Abstract: A coupling for selectively connecting a plurality of conduits running to a common connection point, for controlling flows for medical purposes, includes a coupling element having one or more passages which, by rotation and/or displacement of the coupling element, are connectable to selected conduits for selective connection of the selected conduits at the same time as other conduits running to the connection point are closed by the coupling element so as to determine a flow path. The coupling element may be formed by a cannula, or alternatively may be formed by a coupling cone or element maneuverable by a cannula. In a restriction device for a conduit for carrying a fluid, especially for medical purposes, a first tube is connected to a channel extended through an elastic body. The body is surrounded by a stiff sleeve.

Abstract: A disposable diaper comprising a liquid permeable bodyside inner liner and an at least substantially liquid impermeable outer layer, which form a front panel and a rear panel, with a liquid-absorbent batt sandwiched between the inner liner and the outer layer, and with elastic leg openings, characterized in that the inner liner and the outer liner are at least substantially made of a cellulosic material of the "wet-strong long fiber" type.

Abstract: In an absorbent article, such as a diaper or incontinence briefs, an elastic member comprising a net-like elastic substrate to which fibers are pre-bonded provides for a breathable elastic for use as a side- a waist- or leg elastic. The fibers that are bonded to the net-like substrate, for instance by hydro-entangling, ensure a soft and comfortable contact with the wearer's skin. In the side panels of the absorbent article, the elastic members have a large freedom of stretch without buckling taking place, thus reducing chances of leakage. When the elastic member is located between the topsheet and the backsheet, a strong connection of topsheet to backsheet is established using a relatively small amount of adhesive. When the topsheet is physically deformed to impart stretchability, the fibers of the elastic member form a soft and resilient layer and prevent direct contact of the elastic member and the user's skin in case of thinning of the topsheet.

Abstract: A nonwoven fabric having flow control properties suitable for use in a fluid absorbing article such as a diaper, incontinence pad, or the like; and a process for preparation thereof by utilizing unbonded carded staple fiber elements or webs having different average dpf values compiled in graduated order from high-to-low average dpf, then compressed and bonded to a desired constant fabric density.

Abstract: An absorbent pad effectively adapted for use as an adult diaper or, in a slightly different version, to be worn as an absorbent disposable pad within reusable panties. The product includes a liquid impervious backing sheet, a liquid permeable upper facing sheet adhered to the backing sheet about the edges thereof and an intermediate absorbent pad combination comprising upper and lower tissue layers and a paper fluff filler mat sandwiched together with a pair of spatially separated barrier strips that are positioned parallel to each other along the sides of the article between the two tissue layers. The plies of the tissue layers are formed with a crepe-like irregular surface oriented to develop a wicking action directed along the layers in a transverse direction, toward the absorbent barrier strips.

Abstract: The present invention provides improvements in absorbent products, but is particularly useful with urinary incontinence pads. An embossed pattern on the bottom layer of the double layer absorbent core construction improves the removal of urine or other fluids from the discharge zone to be ready for next void. One or more V-shaped notches cut at both ends of the pad provides the ergonomic fit of the pad to reduce the inevitable stiffness. The sides are designed as a flap which curves during the sealing process and provide natural curved flaps which form a soft gasket cushion and yields extra leak protection in the crotch area.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a fibrous nonwoven web which is particularly well-suited for use as a surge layer in personal care absorbent articles including, but not limited to, diapers, training pants, incontinence garments, sanitary napkins, bandages and the like. The fibrous nonwoven web is made from a plurality of fibers heat bonded to one another to form a nonwoven web having a basis weight of at least 20 grams per square meter, a void volume of between about 40 and about 60 centimeters per gram of web while under a pressure of 689 dynes per square centimeter, a permeability of about 5,000 to about 8,000 darcy, a porosity of about 97.2 percent to about 98.8 percent and a surface area per void of about 24 to about 49 square centimeters per cubic centimeter. The fibrous nonwoven web will have a saturation capacity of between about 30 and about 50 grams of 0.9 percent saline solution per gram of web and a compression resilience in both the wet and dry state of at least about 60 percent.

Abstract: An absorbent structure having both osmotic and capillary absorbing capabilities. The substrate has a topography comprising two different elevations. The osmotic absorbent structure may include superabsorbents and is preferentially applied to the high elevation regions of the substrate. This arrangement provides for better acquisition of liquids without gel blocking. The absorbent structure is suitable for use in the cores of disposable absorbent articles.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a lofty fibrous nonwoven web which is particularly well-suited for use as a surge layer in personal care absorbent articles including, but not limited to, diapers, training pants, incontinence garments, sanitary napkins, bandages and the like. The fibrous nonwoven web is made from a plurality of fibers heat bonded to one another to form a lofty nonwoven web having a basis weight of at least 20 grams per square meter, a void volume of between about 80 and about 117 centimeters per gram of web while under a pressure of 689 dynes per square centimeter, a permeability of about 8,000 to about 15,000 darcy, a porosity of about 98.6 percent to about 99.4 percent and a surface area per void of about 10 to about 25 square centimeters per cubic centimeter. The fibrous nonwoven web will have a saturation capacity of between about 55 and about 80 grams of 0.9 percent saline solution per gram of web and a compression resilience in both the wet and dry state of at least about 60 percent.

Abstract: An absorbent article, such as a diaper, sanitary napkin, adult incontinence device which has absorbent components comprised of blends of different types of fibers is provided. The absorbent components are arranged in structures that provide improved core integrity and liquid processing. The absorbent article preferably comprises a liquid pervious topsheet, a liquid impervious backsheet joined to the topsheet, an absorbent core positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet, and an acquisition layer overlying the absorbent core. The absorbent core comprises a blend of cellulosic fibers, absorbent gelling material, and fibers such as crimped synthetic fibers that form liquid stable bonds with adjacent layers. The acquisition layer also comprises at least some fibers that form liquid stable bonds with adjacent layers. The fibers that form liquid stable bonds in the absorbent core and the acquisition layer are bonded to liquid stable components.

Abstract: Novel facing materials and methods for their manufacture are provided by this invention. The facing material includes at least a fibrous top layer for engaging body fluid and a generally opaque middle layer. A portion of the facing material is disposed, preferably by piercing, through the generally opaque middle layer to establish a fluid path through the generally opaque middle layer. In the preferred embodiment, the facing material includes a bottom layer having a capillary structure for drawing the body fluid from the fibrous top layer. In this preferred embodiment, the fibrous top layer extends through the generally opaque middle layer to provide fluid communication between the fibrous top layer and the bottom layer. These composite structures provide a clean/dry facing material that has a comfort of a textile facing and the high opacity of apertured thermoplastic films.

Abstract: A simplified process is disclosed for making form-fitting undergarments that may include structures for absorbing and containing body exudates. The garments are cut and seamed into rectangular or trapezoidal shapes from nonwoven elastic sheet that has parallel rows of elastic strands and specific stretch and simultaneous contraction characteristics. The finished garment when stretched in the waist direction simultaneously contracts in the direction perpendicular thereto by at least 20%.

Abstract: An absorbent article, such as a diaper, sanitary napkin, adult incontinence device which has absorbent components comprised of blends of different types of fibers is provided. The absorbent components are arranged in structures that provide improved core integrity and liquid processing. The absorbent article preferably comprises a liquid pervious topsheet, a liquid impervious backsheet joined to the topsheet, an absorbent core positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet, and an acquisition layer overlying the absorbent core. The absorbent core comprises a blend of cellulosic fibers, absorbent gelling material, and fibers such as crimped synthetic fibers that form liquid stable bonds with adjacent layers. The acquisition layer also comprises at least some fibers that form liquid stable bonds with adjacent layers. The fibers that form liquid stable bonds in the absorbent core and the acquisition layer are bonded to liquid stable components.

Abstract: An absorbent article includes a retention portion for storing absorbed liquids, and a distinctive surge management portion. The surge management portion, which has a selected basis weight, is constructed to rapidly uptake and temporarily hold at least three (3) successive surges of liquid directed into the target zone of the article and then release each of the surges to the retention portion. The retention portion desorbs each input of liquid from the surge management portion and stores the liquid. Particular functional and structural parameters can further characterize the surge management portion of the absorbent article.

Abstract: An absorbent core for use in an absorbent product suitable for placement in a wearer's garment, and absorbent products utilizing the core, are disclosed. The core comprises an absorbent batt folded upon itself along a pair of generally parallel longitudinal fold lines to form a middle, body-facing panel and two side panels, which three panels are substantially equivalent in width at the central transverse axis of the batt. In various preferred embodiments, one or more of the panels are embossed with patterns that serve to direct fluid transport in the product.

Abstract: A tampon for hygienic use comprising a generally cylindrical absorbent core having a liquid pervious cover layer on the outer surface thereof wherein the cover layer is a polymer net comprising two intersecting sets of parallel ribs and wherein each set of ribs are aligned obliquely with respect to both the main axis of the tampon and to each other. A strip of net may be bonded to one end of a strip of absorbent material and the composite spirally wound such that the net forms the outer layer. The free end of the net may overlap an underlying layer of net and be bonded thereto by heat sealing.

Abstract: An absorbent article is disclosed which exhibits enhanced wicking capacity. The absorbent article includes a liquid-permeable cover, a liquid-impermeable baffle and an absorbent enclosed therebetween. The absorbent is constructed of first, second and third members. Each member has a wicking capacity for body fluids discharged by a human body. The first member has a high wicking capacity, the second member has a lower wicking capacity than the first member, and the third member has a greater wicking capacity than the second member. The different wicking capacities of the three members promotes a systematic distribution of body fluid away from the body-side cover down into the absorbent article. The second member also has an equal or greater width than either the first or third members so as to provide a visual cue of when the absorbent article is in need of changing.

Abstract: A patterned nonwoven fabric comprising polymeric strands which include a primary polymeric component and are bonded together without the use of compression, but instead with a heat activated adhesive polymeric component which adheres the respective primary components together. The fabric has an embossed pattern of densified areas separated by high loft areas. Preferably, the strands are continuous, crimped, multicomponent filaments. Also preferably, the nonwoven fabric is laminated to a liquid barrier film to form an outercover material for products such as personal care absorbent articles, and the like. Methods for making these materials are also encompassed.

Abstract: A technique to preserve absorbent core integrity in a disposable article is described.Columns which protrude from the backing sheet of an absorbent disposable article or personal wear garment and which project into the fibrous mass of an absorbent core overlaid onto a liquid impervious backing sheet are disclosed. A top sheet which is pervious to liquids overlies the core of fibrous material encapsulating the absorbent core in cooperation with the backing sheet. The top sheet also may carry similar columns. These columns act to restrict the movement of the fibers in the absorbent core and, more particularly, to enhance and maintain the integrity of the absorbent core whenever wet and/or placed under stress. These columns serve to resist and to diminish any disintegration of the absorbent core.

Abstract: A body fluid absorbent article comprising a topsheet formed with tubular liquid passages extending from the bottom surface of the topsheet and an absorbent core, wherein a meshy sheet comprising fibres defining meshes smaller than lower openings of the respective liquid passages is interposed between said topsheet and said absorbent core so that said fibres extend across the lower openings (FIG. 3).

Abstract: Disclosed is an absorbent article having a liquid pervious topsheet, a liquid impervious backsheet joined to the topsheet, and an absorbent core positioned therebetween, in which the absorbent core is enveloped by a primary core integrity layer comprising a continuous mesh of meltblown material which is joined to the topsheet. The primary core integrity layer is particularly useful for improving the wet integrity of absorbent cores comprising an upper acquisition/distribution layer and a lower storage layer.

Abstract: A topsheet for body fluid absorptive articles improved so that liquid passages formed in the topsheet may be stabilized during use of the goods and the topsheet may offer cloth-like feeling and appearance, the topsheet being composed of an upper sheet layer made from melt blown nonwoven fabric containing downwardly extending liquid passageways and an underlying fibrous layer 11 bonded thereto adjacent the lower openings of said liquid passageways, whereby the liquid passageways will not be collapsed and the lower openings of these passageways will not be distorted.

Abstract: A laminated loop fastening material for a refastenable mechanical fastening system, the loop fastening material being capable of engaging a complementary hook fastening material.

Abstract: A tampon comprising a compressed pledget of absorbent material, shaped for insertion into a body cavity, and a withdrawal cord attached to the tampon to facilitate removal of the tampon from the body cavity. The pledget, prior to compression, is a filament tow of substantially hydrophilic filaments. The filaments have a substantially permanently crimped configuration, and are disposed in a randomly out-of-phase orientation with respect to each other so as to increase the pore volume ratio of the pledget, i.e., the fraction of pledget volume occupied by interfilament spaces or interstices between filaments. Preferably the pore volume ratio of the tampon is in the range of 60 to 95%, more preferably 70 to 90%, most preferably 80 to 85%.

Abstract: A washable and reusable absorbent garment designed to be fitted about the waist and legs and covering the groin and anal areas of a wearer. The garment includes a number of superimposed layers of textile material sewn together along their edges. Elastic material may be sewn in the material around the leg openings and waist to improve the fit. A liner material covers the inner surface of the garment. The liner layer of the garment or that portion which is next to the wearer's skin is a knitted bicomponent textile comprised of a brushed polyester outer layer which is interknitted with a nylon block co-polymer inner layer. The materials function to transfer moisture in both vapor and liquid form from the polyester side to the nylon side where it is dispersed and made available to the garment's second or absorbent layer. The two specific materials in the liner adjacent the wearer's skin and absorbent material work together to maintain a high degree of comfort for the wearer even after it has been wetted.

Abstract: A reusable pad for the absorption, dispersion and retention of a liquid comprises an interior layer of hydrophobic material for receiving the liquid, a median layer consisting of a non-woven web of carded and cross-laid viscose rayon fibres and an outer layer of substantially waterproof polyurethane film. The fibres of the median layer have a cross-section of substantially rigid multilimbed configuration. The web is stitchbonded to form a cohesive layer for dispersing and absorbing the liquid. The web is stitchbonded with a thread under medium tension whereby uniform absorption characteristics are retained throughout said web. The interior layer, median layer and outer layer are joined to form a pad of unitary construction and capable of being washed for reuse.

Abstract: Absorbent articles, especially sanitary napkins, contain fibers with intra-fiber capillary channels. In-use, the capillary channel fibers direct menses to a storage layer, thereby minimizing product failure and staining of undergarments. The capillary channel fibers can protrude into, or through, a topsheet to provide very aggressive transport of vaginal discharges.

Abstract: Curled, twisted cellulosic fibers are reduced in size by mechanical means, i.e., by refining. The refined fibers are formed into sheets which are used as an absorbent layer in diapers, bandages and, especially, in sanitary napkins. In one mode, the refined fibers can be used to provide shaped sanitary devices. In an optional mode, fibers having intra-fiber capillary channels can be used to direct fluids into absorbent sheets comprising the refined, curled cellulosic fibers.

Abstract: Disclosed are absorbent articles, such as diapers, for the management of incontinence. Such articles utilize in their absorbent cores an fluid acquisition/distribution component and a fluid storage/redistribution component maintained in fluid communication with the acquisition/distribution component. The fluid acquisition/distribution component can be any porous hydrophilic, e.g., fibrous or foam-based, material which will provide an initial Fluid Acquisition Rate of at least 2 mL of synthetic urine per second and will also preferably provide a 30-minute Vertical Wicking Height of at least 2 cm. The fluid storage/redistribution component comprises a hydrophilic, flexible, open-celled polymeric foam having a free absorbent capacity of at least about 12 mL of synthetic urine per gram of dry foam and an absorbent capacity under a 5.1 kPa confining pressure which is at least 5% of this free capacity.

Abstract: A knit terry fabric having hydrophobic/hydrophilic characteristics provides hygienic panels for washable, reusable, incontinent pads and diapers. In one embodiment, a non-woven fabric, stiffener sheet is employed in an incontinent pad to resist its being folded in use. The diaper embodiment employs a Y-shaped configuration and is provided with preventing Velcro fasteners from being fouled during washing.

Abstract: Fibers having intra-fiber capillary channels are used in conjunction with topsheet materials in absorbent articles such as diapers, bandages and, especially, sanitary napkins. In-use, the capillary channel fibers draw fluid away from the topsheet to provide a clean, dry appearance.

Abstract: A reusable diaper pad is disclosed for the absorption, dispersion and retention of a liquid. The pad comprises an interior layer of hydrophobic material for receiving the liquid, a median layer consisting of non-woven webs of carded and cross-laid viscose rayon fibres having a cross-section of substantially rigid multilimbed configuration with the webs being stitchbonded to form a cohesive layer for dispersing and absorbing the liquid and an outer layer of a substantially waterproof polyurethane film. The interior layer, median layer and outer layer are joined to form a pad of unitary construction and capable of being washed for reuse.

Abstract: An absorbent underpad for use on an article of bedding includes a liquid impervious backing sheet, a liquid permeable upper facing sheet adhered to the backing sheet about the edges thereof, and an interior absorbent pad combination comprising upper and lower tissue layers generally coextensive with the boundarees of the underpad, a pair of spatially separated barrier strips formed of super-absorbent material between the tissue layers, and a non-woven transfer layer along the central region of the upper tissue layer adjacent the upper facing sheet. The plies of the tissue layer are formed with a crepe-like irregular surface oriented to develop a wicking action directed along the layers in a transverse direction, toward the absorbent barrier strips.

Abstract: A moisture-managing bed pad and bed sheet are provided for being positioned between a patient and a supporting surface. The bed sheet includes a moisture-managing bed pad. The bed pad includes a moisture transport top fabric layer for residing in patient contact and for wicking moisture away from the body of the patient. A moisture dispersal intermediate fabric layer resides adjacent the top fabric layer for receiving and dispersing moisture from the top fabric layer, and for providing a reservoir for moisture wicked inwardly from the top fabric layer. A liquid impermeable, vapor permeable bottom fabric layer resides adjacent to the intermediate fabric layer for providing a leak-proof barrier. The barrier permits dissipation of moisture in vapor form. The top, intermediate, and bottom fabric layers of the bed pad are attached by spot welds to form a unitary structure. One or more sheet sections reside adjacent to the bed pad for defining the bed sheet.

Abstract: Disclosed are absorbent articles, such as diapers, for the management of incontinence. Such articles utilize in their absorbent cores a fluid acquisition/distribution component and a fluid storage/redistribution component maintained in fluid communication with the acquisition/distribution component. The fluid acquisition/distribution component can be any porous hydrophilic, e.g., fibrous or foam-based, material which will provide an initial Fluid Acquisition Rate of at least 2 mL of synthetic urine per second and will also preferably provide a 30-minute Vertical Wicking Height of at least 2 cm. The fluid storage/redistribution component comprises a hydrophilic, flexible, open-celled polymeric foam having a free absorbent capacity of at least about 12 mL of synthetic urine per gram of dry foam and an absorbent capacity under a 5.1 kPa confining pressure which is at least 5% of this free capacity.

Abstract: A surgical sponge, particularly of the neurosurgical class, comprising a fibrous web having attached to one surface thereof a locator string comprising a bundle of X-ray detectable monofilaments that are helically overwrapped as by a yarn. One or more of the components of a preferrred string is bondable to the web by means of heat and/or pressure.

Abstract: A surgical sponge comprising, a sheet of absorbent material comprising a plurality of layers of an open mesh gauze fabric having generally parallel woven spaced warp and filling yarns. The sheet has one or more spaced generally parallel tie-in yarns interwoven between the layers in at least one direction of the sheet, with a substantial number of the yarns in one layer generally parallel to the tie-in yarns being located intermediate the corresponding yarns in another layer of the sheet to define a staggered configuration of the sheet yarns, with the tie-in yarns limiting freedom of movement of the staggered woven yarns to retain them in place, and with the sheet being folded into a multiple ply configuration.

Abstract: A multi-layer, reusable, washable diaper for infants having a substantially 100% cotton facing sheet for contacting the skin of the infant, at least one sheet of absorbing fibrous batt material for drawing and retaining moisture away from the skin of the infant, a flexible liquid impermeable material backing sheet, and a decorative outer cover. The sheets are stitched together using a quilting pattern to generally immobilize the fibers of the batt material sheets to maintain their position and thickness after repeated washing and drying cycles. The diaper is fastened in place on the infant by non-metallic fastening devices which fasten together on the backside of the diaper and out of sight and easy reach of the infant.

Abstract: An absorbent article is disclosed having a pair of absorbents positioned adjacent to each other. Each absorbent has a first surface facing the body of a user and a second surface aligned opposite to the first surface. A fluid-impermeable baffle is positioned adjacent to the second surface of each absorbent and extends upward around a portion of the absorbents. A fluid permeable cover is positioned adjacent to the first surface of each absorbent and can be sealed to the baffle. The absorbent article further includes a transfer member for facilitating movement of body fluids from the cover downward and outward to distant areas of the absorbents. The transfer member is positioned above, between and below at least a portion of the absorbents and is coaxially aligned the the longitudinal central axis of the article. The transfer member is also spaced apart from the periphery of the absorbents.

Abstract: Disposable garments such as disposable diapers are disclosed that possess improved elastic characteristics. At least one garment outer sheet is composed of a drawable fabric, such as melt blown polymeric fibers or melt spun filaments. An elastic element is affixed in the relaxed condition to a web of outer sheet fabric. The elastic web is then stretched, and simultaneously the web in the area of elastic element attachment is drawn to impart a molecular orientation to the web fibers. As a result, the web fibers are permanently elongated. Upon relaxation of the stretched elastic element, shirrs or gathers are formed in the web fibers that permit subsequent stretching of the elastic element when the garment is worn. One of the outside sheet webs need not be drawable or drawn if it is performed with corrugations or pleats in the region of elastic element attachment. The present invention also includes apparatus for manufacturing the garment.

Abstract: Disposable garments such as disposable diapers are disclosed that possess improved elastic characteristics. At least one garment outer sheet is composed of a drawable fabric, such as melt blown polymeric fibers or melt spun filaments. An elastic element is affixed in the relaxed condition to a web of outer sheet fabric. The elastic web is then stetched, and simultaneously the web in the area of elastic element attachment is drawn to impart a molecular orientation to the web fibers. As a result, the web fibers are permanently elongated. Upon relaxation of the stretched elastic element, shirrs or gathers are formed in the web fibers that permit subsequent stretching of the elastic element when the garment is worn. One of the outside sheet webs need not be drawable or drawn if it is preformed with corrugations or pleats in the region of elastic element attachment. The present invention also includes apparatus for manufacturing the garment.

Abstract: An absorbent pad, particularly for articles of hygiene such as diapers, nappy-pants, dressings, and the like, is disclosed which includes at least one sheet of long fibers, preferably one sheet of nonabsorbent fibers and the other of absorbent fibers, and superabsorbent particles distributed between the sheets. The superabsorbent particles are held in place by needling at least one of the long-fibered sheets.

Abstract: A variable sized diaper, which is reusable, is disclosed. The diaper inlcudes an outer liquid impermeable panel having a generally hourglass configuration. The outer panel is sealedly connected about its perimeter to a corresponding inner panel having a substantially identical outer perimeter. The inner panel includes a fluid absorbent core, longitudinally positioned along the length of the diaper which is circumscribed by a plurality of side panels and waist panels which are constructed of liquid impermeable fabric. A conjunction of the inner panel and the outer panel defines a liquid permeable absorbent core which is substantially surrounded by a fluid impermeable hollow pocket or sack which extends about the entire circumference of the absorbent core. A "V"-shaped pile attachment strip is positioned on the frontmost regions of the diaper and is adapted to connect with a pair of hook fasteners one of which is positioned on each of the two wing-like portions of the rear portion of the diaper.

Abstract: Nonwoven web and method of making including interbonded thermoplastic fibers in an array of hollow projections extending outwardly from at least one surface of said web. The projections are separated by land areas of interbonded fibers, and the fiber orientation is greater in the projections than in the land areas. Either the projections or the land areas may be perforated as desired for controlled porosity and fluid flow properties. The nonwoven webs of the invention may be made by a number of processes but, preferably, are made by forming directly on a surface with corresponding projections with or without apertures and a vacuum assist or by forming on an apertured surface with a pressure differential sufficient to draw the fibers through the apertures forming the projections.

Abstract: The invention relates to the product and process for making an absorbent structure having a facing sheet and an absorbent batt in superposed relationship. The facing sheet is a nonwoven fabric. Some of the fibers of the batt extend into and are integral with the facing fabric. The extended fibers promote wicking of a liquid through the facing into the batt and stabilize the batt.

Abstract: A dental roll having a wrapper or covering of nonwoven fibers surrounding an absorbent body of cellulosic fibers and wherein the wrapper is constructed to have greater stretchability radially of the absorbent body than lengthwise thereof so as to resiliently maintain the body in compacted, dense condition while permitting the dental rolls to readily conform to the contour of the mouth and lip of the patient.

Abstract: A diaper is woven with an unfolded width of greater than about 40 inches, and is then folded along not fewer than three warp-direction fold lines in such a way that the central panel of the folded diaper includes at least four superposed layers while each side panel includes only one or two superposed layers. The number of filling yarns per inch in the diaper is considerably reduced, as compared to conventional diapers, thus providing an increase in production speed and hence a reduction in production cost, without decreasing (and generally increasing) the total thread count per square inch in, and absorbency of, the central panel.

Abstract: A paper diaper comprises, from the top downwards, a fluff pulp surface layer or ply, a holed or grooved partition layer, a diffusion crust layer, and a fluff pulp main layer or ply, all wrapped up in a non-woven fabric. When the diaper is worn, fluid discharged is absorbed in a somewhat localized area, passes downwards through this area, and then falls down through the partition layer onto the crust layer which diffuses the fluid throughout substantially the whole area of the diaper and also retains some. Thus, the whole of the diaper is slightly moistened but does not cause any discomfort such as a drippingly wet feeling. Flowing back of the fluid from the crust layer to the surface layer is prevented by the partition layer.

Abstract: The present invention provides absorbent articles, especially sanitary napkins, containing a flow regulator positioned between the topsheet and the absorbent core. In-use, fluid deposited on the topsheet is internally moved in the longitudinal direction by the flow regulator before being released to the absorbent core. By moving substantial amounts of fluid in the longitudinal direction the flow regulator provides a more effective use of the absorbent core.

Abstract: An absorbent article, such as a sanitary napkin is provided. The sanitary napkin of the present invention has a substantially non-absorbent braided wicking structure.