WO2019018904A1

WO2019018904A1 - Personal hygiene products

Info

Publication number: WO2019018904A1
Application number: PCT/AU2018/050790
Authority: WO
Inventors: Sharnie Peta SIROTIC
Original assignee: Arika Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2017-07-28
Filing date: 2018-07-30
Publication date: 2019-01-31

Abstract

Described embodiments generally relate to a personal hygiene product for absorbing bodily fluids, the product comprising an absorbent pad including a wadding layer composed of cottonised hemp fibres.

Description

"Personal hygiene products"

Technical Field

[0001] Described embodiments relate to absorbent pads, such as absorbent body pads, for absorbing bodily fluids. Some embodiments relate to personal hygiene products comprising absorbent pads, towels, tampons, and/or nappies. Other embodiments relate to medical products for dressing, compressing and/or clotting comprising absorbent pads or towels .

Background

[0002] It is desired to address or ameliorate one or more shortcomings or

disadvantages associated with known absorbent pads or towels for use as personal hygiene products, and/or medical dressing, compressing and/or clotting products.

[0003] Throughout this specification the word "comprise", or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps, but not the exclusion of any other element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps.

[0004] Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles or the like which has been included in the present specification is not to be taken as an admission that any or all of these matters: form part of the prior art base; were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the present disclosure as it existed before the priority date of each claim of this application; or could have been understood, regarded as relevant or reasonably expected to have been combined by a person skilled in the art.

Summary

[0005] Some embodiments relate to a personal hygiene product for absorbing bodily fluids, the product comprising an absorbent pad including a wadding layer composed of cottonised hemp fibres. Some embodiments relate to a personal hygiene product for absorbing bodily fluids, the product comprising an absorbent pad including a wadding layer composed of plant based fibres. The wadding layer may comprise a plurality of channels extending across a major surface of the wadding layer. The cottonised hemp fibre may comprise non- woven cottonised hemp fibres formed into the channels.

[0006] In some embodiments, the absorbent pad may be substantially elongate and the channels may extend from proximate to a first longitudinal edge of the absorbent pad to proximate to a second longitudinal edge of the absorbent pad and wherein the channels may allow the absorbent pad be selectively extended and retracted along its length.

[0007] In some embodiments, the absorbent pad may further comprise a lower layer upon which the wadding layer is disposed. The lower layer may define a border about a perimeter of the absorbent pad which extends beyond a perimeter of the wadding layer. The absorbent pad may comprise a pull-string around the perimeter. The absorbent pad may comprise one or more attachment sections disposed on a reverse surface of the lower layer. The lower layer may be composed of a non- woven or relatively loosely woven fabric, a waterproof material, a woven fabric or a plant based plastic such as hemp bioplastic. The lower layer may be bonded to the wadding layer. The lower layer may comprise a plurality of channels extending across a major surface of the lower layer.

[0008] In some embodiments, the absorbent pad may further comprise an upper layer disposed on the major surface of the wadding layer and may be configured to make contact with the body when worn by a user. The upper layer may be composed of a non-woven or relatively loosely woven fabric. The upper layer may be bonded to the wadding layer. The upper layer may comprise a plurality of channels extending across a major surface of the upper layer.

[0009] In some embodiments, the absorbent pad may comprise a sheath arranged to receive and at least partially or fully encase or enclose the wadding. [0010] In some embodiments, the absorbent pad may comprise an outer cover. The outer cover may be composed of a waterproof material or bioplastic. The outer cover may be arranged to receive and at least partially or fully encase or enclose the absorbent pad. The outer cover may be arranged to wrap around the absorbent pad. In some embodiments, an absorbent wadding layer composed of nonwoven cottonised hemp fibres may be disposed on an inner surface of the outer cover. The outer cover may be configured to be fully removable from the absorbent pad. A perimeter of the outer cover may comprise attachment tabs.

[0011] The absorbent pad may be configured to be manually manipulable into any one of a plurality of configurations for multi-functional use by folding, retracting and/or extending the wadding layer.

[0012] In some embodiments, the personal hygiene product is at least one of an absorbent body or body-contact pad or towel for absorbing bodily fluids. In some embodiments, the absorbent pad is configured to be shaped as a tampon for insertion into a user's vagina to absorb bodily fluids. In some embodiments, a perimeter of the personal hygiene product comprises attachment tabs.

[0013] Some embodiments relate to a medical product for absorbing bodily fluids, the product comprising an absorbent pad including a wadding layer composed of cottonised hemp fibres. Some embodiments relate to a medical product for absorbing bodily fluids, the product comprising an absorbent pad including a wadding layer composed of plant based fibres. The wadding layer may comprise a plurality of channels extending across a major surface of the wadding layer. The cottonised hemp fibre may comprise non- woven cottonised hemp fibres formed into the channels.

[0014] In some embodiments, the absorbent pad may be substantially elongate and the channels may extend from proximate to a first longitudinal edge of the absorbent pad to proximate to a second longitudinal edge of the absorbent pad and wherein the channels may allow the absorbent pad be selectively extended and retracted along its length. [0015] In some embodiments, the absorbent pad may further comprise a lower layer upon which the wadding layer is disposed. The lower layer may define a border about a perimeter of the absorbent pad which extends beyond a perimeter of the wadding layer. The absorbent pad may comprise a pull-string around the perimeter. The absorbent pad may comprise one or more attachment sections disposed on a reverse surface of the lower layer. The lower layer may be composed of a non- woven or relatively loosely woven fabric, a waterproof material or a hemp bioplastic. The lower layer may be bonded to the wadding layer. The lower layer may comprise a plurality of channels extending across a major surface of the lower layer.

[0016] In some embodiments, the absorbent pad may further comprise an upper layer disposed on the major surface of the wadding layer and configured to make contact with the body when worn by a user. The upper layer may be composed of a non- woven or relatively loosely woven fabric. The upper layer may be bonded to the wadding layer. The upper layer may comprise a plurality of channels extending across a major surface of the upper layer.

[0017] In some embodiments, the absorbent pad may comprise a sheath arranged to receive and at least partially or fully encase or enclose the wadding.

[0018] In some embodiments, the absorbent pad may comprise an outer cover. The outer cover may be composed of a waterproof material or bioplastic. The outer cover may be arranged to receive and at least partially or fully encase or enclose the absorbent pad. The outer cover may be arranged to wrap around the absorbent pad. In some embodiments, an absorbent wadding layer composed of nonwoven cottonised hemp fibres may be disposed on an inner surface of the outer cover. The outer cover may be configured to be fully removable from the absorbent pad. A perimeter of the outer cover may comprise attachment tabs.

[0019] In some embodiments, the absorbent pad may be configured to be manually manipulable into any one of a plurality of configurations for multi-functional use by folding, retracting and/or extending the wadding layer. [0020] In some embodiments, the medical product may be at least one of an absorbent body or body-contact pad or towel for use as a medical dressing, compressing or clotting product. In some embodiments, a perimeter of the medical product may comprise attachment tabs.

[0021] Some embodiments relate to a method of manufacturing a personal hygiene product for absorbing bodily fluids, the method comprising bonding an absorbent upper layer to a first side of a wadding layer, the wadding layer being composed of plant based fibres; bonding an absorbent lower layer to a second side of the wadding layer; and processing the bonded upper, wadding and lower layers to form flexible channels through the bonded upper, wadding and lower layers.

[0022] In some embodiments, the plant based fibres comprise cottonised hemp fibres.

[0023] In some embodiments, the personal hygiene product is manufactured by an airlaid nonwoven manufacturing process.

[0024] According to some embodiments, at least one of the upper layer and the lower layer are bonded to the wadding layer by one of hydrogen, hot air, ultra-sonic or laser bonding.

[0025] According to some embodiments, the channels are formed using one of machine-texturing and heat embossing plates.

[0026] In some embodiments, the channels are formed across a major surface of the personal hygiene product. According to some embodiments, the channels are formed to extend from proximate to a first longitudinal edge of the personal hygiene product to proximate to a second longitudinal edge of the personal hygiene product.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0027] Embodiments are described in further detail below, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings briefly described below: [0028] Figure 1A is a top view of an absorbent pad according to some embodiments;

[0029] Figure IB is a cross sectional view of the absorbent pad of Figure 1 A;

[0030] Figure 1C is a side view of a personal hygiene or medical product comprising the absorbent pad of Figure 1 A enclosed in an outer cover;

[0031] Figure ID is a cross sectional view of the personal hygiene or medical product of Figure 1C folded about a substantially central line extending transverse to a longitudinal axis of the absorbent pad;

[0032] Figure IE is a top view of an absorbent pad comprising attachment sections according to some embodiments;

[0033] Figure 2A is a perspective view of the absorbent pad of Figure 1 A which has been shaped to assume a folded or convex configuration;

[0034] Figure 2B is a perspective view of the absorbent pad of Figure 1 A which has been shaped to assume a hybrid configuration;

[0035] Figure 2C is a perspective view of the absorbent pad of Figure 1 A which has been shaped to assume a looped or concave "cup" configuration;

[0036] Figure 2D is a perspective view of the absorbent pad of Figure 1 A which has been configured to assume a "shield" configuration; and

[0037] Figure 3 is a flowchart showing a method of manufacturing a medical product according to some embodiments.

Description of Embodiments

[0038] Described embodiments relate to absorbent pads, such as absorbent body pads, for absorbing bodily fluids. Some embodiments relate to personal hygiene products comprising absorbent pads, towels, tampons, and/or nappies. Other embodiments relate to medical products for dressing, compressing and/or clotting comprising absorbent pads or towels composed.

[0039] Some embodiments relate to absorbent pads, personal hygiene products, towels, tampons, nappies, and/or medical products comprising hemp. Some

embodiments alternatively or additionally comprise other plant based fibres, such as wood pulp; chemically treated wood pulp; non-wood pulps like bagasse, bamboo, kenaf and cotton; or regenerated fibre. Some embodiments may comprise synthetic fibres. Synthetic fibres may include polypropylene, polyesters and other synthetic materials, or composites, including composites with natural fibres such as wood pulp, chemically treated wood pulp, and non-wood pulps like bagasse, bamboo, kenaf and cotton or regenerated fibre.

[0040] Cottonised hemp fibre is a non-wood pulp, and is a cellulose-based water absorbent fibre which exhibits many desirable characteristics including strength, durability and absorbency. Cottonised hemp fibre may be produced by a range of degumming techniques. For example, organic hemp fibre may be catalytically degummed through boiling with or without enzymes or whitening techniques with hydrogen peroxide or oxygen bleach. In some embodiments, removing the lignin that binds the hemp fibres (and gives stalks their rigidity), but prevents them from being spun and finished on slightly modified cotton or wool processing equipment.

Advantageously, cottonised hemp may exhibit similar softness to cotton, and as the fibres may be finer but stronger than cotton, fluffing of the outer layer 110 may be reduced. Cottonised hemp items may also have increased absorbency, moisture dissipation, resistance to both bacteria and UV light, is less likely to retain odour and is biodegradable on disposal. Cottonised hemp may used to produce woven or non- woven items. In a woven form, cottonised hemp items may be washable and re-usable multiple times. In a non-woven form, cottonised hemp items may be single use, or may be washable and re-usable only a few times. Further, and in contrast to the production of cotton, production of hemp fibre is a relatively environmentally friendly process. The plant is carbon negative, quick growing and hardy, readily sustainable and needs minimal irrigation and minimal to no pesticides or herbicides.

[0041] Described embodiments relate to absorbent pads composed of cottonised hemp fibre, such as absorbent body pads, for absorbing bodily fluids. Some embodiments relate to personal hygiene products comprising absorbent pads, towels, tampons, and/or nappies composed of or consisting of cottonised hemp fibre. Other embodiments relate to medical products for dressing, compressing and/or clotting comprising absorbent pads or towels composed of or consisting of cottonised hemp fibre.

[0042] Referring to Figures 1A to IE, there is shown a personal hygiene product or medical product 100 comprising an absorbent pad 102 for absorbing bodily fluids, such as an absorbent body pad or body-contact pad, according to some embodiments. The absorbent pad 102 comprises wadding layer or fill layer 104. According to some embodiments, fill layer 104 is composed of or consists of cottonised hemp fibre.

According to some embodiments, fill layer 104 is composed of or consists of another plant based fibre. The cottonised hemp fibre may be relatively loosely woven or non- woven. The cottonised hemp fibre may be oxygen bleached and/or may be plied to a select thickness. In some embodiments, the wadding layer 104 may be composed of cottonised hemp fibre and one or more other suitable materials.

[0043] In some embodiments, the wadding layer 104 defines a plurality of channels, ripples or corrugations 106. For example, the wadding layer 104 may be composed of non-woven cottonised hemp fibres formed or shaped into the channels 106. In some embodiments, wadding layer 104 may be sandwiched between a flat upper layer 120 and lower layer 110, then formed into channels 106 by heat embossing or machine texturing. This process may use dovetailed top and bottom plates or rolls to bind the fibres of wadding layer 104 within and between the layers to form a plurality of crimped crests and troughs or furrows and ridges on both sides of wadding layer 104. The channels 206 may extend across major surface 108 of the wadding layer 104. The channels 206 may extend from or close to a first edge of the absorbent pad 102, across a width of the absorbent pad 102 to or close to a second edge of the absorbent pad 102. In some embodiments, the absorbent pad 102 and/or the wadding layer 104 is substantially elongate, with channels 106 extending from proximate to a first longitudinal edge of the absorbent pad 102 and/or the wadding layer 104 to proximate to a second longitudinal edge of the absorbent pad 102 and/or the wadding layer 104, across the major surface 108 of the wadding layer 104. In some embodiments, the absorbent pad 102 and/or the wadding layer 104 is substantially elongate and the channels 106 extend across the major surface 108 of the wadding layer 104 at an angle of between about 30° to 150° to the longitudinal axis of the elongate absorbent pad 102 and/or the wadding layer 104. For example, the channels 106 may extend diagonally across the major surface 108 of the wadding layer 104. In some embodiments, the absorbent pad 102 and/or the wadding layer 104 is substantially elongate and the channels 106 extend transverse to the longitudinal axis of the absorbent pad 102 and along the major surface 108 of the wadding layer 104.

[0044] According to some embodiments, absorbent pad 102 may be between around 70 to 100mm wide. According to some embodiments, absorbent pad 102 may be between around 100m to 240mm long. According to some embodiments, channels 106 may give absorbent pad 102 a thickness of between around 2mm to 7mm

[0045] In some embodiments, the channels 206 form swirls, loops, circles, curves, ripples, spirals, zig-zags and/or any other suitable patterns extending across major surface 108 of the wadding layer 104 to allow fluid to be conveyed along the channels 206 of the absorbent pad 102.

[0046] In some embodiments, the channels 106 allow the wadding layer 104, and accordingly, the absorbent pad 102, to be extendable and retractable along a length or width of the absorbent pad 102. For example, the channels 106 provide for an accordion, fan-like or bellows like flexing of the wadding layer 104, and accordingly, the absorbent pad 102. Accordingly, a thickness of the absorbent pad 102 can be selectively adjusted for the comfort of the user by extending or retracting the absorbent pad 102. [0047] By providing the wadding layer 104 with channels 106, the absorbent pad 102 exhibits increased absorbency, whereby bodily fluids are effectively drawn or conveyed along the channels 106 and body contact with the collected bodily fluids when worn by a user is reduced. Furthermore, by providing the wadding layer 104 with channels 106, there is an increase surface area of wadding layer 104 provided for absorbing bodily fluids that might otherwise be provided were the major surface 108 of the wadding layer 104 substantially planar, for example.

[0048] As described in further detail below, medical product 100 may comprise an outer layer 122, which may be a waterproof layer in some embodiments. Outer layer 122 may be partially or fully removable, and both the top and bottom sides of medical product 100 may have equally absorbent surface areas to enable medical product 100 to be double-sided and overlapped or folded on itself in varying configurations. The accordion or fan-like properties of medical product 100 make provide flexibility to medical product 100 along both the longitudinal and latitudinal axes. Strategic peripheral adherence points may be used to hold the shape of the configuration adopted by medical product 100. Such 4-dimensional configurations will depend on the user's anatomy, such as whether the user is male or female and individual needs , such as the type of fluid and amount of fluid flow. For example, a hybrid configuration of medical product 100 is shown in Figure 2B, and described in further detail below. This configuration may be most suitable for use by a woman, when positioned flat from the mons pubis region, to then cup around the woman's external labia majora and transition along the labia minora, fanning up towards the vaginal opening, and then alongside the perineum toward the anus.

[0049] The channels 106 of the wadding layer 104 also improve the flexibility of or the ability to manipulate the absorbent pad 102, allowing it to be shaped or configured in a plurality of configurations for use by the user, as discussed in more detail below. For example, when folded convexly (with the outer cover 122 removed), the channels 106 of the wadding layer 104 may allow fluid to be conveyed or transferred from one side of the wadding layer 104 to the other which may further increase absorbency. The channels 106 may also allow for the absorbent pad 102 to be folded or overlapped with another pad when additional absorbency is required.

[0050] In some embodiments, wadding layer 104 may comprise channels 106 across substantially the entire surface. In some embodiments, the wadding layer 104 may comprise a first wadding section (not shown) comprising the channels 106 and a second wadding section (not shown) that is substantially planar or flat and does not define channels, ripples or corrugations. In some embodiments, the entire surface of wadding layer 104 may be substantially planar or flat and not define channels, ripples or corrugations. For example, the first wadding section (not shown) or second wadding section (not shown) may be layered on top of the second wadding section (not shown) or first wadding section (not shown), respectively. In some embodiments, the first wadding section may be composed of a cottonised hemp fibre and the second wadding section may be composed of one or more different suitable materials. In some embodiments, the first wadding section and/or second wadding section may be composed of a mixture of cottonised hemp fibre and one or more suitable materials. In some embodiments, the first wadding section may be bonded or otherwise attached to a base layer or upper layer 120 of the absorbent pad 102 and/or the second wadding section may be bonded or otherwise attached to a lower layer 110 of the absorbent pad 102.

[0051] In some embodiments, a majority of absorbent capability of the absorbent pad 102 is confined within the wadding layer 104 of the absorbent pad 102.

[0052] The absorbent pad 102 may comprise the base layer or lower layer 110. In some embodiments, the wadding layer 104 is provided or disposed on a major surface 112 of the lower layer 110. The major surface 112 of the lower layer 110 may be substantially planar or flat. In some embodiments, the major surface 112 of the lower layer 110 may lie flush with a reverse surface 114 of the wadding layer 104. In some embodiments, the lower layer 110, or at least the major surface 112 of the lower layer 110, may conform to the reverse surface 114 of the wadding layer 104, having a channels or corrugations (not shown) disposed in the major surface 112 that correspond, flex and align with the channels 106 of the wadding layer 104.

[0053] In some embodiments, the lower layer 110 or the major surface 112 of the lower layer 110 may define a border or edge 117 about the perimeter of the absorbent pad 102. For example, the lower layer 110 or the major surface 112 of the lower layer 110 may extend beyond a perimeter of the wadding layer 104 to define the border 117. In some embodiments, the border 117 is substantially tapered.

[0054] The lower layer 110 may be composed of any suitable material. The lower layer 110 may be composed of a waterproof material or a non-waterproof material. For example, in some embodiments, the lower layer 110 is composed of a woven fabric, such as woven hemp or cottonised hemp fibre. The woven fabric of the lower layer 110 may be tightly woven relative to the wadding layer 104. In some embodiments, the lower layer 110 may be composed of a nonwoven or loosely woven material or sheath, a waterproof material, or a plant based plastic such as a hemp bioplastic. According to some embodiments, a waterproof material may include waterproof treated nonwoven fabrics, synthetic resin films and/or composites. In some embodiments, lower layer 110 may comprise a liquid permeation hole-formed synthetic film and/or meshing or netting.

[0055] Figure IE shows medical product 100 comprising optional attachment section 140, attachment points 142, and attachment tabs 144. Attachment section 140 may a section of medical product 100 comprising an adhesive, glue, tape, Velcro, or other attachment means. In some embodiments, attachment section 140 may comprise a plurality of attachment points 142 configured to attach to one another. Attachment points 142 may comprise press studs, buttons, magnets, Velcro, or other attachment means.

[0056] In some embodiments, the lower layer 110 may comprise one or more attachment sections 140 disposed on a reverse surface of the lower layer 110. In the illustrated embodiment, attachment sections 140 is disposed on the border 117 of the lower layer 110. In some embodiments, attachment section 140 may be located anywhere from the centre of the absorbent wadding to the outer edge of any point around the less absorbent perimeter, such as from the edge of absorbent pad 102 to dotted line 150 in the illustrated embodiment.

[0057] In some embodiments, one or more attachment sections 140 and attachment points 142 are disposed on optional attachment tabs 144 tabs along the border 117 of the lower layer 110. The attachment portions 140 and attachment points 142 may be used to adhere the absorbent pad 102 to the outer cover 122 itself, and/or when removed from the outer cover 122, to the wearer's clothing, such as underwear, brassieres or other clothing.

[0058] Alternatively or in addition, attachment portions 140 and attachment points 142 may be used to adhere multiple absorbent pads 102 in an overlapped configuration, and/or to adhere portions of the absorbent pad 102 to other portions of the absorbent pad 102 to allow or assist the absorbent pad 102 to retain a particular configuration. For example, the absorbent pad 102 may be worn by a user in a transitional flat configuration, as illustrated in Figure 1A; may be flexed or shaped into a convex, half fold, folded or saddle configuration (as shown in Figure 2A) for either intra-labial or inter-buttock cheek placement; may be shaped in a semi-convex or hybrid

configuration (as shown in Figure 2B), being concave or flat at the first end 126, which naturally wraps around the outer labial majora, and being convex at the second end 128 for placement at the vaginal opening; may be shaped into concave or "cup"

configuration (as shown in Figure 2C) or an inverted-convex or "shield" configuration (as shown in Figure 2D) for positioning around the head of the penis. The attachment portions 140 and attachment points 142 may allow the absorbent pad 102 to be attached to itself in various locations to allow the absorbent pad 102 to hold the formations described above.

[0059] The attachment portions 140 and attachment points 142 may include attachment elements including but not limited to glue, adhesives, tapes, Velcro, press studs, magnets, clips, buttons, zips, and other attachment elements. [0060] In some embodiments, the border 117 may comprise edging or reinforcement (not shown) to help contain the wadding layer 104, secure the channels 106 and/or maintain the absorbent pad 102 shape if the outer cover 122 is to be removed. The reinforcement may also stabilise any attachment points located on border 117.

[0061] In some embodiments, the absorbent pad 102 comprises the upper layer 120, which may be disposed on the major surface 108 of the wadding layer 104. The upper layer 120 is arranged to make contact with the body when worn by a user. The upper layer 120 is composed of a relatively soft and thin material. For example, the upper layer 120 may be composed of a non-woven or loosely woven fabric or sheath. In some embodiments, the upper layer 120 is composed of a non-fluffing fabric or sheath with a needle punched perimeter. In some embodiments, the upper layer 120 may include moisturising powders. In some embodiments, the upper layer 120 may be composed of a nonwoven or loosely woven material or sheath, a waterproof material, or a plant based plastic such as a hemp bioplastic. According to some embodiments, a waterproof material may include waterproof treated nonwoven fabrics, synthetic resin films and/or composites. In some embodiments, upper layer 120 may comprise a liquid permeation hole-formed synthetic film and/or meshing or netting. In some

embodiments, the lower layer 110 and the upper layer 120 are composed of the same material. In some embodiments, the lower layer 110 and the upper layer 120 are composed of an absorbent material.

[0062] In some embodiments, the absorbent pad 102 comprises a sheath (not shown) arranged to receive and at least partially encase or enclose the wadding 102. In some embodiments, the sheath may fully enclose wadding 102. The absorbent pad 102 may comprise the sheath (not shown) in addition to, or instead of, the lower layer 110 and/or the upper layer 120. In some embodiments, attachment portions 140 and attachment points 142may be disposed on an outer surface of the sheath (not shown) to allow the absorbent pad 102 to adhere to clothing, such as underwear, brassieres or other clothing, and/or to allow or to adhere portions of the absorbent pad 102 to other portions of the absorbent pad 102 to allow or assist the absorbent pad 102 to retain a particular configuration, as discussed in more detail below. [0063] In some embodiments, the personal hygiene product or medical product 100 comprises an outer cover 122 or packaging. The outer cover 122 may be composed of a waterproof material or bioplastic, and may be configured to prevent leakage of liquid excreta.. According to some embodiments, outer cover 122 may comprise a liquid impermeable material or bioplastic. According to some embodiments, outer cover 122 may comprise a moisture permeable material or bioplastic. The outer cover 122 may comprise a layer of wadding 132 disposed on an inner surface (not shown) of the outer cover 122. The layer of wadding 132 may be relatively thin relative to the wadding layer 104. The layer of wadding 132 may be disposed at a substantially central position on the inner surface (not shown) of the outer cover 122 such that it is arranged to align with the absorbent pad 104, and may, for example, not extend to the border 117 to permit adhesion of attachment portions 140 and attachment points 142 of the absorbent pad 102. The outer cover 122 may be arranged to receive and at least partially encase or enclose the absorbent pad 102. According to some embodiments, outer cover 122 may fully encase or enclose absorbent pad 102. Alternatively, the outer cover 122 may be arranged to wrap around the absorbent pad 102. In some embodiments, the outer cover 122 may comprise attachment sections(s) 116 disposed on an external, exposed or outermost surface (Figure ID), opposite to the inner surface (not shown).

[0064] In some embodiments, the outer cover 122 may be configured to have attachment tabs on the perimeter. The attachment tabs may comprise an adhesive to allow the tabs to be joined to one another, to other parts of outer cover 122, or to clothing. In some embodiments, the attachment tabs may comprise a magnetic strip. For example, outer cover 122 may comprise two attachment tabs, each having a magnetic strip, configured such that when the medical product 100 is positioned on the inside of the gusset area of a pair of underwear, the tabs can be wrapped around to the outside of the gusset and attached to one another to better secure medical product 100 in place.

[0065] In some embodiments, a seal 130, such as a seal with or without perforations, will be configured to fasten or close the outer cover 122 and act as a "rip-strip" to protect the attachment section(s) 116 disposed on the outer surface of the outer cover 122 (Figure ID). In some embodiments, a perimeter or border (not shown) of the inner surface of the outer cover 122, without wadding, acts as a rip strip for the attachment section(s) disposed on the border 117 of the absorbent pad 102. The absorbent pad 102 may be removable from the outer cover 122 for use. In some embodiments, the outer cover 122 may be completely removed from the absorbent pad 102 and used as a liner, or partially removed. In some embodiments, the absorbent pad 102 may be disposable and the outer cover 122 may be reused for encasing used absorbent pads 102 for disposal. The outer cover 122 may be composed of a waterproof material. In some embodiments, the absorbent pad may comprise a pull-string around the perimeter.

[0066] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure ID, the outer cover 122 may be arranged to receive the absorbent pad 102 in a folded configuration. For example, the absorbent pad 102 may be folded along one or more fold lines extending across the major surface 108 of the absorbent pad 102. The first and second ends 126, 128 may be bonded together and the absorbent pad 104 may be secured closed with the seal 130 which may be configured to be broken, for example, at access point 134, in order to allow access to the first and second ends 126 & 128. The seal may be configured to be pulled apart by a user in the middle, or pulled up from either end to open the outer cover 122, and to provide access to the absorbent pad 102, as well as to expose the attachment sections to be adhered to clothing, such as underwear, brassieres or other clothing.

In some embodiments, the absorbent pad 102 is substantially elongate. In some embodiments, the absorbent pad 102 and/or the wadding layer 104 may be substantially rectangular in shape and in some embodiments, may comprise substantially curved ends 126, 128. In some embodiments, the curved ends may comprise a form of padding or wadding. In some embodiments, the absorbent pad 102 may be

substantially round, circular or oval in shape. In some embodiments, the absorbent pad 102 may have tabs around the perimeter.

[0067] The personal hygiene product or medical product 100 may be manufactured by any suitable manufacturing method. For example, personal hygiene product or medical product 100 may be manufactured by an airlaid nonwoven manufacturing process. The manufacturing method may involve hydrogen, hot air, ultra- sonic or laser bonding of the hemp or plant based fibres of the wadding layer 104 to the upper layer 120 and/or the lower layer 110. Medical product 100 may be further processed to form flexible ripples, crimping, channels or corrugations using machine-texturing and/or heat embossing plates. The processing of medical product 100 to form channels through one or more of wadding layer 104, upper layer 120 and lower layer 110 may prevent deformation of medical product 100 during use. According to some embodiments, channels may be formed by crimping including a crimping machine, weaving, pleating, folding, smocking, sewing, embroidering or stitching. Non-crimped areas of medical product 100 may be formed using multi- axial or single axial non-crimped knit material.

[0068] According to some embodiments, medical product 100 may be formed by felting. This may involve felting techniques such as needle felting, nuno felting, dry felting, wet felting, and other techniques, using spunbond, spunmelt, or airlaid nonwovens, in some embodiments.

[0069] . In some embodiments, adhesive, stitching or needling is used to join layers, such as the lower layer 110, the wadding layer 104, the upper layer 120 and/or the sheath (not shown) of the absorbent pad 102 together, for example, about a periphery or edge of the absorbent pad 102. In some embodiments, needling is used to create one or more fold lines, and/or patterns, on a major surface 124 of the upper layer 120 of the absorbent pad 102.

[0070] Figure 3 shows a flowchart illustrating an example method of manufacturing medical product 100. At step 310, upper layer 120 is bonded to a first side of wadding layer 104. At step 320, lower layer 110 is bonded to a second side of wadding layer 104. According to some embodiments, steps 310 and 320 may be performed in the reverse order, with step 320 being performed before step 310. In some embodiments, steps 310 and 320 may be performed at the same time. Where medical product 100 does not include one or more of layers 110 and 130, one or more of steps 310 and 320 may be skipped. Steps 310 and 320 may be performed by one of hydrogen, hot air, ultra- sonic or laser bonding.

[0071] At step 330, the upper layer 120, wadding layer 104 and lower layer 110 are processed to form flexible channels 106 through the bonded upper, wadding and lower layers 120, 110 and 104. Step 330 may be performed using one of machine-texturing and heat embossing plates. Channels 104 may be formed across a major surface of the personal hygiene product. According to some embodiments, channels 104may be formed to extend from proximate to a first longitudinal edge of the personal hygiene product to proximate to a second longitudinal edge of the personal hygiene product.

[0072] The absorbent pad 102 may be shaped or manually manipulated into multiple configurations for multi-functional use.

[0073] In some embodiments, the absorbent pad 102 may assume a substantially planar configuration, as shown in Figure 1A. In the substantially planar configuration, the absorbent pad 102 may be placed in underwear for absorbing light incontinence or menstruation/periods. In the substantially planar configuration, the absorbent pad 102 may be placed in a brassiere or other relatively tight fitting top for absorbing bodily fluids from lactating/breast feeding mothers. In some embodiments, attachment portions 140 and attachment points 142may be disposed on a reverse surface 118 of the base layer 110 to allow the absorbent pad 102 to adhere to underwear and/or a brassiere or other clothing. In some embodiments, attachment sections 116 may be disposed on the outer surface of the outer cover 122 (Figure ID) under the seal "rip strip"130, or if detached from the absorbent pad 102, adhesive may be disposed on the inner surface 118 of the outer layer 110, to allow the absorbent pad 102 with or without outer cover 122 to adhere to underwear and/or a brassiere or other clothing.

[0074] In some embodiments, as illustrated in Figure 2A, the absorbent pad 102 be substantially elongate and may be folded along a substantially centre line extending along the length absorbent pad 102. In the folded configuration, the folded absorbent pad 102 may be worn by females at the urethral opening inside the intra-labial vestibule for light bladder leakage/incontinence. In use, a first end 126 of the absorbent pad 102 may protrude slightly from the beginning of the labia minora for added comfort, particularly during sleep. The folded absorbent pad 102 may be worn by females at the vaginal opening for menstrual/period fluids. The folded absorbent pad 102 may be positioned between the buttock cheeks at the anus for male and female accidental bowel/anal leakage.

[0075] In some embodiments, the absorbent pad 102, when worn by a user in the folded or convex configuration may be partially or fully concealed and held in place by pressure of the sides of the body, that is, without visible pull-strings or additional materials or adherence to underwear. The absorbent pad 102 may be released when the user sits down to toilet or gently separates the skin folds to remove.

[0076] In some embodiments, as illustrated in Figure 2B, the outer cover 122 may be removed and absorbent pad 102 may be shaped or manipulated to assume a

substantially hybrid configuration. This configuration may be preferable for women who prefer a hybrid functionality for comfort. In some embodiments, the absorbent pad 102 may be shaped to assume the substantially hybrid configuration by folding the first end 126 along the centre line and sticking the reverse surface 118 of the lower layer 110 to itself, for example, using attachment portions 140 and attachment points 142, and by leaving the second end 128 substantially flat or shaping the second end 128 into a cup or tray like form. In this configuration, in use, the first end 126 (the substantially convex shape) is positioned along the vagina and partly over the perineum and transitions to the second end 128 (the flat part) which substantially envelopes the labia majora.

[0077] In some embodiments, as illustrated in Figure 2C, the absorbent pad 102 may be shaped or manipulated to assume a looped or convex 'cup' configuration. For example, in an embodiment where the absorbent pad 102 is substantially elongate, the first end 126 of the absorbent pad 102 may be adhered to a second end 128 of the absorbent pad 102, for example, using the attachment portions 140 and attachment points 142 to form a collar. In this configuration, the absorbent pad 102 may be configured to cup around a male penile head for light bladder leakage/incontinence and may be worn inside underwear, such as fitted underwear.

[0078] In some embodiments, as illustrated in Figure 2D, the absorbent pad 102 may be shaped or manipulated to assume a shield configuration. For example, in an embodiment where the absorbent pad 102 is substantially elongate, the first end 126 of the absorbent pad 102 may be tucked under and the outer attachment points turned facing inwards, around the tuck, to adhere both sides of the absorbent pad 102 at one end 126, for example, using attachment portions 140 and attachment points 142and tuck to form a semi-cup shaped end of the shield. In this configuration, the absorbent pad 102 may be configured to cup around a male penile head with the first end 126 and the second end 128 of the absorbent pad 102 remains somewhat planar to allow it to shape around the shaft of the penis, for light bladder leakage/incontinence and may be worn inside underwear, such as fitted underwear.

[0079] In addition to providing for improved absorbency, the channels 106 of the wadding layer 104 of the absorbent pad 102 may allow the absorbent pad 102 to be shaped or manipulated to assume various configurations, such as those described with reference to Figures 1A, 2A, 2B and 2C. Further, the channels 106 provide sufficient flexibility to allow the absorbent pad 102 to naturally flex with the body when worn, while still retaining a relatively soft, organic curve along the required surface. For example, the ability of the absorbent pad 102 to be positioned relatively close to the orifice compared with traditional pads may allow for improve containment of the bodily fluids collected and may reduce the likelihood of the bodily fluids spreading along natural skin folds. Accordingly, the region may be kept relatively clean, causing less inconvenience and embarrassment through needing to wash or shower as a result of stains and soiling of underwear, outer clothing and/or bed linen etc.

[0080] As a result of the wadding layer 104 being composed of hemp or plant-based fibre and/or the wadding layer 104 comprising channels 106, the absorbent pad 102 has at least the absorbency of a traditional pad but less bulky thickness when in the flat or planar configuration. Advantageously, the absorbent pad 102 may have an adjustable or variable thickness. For example, when the absorbent pad 102 assumes the folded configuration or convex configuration, the thickness of the absorbent pad 102 can be reduced by stretching out the absorbent pad 102 along its length. The absorbent pad 102 may also be partially or fully overlapped as the outer cover 122 or packaging may be partially or fully removed

[0081] The absorbent pad 102 may be used as an absorbent body or body-contact pad or towel for absorbing bodily fluids, such as for menstruation, lactation and/or incontinence. The absorbent pad 102 may also be used as nappies. The absorbent pad 102 may also be used as a medical dressing, compressing or clotting product.

[0082] In some embodiments, the absorbent pad 102 may be configured or shaped as a tampon for insertion into a user's vagina to absorb bodily fluids.

[0083] It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that numerous variations and/or modifications may be made to the above-described embodiments, without departing from the broad general scope of the present disclosure. The present embodiments are, therefore, to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A personal hygiene product for absorbing bodily fluids, the product comprising an absorbent pad including a wadding layer composed of cottonised hemp fibres.

2. A personal hygiene product for absorbing bodily fluids, the product comprising an absorbent pad including a wadding layer composed of plant based fibres.

3. The personal hygiene product of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the wadding layer comprises a plurality of channels extending across a major surface of the wadding layer.

4. The personal hygiene product of claim 1, wherein the wadding layer comprises a plurality of channels extending across a major surface of the wadding layer, and wherein the cottonised hemp fibres comprise non-woven cottonised hemp fibres formed into the channels.

5. The personal hygiene product of claim 3 or claim 4, wherein the absorbent pad is substantially elongate and the channels extend from proximate to a first longitudinal edge of the absorbent pad to proximate to a second longitudinal edge of the absorbent pad and wherein the channels allow the absorbent pad be selectively extended and retracted along its length.

6. The personal hygiene product of any one of the preceding claims, wherein absorbent pad further comprises a lower layer upon which the wadding layer is disposed.

7. The personal hygiene product of claim 6, wherein the lower layer defines a border about a perimeter of the absorbent pad which extends beyond a perimeter of the wadding layer.

8. The personal hygiene product of claim 6 or claim 7, wherein the absorbent pad comprises one or more attachment sections disposed on a reverse surface of the lower layer.

9. The personal hygiene product of any one of claims 6 to 7, wherein the lower layer is composed of at least one of a waterproof material, a woven fabric, a non-woven fabric, a loosely woven fabric or a hemp bioplastic.

10. The personal hygiene product of any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein the lower layer is bonded to the wadding layer.

11. The personal hygiene product of any one of claims 6 to 10, wherein the lower layer comprises a plurality of channels extending across a major surface of the lower layer.

12. The personal hygiene product of any one of the preceding claims, wherein absorbent pad further comprises an upper layer disposed on the major surface of the wadding layer and configured to make contact with the body when worn by a user.

13. The personal hygiene product of claim 12 wherein the upper layer is composed of a non-woven or relatively loosely woven fabric.

14. The personal hygiene product of claim 12 or claim 13, wherein the upper layer is bonded to the wadding layer.

15. The personal hygiene product of any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the upper layer comprises a plurality of channels extending across a major surface of the upper layer.

16. The personal hygiene product of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the absorbent pad comprises a sheath arranged to receive and at least partially or full encase or enclose the wadding.

17. The personal hygiene product of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the absorbent pad comprises an outer cover.

18. The personal hygiene product of claim 17, wherein the outer cover is composed of a waterproof material or bioplastic.

19. The personal hygiene product of claim 17 or claim 18, wherein the outer cover is arranged to receive and at least partially or fully encase or enclose the absorbent pad.

20. The personal hygiene product of any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein the outer cover is arranged to wrap around the absorbent pad.

21. The personal hygiene product of any one of claims 17 to 20, wherein an absorbent wadding layer composed of nonwoven cottonised hemp fibres is disposed on an inner surface of the outer cover.

22. The personal hygiene product of any one of claims 17 to 21, wherein the outer cover is configured to be fully removable from the absorbent pad.

23. The personal hygiene product of any one of claims 17 to 22, wherein a perimeter of the outer cover comprises attachment tabs.

24. The personal hygiene product of any one of claims 3 to 23, wherein the absorbent pad is manually manipulable into any one of a plurality of configurations for multi-functional use by folding, retracting and/or extending the wadding layer.

25. The personal hygiene product of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the personal hygiene product is at least one of an absorbent body or body-contact pad or towel for absorbing bodily fluids.

26. The personal hygiene product of any one of claim 1 to 4, wherein the absorbent pad is configured to be shaped as a tampon for insertion into a user's vagina to absorb bodily fluids.

27. The personal hygiene product of any one of claim 1 to 4, wherein the absorbent pad is shaped as a tampon for insertion into a user's vagina to absorb bodily fluids.

28. The personal hygiene product of any one of the preceding claims, wherein a perimeter of the personal hygiene product comprises attachment tabs.

29. A medical product for absorbing bodily fluids, the product comprising an absorbent pad including a wadding layer composed of cottonised hemp fibres.

30. A medical product for absorbing bodily fluids, the product comprising an absorbent pad including a wadding layer composed of plant based fibres.

31. The medical product of claim 29 or claim 30, wherein the wadding layer comprises a plurality of channels extending across a major surface of the wadding layer.

32. The medical product of claim 29, wherein the wadding layer comprises a plurality of channels extending across a major surface of the wadding layer and the cottonised hemp fibre comprises non-woven cottonised hemp fibres formed into the channels.

33. The medical product of any one of claims 29 to 32, wherein the absorbent pad is substantially elongate and the channels extend from proximate to a first longitudinal edge of the absorbent pad to proximate to a second longitudinal edge of the absorbent pad and wherein the channels allow the absorbent pad be selectively extended and retracted along its length.

34. The medical product of any one of claims 29 to 33, wherein absorbent pad further comprises a lower layer upon which the wadding layer is disposed.

35. The medical product of claim 34, wherein the lower layer defines a border about a perimeter of the absorbent pad which extends beyond a perimeter of the wadding layer.

36. The medical product of claim 33 or claim 34, wherein the absorbent pad comprises one or more attachment sections disposed on a reverse surface of the lower layer.

37. The medical product of any one of claims 29 to 36, wherein the lower layer is composed of at least one of a waterproof material, a woven fabric, a non-woven fabric, a loosely woven fabric or a hemp bioplastic.

38. The medical product of any one of claims 29 to 37, wherein the lower layer is bonded to the wadding layer.

39. The medical product of any one of claims 29 to 38, wherein the lower layer comprises a plurality of channels extending across a major surface of the lower layer.

40. The medical product of any one of claims 29 to 39, wherein absorbent pad further comprises an upper layer disposed on the major surface of the wadding layer and configured to make contact with the body when worn by a user.

41. The medical product of claim 40, wherein the upper layer is composed of a non-woven or relatively loosely woven fabric.

42. The medical product of claim 40 or claim 41, wherein the upper layer is bonded to the wadding layer.

43. The medical product of any one of claims 40 to 42, wherein the upper layer comprises a plurality of channels extending across a major surface of the upper layer.

44. The medical product of any one of claims 29 to 43, wherein the absorbent pad comprises a sheath arranged to receive and at least partially or full encase or enclose the wadding.

45. The medical product of any one of claims 29 to 44, wherein the absorbent pad comprises an outer cover.

46. The medical product of claim 45, wherein the outer cover is composed of a waterproof material or bioplastic.

47. The medical product of claim 45 or 46, wherein the outer cover is arranged to receive and at least partially or full encase or enclose the absorbent pad.

48. The medical product of any one of claims 45 to 47, wherein the outer cover is arranged to wrap around the absorbent pad.

49. The personal hygiene product of any one of claims 45 to 48, wherein a perimeter of the outer cover comprises attachment tabs.

50. The medical product of any one of claims 45 to 49, wherein an absorbent wadding layer composed of nonwoven cottonised hemp fibres is disposed on an inner surface of the outer cover.

51. The medical product of any one of claims 45 to 50, wherein the outer cover is configured to be fully removable from the absorbent pad.

52. The medical product of any one of claims 31 to 51, wherein the absorbent pad is manually manipulated into any one of a plurality of configurations for multifunctional use by folding, retracting and/or extending the wadding layer.

53. The medical product of any one of claims 29 to 52, wherein the medical product is at least one of an absorbent body or body-contact pad or towel for use as a medical dressing, compressing or clotting product.

54. The medical product of any one of claims 29 to 53, wherein a perimeter of the personal hygiene product comprises attachment tabs.

55. A method of manufacturing a personal hygiene product for absorbing bodily fluids, the method comprising bonding an absorbent upper layer to a first side of a wadding layer, the wadding layer being composed of plant based fibres; bonding an absorbent lower layer to a second side of the wadding layer; and processing the bonded upper, wadding and lower layers to form flexible channels through the bonded upper, wadding and lower layers.

56. The method of claim 55, wherein the plant based fibres comprise cottonised hemp fibres.

57. The method of claim 55 or claim 56, wherein the personal hygiene product is manufactured by an airlaid nonwoven manufacturing process.

58. The method of any one of claims 55 to 57, wherein at least one of the upper layer and the lower layer are bonded to the wadding layer by one of hydrogen, hot air, ultra- sonic or laser bonding.

59. The method of any one of claims 55 to 58, wherein the channels are formed using one of machine-texturing and heat embossing plates.

60. The method of any one of claims 55 to 59, wherein the channels are formed across a major surface of the personal hygiene product.

61. The method of any one of claims 55 to 60, wherein the channels are formed to extend from proximate to a first longitudinal edge of the personal hygiene product to proximate to a second longitudinal edge of the personal hygiene product.

62. The personal hygiene product of any one of claims 1 to 28, or the medical product of any one of claims 29 to 55, wherein wadding layer comprises a synthetic or composite material.

63. The personal hygiene product of any one of claims 1 to 28, or the medical product of any one of claims 29 to 55, wherein the outer cover is configured to be at least partially removable from the absorbent pad.