CZ288533B6 - Compound sanitary napkin - Google Patents

Abstract

The invented compound sanitary napkin (20) includes a primary absorbent member (30) and a secondary absorbent member (50). The primary absorbent member (30) has a length and width. The secondary absorbent member (50) has a length and a width. The primary absorbent member (30) and the secondary absorbent member (50) have a common length. The primary absorbent member (30) includes an absorbent core (34) and a fluid pervious topsheet (32) superposed on the absorbent core (34). The secondary absorbent member (50) preferably includes a fluid pervious topsheet (52), a fluid impervious backsheet (54) joined to the topsheet (52). The primary absorbent member (30) is affixed to the secondary absorbent member (50) by union means (70). The width of the secondary absorbent member (50) is at least 1.5 times the width of the primary absorbent member (30). The primary absorbent member (30) further comprises a resilient member (45, 216) having a substantially inverted V-shaped cross-section.

Description

Folded sanitary napkin

Technical field

The invention relates to disposable sanitary napkins. Sanitary napkins are considered to be absorbent articles designed to be worn outside the female body, usually during menstrual periods, and to receive and retain menses and other vaginal secretions. These disposable products are not intended to be reused after use and contamination.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In their simplest form, disposable sanitary napkins comprise an absorbent element (called an absorbent core) disposed between a permeable body contacting element (called a topsheet or wrapper) and an impermeable, protective barrier (called a backsheet). The absorbent element is, of course, intended to receive and maintain menses and other vaginal discharges. The body contacting element provides more or less comfortable and dry contact with the body surfaces while allowing free passage of fluids into the absorbent element. The protective barrier prevents menses or other vaginal outflows that are repelled or leaked from the absorbent element from soiling the wearer's underwear.

In addition to the three functional elements mentioned above, disposable sanitary napkins are generally provided with means to support the product adjacent the crotch of its user, even if it moves, where it can best perform its intended function. The sanitary napkins are typically provided with adhesive attachment means to secure the article to the inner crotch surface of the wearer's undergarments.

Although the prior art sanitary napkins perform their intended function, each traditional design suffers from more or less certain drawbacks in absorbing body fluids, protecting the wearer's undergarments from contamination, and / or the physical comfort of the wearer.

With respect to disposable sanitary napkins, at least two of their general classes currently exist. Their first class is characterized by being intended to absorb moderate to strong menstrual flows. These sanitary napkins offer a relatively high absorption capacity. The absorbent capacity is generally achieved by providing the sanitary napkin with a relatively thick and bulky absorbent member. Although they have a relatively large absorbent capacity, the bulkiness of the absorbent member may cause some degree of discomfort when worn.

The second class of sanitary napkins is intended for weak or small menstrual flows and is commonly referred to as pantie pads or pantiliners. Sanitary napkins of this class as a group are thinner, somewhat more flexible and generally more comfortable than those of the first class. However, second class sanitary napkins typically lack the absorbent capacity of the first class sanitary napkins.

One attempt to provide the benefits of the above two categories of sanitary napkins into a single, folded sanitary napkin is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 4,425,130, issued to DesMarais on January 10, 1984. This DesMaraise compound sanitary napkin comprises a primary sanitary napkin and panty liner, interconnected at their respective ends in such a manner that the two forming elements are free to move towards each other along substantially their entire length. The primary sanitary napkin is intended to absorb the volume of body fluids excreted by the user, while the panty protector is intended to protect the wearer's undergarments from contamination. In use, the relative freedom of movement between the primary sanitary napkin and the panty protector serves to maintain the primary sanitary napkin adjacent the crotch region of the wearer while the panty protector remains associated with the undergarment

User. Although the relative unrestricted movement between the primary sanitary napkin and the panty protector serves to maintain the primary sanitary napkin at the crotch region of the wearer, freedom of movement may lead to lack of stability when the primary sanitary napkin moves laterally beyond the side edges of the panty protector, providing opportunity for soiling. user's laundry.

In addition, the relative unrestricted movement between the primary sanitary napkin and the panty liner itself may be insufficient to retain body fluids found within the user's vaginal opening. The primary sanitary napkin is preferably narrow enough to rest at least partially within the external genitalia. Optionally, the primary sanitary napkin may be wider than the distance between the labia major (labia) but exhibits lateral compression or adaptability at relatively small forces, such as those exerted by the soft tissue of the external female genitalia, so that part of the primary sanitary napkin may rest at least partially female genitalia. Due to its adaptability under relatively small forces, the primary absorbent member remains comfortable during wear. In addition, the primary sanitary napkin preferably exhibits resilient recovery to allow the sanitary napkin to conform to the body when the liner-body interface is subjected to shape changes.

When the primary sanitary napkin is made narrower to fit the body, the panty protector preferably remains wide enough to provide a stable attachment to the wearer's undergarment and to adequately cover the undergarment to protect it from contamination.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The composite sanitary napkin comprises a primary absorbent member having length and width, and a secondary absorbent member having length and width, the primary absorbent member and the secondary absorbent have a common length, the primary absorbent member comprising an absorbent core and a liquid permeable topsheet disposed on the absorbent core. The secondary absorbent member comprises a liquid pervious topsheet, a liquid impermeable backsheet attached to the topsheet, the primary absorbent member being attached to the secondary absorbent member by fasteners. The width of the secondary absorbent member is at least 1.5 times greater than the width of the primary absorbent member. The primary absorbent member (30) further comprises a resilient member having a cross-sectional U-shape or an inverted V-shape.

According to a preferred embodiment, the width of the secondary absorbent member is at least 2 times greater than the width of the primary absorbent member.

The primary absorbent member is connected to the secondary absorbent member by fasteners, the longest unattached distance between adjacent attachment points being less than 50% of the common length.

The primary absorbent member is secured to the secondary absorbent member by fasteners extending continuously along a common length.

The secondary absorbent member comprises an absorbent member positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet.

The primary absorbent member comprises a fluid barrier.

The primary absorbent member comprises at least two components.

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The primary absorbent member is disposed within the first end region and includes an upwardly curved portion, with the first end region adjacent to the central region and thereafter the second end region.

The primary absorbent member has an adaptability of less than 6894.8 Pa at a distance of 3.525 mm in the conformability test.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Although the description is terminated by the claims specifically identifying and clearly claiming the invention, it is believed that the invention will be better understood from the following description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like elements and wherein:

Giant. 1 is a plan view of one embodiment of the compound sanitary napkin of the present invention.

Giant. 2 is a side view of the folded sanitary napkin of FIG. 1.

Giant. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the compound sanitary napkin of FIG. 1 and 2 taken along line 3-3 in FIG. 2.

Giant. 3A is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the compound sanitary napkin of the present invention.

Giant. 4 is a plan view of another embodiment of the compound sanitary napkin of the present invention.

Giant. 5 is a plan view of another embodiment of the composite sanitary napkin of the present invention.

Giant. 6 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the compound sanitary napkin of the present invention.

Giant. 6A is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the compound sanitary napkin of the present invention.

Giant. 7 and 8 show simplified views of the stability resistance test procedure.

Giant. 9 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the compound sanitary napkin of the present invention.

Giant. 10 is a cross-sectional view along the longitudinal axis of the compound sanitary napkin of the present invention.

Giant. 11 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the compound sanitary napkin of the present invention.

Giant. 12 is a cross-sectional view along the longitudinal axis of the compound sanitary napkin of the present invention.

Giant. 13 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the compound sanitary napkin of the present invention.

Giant. 14 is a side elevational view of another embodiment of the compound sanitary napkin of the present invention.

Giant. 15 is a side elevational view of another embodiment of a compound sanitary napkin.

Giant. 16 is a side elevational view of another embodiment of the compound sanitary napkin of the present invention.

Giant. 17 is a plan view of the compound sanitary napkin of FIG. 11.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is a body-fitting, folded sanitary napkin exhibiting body fluid absorbency, underwear protection from contamination, and physical comfort to the wearer. The term sanitary napkin as used in this material refers to a product worn by women adjacent to the pubic region and intended to absorb and contain various body exudates (eg blood, menses and urine) which are intended to be disposed of after a single use (ie , does not count on its washing or other renewal or reuse). The term composite sanitary napkin refers to a sanitary napkin composed of separate components interconnected to form a unit structure. Interlabial devices resting partly inside and partly outside the wearer's vestibule are also within the scope of the present invention. The term pubic (pudendal) refers to the external visible female genitalia and is limited to the labia major, labia minora, clitoris and vestibule.

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In FIG. 1-3, one preferred embodiment of the compound sanitary napkin 20 of the present invention is shown. As seen in FIG. 1-3, the folded sanitary napkin 20 comprises a primary absorbent member 30 and a secondary absorbent member 50 joined together by the fasteners 70. The folded sanitary napkin has two surfaces, a body contacting face or face, and a garment contacting face. The primary absorbent member and the secondary absorbent member each have a corresponding body-facing surface and an undergarment. The composite sanitary napkin 20 has two central axes, a longitudinal central axis and a transverse axis. The term longitudinal refers to a line, axis or direction in the plane of the folded sanitary napkin that is generally aligned with (e.g., approximately parallel to) the vertical plane of the halved standing wearer to the left and right body halves when the folded sanitary napkin is worn. The terms transverse or lateral are interchangeable and refer to a line, axis or direction that lies within the plane of the sanitary napkin that is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

The primary absorbent member 30 has side edges 24 and end edges 25 that together form the perimeter 26 of the primary absorbent member 30. The secondary absorbent member 50 has side edges 21 and end edges 22 that together form the perimeter 23 of the secondary absorbent member 50 and the folded sanitary napkin 20. The composite sanitary napkin 20 has a first end region 27, a central region 28, and a second end region 29.

The primary absorbent member 30, as it appears from it, is a forming component of the pad 20 intended to absorb the volume of body fluids secreted by the user. The primary absorbent member 30 comprises absorbent means 33 such as an absorbent core 34 and a liquid pervious topsheet 32 or wrapper disposed on the absorbent core 34.

The topsheet 32 is preferably conformable, soft feeling and non-irritating to the wearer's skin. Further, the topsheet 32 is liquid pervious allowing fluid to readily penetrate through its thickness. A suitable topsheet 32 may be manufactured from a wide range of materials such as woven and nonwoven materials, polymeric materials such as apertured formed thermoplastic films, perforated plastic films and hydroformed thermoplastic films, porous foams, reticulated foams, reticulated thermoplastic films and thermoplastic scrims. Suitable woven and nonwoven materials may be comprised of natural fibers (e.g., wood or silk), synthetic fibers (e.g., polymer fibers such as polyester, polypropylene, or polyethylene), or a combination of natural and synthetic fibers. A preferred topsheet 32 comprises an apertured formed film. The apertured formed films are preferred for the topsheet because they are permeable to body exudates and still non-absorbent and have a reduced tendency to allow liquids to pass back and rewet the wearer's skin. Thus, the surface of the formed film that is in contact with the body remains dry, thereby reducing body contamination and creating a more comfortable feel for the wearer. Suitable formed films are described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,929,135, issued to Thompson on December 30, 1975, and U.S. Pat. No. 4,324,426, issued to Mullane et al. On April 13, 1982, U.S. Pat. No. 4,342,314 issued to Radel et al. On Aug. 3, 1982, U.S. Pat. No. 4,463,045 issued to Ahr et al. July 31, 1984, and U.S. Patent No. 5,006,394, issued to Baird on August 9, 1991. Each of these patents is incorporated herein by reference. A preferred topsheet for the primary absorbent member 30 of the present invention is the formed film described in one or more of the patents above and sold to sanitary napkins by the Procter & Gambia Company of Cincinnati, Ohio, under the trademark DRI-WEAVE.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the body or exposed surface of the formed film topsheet 32 is hydrophilic such that it passes through the topsheet 32 more quickly than if it were not hydrophilic to reduce the likelihood that menstrual fluid would flow from the topsheet rather than into it. In a preferred embodiment, a surface active agent such as described in WO 93/0941 entitled Absorbent article with a nonwoven and apertured film covering layer, filed November 19, 1991, is incorporated into the polymeric materials of the topsheet of the formed film. , Aziz et al., Which is incorporated herein by reference.

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Alternatively, the surface of the body of the topsheet 32 may be rendered hydrophilic by treating it with a surfactant, as described in U.S. Patent 4,950,254, issued to Osbom on August 21, 1990. The topsheet 32 may be associated with the absorbent core 34 in any suitable manner. Suitable methods include, but are not limited to, bonding the topsheet 32 to the absorbent core 34 by spraying adhesive or applying lines or adhesive points between the topsheet 32 and the absorbent core 34.

Alternatively, or in addition, the topsheet 32 may be associated with the absorbent core 34 by entangling the fibers of the absorbent core 34 with the topsheet 32, fusing the topsheet 32 to the absorbent core 34 by discrete individual fusions, or by any means known in the art.

In order to ensure appropriate fluid transfer between the topsheet 32 and the absorbent core 34, it is preferred that the topsheet is substantially continuously attached to the underlying absorbent core 34 along their common connection or interface. By substantially continuously attaching the topsheet 32 to the underlying absorbent core 34, the topsheet 32 will have a reduced tendency to separate from the absorbent core 34 during use. Separation of the absorbent core 34 from the topsheet 32 can prevent fluid transfer from the topsheet 32 to the bottom. the underlying absorbent core 34.

The absorbent core 34 may be any absorbent means that is generally compressible, conformable, flexible, non-irritating to the wearer's skin, and capable of absorbing and retaining body exudates. The absorbent core 34 may be manufactured from a wide variety of liquid absorbent materials commonly used in disposable sanitary napkins and other absorbent disposable articles. Examples of suitable absorbent materials include comminuted wood pulp (generally referred to as airfelt), crepe cellulose wadding, modified cross-linked cellulose fibers (such as those described in U.S. Patent No. 5,217,445, issued to Young et al. On June 8, 1993). capillary ducts (i.e., fibers having intracellular capillary ducts such as those described in U.S. Patent 5,200,248, issued to Thompson on April 6, 1993), absorbent foams (described, e.g., in U.S. Patent 5,260,345, issued to DesMaraise et al. on November 9, 1993, and U.S. Patent No. 5,268,224, issued to DesMaraise et al. on December 7, 1993), airlaid materials (e.g., those disclosed in WO95 / 10996, entitled Catamenius Absorption Structures with thermally bonded layers for better management of menstrual fluids and their use in sanitary napkins having improved fit and comfort, filed on behalf of Richards et al. October 1, 1993 (Case P&G 6051), absorbent sponges, synthetic staple fibers, polymer fibers, hydrogel-forming gel compositions, peat moss, or any equivalent materials or combinations thereof.

Suitable absorbent cores containing foams are described in US 5,260,345, US 5,147,345, US 5,147,720, filed under the names of DesMaraise et al., And Young et al. The first three patents were filed on August 12, 1991, and the fourth on February 12, 1992. Additional cores containing foams are described in European application 0 293 208 B1. Absorbent cores containing sponges are described in U.S. Patent Nos. 3,512,530, and 3,954,493, and in French Patent 2,220,827.

The total absorbent capacity of the absorbent core 34 should be compatible with the intended loading of the composite sanitary napkin 20. The absorbent capacity of the absorbent core 34 may be varied to accommodate the expected amount of fluid exudate fluid. For example, different absorbent capacity will be used for compound sanitary napkins intended for daily use as compared to hundreds per night, or for compound sanitary napkins intended for use by teenagers as compared to adult women.

The materials selected for use on the absorbent core 34 are preferably compliant, soft, conformable, compressible, and resilient to improve fit to the body and comfort of the primary absorbent member. The absorbent core 34 is preferably compressible so that the primary absorbent member 30 will be

-5GB 288533 B6 deform under relatively small forces occurring during normal use. In addition to compressibility, the materials contained in the absorbent core are preferably adaptable such that the primary absorbent member is capable of providing improved fit to and around the labia and perineum. Although generally compressible and adaptable under relatively small forces, such as those exerted by the female external genitalia, it is also important that the primary absorbent member 30 be sufficiently flexible that it will not collapse permanently when subjected to normal wear forces. Preferably, the primary absorbent member is sufficiently resilient to conform to the contours of the body to ensure intimate contact with the exposed genitalia of the female user. Tight contact with the exposed female genitalia helps to provide better fluid transfer from the user to the primary absorbent member 30 without allowing the fluid to bypass and / or run down the primary absorbent member 30. While the elastic characteristics of the absorbent core 34 allow improved fit, they need to be counterbalanced be both soft and comfortable for the wearer.

In the embodiment of FIG. 3, the absorbent core 34 is comprised of airfelt. The core is made of a generally cylindrical shape to provide the primary absorbent member with a generally cylindrical shape. In FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional view taken along a transverse axis of yet another embodiment of the compound sanitary napkin of the present invention. In this embodiment, the absorbent core 34 preferably consists of an absorbent foam such as those described in the aforementioned U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,260,345, 5,147,345 and 5,149,720. The absorbent foam core is folded or rolled to have an overall circular cross section . The folded core provides the primary absorbent member 30 with a generally cylindrical shape.

Although the absorbent core 34 shown in FIG. 3 and 3A generally have a circular cross-section, the absorbent core may be manufactured in a wide variety of shapes such as rectangular, triangular, oval, square, pentagonal, U-shaped, bent to the Z, and the like.

Optionally, the primary absorbent member 30 may comprise a resilient member 45 as shown in FIG. 3A. The resilient member 45 may comprise a single component or a plurality of individual components. Suitable materials for use on the resilient member 45 include, but are not limited to, nylon, polypropylene, polyurethane, polyethylene, polyester, synthetic rubber and other synthetic materials such as formed films, or natural materials such as rubber, sponges and the like, or any suitable material, capable of withstanding collapse under normal sanitary napkin wear. The resilient member 45 may be manufactured in a wide variety of shapes such as rectangular, triangular, oval, square, pentagonal, U-shaped, bent to Z, and the like.

The resilient member 45 may extend over the entire length of the primary absorbent member 30. The resilient member 45 may extend only over a portion of the length of the primary absorbent member 30.

The resilient member 45 may be positioned between the first end region 27 by the central region 28, the second end region 29, or in any combination above. For example, the resilient member 45 may be positioned either in the first end region 27 or the second end region 29 of the primary absorbent member, both in the first end region 27 and the second end region 29 of the primary absorbent member, or in the central region 28 and end regions 27, 29. , primary absorbent components.

Optionally, the primary absorbent member 30 may comprise a fluid barrier 35. The fluid barrier 35 tends to contain absorbed fluid within the absorbent core 34 and may be constructed of materials having the same properties as a liquid impervious backsheet on the secondary absorbent members 50 described below.

Optionally, the primary absorbent member 30 may include a acquisition layer 46 disposed between the topsheet 32 and the absorbent core 34. The acquisition layer 46 may serve several functions, including improved leakage of exudates through and into the absorbent core 34. Improving leakage

The absorption layer 46 provides a more even distribution of the exudates through the absorbent core. The acquisition layer 46 may be comprised of several different materials, including nonwoven and woven structures of synthetic fibers comprising polyester, polypropylene or polyethylene, natural fibers containing cotton or cellulose, mixtures of these fibers, or any equivalent materials and combinations thereof. Examples of sanitary napkins having a receiving layer and a topsheet are described in more detail in U.S. Patent No. 4,950,264, issued to Osbom, and in WO93 / 11725 Layered Absorbent Article, filed December 17, 1991, by Cree et al. In a preferred embodiment, the acquisition layer 46 may be joined with the layer 32 by any traditional means of joining the structures together, most preferably by fusing joints, as described in more detail above in reference to the Cree application.

Although the primary absorbent member 30 may generally be of any cross section in its unloaded state, it is preferably circular or oval in cross section. The length 40 and width 41 of the primary absorbent member 30 may have any suitable dimension. The primary absorbent member 30 is preferably 2 to 35 cm long, more preferably from 10 to 35 cm, and most preferably from about 20 to 35 cm long. A particularly preferred primary absorbent member 30 has a length of about 24 cm. The primary absorbent member 30 is preferably 0.5 to 5 cm wide, more preferably from about 0.5 to about 4 cm wide, and most preferably from about 0.5 to about 3 cm wide.

Referring now to FIG. 1-3A, the second essential component of the composite sanitary napkin of the present invention is a secondary absorbent member 50. The secondary absorbent member 50 preferably comprises a liquid pervious topsheet 52, a liquid impervious backsheet 54 associated with the topsheet 52, and an absorbent member 56 positioned between the topsheet 52 and a backsheet 54.

The topsheet 52 may be any fluid permeable material commonly used in sanitary napkins, disposable diapers, and the like. It may be of any material described above as useful in the topsheet 32 of the primary absorbent member 30.

A preferred topsheet 52 comprises a apertured formed film. The apertured formed films are preferred for the topsheet because they are permeable to body exudates and still non-absorbent and have a reduced tendency to allow liquids to pass back and rewet the wearer's skin. Thus, the surface of the formed film that is in contact with the body remains dry, thereby reducing body contamination and creating a more comfortable feel for the wearer. Suitable formed films are described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,929,135, issued to Thompson on December 30, 1975, and U.S. Pat. No. 4,324,246, issued to Mullane et al. On April 13, 1982, U.S. Pat. No. 4,342,314 issued to Radel et al. On Aug. 3, 1982, U.S. Pat. No. 4,463,045 issued to Ahr et al. July 31, 1984, and U.S. Patent No. 5,006,394, issued to Baird on August 9, 1991. A preferred topsheet for the primary absorbent member of the present invention is a molded film described in one or more of the patents above and sold to sanitary napkins by Procter & Gambia. Company of Cincinnati, Ohio, under the trademark DRI-WEAVE.

The absorbent member 56 may be any absorbent material commonly used in sanitary napkins, disposable diapers and the like. It may be any material described above as useful in the absorbent core 34 of the primary absorbent member 30.

In practice, most body fluids are absorbed and retained by the absorbent core of the primary absorbent member. One of the major functions of the secondary absorbent member 50 is to protect the wearer's undergarment components from contamination absorbed by the exudates that may be repelled from the primary absorbent member 30 or which inevitably bypass the primary absorbent member. Since the absorbent member 56 of the second absorbent member 50 performs a different function than the absorbent core 34, the absorbent member 56 may, and most preferably is, somewhat thinner and less bulky than the absorbent core 34.

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Since the absorbent member 56 has different requirements than the absorbent core 34, it can be formed from different materials. For example, a single or multiple layers of paper fabric as commonly used in paper towels or toilet papers may be used to form the absorbent member 56. Preferably, the absorbent element is formed from from about 1 to about 5 layers of paper web.

Preferably, the total absorbent capacity of the absorbent member 56 is somewhat less than that of the absorbent core 34. Since the absorbent core 34 is predicted to absorb most or substantially all of the body fluids during use, its absorbent capacity will be somewhat, if not significantly greater than such as the absorbent element 56.

A paper web comprising one or more layers having a basis weight of from about 24 to about 48 grams per square meter and a density (specific gravity) of from about 0.10 to about 0.12 grams per cubic centimeter as produced by the process described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,301,746, issued to Sanford and Sisson on January 31, 1967, which has been found to be completely satisfactory for use in absorbent member 56. Wet strength resins and latex binders may be and preferably are used to provide additional strength to the paper web used in the present invention. the absorbent member 56.

A paper fabric made by the process described in U.S. Patent No. 3,994,771 issued to Morgan et al. On November 30, 1976, it can also be used with good results as the absorbent member 56. Optionally, the secondary absorbent member 50 can be made without the absorbent member 56. Because most, if not all body fluids, are preferably absorbed and retained within the absorbent core 34 absorbent members 30. the secondary absorbent member 50 only needs to protect the wearer's underwear from contamination by relatively small amounts of fluids that can be repelled from the primary absorbent member 30 or which inevitably bypass the primary absorbent member 30. Accordingly, because the expected amounts of fluids come into contact with the secondary absorbent member 50 are relatively small, the absorbent member 56 may not be necessary to retain fluids within the secondary absorbent member 50 and prevent them from soiling the wearer's undergarments.

The backsheet 54 is liquid impervious (e.g., menses and / or urine) and is preferably made of a thin plastic film, although other resilient, liquid impervious materials may also be used. As used herein, the term flexible refers to those materials that are compliant and easily conform to the overall shape and contours of the human body. In use, the backsheet 54 is positioned between the absorbent member 56 and the wearer's undergarment. The function of the backsheet 54 is to prevent exudates that can be repelled or irreversibly bypass the primary absorbent element 30 and to contact and contaminate the undergarment components with the exudates absorbed and retained in the absorbent element 56. The backsheet 54 may thus consist of a woven or nonwoven material, polymeric films such as thermoplastic films of polyethylene or polypropylene, or composite materials such as a film-coated nonwoven material. Preferably, the backsheet is a polyethylene film having a thickness of from about 0.012 mm to about 0.051 mm. Exemplary polyethylene films are manufactured by Clopay Corporation of Cincinnat, Ohio under the designation P18-0401 and Ethyl Corporation, Visqueen Division of Terre Haute, Indiana under the designation XP-39385. The backsheet is preferably embossed and / or matte coated to provide a more fabric appearance. Further, the backsheet may allow vapors to escape from the absorbent member 56 (i.e., is breathable) while still preventing the exudates from passing through the backsheet.

The secondary absorbent member 50 is preferably provided with support means, such as attachment means 58. Adhesive attachment means 58 provide means for securing the folded sanitary napkin 20 in the crotch portion of the wearer's undergarment or panties. Thus, part or all of the exterior of the garment surface 55 of the backsheet 54 is covered with adhesive. In a preferred embodiment, at least a portion of the adhesive attachment means 58 is disposed on the garment surface 55 of the backsheet 54, adjacent the longitudinal side edges 21 of the secondary absorbent member 50. Any adhesive used in the art for these

It may be used herein, preferably for a self-adhesive adhesive. Suitable adhesives are Century A-305-IV, manufactured by Century Adhesives Corporation of Columbus, Ohio; and Instant Lock 34-2823, manufactured by National Starch and Chemical Company of Bridgewater, NJ. Suitable adhesive fasteners are also described in U.S. Patent No. 4,917,697. Before being placed in place, the self-adhesive adhesive is typically covered with a removable release cover 59 to protect the adhesive from drying out or sticking to a surface other than the crotch region of the panties. Suitable release caps are also described in the above-mentioned U.S. Patent 4,917,697. Any commercially available release caps may be used herein. Non-limiting examples of suitable release liners are BL30MG-A Silox E1 / 0 and BL30MG-A Silox 4P / 0, both manufactured by Akrosil Corporation of Menasha, WI. The compound sanitary napkin 20 of the present invention is used by removing the release cover 59 and then placing it in the panty such that the adhesive fastening means 58 contacts the panty. The adhesive fastening means 58 keeps the sanitary napkin in position during use.

The secondary absorbent member 50 of the present invention is preferably relatively thin and flexible. The secondary absorbent member 50 may have a diameter of about 1.9 mm. The diameter (or tactile strength) of the secondary absorbent member 50, or different regions thereof, is determined by the following test. A thickness comparator is used, and in particular Ames, Model 130 with a Model 482 dial indicator from BC Ames Company of Waltham, Massachusetts. The thickness comparator should have a circular foot made of aluminum weighing 10.0 grams and a contact area of 5.15 cm ² . The thickness comparator is reset. The 80.0 grams of stainless steel is placed on the spindle extending above the comparator dial. The comparator foot is lifted and the secondary absorbent member 50, with any adhesive cover paper removed, has adhesive sprayed with corn starch, and the secondary absorbent member 50 is placed on the base plate with the garment surface facing down. The secondary absorbent member 50 is positioned on the base plate such that when the bead is moved (lowered) down, there is in the region of the secondary absorbent member 50 for which measurement is required. Try to smooth out the secondary absorbent and avoid wrinkles on it. Gently lower the shoe onto the secondary absorbent member 50. Determine the diameter of the secondary absorbent member by reading the comparator dial 30 seconds after the shoe has contacted the secondary absorbent member 50.

Preferably, the secondary absorbent member 50 will have a diameter of less than 3.0 mm, more preferably less than 2.6 mm, more preferably less than about 2.2 mm, and most preferably less than about 2.0 mm.

The primary absorbent member 30 of the present invention is preferably relatively adaptable. It is preferred to keep the primary absorbent member 30 relatively adaptable so as to fit easily in use in the labial groove. It has been found that a primary absorbent member having a width and a diameter dimension of about 1 cm can comfortably fit within at least a portion of the labial groove. Although the primary absorbent members 30 are described above as having width or diameter dimensions greater than about 1 cm, they may also fall inside the labial groove if they are sufficiently adaptable. It is not necessary for the entire primary absorbent member 30 to sit within the labial groove, but at least a portion of the primary absorbent member 30 preferably has the ability to sit there. The conformability of the primary absorbent member 30, or various portions thereof, is determined by the following test.

Preferably, a computer controlled tensile tester, specifically EME, Model 599A, available from EME, Inc is used. of Newbury, Ohio, but other tensile testers may also be used. The tensile tester should have a pair of circular contact surfaces made of aluminum and 4.0 cm in diameter. The primary absorbent member 30 is disposed on a lower contact surface with one of its side edges resting downwardly and an opposing side edge facing upwardly toward the upper contact surface. The instrument is reset. The upper contact surface is lowered until there is a distance of about 1 cm between the two opposite surfaces. To determine the force that is exerted on the primary absorbent member 30, a conformation reading at about 1 cm is taken.

-9EN 288533 B6

The primary absorbent member 30 may have a conformation at about 1 cm less than about 0.07 kg / cm ² . Preferably, the primary absorbent member will have a conformation at about 1 cm less than about 0.035 kg / cm ² , more preferably less than about 0.017 kg / cm ² , and most preferably less than about 0.007 kg / cm ² .

As shown in FIG. 1-3, the secondary absorbent member 50 may be generally rectangular in shape. Other suitable shapes include, but are not limited to, oval, hourglass, dog bone, asymmetric, etc.

The secondary absorbent member 50 may optionally have two flaps 19, each adjacent to and extending laterally from the side edge of the absorbent core, as shown in FIG. 4. The flaps 19 are configured to fold over the edges of the wearer's panties in the crotch region such that the flaps are arranged between the edges of the panties and the thighs of the wearer. These flaps serve at least two purposes. First, the flaps help prevent contamination of the wearer's body and panties by menstrual fluid, preferably by forming a double-wall barrier along the edges of the panties. Second, the flaps are preferably provided on their garment surface with fastening means so that the flaps can be folded back under the panties and attached to the garment facing side of the panties. In this way, the flaps serve to maintain the sanitary napkin properly positioned in the panty.

In a preferred embodiment, the flaps may be composed of an upper layer, an absorbent element and a backsheet. The flaps are preferably unitary to the layer of the secondary absorbent member. In other words, the topsheet, the absorbent member and the backsheet simply extend laterally outwardly to form the flaps. However, the flaps need not be unitary to the secondary absorbent member. The flaps may be composed of a single substrate (backing layer) or other layer configurations. However, it is recommended that the flaps have a liquid impervious backsheet to prevent exudates from reaching the flaps so as not to pollute the edges of the wearer's panties.

It is further preferred that the flaps be provided with an absorbent member, at least to a point beyond the edges of the wearer's panties. In theory, only a small amount of menses should reach the flaps, therefore, only a relatively small amount of absorbent material is desired in the flaps. However, at least some absorbent material is recommended to prevent exudates that reach the flaps from further flowing into the unprotected area. The absorbent material may be a fabric or some stretch of the absorbent element 56. However, the absorbent material in the flaps should be relatively highly flexible.

A number of sanitary napkins having flaps suitable or adaptable for use with the secondary absorbent member 50 of the compound sanitary napkin 20 of the present invention are disclosed in U.S. Patent Nos. 4,687,478 issued to van Tilburg on Aug. 18, 1987; No. 4,589,876, van Tilburg, issued May 20, 1986, and U.S. Patent No. 4,608,047, issued to Mattingly on August 26, 1986.

Optionally, the secondary absorbent member may comprise components that naturally wrap the sides of the wearer's panties. Sanitary napkins having naturally wrapping components of a wearer ' s panties suitable for use with the secondary absorbent component of the sanitary napkin 20 of the present invention are disclosed in U.S. Patent 5,584,829 entitled Absorbent Product with Underpants Covering Components that Naturally Wrap the Panty Sides filed on May 22. and U.S. Patent 5,558,663, entitled Absorbent Product Having Underwear Covering Components with Extensibility Zones, filed June 20, 1994, by Weinberger et al.

The individual components of the primary absorbent member 30 and the secondary absorbent member 50 may be comprised of components that are extensible (preferably capable of resilient expansion), especially in the longitudinal direction when the composite sanitary napkin is worn. Preferably, the composite sanitary napkin is capable of elongation in the longitudinal direction between about 15% and about 40% of its

-10GB 288533 B6 unstretched length. This extensibility provides improved fit in use, comfort, and reduced fringing when the pleated sanitary napkin is attached to the wearer's undergarment.

Preferably, the secondary absorbent member is comprised of components that are also extensible in the lateral direction when the composite sanitary napkin is worn. Preferably, the composite sanitary napkin is capable of extending in the lateral direction between about 15% and about 40% of its unstretched length.

The topsheet for both the primary absorbent member and the secondary absorbent member may comprise an elastic, three-dimensional, fluid-permeable, polymeric structure as disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 5,366,782.

A particularly preferred extensible backsheet is an expanded adhesive film, known as Formula # 198-388, manufactured by the Findlay Adhesives Company of Wauwatosa, Wisconsin. Sanitary napkins having extensible components as disclosed in WO 93/01785 and 93/01786, both published February 4, 1993.

Referring now to FIG. 1, the secondary absorbent member 50 preferably has a length of 60 and a width of 61. The secondary absorbent member 50 is preferably from about 20 to 40 cm long, more preferably from about 25 to 35 cm long, and most preferably about 30 cm long.

Although it may have any cross-section in the unloaded state, the primary absorbent member 30 is preferably rectangular in cross-section. The secondary absorbent member 50 is preferably from about 5 to 10 cm wide, more preferably from about 5 to 10 cm wide, and most preferably from about 5 to 8 cm wide. The thickness of the secondary absorbent member 50 as shown in FIG. 2 and 3 is generally somewhat smaller than its width.

Since the primary absorbent member performs different functions than the secondary absorbent member, the properties and characteristics of the materials forming the primary absorbent member 30 and the secondary absorbent member 50 may be somewhat different from one another.

One of the main functions of the primary absorbent member 30 is to absorb and absorb body fluids. In addition, the primary absorbent member 30 is preferably of a size and shape such that it will fit within the labia. Accordingly, the width and / or diameter of the primary absorbent member 30 should be sized to at least partially fit within them. That is, a portion of the primary absorbent member will preferably sit between the labs during use. Since exposed female genitalia containing labia are generally referred to as soft body tissue, it is important that the materials comprising the primary absorbent member 30 are adaptable and relatively soft so that they are non-irritating and / or user-friendly. In contrast, one of the main functions of the secondary absorbent member 50 is to protect underwear from contaminated fluids that can be expelled by the primary absorbent member 30 or that can irreversibly bypass the primary absorbent member 30. Because the secondary absorbent member 50 performs a different function from the primary absorbent member. the absorbent member 30, its dimensions and properties may differ somewhat from those of the primary absorbent member 30.

Optionally, the width of the secondary absorbent member is at least 1.5 times the width of the primary absorbent member. More preferably, the width of the secondary absorbent member is at least 2 times the width of the primary absorbent member. Most preferably, the width of the secondary absorbent member is in the range of about 3 times to about 8 times greater than the width of the primary absorbent member.

The secondary absorbent member preferably has the same length as the primary absorbent member while the composite sanitary napkin is in its unloaded condition. However, it is entirely possible for the secondary absorbent member to be somewhat longer than the primary absorbent member and still function effectively.

-11 GB 288533 B6

Referring now to FIG. 1, it can be seen that the primary absorbent member 30 and the secondary absorbent member 50 share a common length 65. The common length refers to the length that the primary and secondary absorbent members have in common.

In order to form the compound sanitary napkin of the present invention, the primary absorbent member and the secondary absorbent member are connected by the connecting means 70 in FIG. 2 and 3.

The exact nature of the fasteners is irrelevant if the selected means serves to bond the primary and secondary absorbent members into the composite sanitary napkin of the present invention with sufficient tenacity so that they do not detach each other during use of the primary and secondary absorbent members. Fasteners such as adhesives with well known hot melt and self-adhesive adhesives are entirely satisfactory. If the nature of the components chosen to assemble the sanitary napkin so permits, heat welding, ultrasonic welding, or a combination of both heat and ultrasonic welding may be used.

The primary absorbent member 30 may be coupled to said secondary absorbent member 50 by connection means 70 in such a way that the longest unattached distance between adjacent attachment points is less than 75% of this common length. Optionally, the primary absorbent member 30 is attached to the secondary absorbent member 50 by fasteners such that the longest unattached distance between adjacent attachment points is less than 50% of said common length. Optionally, the primary absorbent member is attached to the secondary absorbent member by fasteners in such a way that the longest unattached distance between adjacent attachment points is less than 25% of the common length. Optionally, the primary absorbent member is attached to the secondary absorbent member by the fasteners so that the fasteners extend along substantially the entire common length.

Giant. 5 illustrates yet another preferred embodiment of the compound sanitary napkin 20 of the present invention. The primary absorbent member 30 has a length 40 that is somewhat less than the length 60 of the secondary absorbent member 50. Accordingly, the common length 65 corresponds to the length 40 of the primary absorbent member 30.

In FIG. 3, the upper layer 32 completely encapsulates the absorbent core 34 of the primary absorbent member 30. In this form, the upper layer 32 for the primary absorbent member 30 is separate and distinct from the upper layer 52 for the secondary absorbent member 50.

Optionally, the upper layer 32 for the primary absorbent member 30 and the secondary absorbent member 50 may be made of a single material structure, such as the upper layer 100 shown in FIG. In this embodiment, the topsheet 100 is used for the topsheet on both the primary absorbent member 30 and the secondary absorbent member 50. In the embodiment of FIG. 6, the topsheet 100 serves as a fastener 70 connecting the primary absorbent member and the secondary absorbent member together. The composite sanitary napkin may also include additional fasteners for attaching the primary absorbent member to the secondary absorbent member. Suitable additional fasteners include, but are not limited to, adhesives and fusible bonds. The primary absorbent member 30 has a width of 41. The composite sanitary napkin has a width of fasteners 541 that is spaced across the fastener 70. The width of the fastener 541 is less than the width of the primary absorbent member. Preferably, the width of the fastener 541 is less than 75% of the width of the primary absorbent member 30. More preferably, the width of the fastener 541 is less than 50% of the width of the primary absorbent member 30. Most preferably, the width of the fastener 541 is less than 25% of the width of the primary absorbent member 30.

As seen in FIG. 6, the absorbent core 34 is disposed between the upper layer 100 and the roast member 45 of the primary absorbent member 30. The roast member 45 has a substantially U-shaped cross-section and causes the primary absorbent member 30 to have a generally U-shaped cross-section.

-12GB 288533 B6

Preferably, the resilience of the resilient member 45 is not affected by the presence of body exudates absorbed and retained within the absorbent core. The retained elasticity of the resilient member 45 allows the primary absorbent member 30 to maintain intimate contact with the body of the wearer in use.

In FIG. 6A, the resilient member 45 and the primary absorbent member 30 generally have a circular or oval cross-sectional configuration.

Preferably, the primary absorbent member 30 exhibits a stable resistance sufficient to provide greater performance. The term stable resistance is the resistance exerted by the primary absorbent member to the forces applied to the primary absorbent member within the central region such that the side edges of the primary absorbent member do not extend beyond the side edges of the secondary absorbent member. In other words, stable resistance describes the relative movement of the primary absorbent member compared to the secondary absorbent member. It is preferred that the side edges of the primary absorbent member 30 do not extend beyond the side edges of the secondary absorbent member 50 even under relatively high forces. By keeping the side edges of the primary absorbent member within the side edges of the secondary absorbent member under relatively high forces, the opportunity to bypass or expel from the primary absorbent member and to a surface other than the secondary absorbent member, such as the wearer's skin or underwear, is substantially reduced.

The apparatus necessary to determine a stable resistance includes a scale and a resistive element. A suitable scale is the Sartorius Universal scale. The resistance element is a cylindrical rod having a diameter of 2.54 cm. The resistance element preferably has a length of about 15.24 cm. The resistive element may be made of any suitable material capable of withstanding the forces during the respective stability resistance test procedure. Suitable materials include, but are not limited to, steel, aluminum, plastic, wood, etc.

The procedure of the stable resistance assay is as follows: Referring now to FIG. 7 and 8, the resistive member 400 is placed on a scale 402, which is then tared to zero the scale. A composite sanitary napkin, such as an insert 410 having a primary absorbent member 412 and a secondary absorbent member 414, is positioned on the testing device such that the primary absorbent member 412 rests on the resistive member 400. Part of the backsheet of the secondary absorbent member 414 should be aligned substantially parallel to the axis of the resistive member 400. The force F in FIG. 7 and 8, it is applied to each end of the secondary absorbent member 414. The force should be applied until the side edge 420 of the primary absorbent member is aligned with the side edge 418 of the secondary absorbent member 414 as seen substantially perpendicular to the topsheet portion of the secondary absorbent member 414. Once the side edges of the respective primary absorbent member and the secondary absorbent member are aligned, the force to the nearest gram is recorded. This value indicates the stable resistance of the primary absorbent member.

The primary absorbent member may have a stable resistance of greater than about 600 grams. Preferably, the primary absorbent member exhibits a stable resistance greater than or equal to 50 grams, more preferably greater than or equal to 100 grams, and most preferably greater than or equal to 150 grams.

In FIG. 9-17 illustrates several specific examples, not limiting embodiments of the compound sanitary napkin.

In FIG. 9 shows an example of a primary absorbent member having a resilient member folded into Z. As seen in FIG. 9, the absorbent core 34 is preferably positioned between the topsheet 32 and the resilient member 45. Placing the absorbent core 34 between the topsheet 32 and the resilient member 45 helps to ensure intimate contact between the absorbent core 34 and the topsheet 32. A close contact between the topsheet 32 is described and an absorbent core 34 through the connection or pressure applied by the resilient member 45 to promote fluid transfer from the topsheet 32 to the underlying absorbent core 34. In some embodiments, it may be desirable to have a resilient member 45 capable of absorbing body absorbent body.

-13GB 288533 B6 Fluid. Such materials may include, but are not limited to, absorbent foams and sponges. Referring now to FIG. 10, which is a cross-sectional view taken along the longitudinal axis of another embodiment of the compound sanitary napkin 20 of the present invention. The primary absorbent member 30 comprises an absorbent core 34 composed of a relatively low density layer 72, a relatively high density layer 73, a resilient fiber 74, and an absorbent gelling material 75 dispersed on and within the high density layer 73. The absorbent gelling material 75 is dispersed primarily within the first and second regions 27, 29 of the primary absorbent member 30. The relatively low density layer 72 is preferably comprised of a thermally bonded, airlaid material. The relatively high density layer 73 is preferably comprised of a thermally bonded, airlaid material. The elastic fibers 74 are preferably capillary channel polyester fibers.

Giant. 11 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the compound sanitary napkin 20 of the present invention. The absorbent core 34 comprises a carded nonwoven layer of capillary channel fibers. The nonwoven layer is rolled on itself to form multiple layers. Preferably, a masking element 77 is disposed within the nonwoven layer of fibers 15 with the capillary channel. A suitable masking element is a liquid-permeable film. Yet another masking element is a formed film. Optionally, absorbent materials such as absorbent gelling materials can be incorporated into the nonwoven layer of capillary channel fibers.

Although FIG. 11 shows a non-woven layer of capillary channel fibers having a generally circular cross-section, the capillary channel fiber layer may be manufactured in a wide variety of shapes such as rectangular, triangular, oval, U-shaped, bent to Z, etc.

Giant. 12 illustrates another embodiment of the composite sanitary napkin 120. The composite sanitary napkin 25 1 20 comprises a primary absorbent member 130 and a secondary absorbent member 150. The primary absorbent member 130 comprises an apertured formed film topsheet 132, a receiving element 140, a spacer element 145, an absorbent core layer. the first elastic member 155 and the second elastic member 157. The first elastic member 155 extends over substantially the entire length of the primary absorbent member 130. The first elastic member 155 preferably includes capillary channel polymer fibers as described in U.S. Patent No. 5,200,248, issued to Thomson et al. April 6, 1993. The second resilient member 157 preferably comprises a nylon monofilament arranged substantially circular in cross-section secured to each other at the receiving member 140 and at the inner surface of the absorbent core. As seen in FIG. 12, the secondary resilient members 157 are disposed substantially in the central portion of the primary absorbent member 130.

The primary absorbent member 30 may comprise a resilient member 45 similar to the inner molding component disclosed in U.S. Patent 5,558,656, entitled Sanitary Napkin having an inner molding component, filed April 8, 1994, by Carl I. Bergman.

In FIG. 13, another preferred embodiment of the folded sanitary napkin 200 is shown. The folded sanitary napkin 200 includes a primary absorbent member 210 and a secondary absorbent member 220. The primary absorbent member 210 preferably comprises an upper layer 212, an absorbent core 214 and a resilient member 216. As seen in FIG. 8, the resilient member 216 has a substantially inverted V cross-sectional shape. Accordingly, the primary absorbent member 210 similarly has a substantially inverted 45V cross-sectional shape. Preferably, the resilient member 216 extends substantially the entire length of the primary absorbent member 210.

In FIG. 14, another preferred embodiment of the compound sanitary napkin 240 of the present invention is shown. Preferably, the folded sanitary napkin 240 comprises a primary absorbent member 245 50 and a secondary absorbent member 250. As seen in FIG. 14, the folded sanitary napkin 240 preferably has a substantially horizontal segment 255 and an upwardly curved segment 257. The horizontal segment 255 resides within the portion of the first end region 27 and the central region 28. The upwardly curved segment 257 rests within the portion of the second end region 29. preferably, the curved segment 257 comprises a tensioning means that it secures

Suitable tensioning means include, but are not limited to, a stretched topsheet, elastic material, yarns, foil, or any means to provide the desired tension. Optionally, the segment located within the portion of the first end region 27 may also be curved upward.

As seen in FIG. 15, the primary absorbent member 245 and the secondary absorbent member 250 are joined together throughout their common length. That is, they are joined together through segments 255 and 257. Optionally, they may be joined together in the first segment 255 and may be separated from each other in the rear curved segment 257, as shown in FIG. 15. In this embodiment, the absorbent member 250 remains substantially in the same plane through the segments 255 and 257 while in the unloaded state. The primary absorbent member 245 disposed within the second curved segment 257 curves upwardly and separates from the second absorbent member 250. The curved segment 257 generally coincides with the portion of the second end region 29. The primary absorbent member may also be curved upwardly within the portion first end region.

In FIG. 16 and 17, another embodiment of the compound sanitary napkin 320 of the present invention is shown. The folded sanitary napkin 320 comprises a segmented primary absorbent member 330 and a secondary absorbent member 340. The primary absorbent member comprises individual absorbent components 331, 332, and 333. As shown in FIG. 16 and 17, component 331 lies entirely within the first end region 27, component 332 lies completely within the central region 28, and component 333 lies completely within the second end region 29. Optionally, the primary absorbent member may comprise two components that extend from the end regions 27 , and 29, to the central region 28. Optionally, the primary absorbent member may comprise 4 or more individual components. Although FIG. 16 and 17 showing a primary absorbent member having multiple components extending the length of the folded sanitary napkin, it may be desirable to have several segments or some regions of the folded sanitary napkin without any primary absorbent element. For example, the first end region 27 and the central region 28 may comprise a primary absorbent component, wherein the second end region 29 comprises only a secondary absorbent member. In addition, primary absorbent members within different regions may be designed to perform specific functions and thus may be made of materials to perform these desirable functions. For example, the primary absorbent component 332 within the central region 28 may contain greater absorbent material capacity than component 331 or component 333 because component 332 is likely to be positioned to receive body fluids directly, while elements or components 331 or 333 are likely to receive and absorb. thus, have less capacity than component 332 within the central region 28.

It may be desirable to provide a composite sanitary napkin having a primary absorbent member with varying degrees of width or diameter over its length. For example, the primary absorbent member may be relatively thicker in the central region than in the end regions. Alternatively, the primary absorbent member may be relatively thinner in the central region than in the end regions.

While particular embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is therefore intended to cover all such changes and modifications within the scope of the present invention.

Claims (9)

PATENT CLAIMS A composite sanitary napkin comprising a primary absorbent member (30) having a length and a width, and a secondary absorbent member (50) having a length and a width, a primary absorbent member (30) and a secondary absorbent member (50) having a common length, a primary absorbent member ( 30) comprising an absorbent core (34) and a liquid pervious topsheet (32) disposed on the absorbent core (34), the secondary absorbent member (50) comprising a liquid pervious topsheet (52), a liquid impervious backsheet (54) attached to the topsheet (30). 52), the primary absorbent member (30) is coupled to the secondary absorbent member (50) by connection means (70), the width of the secondary absorbent member (50) is at least 1.5 times greater than the width of the primary absorbent member (30), the composite sanitary napkin (20), characterized in that the primary absorbent member (30) further it comprises a resilient member (45, 216) having a U-shaped or cross-shaped V cross-section. A compound sanitary napkin according to claim 1, wherein the width of the secondary absorbent member (50) is at least 2 times greater than the width of the primary absorbent member (30). Composite sanitary napkin according to claims 1 and 2, characterized in that the primary absorbent member (30) is connected to the secondary absorbent member (50) by coupling means (70), wherein the longest unattached distance between adjacent attachment points is less than 50% of the common length. Composite sanitary napkin according to claims 1-3, characterized in that the primary absorbent member (30) is attached to the secondary absorbent member (50) by connection means (70) extending continuously along a common length. Composite sanitary napkin according to claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the secondary absorbent member (50) comprises an absorbent member (56) positioned between the topsheet (52) and the backsheet (54). Composite sanitary napkin according to claims 1-5, characterized in that the primary absorbent member (30) comprises a fluid barrier (35). Compound sanitary napkin according to claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the primary absorbent member (30) comprises at least two components (331, 332, 333). Composite sanitary napkin according to claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the primary absorbent member (30) is disposed within the first end region (27) and comprises an upwardly curved portion, the central end region (28) adjoining the first end region (27); and the second end region (29). Composite sanitary napkin according to claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the primary absorbent member (30) has an adaptability of less than 6894.8 Pa at a distance of 3.525 mm in the conformability test.