US20060135929A1 - Contoured and shaped feminine sanitary device - Google Patents
Contoured and shaped feminine sanitary device Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20060135929A1 US20060135929A1 US11/257,275 US25727505A US2006135929A1 US 20060135929 A1 US20060135929 A1 US 20060135929A1 US 25727505 A US25727505 A US 25727505A US 2006135929 A1 US2006135929 A1 US 2006135929A1
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- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- sanitary device
- feminine sanitary
- area
- central portion
- fluid
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 37
- 238000010521 absorption reaction Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 18
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 claims description 8
- 210000004392 genitalia Anatomy 0.000 claims description 7
- 210000001124 body fluid Anatomy 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000002250 absorbent Substances 0.000 abstract description 10
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 abstract description 3
- 230000002708 enhancing effect Effects 0.000 abstract description 3
- 210000001217 buttock Anatomy 0.000 description 8
- 239000011162 core material Substances 0.000 description 7
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 7
- 206010040070 Septic Shock Diseases 0.000 description 5
- 206010044248 Toxic shock syndrome Diseases 0.000 description 5
- 231100000650 Toxic shock syndrome Toxicity 0.000 description 5
- 230000002745 absorbent Effects 0.000 description 4
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 3
- 210000002414 leg Anatomy 0.000 description 3
- 241000237503 Pectinidae Species 0.000 description 2
- 230000003187 abdominal effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 235000020637 scallop Nutrition 0.000 description 2
- 230000002459 sustained effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000008961 swelling Effects 0.000 description 2
- 206010012735 Diarrhoea Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 208000010201 Exanthema Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000015572 biosynthetic process Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000002498 deadly effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 201000010099 disease Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 208000037265 diseases, disorders, signs and symptoms Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 201000005884 exanthem Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 208000021760 high fever Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 230000005906 menstruation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 206010037844 rash Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 238000006467 substitution reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000013589 supplement Substances 0.000 description 1
- 208000024891 symptom Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 206010042772 syncope Diseases 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
- A61F13/00—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads
- A61F13/15—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators
- A61F13/45—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators characterised by the shape
- A61F13/47—Sanitary towels, incontinence pads or napkins
- A61F13/472—Sanitary towels, incontinence pads or napkins specially adapted for female use
- A61F13/47218—Sanitary towels, incontinence pads or napkins specially adapted for female use with a raised crotch region, e.g. hump
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
- A61F13/00—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads
- A61F13/15—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
- A61F13/00—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads
- A61F13/15—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators
- A61F13/45—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators characterised by the shape
- A61F13/47—Sanitary towels, incontinence pads or napkins
- A61F13/472—Sanitary towels, incontinence pads or napkins specially adapted for female use
- A61F13/47236—Sanitary towels, incontinence pads or napkins specially adapted for female use characterised by an unusual contour
- A61F13/47245—Sanitary towels, incontinence pads or napkins specially adapted for female use characterised by an unusual contour with asymmetry around the x or y axis
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
- A61F13/00—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads
- A61F13/15—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators
- A61F13/56—Supporting or fastening means
- A61F13/5605—Supporting or fastening means specially adapted for sanitary napkins or the like
- A61F13/5616—Supporting or fastening means specially adapted for sanitary napkins or the like using flaps, e.g. adhesive, for attachment to the undergarment
Definitions
- the present invention relates broadly to feminine sanitary napkins, pads, or other similar devices. More particularly, the present invention concerns a contoured and shaped feminine sanitary device comprising a substantially fluid-impermeable bottom layer, a substantially fluid-absorbent core, and a substantially fluid-permeable top layer, with at least one raised area and at least one of back or front extensions for facilitating and enhancing fluid absorption in certain areas and during certain activities.
- Feminine sanitary napkins or pads are well-known in the prior art as comprising a fluid-absorbent core interposed between a fluid-impermeable backing and a fluid-permeable cover for placement against the female genital area to absorb bodily fluid during menstruation.
- Such prior art pads generally function best when the user is in a substantially vertical position, i.e., standing or sitting upright such that the natural flow of such fluid is directly into the pad.
- fluid can avoid absorption by the prior art pad by flowing along the contours of the body to an area that is unprotected by the prior art pad.
- substantial amounts of fluid may avoid being absorbed by the prior art pad and may ultimately contact and stain the user's garments or bedcoverings.
- U.S. Pat. No. 6,059,763 discloses a feminine sanitary pad having a “gluteal pad extending from an end of the horizontally extending base pad for providing additional absorption of backward spillage occurring when a woman lies in a horizontal position.”
- the gluteal pad takes the form of a wedge for placement between the lower buttocks.
- Unfortunately, such a wedge works to absorb spillage only when the user lies in a supine horizontal position such that the spillage flows rearwardly.
- the gluteal wedge does not work to absorb spillage when the user lies in a prone horizontal position such that the spillage flows forwardly.
- the gluteal wedge does not work to absorb spillage when the user lies on her left or right side such that the spillage flows sidewardly.
- the gluteal wedge protects the user in only one of the four basic sleeping positions.
- the gluteal wedge suffers from a number of additional disadvantages, including, for example, that it only absorbs fluid flowing between the buttocks and not fluid flowing over the buttocks, and that the overly-intrusive wedge shape may be unduly uncomfortable or otherwise disagreeable for some women.
- TSS Toxic shock syndrome
- U.S. Pat. No. 4,490,147 discloses a sanitary device which claims to be more absorbent than conventional pads due to the placement of parallel, elongated, cylindrical structures and a swellable sponge between the base and the cover layers.
- One embodiment comprises three cylindrical pads in a triangle formation, resulting in a heightened area throughout much of the length of the pad.
- One disadvantage of this single, elongated wedge is discomfort for the user because it does not and cannot conform to the natural contours of the female genital area.
- Prior art adult diapers are also well-known and can be used as an extreme solution to the problem of containing fluid flow.
- Adult diapers may contain elastic along the sides and are padded for fluid absorption along the entire interior to provide for maximum protection. Even though the risk of leakage is very low, adult diapers may not provide sufficient discreetness for some, and may also be undesirable either or both from an associated psychological stigma or from physical discomfort.
- the present invention solves the above-identified and other problems and disadvantages in the prior art by providing a contoured and shaped feminine sanitary device for facilitating and enhancing fluid absorption in certain areas and during certain activities. More specifically, the device provides significantly improved protection over the prior art, particularly when the user assumes non-vertical positions, such as, for example, when reclining or laying in a prone, supine, or side position.
- the device comprises an elongated body including a central portion, a back extension, a front extension, one or more raised areas, and one or more wings.
- the central portion is substantially elongated and rectangular in shape and adapted for placement against the female genital area in much the same manner as a prior art pad.
- the back extension is connected to or otherwise extends substantially continuously from a rearward end of the central portion, presents additional surface area, and is adapted for placement against the user's lower buttock area to absorb at least some of any fluid that may avoid absorption by the central portion and flow rearward along bodily contours into this lower buttock area such as when the user is in a substantially supine position.
- the front extension is connected to or otherwise extends substantially continuously from a forward end of the central portion, also presents additional surface area, and is adapted for placement against the user's pelvic or lower abdominal area to absorb at least some of any fluid that may avoid absorption by the central portion and flow forwardly along bodily contours when the user is in a substantially prone position.
- the extensions may be given substantially any suitable simple or complex shape as well as relief features for more closely accommodating the user's legs or other body parts. Securement mechanisms may be provided for one or more of the central portion or back or front extensions in order to aid in maintaining the portion or area in its proper operating position.
- the one or more raised areas are located on the body of the device in areas where fluid flow is likely to occur, and have a raised shape, such as a rounded swelling or even, as appropriate, a wedge, that results in more certain and sustained contact with the user's body and therefore better protection.
- a raised shape such as a rounded swelling or even, as appropriate, a wedge, that results in more certain and sustained contact with the user's body and therefore better protection.
- the vaginal area is located in a center area of the central portion; the rear area is located rearwardly of the vaginal area, such as near the intersection of the central portion and the back extension where the human body forms a natural crevice and intersection for fluid flowing rearwardly along bodily contours; and the front area is located forwardly of the vaginal area, such as near the intersection of the central portion and the front extension to intercept fluid flowing forwardly along bodily contours.
- the raised areas are preferably constructed of a material or materials and in such a manner that fluid absorbed by the raised areas is able or even encouraged to migrate into adjacent areas of the device so as to slow or avoid substantial or complete saturation of the raised areas which might diminish or preclude further absorption and thereby diminish or preclude further performance or operation of the device.
- the feminine sanitary device of the present invention provides a number of substantial advantages over the prior art, including, for example, providing significantly improved protection, particularly when the user assumes non-vertical positions, such as, for example, when reclining or laying in a prone, supine, or side position.
- the oversized and appropriately shaped back and front extensions provide greater protection against fluid not absorbed by the central portion, and the appropriately located raised areas further improve protection.
- FIG. 1 is a plan view of a preferred first embodiment of the feminine sanitary device of the present invention
- FIG. 2 is a plan view of a preferred second embodiment of the feminine sanitary device of the present invention.
- FIG. 3 a is a first cross-sectional view along line A-A of the feminine sanitary device of FIG. 1 showing a contemplated first possible thickness of a raised area of the device;
- FIG. 3 b is a second cross-sectional view along line A-A of the feminine sanitary device of FIG. 1 showing a contemplated second possible thickness of the raised area of the device;
- FIG. 4 is a bottom view of the feminine sanitary device of FIG. 1 .
- a feminine sanitary device 10 is described, shown, and otherwise disclosed herein in accordance with one or more preferred embodiments of the present invention.
- the device 10 of the present invention provides substantially improved protection over the prior art, particularly when the user assumes non-vertical positions, such as, for example, when reclining or laying in a prone, supine, or side position.
- the device 10 broadly comprises an elongated body including a central portion 12 , a back extension 14 , a front extension 16 , one or more raised areas 18 , and one or more wings 20 .
- the body includes a substantially fluid-absorbent core 24 interposed between a substantially fluid-impermeable backing 26 and a substantially fluid permeable cover 28 for absorbing and retaining fluid.
- This cross-sectional construction is generally substantially consistent over the entire body, including the central portion and the extensions.
- the central portion 12 is substantially elongated and rectangular in shape and adapted for placement against the female genital area in much the same manner as a prior art pad.
- the back extension 14 is connected to or otherwise extends substantially continuously from a rearward end of the central portion 12 , presents additional surface area, and is adapted for placement against the user's lower buttock area to absorb at least some of any fluid that may avoid absorption by the central portion 12 and flow rearward along bodily contours into this lower buttock area such as when the user is in a substantially supine position.
- the back extension 14 may have substantially any suitable simple shape, (as shown in FIG. 1 ) such as round or triangular, or complex shape (as shown in FIG. 2 ), such as round or triangular with appropriately shaped scallops, cut-outs, or other relief features 29 to more closely accommodate the user's legs or other body parts.
- the front extension 16 is connected to or otherwise extends substantially continuously from a forward end of the central portion 12 , also presents additional surface area, and is adapted for placement against the user's pelvic or lower abdominal area to absorb at least some of any fluid that may avoid absorption by the central portion 12 and flow forwardly along bodily contours when the user is in a substantially prone position.
- the front extension 16 may be given substantially any suitable simple shape, such as round or triangular, or complex shape, such as round or triangular with appropriately shaped scallops, cut-outs, or other relief features similar to those shown in FIG. 2 to more closely accommodate the user's legs or other body parts.
- securement mechanisms 30 may be provided for one or more of the central portion 12 , back extension 14 , or front extension 16 in order to aid in maintaining the portion or area in its proper operating position.
- Such securement mechanisms 30 may take the form of adhesive or hook-and-loop tape associated with a backside of the device 10 for removably securing it to an undergarment worn by the user.
- Such securement mechanisms 30 may supplement or replace the one or more wings 20 which are discussed below.
- the one or more raised areas 18 are located on the body in areas where fluid flow is likely to occur. While the fluid-absorbent core 24 extends substantially throughout the entire body, the areas 18 provide even greater absorbing ability or capacity. This enhanced ability or capacity of the areas 18 may be achieved either by use of a different and even more absorbent material than the super-absorbent core material, by use of additional thicknesses of the core or other material, or by any combination thereof to achieve the desired characteristic. Such additional thicknesses of material provide a raised shape, such as a rounded swelling or even, as appropriate, a wedge, that results in more certain and sustained contact with the user's body and therefore better protection. As shown in FIGS.
- the height of the raised areas 18 , 118 may vary from approximately between 0.25 inch to 1.0 inch based on a variety of factors, including, for example, desired absorbing capacity.
- the raised area 118 of FIG. 3 b is substantially higher than the raised area 18 of FIG. 3 a , potentially allowing the raised area 118 of FIG. 3 b to both maintain closer contact with the user's body and provide greater absorbing capacity due to its greater amount of absorbent core material 124 . It is contemplated that there may be any one or more of three such areas 18 : a vaginal area 32 , a rear area 34 , and a front area 36 .
- the vaginal area 32 may be provided with an appropriate shape, such as an elongated elliptical shape, and positioned in a center area of the central portion 12 .
- the rear area 34 may be provided with an appropriate shape, such as a triangular shape, and positioned rearwardly of the vaginal area 32 , such as near the intersection of the central portion 12 and the back extension 14 where the human body forms a natural crevice and intersection for fluid flowing rearwardly along bodily contours.
- the front area 36 may be provided with an appropriate shape, such as a triangular shape, and positioned forwardly of the vaginal area 32 , such as near the intersection of the central portion 12 and the front extension 16 to intercept fluid flowing forwardly along bodily contours.
- the areas may be of equal, differing, or even varying height depending on the desired performance characteristics at that location.
- the raised areas 18 are preferably constructed of a material or materials and in such a manner that fluid absorbed by the raised areas 18 is able or even encouraged to migrate into adjacent areas of the device 10 so as to slow or avoid substantial or complete saturation of the raised areas 18 which might diminish or preclude further absorption and thereby diminish or preclude further performance or operation of the device 10 .
- the one or more wings 20 project outwardly perpendicularly from the central portion 12 of the body and function both to provide protection against fluid flowing sidewardly and to facilitate maintaining the device 10 in its proper operating position.
- one wing projects outwardly from each side of the central portion 12 , has some absorbent ability, and includes a securement mechanism, such as described above, to allow for securing the body to the undergarment worn by the user in an otherwise substantially conventional manner.
- the feminine sanitary device of the present invention provides a number of substantial advantages over the prior art, including, for example, providing significantly improved protection, particularly when the user assumes non-vertical positions, such as, for example, when reclining or laying in a prone, supine, or side position.
- the oversized and appropriately shaped back and front extensions provide greater protection against fluid not absorbed by the central portion, and the appropriately located raised areas further improve protection.
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- Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
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Abstract
A contoured and shaped feminine sanitary device (10) comprising a substantially fluid-impermeable bottom layer (26), a substantially fluid-absorbent core (24), and a substantially fluid-permeable top layer (28), with at least one raised area (18) and at least one of back or front extensions (14,16) for facilitating and enhancing fluid absorption in certain areas and during certain activities.
Description
- The present non-provisional patent application is related to and claims priority benefit of an earlier-filed and still pending provisional patent application titled FEMININE SANITARY DEVICE, Ser. No. 60/638,879, filed Dec. 22, 2004. The identified provisional patent application is hereby incorporated by reference into the present non-provisional application.
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The present invention relates broadly to feminine sanitary napkins, pads, or other similar devices. More particularly, the present invention concerns a contoured and shaped feminine sanitary device comprising a substantially fluid-impermeable bottom layer, a substantially fluid-absorbent core, and a substantially fluid-permeable top layer, with at least one raised area and at least one of back or front extensions for facilitating and enhancing fluid absorption in certain areas and during certain activities.
- 2. Description of the Prior Art
- Feminine sanitary napkins or pads are well-known in the prior art as comprising a fluid-absorbent core interposed between a fluid-impermeable backing and a fluid-permeable cover for placement against the female genital area to absorb bodily fluid during menstruation. Unfortunately, such prior art pads generally function best when the user is in a substantially vertical position, i.e., standing or sitting upright such that the natural flow of such fluid is directly into the pad. When the user is reclining or laying in a supine, prone, or side position, fluid can avoid absorption by the prior art pad by flowing along the contours of the body to an area that is unprotected by the prior art pad. Thus, for example, when the user is sleeping, substantial amounts of fluid may avoid being absorbed by the prior art pad and may ultimately contact and stain the user's garments or bedcoverings.
- U.S. Pat. No. 6,059,763 discloses a feminine sanitary pad having a “gluteal pad extending from an end of the horizontally extending base pad for providing additional absorption of backward spillage occurring when a woman lies in a horizontal position.” The gluteal pad takes the form of a wedge for placement between the lower buttocks. Unfortunately, such a wedge works to absorb spillage only when the user lies in a supine horizontal position such that the spillage flows rearwardly. The gluteal wedge does not work to absorb spillage when the user lies in a prone horizontal position such that the spillage flows forwardly. Similarly, the gluteal wedge does not work to absorb spillage when the user lies on her left or right side such that the spillage flows sidewardly. Thus, the gluteal wedge protects the user in only one of the four basic sleeping positions. The gluteal wedge suffers from a number of additional disadvantages, including, for example, that it only absorbs fluid flowing between the buttocks and not fluid flowing over the buttocks, and that the overly-intrusive wedge shape may be unduly uncomfortable or otherwise disagreeable for some women.
- It is known to combine a feminine sanitary pad with a tampon in order to increase the amount of absorption of fluids and to reduce spillage. Unfortunately, tampons, while generally effective, pose health risks for women. Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a rare but potentially deadly disease. Using tampons of any absorbency greatly increases a woman's risk of contracting TSS. A sudden high fever, diarrhea, fainting, bloodshot eyes, and a rash are some of the most severe symptoms of TSS. In order to reduce the risk of contracting TSS, doctors suggest the use of feminine sanitary pads, but as mentioned, prior art pads by themselves suffer from a number of problems and disadvantages.
- U.S. Pat. No. 4,490,147 discloses a sanitary device which claims to be more absorbent than conventional pads due to the placement of parallel, elongated, cylindrical structures and a swellable sponge between the base and the cover layers. One embodiment comprises three cylindrical pads in a triangle formation, resulting in a heightened area throughout much of the length of the pad. One disadvantage of this single, elongated wedge is discomfort for the user because it does not and cannot conform to the natural contours of the female genital area. In addition, there is still the possibility of spillage or leakage if the user lies in a horizontal position such that the fluid flows either forward toward the pelvic area, rearward toward the buttocks, or toward the sides of the pad.
- Prior art adult diapers are also well-known and can be used as an extreme solution to the problem of containing fluid flow. Adult diapers may contain elastic along the sides and are padded for fluid absorption along the entire interior to provide for maximum protection. Even though the risk of leakage is very low, adult diapers may not provide sufficient discreetness for some, and may also be undesirable either or both from an associated psychological stigma or from physical discomfort.
- Due to these and other problems and disadvantages encountered in the prior art, a need exists for an improved feminine sanitary device that facilitates and enhances protection, especially when the user is reclining or lying down.
- The present invention solves the above-identified and other problems and disadvantages in the prior art by providing a contoured and shaped feminine sanitary device for facilitating and enhancing fluid absorption in certain areas and during certain activities. More specifically, the device provides significantly improved protection over the prior art, particularly when the user assumes non-vertical positions, such as, for example, when reclining or laying in a prone, supine, or side position.
- Preferably, the device comprises an elongated body including a central portion, a back extension, a front extension, one or more raised areas, and one or more wings. The central portion is substantially elongated and rectangular in shape and adapted for placement against the female genital area in much the same manner as a prior art pad. The back extension is connected to or otherwise extends substantially continuously from a rearward end of the central portion, presents additional surface area, and is adapted for placement against the user's lower buttock area to absorb at least some of any fluid that may avoid absorption by the central portion and flow rearward along bodily contours into this lower buttock area such as when the user is in a substantially supine position. The front extension is connected to or otherwise extends substantially continuously from a forward end of the central portion, also presents additional surface area, and is adapted for placement against the user's pelvic or lower abdominal area to absorb at least some of any fluid that may avoid absorption by the central portion and flow forwardly along bodily contours when the user is in a substantially prone position. The extensions may be given substantially any suitable simple or complex shape as well as relief features for more closely accommodating the user's legs or other body parts. Securement mechanisms may be provided for one or more of the central portion or back or front extensions in order to aid in maintaining the portion or area in its proper operating position.
- The one or more raised areas are located on the body of the device in areas where fluid flow is likely to occur, and have a raised shape, such as a rounded swelling or even, as appropriate, a wedge, that results in more certain and sustained contact with the user's body and therefore better protection. There may be any one or more of three such areas: a vaginal area, a rear area, and a front area. The vaginal area is located in a center area of the central portion; the rear area is located rearwardly of the vaginal area, such as near the intersection of the central portion and the back extension where the human body forms a natural crevice and intersection for fluid flowing rearwardly along bodily contours; and the front area is located forwardly of the vaginal area, such as near the intersection of the central portion and the front extension to intercept fluid flowing forwardly along bodily contours. The raised areas are preferably constructed of a material or materials and in such a manner that fluid absorbed by the raised areas is able or even encouraged to migrate into adjacent areas of the device so as to slow or avoid substantial or complete saturation of the raised areas which might diminish or preclude further absorption and thereby diminish or preclude further performance or operation of the device.
- Thus, it will be appreciated that the feminine sanitary device of the present invention provides a number of substantial advantages over the prior art, including, for example, providing significantly improved protection, particularly when the user assumes non-vertical positions, such as, for example, when reclining or laying in a prone, supine, or side position. In particular, the oversized and appropriately shaped back and front extensions provide greater protection against fluid not absorbed by the central portion, and the appropriately located raised areas further improve protection.
- These and other features of the present invention are described in greater detail in the section entitled DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT, set forth below.
- A preferred embodiment of the present invention is described in detail below with reference to the attached drawing figures, wherein:
-
FIG. 1 is a plan view of a preferred first embodiment of the feminine sanitary device of the present invention; -
FIG. 2 is a plan view of a preferred second embodiment of the feminine sanitary device of the present invention; -
FIG. 3 a is a first cross-sectional view along line A-A of the feminine sanitary device ofFIG. 1 showing a contemplated first possible thickness of a raised area of the device; -
FIG. 3 b is a second cross-sectional view along line A-A of the feminine sanitary device ofFIG. 1 showing a contemplated second possible thickness of the raised area of the device; and -
FIG. 4 is a bottom view of the feminine sanitary device ofFIG. 1 . - With reference to the figures, a feminine
sanitary device 10 is described, shown, and otherwise disclosed herein in accordance with one or more preferred embodiments of the present invention. Thedevice 10 of the present invention provides substantially improved protection over the prior art, particularly when the user assumes non-vertical positions, such as, for example, when reclining or laying in a prone, supine, or side position. - Preferably, the
device 10 broadly comprises an elongated body including acentral portion 12, aback extension 14, afront extension 16, one or more raisedareas 18, and one ormore wings 20. Referring particularly toFIGS. 3 a and 3 b, the body includes a substantially fluid-absorbent core 24 interposed between a substantially fluid-impermeable backing 26 and a substantially fluidpermeable cover 28 for absorbing and retaining fluid. This cross-sectional construction is generally substantially consistent over the entire body, including the central portion and the extensions. - The
central portion 12 is substantially elongated and rectangular in shape and adapted for placement against the female genital area in much the same manner as a prior art pad. - The
back extension 14 is connected to or otherwise extends substantially continuously from a rearward end of thecentral portion 12, presents additional surface area, and is adapted for placement against the user's lower buttock area to absorb at least some of any fluid that may avoid absorption by thecentral portion 12 and flow rearward along bodily contours into this lower buttock area such as when the user is in a substantially supine position. Theback extension 14 may have substantially any suitable simple shape, (as shown inFIG. 1 ) such as round or triangular, or complex shape (as shown inFIG. 2 ), such as round or triangular with appropriately shaped scallops, cut-outs, or other relief features 29 to more closely accommodate the user's legs or other body parts. - The
front extension 16 is connected to or otherwise extends substantially continuously from a forward end of thecentral portion 12, also presents additional surface area, and is adapted for placement against the user's pelvic or lower abdominal area to absorb at least some of any fluid that may avoid absorption by thecentral portion 12 and flow forwardly along bodily contours when the user is in a substantially prone position. Thefront extension 16 may be given substantially any suitable simple shape, such as round or triangular, or complex shape, such as round or triangular with appropriately shaped scallops, cut-outs, or other relief features similar to those shown inFIG. 2 to more closely accommodate the user's legs or other body parts. - Referring particularly to
FIG. 4 ,securement mechanisms 30 may be provided for one or more of thecentral portion 12, backextension 14, orfront extension 16 in order to aid in maintaining the portion or area in its proper operating position.Such securement mechanisms 30 may take the form of adhesive or hook-and-loop tape associated with a backside of thedevice 10 for removably securing it to an undergarment worn by the user.Such securement mechanisms 30 may supplement or replace the one ormore wings 20 which are discussed below. - Referring particularly to
FIGS. 3 a and 3 b, the one or more raisedareas 18 are located on the body in areas where fluid flow is likely to occur. While the fluid-absorbent core 24 extends substantially throughout the entire body, theareas 18 provide even greater absorbing ability or capacity. This enhanced ability or capacity of theareas 18 may be achieved either by use of a different and even more absorbent material than the super-absorbent core material, by use of additional thicknesses of the core or other material, or by any combination thereof to achieve the desired characteristic. Such additional thicknesses of material provide a raised shape, such as a rounded swelling or even, as appropriate, a wedge, that results in more certain and sustained contact with the user's body and therefore better protection. As shown inFIGS. 3 a and 3 b, the height of the raisedareas area 118 ofFIG. 3 b is substantially higher than the raisedarea 18 ofFIG. 3 a, potentially allowing the raisedarea 118 ofFIG. 3 b to both maintain closer contact with the user's body and provide greater absorbing capacity due to its greater amount ofabsorbent core material 124. It is contemplated that there may be any one or more of three such areas 18: avaginal area 32, arear area 34, and afront area 36. Thevaginal area 32 may be provided with an appropriate shape, such as an elongated elliptical shape, and positioned in a center area of thecentral portion 12. Therear area 34 may be provided with an appropriate shape, such as a triangular shape, and positioned rearwardly of thevaginal area 32, such as near the intersection of thecentral portion 12 and theback extension 14 where the human body forms a natural crevice and intersection for fluid flowing rearwardly along bodily contours. Thefront area 36 may be provided with an appropriate shape, such as a triangular shape, and positioned forwardly of thevaginal area 32, such as near the intersection of thecentral portion 12 and thefront extension 16 to intercept fluid flowing forwardly along bodily contours. It is contemplated that the areas may be of equal, differing, or even varying height depending on the desired performance characteristics at that location. The raisedareas 18 are preferably constructed of a material or materials and in such a manner that fluid absorbed by the raisedareas 18 is able or even encouraged to migrate into adjacent areas of thedevice 10 so as to slow or avoid substantial or complete saturation of the raisedareas 18 which might diminish or preclude further absorption and thereby diminish or preclude further performance or operation of thedevice 10. - The one or
more wings 20 project outwardly perpendicularly from thecentral portion 12 of the body and function both to provide protection against fluid flowing sidewardly and to facilitate maintaining thedevice 10 in its proper operating position. Preferably, one wing projects outwardly from each side of thecentral portion 12, has some absorbent ability, and includes a securement mechanism, such as described above, to allow for securing the body to the undergarment worn by the user in an otherwise substantially conventional manner. - From the preceding description, it will be appreciated that the feminine sanitary device of the present invention provides a number of substantial advantages over the prior art, including, for example, providing significantly improved protection, particularly when the user assumes non-vertical positions, such as, for example, when reclining or laying in a prone, supine, or side position. In particular, the oversized and appropriately shaped back and front extensions provide greater protection against fluid not absorbed by the central portion, and the appropriately located raised areas further improve protection. Although the invention has been described with reference to the preferred embodiments illustrated in the attached drawings, it is noted that equivalents may be employed and substitutions made herein without departing from the scope of the invention as recited in the claims
Claims (20)
1. A feminine sanitary device comprising:
a body having a substantially fluid-absorbing core interposed between a substantially fluid-impermeable backing and a substantially fluid-permeable cover for absorbing bodily fluid, and the body further including
a central portion adapted for placement against the female genital area,
a. at least one raised area having an enhanced ability to absorb the fluid, and
b. at least one extension extending from an end of the central portion for absorbing at least some of any of the fluid that escapes absorption by the central area.
2. The feminine sanitary device as set forth in claim 1 , wherein the raised area is approximately between 0.25 inch and 1.00 inch in height relative to the non-raised area.
3. The feminine sanitary device as set forth in claim 1 , wherein there are at least three raised areas, including
a. a vaginal raised area located in a center area of the central portion,
b. a rear raised area located rearwardly of the vaginal area, and
c. a front raised area located forwardly of the vaginal area.
4. The feminine sanitary device as set forth in claim 3 , wherein the rear raised area has a substantially triangular shape.
5. The feminine sanitary device as set forth in claim 1 , wherein the extension is a rear extension that extends rearwardly from a rear end of the central portion.
6. The feminine sanitary device as set forth in claim 5 , wherein the rear extension includes one or more relief features for accommodating a body part of a user of the feminine sanitary device.
7. The feminine sanitary device as set forth in claim 1 , wherein the extension is a front extension that extends forwardly from a front end of the central portion.
8. The feminine sanitary device as set forth in claim 1 , wherein there are at least two extensions, including
a. a rear extension that extends rearwardly from a rear end of the central portion, and
b. a front extension that extends forwardly from a front end of the central portion.
9. The feminine sanitary device as set forth in claim 1 , further including one or more wings connected to a projecting perpendicularly from the central portion and being sufficiently flexible to wrap around a portion of an undergarment worn by a user of the feminine sanitary device and thereby aid in retaining the feminine sanitary device in its proper operating position.
10. The feminine sanitary device as set forth in claim 1 , further including one or more securement mechanisms on a backside portion of the feminine sanitary device for securing the feminine sanitary device to an undergarment worn by a user of the feminine sanitary device and thereby aid in retaining the feminine sanitary device in its proper operating position.
11. A feminine sanitary device comprising:
a body having a substantially fluid-absorbing core interposed between a substantially fluid-impermeable backing and a substantially fluid-permeable cover for absorbing bodily fluid, and the body further including
a. a central portion adapted for placement against the female genital area,
b. at least one raised area having a height of approximately between 0.25 inch and 1.00 inch relative to the non-raised area and having an enhanced ability to absorb the fluid, and
c. a rear extension extending rearwardly from a rear end of the central portion for absorbing at least some of any of the fluid that escapes absorption by the central area.
12. The feminine sanitary device as set forth in claim 11 , wherein there are at least three raised areas, including
a. a vaginal raised area located in a center area of the central portion,
b. a rear raised area located rearwardly of the vaginal area and having a substantially triangular shape, and
c. a front raised area located forwardly of the vaginal area.
13. The feminine sanitary device as set forth in claim 11 , wherein the rear extension includes one or more relief features for accommodating a body part of a user of the feminine sanitary device.
14. The feminine sanitary device as set forth in claim 11 , further including a front extension that extends forwardly from a front end of the central portion for absorbing at least some of any of the fluid that escapes absorption by the central area.
15. The feminine sanitary device as set forth in claim 11 , further including one or more wings connected to a projecting perpendicularly from the central portion and being sufficiently flexible to wrap around a portion of an undergarment worn by a user of the feminine sanitary device and thereby aid in retaining the feminine sanitary device in its proper operating position.
16. The feminine sanitary device as set forth in claim 11 , further including one or more securement mechanisms on a backside portion of the feminine sanitary device for securing the feminine sanitary device to an undergarment worn by a user of the feminine sanitary device and thereby aid in retaining the feminine sanitary device in its proper operating position.
17. A feminine sanitary device comprising:
a body having a substantially fluid-absorbing core interposed between a substantially fluid-impermeable backing and a substantially fluid-permeable cover for absorbing bodily fluid, and the body further including
a. a central portion adapted for placement against the female genital area,
b. at least two raised areas, each having a height of approximately between 0.25 inch and 1.00 inch relative to the non-raised area and having an enhanced ability to absorb the fluid, with the at least two raised areas including
1) a vaginal raised area located in a center area of the central portion, and
2) a rear raised area located rearwardly of the vaginal area and having a substantially triangular shape,
c. a rear extension extending rearwardly from a rear end of the central portion for absorbing at least some of any of the fluid that escapes absorption by the central area, with the rear extension including one or more relief features for accommodating a body part of a user of the feminine sanitary device, and
d. a front extension that extends forwardly from a front end of the central portion for absorbing at least some of any of the fluid that escapes absorption by the central area.
18. The feminine sanitary device as set forth in claim 17 , further including a front raised area located forwardly of the vaginal area.
19. The feminine sanitary device as set forth in claim 17 , further including one or more wings connected to a projecting perpendicularly from the central portion and being sufficiently flexible to wrap around a portion of an undergarment worn by a user of the feminine sanitary device and thereby aid in retaining the feminine sanitary device in its proper operating position.
20. The feminine sanitary device as set forth in claim 17 , further including one or more securement mechanisms on a backside portion of the feminine sanitary device for securing the feminine sanitary device to an undergarment worn by a user of the feminine sanitary device and thereby aid in retaining the feminine sanitary device in its proper operating position.
Priority Applications (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/257,275 US20060135929A1 (en) | 2004-12-22 | 2005-10-24 | Contoured and shaped feminine sanitary device |
US11/950,652 US8157779B2 (en) | 2004-12-22 | 2007-12-05 | Contoured and shaped feminine sanitary device |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US63887904P | 2004-12-22 | 2004-12-22 | |
US11/257,275 US20060135929A1 (en) | 2004-12-22 | 2005-10-24 | Contoured and shaped feminine sanitary device |
Related Child Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US11/950,652 Continuation US8157779B2 (en) | 2004-12-22 | 2007-12-05 | Contoured and shaped feminine sanitary device |
Publications (1)
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US20060135929A1 true US20060135929A1 (en) | 2006-06-22 |
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Family Applications (2)
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US11/257,275 Abandoned US20060135929A1 (en) | 2004-12-22 | 2005-10-24 | Contoured and shaped feminine sanitary device |
US11/950,652 Active US8157779B2 (en) | 2004-12-22 | 2007-12-05 | Contoured and shaped feminine sanitary device |
Family Applications After (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US11/950,652 Active US8157779B2 (en) | 2004-12-22 | 2007-12-05 | Contoured and shaped feminine sanitary device |
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US (2) | US20060135929A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (8)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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JP5631124B2 (en) * | 2010-08-31 | 2014-11-26 | ユニ・チャーム株式会社 | Incontinence liner |
US8777914B2 (en) * | 2011-06-25 | 2014-07-15 | Kimberly Reaume | Absorbent member |
US8591488B2 (en) | 2012-01-31 | 2013-11-26 | Butterfly Health, Inc. | Devices and methods for treating accidental bowel leakage |
US9278034B2 (en) | 2012-01-31 | 2016-03-08 | Butterfly Health, Inc. | Devices and methods for treating accidental bowel leakage |
USD720848S1 (en) | 2012-05-21 | 2015-01-06 | Butterfly Health, Inc. | Body liner for anal leakage |
US20200054495A1 (en) * | 2018-08-14 | 2020-02-20 | Lizle Pelt | Undergarment hygiene product |
US20200138642A1 (en) * | 2018-11-02 | 2020-05-07 | ALYK, Inc. | Absorbent Articles |
US20210393452A1 (en) * | 2020-06-23 | 2021-12-23 | Katrina Marie Arceo-Yap | Feminine pad with large petal design |
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Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
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US20080091161A1 (en) | 2008-04-17 |
US8157779B2 (en) | 2012-04-17 |
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Legal Events
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STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |