Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
~23Z703
SHAPED SANITARY NAPKIN WITH FLAPS
BACKGROIJND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the I invention
This invention rotates to absorbent devices. More
particularly, it relates to sanitary napkins.
Background Art
Sanitary napkins are absorbent devices designed to receive
and contain vaginal discharges such as menses. They are
10 omnipresent items of modern society. In recent periods,
disposable sanitary napkins designed to be held adjacent to the
human body through the agency of a garment, such as an
undergarment or panty, have effectively supplanted the more
traditional type of sanitary napkin which required a specially
15 designed belt for use.
Clark, in US. Patent 2,787,271 issued on April 2, 1957,
describes a sanitary napkin comprising a rectangular central pad
and a pair of lateral flaps fabricated integrally with the pad.
These flaps are adapted to fold downwardly and bear against the
20 opposed inner surfaces of the thighs of the wearer to arrest any
overflow from the central pad which would normally stain
clothing. This sanitary napkin is so fabricated that the lateral
2 123270~
flaps will bend downwardly along straight parallel hinge lines
defining the respective sides of the central pad. The central pad
has a core body which is a soft, absorbent, fibrous material,
such as absorbent cotton, and which extends without interruption
5 into the lateral flaps. The hinges are formed by compressing (as
by steam pressing with relatively sharp-edged pressing tools)
along the lateral margins of the core body in the central pad.
Richard, in US. Patent 3,397,697 issued August 20, 1968,
describes a disposable sanitary shield for undergarments. This
10 device comprises an elongate sheet of flexible material divided into
at least two panels which are joined by an intermediate neck-like
portion. The edge portions of one of the panels adjacent the
neck-like portion comprises opposed wing-like flaps adapted to be
folded over each other and to confine and encircle the crotch
15 portion of a panty undergarment. The width of the crotch portion
of the panty is thus restricted by an encircling absorbent ban-d
which is in freely slide able relationship with the crotch portion of
the panty.
McNair, in US. Patent 4,285,343 issued August 25, 1981,
20 describes a sanitary napkin comprising a central elongate
absorbent pad element having side panels extending laterally
therefrom. The side panels may be formed either integrally with
the central element or they may be formed separately and secured
to the longitudinal edges of the central absorbent pad. Lines of
25 common juncture between the central element and the side panels
must be flexible so that each side panel can be folded about the
respective lateral edge of the central absorbent pad and toward
the backside of the central element when the device is used. In
use, the central element Is adhesively secured to the inner side of
30 the crotch portion of the undergarment and each side panel is
folded over to encompass at least half of the outer surface of the
crotch portion of the undergarment.
I 3
SEYMOUR OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is of an absorbent device comprising
an absorbent means and two flaps extending outwardly from the
absorbent means. Each of the flaps is associated with the
5 absorbent means along a nonlinear line of juncture and has a free
distal edge remote from the line of juncture. Each of the flaps
includes two axes of flexibility; the first is intermediate the line
of juncture and the distal edge while the second is intermediate
the first axis and the distal edge.
A preferred embodiment of the present invention is a
sanitary napkin comprising an absorbent means having two
opposed longitudinal edges, a fluid previous body contacting
surface, and an opposed liquid impervious surface. It also
comprises two flaps, one extends outwardly from each longitudinal
15 edge of the absorbent means. Each of the flaps is, as above,
associated with the absorbent means along a nonlinear line of
juncture and has a free distal edge remote from the line of
juncture. Each of the flaps includes two axes of flexibility; the
first is intermediate the line of juncture and the distal edge while
20 the second is intermediate the first axis and the distal edge. The
first axis is adapted to allow independent rotation of the distal
edge of the flap in an arc generally in the direction from the
liquid impervious surface toward the fluid previous body
contacting surface while the second is adapted to allow rotation of
25 the distal edge in an arc generally in the direction from the fluid
previous body contacting surface toward the liquid impervious
surface .
In preferred embodiments, the flaps are flexible essentially
over their entire surface thereby providing an infinite number of
30 axes of flexibility. In other embodiments, at least one of the axes
is uniquely defined by distinct structural features.
4 ~3Z703
Optionally, and preferably, adhesive attachment
means are provided on the absorbent means and each of
the flaps to secure the device in the crotch portion of
an undergarment.
Other aspects of this invention are as follows:
A sanitary napkin comprising:
a) an absorbent means; and
b) two flaps extending laterally outwardly from
said absorbent means;
wherein:
i) each of said flaps is connectively
associated with said absorbent means along a nonlinear
line of juncture;
. ii) each of said flaps having a free distal
edge remote from said line of juncture;
iii) each of said flaps including a first axis
of flexibility intermediate said line of juncture and
said distal edge; and
iv) each of said flaps including a second
axis of flexibility intermediate said first axis of
flexibility and said distal edge; and
wherein said sanitary napkin is adapted to be worn
adjacent the human body intermediate said body and the
human wearer's undergarment.
A device for absorbing bodily fluid discharges
comprising:
a) an absorbent means comprising a fluid previous
body contacting surface and an opposed liquid impervious
surface;
b) two flaps extending laterally outwardly from
said absorbent means;
wherein:
i) each of said flaps is connectively
associated with said absorbent means along a nonlinear
line of juncture;
ii) each of said flaps having a free distal
edge remote from said line of juncture;
iii) each of said flaps including a first axis
of flexibility intermediate said line of juncture and
said distal edge;
Jo
pa
~2327~03
iv) each of said flaps including a second
axis of flexibility intermediate said first axis of
flexibility and said distal edge;
v) each first axis is adapted to enable
independent rotation of said distal edge in an arc
generally in the direction from said liquid impervious
surface toward said fluid previous body contacting
surface; and
vi) each second axis is adapted to enable
rotation of said distal edge in an arc generally in the
direction from said fluid previous body contacting
surface toward said liquid impervious surface.
A sanitary napkin comprising:
. a) an absorbent means; and
by two flaps extending laterally outwardly from
said absorbent means;
wherein:
i) each of said flaps is connectively
associated with said absorbent means along a nonlinear0 line of juncture;
ii) each of said flaps having a free distal
edge remote from said line of juncture;
iii) each of said flaps including a plurality
of axes of flexibility intermediate said line of5 juncture and said distal edge; and
wherein said sanitary napkin is adopted to be worn
adjacent the human body intermediate said body and the
human wearer's undergarment.
A sanitary napkin comprising:
a) an absorbent means; and
b) at least one flap extending laterally
outwardly from said absorbent means;
wherein:
i) said flap and said absorbent means are
connectively associated along a nonlinear line of
juncture;
ii) said flap having a free distal edge
remote from said line of juncture;
4b 1~32703
iii) said flap including a first axis of
flexibility intermediate said line of juncture and said
distal edge; and
iv) said flap including a second axis of
flexibility intermediate said first axis of flexibility
and said distal edge; and
wherein said sanitary napkin is adapted to be worn
adjacent the human body intermediate said body and the
human wearer's undergarment.
It A laterally articulated sanitary napkin comprising
a longitudinally elongate absorbent core, a proximal
flap panel extending laterally outwardly prom adjacent
each side edge of said core, and a distal flap panel
extending laterally outward from the outboard edge of
each said proximal flap panel, each napkin comprising
means for articulating each said proximal flap panel
with respect to said core, and articulating each said
distal flap panel with respect to the adjacent proximal
flap panel, said means for articulating each said distal
flap panel relative to the adjacent proximal flap panel
further comprising a longitudinally extending hinge
means, and said core having a medial width of from about
2 to about 7 centimeters.
A sanitary napkin that is sized and configured to
be worn in a user's panties which panties are so sized
and configured that the crotch edge portions can be
positioned in the user's groins while the crotch region
ox the panties non-compressively cover the user's labia
Majorca, said sanitary napkin comprising a
longitudinally elongate absorbent core, a liquid barrier
buckshot, and a pair of flexible side flaps which
extend laterally outwardly from adjacent the side edges
of said absorbent core, said core having an
hourglass-shape having a transverse medial width less
than the widths of its end portions but sufficient to
laterally span across the distal surfaces of the user's
labia Majorca, and said flaps being sufficiently
flexible and sized and configured to be so disposed in a
user's panties that proximal portions of said flaps
4C ~2327~)3
extend upwardly to the user's groins and cover laterally
outwardly facing surface areas of the user's labia
Majorca, and so that distal portions of said flaps
extend downwardly from said user's groins and are
disposed intermediate edge portions of said crotch
region of the user's panties and areas of the user's
inner thigh regions.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a plan view of a preferred embodiment
of a sanitary napkin of the present invention.
Figure 2 is a cross sectional view of the sanitary
napkin of Figure 1 taken along line 2-2 of Figure 1.
The thicknesses of certain elements have been
exaggerated for clarity.
foggier 3 is a plan view of an alternate embodiment
of a sanitary napkin of the present invention.
Figure 4 is a cross sectional view of the sanitary
napkin shown in Figure 3 taken along line 4-4 of Figure
3. The thicknesses of certain elements have been
exaggerated for clarity.
Figure 5 is a front view of a conventional panty in
which the sanitary napkin of the present invention can
be used.
Figure 6 is a cross sectional view of the panty of
Figure 5 taken along line 6-6 showing the sanitary
napkin of Figure 1 disposed therein.
Figure 7 is a fragmentary coronal view showing the
sectioned sanitary napkin and panty of Figure 6 in place
on a user.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
While the present specification concludes with
claims particularly pointing out and distinctly claiming
that which is regarded as the invention, it is believed
that the present invention can be more readily
understood through study of the following specification
and of the appended drawings.
51~3Z7(~3
A preferred embodiment of a sanitary napkin of the present
invention is shown in Figures 1 and 2. Sanitary napkin 210
comprises an absorbent means represented by central absorbent
pad 212 and two flaps 224 and 224'. (In the discussion that
follows, unless otherwise noted, the sanitary napkins will have
two flaps. While it is not necessary that the flaps be identical,
or, more properly, mirror images one of the other, they
preferably are. Thus the description of the first will be a
description of the second. Discussion of the second will,
therefore, be omitted for clarity of exposition. Corresponding
elements are indicated in the drawings by reference numerals and
primed reference numerals. )
Flap 224 is associated with central absorbent pad 212 along
nonlinear line of juncture 226. As used in the context of the
present specification, the term "nonlinear" refers to any of
various curved, as opposed to straight, lines.
Flap 224 has distal edge 278 which is remote from line of
juncture 226. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 1, line of
juncture 226 is concave relative to distal edge 27B. That is to say,
line of juncture 226 curves away from distal edge 278. In this
embodiment, nonlinear lines of juncture 226 and 226' and seam 239
define an absorbent means (central absorbent pad 212) which is
narrower in its central region than at its ends. A sanitary napkin
narrower in the center than at the ends is generally perceived by
the user as more comfortable than a sanitary napkin of uniform
width .
Flap 224 is provided with first axis of flexibility 256 and
second axis of flexibility 234.
Figure 2, a cross sectional view of sanitary napkin 210 taken
along line 2-2, illustrates generally the preferred construction for
sanitary napkin 210. As shown in Figure 2, central absorbent pad
212 comprises absorbent core 216. Central absorbent pad 212 and
flap 224 both comprise top sheet 214. Buckshot 218 is disposed on
6 1~3Z703
the side of absorbent core 216 and flap 224 opposite that of
top sheet 214. In effect, top sheet 214 forms one surface of flap
224 while buckshot 218 forms the other surface: top sheet 214 also
forms one surface of central absorbent pad 212, buckshot 218 the
5 other.
In the embodiment illustrated, flap absorbent core 230 is
interposed between top sheet 214 and buckshot 218. For simplicity
of construction, flap absorbent core 230 extends throughout
napkin 210 and is interposed between absorbent core 216 and
10 buckshot 218. While this is a preferred embodiment primarily for
reasons of construction, it is not necessary that flap absorbent
core 230 be interposed between absorbent core 216 and buckshot
218.
Top sheet 214 and buckshot 218 are joined at seam 239
15 around the entire periphery of sanitary napkin 210. The purpose
of this seam is to unite the various elements of the sanitary
napkin into a whole. Top sheet 214 is secured to flap absorbent
core 230 and buckshot 218 along nonlinear lines of juncture 226
and 226' by attachment means not illustrated in Figure 2.
Illustrated in Figure 2 are the adhesive attachment means
central pad adhesive 220 and flap adhesive 236 which are covered
by, respectively, central pad release liner 222 and flap release
liner 238. These adhesive attachment means are adapted to secure
sanitary napkin 210 within the crotch region of an undergarment.
Top sheet 214 is liquid permeable and, when sanitary napkin
210 is in use, is in close proximity to the skin of the user.
Top sheet 214 is compliant, soft feeling and non-irritating to the
user's skin. It can be made from any of the materials conventional
for this type of use. Non limiting examples of suitable materials
30 that can be used as top sheet 214 are woven and non woven
polyester, polypropylene nylon, and rayon and formed
thermoplastic films; formed films are preferred. Suitable formed
films are described in US. Patent 4,324,246 issued to Mullen
1232703
and Smith on April 13, 1982 and US. Patent 4,342,314 issued to
Ravel and Thompson on August 3, 1982, Formed films are preferred
for top sheet 214 because they are previous to liquids and yet
non-absorbent. Thus, the surface of the formed film, which is in
contact with the body, remains dry and is more comfortable to the
wearer .
In preferred embodiments of the present invention, the outer
surface of top sheet 214 is treated with a surfactant. Treating the
outer surface of the top sheet with surfactant renders the surface
lo more hydrophilic which results in liquid penetrating the top sheet
faster than if the surface were not treated. This diminishes the
likelihood that menstrual fluid will flow off top sheet 214 rather
than being absorbed by the absorbent core 216. It is preferred
that the surfactant be substantially evenly and completely
distributed across the outer surface of top sheet 214. This can be
accomplished by any of the common techniques well known to
those skilled in the art. For example, the surfactant can be
applied to top sheet 214 by spraying, by padding, or by the use
of transfer rolls.
In preferred embodiments, the inner surface of top sheet 214
is secured in -contacting relation to absorbent core 216. This
contacting relationship results in liquid penetrating top sheet 214
faster than if it were not in contact with absorbent core 216.
Top sheet 214 can be maintained in contact with absorbent core 216
by applying adhesive, preferably in spaced, limited areas, to the
inner surface of the top sheet 214. Examples of suitable adhesives
used for this purpose include the acrylic emulsion E-1 8338T
manufactured by Room and Hays Company of Philadelphia,
Pennsylvania and the acrylic emulsion WEBB manufactured by H.
B. Fuller Company of St. Paul, Minnesota. The adhesives can be
applied by the same methods as the surfactant is applied to the
outer surface of top sheet 214.
.,
- ~32703
Referring to Figure I, it can be seen that absorbent core
216 is positioned between top sheet 214 and buckshot 218.
Absorbent core 216 provides the means for absorbing menstrual
fluid. Absorbent core 216 is generally compressible, conformable,
5 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 vibrated comminution
pulp (air felt), with vibrated comminution pulp being preferred.
Buckshot 218 is impervious to liquids and, thus, prevents
10 menstrual fluid which may be expressed from absorbent core 216
from soiling the clothing of the user. Any material used in the
art for such purpose can be utilized herein. Suitable materials are
embossed or non embossed polyethylene films and laminated tissue.
The outer surface of buckshot 218, generally in register
with absorbent core 216, is coated with central pad adhesive 220.
Central pad adhesive 220 provides an adhesive attachment means
for securing central absorbent pad 212 in the crotch portion of a
panty. Any adhesive or glue used in the art for such purpose
can be used herein, with pressure sensitive adhesives being
20 preferred. Suitable adhesives are Century Alluvia manufactured
by the Century Adhesives Corporation and Instant Luke 34-2823
manufactured by National Starch Company. As shown in Figure 2,
central pad adhesive 220 is generally the same width as absorbent
core 216; the width is not critical and appropriate widths, as well
25 as lengths, can be readily selected by those skilled in the art.
The pressure sensitive adhesive of central pad adhesive 220
should be covered with central pad release liner 222 to keep the
adhesive from drying out and to keep it from sticking to
extraneous surfaces prior to use. Any commercially available
30 release liner coy nobly used for such purposes can be used
herein. Non limiting examples of suitable release liners are BY 30
MA Silo Eye and BY 30 MA Sulks 4 P/O both of which are
manufactured by the Akrosil Corporation.
I.
~232703
s can be observed from the foregoing discussion, central
absorbent pad 212 is an absorbent means that has a fluid
previous body contacting surface ( represented in Figure 2 by
top sheet 214) and an opposed liquid impervious surface
5 (represented in Figure 2 by buckshot 218). It is to be
understood that the embodiment illustrated is only one possible
embodiment, albeit a preferred one. Other possible embodiments
include one in which an absorbent core is essentially completely
wrapped with top sheet before it is placed on a buckshot. The
10 absorbent means can also comprise an absorbent score which
possesses sufficient integrity to stand alone and which is fluid
permeable on one surface while the other surface has been treated
to render it liquid impervious.
It should be noted that a narrow central absorbent pad 212
15 is effective because the overall configuration and use of sanitary
napkin 210 results in central absorbent pad 212 being maintained
in close proximity to the body. Such proximity of central
absorbent pad 212 places it precisely where it should be: very
near the body at the vaginal opening. Central absorbent pad 212
20 can then absorb the vast majority of the menstrual fluid (menses)
before it has an opportunity to flow along central absorbent pad
212.
It is to be observed that lines of juncture 226 and 226' are
the lines along which flaps 224 and 224' are associated with the
25 absorbent means (represented by central absorbent pad 212); as
such they represent lines of demarcation between the absorbent
means and the flaps. It is also to be observed that the lines of
juncture are nonlinear. Preferably, they are concave relative to
distal edges 278 and 278' and relative to the bulk of central
30 absorbent pad 212. The absorbent means thus takes on a shape in
which the width at its center is less than the width at its ends.
This contoured shape is closely attuned to anatomical dimensions of
the crotch region of the user. It makes the sanitary napkin more
comfortable to wear while, at the same time, making it more
35 effective as by rendering it less subject to compression by the
~3Z703
legs of the user. While nonlinear lines of juncture which are
convex relative to the distal edges and to the bulk of the central
absorbent pad can be used, they are not preferred.
It is preferred that the width of central absorbent pad 212
between lines of juncture 226 and 226' at their nearest approach
be from about 1 to about 8 centimeters. The width of the central
absorbent pad 212 at its ends should be from about 2 to about 9
centimeters . Central absorbent pad 212 should be from about 7 . 6
to about 38 centimeters long.
Central absorbent pad 212 need not have an absorbent
capacity much greater than the total amount of menstrual fluid
anticipated to be absorbed. Thus, central absorbent pad 212, in
addition to being narrow, can be relatively thin. Furthermore, a
narrow and thin absorbent means is extremely comfortable to the
user. In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, top sheet
214 serves as a top sheet for flaps 224 and 224'. In general, the
flaps do not require a top sheet to enable them to function
properly, but the use of a top sheet is preferred. Flap top sheets
can be integral with the absorbent means' body contacting
surface, as illustrated, or they can be independent elements; the
former is preferred. All the specific physical property comments
made above about top sheet 214 apply to any flap top sheet that is
used. There is, however, no requirement that the flap top sheet
be the same material as the top sheet associated with the central
absorbent pad . I n preferred embodiments, the flap top sheet can
be a non woven material while the top sheet with the central
absorbent pad is a formed film.
Flap absorbent core 230 is positioned between top sheet 214
and buckshot 218, most importantly in flaps 224 and 224'. In the
embodiment illustrated, flap absorbent core also underlies
absorbent core 216; this is a preferred arrangement because
construction of the sanitary napkin 210 is thereby facilitated. In
this arrangement, the absorbent capacity of absorbent core 216 is
enhanced. Flap absorbent core 230 provides a means for
1 1 i232703
absorbing menstrual fluid that is not absorbed by, or that is
expressed from, absorbent core 216. Flap absorbent core 230 is
generally compressible, conformable and non-irritating to the
user's skin. It can be made from any of the materials that can be
5 used to make the absorbent core 216 as described above.
Preferably, flap absorbent core 230 is a tissue paper sheet. While
the use of a flap absorbent core is highly preferred, it can be
omit lied .
In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 and I buckshot
218 serves as a buckshot for flaps 224 and 224' . The flaps
require a buckshot (or more generally, a liquid impervious
material) to enable them to function properly. The flap back sheets
can be integral with the absorbent means liquid impervious
surface, as illustrated, or they can be independent elements; the
former is preferred. All the specific physical property comments
made above about buckshot 218 apply to any flap buckshot.
The overall size of flap 224 can be readily selected by those
skilled in the art. Preferably, sanitary napkin 210 is from about
10 to about 23 centimeters wide between distal edges 278 and 278'
at their greatest separation. Preferably flap 224 is from about 7.6
to about 18 centimeters long in the direction parallel to the
longitudinal axis of the sanitary napkin.
The outer surface of flap 224, adjacent distal edge 278, is
coated with flap adhesive 236.
Flap adhesive 236 is an adhesive attachment means which is
used to assist in maintaining flap 224 in position after it is
wrapped around the edge of the crotch portion of 3 panty as
described below. Any adhesive used for central pad adhesive 220
can be used as flap adhesive 236. Also, flap adhesive 236 is
covered with a removable flap release liner 238. Any release liner
material used for central pad release liner 222 can be used for
flap release I inter 238.
12 i232703
As shown in Figures 1 and 2, top sheet 214 is secured to
buckshot 218 along seam 239. Seam 239 can be formed by any
means commonly used in the art for this purpose such as by
gluing, crimping or heat sealing. Seam 239 is illustrated
5 extending completely around the periphery of sanitary napkin
210; this is a preferred embodiment for ease of construction.
(Other means of uniting the various elements of the device can be
used. ) Flap absorbent core 230 is illustrated as extending into
seam 239: this is, likewise, an arrangement which results from a
10 simplified construction technique. The three elements- top sheet,
flap absorbent core, and buckshot - can be brought into
register, with the absorbent core properly positioned between
them, and the seam formed and the outer shape of the sanitary
napkin established by cutting in one or two operations.
Top sheet 214 can be secured to buckshot 218 (and to flap
absorbent core 230) along lines of juncture 226 and 226' by any
of the techniques used to form seam 239.
Flap 2~4 contains first axis of flexibility 256 and second axis
of flexibility 234. These two axes of flexibility allow flap 224 to
form a wall, in use, as described hereinafter.
First axis of flexibility 256 is so constructed as to allow the
flap to Byrd along first axis of flexibility 256. The direction of
the bend of the flap is upward when sanitary napkin 210 is in the
configuration of Figure 2. More generally, the direction of the
bend is such that that portion of flap 224 containing distal edge
278 rotates about the first axis of flexibility 256 in an arc
beginning generally from its extended position, as shown in
Figure 2, toward the fluid previous body contacting surface of
the absorbent means (as represented in Figure 2 by that portion
of top sheet 214 in register with absorbent core 216) and away
from the liquid impervious surface of the absorbent means (as
represented in Figure 2 by that portion of buckshot 218 in
register with absorbent core 216) .
13 ~X;~27~)3
Second axis of flexibility 234 is so constructed as to allow
the flap to bend along second axis of flexibility 234. The direction
of the bend is downward when sanitary napkin 210 is in the
configuration of Figure 2. More generally, the direction of the
5 bend is such that that portion of the flap 224 containing distal
edge 278 rotates about second axis of flexibility 234 in an arc
generally from its extended position, as shown in Figure 2,
toward the liquid impervious surface of the absorbent means (as
represented in Figure 2 by that portion of buckshot 218 in
10 register with absorbent core 216 as comprising central absorbent
pad 212) and away from the fluid previous body contacting
surface of the absorbent means (as represented in Figure 2 by
that portion of top sheet 214 in register with absorbent core 216) .
First and second axes of flexibility can be provided in
15 various ways. A preferred method is shown in Figures 1 and 2.
In the embodiment illustrated, the materials of construction of flap
224 are selected so that flap 224 is extremely flexible over
essentially the whole of its extent. Axes of flexibility of 256 and
234, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, are not, then, single, unique
20 structures, but are, rather, representative of an essentially
infinite number of pairs of axes. This arrangement is particularly
preferred because it allows sanitary napkin 210 to be easily
adjusted, during application, to properly fit a number of
differently sized undergarments and, in use, anatomies as
25 described below.
Total flexibility of flap 224 permits flap 224 to be positioned
around the edge of the crotch portion of a panty without having
to alter the natural path of the edge of the crotch portion of a
panty. Thus, the edge of the crotch portion of a panty need not
30 be stretched to fit to the second flexible axis of the flap.
Furthermore, the natural path of the edge of the crotch portion
of a panty results, when the sanitary napkin is in place for use,
in the highest wall described below) being formed: this, in turn,
provides the greatest barrier to flow of the menstrual fluid.
123Z703
14
In the embodiment of sanitary napkin 210 illustrated in
Figures 1 and 2, it is preferred that the materials of construction
of flap 224 be selected so that the flap has a resistance to
bending, through an arc of 90~, of less than about 200 grams,
more preferably less than about 50 grams, and most preferably
less than about 25 grams as measured by the PICA Score Bend
Tester manufactured by the Thwing-Albert Instrument Company of
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. These values are obtained when a
section of flap 7.6 centimeters long Rand which is maintained 2.5
lo centimeters above the bottom edge of the tilting plate of the
tester is evaluated under TAIPEI standard conditions.
In the abstract, an axis is generally considered to be a
linear element. The present axes of flexibility are also generally
linear, but, since the materials from which the flaps are
constructed generally possess such a degree of flexibility that the
flaps can be bent and folded conveniently with manual force, the
axes of flexibility can become nonlinear under the influence of
external forces.
An alternate embodiment of a sanitary napkin 310 having
2 O first and second axes of flexibility 356 and 334 in flap 224 us
illustrated in Figures 3 and 4. (The reference numerals used in
Figures 3 and 4 refer to the same elements as in Figures 1 and
2. ) In this embodiment, axes of flexibility 356 and 334 are
provided by severely crimping flap 224 as illustrated. Thus, flap
224 of sanitary napkin 310 contains two unique axes (or unique
hinge means) along which flap 224 can bend as described in
relation to the embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 2. Axes of
flexibility 356 and 356' preferably are from about 2 to about 18
centimeters apart. Axes of flexibility 234 and 256 (and 234' and
256') are preferably from about 1 to about 5 centimeters apart.
While this is a satisfactory embodiment of the present invention,
it is less preferred than the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1
and 2 because the crotch of the undergarment to which it is
applied must, in general, be either stretched or compressed as
35 sanitary napkin 310 is applied. Nevertheless, use of the
~232703
embodiment illustrated in Figures 3 and 4 will result in one
obtaining essentially all the benefits associated with the use of
the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 and 2.
As illustrated in Figure 1, first axis of flexibility 256 is in
close proximity to line of juncture 226, First axis of flexibility 256
can, in fact, intersect the line of juncture 226 at the point the
latter contacts the outer margin of the sanitary napkin fax that
margin is represented by seam 239~. In the general case, this will
be the only situation in which first axis of flexibility -~56 and line
lo of juncture 226 touch or coincide. It is to be understood,
however, that application of external forces during use can cause
the first axis of flexibility to be displaced toward the line of
juncture so that, in some instances, the two can touch or
got net de .
Sanitary napkins including the central absorbent pad
comprising a liquid previous top sheet, a liquid impervious
buckshot, and an absorbent core interposed between the top sheet
and the buckshot, and having a flap extending from each
longitudinal edge of the central absorbent pad, wherein the line
of juncture between each flap and the longitudinal edge of the
central absorbent pad is linear, and having each flap provided
with a flexible axis located in the body of the flap, can be
constructed so that the sanitary napkin preferentially bends at
the linear line of juncture of each flap and the longitudinal edge
of the central absorbent pad as well as at the flexible axis located
within the body of the flap. Such napkins, while distinctly
different from those of the present invention, will function in a
manner analogous to those of the present invention.
The precise shape of flap 224, as well as the overall shape
of sanitary napkin 210, can be selected by those skilled in the
art without undue experimentation. In the embodiments illustrated
in Figures 1 and 3, the flaps are symmetrically disposed along the
longitudinal axis of the sanitary napkin; while this is a preferred
embodiment, it is not a mandatory design feature. As noted
16 12~2~03
above, the flaps are generally mirror images one of the other;
while such a situation is preferred, it is likewise not a mandatory
design condition.
Further, the sanitary napkins illustrated in Figures 1
through 4 are embodiments wherein the flaps are formed integrally
with the top sheets and back sheets of the sanitary napkin. Once
again, while this is a preferred method of construction, it is not
mandatory. Flaps and central absorbent means can be formed
independently and joined by techniques well know to those skilled
lo in the art in such a manner that the resulting sanitary napkin
will function essentially equivalently to the embodiments illustrated
herein .
In use, the sanitary napkins of this invention can be held in
place by any support means well known for such purpose. Belts
worn about the waist of the user can be used. It is highly
preferred, however, that they be placed in the user's panty
undergarment as described below.
Figure 5 is an undergarment of the type commonly worn by
many women and well known as a panty. It comprises front
section 240, back section 242, and crotch portion 244 which joins
front and back sections 240 and 242. Crotch portion 244 comprises
two side edges 246 and 246' and center crotch portion 248.
A sanitary napkin of the present invention, such as the one
illustrated at 210 in Figures 1 and 2, is utilized by removing the
release liners 222, 238 and 238' and thereafter placing the
sanitary napkin in a panty as shown in Figure 6. The center of
central absorbent pad 212 is placed in crotch portion 244 of the
panty with one end of central absorbent pad 212 extending toward
front section 240 and the other end toward back section 242 of
the panty and with buckshot 218 in contact with the inner
surface of center crotch portion 248 of the panty. Central pad
adhesive 220 maintains central absorbent pad 212 in position. The
distal portions of flaps 224 and 224' are folded around,
1232703
17
respectively, side edges 246 and 246' of the panty by bending
along second flexible axes 234 and 234'. Flap adhesive 236 and
236' secure flaps 224 and 224' in such position. Thus, flaps 224
and 224' are each folded over themselves with a portion of the
panty - including side edges 246 and 246' - interposed
there between .
Numerous benefits are derived from the use of the sanitary
napkin of the present invention. Flaps 224 and 224' are wrapped
around each edge 246 and 246' of the crotch portion- 244 of the
panty as shown in Figure 6. This encapsulation of the panty
crotch assists in preventing the menstrual fluid from coming into
contact with the center crotch portion of the panty. Thus, the
center crotch portion of the panty will not be soiled.
There are two other benefits. One is that the portions of the
flaps containing the second axes of flexibility, 234 and 234i,
provide an excellent gasket-like seal against the body. The other
is that the central absorbent means, such as central absorbent
pad 212, is maintained in excellent contiguous relationship to the
body .
The edge of the crotch portion of a panty generally contains
an elastic material. When a panty is worn, the elastic of the edge
of the crotch portion generates an upward force, i.e., against
the body, due to the energy in the elastic and the fit of the
panty. The placement of the second axis of flexibility, such as
second axes of flexibility 234 and 234', between the body and the
edges of the crotch portion of the panty results in the upward
force generated by the edge of the crotch portion of the panty
pushing the portion of the flaps containing the second axes of
flexibility snugly against the body. This results in a gasket-like
seal being formed along the axes of flexibility between the flaps
and the body. This is illustrated in Figure 7 which is a
fragmentary coronal view showing the sectioned sanitary napkin
and panty of Figure 6 in place on a user. (A coronal view is the
frontal plane that passes through the long axis of the body. ) The
1 8 1~32703
gasket-like seal assists in preventing menstrual fluid from
penetrating beyond the second axes of flexibility which, in turn,
minimizes soiling of the legs and adjoining clothing. Another
benefit derived from the flaps being pushed snugly against the
5 body along the second axes of flexibility is that the absorbent
means (central absorbent pad) is forced into close proximity to
and into conformity with the body. This, too, is illustrated in
Figure 7. The maintenance of the central absorbent pad against
the body is know as "good body contact". Good body contact is
10 beneficial because it provides a barrier to lateral flow of
menstrual fluid. Without such a barrier, menstrual fluid would
tend to flow quickly along the top sheet, thereby providing less
time for it to be absorbed by the absorbent core.
Inherent bunching is the formation of wrinkles along the
15 lateral axes of a sanitary napkin resulting from the initial
placement of the sanitary napkin in a panty for use. ( Lateral
axes of a sanitary napkin extend across the "crotch portion" of
the napkin generally parallel to line 2-2 of Figure 1. ) This
inherent bunching is due to the facts that a sanitary napkin is
20 essentially linear along its longitudinal axis and that the
anatomical contour of the body where the sanitary napkin is
placed is essentially "U" shaped. (The longitudinal axis of a
sanitary napkin extends from end to end of the central absorbent
means and is generally perpendicular to line 2-2 of Figure 1. )
25 Thus, as soon as a sanitary napkin is put in place, its shape is
changed along its longitudinal axis from being essentially linear to
"U" shaped. This change in shape creates wrinkles along the
lateral axes of the sanitary napkin, with the vast majority of the
wrinkles being at the point of greatest curvature of the body i.e.
30 the crotch area.
Forced bunching is the wrinkling of a sanitary napkin, along
either its lateral or longitudinal axes, caused by movement of the
legs of the user.
12327Q3
19
Wrinkles in a sanitary napkin created by inherent and forced
bunching are known as flow channels because menstrual fluid can
easily foe along the trough of the wrinkle in the absence of
significant body contact along the wrinkle.
The sanitary napkin of the present invention provides
numerous benefits because the flaps bend at the first axis of
flexibility. In particular, the benefits provided are that:
(1 ) inherent bunching results in flow channels being formed
substantially only in the central absorbent pad, not the
bulk of the flaps;
(2) the sanitary napkin of the present invention can
withstand much forced bunching before flow channels
a no c fee ted;
(3) even if the forced bunching is harsh enough to create
flow channels, the channels formed will be essentially
limited to the central absorbent pad; and
(4) even if the forced bunching is so great that flow
channels are created in both the central absorbent pad
and the flaps, the menstrual fluid is restrained from
penetrating beyond the second flexible axes of the
flaps .
These four benefits are obtained because the sanitary napkin
of the present invention bends along the axes of flexibility. The
anatomical features of the crotch area of a woman are such that
the crotch section is substantially trapezoidal shaped, with the
center area of the crotch, which is located at the vaginal
opening, being the base of the trapezoid. When a sanitary napkin
of the present invention, such as the embodiment shown in
Figures 1 and 2, is in use, the anatomical features of the crotch
area force the sanitary napkin to bend upward at the first axis of
flexibility. This results in the sanitary napkin forming a wall at
20 123270~
each side of the central absorbent pad; the wall extends from the
first axis of flexibility to the second axis of flexibility, as
illustrated in Figure 7. Thus, in use, the sanitary napkin of the
present invention has a well-like shape with the plane formed by
the second axes of flexibility ~234 and 234') that are wrapped
around the edge of the crotch portion of the panty (246 and 246')
being higher than the plane formed by the first axes of flexibility
(256 and 256') when the user is in an upright position.
Inherent bunching in the sanitary napkin of the present
invention is substantially limited to the central absorbent pad;
essentially no flow channels are formed in the walls. Without
being bound by any theory, it is believed that when the flow
channels are being formed, the energy creating them is
transmitted across the central absorbent pad and the flow
lo channels are extended. This proceeds until the flow channels
reach the first axes of flexibility. The flow channels extend no
farther than this because, it is believed, the first axes of
flexibility relieve the energy extending the flow channels. Thus
the flow channels will not reach the gasket-like seal formed
between the flap and the body at the second axis of flexibility,
and, therefore, the seal will remain intact. The gasket-like seal
forms a dam and blocks the flow of the menstrual fluid. The
menstrual fluid can then be absorbed (or reabsorbed) by the
absorbent core.
The sanitary napkin of the present invention can withstand
much forced bunching before any flow channels are created,
because the energy transmitted to the sanitary napkin by the
forced bunching results in the walls tending to rotate around
each first axis of flexibility. Without such rotation flow channels
would be formed.
Even if the forced bunching is harsh enough to create flow
channels, the channels will be substantially limited to the central
absorbent pad. This is true for the same reasons that inherent
bunching forms flow channels only in the central absorbent pad.
12327V3
Therefore, the gasket-like seal will remain intact and form a dam
and block the flow of the menstrual fluid until it can be absorbed
by the absorbent core.
Even if the forced bunching is so great that flow channels
5 are created in both the central absorbent pad and the flaps,
menstrual fluid is restrained from penetrating beyond the second
axes of flexibility of the flaps. Such flow channels are likely to
break the gasket-like seal. However, menstrual fluid is restrained
from penetrating beyond the second flexible axes ox the flaps
10 because the walls themselves will form a barrier to flow of
menstrual fluid. Menstrual fluid would have to flow up the walls
which is substantially directly against the force of gravity when
the user is in an upright position, in order to penetrate the
break in the gasket-like seal. Thus the walls themselves restrain
15 the flow of the menstrual fluid.
In summary, the sanitary napkin of the present invention
forms flow channels essentially only in the central absorbent pad
which results in the gasket-like seal remaining intact. Thus,
menstrual fluid will not flow beyond the gasket-like seal.
2 0 However, if the forced bunching is so great that the gasket-like
seal breaks, the wet Is themselves restrain the flow of the
menstrual fluid.
It is important to note that only a minimal amount of flap
absorbent core 230, or even no flap absorbent core at all, is not
25 inimical to the prevention of soiling by the menstrual fluid. This
is due to the fact that the primary function of the walls formed
by the flaps is menstrual fluid containment rather than
absorbency. The central absorbent means absorbs the vast
majority of the menstrual fluid. Furthermore, a minimal amount of
30 flap absorbent core is much less bulky and, therefore, more
comfortable to the user.
It is also important to note that in Figure 7 flap adhesive
236 is illustrated as contacting the edge of the panty only on its
22 ~Z327~3
"outer" surface. While this is a preferred way of securing the
sanitary napkin in the panty, flap adhesive can contact the edge
of the panty on only its "inner" surface or both its "inner" and
"outer" surfaces so long as a portion of the flap extends around
5 and about the edge of the panty.
The sanitary napkin of this invention has been described as
a device which has two flaps which, in use, each form a wail.
While those embodiments are highly preferred, devices having
only one flap can be envisioned. This one flap would be
10 associated with the central absorbent means along a nonlinear line
of juncture. The flap would contain at least two, and preferably
at least four, axes of flexibility which would allow it to form both
walls described above as it is folded completely around the crotch
portion of a panty. The flap would then be associated with the
15 central absorbent means along a nonlinear line of juncture
opposite the one mentioned above.
In the embodiments of the Sonora napkin of this invention,
illustrated and discussed above, adhesive attachment means were
present near the distal edges of the flaps and in register with
20 the central absorbent pad. These elements, designed to hold the
sanitary napkin securely in the crotch region of an
undergarment, are highly preferred elements. Without detracting
from that position, it can be asserted that embodiments of the
present invention which effectively lack one or more of the
25 described adhesive attachment means are also useful, novel,
effective devices.
The embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 can be readily
adapted to function as an embodiment of the present invention
which is effectively free of one or more of the adhesive
30 attachment means.
For example, central pad adhesive 220 (and, naturally, its
associated central pad release liner 222) can be omitted from
sanitary napkin 210 illustrated in Figures 1 and 2. In use, this
23 12~2703
modified embodiment would be placed in the interior crotch region
of a panty, just as the unmodified embodiment, except that
central absorbent pad 220 is not secured to the interior crotch
region of the panty. Flaps 224 and 224' can be secured about the
5 elastic edge of the panty as described above with flap adhesive
236 and 236'. The panty with its associated modified sanitary
napkin would then be donned by the user as before. Flap
adhesive 236 and 236' in cooperation with the elastic edges of the
panty hold the modified sanitary napkin in place.
inn a like manner, sanitary napkin 210 can be modified by
omitting only flap adhesive 236 and 236' (and release liners 238
and 238'). The modified sanitary napkin would be secured in the
crotch region of the panty with central pad adhesive 220 and the
flaps would be merely folded about the elastic edges.
inn a like manner, sanitary napkin 210 can be modified by
omitting all flap and central pad adhesives. In use, such a
modified sanitary napkin would be maintained in position sole by
cooperation among the flaps, the elastic edges of the panty, and
the user's body.
Tao points must be stressed in the immediately preceding
discussion about modified embodiments of the present invention.
First, only adhesive attachment means are omitted from the
modified sanitary napkins. All other necessary elements of the
device absorbent means, flaps, nonlinear lines of juncture, first
Andy second axes of flexibility are required.
Second, the modified sanitary napkins were described
generally as being "effectively free" of adhesive attachment
means. The state of being "effectively free" can be achieved by
completely omitting adhesive attachment means during manufacture
off the device as described. It can also be achieved by applying
complete sanitary napkin 210, as illustrated in Figures 1 and 2,
to the panty with one or more of the adhesive attachment means
24 1~32703
covered with release liner. Sanitary napkin 210 applied thusly
would function essentially as if the covered adhesive attachment
means were not present. The benefits of a totally or partially free
floating sanitary napkin could then be obtained.
It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the
invention has been described with reference to exemplary
embodiments and that variations and modifications can be effected
in the described embodiments without departing from the scope
and spirit of the invention.
I;
Jo
