CN1159750A - Anatomically shaped compound sanitary napkin - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention discloses a composite sanitary napkin comprising a primary absorbent member and a secondary absorbent member. The primary absorbent member has a certain length and width. The secondary absorbent member has a certain length and width. The primary absorbent member and the secondary absorbent member have a common length. The primary absorbent member preferably comprises an absorbent core and a liquid permeable topsheet disposed on the absorbent core. The secondary absorbent member preferably comprises a liquid permeable topsheet, a liquid impervious backsheet associated with the topsheet and an absorbent member positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet. The primary absorbent member is secured to the secondary absorbent member by attachment means. The width of the secondary absorbent member is at least 1.5 times the width of the primary absorbent member.

Description

Anatomically shaped modular sanitary napkins

This invention relates to disposable sanitary napkins. Herein, a sanitary napkin is considered an absorbent article designed to be worn outside the body by a woman, usually during menstruation, for the purpose of absorbing and retaining menses and other vaginal discharges. Disposable sanitary napkins refer to sanitary napkins that are thrown away after being used and soiled without being washed and reused.

In simple sanitary napkin construction, disposable sanitary napkins consist of a liquid-permeable body-contacting component (sometimes called a topsheet or outer cover) and a liquid-impermeable barrier (sometimes called a backsheet). The absorbent member (sometimes called the absorbent core) between them. Obviously, the absorbent member is capable of absorbing and retaining menses and other vaginal discharges. The body-contacting member provides varying degrees of comfort and dryness in contact with the body surface while allowing unrestricted fluid flow into the absorbent member. The protective layer prevents menses or other vaginal secretions from being squeezed or leaked from the absorbent member from soiling the wearer's underpants.

In addition to the three functional components mentioned, typically, disposable sanitary napkins are provided with means for securing the napkin in close proximity to the crotch region of the wearer, which is most effectively accomplished even when the wearer is in motion. It functions as intended. Typically, the sanitary napkin is also provided with an adhesive which secures it in the crotch region of the wearer's panties.

While previously known sanitary napkins have all performed their intended function, each conventional design suffers from one or more aspects of its ability to absorb body fluids, prevent soiling of the wearer's panties, and/or conform to the wearer's body. There are certain defects.

As far as disposable sanitary napkins are concerned, there are generally at least two types. A class designed to absorb menstrual fluid in moderate to heavy flows. This type of sanitary napkin has a strong absorption capacity. Desired absorbent capacity is usually achieved by providing sanitary napkins with thicker and bulkier absorbent members. Although the absorbent capacity of said sanitary napkins is relatively high, a certain degree of wearing discomfort is caused by the bulkiness of the absorbent member.

The second category of sanitary napkins is used when menstrual flow is light or low, and these sanitary napkins are often called panty liners or panty liners. As a set, these sanitary napkins are thinner, smoother, and generally more comfortable than Type 1 sanitary napkins. However, the absorbent capacity of the second type of sanitary napkins is generally lower than that of the first type of sanitary napkins.

In common assignee US Patent No. 4,425,130, issued January 10, 1984 to Des Marais, an attempt is made to provide a simple combination sanitary napkin combining the advantages of the two types of sanitary napkins described. The combination sanitary napkin of DesMarais comprises a basic menstrual pad and a panty protector, said two parts being connected to each other at their respective ends so that the two components move freely relative to each other along their common overall length . The basic menstrual pad is capable of absorbing large volumes of bodily fluids discharged by the wearer, and the panty protector is capable of protecting the wearer's panties from soiling. In use, the greater flexibility of movement between the basic catamenial pad and the panty protector maintains the basic catamenial pad proximate the wearer's crotch region while maintaining the panty protector attached to the wearer's panties. Although the greater flexibility of movement between the basic menstrual pad and the panty protector keeps the basic menstrual pad close to the crotch region of the wearer, if the side of the basic menstrual pad moves beyond the side edges of the panty protector, such movement The flexibility can lead to lack of stability, which can stain the wearer's underpants.

Furthermore, the greater flexibility of movement between the basic menstrual pad and the panty protector alone is not sufficient to absorb bodily fluids at the introitus of the wearer's vagina. Preferably, the primary menstrual pad is narrow enough to fit at least partially within the external genitalia. It is also possible to make the width of the basic menstrual pad greater than the distance between the labia majora, but under the action of a small force (such as the force generated by the soft tissue of the female external genitalia), it should be in a state of lateral compression or have a lateral fit sexual, enabling a portion of the basic menstrual pad to be located at least partially within the female external genitalia. The primary absorbent member remains comfortable during use by virtue of its ability to conform under relatively low forces. In addition, the primary catamenial pad preferably has elastic recovery capabilities to allow the pad to conform to the body as the pad and body interface changes shape.

While the basic menstrual pad is made narrow to fit the body, the panty retainer preferably remains wide enough to securely attach to the wearer's panties and to cover the panties to prevent soiling.

The present invention relates to a body conformable composite sanitary napkin comprising a primary absorbent member having a certain length and width and a secondary absorbent member having a certain length and width. The primary and secondary absorbent members have a common length. The primary absorbent member comprises an absorbent core and a liquid-permeable topsheet overlying the absorbent core. The secondary absorbent member comprises a liquid permeable topsheet, a liquid impermeable backsheet associated with said topsheet and an absorbent member positioned between said topsheet and backsheet. The primary absorbent member is secured to the secondary absorbent member by means of connectors. The width of the secondary absorbent member is preferably at least 1.5 times the width of the primary absorbent member. Optionally, the width of the secondary absorbent member is at least twice the width of the primary absorbent member. The width of the secondary absorbent member can also be selected to range from about 3 times to about 8 times the width of the primary absorbent member.

When the primary absorbent member is secured to said secondary absorbent member by means of attachment means, it is preferred that the longest unsecured distance between two adjacent points of attachment be less than 75% of said common length. Optionally, when the primary absorbent member is secured to the secondary absorbent member by means of attachment means, the longest unsecured distance between two adjacent points of attachment is less than 50% of said common length. Where said primary absorbent member is secured to said secondary absorbent member by means of attachment means, the longest unsecured distance between adjacent attachment points of attachment may also optionally be less than 25% of said common length. Alternatively, the primary absorbent member may be secured to the secondary absorbent member by means of connectors extending substantially the entire common length.

The secondary absorbent member may optionally include an adhesive fastening means for fastening the composite sanitary napkin to the crotch portion of the wearer's panties or panties. The primary absorbent member may optionally include an elastic member. The primary absorbent member may optionally include a fluid barrier layer. The primary absorbent member may optionally comprise two or more segments.

Although the claims of the present application have specifically pointed out and clearly described the protection scope of the present invention, it is believed that the present invention will be better understood through the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, and the same symbols represent the same components in the accompanying drawings, in:

Figure 1 is a top view of an embodiment of the combined sanitary napkin of the present invention;

Fig. 2 is a side view of the combined sanitary napkin shown in Fig. 1;

Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the combined sanitary napkin shown in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 cut along line 3-3 in Fig. 2;

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

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

Figure 5 is a top view of another embodiment of the combined sanitary napkin of the present invention;

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

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

Figures 7 and 8 are simplified schematic diagrams of the steps of the anti-deformation test of sanitary napkins;

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

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

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

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

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

Figure 14 is a side elevational view of another embodiment of the combined sanitary napkin of the present invention;

Figure 15 is a side elevational view of another embodiment of a modular sanitary napkin;

Figure 16 is a side elevational view of yet another embodiment of the combined sanitary napkin of the present invention;

Figure 17 is a top view of the combination sanitary napkin shown in Figure 11.

The present invention relates to a body conformable composite sanitary napkin which absorbs body fluids, protects the wearer's underpants from soiling, and conforms to the wearer's body. The term "sanitary napkin" here refers to a product worn by women close to the genital area, which can absorb and retain various excreta (such as blood, menstruation and urine) from the body, and discard it after one use ( i.e. not to be cleaned or otherwise preserved or reused). As used herein, the term "combined sanitary napkin" refers to a sanitary napkin in which individual parts are joined together to form a unitary structure. Interlabial members that are partially within the wearer's vaginal vestibule and partially outside the wearer's vestibule are also within the scope of the present invention. The term "vulva" as used herein refers to the visible external female genitalia, which is defined by the labia majora, labia minora, clitoris, and vestibule.

Referring to Figures 1-3, a preferred embodiment of the composite sanitary napkin 20 of the present invention is shown. As seen in Figures 1-3, the composite sanitary napkin 20 includes a primary absorbent member 30 and a secondary absorbent member 50 joined by connecting members 70 to the primary absorbent member.

The combined sanitary napkin has two surfaces: a body-contacting or body-facing surface and a panty-facing or panty-contacting surface. The primary absorbent member and the secondary absorbent member each have a corresponding body facing surface and a garment facing surface. The modular sanitary napkin 20 has two centerlines, a longitudinal centerline and a transverse centerline. The term "longitudinal" as used herein refers to a line, axis or direction within the plane of the sanitary napkin which normally divides the body of a standing wearer into the left and right halves when the sanitary napkin is worn. The vertical plane of the right half is aligned (eg nearly parallel to it). As used herein, the terms "transverse" or "lateral" are used interchangeably to refer to a line or axis or direction in the plane of the composite sanitary napkin generally perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

The primary absorbent member 30 has side edges 24 and end edges 25 which together form a perimeter 26 of the primary absorbent member. The secondary absorbent member 50 has side edges 21 and end edges 22 which together form the secondary absorbent member and the perimeter 23 of the combined sanitary napkin 20 . The combination sanitary napkin 30 has a first end region 27, a central region 28 and a second end region 29.

As the name implies, the primary absorbent member 30 is an integral part of the composite sanitary napkin 20 which is capable of absorbing large quantities of body fluids discharged by the user. The primary absorbent member 30 comprises an absorbent member 33, such as an absorbent core 34, and a liquid-permeable topsheet or coversheet 32 overlying the absorbent core 34.

The topsheet 32 is preferably compliant, soft feeling, and non-irritating to the wearer's skin. In addition, the topsheet 32 is liquid permeable, allowing liquids to readily penetrate through its thickness. The material that is suitable for making top sheet 32 is very extensive, for example textile and non-woven material; Polymeric materials such as porous formed thermoplastic film, porous plastic film, hydroformed thermoplastic film; Porous foam; Reticulated foam; Reticulated thermoplastic film and thermoplastic scrims. Suitable woven and nonwoven materials can include natural fibers such as wood or cotton fibers, synthetic fibers such as polymer fibers including polyester, polypropylene or polyethylene fibers, or a mixture of natural and synthetic fibers. A preferred topsheet is an apertured formed film. Apertured formed films are preferred for use as topsheets because they are permeable to body exudates without absorbing said exudates and reduce the likelihood of liquid back-up to rewet the wearer's skin. Thereby, the surface of the formed film that is in contact with the body remains dry, thereby preventing body soiling and providing greater comfort to the wearer. U.S. Patent No. 3,929,135 issued to Thompson on December 30, 1975; U.S. Patent No. 4,324,246 issued to Mullane et al. on April 13, 1982; U.S. Patent No. 4,342,314 issued to Redal et al. on August 3, 1982; Some suitable formed films are described in US Patent 4,463,045, Ahr et al., issued July 31, 1984, and in US Patent 5,006,394, Baird, issued April 9, 1991. Each of the above-mentioned patent documents is a reference document of the present invention. A preferred topsheet for use as the primary absorbent member of the present invention is a formed film disclosed in said one or more patents, which is trademarked on sanitary napkins by The Procter & Gamble Company of Cincinnati, Ohio. Company of Cincinnati, Ohio) as "DRI-WEAVE".

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the body-facing or exposed side of the formed film topsheet is hydrophilic, thereby facilitating liquid flow through the topsheet compared to the body-facing side being non-hydrophilic, thus allowing Reduces the likelihood of menses flowing off the topsheet instead of flowing into and being absorbed by the absorbent core. In a preferred embodiment, such as U.S. Patent entitled "Absorbent Article Having a Nonwoven and Apertured Film Coversheet" filed on November 19, 1991 by Aziz et al. Surfactants are incorporated into the polymeric material of the formed film topsheet as described in Application Serial No. 07/794745, which application is also incorporated herein by reference. Alternatively, the body-facing side of the topsheet may be treated with surfactants to be hydrophilic as described in U.S. Patent No. 4,950,264 issued to Osborn on August 21, 1990, which is also incorporated herein by reference. literature.

The topsheet 32 can be attached to the absorbent core 34 in any suitable manner. Suitable means include, but are not limited to, bonding the topsheet 32 and the absorbent core 34 together with adhesive by spraying glue or by applying lines or dots of adhesive between the topsheet 32 and the absorbent core 34 .

In addition or additionally, the fibers of the topsheet 32 entangled with the absorbent core 34 are connected to the topsheet 32 with the absorbent core 34, and the topsheet 32 is fused on the absorbent core 34 with some discontinuous discrete melt glue points, or by prior art The topsheet is attached to the absorbent core by any known means.

To ensure proper fluid transfer between the topsheet 32 and the absorbent core 34, the topsheet is preferably substantially continuously secured to the underlying absorbent core 34 by common junctions or interfaces between the topsheet and the absorbent core. By having the topsheet 32 substantially continuously attached to the underlying absorbent core 34, the likelihood of the topsheet 32 becoming separated from the absorbent core 34 during use is reduced. Separation of the absorbent core from the topsheet 32 can prevent fluid transfer from the topsheet 32 to the underlying absorbent core 34 .

The absorbent core 34 can be any absorbent member that is generally compressible, conformable, elastic, non-irritating to the wearer's skin, and capable of absorbing and retaining body exudates. The absorbent core 34 can be made from a variety of liquid-absorbent materials commonly used in disposable sanitary napkins or other disposable absorbent articles. Examples of suitable hygroscopic materials include comminuted wood pulp (commonly referred to as breathable stuffing), creped cellulose wadding, modified cross-linked cellulose fibers (as granted to Young et al., June 8, 1983). described in US Pat. November 9, 1993 authorized in U.S. Patent No. 5,260,345 to DesMarais et al., and December 7, 1993, those disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 5,268,244 to DesMarais et al.), heat-bonded airlay (airlay) materials [such as 1993 filed October 21, 2009 in the name of Richards et al., entitled "Absorbent Components with Thermally Fusible Layers for Improved Menstrual Fluid Handling Capabilities and Their Use in Menstrual Pads with Improved Fit and Comfort" (" Catamenial Absorbent Structures Having Thermally Bonded Layers For Improved Handling of Menstrual Fluids and Their Use In Catamenial Pads Having Improved Fit and Comfort"), the material disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 08/141156 (P&G Volume No. 5051)] material, synthetic staple fibers, polymer fibers, polymeric gelling agents of the hydrogel type, peat moss, or any equivalent material or mixtures of these materials.

Suitable absorbent cores are those foam materials described in U.S. Patent Application Serial Nos. 07/743839, 07/743950, 07/743947 and 07/830159 (P&G Volume Nos. 4451, 4452, 4453, and 4453R), The first, third, and fourth of the above applications were filed in the name of DesMarais et al., and the second application was filed in the name of Young et al. The filing date of the first three applications was August 12, 1991, and the fourth application was filed on February 12, 1992. Other absorbent cores are those foam materials disclosed in European Patent Application 0293208B1. Some absorbent cores are sponge materials as described in U.S. Patents 3,512,530 and 3,954,493 and French Patent 2,203,827.

For composite sanitary napkins 20, the total absorbent capacity of the absorbent core 34 should be compatible with the exudate load that may be exuded. In addition, the absorbent capacity of the absorbent core 34 can be varied to accommodate the expected outflow of liquid by the wearer. For example, a combination sanitary napkin with different absorbency may be used for daytime use compared to nighttime use, or a combination sanitary napkin may be used for young women compared to middle-aged women.

Compliant, soft, conformable, compressible, elastic materials are preferably selected for the absorbent core 34 to enhance the fit to the body and the comfort of the primary absorbent member. The absorbent core is preferably compressible so that the primary absorbent member deforms with relatively little force during normal use. In addition to being compressible, said materials comprising the absorbent core are preferably conformable so that the primary absorbent member provides an improved fit in and around the labia and around the perineum. Although the primary absorbent member is generally compressible and conformable under relatively small forces exerted by the female external genitalia in use, the primary absorbent member has sufficient elasticity so that the primary absorbent member is not permanently compressed when subjected to normal wear forces. Flatness is also important. In order to bring the primary absorbent member into intimate contact with the external genitalia of a female wearer, it is preferred that the primary absorbent member be sufficiently elastic to conform to the wearer's body shape. The intimate contact with the female genitalia helps fluids from the wearer to flow better into the primary absorbent member without lateral flow and/or flow out of the primary absorbent member. While the elastic nature of the absorbent core 34 improves fit, a compromise must be made between softness and wearer comfort.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 3, the absorbent core 34 is made of breathable stuffing. In order to provide a conventional cylindrical primary absorbent member 30, the breathable stuffed absorbent core is typically formed into a cylindrical shape.

Referring now to Figure 3A, there is shown a cross-section taken along the transverse axis of another embodiment of the combined sanitary napkin of the present invention. In this embodiment, the absorbent core 34 is preferably one as described in referenced patent application serial numbers 07/743839, 07/743950, 07/743947 and 07/830159 (P&G Dockets 4451, 4452, 4453 and 4453R). Absorbent foams disclosed in , said first, third and fourth applications are in the name of DesMarais et al. and the second application is in the name of Young et al. The absorbent core can be folded or rolled to give it a generally circular cross-section. The folded core provides a primary absorbent member 30 having a generally cylindrical shape.

Although the core 34 shown in Figures 3 and 3A is of generally circular cross-section, the absorbent core can also be made in a variety of different shapes, such as rectangular, triangular, oval, square, pentagonal, U-shaped and zigzag. folded, etc.

Alternatively, the primary absorbent member 30 may be an elastic member 45 as shown in Figure 3A. The elastic member 45 can be a single piece or several separate parts. Suitable materials suitable for use as the elastic member 45 include, but are not limited to, nylon, polypropylene, polyurethane, polyethylene, polyester, synthetic rubber, and other synthetic materials such as formed films, or such as rubber, sponge, etc. Natural material, or any suitable material that resists crushing under normal wearing conditions during use of the sanitary napkin. The elastic member 45 can be made into various shapes, such as rectangle, triangle, ellipse, square, pentagon, U-shape, zigzag folded shape and so on.

The elastic member 45 can extend the entire length of the primary absorbent member 30. It is also possible for the elastic member 45 to extend only a portion of the length of the primary absorbent member 30. The elastic members 45 may be mounted in the first end region 27, the central region 28, the second end region 29 or any combination of said regions. For example, the elastic member 45 may be mounted either within the first end region 27 of the primary absorbent member, within the second end region 29 of the primary absorbent member, or between the first end region 27 and the second end region of the primary absorbent member. The end regions 29 are located either in the central region 28 of the primary absorbent member, or in the central region 28 and the end regions 27,29 of the primary absorbent member.

The primary absorbent member 30 may also optionally include a liquid barrier 35. The barrier 35 retains absorbed fluid within the absorbent core 34 and can be constructed of the same nature as the liquid impermeable backsheet on the secondary absorbent member 50 described below.

The primary absorbent member 30 may also optionally include an acquisition layer 46 positioned between the topsheet 32 and the absorbent core 34 . The acquisition layer 46 can serve several functions, including improving the wicking of excreta on and within the absorbent core 34. Distribute evenly. The acquisition layer 46 can be made of a number of different materials, which are: nonwoven or woven webs of synthetic fibers including polyester, polypropylene or polyethylene; natural fibers including cotton or cellulose; blends of said fibers ; or any equivalent of said material or combination of these materials. U.S. Patent No. 4,950,264 issued to Osborn and serial number 07/810774 entitled "Absorbent Article Having Fused Layers" in the name of Cree et al. on December 17, 1991 Examples of sanitary napkins having an acquisition layer and a topsheet are described more fully in the patent applications. Each of these patent documents is incorporated herein by reference. In a preferred embodiment, the acquisition layer 46 is attached to the topsheet by any conventional means of joining the web together, preferably by the fusion gluing method described more fully in the aforementioned Cree application. layer with top sheet.

Preferably, the primary absorbent member will be circular or oval in cross-section, although generally the primary absorbent member can be of any shape in cross-section under unstressed conditions. The length 40 and width 41 of the primary absorbent member 30 can be any conventional size. Preferably the primary absorbent member 30 is from about 2 cm to 35 cm long, more preferably from about 10 cm to 35 cm long, most preferably from about 20 cm to 35 cm long. A particularly preferred length of the primary absorbent member 30 is about 24 cm. The preferred width of the primary absorbent member 30 is from about 0.5 cm to 5 cm, more preferably from about 0.5 cm to about 4 cm, most preferably from about 0.5 cm to 3 cm.

Referring to Figures 1-3A, the second required component of the composite sanitary napkin of the present invention is the secondary absorbent member 50. The secondary absorbent member 50 preferably comprises a liquid permeable topsheet 52, a liquid impermeable backsheet 54 connected to the topsheet 52 and an absorbent portion 56 positioned between the topsheet 52 and the backsheet 54.

The topsheet 52 can be any liquid pervious material commonly used in sanitary napkins, disposable diapers, and the like. It can be any material described for use as the topsheet 32 of the primary absorbent member 30.

The preferred topsheet 52 is an apertured formed film. The use of an apertured formed film as a topsheet is preferred because it is permeable to body exudates without absorbing said exudates and reduces the likelihood of liquid rewetting the wearer's skin by regurgitation. Thus, the surface of the formed film which is in contact with the body remains dry, thereby avoiding body soiling and providing greater comfort to the wearer. U.S. Patent No. 3,929,135 issued to Thompson on December 30, 1975; U.S. Patent No. 4,324,246 issued to Mullane et al. on April 13, 1982; U.S. Patent No. 4,342,314 issued to Radel et al. on August 3, 1982; Some suitable formed films are described in US Patent 4,463,045, Ahr et al., issued July 31, 1984, and in US Patent 5,006,394, Baird, issued April 9, 1991. Each of the above-mentioned patent documents is a reference document of the present invention. A preferred topsheet for use as the secondary absorbent member of the present invention is a formed film disclosed in said one or more patents, which is trademarked on sanitary napkins by The Procter & Gamble Company of Cincinnati, Ohio as . DRI-WEAVE” registered.

The absorbent member 56 can be any absorbent material commonly used in sanitary napkins, disposable diapers, and the like. It may also be any of the materials described for the absorbent core 34 of the primary absorbent member 30.

As a matter of fact, most body fluids are absorbed by and retained in the absorbent core of the primary absorbent member. A primary function of the secondary absorbent member 50 is to protect the wearer's panties from absorbed fluid that leaks from the primary absorbent member or inadvertently flows laterally from the primary absorbent member. Since the absorbent member 56 of the secondary absorbent member 50 functions differently than the absorbent core 34, the absorbent portion 56 can, and preferably is, be slightly thinner and less bulky than the absorbent core 34.

Since the requirements placed on the absorbent member 56 are different from those of the absorbent core, it can be constructed of different materials. For example, the absorbent member may be formed from single or ply tissue paper commonly used in paper towels or toilet paper. The absorbent member is preferably constructed from about 1 to about 5 plies of tissue paper.

Preferably, the total absorbent capacity of the absorbent member 56 is slightly less than the absorbent capacity of the absorbent core 34. Since the absorbent core 34 is preferably intended to absorb most or substantially all of the body fluids during use, its absorbent capacity is slightly, if not significantly greater, than that of the absorbent member 56.

It has been found that, using the process described in U.S. Patent No. 3,301,746 issued to Sanford and Sisson on January 31, 1967, a compound having a basis weight of about 24 grams to 48 grams per square meter and an apparent density of about From 0.10 grams to about 0.12 grams of one or more ply tissue paper is quite satisfactory as absorbent member 56, said patent document is incorporated herein by reference. Wet strength resins and latex binders can and are preferred for additional strength to the tissue paper used in the absorbent member.

Tissue paper prepared by the process described in U.S. Patent No. 3,994,771, Morgan et al., issued November 30, 1976, also has many advantages for use as absorbent member 56, which patent document is also incorporated herein by reference.

Alternatively, the secondary absorbent member may be free of absorbent elements. Since not all but preferably most of the body fluids can be absorbed by and retained in the absorbent core of the primary absorbent member, the secondary absorbent member 50 only needs to prevent the wearer's underpants from being soaked by a small amount of fluid leaking from the primary absorbent member or due to lack of Note the soiling from small amounts of fluid running laterally from the primary absorbent member. Thus, since the expected amount of fluids that may come into contact with the secondary absorbent member is relatively small, it is not necessarily necessary for an absorbent member to retain those fluids in the secondary absorbent member, thereby preventing the fluid from soiling the wearer's undergarments.

The backsheet 54 is impermeable to liquids (eg menses and/or urine) and is preferably made of a thin plastic film, although other flexible liquid impermeable flexible materials can be used. As used herein, the term "flexible" refers to a material that is compliant and readily conforms to the general shape and size of the human body. In use, the backsheet 54 is positioned between the absorbent member 56 and the wearer's undergarments. The function of the backsheet 54 is to prevent leakage from the main absorbent member or due to inadvertent excreta flowing laterally from the main absorbent member and the excreta absorbed and retained by the absorbent member 56 from contacting the wearer's underpants and making the wearer's body dirty. panties. The backsheet 54 may be a woven or nonwoven material, a polymeric film such as a thermoplastic film of polyethylene or polypropylene, or a composite material such as a film coated nonwoven material. The backsheet is preferably a polyethylene film having a thickness from about 0.012 mm (0.5 mil) to about 0.015 mm (2.0 mil). For example, polyethylene film with trade name P18-0401 produced by Clopay Corporation of Cincinnati, Ohio, Cincinnati, Ohio and XP-39385 produced by Ethyl Corporation, Visqueen Division, of Terre Haute, Indiana polyethylene film. It is preferable to emboss and/or matte the negative to give the negative a more cloth-like appearance. In addition, the backsheet allows vapors to escape from the absorbent portion 56 (ie, breathable) while preventing exudates from passing through the backsheet.

Preferably, the secondary absorbent member 50 is provided with a support or attachment means, such as an adhesive attachment means 58. The adhesive attachment 58 provides a means for securing the composite sanitary napkin 20 to the crotch portion of the wearer's panties or panties. Accordingly, the adhesive is applied to a portion or all of the outer or garment-facing surface 55 of the backsheet 54 . In a preferred embodiment, at least a portion of the adhesive 58 is on the garment facing surface 55 of the backsheet 54 adjacent the longitudinal side edges 21 of the secondary absorbent member. Any adhesive or stick known in the art for such purposes may be used as the adhesive here, but pressure sensitive adhesives are preferred. Suitable adhesives are Century A-305-IV manufactured by the Century Adhesives Corporation of Columbus, Ohio, and by the National Starch and Chemical Company of Bridgewater, NJ. Instant Lock 34-2823. Suitable adhesive fasteners are also described in US Patent No. 4,917,697. To prevent the adhesive from drying or sticking to surfaces other than the crotch region of the undergarment prior to use, the pressure sensitive adhesive is usually covered with a peelable release liner 59 . A suitable release liner is also described in said US Pat. No. 4,917,697. Any commercially available release liner commonly used for this purpose may be used here. Non-limiting examples of suitable release liners are BL 30 MG-A Silox E1/0 and BL 30 MG-A Silox 4P/0 manufactured by the Akrosil Corporation of Menasha, Wisconsin, WI. When using the composite sanitary napkin 20 of the present invention, the release liner 50 is torn off first, and then the sanitary napkin is put into the shorts so that the adhesive 58 contacts the shorts. The adhesive 58 keeps the sanitary napkin positioned within the underpants during use.

The secondary absorbent member of the present invention is preferably thinner and more flexible. The secondary absorbent member may have a thickness of about 1.9mm. The thickness of the secondary absorbent member or the thickness of different regions of the secondary absorbent member can be determined by the following test.

A comparator is required, specifically the Ames, Model 130 with Dial Indicator Model 482 available from the BCAmes Company of Waltham, Massachusetts. The scalemeter shall have a circular scalemeter base plate made of aluminum with a weight of 10.0 g and a contact surface of 5.16 cm ² . To zero-adjust the scale meter, place an 80.0g stainless steel weight on the measuring rod extending along the top of the scale meter micrometer. Raise the base plate of the scale meter, remove any panty adhesive release paper attached to the secondary absorbent, sprinkle granular starch over the adhesive, and place the secondary absorbent with the panty-facing surface facing down on the base plate . Place the secondary absorbent on the base plate so that when the base of the comparator is lowered, the secondary absorbent is in the area of the secondary absorbent to be measured. Try to keep the secondary absorbent member as flat as possible, or prevent the secondary absorbent member from wrinkling. Slowly lower the comparator plate onto the secondary absorbent. The thickness of the secondary absorbent member is determined by reading the scale on the scalemeter micrometer 30 seconds after contact of the scalemeter chassis with the secondary absorbent member.

The preferred thickness of the secondary absorbent member is less than about 3.0 mm, preferably less than about 2.6 mm, more preferably less than 2.2 mm, and most preferably less than 2.0 mm.

Preferably, the primary absorbent member of the present invention is relatively conformable. It is preferred that the primary absorbent member be readily and fairly snugly conformable to the labial groove during use. It has been found that a primary absorbent member having a width and/or diameter of about 3/8 inch can fit at least a portion of the labial groove. When the width or diameter of the primary absorbent member as described above is greater than 3/8 inch, the primary absorbent member can still fit the labial groove if said dimensions are adequate. It is of course not necessary that all of the primary absorbent member fit the labial groove, but preferably a portion of the primary absorbent member fits the labial groove. The fit properties of the primary absorbent member or zones of the primary absorbent member can be determined by means of the following tests.

A computer controlled tensile testing machine is employed, specifically the EME, Model 599A available from the EME, Inc. of Newbury, Ohio, preferably, although other tensile testing machines may also be used. The tensile tester has a pair of aluminum circular contact surfaces with a diameter of 4.0 cm. The primary absorbent member is placed on the lower contacting surface with one side edge facing downwards and the opposite side edge facing upwards towards the upper contacting surface. Zero the instrument. Lower the upper contact surface until the distance between the two opposing contact surfaces is 3/8 inch. The conformity reading at 3/8 inch is taken to determine the force exerted on the primary absorbent member.

The primary absorbent member has a fit force of less than about 1.0 lbs/ ⁱⁿ² at 3/8 inch, preferably the primary absorbent member has a fit force of less than about 0.5 lbs/ ⁱⁿ² at 3/8 inch, more preferably less than About 0.25 lbs/ ⁱⁿ² , most preferably less than about 0.1 lbs/ ⁱⁿ² .

As shown in Figures 1-3, the secondary absorbent member is generally rectangular in shape. Other suitable shapes include, but are not limited to, oval, hourglass, figure eight, asymmetrical, and the like.

As shown in Figure 4, the secondary absorbent member 50 may optionally be provided with two flaps 58 each adjacent to and extending laterally from the side edges of the absorbent core. The wings 58 are shaped to wrap around the edges of the crotch region of the wearer's panties so that the wings are positioned between the wearer's panties and the wearer's thighs. The wings serve at least two functions. First, the wings help prevent menstrual soiling from soiling the wearer's body and the panties, preferably by forming a double wall barrier along the edges of the panties. Second, it is preferable to provide attachment members on the garment-facing surface of the flaps so that the flaps can be folded back under the shorts and secured to the garment-facing side of the shorts. In this way, the flaps keep the sanitary napkin properly positioned within the panties.

In a preferred embodiment, the wings consist of a topsheet, an absorbent member and a backsheet. Furthermore, the flaps are preferably integral with the secondary absorbent member laminate. In other words, the topsheet, absorbent portion and backsheet simply extend laterally outwardly to form wings. Of course the flaps need not be integral with the secondary absorbent member, but can also be separate parts fixed to the secondary absorbent member. In addition, the flaps may consist of a single substrate or other laminates. However, it has been suggested that the wings have a liquid impermeable backing layer to prevent excreta flowing onto the wings from staining the edges of the wearer's panties.

In addition, the wings are preferably provided with an absorbent member which extends beyond the edge of the wearer's panties at least in one place. Theoretically, less menstrual flow reaches the wings, so less absorbent material is required in the wings. However, in order to prevent any exudates which flow onto the flaps from possibly flowing through and further into unprotected areas, it is advisable to employ at least some absorbent material. The absorbent web may be a tissue or an extension of the absorbent member 56. Of course, the moisture-absorbing material in the wings should have relatively high softness.

Suitable or Certain winged sanitary napkins are suitable for use in combination with the secondary absorbent member 50 of the combination sanitary napkin 20 of the present invention. Each of said patents is incorporated herein by reference.

The secondary absorbent member may optionally include elements that naturally wrap around the sides of the wearer's panties. Application in the name of Lavash et al. on July 22, 1993 entitled: "Absorbent Article Having Panty Covering Components that Naturally Wrap the Sides of Panties" ("Absorbent Article Having Panty Covering Components that Naturally Wrap the Sides of Panties") U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 08/096,121 (P&G Docket No. 4961) and filed July 20, 1994 in the name of Weinberger et al. entitled "Absorbent Articles Containing Panty Covering Parts of Extensible Regions" ("Absorbent Articles "Having Undergarment Covering Components with Zones of Extensibility")'s U.S. Patent Application Serial No. (P&G Docket No. 5354) discloses a combination of secondary absorbent members suitable for the combined sanitary napkin 20 of the present invention having the ability to naturally wrap and wear. A sanitary napkin that is part of the wearer's panties. The contents of said publications are incorporated herein by reference.

The respective components of the primary absorbent member 30 and the secondary absorbent member 50 may be constructed of components that are extensible (preferably extensible), especially in the longitudinal direction, when the composite sanitary napkin is worn. The composite sanitary napkin is preferably longitudinally extensible between about 15% and about 40% of its unstretched length. Such extensibility provides a better in-use fit, comfort and reduced soiling when the composite sanitary napkin is secured to the wearer's undergarments.

The secondary absorbent member preferably consists of elements which are also laterally extensible when the composite sanitary napkin is worn. The composite sanitary napkin is preferably laterally extensible between about 15% and about 40% of its unstretched length.

The topsheet for both the primary and secondary absorbent members may also be an elastic, three-dimensional liquid-permeable polymer batting as disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 07/936,195 filed August 25, 1992 in the name of Curro. Network, said document is the reference of the present invention.

A particularly recommended extensible backsheet is a known Formula #198-388 extensible adhesive film produced by Findley Adhesives Company of Wauwatosa, Wisconsin.

Two U.S. patent applications, serial numbers 07/915133 and 07/915284, filed July 23, 1992 in the name of Osbom et al. (PCT Publication Nos. WO 93/01785 and 93/01786) both describe Sanitary napkins, the publication dates of the two patent applications are February 4, 1993. The contents of said publications are incorporated herein by reference.

Referring to Figure 1, the secondary absorbent member 50 preferably has a length 60 and a width 61 . The secondary absorbent member preferably has a length of from about 20 cm to 40 cm, more preferably from about 25 cm to 35 cm, most preferably about 30 cm long.

Although the primary absorbent member may have any shape in cross-section in the unstressed state, it is preferred that the cross-section be rectangular. The secondary absorbent member preferably has a width of from about 5 cm to 15 cm, more preferably from about 5 cm to about 10 cm wide, most preferably from about 5 cm to 8 cm wide. As shown in cross-section in Figures 2 and 3, the thickness of the secondary absorbent member 50 is generally slightly less than its width.

Since the primary absorbent member performs a different function than the secondary absorbent member, the nature and characteristics of the materials constituting the primary absorbent member and the secondary absorbent member may also differ from each other. A primary function of the primary absorbent member is to absorb and retain body fluids. In addition, the primary absorbent member is preferably sized and shaped to fit the labia. Accordingly, the width and/or diameter of the primary absorbent member should be sized to fit at least partially within the labia. That is, preferably a portion of the primary absorbent member engages the labia during use. Since the female external genitalia including the labia are considered soft body tissue, it is important that the web comprising the primary absorbent member and the primary absorbent member be comfortable and relatively soft so that they are not irritating and/or uncomfortable to the user. In contrast, a primary function of the secondary absorbent member is to prevent the wearer's undergarments from being soiled by absorbed fluid that escapes from the primary absorbent member or inadvertently flows laterally from the primary absorbent member. Since the secondary absorbent member performs a different function than the primary absorbent member, the size and characteristics of the secondary absorbent member may differ slightly from the primary absorbent member.

The width of the secondary absorbent member is preferably at least 1.5 times the width of the primary absorbent member. More preferably the secondary absorbent member is twice as wide as said primary absorbent member. Preferably, the width of the secondary absorbent member is from about 3 to about 8 times the width of the primary absorbent member.

The length of the secondary absorbent member is preferably about the same as the length of the primary absorbent member when the composite sanitary napkin is in the unstressed state. However, it is also possible to make the secondary absorbent member slightly longer than the primary absorbent member for better performance.

Referring now to Figure 1, it can be seen that the primary absorbent member 30 and the secondary absorbent member 50 share the same length 65 . The common length refers to the length shared by the primary absorbent member and the secondary absorbent member.

To form the composite sanitary napkin of the present invention, the primary absorbent member and the secondary absorbent member are joined together by a connecting member generally indicated at 70 in Figures 2 and 3 .

The exact nature of the connecting elements is not critical so long as the connecting elements selected for joining the primary and secondary absorbent members to the combined sanitary napkin of the present invention have sufficient tensile strength without breaking The primary absorbent member and the secondary absorbent member are disengaged. Connections such as adhesive connections with known hot melt and pressure sensitive adhesives may be quite satisfactory. Heat welding, ultrasonic welding, or a combination of both heat and ultrasonic welding may be used if the nature of the components selected to form the composite sanitary napkin construction permits.

The primary absorbent member may be secured to said secondary absorbent member by means of connectors in such a manner that the longest unsecured distance between adjacent fastening points is less than 75% of said common length. The primary absorbent member may also be secured to said secondary absorbent member by means of connectors in such a way that the longest unsecured distance between adjacent fastening points is less than 50% of said common length. Optionally, the primary absorbent member may be secured to said secondary absorbent member by means of connectors such that the longest unconnected distance between adjacent anchorage points is less than 25% of said common length. Alternatively, the primary absorbent member may be secured to the secondary absorbent member by means of a connecting member extending substantially the entire common length.

Referring to Figure 5, another preferred embodiment of the combined sanitary napkin 20 of the present invention is shown. The primary absorbent member 30 has a length 40 which is slightly shorter than a length 60 of the secondary absorbent member. Accordingly, the common length 65 corresponds to the length 40 of the primary absorbent member 30 .

Referring to Figure 3, it can be seen that the topsheet 32 completely encloses the absorbent core 34 of the primary absorbent member 30. In this embodiment, the topsheet 32 of the primary absorbent member 30 is separate and distinct from the topsheet 52 of the secondary absorbent member 50.

Optionally, the topsheet of the primary absorbent member 30 and the secondary absorbent member 50 may be formed from a single web of material, such as the topsheet 100 shown in FIG. In this embodiment, the topsheet 100 serves as both the topsheet for the primary absorbent member 30 and the topsheet for the secondary absorbent member 50. In the embodiment of Figure 6, the topsheet 100 also serves as the connecting member 70 connecting the primary absorbent member and the secondary absorbent member together. The combined sanitary napkin may also include additional attachment means for connecting the primary absorbent member and the secondary absorbent member. Suitable additional attachments include, but are not limited to, adhesives and fusion bonds. The primary absorbent member 30 has a width 41 . The modular sanitary napkin has a connector width 541 which is the distance across the connector 70 . The connector width 541 is less than the width of the primary absorbent member 30 . Preferably the web width 541 is less than 75% of the width of the primary absorbent member 30. More preferably, the width 541 of the connecting member is less than 50% of the width of the absorbent member 30 . Preferably, the web width 541 is less than 25% of the width of the primary absorbent member 30.

As can be seen in FIG. 6, the absorbent core 34 is positioned between the topsheet 100 and the elastic members 45 of the primary absorbent member 30. As shown in FIG. The elastic member 45 is generally U-shaped in cross-section, so that the primary absorbent member 30 also has a generally U-shaped cross-section.

The elasticity of the elastic members 45 is preferably unaffected by the presence of body exudates absorbed and retained in the absorbent core. The continued elasticity of the elastic members 45 maintains the primary absorbent member 30 in intimate contact with the wearer's body during use.

Referring to Fig. 6A, the cross-sectional shape of the elastic member 45 and the main absorbent member 30 is generally circular or oval.

The primary absorbent member preferably has a "steady state resistance" effective to enhance performance. As used herein, "steady state resistance" means the resistance exhibited by the primary absorbent member to keep the side edges of the primary absorbent member from extending beyond the side edges of the secondary absorbent member when a force is applied to the primary absorbent member in the central region. In other words, steady state resistance describes the relative movement of the primary absorbent member relative to the secondary absorbent member. Preferably, the side edges of the primary absorbent member do not protrude beyond the side edges of the secondary absorbent member, even under relatively high forces. Side flow or leakage of fluid from the primary absorbent to surfaces outside the secondary absorbent (such as wearer's skin or underwear) is significantly less likely.

Apparatus for determining steady-state resistance must consist of a weighing pan and a resistance element. A suitable weighing pan is the Sartorius Universal Balance. The resistance element is a cylindrical rod with a diameter of 1 inch (2.54 cm). The length of the resistance element is preferably about 6 inches (12.54 cm). The resistance element may be made of a suitable material capable of withstanding the forces applied during the static resistance test. Suitable materials include, but are not limited to, steel, aluminum, plastic, wood, and the like.

The steady-state resistance test process is as follows: Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8 , the resistance element 400 is placed on the weighing pan 402 . The weighing pan 402 is then calibrated to indicate zero. A combination sanitary napkin having a primary absorbent member 412 and a secondary absorbent member 414, such as sanitary napkin 410, is placed on the test apparatus with the primary absorbent member 412 resting on the resistance member 400. The backsheet portion of the secondary absorbent member 414 should be aligned generally parallel to the axis of the resistance element 400. A force (indicated generally by F in Figures 7 and 8) is applied to each end of the secondary absorbent member 414. The force is applied until the side edges 420 of the primary absorbent member are equal to the side edges 418 of the secondary absorbent member substantially perpendicular to the topsheet portion of the secondary absorbent member 414 as shown. Once the side edges of the primary absorbent member are aligned with the side edges of the secondary absorbent member, the force reading (accurate to the gram) is recorded. This reading represents the steady state resistance of the primary absorbent member.

The primary absorbent member may have a steady state resistance greater than about 600 g. Preferably the primary absorbent member has a steady state resistance of greater than or equal to 50 g, more preferably greater than or equal to 100 g, most preferably greater than or equal to 150 g.

Some specific non-limiting composite sanitary napkin embodiments are shown in Figures 9-17.

Figure 9 shows an embodiment of the primary absorbent member having an elastic member 45 in the shape of a zigzag fold. As can be seen from Figure 9, the absorbent core 34 is preferably positioned between the topsheet 32 and the elastic member 45. Locating the absorbent core 34 between the topsheet 32 and the elastic 45 facilitates intimate contact between the absorbent core 34 and the topsheet 32 . Intimate contact between the topsheet and the absorbent core, either by bonding or by pressure exerted by the elastic members, facilitates fluid transfer from the topsheet to the underlying absorbent core.

In some embodiments, it may be desirable to have an elastic member 45 that absorbs bodily fluids. Such materials include, but are not limited to, absorbent foam and sponge materials.

Referring now to Fig. 10, this figure is a cross-sectional view taken along the longitudinal axis of another embodiment of the combined sanitary napkin 20 of the present invention. The primary absorbent member 30 comprises an absorbent core 34 comprising a lower density layer 72, a higher density layer 73, a plurality of elastic fibers 74 and absorbent gelling material 75 distributed over and within the high density layer 73. The absorbent gelling material 75 is primarily distributed within the first and second end regions 27,29 of the primary absorbent member 30. The lower density layer 72 is preferably a thermally bonded breathable fleece material. The elastic fibers are preferably polyester capillary channel fibers.

Referring to Figure 11, there is shown a cross-sectional view of yet another embodiment of the combined sanitary napkin 20 of the present invention. The absorbent core 34 is a carded nonwoven layer of capillary channel fibers. The nonwoven layers are laminated layer by layer to form multiple layers. The mask 77 is preferably disposed within the nonwoven layer of capillary channel fibers. A suitable mask is a liquid impermeable film. Another suitable mask is a formed film. Absorbent materials, such as absorbent gelling materials, may also be incorporated into the nonwoven layer of capillary channel fibers.

Although the capillary channel fiber nonwoven fabric layer shown in Fig. 1 has a generally circular cross-section, the capillary channel fiber layer can be made into various shapes, such as rectangle, triangle, ellipse, U-shape, Z-fold, etc. .

Referring to Figure 12, another embodiment of a modular sanitary napkin 120 is shown. The combination sanitary napkin 120 includes a primary absorbent member 130 and a secondary absorbent member 150 . The primary absorbent member 130 comprises an apertured formed film topsheet 132, an acquisition member 140, a distribution member 145, an absorbent core 150, a first elastic member 155 and a second elastic member 157. The first elastic member 155 extends substantially the length of the primary absorbent member 130 . The first elastic member 155 is preferably a polymeric capillary channel fiber as described in Patent No. 5,200,248, issued April 6, 1993 to Thompson et al. The second elastic members 157 are preferably nylon monofilaments configured as generally circular cross-sections that are secured to each other proximate the acquisition member 140 and proximate the inner surface of the absorbent core 150. As can be seen from FIG. 12, the secondary elastic member 157 is positioned approximately in the central portion of the primary absorbent member 130. As shown in FIG.

The primary absorbent member 30 may include an elastic member 45 similar to the inner forming member disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 08/225,441 (P&G Docket No. 5109R), filed April 8, 1994 by Carl L Bergman. The name of the application is: "Sanitary Napkin having an Intemal Shaping Component" ("Sanitary Napkin having an Intemal Shaping Component"), and the content disclosed in this application is a reference for the present invention.

FIG. 13 shows yet another preferred embodiment of a modular sanitary napkin 200 . The combination sanitary napkin 200 includes a primary absorbent member 210 and a secondary absorbent member 220 . The primary absorbent member 210 preferably includes a topsheet 212, an absorbent core 214 and an elastic member 216. As seen in Figure 13, the elastic member 216 has a generally inverted V-shaped cross-section, and therefore, the primary absorbent member 210 also has a generally inverted V-shaped cross-section. The elastic member 216 preferably extends substantially the entire length of the primary absorbent member 210.

Referring to Figure 14, this figure shows yet another preferred embodiment of the combined sanitary napkin 240 of the present invention. The combination sanitary napkin 240 preferably includes a primary absorbent member 245 and a secondary absorbent member 250. As shown in Figure 14, the combination sanitary napkin 240 preferably has a generally horizontal section 255 and an upwardly curved section 257. A horizontal section 255 is present in the first end portion 27 and the central portion 28 . An upwardly facing bend 257 is present in the second end portion 29 . The upwardly curved section 257 preferably includes a tensile member capable of providing a tensile force sufficient to cause the second section 257 to bend. Suitable stretch members include, but are not limited to, a stretched topsheet, an elastic panel, glued strands, films, or any suitable component that provides the desired stretch. The segment present in the first end 27 can also be selected to be curved upwards.

As shown in Figure 14, the primary absorbent member 245 and the secondary absorbent member 250 are joined together over their entire common length. That is, they are connected together by segments 255 and 257 . Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 15, they may be joined together in a first section 255 and separated from each other in a rear section 257. In this embodiment, the secondary absorbent member 250 remains substantially in the same plane throughout segments 255 and 257 under unstressed conditions. The primary absorbent member 245 within the second section 257 bends upwardly on itself and separates from the secondary absorbent member 250 . Segment 257 generally corresponds to second end 29 . The primary absorbent member may also curve upwardly within the first end portion 27.

Referring to Figures 16 and 17, a further embodiment of the combined sanitary napkin 320 of the present invention is shown. The combination sanitary napkin 320 includes a segmented primary absorbent member 330 and a secondary absorbent member 340 . The primary absorbent member comprises separate absorbent members 331, 332 and 333. As shown in FIGS. 16 and 17 , segment 331 is located entirely within first end region 27 , segment 332 is located entirely within central region 28 , and segment 333 is located entirely within second end region 39 . The primary absorbent member may optionally comprise two components extending from the end regions 27 and 29 to the central region 28 . The primary absorbent member may also optionally be composed of four or more separate components. Although the multi-component primary absorbent member shown in Figures 16 and 17 extends the entire length of the composite sanitary napkin, sections or regions of the composite sanitary napkin having no primary absorbent member are also suitable. For example, the first end region 27 and the central region 28 may comprise a primary absorbent component, while the second end region 29 comprises only the secondary absorbent member. In addition, the primary absorbent member in each zone can be designed to perform a specific function, so that the primary absorbent member in each zone can be made of a material capable of performing the desired function. For example, since the section 332 is likely to be placed in the place where the body fluids are directly retained, the main absorbent section 332 in the central region 28 should be composed of a material with a stronger absorbent capacity than the sections 331 or 333, and the parts or sections 331 or 333 also Bodily fluids may be retained, so they are less absorbent than the segments 332 within the central region 28 .

It would be desirable to provide a composite sanitary napkin having varying width or thickness throughout the length of the primary absorbent member. For example, the central region of the primary absorbent member may be thicker than the opposing end regions. Alternatively, the central region of the primary absorbent member may be thinner than the opposing end regions.

Although some specific embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, it is obvious that those skilled in the art can make various changes and modifications without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, all changes and modifications within the concept of the present invention fall within the scope of protection required by the claims of the present application.

Claims (13)

1. one kind comprises a combined sanitary towel with main hygroscopic piece and the secondary hygroscopic piece with certain length and width of certain length and width, described main hygroscopic piece and secondary hygroscopic piece have public length, described main hygroscopic piece comprises an absorbent article core and a saturating liquid top flat that overlays on the described absorbent article core, described secondary hygroscopic piece comprises a saturating liquid top flat and a liquid-tight egative film that links to each other with saturating liquid top flat, described main hygroscopic piece is fixed on the described secondary hygroscopic piece by connector, and this combined sanitary towel is characterised in that the width of described secondary hygroscopic piece is at least 1.5 times of main hygroscopic piece width.

2. one kind comprises a combined sanitary towel with main hygroscopic piece and the secondary hygroscopic piece with a certain length and width of a certain length and width, described main hygroscopic piece and secondary hygroscopic piece have public length, described main hygroscopic piece comprises an absorbent article core and a saturating liquid top flat that overlays on the described absorbent article core, described secondary hygroscopic piece comprises a saturating liquid top flat and a liquid-tight egative film that links to each other with this saturating liquid top flat, described combined sanitary towel is characterised in that by connecting elements described main hygroscopic piece is fixed on the described secondary hygroscopic piece, makes the distance of the longest not set between the two adjacent fixation points less than 75% of described public length.

3. one kind comprises that has certain length, width, the main hygroscopic piece of peripheral and inherent not stressed shape and a secondary hygroscopic piece with certain length and width, described main hygroscopic piece and secondary hygroscopic piece have public length, described main hygroscopic piece comprises an absorbent article core and a saturating liquid top flat that overlays on the described absorbent article core, described secondary hygroscopic piece comprises a saturating liquid top flat and a liquid-tight egative film that links to each other with this saturating liquid top flat, described main hygroscopic piece is fixed on the described secondary hygroscopic piece by connector, this combined sanitary towel is characterised in that the time spent of doing that is subjected to being applied near the compression stress of its periphery when described main hygroscopic piece, described main hygroscopic piece can be compressed and have enough elasticity, described main hygroscopic piece makes in case when cancelling described compression stress, can roughly return to original not stressed shape.

4. one kind comprises a combined sanitary towel with main hygroscopic piece and the secondary hygroscopic piece with a certain length and width of certain length and width, described main hygroscopic piece and secondary hygroscopic piece have public length, described main hygroscopic piece comprises an absorbent article core and a saturating liquid top flat that overlays on the described absorbent article core, described secondary hygroscopic piece comprises a saturating liquid top flat, a liquid-tight egative film that links to each other with described liquid top flat and a hygroscopic piece that places between described top flat and the egative film, described main hygroscopic piece is fixed on the described secondary hygroscopic piece by connecting elements, and described combined sanitary towel is characterised in that stiction that described main hygroscopic piece has is more than or equal to about 50g.

5. as the described combined sanitary towel of above-mentioned each claim, wherein, the width of described secondary hygroscopic piece is 2 times of described main hygroscopic piece width at least.

6. as the described combined sanitary towel of above-mentioned each claim, wherein, described main hygroscopic piece is fixed on the described secondary hygroscopic piece, makes the distance of the longest not set between the two adjacent fixation points less than 50% of described public length by connecting elements.

7. as the described combined sanitary towel of above-mentioned each claim, wherein, described main hygroscopic piece is fixed on the described secondary hygroscopic piece by the connecting elements that roughly extends continuously along described public length.

8. as the described combined sanitary towel of above-mentioned each claim, wherein, described secondary hygroscopic piece comprises a hygroscopic piece between described top flat and described egative film.

9. as the described combined sanitary towel of above-mentioned each claim, wherein, described main hygroscopic piece comprises a liquid barrier layer.

10. as the described combined sanitary towel of above-mentioned each claim, wherein, described main hygroscopic piece comprises at least one elastic component.

11. as the described combined sanitary towel of above-mentioned each claim, wherein, described main hygroscopic piece comprises two sections or multistage.

12. as the described combined sanitary towel of above-mentioned each claim, wherein, this combined sanitary towel comprises one first petiolarea, a center and one second petiolarea, and the described main hygroscopic piece that is positioned at described first petiolarea comprises a crooked part up.

13. as the described combined sanitary towel of above-mentioned each claim, wherein, described main hygroscopic piece has less than 1.0 pounds/inch at 3/8 inch place ²Adaptive power.

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