Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
21~3537
,
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This invention is an improvement on our existing Canadian
patent 1,282,904 issued April 16, 1991 and U.S. patent 5,217,447
issued June 8, 1993 to Michael E. Fedryna and Peter H.T. Lee which
describe a waste-containment garment both for infants and adults.
In the existing Canadian and U.S. Patent, the diaper assembly
was easy to launder and clean. However, durinq laundering, the
force of the water from the washer and the centrifugal force from
the dryer along with the weight of the wet clothes being caught
between the moisture proof sheet and the diaper over-garment could
cause the sewing of the over-garment to become loose and eventually
reducing the life expectancy of the over-garment.
A feature in the Canadian and U.S. patent that was issued to
us is the detachable absorbent lin~r. Approximately four separate
sizes could be made for each of the infant style and the geriatric
styles, but unfortunately these sizes would not accommodate all
users in each of the two classes since each user is physically
different. Also, for each over-garment size used, a corresponding
absorbent liner size is needed which adds to the cost of having a
cloth diaper system. In recent years, conventional one-size-fit-all
cloth diapers have been proposed. In some cases Velcro (trademark)
type fasteners are used to hold these diapers in place. Such
diapers requires the use of an outer plastic pant which is often
needed to prevent moisture penetration and leakage. The primary
reason why these diapers have become less popular is the amount of
laundering required to clean the diapers as they are used. Another
problem is the maintenance of hygiene while using and cleaning
these diapers.
Another feature in both the existing Canadian and U.S. patent
employs a disposable topsheet or sleeve for use with the diaper
assembly. The topsheet or sleeve could be slipped out of place and
therefore the it is difficult to position and there is no assurance
that it will remain in the appropriate position.
: ''
.
,: . ' ' .: ''
::
- .. : ~ : -
., ,
.
2103~37 :
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to one aspect of the invention a diaper assembly
comprises a washable, reusable over-garment having opposite side
edges and two opposite ends and inner and outer surfaces. There is
a detachable, washable, reusable moisture proof sheet adapted for
positioning on the inner surface side of the over-garment and
having two opposite side edges and two opposite ends. A detachable,
washable, reusable, adjustable absorbent liner is adapted for
positioning on the inner surface side of the moisture proof sheet
and having opposite ends and inner and outer surfaces as well.
There is also a separate, washable, reusable, liquid pervious, non-
absorbent, thin, flexible cover member adapted to cover the inner
surface of the absorbent liner and having opposite ends. There are
means for detachably connecting the opposite ends of the moisture
proof sheet to respective opposite ends of the over-garment. The
connecting means comprise Velcro fasteners which could be either
the standard sew-on type or an adhesive type, (herein after
referred to as Velcro fasteners) and snap fasteners attached at
opposite ends on the inner surface of the over-garment and at
opposite ends on the outer surface of the moisture proof sheet.
There are also means for detachably connecting the opposite ends of
the absorbent liner and the cover member to respectivé opposite
ends on the inner surface of the moisture proof sheet. The
connecting means comprise snap fasteners attached at opposite ends
of the moisture proof sheet and at opposite ends of the absorbent
liner.
Because the preferred over-garment, the moisture proof sheet,
the absorbent liner and the cover member is removable, washable and
reusable, this eliminates the clothes being caught in the over-
garment which allows a longer life expectancy on the diaper. It
also minimizes the laundry and time required to clean the diapers.
The diaper assembly disclosed herein is very convenient to use and
is less costly than the use of common disposable diapers since
material waste is substantially reduced.
`
.
.
.
- . ~
. ' '. -
:`
2~03~37
According to a second aspect of the invention, a diaper
assembly comprises a reusable, washable over-garment having
opposite side edges and two opposite ends and inner and outer
surfaces. The side edges of the over-garment has a breathable
crescent shape garment piece attached at the centre edge of the
over-garment. The top of the breathable crescent shape garment
piece are elasticized. The combination of the breathable crescent
shape garment piece and the side edges tend to pull the opposite
ends of the over-garment towards one another, forming a hammock-
like effect. There is also a protruding garment piece attached by
an elasticized piece position at each side edges on the top rear
portion of the over-garment. The protruding piece is in the shaped
of an elliptical ear, where Velcro fasteners are located. There is
also a detachable, washable, reusable moisture proof sheet adapted
for positioning on the inner surface of said over-garment and
having opposite ends and inner and outer surface. A detachable,
washable, reusable, ad~ustable absorbent liner is adapted for
positioning on the inner surface of the moisture proof sheet and
having opposite ends and inner and outer surfaces. A separate,
washable, reusable, liquid pervious, non-absorbent, thin, flexible
cover member is adapted to cover the inner surface of the absorbent
liner and having opposite ends.
Because the present invention consist of a breathable crescent
shape garment piece located centrally at side edges of the over-
garment that have numerous holes for quick passage of air flow,
then it can provide a stable temperature control environment which
reduces the possibility of a diaper rash from developing and also
forms a hammock-like shape to hold the shape of the diaper assembly
together.
~ :, .. . .
: ~ - :- ,. - .
.
.; ' : ' .
,
.
:
.
2103537
According to a third aspect of the invention a diaper assembly
comprises a washable, reusable over-garment having opposite side
edges, two opposite ends and inner and outer surfaces. There is a
moisture proof sheet adapted for positioning on the inner surface
of the over-garment and having two opposite side edges and two
opposite ends. There are means for detachably connecting the
opposite ends on the outer surface of the moisture proof sheet to
respective opposite ends on the inner surface of the over-garment,
while the opposite side edges are substantially free of attachment
to the over-garment. There is also a detachable, washable,
reusable, adjustable absorbent liner adapted for positioning over
the moisture proof sheet and devices for detachably connecting the
absorbent liner to the moisture proof sheet. There are two methods
in creating the moisture proof sheet. The first option being the
side edges of the moisture proof sheet having a crescent shape
moisture proof piece attached at ths centre edges of the moisture
proof sheet. The top of the crescent shape moisture proof piece are
elasticized. The side edges of the moisture proof sheet are located
at a sufficient distance apart that the absorbent liner can be
positioned at least substantially between the side edges. The
combination of the crescent shape moisture proof piece and the side
edges tend to pull the opposite ends of the moisture proof sheet
towards one another, forming a hammock like effect. The second
option being a contoured moisture proof sheet design to fit the leg
opening of the wearer and having the side edges fully elasticized.
The side edges tend to pull the opposite ends of the moisture proof
sheet towards one another, forming a hammock like effect.
;~ , :-
:. ~ :``~`,' ,,
,,
`` 21~3~37
According to a fourth aspect o~ the invention, a diaperassembly comprises a washable, reusable over-garment having
opposite side edges, two opposite ends, and inner and outer
surfaces. A detachable, washable, reusable moisture proof sheet is
adapted for positioning on the inner surface of the over-garment
and having opposite ends and inner and outer surface. There is a
detachable, washable, reusable, adjustable absorbent liner adapted
for pGsitioning on the inner surface of the moisture proof sheet
and having opposite ends. This absorbent liner has a narrower
section comprising of three smaller units, the smaller central unit
being proportionally larger than the two smaller end units which
extends from one end thereof and through a central portion thereof
of the absorbent liner and a wider section forming an end portion
thereof. The smaller end units sandwiches the smaller central unit
having opposite ends substantially free of attachment to the
absorbent liner. This arrangement of the narrower section creates
a foldable absorbent liner allowing adjustability of the crotch
width for a wearer. The wider section of the absorbent liner
comprise of a top and bottom portion creating a foldable absorbent
liner allowing adjustability on the length. There are also means
for detachably connecting the opposite ends of the absorbent liner
to respective opposite ends of the moisture proof sheet. The wider
section of the absorbent liner can be placed selectively at either
end of the moisture proof sheet.
In this present invention a detachable, washable, reusable,
and adjustable absorbent liner is designed so that user could
adjust the length and width according to their own size where
maximum absorbency could be utilized and having a comfortable fit
from the different over-garment size available. Different sizes of
the over-garment is still preferred since it could form the
appropriate liquid seals or leg cuffs along the upper thigh
regions of the wearer. It will ~e appreciated that a diaper
assembly can be made for either infant or geriatric users with
about four separate sizes for each of these two classes of users.
The primary difference between the geriatric waste-containment
garment over the infant diapers would be the provision of
. ~ .
:-:
: ~ ;
2 ~ ~3~37
additional Velcro type fasteners on opposite sides of the diaper so
as to improve the fit and appearance of the larger garment.
According to a fifth aspect of the invention, a diaper
assembly comprises a reusable, washable over-garment having
opposite side edges and two opposite ends and inner and outer
surfaces. A detachable, washable, reusable moisture proof sheet is
adapted for positioning on the inner surface of the over-garment
and having opposite ends and inner and outer surface. There is a
detachable, washahle, reusable, adjustable absorbent llner adapted
for positioning on the inner surface of the moisture proof sheet
and having opposite ends and inner and outer surfaces. There is
also a separate, washable, reusable, liquid pervious, flexible
cover member which could come in two types of styles. The first
being in the shape of a sleeve and contoured to that of an
absorbent liner and sized to permit insertion of the absorbent
liner only one way so that the inner and outer surfaces of the
absorbent liner are covered. The second style is contoured to that
of an absorbent liner and being a single piece of topsheet which is
placed on top of the absorbent liner covering the inner surface of
the absorbent liner. There are means for detachably connecting the
opposite ends of the absorbent liner to respective opposite ends of
the moisture proof sheet. `
Further features and advantages of the present diaper assembly
will be apparent from the following detailed description of
preferred embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying
drawings.
: ~.- ~ :
~ ~ ~3537
The invention is illustrated in particular and preferred
embodiments by reference to the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view o~ an exemplary
waste-containment garment constructed in accordance with the
invention which comprises a washable, reusable over-garment; a
detachable, washable, reusable moisture proof sheet positioned on
the inner surface of the over-garment; a detachable, washable,
reusable, adjustable absorbent liner positioned on the inner
surface of the over-garment; and a washable, reusable, liquid
pervious non-absorbent inner sheet adapted to cover the inner
surface of the adjustable absorbent liner;
Figure 2 is a plan view is one method in creating a
detachable, washable, reusable moisture proof sheet;
Figure 3 is a plan view of another method in creating a
detachable, washable, reusable moisture proof sheet;
Figure 4 is a plan view of an absorbent liner that is
detachable, washable, reusable and is adjustable;
Figure 5 is a plan view of a detachable, washable, reusable
and adjustable absorbent liner folded one way.
Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the detachable,
washable, reusable, and adjustable liner of Figure 2 taken along
the line I-I;
Figure 7 is a longitudinal edge view of a detachable absorbent
liner showing the manner in which the washable, reusable non-
absorbent sheet or cover member is placed therein;
Figure 8 is a plan view of a waste-containment garment
constructed in accordance with the invention, which view shows the
inside of the garment with the absorbent liner (shown in dashed
lines) and a non-absorbent inner sheet or cover member placed
therein;
Figure 9 is a plan view similar to Figure 8 but showing the
absorbent liner without an inner sheet covering same and showing
the absorbent liner with an expanded end located at the front of
the garment;
: . , :. ~
21035~7
Figure lo is a plan view similar to Figure 9 but showing the
expanded end of the absorbent liner positioned at the rear of the
garment;
Figure 11 is a plan view similar to Figure 9 but showing the
expanded end of two absorbent liner on top of each other at the
front of the garment for night time use or heavy wetter, providing
maximum absorbency at one end.
Figure 12 is a plan view similar to Figure 10 but showing the
expanded end of two absorbent liner on top of each other at the
rear of the garment for night time use or heavy wetter, providing
maximum absorbency at one end;
Figure 13 is a plan view similar to Figure 11 but showing the
expanded end of two absorbent liner with the wider end facing
opposite to each other. This arrangement allows the wearer to be
position on its stomach or its back providing maximum absorbency at
either end. This set-up also allows one size absorbent liner to be
used in a larger size garment;
Figure 14 is a plan view similar to Figure 9 but the absorbent
liner is folded in a manner shown in Figure 5 to be position in a
small size garment;
Figure 15 is a perspective view of an alternate form of cover
member in the shape of a sleeve and contoured to that of an
absorbent liner having the wider end open and the narrower end
closed; and
Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view similar to Figure 4 but
showing the placement of the cover member of Figure 15 around the
washable, reusable, and adjustable absorbent liner.
- . . ~ . . . -
. :
....
..
2~ o 3~37
DETAIL DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
A preferred composite diaper assembly or waste-containment
garment 10 is shown in Figure 1 and 8. This diaper assembly
includes a washable, reusable over-garment 11 having opposite side
edges 12 and 13, two opposite ends 14 and 15 and inner and outer
surfaces 16 and 17; a detachable, washable, reusable moisture proof
sheet 200 having opposite side edges 201 and 202, two opposite ends
203 and 204 and inner and outer surfaces 205 and 206; a detachable
and adjustable absorbent liner or insert 300 having opposite ends
301 and 302 and inner and outer surfaces 303 and 304; and
preferably a separate, washable, reusable, non-absorbent, liquid
pervious inner sheet 400, which is thin and flexible, is also
referred to herein as a cover member.
The preferred construction of the over-garment 11 will be
described with particular r~ference to Figure 1 and 8 of the
drawings. The over-garment 11 can be a cotton weave material,
patterned or decorated as desired. As shown it has straight edges
at the rear and front ends 14 and 15 and contoured side edges 12
and 13 in the manner illustrated clearly in Figure 8 so as to form
a narrower central section 20 and wider, front section 21 and a
much wider rear section 22. This contoured shape creates leg
openings for the user and thus provides a more comfortable fit when
the diaper is in place. However the over-garment has a cut-out
notch in the shape of a semi-circle 23 positioned centrally at the
top front end for a newborn or infant over-garment. This cut-out
notch 23 is designed to accommodate the umbilical cord of the
newborn or infant. The side edges 12 and 13 of the over-garment 11
has a breathable crescent shape over-garment piece 24 and 25
attached at the centre edge of the over-garment 11. The preferred
material for these breathable crescent shape garment piece 24 and
25 is a heavy knit-like cotton jersey material having numerous
holes 310 formed therein for the quick passage of air flow
providing a stable temperature control thus reducing the chances of
a diaper rash from developing. The top of the breathable crescent
shape garment piece 24 and 25 are elasticized 26 and 27. The
' '~ , ~,
.
~1~3537
.
combination of the breathable crescent shape piece 24 and 25 and
the side edges 12 and 13 tend to pull the opposite ends 14 and 15
of the over-garment 11 towards one another, forming a hammock-like
effect. There is also a protruding garment piece 28 and 29 attached
by an elasticized piece 30 and 31 therein between the over-garment
piece and the protruding garment piece that is position at the rear
section 22 of the over-garment 11. The protruding garment piece is
in the shape~ of an elliptical ear, where Velcro fasteners 32, 34
and 33, 35 are located on each of the corresponding protruding
garment piece 28 and 29. The elasticized piece 30 and 31 allows
greater adjustability and better fit to the wearer. Preferably the
over-garment is hemmed around its perimeter to improve its
appearance and to provide a longer wear life for the garment.
In the preferred embodiment, a moisture proof sheet 200
having opposite side edges 201 and 202, two opposite ends 203 and
204 adapted ~or positioning on the inner surface to opposite ends
14 and 15 of the over-garment 11. This moisture proof sheet which
can be generally rectangular has a width which is approximately
equal to the width of the over-garment 11 in its central section
20. The moisture proof sheet 200 is attached at each end by Velcro
fasteners 217 and 218 of the loop type on the outer top surface to
respective opposite ends on the inner surface of the over-garment
11 having the hook type Velcro fastener 18 and 19, while the
opposite side edges 201 and 202 are substantially free of
attachment to the over-garment 11. The snap fasteners 36, 37 and
38, 39 of the stud type is position at opposite ends of the hook
type Velcro fastener 18 and 19 located on opposite ends on the
inner surface o~ the over-garment 11 as shown in Figure 1, which
engages with the respective snap fastener 213, 214 and 215, 216 of
the dome type position at opposite ends of the loop type Velcro
fastener 217 and 218 located on the outer surface of the moisture
proof sheet 200. The snap fastener re-enforces and provides the
necessary strength to secure the moisture proof sheet 200 and the
over-garment 11 together, especially for the geriatric waste-
containment garment and still having easy access in removing the
moisture proof sheet 200 from the over-garment 11 for laundry
a3~37
purpose. There is also a detachable, washable, reusable absorbent
liner 300 adapted for positioning over the moisture proof sheet 200
and devices for detachably connecting the absorbent liner 300 to
the moisture proof sheet 200. The side edges 201 and 202 of the
moisture proof sheet 200 are located at a sufficient distance apart
that the absorbent liner 300 can be positioned at least
substantially between the side edges 201 and 202. As can be seen in
Figure 1, the dome portion of the snap fastener indicated at 207
and 208 extends through the outer surface 206 of the moisture proof
sheet 200 and the Velcro fastener of the loop type 217 and 218. In
this way the central recess of the fastener is clear and open for
attachment of the stud type on the other part of the fastener, item
305 and 306 at opposite ends 301 and 302 of the absorbent liner
300. ~:
Both the side edges 201 and 202 of the moisture proof sheet
200 has a crescent s~ape waterproof piece 209 and 210 attached at :
the centre edges of the moisture proof sheet 200 shown in Figure 2. ~-
The top of the crescent shape waterproof piece 209 and 210 are
elasticized, as shown at 211 and 212 in Figure 2. Thus these
elasticized edges tend to pull up or raise up the ends 203 and 204
of the moisture proof sheet 200. The elasticized edges 211 and 212
themselves tend to rise up above the central section of the :.
moisture proof sheet 200 and central section 20 of the over-garment
11. The combination of the crescent shape moisture proof piece 209
and 210 and the side edges 201 and 202 tend to pull the opposite
ends 203 and 204 of the moisture proof sheet 200 towards one
another, forming a hammock-like shape.
The preferred construction of the moisture proof sheet 200 is
shown in Figure 3 wherein the moisture proof sheet 200 is a
contoured shape, one piece sheet. This narrower central section and
wider end section contoured shape creates leg openings for the user
providing a comfortable fit when the diaper assembly is in place.
The opposite ends 20~ and 204 have rounded corners with both side
edges being elasticized 211 and 212. The elasticized side edges 201 ~. :and 202 tends to pull the opposite ends 203 and 204 of the moisture
proof sheet 200 towards one another, forming a hammock-like shape.
.
- . ,. ,: , : . . . ~ -
. - ~: . . : . . , :
2 ~ 7
Also, this desirable shape for the moisture proof sheet/over-
garment combination helps to locate and position both the absorbent
liner 300 and the inner sheet 400. In this way, the moisture proof
sheet 200 fits snugly around the upper thighs of the user helping
to prevent any leakage or escape of any human excrement.
Preferably the moisture proof sheet 200 is made from treated
plastic, vinyl or nylon material which is not only waterproof but
resists cracking and tearing. Other materials that are waterproof
and breathable could be used for the moisture proof sheet 200.
Velcro type fasteners are attached at two corners of the
protruding garment piece 28 and 29 for securing same in place on
the wearer. Preferably these hook fasteners 32 and 33 are attached
to the inner surface of the protruding garment piece 28 and 29
located at the rear end 14 of the over-garment 11. The hook side of
each fastener faces upwardly and inwardly when the over-garment 11
is arranged in the manner shown in Figure 1. Located at the top
front end 15 of the over-garment 11 is a Velcro type fasteners 40
of the loop variety. This Velcro strip runs along the width of the
over-garment 11 located on the outer surface 17 of the over-garment
11 near the end 15. It will be readily seen that the hook fasteners
32 and 33 can be engaged with the loop fasteners 40 when the over-
garment 11 has been put in place on the infant or other user. There
is an elasticized piece 30 and 31 therein between the over-garment
11 and the protruding garment piece 28 and 29 that allows greater
adjustability and better fit for the wearer. Also in order to
assist in the washing of the over-garment 11, two additional loop
fasteners 34 and 35 can be secured to the inner surface 16 of the
over-garment 11 close to the hook fastener 32 and 33. Thus when the
over-garment 11 is to be washed, it is easy to engage each hook
fastener 32 and 33 with its respective loop fastener 34 and 35 in
order that the hooks of the fastener strips 32 and 33 will not be
exposed during washing. This will help to prevent the hook type
fasteners 32 and 34 from being attached to other clothes while the
over-garment 11 is heing washed or dried.
21~13~37
:
The preferred construction of the adjustable absorbent liner
300 will now be described with particular reference to Figures 4
and 6 of the drawings. The preferred absorbent liner 300 is
detachable, washable, reusable and adjustable as is the
aforementioned over-garment 11. There are also means for detachably
connecting the opposite ends 301 and 302 of the adjustable
absorbent liner 300 to respective opposite ends 203 and 204 of the
moisture proof sheet 200. The wider section of the adjustable
absorbent llner 300 can be placed selectively at either end of the
moisture proof sheet 200. There are means for detachably connecting
the opposite ends 301 and 302 of the adjustable absorbent liner 300
to respective opposite ends 14 and 15 of the over-garment 11. The
preferred connecting means at each end is one half of a plastic
snap fastener indicated at 305 and 306. The fastener part 305 is
adapted to connect to a co-operating fastener part 207 or fastener
part 208, the latter being attached centrally at opposite ends 203
and 204 on the outer surface 206 of the moisture proof sheet 200.
The absorbent liner 300 having top and bottom cloth layers 307 and
308 wherein the top and bottom edges are sealed or sew together
around the perimeter for securing the inner pad 309 in place. The
preferred material for these top and bottom layers is a heavy knit-
like cotton jersey material having numerous holes 310 formed
therein for the quick passage of fluid to a thick inner absorbent
layer or pad 309. The inner pad has a high capacity for absorbing
liquids, thereby reducing the likelihood of any leakage from the
assembled diaper. Because the outer layers are highly porous,
liquid will pass quickly into the absorbent inner pad 309 and this
will help to keep the user dry. A preferred material for the inner
pad 309 is recycled cloth or an absorbent cloth-like material.
Preferably the outer layers of material 307 and 30~ used on
the absorbent liner 300 are selected to have low capillary action
in order to assist in containment of fluids passing into the inner
pad 309 and to prevent the adjustable absorbent liner 300 from
becoming unduly damp.
- , . . - . :.
2~3~37
Preferably the outer layers are connected together by a line
of stitching indicated at 311 and 312. This stitching adds
stability to the adjustable absorbent liner 300, forms a guideline
for smaller sections 313 and 314 to fold onto the outer surface 304
and meeting at the middle of the narrower portion 315 of the
adjustable absorbent liner 300, forms moisture banks to contain the
spread of liquid, and increases the comfort because this
arrangement adjusts the crotch width for the wearer. Another
continuous line of stitching indicated at 317 runs across the wider
portion 316 of the adjustable absorbent liner 300. This stitching
adds stability to the adjustable absorbent liner 300, forms a
guideline for the top section 318 to fold onto the outer surface
304 under the bottom section 319 of the adjustable absorbent liner
300, forms moisture banks to contain the spread of liquid, and
increases the comfort because this arrangement adjusts the length
for the wearer. One continuous line 321 runs along the length of
the absorbent liner 300 in order to secure the inner pad in
position.
Because the adjustable absorbent liner 300 is detachably
connected to the moisture proof sheet 200, it will be appreciated
that one size adjustable absorbent liner 300 can be used with
difrerent moisture proof sheet 200 and over-garment 11 and having
the benefit of a one-size-fit-all diaper system along with a
greater fit to the wearer. For example, if the wearer wishes to
move from a middle size adjustable absorbent liner 300 and its
corresponding over-garment 11 to the next size up being the larger
size, then the wearer needs two middle size adjustable absorbent
liner 300 placed on top of one another on the larger size over-
garment 11. The wider end 316 of the top adjustable absorbent liner
300 is secured to one end of the over-garment 11 while the wider
end 316 of the bottom adjustable absorbent liner 300 is secured to
the other end of the over-garment 11 as shown in Figure 13. If the
wearer wishes to move from a middle size adjustable absorbent liner
300 and its corresponding over-garment 11 to the next size down
being the smaller size, then the wearer needs only to adjust by
folding the middle size absorbent liner 300 to the appropriate size
. - , ~ . . . : - ~ :
:
~ 2103~37
needed as shown in Figure 5 and position into a smaller size over-
garment 11 shown in Figure 14. The one-size adjustable absorbent
liner 300 could be adapted to three different sizes of the over-
garment which reduces material waste and the cost of a the cloth
diaper syste~. Also a detachable, washable, reusable, absorbent
liner of uniform width can be used in the present diaper assembly,
the preferred shape of the adjustable absorbent liner 300 is that
shown in Figures 1 and 4. The preferred absorbent liner 300
construction has a narrower section 315 comprising of three smaller
units, the smaller central units 320 being proportionally larger
than the two s~aller end units 313 and 314 which extends from one
end thereof and through a central portion thereof of the adjustable
absorbent liner 300 and a substantially wider section 316 forming
an end portion thereof. The smaller end units 313 and 314
sandwiches the smaller central units 320 having opposite ends 321,
322 and 323, 324 substantially free of attachment to the adjustable
absorbent liner 300. The arrangement of the narrower section 315
creates a foldable absor~ent liner along the line of stitching
indicated at 311 and 312 allowing adjustability for the crotch
width on the wearer shown in Figure 5 and 14.
Because the detachable, washable, reusable, adjustable
absorbent liner 300 is of the above configuration in which the
wider section 316 could be rounded as shown can selectively be
placed either at the rear or the front of the assembly as
illustrated in Figures 9 and 10 of the drawings. The orientation of
the absorbent liner 300 will depend upon whether the diaper is
being used on a male or female person. The arrangement of Figure 9
with the wider section 316 at the front 15 of the diaper
accommodates the normal urine flow for a male user. In this
arrangement maximum capacity for absorbing fluid is located at the
front of a diaper. The arrangement of Figure 10 wherein the wider
section 316 is at the rear 14 of a diaper assembly accommodates the
normal urine flow for a female. The preferred choice for night time
or for heavy wetters is shown in Figure 11, 12 and Figure 13. The
arrangement of Figure 11 and 12 wherein two absorbent liners 300
placed on top of one another with the top absorbent liner 300 being
. : .. , ~ : : ~:
2~ 03~37
larger than the bottom absorbent liner 300 and both wider ends 316
of the absorbent liners 300 faces in the same direction. The
opposite ends 301 and 302 of the top larger absorbent liner 300 is
secured to respective opposite ends of the moisture proof sheet
200, while the bottom absorbent liner 300 fits snugly in place
between the top absorbent liner 300 and the bottom side edges 201
and 202 of the moisture proof sheet 200. Placing the wider section
316 at the front 15 of the over-garment 11 accommodates the heavy
urine flow accumulated at night for the male user, providing
maximum capacity for absorbing fluid which is located at the front
15 of the over-garment 11. Placing the wider section 316 at the
back 14 of the over-garment 11 accommodates the heavy urine flow
accumulated at night for the female user, providing maximum
capacity for absorbing fluid which is located at the back 14 of the
over-garment 11. The positioning of the absorbent liner 300 may
also depend upon the positioning of the infant in the crib or bed.
For example if the infant normally lies on its stomach when
sleeping the wider section 316 can be placed at the front 15 of a
diaper assembly. On the other hand if the infant or child is lying
on its back, the wider section 316 can be placed at the rear 14 of
the diaper where maximum absorbency may be required. However, if
the infant or child lies on its stomach then switches to lying on
its back and vice versa, then the arrangement shown in Figure 13 is
preferred wherein two absorbent liners 300 of the same size are
placed on top of one another having the wider section 316 of the
top absorbent liner 300 securing to one end of the moisture proof
sheet 200 while the wider section 316 of the bottom absorbent liner
300 is secured to the other end of the moisture proof sheet 200. In
this arrangement, maximum absorbency could be utilized at both ends
of the absorbent liner 300 and still maintaining the comfort fit
around the leg opening that is provided by the narrower portion 315
of the absorbent liner 300. The snap fastener used in the diaper
assembly can be made of cheaper, metal material, rather than
plastic, in order to reduce the cost of the absorbent liner.
- ~ ~
-::
, ~, .
2 1 03537
_
An alternative feature of the present diaper assembly 10 is
the provision of a washable, reusable, non-absorbent, liquid
pervious inner sheet or cover nember 400 having opposite ends 401
and 402 and contoured to that of an absorbent liner 300. The length
of this inner sheet 400 exceeds the length of the absorbent liner
300. In this way end portions 401 and 402 of the inner sheet 400
can be folded back over the ends 301 and 302 of the absorbent liner
300 in order to be disposed between the absorbent liner 300 and the
moisture proof sheet 200 during use of the diaper. Because the
opposite ends 401 and 402 of the inner sheet has punctured-out
holes 403 and 404 located centrally and sized to that of snap
fastener, the domes of the snap fasteners 207 and 208 fits into the
punctured-out hole and secured in by the stud fastener parts 305
and 306 on the moisture proof sheet 200. In this way not only do
the snap fasteners secure the absorbent liner 300 in place but they
also secure opposite ends 401 and 402 of the inner sheet 400 in
place.
Preferably the inner sheet 400 is made from a hydrophobic non-
woven polyester-nylon or polypropylene material. In addition to
help keep the skin of the infant or other user dry, the washable,
reusable inner sheet 400 has a distinct additional advantage that
arises from the fact that it can be removed from the rest of the
diaper and be launder. Quite often the inner sheet 400 will become
soiled in use and will need to be launder while the rest of the
diaper assembly 10 is still clean and dry. In such cases it is not
necessary to wash or dispose of the remainder of the diaper
assembly 10, there being only the need to replace the inner sheet
400. It will be appreciated that this arrangement tends to leave
the absorbent liner 300 cleaner so that it is left in a more
desirable condition for laundering.
- 2la3~37
A preferable form of cover member is identlfied by reference
450 in Figures 15 and 16 having a sleeve shape and contoured that
of an absorbent liner 300, having opposite ends 451 and 452, and a
top surface 455 and bottom surface 456. The wider end 451 could be
sealed up while the narrower end 452 is open for insertion, but
preferably the narrower end of 452 is sealed up or closed off and
the wider end 451 belng open allowing the preferred absorbent liner
300 to fit into cover member 450 only one way when assembled for
use, which reduces the chances of the absorbent liner 300 from
soiling and having easy access to removing the soiled cover member
450 from the absorbent liner 300 as shown in Figure 7. The cover
member 450 have punctured holes located at 459, 460, 461 and 462,
with holes 459 and 460 positioned at the ends 451 and 452 centrally
on the top surface 455, and holes 461 and 462 positioned at the
ends 451 and 452 centrally on the bottom surface 456. The holes 459
and 461 are aligned on top of each other at one end 451, while
holes 460 and 462 are aligned on top of each other at opposite end
452. The use of the cover member 450 allows both inner and outer
surfaces 303 and 304 of the absorbent liner 300 to become covered.
The absorbent liner 300 is protected by the preferred cover member
450 by inserting the narrower section 315 of the absorbent liner
300 into the wider opening end 451 of the cover member 450. The
absorbent liner 300 is properly placed when the narrower section
315 meets the sealed end 4S2. The cover member 450 is secured in
place by the use of snap fasteners of the stud type 305 and 306
going through the respective holes 461 and 462 of the bottom
surface 456. If the top surface 455 of the cover member 450 is worn
down, the top surface 455 can be flip over becoming the bottom
surface. Thus the snap fasteners 305 and 306 can secure the cover
member 450 by using the new holes 459 and 460 respectively. The
configuration of the cover member 450 also helps substantially in
maintaining the proper position of the cover member 450. It is
prevented from bunching up in the centre of the diaper and exposing
the absorbent liner 300. ~-
- : :, ~ ::: -
: :: : ~ . . - ~ .
'
' :-.: ~:
- : - ,
.
2103~37
It will be appreciated by those skilled in the diaper art that
instead of using the described moisture proof sheet 200 attached to
the inside of the over-garment 11, it would be possible to dispense
with the use of such a sheet and to replace it with plastic outer
pants of known construction. However a disadvantage of using these
known outer pants is that the over-garment 11 will become soiled
more easily because of fluids leaking through the absorbent liner
300 and therefore the over-garment 11 will have to be washed or
cleaned more often. In the preferred construction using a moisture
proof sheet 200 on the inside of the over-garment 11, it is
generally possible to use the over-garment 11 a number of times
without the need for laundering. The detachability of the moisture
proof sheet 200 allows very easy laundering and faster drying if
the over-garment 11 or the moisture proof sheet 200 needs to be
launder. The user can easily detach the soil garment pant or diaper
or moisture proof sheet and replace it with a clean one and still
using the remaining unsoiled garment pant or diaper and/or moisture
proof sheet. Using this way of laundering, the diapering system is
much more cost effective than the disposable diapers and some other
cloth diapers.
Preferably the absorbent liner 300 is sized so that it fits
readily within the bounds of the moisture proof sheet 200. Also
instead of using cloth-like material having high absorbency, one
can use recycled cloth.
It will be clear to those skilled in the construction and use
of diapers that various modifications and changes can be made to
the diaper assembly described herein. All such modifications and
changes as fall within the scope of the appended claims are
intended to be part of this invention.
:,''
. : ,
: - ., , . :
:
