Absorbent coaster insert

Abstract

An absorbent coaster article for insertion into a cup holder that comprises an inner material including one or more layers of a superabsorbent polymeric material, such as a polypropylene microfiber fabric, that is enclosed by a protective outer covering comprising a fabric material effective for the passage of liquids therethrough to be absorbed by the superabsorbent inner material. The outer covering may be sewn to form an inner pocket containing the inner material, or the insert may include an outer ring member joining two halves of the outer material and/or to provide a means to grasp or shape the insert. The coaster article may further include a base member to hold the removable insert and protect the underlying surface from excess moisture.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION[0001]This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60 / 899,844, filed on Feb. 6, 2007, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated into this disclosure in its entirety.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]This invention relates to absorbent articles, more particularly to coaster inserts.BACKGROUND[0003]The problem of excess moisture from condensation, drips, or spillage associated with the use of a personal beverage container, such as a drinking glass or cup, mug, bottle, can, etc., has been addressed in different ways, depending on the importance of collecting the moisture or protecting the underlying surface. Reusable coasters, which are typically made of wood, ceramic, metal, plastic, or other durable materials, are most often used to provide a protective function to underlying surfaces, such as to keep moisture and / or heat from damaging or staining table surfaces, counter tops, etc., or speed clean up of surfaces by int...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0006]The foregoing problems are solved and a technical advance is achieved in an illustrative absorbent article, such as a removable and reusable insert for use in a cup holder, that comprises an absorbent inner portion or material and an outer covering that encloses the inner portion, the inner material comprising a superabsorbent polymer fiber material engineered for rapid uptake and retention of excess fluid from a beverage container, an example being multiple layers of a polypropylene microfiber mesh configured to hold many times its weight in fluid. Other materials include polyacrylate fibers, polyacrylic acid, and other synthetics, which may also be used in combination with other types of fibers, such as cellulose to more rapidly absorb and retain fluids than natural fibers or traditional woven and non-woven fabric blends. To increase the durability and acceptance of the article by c

Problems solved by technology

While some coaster materials, such as absorbent stone, cork, fabric, etc. are able to absorb excess moisture, they are limited in their ability to fulfill this function.

This can especially be a problem in cup holders, such as those found in vehicles, where moisture tends to pool in the bottom of the holder, particularly if it lacks a means for drainage.

Of course, absorbent articles, such as napkins or paper coasters made of cellulose fiber, are intended to be disposable items and must be frequently replaced, part

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