Washable and reusable absorbent underwear

Abstract

A washable and reusable absorbent underwear (1) comprising an absorbent assembly (10), the absorbent assembly comprising a top layer (15) facing the wearer, a moisture barrier (12) layer and at least two intermediate layers (11, 16) between the top layer (15) and the moisture barrier (12), wherein the absorbent assembly (10) is permanently attached to at least one of the one or more fabric panels (2) in at least a portion of the middle region (7) by a set of one or more bonding members (20a, 20b, 20c, 20d), wherein, in the front middle region (7a) of the underwear (1), the maximum front bonding width (B) measured laterally across the set of bonding members (20a, 20b, 20c, 20d) between the absorbent assembly (10) and the one or more fabric panels (2) is not greater than 11 cm.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a washable and reusable absorbent undergarment. Background Art

[0002] Absorbent articles, such as absorbent underwear, are worn for the purpose of absorbing body fluids, such as urine and vaginal fluids. Washable and reusable absorbent underwear comprises a fabric of nonwoven or knitted material. Conventionally, such washable and reusable absorbent underwear comprises an integral absorbent assembly that is positioned in the crotch region of the wearer when the underwear is worn. After use, the absorbent underwear is washed or laundered before reuse. Reusable absorbent underwear has been primarily supplied for low to medium volumes of body fluids. For sustainability reasons, the demand for reusable absorbent underwear by users has been increasing, and therefore there is also a demand for such underwear that is suitable for moderate to heavy flows of body fluids.

[0003] There is also a need for a reusable absorbent underwear suitable for moderate to heavy body fluid flow that is comfortable to wear and provides a good fit and is aesthetically pleasing. Therefore, it is desirable to provide a reusable absorbent underwear suitable for moderate to heavy body fluid flow, wherein the required ability to absorb body fluids is provided without unnecessary bulk and / or aesthetically unfavorable effects, such as undesirable creases and / or wrinkles. Summary of the invention

[0004] It is an object of the present invention to meet one or more of the above needs, or to provide a useful alternative.

[0005] This object is met by a washable and reusable absorbent underwear according to the invention.

[0006] Therefore, a washable and reusable underwear is provided, which includes one or more fabric panels forming a front region, a back region, and a middle region extending between the front region and the back region. The front region and the back region are joined so that the underwear forms a waist opening and a pair of leg openings. The central longitudinal axis of the underwear is defined along one or more fabric panels of the underwear from the back region and toward the front region. The transverse crotch axis of the underwear is defined in a direction extending between the leg openings and so as to divide the middle region into a front middle region extending longitudinally between the transverse crotch axis and the front end of each leg opening and a rear middle region extending longitudinally between the transverse crotch axis and the rear end of each leg opening, the transverse crotch axis being perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis.

[0007] Thus, the transverse crotch axis divides each leg opening into a leg opening front portion intended to extend from the user's crotch toward the front of the underwear when the article is worn and a leg opening rear portion intended to extend from the user's crotch toward the rear of the underwear when the article is worn. The middle region extends longitudinally across the distance between the front end of the leg opening and the rear end of the leg opening. The front middle region extends longitudinally across the distance between the front end of the leg opening and the transverse crotch axis, and the rear middle region extends longitudinally across the distance between the rear end of the leg opening and the transverse crotch axis.

[0008] In view of the above, the central longitudinal axis will be centrally located as seen over the overall transverse width of the underwear. However, the transverse crotch axis is to be centrally located over the crotch portion of the underwear, i.e., the portion of the underwear that is intended to cover the crotch area of ​​the user when worn. Therefore, the transverse crotch axis need not be centrally located as seen over the overall longitudinal length of the underwear.

[0009] The underwear further comprises an absorbent assembly comprising a top layer facing the wearer, a moisture barrier, and at least two intermediate layers superposed between the top layer and the moisture barrier with a height axis perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis and the transverse crotch axis. The absorbent assembly is permanently attached to at least one of the one or more fabric panels in at least a portion of the middle region by a set of one or more bonding members. Further, in the front middle region of the underwear, the maximum front bonding width across the set of bonding members attaching the absorbent assembly to the one or more fabric panels is no greater than 11 cm.

[0010] As explained above, the washable and reusable underwear proposed herein comprises an absorbent assembly comprising a top layer facing the wearer, a moisture barrier and at least two intermediate layers, i.e., the absorbent assembly comprises at least three layers plus a moisture barrier, which in some variations can be a fourth layer, i.e., a moisture barrier layer. Such an absorbent assembly is particularly suitable for providing underwear for absorbing relatively high flows (e.g., moderate to heavy flows of body fluids). However, due to the relatively high number of layers in the absorbent assembly, the presence of the absorbent assembly may have an adverse effect on the ability of the underwear to provide a good fit that conforms to the user's body in the same manner as conventional underwear.

[0011] As proposed herein, the maximum front bonded width, defined as the maximum transverse width across the set of bonding members and measured in the front middle region of the underwear, is no greater than 11 cm. By limiting the maximum front bonded width in this way, it has been found that undesirable creases or wrinkles seen from the front side of the underwear when worn by a user can be reduced or avoided.

[0012] Thus, a washable and reusable undergarment is provided that is suitable for moderate to heavy body fluid discharge while providing a satisfactory fit to the user's body with an appearance similar to conventional undergarments.

[0013] Optionally, the maximum front joint width may be no greater than 10 cm, such as, for example, no greater than 9 cm. By means of a smaller maximum front joint width, the tendency to form wrinkles on the front side of the underwear when worn can be further reduced.

[0014] Optionally, the maximum front joint width in the front middle region may be not less than 4 cm, such as not less than 5 cm or not less than 6 cm. Thus, a suitable balance between the desire to avoid wrinkles formed on the front side of the underwear and the need for sufficient absorption can be found.

[0015] For example, the maximum front bonding width may be in the range from 4 cm to 10 cm, such as from 6 cm to 10 cm.

[0016] Further, the absorbent assembly has a front maximum width, which is the maximum lateral width of the absorbent assembly in the front middle region of the underwear. The front maximum width will therefore not be less than the maximum front combined width. For example, the front maximum width can be greater than the maximum front combined width.

[0017] Thus, similar to the maximum front combined width, the front maximum width may be no greater than 11 cm. Therefore, it has been found that by limiting the front maximum width, the tendency of the underwear to form undesirable wrinkles towards the front of the wearer can be further reduced.

[0018] Optionally, the front maximum width in the front middle region may be no greater than 10 cm, such as for example no greater than 9 cm.

[0019] The front maximum width in the front middle region can be for example not less than 4cm, for example not less than 5cm or not less than 6cm. For example, the front maximum width in the front middle region can be in the range of from 4cm to 10cm, for example from 6cm to 10cm.

[0020] Optionally, in the front central region, the maximum front bonded width across the set of bonding members is substantially equal to the front maximum width of the absorbent assembly.

[0021] Further, the absorbent assembly may have a transverse assembly crotch width at a longitudinal location of the transverse crotch axis. To avoid the formation of undesirable wrinkles on the front side of the underwear, the transverse assembly crotch width may be no greater than the maximum front combined width. For example, the transverse assembly crotch width may be no greater than the front maximum width of the absorbent assembly in the front center region.

[0022] Optionally, the lateral component crotch width of the absorbent assembly can be less than the maximum front bond width across the set of bonding members in the front middle region. Thus, the absorbent assembly can be shaped to further conform to the wearer's body for increased comfort and fit of the underwear.

[0023] Alternatively or additionally, the lateral assembly crotch width of the absorbent assembly may be less than the front maximum width of the absorbent assembly in the front central region.

[0024] This allows forming the absorbent assembly such that the transverse width of the absorbent assembly increases when viewed from the transverse crotch axis and in the longitudinal direction towards the front of the underwear until a maximum front combined width and / or a front maximum width is reached. This can provide an even better fit combined with advantageous absorbent properties for the user.

[0025] The middle region of the underwear has a similar transverse underwear crotch width at the longitudinal location of the transverse crotch axis. Optionally, the transverse underwear crotch width can be substantially equal to the transverse assembly crotch width, i.e., the absorbent assembly extends transversely all the way between the leg openings of the underwear at the longitudinal location of the transverse crotch axis.

[0026] In some variations, the transverse underwear crotch width of the underwear can be the minimum crotch width of the middle region.Thus, the transverse crotch axis is positioned at the minimum crotch width of the middle region of the underwear.

[0027] This allows forming the absorbent assembly such that the transverse width of the absorbent assembly increases when viewed from the transverse crotch axis and in the longitudinal direction towards the front of the underwear until a maximum front combined width and / or a front maximum width is reached, and such that the transverse width of the absorbent assembly also increases when viewed from the transverse crotch axis and in the longitudinal direction towards the rear of the underwear until a rear maximum width is reached. This can provide a good fit combined with favorable absorption properties for the user and is suitable for many sizes of underwear.

[0028] For example, the transverse component crotch width may range from 3 cm to 8 cm.

[0029] The first front length of the absorbent assembly can be defined along the longitudinal direction from the transverse crotch axis to the longitudinal location of the maximum front combined width. Therefore, the first front length can have an impact on the ability of the underwear to absorb relatively high flow rates and on the body fit and appearance of the underwear when worn.

[0030] The absorbent assembly as a whole may extend longitudinally beyond the first front length. Thus, the total longitudinal length of the absorbent assembly in the front middle region may be equal to or greater than the first front length.

[0031] Alternatively, the first front length may be less than 15 cm. Alternatively, the first front length may be greater than 4 cm. For example, the first front length may be in the range from 4 cm to 15 cm, such as in the range from 4 cm to 12 cm. Thus, the underwear proposed herein may be designed to provide an absorbent assembly suitable for absorbing moderate to heavy body fluid flows while not being unnecessarily large.

[0032] In some variations, the absorbent assembly may extend longitudinally beyond the front middle region in a direction toward the front of the underwear, i.e., the absorbent assembly may be partially disposed in the front region of the underwear. For some such variations, the maximum front combined width across the set of combined members in the front region of the underwear may be no greater than the maximum front combined width across the set of combined members in the front middle region. Alternatively or additionally, for some such variations, the maximum width of the absorbent assembly in the front region of the underwear is no greater than the maximum width of the absorbent assembly in the front middle region.

[0033] In other variations, the absorbent assembly may extend no further than the front middle region in a direction longitudinally toward the front of the underwear. That is, the absorbent assembly does not extend into the front region of the underwear. This may be preferred in order to provide an underwear in which the location and extension of the absorbent assembly is configured for satisfactory performance for daily use and is most useful for absorbing body fluids.

[0034] It will be appreciated that the absorbent assembly may extend not only in the front middle region of the underwear, but also in the rear middle region of the underwear in order to effectively absorb the flow of body fluids. However, due to body shape, undesirable folds or wrinkles in one or more fabric panels are less problematic toward the rear side of the underwear than toward the front side of the underwear. Therefore, more options are available for forming the portion of the absorbent assembly positioned in the rear middle region than in the front middle region.

[0035] Optionally, the absorbent assembly extends longitudinally over at least a portion of the front central region and a portion of the rear central region.

[0036] The rear maximum width, which is the maximum lateral width of the absorbent assembly in the rear middle region, may not be less than the front maximum width. The maximum rear bonded width, which is the maximum lateral extension across the set of bonding members in the rear middle region, may not be less than the maximum front bonded width.

[0037] For example, the rear maximum width of the absorbent assembly in the rear middle region may be greater than the front maximum width of the absorbent assembly in the front middle region.The maximum rear combined width in the rear middle region may be greater than the maximum front combined width in the front middle region.

[0038] Optionally, the absorbent assembly may extend longitudinally toward the rear of the underwear no further than the rear middle region. That is, the absorbent assembly does not extend into the rear region of the underwear. Therefore, the absorbent assembly may be limited to the portion of the underwear that is most useful for absorbing body fluids.

[0039] The overall longitudinal length of the absorbent assembly may be configured depending on, for example, the size of the undergarment and taking into account the need for adequate absorbency.

[0040] Optionally, the maximum front combined width is at least 70%, such as for example at least 80% or at least 90%, of the lateral width of the entire underwear at the location of the maximum front combined width. Thus, one or more fabric panels forming the middle region of the underwear can extend a relatively short distance beyond the sides of the absorbent assembly at the location of the maximum front combined width.

[0041] In some variations, the maximum front binding width of the set of binding members may be substantially equal to the lateral width of the middle region at the location of the maximum front binding width. This means that the set of binding members is arranged over a width substantially corresponding to the longitudinal location of the middle front region at the location of the maximum front binding width.

[0042] Similarly, the maximum front width of the absorbent assembly can be at least 70%, such as, for example, at least 80% or at least 90%, of the lateral width of the entire underwear at the location of the maximum front width. In some variations, the maximum front width of the absorbent assembly can be substantially equal to the lateral width of the middle region of the underwear at the location of the maximum front width.

[0043] Therefore, at least a larger part of the width available for the absorbent assembly in the middle front region of the underwear can be occupied by the absorbent assembly. For example, substantially the entire width available for the absorbent assembly in the middle front region can be occupied by the absorbent assembly.

[0044] The absorbent assembly may include a front edge directed toward the front of the underwear, a rear edge directed toward the rear of the underwear, and a pair of side edges, wherein each side edge is at least partially directed toward a respective leg opening and connects the front edge and the rear edge.

[0045] Each side edge may be arranged at least partially along a respective leg opening of the underwear. "Along" in this context means that the side edge follows the shape of the leg opening and is arranged adjacent to or at the respective leg opening.

[0046] For example, each side edge may be arranged at least partially at a corresponding leg opening of the underwear.This means that the outer edge of the underwear towards each leg opening at least partially comprises the side edge of the absorbent assembly.

[0047] For example, the minimum transverse assembly crotch width of the absorbent assembly (ie, the minimum distance between the side edges of the absorbent assembly) can be equal to the minimum transverse underwear crotch width of the central region of the underwear.

[0048] For example, each side edge of the absorbent assembly may be arranged at a corresponding leg opening of the undergarment in at least the front central region.

[0049] For example, substantially the entirety of each side edge of the absorbent assembly may be disposed at a corresponding leg opening of the undergarment.

[0050] In other variations, each side edge can be arranged at least partially along the corresponding leg opening of the underwear and have a certain distance from the corresponding leg opening. For example, each side edge can be arranged along the corresponding leg opening with its entirety and have a certain distance from the leg opening.

[0051] Optionally, the set of bonding members is arranged to attach the absorbent assembly to at least one of the one or more fabric panels along at least a portion of a side edge of the absorbent assembly. For example, the set of bonding members can be arranged to attach the absorbent assembly to at least one of the one or more fabric panels along substantially the entire side edge of the absorbent assembly.

[0052] Optionally, the set of bonding members is arranged to attach the absorbent assembly to at least one of the one or more fabric panels along at least a portion of the front edge of the absorbent assembly. For example, the set of bonding members can be arranged to secure the absorbent assembly to at least one of the one or more fabric panels along substantially the entire front edge of the absorbent assembly.

[0053] Optionally, the set of bonding members is arranged to attach the absorbent assembly to at least one of the one or more fabric panels along at least a portion of the rear edge of the absorbent assembly. For example, the set of bonding members can be arranged to secure the absorbent assembly to at least one of the one or more fabric panels along substantially the entire rear edge of the absorbent assembly.

[0054] Thus, for example, in some variations, the set of bonding members may be arranged to attach the absorbent assembly to at least one of the one or more fabric panels along the side edges, the front edge, and the rear edge of the absorbent assembly.

[0055] The shape of the absorbent assembly may be adapted to the design of, for example, the underwear and in view of the need for adequate absorption and a satisfactory fit.

[0056] In some variations, the side edges can include a plurality of concavities as seen toward the central longitudinal axis Y. For example, the side edges can be generally concave, thereby allowing the shape of the absorbent assembly to be relatively wider toward the front and back of the underwear, and narrower at the crotch of the underwear including the transverse crotch axis, as mentioned above.

[0057] In some variations, the front edge may be convex from the transverse crotch axis. Thus, at the location of the central longitudinal axis y, the front edge may protrude beyond the side edges of the absorbent assembly toward the front of the underwear. This may be beneficial for the fit of the underwear to the body and helps avoid undesirable wrinkles in the fabric panel.

[0058] The rear edge of the absorbent assembly may be shaped to allow for proper fit and comfort for the user.

[0059] As described above, the absorbent assembly is permanently attached to one or more of the fabric panels by a set of bonding members.

[0060] For example, the set of bonding members may include one or more bonding lines. For example, one or more bonding lines may be arranged to extend along at least a portion of a side edge of the absorbent assembly, such as along a side edge of the absorbent assembly in a middle region of the underwear. Alternatively, one or more bonding lines may be arranged to extend along substantially the entire side edge of the absorbent assembly.

[0061] Alternatively, or in addition, one or more bond lines may be arranged to extend along at least a portion of the front edge of the absorbent assembly, for example so as to extend along substantially the entire front edge of the absorbent assembly.

[0062] Alternatively, or in addition, one or more bond lines may be arranged to extend along at least a portion of the rear edge of the absorbent assembly, for example so as to extend along substantially the entire rear edge of the absorbent assembly.

[0063] The one or more bond lines may be continuous bond lines.

[0064] Alternatively, one or more of the bond lines may be intermittent bond lines.

[0065] The set of bonding members may include any suitable bonding members for achieving permanent attachment of the absorbent assembly to one or more fabric panels.

[0066] For example, the set of bonding members may include one or more adhesive bonding members, one or more mechanical bonding members, and / or a combination of adhesive and mechanical bonding members.

[0067] For example, the set of bonding members may include at least one adhesive bonding member. The adhesive bonding member may, for example, include an adhesive in the form of an adhesive joint. In another example, the adhesive bonding member may include an adhesive tape.

[0068] For example, the set of joining members may include at least one mechanical joining member.The mechanical joining member may, for example, include a stitch or a seam.

[0069] The middle region of the underwear may include at least one of the one or more fabric panels having an exterior side facing away from the wearer and an interior side facing in a direction toward the wearer.The absorbent assembly may be positioned on the interior side of the at least one fabric panel.

[0070] Hence, when the set of bonding members comprises mechanical bonding members, the mechanical bonding members may be arranged to extend through the absorbent assembly and the at least one fabric panel. Hence, the mechanical bonding members may be visible from an exterior side of the fabric panel.

[0071] As outlined above, the absorbent assembly comprises a top layer facing the wearer, a moisture barrier, and at least two intermediate layers superposed between the top layer and the moisture barrier along a height axis perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis and the transverse crotch axis. Thus, the absorbent assembly comprises at least three layers plus the moisture barrier, which in some variations is formed by a moisture barrier layer. Such an absorbent assembly may be particularly suitable for heavy body fluid flows.

[0072] Optionally, the absorbent assembly comprises a top layer facing the wearer, a moisture barrier and at least three intermediate layers. Thus, the absorbent assembly comprises at least four layers plus the moisture barrier, which in some variations is formed by a moisture barrier layer. Thus, the ability of the absorbent assembly to absorb relatively high flows of body fluids can be further improved, for example to provide an absorbent assembly suitable for heavy flows of body fluids.

[0073] For example, the absorbent assembly may include no more than 9 layers.

[0074] Thus, the absorbent assembly may include two, three, four, five, six, seven or eight intermediate layers.

[0075] The longitudinal and transverse extension (ie the outer shape) of the absorbent assembly itself is defined by the mutual longitudinal and transverse extensions of the wearer-facing top layer and the moisture barrier.

[0076] In some variations, at least one of the at least two intermediate layers may have a longitudinal and a transverse extension that substantially coincides with the extension of the absorbent assembly.

[0077] In some variations, at least two of the at least two intermediate layers may have longitudinal and transverse extensions that substantially coincide with the extension of the absorbent assembly.

[0078] For example, all intermediate layers of the absorbent assembly may have longitudinal and lateral extensions that are substantially consistent with the extension of the absorbent assembly. That is, all layers of the absorbent assembly have the same longitudinal and lateral extensions.

[0079] In other variations, the longitudinal and / or lateral extension of at least one of the three intermediate layers may be different from the longitudinal and / or lateral extension of the absorbent assembly.

[0080] Optionally, at the location of the maximum front combined width, at least three layers (e.g., at least four layers) of the absorbent assembly are all superimposed on each other over at least 70% of the maximum front combined width. For example, at least three layers, e.g., at least four layers of the absorbent assembly may be superimposed on each other over at least 80% or at least 90% of the maximum front combined width. Optionally, all layers of the absorbent assembly may be all superimposed on each other over at least 70% of the maximum front combined width, e.g., at least 80% or at least 90% of the maximum front combined width.

[0081] For example, the top layer can be weft needle. In another example, the top layer is jacquard technology. The top layer can, for example, have a basis weight of 80-200gsm. Optionally, the top layer can be made of polyester, spandex or a blend thereof.

[0082] Optionally, one or more of the at least two intermediate layers are absorbent layers. For example, when the absorbent assembly comprises at least three intermediate layers, at least two of the at least three intermediate layers may be absorbent layers.

[0083] The basis weight of the absorbent layer may for example be in the range of 200-350 gsm.

[0084] For example, the absorbent layer(s) may be polyester, polyamide or a mixture thereof. Optionally, the absorbent layer is a hydrophilic French terry material.

[0085] Optionally, one or more of the at least two middle layers may be a wicking layer.For example, the wicking layer may be arranged adjacent to the top layer.

[0086] Optionally, the basis weight of the wicking layer is 180-250 gsm. For example, the wicking layer can be polyester, polyamide, spandex or a mixture thereof. For example, the wicking layer can be a jersey knit. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0087] The present disclosure will now be described in more detail with reference to the figures shown in the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0088] Figure 1 A front view showing one variation of an absorbent undergarment including an absorbent assembly;

[0089] Figure 2 Show Figure 1 A top view of the underwear in a flat-laid-out configuration, wherein the joints between the front and rear regions and the front region are removed; and

[0090] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Schematic cross-sectional view of an absorbent underwear through a portion of the absorbent assembly. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0091] Various aspects of the present disclosure will be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the embodiments of the absorbent underwear disclosed herein can be implemented in many different forms, such as different sizes and absorption levels, and should not be construed as limited to the aspects set forth herein. In all drawings in the following detailed description, the same reference numerals will be used to indicate the same elements.

[0092] As used herein, the term "absorbent underwear" refers to a garment that is worn and intended to be placed against the wearer's skin to absorb and contain body fluids (e.g., urine and vaginal fluids, including menstrual fluids). The underwear may be, for example, underwear, underpants, shorts, or a swimsuit of fabric. The underwear is intended for adult users. The underwear may be intended for female use. Underwear according to the present disclosure is washable, i.e., intended to be washed or otherwise restored after use for reuse as a sanitary article.

[0093] "Washable" means that the absorbent undergarment can be cleaned by washing. Thus, the absorbent undergarment can be subjected to an aqueous solution containing a detergent without losing its structural characteristics. The aqueous solution can be heated to, for example, 40°C or 60°C as part of the washing process.

[0094] The term "fabric" used in this disclosure may refer to a single-layer or multi-layer fabric. The fabric may be knitted or woven.

[0095] "Permanently attached" means that the absorbent assembly is not intended to be separated from the body fabric before, during or after use. The absorbent assembly need not be directly bonded to the fabric panel but may be attached to the fabric via auxiliary components such as leg opening edges or reinforcement patches.

[0096] Knitting is a method of constructing fabric by interlocking a series of loops of one or more yarns. There are two main types of knitting, warp and weft.

[0097] Weaving is the method or process of interlacing yarns of two similar materials so that they cross each other at right angles to produce a woven fabric. The warp yarns run lengthwise in the fabric and the filler yarns (filling yarns) or picks run from one side to the other.

[0098] Jacquard is a system of weaving or knitting that utilizes a versatile pattern mechanism to produce complex designs through the use of punch cards that control the pattern produced. Jacquard knitting can be effective for circular knitting, flat knitting, warp needles, or weft needles.

[0099] Figure 1 An example of a variation of a washable and reusable absorbent underwear 1 in the form of shorts is shown. However, as outlined above, the underwear 1 proposed herein may have various designs, such as briefs, boxers, low-waisted pants, high-waisted pants, drawstring underwear, Brazilian underwear or other suitable underwear designs. The underwear 1 is primarily designed for female use.

[0100] The underwear 1 may include one or more fabric panels 2 forming a front region 3, a back region 4, and a middle region 7 extending between the front region 3 and the back region 4. The front region 3 and the back region 4 are joined so that the underwear 1 forms a waist opening 5 and a pair of leg openings 6a, 6b. Thus, when the underwear 1 is worn, the front region 3 will be visible from the front of the user, and when the underwear 1 is worn, the back region 4 will be visible from the back of the user.

[0101] Figure 1 and Figure 2 The example underwear includes one fabric panel 2 that is cut to form a front region 3, a back region 4, and a middle region 7. However, in other variations, multiple fabric panels may be joined to form the front region 3, the back region 4, and the middle region 7. For example, the underwear 1 may include a front panel, a back panel, and a middle panel. One or more of the fabric panels may all include the same fabric, giving the underwear a monolithic look, or one or more of the fabrics may include different fabrics, such as to provide an aesthetically pleasing underwear, including, for example, lace fabrics.

[0102] In order to join the front region 3 and the back region 4 so as to form the waist opening 5 and the leg openings 6a, 6b, a pair of side joints 17 may be provided, as in the example shown. The side joints 17 and any other joints joining one or more fabric panels 2 may be conventional joints in the art, such as seams made by conventional adhesives and / or mechanical bonding (e.g., conventional adhesives or sewing techniques).

[0103] The central longitudinal axis y of the underwear 1 is defined along one or more fabric panels 2 of the underwear 1 from the back region 4 and towards the front region 3. Figure 1When the underwear 1 is viewed from the front in the example of FIG. 1 , the central longitudinal axis y will point to the waist opening 5 of the underwear 1 . However, when the underwear 1 is viewed from the back (not shown), the central longitudinal axis y will point away from the waist opening 5 of the underwear 1 .

[0104] exist Figure 2 middle, Figure 1 The absorbent underwear 1 of FIG. 1 is shown in a flat laid-out state with the side tabs 17 of the underwear 1 removed. As seen in this laid-out state, a central longitudinal axis y is defined along one or more fabric panels 2 and in a direction from the back of the underwear 1 towards the front of the underwear 1. Figure 2 , the absorbent underwear 1 is shown from the wearer-facing side of the article 1. Figure 1 As shown in FIG. 1 , one or more fabric panels 2 will have an outer side 9 facing away from the wearer, and an inner side 8 facing in a direction towards the wearer. Thus, Figure 2 The underwear 1 is shown in a flatly laid-out state as seen from the inner side 8 .

[0105] Furthermore, the transverse crotch axis x of the underwear 1 is limited in the direction extending between the leg openings 6a, 6b so as to divide the middle area 7 into a front middle area 7a and a rear middle area 7b, the front middle area 7a extending longitudinally between the transverse crotch axis x and the front ends 61a, 61b of each leg opening 6a, 6b, and the rear middle area 7b extending longitudinally between the transverse crotch axis x and the rear ends 62a, 62b of each leg opening 6a, 6b, and the transverse crotch axis x is perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis y.

[0106] Thus, the transverse crotch axis x divides each leg opening 6a, 6b into a front portion of the leg opening 6a, 6b, which is intended to extend from the user's crotch towards the front of the underwear when the underwear 1 is worn, and a rear portion of the leg opening 6a, 6b, which is intended to extend from the user's crotch towards the rear of the underwear when the underwear 1 is worn. Thus, when the underwear 1 is worn, the transverse crotch axis x is intended to extend over the user's central crotch area.

[0107] The absorbent underwear 1 may include a waistband 14 disposed along the waist opening 5 of the absorbent underwear 1 .

[0108] The underwear 1 further comprises an absorbent assembly 10. Figure 3 As shown, the absorbent assembly 10 comprises a top layer 15 facing the wearer, a moisture barrier 12 and at least two intermediate layers 11, 16 superimposed between the top layer 15 and the moisture barrier 12 along a height axis z perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis y and the transverse crotch axis x. Figure 3 The layers 11, 12, 15, 16 of the absorbent assembly 10 are further described.

[0109] like Figure 2 As can be seen, in the illustrated undergarment 1, the absorbent assembly 10 is positioned on the interior side 8 of at least one fabric panel 2. The absorbent assembly 10 is arranged to span the transverse crotch axis x and so as to extend in the front middle region 7a and in the rear middle region 7b.

[0110] Although in some variations the absorbent assembly 10 may extend longitudinally beyond the front middle region 7a in a direction toward the front of the underwear 1, in the illustrated variation the absorbent assembly 10 does not extend beyond the front middle region 7a in a longitudinal direction toward the front region 3 of the underwear 1.

[0111] The longitudinal extension of the absorbent assembly 10 into the rear middle region 7b may depend, for example, on the design of the underwear 1. In some variations, such as the variation shown, the absorbent assembly 10 may extend in the longitudinal direction toward the rear region 4 of the underwear 1 no further than the rear middle region 7b.

[0112] Thus, the absorbent assembly 10 can be confined to the middle region 7, where the need for absorption is urgent and prevalent. However, for example for underwear intended primarily for nighttime use, the absorbent assembly 10 can extend beyond the rear middle region 7b of the underwear 1 and into the rear region 4, and / or beyond the front middle region 7a of the underwear 1 and into the front region 3.

[0113] As exemplified by the underwear 1 shown, the absorbent assembly 10 forms a front edge 21c directed toward the front of the underwear 1, a rear edge 21d directed toward the rear of the underwear, and a pair of side edges 21a, 21b. Each side edge 21a, 21b is at least partially directed toward the corresponding leg opening 6a, 6b. Each side edge 21a, 21b thus connects the front edge 21c and the rear edge 21d.

[0114] Each side edge 21a, 21b may be arranged at least partially along, for example at, a respective leg opening 6a, 6b of the underwear 1. In some variants, and as in the example shown, the entire side edge 21a, 21b is arranged at the respective leg opening 6a, 6b of the underwear 1, i.e., the side edge 21a, 21b follows the contour of the leg opening 6a, 6b of the underwear 1.

[0115] The shape of the absorbent assembly 10 can be adapted to the various absorbent requirements and various designs of the undergarment 1 in order to provide adequate absorption and a satisfactory fit.

[0116] For example, the side edges 21a, 21b may include a concave portion as seen toward the central longitudinal axis y. For example, as in the illustrated variation, the entire side edge 21a, 21b is concave toward the central longitudinal axis y, i.e., is curved inwardly toward the central longitudinal axis y. Thus, the absorbent assembly 10 may be adapted to fit between the legs of a wearer.

[0117] In view of the comfort and fit requirements of the underwear 1, the front edge 21c of the absorbent assembly can be similarly shaped. In some variations, such as in the underwear 1 shown, the front edge can be convex from the transverse crotch axis x, that is, curved away from the transverse crotch axis x. Figure 2 As shown in FIG, at the location of the central longitudinal axis y, the front edge 21c can thereby protrude toward the front of the underwear 1 beyond the extension of the side edges 21a, 21b of the absorbent assembly 10. This can be beneficial for the fit of the underwear to the body and helps avoid undesirable wrinkles in the fabric panels.

[0118] As mentioned above, each side edge 21a, 21b can be at least partially arranged at the corresponding leg opening 6a, 6b of the underwear 1. This means that the outer edge of the underwear 1 forming each leg opening 6a, 6b at least partially includes the side edge 21a, 21b of the absorbent assembly 10. For example, as in the illustrated variation, the outer edge of the underwear 1 forming each leg opening 6a, 6b includes the entire side edge 21a, 21b of the absorbent assembly 10. However, in other variations, the underwear 1 can extend laterally beyond the absorbent assembly 10 in at least a portion of the underwear 1 in a direction toward each leg opening 6a, 6b. For example, the side edges 21a, 21b of the absorbent assembly 10 can follow the leg openings 6a, 6b in a portion of the underwear 1 adjacent to the transverse crotch axis x, but the side edges 21a, 21b of the absorbent assembly 10 can deviate from the leg openings 6a, 6b in an area further to the front of the underwear 1. In other words, one or more fabric panels 2 can extend beyond the side edges 21a, 21b in a direction away from the central longitudinal axis y. In this variation, the portions of the fabric panels 2 that extend beyond the side edges 21a, 21b in a direction away from the central longitudinal axis y can, for example, form legs of the underwear 1. Thus, the legs that extend beyond the absorbent assembly 10 can be adapted to the wearer's legs and folded toward the wearer's legs, while the absorbent assembly 10 remains unfolded between the wearer's legs.

[0119] Further, when each side edge 21a, 21b is at least partially arranged at the corresponding leg opening 6a, 6b of the underwear 1, as in the underwear 1 shown, the minimum component crotch width A of the absorbent component, that is, the minimum distance between the side edges 21a, 21b of the absorbent component 10, can be equal to the minimum underwear crotch width of the middle area 7 of the underwear 1.

[0120] In some underwear designs suitable for absorbent underwear presented herein, the middle region 7 exhibits a relatively narrow crotch portion that includes a transverse crotch axis x and relatively wide front and rear portions toward the front and rear of the crotch, respectively. Thus, the absorbent assembly 10 can have a minimum transverse width, which is a transverse assembly crotch width A at the transverse crotch axis x, and the width of the absorbent assembly 10 can increase from the minimum transverse assembly crotch width A to a front maximum width C along the longitudinal axis toward the front of the underwear. Moreover, the width of the absorbent assembly 10 can increase from the transverse assembly crotch width A to a rear maximum width along the longitudinal axis y toward the rear of the underwear 1.

[0121] The absorbent assembly 10 is permanently attached to at least one of the one or more fabric panels 2 in at least a portion of the intermediate region 7 by a set of one or more bonding members 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d.

[0122] The bonding members 20a , 20b , 20c , 20d may have any configuration suitable for permanently attaching an absorbent assembly to one or more fabric panels 2 .

[0123] Further, the bonding members 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d may be any type of bonding member suitable for achieving permanent attachment of the absorbent assembly 10 to one or more fabric panels 2. Thus, the set of bonding members 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d may include one or more adhesive bonding members, such as adhesive layers, lines or dots, and / or adhesive strips, or one or more mechanical bonding members, such as rivets or stitches, and / or a combination of adhesive and mechanical bonding members. However, adhesive bonding members and / or conventional mechanical bonding members (such as conventional seams and stitches) may be preferred.

[0124] The set of bonding members 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d may, for example, be applied as a bonding pattern or layer formed on the surface of the absorbent assembly 10 facing one or more fabric panels 2. Thus, the set of bonding members may include an adhesive layer or a pattern of adhesive dots or mechanical stitches dispersed over an area of ​​the surface of the absorbent assembly 10 facing one or more fabric panels 2.

[0125] In another example, and as in the variation shown, the set of bonding members 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d can, for example, be arranged to permanently attach the absorbent assembly 10 to at least one of the one or more fabric panels 2 along at least a portion of one or more of the side edges 21a, 21b, the front edge 21c, and the rear edge 21d.

[0126] For example, as in the illustrated variation, the set of joining members 20a , 20b , 20c , 20d may be arranged to attach the side edges 21a , 21b , the front edge 21c and the rear edge 21d to one or more fabric panels 2 .

[0127] For example, and as in the underwear 1 shown, the set of bonding members may include one or more bonding lines 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d. Figure 2 As can be seen in the example of FIG. 1 , one joining line 20a, 20b can be arranged to extend substantially along each of the entire side edges 21a, 21b of the absorbent assembly 10. Further, in the example shown, one joining line 20c is arranged to extend substantially along the entire front edge 21c, and one joining line 20d is arranged to extend substantially along the entire rear edge 20d.

[0128] Although in the illustrated embodiment the joining lines 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d are arranged to extend adjacent to the respective edges 21a, 21b, 21c, 21d of the absorbent assembly 10, other embodiments are conceivable in which the joining lines 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d are arranged at the respective edges 21a, 21b, 21c, 21d, for example so as to extend above the respective edges 21a, 21b, 21c, 21d.

[0129] The one or more bond lines 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d may, as in the example shown, be continuous bond lines, such as seams or continuous lines of adhesive. However, in other variations, the one or more bond lines may be intermittent bond lines.

[0130] The bonding members 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d may be arranged to directly attach the absorbent assembly 10 to one or more fabric panels 2. Alternatively, the bonding members 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d may be arranged to indirectly attach the absorbent assembly 10 to one or more fabric panels 2. For example, the bonding members 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d may be arranged to attach the absorbent assembly 10 to one or more fabric panels 2 via auxiliary elements, such as, for example, trims or reinforcement patches.

[0131] Optionally, one or more bonding members 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d may be arranged to bond the layers 11, 12, 15, 16 (see also 11, 12, 15, 16) of the absorbent assembly 10 to the one or more fabric panels 2 while attaching the absorbent assembly 10 to the one or more fabric panels 2. Figure 3 ) are combined together.

[0132] Alternatively, one or more of the joining members 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d may be formed as part of a seam extending, for example, along the entire leg opening 6a, 6b of the intermediate portion.

[0133] In the variation shown, purely by way of example, the middle portion 7 is provided with side edges 22a, 22b along each leg opening 6a, 6b, and the connecting members 20a, 20b arranged along the side edges 21a, 21b of the absorbent assembly 10 are formed by multiple portions of the seams connecting the side edges 22a, 22b to one or more fabric panels 2 of the middle portion 7.

[0134] As proposed herein, in the front middle region 7a of the underwear 1, the maximum front bonding width B over the set of bonding members 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d is not greater than 11 cm.

[0135] Thus, the maximum front joint width B is the maximum transverse width measured across the set of joint members 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d in the front middle region 7a. For example, and as in the illustrated variation, the maximum front joint width B may extend across the maximum transverse distance between the joint line 20a along the first side edge 21a and the joint line 20b along the second side edge 21b.

[0136] By limiting the maximum front bond width B as proposed herein, it is ensured that the one or more body panels 2 at the front side of the underwear 1 can adapt to the wearer's body without being unnecessarily hindered by the absorbent assembly 10, which, due to the number of layers, is naturally less flexible than the one or more body panels 2. Thus, the maximum front bond width B is the maximum width of the body panel or panels 2 at the front of the underwear 1 that will be limited by the ability of the absorbent assembly 10 to adapt to the wearer's body.

[0137] The maximum front bonding width B may be, for example, not greater than 10 cm, such as not greater than 9 cm.

[0138] Nevertheless, the maximum front bond width B may be selected to be large enough to achieve sufficient absorption capacity. For example, the maximum front bond width B may be not less than 4 cm, such as not less than 5 cm.

[0139] For example, and as in the variant shown, the maximum front bond width B may be in the range from 4 cm to 11 cm, for example from 4 cm to 10 cm, or from 5 cm to 9 cm.

[0140] Further, and as Figure 2 As shown in the example of , the absorbent assembly 10 can have a front maximum width C, which is the maximum lateral width of the absorbent assembly 10 in the front central region 7a.

[0141] As described above, the group of bonding members 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d need not extend all the way to the side edges 21a, 21b of the absorbent assembly 10. Therefore, the front maximum width C can be greater than the maximum front bonding width B across the group of bonding members 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d. This means that at the location of the maximum front bonding width B, the absorbent assembly 10 can extend beyond the group of bonding members 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d in the lateral direction away from the central longitudinal axis y. However, in this case, the outermost lateral portions of the absorbent assembly 10 that are not bonded to one or more fabric panels 2 are not considered to seriously limit the ability of one or more fabric panels 2 to adapt to the body of the wearer.

[0142] Thus, the absorbent assembly 10 may have a front maximum width C that is greater than the maximum front combined width B. For example, the front maximum width C may be no greater than 12 cm, compared to the maximum front combined width B being no greater than 11 cm.

[0143] In some variations, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings, the difference between the maximum front joint width B and the front maximum width C can be substantially caused by the seam tolerance of the perimeter of the group of joint members 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d. For example, in some variations, the front maximum width C and the maximum front joint width B can differ by less than 1 cm, such as less than 0.5 cm or less than 0.3 cm.

[0144] However, in other variations, the maximum front combined width B can be substantially equal to the absorbent assembly's front maximum width C. For example, when the maximum front combined width B extends across the join line 20a at the first side edge 21a and the join line 20b at the second side edge 21b, the maximum front combined width B and the front maximum width C can coincide.

[0145] In some modifications, the front maximum width C is not greater than 11 cm, for example not greater than 10 cm, such as, for example, not greater than 9 cm. The front maximum width C in the front middle region 7a may be not less than 4 cm, for example not less than 5 cm. For example, the front maximum width C in the front middle region 7a may be in the range from 4 cm to 10 cm.

[0146] Further, the absorbent assembly 10 has a transverse assembly crotch width A, which is the transverse width of the absorbent assembly 1 at the longitudinal location of the transverse crotch axis x.

[0147] The transverse component crotch width A may be no greater than the maximum front bonded width B and / or the front maximum width C.

[0148] For example, the absorbent assembly 10 may have a substantially constant lateral width along the front central portion 7a.

[0149] However, to improve the fit of the underwear 1 to the body, the transverse assembly crotch width A may be less than the front maximum width C of the absorbent assembly 10. Further, the transverse assembly crotch width A may be less than the maximum front combined width B of the absorbent assembly 10.

[0150] As disclosed above, the shape of the middle region 7 of the underwear 1 can deviate from the shape of the absorbent assembly 10 along the leg openings 6a, 6b in some variations, i.e., one or more body fabric panels 2 can extend toward the leg openings 6a, 6b beyond the side edges 21a, 21b of the absorbent assembly 10. Thus, the transverse underwear crotch width of the underwear 1 at the longitudinal location of the transverse crotch axis x can be different from the transverse assembly crotch width A of the absorbent assembly 10, for example, greater than the transverse assembly crotch width A of the absorbent assembly 10.

[0151] In other variations, and as in the example shown, the transverse underwear crotch width of the underwear 1 at the longitudinal location of the transverse crotch axis x may be substantially equal to the transverse assembly crotch width A.

[0152] In variations where the middle portion 7 comprises a relatively narrow crotch portion and relatively wider front and rear portions, the lateral underwear crotch width of the underwear 1 may be the minimum lateral width of the middle region 7 of the underwear 1 , for example in the variation shown.

[0153] For example, the transverse assembly crotch width A may range from 3 cm to 8 cm.

[0154] Further, the first front length D of the absorbent assembly 10 can be defined along the longitudinal direction y from the transverse crotch axis x to the longitudinal position of the maximum front combined width B across the set of combining members 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d in the front middle region 7a. Therefore, the first front length D indicates the distance between the transverse crotch axis x and the maximum front combined width B.

[0155] Alternatively, the first front length D can be less than 10 cm, such as within the range of from 4 cm to 10 cm. Thus, the shape and positioning of the absorbent assembly 10 in the underwear 1 can be adjusted to be useful for absorbing moderate to heavy body fluid flows without requiring an unnecessarily large absorbent assembly 10.

[0156] In the rear middle region 7b, a maximum rear combined width E can be defined, which is the maximum transverse width measured across the group of combined members 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d in the rear middle region 7b. However, due to anatomical reasons, undesirable wrinkles formed in the underwear 1 are not as common on the rear side of the underwear 1 as on the front side of the underwear 1. Therefore, the rear maximum width E can be more freely selected in order to provide the desired absorption capacity and still provide a satisfactory body fit towards the rear side of the wearer's body. Similarly, the maximum transverse rear width can be relatively freely selected, which is the maximum transverse width of the absorbent assembly 10 in the rear middle region 7b.

[0157] Thus, the maximum rear bond width E may not be less than the maximum front bond width B, and may be greater than the maximum front bond width B for many variations.

[0158] For example, and as in the illustrated variations, the absorbent assembly 10 may extend longitudinally no further than the rear intermediate region 7B toward the rear of the underwear 1. That is, the absorbent assembly 10 does not extend into the rear region 4 of the underwear 1. Thus, in these variations, the absorbent assembly 10 may be confined to the portion of the underwear where it will be most useful for absorbing body fluids.

[0159] The overall longitudinal length of the absorbent assembly 10 may be configured depending on, for example, the size of the undergarment and taking into account the need for adequate absorbency.

[0160] In some variations, when the set of bonding members includes mechanical bonding members, the mechanical bonding members may be arranged to extend through the absorbent assembly 10 and at least one fabric panel 2. Thus, the mechanical bonding members may be visible from the exterior side of the fabric panel 2.

[0161] Figure 3 Show Figure 1 and Figure 2 1 is an example of a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the middle region 7 of an absorbent underwear 1 of FIG. The absorbent assembly 10 comprises a top layer 15 facing the wearer, a moisture barrier 12 and at least two intermediate layers 11, 16 superimposed between the top layer 15 and the moisture barrier 12 along a height axis z perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis y and the transverse crotch axis x. Figure 3 In the figure, for better visibility, the layers 11, 12, 15, 16 are shown as being spaced apart from each other. However, in practice, the layers will be superimposed on each other, as seen in the height direction z, with each layer contacting the adjacent upper and / or lower layers.

[0162] exist Figure 3In a variation of the embodiment of the present invention, three intermediate layers 11, 16 are shown as an example, in this case two absorbent layers 11 and a wicking layer 16. Further, the absorbent assembly 10 includes a liquid-impermeable moisture barrier 12. The liquid-impermeable barrier 12 prevents liquid from leaking through one or more intermediate layers 11 into the fabric panel 2. The liquid-impermeable barrier 12 may be in the form of Figure 3 1. However, in other variations, the liquid-impermeable barrier 12 may be a coating on the wearer-facing side of the fabric panel 2 or a coating on the garment-facing side of the absorbent layer 11. The absorbent assembly 10 further includes a top layer 15 that faces the user's skin.

[0163] Further, in Figure 3 In FIG. 2 , the edge 22a and the joining member 20a formed, for example, by a seam are shown as an example where the joining member 20a joins the layers 11 , 12 , 15 , 16 of the absorbent assembly 10 together and also attaches the absorbent assembly 10 to the fabric panel 2 .

[0164] In other variations, the layers of the absorbent assembly 10 may be joined separately from (eg, prior to) attachment of the absorbent assembly 10 to the fabric panel 2.

[0165] The top layer 15 can be made of any suitable fabric, including natural derived fibers selected from the group consisting of: cotton, wool, silk, cellulose, regenerated cellulose, rayon, viscose, modal, lyocell, tencel, bamboo, hemp, flax, ramie, coconut shell fiber or banana. Alternatively, the top layer can be made of synthetic fibers selected from the group consisting of: polyamide, acrylic, polyester or elastic fibers, such as a mixture of polyester and elastic fibers. Further, the top layer 15 can be made of a blend or mixture of natural derived fibers and / or synthetic fibers. The material used to construct the top layer should be soft and non-irritating to the skin and easily penetrated by any body fluids. According to the present disclosure, the top layer should be washable. The top layer can contain between 20% and 100% natural derived fibers, more preferably between 40% and 100% natural derived fibers, and most preferably between 60% and 100% natural derived fibers. The top skin-facing layer 15 comprises a water permeable material, thereby allowing body fluids to migrate to the underlying absorbent layer or layers 11, and may have a basis weight of 80-200 gsm.

[0166] like Figure 3As illustrated in the variation shown in , the wicking layer 16 can be disposed below the top layer 15. The wicking layer 16 has wicking characteristics to allow moisture to diffuse away from the wearer and into the absorbent layer or layers 11. Further, wicking enables efficient diffusion of moisture, thereby allowing moisture to be received in a wider area of ​​the one or more absorbent layers 11 below. This feature is particularly relevant for users suffering from pressure incontinence, because the outflow of urine may cause the absorbent layer 11 to be quickly saturated at the impact point. The wicking characteristics of the wicking layer 16 increase the total absorbent capacity of the absorbent layer by spreading the volume of fluid over a wider receiving area in the absorbent layer 11. The wicking layer 16 can be composed of any suitable fabric, including natural fibers or mixtures thereof, and the natural fibers are selected from the group consisting of: cotton, wool, silk, cellulose, regenerated cellulose, rayon, viscose, modal, lyocell, tencel, bamboo, hemp, flax, ramie, coconut shell fiber or banana. Alternatively, the wicking layer 16 can be composed of synthetic fibers or mixtures thereof, the synthetic fibers being selected from the group consisting of polyamide, acrylic, polyester or elastane. Further, the wicking layer 16 can be composed of a blend or mixture of naturally derived fibers and / or synthetic fibers. According to the present disclosure, the wicking layer should be washable. The wicking layer 16 can include between 20% and 100% naturally derived fibers, more preferably between 40% and 100% naturally derived fibers, and most preferably between 60% and 100% naturally derived fibers. The basis weight of the wicking layer can be 180-250 gsm.

[0167] The absorbent assembly 10 of the absorbent underwear 1 may comprise one or more absorbent layers 11 capable of absorbing liquid and releasing liquid during washing. The release of absorbed liquid is beneficial because it enables the absorbent underwear 1 to be restored for reuse. Reusable absorbent underwear provides a more sustainable alternative to commonly used disposable sanitary objects that are not intended to be reused.

[0168] The absorbent layer or layers 11 may comprise any material capable of absorbing fluids, such as woven or non-woven microfibers or polymer knits, fabrics formed from hydrophilic fibers, absorbent fibers or powders. The absorbent layer or layers 11 may be natural or synthetic fibers as described above for the other entry layers, but may be polyester and polyamide and contain an odor management agent. The odor management agent may be silver ions, copper ions and zeolites or polyhexamethylene biguanide, PHMB.

[0169] The absorbent layer or layers 11 may also include materials having an open cell porous structure, such as high loft or synthetic fibers having storage properties. The absorbent layer may include between 20% and 100% naturally derived fibers, more preferably between 40% and 100% naturally derived fibers, and most preferably between 60% and 100% naturally derived fibers. The basis weight of each absorbent layer 11 may be 200-350 gsm. There may be one or more absorbent layers 11 in the absorbent assembly 10. For example, as in the illustrated variation, the absorbent assembly 10 may include two absorbent layers 11.

[0170] The liquid-impermeable barrier 12 may include any suitable material or combination of materials that prevents liquid from migrating from the absorbent assembly 10 to the fabric layer 2. As in the variation shown, the liquid-impermeable barrier 12 may be a liquid-impermeable barrier layer, and may include a hydrophobic woven or nonwoven material with inherent hydrophobic properties, or may have been treated to be hydrophobic. Examples of hydrophobic materials for treating the barrier layer are polymers, such as silicones, polyurethanes, and combinations thereof. The liquid-impermeable barrier layer 12 may include a microporous polymer film, such as polyethylene, PTFE, or a polyurethane film, or a combination thereof. A laminate of a polymer film and a nonwoven material may also be used. Alternatively, the liquid-impermeable barrier 12 may be a coating of a material that is impermeable to moisture. The coating may be a polymer, such as urethane wax, which is, for example, disposed on the surface of the absorbent layer 11 that faces away from the wearer, or disposed on the surface of the fabric panel 2 that faces the wearer. The liquid-impermeable barrier 12 may be polyurethane.

[0171] The liquid-impermeable barrier 12 is preferably breathable to allow vapor to escape from the absorbent underwear 1 while preventing liquid from passing through the fabric layer. Further, the liquid-impermeable barrier 12 can be constructed of an elastic material to provide the absorbent assembly 1 with the required flexibility to adapt to the user's anatomy and movements. This improved fit increases the comfort of the wearer during use and helps prevent leakage from migrating through the leg openings 6a, 6b of the underwear.

[0172] The fabric of one or more fabric panels 2 can be made of any suitable fabric, including natural fibers and mixtures thereof, the natural fibers being selected from the group consisting of: cotton, wool, silk, cellulose, regenerated cellulose, rayon, viscose, modal, lyocell, tencel, bamboo, hemp, flax, ramie, coconut shell fiber or banana. Alternatively, the fabric can be made of synthetic fibers or mixtures thereof, the synthetic fibers being selected from the group consisting of: polyamide, acrylic, polyester. Further, the fabric can be made of a blend or mixture of naturally derived fibers and / or synthetic fibers. The fibers can be recycled fibers. The fabric can include stretchable fabrics, such as elastic fibers, so that the absorbent underwear can provide a firm fit while accommodating the wearer's movements, thereby preventing any leakage from migrating through the leg openings and keeping the absorbent assembly in place. The fabric is preferably breathable to allow steam to escape from the wearer's skin and the absorbent structure.

[0173] The present disclosure may vary within the scope of the appended claims.For example, the materials and dimensions of the different layers used to form the absorbent insert may vary, as described above.

Claims

1. A washable and reusable underwear (1), comprising one or more fabric panels (2) forming a front region (3), a back region (4) and an intermediate region (7) extending between the front and back regions (3, 4), the front region (3) and the back region (4) being joined so that the underwear (1) forms a waist opening (5) and a pair of leg openings (6a, 6b), wherein a central longitudinal axis (y) of the underwear (1) is defined along the one or more fabric panels (2) of the underwear (1) from the back region (4) and towards the front region (3), and and a transverse crotch axis (x) of the underwear (1) is defined in a direction extending between the leg openings (6a, 6b) so as to divide the middle region (7) into a front middle region (7a) extending longitudinally between the transverse crotch axis (x) and a front end (61a, 61b) of each leg opening (6a, 6b) and a rear middle region (7b) extending longitudinally between the transverse crotch axis (x) and a rear end (62a, 62b) of each leg opening (6a, 6b), wherein the transverse crotch axis (x) is perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis (y); The underwear (1) further comprises an absorbent assembly (10), the absorbent assembly (10) comprising a top layer (15) facing the wearer, a moisture barrier (12) and at least two intermediate layers (11, 16) superposed between the top layer (15) and the moisture barrier (12) along a height axis (z) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (y) and the transverse crotch axis (x), And among them: The absorbent assembly (10) is permanently attached to at least one of the one or more fabric panels (2) in at least a portion of the middle region (7) by a group of bonding members (20a, 20b, 20c, 20d) comprising one or more bonding members, wherein, in the front middle region (7a) of the underwear (1), the maximum front bonding width (B) measured laterally across the group of bonding members (20a, 20b, 20c, 20d) attaching the absorbent assembly (10) to the one or more fabric panels (2) is not greater than 11 cm.

2. The underwear according to claim 1, wherein the maximum front bonding width (B) across the set of bonding members (20a, 20b, 20c, 20d) in the front middle region (7a) is in the range from 4 cm to 10 cm.

3. The underwear according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the absorbent assembly (10) has a front maximum width (C), the front maximum width (C) being the maximum lateral width of the absorbent assembly (10) in the front middle region (7a), and the front maximum width (C) is not greater than 11 cm.

4. The underwear according to claim 3, wherein the front maximum width (C) is in the range from 4 cm to 10 cm.

5. The underwear according to claim 3, wherein: In the front middle region (7a), the maximum front bonded width (B) across the set of bonding members (20a, 20b, 20c, 20d) is substantially equal to the front maximum width (C) of the absorbent assembly (10).

6. An underwear according to claim 3, wherein the absorbent component (10) has a transverse component crotch width (A) at the longitudinal position of the transverse crotch axis (x), and the transverse crotch width (A) is not greater than the maximum front bonding width (B) across the set of bonding members (20a, 20b, 20c, 20d) in the front middle area (7a) and / or is not greater than the front maximum width (C) of the absorbent component (10) in the front middle area (7a).

7. The underwear according to claim 6, wherein the transverse component crotch width (A) ranges from 3 cm to 8 cm.

8. An underwear according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first front length (D) of the absorbent assembly (10) is defined along the longitudinal direction (y) from the transverse crotch axis (x) to the longitudinal position of the maximum front bonding width (B) across the set of bonding members (20a, 20b, 20c, 20d) in the front middle region (7a), wherein the first front length (D) is in the range from 4 cm to 15 cm.

9. The underwear according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the maximum front bonding width spanning the set of bonding members (20a, 20b, 20c, 20d) in the front area (3) of the underwear (1) is not greater than the maximum front bonding width (B) of the set of bonding members (20a, 20b, 20c, 20d) in the front middle area (7a).

10. The underwear according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: In the front region (3) of the underwear (1), the maximum width of the absorbent assembly (10) is no greater than the maximum width (C) of the absorbent assembly (10) in the front middle region (7a).

11. Underwear according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the absorbent assembly (10) does not extend beyond the front central region (7a) in a longitudinal direction towards the front of the undergarment (1).

12. The underwear according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the maximum front joining width (B) of the set of joining members (20a, 20b, 20c, 20d) is substantially equal to the lateral width of the middle area (7) at the location of the maximum front joining width (B).

13. The underwear according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the absorbent assembly (10) comprises a front edge (21c) pointing to the front of the underwear (1), a rear edge (21d) pointing to the rear of the underwear (1), and a pair of side edges (21a, 21b), each side edge (21a, 21b) at least partially pointing to the corresponding leg opening (6a, 6b) and connecting the front edge (21c) and the rear edge (21d).

14. Underwear according to claim 13, wherein each side edge (21a, 21b) is at least partially arranged at the respective leg opening (6a, 6b) of the undergarment (1).

15. The underwear according to claim 13, wherein the set of bonding members (20a, 20b, 20c, 20d) is arranged to fasten the absorbent assembly (10) to at least one of the one or more fabric panels (2) at least along a portion of the side edge (21a, 21b) of the absorbent assembly (10).

16. The underwear according to claim 13, wherein the set of bonding members (20a, 20b, 20c, 20d) is arranged to fasten the absorbent assembly (10) to at least one of the one or more fabric panels (2) at least along a portion of the front edge (21c) of the absorbent assembly.

17. The underwear according to claim 13, wherein the set of bonding members (20a, 20b, 20c, 20d) is arranged to fasten the absorbent assembly (10) to at least one of the one or more fabric panels (2) at least along a portion of the rear edge (21d) of the absorbent assembly.

18. The undergarment of claim 1 or 2, wherein the set of bonding members comprises one or more bonding lines.

19. The undergarment of claim 18, wherein the one or more bond lines are continuous bond lines.

20. The underwear according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the set of bonding members (20a, 20b, 20c, 20d) comprises one or more adhesive bonding members and / or mechanical bonding members.

21. An underwear according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the middle region (7) of the underwear (1) comprises at least one fabric panel (2) of the one or more fabric panels (2), having an outer side (9) facing away from the wearer and an inner side (8) facing towards the wearer, wherein the absorbent component (10) is positioned on the inner side (8) of the at least one fabric panel (2).

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