WO2019111269A1

WO2019111269A1 - Apparatus, system, and method to detect an appropriate time to change a diaper

Info

Publication number: WO2019111269A1
Application number: PCT/IN2018/000056
Authority: WO
Inventors: Rajaram Dubey ASHUTOSH
Original assignee: Signovate Technologies Private Limited
Priority date: 2017-12-09
Filing date: 2018-12-05
Publication date: 2019-06-13

Abstract

A liquid transport unit (5) that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper, comprises a first core (7) that is enclosed in a first enclosure (8), said first core (7) being highly absorbent and having good wicking effect; and a first absorbent layer (9) made of a material with suitable thickness (typically less than 0.5 millimetres), said first absorbent layer (9) being sandwiched between a first pair of layers, namely a first layer (10) and a second layer (11), said first layer (10) and said second layer (11) not repulsing a liquid that is to be transported through the liquid transport unit (5), and said first layer (10) and said second layer (11) being made of a material that is less absorbent as compared to the sandwiched first absorbent layer (9). A system that comprises the liquid transport unit (5) and its method of functioning are also disclosed.

Description

TITLE: APPARATUS, SYSTEM, AND METHOD TO DETECT AN APPROPRIATE TIME TO CHANGE A DIAPER

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates to a system, apparatus, and method for the detection of an appropriate time to change a diaper,

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Detecting the presence of hygienic conditions is critical in the diaper industry. Diapers need to be changed at the appropriate time i.e. as soon as possible after they become dirty or soiled. Else, there may be medical complications to the wearer.

One solution to address this issue is the use of rash prevention products (creams, balm, spray, ointments, etc.) that form a physical barrier between the skin of a wearer and the diaper, thereby keeping the skin safe from irritants. However, since the skin of an infant is extremely sensitive, and even in adults, the skin is very sensitive in and around genitals, utmost care needs to be taken when applying such products. Further, the physical barrier tends to get wiped off whenever the wearer moves, more so when the inside surface of the diaper becomes wetter.

Another solution to address this issue is the use of small battery powered gadgets that may be attached outside or partly inside a diaper in very close proximity to a diaper wearer’s genitals. Such gadgets sense changes in electronic properties (e.g. resistance, capacitance, etc.) that occur due to wetness (i.e. when the baby defecates) and send signals to parents/care-taker by audio-visual or wireless means. However, such gadgets suffer from several drawbacks, including high thickness (0.5 cm to 1 cm), which makes them uncomfortable when an infant turns over; potential to wake up an infant while sending a non-wireless alarm; and the use of radiations for sending a wireless alarm, which could be harmful to an infant.

A third solution to address this issue is the use of diapers with wetness indicators. Such diapers have a line or a design that is marked on the outside with ink, located between the legs. The line or design changes colour once it becomes moist or wet, indicating the need to change the diaper. However, the use of such diapers becomes impractical when the wearer is fully clothed or bundled up in a blanket. Further, the colour change occurs only when the diaper is about to be saturated.

There is, therefore, a need in the art for a system and apparatus, which overcomes the aforementioned drawbacks and shortcomings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A liquid transport unit that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper, comprises a first core that is enclosed in a first enclosure, said first core being highly absorbent and having good wicking effect; and a first absorbent layer made of a material with suitable thickness (typically less than 0.5 millimetres), said first absorbent layer being sandwiched between a first pair of layers, namely a first layer and a second layer, said first layer and said second layer not repulsing a liquid that is to be transported through the liquid transport unit, and said first layer and said second layer being made of a material that is less absorbent as compared to the sandwiched first absorbent layer.

A system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper, comprises: a first surface that touches the skin of a person wearing the diaper, said first surface being made of soft flexible hypoallergenic material and said first surface comprising a first plurality of perforations that facilitate any defecation (urine or stools) to pass through into the diaper; and a second surface that comprises: a second plurality of perforations, said second plurality of perforations facilitating any defecation to pass through into the diaper; an indicator unit that comprises: a second core that is enclosed in a second enclosure that is transparent and watertight, a plurality of layers, and one or more interfaces; and a liquid transport unit that comprises: a first core that is enclosed in a first enclosure, said first core being highly absorbent and having good wicking effect; and a first absorbent layer made of a material with suitable thickness (typically less than 0.5 millimetres), said first absorbent layer being sandwiched between a first pair of layers, namely a first layer and a second layer, said first layer and said second layer not repulsing a liquid that is to be transported through the liquid transport unit, and said first layer and said second layer being made of a material that is less absorbent as compared to the sandwiched first absorbent layer, said liquid transport unit: serving as a channel for transporting a liquid towards the indicator unit; detecting and analysing the liquid that comes out through the liquid transport unit; and visually indicating when the diaper has to be changed, with said system being placed on an inner surface of a diaper through the second surface, said second surface being configured to allow the indicator unit to stay outside of the diaper when the second surface gets attached to the diaper, and said liquid transport unit and said indicator unit being interfaced to each other.

The method of functioning of the system, comprises the steps of: attaching the system to an inside surface of a diaper that is being worn by the person sleeping on his or her back; passing of the defecation through the first plurality of perforations and the second plurality of perforations; absorption of a small part of the defecation by the first core; passing of the remaining defecation through the first plurality of perforations and subsequent absorption by the diaper; transporting the defecation absorbed by the first core to the indicator unit; and observing a change in colour of the indicator unit through the observation point.

On regular monitoring, the baby’s parents and/or its caretaker can change the diaper at an appropriate time and may also be able to monitor the properties of the liquids flowing out of the baby’s body, thereby either preventing the baby from getting medical conditions or facilitating the seeking of early medical intervention, if required.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Figure l illustrates one side of an embodiment of a system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper, in accordance with the present disclosure; Figure 2 illustrates another side of an embodiment of a system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper, in accordance with the present disclosure;

Figure 3 illustrates another embodiment of a system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper, in accordance with the present disclosure;

Figure 4 illustrates an embodiment of a liquid transport unit, in accordance with the present disclosure;

Figure 5 illustrates an embodiment of a liquid transport unit, in accordance with the present disclosure;

Figure 6 illustrates another embodiment of a liquid transport unit, in accordance with the present disclosure;

Figure 7 illustrates yet another embodiment of a liquid transport unit, in accordance with the present disclosure;

Figure 8a illustrates a zigzag pattern of stitching a first absorbent layer with a surrounding layer, in accordance with the present disclosure;

Figure 8b illustrates a crisscross pattern of stitching a first absorbent layer with a surrounding layer, in accordance with the present disclosure;

Figure 8c illustrates a ladder pattern of stitching a first absorbent layer with a surrounding layer, in accordance with the present disclosure;

Figure 9 illustrates yet another embodiment of a liquid transport unit, in accordance with the present disclosure;

Figure 10 illustrates yet another embodiment of a liquid transport unit, in accordance with the present disclosure;

Figure 1 1 illustrates the introduction of a flexible mesh in between a first cellulose-based material and a first non- woven fabric in an embodiment of the liquid transport unit, in accordance with the present disclosure;

Figure 12 illustrates an embodiment of an indicator unit, in accordance with the present disclosure;

Figure 13 illustrates another embodiment of an indicator unit, in accordance with the present disclosure;

Figure 14 illustrates yet another embodiment of an indicator unit, in accordance with the present disclosure;

Figure 15 illustrates yet another embodiment of an indicator unit, in accordance with the present disclosure; Figure 16 illustrates yet another embodiment of an indicator unit, in accordance with the present disclosure; and

Figure 17 illustrates the method of functioning of a system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper, in accordance with the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Throughout this specification, the use of the word "comprise" and variations such as "comprises" and "comprising" may imply the inclusion of an element or elements not specifically recited.

An apparatus and a system for detecting an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper are disclosed. As illustrated in Figure 1 and Figure 2, the system comprises a first surface (1) and a second surface (2). The system is of any suitable shape and is made of flexible materials that facilitate it to take the shape of a diaper.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the shape of the system is rectangular.

The system is placed on an inner surface of a diaper through the second surface (2), which gets attached to the diaper. The second surface (2) may be permanently attached to the diaper, or may be removably attached to the diaper. In either case, the second surface (2) may be attached inside of the diaper or outside of the diaper. Any suitable attachment method known in the art can be used, such as adhesives, hook and loop fasteners, sewing etc.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the adhesive is a pressure sensitive adhesive.

The first surface (1) touches the skin of a person wearing the diaper. To not cause harm to the skin, the first surface (1) is made of any suitable soft hypoallergenic material.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the first surface (1) is made of non- woven fabric.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the first surface (1) is made of medical grade materials such as medical gauze. It may optionally comprise materials that are of medicinal value, including, but not limited to, extracts of Aloe Vera (good for skin), formulations of Zinc Oxide (prevention of rashes) etc.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the first surface (1) comprises a layer made of hydrophobic material. The hydrophobic material may be natural (e.g. alkanes, oils, fat, etc.) or man-made (e.g. coating made of base materials such as manganese oxide polystyrene, nanocomposite zinc oxide polystyrene nanocomposite, etc.)

The first surface (1) comprises a first plurality of perforations (3). The second surface (2) comprises a second plurality of perforations (4). The first plurality of perforations (3) and the second plurality of perforations (4) facilitate any defecation to pass through into the diaper, and also minimise the surface area of contact between the first surface and the skin. Optionally, only the first plurality of perforations (3) may be present. Though the embodiments disclosed in this specification comprise both the first plurality of perforations (3) and the second plurality of perforations (4), the second plurality of perforations (4) may be dispensed with.

As illustrated in Figure 3, the second surface (2) comprises an indicator unit (6) and a liquid transport unit (5). The liquid transport unit (5) serves as a channel for transporting a liquid towards the indicator unit (6).

The indicator unit (6) detects and analyses the liquid that comes out through the liquid transport unit (5), and visually indicates when the diaper has to be changed. The second surface (2) is configured so as to allow the indicator unit (6) to stay outside of the diaper when the second surface (2) gets attached to the diaper.

As shown in Figure 4, the liquid transport unit (5) comprises a first core (7) that is enclosed in a first enclosure (8). The first enclosure (8) is made of any material that is at least partially impervious to a given liquid.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the first enclosure (8) is made of Polyvinyl Chloride.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the first enclosure (8) is made of Poly Ethylene.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the first enclosure (8) is made of Polyethylene terephthalate.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the first enclosure (8) is made of at least partially impervious material that is either natural or man-made.

The first core (7) is highly absorbent and has good wicking effect. As a result, a small portion of the liquid that passes through the first plurality of perforations (3) and the second plurality of perforations (4) eventually get absorbed by the first core (7), with the rest of the liquid being absorbed by the diaper to which the system is attached.

Figure 5 is an illustration of yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, in which the liquid transport unit (5) comprises a first absorbent layer (9) made of any suitable absorbent material that is sandwiched between a first pair of layers, namely a first layer (10) and a second layer (I I), wherein the first layer (10) and said second layer (1 1) do not repulse the liquid that is to be transported. The material of which the first layer (10), the second layer (11), are made of, may or may not be permeable to the liquid. The first layer (10) and the second layer (11) are made of a material that is less absorbent as compared to the sandwiched first absorbent layer (9).

The term sandwiching implies that the first absorbent layer (9), the first layer (10), and the second layer (I I) are kept together such that there is no air gap between them. The term sandwiching also implies that the first absorbent layer (9) could be in two fully or partially separated parts, that run along the first layer (10) and the second layer (1 1) such that the part/portion of the first absorbent layer (9) that runs along the first layer (10) does not have air gaps between the said layer and the first layer (10), and, similarly, the part/portion of the first absorbent layer (9) that runs along the second layer (1 1), does not have air gaps between the said layer and the second layer (1 1).

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the first absorbent (9) layer is made of a natural absorbent.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the first absorbent layer (9) is made of a man-made absorbent.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the first absorbent layer (9) is made of cotton.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the first absorbent layer (9) is made of cotton wool.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the first absorbent layer (9) is made of a cellulose-based material.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the thickness of the first absorbent (9) material is typically less than 0.5 millimetres.

Figure 6 is an illustration of yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, in which the liquid transport unit (5) further comprises a second absorbent layer (12) that is sandwiched between a second pair of layers, of which one layer is common between the first pair of layers and the second pair of layers. The second pair of layers comprises a third layer (13) that does not repulse the liquid that is to be transported.

The material of which the first layer (10), the second layer (1 1), and/or the third layer (13) are made of may or may not be permeable to the liquid. However, the material of which the first layer (10). the second layer (11), and/or the third layer (13) are made of is less absorbent as compared to the material of which the first absorbent layer (9) and/or the second absorbent layer are made of (12). The first layer (10), the second layer (11), and/or third layer (13) may be made of the same material. Alternately, first layer (10), the second layer (11), and/or third layer (13) may be made of different materials. The first absorbent layer (9), and/or the second absorbent layer (10) may be made of the same material. Alternately, first absorbent layer (9) and/or the second absorbent layer (10) may be made of different materials.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the second absorbent layer ( 12) is made of a natural absorbent.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the second absorbent layer (12) is made of a man-made absorbent.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the second absorbent layer (12) is made of cotton. In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the second absorbent layer (12) is made of cotton wool.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the second absorbent layer (12) is made of a cellulose-based material.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the second absorbent (12) material is configured to have a thickness that does not discomfort the wearer (typically less than 0.5 millimetres).

Figure 7 is an illustration of yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, in which the layer that is common between the first pair of layers and the second pair of layers comprises a third plurality of perforations(14) that facilitate contact between the first absorbent layer (9) and the second absorbent layer (12). The third plurality of perforations (14) comprises multiple perforations that may or may not be aligned with each other.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the first absorbent layer (9) is tightly, continuously, and permanently compressed using any method (such as stitching with needle and thread in a suitable pattern, preferably with a machine). In this embodiment, the first absorbent layer (9) is stitched together with a surrounding layer (15). The material of which the surrounding layer (15) is made of may or may not be absorbent. The direction of stitching is the same direction as that of the liquid to be wicked. The thread used for stitching can be of any material i.e. either natural or man-made.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the thread used for stitching is made of cotton.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the thread used for stitching is made of tericot.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the thread used for stitching is made of nylon.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the stitching is done in a zigzag pattern (Figure 8(a)).

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the stitching is done in a crisscross pattern (Figure 8(b)).

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the stitching is done in a ladder pattern (Figure 8(c)).

Figure 9 is an illustration of yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, in which the first absorbent layer (9) material is formed by keeping a first non- woven fabric (16) below a first cellulose-based material (17) and applying heat to this arrangement from a side of the first cellulose-based material (17). Together with this, little pressure is also applied to the arrangement. The pressure is applied either from a side of the first cellulose-based material (17) or from a side of the first non- woven fabric (16). The first non- woven fabric (16) may be hydrophilic or hydrophobic, and it may be manufactured by any technology known in the art, such as staple, melt-blown, spunlaid, etc. The heating is carried out such that the surface of the first non-woven fabric (16) that is facing the first cellulose-based material (17) is at the thermal sealing temperature of the non-woven fabric (16). It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that the first cellulose-based material (17) chosen should be capable of handling heat up to the thermal sealing temperature of the first non-woven fabric (16), and should have sufficient thickness to facilitate the blending of the first non-woven fabric (16) as it gets partially molten near the thermal sealing temperature. The blended material has better absorbency and wicking effect as compared to the first non-woven fabric (16). Further, the blended material also has better tensile strength as compared to the first cellulose-based material (17), and will not putrefy when exposed to liquids for an extended period of time, or when exposed to large amount of liquids.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, a plurality of non-woven fabric materials and a plurality of cellulose-based materials are used to create a plurality of blended materials in accordance with the method disclosed above (Figure 10). For instance, a plurality of first non-woven fabric (16) and a plurality of first cellulose-based materials (17) may be used. Alternately, the first non-woven fabric, a second non-woven fabric, the first cellulose- based material, a second cellulose-based material, and a third cellulose-based material may be used.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the process of creating the blended material further comprises introduction of a flexible mesh (18) in between the first cellulose- based material (17) and the first non-woven fabric (16) before the arrangement is heated (Figure 1 1). The mesh (18) is made of any material that has a significantly higher melting or combustion temperature when compared to the thermal sealing temperature of the first non- woven fabric (16). A plurality of flexible meshes is used if a plurality of blended materials is to be created.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the mesh (18) is made of cotton.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the mesh (18) is made of tericot.

The mesh (18) is of any suitable shape, such as hexagonal, square, pentagonal, and the like.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, an absorbent material, which can be natural or man-made, is sandwiched tightly between two layers of another material that is lesser absorbent as compared to an inner layer of the absorbent material. The sandwiching material can be natural or man-made.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the absorbent material is made of cotton.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the absorbent material is made of wool.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the absorbent material is made of cotton-wool. In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the sandwiching material is made of plastic.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the sandwiching material is made of poly vinyl chloride

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the sandwiching material is made of Polyethylene terephthalate

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the sandwiching material is made of Polyethylene.

As illustrated in Figure 12, the indicator unit (6) comprises a second core (19) that is enclosed in a second enclosure (20), a plurality of layers, and one or more interfaces. The second enclosure (20) is watertight. The surface of the second enclosure (20) from which the indicator unit (6) is observed is transparent. The second enclosure (20) is made of any suitable material.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the second enclosure (20) is made of transparent Polyvinyl chloride.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the second enclosure (20) is made of transparent Polyethylene terephthalate.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the second enclosure (20) is made of transparent biaxially oriented propylene.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the second enclosure (20) is made of transparent biodegradable plastic.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the indicator unit (6) may be enclosed in the first enclosure (8).

The liquid transport unit (5) and the indicator unit (6) are interfaced to each other.

Figure 13 is an illustration of yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, in which the indicator unit (6) comprises a fourth layer (21 ), a fifth layer (22), a sixth layer (23), a first interface (24), a second interface (25), a third interface (26), and a fourth interface (27). A description of this embodiment is given below.

The fourth layer (21) is made of hydrochromic ink, which is printed on any separate transparent medium that can be separate or it can even be inner, surface of the second enclosure (20). The printing is done by any suitable technique. The surface of the fourth layer (21) with the hydrochromic ink faces the first interface (24).

The fifth layer (22) may be made of any material that is capable of absorbing the given liquid. The fifth layer (22) is configured to have a suitable translucency range for said purpose, such as in the range of 30% to 80%. The fourth layer (21) and the fifth layer (22) are physically tightly associated with one another through the first interface (24).

The fifth layer (22) and the sixth layer (23) may or may not be physically tightly associated with one another through the second interface (25).

The sixth layer (23) may be made of absorbent or non-absorbent material.

The sixth layer (23) and the liquid transport unit (5) are associated with one another through the third interface (26). The sixth layer (23) and the liquid transport unit (5) may or may not be in direct contact with one another.

The liquid transport unit(5) is configured to have a greater length than sixth layer (23), and may be made by any suitable techniques as described earlier in this disclosure.

The fifth layer (22) and the liquid transport unit (5) are associated physically tightly with one another through the fourth interface (27).

The indicator unit (6) is monitored through an observation point (28).

The fourth layer (21), the fifth layer (22), the sixth layer (23), and the liquid transport unit (5) may be coloured by any suitable technique, such as printing, impregnating, or the like.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the fifth layer (22) is of white colour in the dry state.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the colour of the sixth layer (23) is completely different from the colour of the fifth layer (22).

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the sixth layer (23) and the fifth layer (22) are of visually distinguishable, different shades of the same colour.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the sixth layer (23) is of bright red colour.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the observation point (28) is the naked eye of a person who is visually observing the system.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the observation point (28) is a combination of photo capturing equipment and a computing system, said computing system being capable of storing, transferring and/or analysing the colour change results.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the observation point (28) is a combination of video capturing equipment and a computing system, said computing system being capable of storing, transferring and/or analysing the colour change results.

The computing system may be any suitable system with processing capacity, such as desktop computer, laptop computer, tablet, or the like. In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the fourth layer (21), the fifth layer (22), the sixth layer (23), and the liquid transport unit (5) are configured to display a pattern or a design when a liquid passes through the indicator unit (6).

Now, the method of operation of the indicator unit (6) embodiment disclosed above shall be discussed. When a person wearing a diaper fitted with the system defecates, a first end of the liquid transport unit (5) absorbs a small part of the defecated liquid through the plurality of perforations (4). This absorbed liquid is gradually transported across the liquid transport unit (5) to a second end of the liquid transport unit (5). In between, the flow of the liquid becomes branched as a first end of the fifth layer (22) absorbs the liquid from the liquid transport unit (5) through the fourth interface (27). The liquid in the fifth layer (22) is gradually transferred across the fifth layer (22) to a second end of the fifth layer (22). As the liquid gets transferred across the fifth layer (22), the fourth layer (21) and the sixth layer (23) become wet. The fourth layer (21) gradually becomes transparent with the flow of the liquid in the fifth layer (22). The wet part of the fifth layer (22) starts to stick to the sixth layer (23), thereby making the fifth layer (22) more translucent. When observed from the observation point (28), it appears as though the colour of the indicator is gradually changing to the colour of the sixth layer (23).

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the indicator unit (6) comprises the fourth layer (21) and the fifth layer (22), said fourth layer (21) and said fifth layer (22) being physically tightly associated with one another through the first interface (24); the liquid transport unit (5) that is associated physically tightly with the fifth layer (22) across the entire length of the fifth layer (22) through the fourth interface (27); and the observation point (28). In this embodiment, the fourth layer (21) is of a different colour when compared to the fifth layer (22). said colour not being soluble in a given liquid.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the system comprises the fifth layer (22) that is physically tightly associated with the sixth layer (23) through the second interface (25); said sixth layer (23) being associated with the liquid transport unit (5) through the third interface (26); said liquid transport unit (5) being associated physically tightly with the fifth layer (22) through the fourth interface (27); and the observation point (28).

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the fourth layer (21) is of two colours - a first colour at a left end and a second colour at the rest of the fourth layer (21).

Figure 14 is an illustration of yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, in which the indicator unit (6) further comprises a seventh layer (29), an eight layer (30), a fifth interface (31), a sixth interface (32), and a seventh interface (34). The sixth layer (23) and the eighth layer (30) are of dissimilar colours (i.e. they are not of the same shade or closely related colours, such as light blue and dark blue). An example of such a colour combination is the eighth layer (30) being of bright green colour and the sixth layer (23) being of bright red colour. In this embodiment, the seventh layer (29) is made of a material that is translucent and has good absorbing and wicking properties. The seventh layer (29) and the liquid transport unit (5) are associated with each other through the sixth interface (32), while the eighth layer (30) and seventh layer (29) are associated with each other through the fifth interface (31). The fifth layer (22) and the eighth layer (30) are associated with one another through the seventh interface (34). The seventh layer (29) is made of a material that has a higher wicking speed than the material of which the fifth layer (22) is made of. Alternately, the fifth layer (22) may comprise physical irregularities to slow down its wicking speed. This is achieved, for example, by partly painting the fifth layer (22) with the same colour as that of the material of which it is made of. After drying, the paint causes a reduction in the wicking speed in the fifth layer (22). Printing or any other known technique in the art can also be used in place of painting. The paint or ink or dye that is used may be water soluble or water insoluble.

Now, the method of operation of the embodiment described in the previous paragraph shall be discussed. The liquid flowing through the liquid transport unit (5) flows to the seventh layer (29) through the sixth interface (32), thereby making the eighth layer (30) visible. The wicking speed of the fifth layer (22) is configured to ensure that, when the eighth layer (30) becomes visible, the liquid in the fifth layer (22) does not travel to the sixth layer (23). Therefore, the sixth layer (23) does not become visible ln this example, the indicator unit (6) appears green in colour indicating to a parent that he/she may consider changing the diaper worn by their baby.

Let us assume that, due to some reason, the parent wishes to wait for some more time. One example of such a situation could be that the baby who is wearing the diaper is sleeping peacefully, thereby causing a dilemma with regards to whether the diaper should be changed immediately.

After some time, the baby may urinate again, which gets transported via the liquid transport unit (5) to the fourth interface (27) and the sixth interface (32) As the liquid comes in, the fifth layer (22) wicks it and it gradually covers the sixth layer (23). As this happens, the sixth layer (23) gradually becomes visible. When observed from the observation point (28), the observation is that of an expanding band of a colour which is an additive mix of the colours of the eighth layer (30) and the sixth layer (23). ln the given example, the band is of yellow shade. The band appears to be expanding in the direction of the flow of liquid in the fifth layer (22). As the baby urinates more, gradually the entire sixth layer (23) gets covered by the wet fifth layer (22), thereby making the indicator unit (6) appear completely in yellow colour. The new colour (yellow in the given example) is an indication to the parent that the diaper is now more unhygienic, and therefore it is more urgent to change it.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the eighth layer (30) is of smaller length when compared to the sixth layer (23), the difference in length being in the direction of flow of the liquid, and the seventh layer (29) is of smaller length when compared to the fifth layer (22) (Figure 15). In this embodiment, the eighth layer (30) is made of any opaque material. Since there are no stacked translucent layers, a dual coloured bank (red on one side and green on another side) appears on the indicator unit (6), thereby providing an indication of an urgent change to change the diaper. In this embodiment, the fourth layer (21) and the seventh layer (29) are interfaced with each other through the eighth interface (35). In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the indicator unit (6) further comprises a thin pH test strip (33) just below the fourth layer (21). When exposed to liquid, the pH test strip (33) would appear like a band on indicator unit (6) when observed from observation point (28) (Figure 16). Any commercially available pH test strip (also known as pH indicator strip) may be used. Typically, the pH test strip (33) is made of either paper or plastic, and changes colour when exposed to liquids. The final colour indicates the pH of the liquid. The manufacturer of the pH test strip (33) provides a colour chart that gives information on which colour is indicative of what pH value.

Now, the functioning of the disclosed system in the real-world shall be discussed, in accordance with Figure 17. The disclosed system is attached to an inside surface of a diaper that is being worn by a baby sleeping on its back (not shown in the diagram). When the baby defecates, the defecation passes through the first plurality of perforations (3) and the second plurality of perforations (4). As this happens, a small part of the liquid gets absorbed by the first core (7), while the remaining liquid passes through and gets absorbed by the diaper. The liquid absorbed by the first core (7) of the liquid transport unit (5) then gets transported to the indicator unit (6), which changes colour. Further, the indicator unit (6) may also indicate the properties and constituents of the liquid such as its pH value. This change in colour of the indicator unit (6) is observable through the observation point (28).

On regular monitoring, the baby’s parents and/or its caretaker can change the diaper at an appropriate time and may also be able to monitor the properties of the liquids flowing out of the baby’s body, thereby facilitating the seeking of early medical intervention, if required.

In any of the embodiments disclosed above, the fourth layer (21 ) may be dispensed with.

The system has been tested in hospitals, with the results proving the efficiency of the system. The results of testing are annexed with this Specification.

It will be apparent to a person skilled in the art that the above description is for illustrative purposes only and should not be considered as limiting. Various modifications, additions, alterations and improvements without deviating from the spirit and the scope of the disclosure may be made by a person skilled in the art. Such modifications, additions, alterations and improvements should be construed as being within the scope of this disclosure. For instance, in some embodiments, the system may be configured to display a greater number of colours depending on the quantity of urine absorbed by the diaper, such as yellow first, orange next, and finally red. Likewise, the system may also be configured to generate an alarm in addition to (or instead of) the visual alert to indicate when the diaper has to be changed. LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS

1 - First Surface

2 - Second Surface

3 - First Plurality of Perforations 4 - Second Plurality of Perforations

5 - Liquid Transport Unit

6 - Indicator Unit

7— First Core

8 - First Enclosure

9 - First Absorbent Layer

10 - First Layer

11 - Second Layer

12 - Second Absorbent Layer

13 - Third Layer

14 - Third Plurality of Perforations

15 - Surrounding Layer

16 - First Non- Woven Fabric

17 - First Cellulose-Based Material

18 - Mesh

19 - Second Core

20 - Second Enclosure

21 - Fourth Layer

22 - Fifth Layer

23 - Sixth Layer

24 - First Interface

25 - Second Interface

26 - Third Interface 27 - Fourth Interface

28 - Observation Point

29 - Seventh Layer

30 - Eight Layer 31— Fifth Interface

32 - Sixth Interface

33 - pH Test Strip

34 - Seventh Interface

35 - Eighth Interface

ANNEXURE

Medical Assessment of Hynto Diaper Hygiene Monitoring Strips

This is to certify that the Hynto diaper hygiene monitoring strips have been tested under my strict medical supervision, and cont rol, and without any interference or influence from the manufacturer of Hynto {Signovate Technologies Private limited). This assessment includes independently verifying the claims of the manufacturer of Hynto and other assessments that I as a Neonatal and Paediatric medical professional found necessary to be done. Summary of the assessments, results/observations, and my professional recommendation is as follows.

Test Subjects Information: Totally SO healthy pre-term and term babies, having 28 males and 22 females, aged between 1 day old to 50 days old, weighing from 1200 Grams to 3700 Grams.

Test Result Summary:

Overall result and recommendation: Overall, i am pleased with the assessment results. Using Hynto diaper hygiene monitoring strips, together with a proper hygiene regimen, can definitely help in prevent ing several hygiene-related infections from happening to babies who are kept in diapers.

MBBS, MD-Pediatrics, Fellowship in Neonatology, Medical Registration number: 40532

Presently Head of Neonatal ICU, Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, Whitefield. Bengaluru, Karnataka, India · 560066

Claims

CLAIMS We claim:

1. A liquid transport unit (5) that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper, comprising a first core (7) that is enclosed in a first enclosure (8), said first core (7) being highly absorbent and having good wicking effect; and a first absorbent layer (9) made of a material with thickness less than 0.5 millimetres, said first absorbent layer (9) being sandwiched between a first pair of layers, namely a first layer (10) and a second layer (11), said first layer (10) and said second layer (1 1 ) not repulsing a liquid that is to be transported through the liquid transport unit (5), and said first layer (10) and said second layer (11) being made of a material that is less absorbent as compared to the sandwiched first absorbent layer (9).

2. A liquid transport unit (5) that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the first absorbent layer (9) is made of a natural absorbent, a man-made absorbent, or a cellulose-based material.

3. A liquid transport unit (5) that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 2, wherein the natural absorbent is cotton.

4. A liquid transport unit (5) that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 2, wherein the man-made absorbent is cotton wool.

5. A liquid transport unit (5) that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the liquid transport unit (5) comprises a second absorbent layer (12) made of material with thickness less than 0.5 millimetres, said second absorbent layer (12) being sandwiched between a second pair of layers, of which one layer is common between the first pair of layers and the second pair of layers, said second pair of layers comprising a third layer (13) which is made of a material that is less absorbent as compared to the material of which the second absorbent layer (12) is made of, said third layer (13) not repulsing the liquid that is to be transported through the liquid transport unit (5).

6. A liquid transport unit (5) that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 5, wherein the second absorbent layer (12) is made of a natural absorbent, a man-made absorbent, or a cellulose-based material.

7. A liquid transport unit (5) that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 5, wherein the natural absorbent is cotton.

8. A liquid transport unit (5) that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 5, wherein the man-made absorbent is cotton wool.

9. A liquid transport unit (5) that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 5, wherein the layer that is common between the first pair of layers and the second pair of layers comprises a third plurality of perforations (14) that facilitate contact between the first absorbent layer (9) and the second absorbent layer (12).

10. A liquid transport unit (5) that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first absorbent layer (9) is tightly and continuously stitched together with a surrounding layer (15), with the direction of stitching being the same direction as that of the liquid to be wicked.

1 1. A liquid transport unit (5) . that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 10, wherein the thread is made of cotton, tericot, or nylon.

12. A liquid transport unit (5) that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 9, wherein the stitching is done in a zigzag pattern, crisscross pattern, or ladder pattern.

13. A liquid transport unit (5) that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first absorbent layer (9) is formed by keeping a first non-woven fabric (16) below a first cellulose-based material (17) and applying heat and pressure to this arrangement from a side of the first cellulose-based material (17), said application of heat being carried out to enable the surface of the first non-woven fabric (16) that is facing the first cellulose-based material (17) to reach the thermal sealing temperature of the first non-woven fabric (16).

14. A liquid transport unit (5) that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 13, wherein a flexible mesh (18) is disposed in between the first cellulose-based material (17) and the first non-woven fabric (16) before the arrangement is heated, said flexible mesh ( 18) being made of a material having a significantly higher melting or combustion temperature when compared to the thermal sealing temperature of the first non-woven fabric (16).

15. A liquid transport unit (5) that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 14, wherein the mesh (18) is made of cotton or tericot.

16. A liquid transport unit (5) that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 14, wherein the shape of the mesh (18) is hexagonal, square, or pentagonal.

17. A liquid transport unit (5) that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 1, wherein the liquid transport unit (5) comprises an absorbent material that is sandwiched tightly between two layers of another material that is lesser absorbent as compared to an inner layer of the absorbent material.

18. A liquid transport unit (5) that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 17, wherein the absorbent material is made of cotton, wool, or cotton-wool.

19. A liquid transport unit (5) that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 17, wherein the sandwiching material is made of plastic, poly vinyl chloride, Polyethylene terephthalate, or Polyethylene.

20. A system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper, comprising: a first surface (1) that touches the skin of a person wearing the diaper, said first surface (1) being made of soft flexible hypoallergenic material and said first surface (1 ) comprising a first plurality of perforations (3) that facilitate any defecation to pass through into the diaper; and a second surface (2) that comprises: a second plurality of perforations (4), said second plurality of perforations (4) facilitating any defecation to pass through into the diaper; an indicator unit (6) that comprises: a second core (19) that is enclosed in a second enclosure (20) that is transparent and watertight, a plurality of layers, and one or more interfaces; and a liquid transport unit (5) that comprises: a first core (7) that is enclosed in a first enclosure (8), said first core (7) being highly absorbent and having good wicking effect; and a first absorbent layer (9) made of a material with thickness less than 0.5 millimetres, said first absorbent layer (9) being sandwiched between a first pair of layers, namely a first layer (10) and a second layer (1 1), said first layer (10) and said second layer (1 1) not repulsing a liquid that is to be transported through the liquid transport unit (5), and said first layer (10) and said second layer (11) being made of a material that is less absorbent as compared to the sandwiched first absorbent layer (9), said liquid transport unit (5): serving as a channel for transporting a liquid towards the indicator unit (6); detecting and analysing the liquid that comes out through the liquid transport unit (5); and visually indicating when the diaper has to be changed, with said system being placed on an inner surface of a diaper through the second surface (2), said second surface (2) being configured to allow the indicator unit (6) to stay outside of the diaper when the second surface (2) gets attached to the diaper, and said liquid transport unit (5) and said indicator unit (6) being interfaced to each other.

21. A system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 20, wherein the shape of the system is rectangular.

22. A system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 20, wherein the second surface (2) is removably attached to the diaper.

23. A system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 20, wherein the first surface (1 ) is made of non-woven fabric or medical grade materials.

24. A system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 20, wherein the first surface (1 ) comprises a layer made of hydrophobic material.

25. A system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 24, wherein the hydrophobic material is natural or man-made.

26. A system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 20, wherein the first absorbent layer (9) is made of a natural absorbent, a man-made absorbent, or a cellulose-based material.

27. A system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 26, wherein the natural absorbent is cotton.

28. A system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 26, wherein the man-made absorbent is cotton wool.

29. A system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 20, wherein the liquid transport unit (5) comprises a second absorbent layer (12) made of material with thickness less than 0.5 millimetres, said second absorbent layer ( 12) being sandwiched between a second pair of layers, of which one layer is common between the first pair of layers and the second pair of layers, said second pair of layers comprising a third layer (13) which is made of a material that is less absorbent as compared to the material of which the second absorbent layer (12) is made of, said third layer (13) not repulsing the liquid that is to be transported through the liquid transport unit (5).

30. A system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 29, wherein the second absorbent layer (12) is made of a natural absorbent, a man-made absorbent, or a cellulose-based material.

31. A system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 29, wherein the natural absorbent is cotton.

32. A system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 29, wherein the man-made absorbent is cotton wool.

33. A system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 29, wherein the layer that is common between the first pair of layers and the second pair of layers comprises a third plurality of perforations (14) that facilitate contact between the first absorbent layer (9) and the second absorbent layer (12).

34. A system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 20, wherein the first absorbent layer (9) is tightly and continuously stitched together with a surrounding layer (15), with the direction of stitching being the same direction as that of the liquid to be wicked.

35. A system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 34, wherein the thread is made of cotton, tericot, or nylon.

36. A system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 33, wherein the stitching is done in a zigzag pattern, crisscross pattern, or ladder pattern.

37. A system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 20, wherein the first absorbent layer (9) is formed by keeping a first non-woven fabric (16) below a first cellulose-based material (17) and applying heat and pressure to this arrangement from a side of the first cellulose-based material (17), said application of heat being carried out to enable the surface of the first non- woven fabric (16) that is facing the first cellulose-based material (17) to reach the thermal sealing temperature of the first non-woven fabric (16).

38. A system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 37, wherein a flexible mesh (18) is disposed in between the first cellulose-based material (17) and the first non-woven fabric (16) before the arrangement is heated, said flexible mesh (18) being made of a material having a significantly higher melting or combustion temperature when compared to the thermal sealing temperature of the first non-woven fabric (16).

39. A system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 38, wherein the mesh (18) is made of cotton or tericot.

40. A system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 38, wherein the shape of the mesh (18) is hexagonal, square, or pentagonal.

41. A system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 20, wherein the liquid transport unit (5) comprises an absorbent material that is sandwiched tightly between two layers of another material that is lesser absorbent as compared to an inner layer of the absorbent material.

42. A system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 41, wherein the absorbent material is made of cotton, wool, or cotton- wool.

43. A system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 41, wherein the sandwiching material is made of plastic, poly vinyl chloride, Polyethylene terephthalate, or Polyethylene.

44. A system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 20, wherein the second enclosure (20) is made of Polyvinyl chloride, Polyethylene terephthalate, transparent biaxially oriented propylene, or biodegradable plastic.

45. A system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 20, wherein the indicator unit (6) comprises: a fourth layer (21) that is made of hydrochromic ink, which is printed on a transparent medium, said transparent medium being a separate medium or an inner surface of the second enclosure (20); a fifth layer (22) that is made of any material that is capable of absorbing the given liquid, said fifth layer (22) being configured to have a translucency in the range of 30% to 80%; a sixth layer (23); a first interface (24), wherein the surface of the fourth layer (21) with the hydrochromic ink faces the first interface (24); a second interface (25); a third interface (26); a fourth interface (27); and an observation point (28) that facilitates the monitoring of the indicator unit (6), with: the fourth layer (21) and the fifth layer (22) being physically tightly associated with one another through the first interface (24); the fifth layer (22) and the sixth layer (23) being physically tightly associated with one another through the second interface (25); and the sixth layer (23) and the liquid transport unit (5) being associated with one another through the third interface (26), said liquid transport unit(5) being configured to have a greater length than the sixth layer (23).

46. A system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 45, wherein the fifth layer (22) is of white colour in the dry state.

47. A system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 45, wherein the colour of the sixth layer (23) is completely different from the colour of the fifth layer (22).

48. A system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 45, wherein the sixth layer (23) and the fifth layer (22) are of visually distinguishable, different shades of the same colour.

49. A system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 45, wherein the sixth layer (23) is of bright red colour.

50. A system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 45, wherein the observation point (28) is: the naked eye of a person who is visually observing the system, a combination of photo capturing equipment and a computing system, said computing system being capable of storing, transferring and/or analysing the colour change results, or a combination of video capturing equipment and a computing system, said computing system being capable of storing, transferring and/or analysing the colour change results.

51. A system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 45, wherein the fourth layer (21), the fifth layer (22), the sixth layer (23), and the liquid transport unit (5) are configured to display a pattern or a design when a liquid passes through the indicator unit (6).

52. A system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 20, wherein the indicator unit (6) comprises: a fourth layer (21) and the fifth layer (22), said fourth layer (21) and said fifth layer (22) being physically tightly associated with one another through a first interface (24); the liquid transport unit (5) that is associated physically tightly with the fifth layer (22) across the entire length of the fifth layer (22) through a fourth interface (27); and an observation point

(28), with the fourth layer (21) being of a different colour when compared to the fifth layer (22), said colour not being soluble in a given liquid.

53. A system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 20, wherein the indicator unit comprises: a fifth layer (22) that is physically tightly associated with a sixth layer (23) through a second interface (25), said sixth layer (23) being associated with the liquid transport unit (5) through a third interface (26), said liquid transport unit (5) being associated physically tightly with the fifth layer (22) through a fourth interface (27); and an observation point (28).

54. A system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 53, wherein the indicator unit comprises: a seventh layer (29) that is made of a material that is translucent and has good absorbing and wicking properties; an eight layer (30) that is of dissimilar colour when compared to the sixth layer (23); a fifth interface (31); a sixth interface (32); and a seventh interface (34), with: the seventh layer (29) and the liquid transport unit (5) being associated with each other through the sixth interface (32); the eighth layer (30) and the seventh layer

(29) being associated with each other through the fifth interface (31 ); the fifth layer (22) and the eighth layer (30) being associated with one another through the seventh interface (34); and the seventh layer (29) being made of a material that has a higher wicking speed than the material of which the fifth layer (22) is made of.

55. A system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 54, wherein the eighth layer (30) is of smaller length when compared to the sixth layer (23), the difference in length being in the direction of flow of the liquid, and the seventh layer (29) is of smaller length when compared to the fifth layer (22), with the eight layer (30) being made of opaque material and the fourth layer (21) and the seventh layer (29) being interfaced with each other through the eighth interface (35).

56. A system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 45, wherein the indicator unit (6) further comprises a thin pH test strip (33) just below the fourth layer (21), said pH test strip (33) appearing as a band on the indicator unit (6) when exposed to the liquid.

57. A system that facilitates the detection of an appropriate time to change a dirty diaper as claimed in claim 20, the functioning of the system comprising the steps of: attaching the system to an inside surface of a diaper that is being worn by the person sleeping on his or her back; passing of the defecation through the first plurality of perforations (3) and the second plurality of perforations (4); absorption of a small part of the defecation by the first core (7); passing of the remaining defecation through the first plurality of perforations (3) and subsequent absorption by the diaper; transporting the defecation absorbed by the first core (7) to the indicator unit (6); and observing a change in colour of the indicator unit (6) through the observation point.