KR100260689B1 - Anatomically shaped compound sanitary napkin - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a composite sanitary napkin comprising a first absorbent member and a second absorbent member. The first absorbent member has a constant length and a constant width. The second absorbent member has a constant length and a constant width. The first absorbing member and the second absorbing member have a common length. The first absorbent member preferably comprises an absorbent core and a fluid permeable top sheet overlying the absorbent core. The second absorbent member preferably comprises a fluid permeable top sheet, a fluid impermeable back sheet connected to the top sheet and an absorbent element located between the top sheet and the back sheet. The first absorbent member is attached to the second absorbent member by the engaging means. The width of the second absorbent member is at least 1.5 times the width of the first absorbent member.

Description

Anatomically Shaped Composite Sanitary Napkin {ANATOMICALLY SHAPED COMPOUND SANITARY NAPKIN}

In its simplest form, a disposable sanitary napkin is an absorbent element (sometimes referred to as a top sheet or overlap) and an absorbent element (sometimes referred to as a backsheet) and an impermeable protective barrier (sometimes referred to as a backsheet). Referred to as an absorbent core). Absorbing elements, of course, contain and contain menses and other vaginal secretions. The body contact element allows the fluid to pass freely into the absorbent element while at the same time providing a somewhat comfortable and dry feel to the body surface. Protective barriers prevent the menstrual blood or other vaginal discharge from the absorbing element from contaminating the user's garment.

In addition to the three functional elements mentioned above, disposable sanitary napkins are generally provided with means for supporting the absorbent device near the crotch region of the user, which can most effectively perform their intended function even when the user is moving. Typically, the sanitary napkin is provided with adhesive attachment means for securing the absorbent device to the inner crotch region of the user undergarment.

While conventional sanitary napkins perform their intended functions, conventional designs each have some deficiencies in one or more of absorption of body fluids, prevention of contamination of the user's garments, and / or physical comfort to the user.

With regard to disposable sanitary napkins, there are currently at least two general classes. The first class is aimed at the absorption of medium to large amounts of menstrual blood. Such sanitary napkins provide a relatively high absorption capacity. Absorptive capacity is commonly achieved by providing a sanitary napkin with a relatively thick and bulky absorbent member. Although having a relatively high absorbency, the large volume of the absorbent member can cause some discomfort when worn.

The second class of sanitary napkins is aimed at the absorption of small amounts of menstrual blood and is commonly referred to as panty liners or pantishields. This kind of sanitary napkin as a group is thinner, somewhat more flexible and generally more comfortable than the first kind of sanitary napkin. However, sanitary napkins of the second class typically lack the absorbent capacity of the sanitary napkins of the first class.

One attempt to provide one composite sanitary napkin with the benefits of the two classes of sanitary napkin described above is disclosed in US Pat. No. 4,425,130 to DesMarais, issued January 10, 1984. Desmarice's composite sanitary napkin includes a first menstrual pad and a panty protector, the two components being connected to each other at their corresponding ends in an essentially free movement relative to each other along the entire common length. The first menstrual pad is for absorbing a large amount of body fluid secreted by the user, while the panty protector is for protecting the user's garment from being contaminated. In use, relatively free movement between the first menstrual pad and the panty protector allows the panty protector to remain in close contact with the undergarment of the user while maintaining the first menstrual pad near the crotch region of the user. While relatively free movement between the first menstrual pad and the panty protector keeps the first menstrual pad near the user's crotch region, this free movement is stable when the first menstrual pad moves laterally beyond both edges of the panty protector. This lack may provide an opportunity for the user's undergarment to become contaminated.

In addition, relatively free movement between the first menstrual pad and the panty protector may be insufficient to receive body fluid when it is out of the vaginal opening of the wearer. Preferably, the first menstrual pad is narrow enough to be at least partially located within the vulva. Optionally, the first menstrual pad may be wider than the distance between the labia majora, but a portion of the first menstrual pad is at least partially within the female vulva because the lateral compressive or squeezed to relatively small forces, such as the force exerted by the soft tissue of the female vulva It should be able to be located. By matching even a relatively small force, the first absorbent member is kept comfortable in use. In addition, the first menstrual pad preferably exhibits an elastic recovery force that allows the pad to conform to the body when the shape of the pad and the body interface surface is changed.

When the first menstrual pad is made narrow to fit the body, the panty protector is securely attached to the wearer's undergarment and wide enough to cover the undergarment to prevent the undergarment from being contaminated. It is preferable.

Summary of the Invention

The present invention relates to a composite sanitary napkin that conforms to the body. The composite sanitary napkin of the present invention includes a first absorbent member having a predetermined length and a predetermined width and a second absorbing member having a predetermined length and a predetermined width. The first absorbing member and the second absorbing member have a common length. The first absorbent member includes an absorbent core and a fluid permeable top sheet overlying the absorbent core. The second absorbent member includes a fluid permeable top sheet, a fluid impermeable back sheet connected to the top sheet and an absorbent element positioned between the top sheet and the back sheet. The first absorbent member is attached to the second absorbent member by the engaging means. The width of the second absorbing member is preferably 1.5 times or more of the width of the first absorbing member. Optionally, the width of the second absorbent member is at least twice the width of the first absorbent member. Optionally, the width of the second absorbent member is in the range of about 3 to about 8 times the width of the first absorbent member.

Preferably, the first absorbent member is attached to the second absorbent member by the joining means such that the longest non-attached distance between adjacent attachment points is less than 75% of the common length. Optionally, the first absorbent member is attached to the second absorbent member by coupling means such that the longest non-attached distance between adjacent attachment points is less than 50% of the common length. Optionally, the first absorbent member is attached to the second absorbent member by coupling means such that the longest non-attached distance between adjacent attachment points is less than 25% of the common length. Optionally, the first absorbent member is attached to the second absorbent member by coupling means extending substantially along the entire common length.

Optionally, the second absorbent member includes adhesive attachment means for securing the composite sanitary napkin to the undergarment or panties of the user. Optionally, the first absorbent member comprises an elastic member. Optionally, the first absorbent member comprises a fluid barrier wall. Optionally, the first absorbent member may comprise two or more compartments.

The present invention relates to disposable sanitary napkins. As used herein, sanitary napkins are generally considered to be absorbent devices designed for women to wear on the body surface during menstrual periods to receive and contain menstrual blood and other vaginal secretions. Disposable sanitary napkins are contaminated using and then cleaned and disposed of without reuse.

Although the specification ends with the claims specifically pointed out and specifically claimed in the present invention, it is believed that the present invention will be better understood from the following description taken in conjunction with the drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to the same elements.

1 is a plan view of one embodiment of the composite sanitary napkin of the present invention;

2 is a side view of the composite sanitary napkin shown in FIG. 1;

3 is a cross-sectional view of the composite sanitary napkin shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 taken along the dividing line 3-3 of FIG. 2;

3A is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the composite sanitary napkin of the present invention;

4 is a top view of another embodiment of the composite sanitary napkin of the present invention;

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

6 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the composite sanitary napkin of the present invention;

6A is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the composite sanitary napkin of the present invention;

7 and 8 are schematic diagrams of a static resistivity test procedure;

9 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the composite sanitary napkin of the present invention;

10 is a cross-sectional view taken along the longitudinal axis of the composite sanitary napkin of the present invention;

11 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the composite sanitary napkin of the present invention;

12 is a cross-sectional view taken along the longitudinal axis of the composite sanitary napkin of the present invention;

13 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the composite sanitary napkin of the present invention;

14 is a side view of another embodiment of the composite sanitary napkin of the present invention;

15 is a side view of another embodiment of a composite sanitary napkin;

16 is a side view of another embodiment of the composite sanitary napkin of the present invention;

17 is a plan view of the composite sanitary napkin of FIG.

The present invention relates to a composite sanitary napkin that conforms to the body to absorb body fluids, prevent contamination of the user's garments, and provide physical comfort to the user. As used herein, the term “physiological zone” is worn near the vulva region of a woman, absorbs and contains various exudate (e.g. blood, menstrual blood and urine) secreted from the body, and discarded after a single use ( That is, products that are not washed, restored or reused. As used herein, the term “compound sanitary napkin” refers to a sanitary napkin that consists of separate components connected to one another to form a single structure. Interlabial instruments, some of which are located inside the vestibule and some of which are outside the vestibule, are also within the scope of the present invention. The term "vulva" as used herein refers to the vulva of an apparently visible woman and is limited to the labia majora, labia minora, clitoris and vestibular.

1 to 3, one preferred embodiment of the composite sanitary napkin 20 of the present invention is shown. As can be seen in FIGS. 1-3, the composite sanitary napkin 20 comprises a first absorbent member 30 and a second absorbent member 50 connected together by a coupling means 70.

The composite sanitary napkin has two surfaces, a body contact or body facing surface, and a garment facing or garment contact surface. The first and second absorbent members each have a corresponding body facing surface and a garment facing surface. Compound sanitary napkin 20 has two centerlines, a longitudinal centerline and a transverse centerline. As used herein, the term “longitudinal” generally refers to a composite sanitary napkin face that aligns (eg, approximately parallel to the vertical plane) to a standing plane that bisects the standing wearer into the left and right body halves when wearing the sanitary napkin. Speak line, axis or direction. As used herein, “lateral” or “lateral” is interchangeable and refers to a line, axis, or direction that is in the plane of a composite sanitary napkin that is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

The first absorbent member 30 has a side edge 24 and a distal edge 25 that together form a circumference 26 of the first absorbent member. The second absorbent member 50 has a side edge 21 and a distal edge 22 that together form the circumference 23 of the second absorbent member and the composite sanitary napkin 20. The composite sanitary napkin 30 has a first distal region 27, a central region 28 and a second distal region 29.

As the name implies, the first absorbent member 30 is a component of the composite sanitary napkin 20 for absorbing a large amount of body fluid secreted by the user. The first absorbent member 30 includes an absorbent core 34 and absorbent means 33, such as a liquid permeable top sheet or coverstock 32 overlying the absorbent core 34.

The upper sheet 32 is preferably soft and soft and non-irritating to the wearer's skin. In addition, the top sheet 32 must be liquid permeable so that liquid can easily permeate through its thickness. Suitable topsheets 32 include woven and nonwoven fabrics; Polymeric materials such as perforated thermoplastic films, perforated plastic films and hydroformed thermoplastic films; Porous foams; Reticular foam; Network thermoplastic films; And thermoplastic scrims. Suitable fabrics and nonwovens can be made of natural fibers (such as wood or cotton fibers), synthetic fibers (such as polymerizable fibers such as polyester, polypropylene or polyethylene fibers), or mixtures of natural and synthetic fibers. Preferred top sheets include perforated films. Perforated shaped films are preferred for the top sheet because these films are permeable and non-absorbent for body exudates, and the liquid tends to move backwards to rewet the wearer's skin. Thus, the surface of the molded film in contact with the body remains dry to reduce body contamination and give the wearer a more comfortable feel. Suitable molding films are U.S. Patent No. 3,929,135 to Thomson, Dec. 30, 1975, U. S. Patent No. 4,324,246 to Mullan, et al., April 13, 1982, and Ladel, Aug. 3, 1982. U.S. Patent No. 4,342,314 to Radel et al., U.S. Patent No. 4,463,045 to Ahr et al. July 31, 1984 and U.S. Patent No. 5,006,394 to Baird, April 9, 1991 It is described in the issue. Each of these patents is incorporated herein by reference. Preferred topsheets for the first absorbent member of the present invention are molded films described in one or more of the above patents and commercially available for sanitary napkins as "DRI-WEAVE" by Procter & Gamble Co., Cincinnati, Ohio.

In a preferred aspect of the present invention, the liquid is formed to allow the liquid to pass through the top sheet faster than if the body surface is not hydrophilic to reduce the likelihood of the physiological fluid entering and not being absorbed by the absorbent core and overflowing onto the top sheet. The body surface or exposed surface of the film top sheet should be hydrophilic. In a preferred embodiment, U.S. Patent Application No. 07 / 794,745, filed by Aziz et al., Nov. 19, 1991, entitled "Absorbent Product with Nonwoven and Perforated Film Cover Sheet," incorporated herein by reference. The surfactant is incorporated into the polymerizable material of the molded film upper sheet as described in. Alternatively, the body surface of the topsheet can be made hydrophilic by treating with a surfactant as described in US Pat. No. 4,950,264, issued to Osborn, Aug. 21, 1990, incorporated herein by reference.

Top sheet 32 may be coupled to absorbent core 34 in any suitable manner. Suitable methods include bonding the top sheet 32 to the absorbent core 34 using an adhesive, such as spray-deadening or applying an adhesive line or dot between the top sheet 32 and the absorbent core 34. Included, but not limited to.

Alternatively or also, the fibers of the absorbent core 34 are entangled with the top sheet 32 or the top sheet 32 is fused to the absorbent core 34 with a plurality of separate individual fusion binders or known in the art. The upper sheet 32 may be combined with the absorbent core 34 by any method described.

In order to allow proper fluid movement between the top sheet 32 and the absorbent core 34, it is desirable that the top sheet is substantially continuously fixed to the underlying absorbent core 34 across its common bond or interface. . By substantially continuously fixing the top sheet 32 to the underlying absorbent core 34, the tendency of the top sheet 32 to separate from the absorbent core 34 during use will be reduced. Separation of the absorbent core from the top sheet 32 may prevent fluid from moving from the top sheet 32 to the lower absorbent core 34.

Absorbent core 34 is generally compressible, pliable, elastic, non-irritating to the wearer's skin, and may be any absorbing means capable of absorbing and containing body exudate. Absorbent core 34 may be made from a variety of liquid absorbent materials commonly used in disposable sanitary napkins and other disposable absorbent articles. Examples of suitable absorbent materials include pulverized wood pulp (commonly referred to as airfelt), creped cellulose fillers, modified crosslinked cellulose fibers (e.g., June 8, 1993 ), Capillary channel fibers (ie, fibers with capillary channels in fibers as described in US Pat. No. 5,200,248 to Thomson, April 6, 1993), Absorbent foams (such as those described in U.S. Pat.No. 5,260,345 to Desmaraes, Nov. 9, 1993 and U.S. Pat.No. 5,268,244 to Dec. 7, 1993, thermal). Physiological absorbent spheres having thermally bonded layers for improved treatment of physiological fluids, filed under the name of the invention filed in the name of Richards et al. US patent application Ser. No. 08 / 141,156 (the material described in P & G Case 5051), and its use in menstrual pads with improved adhesion and comfort), absorbent sponges, synthetic staple fibers, polymerizable fibers, hydrogel-forming Polymeric gelling agents, peat moss, or any equivalent materials, or mixtures of these materials.

Suitable absorbent cores comprising foam are described in US patent application Ser. No. 07 / 743,839 (P & G Case 4451), filed August 12, 1991, in the name of Desmarice et al., Filed August 12, 1991. U.S. Patent Application Nos. 07 / 743,950 (P & G Case 4452), U.S. Patent Application Nos. 07 / 743,947 and 07 / 830,159, filed August 12, 1991 and February 12, 1992, in the name of Desmaraes et al. 4453 and 4453R). Further cores comprising foams are described in EP 0 293 208 B1. Absorbent cores comprising sponges are disclosed in US Pat. Nos. 3,512,530 and 3,954,493 and French Patent No. 2,203,827.

The total absorbent capacity of the absorbent core 34 should be suitable for the intended exudate load of the composite sanitary napkin 20. In addition, the absorbent capacity of the absorbent core 34 may vary depending on the convenience of the wearer in the expected volume of effluent volume. For example, a composite sanitary napkin intended for use during the daytime as compared to a sanitary napkin intended for use during the night time may have a different absorbency, or may be used by a teenage female when compared to a sanitary napkin intended for older women. The intended composite sanitary napkin can have different absorbent capacities.

The material selected for use as the absorbent core 34 is preferably flexible, soft, comfortable, compressible and elastic to enhance the body fit and comfort of the first absorbent member. The absorbent core is preferably compressible enough to deform under the relatively small forces encountered while the first absorbent member is typically used. In addition to the compressibility, the material comprising the absorbent core is preferably flexible so that the first absorbent member can provide improved adhesion into and around the labia and perineum. In general, it is also important that the first absorbent member be elastic enough to not be permanently crushed when subjected to normal wearing force, although it is pressed and conformed under relatively small forces exerted by the vulva of the woman in use. Preferably, the first absorbent member should be sufficiently elastic to conform to the contour of the body to provide intimate contact with the exposed vulva of the female user. Close contact with the exposed female vulva allows the liquid to move better from the user to the first absorbent member without the liquid leaking sideways and / or dripping from the first absorbent member. Although the elastic properties of the absorbent core 34 provide improved adhesion, this property must balance the need for a product that is soft and comfortable for the wearer.

In the aspect illustrated in FIG. 3, the absorbent core 34 is comprised of air felt. The airfelt absorbent core is generally manufactured in a cylindrical shape to provide a first absorbent member 30 having a generally cylindrical shape.

Referring now to FIG. 3A, there is shown a cross-sectional view taken along the transverse axis of another embodiment of the composite sanitary napkin of the present invention. In this aspect, the absorbent core 34 is preferably filed in US Patent Application No. 07 / 743,839 (P & G Case 4451), Young et al., Filed in the name of Desmarais et al. (P & G Case 4452), U.S. Patent Application Nos. 07 / 743,947 and 07 / 830,159 (P & G Cases 4453 and 4453R), filed in the name of Desmaraese et al. Absorbent foam cores are folded or curled and generally exhibit a circular cross section. The folded core provides a first absorbent member 30 having a generally cylindrical shape.

Although the core 34 shown in FIGS. 3 and 3A generally has a circular cross section, the absorbent core may be manufactured in various forms such as rectangular, triangular, elliptical, square, pentagonal, U-shaped, Z-folded, and the like. .

Optionally, the first absorbent member 30 may include an elastic member 45 as illustrated in FIG. 3A. The elastic member 45 may include a single member or a plurality of individual members. Suitable materials that can be used as the elastic member 45 include nylon, polypropylene, polyurethane, polyethylene, polyester, synthetic rubber and other synthetic materials (e.g. molded films), or natural materials such as rubber, sponges, or the like. Any suitable material that can resist crushing under conventional sanitary napkin wearing conditions is included, but is not limited to these. The elastic member 45 may be manufactured in various forms such as rectangular, triangular, elliptical, square, pentagonal, U-shaped, Z-folded, and the like.

The elastic member 45 may extend over the entire length of the first absorbing member 30. The elastic member 45 may extend only over some length of the first absorbing member 30. The elastic member 45 may be located within the first distal region 27, the central region 28, the second distal region 29, or any combination thereof. For example, the elastic member 45 may be formed on either the first end region 27 or the second end region 29 of the first absorbent member, or the first end region 27 and the first end member of the first absorbent member. In both of the two terminal regions 29, it can be located in the central region 28 of the first absorbent member, or in the central region 28 and the distal regions 27, 29 of the first absorbent member.

Optionally, the first absorbent member 30 may include a fluid barrier wall 35. The fluid barrier wall 35 tends to contain body fluid absorbed within the absorbent core 34, and may be constructed from a material having the same properties as the liquid impermeable back sheet on the second absorbent member 50 described later. .

Optionally, the first absorbent member 30 can include a capture layer 46 positioned between the top sheet 32 and the absorbent core 34. The capture layer 46 can provide several functions, including improving the leakage of exudate onto or into the absorbent core 34. By improving the leakage of the exudate, the capture layer can distribute the exudate more evenly throughout the absorbent core. The capture layer 46 may comprise a nonwoven or woven web of synthetic fibers, including polyester, polypropylene or polyethylene; Natural fibers including cotton or cellulose; Blends of the fibers; Or a variety of different materials, including equivalent materials or mixtures of these materials. Examples of sanitary napkins with a capture layer and a top sheet are described in the United States of the invention “absorbent product with fused layer” filed Dec. 17, 1991 in the name of US Pat. No. 4,950,264 and Cree et al. It is described in more detail in patent application 07 / 810,774. Each of these documents is incorporated herein by reference. In a preferred embodiment, the capture layer 46 is connected to the top sheet by any of the conventional methods of connecting the webs to each other, most preferably by fusion bonding as described in more detail in the aforementioned Cree patent application. You can.

The first absorbent member may generally have any shape in cross section under conditions not under stress, but the cross section is preferably circular or elliptical. The length 40 and the width 41 of the first absorbent member 30 can have any convenient dimension. The first absorbent member 30 preferably has a length of about 2 to 35 cm, more preferably about 10 to 35 cm and most preferably about 20 to 35 cm. Particularly preferred first absorbent member 30 has a length of about 24 cm. The first absorbent member 30 preferably has a width of about 0.5 to 5 cm, more preferably about 0.5 to 4 cm and most preferably about 0.5 to 3 cm.

1 through 3A, the second essential component of the composite sanitary napkin of the present invention is the second absorbent member 50. As shown in FIG. The second absorbent member 50 is preferably located between the liquid permeable top sheet 52, the liquid impermeable back sheet 54 connected to the top sheet 52 and between the top sheet 52 and the back sheet 54. Absorbing element 56.

The top sheet 52 can be of any fluid permeable material conventionally used for sanitary napkins, disposable diapers, and the like. The top sheet may be any of the materials described above as useful for the top sheet 32 of the first absorbent member 30.

Preferred top sheet 52 comprises a perforated film. Perforated shaped films are preferred as topsheets because these films are permeable and non-absorbent for body exudates, and the liquid tends to move backwards to rewet the wearer's skin. Thus, the surface of the molded film in contact with the body remains dry to reduce body contamination and give the wearer a more comfortable feel. Suitable molding films include U.S. Patent No. 3,929,135 to Thomson, Dec. 30, 1975, U. S. Patent No. 4,324,246 to Mulan et al., April 13, 1982, and U.S. Patent Ladel et al., August 3, 1982 4,342,314, US Pat. No. 4,463,045 to Ayre et al., July 31, 1984 and US Pat. No. 5,006,394 to Baird, April 9, 1991. Each of these patents is incorporated herein by reference. Preferred topsheets for the second absorbent member of the present invention are molded films described in one or more of the above patents and commercially available for sanitary napkins as "DRI-WEAVE" by Procter & Gamble Company, Cincinnati, Ohio.

Absorbent element 56 may be any absorbent material conventionally used for sanitary napkins, disposable diapers, and the like. The absorbent element may be any of the materials described above as useful for the absorbent core 34 of the first absorbent member 30.

In practice, most of the body fluid is absorbed by the absorbent core of the first absorbent member and contained therein. One of the main functions of the second absorbent member 50 is to prevent the user's garment from being contaminated by absorbed body fluid which may be released from the first absorbent member or may inadvertently leak out of the first absorbent member. Since the absorbent element 56 of the second absorbent member 50 performs a different function than the absorbent core 34, the absorbent element 56 may be somewhat thinner and less bulky than the absorbent core 34, and such is most desirable. Do.

The absorbent element 56 has different requirements from the absorbent core and therefore can be molded from different materials. For example, the absorbent element may be molded using one or several layers of paper tissue, as is commonly used for paper towels or toilet tissue. Preferably the absorbent element is molded from about 1 to about 5 ply paper tissue.

Preferably, the overall absorbent capacity of the absorbent element 56 is somewhat less than the absorbent capacity of the absorbent core 34. Since the absorbent core 34 is preferably intended to absorb most or substantially all of the body fluid during use, its absorbent capacity is somewhat or significantly greater than that of the absorbent element 56.

From about 24 to about 48 g / m ² as prepared by the method described in US Pat. No. 3,301,746, issued to Sanford and Sisson, Jan. 31, 1967 It has been found that paper tissue comprising at least one ply having a basis weight of and an apparent density of about 0.10 to about 0.12 g / cm ³ is very satisfactory for use as the absorbent element 56. Wet strength resins and latex binders can be used and are preferred to provide additional strength to the paper tissue used in the absorbent element.

Paper tissue prepared by the method described in US Pat. No. 3,994,771, issued to Morgan et al., November 30, 1976, also incorporated herein by reference, may also be very advantageously used as the absorbent element 56. have.

Alternatively, the second absorbent member may be manufactured without the absorbent element. Most of the body fluid is preferably absorbed by the absorbent core of the first absorbent member and contained therein, so that the second absorbent member 50 is only released from the first absorbent member or from the first absorbent member. This is necessary to prevent contamination of the user's garment by a relatively small amount of fluid which may inadvertently leak out. Therefore, since the expected amount of body fluid that can come into contact with the second absorbent member is relatively small, the absorbent element does not need to contain the body fluid in the second absorbent member and prevent the user's garment from being contaminated.

The back sheet 54 is impermeable to liquids (eg, menstrual blood and / or urine) and is preferably made from a thin plastic film, although other flexible liquid impermeable materials may also be used. The term "flexible" as used herein refers to a material that is well adapted and easily adapted to the general shape and contour of the human body. In use, the back sheet 54 is positioned between the absorbent element 56 and the undergarment of the user. The function of the backsheet 54 is to prevent the exudates that are released from the first absorbent member and can inadvertently leak out and the exudates absorbed and contained in the absorbent element 56 in contact with and contaminate the undergarment of the user. The backsheet 54 may thus comprise a composite material such as a woven or nonwoven fabric, a polymerizable film such as a thermoplastic film of polyethylene or polypropylene, or a film-coated nonwoven fabric. Preferably, the back sheet is a polyethylene film having a thickness of about 0.012 mm (0.5 mil) to about 0.015 mm (2.0 mil). A representative polyethylene film is manufactured by Clopay Corp. of Cincinnati, Ohio, under the name P18-0401, and ethyl Corp., Visqueen Division, Ter Haute, Indiana under the name XP-39385. Manufactured by The back sheet is preferably formed with irregularities and / or mated to provide a more textile-like appearance. The back sheet may also allow vapor to escape (ie, breathe) from the absorbent element 56 while preventing exudate from passing through the back sheet.

Preferably, the second absorbent member 50 is provided with a supporting means or an attachment means, for example an adhesive attachment means 58. The adhesive attachment means 58 provides a means for securing the composite sanitary napkin 20 to the undergarment or crotch portion of the panty of the user. Part or all of the outer or garment facing surface 55 of the back sheet is coated with an adhesive. In a preferred embodiment, at least a portion of the adhesive 58 is located on the garment surface 55 of the back sheet 54 proximate the longitudinal side edge 21 of the second absorbent member. Any adhesive or glue used in the art for this purpose can be used as the adhesive of the present invention, with pressure sensitive adhesives being preferred. Suitable adhesives are National Starch and Chemical Company of Century A-305-IV and Bridgewater, NJ, manufactured by Century Adhesives Corporation, Columbus, Ohio. Instant Lock 34-2823. Suitable tackifiers are also described in US Pat. No. 4,917,697. The pressure sensitive adhesive is typically covered with a removable release liner 59 to prevent the adhesive from drying out or adhering to a surface other than the crotch portion of the panty prior to use. Suitable release liners are also described in the aforementioned US Pat. No. 4,917,697. 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 BL30MG-A Silox E1 / 0 and BL30MG-A Silox 4P / 0 manufactured by Akrosil Corp., Mensa, Wisconsin. The composite sanitary napkin 20 of the present invention is used by removing the release liner 59 and placing the sanitary napkin in the panty such that the adhesive 58 contacts the panty. Adhesive 58 keeps the sanitary napkin in its place in the panties during use.

It is preferable that the second absorbing member of the present invention is relatively thin and flexible. The second absorbent member has a caliper of about 1.9 mm. The caliper of the second absorbent member or its various regions is measured by the following test.

Comparative gauge, specifically Rain, Waltham, MA. Seed. There is a need for an Ames, Model 130, with a dial indicator model 482 available from Ames Company. The comparison gauge should be made of aluminum and have a circular comparative foot with a weight of 10.0 g and a contact surface of 5.16 cm ² . The comparison gauge is set to zero. A weight of 80.8 g of stainless steel is placed on the spindle extending above the comparison dial. The comparative base is pulled up and any panty adhesive release paper is removed from the second absorbent member, the corn starch is sprayed onto the adhesive and the second absorbent member is then placed on the garment surface on the substrate. Since the second absorbing member is located on the substrate, it is preferable to measure it because it exists in the region of the second absorbing member when the comparative base is lowered. Wrinkles or wrinkles should be removed from the second absorbent member. The comparative base is gently lowered onto the second absorbent member. The second absorbent member caliper is measured by reading the comparison dial 30 seconds after the comparative base is in contact with the second absorbent member.

Preferably, the second absorbent member has a caliper of less than about 3.0 mm, preferably less than about 2.6 mm, more preferably less than about 2.2 mm, most preferably less than about 2.0 mm.

It is preferable that the first absorbing member of the present invention is relatively flexible. It is desirable to keep the first absorbent member relatively flexible and to easily fit into the labia during use. It has been found that a first absorbent member having a width and / or diameter of about 3/8 inch can be comfortably pressed into at least a portion of the labia. Although the first absorbing member has been described above as having a width or diameter larger than 3/8 inch, these may also be tightly adhered to the labia if sufficiently matched. It is not necessary for the first absorbent member to be all in close contact with the labia, but it is preferable that a part of the first absorbent member can be closely in the labia. The conformity of the first absorbent member or its various regions is measured by the following test.

A computer controlled tensile tester, specifically EME Model 599A, available from EME, Inc., Newbury, Ohio, is preferred, but other tensile testers may be used. Tensile testing machines should have a pair of circular contact surfaces made of aluminum and having a diameter of 4.0 cm. The first absorbent member is placed on the lower contact surface such that one side of its side edge faces downward and the opposite side edge faces upward in the upper contact surface direction. Set the device to zero. Lower the upper contact surface until the distance between the two opposing contact surfaces is 3/8 inch. A conformance reading at 3/8 inch is taken to measure the force exerted on the first absorbent member.

The first absorbent member can have a conformity at 3/8 inch of less than about 1.0 psi. Preferably, the first absorbent member has a conformity at 3/8 inch of less than about 0.5 psi, more preferably less than about 0.25 psi, and most preferably less than about 0.1 psi.

As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the second absorbent member may generally have a rectangular shape. Other suitable forms include, but are not limited to, round, hourglass, dog bone, asymmetric, and the like.

Optionally, the second absorbent member 50 may have two flaps 58 extending laterally from and adjacent to the side edges of the absorbent core, respectively, as shown in FIG. The flap 58 has a structure surrounding the wearer's panty edge in the crotch region such that the flap is disposed between the wearer's panty edge and the wearer's thigh. The flap serves at least two purposes. First, the flap preferably forms a double barrier along the panty edge to prevent contamination of the wearer's body and panties by menstrual blood. Secondly, the flap is preferably provided with an attachment means at its garment contact surface so that the flap can be folded upside down under the panty and attached to the garment contact surface of the panty. In this way, the flap allows the sanitary napkin to be properly positioned within the panty.

In a preferred embodiment, the flap consists of a top sheet, an absorbent element and a back sheet. The flap is also preferably part of a thin film of the second absorbent element. That is, the top sheet, absorbent element and back sheet simply extend laterally outward to form a flap. However, the flap need not necessarily be part of the second absorbent member, but may be a separate element attached to the second absorbent member. The flap may also be made of a single substrate or other thin film structure. However, it is desirable for the flap to have a liquid impermeable back sheet to prevent exudates that reach the flap from contaminating the wearer's panty edge.

In addition, the flap is preferably provided with an absorbing member at least past the edge of the wearer's panties. Theoretically, only a relatively small amount of menstrual blood reaches the flap, so a relatively small amount of absorbent material is needed for the flap. However, at least any degree of absorbent material is required to prevent any exudates that reach the flap from further flowing into the unprotected portion. The absorbent material may be a tissue or an extension of the absorbent element 56. However, the absorbent material at the flap should be relatively very flexible.

Many sanitary napkins with flaps suitable or applicable for use in the second absorbent member 50 of the composite sanitary napkin 20 of the present invention are described in US Pat. No. 4,687,478 (August 18, 1987 to Van Tilburg). US Pat. No. 4,589,876, issued to Van Tilberg, May 20, 1986, and US Pat. No. 4,608,047, issued to Mattingly, 26 August 1986. Each of these patents is incorporated herein by reference.

Optionally, the second absorbent member may comprise a component that naturally surrounds the panty side of the wearer. A sanitary napkin having a component that naturally wraps the panty side of a wearer suitable for use in the second absorbent member of the composite sanitary napkin 20 of the present invention is a US patent of the invention "absorbent product having a panty cover component that naturally wraps the panty side". 08 / 096,121 (P & G Case 4961), filed under the name of Lavash et al., July 22, 1993, and the invention “absorbent article with undergarment cover component comprising an extensible band. US Patent Application No. (P & G Case 5354, filed July 20, 1994 in the name of Weinberger et al.). The disclosures of these documents are incorporated herein by reference.

The individual components of the first absorbent member 30 and the second absorbent member 50 may consist of components that are particularly longitudinally extendable (preferably stretchable) when wearing a composite sanitary napkin. Preferably, the composite sanitary napkin can be stretched longitudinally between about 15 to about 40% of the unstretched length. This extensibility provides better use, comfort and reduced contamination when the composite sanitary napkin is attached to the wearer undergarment.

Preferably, the second absorbent member may be made of components that are also laterally extendable when the composite sanitary napkin is worn. Preferably, the composite sanitary napkin can be stretched laterally between about 15 to about 40% of the unstretched length.

Topsheets for both the first absorbent member and the second absorbent member are disclosed in US patent application Ser. No. 07 / 936,195, filed in the name of Curro et al. On August 25, 1992, incorporated herein by reference. And an elastic, three-dimensional fluid permeable polymeric web as is.

A particularly preferred extensible back sheet is an elongated adhesive film known as Formula # 198-388, manufactured by Findley Adhesives Company, Wawawato, Wisconsin.

Sanitary napkins with extendable components are described in US patent applications Ser. No. 07 / 915,133 and 07 / 915,284, filed Jul. 23, 1992 in Osborne et al. (PCT Publication Nos. WO 93/01785 and 93/01786, both 1993 2 Published April 4). The disclosures of these documents are incorporated herein by reference.

Referring to FIG. 1, the second absorbing member 50 preferably has a predetermined length 60 and a predetermined width 61. The second absorbent member preferably has a length of about 20 to 40 cm, more preferably about 25 to 35 cm and most preferably about 30 cm.

The first absorbing member may have any cross section under generally unstressed conditions, but preferably has a rectangular cross section. The second absorbent member preferably has a width of about 5 to 15 cm, more preferably about 5 to 10 cm and most preferably about 5 to 8 cm. As seen in the cross-sections of FIGS. 2 and 3, the thickness of the second absorbing member 50 is generally somewhat smaller than its width.

Since the first absorbing member performs a different function from the second absorbing member, the properties and properties of the material forming the first absorbing member and the second absorbing member may be different from each other. One of the main functions of the first absorbing member is to absorb and contain body fluids. In addition, the first absorbing member is preferably standardized and molded to fit within the labia. Thus, the width and / or diameter of the first absorbent member should be sized such that the absorbent member is at least partially located within the labia. That is, part of the first absorbent member is preferably matched within the labia in use. Since the exposed female vulva, including the labia, is generally referred to as soft body tissue, it is important that the material constituting the first absorbent member be non-irritating and / or comfortable and relatively soft to the user. In contrast, one of the main functions of the second absorbent member is to prevent the user's garment from being contaminated by absorbed body fluid which may be released from the first absorbent member or inadvertently leak out of the first absorbent member. Since the second absorbent member performs a different function from the first absorbent member, its size and properties may be somewhat different from that of the first absorbent member.

Preferably, the width of the second absorbent member is at least 1.5 times the width of the first absorbent member. More preferably, the width of the second absorbent member is at least twice the width of the first absorbent member. Most preferably, the width of the second absorbent member ranges from about 3 to about 8 times the width of the first absorbent member.

Preferably, the second absorbent member has approximately the same length as the first absorbent member when the composite sanitary napkin is under stress free conditions. However, the second absorbent member can be somewhat longer than the first absorbent member and can work more effectively.

Referring to FIG. 1, it can be seen that the first absorbing member 30 and the second absorbing member 50 share a common length 65. The common length refers to the length shared by the first absorbing member and the second absorbing member.

In order to achieve the composite sanitary napkin of the present invention, the first absorbent member and the second absorbent member are connected by the coupling means generally indicated at 70 in FIGS. 2 and 3.

The exact nature of the coupling means is important as long as the selected coupling means connects the first absorbent member and the second absorbent member to form the composite sanitary napkin of the present invention having a tensile force sufficient to prevent the first absorbent member and the second absorbent member from being separated when used. Not. Bonding means such as sticky adhesion with known hot melt and pressure sensitive adhesives are very satisfactory. Heat welding, ultrasonic welding, or a combination of heating and ultrasonic welding may be used if the nature of the components selected to construct the components of the composite sanitary napkin permits.

The first absorbent member can be attached to the second absorbent member by the joining means in such a way that the non-attached longest distance between adjacent attachment points is less than 75% of the common length. Optionally, the first absorbent member is attached to the second absorbent member by the joining means in such a way that the non-attached longest distance between adjacent attachment points is less than 50% of the common length. Optionally, the first absorbent member is attached to the second absorbent member by the joining means in such a way that the longest non-attached distance between adjacent attachment points is less than 25% of the common length. Optionally, the first absorbent member is attached to the second absorbent member by coupling means extending substantially along the entire common length.

Referring now to FIG. 5, another preferred aspect of the composite sanitary napkin 20 of the present invention is shown. The first absorbent member 30 has a length 40 somewhat smaller than the length 60 of the second absorbent member 50. Thus, the common length 65 corresponds to the length 40 of the first absorbing member 30.

Referring now to FIG. 3, it can be seen that the top sheet 32 completely surrounds the absorbent core 34 of the first absorbent member 30. In this aspect, the top sheet 32 for the first absorbing member 30 is separate from and separate from the top sheet 52 for the second absorbing member 50.

Optionally, the top sheet for the first absorbent member 30 and the second absorbent member 50 may be made of a single web of material, such as the top sheet 100 shown in FIG. In this aspect, the top sheet 100 is used as the top sheet for both the first absorbing member 30 and the second absorbing member 50. In the aspect of FIG. 6, the top sheet 100 acts as a joining means 70 connecting the first absorbing member and the second absorbing member together. The composite sanitary napkin can also include additional coupling means for connecting the first absorbent member to the second absorbent member. Suitable further bonding means include, but are not limited to, adhesives and fusion binders. The first absorbing member 30 has a constant width 41. The composite sanitary napkin has a coupling means width 541 which is a distance across the coupling means 70. The engagement means width 541 is smaller than the width of the first absorbent member. Preferably, the engagement means width 541 is less than 75% of the width of the first absorbent member 30. More preferably, the engagement means width 541 is less than 50% of the width of the first absorbent member 30. Most preferably, the engagement means width 541 is less than 25% of the width of the first absorbent member 30.

As can be seen in FIG. 6, the absorbent core 34 is located between the top sheet 100 and the elastic member 45 of the first absorbent member 30. The elastic member 45 has a substantially U-shaped cross section and the first absorbing member generally has a U- shaped cross section.

It is preferable that the elasticity of the elastic member 45 is not affected by the presence of the body exudates absorbed in and contained in the absorbent core. Sustained elasticity of the elastic member 45 allows the first absorbent member 30 to maintain intimate contact with the wearer's body in use.

Referring now to FIG. 6A, the elastic member 45 and the first absorbing member 30 generally have a circular or elliptical cross-sectional structure.

Preferably, the first absorbent member exhibits sufficient "stop resistance" to provide improved performance. The term "stop resistance" as used herein refers to the first absorbent member with respect to the force applied to the first absorbent member in the central area such that the side edge of the first absorbent member does not extend beyond the side edge of the second absorbent member. Says resistance. That is, the stop resistance indicates the relative movement of the first absorbing member relative to the second absorbing member. It is desirable that the side edges of the first absorbent member do not extend beyond the side edges of the second absorbent member even under fairly large forces. By keeping the side edges of the first absorbent member within the side edges of the second absorbent member, even under relatively high forces, body fluids can be drawn from the first absorbent member onto surfaces other than the second absorbent member, such as the user's skin or undergarment. The chance of leaking or releasing is substantially reduced.

The apparatus necessary for the measurement of the static resistance is the balance and the resistance member. A suitable balance is Sartorius Universal Balance. The resistive member is a cylindrical rod having a diameter of 1 inch (2.54 cm). The resistive member preferably has a length of about 6 inches (15.24 cm). The resistive member can be made of any suitable material that can withstand the force during the static resistivity test procedure. Suitable materials include, but are not limited to, steel, aluminum, plastics, wood, and the like.

The static resistivity test procedure is as follows: Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, the resistive member 400 is placed on the balance 402. The balance 400 is then set to zero scale. A composite sanitary napkin, such as a sanitary napkin 410 having a first absorbent member 412 and a second absorbent member 414, is placed on the test apparatus such that the first absorbent member 412 is positioned over the resistive member 400. The position of the back sheet of the second absorbent member should be aligned substantially parallel to the axis of the resistive member 400. A force, generally indicated by F in FIGS. 7 and 8, is applied to each end of the second absorbing member 414. A force must be applied until the side edge 420 of the first absorbent member is the same as the side edge 418 of the second absorbent member when viewed substantially perpendicular to the top sheet position of the second absorbent member 414. . Once the side edges of each of the first absorbing member and the second absorbing member are aligned, the force reading (closest g number) is recorded. This reading indicates the stop resistance of the first absorbing member.

The first absorbent member may exhibit a stopping resistance greater than about 600 g. Preferably, the first absorbent member exhibits a static resistance of at least 50 g, more preferably at least 100 g and most preferably at least 150 g.

Various particular non-limiting composite sanitary napkin embodiments are shown in FIGS. 9-17.

One example of a first absorbing member having an elastic member folded in a Z-shape is shown in FIG. 9. As can be seen in FIG. 9, the absorbent core 34 is preferably located between the upper sheet 32 and the elastic member 45. By placing the absorbent core 34 between the top sheet 32 and the elastic member 45, a close contact can be provided between the absorbent core 34 and the top sheet 32. Close contact of the upper sheet with the absorbent core yarn through the pressure applied by the engagement or elastic member is described as facilitating fluid movement from the upper sheet to the lower absorbent core.

In some aspects, it may be desirable to have an elastic member 45 capable of absorbing body fluids. The material may include, but is not limited to, absorbent foams and sponges.

10, a cross-sectional view taken along the longitudinal axis of another embodiment of the composite sanitary napkin 20 of the present invention is shown. The first absorbent member 30 is an absorbent core composed of a relatively low density layer 72, a relatively high density layer 73, a plurality of elastic fibers 74 and an absorbent gelling material 75 dispersed over and in the high density layer 73. (34). The absorbent gelling material 75 is mainly dispersed in the first and second terminal regions 27, 29 of the first absorbent member 30. The relatively low density layer 72 is preferably made of a thermally bonded air stack material. Preferably, the relatively high density layer 73 is also made of a thermally bonded air stack material. The elastic fibers are preferably polyester capillary channel fibers.

Referring to FIG. 11, there is shown a cross-sectional view of another aspect of the composite sanitary napkin 20 of the present invention. The absorbent core 34 includes a facet nonwoven layer of capillary channel fibers. The nonwoven layer is wound over itself to form multiple layers. Preferably, a masking element 77 is located in the nonwoven layer of capillary channel fibers. Suitable shielding elements are fluid impermeable films. Another suitable shielding element is a molded film. Optionally, an absorbent material, such as an absorbent gelling material, can be inserted into the nonwoven layer of capillary channel fibers.

Although the nonwoven layer of capillary channel fibers is generally shown in FIG. 11 as having a circular cross section, the capillary channel fiber layers are manufactured in a wide variety of shapes such as rectangular, triangular, oval, U-shaped, Z-shaped, etc. Can be.

Referring now to FIG. 12, another aspect of a composite sanitary napkin 120 is shown. The composite sanitary napkin 120 includes a first absorbing member 130 and a second absorbing member 150. The first absorbent member 130 has a perforated molded film top sheet 132, a capture element 140, a dispensing element 145, an absorbent core layer 150, a first elastic member 155 and a second elastic member 157. ). The first elastic member 155 is substantially spread over the entire length of the first absorbing member 130. The first elastic member 155 preferably comprises polymerizable capillary channel fibers as disclosed in US Pat. No. 5,200,248 to April 6, 1993. The second elastic member 157 preferably comprises nylon mono-filaments that are fixed to each other and aligned in a substantially circular cross section near the capture element 140 and near the inner surface of the absorbent core 150. As can be seen in FIG. 12, the second elastic member 157 is located substantially at the center of the first absorbing member 130.

The first absorbent member 30 is described in US patent application Ser. No. 08 / 225,441 (P & G Case 5109R) (Carl L. Bergman, April 8, 1994) under the name "sanitary napkin with internal molding component". And an elastic member 45 similar to the internal molding component, which is disclosed in the name of the present application). The disclosure of this application is incorporated herein by reference.

13 illustrates another preferred embodiment of the composite sanitary napkin 200. The composite sanitary napkin 200 includes a first absorbing member 210 and a second absorbing member 220. The first absorbent member 210 preferably includes a top sheet 212, an absorbent core 214, and an elastic member 216. As can be seen in FIG. 13, the elastic member 216 has a substantially inverted V-shaped cross section. Thus, the first absorbent member 210 also has a substantially inverted V-shaped cross section. Preferably, the elastic member 216 extends substantially over the entire length of the first absorbent member 210.

With reference to FIG. 14, another preferred aspect of the composite sanitary napkin 240 of the present invention is shown. The composite sanitary napkin 240 preferably includes a first absorbent member 245 and a second absorbent member 250. As can be seen in FIG. 14, composite sanitary napkin 240 preferably has a substantially horizontal compartment 255 and an upwardly curved compartment 257. Horizontal compartment 255 is located within first distal region 27 and central region 28. The upwardly curved section 257 is located in the second distal region 29. Preferably, the upwardly curved section 257 includes tensioning means for providing sufficient tension to make the second section 257 bent. Suitable tensioning means include, but are not limited to, tensioned topsheets, elastic materials, yarns, films, or any suitable means for providing the desired tension. Optionally, the compartment located in the first end region 27 may also be bent upwards.

As shown in FIG. 15, the first absorbing member 245 and the second absorbing member 250 are connected to each other over their entire common length. That is, they are connected to each other throughout the partitions 255 and 257. Optionally, they may be connected to each other in the first compartment 255 and may be separated from each other in the latter compartment 257 as shown in FIG. 15. In this aspect, the second absorbent element 250 is located in substantially the same plane throughout the compartments 255 and 257 under unstressed conditions. The first absorbent member 245 located in the second compartment 257 is bent upwardly away from the second absorbent member 250 and separated. Compartment 257 generally corresponds to second distal region 29. The first absorbent member can also be bent upwards in the first end region 27.

Referring now to FIGS. 16 and 17, another aspect of the composite sanitary napkin 320 of the present invention is shown. The composite sanitary napkin 320 includes a segmented first absorbent member 330 and a second absorbent member 340. The first absorbent member includes individual absorbent components 331, 332, and 333. 16 and 17, the compartment 331 is entirely located within the first end region 27, the compartment 332 is entirely located within the central region 28, and the compartment 333 is entirely second. It is located in the distal region 29. Optionally, the first absorbent member may consist of four or more separate components. 16 and 17 show that the first absorbent member having multiple components extends over the length of the composite sanitary napkin, but it may be desirable to have some compartments or some regions of the composite sanitary napkin without the first absorbent element. . For example, first end region 27 and central region 28 may comprise a first absorbent component while second end region 29 includes only a second absorbent member. Moreover, the multi-zone undergarment first absorbing member may be designed to perform a specific function and thus be made of a material for performing a desired function. For example, the compartment 332 is easy to position to receive body fluids directly, so that the central region 28 undergarment first absorbent compartment 332 may have a larger volume of absorbent material than compartment 331 or compartment 333. While it may contain elements or compartments 331 or 333 are easy to receive, they have a smaller capacity than the central region 28 undergarment compartment 332.

It may be desirable to provide a composite sanitary napkin comprising a first absorbent member having various widths or calipers throughout its length. For example, the first absorbent member may be much thicker in the central region when opposed to the distal region. Alternatively, the first absorbent member can be much thinner in the central region when opposed to the distal region.

While certain aspects of the invention have been illustrated and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various other modifications and changes can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, all such modifications and variations that fall within the scope of the invention are protected in the appended claims.

Claims (27)

A first uppermost absorbent member having a constant length, a constant width and a constant absorbent capacity, and a second lowest absorbent member having a constant length, a constant width, a constant thickness and a constant absorbent capacity; The absorbency of the first absorbing member is greater than that of the second absorbing member, and the first absorbing member and the second absorbing member have a common length; The first absorbent member comprises an elastic member, an absorbent core and a liquid permeable top sheet superposed on the absorbent core, the cross-sectional structure being substantially U-shaped along at least one of its lengths; The second absorbent member comprises a liquid permeable top sheet and a liquid impermeable back sheet connected to the top sheet; The first absorbing member is attached to the second absorbing member by an integral coupling means, and the width of the second absorbing member is at least 3.0 times the width of the first absorbing member, Composite sanitary napkin. A sieve 1 absorbing member having a constant length, a constant width, a constant circumference and a stress-free initial shape structure, and a second absorbing member having a constant length and a constant width; The first absorbing member and the second absorbing member have a common length; The first absorbent member comprises an absorbent core and a liquid permeable top sheet overlying the absorbent core; The second absorbent member comprises a second absorbent member comprising a liquid permeable top sheet and a liquid impermeable backsheet connected to the top sheet; The first absorbing member is attached to the second absorbing member by integral coupling means; Characterized in that the first absorbent member is compressible when subjected to a compressive force around its circumference and is sufficiently elastic so that once the compressive force is removed it can be substantially restored to its original unstructured shape structure, Composite sanitary napkin. A topmost disposable first absorbent member having a constant length, a constant width and a constant absorbency disposed in the longitudinal direction, and a lowermost disposable second absorbent member having a constant length, a constant width and a constant absorbency disposed in the longitudinal direction; The length of the second absorbent member is at least equal to the length of the first absorbent member, and the absorbent capacity of the first absorbent member is greater than the absorbent capacity of the second absorbent member; The first absorbent member comprises an absorbent core and a first fluid permeable top sheet overlying the absorbent core; The first absorbent member is sized to at least partially mate the wearer's labia in use; The second absorbent member includes a second liquid permeable top sheet, a liquid impermeable back sheet bonded to the second top sheet, and an absorbent element positioned between the second top sheet and the back sheet; Wherein the first absorbent member is coupled to the second absorbent member by integral coupling means extending substantially continuously along the length of the first absorbent member; Composite sanitary napkin with longitudinal and transverse directions. A top disposable disposable absorbent member having a longitudinally disposed constant length, constant width and constant absorbent capacity and comprising an absorbent core and a first liquid permeable top sheet overlying the absorbent core; And A lowermost disposable second absorbent member having a constant length disposed in the longitudinal direction, a constant width disposed in the transverse direction, a constant absorbent capacity and a longitudinal absorbing end; The second absorbent member includes a second liquid permeable top sheet, a liquid impermeable backsheet connected to the second topsheet, an absorbent element located between the second topsheet and the backsheet, and a longitudinal side end of the second absorbent member. A pair of flaps connected to and extending transversely through the longitudinal side ends; The length of the second absorbent member is at least equal to the length of the first absorbent member, and the absorbent capacity of the first absorbent member is greater than the absorbent capacity of the second absorbent member; Wherein the first absorbent member is sized to at least partially match the wearer labia site during use, Composite sanitary napkin with longitudinal and transverse directions. The method according to any one of claims 1 and 2 to 4, A composite sanitary napkin, wherein the top sheet of the first absorbent member comprises a molded film. The method according to any one of claims 1 and 2 to 4, A composite sanitary napkin, wherein said top sheet of said first absorbent member comprises a nonwoven fabric. The method according to any one of claims 1 and 2 to 4, A composite sanitary napkin, wherein said first absorbent member comprises a fluid barrier wall. The method according to any one of claims 1 and 2 to 4, A composite sanitary napkin, wherein said first absorbent member comprises one or more elastic members. The method of claim 8, Composite sanitary napkin, wherein the elastic member comprises a foam. The method according to any one of claims 1 and 2 to 4, A composite sanitary napkin, wherein said absorbent core comprises a foam. The method according to any one of claims 1 and 2 to 4, Composite sanitary napkin having a width of the first absorbent member less than 3 cm. The method according to any one of claims 1 and 2 to 4, Composite sanitary napkin, wherein said first absorbent member comprises a capture layer. The method according to any one of claims 1 and 2 to 4, The composite sanitary napkin of which the first absorbent member has a conformance of less than 1.0 psi at 3/8 inch. The method of claim 13, The composite sanitary napkin of which the first absorbent member has a conformance of less than 0.5 psi at 3/8 inch. The method of claim 14, The composite sanitary napkin of which the first absorbent member has a conformity of less than 0.25 psi at 3/8 inch. The method according to any one of claims 1 and 2 to 4, A composite sanitary napkin, wherein said second absorbent member comprises an adhesive attachment means. The method according to claim 1 or 2, And a second sanitary member comprising an absorbent element positioned between the top sheet and the back sheet. The method according to any one of claims 1 and 2 to 4, A composite sanitary napkin, wherein said second absorbent member comprises a pair of side flaps. The method of claim 18, A composite sanitary napkin, wherein said flap comprises an extensible band. The method according to any one of claims 1 and 2 to 4, A composite sanitary napkin, wherein the top sheet of the second absorbent member comprises a molded film. The method according to any one of claims 1 and 2 to 4, A composite sanitary napkin, wherein said top sheet of said second absorbent member comprises a nonwoven fabric. The method according to claim 3 or 4, A composite sanitary napkin, wherein said second absorbent member comprises a laterally extendable component. The method according to any one of claims 1 and 2 to 4, A composite sanitary napkin having a width of the second absorbent member in a range of 3.0 times to 8 times the width of the first absorbent member. The method according to claim 1 or 2, A composite sanitary napkin, wherein said first absorbent member is attached to said second absorbent member by integral coupling means extending substantially continuously along a common length. The method according to claim 1 or 2, A composite sanitary napkin traveling with integral coupling means in such a way that the attachment of the first absorbent member to the second absorbent member is such that the longest unattached distance between adjacent attachment points is less than 75% of the common length. The method of claim 24, A composite sanitary napkin traveling with integral coupling means such that the attachment of the first absorbent member to the second absorbent member is such that the longest unattached distance between adjacent attachment points is less than 50% of the common length. The method of claim 25, A composite sanitary napkin traveling with integral coupling means such that the attachment of the first absorbent member to the second absorbent member is such that the longest unattached distance between adjacent attachment points is less than 25% of the common length.

Images