Tampons Patents (Class 604/904)
  • Patent number: 9737443
    Abstract: A tampon applicator barrel includes an insertion tip at a forward end of the barrel, a main body section that extends from the insertion tip, and a reverse taper section that is joined to the main body section so that the main body section is between the insertion tip and the reverse taper section. The main body section tapers toward the insertion tip section. The reverse taper section tapers in a direction away from the insertion tip section. A finger grip section extends from the reverse taper section to a plunger receiving end of the barrel opposite the forward end. The barrel is straight from the forward end to the plunger receiving end that receives a plunger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: Edgewell Personal Care Brands, LLC
    Inventors: Jessica LeMay, Kathryn Bennett, Keith Edgett, Dane Jackson, Mario Turchi, Susanne Weber
  • Patent number: 9035124
    Abstract: A fluid management device for use in a mammalian body has at least one fluid transport element capable of interfacing with a mammalian body element to provide a substantially uninterrupted fluid conduit. The fluid conduit provides a fluid path between at least one fluid transport element and the storage element. A distal portion of the at least one fluid transport element is capable of extending away from the fluid storage element, and the at least one fluid transport element has a Wing Stiffness of less than about 10 gf.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2015
    Assignee: McNeil-PPC, Inc.
    Inventors: Samuel C. Carasso, David J. Chase, Erin Marsee, Tara Glasgow
  • Patent number: 8905989
    Abstract: An intravaginal tampon is formed of compressed material and has an outer surface, an insertion end, a withdrawal end, and a center portion formed between the insertion and withdrawal ends. The outer surface has at least two segmented grooves are formed therein, and each segmented groove is separated from and spaced at a distance from an adjacent segmented groove. Each segmented groove has at least one substantially longitudinal segment and at least one accumulator segment. The arrangement of the segments provides a pooling region to impede bodily fluid flow along the outer surface of the tampon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: McNeil-PPC, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul Y. Fung, Dmitry Yavich
  • Patent number: 8887368
    Abstract: A method of assembling a tampon applicator includes providing a barrel with internal ridges that define a guide channel having an effective diameter. The method includes providing a plunger that has a finger flare with a circular shape and a flare diameter that is at least 15% larger than the effective diameter of the guide channel. The method includes assembling the plunger and the barrel by pushing the finger flare into the guide channel and deforming the finger flare into a non-circular shape while moving the finger flare through the guide channel. The method includes moving the finger flare out of the plunger end of the barrel and reestablishing the circular shape of the finger flare.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary Michael Mastalish, Marcus David Weiher, Gary Alan Turchan, Thomas William VanDenBogart
  • Patent number: 8882734
    Abstract: A tampon including an absorption body enclosed in a cover. The tampon has an insertion end and a withdrawal end and further includes at least one withdrawal string. The cover includes a plurality of first invertible flaps or a plurality of second invertible flaps, or a combination thereof. Each first invertible flap is constituted by a portion of the cover and is arranged to be moved between a first initial position and a first inverted position during withdrawal of the tampon out of the vagina of a user so as to aid the withdrawal. Each second invertible flap is constituted by a portion of the cover and is arranged to be moved between a second initial position and a second inverted position during insertion of the tampon into the vagina of a user so as to aid the insertion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Assignee: SCA Hygiene Products AB
    Inventor: Solgun Drevik
  • Patent number: 8864732
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Ontex Hygieneartikel Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Werner Van Ingelgem, Annick De Poorter, Steven Smet
  • Patent number: 8845837
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a tampon includes transporting a web of material in a machine direction. The web of material has a base web and an absorbent web. The absorbent web has a free end and a bonded end wherein the bonded end is bonded to the base web. At least the free end of the absorbent web of the web to is controlled to inhibit movement of the absorbent web relative to the base web. The web of material is cut into discrete web segments while controlling at least the free end of the absorbent web. The discrete web segments is bonded to a substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles Robert Tomsovic, Nick Wolter, Wayne Beyer, Ronald A. Hilt, Joshua Fiedorowicz, Brian Alberts, Martin Gottvald, Steve Gehling
  • Patent number: 8840597
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an absorbent fabric for medical treatment or menstruation, and more particularly, to a convenient and sanitary absorbent article to be used as a tampon, a blood-absorbing fabric for surgery, etc. The present invention provides an absorbent article for medical treatment or menstruation, wherein a flat absorbent article is provided with removal means and is formed into a cylindrical shape. The flat absorbent article is formed by forming an absorbent layer on a liquid passage layer. The removal means is arranged to cover the liquid passage layer and the absorbent layer of the flat absorbent article in the widthwise direction, and a portion of the removal means is outwardly exposed from the flat absorbent article in the widthwise direction of the flat absorbent article. The flat absorbent article is wound in the lengthwise direction and thus is formed into a cylindrical absorbent article, thereby fixing the removal means in the cylindrical absorbent article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Inventor: Chang Hoen Lee
  • Patent number: 8834439
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an intravaginal tampon for feminine hygiene includes a generally cylindrical absorbent pledget and a withdrawal element operatively connected to the generally cylindrical pledget proximate to the withdrawal end thereof. The absorbent pledget includes a mass of fibers compressed into a self sustaining shape and a sheet-like fluid-permeable cover substantially enclosing the mass of fibers. The absorbent pledget has formed thereon or therein at least one continuous groove form comprising a plurality of substantially longitudinal groove segments linked only to form a turn located alternatively proximate the insertion end and withdrawal end and wherein the continuous groove form extends around at least 180° about the circumference of the generally cylindrical absorbent pledget.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Johnson & Johnson GmbH
    Inventors: David L. Kimball, Tony C. Ng, Tara Zedayko
  • Patent number: 8827975
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an intravaginal tampon for feminine hygiene includes a generally cylindrical absorbent pledget and a withdrawal element operatively connected to the generally cylindrical pledget proximate to the withdrawal end thereof. The absorbent pledget includes a mass of fibers compressed into a self sustaining shape and a sheet-like fluid-permeable cover substantially enclosing the mass of fibers. The absorbent pledget has formed thereon or therein a plurality of detached groove forms. At least two of said detached groove forms each has a length, measured along the groove, that is at least 150% of the length of the pledget; each has a major axis having a generally longitudinal orientation; and each has a turn proximate to at least one of the insertion end and the withdrawal end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Johnson & Johnson GmbH
    Inventors: David L. Kimball, Tony C. Ng, Tara Zedayko
  • Patent number: 8827974
    Abstract: The present invention provides an absorbent tampon having a mass of an absorbent composite compressed into a generally cylindrical shape. The absorbent composite used in the tampon of the present invention has at least a first layer and a second layer wherein the second layer is adjacent the first layer. The first layer is prepared from a first absorbent material having a first physical property and the second layer is prepared from a second absorbent material having a second physical property, wherein the first physical property is the same physical property as the second physical property, but the value of the second physical property is different from the first physical property. By providing layers in the absorbent composite different physical properties, the tampons of the present invention can have different properties at various locations of the tampon to provide a tampon having desirable features, such as improve leakage protection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventor: Alexander M. Schmidt-Forst
  • Patent number: 8784396
    Abstract: This invention relates to a tampon (10). The tampon includes an elongate absorbent body (12) and at least one surface formation (34, 36, 38, 40) applied over an exterior surface of the absorbent body. The at least one surface formation is of a material different to the absorbent body and is configured to inhibit expansion of at least a portion of the absorbent body i-n use due to absorption of menses by the absorbent body, and/or to facilitate insertion and seating of the tampon in a vagina. The invention extends to a tampon which includes an elongate absorbent body which is non-circular in outline in end view. The invention further extends to a tampon which has a particular correct angular orientation relative to its longitudinal axis, with which it is to be inserted into a vagina, the correct angular orientation being clearly visible to a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Inventor: Peter James Brian Lamb
  • Patent number: 8771248
    Abstract: It is intended to provide a tampon wherein a string-shaped member is bonded to a cylindrical absorbent in the state of not being exposed on the absorbent surface. A tampon comprising an absorbent (2), which is obtained by molding a sheet member into a cylindrical shape, and a string-shaped member (4) which is bonded to the absorbent (2) and extends from one end of the absorbent (2). The string-shaped member (4) has a first string part which is bonded along the first direction of one face of the sheet member constituting the absorbent (2) and a second string part which extends from the sheet member. A first folding part is formed in one side of the second direction that is perpendicular to the first direction of the first string member, while a second folding part is formed in the other side of the second direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Uni-Charm Corporation
    Inventors: Hitoshi Watanabe, Hideki Kondo
  • Patent number: 8747378
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Ontex Hygieneartikel Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Werner Van Ingelgem, Annick De Poorter, Steven Smet
  • Patent number: 8735647
    Abstract: A tampon for feminine hygiene, having an insertion end, a recovery end, a recovery tape, and a longitudinal axis. The tampon is made of compressed fibrous material and has an outer surface that is at least partially provided with spirally shaped, pressed longitudinal grooves. The grooves define spirally shaped longitudinal ribs. Also disclosed is a method for producing the tampon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Eveready Battery Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Hans Werner Schoelling
  • Patent number: 8728015
    Abstract: The present invention is an electronically controlled wide band vibrating tampon (ECWVT) apparatus to provide relief from feminine menstrual cramps and comprises a controllable vibration generator with selectable wide band vibration sources, an electromechanical transducer aka a vibration transmitter, and a disposable vibration transmitting tampon head (VTTH) to be inserted into the user's vaginal canal for customized and maximized relief from a user's menstrual cramps. Since only the VTTH is disposable and all other parts are reusable, the disposable cost is minimized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Lustone Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Xu Hua Jiang, Min Lu
  • Patent number: 8684987
    Abstract: A tampon having an improved aspect ratio is provided. The tampon includes a self-sustaining, fluid-expanding, compressed absorbent pledget having one or more absorbent materials. The tampon has a width, a thickness, and a length. The width can be greater than the thickness and an aspect ratio of the width to the thickness can be from greater than about 1.4:1 to less than about 2.0:1. Also provided is a method of positioning a tampon within a vagina of a woman.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Margaret Henderson Hasse, Diana Lynn Gann, Thomas Ward Osborn, III
  • Patent number: 8672872
    Abstract: A sanitary product for use by women for the absorption of menstrual fluid, having a plug and a pad joined by a sheath. The plug is substantially cylindrical so that is fits comfortably in a vaginal cavity. The pad remains outside the vaginal cavity, but has an absorbent layer on an inward side proximal to the plug and a liquid impermeable layer on an outward side. In use, a wearer can insert a finger into the sheath from the outward side of the pad to assist with insertion of the plug into the vaginal cavity. A string is provided that extends inside the sheath from the outward end of the plug to aid removal of the product. A line of weakness extends along the major axis of the pad, about which the pad is disposed to fold in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: Calla Lily Personal Care Ltd
    Inventor: (Alex) Yu Sing Hooi
  • Patent number: 8574210
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a tampon (1) having an insertion end (11), a withdrawal end (14) and a tampon body in between whereby said tampon body essentially consists of liquid absorbing material and has an outer circumferential surface which is provided with longitudinal grooves (4, 4?) that are separated from each other by longitudinal ribs (3, 3?), wherein at least one tampon groove (4) is defined an outer longitudinal path (2) on the surface of the tampon that diverges from the longitudinal path of the groove below the surface of the tampon. It also relates to a press, press jaw and process for its manufacture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Ontex Hygieneartikel Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Werner Van Ingelgem, Rudolf Pollack, Steven Smet
  • Patent number: 8568381
    Abstract: A tampon is proposed, with an insertion end and a rear end, made from a pressed absorbent strip (2) and a withdrawal string (3) running out of the rear end. In order to achieve short production times during manufacture of the tampon, the withdrawal string (3) is placed around the strip (2) in the shape of a loop 4, and the strip (2) is provided with a fold (16, 17) at each side of the loop (4). In terms of a method suitable for producing a tampon, the following steps are proposed: a) cutting the absorbent strip (2) to size, b) placing a withdrawal string (3) around the strip (2) in the shape of a loop (4), c) pressing the strip (2) between jaws (7) which can be moved towards one another forming a fold (16, 17) in the strip (2) on each side of the loop (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Ruggli Projects AG
    Inventors: Peter Mueller, Kilian Rolli
  • Patent number: 8562579
    Abstract: A packaged elongate intravaginal device has an overwrap substantially enclosing the device. The overwrap has a longitudinal overlap seam disposed generally parallel to the longitudinal axis. The seam includes one ply of overwrap material disposed at a first margin of a overwrap blank superposed on a second ply of overwrap material disposed at a second margin of the overwrap blank, opposite the first. The overwrap has a substantially continuous line of weakness that intersects a plane including the longitudinal axis of the packaged device at at least three unique locations. The line of weakness extends across the longitudinal overlap seam and includes weakness components superposed in each ply of the overlap seam, and the line of weakness is arranged and configured in a manner to permit the overwrap to remain as a unitary structure upon destruction of the line of weakness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignees: McNeil-PPC, Inc., Johnson & Johnson GmbH
    Inventors: Paul Y. Fung, David L. Kimball, Stephan M. Linkel, Ralf Mueller, Lionel Robbe, Yang Xu
  • Patent number: 8535287
    Abstract: In a tampon device for introduction into the female vulva, comprising a packing material of absorbent material for the absorbance of menstrual fluid, menstrual pains such as painful myogeloses and cramps in the region of the vaginal musculature are alleviated or stopped in that the packing material incorporates a magnetic substance that interacts with the earth's magnetic field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Inventor: Christian Sulger
  • Patent number: 8535286
    Abstract: A vibrating tampon apparatus to provide relief from feminine menstrual cramps comprises a vibration element, a housing unit, and a tampon member. The vibration element provides a source of vibrations and is contained within the housing unit. The tampon member is fabricated of an absorbent material and covers at least a portion of the housing unit, while being held in place by retaining elements on the exterior of the housing unit. Electric power is supplied to the vibration element by a remote electric power source. The electrical connection between the electric power source and the vibration element is controlled remotely by a control unit that allows the apparatus to operate either momentarily, in a testing situation, or continually for the lifetime of the electric power source, which is for normal usage and cannot be interrupted by the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Marlafin AG
    Inventor: David Conroy
  • Patent number: 8518005
    Abstract: Tampons are packaged in a substantially cylindrical wrapper formed of a flexible, sheet-like material that is closed with one or more attachment zones having one or more gaps crossed by a line of weakness. The wrapper is closed at both ends and has a longitudinal seam area in which overlapping portions of the flexible, sheet-like material are attached. The longitudinal seam area comprises a substantially longitudinal attachment zone with a first edge and a second edge that defines a seam area. The line of weakness has a first end disposed within the seam area at a distance from a first end of the wrapper package; extends through a gap in the substantially longitudinal attachment zone; continues generally circumferentially about the wrapper; and terminates at a second end disposed within the seam area at the second edge of the substantially longitudinal attachment zone. The line of weakness extends across the seam area, and the wrapper can be removed as a single piece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignees: McNeil-PPC, Inc., Johnson & Johnson GmbH
    Inventors: Otto Handel, Stephan M. Linkel, Simone Weitz
  • Patent number: 8506543
    Abstract: A vaginal insert formed from a composition that, prior to introduction to the vagina, has the physical properties of a liquid, semi-soft gel, paste, foam, or viscous material so that it can be effectively delivered to the vaginal canal. After introduction into the vagina, the composition will expand and/or solidify into a semi-solid or solid structure to substantially fill the entire “H” shaped space of the vagina and a portion of the rugal folds along the length of the vaginal canal. Upon solidifying, the composition defines an insert that, in one embodiment, is suitable for use as a tampon and, in another embodiment, is suitable for use as an incontinence device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Kristin M. Shepard, MaryAnn Zunker
  • Patent number: 8475425
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Margaret Henderson Hasse, Steven Ray Gilbert, James Earl Trout, Jared John Schaefer
  • Patent number: 8458882
    Abstract: A method of assembling a tampon applicator includes providing a barrel with internal ridges that define a guide channel having an effective diameter. The method includes providing a plunger that has a finger flare with a circular shape and a flare diameter that is at least 15% larger than the effective diameter of the guide channel. The method includes assembling the plunger and the barrel by pushing the finger flare into the guide channel and deforming the finger flare into a non-circular shape while moving the finger flare through the guide channel. The method includes moving the finger flare out of the plunger end of the barrel and reestablishing the circular shape of the finger flare.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary Michael Mastalish, Marcus David Weiher, Gary Alan Turchan, Thomas William Van Den Bogart
  • Patent number: 8419700
    Abstract: A packaged elongate intravaginal device has an overwrap substantially enclosing the device. The overwrap has a longitudinal overlap seam disposed generally parallel to the longitudinal axis. The seam includes one ply of overwrap material disposed at a first margin of a overwrap blank superposed on a second ply of overwrap material disposed at a second margin of the overwrap blank, opposite the first. The overwrap has a substantially continuous line of weakness that intersects a plane including the longitudinal axis of the packaged device at at least three unique locations. The line of weakness extends across the longitudinal overlap seam and includes weakness components superposed in each ply of the overlap seam, and the line of weakness is arranged and configured in a manner to permit the overwrap to remain as a unitary structure upon destruction of the line of weakness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignees: McNeil-PPC, Inc., Johnson & Johnson GmbH
    Inventors: Paul Y. Fung, David L. Kimball, Stephan M. Linkel, Ralf Mueller, Lionel Robbe, Yang Xu
  • Patent number: 8403879
    Abstract: The invention relates to a tampon for feminine hygiene, with a tapered introductory end, a withdrawal end provided with a withdrawal means and a longitudinal axis, comprising a longitudinally extending absorbent body made from compressed fiber material, the absorbent body being densified more intensely in the region of the longitudinal axis and forming a fiber column, from which longitudinal ribs extend radially outward and flank longitudinal ribs in pairs. The tapered introductory end being formed by the fiber column, the longitudinal grooves and longitudinal ribs is provided with collecting grooves and collecting ribs to collect menstrual secretions, wherein the collecting grooves are open axially to the front and radially outward and wherein the collecting ribs flank the collecting grooves in pairs. The invention provides for an increased absorption capacity of the tampon in relation to the weight of the fiber material per tampon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Johnson & Johnson GmbH
    Inventor: Hans-Werner Schoelling
  • Patent number: 8398606
    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: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: QuantrRx Biomedical Corporation
    Inventor: William H. Fleming
  • Patent number: 8357134
    Abstract: Tampons are packaged in a substantially cylindrical wrapper formed of a flexible, sheet-like material that is closed with one or more attachment zones having one or more gaps crossed by a line of weakness. The wrapper is closed at both ends and has a longitudinal seam area in which overlapping portions of the flexible, sheet-like material are attached. The longitudinal seam area comprises a substantially longitudinal attachment zone with a first edge and a second edge that defines a seam area. The line of weakness has a first end disposed within the seam area at a distance from a first end of the wrapper package; extends through a gap in the substantially longitudinal attachment zone; continues generally circumferentially about the wrapper; and terminates at a second end disposed within the seam area at the second edge of the substantially longitudinal attachment zone. The line of weakness extends across the seam area, and the wrapper can be removed as a single piece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Assignees: McNeil-PPC, Inc., Johnson & Johnson GmbH
    Inventors: Otto Handel, Stephan M. Linkel, Simone Weitz
  • Patent number: 8353890
    Abstract: The invention relates to a tampon for feminine hygiene, with a tapered introductory end, a withdrawal end provided with a withdrawal means and a longitudinal axis, comprising a longitudinally extending absorbent body made from compressed fiber material, the absorbent body being densified more intensely in the region of the longitudinal axis and forming a fiber column, from which longitudinal ribs extend radially outward and flank longitudinal ribs in pairs. The tapered introductory end being formed by the fiber column, the longitudinal grooves and longitudinal ribs is provided with collecting grooves and collecting ribs to collect menstrual secretions, wherein the collecting grooves are open axially to the front and radially outward and wherein the collecting ribs flank the collecting grooves in pairs. The invention provides for an increased absorption capacity of the tampon in relation to the weight of the fiber material per tampon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: Johnson & Johnson GmbH
    Inventor: Hans-Werner Schoelling
  • Patent number: 8348916
    Abstract: An individual package is provided to allow a tampon with an applicator to be handled easily. An individual package includes: a tampon including an applicator having an external cylinder and an internal cylinder, and an absorbent body housed so as to be pushed out from the applicator; and a flat bag formed by a predetermined sheet member in a elongated shape. The flat bag includes an unsealable portion formed on one side of the flat bag so as to enable the tampon to be removed therefrom; and a lid portion which is openable and closable in a longitudinal direction of the flat bag. The lid portion is disposed so as to cover the unsealable portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Uni-Charm Corporation
    Inventors: Kaori Fujikawa, Hideki Kondo, Hitoshi Watanabe, Masashi Hosokawa
  • Patent number: 8337478
    Abstract: A tampon applicator barrel includes a wall forming a tube with a center axis therthrough and with a hollow interior volume. The tube has a first barrel end and a second barrel end opposite the first barrel end to form a length therebetween that corresponds to the length of the center axis. The tube increases in diameter along the length of the tube from a first diameter to a second diameter that forms a main body section, and decreases in diameter along the length of the tube from the second diameter to a third diameter that forms a reverse taper section. The center axis is substantially straight throughout the extant of the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Playtex Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Jessica E. Lemay, Kathryn G. Bennett, Keith J. Edgett, Dane R. Jackson, Mario A. Turchi, Susanne Weber
  • Patent number: 8323256
    Abstract: A tampon removal device is provided that has one or more malodor counteractants, perfumes, medicines including analgesics, anti-bacterials, lubricants and/or moisturizers, visual stimulators and/or identifiers including color code, color modification, and optical enhancer, a ply variation, a polymer modification, or a surface modification.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Playtex Products Inc.
    Inventors: Keith Edgett, Patrick Gorham
  • Patent number: 8308675
    Abstract: An applicator device capable of housing an insertable element includes a plunger member that is slideably engaged with the insertion member and has an insertion end and a gripper end. The gripper end of the plunger member consists of a locking mechanism having a diameter greater than the diameter of the plunger member. The insertion member also includes a locking mechanism that is capable of engaging the locking mechanism of the plunger member that may prevent the plunger member from withdrawal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: McNeil-PPC, Inc.
    Inventors: Melinda Cettina, Paul Y. Fung, Gina Marcus, Hans-Werner Schoelling, Jennifer Sturgeon, Alan G. Trojanowski, Simone Weitz
  • Patent number: 8221371
    Abstract: A process for overwrapping a catamenial device such as a tampon includes the steps of providing a substantially cylindrical overwrapper material, inserting a catamenial device into the overwrap material, and closing the open end of the overwrapper material. The overwrapper material has an open end, a closed end, and a first length. The catamenial device has a tapered insertion end, a longitudinal axis, and a length less than the first length, such that the open end of the overwrapper material extends beyond the insertion end of the inserted catamenial device. Concave clamping jaws are applied to the open end of the overwrapper material to urge it toward the longitudinal axis of the catamenial device; to conform portions of the overwrapper material to the insertion end of the catamenial device; and to fold overwrapper material between adjacent clamping jaws to form fins extending outwardly from the conformed portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: McNeil-PPC, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Junio, David L. Kimball, Ralf Mueller, Tony Ng
  • Patent number: 8221375
    Abstract: A method of forming a barrel for a tampon applicator assembly including molding a barrel then forming a rearward taper region in an area of the barrel is provided. The method includes molding a first portion of the barrel in a first mold part and a second portion of the barrel in a second mold part, the first and second mold parts meeting at a maximum outer dimension of the first portion, ejecting the barrel from the first and second mold parts, and forming a flared region in an area of the second portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: Playtex Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Jessica Elizabeth LeMay, Keith Edgett, Wayne David Melvin, Kathryn Bennett
  • Patent number: 8221374
    Abstract: A urinary incontinence device applicator has an insertion barrel; a plunger slidable within the insertion barrel; means to indicate appropriate insertion depth of the insertion barrel associated therewith into a user's vagina; and means to indicate appropriate orientation of the insertion barrel associated therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: McNeil-PPC, Inc.
    Inventors: Mari Hou, Raymond J. Hull, Jr., Paul B. Swick
  • Patent number: 8216202
    Abstract: Tampons comprising an asymmetric insertion end are provided. The tampon can comprise a substantially symmetrical absorbent mass having an insertion end and a withdrawal end, wherein the insertion end is asymmetric around an X axis of the tampon. A method of improving placement of a tampon in a vagina of a female is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Ryo Minoguchi, Ricky Alan Pollard, Margaret Henderson Hasse, Letha Margie Hines, Diana Lynn Gann, Thomas Ward Osborn, III
  • Patent number: 8137290
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a device (or an apparatus) and a method for providing information about body fluids. The device is for measuring a body fluid discharged from a body of a user by putting a first disposable absorbent article having a predetermined absorbent capacity to a fluid discharging portion of the user. The device comprises means for inputting an amount of the body fluid which is absorbed by the first absorbent article through observation; and means for calculating the total amount of the body fluid which was discharged by the user based on the input and the predetermined absorbent capacity of the first absorbent article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Ting Zhang, Chunhua Huang, Jie Yin, Koichi Tomi
  • Patent number: 8093446
    Abstract: There is provided a tampon or similar device or product in which there is disposed at least one surface active agent. A broad feature of the present invention provides a fibrous absorbent article for absorbing body fluids made up of a fibrous material defining a structure suitable for absorbing the body fluids, and disposed in or on the structure, an effective amount of at least one surface active agent, so as to adsorb malodor associated with these bodily fluids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Playtex Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Rosemary F. Knuth, Keith Edgett
  • Patent number: 8062245
    Abstract: An applicator for a feminine hygiene product is provided. The applicator includes a barrel portion, a grip portion, and a plunger. The barrel portion can be rotatably connected to the grip portion, wherein the barrel portion is adapted to rotate relative to the grip portion. Also provided is a method for orienting a feminine hygiene product within a vagina.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Diana Lynn Gann, Margaret Henderson Hasse, Paul Gregory Methven, Kerry Lloyd Weaver, Michael Sean Farrell, Dale Edwin Barker, Dan Raymond Wiegele
  • Patent number: 8048053
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Ryo Minoguchi, Kelyn Anne Arora
  • Patent number: 8029456
    Abstract: The present invention provides a compact intravaginal device applicator assembly having a longitudinal axis comprises an elongated barrel with an insertion end and an opposite gripper end; an intravaginal device and a plunger with a restraint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: McNeil-PPC, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul Y. Fung
  • Patent number: 8026409
    Abstract: A tampon comprising an absorbent core and a partially impermeable layer, where said absorbent core have a mantle area, an insertion end area, and a withdrawal end area is disclosed. The tampon further comprises an active layer, and said partially impermeable layer is arranged on at least a part of said mantle area, and said active layer is arranged on at least a part of said partially impermeable layer. The tampon will sustain a moistured surface layer, while at the same time excess fluid is distributed to the core of the tampon for storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Inventor: Björn Andersch
  • Patent number: 7982089
    Abstract: There is provided a tampon pledget or tampon applicator that is covered by a wrapper having microcapsules thereon. Alternatively, the microcapsules may simply be disposed on the tampon pledget or tampon applicator. The microcapsules may contain a lubricant or a fragrance or a combination of both. The microcapsules may be ruptured prior to inserting the tampon pledget or tampon applicator and the resultant free-flowing lubricant and/or fragrance is spread on the tampon pledget, tampon applicator, or a combination thereof. The lubricant increases the ease and comfort of inserting and positioning the tampon pledget or tampon applicator. The amount of lubricant desired may be controlled by varying the pressure applied to the microcapsules. Thus, the number of microcapsules ruptured can be controlled by varying the pressure applied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: Playtex Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Suzanne Pauley, Jacqueline Davis, Dane R. Jackson
  • Patent number: 7977532
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Margaret Henderson Hasse, Steven Ray Gilbert, James Earl Trout, Jared John Schaefer
  • Patent number: 7963934
    Abstract: The tampon applicator assembly includes a tampon applicator section, an outer housing section, and a plunger section. The combined tampon applicator section and plunger section function as a conventional plunger-type tampon applicator. The outer housing section includes a sleeve with a proximal portion and a distal portion. The (distal) insertion end of the tampon applicator section essentially fits inside the proximal portion of the sleeve, and the distal portion of the sleeve is designed to accommodate a feminine hygiene product, such as a pad, a disposable wipe, a towelette disposal mitt, a simple disposal bag, and other products associated with menstruation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Inventor: Jacqueline M. Morrow
  • Patent number: 7935098
    Abstract: An applicator for intravaginal devices includes an elongate handle, an insertion sleeve, and an intravaginal device support member. The elongate handle has an open first end that defines a cavity extending into the handle. The insertion sleeve extends from the open first end of the handle; it is arranged and configured to slide into the cavity of the handle and to accommodate an intravaginal device; and it has associated therewith a trigger. The intravaginal device support member is disposed in the cavity of the handle; it is operatively connected to the handle; and it has a bearing surface disposed proximate the open first end of the handle. The applicators are useful to ensure that intravaginal devices are placed in the appropriate position to be effective.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Assignee: McNeil-PPC, Inc.
    Inventors: Michelle Bartning, Mari Hou, Raymond J. Hull, Jr., Kirsten Freislinger Luehrs, Scott M. Russell, Paul B. Swick, Pramod Mavinkurve