Technologies for incontinence and menstrual apparel and underwear

Abstract

An incontinence underwear comprising a crotch region accommodating a seam, a first layer, a second layer, a third layer, a fourth layer, a fifth layer, a sixth layer, and a seventh layer, wherein the first layer is innermost, wherein the seventh layer is outermost, wherein the second layer extends between the first layer and the third layer, wherein the fourth layer extends between the third layer and the fifth layer, wherein the sixth layer extends between the fifth layer and the seventh layer, wherein the seam extends through the first layer, the sixth layer, and the seventh layer, wherein the seam avoids extending through the second layer, the third layer, the fourth layer, and the fifth layer, wherein the second layer is bonded or adhered to the third layer.

Description

[0001] Cross-references

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 041,509, filed on June 19, 2020; the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to absorbent garments and undergarments, including incontinence undergarments and menstrual undergarments and garments. Background Art

[0004] Where in the present disclosure, a document, act and / or item of knowledge is referenced and / or discussed, such reference and / or discussion is not an admission that the document, act and / or item of knowledge and / or any combination thereof was publicly available, known to the public, part of the common general knowledge and / or otherwise constituted any prior art under any applicable statutory provisions at the priority date; and / or was known to be relevant to any attempt to solve any problem addressed by the present disclosure. Furthermore, nothing is disclaimed.

[0005] It would be desirable to have incontinence and menstrual underwear and garments that are sufficiently waterproof, yet sufficiently abrasion and tear resistant. However, despite various attempts by others, such absorbent or incontinence and menstrual underwear or garments do not exist. Summary of the invention

[0006] The present disclosure allows for an absorbent or incontinence and menstrual underwear and garment that is sufficiently waterproof, yet sufficiently abrasion and tear resistant. The present disclosure at least partially addresses at least one of the above-mentioned inefficiencies. However, the present disclosure may prove useful to other technical fields. Therefore, the various claims described below should not be construed as necessarily limited to addressing any of the above-mentioned inefficiencies.

[0007] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a device includes: an absorbent or incontinence and menstrual underwear or garment, which includes a crotch region that accommodates a stitch, a first layer, a second layer, a third layer, a fourth layer, a fifth layer, a sixth layer, and a seventh layer, wherein the first layer is innermost, wherein the seventh layer is outermost, wherein the second layer extends between the first layer and the third layer, wherein the fourth layer extends between the third layer and the fifth layer, wherein the sixth layer extends below the fifth layer and above the seventh layer, wherein the stitch extends through the first layer, the sixth layer, and the seventh layer, wherein the stitch avoids extending through the second layer, the third layer, the fourth layer, and the fifth layer, and wherein the second layer is bonded or adhered to the third layer.

[0008] The device according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the second layer is adhered or bonded to the first layer.

[0009] The device according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the second layer is adhered or bonded to the sixth layer.

[0010] The device according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first layer is coupled to the sixth layer via the second layer.

[0011] The device according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein a material extends from below the fifth layer to above the third layer. The device according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the material is coupled to the bottom of the fifth layer and the top of the third layer. The device according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the material is coupled to the bottom of the second layer. The device according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the material is coupled to the bottom of the first layer.

[0012] The device according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the second layer extends over a portion of the sixth layer but does not extend over the third layer.

[0013] The device according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the material extends above the third layer and below the first layer, but does not extend below the second layer.

[0014] The device according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the second layer extends below the first layer and above the third layer and above the material, but not above the sixth layer. The device according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the material is a bonding tape.

[0015] The device according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the sixth layer has a first portion and a second portion, and wherein the first portion of the sixth layer extends below the seventh layer and the second portion of the sixth layer extends above the seventh layer.

[0016] The device according to one embodiment wherein the suture extends through the second portion of the sixth layer but not through the first portion of the sixth layer.

[0017] The device according to one embodiment wherein the suture extends through the second portion of the sixth layer and through the seventh layer but not through the first portion of the sixth layer.

[0018] The device according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the second portion of the sixth layer extends below the first layer.

[0019] The device according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the second portion of the sixth layer extends below the first layer and the second layer.

[0020] The device according to one of the aforementioned embodiments, wherein the first layer has a first portion and a second portion, and wherein the second portion of the first layer extends below the first portion of the first layer, and wherein the suture extends through the second portion of the first layer but not through the first portion of the first layer.

[0021] A device according to one of the aforementioned embodiments, wherein the first layer has a first portion and a second portion, and wherein the second portion of the first layer extends below the first portion of the first layer, wherein the sixth layer has a first portion and a second portion, and wherein the first portion of the sixth layer extends below the seventh layer and the second portion of the sixth layer extends above the seventh layer, and wherein the suture extends through the second portion of the first layer but not through the first portion of the first layer, through the second portion of the sixth layer but not through the first portion of the sixth layer, and through the seventh layer.

[0022] The device according to one of the preceding embodiments, further comprising a material, such as for example a bonding tape, extending along the entire perimeter of the third, fourth and fifth layers from below the fifth layer to above the third layer.

[0023] The device according to one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the edge of the fifth layer extends over the third layer along the entire perimeter of the third and fourth layers, and wherein the edge of the fifth layer is coupled to the top of the third layer. The device according to one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the edge of the fifth layer is coupled to the third layer using a bonding strip. The device according to one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the second layer extends over the third layer and the edge of the fifth layer, but does not extend over the sixth layer. The device according to one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein material such as, for example, a piece of bonding strip is positioned below the first layer and above the sixth layer, but does not extend over the second layer, below the second layer, over the edge of the fifth layer, or over the third layer.

[0024] A device according to one of the aforementioned embodiments, wherein the material, such as, for example, a bonding strip, includes an end extending above the sixth layer and below the second layer, and wherein the stitching extends through the first layer, the second layer, the end of the material, the sixth layer, and the seventh layer.

[0025] A device according to one of the aforementioned embodiments, wherein material such as, for example, a bonding strip includes an end extending above the sixth layer and below the first layer but not below the second layer, and wherein the stitching extends through the first layer, the end of the material, the sixth layer, and the seventh layer.

[0026] A device according to one of the aforementioned embodiments, wherein the first layer extends over a material such as, for example, a bonding tape, over the sixth layer, and over the second layer, wherein the second layer extends over the sixth layer and below the first layer, and wherein the stitches extend through the first layer, the second layer, the sixth layer, and the seventh layer, and wherein the second layer is coupled to the first layer and the sixth layer, and the first layer is coupled to the material.

[0027] A device according to one of the aforementioned embodiments, wherein the first layer extends over a material such as, for example, a bonding tape, over the sixth layer and over the second layer, wherein the second layer extends over the sixth layer and below the first layer, and wherein the stitches extend through the first layer, the sixth layer, and the seventh layer, and wherein the second layer is coupled to the first layer and the sixth layer, and the first layer is coupled to the material.

[0028] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a method includes: making an absorbent or incontinence and menstrual underwear or garment include a crotch area that accommodates a stitch, a first layer, a second layer, a third layer, a fourth layer, a fifth layer, a sixth layer, and a seventh layer, wherein the first layer is the innermost and the seventh layer is the outermost, extending the second layer between the first layer and the third layer so that the second layer is bonded or adhered to the third layer; extending the fourth layer between the third layer and the fifth layer; extending the sixth layer below the fifth layer and above the seventh layer; extending the stitch through the first layer, the second layer, the sixth layer, and the seventh layer, and avoiding extending through the third layer, the fourth layer, and the fifth layer.

[0029] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a method includes: making an absorbent or incontinence and menstrual underwear or garment include a crotch area that accommodates a stitch, a first layer, a second layer, a third layer, a fourth layer, a fifth layer, a sixth layer, and a seventh layer, wherein the first layer is the innermost and the seventh layer is the outermost, extending the second layer between the first layer and the third layer so that the second layer is bonded or adhered to the third layer; extending the fourth layer between the third layer and the fifth layer; extending the sixth layer below the fifth layer and above the seventh layer; extending the stitch through the first layer, the sixth layer, and the seventh layer, and avoiding extending through the second layer, the third layer, the fourth layer, and the fifth layer.

[0030] The method according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the second layer is adhered or bonded to the first layer.

[0031] The method according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the second layer is adhered or bonded to the sixth layer.

[0032] The method according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first layer is coupled to the sixth layer via the second layer.

[0033] The method according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the sixth layer has a first portion and a second portion, and wherein the first portion of the sixth layer extends below the seventh layer and the second portion of the sixth layer extends above the seventh layer.

[0034] The method according to one embodiment, wherein the stitching extends through the second portion of the sixth layer but not through the first portion of the sixth layer.

[0035] The method according to one embodiment, wherein the suture extends through the second portion of the sixth layer and through the seventh layer, but does not extend through the first portion of the sixth layer.

[0036] The method according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the second portion of the sixth layer extends below the first layer.

[0037] The method according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the second portion of the sixth layer extends below the first layer and the second layer.

[0038] The method according to one of the aforementioned embodiments, wherein the first layer has a first portion and a second portion, and wherein the second portion of the first layer extends below the first portion of the first layer, and wherein the stitching extends through the second portion of the first layer but not through the first portion of the first layer.

[0039] A method according to one of the aforementioned embodiments, wherein the first layer has a first portion and a second portion, and wherein the second portion of the first layer extends below the first portion of the first layer, wherein the sixth layer has a first portion and a second portion, and wherein the first portion of the sixth layer extends below the seventh layer and the second portion of the sixth layer extends above the seventh layer, and wherein the stitching extends through the second portion of the first layer but not through the first portion of the first layer, through the second portion of the sixth layer but not through the first portion of the sixth layer, and through the seventh layer.

[0040] The method according to one of the preceding embodiments, further comprising coupling a bonding strip extending along the entire perimeter of the third, fourth and fifth layers from below the fifth layer to above the third layer.

[0041] The method according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the edge of the fifth layer extends over the third layer along the entire perimeter of the third and fourth layers, and wherein the edge of the fifth layer is coupled to the top of the third layer.

[0042] The method according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein an edge of the fifth layer is bonded to the third layer using a bonding tape. The method according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the second layer extends over the third layer and an edge of the fifth layer, but does not extend over the sixth layer. The method according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein a material such as, for example, a piece of bonding tape is located below the first layer and above the sixth layer, but does not extend over the second layer, below the second layer, over an edge of the fifth layer, or over the third layer.

[0043] The method according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the material, such as, for example, a bonding tape, includes an end portion extending above the sixth layer and below the second layer, and wherein the stitching extends through the first layer, the second layer, the end portion of the material, the sixth layer, and the seventh layer.

[0044] A method according to one of the aforementioned embodiments, wherein a material such as, for example, a bonding tape includes an end extending above the sixth layer and below the first layer but not below the second layer, and wherein a stitching extends through the first layer, the end of the material, the sixth layer, and the seventh layer.

[0045] A method according to one of the aforementioned embodiments, wherein the first layer extends over a material such as, for example, a bonding tape, over the sixth layer and over the second layer, wherein the second layer extends over the sixth layer and below the first layer, and wherein the stitching extends through the first layer, the second layer, the sixth layer, and the seventh layer, and wherein the second layer is joined to the first layer and the sixth layer, and the first layer is joined to the material.

[0046] A method according to one of the aforementioned embodiments, wherein the first layer extends over a material such as, for example, a bonding tape, over the sixth layer and over the second layer, wherein the second layer extends over the sixth layer and below the first layer, and wherein the stitching extends through the first layer, the sixth layer, and the seventh layer, and wherein the second layer is joined to the first layer and the sixth layer, and the first layer is joined to the material.

[0047] The present disclosure is implemented in various forms shown in a set of illustrative drawings. Note that variations are contemplated as part of the present disclosure, limited only by the scope of the various claims recited below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0048] This set of illustrative drawings shows various example embodiments of the present disclosure. Such drawings should not be construed as necessarily limiting the present disclosure. Similar reference numerals and / or similar reference number schemes may always refer to similar and / or similar elements.

[0049] Figures 1 to 7 Various perspective views of incontinence and menstrual undergarments or garments according to the present disclosure are shown.

[0050] Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of the crotch region of an incontinence and menstrual underwear or garment is shown in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] Fig. 9 A cross-sectional view of the crotch region of an incontinence and menstrual underwear or garment is shown in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] Fig.10 A cross-sectional view of the crotch region of an incontinence and menstrual underwear or garment is shown in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0053] Fig.11 A cross-sectional view of the crotch region of an incontinence and menstrual underwear or garment is shown in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0054] Fig.12 A cross-sectional view of the crotch region of an incontinence and menstrual underwear or garment is shown in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0055] Fig.13 A cross-sectional view of the crotch region of an incontinence and menstrual underwear or garment is shown in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0056] Fig.14 A cross-sectional view of the crotch region of an incontinence and menstrual underwear or garment is shown in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0057] Fig.15 A cross-sectional view of the crotch region of an incontinence and menstrual underwear or garment is shown in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0058] Fig.16 A cross-sectional view of the crotch region of an incontinence and menstrual underwear or garment is shown in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0059] Fig.17 A cross-sectional view of the crotch region of an incontinence and menstrual underwear or garment is shown in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0060] Fig.18 A cross-sectional view of the crotch region of an incontinence and menstrual underwear or garment is shown in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0061] Fig.19 A cross-sectional view of the crotch region of an incontinence and menstrual underwear or garment is shown in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0062] Fig. 20 A cross-sectional view of the crotch region of an incontinence and menstrual underwear or garment is shown in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0063] Fig.21 A cross-sectional view of the crotch region of an incontinence and menstrual underwear or garment is shown in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0064] Fig. 22 A cross-sectional view of the crotch region of an incontinence and menstrual underwear or garment is shown in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0065] Fig.23 A cross-sectional view of the crotch region of an incontinence and menstrual underwear or garment is shown in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0066] Fig.24 A cross-sectional view of the crotch region of an incontinence and menstrual underwear or garment is shown in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0067] Fig.25 A cross-sectional view of the crotch region of an incontinence and menstrual underwear or garment is shown in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0068] Fig.26 A cross-sectional view of the crotch region of an incontinence and menstrual underwear or garment is shown in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0069] Fig. 27A cross-sectional view of the crotch region of an incontinence and menstrual underwear or garment is shown in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0070] Fig.28 A cross-sectional view of the crotch region of an incontinence and menstrual underwear or garment is shown in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0071] Fig.29 A cross-sectional view of the crotch region of an incontinence and menstrual underwear or garment is shown in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0072] Fig.30 A cross-sectional view of the crotch region of an incontinence and menstrual underwear or garment is shown in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0073] Fig.31 A cross-sectional view of the crotch region of an incontinence and menstrual underwear or garment is shown in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0074] Fig.32 A cross-sectional view of the crotch region of an incontinence and menstrual underwear or garment is shown in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0075] Fig.33 A cross-sectional view of the crotch region of an incontinence and menstrual underwear or garment is shown in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0076] The present disclosure will now be described more fully with reference to the set of illustrative drawings, in which example embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. The present disclosure may be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as necessarily limited to the example embodiments disclosed herein. Rather, the example embodiments are provided to make the present disclosure thorough and complete and to fully convey the various concepts of the present disclosure to those skilled in the relevant art.

[0077] Features described with respect to certain example embodiments may be combined and sub-combined in various other example embodiments and / or with various other example embodiments. Moreover, different aspects and / or elements of the example embodiments as disclosed herein may also be combined and sub-combined in a similar manner. In addition, some example embodiments, whether individually or collectively, may be components of a larger system, in which other programs may take precedence over their application and / or otherwise modify their application. In addition, as disclosed herein, multiple steps may be required before, after, and / or simultaneously with the example embodiments. Note that at least any and / or all methods and / or processes as disclosed herein may be at least partially performed in any manner via at least one entity.

[0078] Various terms used herein may imply an action or non-action, direct or indirect, full or partial, temporary or permanent. For example, when an element is referred to as being "on," "connected," or "coupled" to another element, the element may be directly on, directly connected, or coupled to the other element and / or there may be intermediate elements, including indirect and / or direct variations. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another element, there are no intermediate elements.

[0079] Although the terms first, second, etc. can be used to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections in this article, these elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections should not necessarily be limited by such terms. These terms are used to distinguish an element, component, region, layer or section from another element, component, region, layer or section. Thus, without departing from the various teachings of the present disclosure, the first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below can be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer or section.

[0080] The various terms used herein are intended to describe specific example embodiments and are not intended to necessarily limit the present disclosure. As used herein, the various singular forms "a", "an", and "the" are intended to also include various plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. When used in this specification, the various terms "include", "comprise", and / or "comprises", "comprising" specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or parts, but do not exclude the presence and / or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, parts, and / or groups thereof.

[0081] As used herein, the term "or" is intended to mean an inclusive "or" rather than an exclusive "or". That is, unless specified otherwise or clear from the context, "X employs A or B" is intended to mean any of the natural inclusive set of permutations. That is, if X employs A; X employs B; or X employs both A and B, then "X employs A or B" is satisfied under any of the foregoing instances.

[0082] Example embodiments of the present disclosure are described herein with reference to illustrations of idealized embodiments (and intermediate structures) of the present disclosure. As such, variations in the various illustrated shapes, for example due to manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances, are contemplated. Thus, the various example embodiments of the present disclosure should not be construed as necessarily limited to the various specific shapes of regions illustrated herein, but rather include shape deviations, for example resulting from manufacturing.

[0083] Any and / or all elements as disclosed herein may be formed from identical structurally continuous pieces, such as being integral, and / or individually manufactured and / or connected, such as being components and / or modules. Any and / or all elements as disclosed herein may be manufactured via any manufacturing process, whether additive manufacturing, subtractive manufacturing, and / or any other type of manufacturing. For example, some manufacturing processes include three-dimensional (3D) printing, laser cutting, computer numerical control routing, milling, pressing, stamping, vacuum forming, hydroforming, injection molding, photolithography, and the like.

[0084] As disclosed herein any and / or all elements can be and / or include solids in part and / or in whole, including metals, minerals, amorphous materials, ceramics, glass ceramics, organic solids (such as wood), and / or polymers, such as rubber, composite materials, semiconductors, nano materials, biomaterials and / or any combination thereof. As disclosed herein any and / or all elements can be and / or include coatings in part and / or in whole, including information coatings (such as ink), adhesive coatings, melt adhesive coatings (such as vacuum seals), and / or heat seals, peel coatings (such as tape linings), low surface energy coatings, optical coatings (such as for color, color, chromaticity, saturation, hue, shadows, transparency, translucency, opacity, luminescence, reflectivity, phosphorescence, anti-reflection and / or holography), photosensitive coatings, electrical properties and / or thermal properties coatings (such as for passivity, insulation, resistance or conduction), magnetic coatings, water blocking and / or waterproof coatings, fragrance coatings and / or any combination thereof. As disclosed herein any and / or all elements can be rigid, flexible and / or any other combination thereof. Any and / or all elements disclosed herein may be the same and / or different from each other in terms of material, shape, size, color and / or any measurable dimension (e.g., length, width, height, depth, area, orientation, circumference, volume, extent, density, temperature, resistance, etc.).

[0085] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs. Various terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with that in the context of the relevant technology and should not be interpreted in an idealized and / or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined as such herein.

[0086] In addition, relative terms such as "below," "down," "above," and "on" may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element to another element, as shown in a set of illustrative figures. In addition to the orientations described in the set of illustrative figures, such relative terms are also intended to include different orientations of the technology shown. For example, if the device in the set of illustrative figures is flipped, various elements described as being on the "down" side of other elements will be oriented on the "up" side of other elements. Similarly, if the device in an illustrative figure is flipped, various elements described as being "below" or "beneath" other elements will be oriented to be "above" other elements. Therefore, the various example terms "below" and "down" can include both above and below orientations.

[0087] As used herein, the term "about" and / or "substantially" refers to a variation of + / -10% relative to a nominal value / term. Such variations are always included in any given value / term provided herein, regardless of whether such variations are specifically referred to therein.

[0088] If any disclosure is incorporated herein by reference, and such disclosure, in part and / or in its entirety, conflicts with the present disclosure, then to the extent of the conflict (if any), and / or the broader disclosure, and / or broader term definitions, the present disclosure controls. If such disclosures, in part and / or in their entirety, conflict with each other, then to the extent of the conflict (if any), the disclosure of the later date controls.

[0089] The term "apparel" includes, but is not limited to, any article that is worn. Apparel also includes, but is not limited to, any article that has a crotch region. Apparel includes, for example, underwear, briefs, shirts, swimwear, pajamas, shorts, tights, leggings, pants, maxi skirts, trousers, boy shorts, bikinis, leather pants, jumpsuits, tights, pantyhose, boxer shorts, bike shorts, or compression shorts.

[0090] Figures 1 to 7 Various perspective views of absorbent or incontinence and menstrual undergarments or garments according to the present disclosure are shown. Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of the crotch region of an incontinence and menstrual underwear or garment according to the present disclosure is shown. In particular, the incontinence and menstrual underwear or garment 100 includes a waistband 102, a front region 108, a back region 110, and a pair of leg openings 104 defining a crotch region 106 therebetween, any of which may include any suitable material (e.g., fabric, natural yarn, synthetic yarn, cotton, silk, polyester, spandex, rubber, plastic, metal, merino wool, nylon, polypropylene, rayon, linen, spandex, bamboo, GORE-TEX, X-static, Tencel).

[0091] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the underwear or garment 100 includes an exterior side (facing away from the wearer's body) having a waistband 102, a front region 108, a back region 110, a pair of leg openings 104, and a crotch region 106. Similarly, as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the undergarment or garment 100 includes an interior side (adjacent to the wearer's body) having a waistband 102 , a front region 108 , a back region 110 , a pair of leg openings 104 , and a crotch region 106 .

[0092] like Figures 3 to 8 As shown, the crotch region 106 has a seam 112, a first layer 114, a second layer 116, a third layer 118, a fourth layer 120, a fifth layer 122, a sixth layer 124, a seventh layer 126, and a material 128, any of which may include any suitable material or textile (e.g., fabric, natural yarn, synthetic yarn, cotton, silk, polyester, spandex, rubber, plastic, metal, merino wool, nylon, polypropylene, rayon, linen, spandex, bamboo, GORE-TEX, X-static, Tencel). The first layer 114 is the innermost. The seventh layer 126 is the outermost. Alternatively, the sixth layer 124 is the outermost. The second layer 116 extends between the first layer 114 and the third layer 118. The fourth layer 120 extends between the third layer 118 and the fifth layer 122. The sixth layer 124 extends below the fifth layer 122, below the second layer 116, below the first layer 114, and above the seventh layer 126.

[0093] The third layer 118 includes a moisture wicking material (e.g., fabric, natural yarn, synthetic yarn, wool, polypropylene, nylon, polyester). Alternatively, the fourth layer 120 or the fifth layer 122 may include a moisture wicking material. The fourth layer 120 includes an absorbent material (e.g., fabric, natural yarn, synthetic yarn, wool, polypropylene, nylon, polyester). Alternatively, the third layer 118 or the fifth layer 122 includes an absorbent material. The fifth layer 122 includes a waterproof material (which may be a coating), but may also include a water-blocking or water-resistant material (which may be a coating). Alternatively, the third layer 118 or the fourth layer 120 may include a waterproof material. The second layer 116 includes or contains a bonding tape (e.g., a strip).

[0094] like Figure 8As shown, the stitching 112 extends through the first layer 114, the sixth layer 124, and the seventh layer 126. The stitching 112 avoids extending through the second layer 116, the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122. The second layer 116 is bonded or adhered to the third layer 118. In some embodiments, the second layer 116 is bonded or adhered to the sixth layer 124. For example, such bonding can be via a suitable bonding tape (e.g., strips). Similarly, for example, such adhesion can be via a suitable adhesive (e.g., glue). In some embodiments, the second layer 116 includes a bonding tape or glue.

[0095] In certain embodiments, the edges of at least two of the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, or the fifth layer 122 are encapsulated via a material 128 extending between the second layer 116 and the sixth layer 124 or between the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124. The material 128 is U-shaped or C-shaped, but other shapes are possible (e.g., V-shaped). The material 128 encapsulates the edges of the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122, but the material 128 may encapsulate the other layers or at least one of the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122.

[0096] In some embodiments, the material 128 has a first edge and a second edge. In some embodiments, the first edge of the material is opposite the second edge of the material.

[0097] For example, encapsulation can be achieved by extending the material 128 from below the fifth layer 122 to above the third layer 118 and around the perimeter of the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122, and bonding the material 128 to the upper portion of the third layer 118 and the lower portion of the fifth layer 122. The material 128 extends between the second layer 116 and the third layer 118 and between the fifth layer 122 and the sixth layer 124.

[0098] In some embodiments, the second layer 116 is bonded (e.g., bonding tape) or adhered (e.g., adhesive, glue) to the third layer 118 via the material 128. In some embodiments, the second layer 116 is bonded or adhered to the third layer using a bonding tape or glue in addition to the material 128. In some embodiments, the second layer 116 includes a bonding tape or glue, and the first layer 114 is coupled to the third layer 118 via the second layer 116.

[0099] like Figure 8As shown, the second layer 116 and the stitching 112 define a gap 132 therebetween. The gap 132 extends between the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124. The gap 132 can have any volumetric shape. Therefore, since the second layer 116 extends between the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124 up to the first point 134, and the stitching 112 extends through the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124 at the second point 136, the first point 134 is spaced apart from the second point 136 (e.g., between about 0.001 inches and 3 inches).

[0100] In certain embodiments, for example, Fig. 9 , Fig.10 , Fig.13 , Fig.17 and Fig.18 As shown, there is no material 128, and the edge portion 138 of the fifth layer 122 extends beyond the perimeter of the third layer 118 and the fourth layer 120 and extends above the third layer 118 and is connected to the upper portion of the third layer 118. In some embodiments, for example, Fig. 9 , Fig.10 , Fig.17 and Fig.18 As shown, the edge portion 138 of the fifth layer 122 is coupled to an upper portion of the third layer 118 and the first layer 114 via the second layer 116 .

[0101] like Fig. 9 As shown, the edge of the second layer 116 extends adjacent to or near the edge of the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124 and passes through the stitching 112, so that the stitching 112 extends through the second layer 116. Fig.10 As shown, the edge of the second layer 116 does not extend past the stitching 112 , such that the stitching 112 extends through the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124 , but not through the second layer 116 .

[0102] like Fig.11 and Fig.12 As shown, in some embodiments, the seventh layer 126 is located above the sixth layer 124 as the outermost layer. The sixth layer 124 includes an edge 140 extending above the seventh layer 126. The first layer 114 includes an edge 142 extending and folded under the first layer 114. In some embodiments, the stitching 112 extends through the edge 142 of the first layer 114, the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124, and the seventh layer 126, but not through the outermost portion of the sixth layer 124 or the innermost portion of the first layer 114, to provide a seemingly invisible stitching.

[0103] like Fig.12As shown, in some embodiments, the first layer 114 includes an edge 142 that is folded under the first layer 114 and extends over the second layer 116 toward the third layer 118. In some embodiments, the edge 142 of the first layer 114 is connected to the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124 via the second layer 116. Fig.11 As shown, in some embodiments, the first layer 114, rather than the edge 142 of the first layer 114, is coupled to the sixth layer 124, rather than the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124, via the second layer 116. In some embodiments, the second layer 116 includes a bonding tape or glue. In some embodiments, the suture 112 extends through the edge 142 of the first layer 114, the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124, and the seventh layer 126, but not through the innermost part of the first layer 114 or the outermost part of the sixth layer 124, to provide a seemingly invisible suture.

[0104] like Fig.14 As shown, in some embodiments, the first layer 114 and the edge 142 of the first layer 114 are coupled to the sixth layer 124 and the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124 via the second layer 116. In some embodiments, the second layer 116 includes a bonding tape or glue. In some embodiments, the stitching 112 extends through the edge 142 of the first layer 114, the second layer 116, the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124, and the seventh layer 126, but not through the innermost part of the first layer 114 or the outermost part of the sixth layer 124 to provide a seemingly invisible stitching.

[0105] like Fig.13 As shown, the edge portion 138 of the fifth layer 122 is coupled to the third layer 118 via a bonding tape or glue 144. The edge of the second layer 116 does not extend past the edge portion 138 in a direction toward the center of the third layer 118, or extends past the stitching 112 in another direction, so that the stitching 112 extends through the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124, but does not extend through the second layer 116. The first layer 114 either extends to the inner edge of the second layer 116 or passes through the inner edge of the second layer 116. When the first layer 114 extends to the inner edge of the second layer 116, the first layer is coupled to the second layer 116 using a bonding tape or glue, or the first layer 114 is coupled to the edge 138 of the fifth layer 122 via the second layer 116, which may include a bonding tape. When the first layer 114 extends past the inner edge of the second layer 116, the first layer 114 can be connected to the third layer 118 without being connected to the second layer 116 using a bonding tape or glue, or the first layer 114 can be connected to both the third layer 118 and the second layer 116 using a bonding tape or glue or a combination of (a) a bonding tape or glue and (b) a second layer 116 that may include a bonding tape.

[0106] like Fig.15 and Fig.16 As shown, in some embodiments, similar to Figure 8 In the illustrated embodiment, stitch 112 extends through first layer 114, sixth layer 124, and seventh layer 126. Stitch 112 avoids extending through second layer 116, third layer 118, fourth layer 120, and fifth layer 122. Second layer 116 is bonded or adhered to third layer 118 but does not extend through material 128. Fig.15 As shown, a piece of bonding tape or glue 150 is located between and couples the first layer 114 to the sixth layer 124, and the suture 112 passes through the bonding tape or glue 150. In some embodiments, the second layer 116 includes bonding tape or glue.

[0107] like Fig.17 and Fig.18 As shown, in some embodiments, the edge portion 138 of the fifth layer 122 is located above the third layer 118 and is coupled to the top of the third layer 118 via the second layer 116. The first edge of the second layer 116 extends over the third layer and couples the first layer 114 to the third layer 118 and the fifth layer 122. The second edge of the second layer 116 extends past the edge of the fifth layer 122. The stitching 112 extends through the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124, but not through the second layer 116. Fig.17 As shown, a piece of bonding tape or glue 150 is located between and couples the first layer 114 to the sixth layer 124, and the suture 112 passes through the bonding tape or glue 150. In some embodiments, the second layer 116 includes bonding tape or glue.

[0108] like Fig.19 and Fig. 20 As shown, in some embodiments, the seventh layer 126 is located on the sixth layer 124 as the outermost layer. The sixth layer 124 includes an edge 140 extending above the seventh layer 126. The first layer includes an edge 142 extending and folded under the first layer 114. In some embodiments, the stitching 112 extends through the edge 142 of the first layer 114, the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124, and the seventh layer 126, but not through the outermost portion of the sixth layer 124 or the innermost portion of the first layer 114, to provide a seemingly invisible stitching.

[0109] Fig.19 In some embodiments, the second layer does not extend past the edge of the material 128 and only couples a portion of the first layer 114 to the material 128 and the third layer 118. The edge 142 of the first layer 114 is coupled to the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124. In some embodiments, the stitch 112 extends through the edge 142 of the first layer 114, the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124, and the seventh layer 126, but not through the innermost part of the first layer 114 or the outermost part of the sixth layer 124, to provide a seemingly invisible stitch. Fig. 20As shown, a piece of bonding tape or glue 150 is located between and connects the edge 142 of the first layer 114 to the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124, and the stitching 112 passes through the edge 142 of the first layer 114, the bonding tape or glue 150, and the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124. In some embodiments, the second layer 116 includes a bonding tape or glue.

[0110] In some embodiments, suture 112 avoids extending through material 128. In some embodiments, for example, Fig.21 and Fig. 22 As shown, a portion 154 of material 128 extends radially toward third layer 118, fourth layer 120, and fifth layer 122. In some embodiments, for example, Fig.21 and Fig. 22 As shown, a portion 154 of material 128 is coupled to itself outside the perimeter of third layer 118, fourth layer 120, and fifth layer 122. The bonding of material 128 to itself can be accomplished, for example, where material 128 includes a bonding tape or where glue is placed in the spaces between the layers of material 128 including portion 154. In some embodiments, for example, Fig.21 and Fig. 22 As shown, the stitching 112 extends through a portion 154 of the material 128 that extends beyond the perimeter of the third layer 118 , the fourth layer 120 , and the fifth layer 122 .

[0111] In some embodiments, for example Fig.25 As shown, material 128 replaces second layer 116. In some embodiments, material 128 includes a bonding tape or glue. In some embodiments, for example, Fig.23 and Fig.24 As shown, material 128 replaces the portion of second layer 116 that extends over third layer 118. In some embodiments, for example, Fig.23 and Fig.24 As shown, the second layer 116 does not extend between the first layer 114 and the third layer 118. In some embodiments, for example, Fig.23 and Fig.24 As shown, the second layer 116 extends between the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124. In some embodiments, for example, Fig.23 and Fig.24 As shown, the second layer 116 includes a bonding tape or glue, and the first layer 114 is coupled to the sixth layer 124 via the second layer 116 .

[0112] In certain embodiments, for example, Fig.26 As shown, the second layer 116 directly contacts the first layer 114 and the third layer 118. In some embodiments, for example, Fig. 27As shown in , the second layer 116 directly contacts the first layer 114 and the material 128. In some embodiments, for example, Fig. 22 As shown, second layer 116 is in direct contact with first layer 114 , third layer 118 , and material 128 .

[0113] like Fig.28 As shown, in some embodiments, the first layer 114 and the edge 142 of the first layer 114 are coupled to the sixth layer 124 and the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124 via the second layer 116. In some embodiments, the second layer 116 includes a bonding tape or glue. In some embodiments, the stitching 112 extends through the edge 142 of the first layer 114, the second layer 116, the portion 154 of the material 128 extending beyond the perimeter of the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122, the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124, and the seventh layer 126, but not through the innermost part of the first layer 114 or the outermost part of the sixth layer 124 to provide a seemingly invisible stitching.

[0114] Fig.29 , in some embodiments, the second layer does not extend past the edge of the material 128 and only couples a portion of the first layer 114 to the material 128 and the third layer 118. The edge 142 of the first layer 114 is coupled to the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124. In some embodiments, the stitch 112 extends through the edge 142 of the first layer 114, the portion 154 of the material 128 that extends beyond the perimeter of the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122, the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124, and the seventh layer 126, but not through the innermost portion of the first layer 114 or the outermost portion of the sixth layer 124, to provide a seemingly invisible stitch.

[0115] like Fig.30 and Fig.31 As shown, in some embodiments, similar to Fig.15 In the illustrated embodiment, a fabric sheet 160 is added that extends from a first edge 162 located below the seventh layer 124 to a second edge 164 located above the first layer 114. The stitch 112 extends through the second edge 164 of the fabric 160, the first layer 114, the sixth layer 126, the seventh layer 124, and the first edge 162 of the fabric 160. The stitch 112 avoids extending through the second layer 116, the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122. The second layer 116 is bonded or adhered to the third layer 118, but does not extend through the material 128. As shown in FIG. Fig.30 As shown, a piece of bonding tape or glue 150 is located between and couples the first layer 114 to the sixth layer 126, and the stitches 112 also pass through the bonding tape or glue 150. In some embodiments, the second layer 116 includes bonding tape or glue.

[0116] like Fig.32 As shown, in some embodiments, a gap may be included between an edge of the second layer 116 and the stitching 112. The method may include extending the gap between the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124. The fabric piece 160 extends from a first edge 162 located above the first layer 114 to a second edge 164 located below the seventh layer 124. The stitching 112 extends through the first edge 162 of the fabric 160, the first layer 114, the sixth layer 126, the seventh layer 124, and the second edge 164 of the fabric 160.

[0117] In certain embodiments, for example, Fig.33 As shown, material 128 replaces the portion of second layer 116 that extends above third layer 118, and fabric piece 160 extends from a first edge 162 located above first layer 114 to a second edge 164 located below seventh layer 124. Seam 112 extends through first edge 162 of fabric 160, first layer 114, sixth layer 126, seventh layer 124, and second edge 164 of fabric 160. In some embodiments, for example, Fig.33 As shown, the second layer 116 does not extend between the first layer 114 and the third layer 118. In some embodiments, for example, Fig.33 As shown, the second layer 116 extends between the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 126. In some embodiments, for example, Fig.33 As shown, the second layer 116 includes a bonding tape or glue, and the first layer 114 is coupled to the sixth layer 126 via the second layer 116 .

[0118] In some embodiments, the first layer 114 and the second layer 116 define an elastic edge portion. In some embodiments, the sixth layer 124 and the seventh layer 126 define an elastic edge portion. For example, the elastic edge portion can include rubber or any other suitable material (e.g., fabric, natural yarn, synthetic yarn, cotton, silk, polyester, spandex, rubber, plastic, metal, merino wool, nylon, polypropylene, rayon, linen, spandex, bamboo, GORE-TEX, X-static, spandex, Tencel).

[0119] like Figure 5 As shown, the first layer 114 defines an arcuate region 132 through which the third layer 118 appears to be arcuate. The third layer 118 is visually distinct relative to the first layer 114, but can be avoided from being visually distinct. Note that the arcuate region 132 is not limited to being arcuate, and other shapes or shape patterns are possible (e.g., triangles, circles, rectangles, squares, octagons, pentagons, hexagons, five-pointed or six-pointed stars, diamonds, polka dots).

[0120] In one mode of operation, a method may include making an absorbent or incontinence and menstrual underwear or garment 100 include a crotch region 106 that contains a seam 112, a first layer 114, a second layer 116, a third layer 118, a fourth layer 120, a fifth layer 122, a sixth layer 124, and a seventh layer 126, and material 128. The first layer 114 is innermost and the seventh layer 126 is outermost. Alternatively, the sixth layer 124 is outermost. The method may include extending the second layer 116 between the first layer 114 and the third layer 118 so that the second layer 116 is bonded or adhered to the third layer 118. The method may include extending the fourth layer 120 between the third layer 118 and the fifth layer 122. The method may include extending the sixth layer 124 below the fifth layer 122, below the second layer 116, below the first layer 114, and above the seventh layer 126. The method may include extending the stitch 112 through the first layer 114 , the second layer 116 , the sixth layer 124 , and the seventh layer 126 , while avoiding extending through the third layer 118 , the fourth layer 120 , and the fifth layer 122 .

[0121] In one mode of operation, the third layer 118 wicks moisture (e.g., fabric, natural yarn, synthetic yarn, wool, polypropylene, nylon, polyester). Alternatively, the fourth layer 120 or the fifth layer 122 can wick moisture. The fourth layer 120 absorbs moisture (e.g., fabric, natural yarn, synthetic yarn, wool, polypropylene, nylon, polyester). Alternatively, the third layer 118 or the fifth layer 122 absorbs moisture. The fifth layer 122 prevents the transfer of moisture (can be a coating). Alternatively, the third layer 118 or the fourth layer 120 prevents the transfer of moisture. The second layer 116 includes or comprises a bonding tape (e.g., a strip).

[0122] According to an operation mode, such as Figure 8 As shown, the method may include extending the suture 112 through the first layer 114, the sixth layer 124, and the seventh layer 126. According to one mode of operation, the method may include preventing the suture 112 from extending through the second layer 116, the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122. The second layer 116 is bonded or adhered to the third layer 118. In certain embodiments, the method may include bonding or adhering the second layer 116 to the sixth layer 124. For example, such bonding may be via a suitable bonding tape (e.g., strips). Similarly, for example, such adhesion may be via a suitable adhesive (e.g., glue).

[0123] In some embodiments, the method may include bonding or adhering the second layer 116 to the third layer 118 via the material 128. In some embodiments, the method may include bonding or adhering the second layer 116 to the sixth layer 124. For example, such bonding may be via a suitable bonding tape (e.g., a strip). Similarly, for example, such adhesion may be via a suitable adhesive (e.g., a glue). In some embodiments, the second layer 116 is bonded or adhered to the third layer using a bonding tape or glue other than the material 128. In some embodiments, the second layer 116 includes a bonding tape or glue, and the first layer 114 is coupled to the third layer 118 via the second layer 116.

[0124] In certain embodiments, the method may include encapsulating at least two of the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, or the fifth layer 120 via a material 128 extending between the second layer 116 and the sixth layer 124 or between the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124. The material 128 is U-shaped or C-shaped, but other shapes are possible (e.g., V-shaped). The method may include encapsulating the material 128 at the edges of the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122, but the material 128 may encapsulate the other layers or at least one of the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122.

[0125] For example, encapsulation can be achieved by extending the material 128 from below the fifth layer 122 to above the third layer 118 and around the perimeter of the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122, and bonding the material 128 to the upper portion of the third layer 118 and the lower portion of the fifth layer 122. The material 128 extends between the second layer 116 and the third layer 118 and between the fifth layer 122 and the sixth layer 124.

[0126] like Fig. 9 As shown, in some embodiments, the method may include extending the edge of the second layer 116 adjacent to or near the edge of the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124 and passing through the stitching 112, so that the stitching 112 extends through the second layer 116. Fig.10 As shown, in certain embodiments, the method may include not extending the edge of the second layer 116 past the stitch 112 such that the stitch 112 extends through the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124 but not through the second layer 116 .

[0127] like Fig.11 and Fig.12As shown, in some embodiments, the method may include positioning the seventh layer 126 above the sixth layer 124 as the outermost layer. The sixth layer 124 includes an edge 140 extending above the seventh layer 126. The first layer 114 includes an edge 142 extending and folded under the first layer 114. In some embodiments, the method may include extending the stitch 112 through the edge 142 of the first layer 114, the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124, and the seventh layer 126, but not through the outermost portion of the sixth layer 124 or the innermost portion of the first layer 114, to provide a stitch that appears invisible.

[0128] like Fig.12 As shown, in some embodiments, the method may include folding the edge 142 of the first layer 114 under the first layer 114 and extending the edge 142 over the second layer 116 toward the third layer 118. In some embodiments, the method may include coupling the edge 142 of the first layer 114 to the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124 via the second layer 116. Fig.11 As shown, in some embodiments, the method may include coupling the first layer 114, but not the edge 142 of the first layer 114, to the sixth layer 124, but not the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124, via the second layer 116. In some embodiments, the second layer 116 includes a bonding tape or glue. In some embodiments, the method may include extending the suture 112, extending through the edge 142 of the first layer 114, the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124, and the seventh layer 126, but not through the innermost part of the first layer 114 or the outermost part of the sixth layer 124, to provide a seemingly invisible suture.

[0129] like Fig.14 As shown, in some embodiments, the method may include coupling the first layer 114 and the edge 142 of the first layer 114 to the sixth layer 124 and the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124 via the second layer 116. In some embodiments, the second layer 116 includes a bonding tape or glue. In some embodiments, the method may include extending the suture 112 through the edge 142 of the first layer 114, the second layer 116, the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124, and the seventh layer 126, but not through the innermost part of the first layer 114 or the outermost part of the sixth layer 124 to provide a seemingly invisible suture.

[0130] like Fig.13As shown, in some embodiments, the method may include coupling the edge portion 138 of the fifth layer 122 to the third layer 118 via a bonding tape or glue 144. In some embodiments, the method may include not extending the edge of the second layer 116 past the edge portion 138 in a direction toward the center of the third layer 118, or extending past the stitching 112 in another direction, so that the stitching 112 extends through the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124, but not through the second layer 116. In some embodiments, the method may include extending the first layer 114 to the inner edge of the second layer 116 or past the inner edge of the second layer 116. When the first layer 114 extends to the inner edge of the second layer 116, the first layer is coupled to the second layer 116 using a bonding tape or glue, or the first layer 114 is coupled to the edge 138 of the fifth layer 122 via the second layer 116, which may include a bonding tape. When the first layer 114 extends past the inner edge of the second layer 116, the first layer 114 can be connected to the third layer 118 without being connected to the second layer 116 using a bonding tape or glue, or the first layer 114 can be connected to both the third layer 118 and the second layer 116 using a bonding tape or glue or a combination of (a) a bonding tape or glue and (b) a second layer 116 that may include a bonding tape.

[0131] like Fig.15 and Fig.16 As shown, in some embodiments, similar to Figure 8 In the illustrated embodiment, the method may include extending the suture 112 through the first layer 114, the sixth layer 124, and the seventh layer 126. In certain embodiments, the method may include avoiding extending the suture 112 through the second layer 116, the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122. In certain embodiments, the method may include bonding or adhering the second layer 116 to the third layer 118 without extending the second layer through the material 128. Fig.15 As shown, in some embodiments, the method may include positioning a piece of bonding tape or glue 150 between the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124, coupling the first layer 114 to the sixth layer 124, and passing the suture 112 through the bonding tape or glue 150. In some embodiments, the second layer 116 includes bonding tape or glue.

[0132] like Fig.17 and Fig.18As shown, in some embodiments, the method may include positioning the edge portion 138 of the fifth layer 122 above the third layer 118 and coupling it to the top of the third layer 118 via the second layer 116. In some embodiments, the method may include extending the first edge of the second layer 116 over the third layer and coupling the first layer 114 to the third layer 118 and the fifth layer 122. In some embodiments, the method may include not extending the second edge of the second layer 116 past the edge of the fifth layer 122. In some embodiments, the method may include extending the stitching 112 through the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124, but not through the second layer 116. Fig.17 As shown, in some embodiments, the method may include positioning a piece of bonding tape or glue 150 between the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124 and coupling the first layer 114 to the sixth layer 124 therewith, and passing the suture 112 through the bonding tape or glue 150. In some embodiments, the second layer 116 includes the bonding tape or glue.

[0133] like Fig.19 and Fig. 20 As shown, in some embodiments, the method may include positioning the seventh layer 126 above the sixth layer 124 as the outermost layer. In some embodiments, the method may include extending the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124 over the seventh layer 126. In some embodiments, the method may include extending the edge 142 of the first layer and folding the edge 142 under the first layer 114. In some embodiments, the method may include extending the stitch 112 through the edge 142 of the first layer 114, the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124, and the seventh layer 126, but not through the outermost portion of the sixth layer 124 or the innermost portion of the first layer 114, to provide a stitch that appears invisible.

[0134] Fig.19 In some embodiments, the method may include not extending the second layer past the edge of the material 128 and coupling only a portion of the first layer 114 to the material 128 and the third layer 118. In some embodiments, the method may include coupling the edge 142 of the first layer 114 to the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124. In some embodiments, the method may include extending the stitch 112 through the edge 142 of the first layer 114, the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124, and the seventh layer 126, but not through the innermost portion of the first layer 114 or the outermost portion of the sixth layer 124, to provide a stitch that appears invisible. Fig. 20As shown, in some embodiments, the method may include positioning a piece of bonding tape or glue 150 between edge 142 of first layer 114 and edge 140 of sixth layer 124, coupling edge 142 of first layer 114 to edge 140 of sixth layer 124, and passing stitch 112 through edge 142 of first layer 114, bonding tape or glue 150, and edge 140 of sixth layer 124. In some embodiments, second layer 116 includes bonding tape or glue.

[0135] In some embodiments, the method may include preventing suture 112 from extending through material 128. In some embodiments, the method may include, for example, Fig.21 and Fig. 22 As shown, a portion 154 of the material 128 extends in a direction radial to the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122. In some embodiments, the method may include, for example, Fig.21 and Fig. 22 As shown, a portion 154 of material 128 is bonded to itself beyond the perimeter of third layer 118, fourth layer 120, and fifth layer 122. In certain embodiments, the method may include bonding material 128 to itself, wherein material 128 includes a bonding tape, or wherein glue is placed in the space between layers of material 128 including portion 154. In certain embodiments, the method may include, for example, Fig.21 and Fig. 22 As shown, the stitch 112 is extended through a portion 154 of the material 128 that extends beyond the perimeter of the third layer 118 , the fourth layer 120 , and the fifth layer 122 .

[0136] In some embodiments, for example Fig.25 As shown, the method may include replacing the second layer 116 with material 128. In some embodiments, material 128 includes a bonding tape or glue. In some embodiments, the method may include, for example, Fig.23 and Fig.24 As shown, the portion of the second layer 116 that extends above the third layer 118 is replaced with material 128. In some embodiments, the method may include, for example, Fig.23 and Fig.24 As shown, the second layer 116 is not extended between the first layer 114 and the third layer 118. In some embodiments, the method may include, for example, Fig.23 and Fig.24 As shown, the second layer 116 extends between the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124. In some embodiments, the method may include, for example, Fig.23 and Fig.24 As shown, where the second layer 116 includes a bonding tape or glue, the first layer 114 is coupled to the sixth layer 124 via the second layer 116 .

[0137] In some embodiments, the method may include, for example, Fig.26 As shown, the second layer 116 is directly in contact with the first layer 114 and the third layer 118. In some embodiments, the method may include, for example, Fig. 27 As shown, the second layer 116 is brought into direct contact with the first layer 114 and the material 128. In certain embodiments, the method may include, for example, Fig. 22 As shown, the second layer 116 is in direct contact with the first layer 114 , the third layer 118 , and the material 128 .

[0138] like Fig.28 As shown, in some embodiments, the method may include coupling the first layer 114 and the edge 142 of the first layer 114 to the sixth layer 124 and the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124 via the second layer 116. In some embodiments, the method may include having the second layer 116 include a bonding tape or glue. In some embodiments, the method may include extending the stitching 112 through the edge 142 of the first layer 114, the second layer 116, the portion 154 of the material 128 extending beyond the perimeter of the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122, the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124, and the seventh layer 126, but not through the innermost part of the first layer 114 or the outermost part of the sixth layer 124, to provide a stitching that appears invisible.

[0139] like Fig.29 As shown, in some embodiments, the method may include not extending the second layer past the edge of the material 128, but only coupling a portion of the first layer 114 to the material 128 and the third layer 118. In some embodiments, the method may include coupling the edge 142 of the first layer 114 to the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124. In some embodiments, the method may include extending the stitch 112 through the edge 142 of the first layer 114, the portion 154 of the material 128 that extends beyond the perimeter of the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122, the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124, and the seventh layer 126, but not through the innermost portion of the first layer 114 or the outermost portion of the sixth layer 124, to provide a stitch that appears to be invisible.

[0140] like Fig.30 and Fig.31 As shown, in some embodiments, the method may include, similar to Fig.15In the illustrated embodiment, the first edge 162 of the fabric piece 160 is positioned above the first layer 114, and the second edge 164 of the fabric piece is extended to a position below the seventh layer 124. In certain embodiments, the method may include extending the stitch 112 through the first edge 162 of the fabric 160, the first layer 114, the sixth layer 126, the seventh layer 124, and the second edge 164 of the fabric 160. In certain embodiments, the method may include avoiding extending the stitch 112 through the second layer 116, the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122. In certain embodiments, the method may include bonding or adhering the second layer 116 to the third layer 118 without extending the second layer through the material 128. Fig.30 As shown, in some embodiments, the method may include positioning a piece of bonding tape or glue 150 between the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 126, coupling the first layer 114 to the sixth layer 126, and passing the suture 112 through the bonding tape or glue 150. In some embodiments, the second layer 116 includes the bonding tape or glue.

[0141] like Fig.32 As shown, in some embodiments, the method may include providing a gap between an edge of the second layer 116 and the stitch 112. In some embodiments, the method may include extending the gap between the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124. In some embodiments, the method may include positioning a first edge 162 of the fabric piece 160 above the first layer 114 and extending a second edge 164 of the fabric piece 160 to a position below the seventh layer 124. In some embodiments, the method may include extending the stitch 112 through the upper edge of the fabric 160, the first layer 114, the sixth layer 126, the seventh layer 124, and the bottom edge of the fabric 160.

[0142] In certain embodiments, for example, Fig.33 As shown, the method may include replacing the portion of the second layer 116 that extends above the third layer 118 with material 128, and positioning a first edge 162 of the fabric piece 160 above the first layer 114 and extending a second edge 164 of the fabric piece 160 to a position below the seventh layer 124. In some embodiments, the method may include extending the stitch 112 through the first edge 162 of the fabric 160, the first layer 114, the sixth layer 126, the seventh layer 124, and the second edge 164 of the fabric 160. In some embodiments, for example, Fig.33 As shown, the method may include not extending the second layer 116 between the first layer 114 and the third layer 118. In some embodiments, for example, Fig.33 As shown, the method may include extending the second layer 116 between the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 126. In some embodiments, for example, Fig.33As shown, the method may include including a bonding tape or glue in the second layer 116 and coupling the first layer 114 to the sixth layer 126 via the second layer 116 .

[0143] In some embodiments, the method may include bonding (e.g., bonding tape) or adhering (e.g., adhesive, glue) the second layer 116 to the third layer 118 via the material 128. In some embodiments, the second layer 116 is bonded or adhered to the third layer using a bonding tape or glue other than the material 128. In some embodiments, the second layer 116 includes a bonding tape or glue, and the first layer 114 is coupled to the third layer 118 via the second layer 116. In some embodiments, for example Fig.25 As shown, material 128 replaces second layer 116. In some embodiments, material 128 includes a bonding tape or glue. In some embodiments, for example, Fig.23 and Fig.24 As shown, material 128 replaces the portion of second layer 116 that extends over third layer 118. In some embodiments, for example, Fig.23 and Fig.24 As shown, the second layer 116 does not extend between the first layer 114 and the third layer 118. In some embodiments, for example, Fig.23 and Fig.24 As shown, the second layer 116 extends between the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124. In some embodiments, for example, Fig.23 and Fig.24 As shown, the second layer 116 includes a bonding tape or glue, and the first layer 114 is coupled to the sixth layer 124 via the second layer 116 .

[0144] In some embodiments, the method may include preventing suture 112 from extending through material 128. In some embodiments, for example, Fig.21 and Fig. 22 As shown, a portion 154 of material 128 extends beyond the perimeter of third layer 118, fourth layer 120, and fifth layer 122 in a direction radial to third layer 118, fourth layer 120, and fifth layer 122. In certain embodiments, for example, Fig.21 and Fig. 22 As shown, a portion 154 of material 128 is bonded to itself outside the perimeter of third layer 118, fourth layer 120, and fifth layer 122. Bonding of material 128 to itself may be accomplished, for example, where material 128 includes a bonding tape, or where glue is placed in the spaces between layers of material 128 including portion 154. In certain embodiments, for example, Fig.21 and Fig. 22 As shown, the stitching 112 extends through a portion 154 of the material 128 that extends beyond the perimeter of the third layer 118 , the fourth layer 120 , and the fifth layer 122 .

[0145] In certain embodiments, for example, Fig. 9 , Fig.10 , Fig.13 , Fig.17 and Fig.18 As shown, the method may include not using material 128, and extending edge portion 138 of fifth layer 122 beyond the perimeter of third layer 118 and fourth layer 120 and extending above third layer 118, and coupling edge portion 138 of fifth layer 122 to an upper portion of third layer 118. In some embodiments, for example, Fig. 9 , Fig.10 , Fig.17 and Fig.18 As shown, the method may include coupling the edge portion 138 of the fifth layer 122 to an upper portion of the third layer 118 and the first layer 114 via the second layer 116 .

[0146] In some embodiments, the absorbent or incontinence and menstrual panties or garments 100 may be implemented as disclosed in US20160089276, EP2879534, US20180014983, US20180092787, JP3718213, all of which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Thus, any such reference may be modified using various principles based on the present disclosure as known to those skilled in the art.

[0147] In some embodiments, various functions or actions can occur at a given location and / or in conjunction with the operation of one or more devices or systems. In some embodiments, a portion of a given function or action can be performed at a first device or location, and the remainder of the function or action can be performed at one or more additional devices or locations.

[0148] The corresponding structures, materials, acts, and equivalents of all means or step plus function elements in the following claims are intended to include any structure, material, or act for performing the function in combination with other claimed elements as specifically claimed. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the disclosure and the practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the disclosure for various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

[0149] The figures depicted herein are illustrative. Without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure, there may be many variations of the figures or steps (or operations) described herein. For example, the steps may be performed in a different order, or may be added, deleted, or modified. All of these variations are considered to be part of the present disclosure. It will be appreciated that various improvements and enhancements within the scope of the appended claims may be made by those skilled in the art now and in the future.

[0150] The description of the present disclosure has been presented for the purpose of illustration and description, but the description is not intended to be completely exhaustive and / or limited to the disclosure of the disclosed form. Many modifications and variations of technology and structure will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure as set forth in the appended claims. Therefore, such modifications and variations are contemplated as part of the present disclosure. The scope of the present disclosure is defined by the various claims, which include known equivalents and unforeseeable equivalents at the time of filing the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A device comprising an absorbent garment, the absorbent garment comprising a crotch region, the crotch region accommodating a stitch, a first layer, a second layer, a third layer, a fourth layer, a fifth layer, a sixth layer, and a seventh layer, wherein the first layer is innermost, wherein at least one of the sixth layer or the seventh layer is outermost, wherein the first layer extends along the second layer, wherein the first layer extends beyond a peripheral edge of at least one of the second layer or the third layer, wherein the first layer does not extend over a central portion of the third layer, wherein the second layer extends along a peripheral portion of the third layer, wherein the second layer does not extend over a central portion of the third layer, wherein the second layer extends between the first layer and the third layer, wherein the fourth layer extends between the third layer and the fifth layer, wherein the sixth layer extends below the fifth layer and at least one of above or below the seventh layer, wherein the stitch extends through the first layer, the sixth layer, and the seventh layer, wherein the stitch avoids extending through the second layer, the third layer, the fourth layer, and the fifth layer, wherein the second layer is bonded or adhered to the third layer.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein the first layer is bonded or adhered to the sixth layer.

3. The device of claim 1, wherein the third layer, the fourth layer, or the fifth layer comprises a moisture wicking material.

4. The device of claim 1, wherein the third layer, the fourth layer or the fifth layer comprises a waterproof material. The device of claim 1 , wherein the second layer comprises a bonding tape. The device of claim 1 , wherein the second layer is bonded to the sixth layer.

7. A device according to claim 1, wherein at least two of the perimeters of the third layer, the fourth layer or the fifth layer are surrounded by a material having a first edge and a second edge opposite to the first edge, wherein the material extends from the first edge positioned between the second layer and the third layer to the second edge positioned between the fifth layer and the sixth layer.

8. The device of claim 7, wherein the second layer directly contacts the first layer and covers the material of the third layer.

9. The device of claim 1, wherein at least one of (i) the first layer and the second layer; (ii) the sixth layer and the seventh layer; or (iii) the first layer, the second layer, the sixth layer, and the seventh layer; defines an elastic edge portion.

10. The device of claim 1, wherein the first layer defines an arcuate region, and the third layer is arcuate through the arcuate region.

11. The device of claim 1, wherein the third layer is visually distinct relative to the first layer.

12. The device of claim 1, wherein the second layer directly contacts the first layer and the third layer.

13. The device of claim 1, wherein the fifth layer covers the third layer and peripheries of the third layer and the fourth layer.

14. The device of claim 13, wherein the fifth layer extends from below the fourth layer to above the third layer and below the second layer, and the fifth layer is bonded to the third layer.

15. The device of claim 14, wherein the fifth layer is bonded or adhered to the second layer. The device of claim 13 , wherein the second layer does not extend past the fifth layer.

17. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the absorbent garment is at least one of an incontinence garment, a menstrual garment, or an incontinence and menstrual garment.

18. A device according to claim 1, wherein at least two of the perimeters of the third layer, the fourth layer, or the fifth layer are surrounded by a material having a first edge and a second edge opposite the first edge, wherein the material extends from the first edge positioned between the first layer and the third layer to the second edge positioned between the fifth layer and the sixth layer, and wherein the second layer does not extend above the first edge.

19. A device according to claim 1, wherein at least two of the perimeters of the third layer, the fourth layer or the fifth layer are surrounded by a material having a first edge and a second edge opposite to the first edge, wherein the material extends from the first edge positioned between the first layer and the third layer to the second edge positioned between the fifth layer and the sixth layer, wherein the material has a U-shaped, C-shaped or V-shaped cross-section and includes a piece of material extending from a vertex opposite to the opening of the U-shape, the C-shape or the V-shape through the stitching, wherein the stitching extends through the piece of material, and wherein the second layer does not extend above the first edge.

20. An absorbent garment comprising a crotch region, the crotch region containing a seam, a first layer, a second layer, a third layer, a fourth layer, a fifth layer, a sixth layer, and a seventh layer, wherein the first layer is innermost, wherein at least one of the sixth layer or the seventh layer is outermost, wherein the second layer extends between the first layer and the third layer, wherein the fourth layer extends between the third layer and the fifth layer, wherein the sixth layer extends below the fifth layer and at least one of above or below the seventh layer, wherein the seam extends through the first layer, the sixth layer, and the seventh layer, wherein the seam avoids extending through the second layer, the third layer, and the fifth layer. layer, the fourth layer and the fifth layer, wherein the second layer is bonded or adhered to the third layer, wherein at least two of the perimeters of the third layer, the fourth layer or the fifth layer are surrounded by a material having a first edge and a second edge opposite to the first edge, wherein the material extends from the first edge positioned between the first layer and the third layer to the second edge positioned between the fifth layer and the sixth layer, wherein the material has a U-shaped, C-shaped or V-shaped cross-section and includes a piece of material extending from a vertex opposite to an opening of the U-shape, the C-shape or the V-shape through the stitching, wherein the stitching extends through the piece of material.

21. The absorbent garment of claim 20 wherein the second layer does not extend past the apex of the material.

22. The absorbent garment of claim 20 wherein the second layer extends only over the material and does not extend past the apex of the material.

23. The absorbent garment of claim 20, wherein the seventh layer is positioned above the sixth layer, an edge of the sixth layer extends below the seventh layer, past an edge of the seventh layer in a direction toward the first layer, and over the seventh layer, and an edge of the first layer extends below the first layer.

24. The absorbent garment of claim 23 wherein the second layer does not extend past the apex of the material.

25. The absorbent garment of claim 20, wherein the seam extends through an edge of the first layer, an edge of the sixth layer, and the seventh layer, but not through an innermost portion of the first layer or an outermost portion of the sixth layer.

26. A device comprising an absorbent garment, the absorbent garment comprising a crotch region, the crotch region containing a seam, a first layer, a second layer, a third layer, a fourth layer, a fifth layer, a sixth layer, and a seventh layer, wherein the first layer is innermost, wherein at least one of the sixth layer or the seventh layer is outermost, wherein the first layer extends along the second layer, wherein the first layer extends beyond a peripheral edge of at least one of the second layer or the third layer, wherein the first layer does not extend over a central portion of the third layer, wherein the second layer extends along a peripheral portion of the third layer, wherein the second layer does not extend over a central portion of the third layer, wherein the second layer extends below the first layer, wherein the fourth layer is between the third layer and the peripheral edge of the third layer. The invention relates to a method for providing a plurality of layers of at least one of the following embodiments of the present invention: a first layer, a second layer, and a third layer; a first layer, a second layer, and a fourth layer; and a second layer. The method comprises: providing a plurality of layers of at least one of the following embodiments of the present invention: wherein the first layer is a layer of at least one of the following embodiments of the present invention; a second layer, a second layer, and a third layer. The method comprises: providing a plurality of layers of at least one of the following embodiments of the present invention:

27. A method for use in absorbent garments, comprising: The absorbent garment comprises a crotch region containing the seam, the first layer, the second layer, the third layer, the fourth layer, the fifth layer, the sixth layer, and the seventh layer, wherein the first layer is innermost, and wherein at least one of the sixth layer or the seventh layer is outermost; extending the first layer along the second layer; extending the first layer beyond a peripheral edge of at least one of the second layer or the third layer; causing the first layer to not extend over a central portion of the third layer; extending the second layer along a peripheral portion of the third layer; causing the second layer to not extend over a central portion of the third layer; extending the second layer between the first layer and the third layer; causing the fourth layer to extend between the third layer and the fifth layer; Extending the sixth layer between the fifth layer and at least one of above or below the seventh layer; extending the suture through the first layer, the sixth layer, and the seventh layer, and avoiding extending through the second layer, the third layer, the fourth layer, and the fifth layer; as well as The second layer is bonded or adhered to the third layer.

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