Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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DISPOSABLE AND REUSABLE PROTECTIVE UNDERGARMENTS
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to absorbent articles and, more particularly, to
disposable and reusable protective undergarments.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
s The use of absorbent articles, such as protective undergarments, has
increased
steadily for many years. Early uses, such as disposable diapers for babies and
disposable
sanitary products for women, have in recent years been joined by an increasing
demand for
products designed to deal with incontinence issues for adults, frequently
brought on by
advanced age, obesity, or a variety of medical conditions. At the same time,
markets have
io grown in all of these areas for both disposable and reusable products,
depending on the
preferences of the consumer.
Disposable absorbent articles, such as diapers and pads for example, are in
widespread use throughout the world as a result of their convenience. They
provide
substantial advantages and convenience over absorbent articles that have to be
laundered and
is reused, particularly when the absorbent articles are used away from home.
In recent years,
many different disposable absorbent articles have been proposed and some have
been very
successful in the marketplace. However, even current successful products leave
room for
improvement.
To promote preservation of the ecology, some consumers desire to return to
zo the use of reusable, rather than disposable, absorbent articles such as
infant and adult diapers.
A recent improvement to reusable diapers is in the replacement of pin
fasteners by fasteners
of filamentary material, such as hook and loop filamentary materials
manufactured by Velcro
Corporation and Aplix Corporation. In this regard, reference is made to U.S.
Patent No.
4,537,591 to Coates, incorporated herein by reference, which discloses a cloth
diaper having
zs filamentary fasteners together with a self closing tab cover that protects
the fasteners from
buildup of lint during washing.
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Whether for reusable or disposable products, various fastening systems have
been employed for fastening the absorbent products to the wearer or to the
clothing of the
wearer. For example, the waistband of a diaper is preferably fastened around
the waist of the
wearer, and the fastening system is generally intended to hold the diaper in
snug encircling
fashion on the wearer's torso. After the diaper is soiled, it is removed by
unfastening the
tabs, thereby opening the waist.
Although improvements have been made over the years relative to fastening
systems for reusable and disposable absorbent articles, there remains a
constant effort to
reduce skin irritation for the user. In addition, systems continue to be
sought for use by
io individuals with limited dexterity, perhaps due to a debilitating medical
condition.
Similar needs arise in connection with feminine hygiene products as with
infant
or adult incontinence products. Sanitary napkins and pads, for example, such
as absorbent
devices designed to receive and contain vaginal discharges such as menses, are
omnipresent
items of modern society. Disposable sanitary napkins and pads designed to be
held adjacent
is to the human body through the agency of a garment, such as an undergarment
or panty, have
effectively supplanted prior products that required a specially designed belt
for use.
Panty pads, whether used for absorbing urine or blood, can lead to accidents
and potential embarrassment for the wearer should they slip out of position
during use. This
slipping or other movement of the pad usually is due to an excessive amount of
movement in
zo that area of the body where the legs attach to the pubis area. Hence the
pull or motion of the
legs can dislodge the pad. Adding to these difficulties is the fact that
women's styles change
rapidly, an example being a recent trend toward the use of so-called "thong"
panties, which
have a narrow crotch design that is incompatible with the arrangement of most
traditional
feminine pads.
zs It will be appreciated from the above discussion that improvements in the
design of fastening systems are needed for a variety of absorbent articles
including protective
undergarments such as diapers, incontinence products, and feminine hygiene
pads.
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SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
An absorbent article is provided according to exemplary aspects of this
invention. The absorbent article includes a body portion having a perimeter
and a garment-
facing surface. The absorbent article also includes a pair of fastening tabs
extending from the
s garment-facing surface of the body portion at locations spaced inwardly from
the perimeter of
the body portion. Each of the fastening tabs has means for engaging the other
of the
fastening tabs, and the fastening tabs are positioned to receive a portion of
a garment between
them.
A fastening tab for an absorbent article is also provided according to an
io exemplary aspect of this invention. The fastening tab includes opposite
surfaces. One of the
surfaces carries hooks and the other of the surfaces is engageable by hooks.
The hooks are
spaced from at least one edge portion of the fastening tab.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The invention is best understood from the following detailed description when
is read in connection with the accompanying drawings. It is emphasized that,
according to
common practice, the various features of the drawings are not rendered to any
particular
proportion or scale. On the contrary, the dimensions of the various features
are arbitrarily
expanded or reduced for clarity. Included in the drawings are the following
figures:
Figure 1 is a plan view of one side of an exemplary embodiment of an
zo absorbent pad according to an aspect of the invention. Figure 1A shows
additional detail.
Figure 2 is a plan view of one side of another exemplary embodiment of an
absorbent pad. Figure 2A shows additional detail.
Figure 3 is a plan view of the opposite side of the absorbent pad shown in
Figure 2. Figure 3A shows additional detail.
as Figure 4 is a plan view of one side of yet another exemplary embodiment of
an
absorbent pad according to an aspect of the invention.
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Figure 5 is a plan view of the opposite side of the absorbent pad shown in
Figure 4. Figure SA shows additional detail.
Figure 6 is a perspective view of the absorbent pad shown in Figure 4. Figure
6A shows additional detail.
s Figure 7 is a plan view of one side of still another exemplary embodiment of
an absorbent pad according to an aspect of the invention.
Figure 8 is a plan view of one side of another exemplary embodiment of an
absorbent pad according to an aspect of the invention. Figures 8A and 8B show
additional
detail.
io Figure 9 is a plan view of one side of yet another exemplary embodiment of
an
absorbent pad according to an aspect of the invention.
Figure 10 is a perspective view of the absorbent pad shown in Figure 9.
Figure 10A shows additional detail.
Figure 11 is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of an
is absorbent pad according to an aspect of the invention. Figure 11A shows
additional detail.
Figure 12 is another perspective view of the absorbent pad of Figure 11,
showing fastening tabs attached to one another. Figure 12A shows additional
detail.
Figure 13 is a plan view of an exemplary embodiment of an absorbent pad
according to an aspect of the invention, showing a device capable of
collapsing to a folded
zo position for storage.
Figure 14 is a plan view of the absorbent pad of Figure 13, showing fastening
tabs attached to each other as they would be in attaching the device to an
undergarment (not
shown) .
Figure 15 is a plan view of the absorbent pad of Figure 13 in a folded
position.
Zs Figures 15A-15G shows additional detail.
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Figure 16 is a plan view of another exemplary embodiment of an absorbent
article according to an aspect of the invention, showing broad lateral
fastening tabs, one of
which is folded over to illustrate features on the opposite side of that tab.
Figure 16A shows
additional detail.
s Figure 17 is a plan view of another exemplary embodiment of an absorbent
pad according to an aspect of the invention, showing a pad configured to allow
folding for
storage. Figure 17A shows additional detail.
Figure 18 is a plan view of the absorbent pad of Figure 17, showing the device
folded in storage configuration. Figure 18A shows additional detail.
io Figure 19 is an exploded, perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an
absorbent article according to another aspect of the invention, showing a pad
and pouch
system with the two elements separated from one another. Figure 19A shows
additional
detail.
Figure 20 is a perspective view of the article of Figure 19, showing the pad
is and pouch elements together. Figure 20A shows additional detail.
Figure 21 is a plan view of another exemplary embodiment of an absorbent
pad according to an aspect of the invention, showing a pad with pairs of
fastening tabs.
Figure 21A shows additional detail.
Figure 22 is a plan view of the absorbent pad of Figure 21, showing the
zo fastening tabs attached to one another. Figure 22A shows additional detail.
Figure 23 is a plan view of yet another exemplary embodiment of an absorbent
pad according to an aspect of the invention, with one fastening tab extended
and the other
folded to reveal features provided on opposed sides of one or both of the
tabs. Figure 23A
shows additional detail.
zs Figure 24 is a plan view of another exemplary embodiment of an absorbent
pad according to an aspect of the invention, similar to that shown in Figure
21 having pairs of
fastening tabs.
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Figure 25 is a plan view of an opposite side of the pad of Figure 24 showing
the fastening tabs attached to one another.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Exemplary features of selected embodiments of this invention will now be
s described with reference to the figures. It will be appreciated that the
spirit and scope of the
invention is not limited to the embodiments selected for illustration. Also,
it should be noted
that the drawings are not rendered to any particular scale or proportion. It
is contemplated
that any of the configurations and materials described hereafter can be
modified within the
scope of this invention.
io Referring to Figures 1 through 25, an absorbent article is provided with an
improved fastening system. Additional related figures are provided to show
additional detail.
Specifically, Figures 1A, 2A, 3A, 5A, 6A, 8A and 8B, IOA, 11A, 12A, 15A-15G,
16A,
17A, 18A, 19A, 20A, 21A, 22A, and 23A show additional detail corresponding to
Figures l,
2, 3, 5, 6, 8, 10, 11, 12, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, and 23,
respectively.
is Generally, the absorbent article (such as article 10 illustrated in Figure
1 and
Figure 1A) includes a body portion having a perimeter and a garment-facing
surface. The
absorbent article also includes a pair of fastening tabs extending from the
garment-facing
surface of the body portion at locations spaced inwardly from the perimeter of
the body
portion. Each of the fastening tabs has means for engaging the other of the
fastening tabs,
zo and the fastening tabs are positioned to receive a portion of a garment
between them.
The engaging means optionally includes an adhesive, hooks, or a snap. For
example, the fastening tabs can each include a surface carrying hooks and a
surface
engageable by hooks. Such surfaces include, but are not limited to, woven and
non-woven
materials comprising polypropylene, polyethylene, polyester, NYLON, or RAYON.
zs Advantageously, the hooks may be engageable by loops. Such products are for
example by
the Velcro Corporation under the mark VELCRO. The fastening tabs are
optionally end
portions of a single component of the absorbent article. Alternatively, the
fastening tabs are
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separate from one another. The fastening tabs can be coupled to, or integral
with, a layer of
the body portion.
The body portion has a width, and the space between the fastening tabs can be
selected to be smaller than the width of the body portion. For example, the
space between
s the fastening tabs can be selected to receive the crotch portion of a thong-
style garment.
According to another aspect of the invention, a fastening tab is provided for
an
absorbent article. The fastening tab includes opposite surfaces, one of which
carries hooks
and the other of which is engageable by hooks. The hooks are spaced from at
least one edge
portion of the fastening tab.
io The fastening tab optionally includes an elastic material. Additionally,
the
fastening tab can optionally include a woven or non-woven substrate layer from
which hooks
extend, wherein the substrate is engageable by hooks. If used, the hooks are
optionally
positioned in a region to define a border between an edge portion of the
fastening tab and the
hooks, wherein the border of the fastening tab is devoid of hooks and the
border substantially
is surrounds the region in which the hooks are positioned. The region of the
hooks can be
substantially circular and/or positioned at an end portion of the fastening
tab. The edge
portion of the fastening tabs can be provided with an arcuate shape for
comfort.
Depending on cost, performance requirements, particular uses, and
manufacturing considerations, various materials can be selected for use in
absorbent articles
zo according to this invention. U.S. Patent No. 6,004,93 to Van Tilburg, which
is
incorporated herein by reference, describes a variety of such materials and
associated
constructions .
For example, the absorbent article can be provided with a topsheet that is
liquid permeable and, when the article is in use, is in close proximity to the
skin of the user.
zs If used, the topsheet is preferably compliant, soft feeling and non-
irritating to the user's skin.
Such topsheets can be made from any of the materials conventional for this
type of use. Non-
limiting examples of suitable materials that can be used as a topsheet are
woven and non-
woven polyester, polypropylene, polyethylene, NYLON, and RAYON and formed
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thermoplastic films. Suitable films are described, for example, in U.S. Patent
No. 4,324,246
to Mullane and Smith and U.S. Patent No. 4,342,314 to Radel and Thompson, both
of which
patents are incorporated herein by reference. Formed films may be selected for
the topsheet
because they are pervious to liquids and yet non-absorbent. Thus, the surface
of the formed
film, which is in contact with the body, remains substantially dry and is more
comfortable to
the wearer.
In exemplary embodiments, the inner surface of the topsheet can be secured in
contacting relation to an absorbent core. This contacting relationship results
in liquid
penetrating the topsheet faster than if it were not in contact with the
absorbent core. The
io topsheet can be maintained in contact with the absorbent core by applying
adhesive,
optionally in spaced, limited areas, to an inner surface of the topsheet.
Examples of suitable
adhesives used for this purpose include the acrylic emulsion E-1833BT
manufactured by
Rohm and Haas Company of Philadelphia, Pa. and acrylic emulsions manufactured
by H. B.
Fuller Company of St. Paul, Minn. Also contemplated are thermoplastic hot melt
adhesives
Is such as 34-563A, available from National Starch, Inc.
The absorbent core is generally compressible, conformable, and non-irritating
to the user's skin. It can comprise any material used in the art for such
purpose. Examples
of suitable materials are layers of tissue (such as wadding) and fibrated
comminution pulp
(e.g., airfelt). Also contemplated are cotton, cellulose acetate, and any of
these in
2o combination with a superabsorbent polymer.
The absorbent article preferably includes a backsheet that is preferably
impervious to liquids and, thus, prevents menstrual fluid that may be
expressed from the
absorbent core from soiling the clothing of the user. Any material used in the
art for such
purposes can be utilized herein. Suitable materials include embossed or non-
embossed
as polyethylene and polypropylene films and laminated tissue and non-woven
materials.
One or more-outer surfaces of the backsheet can be coated with an adhesive for
securing the absorbent article in the crotch portion of a panty. Any adhesive
or glue used in
the art for such purpose can be used. For example, pressure sensitive
adhesives are
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optionally selected. Suitable adhesives include INSTANT LOK adhesive products
manufactured by National Starch Company. The pressure sensitive adhesive of
the central
pad adhesive is preferably covered with a release liner to keep the adhesive
from drying out
and to keep it from sticking to extraneous surfaces prior to use. Any
commercially available
release liner commonly used for such purposes can be used herein. A non-
limiting example
of suitable release liners is BL 30 MG-A Silox, which is manufactured by the
Akrosil
division of International Paper, Inc.
Exemplary materials and constructions for reusable absorbent articles are
described in U.S. Patent No. 5,891,122 and U.S. Patent No. 6,254,583, both
issued to
io Coates, and both of which are incorporated herein by reference. Additional
materials and
constructions are well known in the art of reusable absorbent articles.
Referring now to Figures 1 through 25, features of exemplary embodiments of
absorbent articles have been selected for illustration and description herein.
Although
selected embodiments are illustrated, other embodiments are contemplated
within the spirit
is and scope of this invention. Also, although each of the selected
embodiments is configured
for use as an absorbent pad in hygiene and incontinence applications, this
invention applies
with equal benefit to other absorbent articles including diapers, incontinence
garments, and
other products utilized to absorb bodily and other fluids. Such articles may
include for
example adult and baby diapers, adult and children's absorbent underwear,
panty liners,
zo panty shields, maxi pads, mini pads, breast pads, wound dressings, and baby
bibs.
Referring to Figure 1, an embodiment is disclosed in the form of a three-layer
disposable panty liner for fashion-type undergarments. In this embodiment,
hook and loop
type fasteners are used to attach the liner to the panties. The first, inner
layer is absorbent,
the second is both waterproof and is attached to the attachment loop portions,
and the third,
as outermost layer is another waterproof layer. In addition, it may be
advantageous to add a
body-facing layer of a material designed to keep moisture in the absorbent
layer out of direct
contact with the skin. The garment has elasticized sides and the layers are of
narrow width
so that they may be attached to the fashion-type undergarment in the usual
way. The
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embodiment illustrated in Figure 1 is configured for use during a woman's
menstrual period
and is especially designed to be attached to undergarments of the fashionable
type, which are
thinner in the crotch area than regular panties.
Details of the embodiment illustrated in Figure 1 are provided in U. S.
s Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/304,790, filed July 13, 2001
and entitled
DISPOSABLE PANTY-LINER, which is incorporated herein by reference. Figure 1
shows
the three layers and the die-cut attachment loops with double-sided hook and
loop type
attachment means. The exemplary absorbent article, in the form of a disposable
panty liner,
is generally indicated at 10 in Figure 1. There is an outer, waterproof layer
12, a second
io waterproof layer 14, and the absorbent inner layer 16. In addition, it may
be advantageous to
add a body-facing layer of a material designed to keep moisture in the
absorbent layer out of
direct contact with the skin. On the second layer 14 are attached the die-cut
fastening tabs,
indicated at 18. Located on these tabs are double-sided hook and loop-type
fasteners 20 that
are used to attach the device to an undergarment.
is It should be noted that in Fig. 1, one tab is partially turned over so that
the
other side of the tab with the attendant fastener 20 is exposed. Double-sided
fasteners of this
type are configured to engage with the opposite, interengaging fastener type
(hook with loop
and vice versa). The tabs 18 are wrapped around the crotch of an undergarment
(not shown)
and are engaged with one another. Note that the fasteners 20 in this exemplary
embodiment
zo are substantially circular, relatively small, and optionally coin shaped.
Other shapes may
also be used.
As the type of undergarment envisaged for use with the embodiment shown in
Figure 1 is a "fashion type" or "thong" undergarment having a narrower crotch
area than
"regular" undergarments, the various layers 12, 14, and 16 are relatively
narrow in width, as
zs is indicated by line 22. The outer portions of the liner 10 are elasticized
at 24 to allow for a
comfortable, body hugging fit with good protection along with providing a full
pad in the
primary or inner layer 16.
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The embodiment illustrated in Figure 1 features attachment of at least one
fastening tab to a third layer of narrow width, a width optionally as narrow
as the crotch of
fashion underwear. It is recognized that existing panty liners and pads do not
always work
well with thong-type and narrower crotch underwear. The embodiment illustrated
in Figure
s 1 can be fastened to such panties while still allowing full-pad protection
by the primary layer.
This is accomplished because the absorbent article embodiment illustrated in
Figure 1
includes a pair of fastening tabs that extend from a garment-facing surface of
the article's
body portion at locations that are spaced inwardly from the perimeter of the
body portion.
The secondary layer may be optionally utilized for fastening only and may or
may not be
to waterproof. The sides are optionally elasticized (as illustrated) to create
a body-hugging
curve to provide a more comfortable product with greater protection.
Referring now to Figures 2 and 3, an embodiment is illustrated in the form of
a triple layer panty-liner having double-sided hook and loop fasteners located
on laterally
disposed fastening tabs. The Iiner includes a decorative outer edge and the
device may be
is adapted to be reusable, i.e., it may comprise an undergarment or pad that
is washable for
repeated use. The illustrated hook and loop fastener arrangement allows the
user to lay either
the right or the left fastening tab over the other, whichever is more
convenient. The
illustrated embodiment is configured for use as a menstrual or incontinence
pad or liner.
Details of the embodiment illustrated in Figures 2 and 3 are provided in U.S.
zo Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/305,879, filed July 18, 2001
and entitled
FASHION PANTY-LINER, which is incorporated herein by reference. Referring to
Figure
2, this embodiment of an absorbent article, in the form of a panty-liner, is
indicated generally
at 110. The top side of the liner is seen in Fig. 2 showing the absorbent
portion 112
surrounded by a gusset 114. The gusset 114 is made from a waterproof material
that
as channels fluid toward the absorbent portion 112. Located peripherally
around the gusset 114
is a decorative designer elastic 116.
A pair of fastening tabs 118 is laterally disposed on the liner as is best
seen in
Fig. 3. Located on the tabs 118 are double-sided hook and loop fasteners 120.
The fasteners
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120 are attached to the waterproof layer 122 of the liner 110. The hook and
loop fasteners
120 are configured so that either the left side tab can be placed over the
right side tab or vice
versa. This configuration makes attaching the device to an undergarment easier
for the
visually impaired or for a user suffering from arthritis or the like. The
optional configuration
s of the liner 110 for reuse makes the product attractive to environmentally
conscious
customers. The embodiment illustrated in Figures 2 and 3 therefore exemplifies
a pad
product with wraparound fastening tabs that have a double-sided hook and loop
closure
system to hold the pad securely. Gussets provide protection from leakage at
the legs. The
pad optionally includes designer elastic around the full, outer perimeter edge
of the pad. In
to addition, the positioning of absorbent portion 112 adjacent the wearer,
opposite from the
orientation shown in Figure 1, may confer additional advantages in comfort and
utility.
Another embodiment of an incontinence pad with wraparound double-sided
hook and loop fasteners is disclosed in Figures 4-6. The illustrated device
includes a
waterproof backsheet, and the hook portion of the fastener is located on the
outer perimeter
is of the wraparound fastening tabs. Additionally, the device also includes
elasticized sides to
provide a fit that conforms to the user's body.
Details of the embodiment illustrated in Figures 4-6 are provided in U.S.
Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 601305,896, filed July 18, 2001 and
entitled
PANTY-LINER, which is incorporated herein by reference. Referring to Figures 4-
6, the
Zo disclosed embodiment of an incontinence pad is generally indicated at 210.
The incontinence
pad 210 has a bottom side 212, which is preferably waterproof, and a top side
214 (seen in
Fig. 5) that is absorbent. The device has laterally disposed fastening tabs
indicated at 216.
Double-sided hook and loop fasteners are located on the tabs 216.
The material from which the tabs are made provides the loop material of the
Zs cooperating fasteners, and the hook portion of the fastener is attached on
the outer perimeter
edge 218 of the tabs 216, the hook portion of this embodiment being indicated
at 220. The
side walls of the pad 210 are elasticized, with the elasticized portion
denoted at 222. The top
side absorbent portion 214 has a front 224, a middle 226, and a back 228. The
configuration
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of the double-sided hook and loop fasteners as described allows the user to
fasten either the
left side tab over the right tab or vice versa.
Referring now to Figure 7, an embodiment of a panty liner is disclosed where
side tabs having double-sided hook and loop' type fasteners and front and rear
peel-away
s adhesive tabs are used to secure the liner to an undergarment. Both hook and
loop type
fasteners are disposed on side tabs of the liner and peel-away adhesive tabs
are located on the
front and rear ends of the device to secure the liner to the undergarment of
the user. Thus,
when a woman desires or needs to use a longer pad on occasion, this longer pad
can be
firmly and safely secured in place. Although both front and rear adhesive tabs
are shown in
io Figure 7, the use of one or three or more tabs may be advantageous.
Details of the embodiment illustrated in Figure 7 are provided in U.S.
Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60!304,792 filed July 13, 2001 and
entitled
PANTY-LINER, which is incorporated herein by reference. Figure 7 is a top view
of the
liner embodiment, showing the side tabs with their attendant double-sided hook
and loop
is fasteners and also showing the front and rearwardly disposed adhesive
portions with the peel-
off areas covering the adhesive. The panty liner is generally indicated in
Figure 7 at 310.
The liner has an outer portion or layer 312 that has disposed thereon the side
tabs 314.
Located on the side tabs 314 are the double-sided hook and loop type fasteners
316. The
double-sided fasteners of this type have the hooks on one surface and the
loops on the other
2o such that the tabs 314 may be moved over the outer crotch area of the
undergarment (not
shown) and fastened together to secure the liner in place.
The fasteners 316 in the embodiment illustrated in Figure 7 are small and
substantially rounded or circular in shape. On the inner portion of the liner
disclosed in
Figure 7 is the absorbent pad portion 318. The illustrated pad is a larger
type that may be
is desirable during certain times of a woman's menstrual period. Because of
the size of such
pads, it is desirable to have additional fastening means to secure the device
in place. This is
optionally accomplished in the present invention by providing front and rear
tabs 320 that
include an adhesive portion 322 (seen in broken lines in Figure 7) thereon to
further secure
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the liner to an undergarment. These adhesive portions 322 are covered by a
peel-away cover,
also shown in broken lines, and indicated at 324. These adhesive portions are
relatively
small and are located far enough away from the main portion of liner 310 so as
to preclude
any accidental adhesion to body hair.
Another feature of the illustrated embodiment of Figure 7 is that the double-
sided fastener configuration disclosed allows the user to either put the right
tab over the left
or the left tab over the right, whichever is more convenient to the user.
Accordingly, Figure
7 illustrates an embodiment of a sanitary pad with tabs that wrap around the
crotch of a panty
and secure with a double-sided hook and loop fastener and have adhesive tabs
on opposite
io frontal and rear ends to adhere to the panty.
Despite a trend toward the use of thinner pads, women still sometimes prefer
to use longer pads on some days. Such pads may tend to roll up and expose the
adhesive.
The optional use of the small adhesive tabs of Figure 7 at opposite ends, far
away from the
center of the pad, can help to prevent rolling and can help avoid accidental
adhesion to body
i s hair.
Referring now to Figure 8, a feminine sanitary pad including substantially
triangular securing tabs is disclosed. The tabs are located forward of the
center of the pad to
allow for greater stability and security during use. Located at the outer
portion of the tabs
are double-sided hook and loop type fasteners interengaging with one another
so that the user
ao may place them over the outer portion of an undergarment to hold the pad
securely in place.
The triangular shape of the tabs, with the widest side attached to the main
portion of the
device, keeps the pad stationary during physical activity and allows for
longer pad length and
thus greater potential absorbency.
Details of the absorbent article illustrated in Figure 8 are provided in U.S.
as Provisional Application Serial No. 60/304,788 filed July 13, 2001 and
entitled KITE-WRAP
FEMININE PAD WITH DlS HOOK AND LOOP WINGS, which is incorporated herein by
reference. Figure 8 is a top view showing the shape of the pad's fastening
tabs, their location
in respect to the center of the pad, and the double-sided hook and loop
fasteners that hold the
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is
pad in place during use. The pad is indicated generally in Figure 8 at 410.
The main
absorbent portion 412 of the pad is located on a waterproof layer 414. There
are two tabs
416 laterally disposed on layer 414. The tabs are generally triangular in
shape.
The bases of each of the tabs 416 attached to layer 414 are indicated at 418.
s These tab bases 418 are located substantially above a front to back midline,
which is
designated at 420. This configuration provides greater stability when the pad
410 is attached
to a user's undergarment. Additionally, the relative size and shape of the
tabs 416 provide
for more surface area to allow the user to adjust the securement of the pad to
the
undergarment. Located at the ends of both the tabs 416 are the double-sided
hook and loop
~o fasteners 422. The fasteners 422 are configured such that when the user
wishes to secure the
pad to the undergarment, either the right tab may be placed over the left tab
or the left tab
may be placed over the right. The location of the fasteners 422 at the far end
of the tabs 416
also allows for additional options when the user wishes to secure the pad to
the
undergarment.
is Accordingly, the waterproof kite-shaped tabs of the embodiment illustrated
in
Figure 8 are positioned toward the frontal end of the sanitary pad to help the
pad remain
stationary when worn. Alternatively, the positioning of the tabs may be toward
the rear, in
some embodiments. A central position of the loop fastener is provided on the
top side with an
arcuate end facing toward the outer edge. A hook button is positioned on the
underside of
zo the kite-shaped tab, directly behind the loop fastener, for ease of use
when applied by a user
(right to left or left to right). Accordingly, a longer sanitary pad with kite-
shaped tabs that
wrap around the crotch of a panty is provided, and such pad is secured with a
double-sided
hook and loop closure mounted on the waterproof tabs.
The forward position of the substantially triangular tabs helps to firmly
secure
zs the pad, thereby allowing for a longer length and greater absorbency. In
other words, more
tab surface is provided to secure the pad in the panty, especially for longer
pads. The device
is therefore stabilized in the correct position for heavy fluid.
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16
Referring now to Figures 9 and 10, a mini panty-liner is disclosed. The device
has die-cut wraparound arcuate tabs that include double-sided hook and loop
fasteners. The
width of the tabs allows for greater stability when the device is used in
conjunction with
"fashion" underwear of the type that has a substantially thinner crotch area
than "regular"
underwear. The embodiment illustrated in Figures 9 and 10 can be configured as
a reusable
washable mini pad or panty-liner or as a disposable product.
Details of the embodiment illustrated in Figures 9 and 10 are provided in U.S.
Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/305,895, filed July 18, 2001 and
entitled MINI
PANTY LINER, which is incorporated herein by reference.
io Figure 9 is a bottom view of one embodiment, and Figure 10 is a perspective
view of the embodiment, which is generally indicated at 510. The liner 510 is
made of a
washable, reusable material that makes it attractive to environmentally
conscious consumers.
Alternatively, the liner 510 can be formed from material suitable for
disposable use. The
outer portion 512 of the liner is seen in Fig. 9 and is optionally lined with
a waterproof or
is partially waterproof material to prevent leak-through. The inner portion
514 of the liner 510
is made of an absorbent material. It should be understood that the entire
liner 510 could be
absorbent and it should also be understood that a wide variety of materials
could be used to
manufacture the device.
A pair of arcuate tabs 516 is located laterally on the liner 510. These tabs
516
ao are wide at the base 518, which provides greater stability when the liner
510 is attached to the
user's undergarment (not shown). The tabs are wrapped around the undergarment
in the
direction indicated by arrows A1 in Fig. 10, leaving the inner portion 514 of
the liner 510 in
contact with the user's body. Located on the tabs 516 are double-sided hook
and loop
fasteners 520, the configuration of which allows the user to place either the
right tab over the
as left or the left over the right. A section of loop can be die-cut
proportionally larger for
greater stability when used within fashion underwear. A hook fastener in the
form of a coin
can be provided on the underside. This embodiment of a pad product therefore
has
wraparound arcuate tabs with a double-sided hook and loop closure to hold the
pad securely.
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17
The double-sided fastener mechanism allows the elderly or infirm to close the
tab left-over-
right or right-over-left.
Referring now to Figures 11 and 12, an embodiment of an absorbent article in
the form of a feminine pad is illustrated. In the illustrated embodiment, a
waterproof gusset
s connects the various layers of the device and is further connected to tabs
having double-sided
hook and loop fasteners attached thereto.
Details of the embodiment illustrated in Figures 11 and 12 are provided in
U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60!304,791, filed July 13, 2001
and entitled
FEMININE PAD WITH WATERPROOF GUSSETS AND D/S HOOK AND LOOP
io FASTENER, which is incorporated herein by reference.
Figure 1 I is a perspective view of the absorbent product embodiment,
showing the inner absorbent layers surrounded by a waterproof gusset. Figure
12 is
another perspective view of the embodiment, showing the tabs attached to the
gusset and
the way that they would be used to attach the device to an undergarment (not
shown). The
~s product is shown in both of Figures 11 and 12 and is generally indicated at
610. The
waterproof gusset that attaches the two absorbent layers together is indicated
in both of
Figures 11 and 12 at 612. As shown in Fig. 11, the outer edge 616 of the
gusset is
elasticized to provide a smooth, comfortable fit. A pair of absorbent layers
is indicated at
614 in Fig. 11.
zo Turning to Fig. 12, the laterally disposed tabs 618 of the device, which
are
connected to the gusset 612, include double-sided hook and loop fasteners 620
that allow
the user to set the pad in place on an undergarment in the manner seen in Fig.
12 (though
the undergarment is not shown). The gussets extend above the sides of the
absorbent
layers 614 as is indicated at 622. This provides additional protection for the
user. The
zs configuration of the double-sided hook and loop fasteners shown in Figures
10 and l I
advantageously allows for the device to be attached to an undergarment with
either one of
the tabs uppermost.
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18
Referring now to Figures 13-15, a female incontinence device with double-
sided hook and loop fasteners is described. The exemplary device includes a
first mounted
absorbing core, a waterproof outer layer to which the fasteners axe attached,
and a folding
position for storage of the device.
s Details of the embodiment illustrated on Figures 13-15 are provided in U.S.
Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60!304,787, filed July 13, 2001 and
entitled
FEMININE INCONTINENCE PAD WITH D/S HOOK AND LOOP AND STORAGE,
which is incorporated herein by reference. Figure 13 illustrates the absorbent
layer, the
outer waterproof layer, and the double-sided hook and loop fasteners of an
exemplary
to embodiment of the device. Figure 14 is a view showing the outer waterproof
layer with the
hook and loop fasteners attached to one another in the same manner that they
would be used
to attach the device to an undergarment (not shown). Figure 15 is a view of
the exemplary
embodiment in the folded position.
Referring to Fig. 13, the absorbent article embodiment is generally indicated
is at 710. The absorbent core is indicated at 712, with the outer waterproof
layer at 714.
Attached to the outer, waterproof layer are the lateral tabs 716 that include
double sided
hook and loop fasteners 718. A front-back midline demarcation is indicated at
720, and the
lateral tabs 716 are positioned substantially on one side thereof. This is
also seen in Fig.
14.
zo The configuration of the double sided hook and loop fasteners allows the
user
to attach the device to an undergarment (not shown) in the manner seen in Fig.
14 with
either of the tabs overlying the other, i.e., right over the left or vice
versa. The placement
of the tabs 716 on one side of the midline demarcation 720 allows for the
device to be
folded for storage, shipping, or the like, as is seen in Fig. 15. The
absorbent article 710 is
as contemplated to be dimensioned such that it may be worn with "thong"
underwear, which
has a substantially narrower crotch area than standard underwear.
Referring now to Figure 16, another embodiment of a panty-liner with broad
lateral attachment tabs is disclosed. The embodiment illustrated in Figure 16
includes coin-
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19
shaped hook portions that interact with the soft "loop" side of the device for
attaching the
liner to an undergarment. This embodiment is particularly advantageous as a
feminine care
product, specifically for menstruating or incontinent women. This embodiment
can be
configured as a reusable, washable liner or a disposable liner with a
waterproof side and an
s absorbent side that includes broad laterally disposed tabs for attaching the
device to the
user's undergarment.
Details of the embodiment illustrated in Figure 16 are provided in U.S.
Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/305,847, filed July 18, 2001 and
entitled
PANTY-LINER, which is incorporated herein by reference.
io Figure 16 is a top view of an embodiment with one of the tabs folded over
to
show the absorbent side. The coin-shaped "hook" attachment means is seen on
the other
tab. In Figure 16, the embodiment of the absorbent article is generally
indicated at 810.
The novel panty liner has a waterproof side 812 and an absorbent side 814. The
article can
be made of a washable material so that it may be used over instead of being
thrown away.
is Alternatively, it may be configured for single use applications. With
respect to the shape of
the laterally disposed tabs 816, the tab base 818 is wide to allow for greater
stability when
the device is attached to an undergarment. Located on the waterproof side of
the liner 810,
there is a coin-shaped hook portion 820 that makes up part of the hook and
loop fastening or
engagement means. The absorbent side 814 is made of a material that provides
the
ao cooperating "loop" area when the hook fastener 820 is brought over the
outside of the
undergarment (not shown). A guard or shield product with wraparound tabs, and
that has
double-sided hook and loop closure to hold the guard securely, is therefore
provided
according to this embodiment of the invention.
Referring to Figures 17 and 18, an embodiment of a feminine pad with tabs is
as disclosed. The tabs carry single- or double-sided hook and loop fasteners
and the tabs are
additionally located on one side of the front to back midline, so that the
device may be
optionally folded for storage or shipping. The illustrated embodiment can be
configured for
use during menstruation. More specifically, this embodiment provides a slim
line feminine
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pad that has a folding feature related to the location of the attachment tabs
on the main body
of the device.
Details of the embodiment illustrated in Figures 17 and 18 are provided in
U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 06/304,770, filed on July 13,
2001 and
s entitled FEMININE SLIM LINE MAXI-PAD WITH SOFT-CROSS TABS FEATURES
FOLDED POSITION FOR STORAGE, which is incorporated herein by reference.
Figure 17 is a view of the embodiment showing the laterally disposed tabs on
the main body portion of the device. Figure 18 is a view of the embodiment in
the folded or
storage configuration. Referring to Figs. 17 and 18, the embodiment of the
absorbent
io article is generally indicated at 910. The main body of the device, the
part that includes an
absorbent portion, is designated at 912. Located laterally of the main body
912 are the
attachment or fastening tabs 9I4. These tabs carry on them double-sided hook
and loop
fasteners 916. The construction of the fasteners 916, with the hook portion of
the fastener
on one side and the loop portion located on the opposite side, allows the user
to fasten the
is device 910 to an undergarment (not shown) with either one of the tabs
uppermost. The
lateral tabs 914 are located substantially on one side of the midline 918.
This allows for the
device 910 to be folded, either for storage, for ease in carrying, or for
shipping. The folded
device 910 is shown in Fig. 18.
Referring to Figures 19 and 20, an embodiment of a dual system for a panty-
zo liner and pouch is disclosed. In this embodiment, the panty-liner is
separate from the
waterproof pouch and includes cuffs that fit into the pouch. The waterproof
pouch is also
connected to the tabs that carry the double-sided hook and loop fasteners that
allow the
entire assembled unit to be attached to the user's undergarment. The
illustrated embodiment
is therefore beneficially used in feminine products such as panty-liners. More
specifically,
is it may be configured to provide a panty liner and pouch system where the
liner is removable
from the waterproof pouch. Additionally, the pouch is connected to laterally
disposed tabs
that allow the unit to be attached to the user's undergarments.
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Details of the embodiment shown in Figures 19 and 20 are provided in U.S.
Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 06/304,769; filed July 13, 2001 and
entitled
DUEL SYSTEM:PANTY-LINER AND POUCH, which is incorporated herein by
reference. Figure 19 is an exploded perspective view of the embodiment of the
panty-liner
s and pouch system with the two elements separated from one another. Figure 20
is a
perspective view of the panty-liner and pouch system with the two elements
together and
showing the laterally disposed tabs with the double-sided hook and loop
fasteners.
In Figs. 19 and 20, the panty-liner and pouch system is generally indicated at
1010. In Fig. 19, the liner portion is indicated at 1012, and the pouch is
indicated at 1014.
~o The liner includes a main absorbent portion 1016 and two cuff areas on
either end, indicated
at 1018. These two cuff portions 1018 are foldable, as indicated by
directional arrows Al
and A2. The pouch portion 1014 is waterproof and has a front end 1020 and a
rear end
1022. Located at both the front and rear ends 1020, 1022 are the cuff
receiving pockets
1024. These cuff receiving pockets 1024 are elasticized on their edges 1026 to
hold the
~s cuffs 1018 firmly in place when the liner portion 1012 is placed in the
pouch 1014.
Directional arrows A3 and A4 show how the cuffs 1018 are placed in the cuff
receiving pockets 1024. Located on the lateral sides of the pouch 1014 are the
tabs 1028,
seen in Fig. 20. Located on the tabs 1028 are double-sided hook and loop
fasteners 1030
that allow the user to attach the panty-liner and pouch system 1010 to an
undergarment (not
zo shown). The double sided configuration allows either one or the other of
the tabs 1028 to
be placed over its partner.
Referring now to Figures 21 and 22, an embodiment of a gusseted panty-liner
is disclosed. Front and back straps secure the device in the desired position.
Double-sided
hook and loop fasteners are used to attach the panty-liner in place. The
device also includes
as a side gusset of waterproof, breathable material.
Details of the embodiment illustrated in Figures 21 and 22 are provided in
U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/305,877 filed July 18, 2001
and entitled
GUSSETED PANTY-LINER, which is incorporated herein by reference. Figure 21 is
a
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22
top view of the panty-liner embodiment, and Figure 22 is a bottom view of the
same
embodiment showing its straps attached to one another. Turning to Fig. 21, the
embodiment is configured for use as a gusseted panty liner and is indicated at
1110. In Fig.
21, on each side of the absorbent portion of the device is the gusset portion
1112. This is
s made from breathable and waterproof material and includes an elastic edge
1114 to provide
a more secure fit. The liner 1110 has a front 1116 and a back 1118. Located
proximate the
front 1116 are the front straps 1120 and located proximate the back 1118 are
the back straps
1122. Both the straps 1120 and 1122 optionally have double-sided hook and loop
fasteners
that are indicated at 1124. This optional use of double-sided fasteners allows
the user to put
~o either the left strap or tab over the right strap or vice versa.
The outer edges of the straps optionally have a soft area 1126, which may
extend to include the entire strap, for comfort. Comfort is also provided by
side gussets
formed of breathable and waterproof material and having an elasticized outer
edge. The
fasteners of this embodiment are oriented in parallel positions using a double
sided hook and
is loop mechanism. More specifically, the following construction is employed
in the
illustrated exemplary embodiment: loop on top, hook on underside, and soft
material over
the locked edges of the fasteners for a soft touch.
Referring to Figure 23, yet another embodiment will be described. More
specifically, the illustrated embodiment is configured as a mini-pad used
during a woman's
zo menstrual period. More specifically, the embodiment provides a mini-pad
that includes die-
cut tabs having double-sided hook and loop fasteners disposed thereon. The
double-sided
configuration allows for either right tab over left or left tab over right
engagement.
The embodiment illustrated in Figure 23 is described in U.S. Provisional
Patent Application Serial No. 60/304,789, filed July 13, 2001 and entitled
12EUSUABLE
zs MINI-PAD, which is incorporated herein by reference. Figure 23 is a top
view showing
one of the die-cut tabs of the illustrated embodiment extended and the other
of the die-cut
tabs turned over so that the interengaging hook and loop type fasteners are
clearly seen.
The embodiment is indicated in Figure 23 at 1210.
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A main body portion 1212 of the absorbent article includes two die-cut or
otherwise formed tabs 1214 that are laterally disposed. It is contemplated
that the outer
edge of these tabs 1214 would have overlocked thread or other soft edges as is
indicated at
1216. Interengaging hook and loop type fasteners 1218 are located on the tabs
1214. In the
s embodiment shown in Figure 23, on the left side of the Figure are the
laminated loops
1218A and on the right side of Figure 23 are the hooks 1218B. The disposition
of the
hooks and loops allows for the user to put either the left tab over the right
or the right tab
over the left, depending on the convenience and/or the user's handedness.
The loop is optionally laminated on the article's underside. The hook is
io provided on the underside of die-cut loop portion. Overlocked thread or
other soft edges
are provided on the die-cut tab. The double sided hook and loop fastening
system of this
embodiment may be advantageous because it allows right-over-left or left-over-
right
fastening.
Referring to Figures 24 and 25, an embodiment of a gusseted panty-liner is
is disclosed. Front and back straps of the liner secure the device in the
desired position. The
straps of the illustrated embodiment have pointed triangular distal ends.
Double-sided hook
and loop fasteners are located near these triangular ends and are used to
attach the parity-
liner in place. The device also includes a side gusset of waterproof,
breathable material.
The embodiment illustrated in Figures 24 and 25 relates to feminine hygiene
products,
zo specifically to panty liners with front and back straps to secure the
device in place, but the
features of the illustrated embodiment also apply to other types of absorbent
articles. The
front and back straps have pyramidal or triangular ends with double-sided hook
and loop
fasteners located near those ends.
Details of the embodiment illustrated in Figures 24 and 25 are provided in
zs U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/305,848, filed July 18,
2001 and entitled
INCONTINENCE PAD WITH WRAP-AROUND DlS HOOK AND LOOP CLOSURE,
which is incorporated herein by reference. Figure 24 is a top view of the
subject
embodiment, and Figure 25 is a bottom view showing the straps or tabs attached
to one
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24
another. Turning to Fig. 24, the illustrated embodiment is a gusseted panty
liner indicated
at 1310. In Fig. 24, on each side of the absorbent portion of the device is a
gusset portion
1312. This is optionally made from breathable and waterproof material and
includes an
elastic edge 1314 to provide a more secure fit. This area channels fluid to
the absorbent
s area of the pad 1330.
The liner 1310 has a front 1316 and a back 1318. Located proximate the
front 1316 are the front straps 1320 and located proximate the back 1318 are
the back straps
1322. The straps 1320 and 1322 both have generally triangular shaped ends
1328. Both the
straps 1320 and 1322 optionally have single- or double-sided hook and loop
fasteners that
io are indicated at 1324. In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 24 and 25,
the hook and lop
fasteners are rounded or circular. In addition the are double sided, allowing
the user to put
either the left strap or tab over the right strap or vice versa.
Accordingly, the embodiment illustrated in Figures 24 and 25 provides a
guard or shield product with wraparound tabs that has a single- or double-
sided hook and
is loop closure to hold the guard securely. The illustrated elasticized
waterproof gussets help
to channel fluid as described previously.
Although the invention is illustrated and described herein with reference to
specific embodiments, the invention is not intended to be limited to the
details shown.
Rather, various modifications may be made in the details within the scope and
range of
2o equivalents of the claims and without departing from the invention. For
example, although
certain embodiments disclosed herein are configured for reusable applications,
the features of
those embodiments apply equally to disposable products. Likewise, although
certain
embodiments disclosed herein are configured for disposable applications, the
features of those
embodiments apply equally to reusable products.
