WO2017209604A1

WO2017209604A1 - Tampon with packaging

Info

Publication number: WO2017209604A1
Application number: PCT/NL2017/050345
Authority: WO
Inventors: Elisabeth Maria SWIETKOWIAK; Jasper Jacobus KNOOP
Original assignee: Triskele Holding B.V.
Priority date: 2016-05-30
Filing date: 2017-05-30
Publication date: 2017-12-07
Also published as: NL2016857B1

Abstract

The present invention relates to a combination (10) of a tampon (12) and a bag (14), wherein the bag is folded onto itself over a fold line (16) which extends from a bottom edge (17) of the bag to an opening (18) of the bag, the folded bag being rolled around the tampon, and wherein the combination is configured to be converted to an unpackaged state by unrolling the bag from the tampon and unfolding the bag about the fold line (16).

Description

Title: Tampon with packaging FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a combination of a tampon and a packaging. A combination of a tampon and a packaging is known.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The use of a tampon by women is a delicate matter. In particular the removal of a used tampon and the insertion of a new tampon into the body is a delicate moment.

In particular when a woman is away from home and faced with the absence of a toilet or limited conditions in terms of privacy and availability of toilet paper or a bin, the exchange of a tampon may become a very uncomfortable and unpleasant experience. Sometimes, a toilet is present without toilet paper and/or without a bin. In such a case a woman may flush the used tampon through the toilet. However, flushing a tampon may lead to blockage of the toilet or the sewer. Also, in case of poor plumbing, the tampon may not be flushed away, creating an embarrassing moment for a next user of the toilet and perhaps also for the woman in question. When toilet paper is frequently and liberally used, the toilet paper will run out quickly and the bin will get full over and over again.

FR2638426 discloses a combination of a tampon and a bag. The tampon is attached to the bag. When a woman needs to exchange the used tampon, the used tampon is removed from the vagina and inserted into the bag. The new tampon is then detached from the bag and inserted. The bag with the used tampon can be held in a ladies bag and thrown away later. In this way, the presence of a bin or toilet paper is no longer required for the exchange of the tampon. The concept of FR2638426 solves a good deal of the problems which women face when exchanging a tampon away from home.

However, in the present invention it was recognized that the combination according to FR2638426 has a problem in that it is difficult for a woman to insert the tampon into the bag. Typically, the user holds the removed used tampon with one hand by the thin rope which is attached to the tampon. The used tampon typically sways back and forth. The woman holds the used tampon with one hand and holds the bag with the other hand. The bag of FR2638426 has harmonica folds which point inwardly and create an opening with a diabolo shape and a narrow waist section. It was recognized in the present invention that one of the reasons for this problem is the shape of the opening of the bag. The shape of the opening results directly from the shape of the bag. When the bag is opened by the user, the opening rim has portions which extend inward and which form the waist of the opening. The swinging tampon has the tendency to hit these portions.

Further, it was recognized that the opening of the bag of FR2638426 has an additional, independent problem in that it is too flexible. This flexibility also makes it difficult to hold the bag in a wide open state, in particular with one hand. As a result of these problems the tampon, which is generally held by one hand from a string and makes a swinging movement, tends to hit the upper rim of the bag, in particular when the bag is held with one hand only. This makes it difficult to drop the tampon in the bag. As a separate problem it was further recognized that the bag is not lockable.

The combination of FR2638426 has not become a very big success. This could be related to the above mentioned drawbacks. However there remains a clear need for a tampon which can be exchanged in a situation where no bin or toilet paper is available.

US2006/0283751A1 discloses another example of a bag for disposal of a feminine product. The bag is shown with a tampon with an applicator tube. The width of the bag is slightly greater than the combined length of the tampon with applicator. A tampon with applicator has a greater length than a tampon without an applicator. As a result the width of the bag and the size of the opening 30 of the bag is relatively large. However, of the bag of US2006/0283751A1 would be used in combination with a tampon without an applicator, then either the bag would not match the length of the tampon or the bag would match the length of the tampon but then the opening 30 would be too small, similar to FR2638426. In fact the opening would be even smaller than the opening of the bag of FR2638426, because the bag of US2006/0283751A1 does not have any harmonica folds.

Another solution for the same problem exists in the form of special little bags which can be carried around together with a new tampon. The used tampon goes into the bag and the new tampon can be inserted. Some of these bags are specifically designed to be kept open with one hand. The width of these bags is not limited to the length of the tampon and therefore these bags may be larger than the bag of FR2638426. The bag shown on www.fablittlebag.com is an example of such a product. US2012/0294551 A1 discloses another example of such a product.

A problem of this product and similar bags is that the bags and the tampon form separate products which are stored apart and should both be carried around by the user. If the user forgets either the bag or the tampon, a real problem arises. Also, the number of bags carried around should be at least equal to the number of tampons or else the bags will run out prematurely. Furthermore, the use of the bags is not very practical and it is relatively difficult to drop a tampon in the bag.

It is noted that similar problems apply for tampons for people with faecal and/or urinary incontinence.

US2008/154221 A1 discloses an assembly of pouches 12, 13 for a tampon. The first pouch 12 has a rectangular shape and has two opposite short sides and two opposite long sides. The bag is rolled onto itself in the direction of the long sides. An opening defined by a first edge 15 and a second edge 16 is provided in one of the long sides. The second pouch 13 is used for storing a new tampon. A disadvantage of this bag is that the depth W1 of the pouch is about the same as the length of the tampon, or only minimally greater. This is a result of the way the pouch is rolled around the tampon. When a used tampon is deposited in the pouch it may reach to the opening defined by edges 15, 16 and it may be difficult to close the pouch. Because of the relative small depth W1 of the pouch, the tampon may also easily drop out of the pouch.

Another disadvantage of the assembly of US2008/154221A1 is that the new tampon 18 is attached to the side of the bag rather than to the bottom. One end of the tampon is at the side of the opening. This location of the tampon may hinder a user in opening the bag with his fingers. Another disadvantage of US2008/154221 A1 is that the opening edges 15, 16 are rolled and have the tendency to stay in a curved shape when the pouch is opened. This results in an undesirable shape of the opening. This would occur in particular if stiffening members would be used. The stiffening member would be deformed by the rolling and would keep the deformed state when the pouch is unrolled, thereby making it difficult to open the bag. DE3923289A1 discloses a bag for a tampon. The bag has two compartments, a first chamber 6 for storing a new tampon and a second chamber 7 for storing the used tampon. The second chamber 7 has an opening 4 along its short side. A disadvantage fof this bag is that the opening 4 is rather small and it is difficult to deposit a used tampon in the second chamber via the opening 4.

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the invention to provide a combination of a tampon and a bag which allows a woman to exchange a tampon when a bin or toilet paper is not available and which allows the woman to easily insert the used tampon into the bag. The user may also be a person with faecal and/or urinary incontinence.

It is an object of the invention to provide an alternative combination of a tampon and a bag.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In order to achieve at least one object, the present invention provides a combination of a tampon and a bag, wherein the bag is folded onto itself over fold lines which extend from a bottom edge of the bag to an opening of the bag, the folded bag being rolled around the tampon, and wherein the combination is configured to be converted to an unpackaged state by unrolling the bag from the tampon and unfolding the bag about the fold lines,

wherein a width of the bag in an unfolded state is larger than a length of the tampon, wherein the bag comprises a front side and a back side, wherein the fold lines extend over the front side and back side of the bag from the bottom edge of the bag to a

circumferential edge of the opening,

wherein the front side of the bag comprises a left front face and a right front face which are folded onto one another in a packaged state of the combination, and

wherein an opening rim which extends around the opening of the bag comprises one or more stiffening members.

The invention makes it relatively easy to exchange a tampon when a bin or toilet paper is not available. When seen in top view in the unpackaged state, the opening has a more suitable shape to drop the tampon into the bag. The opening rim is substantially free of inward extending portions against which the swinging tampon may bump on its way down into the bag. In an initial, packaged state the bag may be folded onto itself over a fold line which extends from a bottom edge of the bag to an opening of the bag, and wherein the folded bag is rolled around the tampon. The bag may comprise a front side and a back side, wherein the fold line extends over the front side of the bag from the bottom edge of the bag to a circumferential edge of the opening, in particular centrally over the front side of the bag. In another embodiment, the fold line is off-centre, and the left and right side have different widths. The front side of the bag may comprise a left front face and a right front face which are folded onto one another in the folded condition of the bag.

The bag may have a left edge and a right edge wherein in the folded state the left edge is folded onto the right edge.

An opening rim which extends around the opening of the bag may comprise one or more stiffening members.

The tampon may be attached to the bag, in particular at the left or right bottom edge thereof. The tampon may be attached to the bag via adhesive.

The bag may comprise a left half and a right half which in the folded state are folded onto one another, and wherein the left half comprises the left front face and a left back face, wherein the right half comprises the right front face and a right back face, and wherein the left and right front faces are folded onto one another in the folded condition of the bag, and wherein the tampon is attached to a bottom edge of the left back face or to a bottom edge of the right front face.

The bag may comprise a pull tab configured to allow the user to pull the opening open, wherein the pull tab is in particular attached to the opening rim, more in particular to a fold therein.

The stiffening members may be bands of a different material than the material of the bag, in particular bands from a material which is stiffer than the material of the bag, more in particular carton, stiff paper or a relatively stiff plastic material. A height of the stiffening members may be substantially the same as a diameter of the tampon, in particular 0.9 - 1.5 times a diameter of the tampon. It was found that this ratio allows the bag including the stiffening members to be rolled around the tampon in a practical way. The height of the stiffening members matches the diameter of the tampon and create a practical combination.

The circumferential edge of the opening may have a length which is about four times the length of the tampon, in particular between 3.2 and 4.8 times the length of the tampon. This allows the width of the folded bag to match the length of the tampon, resulting in a practical combination.

The opening rim may comprise four segments which each have a length which is substantially the same as the length of the tampon, and is in particular 0.8 - 1.5 times the length of the tampon, more in particular 0.8 - 1.2 times the length of the tampon.

The circumferential edge may comprises three folds which are folded in one direction and one fold which is initially folded in the opposite direction. This creates a suitable shape of the opening of the bag, allowing an easy insertion of the tampon into the bag. The width of the bag in an unfolded state is greater than a length of the tampon, and is in particular between 1 ,8 and 2,2 the length of the tampon.

A length of the bottom edge of the bag in an unfolded state may be essentially equal to twice the length of the tampon.

The combination may comprise a flap which is attached to the opening rim in particular to one of the four segments of the opening rim, wherein the flap has an adhesive on its surface. The flap may be used to close the bag once the tampon is inserted into the bag. Alternatively or additionally, the flap may be used to secure the bag around the tampon in the initial packaged state.

In the initial, packaged state, the stiffening members may form a substantially flat surface. A text, brand name logo or other visual sign may be printed on the flat surface. The flat surface also prevents the combination from rolling away.

In an opened state of the bag the opening of the bag may have a diamond shape. This shape is advantageous over the diabolo shape of FR2638426 having a waist section. The tampon may be covered with a separate wrapping and the tampon may be attached to the bag via the wrapping.

The bag may be provided with a tissue compartment in which a cleaning tissue or wet wipe is provided.

The combination of the bag and tampon may be inserted in a shell, for instance a carton shell. The present invention further relates to a method of manufacturing the combination of the invention, the method comprising:

folding the bag over fold lines which extends from a bottom edge of the bag to an opening of the bag, wherein the bag comprises a front side and a back side, wherein the fold lines extend over the front side and back side of the bag from the bottom edge of the bag to a circumferential edge of the opening, wherein the front side of the bag comprises a left front face and a right front face which are folded onto one another, and wherein a width of the bag in an unfolded state is larger than a length of the tampon,

- and

- rolling the folded bag around the tampon,

wherein an opening rim which extends around an opening of the bag comprises one or more stiffening members, and wherein the combination is configured to be converted to an unpackaged state by unrolling the bag from the tampon. The method may comprise the step of attaching the tampon to the bag, in particular to the left or right bottom of the bag.

The method will generally comprise a step of ensuring that the bag stays in position rolled around the tampon. This step may involve securing the rolled bag with a) adhesive or b) separate sticker or c) a flap which is attached to the opening rim of the bag and which is secured to the bag which is rolled around the tampon. The flap may have an adhesive on its inner surface. Other ways of ensuring that the bag stays in position are conceivable. For instance a small rubber band or a small rope may be used. Other solutions are also possible. The flap may have two functions, i.e. a function of securing the rolled bag in position and a function of closing the bag once the used tampon is inserted into the bag. The method may comprise printing a text, brand name logo or other visual sign on a substantially flat surface of the combination formed by the stiffening members. The flap may also contribute to forming the substantially flat surface The method may comprise holding the bag in one hand and pressing two opposite folds of the opening rim toward one another with the fingers of a single hand, thereby keeping the opening open.

The method may comprise pulling a pull tab which is attached to the opening rim of the bag, thereby pulling the opening open.

Second aspect of the invention

In a second aspect, the present invention relates to a combination of a tampon and a bag, wherein the bag is rolled around the tampon, wherein an opening rim which extends around an opening of the bag comprises one or more stiffening members, and wherein the combination is configured to be converted to an unpackaged state by unrolling the bag from the tampon.

The combination has an advantage in that the bag is easier to open for a user and easier to keep open, in particular with a single hand.

In said combination the stiffening members may be bands of a thicker or a different material than the material of the bag, in particular bands from a material which is stiffer than the material of the bag, more in particular carton, stiff paper or a relatively stiff plastic material. The bands may also be made of the same material as the bag and be integral with the bag, but be thicker than the rest of the bag.

In said combination a height of the stiffening members is substantially the same as a diameter of the tampon, in particular 0.9 - 1.5 times a diameter of the tampon.

In said combination the stiffening members form a substantially flat surface on which a text, brand name logo or other visual sign is printed.

In said combination the bag may comprise a pull tab configured to allow the user to pull the opening open, wherein the pull tab is in particular attached to the opening rim, more in particular to a fold therein. In said combination the opening rim may comprise four segments which each have a length which is substantially the same as the length of the tampon, and is in particular 0.8 - 1.5 times the length of the tampon, more in particular 0.8 - 1.2 times the length of the tampon.

The opening rim may comprise three folds which are folded in one direction and one fold which is initially folded in the opposite direction.

In the second aspect, the present invention further relates to a method of

manufacturing a combination of a tampon and a bag, the method comprising:

- providing the bag with an opening rim which extends around an opening of the bag, wherein the opening rim comprises one or more stiffening members,

- rolling the folded bag around the tampon. The method provides a combination which has an advantage in that the bag is easier to open for a user and easier to keep open, in particular with a single hand.

The method will generally comprise a step of ensuring that the bag stays in position when it is rolled around the bag. This step may involve closing the rolled bag with a) adhesive or b) separate sticker or c) a flap which is attached to the opening rim of the bag and which is secured to the rolled bag. Other ways of ensuring that the bag stays in position are conceivable. For instance a small rubber band or a small rope may be used. Other solutions are also possible.

The present invention further relates to a method of exchanging a tampon, the method comprising:

- providing the combination of the invention, and

- removing a used tampon from the body of the user, and

- unrolling the bag and unfolding the bag and opening the bag, and

- inserting the used tampon into the bag, and

- taking the new tampon, and inserting the new tampon into the body.

The bag may be closed after inserting the used tampon into the bag. The new tampon may be detached from the bag or taken from an extra compartment in the bag. The bag may be disposed or temporarily stored in case there is no bin. For instance the bag may be temporarily stored in a ladies bag. In case of a person with faecal and/or urinary incontinence, obviously the person may also be a male and the bag may be stored in his suitcase, backpack, bag or the like.

These and other aspects of the invention will be more readily appreciated as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description and considered in connection with the accompanying drawings in which like reference symbols designate like parts.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Figures 1A1 , 1A2, 1 A3 show isometric views of three embodiments of the invention in a first step of the use of the invention.

Figures 1 B1 , 1 B2, 1 B3 show the same three embodiments in a second step of the use of the invention.

Figures 1C- 1 F shows further steps in the use of the invention. The three

embodiments are combined in each figure and shown in dashed lines.

Figures 2A - 2C show further steps in the use of the invention.

Figures 3A, 3B, 3C and 3D show further steps in the use of the invention, wherein the three embodiments are combined in each figure and shown in dashed lines.

Figures 4A - 4H show side views and front views of various embodiments according to the invention.

Figure 5 shows a front view of an embodiment of a folded out bag of the combination according to the invention.

Figure 6 shows a top view of the opened bag.

Figure 7 shows a front view of another embodiment according to the invention.

Figures 8A, 8B show an isometric view of an embodiment according to a second aspect of the invention.

Figures 9A, 9B and 9C show the embodiment of figures 8A, 8B in various stages of use.

Figure 10 shows a front view of the embodiment of figs 8A-8B.

Figure 11 shows a top view of the embodiment of figs 8A-8B.

Figure 12 shows a front view of another embodiment according to the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Turning to figures 1A1 , 1A2, 1A3.1 B1 , 1 B2 and 1 B3, the present invention relates to a combination 10 of a tampon 12 and a bag 14. The combination may be purchased in the state shown in figs. 1A1 , 1A2 and 1A3. The bag 14 is folded onto itself over a fold line and the folded bag is rolled around the tampon. The tampon may be attached to the bag. Three different embodiments of the rolled bag are shown.

Figures 1A1 and 1 B1 show an embodiment in which the bag 14 has an adhesive applied to a locking surface 15 with which the end sticks onto the rolled bag 14.

Figures 1A2, 1 B2 show a combination 10 wherein a sticker 19 is provided which holds the rolled bag onto itself. Figures 1A3, 1 B3 show a bag 14 having a flap 40. The flap 40 may be attached to the opening rim 25, in particular to one of the four segments of the opening rim as is shown in further figures. The flap 40 has an adhesive applied to it with which the flap 40 sticks onto the rolled bag 14. Other variants are conceivable, e.g. the bag may also be held in the rolled state with a rubber band rope or other means.

When the user wishes to exchange a tampon, she unfastens the locking surface 15 or sticker 19 of flap 40 to open the rolled bag as is shown in figs. 1 B1 , 1 B2 and 1 B3. The bag 14 is then unrolled from the tampon as is shown in figures 1C, 1 D and 1 E. It is noted that in these figures the different embodiments are shown together with dashed lines. The word "she" is used when referring to a user, because tampons are most used by women.

Obviously in case a person with a faecal and/or urinary incontinence the user will be a male and the word "she" is not to be interpreted as limiting the invention.

When the bag is completely unrolled, it is unfolded over the front fold line 16 and the back fold line 38, as is shown in figure 1 F. The fold lines 16 and 38 extend from a bottom edge 17 of the bag to an opening 18 of the bag. The opening 18 of the bag 14 is relatively large.

The bag comprises a front side 20 and a back side 21. The fold lines 16 and 38 extend centrally over the front side 20 and back side 21 of the bag from the bottom edge 17 of the bag to a circumferential edge 22 of the opening.

The bag has a left edge 23 and a right edge 24. In the folded state the left edge 23 is folded onto the right edge 24. The bag 14 comprises an opening rim 25 which extends around the opening 18 of the bag. The opening rim 25 comprises one or more stiffening members 26. In this embodiment, the opening rim comprises four stiffening members 26. The tampon 12 is attached to the bag 14, in particular at the left or right bottom edge

27 thereof. The bag may only attached to the left bottom edge or to the right bottom edge. When the bag is unrolled and unfolded, the tampon stays attached to the bottom edge of the bag. It is also conceivable that in another embodiment the tampon is not attached to the bag. The bag comprises a left half 28 and a right half 29 which are folded onto one another when the bag is in the folded state. The left half 28 comprises a left front face 30 and a left back face 31. The right half 29 comprises a right front face 32 and a right back face 33. The left and right front faces 30, 32 are folded onto one another in the folded condition of the bag. The tampon 12 is attached to a bottom part of the left back face 31 or right front face 32.

If the tampon is attached to the bottom part of the right front face 32, the left half 28 will need to be folded over the right half 29 and tucked in between the tampon and the right half 29. The tampon will then be rolled over the left back face 31 of the left half 28 during the rolling operation.

It will be clear from the figures that the bag is rolled from the bottom edge toward the opening rim and unrolled in the opposite direction. It will also be clear that the tampon extends parallel to the opening rim and parallel to the bottom edge. The bag 14 comprises a pull tab 35 which is configured to allow the user to pull the opening 18 open. The pull tab is attached to the opening rim 25, more in particular to a fold 16 therein.

The stiffening members 26 can be bands of a thicker material than the material of the bag or of different material than the material of the bag. The stiffening members 26 can in particular be bands from a material which is stiffer than the material of the bag, more in particular carton, stiff paper or a relatively stiff plastic material. The stiffening members may be provided in a luff of the bag, or attached to the inside or the outside of the bag 14.

The opening rim 25 comprises four segments 36A, 36B, 36C, 36D which each have a length (Ls) which is substantially the same as the length (Lt) of the tampon, and is in particular 0.8 - 1.5 times the length (Lt) of the tampon, more in particular 0.8 - 1.2 times the length (Lt) of the tampon. The length of the tampon is indicated in figure 4A. In this way the size of the folded bag 14 matches the size of the tampon 12.

The opening rim 25 comprises three folds 23, 24, 38 which are folded in one direction and one fold 16 which is folded in the opposite direction when the bag is in the folded state.

Turning to figures 2A, 2B and 2C, the way in which the user opens the opening of the bag 14 is shown. The bag 14 is held with one hand 50. This may be the left hand or right hand. The bag is held between the thumb and the tips of the fingers which hold the opening rim 25 at the opposite folds 23, 24 which are the left and right folds.

The user then pulls a front section 52 of the opening rim 25 with his other hand 51. At the same time, hand 50 presses the folds 23, 24 together, assisting in the opening of the opening 18.

Turning in particular to fig. 2B, the used tampon 53 is then dropped in the bag 14 with the other hand 51. Generally, the used tampon will dangle from a chord 54. The opening 18 of the bag is large enough to allow the swinging used tampon 53 to be dropped into the bag with ease.

In an opened state of the bag 14 the opening of the bag has a diamond shape as is visible from fig. 2B.

With reference to fig. 2C, after the used tampon 53 has been dropped into the bag 14, the user closes the opening of the bag by pressing against the front section 52 of the opening rim 25 with the other hand 51.

Turning to figures 3A, 3B, 3C and 3D, after the used tampon 53 has been dropped into the bag 14, the bag 14 may be refolded onto itself over the fold 16. The left edge 23 is then refolded onto the right edge 24. After that, the opening rim 25 may be closed by flap 40 or sticker 19 or by the adhesive on locking surface 15. The used tampon is now inside the bag 14 and can no longer fall out. The user may then detach the tampon 12 from the bottom edge 17 of the bag 14. It is noted that a variant in which the tampon is not attached to the bag and therefore does not need to be detached from the bag is conceivable and falls within the scope of the invention, although it clearly has a disadvantage that the tampon may fall when unrolling and unfolding the bag 14. As is shown in figure 3D, the bag 14 is provided with a tissue compartment 60 in which a cleaning tissue or wet wipe is provided.

It will be understood that the tampon 12 may be covered with a wrapping and that the wrapped tampon 12 may be attached to the bag 14. A variant having a bag with an appendage-bag is also conceivable, as will be discussed with reference to figure 7. In the appendage-bag, a new tampon 12, which may be unprepacked or covered with a wrapping, can be stored. The bag may be disposable. The bag may be of a material which decomposes in a natural way.

Turning to figures 4A- 4H, figures 5 and 6, tampons are sold in various sizes according to the varying size of a female body. A height Hs of the stiffening members 26 may be substantially the same as a diameter Dt of the tampon, in particular 0.9 - 1.5 times a diameter Dt of the tampon.

Turning to figure 6, the circumferential edge 22 of the opening 18 has a length Le which is about four times the segment length (Ls), in particular between 3,2 and 6 times the length of the tampon, more in particular between 3,2 and 4,8 times the length of the tampon.

Turning to figure 5, a width Wb of the bag in an unfolded state is essentially equal to twice the segment length Ls, in particular between 1 ,6 and 2,4 times the length Lt of the tampon.

A length of the bottom edge Lb of the bag in an unfolded state is essentially equal to twice the segment length Ls and equal to the width Wb.

In the rolled stated of the combination, the stiffening members 26 form a substantially flat surface 42 on which a text, brand name, logo or other visual sign can be printed. The flap 40 or the sticker 19 may also be provided with a text, brand name, logo or other visual sign

With reference to figure 7, an embodiment is shown in which the bag 14 is provided with a tampon compartment 62 in which an extra tampon 12, which could be unprepacked, may be stored. The tampon compartment 62 is an extra compartment. In this variant the tampon 12 is not attached to the outer side of the bag 14, but stored within the extra tampon compartment 62. The extra tampon compartment 62 may be separated from the main compartment for the used tampon by a first weld seam 63 and a second weld seam 64. The weld seams may be manufactured with heat welding. A separation tear line 65 may be provided between the weld seams. The separation tear line 65 allows the user to tear the extra tampon

compartment 62 loose from the rest of the bag.

An opening tear line 66 may be provided to allows the user to open the extra tampon compartment 62 quickly and easily. The separation tear line 65 and the opening tear line 66 may be oriented at an angle of greater than zero to one another, in particular at right angles.

A third weld seam 67 may be provided to define a bottom of the extra tampon compartment 62.

The tampon 12 in the extra tampon compartment may be unprepacked, because it is protected by the bag 14 itself.

Manufacturing

The present invention further relates to a method of manufacturing the combination of any of the preceding claims, the method comprising:

- folding a bag over a fold line which extends from a bottom edge of the bag to an

opening of the bag, and

- rolling the folded bag around a tampon.

Typically the rolled bag will be fixated in the rolled state.

The bag may be disposable. The bag may be of a material which decomposes in a natural way.

It is possible that existing versions of tampons are used in the manufacturing process. The tampon itself need not be changed. Prepacked tampons, for instance covered with a wrapping are very suitable. The wrapping may be cellophane or another suitable material

The method may comprise the step of attaching the tampon to the bag, in particular to the left or right bottom edge of the bag.

The method may comprise printing a text, brand name logo or other visual sign on the substantially flat surface 42 of the combination 10 formed by one or more of the stiffening members 26. This surface 42 forms a very suitable surface for logo's and advertising in general. Instructions for use may also be printed on the surface 42. The flap 40 or the sticker 19 may also be provided with a text, brand name, logo or other visual sign Second aspect of the invention

In a second aspect, the present invention relates to aspects which are independent of the fold. With reference to figures 1A1-1A3.1 B1-1 B3, 1 C-1 D, 1 E-1 F, 2A-2C, 3A-3D, 4A-4H, 5, 6, and 7, the present invention relates to a combination of a tampon 12 and a bag 14, wherein an opening rim 25 which extends around an opening 18 of the bag comprises one or more stiffening members 26, and wherein the bag is rolled around the tampon.

The stiffening members 26 are bands of a thicker or different material than the material of the bag, in particular bands from a material which is stiffer than the material of the bag, more in particular carton, stiff paper or a relatively stiff plastic material.

A height Hs of the stiffening members 26 is substantially the same as a diameter (Dt) of the tampon, in particular 0.9 - 1.5 times a diameter (Dt) of the tampon.

The opening rim comprises four segments 36A, 36B, 36D, 36E which each have a length (Ls) which is substantially the same as the length (Lt) of the tampon, and is in particular 0.8 - 1.5 times the length of the tampon, more in particular 0.8 - 1.2 times the length (Lt) of the tampon. The opening rim 25 comprises three folds 23, 24, 38 which are folded in one direction and one fold 16 which is initially folded in the opposite direction. Turning to figures 8A, 8B, 9A, 9B, 9C, 10, 1 1 , 12 another embodiment according to the second aspect of the invention is shown. The bag 14 of this embodiment has the stiffening members 26, but not the fold 16 of the other embodiments, which fold extends over the front side 20. Consequently, when seen in front view, the bag 14 is narrower than the bag of the other embodiments and has an opening 18 which has portions which extend inward. The initial shape of the opening can be referred to as a diabolo shape and is disadvantageous because a tampon may bump against one of the inward extending portions on its descent. This would make it more difficult to drop the used tampon 53 into the bag.

However, the bag comprises stiffening members 26 which allow a user to change the shape of the opening from the diabolo shape (fig. 9B and 1 1) to a substantial square shape, rectangular shape or diamond shape, (fig. 9A). The bag has two left edges 23 and two right edges 24 and two portions 80 which may be folded inwards over the folds of the left edges 23 and right edges 24. A counter fold 81 is provided in each portion 80 which may be folded inwards.

The bag also has two pulltabs 35. The pulltabs make it easier to change the shape of the opening.

The opening rim 25 of this embodiment comprises six stiffening members 26. The opening rim 25 comprises six segments 36A', 36B', 36C, 36D', 36E', 36F'. Each segment comprises a stiffening member 26.

When a user wishes to insert a new tampon, she unrolls the bag from the new tampon until it is in the position shown in fig. 8A. Next, the user pulls the pulltabs 35 as is shown in fig. 8B, thereby changing the shape of the opening. Next, the used tampon 53 is dropped into the bag as is shown in fig. 9A. The opening of the bag is then closed as is shown in figs. 9B and 9C. The new tampon 12 is then detached and inserted.

Figure 12 shows a variant which also has an extra compartment 62 in which an extra tampon 12, which may be unprepacked, can be stored. The tampon compartment 62 is an extra compartment. In this variant the tampon 12 is not attached to the outer side of the bag 14, but stored within the extra tampon compartment 62, similar to the embodiment of figure 7.

Manufacturing, second aspect of the invention

The second aspect of the invention also relates to a method of manufacturing the combination of the tampon 12 and the bag 14, the method comprising:

providing the bag 14 comprising an opening rim which extends around an opening of the bag, wherein the opening rim comprises one or more stiffening members,

rolling the folded bag around the tampon. Closing remarks

The terms "a" or "an", as used herein, are defined as one or more than one. The term plurality, as used herein, is defined as two or more than two. The term another, as used herein, is defined as at least a second or more. The terms including and/or having, as used herein, are defined as comprising i.e., open language, not excluding other elements or steps. Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims or the invention. It will be recognized that a specific embodiment as claimed may not achieve all of the stated objects. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage.

Claims

Combination (10) of a tampon (12) and a bag (14), wherein the bag is folded onto itself over a fold lines (16, 38) which extends from a bottom edge (17) of the bag to an opening (18) of the bag, the folded bag being rolled around the tampon, and wherein the combination is configured to be converted to an unpackaged state by unrolling the bag from the tampon and unfolding the bag about the fold lines (16, 38),

wherein a width (Wb) of the bag in an unfolded state is larger than a length (Lt) of the tampon,

wherein the bag comprises a front side (20) and a back side (21), wherein the fold lines (16, 38) extend over the front side and back side of the bag from the bottom edge (17) of the bag to a circumferential edge (22) of the opening (18),

wherein the front side (20) of the bag comprises a left front face (30) and a right front face (32) which are folded onto one another in a packaged state of the combination, and

wherein an opening rim (25) which extends around the opening (18) of the bag comprises one or more stiffening members (26).

Combination according to claim 1 , wherein in an opened state of the bag the opening of the bag has a diamond shape.

Combination according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a width (Wb) of the bag in an unfolded state is between 1 ,6 and 2,4 times the length (Lt) of the tampon, and in particular essentially equal to twice the length (Lt) of the tampon.

Combination according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a length (Lb) of a bottom edge of the bag in an unfolded state is essentially equal to twice the length (Lt) of the tampon.

Combination according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the opening rim comprises four segments which each have a length (Ls) which is substantially the same as the length (Lt) of the tampon, and is in particular 0.8 - 1.5 times the length (Lt) of the tampon, more in particular 0.8 - 1.2 times the length (Lt) of the tampon.

Combination according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the circumferential edge comprises three folds which are folded in one direction and one fold which is initially folded in the opposite direction.

7. Combination according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the fold lines (16, 38) extend centrally over the front and back side of the bag.

8. Combination according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the bag has a left edge (23) and a right edge (24) and wherein in the packaged state the left edge is folded onto the right edge or vice versa.

9. Combination according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the tampon is

attached to the bag (14), in particular to the bottom edge (17), more in particular to one half (27) thereof.

10. Combination according to the preceding claim, wherein the tampon is covered with a wrapping and wherein the wrapped tampon is attached to the bag via the wrapping.

1 1. Combination according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the tampon is attached to a bottom part of a left back face (31) or right front face (32) of the bag (14).

12. Combination according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the bag comprises a pull tab (35) configured to allow the user to pull the opening open, wherein the pull tab is in particular attached to the opening rim (25), more in particular to a fold therein.

13. Combination according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the stiffening

members are bands of a thicker material or a different material than the material of the bag, in particular bands from a material which is stiffer than the material of the bag, more in particular carton, stiff paper or a relatively stiff plastic material.

14. Combination according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a height (Hs) of the stiffening members is substantially the same as a diameter (Dt) of the tampon, in particular 0.9 - 1.5 times a diameter (Dt) of the tampon.

15. Combination according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the circumferential edge of the opening has a length (Le) which is about four times the segment length (Le), in particular between 3,2 and 6 times the length of the tampon, more in particular between 3,2 and 4,8 times the length of the tampon.

16. Combination according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a flap which is attached to the circumferential edge in particular to one of the four segments of the circumferential edge. 17. Combination according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the stiffening

members form a substantially flat surface (42), wherein in particular a text, brand name logo or other visual sign is printed on the flat surface.

18. Combination according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the bag is provided with a tissue compartment (60) in which is a cleaning tissue or wetwipe is provided.

19. Combination according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the bag is provided with an extra tampon compartment (62) in which the tampon is provided. 20. Combination of any of the preceding claims, wherein the bag is rolled from the bottom edge toward the opening rim.

21. Combination of any of the preceding claims, wherein the tampon extends parallel to the opening rim.

22. Combination of any of the preceding claims, wherein the tampon extends parallel to the bottom edge of the bag.

23. Method of manufacturing the combination of any of the preceding claims, the method comprising:

folding the bag over fold lines which extend from a bottom edge of the bag to an opening of the bag, wherein the bag comprises a front side (20) and a back side (21), wherein the fold lines (16, 38) extend over the front side and back side of the bag from the bottom edge (17) of the bag to a circumferential edge (22) of the opening (18), wherein the front side (20) of the bag comprises a left front face

(30) and a right front face (32) which are folded onto one another, and wherein a width (Wb) of the bag in an unfolded state is larger than a length (Lt) of the tampon,

rolling the folded bag around the tampon,

wherein an opening rim which extends around an opening of the bag comprises one or more stiffening members, and wherein the combination is configured to be converted to an unpackaged state by unrolling the bag from the tampon.

24. Method according to claim 23, comprising the step of fixing the bag in the rolled state, in particular to the locking surface 15.

25. Method according to claim 23 or 24, comprising the step of attaching the tampon to the bag.

26. Method according to any of claims 23 - 25, wherein the bag comprises a left half and a right half, wherein the left half and right half are folded onto one another, and wherein the left half comprises a left front face and a left back face, wherein the right half comprises a right front face and a right back face, and wherein the left and right inner faces are folded onto one another in the folded condition of the bag, the method comprising attaching the tampon to a bottom part of the left back face or right front face.

27. Method according to any of claims 23 - 26, the method comprising printing a text, brand name logo or other visual sign on a substantially flat surface of the combination formed by the stiffening members.

28. Combination of a tampon and a bag, wherein the bag is rolled around the tampon, wherein an opening rim which extends around an opening of the bag comprises one or more stiffening members, and wherein the combination is configured to be converted to an unpackaged state by unrolling the bag from the tampon.

29. Combination according to claim 28, wherein the stiffening members are bands of a thicker material or a different material than the material of the bag, in particular bands from a material which is stiffer than the material of the bag, more in particular carton, stiff paper or a relatively stiff plastic material.

30. Combination according to any of claims 28 - 29, wherein a height (Hs) of the stiffening members is substantially the same as a diameter (Dt) of the tampon, in particular 0.9 - 1.5 times a diameter (Dt) of the tampon.

31. Combination according to any of claims 28 - 30, wherein the stiffening members form a substantially flat surface (43), in particular on which a text, brand name logo or other visual sign is printed.

32. Combination according to any of claims 28 - 31 , wherein the bag comprises a pull tab configured to allow the user to pull the opening open, wherein the pull tab is in particular attached to the opening rim, more in particular to a fold therein. 33. Combination according to any of claims 28 - 32, wherein the opening rim comprises four segments which each have a length (Ls) which is substantially the same as the length (Lt) of the tampon, and is in particular 0.8 - 1.5 times the length of the tampon, more in particular 0.8 - 1.2 times the length (Lt) of the tampon. 34. Combination according to any of claims 28 - 33, wherein the opening rim comprises three folds (23, 24, 38) which are folded in one direction and one fold (16) which is initially folded in the opposite direction.

35. Combination of any of claims 28 - 34, wherein the bag is rolled from the bottom edge toward the opening rim.

36. Combination of any of claims 28 - 35, wherein the tampon extends parallel to the opening rim. 37. Combination of any of claims 28 - 36, wherein the tampon extends parallel to the bottom edge of the bag.

38. Method of manufacturing the combination of any claims 28 - 37, the method

comprising:

- providing the tampon (12),

providing the bag (14) comprising an opening rim which extends around an opening of the bag, wherein the opening rim comprises one or more stiffening members,

rolling the bag around the tampon.

Method according to claim 38, comprising the step of fixing the bag in the rolled state, in particular to a locking surface 15,

40. Method according to claim 38 or 39, comprising the step of attaching the tampon to the bag.

41. Method of exchanging a tampon, the method comprising: providing the combination of any of claims 1 - 22 or 28 - 37, and unrolling the bag and opening the bag, and

removing a used tampon from the body of the user, and

inserting the used tampon (53) into the bag, and

taking the new tampon (12) and inserting the new tampon into the body.

42. Method of claim 41 , comprising unfolding the bag about the fold line (16).

43. Method of claim 41 or 42, comprising holding the bag in one hand and pressing two opposite folds of the opening rim toward one another with thumb and finger of a single hand, thereby keeping the opening open.

44. Method of any of claims 41 - 43, comprising pulling a pull tab which is attached to the opening rim of the bag, thereby pulling the opening open.

45. Method of any of claims 41 - 44, comprising exerting a force on one or more stiffening members of an opening rim which extends around an opening of the bag during the inserting of the tampon into the bag in order to keep the opening open.