the layer.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2003Date of Patent: October 7, 2008Assignee: SCA Hygiene Products ABInventors: Ted Guidotti, Mikael Andersson
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Publication number: 20080200892Abstract: A tampon suitable for feminine hygiene and/or medical purposes having a longitudinal body provided with a dome-shaped insertion end and a withdrawal end, from which a withdrawal cord extends is disclosed. The tampon is made of compressed absorbent fibrous material and has an outer circumferential surface which is at least partially provided with longitudinal grooves that are separated from each other by longitudinal ribs. The path of the grooves and the ribs in the longitudinal direction of the tampon correspond to a continuous curved line that has only one point of inflection defining one convex part and one concave part, and that preferably does not show a maximum and/or a minimum.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 18, 2006Publication date: August 21, 2008Applicant: ONTEX HYGIENEARTIKEL DEUTSCHLAND GMBHInventors: Werner Van Ingelgem, Annick De Poorter, Steven Smet
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Publication number: 20080195029Abstract: A tampon applicator assembly is described which has a compact tampon applicator and a tampon having a longitudinal body defining an insertion end, a withdrawal end, a central section extending there between, a longitudinal axis, and an outer surface. The outer surface of the tampon has at least one area of radial depression.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 7, 2006Publication date: August 14, 2008Applicant: Ontex Hygieneartikel Deutschland GmbHInventors: Werner Van Ingelem, Annick De Poorter, Steven Smet
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Patent number: 7404810Abstract: The present invention relates to absorbent articles, typically for feminine protection, comprising a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent element positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet. The absorbent article also comprises edge barrier elements for intercepting fluids. The edge barrier elements comprise a liquid absorbent thermoplastic composition comprising a polymeric base material having particles of water-insoluble water-swellable absorbent material dispersed therein, and are provided with a basis weight gradient along their respective width or length in the liquid absorbing thermoplastic composition and/or in the particles of water-insoluble water-swellable absorbent material dispersed therein.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 2005Date of Patent: July 29, 2008Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Carlo Toro, Enzo Pompei, Pancrazio Veronese
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Publication number: 20080177241Abstract: A catamenial tampon comprises a compressed absorbent member having an inner region and an exterior surface, the compressed absorbent member comprising an absorbent material. An overwrap substantially covers the exterior surface of the compressed absorbent member. The overwrap comprises an apertured fluid pervious material that is hydrophobic or rendered hydrophobic relative to the compressed absorbent member. The fluid pervious overwrap therefore tends to remain free of fluid as the fluid is preferentially partitioned into the absorbent member.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 26, 2008Publication date: July 24, 2008Inventors: Margaret Henderson Hasse, Steven Ray Gilbert, James Earl Trout, Jared John Schaefer
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Publication number: 20080154222Abstract: In a tampon having a body of an absorbent material, the body has at least one zone in which expansion and/or absorption by the body of the tampon is limited.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 23, 2007Publication date: June 26, 2008Inventor: Bernard Chaffringeon
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Publication number: 20080154174Abstract: A novel absorbent tampon suitable for insertion into a body cavity has a substantially elongate, compressed primary absorbent structure having a first end, a second end disposed opposite thereof, and a density of at least about 0.3 g/cm3. The tampon also includes a secondary absorbent structure secured to and extending from the first end of the primary absorbent structure and extending toward the second end of the primary absorbent structure. Preferably, the secondary absorbent structure is disposed about the primary absorbent structure and forms the outer circumferential surface of the tampon. The secondary absorbent structure is capable of extending outwardly from the primary absorbent structure upon the absorption of fluid into the tampon to increase the cross-sectional area of the tampon in the body cavity. In a preferred embodiment, the tampon has sufficient column strength for digital insertion (insertion without an applicator) into a vaginal canal.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 4, 2008Publication date: June 26, 2008Inventor: ROGERIO COSTA
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Publication number: 20080119810Abstract: An absorbent article is provided that improves adhesion to the skin and reduces leaks of bodily fluids by ensuring stable deformation thereof. An absorbent article has at least a portion thereof provided with a liquid-permeable top sheet disposed on a side of the absorbent article that contacts a wearer's skin; a liquid-impermeable back sheet disposed on a side of the absorbent article that contacts the wearer's clothing; and a liquid-retainable absorbent body disposed between the top sheet and the back sheet. The absorbent body has compressed channels formed into concave shapes in the side that contacts the wearer's skin at the side that contacts the wearer's body by compressing from the side that contacts the wearer's skin to the side that contacts the wearer's clothing; and spaces formed into convex shapes in the side that contacts the wearer's skin at the side that contacts the wearer's clothing by compressing from the side that contacts the wearer's clothing to the side that contacts the wearer's skin.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 20, 2007Publication date: May 22, 2008Applicant: Uni-Charm CorporationInventors: Kenichiro Kuroda, Yuki Noda
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Patent number: 7323615Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 18, 2002Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: SCA Hygiene Products ABInventors: Anette Gustavsson, Solgun Drevik
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Patent number: 7312372Abstract: Disclosed is an elongated absorbent article including a liquid absorbent layer. In a region where the liquid absorbent layer is present, compressed grooves are disposed to extend symmetrically about a longitudinal centerline, defining a central region therebetween and side regions laterally outside the central region and adjacent the compressed grooves. The central region includes front, intermediate and rear central regions. The intermediate central region has a widened portion in which the separation distance is larger than in regions positioned forward and rearward thereof. Stiffness of the side regions is lower in portions laterally outside the intermediate central region than in portions laterally outside the front and rear central regions.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2005Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Uni-Charm CorporationInventors: Takuya Miyama, Masataka Kinoshita, Jun Kudo, Kenichiro Kuroda, Tatsuya Tamura, Shimpei Komatsu
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Patent number: 7285576Abstract: An absorbent polymer composition, which can be in the form of a foam, that includes a polymeric material, absorbent particles and thermally expandable (or expanded) microspheres.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2003Date of Patent: October 23, 2007Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Co.Inventors: Patrick D. Hyde, Robert H. Menzies
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Patent number: 7279613Abstract: Disclosed is a sanitary napkin including: a backsheet; a liquid-permeable topsheet; and an absorbent layer which is capable of absorbing a liquid and disposed between the backsheet and the topsheet. At least a part of a region in which the absorbent layer is provided is adapted to receive a liquid. The liquid-receiving region includes a raised region in which a hydrophilic material layer is provided. The raised region is continuously elongated in a longitudinal direction of the sanitary napkin. The raised region includes a front region for coming into contact with a vaginal opening of a wearer and a rear region for coming into contact with buttocks of the wearer. When the front region and the rear region are respectively depressed with a given pressure, an amount of the depression of the rear region is larger than an amount of the depression of the front region.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2002Date of Patent: October 9, 2007Assignee: Uni-Charm CorporationInventors: Satoshi Nozaki, Wataru Yoshimasa, Kazuya Nishitani
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Patent number: 7214218Abstract: A tampon for feminine hygiene that has an insertion end, a withdrawal end, a longitudinal axis, and an outer surface. The tampon is made of compressed fibrous material. The outer surface of the tampon includes a plurality of raised portions. Each of the raised portions includes a first width dimension x and a second width dimension y. The first width dimension x is greater than the second width dimension y.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2003Date of Patent: May 8, 2007Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventor: Edward Paul Carlin
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Patent number: 7195810Abstract: An absorbent sheet made from an air-laid fiber web includes a functional emboss pattern of a continuous (wave-like) shape extending in the machine direction of the sheet. The emboss pattern defines a plurality of compressed regions operative to preferentially convey sorbed liquid away from the point of insult to prevent product failure. The sheet is particularly useful as absorbent core material within a multi-layer absorbent pad. In a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of making absorbent sheet utilizing an emboss roll provided with radially projecting circumferential sinuate bosses.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2000Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Fort James CorporationInventors: Bradley G. Schmidt, Jennifer N. Wergin, Barbara V. Buman, Michael P. Bouchette
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Patent number: 7156832Abstract: Absorbent article, such as a sanitary towel, with a stiffening element which is intended to contribute to the three-dimensional shape of the article during its use. The stiffening element is in a plane state before use of the article. The stiffening element has in the rear portion an elongate through-hole which extends in the longitudinal direction of the article and along the centre line of the article, as a result of which the article is during use provided, by virtue of lateral forces arising in the rear portion of the article, with a fold along the longitudinal direction of the article along the hole. The fold extends into the cleft between the buttocks of the wearer during use of the article and in this way stabilizes the article in position on the wearer.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2002Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: SCA Hygiene Products ABInventors: Solgun Drevik, Fredrik Asp, Urban Widlund, Elisabeth Boissier
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Patent number: 7137971Abstract: An primary liquid retention layer suitable for use in an incontinence garment includes a plurality of pleats defined by fold lines in at least one region of the composite. The fold lines are oriented in a first direction. The primary liquid retention layer is stretchable in a second direction perpendicular to the fold lines, between a first position where the pleats are substantially folded and a second position where the pleats are substantially unfolded or extended due to liquid loading, while the primary liquid retention layer remains substantially in the plane of the garment so as to not distort the wetted appearance of the garment.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2002Date of Patent: November 21, 2006Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.Inventor: Richard Warren Tanzer
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Patent number: 7122713Abstract: Disclosed is an absorbent article including: a liquid-permeable topsheet on a skin surface; and a backsheet on a garment surface. First flexible hinges and second flexible hinges are formed to extend longitudinally of the absorbent article. The first flexible hinges are disposed symmetrically about a longitudinal centerline of the absorbent article to define a central absorbent portion having an absorbent layer therebetween. The second flexible hinges are disposed symmetrically about the longitudinal centerline and spaced outwardly apart from the first flexible hinges to define support portions between adjacent first and second flexible hinges and side portions outside the second flexible hinges. The first flexible hinges facilitate bending of the support portions from the central absorbent portion, and the second flexible hinges facilitate bending of the side portions from the support portions.Type: GrantFiled: October 13, 2004Date of Patent: October 17, 2006Assignee: Uni-Charm CorporationInventors: Shimpei Komatsu, Satoshi Mizutani, Tatsuya Tamura, Makoto Suekane
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Patent number: 7067711Abstract: Disclosed is an elongated absorbent article, in which liquid passage holes and embossments are dispersed in a central region including a front portion and a rear portion. Aperture density obtained by dividing (total of areas occupied by the liquid passage holes in the front portion) by (area of the front portion) is higher than aperture density obtained by dividing (total of areas occupied by the liquid passage holes in the rear portion) by (area of the rear portion), while embossment density obtained by dividing (total of areas occupied by the embossments in the rear portion) by (area of the rear portion) is higher than embossment density obtained by dividing (total of areas occupied by the embossments in the front portion) by (area of the front portion).Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2005Date of Patent: June 27, 2006Assignee: Uni-Charm CorporationInventors: Kenichiro Kuroda, Jun Kudo, Masataka Kinoshita, Takuya Miyama, Tatsuya Tamura, Shimpei Komatsu