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 consumers, the outer covering preferably comprises a woven or knitted fabric (e.g. terrycloth, fleece, alova suede, etc.,) that is effective in allowing the liquid to pass through the fabric for uptake by the first inner material. The outer covering may optionally include one or more decorative features, such as an insignia, logo, or other decorative matter that is imprinted, embroidered, or otherwise added thereto. To form the outer covering, one or more pieces of the woven or knitted material, such as top and bottom portions of a generally circular configuration may be sewn or otherwise attached to one another to form an inner pocket in which the inner material is disposed. Alternatively, the top and bottom portions may separately attach to an outer member, such as an outer ring element, that may facilitate manipulation of the insert, provide shape, and / or provide decorative value thereto.

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, particularly because of their lack of durability when wetted.

Woven fabrics are generally much more durable and reusable than paper products, but the ability of the individual fibers to rapidly uptake and hold fluid is somewhat less than cellulose, making them less than ideal for that purpose.

Even if sufficient to absorb the amount of excess fluid on or from the container, tissue, paper, and fabrics can retain fluid for an extended period of time which can cause the bottom of the container to remain moist continually.

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