CN1285728A - System of highly efficient aborbent article and underwear for supporting the same - Google Patents

Abstract

A system consisting of a high performance absorbent article and a support undergarment, such as panties, which holds the absorbent article in intimate contact with the wearer's body. The absorbent article is capable of maintaining contact with and covering at least a portion of the inner surface of the wearer's labia, at least a portion of the outer surface of the wearer's labia, and at least a portion of the crotch region of the support undergarment. Support underwear fits so closely to the body that it resembles a comfortable "second skin". The absorbent article can bend under the body contact force exerted by the supporting undergarment to conform to the wearer's body.

Description

A system of highly absorbent absorbent articles and the undergarments that support them

field of invention

The present invention relates to a system of highly efficient absorbent articles and an undergarment, wherein said undergarment supports said highly absorbent article in close contact with the body of the wearer. The system can be used for menstrual protection, incontinence protection, or both.

Background of the invention

It is well known that disposable absorbent articles are commercially available in a variety of configurations for specific purposes such as absorbing and retaining menstrual fluid and other vaginal discharges. Unfortunately, due to poor fit and incorrect placement, these menstrual devices can leak menses along their perimeter. Such leakage often results in contamination of the wearer's underwear, clothing or bedding.

To provide additional protection against leakage, it is known to employ washable or reusable undergarments, such as menstrual shorts or panties, for use in conjunction with disposable catamenial pads. For example, US Pat. No. 3,489,149 issued to Larson on January 13, 1970 discloses a washable menstrual panty having a pouch for holding a disposable menstrual pad in the crotch region. Removing a soiled menstrual pad is difficult, unhygienic and annoying since menses must flow through the layer of material forming the pouch to reach the pad. Although new pads can be inserted into the pouch, the undergarment has become soiled and is generally replaced. Also, the pouch may not accommodate the various sizes of menstrual products currently on the market. Furthermore, the moisture-resistant material layers described herein do not provide breathability or breathability in the crotch region, with the result that there is a potential for discomfort to the wearer when wearing such an undergarment.

Attempts have also been made in the art to solve the problem of leakage from catamenial products by providing hygroscopic material in the area around the periphery of the device and by providing means for holding the catamenial product in place. For example, US Pat. No. 4,560,381 issued to Southwell on December 24, 1985 describes a netted panty cover having a thick inner layer of absorbent material in the crotch region of the panty. The inner layer of absorbent material includes a depress zone for receiving and positioning the catamenial pad. Another embodiment includes a barrier film positioned between the absorbent material and the panty shell. However, if the barrier film is present, the crotch will be airtight (resulting in discomfort), and if the barrier film is hygroscopic, there is a risk of leakage.

In U.S. Patent 4,813,950 issued March 21, 1989 to Branch, a washable menstrual panty is disclosed having an outer liner made of spandex, soft tricot, etc. (which provides a "skin tightening or general skin tightening" effect) and a liner made of porous plastic film (which prevents menses from passing through itself while allowing gas to pass through). Similarly, menstrual shorts of the Japanese style also exist, which function like a girdle or very tight panties intended to keep the menstrual article in the wearer's vulva. However, the tight fit of such undergarments is said to be uncomfortable for the wearer, and there is no apparent structure to lift the catamenial device directly into proximity to the wearer's pudendal area.

In US Patent 3,608,551 issued September 28, 1971 to Seijo, a menstrual pant is disclosed having elastic members secured in an extended position to the front and rear of the crotch region. The elastic is said to be able to continuously lift the sanitary napkin and "engage the female wearer's genitals regardless of the female wearer's movements". The elastics are connected to the leg openings by an open web, and the crotch area is under the web. Although such a device may enhance body contact along the centerline of the head of the wearer's body, the device may not lift the absorbent catamenial device to conform to the outer surface of the wearer's labia. Also, since all of the lifting force seems to be concentrated along the centerline of the wearer's head, the narrow central elastic can make the article uncomfortable for the wearer.

In Japanese Utility Model No. 4-9222 published in the name of Kao Corp. on August 11, 1992, there is disclosed an underwear having different mechanical properties, wherein the fabrics constituting the front, crotch and rear center The longitudinal tensile strength is at least twice the longitudinal tensile strength of the rear right portion and the rear left portion. In each portion, the tensile strength in the transverse direction is smaller than that in the longitudinal direction. The underwear is said to be able to expand and contract according to the movement of the wearer, so the sanitary napkin it is set on will not move. While such an undergarment may improve contact between the undergarment and the sanitary napkin disposed thereon, such improved contact will not (necessarily) provide improved body contact. Importantly, the uniformity in the mechanical properties of the fabric making up the front, crotch, and back center portions is such that the undergarment tends to provide a generally constant force throughout the crotch.

A kind of panty type underwear is disclosed in the U.S. Patent US 5611722 that granted Osbom on March 18th, 1997. This panty underwear has a front panel, a back panel and a crotch. The undergarment also has a generally anchor-shaped support panel, which has greater resistance to stretch than the rest of the undergarment, and is integrally knitted into the back panel. The support sheet is said to support and separate the buttocks and cheeks of the wearer's buttocks. The support panel includes a vertical strip and an upwardly curved portion extending toward and along the leg opening portion of the undergarment. While such an undergarment may support and separate the cheeks of the wearer's buttocks, it does not provide the lift that would improve body contact between the menstrual pad and the wearer's vulva.

Disposable menstrual panties are also known. For example, PCT International Application 95/06451, published March 9, 1995 in the name of Kimberly-Clark Corporation, discloses a disposable menstrual panty that provides back-up by means of an absorbent/barrier composite located in the crotch region of the panty. leak protection. The menstrual panties described herein are also provided with loop-oriented elastic members which are said to allow the panty to conform to a variety of body types and anatomies. But since they only encircle the wearer's waist and hip regions, such elastic members do not provide a "Z-direction" (upward) biasing force that would help keep the catamenial device in contact with the wearer's vulva. As a result, there is a risk of leakage around the catamenial device, with a corresponding risk of contaminating outer garments as well as bedding.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an undergarment which can be fitted to the vulva of the wearer without causing substantial discomfort. Another object of the present invention is to provide an undergarment which fits very closely to the body of the wearer, like a "second skin". It is a further object of the present invention to provide an improved undergarment for use with menstrual or incontinence control products which conforms these devices to the outer surface of the vulva of the wearer thereby providing improved protection against leakage. It is yet another object of the present invention to provide an undergarment that provides a biasing force that helps ensure intimate contact between these articles and the wearer's vulva throughout the wearer's range of motion without compromising the wearer. cause any obvious discomfort to the user.

These and other objects of the present invention will become more apparent by reference to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

Summary of the invention

The present invention relates to a system of highly efficient absorbent articles and an undergarment, wherein said undergarment supports said highly absorbent article in close contact with the body of the wearer. The system can be used for menstrual protection, incontinence protection, or both.

The system preferably includes:

Disposable absorbent articles comprising a liquid permeable side, a liquid impermeable side opposite the liquid permeable side and an absorbent member located between said liquid permeable side and liquid impermeable side, wherein said liquid permeable side and said said liquid-impermeable side is provided as a unitary structure; and said absorbent article is capable of maintaining contact with and covering at least a portion of the inner surface of the wearer's labia and at least a portion of the outer surface of the wearer's labia; and

An undergarment worn around the waist of a wearer for maintaining a disposable absorbent article in intimate contact with the body, the undergarment having a waist opening, a pair of leg openings and a longitudinal centerline, the undergarment comprising a A crotch region that remains in intimate contact with the vulva of the wearer, wherein the disposable absorbent article is capable of covering at least a portion of said crotch region of said undergarment.

In some preferred embodiments, the disposable absorbent article is sized and configured to cover the vulva, perineum and the immediately surrounding area of a female wearer, and does not extend beyond the wearer's mons pubis forwardly, and does not extend backwardly. Extends beyond the wearer's anus.

The undergarment preferably maintains the absorbent article in substantially continuous contact with the wearer's body such that, in use, the absorbent article covers at least a portion of the inner surface of the wearer's labia, and the outer surface of the wearer's labia. at least a portion of and at least a portion of the crotch region of the underwear. Preferably, the disposable absorbent article covers substantially all of the inner surface of the wearer's labia, up to and including the bottom of the wearer's vestibule. Preferably, the disposable absorbent article also covers substantially all of the outer surface of the wearer's labia.

In use, the crotch region of the undergarment assumes a configuration that substantially conforms to the shape of the wearer's vulva. Preferably, the undergarment assumes this configuration regardless of whether the wearer's legs are open or closed. In some preferred embodiments, the crotch region of the undergarment assumes a modified pointed configuration when worn, wherein the pointed shape is modified such that the undergarment has a longitudinal direction centered on the space between the wearer's labia. The orientation region exhibits a rounded upwardly convex shape located between two downwardly convex bends. The disposable absorbent article is sufficiently flexible, at least in several regions thereof, such that the absorbent article assumes a similar configuration to the crotch region of the undergarment.

Brief description of the drawings

While the subject matter constituting the invention is particularly pointed out and defined by the claims at the conclusion of the specification, it is believed that the invention will be better understood from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and examples.

Figure 1 is a front view of a preferred embodiment of a menstrual undergarment for use in the system of the present invention;

Figure 2 is a rear view of the menstrual underwear shown in Figure 1;

Figure 3 is a simplified partial cross-sectional view along the centerline of the head showing the crotch region of a prior art conventional undergarment with the wearer's legs apart during wear;

Figure 4 is a simplified partial cross-sectional view along the centerline of the head showing the crotch region of a conventional undergarment of the prior art when the wearer's legs are brought together during wear;

Figure 5 is a simplified partial cross-sectional view along the centerline of the head showing the crotch region of an undergarment for use with the system of the present invention with the wearer's legs apart during wear;

Figure 6 is a simplified partial cross-sectional view along the centerline of the head showing the crotch region of an undergarment for use with the system of the present invention when the wearer's legs are brought together during wear;

Figure 7 is a photograph taken from the front of an undergarment for use in the system of the present invention with the wearer's legs together;

Figure 8 is a photograph taken from the front of an undergarment for use in the system of the present invention with the wearer's legs apart;

Figure 9 is a photograph taken from the front of a conventional knit underwear of the prior art with the wearer's legs together;

Figure 10 is a photograph taken from the front of a conventional knit undergarment of the prior art with the wearer's legs apart;

Figure 11 is a plan view of the menstrual undergarment shown in Figure 1 with the undergarment opened at the side seams and the elastic members stretched flat;

Figure 12 is a plan view of an absorbent article suitable for use with the present invention;

Figure 13 is a perspective view of the lifting experimental device;

Figure 14 is a front view of the pin chamber thickness measurement device used in the lifting experiment;

Figure 15 is a bottom view of the lifting experimental device;

Figure 16 is a side view of the lifting experimental device;

Fig. 17 is a sectional view taken along line 17-17 of Fig. 16 of a plexiglass piece used in the lifting test device;

Figure 18 is a side view of the calibration of the lifting experimental device, showing the undergarment properly placed;

Figure 19A is a photograph of a rear view of an instrumented mannequin used in the body contact force test method;

Figure 19B is a schematic rear view of an instrumented mannequin showing the placement of force sensors on a properly placed undergarment;

FIG. 20A is a photograph of a front view of an instrumented mannequin used in the body contact force test method;

Figure 20B is a schematic front view of an instrumented manikin showing placement of force sensors.

Detailed description of the invention

The present invention relates to a system of highly efficient absorbent articles and an undergarment, wherein said undergarment supports said highly absorbent article in close contact with the body of the wearer. The system can be used for menstrual protection, incontinence protection, or both.

Particularly preferred forms of support for undergarments and panties for the system of the present invention are used with catamenial products such as sanitary napkins, panty liners, etc., to hold these products in close contact with the body, thereby helping to reduce the of leaks. It should be understood, however, that the present invention is not only applicable to catamenial products, but also to other products such as incontinence products, products for urinary incontinence patients, diaper inserts and the like.

As used herein, the term "menstrual device" refers to an absorbent device worn by a woman about the vulva to absorb and retain bodily fluids such as menses and other vaginal discharges. Here, the term "vulva" refers to the externally visible female genitalia, limited to the labia majora, labia minora, clitoris, and vaginal vestibule. Also, the term "perineum" refers to the outer area of the female body between the anus and the mons pubic area, while the term "gluteal groove" refers to the area extending upward from the perineum between the two buttocks (the gluteus major). crack. Here, "fluid" and "liquid" are similar and interchangeable and refer to those substances that are in a liquid state at a temperature of about 1000F.

General description of underwear

As noted above, the present invention is suitable for use with a variety of absorbent articles, but the following description refers to a menstrual undergarment 20 for use with an absorbent article, such as the catamenial article 200, as an example. 1 and 2 show front and rear views of a menstrual undergarment 20 for use with the system of the present invention. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, a menstrual undergarment 20 for use with the system of the present invention includes a front region (such as front panel 30), a rear region (such as back panel 40), a crotch region (such as crotch panel 50), a pair of elasticized Leg openings 60, and elasticized waistband 22. The front panel 30 and the back panel 40 are stretchable at least in the longitudinal direction. The crotch panel 50 is extensible at least in the transverse direction. Here, a material is "stretchable" if an external force is applied to the material, the material elongates in the direction of the external force, and when the external force is removed, the material will recover at least 10% of its elongation.

The menstrual underwear 20 also has a waist opening 21 that allows the body to pass through the menstrual underwear. The menstrual undergarment 20 also includes a lift member 42 disposed in the back panel 40 along the longitudinal centerline L, a longitudinal stretch control member 52 disposed in the crotch panel 50 along the longitudinal centerline, and preferably about the longitudinal stretch control member 52. A plurality of angled stretch controls are disposed at angle A and extend from the longitudinal stretch controls to the leg openings 62 . It should be noted that the position of the front edge 48 of the crotch panel 50 is preferably such that it is positioned below, or behind (ie, at the back of) the wearer's pubic bone so that the pubic bone does not interfere with the fit of the menstrual underwear 20 body. These above-mentioned components will be described in detail below.

As mentioned above, in order to achieve the purpose of the present invention, it is necessary to provide an undergarment for use in the system of the present invention, which fits the wearer's body (particularly the vulva of the body) so closely that it resembles "the first Two skins". Figures 3 to 6 generally compare the fit of a conventional prior art undergarment in the crotch region with the wearer's legs apart and with the legs together, and the menstrual undergarment 20 for use with the system of the present invention. Similar comparisons are shown photographically in Figures 7-10.

As shown in Figures 3 and 9, the crotch region of such conventional underwear hangs loose when the wearer's legs are closed. As shown in Figure 4, when the wearer's legs are apart, the crotch region of a conventional undergarment "spaces apart" or spans a longitudinally oriented region centered on the space between the wearer's labia. Although this spacing is not clearly shown in Figure 10, the lack of close contact with the body is evident when the wearer's legs are spread apart.

On the other hand, as shown in Figures 5, 6, 7 and 8, the menstrual undergarment 20 used in the system of the present invention comfortably fits and conforms to the outer surface of the labia majora regardless of whether the wearer's legs are close together or apart. match. As shown in Figures 5 and 6, in simplified partial cross-sectional views along the centerline of the head, the menstrual underwear used in the system of the present invention maintains a modified tip in this region throughout the entire range of body motion. shape configuration. The cross-sectional configuration of a menstrual undergarment is described as "modified" because it may (but preferably does not) form a point where the curved portion would be in the longitudinally oriented region of the wearer's interlabial space meet in It should however be more rounded and preferably raised in this area. Similarly, Figures 7 and 8 illustrate this modified tip configuration, wherein the longitudinal stretch control remains clearly positioned between the distal ends of the wearer's labia regardless of whether the wearer's legs are close together or apart. (that is, it will enter some into the lip gap).

Figure 11 shows the menstrual undergarment 20 for use with the system of the present invention in a fully flattened position, wherein each side seam 32, 34 has been opened and the elastic members have been pulled flat. Figure 11 can also be viewed as a plan view of one blank of the undergarment 20 (see formation of the undergarment below). As can be seen in Figure 11, the undergarment 20 has a longitudinal centerline L and a transverse centerline T. As can also be seen from Figure 11, the undergarment 20 used in the system of the present invention is symmetrical about the longitudinal centerline L and asymmetrical about the transverse centerline T. Without being bound by theory, it is believed that this transverse asymmetry allows the leg elastics to provide a force that causes the crotch region to flex upwardly over the outer surface of the wearer's labia when the menstrual undergarment 20 is worn. It will also be appreciated that the cooperation between the leg elastics and the angled stretch control member 54 provides resistance to narrowing of the crotch panel 50 when subject to a longitudinally oriented force, reducing the amount of tension caused by the movement of the wearer. relative movement between the crotch panel 50 and the wearer's labia.

The undergarment 20 may be made from a woven, nonwoven or knitted fabric. The undergarment 20 is preferably made of a knitted fabric. A particularly preferred method of knitting is to first knit a seamless tubular blank having a width approximately half the final width of the undergarment 20 . This tubular blank can be woven into an hourglass shape so that the leg openings 60 on the finished menstrual underwear 20 can be formed, or portions of the open tubular portion can be cut away to form such leg openings 60 (see Underwear formation below).

elastic waist

As noted above, the waist opening 21 allows the wearer's body to enter the undergarment 20 for use with the system of the present invention. The waist opening 21 is preferably equipped with a waist belt 22 made of elastic members, so that the waist opening can closely fit the waist of the wearer. The method of forming the elastic waistband 22 can be: as shown in Figure 11 adjacent to the two ends of the shorts blank, respectively install an elastic member such as Lycra® or spandex elastic fiber material, wrap the two ends of the blank around itself Fold in a C shape to form end edges 23 and 24, then sew side edges 25-28 of front panel 30 and back panel 40 to form waist opening 21 and elastic waistband 22. Preferably, the elastic waistband 22 has the same yarn as the front panel 30 and the back panel 40 and is integrally knitted with the front panel 30 and the back panel 40 . More preferably, the elastic waistband 22 includes a reversed welt (as is known in the art). A particularly preferred knit pattern for the elastic waistband 22 includes a combination of plain knit stitches and float knit stitches, wherein every fourth stripe is provided with a positive float stitch.

front area

As can be seen from Figures 1 and 2, the front region is exemplified by the front panel 30, which is that portion of the undergarment 20 that combines with the rear panel 40 (discussed later) to surround the wearer's waist and buttocks. It can also be seen from FIGS. 1 and 2 that the front panel 30 , the rear panel 40 and the crotch panel 50 are combined to form leg openings 60 (discussed in detail later). The front panel 30 is preferably stretchable in the longitudinal direction, preferably both in the longitudinal direction and in the transverse direction, so that it can easily conform to a wide range of body shapes.

Although other constructions can be used, for example, the front panel 30 can be cut into appropriate shape from woven, non-woven material and connected with other parts of the underwear 20, the front panel 30 used in the system of the present invention is preferably all A jersey knit, more preferably a jersey knit, is woven from a combination of elastically stretchable and non-elastically stretchable yarns. It will be clear to those of ordinary skill in the art that the designer can use the elastic properties of individual yarns and a specific knitting pattern to define the mechanical properties of the front panel 30 . In a particularly preferred embodiment for the system of the present invention, the front panel 30 comprises nylon and Lycra® or spandex yarns (available from Unifi, Inc. of Greensboro, NC.) alternating courses of coils. In another embodiment, the front panel 30 may be all jersey, preferably knitted jersey, utilizing Lycra(R) or spandex yarns with appropriate mechanical properties in all courses. As will be apparent from the following discussion of the mechanical properties of the front panel 30, one of ordinary skill in the art may utilize other yarns to define other knit patterns to achieve such mechanical properties. As noted above, it is also contemplated that the front panel 30 having such mechanical properties be made of woven or non-woven materials.

In the preferred embodiment for use with the system of the present invention shown in Figures 1, 2 and 11, the front panel 30 is stretchable in at least the longitudinal direction. Preferably, it is stretchable in both longitudinal and transverse directions. This elastic stretch characteristic allows the undergarment 20 used in the system of the present invention to be easily conformed to various body shapes and sizes, thereby providing a better fit to the wearer's body. The extensible front panel 30 also cooperates with the back panel 40 and the crotch panel 50 to provide a "Z-direction" biasing force for the crotch panel 50 over a wide range of motion of the wearer. This biasing force encourages the catamenial device 200 worn with the menstrual undergarment 20 to maintain intimate contact with the body, particularly the vulva of the wearer. Preferably, the biasing force guides an absorbent device such as a catamenial device 200 so that the device is secured against the wearer's body with the front edge 202 of the device positioned slightly forward of the urethral opening, And its posterior edge 204 is behind the perineum. More preferably, the biasing force maintains the article 200 in this position throughout the wearer's full range of motion. Biasing forces are described in more detail below in the section on Longitudinal Stretch Controls. Preferably, the front panel 30 is manufactured to have a longitudinal tensile modulus of between about 1 g/inch (0.4 g/cm) and about 50.0 g/inch (19.7 g/cm). More preferably, the longitudinal tensile modulus of the front panel 30 is between about 3 grams per inch (1.2 grams per centimeter) and about 40.0 grams per inch (15.7 grams per centimeter). It is particularly preferred that the material from which the front panel 30 is made has a relatively low longitudinal tensile modulus (especially compared to prior art undergarments), ranging from about 3 grams per inch (1.2 grams per centimeter) to about 20.0 grams per centimeter. inches (7.9 g/cm). A suitable method for measuring tensile modulus is described in the Test Methods section below.

back area

As noted above, the back region is exemplified by the back panel 40, which is that portion of the undergarment 20 that joins the front panel 30 to surround the waist and buttocks of the wearer. As best seen in FIG. 11 , the rear panel 40 includes a first portion 44 and a second portion 46 . These portions 44, 46 are separated by longitudinally extending, extensible lifters 42 (described below as separate elements), which provide coverage of the wearer's buttocks and are provided with elastic around the wearer's waist. Part of the belt 22. The backsheet 40 is preferably stretchable in at least the longitudinal direction, and preferably in both the longitudinal and transverse directions, so that it can easily conform to a wide range of body shapes.

Similar to the front panel 30, the first portion 44 and the second portion 46 of the rear panel 40 are preferably all plain stitched, more preferably plain knitted, made of a combination of elastically stretchable and non-elastically stretchable yarns. And woven. Likewise, other materials are suitable, such as cut and sewn woven or non-woven materials as described above having the desired properties described above. It will be clear to those of ordinary skill in the art that the designer can use the elastic properties of individual yarns and a specific knitting pattern to define suitable mechanical properties. In a particularly preferred embodiment for the system of the present invention, the first portion 44 and the second portion 46 of the back panel 40 comprise nylon and Lycra® or spandex yarns of all plain stitches (preferably knitted plain stitches) Alternating courses of wire (commercially available from Unifi, Inc. of Greensboro, NC.). In another embodiment, the back panel 40 may be all jersey (preferably knit jersey), knitted with Lycra(R) or spandex yarns having appropriate mechanical properties in all courses. As will be apparent from the following discussion of the mechanical properties of the first portion 44 and second portion 46 of the rear panel 40, one of ordinary skill in the art may utilize other yarns, define other knit patterns, and achieve such mechanical properties.

In the preferred embodiment for use with the system of the present invention shown in Figures 1, 2 and 11, the first portion 44 and the second portion 46 of the rear panel 40 are stretchable at least in the longitudinal direction. Preferably, it is stretchable in both longitudinal and transverse directions. This elastic stretch characteristic allows the menstrual undergarment 20 used in the system of the present invention to be easily conformed to various body shapes and sizes, thereby providing a better fit to the wearer's body. The extensible back panel 40 also cooperates with the front panel 30 and the crotch panel 50 to provide a "Z-direction" biasing force for the crotch panel 50 throughout the wearer's wide range of motion. This biasing force encourages the catamenial device 200 (Fig. 12) worn with the menstrual undergarment 20 to maintain intimate contact with the body, particularly the vulva of the wearer. Preferably, the biasing force guides the absorbent article such as the catamenial article 200 so that the article is fixed against the wearer's body, where the front edge 202 of the article is slightly forward of the urethral opening. position, while its posterior edge 204 is behind the perineum. More preferably, the biasing force maintains the article 200 in this position throughout the wearer's full range of motion. Biasing forces are described in more detail below in the section on Longitudinal Stretch Controls. Preferably, the backsheet 40 is manufactured to have a machine direction tensile modulus of between about 1 gram/inch (0.4 g/cm) and about 50.0 g/inch (19.7 g/cm). More preferably, the longitudinal tensile modulus of the back panel 40 is between about 3 grams per inch (1.2 grams per centimeter) and about 40.0 grams per inch (15.7 grams per centimeter). It is particularly preferred that the material from which the first portion 44 and the second portion 46 of the rear panel 40 are made has a relatively low longitudinal tensile modulus (especially compared to prior art undergarments), in the range of about 3 grams per inch (1.2 g/cm) to approximately 20.0 g/in (7.9 g/cm). A suitable method for measuring tensile modulus is described in the Test Methods section below.

lifting piece

Lift 42 cooperates with back panel 40 to create a "Z-directed" biasing force along the longitudinal centerline L of menstrual undergarment 20 for use with the system of the present invention. This force assists in lifting the crotch panel 50, and specifically the longitudinal stretch control member 52 disposed therein, so that the crotch panel 50 and any catamenial device disposed thereon may come into close contact with the body. Without being bound by theory, the lifter 42 directs the elastic force of the backsheet 40 along the longitudinal centerline L to help keep the topsheet 50 in close contact with the body.

Lift 42 helps provide a "Z-direction" biasing force along longitudinal centerline L, as described above. Accordingly, lift member 42 is preferably disposed on rear panel 40 along longitudinal centerline L. As shown in FIG. More preferably, the lift 42 divides the rear panel 40 into a first symmetrical portion 44 and a second portion 46 . Lift 42 is attached to rear panel 40 along longitudinal centerline L. As shown in FIG. In a particularly preferred embodiment as shown in FIGS. 1 , 2 and 11 , lift member 42 is integrally knitted with first portion 44 and second portion 46 of back panel 40 .

To facilitate proper orientation, lift member 42 has less stretch than first portion 44 and second portion 46 of rear panel 40 . To this end, the lifter 42 can be made of a material with a higher tensile modulus than the back panel or with a knit pattern known in the art to provide higher resistance to stretch. Higher tensile modulus materials suitable for making riser 42 include high modulus film materials such as mylar materials or even single strands of yarn or filaments with a relatively high modulus (e.g. cotton, polyester grease or nylon). Preferably, the lifting member 42 is made of the same yarn as that used for the first portion 44 and the second portion 46 of the rear panel 40, and uses a knit with less stretch than the first portion 44 and the second portion 46. The pattern is knitted integrally with the above-mentioned parts. That is, those yarns discussed above with respect to the first portion 44 and the second portion 46 of the back panel 40 are suitable for weaving the lifter 42 as well. A particularly preferred knit pattern for lifter 42 is the use of stitches known in the art to provide reduced stretch. For example, it has been found that tuck stitches, float stitches, or a combination of tuck and float stitches are suitable.

As noted above, applicants believe that the lifting member 42 helps direct the lifting force generated by the back panel 40 along the longitudinal centerline L because the lifting member 42 has a higher tensile modulus than the back panel 40 . In particular, lifter 42 preferably has a longitudinal tensile modulus in the range of about 50 grams/inch (19.7 grams/cm) to about 110.0 grams/inch (43.3 grams/cm). More preferably, lifter 42 has a longitudinal tensile modulus of between about 60 grams per inch (23.6 grams per centimeter) and about 100.0 grams per inch (39.4 grams per centimeter). A suitable method for measuring tensile modulus is described in the Test Methods section below.

In another embodiment of the lifter (not shown), the lifter comprises two opposing portions, each extending upwardly and laterally outwardly at an acute angle to the longitudinal centerline on opposite sides of the longitudinal centerline . These sections intersect in the region of the joint at the rear end of the longitudinal stretch control. Preferably, the parts making up the alternative embodiment are mirror images of each other on opposite sides of the longitudinal centreline. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that this structure divides the rear panel 40 into three sections.

By extending upward and outward at an acute angle from the longitudinal stretch control member 52, these portions of the alternative embodiment direct the forces caused by the stretching of the back panel 40 so that they converge at the rear end of the longitudinal stretch control member and A "Z-direction" biasing force is provided here. Preferably, the acute angle is between about 15 degrees and about 45 degrees. More preferably, the acute angle is about 35 degrees.

crotch area

The crotch region, represented by the crotch panel 50, is located between the front panel 30 and the back panel 40 along the longitudinal centerline L of the menstrual undergarment 20 for use in the system of the present invention. In the preferred embodiment used in the system of the present invention as shown in Figure 11, the crotch panel 50 is divided into several sections by longitudinal stretch control members 52 and angled stretch control members 54. In the preferred embodiment for use with the system of the present invention shown in Figures 1, 2 and 11, the crotch panel 50 is combined with the front panel 30 and the back panel 40 to form leg openings 60. The crotch panel 50 is that portion of the menstrual undergarment 20 that is in most direct contact with the wearer's vulva. The crotch panel 50 also supports the catamenial device 200 worn with the undergarment.

The crotch panel 50 used in the system of the present invention is specifically adapted to conform to the vulva of the wearer. Without being bound by theory, it is believed that the fit characteristics of the crotch panel 50 used in the system of the present invention are due to the lower transverse tensile modulus of the material used therefor. In particular, as noted above, the lifting member 42 cooperates with the back panel 40 to create a "Z-directed" biasing force along the longitudinal centerline L of the undergarment 20 (ie, along the longitudinal stretch control member). Applicants believe that there is also a similar "Z-direction oriented" component in the force provided by the leg elastics 62, which causes the leg elastics to also be lifted to between the wearer's vulva and their legs. in the crease. As best shown in Figure 11, the crotch panel 50 bridges the distance between the longitudinal stretch control member 52 and the leg elastics 62 (ie the ends 56 of the crotch panel 50 are adjacent the leg elastics). Because the crotch panel 50 has a relatively low transverse tensile modulus, and because of the "Z-direction" forces developed at two transversely spaced locations, applicants believe that the crotch panel 50 is stretched longitudinally by the control members and the legs. The elastic members are lifted and thereby stretched to easily conform to the outer surface of those portions of the wearer's vulva between the labial cleft and the leg crease.

This fit is maintained over a wide range of motion. This fit is particularly clearly shown in Figures 7 and 8 of Example 1, which are photographs showing the crotch panel 50 for use with the system of the present invention when the wearer's legs are closed and apart. maintenance of close physical contact. In contrast, conventional prior art underwear (as shown in Figures 9 and 10) sags below the wearer's vulva (i.e. there is no space between the prior art underwear and the wearer's vulva). close contact).

As noted above, it is important that the transverse tensile modulus of the crotch panel 50 is low enough to allow the crotch panel 50 to conform to the wearer's vulva. A tensile modulus in the transverse direction of the crotch panel 50 of between about 1 gram/inch (0.4 grams/cm) and about 50.0 grams/inch (19.7 grams/cm) has been found to be suitable for the present invention. More preferably, the transverse tensile modulus of the crotch panel 50 is between about 5 grams per inch (2.0 grams per centimeter) and about 40.0 grams per inch (15.7 grams per centimeter); /inch (3.9 g/cm) to about 30.0 g/inch (11.8 g/cm).

The crotch panel 50 may comprise any woven, nonwoven, knitted, or other material having the desired physical properties as described above. Preferably, the crotch panel 50 is made of a knitted material having a higher longitudinal tensile modulus than the front panel 30 , the rear panel 40 or the lifting member 42 . More preferably, as shown in Figures 1, 2 and 11, the crotch panel 50 is integrally knitted with the front panel 30 and the back panel 40, using a jersey knit with lower extensibility to provide stretch resistance. Pattern and yarn. Additional stretch resistance is provided by longitudinal stretch control members 52 and angled stretch control members 54, which elements will be discussed below. This crotch panel 50 has a lower resistance to stretch than the triangular reinforcement zones of prior art stiff undergarments which do not conform to the wearer's vulva.

Suitable yarns for the crotch panel 50 have relatively high tensile modulus (ie, yarns that are not considered elastically stretchable in the art). Suitable yarns include: natural yarns such as cotton and wool yarns, synthetic yarns such as nylon yarns, polyester yarns, acrylic yarns, and other synthetic yarns with the required mechanical properties. Particularly preferred yarns include nylon yarns and cotton yarns. Alternatively, if an elastically extensible crotch panel 50 is desired, a crotch having a greater tensile modulus than similar Lycra® or spandex yarns used to make the front panel 30 and back panel 40 may be used. Lycra(R) or spandex yarn.

longitudinal stretch control

As noted above, longitudinal stretch control member 52 serves to limit the stretching of crotch panel 50 . In particular, longitudinal stretch control member 52 limits stretching of crotch region 50 in the longitudinal orientation. Preferably, the longitudinal stretch control member 52 has a greater resistance to stretch than the front panel 30, the rear panel 40, or the lifter 42, but less than prior art fabrics that do not conform to the wearer's vulva. underwear. As a result, the longitudinal stretch control member 52 has a higher tensile modulus than the aforementioned front or back panels, but has a lower resistance to stretch than the certain stiff triangular reinforcement zones of the prior art. . Specifically, the longitudinal stretch control member 52 has a modulus of longitudinal stretch between about 50 grams/inch (19.7 grams/cm) and about 500 grams/inch (196.8 grams/cm). The modulus is measured using a sample taken along the longitudinal centerline L of the undergarment 20 (ie, a portion of the crotch panel 50 also contributes to the measured modulus). More preferably, the machine direction tensile modulus is between about 50 grams per inch (19.7 grams per centimeter) and about 300 grams per inch (118.1 grams per centimeter). A particularly preferred crotch panel 50 for use in the system of the present invention has a longitudinal tensile modulus (measured along its longitudinal centerline) of between 100 grams per inch (39.4 grams per centimeter) and about 200 grams per inch ( 78.7 g/cm).

Without being bound by theory, however, the applicant believes that such longitudinal stretch restraint can transmit force from the back panel 40 (especially the lifting member 42 therein) and the front panel 30 to the crotch region 50 to provide a positive impact on it. "Z" bias force. This transmission of force enables the crotch region 50 and any catamenial device 200 placed thereon to be snugly fitted to the wearer's vulva (particularly along the longitudinal centerline of the menstrual underwear 20) throughout the wearer's full range of motion. L) and fixed. More specifically, when the menstrual undergarment 200 for use in the system of the present invention is worn, the crotch panel 50 and the catamenial device 200 disposed thereon can be found at least partially between the ends of the wearer's labia.

It is particularly emphasized that the "Z-direction" biasing force along the longitudinal centerline L (FIG. 11) of the undergarment 20 used in the system of the present invention is relatively high. That is, the first body contact force (provided precisely by the longitudinal stretch control member 42) is greater than the force provided by other portions of the crotch panel 50 (which are located laterally outward of the longitudinal stretch control member 42). It is believed that this increased force is particularly effective in lifting any absorbent article placed on the crotch panel 50 into a particularly close fitting relationship with the wearer's vaginal and urethral openings so that they can be easily retained. Bodily fluids that are expelled from these places.

While it is important that the biasing force be high along the "Z-direction" of the longitudinal centerline, there should also be an upwardly directed secondary body contact force over substantially the entire outer surface of the wearer's labia. Said lower secondary body contact force allows any absorbent article disposed on the crotch panel 50 to also fit snugly against the labial surface, which forms a "seal" at the end of the wearer's labia majora, thereby The possibility of bodily exudates flowing along the surface of the absorbent article to its edges to leak is further reduced. On the other hand, prior art saggy undergarments (as shown in Figures 3, 4, 9 and 10) do not have such a seal.

"Z-direction" biasing forces such as those discussed above and the forces that cause an undergarment used in the system of the present invention to contact the wearer's labia can be measured by the Body Contact Force Test Method described in the Test Methods section. As can be seen below, a pressure sensor is used in the test method, so these forces are expressed in pressure (ie grams per square centimeter).

The combination of the larger first force acting along the longitudinal centerline L, the dispersed second force acting on the outer labia surface, and the third force caused by the leg elastics 62 (discussed below) makes the The absorbent article on sheet 50 exhibits a "modified" pointed configuration as shown in Figures 5-8. This configuration not only traps bodily fluids near the body outlet, but also provides additional protection against leakage by "sealing" against the wearer's labia. In order to obtain this "modified" tip configuration, the ratio of the body contact force along the centerline to the body contact force acting at the end of the labia majora when these forces are measured according to the method given in the Test Methods section should Greater than 1:1. Preferably, the ratio of force on the centerline to force at the tip should be greater than 1.25:1, more preferably greater than 1.5:1.

Obviously, the actual magnitude of the force is also very important. If the force value is too low, the undergarment will not be able to maintain the absorbent article in intimate contact with the body throughout the full range of body motion. If the force is too high, it can cause discomfort. Suitably, the force along the longitudinal centerline is greater than about 2 grams per square centimeter. Preferably, the first body contact force (ie, the force along the longitudinal centerline) is greater than about 2.1 grams per square centimeter, more preferably, greater than about 2.2 grams per square centimeter. Suitably, this force is less than about 20 g/cm2, preferably less than about 15 g/cm2, more preferably less than about 10 g/cm2. Similarly, the second force measured at the apex of the labia majora is suitably greater than about 1 g/cm2, preferably greater than about 1.1 g/cm2, more preferably greater than about 1.2 g/cm2, and less than about 20 g/cm2, preferably less than about 15 g/cm2, more preferably less than about 10 g/cm2.

The transmission of these forces and the resulting close contact with the body is further demonstrated by comparing the lift of menstrual undergarments used in the system of the present invention with those of prior art undergarments according to the following test The method described in the Methods section (which is a modification of the method described in US Patent Application No. 08/383,536, filed February 1, 1995 in the name of Osborn III et al., which is incorporated herein by reference) was determined. The results of this measurement are reported in Table 1.

Table 1

comparative lift test

(The unit of the lifting amount is mm, and the applied force is 391 grams of force)

Test underwear Position 1 Position 2 Position 3

The present invention 21 30 38

Wonder Body ^TM1 14 23.5 33.5

Olga Secret Shapers ² 9 19.5 29

Japanese Menstrual Shorts ³ 10.5 15.5 25

Hanes Her Way ⁴ 4 8.5 23

1) Available from Sara Lee Intimates, Winston-Salem, NC;

2) Available from Olga Company, Van Nuys, CA;

3) It can be purchased from UniCharm of Japan under the trade name Sofy Sports;

4) Available from Sara Lee Intimates, Winston-Salem, NC.

As can be seen from Table 1, the menstrual underwear 20 used in the system of the present invention had the greatest amount of lift (closer contact with the body) in all positions of the device tested. The difference is most pronounced in position 1, which corresponds to the labial region of the wearer's body as described in the Osborn, III application. The undergarment 20 used in the system of the present invention is able to provide this improved lift and result in a closer contact with the body due to the previously described greater force along the centerline L. Menstrual underwear for use in the system of the present invention should have a lift greater than about 16 mm at position 1, greater than about 25 mm at position 2, and greater than about 35 mm at position 3 in the lift test apparatus. mm. More preferably, the lift at position 1 should be greater than about 18 mm, the lift at position 2 should be greater than about 27 mm, and the lift at position 3 should be greater than about 36 mm.

While the undergarment 20 used in the system of the present invention is capable of a particularly close fit and contact with the wearer's body, the undergarment is particularly comfortable for the wearer (particularly in the vulvar region). Prior art undergarments attempt to achieve a fit to the vulva by either elasticizing the lifting member, such as with a drawstring, or by an overall tight fit (as seen in Japanese menstrual shorts). Both types of underwear are often described as uncomfortable. One source of this discomfort, particularly with belted undergarments, is pressure at the anus of the wearer. The tissues around the anus are particularly sensitive to compression and the force applied to the anus can cause discomfort. Belt-type undergarments (such as those described in U.S. Patent No. 3,608,551) typically use an elastically stretchable member to provide lifting force to seal the absorbent article against the perineum of the wearer. Such elastic members are typically attached to the undergarment at a location that is above the wearer's anus when the undergarment is worn. As a result, not only is there a desired lifting force to seal the absorbent article against the wearer's perineum, but there is also an uncomfortable pressure on the wearer's anus. On the other hand, the undergarment 20 used in the system of the present invention gives a "Z-directed" biasing force as discussed above, so that it remains in contact with the body throughout the wearer's range of motion without acting on the wearer. Unbearable pressure on the anus. Without being bound by theory, it is believed that the force distributed along the longitudinal centerline L of the undergarment 20 used in the system of the present invention is spaced at a point on the perineum in front of the anus such that the anus is at least partially spanned by the longitudinal stretch control member 52 , causing a decrease in force at the anus.

As best shown in FIG. 11, a longitudinal stretch control member 52 is provided in the crotch panel 50 along the longitudinal centerline L. As shown in FIG. The longitudinal stretch control member 52 may be a separate component attached to the crotch panel 50 or may be integral with the crotch panel 50 . Preferably, longitudinal stretch control member 52 is integral with crotch panel 50 . In a particularly preferred embodiment for use with the system of the present invention, longitudinal stretch control member 52 is integrally knitted with crotch panel 50 .

As noted above, longitudinal stretch control member 52 serves to limit stretch, particularly stretch oriented longitudinally along longitudinal centerline L in crotch panel 50 . To this end, the longitudinal stretch control member 52 can be made of any material having a tensile modulus greater than that of the crotch panel 50 . For example, longitudinal stretch control member 52 may be made from a high modulus film material, or even a single yarn or filament having a relatively high modulus. For the preferred integrally knitted longitudinal stretch-controlling member 52, the longitudinal stretch-controlling member may be made from the same yarns used for the crotch panel, wherein the yarns used to make the stretch-controlling member 52 are based on prior art methods. Known stretch-limited patterns are knitted. For example, longitudinal stretch control member 52 may include a pattern in which alternating courses are tucked. Additionally, elastic yarns can be float woven in to obtain a longitudinal stretch control member 52 with additional stretch resistance as is known in the art.

Yarns suitable for longitudinal stretch control member 52 are substantially the same as those yarns or combinations of yarns considered suitable for crotch panel 50 .

Angled Stretch Controls

The angled stretch control member 54 also serves to control the stretch of the crotch panel 50 . Specifically, the angled stretch control members 54 provide a vector of lateral stretch that is limited in the crotch panel 50 . Since the angled stretch control member 54 also provides a control vector for longitudinally oriented stretch, the angled stretch control member 54 also allows the crotch panel 50 and any menstrual device 200 placed thereon to flex upwardly and around the The outer surface of the user's labia. Without being bound by theory, it is believed that the angled stretch control member helps to transmit the forces generated by the leg elastics 62, the front panel 30 and the rear panel 40 to the crotch panel 50, resulting in this curved, cupped configuration. . This transfer of force also provides a resistance that minimizes narrowing of the crotch panel 50 during longitudinal stretching of the undergarment 20 (ie, minimizes detrimental narrowing). It is believed that this minimization helps to reduce movement of the crotch panel 50 relative to the wearer's body as the wearer moves. In other words, it will be readily understood that the angled stretch control member 54 creates a "low motion zone" for the crotch panel 50, thereby reducing relative movement between the wearer's body and the crotch panel 50. As a result, any absorbent device placed on the crotch panel 50 (such as the catamenial device 200 shown in Figure 12) tends more to maintain a constant conforming relationship with the wearer's vulva.

As shown in FIG. 11 , the angled stretch control member 54 is disposed at an angle A relative to the longitudinal centerline L in the crotch panel 50 . The angled stretch control member 54 can be either a separate component attached to the crotch panel 50 or can be integral with the crotch panel 50 . Preferably, the angled stretch control member 54 is integral with the crotch panel 50 . In a particularly preferred embodiment for use with the system of the present invention, the angled stretch control member 54 is integrally knitted with the crotch panel 50 .

It is believed that angle A helps control the degree of upward bending resulting from the aforementioned force transfer. If A is too small, the transmission of force from the leg elastics 62 is insufficient, so that the crotch panel does not fully wrap around the sides of the wearer's labia. If the angle A is too large, the transmission of force from the front panel 30 and the back panel 40 is insufficient, resulting in reduced contact at the mons pubis and perineum. Preferably, angle A is between about 30 degrees and 75 degrees. More preferably, angle A is between about 45 degrees and 70 degrees. In a particularly preferred embodiment for the system of the invention, the angle A is about 60 degrees.

As is clear from Figure 11, the angled stretch control is preferably longitudinally symmetrical. That is, the angled stretch control members are preferably disposed in opposite pairs, wherein one angled stretch control member of each pair is transversely directed at an angle A from the longitudinal stretch control member 52 toward the leg elastic members 62. extend outside. In the preferred embodiment for the system of the present invention there are two pairs of angled tension control members 54, two pairs located at On both sides of the transverse centerline T. It is believed that providing a plurality of angled stretch control members 54 is desirable because a plurality of such elements provides a more even distribution of force so that the crotch panel 50 can be smoothed when wearing the menstrual underwear 20 used in the system of the present invention. Gently wraps around the outer surface of the wearer's labia.

It is envisioned that the angled stretch control 54 may have different orientations and positions in other embodiments for use with the system of the present invention. For example, although the angled stretch control 54 is shown extending forward and outward (i.e., toward the front panel 30) in FIG. towards the rear panel 40). The angle A in this embodiment should still be an acute angle, and the angle range is the same as that described above. Additionally, embodiments are also contemplated in which some of the plurality of angled stretch controls 54 extend forwardly and outwardly and others extend rearwardly and outwardly. In one embodiment (which is not shown in the drawings, but which is similar to the underwear 20 shown in FIG. ) is not provided with an angled stretch control 54, but is provided with two rearwardly oriented angled stretch controls 54 in the rear portion of the undergarment 20. This embodiment for use in the system of the present invention performed equivalently to the undergarment 20 described above when evaluating body fit.

In a sense, similar to stretch control member 52 , angled stretch control member 54 serves to limit stretch in crotch panel 50 . Specifically, angled stretch controls are used to limit lateral stretch. Preferably, the angled stretch control member 54 has a transverse tensile modulus of between about 50 grams per inch (19.7 grams per centimeter) and about 500 grams per inch (196.8 grams per centimeter). More preferably, the tensile modulus is between about 50 grams per inch (19.7 grams per centimeter) and about 300 grams per inch (118.1 grams per centimeter). The tensile modulus of the angled stretch control member 54 of a particularly preferred crotch panel 50 for use in the present invention is between 100 grams/inch (39.4 grams/cm) and about 200 grams/inch (78.7 grams/cm) .

Angled stretch control member 54 may be made of substantially the same material that is suitable for making longitudinal stretch control member 52 since both elements serve to limit the stretch of crotch panel 50 . For the preferred integrally knitted angled stretch control member 54, the angled stretch control member may be made from the same yarns used for the crotch panel, wherein the yarns that make the angled stretch control member 54 are Stretch-limiting patterns known in the art are knitted. For example, angled stretch control member 54 may include a pattern in which alternating courses are pleated. Additionally, a floating stitch pattern may be used to provide angled stretch control members 54 with additional stretch resistance as is known in the art.

Yarns suitable for angled stretch control member 54 are substantially the same as those yarns or combinations of yarns considered suitable for crotch panel 50 .

Elasticized leg openings

As shown in Figures 1, 2 and 11, the menstrual undergarment 20 for use with the system of the present invention also has a pair of elasticized leg openings 60. From the above it is known that the front panel 30, the back panel 40 and the crotch panel 50 together define the perimeter of each leg opening. The periphery is provided with leg elastics to make the leg opening 60 elastic. The leg elastics cooperate with front panel 30, back panel 40 and crotch panel 50 to provide a "Z-direction" biasing force to crotch panel 50 throughout the wearer's range of motion. In particular, the leg elastics provide the distal end 56 of the crotch panel 50 (i.e. the edge of the crotch panel 50 that participates in defining the leg opening 60) to lift the "Z-direction" biasing force of the edge 56 such that the crotch panel 50 is aligned with the The outer surface of the wearer's labia is intended to conform. In other words, as clearly shown in Figures 1 and 2, the nature of the leg opening 60 is also preferably designed to make the leg elastic The contact forces of the parts are directed in a more vertical direction.

That is to say, the front panel 30, the rear panel 40, the crotch panel 50 and the leg elastics 62 are the uniform upward force of the catamenial device 200 disposed on the crotch panel 50 towards the wearer's body, thereby exerting a uniform upward force on the wearer's body. The menstrual device maintains a snug fit against the wearer's vulva through a wide range of motion. The leg elastics 62 also cooperate with the angled stretch control members 54 to provide a force vector that causes the crotch panel 50 and the catamenial device 200 disposed thereon to wrap around the wearer's labia.

Although the leg elastics 62 must provide a minimum contraction force around the perimeter of the leg opening, it is important that the contraction force is not so great as to cause discomfort to the wearer. Applicants have found that in order to minimize the risk of creating a gap at the periphery of the leg opening 34, the contraction force must be at least 20 grams. Preferably, the contraction force is at least about 40 grams. More preferably, the contraction force is at least about 80 grams. Minimizing the tensile modulus in the expected range of elastic stretch during the wear cycle can also reduce the risk of discomfort to the wearer. That is, if the leg elastics are designed to have a contraction force of about 80 grams under typical in-use extension, whether due to the different dimensions of the circumference of the wearer's legs or due to the movement of the wearer The force should not increase appreciably for greater stretches. Applicants have found that a stretch modulus of about 540 g/in (213 g/cm) to 590 g/in (232 g/cm) of the leg elastics is well balanced to maintain a proper fit relationship to minimizing wearer discomfort. Preferably, the stretch modulus of the leg elastics is between about 550 grams/inch (26 grams/cm) and 580 grams/inch (228 grams/cm). The methods used to measure elastic shrinkage and tensile modulus are given in the Test Methods section.

When such leg elastic materials are used as the leg elastics 62 in the undergarment 20 of the system of the present invention, they produce a third body contact force of at least 5 g/cm2 (when the body contact force is below this value When the wearer reflects too loose). Preferably, the third body contact force is greater than about 7 grams per square centimeter. Undergarments having a third body contact force of around 30 g/cm2 have been found to cause a high degree of discomfort when worn. Therefore, the third body contact force of a suitable underwear 20 should be less than this level. Preferably, the third body contact force is less than about 20 grams per square centimeter. A particularly preferred third body contact force of the undergarment 20 is between about 5 grams per square centimeter and about 10 grams per square centimeter. The method for measuring this third body contact force is similar to that described in the Test Methods section below. The main difference is that the measurement is made by placing a cylinder with a circumference of 60 cm in the leg opening 60 to stretch the leg elastics 62, rather than on a mannequin. A pressure transducer was placed between the leg elastic and the cylinder to test the third body contact force.

The leg elastics may be attached to the front panel 30, the rear panel 40 and the crotch panel 50 around the leg opening 60 by means known to those of ordinary skill in the art. In particular, the leg elastics 62 are bonded to those portions of the sides 25, 26, 27, 28 which will surround the leg opening 60 (ie form the perimeter thereof). For example, the leg elastics 62 may be attached to the front panel 30 and the crotch panel 50 by adhesives or by mechanical attachment such as stitching. For the preferred knitted menstrual undergarment 20 for use with the system of the present invention, the leg elastics 62 are preferably joined to the front panel 30, back panel 40 and crotch panel 50 by stitching.

absorbent products

Figure 12 shows a plan view of an embodiment of an absorbent article for use in the system of the present invention.

The term "absorbent article" as used herein refers to articles which absorb and retain body exudates. More specifically, the term refers to articles placed against or in close proximity to the body of a wearer to absorb and retain various exudates from the body. The term "absorbent article" is meant to include sanitary napkins, panty liners and incontinence pads (and other articles worn in the crotch region of underwear).

The term "disposable" is used here to indicate that such items are intended to be discarded after a single use, preferably by recycling, composting, or disposing of them in an environmentally compatible manner (i.e., Such absorbent articles are not intended to be laundered or otherwise recycled or reused as absorbent articles). In the preferred embodiment of Figure 12, the absorbent article is a menstrual pad, indicated at 200, which is used in place of a conventional sanitary napkin.

The term "sanitary napkin" as used herein means an article worn by women near the pubic area to absorb and retain various excretions (eg, blood, menses and urine) from the body. Although the present invention is shown in the drawings as a catamenial pad intended to replace conventional sanitary napkins, it should be understood that the present invention is not limited to those systems employing sanitary napkins of the particular shape and configuration shown in the drawings.

The absorbent article 200 of the present invention has two surfaces, a liquid pervious side or "body surface", and a liquid impermeable side or undergarment surface 20B. The body surface is intended to be worn next to the body of the wearer. The undergarment surface is intended to be placed next to the support undergarment when the absorbent article 200 is worn.

The absorbent article 200 has two centerlines, a longitudinal centerline and a transverse centerline. As used herein, the term "longitudinal" means that the plane of the absorbent article 200 is substantially equal to that of a standing wearer's body when the absorbent article 200 is worn by the wearer. A line, axis or direction aligned with (eg, substantially parallel to) a vertical plane of. As used herein, the terms "transverse" and "lateral" are used interchangeably and refer to a line, axis or direction lying in the plane of the absorbent article 200 that is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

The absorbent article has two separate longitudinal sides, two separate transverse or end sides (or end portions) 24 which together form the perimeter of the absorbent article. In the embodiment shown in Figure 12, the absorbent article 200 is of generally flat construction. In other embodiments, the absorbent article 200 may have other suitable configurations, including a front-to-back and/or side-to-side cup configuration.

The absorbent article 200 can also have any suitable planar configuration. Suitable configurations include (but are not limited to): oval; racetrack-shaped; shapes with inwardly convex longitudinal sides (i.e., hourglass); keyhole-shaped, with a wider circular or oval area and a generally rectangular portion (preferably having rounded edges) extending from said region, wherein the circular or oval region is preferably worn towards the rear of the wearer's body, preferably to cover the wearer's perineum At least a portion of the body, while the stretch portion is preferably worn towards the front of the wearer's body to cover at least a portion of the wearer's vulva. In the embodiment shown in Figure 12, the absorbent article has a front view configuration like a racetrack with straight longitudinal sides and convexly curved end edges.

Preferably the absorbent article is substantially smaller than conventional sanitary napkins. For example, when measured in its curved configuration, the absorbent article has an overall length of less than or equal to about 6 or 7 inches (about 15 cm to about 18 cm), or even less than or equal to about 5 inches (about 12.7 cm), and Having a width of less than or equal to about 3 inches (about 7.6 centimeters). In a preferred embodiment, the absorbent article measures about 6 inches (about 15 centimeters) by about 3 inches (about 7.6 centimeters). The absorbent article preferably has a surface area less than or equal to any of the following when measured in a flat condition and with all flaps, flaps, or side wraps removed: about 20 square inches (about 130 square centimeters); about 18 square inches (about 116 square centimeters); about 15 square inches (about 97 or 100 square centimeters); about 12.5 square inches (about 80 square centimeters); or about 10 square inches (about 65 square centimeters).

The absorbent article is preferably very flexible and preferably has a resistance to bending of less than or equal to about 100 grams, more preferably less than or equal to about 70 grams, and most preferably between about 30 and about 50 grams. This allows the absorbent article to fit very closely to the body of the wearer. This also allows the absorbent article to conform to the shape formed by the crotch of the specially designed supportive undergarment. In other words, the absorbent article will flex under the body contact forces (described in more detail below) exerted by the supporting undergarment and will not contribute too strongly to the second skin fit of the supporting undergarment. Small size and high flexibility give absorbent articles improved comfort.

The absorbent article 200 is also preferably highly absorbent. The absorbent article preferably has a total liquid capacity of greater than or equal to about 10 grams, more preferably greater than or equal to about 20 grams or greater than or equal to about 25 grams of liquid. Total capacity is measured according to the method described in the Test Methods section of this specification. It is particularly desirable that the portion of the absorbent article 200 that is placed immediately adjacent the vaginal opening of the wearer have the aforementioned capacity, specifically the portion that is positioned below and centered with the vaginal opening when the absorbent article is worn, measuring 2 inches by 5 inches ( 5 cm by 13 cm) area. To determine the capacity of this 2 inch by 5 inch area, a rectangular area of this size will be cut from a portion of the absorbent article to be tested when centered under the vaginal opening. The test is carried out on this 2 x 5 section of the absorbent article in the same manner as the capacity measurement described in the Test Methods section of this specification. If the absorbent article is less than 2 inches by 5 inches in the area, use a sample of the absorbent article within a 2 inch by 5 inch rectangle.

The high performance properties of an absorbent article can also be expressed in terms of the ratio between the total capacity of the absorbent article and the surface area of the absorbent article. In some preferred embodiments, preferred absorbent articles have a ratio of total capacity to surface area (measured in the flattened state) of greater than or equal to about 2 grams per square inch (about 0.3 grams per square centimeter), more preferably greater than or equal to Equal to about 2.5 grams per square inch (about 0.39 grams per square centimeter, or about 0.4 grams per square centimeter). For comparison, ALWAYS ULTRA thin sanitary napkins sold by the Procter & Gamble Company of Cincinnati Ohio have a capacity to surface area ratio of about 1.7 grams per square inch (about 0.26 grams per square centimeter). The absorbent article 200 is highly efficient, has a total capacity greater than or equal to current ultra-thin sanitary napkins, and is about half the size.

The absorbent article 200 shown in Figure 12 preferably has at least three basic components. These components include a liquid permeable topsheet, a liquid impermeable backsheet, and an absorbent structure (eg, an absorbent core) positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet. The liquid-permeable topsheet, liquid-impermeable backsheet and absorbent core can be formed from a variety of suitable materials, provided the absorbent article 200 has all of the characteristics described herein.

It should also be understood that the absorbent article 200 is not limited to constructions having these three basic components. Embodiments may be provided with only one or two of these components. For example, the absorbent article 200 need not have a topsheet if the body facing surface of the absorbent core is suitable for use as a topsheet. A liquid impermeable member (eg a liquid impervious backsheet) may be attached to the other side of the absorbent member. Alternatively, the absorbent article 200 can be constructed from an absorbent member having a liquid permeable side and a liquid impermeable side. The liquid impermeable side can be obtained by treating the undergarment surface of the absorbent member to render it liquid impermeable.

The liquid permeable side defines the body-contacting surface of the absorbent article 200 . In some embodiments, the liquid permeable side comprises a plurality of members extending outwardly from the body-contacting surface of the absorbent article 200 . That is, if the body-contacting surface is considered to lie in an X-Y plane in a Cartesian coordinate system, the members project outwardly in the Z direction from that plane. These members may form any suitable angle with the body contacting surface of the absorbent article 200 . These members may comprise any suitable member type, including but not limited to fibers.

In a preferred embodiment the liquid permeable topsheet is made of high loft fibrous material. As used herein, the term "high loft fibrous material" refers to a fibrous material that is low in density but has a relatively high thickness. The high loft fibrous material preferably has a density of less than or equal to about 0.01 grams per cubic centimeter. The high loft fibrous material preferably has a thickness of greater than or equal to about 1/8 inch (about 3.2 mm), more preferably about 1/4 inch (about 6.4 mm) and at least about 1/2 inch (about 13 mm) in thickness. mm). The high loft fibrous material preferably has a basis weight of less than or equal to about 4 or 5 ounces per square yard (about 142 grams per square meter). These thicknesses and densities are measured under INDA Standard Test Method IST 720.1-92, which specifies thickness measurements at a pressure of 0.005 psi (350 Pa).

The high loft fibrous material preferably comprises fine polymeric fibers, preferably having a denier per fiber of less than or equal to about 6. The high loft fibrous topsheet material serves several functions. It allows the absorbent article to achieve a "macro" fit that can accommodate virtually all women, and a "micro" fit that adapts to each woman's specific body shape (possibly in the form of wrinkles). Additional advantages of high-rise topsheets are very soft and "cushion-like". High loft topsheets also have the additional advantage of having a lower coefficient of friction relative to the wearer's body due to the discrete contact between the individual fibers of the topsheet material and the wearer's body.

Furthermore, it is generally believed that the main cause of menstrual leakage from conventional sanitary napkins is exceeding the capacity of the absorbent article. However, it has been found that many soiling accidents occur because menstrual fluid does not even enter the sanitary napkin. Often the cause of these soiling incidents is menses flowing against the body of the wearer, and menses flowing in or near the wearer's pubic hair. A high degree of "rise" is preferred so that the fibers of the topsheet remain in close contact with the wearer's body and between the wearer's pubic hair. High loft topsheets tend to interrupt the flow of menses along the body of the wearer and block the flow of menses along the body of the wearer so that these bodily exudates are collected in the absorbent core. Such high-rise topsheets provide a capillary structure that effectively competes with the body of the wearer for bodily fluids (eg, menses), directing these fluids into the absorbent article. A good indicator of whether an absorbent article has a body contacting surface with Z-direction oriented elements is whether the elements on the body contacting surface can penetrate between the wearer's pubic hair. Conversely, if the elements forming the body contacting surface of the absorbent article lie flat against and compress the pubic hair of the wearer, this indicates that the absorbent article does not have a body contacting surface with Z-direction oriented elements.

In a preferred embodiment, the high loft topsheet is made of a thermally bonded polyester nonwoven having a thickness of about 4 millimeters and a basis weight of about 1.5 oz/square yard (about 50 grams/square meter). The fibers of such high loft topsheet materials are preferably randomly oriented. A particularly preferred material for the high-rise topsheet has a thickness of 4.1 millimeters and a density of 0.0077 grams per cubic centimeter, available as code #W-4635 from Stearns Technical Textile of Cincinnati, Ohio. Another preferred high-rise topsheet material has a thickness of 5.8 mm and a density of 0.0098 g/cm3 (after fluffing), available from Fibertex A/S, Box 8029, Svendborgvej 16, DK-9220 Aalborg Ost, Denmark under the code The product of r#68317 (refluffy). If the high loft topsheet material has a relatively flat side, and a "fluffy" side, preferably the flat side is towards the absorbent core.

The fibers of the high loft topsheet material are preferably slightly hydrophobic. Once bodily exudates contact the fibers of the high loft topsheet, they flow down through the high loft topsheet and penetrate very rapidly into the absorbent core. For example, the take-up rate of a high-rise topsheet is between about 0.27 ml/sec to about 0.75 ml/sec, while current apertured films (such as the DRI-WEAVE topsheet material to be described below) may have about 0.15 ml/sec. /sec receiving speed. These fibers, despite their thinness, are placed on top of each other to form a top layer with relatively large pores. Menses flow into the underlying absorbent core through the larger apertures located between the fibers of the high-rise topsheet. The high loft topsheet material has a considerable thickness, which results in the ability to keep the wearer's body relatively dry (or reduce "rewet") by separating the absorbent core (and liquid held therein) from the wearer's body. .

In other embodiments, the fibers of the high loft topsheet are rendered hydrophilic to a certain degree or are rendered hydrophilic by treatment with a surfactant. This enables the fibers to more effectively absorb menses from the wearer's skin.

In other embodiments, the liquid permeable topsheet may be formed from an apertured film, such as an apertured formed film. Suitable formed films are described in U.S. Pat. U.S. Patent No. 4,342,314 to et al.; U.S. Patent No. 4,463,045 to Ahr et al. on July 31, 1984; U.S. Patent No. 5,006,394 to Baird on April 9, 1991 There is a description. A particularly preferred material for the topsheet includes the formed film described in one or more of the above patents, and the DRI-WEAVE topsheet on sanitary napkins sold by the Procter & Gamble Company of Cincinnati Ohio. The topsheet preferably has a hydrophilic surfactant added during manufacture.

Other preferred apertured formed films suitable for use as topsheets are according to U.S. Patent Nos. 4,609,518 and 4,629,643 issued to Curro et al. Opened films made under the title "Microporous Polymeric Mesh Exhibiting a Soft and Silky Touch"), and according to the title awarded to Ouellette et al. Surface Transport Dynamically Deposited and Statically Contacted Macroscopically Expanded Three-dimensional Polymeric Mesh" U.S. Patent No. 4,637,819; and the title "Exhibiting Surface Energy Gradient Fluid Transport Mesh" U.S. Patent Application No. 08/442,935 (PCT Application WO 96/00548 published on January 11, 1996).

If such an apertured film topsheet material is used, it can be used essentially as a topsheet. However, it is preferably used in combination with a high loft topsheet material overlaid on such an apertured film. An apertured film (if properly apertured) will reduce the likelihood of liquid flowing back and rewetting the wearer's skin. The combination of a high loft topsheet material and a cloth-like apertured formed film adds additional thickness to the high loft layer and further separates the absorbent core and its liquids from the wearer's body, thereby helping to maintain wear dryness of the user's body.

The absorbent core can come in a variety of sizes and shapes (eg, rectangular, oval, hourglass, bone, asymmetrical, etc.), and can be made from a variety of liquid-absorbent materials commonly used in sanitary napkins and other absorbent articles. However, it is preferred to select an absorbent core capable of the capacities described herein. Examples of suitable absorbent materials include comminuted wood pulp (often referred to as airfelt); creped cellulose wadding; meltblown polymers including coforms; chemically hardened, denatured or crosslinked cellulose fibers; synthetic fibers (e.g. crinkled polyester); mud moss; tissue paper including tissue sleeves and tissue laminates; absorbent foam; absorbent sponge; superabsorbent polymers; absorbent gelling material; or any equivalent material or material combinations, or mixtures of these. The shape and configuration of the absorbent core can also vary (for example, the absorbent core can have regions of varying thickness (e.g. shaped to be thicker in the middle), a hydrophilic gradient, a superabsorbent gradient, or regions of lower density and lower average basis weight); Or may consist of one or more layers or structures. Examples of suitable absorbent core materials having sufficient capacity are described below.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the absorbent core is formed from a needle punched airlaid nonwoven material comprising rayon and fibrous superabsorbent hydrogel forming polymeric material. This absorbent core preferably comprises about 50% to about 70%, preferably about 65% staple length viscose rayon fibers, and about 30% to about 50%, preferably about 35% fiber superabsorbent water Gel-forming polymeric material (percentages given herein are by weight unless otherwise stated). A suitable viscose rayon is LYOCELL viscose rayon, model number 18453, available from Courtaulds Fibers, Inc. of North Axis, Alabama. A suitable fibrous superabsorbent hydrogel-forming polymeric material is the FIBERDRI fibrous superabsorbent material described above. The high loft needled nonwoven preferably has a basis weight of about 90 grams per square meter. The nonwoven material is preferably needled at about 60 needles per square centimeter or greater. The more needles used, the more flexible the final material.

A suitable fibrous superabsorbent, hydrogel-forming polymeric material is FLBERDRI superabsorbent material sold by Camelot Technologies Ltd. of High River, Canada. FIBERDRI superabsorbent materials are preferred because of their greater capacity than many prior particulate superabsorbent materials. For example, it may have a capacity of about 25 grams of liquid per gram of superabsorbent material, whereas existing particulate superabsorbent materials have a capacity of about 20 grams per gram. Accordingly, the FIBERDRI material has the advantage that a relatively small amount of FIBERDRI material (e.g., about 0.7 grams) can yield a total capacity of a small-sized absorbent core used in the present invention that is equal to or greater than the total capacity of a full-sized sanitary napkin. capacity.

Although a single layer of high loft material can be used in the absorbent core, it is preferred to use at least two layers. It is also possible to use more than two layers, especially those high-rise materials produced at lower basis weights. These layers can be connected together if desired. However, it has been found that when the layers are simply placed adjacently, they are adequately maintained in relative position to each other. This is believed to be achieved due to entanglement of fibers between fibers on the surface of the layer.

The backsheet can be any suitable flexible, liquid impermeable material. Preferably, the backsheet is a polyethylene film having a thickness of from about 0.012 millimeters (0.5 mils) to about 0.015 millimeters (2.0 mils). Representative polyethylene films are manufactured by Clopay Corporation of Cincinnati, Ohio, under trade numbers P18-0401 and Microflex 1401, respectively. The backsheet is embossed and/or matte finished for a more cloth-like appearance.

In addition, the backsheet is capable of allowing vapors to escape from the absorbent core (ie, it is breathable) while preventing liquid from passing through the backsheet 16. Suitable breathable backsheet materials include adhesive cling laminates of apertured films with tapered capillaries (as described, for example, in U.S. Patent No. 3,929,135 issued December 30, 1975 to Thompson), and microporous films. Suitable microporous films are supplied by Exxon Chemical USA and are described in Exxon's U.S. Patent No. 4,777,073. The breathable backsheet is positioned such that the smaller openings of the tapered capillaries face the absorbent core. The microporous film is joined to the side of the apertured film having the larger openings to form the garment facing surface of the absorbent article.

The use of the breathable backsheet in combination with a menstrual undergarment (preferably having a breathable crotch portion) allows the overall breathability of the absorbent article and menstrual undergarment system to be controlled and optimized. This eliminates any variance due to the use of the absorbent article in random combinations with various commercially available undergarments having different vapor permeability and impermeability.

The topsheet, backsheet and absorbent core can be combined in a variety of constructions known in the art (including multilayer or "sandwich" constructions and wound or "tubular" constructions). In the preferred embodiment shown in the drawings, the absorbent article 200 is assembled in a sandwich construction, wherein the topsheet and backsheet have generally greater width and length dimensions than the absorbent core, and the topsheet and backsheet extend beyond the edges of the absorbent core to form peripheral.

The topsheet may be attached to the body facing side of the absorbent core. In other embodiments, the topsheet need not be attached to the absorbent core to improve the flexibility of the absorbent article 200. As used herein, the term "connected" includes: a member structure that is directly fixed to another member by connecting it directly to another member; A component structure in which a component is indirectly fixed to another component; and a structure in which one component is integral with the other, that is, one component is actually a part of the other. The backsheet need not (preferably is not) attached to the absorbent core in order to enhance the flexibility of the absorbent article 200. The portions of the topsheet and backsheet which extend beyond the edges of the absorbent core to form the periphery are preferably joined to each other.

If the topsheet is attached to the absorbent core, the topsheet may be attached to the absorbent core in any suitable manner known in the art for that purpose. The topsheet can be attached to the absorbent core by a uniform continuous layer of adhesive, a patterned layer of adhesive, or an array of discrete lines, spirals and spots of adhesive. An adhesive which has been found satisfactory for this purpose is the adhesive manufactured by Findley Adhesive Company of Wauwatosa, Wisconsin under Serial No. 2031. The adhesive preferably uses an open pattern network of adhesive filaments (disclosed in U.S. Pat. of). Other representative open network of adhesive filaments formed by several adhesive filaments rotated in a helical pattern, by U.S. Patent 3,911,173 issued October 7, 1975 to Sprague et al; Apparatus and method descriptions shown in U.S. Patent No. 4,785,996 issued November 22, 1978 to Ziecker et al; and U.S. Patent No. 4,842,666 issued July 27, 1989 to Werenicz et al. Additionally, the components of the absorbent article may be joined together by thermal bonding, pressure bonding, ultrasonic bonding, dynamic mechanical bonding, or any other suitable bonding method known in the art, or a combination of these bonding methods. The portions of the topsheet and backsheet which extend beyond the edges of the absorbent core to form the periphery may be joined to each other by any of the means described herein.

The components of an absorbent article can be described as forming an "unitary structure". As used herein, the term "integral structure" refers to a structure in which components are connected together, or integrated together as a unit. The term "unitary construction" includes those constructions described above wherein the topsheet, absorbent core and backsheet are formed from separate components joined together. Additionally, it includes constructions in which the liquid-permeable and liquid-impermeable sides of the absorbent article do not comprise separate topsheets and/or backsheets. For example, in the latter case, the liquid-permeable side, the liquid-impermeable side, or both may be formed by the surface of the absorbent core having the desired properties, rather than separate elements.

The garment-facing surface of the absorbent article 200 may include, and preferably includes, a fastener for securing the absorbent article to a specially designed support garment. Fasteners that may be used for this purpose include adhesives, particularly pressure sensitive adhesives, which have been used to fasten absorbent articles such as sanitary napkins to the crotch of conventional undergarments.

However, it is preferred that the garment-facing surface of the absorbent article 200 includes a mechanical fastening material which is particularly adapted to engage a knitted material such as a support garment is preferably made of. The mechanical fastening material may be located on any suitable area on the surface of the undergarment. The mechanical fastening material may cover all or any other suitable area of the garment-facing surface of the absorbent article. The mechanical fastening material may be distributed on the surface of the undergarment in any suitable pattern. The mechanical fastening material may be distributed in a pattern that matches a pattern on one or more preselected areas of a specially designed support garment. For example, the mechanical fastening material may be provided in a pattern corresponding to and aligned with the longitudinal stretch-controlling elements and/or angled stretch-controlling elements of the menstrual underwear. The alignment of the mechanical fastening material with these portions of the support undergarment can be used as a positioning aid to ensure that the absorbent article 200 is properly seated within the support undergarment. The pattern of mechanical fastening material can also be used to assist in the close fit of the absorbent article 200 to the wearer's body in specific areas.

The mechanical fastening material provides an anchor to the undergarment surface of the absorbent article, is easily attached to the knitted material, and has a sufficiently high hold force even as the supporting undergarment stretches and contracts. Since the supporting undergarment does not separate from the undergarment as it stretches and contracts during application of the absorbent article to the undergarment (as can occur with some pressure-sensitive adhesives), the mechanical fastening materials described herein It is especially preferred for use with specially designed knitted support underwear.

Suitable methods for forming certain types of mechanical fastening materials are described in more detail in U.S. Patent No. 5,392,498 issued February 28, 1995 to Goulait et al. In another embodiment, the mechanical fastening material may comprise a material that has a "T" shaped or mushroom shaped appearance when viewed from the side. A particularly preferred "T" shaped mechanical fastening material for use in absorbent articles is the material available under the designation TP200 from 3M Personal Care and Related Products Division of Menomonie, WI.

The absorbent article 200 is used by placing the absorbent article 200 in the crotch of a menstrual underwear. The absorbent article 200 is placed in the crotch of the menstrual undergarment with one end extending towards the front portion of the menstrual undergarment and the other end extending towards the back portion of the menstrual undergarment. The backsheet is in contact with the inner surface in the middle of the crotch of the menstrual underwear. The protrusions of the mechanical fastening material on the undergarment-facing surface of the absorbent article engage the knitted material from which the crotch portion of the menstrual undergarment is made. The wearer then puts on the menstrual underwear. Often menstrual underwear is stretched and shrunk until it fits as shown.

Menstrual underwear fits so closely to the wearer's body (especially the crotch) that it acts as a comfortable "second skin". The absorbent article 200 preferably does not alter or interfere with the tendency of the menstrual undergarment to achieve this "second skin" fit. The absorbent article 200 is preferably flexible enough to assume a shape similar to the crotch of a menstrual underwear. Preferably, the absorbent article 200 is also capable of conforming to the shape of the wearer's vulva during use. Preferably, the absorbent article conforms to the shape of the wearer's vulva whether the wearer's legs are together or apart.

The absorbent article 200 preferably flexes under the forces exerted by the menstrual undergarment, utilizing these forces to comfortably hold the absorbent article relative to the body of the wearer. If the absorbent article flexes under these forces, the tendency of the menstrual underwear to achieve the desired fit will not be disrupted, and the absorbent article 200 will assume a shape similar to the crotch of the menstrual underwear. Preferably, the menstrual underwear described herein exerts a body contact pressure of less than or equal to about 20 grams per square centimeter to the body of the wearer, more preferably less than or equal to about 15 grams per square centimeter. A body contact pressure of 20 g/cm2 applied by a menstrual undergarment is a high enough pressure that is on the borderline that it will be uncomfortable for the wearer.

It has been found that there are other underwear with a close fit (such as Japanese menstrual underwear). However, these undergarments tend to create uncomfortable forces, particularly where the wearer's legs come into contact with the elastic sides of the menstrual undergarment. On the other hand, the menstrual undergarment described herein is particularly preferred because it is capable of exerting body contact forces along the crotch region to keep the absorbent article 200 in close contact with the wearer's vulva area without causing friction in the wearer's legs. An uncomfortable force (greater than or equal to about 20 grams per square centimeter) is exerted on the wearer's legs at the location where the top contacts the leg opening of the menstrual underwear. Preferably, the edges of the crotch portion of the menstrual underwear described herein exert a body contact pressure of less than or equal to about 20 grams per square centimeter to these parts of the wearer's body.

The absorbent article 200 and menstrual undergarment also differ from existing sanitary napkins and conventional undergarments in the persistent nature of the absorbent article's contact with the wearer's body. During wear (eg, when the wearer is sitting), some existing sanitary napkins sometimes form a "W"-shaped cross-sectional configuration. However, conventional undergarments cannot provide a constant force against the wearer's body to keep the sanitary napkin in place under all conditions (such as when the wearer is walking or standing, or when the wearer's legs are apart). position. The absorbent article 200 and menstrual underwear, on the other hand, provide such permanent contact with the wearer's body. Absorbent articles can be described as essentially Maintains constant contact with the wearer's body.

Current sanitary napkins are typically worn in loose fitting undergarments. Such sanitary napkins must be designed to be large enough so that they are still capable of trapping the wearer's bodily exudates in any event that the sanitary napkin deviates from its position below the vaginal opening.

If an absorbent article of sufficiently high capacity is held tightly and comfortably against the wearer's vulva, specifically covering the vaginal opening, the surface of the labia majora and the perineum during the entire period in which the absorbent article is worn, It is then possible to provide an absorbent article which has a greatly reduced size compared to current sanitary napkins. The absorbent article need only be large enough to cover these parts of the wearer's body and need not be sized to accommodate offset movement of the article relative to the vaginal opening. Absorbent articles and menstrual underwear work best in a manner similar to covering a wound with a bandage. By utilizing intimate body contact and comfortable force, the absorbent article is held at the location where bodily fluids are generated, while bodily fluids are trapped at or near the location where the fluids are generated. This is in contrast to oversized sanitary napkins used in loose-fitting underwear, which function in a manner similar to using drapes of clothing underneath where bodily fluids arise.

The absorbent article 200 is preferably capable of maintaining contact with and covering at least a portion of the inner surface of the wearer's labia, at least a portion of the outer surface of the wearer's labia, and at least a portion of the menstrual undergarment. The absorbent article 200 preferably covers an area centered on the wearer's labia that extends a width of at least about 1 inch (about 2.5 cm). The absorbent article can cover substantially the entire inner surface of the wearer's labia, up to and including contacting and covering the underside of the wearer's vestibule. The absorbent article can also cover substantially the entire outer surface of the wearer's labia.

By referring to different parts of the absorbent article 200, another way of describing the structure of the absorbent article 200 during wear can be used. The absorbent article 200 preferably has a longitudinal central region centered about a longitudinal centerline which is positionable in the space between the labia of the wearer. The longitudinal central region may have any suitable width that is less than the width of the entire absorbent article. The longitudinal central region may extend the entire length of the absorbent article 200, or be less than the entire length of the absorbent article. The longitudinal central region preferably has at least (usually along the longitudinal centerline of the absorbent article) a space capable of being located between the wearer's labia at a height higher than (when the wearer is standing) on the absorbent article. At least some portions laterally outward of the longitudinal central region. The absorbent article 200 is preferably capable of assuming such a configuration when not compressed by the inner thigh portion of the wearer.

The absorbent device 200 preferably covers the labia from front to back. The preferred embodiment of the absorbent article 200 is preferably small enough that it covers only the vulva and immediately adjacent areas of the wearer, and specifically covers the surface of the vaginal opening and labia majora. The absorbent article 200 can also cover the perineum of the wearer. The absorbent article can cover the wearer's clitoris, but preferably does not extend substantially beyond the wearer's mons pubic region. The absorbent article 200 can be set slightly away from the clitoris, or can fit snugly against the clitoris, as it relates to the rest of the wearer's body. The absorbent article 200 preferably does not extend rearwardly to contact the anus of the wearer, avoiding sensitive nerve endings there. When the absorbent article 200 has this preferred size, it provides a more comfortable and less noticeable absorbent article because it occludes less of the wearer's body and allows air to surround it.

Preferably, the absorbent article 200 also does not cover areas of the wearer's body that undergo some degree of motion (ie, the absorbent article is only adjacent to the "low motion zone" of the wearer's body). In particular, it is desirable that the sides of the absorbent article 200 do not contact the inner surfaces of the wearer's thighs when the wearer is walking or performing other similar movements. This overcomes the disadvantage of conventionally sized sanitary napkins and undergarment pads, which are relatively stiff compared to the absorbent article 200 used in the system of the present invention, transmitting the forces acting on their end edges to other parts of the sanitary napkin or undergarment pad. , causing them to bend or wrinkle, and/or deviate from their desired position under the wearer's vaginal opening.

If the peripheral area in contact with the inner surface of the wearer's thigh does not transmit the forces acting on it to other parts of the absorbent article, causing the absorbent article to bend or wrinkle, and/or The absorbent article 200 can be made larger for desired offsets. For example, it is also contemplated herein that the absorbent article 200 may be configured to have the desired flexibility, fit and absorbent regions described herein with preferably small dimensions (e.g., covering the vulva and perineum), but with some locations located in these areas. The outside of the area, which functions only as a "drape" with minimal or no hygroscopicity. For example, such regions may consist solely of topsheet and backsheet materials with a thin layer of absorbent material between them. Such embodiments are considered to fall within the scope of the present invention.

Additionally, the absorbent article 200 of the present invention may have a region (generally in the center of the absorbent article) that is stiffer than regions of the absorbent article located outside the central region. In other words, the absorbent article 200 has a central low motion region that has a greater thickness and Less flexibility. In each of these embodiments, when the absorbent article 200 is worn in a supportive undergarment, it is preferred that the absorbent article 200 deviate from its position relative to the wearer's vaginal opening by no more than about 1.5 inches (about 3.8 centimeters), more preferably about 1 inch (about 2.5 centimeters), and most preferably about 0.5 inches (about 1.3 centimeters).

To determine how far the absorbent article is deflected relative to the wearer's vaginal opening, a five minute walk test is used. The wearer should place the absorbent article in the menstrual undergarment and pull the menstrual undergarment into place. By pointing to the outer surface of the menstrual undergarment with her fingers, the wearer indicates where her vaginal opening is located. Mark this area of the underwear with an appropriate wash-off adhesive tape. If desired, these indicia can be made on one or more locations on the periphery of the absorbent article 200, and corresponding indicia can be made on a location immediately adjacent to the wearer's body. The wearer then walks normally for five minutes. After this walk, the wearer repositions her vaginal opening and marks the location. The distance the markings are separated after the wear cycle is the amount by which the absorbent article has deflected.

As noted above, the absorbent core may have a central region, generally located in the central region of the absorbent core, that is thicker (and possibly stiffer) than other portions located outside the central region. The absorbent article has a raised portion on its body facing side. The raised portion is preferably centered relative to the longitudinal centerline of the absorbent article. The raised portion may extend for any desired length of the absorbent article and may extend the entire length of the absorbent article. The raised portion can be formed by various different types of structures. In some embodiments, the raised portion is formed from a tube of absorbent material associated with the liquid permeable side of the absorbent article to form a composite absorbent article. In other embodiments, the raised portion is formed by raised formations which are positioned beneath the liquid permeable topsheet. Absorbent articles having raised portions on the body-facing side are disclosed in commonly assigned co-pending patent application No. ____ in the name of Carstens et al. examples, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

An absorbent article having a raised portion is a less preferred embodiment for use with a menstrual undergarment having an extensible lifting band along the longitudinal centerline as shown. The lift band brings the absorbent article into intimate contact with the wearer's body in the space between the wearer's labia without having to provide raised portions on the body-facing surface of the absorbent article.

In some cases, however, menstrual underwear may provide a wider lifting zone across the distal surface of the wearer's labia. This wider region does not project upwards into the space between the wearer's labia. In this case, the raised portion on the body facing side of the absorbent article is preferably used with the illustrated menstrual undergarment to provide the desired interlabial fit.

optional parts

The menstrual undergarment 20 for use with the system of the present invention may also include a fastening system for securely securing the catamenial device 200 to the crotch panel 50 when used as a system with the catamenial device 200 . For example, the catamenial device 200 can be provided with a first portion of co-adhesive material while the crotch panel 50 can be prevented from having a second portion of co-adhesive material. As used herein, the term "cobond materials" refers to those materials which are bonded only to themselves and not to other materials.

Alternatively, a catamenial device 200 designed to be used with an undergarment 20 for use with the system of the present invention may include a non-irritating mechanical fastening material consisting of a base or surface with groups of prongs that are Forms of a plurality of fine fibrous (hair-like) protrusions disposed on a substrate as described in application Ser. No. 60/065294, filed November 13, 1998, in the name of Carstens et al., at It is cited here for reference. Such protrusions can be easily attached to a knitted material such as the crotch panel 50 of an undergarment used in the system of the present invention, and have sufficient fastening force even when the supporting undergarment stretches and contracts.

The crotch panel 50 is optionally provided with logos (not shown) to assist in optimal positioning of the catamenial device 200 by the wearer. Such marking may include, for example, indicia on the leg elastics to enable the wearer to properly position the wings for use with the catamenial device 200 . Alternatively, such markings may include indicia along the longitudinal centerline to enable the wearer to securely position the catamenial device on the body contacting surface (inside) of the crotch panel 50 each time the device is switched to a new one.

formation of underwear

First, the blank for the undergarment 20 is woven into a tubular shape by means known in the art. Specifically, the front panel 30, the back panel 40 and the crotch region 50 are integrally knitted. Lift 42 is formed in back panel 40 by forming a band integrally knitted therein. Similarly, an integrally knitted longitudinal stretch control member 52 and (preferably) a plurality of angled stretch control members 54 are formed for the crotch panel 50 . Appropriate knitting patterns as described above were used.

This tubular blank is then slit and unfolded walewise. Excess material filling the leg openings 60 is removed to form a lay-flat blank of the menstrual undergarment 20 having a shape similar to that of the menstrual undergarment 20 shown in plan view in FIG. 11 . Also shown in Figure 11, the panty blank has a front end edge 23, a rear end edge 24, two front side edges 25, 26 and two rear side edges 37A, 38B.

The leg elastics 62 are joined to the undergarment 20 along the perimeter of the leg opening 60 as discussed above. The blank of the undergarment 20 is then folded about the transverse centerline T, and the two opposing portions of the sides between the leg opening 60 and the end edges 23, 24 are joined (for example by sewing) to form Side seams 32, 34, thus completing the assembly of the undergarment 20 (i.e., connecting the portion of the side edge 25 between the end of the leg elastic 62 in the front panel 30 and the end edge 24 with the side edge 27 The part between the end of the leg elastic 62 in the back panel 40 and the end edge 23 is joined to form the side seam 32. In the same way, the side edge 26 is joined to the side edge 28 to form the side seam 34) .

Still another way is to cut away some portions of the tubular knit blank to form the leg openings 60 . For example, the tubular stock can be flattened so that its two inner surfaces contact each other while forming a pair of longitudinally oriented sides. The precursors to the leg openings can then be formed in the following manner: matching semicircular, semi-elliptical or other desired shapes are cut from two laterally opposite sides at standard intervals along the flattened blank. part. This flattened tubular blank is then cut transversely to form semi-finished underpants in a predetermined repeating pattern as described below: the first transverse cut will form the front body of the leg opening The portion of the material not removed is cut transversely to form the front body of the crotch region; a second transverse cut is made across the entire width of the flattened tubular blank to form the waist opening 21 . Leg elastics 62 are placed around and engage the perimeter of each leg opening 60 . The crotch region 50 is completed by joining the two ends formed by the first transverse cutting together by one transverse sewing. The undergarment 20 is completed by placing the elastic waistband 22 along the perimeter of the waist opening 21 and joining the elastic waistband to said perimeter.

The following examples serve to point out the advantages of the invention in various aspects.

example

Example 1

This example was used to demonstrate the fit of the "second skin" of the undergarment 20 used in the system of the present invention. Specifically, frontal photographs of the crotch region of the undergarment of the invention and the knitted undergarment of the prior art were taken while a medical model was wearing each undergarment. The photographs were taken with the models standing with their legs in two positions: 1) close together (with a 10mm gap between the thighs); 2) apart (with a 50mm gap between the thighs ). All photos were taken at a distance of 1 foot (30 cm) from the model's vaginal area.

Figures 7 and 8 show an undergarment for use with the system of the present invention with the model's legs in closed and apart positions. Figures 9 and 10 show the same mannequin in two identical positions while wearing a prior art knitted undergarment (Fruit of the Loom® underwear available from Fruit of the Loom, Inc. Of Bowling Green, KY). scenario). The results of the tests are discussed in the crotch section above.

Example 2

The purpose of this example is to demonstrate a comparison of body contact forces between an undergarment used in the system of the present invention and several prior art undergarments.

Samples of the undergarments of the present invention and several prior art undergarments were evaluated with respect to body contact forces according to the method described in the Test Methods section. The results of the tests are given in Table 2.

The difference in the ratio of the body contact force along the centerline to the labia is clear in these products.

Table 2 Body Contact Force Comparison Body Contact Force Underwear Underwear Type Centerline Labia Major Force Ratio Invention N/A 2.35 1.33 1.76Wing EC8302 ¹ A 1.94 2.58 0.75Wing EC8400 ¹ A 1.10 1.57 0.70Fruit of the Loom ³ B 0.006 0.68 0.01 Wacoal ² C 0.50 2.52 0.20 Wonder Body ^TM4 C 0.07 0.77 0.09 Olga 2903-28 ⁵ C 0 0.50 0Olga 2903-18 ⁵ C 0 0.29 01. Available from Wacoal Corp. of Kyoto, Japan 2. Available from Wacoal Corp. of Kyoto , Japan 3. Can be purchased from Fruit of the Loom, Inc., Bowling Green, KY 4. Can be purchased from Sara Lee Intimates, Winston-Salem, NC 5. Can be purchased from Olga, Company, Van Nuys, CA A Japan Menstruation Shorts B Non-elastic panties C Elasticized panties

Test Methods

bending resistance

The resistance to bending of an absorbent article is measured by reaching the point of highest bending stiffness. The point of highest flexural stiffness is determined by tests simulating the ASTM D 4032.82 circular bending process, which can generally be modified and implemented as follows: The circular bending process is the simultaneous multi-directional deformation of a material in which one surface of the specimen becomes concave and The other surface becomes convex. The circular bending process gives a force value that is related to the bending resistance and gives the average stiffness in all directions.

device

The apparatus required for the circular bending process is a modified circular bend hardness tester with the following parts:

Smooth polished steel plate platform measuring 102.0 x 102.0 x 6.35 mm and having an 18.75 mm diameter opening. The joint edges of the opening should be at a 45° angle and have a depth of 4.75 mm.

Piston, 72.2 mm overall length, 6.25 mm diameter, 2.97 mm ball tip radius, 0.88 mm tip point extension (with a base diameter of 0.33 mm and a sharp point with a radius less than 0.5 mm), piston fixed concentrically to the bore And with equal clearance on all sides. Note that the tip point only prevents lateral movement of the test sample during the test. Therefore, if the needle point clearly deleteriously affects the test sample (eg, punctures an expandable structure), then the needle point should not be used. The bottom of the piston should be well seated on top of the perforated plate. From this position, the downward stroke of the ball head is exactly the bottom of the plate opening.

A dynamometer, more specifically an Instron reverse pressure dynamometer. The load cell has a load range from about 0.0 to about 2000.0 grams.

An actuator, specifically an Instron Model No. 1122 with a reverse pressure dynamometer. Instron 1122 is manufactured by Instron Engineering Corporation, Canton, Mass.

Sample Quantity and Preparation

To perform the test procedure, as explained below, five representative absorbent articles are required. From one of the five samples to be tested (having of course removed all underwear adhesive release paper and deactivated all adhesives), a number "Y" of 37.5 mm x 37.5 mm test samples were cut . Samples that have portions where the topsheet is directly attached to the baffle sheet, or that are a laminate of the topsheet, two or fewer tissue sheets, and the baffle sheet should not be tested. The reason these samples could not be tested was the fact that in prior art absorbent articles, where the topsheet is combined in the periphery of the sanitary napkin with a barrier sheet beyond the edge of the absorbent core, these parts have a high degree of flexibility. However, the present invention is more concerned with the overall flexibility of the absorbent article, not just the flexibility of its edge portions, therefore, the flexibility of the present invention is more concerned with the flexibility of the absorbent portion of the absorbent article. The absorbent article passes the test if these significantly absorbent portions of the absorbent article meet the characteristics of this test. Therefore, a certain number of different samples should be tested for each absorbent article. In particular, the most structurally flexible parts of the absorbent article should be tested, other than those parts excluded above. The test specimen should not be folded or bent by the tester, and handling of the specimen should be kept to a minimum and at the edges so as not to affect the bend resistance characteristics. For the four remaining absorbent articles, cut an equal number "Y" of 37.5 mm x 37.5 mm samples (equal to the samples cut from the first absorbent article). Therefore, the tester should have "Y" number of five identical sample groups.

The steps of the circular bending process are as follows. Process the samples by placing them in a room at 21±1°C and 50±2% relative humidity for 2 hours. The tests described here were all performed under the same conditions. The test panel is level. The piston speed was set at 50.0 centimeters per minute per full length. The sample is placed in the middle of the hole below the plunger with the body surface of the sample facing the plunger and the underwear surface of the sample facing the platform. Of course, all underwear adhesive release paper (if any) has been removed to mimic the condition of use. All undergarment adhesives, if present, are deactivated by means known to those of ordinary skill in the art (eg, glycerin and/or powder) to prevent the sample from adhering to the platform to an artificial point of highest flexural stiffness. If desired, the sample can be placed in the center of the well in such a way that the body surface faces the platform and the undergarment surface faces the plunger, eliminating the need to disable any adhesive that might be present. Check and adjust the zero point of the indicator if necessary. Start the piston. Contact with the sample should be avoided during the test. Record maximum force to the nearest gram. Repeat the above steps until all five identical samples have been tested.

calculate

The highest point of flexural stiffness for each sample is the maximum force read for that sample. Each set of five identical samples was tested and the five values obtained from that set were averaged. Thus, the experimenter now has an average value for the "Y" group for each test. The resistance to bending of the absorbent article is the greatest flexibility of these average peak bending stiffnesses.

capacity

The total capacity of the absorbent article is determined as follows. Remove any underwear adhesive release paper from the supplies to be sided. Measure the weight of the supplies to the nearest 0.1 gram. The article is then dipped into a beaker of saline solution (available from Baxter Travenol Company of Deerfield, Illinois) so that the article is fully submerged and is not bent or similar to twisted or folded. Articles were submerged for 10 minutes. The article was removed from the saline and hung in a vertical position for 2 minutes to allow the saline to drain from the article. The application is then placed body-facing surface down on absorbent blotting paper (e.g. #631 filter paper available from Filtration Science Corp., Eaton-Dikeman Division of Mount Holly Springs, PA). A uniform load of 17.6 g/cm2 was applied to the article to squeeze out additional fluid. The absorbent blotter is replaced every 30 seconds until the amount of fluid transferred to the absorbent blotter is less than 0.5 grams during the 30 second period. Next, weigh the supplies to the nearest 0.1 gram and subtract the dry weight of the supplies. The difference between the grams is the total capacity of the item. The test is over.

lift test

overview

This test will use a lifting measurement test device, which is designed to roughly approximate the shape of various parts of the female body, so that the sample can be closely attached to obtain intimate body contact. The Lift Measurement Test Apparatus consisted of two curved plexiglass pieces designed to simulate the portion of the wearer's body that would come into contact with the crotch region of the undergarment when worn. The device has longitudinally oriented slotted openings to simulate the wearer's interlabial space and the gap between the wearer's buttocks (the gluteal groove). The samples were secured to clips that were adjusted to simulate the forces that would be exerted when the panties were being dragged onto the wearer's body. The distance the middle of the sample enters vertically into the slotted opening is measured to provide a relative measure of body contact.

device

lifting measuring device

The lift measurement device consisted of six plexiglass pieces arranged in the manner shown in Figures 13-18. The lift measurement device includes a medial surface 100A, a lateral surface 100B, a front 100C, and a rear 100D.

The plexiglass piece consists of two identical 1/4 inch thick curved pieces 102 and 104, having a height H of 150 mm, a width W of 135 mm, and a degree S of is 300 mm, and the radius of curvature J (as shown in FIG. 15 ) of the inner surface of the arc is 150 mm. A pair of rectangular plexiglass support legs are mounted on either side of the curved plexiglass piece, as shown in Figure 13. The support legs 106 are mounted perpendicular to the arc such that the bottom 108 of the arc is held 20 mm above the test bench on which the test device is placed.

The arcs 102 and 104 are connected by a pair of hinges 110 allowing the arcs to open 90 degrees. When closed, the arcs 103 and 104 are held together by the provision of a locking pin 112 at the transverse centerline R of the test apparatus. The arc has an 8 3/8 inch (212 mm) long central longitudinally oriented slotted opening (slot) 114 (measured along the curve of the outside surface of the arc) that varies linearly in width, From a 6 mm wide slit section 114A located closest to the front 100C of the test device (the part of the device that represents the front of the body) to a 19 mm wide slit closest to the rear 100D of the test device Section 114B. The portion of the plexiglass surrounding the slit 114 is sloped at 45 degrees so the slit is wider on the bottom surface 100B of the arc than on the top surface. Both ends of the slit 114 are circular.

In addition to the slot 114, the arc has additional channels oriented along the longitudinal centerline of the slot. These channels provide a mechanism in which the bolts securing the clip 118 can slide to adjust the position of the clip relative to the slot. The arcs 102 and 104 are provided with a strap 116 on which markings can be made to indicate the correct position to hold the end of the sample in the clamp 118 .

The curved member 102 of the test device may also be provided with a pair of three-dimensionally curved plexiglass members 120, these elements being used to represent the wearer's labia majora. The flexure 120 has the configuration shown in FIGS. 15-18 and its dimensions are shown in Table 3. As shown in Table 3, the curved member is centered on the slit and spaced 36 mm apart (in the center), and its rear end edge 120B is spaced from the rear end edge of the first curved plate 102. As shown in Table 3, its An angle of 8 degrees is defined.

Table 3 - Dimensions of curved pieces

Size

a 7 mm

b 16mm

c 33 degrees

d 16 mm

e 6 mm (radius)

f 36mm

g 8 degrees

Weights Sufficient weights to place a total weight of 391 grams on the supplies (including clips

weight)

Clips Spring-loaded, finger-operated 2-inch (5 cm) wide clips (Boston No. 2 clips manufactured by Hunt Manufacturing Co., Statesville, N.C.) are used to secure weights to the samples.

The pin chamber thickness measuring device is constituted according to Fig. 14

Measurement methods

The underwear is put on the test device 100 so that the front part of the waist opening faces the front part 100C of the test device. Pull the waist belt over the front 100C and rear 100D. The undergarment was again adjusted on the test rig, ensuring that the undergarment was centered on the rig, ensuring that the front edge of the undergarment's crotch was in front of the front edge of the flexure 120A (as shown in Figures 15 and 16). The properly positioned underwear is shown in Figure 18.

A weight 124 is suspended from a clip 118 at the end of the sample at the rear of the test apparatus. The weight is gently suspended from the back waistband of the sample undergarment by holding the clips on the undergarment while the back waistband of the sample undergarment is against the waist of the test apparatus. There should be no natural fall of the weight, nor should a sudden force be applied by the weight while the pad is hanging freely.

A weight attached to the end of the sample at the rear of the test apparatus exerts tension on the sample such that the sample tends to form a straight path between the clamps. At this point, the sample will be in intimate contact with the slit to the extent possible under the test conditions. Remove the weight after 5 seconds.

The test apparatus 100 is turned upside down so that it rests on the support legs 106 . Subsequently, a pin chamber thickness measurement device was used to measure the distance the sample remained in the slit from the outside side 100B (base line) of the curved plate.

The pin chamber 128 comprises a case with a plurality of elongated (1.1 mm diameter), spaced, vertically oriented light weight (28.4 mg) pins 146 arranged in rows within the device . The pin is movable in the vertical direction. The pin chamber box has glass windows at the front and rear so that the pin level can be viewed when the pin chamber is in use. A ruler 148 in millimeter increments is provided along one side of the pin prior to placing the sample on the test apparatus. Place the pin chamber on the test rig such that it straddles the test rig. At each desired location, measure to determine how far the dowel falls into the bottom surface of the curved plate. These measurements were used as baseline values for the experiment. The distance the pin falls above or below the reference line is measured by gently sliding the pin onto the sample in the measurement position. It should be noted that the width of the slit should be wide enough that at various locations several pins drop between the edges of the slit. If so, take a reading of the highest pin.

The first measurement is made at a distance of 47 mm in front of the transverse centerline R of the test apparatus. This distance is intended to correspond to the labial region of the wearer's body. (The 47 mm, and the next two measured distances were measured along the curve of the inside surface 100A of the test device.) The second measurement was taken at a distance of 17 mm rearward of the transverse centerline R of the test device. This is intended to correspond to the perineum of the wearer. The third measurement is made at a distance of 70 mm behind the transverse centerline R of the test device. This is intended to correspond to the "gluteal groove" of the wearer. Record these values. Repeat the preceding procedure for at least two representative samples. The measurements obtained are then averaged to provide the lift of the sample at various locations.

Tensile modulus and elastic shrinkage force

Purpose

The purpose of this method is to quantitatively determine the force equivalent to the force exerted on the wearer by a stretchable material that can be used in underwear in a range of elongation similar to that normally encountered during wearing of the underwear. .

method

The method described in INDA (Nonwovens Industry Association) standard test 110.1-92 is one suitable method. The following test conditions were used:

Gauge length: 2 inches (5.08 cm)

Crosshead Speed: 10 in/min (25.4 cm/min)

Tensile testing machine and suitable for the expected force range, using the available from Instron

Load Cell: Model 5564 Testing Machine purchased from Corporation, Canton MA

and sensors are more suitable

Specimen Width: 1 inch (2.54 cm). For widths less than 1 inch (2.54 cm

m) sample, first measure the width of the sample, and then according to 1 inch

The ratio of inch/sample width adjusts the measured force

Specimen Orientation: Cut the longitudinal tensile modulus specimen so that the specimen width is perpendicular to the longitudinal

Direction. Cut the transverse tensile modulus specimen such that the specimen width

Perpendicular to landscape orientation

Sample size: At least three samples for each tested material

calculate

Force ₀ : Force (g/in or g/cm) at which to start data collection

Force ₂₅ : Force at 25% elongation (grams/inch or grams/cm)

Elastic contraction force = force ₂₅

Tensile modulus = (force ₂₅ - force ₀ )/0.25

Calculate the mean and standard deviation of elastic stretch force (for leg elastics only) and tensile modulus.

body contact force

overview

This test is intended to determine the forces exerted on the wearer's body by an undergarment with elastic elements. A commercially available mannequin was used to minimize errors due to differences in body size.

device

Manikin A suitable manikin is, as recommended for training healthcare personnel in urinary catheterization techniques.

Anatomically correct mannequins for females are used. The mannequin

The following measurements are available: Leg circumference - 54cm; Waist circumference - 92cm; Hip circumference - 95cm

Meters; from front waist to back waist and through groin - 59 mm, the mannequin

Can be purchased from NASCO of Ft. Atkinson, W1, serial number

LF856.

Pressure sensor Ultra-thin piezoresistive pressure sensor (5 mm × 15 mm, 0-10 mm Hg

pressure range, with biomedical leads), available from Vistamedical,

Purchased by Ltd. Of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.

Computer A computer of the ^Pentium® series with 8MB of memory, using

Windows95 operating system. Available from Dell Computer Corp. Of

Austin, TX purchased a Latitude LM laptop also

is appropriate.

Electronic interface modules are available from Vistamedicai, Ltd. Of Winnipeg, Manitoba,

Purchased in Canada, the model is FSA-C-2-1.00.

Data acquisition software is available from Vistamedical, Ltd. Of Winnipeg, Manitoba,

Purchased from Canada, the product name is FSA Version 3.1.

method

1. Secure the leads from the individual sensors to the interface module according to the manufacturer's instructions. By placing the sensor on an inflated air cell (7.5 g/cm2) and adjusting the sensor to a known pressure (up to 7.5 g/cm2) provided by a second air cell placed on the first To calibrate each sensor, the airbag is confined to the closed box, as supplied by the manufacturer. The FSA software receives the generated signal and compares it to the corrected pressure entered by the operator. This comparison is used to create a correction table stored in a computer file.

2. Secure the sensor to the mannequin by using double-sided transfer tape (available from 3M of St. Paul, MN, part number 950) (FIGS. 19A, 19B, 20A and 20B). A first pair of sensors 410, 415 is placed at the vertices of the mannequin's labia minora, which is centered on the mannequin's urethra. A second pair of sensors 420, 425 was placed at the vertices of the mannequin's labia majora at a position 6 mm anterior to the sensors 410, 415 (Figs. 19A, 19B). A third pair of sensors 430, 435 was placed on the surface of the mannequin gluteal muscles at a location 32 mm posterior to the posterior commissure of the labia minora (Figs. 19A, 19B). A fourth pair of sensors 440, 445 was placed on the surface of the mannequin's mons pubis at a position 65 mm anterior to the center of the mannequin's urethra (Figs. 20A, 20B).

3. Pull the undergarment over the mannequin so that the undergarment sits smoothly and symmetrically about the centerline of the mannequin's head. Pull the underwear up so that it is moderately tight. By recording the pressure at sensors 430, 435, 440 and 445 for a first garment and setting up subsequent garments appropriately, the repeatability can be improved so that the same pressure is as close as possible.

4. Acquire pressure from 410, 415, 420 and 425 using interface module and software according to manufacturer's instructions. At least four samples should be evaluated. If desired, the acquired data can be exported to a spreadsheet file for further analysis by subsequent instructions provided by the software.

5. Record the mean and standard deviation for each sample. When comparing samples, well-known statistical techniques (analysis of variance) can be used.

The disclosures of all patents, patent applications (including any patents issued later, and any related and published foreign patent applications) and publications mentioned in this specification are incorporated by reference. in this manual. However, it is expressly not intended that any of these documents cited by reference teach or disclose the present invention.

It is also to be understood that, although not individually set forth, all limits and ranges specified herein include all narrower ranges, limits and numbers that may be claimed and fall within such specified limits and ranges .

While a few particular embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. The appended claims are to cover all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of this invention.

Claims (21)

1. A system comprising a disposable absorbent article and an undergarment for securing said disposable absorbent article, said system being characterized in that said undergarment is capable of maintaining said absorbent article in close contact with the body, said system comprising: Disposable absorbent articles comprising a liquid permeable side, a liquid impermeable side opposite the liquid permeable side and an absorbent member located between said liquid permeable side and liquid impermeable side, wherein said liquid permeable side and said said liquid-impermeable side is provided as a unitary structure, and said absorbent article is capable of maintaining contact with and covering at least a portion of the inner surface of the wearer's labia and at least a portion of the outer surface of the wearer's labia; and An undergarment worn around the waist of a wearer for maintaining a disposable absorbent article in intimate contact with the body, the undergarment having a waist opening, a pair of leg openings and a longitudinal centerline, the undergarment comprising a A crotch region of the article that maintains intimate contact with the vulva of the wearer, wherein the disposable absorbent article is capable of covering at least a portion of said crotch region of said undergarment. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein said disposable absorbent article is sized and configured to cover the vulva and perineum of a female wearer, and does not extend beyond the wearer's mons pubic anteriorly, and Do not extend beyond the wearer's anus. 3. The system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said disposable absorbent article, in use, is in contact with at least a portion of the inner surface of the wearer's labia, at least a portion of the outer surface of the wearer's labia, and said undergarment. At least a portion of the crotch region generally maintains continuous contact and covers these portions. 4. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said disposable absorbent article covers substantially the entire inner surface of the wearer's labia, up to and including the floor of the wearer's vestibule. 5. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said disposable absorbent article covers substantially the entire outer surface of the wearer's labia. 6. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein in use, when the wearer's legs are brought together, the crotch region of the undergarment assumes a shape that generally conforms to the shape of the wearer's vulva. structure. 7. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein in use, when the wearer's legs are separated, the crotch region of the undergarment assumes a shape that generally conforms to the shape of the wearer's vulva. structure. 8. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein in use the crotch region of the undergarment assumes a modified pointed configuration, wherein the pointed shape is modified such that the undergarment rests on the wearer's labia The space in between is centered in the longitudinally oriented region exhibiting a circular upwardly convex shape located between the two downwardly convexly curved portions of the crotch region. 9. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said disposable absorbent article is sufficiently flexible in at least several areas thereon so that said absorbent article exhibits a similar shape to the crotch region of said underwear. structure. 10. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the article has a longitudinal central region capable of being placed in the interlabial space of the wearer, said longitudinal central region capable of residing on the wearer at a height of In the space between the labia of the patient, the height should be higher than at least some parts of the absorbent article lying transversely outward of the longitudinal central region. 11. The system of claim 10, wherein said absorbent article is capable of assuming such a configuration in the absence of pressure exerted by the inner thighs of the wearer. 12. 11. The system of claim 11 wherein said article is substantially flat prior to use. 13. 11. The system of claim 11, wherein said article has a raised portion on the body facing side. 14. The system of claim 13 wherein said raised portion is formed by a tube of absorbent material attached to said liquid permeable side of said absorbent article. 15. The system of claim 13, wherein said raised portion comprises a protrusion forming member, and said liquid permeable side comprises a liquid permeable topsheet, wherein said protrusion forming member is located on said permeable surface. Liquid-permeable underneath the topsheet. 16. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said absorbent article has a longitudinal central region capable of being located in the space between the labia of the wearer, and the portion of said absorbent article located outside said longitudinal central region Capable of wrapping around the wearer's labia from the front of the labia to the back of the labia. 17. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the length of the absorbent article is less than or equal to 7 inches (18 centimeters). 18. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein both the absorbent article and the crotch region of the undergarment are vapor permeable. 19. A system consisting of a disposable absorbent article and an undergarment for maintaining said disposable absorbent article in intimate contact with the body, said system comprising: Disposable absorbent articles comprising a liquid permeable side, a liquid impermeable side opposite the liquid permeable side and an absorbent member located between said liquid permeable side and liquid impermeable side, wherein said liquid permeable side and said The liquid impermeable side is provided as a unitary structure, and the absorbent article is sized and configured to cover the female wearer's vulva, perineum, and the area immediately adjacent to these parts, and does not extend forward beyond the wearer's mons pubis, which does not extend backward beyond the anus of the wearer; and An undergarment worn about the waist of a wearer for maintaining a disposable absorbent article in intimate contact with the body, the undergarment having a waist opening, a pair of leg openings, and a longitudinal centerline, the undergarment comprising a The crotch region of the absorbent article in close contact with the wearer's vulva, wherein a portion of the absorbent article covers the longitudinal centerline of the supporting undergarment, portions of the absorbent article cover portions of the crotch region of the supporting undergarment laterally outward of the longitudinal centerline of the supporting undergarment, the crotch region of the supporting undergarment Provides a body contact force along its longitudinal centerline sufficient to lift portions of said absorbent article overlaying it to a height higher than those overlaying in the crotch region transverse to said longitudinal center region At least some portion of the absorbent article on the outer portion. 20. The system according to claim 19, wherein at least some portion of said absorbent article capable of maintaining contact with and covering at least some portion of the outer surface of the wearer's labia will be less than or equal to 20 g/sq. Bending under the force of centimeter body contact. twenty one. The system of claim 19, wherein the edges of the crotch region of the support undergarment form part of the leg openings, the edges of the crotch region exerting low body contact pressure on the wearer's body Less than or equal to 20 g/cm2.

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