JPH0591640U - Sanitary napkin with flaps - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) [Abstract] [Purpose] An object of the present invention is to provide a sanitary napkin that fits well to the human body, prevents leakage of body fluids, and can be comfortably used by the user. The sanitary napkin of the present invention has an absorbent member such as an absorbent core and two flaps extending outward from the absorbent member. Each flap is associated with an absorbent member at the juncture and each flap has two flexible axes. In use, the absorbent member is secured to the crotch of the panty and the flap is secured around the elastic end of the panty so that when the panty is worn, the absorbent member is held close to the human body while the flap is the absorbent member. Form a wall on each side of the to form a seal against the human body. Both the walls and the seals help prevent contamination of the human body and clothing due to menstrual blood.

Description

[Detailed description of the device]

[0001]

[Industrial applications]

 The present invention relates to a new sanitary napkin, particularly a sanitary napkin having a flap.

[0002]

[Problems to be solved with conventional technology]

 Sanitary napkins are absorbent articles that are intended to receive and contain vaginal secretions, such as menses. They are general-purpose products of modern society. Recently, disposable sanitary napkins that are intended to be held adjacent to the human body through the medium of clothing, such as underwear or panties, have become more traditional sanitary napkins that require specially designed belts in use. Effectively replacing.

US Pat. No. 2,787,271 describes a sanitary napkin having a rectangular center pad and a pair of lateral flaps integrally formed with the pad. These flaps are suitable for folding downwards and leaning against the opposite inner surface of the wearer's thigh to prevent overflow from the central pad, which would normally soil the garment. The sanitary napkin is manufactured so that the lateral flaps will bend down along parallel hinge lines that define the respective sides of the center pad. The center pad is a soft absorbent fibrous material, such as absorbent cotton, and has a core body that extends into the transverse flap without interruption. The hinges are formed by compression along the lateral edges of the core body within the center pad (eg, by steam pressing with a relatively sharp-edged pressing tool).

US Pat. No. 3,397,697 describes a disposable sanitary shield for underwear. The article consists of an elongated sheet of flexible material divided into at least two panels joined by an intermediate neck. One end portion of the panel adjacent to the neck portion comprises opposed wing flaps that fold over each other and are suitable for enclosing and enclosing the crotch portion of the panty underwear. The width of the crotch portion of the panty is thus limited by the surrounding absorbent pad in a freely slidable relationship with the crotch portion of the panty.

US Pat. No. 4,285,343 describes a sanitary napkin comprising an elongate central absorbent pad element having laterally extending side panels. The side panels may be integrally formed with the central element or may be separately formed and secured to the longitudinal ends of the central absorbent pad. A common bond line between the central element and the side panels may be folded around each lateral edge of the central absorbent pad when each side panel is in use and towards the rear side of the central element. So it must be flexible. In use, the central element is adhesively secured to the inside of the crotch portion of the undergarment, and each side panel is folded over to enclose at least half the outer surface of the crotch portion of the undergarment.

[0006]

[Means for Solving the Problems]

 The present invention relates to a sanitary napkin comprising an absorbent member and two flaps extending outwardly from the absorbent member. Each of the flaps is associated with the absorbent member using a curved bond line and has a free distal edge spaced from the bond line. Each of the flaps includes two flexible axes. The first axis is between the joining line and the end, while the second axis is between the first axis and the end.

A preferred embodiment of the present invention is a sanitary napkin comprising an absorbent member having two opposed longitudinal (longitudinal) ends, a liquid permeable body contact surface, and an opposed liquid impermeable surface. .. It also comprises two flaps, extending outwardly from each longitudinal end of the absorbent member. Each of the flaps has a free end associated with the absorbent member along a curved bond line and spaced from the bond line, as described above. Each of the flaps includes two flexible axes. The first axis is between the joining line and the end, while the second axis is between the first axis and the end. The first axis is suitable for bending the flap from the liquid impermeable surface towards the liquid permeable human body contact surface independently of the other axis, while the second axis makes the flap liquid permeable. Suitable for bending from a human body contact surface to a liquid impermeable surface.

In a preferred embodiment, the flaps are essentially flexible over their entire surface, thereby providing a myriad of flexible axes. In other embodiments, at least one of the axes is uniquely defined by different structural features.

Optionally and preferably, adhesive bonding means are provided on each of the absorbent member and the flap to secure the article within the crotch portion of the undergarment.

[0010]

【Example】

 While the specification sets forth claims in detail which clearly point out and distinctly claim what is considered the invention, the invention is further described by a study of the following specification and the accompanying drawings. It is believed that it can be easily understood.

A preferred embodiment of the sanitary napkin of the present invention is shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. The biopsy napkin 210 comprises an absorbent member represented by a central absorbent pad 212 and two flaps 224 and 224 '(in the following description, a sanitary napkin will have two flaps unless otherwise stated). It is not necessary that the flaps are mirror images of the same, and more appropriately the other, but they are preferably. Thus, the description of the first flap is the description of the second flap. Therefore, the description of the second flap will be omitted for clarity of explanation: Corresponding elements are indicated in the figures by reference numbers and reference numbers with prime signs. Be done).

The flap 224 is joined to the central absorbent pad by a curved bond line 226. As used herein, the term "curved" means various curves as opposed to a straight line. The bond lines 226 and 226 'are the boundaries between the flaps 224 and 224' and the absorbent pad 212 interposed therebetween, in other words, the flaps 224 and 224 'and the central absorbent pad 212 are bonded. It is the locus of points to be made.

The flap 224 has a distal end 278 that is spaced from the bond line 226. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the bond line 226 is concave with respect to the end 278. That is, the bond line 226 bends away from the end 278. In this embodiment, the curved bond lines 226 and 226 'and the seam 239 define an absorbent member (center absorbent pad 212) that is narrower in the central region than at its ends. A sanitary napkin that is narrower in the center than at both ends is generally perceived by the user as more comfortable than a uniform-width sanitary napkin.

The flap 224 includes a flexible first shaft 256 and a flexible second shaft 234.

FIG. 2, a cross-sectional view of sanitary napkin 210 taken along line 2-2, illustrates a generally preferred structure for sanitary napkin 210. As shown in FIG. 2, the central absorbent pad 212 comprises an absorbent core 216. The central absorbent pad 212 and flap 224 both include a topsheet 214. The backsheet 218 is disposed on the side of the absorbent core 216 and flap 224 that faces the side of the topsheet 214. In effect, the topsheet 214 constitutes one side of the flap 224, while the backsheet 218 constitutes the other side. The topsheet 214 constitutes one surface of the central absorbent pad 212 and the backsheet 218 constitutes the other surface.

In the illustrated embodiment, flap absorbent core 230 is interposed between topsheet 214 and backsheet 218. For structural simplicity, flap absorbent core 230 extends throughout napkin 210 and is interposed between absorbent core 216 and backsheet 218. Although this is a preferred embodiment primarily for structural reasons, the flap absorbent core 230 need not be interposed between the absorbent core 216 and the backsheet 218.

The topsheet 214 and backsheet 218 are joined at seams 239 around the entire perimeter of the sanitary napkin 210. The purpose of this seam is to integrate the various elements of the sanitary napkin into a unified body. The topsheet 214 is secured to the flap absorbent core 230 and the backsheet 218 along curved bond lines 226 and 226 'by coupling means not shown in FIG.

Adhesive bond members, center pad adhesive 220 and flap adhesive 236, covered by center pad release liner 222 and flap release liner 238, respectively, are illustrated in FIG. These adhesive bonding members are suitable for securing the sanitary napkin 210 within the crotch region of the undergarment.

The topsheet 214 is liquid permeable and is in close proximity to the user's skin when the sanitary napkin 210 is in use. The topsheet 214 is compliant, soft feeling, and non-irritating to the user's skin. It can be manufactured from any of the usual materials for this type of application. Non-limiting examples of suitable materials that can be used as topsheet 214 are woven and non-woven polyester, polypropylene, nylon, and rayon and molded thermoplastic films, with molded films being preferred. Suitable formed films are described in US Pat. No. 4,324,246 and US Pat. No. 4,342,314. Molded films are preferred for topsheet 214 as they are permeable to liquids and are still non-absorbent. Thus, the surface of the formed film that is in contact with the body remains dry and more comfortable to the wearer.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the outer surface of topsheet 214 is treated with a surfactant. Treating the outer surface of the topsheet with a surfactant makes the surface more hydrophilic and allows the liquid to permeate the topsheet more quickly than if the surface was not treated. This reduces the likelihood that menses will flow off topsheet 214 rather than being absorbed by absorbent core 216. The surfactant is preferably substantially evenly and completely distributed over the outer surface of the topsheet 214. This can be accomplished by any of the usual techniques known to those skilled in the art. For example, the surfactant may be applied to the topsheet 214 by spraying, buzzing, or by using a transfer roll.

In a preferred embodiment, the inner surface of the topsheet 214 is fixed in contact with the absorbent core 216. This contact relationship allows the liquid to permeate the topsheet 214 more quickly than if it were not in contact with the absorbent core 216. The topsheet 214 is maintained in contact with the absorbent core 216 by applying an adhesive to the inner surface of the topsheet 214, preferably in the limited separation area. Examples of suitable contact agents used for this purpose are the acrylic emulsion E-1833BT from Rohm End Haas Company of Philadelphia, PA and H. H. of St. Paul, Minnesota. B. It is an acrylic emulsion WB 3805 manufactured by Fuller Company. The adhesive may be applied by the same method as the surfactant is applied to the outer surface of the topsheet 214.

Referring to FIG. 2, it can be seen that the absorbent core 216 is positioned between the topsheet 214 and the backsheet 218. The absorbent core 216 provides a means of absorbing menstrual blood. The absorbent core 216 is generally compressible, conformal, and non-irritating to the user's skin. It can be composed of any material used in the art for such purposes. Examples of suitable materials are layers of tissue (eg paper cotton) or fiberized ground pulp (airfelt), with fiberized ground pulp being preferred.

The backsheet 218 is impermeable to liquids and thus prevents menstrual blood that may be squeezed from the absorbent core 216 from soiling the user's clothing. Any material technically used for such purposes can be utilized in the present invention. Suitable materials are embossed or non-embossed polyethylene films and laminated tissue.

The outer surface of the backsheet 218, which generally registers with the absorbent core 216, is coated with a center pad adhesive 220. The center pad adhesive 220 provides an adhesive bond that secures the center absorbent pad 212 within the crotch portion of the panties. Any adhesive or glue used in the art for such purposes can be used in the present invention, with pressure sensitive adhesives being preferred. The preferred adhesives are Century A-305-IV from Century Adhesives Corporation and Instant Lok 34-2823 from National Starch Company. As shown in FIG. 2, the center pad adhesive 220 is generally the same width as the absorbent core 216. The width is not critical and the appropriate width as well as the length can be easily selected by a person skilled in the art. The center pad adhesive 220 pressure sensitive adhesive should be covered with a center pad release liner 222 to prevent the adhesive from drying prior to use and to prevent the adhesive from sticking to extraneous surfaces. .. Any commercially available release liner commonly used for this purpose can be used in the present invention. Non-limiting examples of suitable release liners are BL30HG-A Silox E1 / 0 and BL30MG-A Silox 4P / 0 from Acrosil Corporation.

As can be seen from the above description, the central absorbent pad 212 is represented by a liquid permeable body contact surface (represented by the topsheet 214 in FIG. 2) and an opposing liquid impermeable surface (represented by the backsheet 218 in FIG. 2). It is an absorbent member. It should be understood that the illustrated embodiment, while preferred, is only one possible embodiment. Another possible embodiment is, for example, one in which the absorbent core is essentially completely wrapped with the topsheet before it is placed on the backsheet. The absorbent member may also comprise an absorbent core that is sufficiently integral to stand alone and that is liquid permeable on one side while being treated on the other side to be liquid impermeable. it can.

It should be noted that the narrow central absorbent pad 212 is effective because the overall shape and use of the sanitary napkin 210 keeps the central absorbent pad 212 in close proximity to the body. Such access of the central absorbent pad 212 positions the pad exactly where it is, ie, very close to the body at the vaginal opening. The central absorbent pad 212 can absorb most menstrual blood (water) before it has the opportunity to flow along the central absorbent pad 212.

It should be appreciated that the join lines 226 and 226 'are the lines along which the flaps 224 and 224' are associated with the absorbent member (represented by the central absorbent pad 212). As such, they represent the demarcation line between the absorbent member and the flap. It should also be recognized that the joining line is curved. Preferably, they are concave with respect to the ends 278 and 278 ', and with respect to most center absorbent pads 212. Thus, the absorbent member has a shape in which the width at the center is narrower than the width at both ends. This contour shape closely matches the anatomical dimensions of the user's crotch area. It makes the sanitary napkin comfortable to wear while at the same time making it more effective by making the compression by the user's legs less likely to float. Curved bond lines that are convex to the ends and to most center absorbent pads can be used, but are not preferred.

The width of the central absorbent pad 212 between the bond lines 226, 226 'at the closest point is preferably from about 1 to about 8 cm. The width of the central absorbent pad at its ends should be about 2 to about 9 cm. The central absorbent pad 212 has a length of about 7. It should be 6 to about 38 cm.

The central absorbent pad 212 need not have an absorption capacity that is significantly greater than the total amount of menstrual blood expected to be absorbed. Thus, the central absorbent pad 212 is relatively thin in addition to being narrow. Moreover, the narrow and thin absorbent member is extremely comfortable for the user. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, topsheet 214 serves as a topsheet for flaps 224 and 224 '. Generally, the flap does not require a topsheet to allow it to function properly, but the use of a topsheet is preferred. The flap topsheet can be integral with the body contacting surface of the absorbent member as shown, or it can be a separate element. The former is preferred. All specific property notes made above for topsheet 214 apply to any flap topsheet used. However, the flap topsheet is not required to be the same material as the topsheet associated with the central absorbent pad. In a preferred embodiment, the flap topsheet can be a nonwoven material, while in the case of a central absorbent pad the topsheet is a formed film.

The flap absorbent core 230 is positioned between the topsheet 214 and backsheet 218, and most importantly, within the flaps 224 and 224 '. In the illustrated embodiment, the flap absorbent core is also below the absorbent core 216. This is a preferred arrangement as it facilitates the manufacture of the sanitary napkin 210. In this arrangement, the absorbent capacity of the absorbent core 216 is increased. The flap absorbent core 230 provides a means of absorbing menstrual blood that is not absorbed or squeezed by the absorbent core 216. The flap absorbent core 230 is generally compressible, conformal, and non-irritating to the user's skin. It can be made of any material that can be used to make the absorbent core 216 as described above. Preferably, the flap absorbent core 230 is a tissue paper sheet. The use of flap absorbent cores is highly preferred but can be omitted.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, backsheet 218 serves as a backsheet for flaps 224 and 224 '. The flap requires a backsheet (or more generally, a liquid impermeable material) that allows it to function properly. The flap backsheet can be integral with the liquid impermeable surface of the absorbent member, as shown, or it can be a separate element. The former is preferred. All specific physical property notes made above for backsheet 218 apply to any flap backsheet.

The overall size of flap 224 can be readily selected by one of ordinary skill in the art. Preferably, the sanitary napkins d210 are about 10 to about 23 cm wide between their ends 278, 278 'at their longest separation. Preferably, the flap 224 is about 7.6 to about 18 cm long in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the sanitary napkin.

The outer surface of flap 224 adjacent end 278 is coated with flap adhesive 236.

Flap adhesive 236 is an adhesive bonding member used to help keep flap 224 in place after flap 224 is wrapped around the ends of the crotch portion of the panties as described below. Is. Any adhesive used for center pad adhesive 220 can also be used as flap adhesive 236. The flap adhesive 236 is also covered with a removable flap release liner 238. Any release liner material used for center pad release liner 222 can be used for flap release liner 238.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the topsheet 214 is fixed to the backsheet 218 along the seam 239. The seam 239 may be formed by any means commonly used in the art for this purpose, such as gluing, crimping or heat sealing. Seams 239 are shown extending completely around the perimeter of sanitary napkin 210. This is a preferred embodiment for ease of manufacture (other means of integrating the various elements of the article may be used). Flap absorbent core 230 is shown extending into seam 239. This is also the arrangement that results from the purified manufacturing technology. The three elements, the topsheet, the flap absorbent core, and the backsheet can be registered. The absorbent core is properly positioned between them, and the seam is formed, and the profile of the sanitary napkin is established by cutting in one or two operations.

Topsheet 214 may be secured to backsheet 218 (and flap absorbent core 230) along joint lines 226 and 226 ′ by the technique used to form seam 239.

The flap 224 includes a flexible first shaft 256 and a flexible second shaft 234. These two flexible axes cause the flap 224 to wall against the wall in use, as described below.

The flexible first shaft 256 is manufactured to cause the flap to bend along the flexible first shaft 256. When the sanitary napkin 210 is in the arrangement of Figure 2, the bending direction of the flap is upward. More generally, the bending direction is such that the portion of the flap 224 that includes the distal end 278 is about the flexible first axis 256, generally starting from the extended position as shown in FIG. Towards the contact surface (as represented by the portion of the topsheet 214 that registers with the absorbent core 216 in FIG. 2) and with the liquid impermeable surface of the absorbent member (registered with the absorbent core 216 in FIG. 2). (As represented by the portion of the backsheet 218) that folds away.

The flexible second shaft 234 is manufactured to cause the flap to bend along the flexible second shaft 234. When the sanitary napkin 210 is in the arrangement of FIG. 2, the bending direction is downward. More generally, the direction of bending is such that the portion of the flap 224 that includes the distal end 278 is about the flexible second axis 234, generally from the extended position as shown in FIG. The liquid-permeable, human-contacting surface of the absorbent member facing the surface (as represented by the portion of the backsheet 218 in register with the absorbent core 216 that makes up the central absorbent pad 212 in FIG. 2). The direction is such that it is folded away from (as represented by the portion of the topsheet 214 in register with the absorbent core 216 in FIG. 2).

The flexible first and second shafts can be provided in various ways. The preferred method is shown in FIGS. In the illustrated embodiment, the material of which flap 224 is made is selected so that flap 224 is essentially flexible over its entire width. The flexible shafts 256 and 234, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, are not a single unique construction, but rather represent a myriad of pairs of shafts in nature. This arrangement is particularly useful because the sanitary napkin 210 can be easily adjusted to fit a number of different sized undergarments when applied, and to the anatomies described below during use. preferable.

The total flexibility of the flap 224 positions the flap 224 around the ends of the crotch portion of the panties without changing the natural passages at the ends of the crotch portion of the panties. Thus, the ends of the crotch portion of the panties need not be stretched to fit the second flexible axis of the flap. In addition, the natural passages at the crotch end of the panties form the highest wall (discussed below) when the sanitary napkin is in place for use. This provides the greatest barrier to menstrual flow.

In the embodiment of the sanitary napkin 210 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the flap 224 is manufactured from a PCA score bend flap manufactured by Swing Albert Instrument Company of Philadelphia, PA. It is preferably selected to have a bend resistance through the 90 ° arch of less than about 200 g, more preferably less than about 50 g, and most preferably less than about 25 g as measured by a tester. These values are obtained when a section of flap with a length of 7.6 cm (maintained 2.5 cm above the lower end of the tester ramp) is evaluated under TAPPI standard conditions.

Abstractly, an axis is generally considered to be a linear element. The flexible shaft of the present invention is also generally straight, but the material of the flap is generally flexible enough to allow the flap to be conveniently bent and folded by the force of the hand, The flexible shaft can be curved under the influence of external forces.

Another embodiment of a sanitary napkin 310 having flexible first shaft 356 and second shaft 334 within flap 224 is illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4 (used in FIGS. 3 and 4). The reference numbers given refer to the same elements as in FIGS. 1 and 2.) In this embodiment, flexible shafts 356 and 334 are provided by severely crimping flap 224 as shown. Thus, the flap 224 of the sanitary napkin 310 includes axes defined by two distinct structural features along which the flap 224 is associated with the example embodiment shown in FIGS. Can be bent as described. Flexible shafts 356 and 356 'are preferably spaced from about 2 cm to about 18 cm. Flexible shafts 334 and 356 (and 334 'and 356') are preferably about 1 to about 5 cm apart. While this is a satisfactory embodiment of the present invention, the crotch of the undergarment to which it applies must generally be stretched or compressed when the biomedical napkin 310 is applied, so FIGS. Is less preferable than the illustrated example. Nevertheless, the use of the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4 will provide essentially all the advantages associated with the use of the embodiment illustrated in FIGS.

As shown in FIG. 1, the flexible first shaft 256 is proximate the bond line 226. The flexible first axis 256 can, in fact, intersect the bond line 226 at the point where the bond line 226 contacts the outer edge of the sanitary napkin, the outer edge of which is represented by the seam 239. In the general case, this will only be the case if the flexible first shaft 256 and the bond line 226 are touched or coincident. However, it is understood that the application of an external force during use can displace the flexible first axis towards the joining line and thus in some cases the two can touch or coincide. Should be.

In the present invention, each flap has a proximal portion and a distal portion. The proximal portion extends laterally outwardly from near the side edge of the absorbent member, eg, between the first shaft 256 and the second shaft 234 in FIG. 1 and the first shaft 356 in FIG. This is a portion included between the second shafts 334. Also, the distal portion extends laterally outwardly from the outer end of the proximal portion and is, for example, enclosed between the second shaft 234 and the distal end 278 in FIG. 1 and between the second shaft 334 and the distal end 278 in FIG. It is the part that is

A central absorbent pad comprising a liquid-permeable topsheet, a liquid-impermeable backsheet, and an absorbent core interposed between the topsheet and the backsheet, and each longitudinal side of the central absorbent pad. Has flaps extending from the directional end, and the line of junction between each flap and the longitudinal edge of the central absorbent pad is straight, and each flap is disposed within the body of the flap. Sanitary napkins with flexible shafts have priority over the straight tie line between each flap and the longitudinal edge of the central absorbent pad, as well as the flexible shafts located within the body of the flap. Can be manufactured to bend flexibly. Such a napkin would function in a similar manner to that of the present invention, although clearly different from that of the present invention.

The exact shape of the flap 224, as well as the overall shape of the sanitary napkin 210, can be selected by one of ordinary skill in the art without undue experimentation. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the flaps are symmetrically arranged along the longitudinal axis of the sanitary napkin. While this is a preferred embodiment, it is not an essential design feature. As mentioned above, the flap is generally a mirror image of the other. Although such a thing is preferable, it is not an indispensable design condition similarly.

Further, the sanitary napkin shown in FIGS. 1 to 4 is a specific example in which the flap is integrally formed with the top sheet and the back sheet of the sanitary napkin. Also, while this is a preferred manufacturing method, it is not essential. The flap and central absorbent material may be independently formed and joined by techniques well known to those skilled in the art in such a way that the resulting sanitary napkin will operate essentially equivalently to the illustrated embodiment.

In use, the sanitary napkin of the present invention may be held in place by known support means for such purposes. A belt worn around the waist of the user may be used. However, it is highly preferred that the sanitary napkin be placed within the user's panties underwear, as described below.

FIG. 5 is an undergarment of the type commonly worn by many women and known as panties. It comprises a front section 240, a rear section 242, and a crotch portion 244 joining the front section 240 and the rear section 242. The crotch portion 244 consists of two side edges 246 and 246 'and a central crotch portion 248.

The sanitary napkin of the present invention, such as that shown at 210 in FIGS. 1 and 2, removes the release liners 222, 238 and 238 ′ and then places the sanitary napkin in the panties as shown in FIG. Used by putting. The center of the central absorbent pad 212 is located within the crotch portion 244 of the panties, with one end of the central absorbent pad 212 extending toward the anterior section 240 and the other end in the aft section 242 of the panty. Extending out, and the backsheet 218 is in contact with the inner surface of the center crotch portion 248 of the panties. The center pad adhesive 220 holds the center absorbent pad 212 in place. The distal portions of the flaps 224 and 224 'are folded around the side ends 246 and 246' of the panties, respectively, by bending along the second flexible axes 234 and 234 '. Flap adhesives 236 and 236 'secure flaps 224 and 224' in such locations. Thus, flaps 224 and 224 'are each folded upon themselves. A portion of the panties, including side edges 246 and 246 ', is interposed therebetween.

A number of benefits result from the use of the sanitary napkins of the present invention. The flaps 224 and 224 'are wrapped around each end 246 and 246' of the crotch portion 244 of the panty as shown in FIG. This encapsulation of the panty crotch helps prevent menses from contacting the central crotch portion of the panties. In this way, the central crotch part of the panties will not be soiled.

There are two other benefits. One is that the portion of the flap that includes the flexible second shafts 234 and 234 'provides an excellent gasket-like seal to the body. Another benefit is that the central absorbent member, such as central absorbent pad 212, is maintained in excellent adjacent relation to the body.

The ends of the crotch portion of the panties generally include elastic material. When the panties are worn, the elastic body at the end of the crotch portion produces an upward force, that is, a force on the body due to the energy in the elastic body and the fit of the panties. Placing a flexible second shaft, such as flexible second shafts 234 and 234 ', between the body and the end of the crotch portion of the panty is directed upwards generated by the end of the crotch portion of the panty. Force is applied to push the portion of the flap containing the flexible second axis into a snug fit against the body. As a result, a gasket-like seal is formed along the flexible axis between the flap and the body. This is illustrated in Figure 7. 7 is a partial coronal view of the cross-sectional sanitary napkin and panties of FIG. 6 in position on the user (the coronal view is the anterior plane passing through the long axis of the body). The gasket-like seal helps prevent menstrual blood from seeping beyond the flexible second axis and minimizes soiling of the legs and adjacent clothing. Another benefit of pushing the flaps snugly against the body along the second flexible axis is that the absorbent member (the central absorbent pad) is in close proximity and concentric with the body. Is Rukoto. This is also illustrated in FIG. Maintaining a central absorbent pad against the body is known as "good human contact". Good human contact is beneficial as it provides a barrier to the lateral flow of menses. Without such a barrier, menses would tend to flow quickly along the topsheet, thereby giving less time for absorption by the absorbent core.

Intrinsic bunching is the formation of wrinkles along the abscissa of the sanitary napkin that results from first placing the sanitary napkin in the panties for use (the abscissa of the sanitary napkin is Extend across the "crotch" of the napkin, which is generally parallel to line 2-2 of 1.) This inherent bunching is due to the fact that the sanitary napkin is essentially straight along its longitudinal axis, and that the anatomical contour of the body on which the sanitary napkin is placed is essentially “U” shaped (physiological). The longitudinal axis of the sanitary napkin extends across the central absorbent material and is generally perpendicular to line 2-2 of Figure 1. Thus, as soon as the sanitary napkin is in place. , Its shape changes along its vertical axis from being essentially straight to a “U.” This shape change creates wrinkles along the horizontal axis of the sanitary napkin, most wrinkles It is at the maximum curvature of the body, that is, in the crotch area.

Forced bunching is the wrinkling of the sanitary napkin along either the abscissa or the ordinate caused by the movement of the user's legs.

Since menstrual blood easily flows along the troughs of the wrinkles in the absence of significant human contact along the wrinkles, the menstrual blood within the sanitary napkin created by intrinsic bunching and forced bunching Wrinkles are known as flow channels. The sanitary napkins of the present invention provide numerous benefits because the flaps bend in a flexible first axis. In particular, the advantages offered are:

(1) Intrinsic bunching causes the flow channels to form substantially only in the central absorbent pad and not in most flaps.

(2) The sanitary napkin of the present invention can withstand considerable forced bunching before the flow channels are created.

(3) Even though forced bunching is severe enough to create flow channels, the channels formed will be essentially limited to the central absorbent pad.

(4) Forced bunching prevents menstrual blood from penetrating beyond the flap's second flexible axis, even though flow is so great that flow is created in both the central absorbent pad and the flap. ..

The sanitary napkin of the present invention bends along a flexible axis, thus providing these four benefits. The anatomical feature of the female crotch region is that the crotch section is substantially trapezoidal, with the central region of the crotch located at the vaginal opening being the base of the trapezoid. When the sanitary napkin of the present invention, such as the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, is in use, the anatomical features of the crotch region are such that the sanitary napkin is raised above the flexible first axis. Make it bend. As a result, the sanitary napkin forms a wall on each side of the central absorbent pad. The wall extends from a flexible first axis to a flexible second axis, as illustrated in FIG. Thus, in use, the sanitary napkin of the present invention has a well shape. When the user is in the upright position, the plane formed by the flexible second shafts (234 and 234 ') wrapped around the ends of the crotch portions (246, 246') of the panties is flexible. Higher than the plane formed by the first axes of (256 and 256 ').

The intrinsic bunching within the sanitary napkin of the present invention is substantially limited to the central absorbent pad. Essentially no flow channels are formed in the wall. Without being limited by theory, it is believed that when a flow channel is formed, the energy that causes the flow channel is transmitted across the central absorbent pad and the flow channel is extended. This proceeds until the flow channel reaches the flexible first axis. The flexible first axis is believed to release the energy extending the flow channel so that the flow channel does not extend further. As such, the flow channel will not reach the gasket-like seal formed between the flap and the body on the flexible second axis, and therefore the seal will remain intact. The gasket-like seal forms a dam and blocks menstrual flow. The menstrual blood can then be absorbed (or reabsorbed) by the absorbent core.

The energy transferred to the sanitary napkin by forced bunching tends to cause the wall to rotate about each of the flexible first axes, so that the sanitary napkin of the present invention is designed before the flow channels are created. Can withstand considerable forced bunching. Without such rotation, flow channels would be formed.

Even though the forced bunching is severe enough to create a flow channel, the channel will be substantially limited to the central absorbent pad. This is true for the same reason that intrinsic bunching forms flow channels only in the central absorbent pad. Therefore, the gasket-like seal will remain intact and will form a dam and block the menstrual flow until it can be absorbed by the absorbent core.

Forced bunching, even though flow channels are large enough to form in both the central absorbent pad and the flap, prevents menstrual blood from penetrating beyond the flap's second flexible axis. It Such flow channels appear to break the gasket-like seal. However, the walls themselves will form a barrier to the flow of menses, so that menses are prevented from penetrating beyond the second flexible axis of the flap. The menstrual blood would have to flow up the wall to the reservoir that permeates the point of failure within the gasket-like seal. This is virtually counter to gravity when the user is in the upright position. Thus, the wall itself prevents menstrual flow.

In summary, the sanitary napkin of the present invention essentially forms flow channels only within the central absorbent pad, which leaves the gasket-like seal intact. As such, menses will not flow past the gasket-like seal. However, forced bunching prevents the flow of menses, even if the gasket-like seal is large enough to break.

It is important to note that a minimal amount of flap absorbent core 230, or no flap absorbent core at all, is not disadvantageous in preventing menstrual blood contamination. This is due to the fact that the main function of the wall formed by the flap is menstrual blood storage rather than absorption. The central absorbent member absorbs most menstrual blood. Moreover, the minimal amount of flap absorbent core is not too bulky and is therefore more comfortable for the user.

It is also important to note that in FIG. 7, the flap adhesive 236 is shown in contact with the ends of the panties only on the “outer” surface. This is the preferred method of securing the sanitary napkin in the panties, but as long as a portion of the flap extends around the edges of the panties, the flap adhesive will only be on the "inner" side, or " Both the "inside" and "outer" sides can contact the edges of the panties.

The sanitary napkin of the present invention is described as an article having two flaps each forming a wall when in use. These embodiments are highly preferred, but articles with only one flap can also be used. This one flap would be associated with the central absorbent member along a curved joining line. The flap will include at least two, and preferably at least four flexible shafts that will form both walls when fully folded around the crotch portion of the panty. The flaps will be associated with the central absorbent member along a curved joining line opposite the one described above.

In the embodiment of the sanitary napkin of the present invention shown and described above, the adhesive bond member was near the distal end of the flap and was in register with the central absorbent pad. Those elements that attempt to hold the biologic napkin securely within the crotch region of the undergarment are highly preferred elements. It can be asserted that the embodiment of the present invention, which does not deviate from its position and practically lacks one or more of the above-mentioned adhesive bonding members, is also a useful new effective article.

The embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 can be readily adapted to serve as embodiments of the present invention that include substantially no adhesive bond member 1 or more.

For example, center pad adhesive 220 (and necessarily its associated center pad release liner 222) may be omitted from the sanitary napkin 210 illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2. In use, this modified embodiment will be placed in the inner crotch area of the panty in the same manner as the unmodified embodiment, except that the central absorbent pad 220 is not secured within the inner crotch area of the panty. The flaps 224 and 224 'may be secured about the elastic ends of the panties with flap adhesives 236 and 236' as described above. The panties with their associated modified sanitary napkin will be worn by the user as before. The flap adhesives 236 and 236 'will cooperate with the elastic ends of the panties to hold the modified sanitary napkin in place.

Similarly, sanitary napkin 210 may be modified by omitting only flap adhesives 236 and 236 '(and release liners 238 and 238'). The modified sanitary napkin will be secured with the central pad adhesive 220 within the crotch region of the panties, and the flap will simply be folded around the elastic end.

Similarly, the sanitary napkin 210 can be modified by omitting all flap and center pad adhesives. In use, such a modified sanitary napkin will be kept in place simply by the cooperation between the flap, the elastic end of the panties and the body of the user.

Two points should be emphasized in the above description of the modified embodiment of the present invention.

First, only the adhesive bonding member is omitted from the modified sanitary napkin. All other necessary elements of the article are required: the absorbent member, the flap, the curved bond line, the flexible primary and secondary axes.

Second, modified sanitary napkins were generally described as "virtually free of" adhesive bonding members. The "virtually free" condition may be achieved by omitting the adhesive bonding member entirely during manufacture of the article, as described above. It may also be accomplished by applying the complete sanitary napkin 210 illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 to the panties with one or more release liner covered adhesive bonding members. As such, the applied sanitary napkin 210 will essentially function as if there were no adhesive bonding members covered. All or part of the free-floating sanitary napkin could benefit.

In the present specification, the “average width of the core” and the “average width of the inner crotch part of the panties” are the width of the core or the width of the lateral crotch part between the wearer's legs, and the average width is the center of both legs. It is the width between the departments.

“Lateral” is the direction from one leg of the wearer to the other leg, from one side of the wearer to the other.

“Longitudinal” means the direction from the front of the wearer to the rear, and “lateral outward” means the outermost end in the lateral direction.

It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention has been described with reference to illustrative embodiments, and that variations and modifications can be made in said embodiments without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. You will understand.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a plan view of a preferred embodiment of the sanitary napkin of the present invention,

2 is a cross-sectional view of the sanitary napkin of FIG. 1 taken along line 2-2 of FIG. 1 (the thickness of certain elements are exaggerated for clarity);

FIG. 3 is a plan view of another embodiment of the sanitary napkin of the present invention,

4 is a cross-sectional view of the sanitary napkin shown in FIG. 3 taken along line 4-4 of FIG.
Exaggerated for clarity),

FIG. 5 is a front view of ordinary panties in which the sanitary napkin of the present invention can be used.

6 is a cross-sectional view of the panties of FIG. 5 taken along line 6-6 showing the sanitary napkin of FIG. 1 disposed therein,

7 is a partial coronal view of the cross-sectional sanitary napkin and panties of FIG. 6 in place on the user.

[Explanation of symbols]

 210 sanitary napkin 212 center absorbent pad 214 topsheet 216 absorbent core 218 backsheet 220 center pad adhesive 224, 224 'flap 226, 226' curved bond line 230 flap absorbent core 234, 234 'flexible Second shaft 236,236 'Flap adhesive 256,256' Flexible first shaft 278,278 'End 310 Sanitary napkin 334,334' Flexible second shaft 356,356 'Flexible first Axis

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[Procedure amendment]

[Submission date] August 19, 1992

[Procedure Amendment 1]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Item name to be amended] Scope of utility model registration request

[Correction method] Change

[Correction content]

[Scope of utility model registration request]

Claims (33)

[Scope of utility model registration request] 1. An absorbent member comprising: (a) an absorbent member; and (b) two flaps extending laterally outwardly from the absorbent member, and (i) each of the flaps having a curved joining line. Bonded to the absorbent member using (ii) each of the flaps has a free end spaced from the bond line, and (iii) each of the flaps has the bond line and the flap end. A flexible first axis between, and (iv) each of the flaps includes a flexible second axis between the flexible first axis and the flap end. However, the sanitary napkin is close to the human body and is suitable for being worn between the human body and the underwear of the wearer thereof. 2. The sanitary napkin of claim 1, wherein each join line is concave with respect to the end of its respective flap. 3. The sanitary napkin of claim 1, wherein at least one of said flexible first axis and second axis within each flap is defined by distinct structural features. 4. The sanitary napkin of claim 3, wherein each of said flexible first and second axes within each flap is defined by distinct structural features. 5. The absorbent member has a liquid-permeable human body contacting surface, an opposing liquid-impermeable surface, and an absorbent core between the liquid-permeable surface and the liquid-impermeable surface, and (ii) Each of the first axes is generally suitable for bending the flap in the direction from the liquid impermeable surface to the liquid permeable human body contact surface independently of the other axis, (iii) the second The sanitary napkin of claim 1, wherein each of the shafts is generally adapted to fold the flap from the liquid permeable body contacting surface toward the liquid impermeable surface. 6. The sanitary napkin of claim 5, wherein each join line is concave with respect to the end of its respective flap. 7. The sanitary napkin of claim 6, wherein at least one of said flexible first axis and second axis within each flap is defined by distinct structural features. 8. The sanitary napkin of claim 7, wherein each of said flexible first and second axes within each flap is defined by a distinct structural feature. 9. The method of claim 5, wherein the liquid impermeable surface and the flap are substantially free of adhesive bonding members, and the napkin is suitable for being worn within an inner crotch portion of a garment. The sanitary napkin described. 10. The sanitary napkin of claim 1, wherein each of said flaps includes a plurality of flexible shafts between said join line and said flap end. 11. The sanitary napkin of claim 10, wherein each join line is concave with respect to the end of its respective flap. 12. The sanitary napkin of claim 10, wherein the flexible axes are defined by distinct structural features. 13. The sanitary napkin of claim 10, wherein each of said flaps is essentially flexible over its entire surface. 14. The absorbent member has an absorbent core extending in a longitudinal direction, each of the flaps extending laterally outwardly from near a lateral end of the absorbent member; A distal portion extending laterally outwardly from an outer end of the proximal portion, each of the first axes being a member for folding each of the proximal portions with respect to the absorbent member; The sanitary napkin of claim 1, wherein each of the two axes is a member for folding each of the distal portions with respect to an adjacent proximal portion. 15. The napkin is sized and shaped to be worn in a user's panties sized and shaped such that the crotch end portion is located at the user's groin,
The absorbent member has an absorbent core extending in the longitudinal direction, the core having an hourglass shape having a lateral average width smaller than the width of its end portion, and the flap being sufficiently flexible, And the proximal portion of the flap extends upwardly at the user's barb and the distal portion of the flap extends downwardly from the user's barb to provide the crotch of the user's panties. A sanitary napkin according to claim 1, wherein the sanitary napkin is sized and shaped to be located in a user's panties so as to be located between the distal portion of the portion and the region of the user's medial thigh portion. 16. The sanitary napkin of claim 15, wherein said average width is from about 2 to about 7 cm. 17. The average width is about 5 cm.
Sanitary napkin described in. 18. The sanitary napkin of claim 15, wherein the average width of the core is about 30% to about 100% of the average width of the inner crotch portion of a pair of appropriately sized panties for the user. 19. The sanitary napkin of claim 15, wherein the average width of the core is about 30% to about 70% of the average width of the inner crotch portion of a pair of appropriately sized panties for the user. 20. The sanitary napkin of claim 15, wherein the average width of the absorbent core is about 70% of the average width of the inner crotch portion of a pair of appropriately sized panties for the user. 21. The sanitary napkin of claim 15, wherein the sanitary napkin is sized and shaped to be worn in a panty having elastic material at the crotch portion of the panty. 22. The sanitary napkin of claim 21, wherein the absorbent core is thicker than the flap. 23. The sanitary napkin according to claim 2, wherein any of the shafts of the flaps can be used as the flexible shaft. 24. The sanitary napkin of claim 14, wherein each of the flaps is not secured to the top of the central absorbent core. 25. The proximal and distal portions of each flap are sized and shaped to form a double-walled barrier connected by said folding members.
The sanitary napkin according to item 4. 26. The hygiene article of claim 1 wherein said napkin has an adhesive bond member in combination with said liquid impermeable surface and is suitable for being worn within an inner crotch portion of a garment. napkin. 27. The sanitary napkin of claim 26, wherein the flap is substantially free of adhesive bonding members. 28. The sanitary napkin of claim 1, further comprising an adhesive bonding member that adheres the napkin to a user's panties. 29. The member for adhering the napkin to a user's panties has an area adhering to an outwardly facing surface of the sanitary napkin, the area being of the absorbent core. 29. The sanitary napkin of claim 28, which is below and thereby releasably adhered to the inner surface of the crotch of the user's panties. 30. The adhesive bonding member for adhering the napkin to a user's panties has a portion adhering to an outwardly facing surface of a distal portion of the flap,
29. The sanitary napkin of claim 28, whereby the sanitary napkin is releasably adhered to the outer surface of the crotch of the user's panties, which portion is located near the leg openings of the panties. 31. The adhesive bonding member for adhering the napkin to a user's panties further has an area for adhering to an outwardly facing surface of the sanitary napkin under the absorbent core, thereby 31. The sanitary napkin of claim 30, wherein the region is removably adhered to the inner surface of the crotch of the user's panties. 32. The sanitary napkin of claim 28, wherein the sanitary napkin is sized and shaped for wear in a panty having an elastic material at the crotch portion of the panty. 33. The sanitary napkin of claim 32, wherein the absorbent core is thicker than the flap.