Durable absorbent pant adapted for use with removable absorbent insert

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a durable absorbent pant adapted for use with a removable absorbent insert and designed to contain and absorb menstrual fluid.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to durable absorbent pants suitable for use with removable absorbent inserts and designed to contain and absorb menstrual fluids. Background Art

[0002] A variety of absorbent products, including disposable absorbent products and durable, reusable absorbent products, are commercially available for absorbing and retaining urine, menstrual fluids, and other vaginal secretions. In particular, durable, reusable absorbent products are becoming increasingly popular. Many consumers may prefer the fit of durable, reusable absorbent products, which tend to feel more like underwear. Systems are also known that include washable and reusable products (such as durable menstrual boxers or pants) combined with disposable absorbent pads. In particular, a system is known that includes washable and reusable pants that include a fabric channel or shell with two open ends for holding a disposable pad.

[0003] However, existing products and systems have many disadvantages. For example, for systems that include reusable pants that include a fabric channel for holding disposable pads, the two open ends of the channel may allow the disposable pads to shift during use. In addition, the presence of two open ends may cause the user to confuse the correct insertion orientation of the pad. Some existing products and systems provide insufficient capacity and / or fluid handling performance for all-day wear or for users with large amounts of urine or menstrual fluid, and / or may cause leakage due to poor fit or improper placement, resulting in soiling of the wearer's clothing or bedding. Therefore, there is a need for an absorbent product or system that provides improved capacity and / or fluid handling to achieve all-day wear without leakage, while providing dryness and freshness recovery during all-day wear. Summary of the invention

[0004] The present disclosure relates to a durable absorbent pant suitable for accommodating one or more removable absorbent inserts, the durable absorbent pant comprising: a front waist portion having a front waist edge and left and right front leg opening edges; a rear waist portion having a rear waist edge and left and right rear leg opening edges; a crotch portion comprising a gusset, the crotch portion having a front portion connected to the front waist portion and a rear portion connected to the rear waist portion; and left and right hip side portions, the left and right hip side portions connecting the front waist portion to the rear waist portion and thereby forming a waist opening and left and right leg openings, the waist opening having a A waist opening edge comprising a front waist edge and a rear waist edge; wherein each of the front waist portion, the rear waist portion and the gusset comprises a knitted or woven material; wherein the gusset comprises a durable absorbent sheet, the durable absorbent sheet comprising a liquid permeable top layer facing the wearer, a durable absorbent layer below the liquid permeable top layer facing the wearer, and a liquid impermeable barrier layer below the durable absorbent layer, the liquid permeable top layer facing the wearer and the durable absorbent layer forming an encapsulation structure having a closed end and an open end, the open end being adapted to receive one or more removable absorbent inserts in a position below the liquid permeable top layer facing the wearer of the durable absorbent sheet.

[0005] The present disclosure also relates to a package series including two or more different sized durable absorbent pants adapted to accommodate one or more removable absorbent inserts, the series comprising: a. a first package and a second package, wherein the first package includes a first durable absorbent pants having a first size, and the second package includes a second durable absorbent pants having a second size, wherein the second size is different from the first size, wherein each of the first durable absorbent pants and the second durable absorbent pants includes: i. a front waist portion having a front waist edge and left and right front leg opening edges; ii. a rear waist portion having a rear waist edge and left and right rear leg opening edges;

[0006] iii. a crotch portion comprising a gusset, the crotch portion having a front portion connected to the front waist portion and a rear portion connected to the rear waist portion; and iv. left and right hip side portions, the left and right hip side portions connecting the front waist portion to the rear waist portion and thereby forming a waist opening and left and right leg openings, the waist opening having a waist opening edge including a front waist edge and a rear waist edge; wherein each of the front waist portion, the rear waist portion and the gusset comprises a knitted or woven material; wherein the gusset comprises a durable absorbent sheet, the durable absorbent sheet comprising a liquid permeable top layer facing the wearer, a durable absorbent layer below the liquid permeable top layer facing the wearer, a liquid impermeable barrier layer below the durable absorbent layer, the liquid permeable top layer facing the wearer and the durable absorbent layer forming an encapsulation structure having a closed end and an open end, the open end being adapted to receive one or more removable absorbent inserts in a position below the liquid permeable top layer facing the wearer of the durable absorbent sheet.

[0007] The present disclosure also relates to a package series, the package series including durable absorbent pants adapted to accommodate one or more removable absorbent inserts, the series including: a. a first package, wherein the first package includes durable absorbent pants, the durable absorbent pants including: i. a front waist portion, the front waist portion having a front waist edge and left and right front leg opening edges; ii. a rear waist portion, the rear waist portion having a rear waist edge and left and right rear leg opening edges; iii. a crotch portion, the crotch portion including a gusset, the crotch portion having a front portion connected to the front waist portion and a rear portion connected to the rear waist portion; and iv. a left hip side portion and a right hip side portion, the left hip side portion and the right hip side portion connecting the front waist portion to the rear waist portion and thereby forming a waist opening and left and right leg openings, the waist opening having a waist opening edge including a front waist edge and a rear waist edge; wherein each of the front waist portion, the rear waist portion and the gusset includes a knitted or woven material; wherein the triangular gusset comprises a durable absorbent sheet comprising a liquid-permeable top layer facing the wearer, a durable absorbent layer below the liquid-permeable top layer facing the wearer, and a liquid-impermeable barrier layer below the durable absorbent layer, the liquid-permeable top layer facing the wearer and the durable absorbent layer forming an encapsulation structure having a closed end and an open end, the open end being suitable for receiving one or more removable absorbent inserts in a position below the liquid-permeable top layer facing the wearer of the durable absorbent sheet; b. a second package, wherein the second package comprises a first removable absorbent insert having a first capacity and being configured for insertion into durable absorbent pants; c. a third package, wherein the third package comprises a second removable absorbent insert having a second capacity and being configured for insertion into durable absorbent pants; wherein the length and / or width of the first removable absorbent insert is substantially the same as the length and / or width of the second removable absorbent insert. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Figure 1 is a simplified depiction of one example of a durable absorbent short that appears to be arranged lying flat on a horizontal, flat surface with the front waist portion facing upward.

[0009] Figure 2A yes Figure 1 A depiction of an example of a pair of shorts in an open configuration wherein the front waist portion and the rear waist portion have been separated at the hip portions or hip side seams, the shorts appearing to be arranged lying flat on a horizontal, flat surface with the wearer-facing surface facing upward.

[0010] Figure 2B yes Figure 1A depiction of another example of a pair of shorts in an open configuration wherein the front waist portion and the rear waist portion have been separated at the hip portions or hip side seams, the shorts appearing to be arranged lying flat on a horizontal, flat surface with the wearer-facing surface facing upward.

[0011] FIG. 3A to FIG. 3E It is along Figure 2A Schematic longitudinal cross-sections of various alternative examples of shorts as depicted in FIG. 2 , taken along line 3 - 3 in FIG.

[0012] Figure 4A is a simplified depiction of an example of shorts that appear to be arranged lying flat on a horizontal, flat surface with the front waist portion facing upward.

[0013] Figure 4B is a simplified depiction of one example of a durable absorbent boxer brief (or pant with pant legs) that appears to be arranged lying flat on a horizontal, flat surface with the front waist portion facing upward.

[0014] Figure 5A It is along Figure 2A The line 5-5 in the Figure 2A A schematic side cross-section of one example of a durable absorbent short is depicted.

[0015] Figure 5B It is along Figure 2B The line 5-5 in the Figure 2B A schematic side cross-section of one example of a durable absorbent short is depicted.

[0016] Figure 6 is a plan view of one example of a crotch gusset arranged on a horizontal surface, with the wearer-facing surface facing the viewer.

[0017] definition

[0018] “Product line” means a first product and a second product that are structurally distinct and sold concurrently and associated with a common trademark, each product being accompanied by or associated with packaging that includes information that informs a purchaser of either product that the first product is designed to be used in combination with the second product, and vice versa.

[0019] With respect to a durable absorbent pant in an open configuration arranged to lie flat on a horizontal, flat surface, "longitudinal" means the direction generally perpendicular to a line tangent to each of the left leg opening edge and the right leg opening edge where the left leg opening edge and the right leg opening edge are closest to the front waist edge. With respect to a durable absorbent pant in an assembled configuration arranged to lie flat on a horizontal, flat surface with the front waist portion facing upward, "longitudinal" means the direction generally perpendicular to a line tangent to each of the left leg opening edge and the right leg opening edge where the left leg opening edge and the right leg opening edge are closest to the front waist edge. "Length" means a dimension measured along the longitudinal direction.

[0020] With respect to a durable absorbent pant in an open configuration arranged to lie flat on a horizontal, flat surface, "lateral" means a direction generally parallel to a line tangent to each of the left leg opening edge and the right leg opening edge where the left leg opening edge and the right leg opening edge are closest to the front waist edge. With respect to a durable absorbent pant in an assembled configuration arranged to lie flat on a horizontal, flat surface with the front waist portion facing upward, "lateral" means a direction generally parallel to a line tangent to each of the left leg opening edge and the right leg opening edge where the left leg opening edge and the right leg opening edge are closest to the front waist edge. "Width" means a dimension measured in the lateral direction.

[0021] With respect to wearable garments such as pants, "durable" means made primarily (as a percentage or fraction of its outer facing surface area) from fabric knitted and / or woven from natural, semi-synthetic or synthetic fibers, threads or yarns, and can generally be laundered or hand washed and dried for multiple reuses / re-wearing without substantial damage thereto. In addition, the durable absorbent pants or components of the present invention are not disposable absorbent articles.

[0022] A yarn, thread, fiber, filament, web, film or fabric material, or a laminate or composite of any of these, is considered to be "elastic" or "elastomeric" for the purposes of this document if a tensile force of not more than 50 gf / mm (gf / mm sample width, where the width is measured perpendicular to the direction of stretch) is applied to the material in question along the direction of stretch, the material can be extended along that direction to an elongated dimension of at least 130% of its original relaxed dimension (i.e., can be extended by at least 30%) without rupture or breakage that significantly damages the material in question; and when the force is removed from the material in question, the material contracts along the direction of stretch to recover at least 40% of such elongation. For example, if a length of fabric having an original relaxed length of 100 mm and a width of 40 mm can be stretched to a length of 130 mm in a direction along its length by a tensile force of 2000 gf (50 gf / mm) without significant damage, and will shrink to a length of no more than 118 mm (130 mm - 118 mm = 12 mm = 40% of 30 mm) when the force is removed, then it is "elastic" as defined herein. "Elongation", used herein to quantify and express the amount of strain imparted to an elastic material in the direction of stretch, means: {[(strained length of strand) - (strand length before strain)] / (strand length before strain)} x 100%.

[0023] With respect to the two opposing surfaces of the layer components of a pant, "wearer-facing" refers to the surface that faces the wearer's skin when the pant is normally worn; and "outward-facing" refers to the surface that faces away from the wearer's skin. With respect to two different layered components of a pant, the "wearer-facing" component is the component that is disposed closer to the wearer's skin when the pant is normally worn; and the "outward-facing" component is the component that is disposed farther from the wearer's skin.

[0024] For purposes herein, a crotch gusset has a "liquid impermeable barrier" if it exhibits no more than 0.1 ml of z-direction leakage of the test fluid into a length of filter paper in the Liquid Impermeability Test described below.

[0025] For purposes of this document, "shorts" in underwear are distinguished from "boxers" by the configuration of the leg edges relative to the crotch portion, which results from the manner in which the component materials are formed, sized, proportioned, and sewn or otherwise attached together. Figure 4A An example of shorts is depicted, and Figure 4BAn example of a boxer brief is depicted. When the garment in its assembled state is arranged to lie flat on a horizontal flat surface with the front waist portion facing upward and a lateral crotch tangent line 500 is drawn perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 200 and tangentially to the point where the crotch portion lower contour 130c and the longitudinal axis 200 intersect, for shorts, the lowest point 140a along the crotch leg opening edge 140 is located along or above the crotch tangent line 500 (i.e., toward the front waist edge 102) (see Figure 4A ); and for boxer pants, the lowest point 140a along the crotch leg opening edge 140 is disposed below the crotch tangent line 500 (ie, away from the front waist edge 102) (see Figure 4B ).

[0026] With respect to a durable absorbent pant in an open configuration arranged to lie flat on a horizontal, flat surface, the "z-direction" is the direction orthogonal to the longitudinal and lateral directions, ie, the vertical direction relative to the horizontal, flat surface.

[0027] With respect to various layer components in a crotch gusset of a durable absorbent pant arranged to lie flat on a horizontal, flat surface with the wearer-facing surface facing upward in an open configuration, such as between a first layer component and a second layer component in the crotch portion, the terms "above," "superadjacent," "below," "subjacent," and / or "below" describe the arrangement of the components relative to each other along the z-direction. Thus, for example, with reference to Figure 3E , the wearer-facing liquid-permeable top layer 131a is disposed "above" the outwardly facing liquid-impermeable barrier layer 131c, and conversely, the outwardly facing liquid-impermeable barrier layer 131c is disposed "below" the wearer-facing liquid-permeable top layer 131a and / or the durable absorbent layer 131b. For two layer components, "above" and "below" also mean that the two layer components are disposed in direct face-to-face contact with each other. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] As described in the background, systems are known that include washable and reusable products (such as menstrual boxers or pants) in combination with disposable absorbent pads. However, existing products and systems have many disadvantages. For example, the capacity and / or fluid handling performance of existing products and systems are generally insufficient for all-day wear or for users with large amounts of urine or menstrual fluid. In addition, existing products and systems may leak due to poor fit or improper placement, resulting in soiling of the wearer's clothing or bedding. However, it has been recognized that an absorbent product or system can be designed that provides improved capacity and / or fluid handling to achieve all-day wear without leakage, while providing dryness and freshness recovery during all-day wear.

[0029] refer to Figure 1 2, the durable absorbent pants may include a front waist portion 100, a rear waist portion 120, and a crotch portion 130 bridging the front waist portion and the rear waist portion. The front waist portion 100 has a front waist edge 102 and left and right front leg opening edges 104. The rear waist portion 120 has a rear waist edge 122 and left and right rear leg opening edges 124. The crotch portion 130 has left and right crotch leg opening edges 140. The crotch portion 130 may include or consist of a crotch gusset 230, which may include several layer components as further described below. For purposes herein, the "crotch portion 130" is a portion of a pant identified as described herein, regardless of a particular component or structure. The "crotch gusset 230" is a structural component comprising a durable absorbent sheet comprising at least two distinct layers including a durable absorbent layer and a liquid impermeable barrier layer and bridging the front waist portion 100 and the back waist portion 120.

[0030] The crotch gusset may include a durable absorbent sheet comprising a plurality of layers, e.g., a wearer-facing liquid-permeable top layer 131a, a durable absorbent layer 131b, an outwardly facing liquid-impermeable barrier layer 131c, and an optional outer fabric layer 131d, connected to one another by any suitable mechanism at front and back seams 134, 138 near the leg edges 140, and at crotch side seams 135. The connecting or joining mechanism may be a stitching system for attaching the layers together; however, for liquid containment purposes, it may be desirable for the connecting mechanism to include a generally hydrophobic, water-insoluble adhesive, either by itself or in addition to stitching.

[0031] The liquid-permeable top layer 131a preferably includes a mesh layer with stretchability and softness, such as a strong mesh fabric of 90% nylon and 10% spandex. One or more mesh layers can be used to promote the user's fresh feeling, and fully cover the absorbent core below and / or limit the visibility of one or more removable absorbent plug-ins (when present). In addition, color matching can be used relative to the liquid-permeable top layer 131a, one or more plug-ins 150 and / or durable absorbent layer 131b to give a more underwear-like appearance. In addition, one or more spacer fabrics can be used as the liquid-permeable top layer 131a and / or durable absorbent layer 131b. Spacer fabric is a three-dimensional knitted fabric composed of two or more separate knitted substrates, which are connected together or kept separate by spacer yarns or fleece layers.

[0032] Turning to the liquid impermeable barrier layer 131c, the liquid impermeable barrier layer 131c ( Figure 3D and Figure 3E) prevents the absorbed urine or menses from transferring from the durable absorbent layer 131b to the outer fabric layer 131d or even to the outer garment. In some examples, the barrier layer may be formed of or include a suitable liquid-impermeable polymer film. In some examples, the film composition may be selected to have elastic elongation capabilities, thereby providing suitable elastic stretch properties for the combination of layers present in the crotch portion 130 and / or the crotch gusset 230. In some examples, the outwardly facing liquid-impermeable barrier layer 131c may include a film formed in whole or in part from a polyurethane-based resin or a polyester-based resin. In other examples, the outwardly facing liquid-impermeable barrier layer 131c may include a film formed by directly extruding or otherwise applying a thermoplastic film resin in a molten or semi-molten form to the outwardly facing surface of an upper covering layer (such as a durable absorbent layer 131b), so that the film resin partially penetrates the fabric while still molten and thereby forms a liquid-impermeable film that is partially mechanically entangled in the fabric and / or integral with the fabric. This also has the effect of a reinforcing layer, which can reduce the thickness in the crotch portion 130 and reduce or prevent wrinkling or bunching of the durable absorbent layer 131b when elastically contracted. In a particular example, the polyurethane or polyester film can be formed by extruding or otherwise applying a molten thermoplastic resin directly onto the outwardly facing surface of a fabric that is used as or forms a component of the durable absorbent layer 131b.

[0033] The material selected for the barrier layer may also be vapor permeable or "breathable" in that it allows gas or water vapor to pass through by having a combination of a porous structure for vapor permeability but a sufficiently small pore size for liquid impermeability and a surface with low wettability (e.g., a hydrophobic surface), while still being effectively liquid impermeable under the ordinary conditions of use contemplated herein. Various liquid-impermeable, vapor-permeable membranes and other materials are known and used in fields including personal hygiene, clothing, and wound dressing applications. In some cases, a liquid-impermeable but vapor-permeable barrier layer may be preferred for the purpose of venting water vapor to improve wearer comfort and / or to help avoid overhydration of the wearer's skin. A monolithic thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) film material has stretch / elastic properties and breathability and may be desirable for a barrier layer.

[0034] In some examples, it may also be desirable that the material selected for the barrier layer be able to withstand the application of heat used to bond the barrier layer to the overlying fabric layer so that the material does not develop holes therethrough during the bonding process (which may compromise liquid impermeability). In some examples, suitable barrier layer materials for this purpose may include polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or thermoplastic polyester elastomer (TPEE). The material may be available in the form of a monolithic film and may be applied and bonded to the fabric layer by the application of heat.

[0035] refer to Figure 2B , Figure 3B , Figure 3D and Figure 5B For the purpose of reducing the chance that urine or menses may escape to locations beyond the overlying absorbent portion of the crotch portion 130 of the pant during wear, it may be desirable to include one or more containment barrier sections 170a, 170b, 170c. The containment barrier may be formed of any material suitable for creating a defined hydrophobic zone that blocks urine or menses from wetting and flowing thereon, or even a barrier or wall structure extending from the wearer-facing surface of the pant toward the wearer's skin and defined by a greater z-direction thickness relative to the central z-direction thickness of the crotch portion 130 (i.e., at the intersection 250 of the longitudinal axis 200 and the lateral axis 300 of the pant). As suggested in the figures, a pair of side containment barrier layers 170a may be positioned along the inner leg edges 140 of the pant (see, e.g., Figure 2B and Figure 5B ), and may be configured to follow the curvature of the leg edge 140. In other examples (not shown), the side containment barrier may have other configurations, including but not limited to following a straight line or path, or a curvature other than the curvature of the leg opening.

[0036] The front containment barrier layer 170b and / or the rear containment barrier layer 170c may be positioned adjacent to the front extension 401 and / or the rear extension 402 of the crotch portion 130, respectively (see, e.g. Figure 2B , Figure 3B and Figure 3D ). Figure 2BIn some examples suggested in , the containment barrier system can substantially or completely surround the intersection 250 of the longitudinal axis 200 and the lateral axis 300 of the pant, and can substantially or completely surround the crotch portion 130. In some examples, the continuous containment barrier having operatively connected portions 170a, 170b, 170c can completely surround the intersection 250 of the axes, and can follow a path defining a circular shape, an oval shape, a stadium shape, a rounded rectangular shape, a peanut shape, an hourglass shape, or any other desired shape, thereby substantially or completely surrounding the intersection 250. For the purpose of minimizing the chance of leakage, it may be desirable that the continuous containment barrier completely surround the intersection 250, thereby forming a liquid-impermeable perimeter seal, such as Figure 2B shown.

[0037] The containment barrier layer may be formed substantially of a hydrophobic material for the purpose of blocking the wetting and flow of urine or menses thereon and / or around it. Suitable hydrophobic materials include: beads of a hydrophobic polymer material (e.g., beads of a hydrophobic silicone-based compound) that may be applied to the wearer-facing surface of the pants in fluid form and then cured (flocking may also be applied to the beads); strips of a hydrophobic film, hydrophobic closed-cell polymer foam, or hydrophobic fabric that may be attached to the wearer-facing surface of the pants (e.g., by a flexible, extensible, hydrophobic adhesive); or strips of a hydrophobic film, hydrophobic closed-cell polymer foam, or hydrophobic fabric that may be attached to the wearer-facing surface of the pants via heat-compression bonding. In other examples, a hydrophobic tape strip (not shown) may be attached along the inner leg opening edge 140 by adhesive and wrapped around that edge and around the outer fabric layer 131 d, thereby sealing the edges of the layers at the leg edge and providing a wearer-facing strip along the leg opening that impedes the flow of urine or menses thereover. The hydrophobic strip attached along the inner leg opening edge and any material used to form the containment barrier may be selected to have stretch or elastic stretch properties so as not to significantly reduce the elastic stretch capabilities of the assembled layers present in the crotch portion 130.

[0038] refer to Figure 2A and Figure 2B By way of example, for purposes herein, the crotch portion 130 is the portion of the pant located at least between the crotch portion minimum front extension 401 and the crotch portion minimum rear extension 402, longitudinally centered about the crotch portion lateral axis 301 (which is drawn along the minimum width dimension CW measured between the crotch leg opening edges 140), plus 10% of the total pant length L to the front and rear of the crotch portion lateral axis 301. As indicated by Figure 2A and Figure 2BAs suggested, for the purpose of better fitting the legs and lower torso of an adult female wearer, it may be desirable to locate the crotch portion lateral axis 301 forward of the lateral axis 300 (which bisects the total length L) rather than being co-located with the lateral axis 300. Thus, for purposes herein, the respective boundaries between the crotch portion 130 and the front and rear waist portions 100, 120 are independent of the location of any seams (such as seams 134, 138) that may exist to connect the material contained in the crotch gusset 230 with the material contained in the front and rear waist portions 100, 120.

[0039] The material forming one or both of the front portion 132 and the back portion 136 of the crotch portion 130 may be continuous with the material forming the front waist portion 100 and the back waist portion 120, or alternatively, one or both of the front portion 132 and the back portion 136 of the crotch portion 130 and / or the crotch gusset 230 may be substantially formed from one or more sections or layers of material different from the material substantially forming one or both of the front waist portion 100 and the back waist portion 120, and the crotch gusset 230 may be connected to the front waist portion 100 and the back waist portion 120 at one or both of the front seam 134 and the back seam 138. Figure 3A and Figure 3B In the illustrated but non-limiting example, the front waist portion 100, the outer facing layer of the crotch portion 130, and the rear waist portion 120 may be partially or entirely formed from a first single continuous section of material. FIG. 3B to FIG. 3E As shown, one or more additional material layers (a liquid-permeable top layer 131a facing the wearer and a durable absorbent layer 131b) can be added to the crotch portion 130 on the wearer-facing side as shown and attached to the first material section at the front seam 134 and the back seam 138 by, for example, stitching / sewing, adhesive bonding, thermal bonding (fusion or welding), or other suitable attachment / connection mechanisms (hereinafter referred to as attachment mechanisms). Optionally, these layers can be offset from the front and back seams to reduce bulk and stacking of seamed layers directly overlapping each other, which can enhance comfort, as described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 315,188, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0040] In other illustrative but non-limiting examples, reference Figure 3C and Figure 3D The material sections that form the front waist portion 100, the back waist portion 120, and the crotch gusset 230, respectively, may be separate and distinct and connected at the front seam 134 and the back seam 138 by any suitable attachment mechanism. Figure 3C and Figure 3DThe configuration methods schematically depicted by way of non-limiting example in may be preferred because they may provide the designer with greater flexibility in selecting the respective materials for the waist portion and the crotch portion with respect to appearance, feel, weight, breathability, elongation, stretch properties, and cost. The elongation and stretch properties described below will apply to the combination of one or more layers of material present in the crotch portion 130 and / or the crotch gusset 230.

[0041] For purposes that may include odor control, in some examples, any, some, or all of the materials present in the crotch gusset 230 (including, but not limited to, the wearer-facing liquid-permeable top layer 131a and the durable absorbent layer 131b of the durable absorbent sheet) may be formed of component materials that include metals, metal alloys, or metal compounds that have antimicrobial properties. Examples may include copper, silver, zinc, and aluminum, and alloys and / or compounds thereof. It is known in the art to "infuse" such materials into a knittable thread or yarn. Other suitable odor control agents may also be incorporated.

[0042] When the durable absorbent shorts are fully assembled, the front waist portion 100 and the rear waist portion 120 are connected together at the left and right hip portions 160 to form a waist opening including waist opening edges (102 and 122) and left and right leg openings including left and right leg opening edges 145 (see FIG. Figure 1 ). In some examples, the front waist portion 100 and the back waist portion 120 can be formed from a single continuous material section without side seams (a "seamless" construction). In other examples, the front waist portion 100 and the back waist portion 120 can be formed from different material sections or separate material portions and connected at a hip side seam extending approximately vertically or longitudinally along the hip portion 160.

[0043] Any one or all of the front waist portion 100, the back waist portion 120 and the crotch portion 130 can be formed by knitting or woven materials. The knitting material can be a stretch knitting material comprising an elastic strand or line, which imparts or enhances the elastic ductility and contractility of the material. A variety of suitable knitting and stretch knitting materials with variable and selectable elongation and tensile modulus properties are known and commercially available in the field of garment manufacturing. Suitable stretch knitting materials can be obtained from the Scheele Textile AG (Schoeller Textil AG, Severlen, Switzerland) of Severlen, Switzerland at present. Knitting and woven materials are described in more detail below. Suitable materials can be selected according to their elongation and tensile modulus properties and their weight, air permeability, hygroscopicity, touch and cost to the skin. In some examples, the material may be knitted from non-elastic and elastic fibers, threads, or yarns, wherein the elastic components are formed from or include an elastomeric material, such as elastic fibers (e.g., spandex or LYCRA, available from The Lycra Company, Wilmington, Delaware).

[0044] Durable absorbent shorts can also be configured with a waistband structure (not specifically shown) at the waist edge, and a leg band structure (not specifically shown) at the leg opening edge. The waistband structure and the leg band structure can be formed by the folded portion of the material forming the front waist portion, the back waist portion and / or the crotch portion. In some examples, multiple strands or one or more strips of elastomeric material can be captured and contained in the folded portion to supplement the elasticity and contraction force in the material itself, improve the ability of durable absorbent pants to remain in place on the wearer's body during wear and to accommodate urine or menstrual fluid. In some examples, separate and different waistband components and / or leg band components can be provided, and attached to the front waist portion, the back waist portion and the crotch portion near the waist opening edge and the leg opening edge or in the position defining the waist opening edge and the leg opening edge via a suitable attachment mechanism. Elastic band components suitable for forming separate waistbands and leg bands for underwear such as durable absorbent shorts are known and commercially available in the field of clothing manufacturing. The elastic waistband and leg band structure may be desired to better hold the pants in place on the wearer's body, and the elastic leg band structure may be desired to further provide supplemental stretch forces around the leg openings that help hold the removable absorbent insert against the wearer's body in the crotch region of the body.

[0045] Durable absorbent pants having any desired combination of features described herein may be effectively used in conjunction with one or more removable absorbent inserts. Figure 3EAn example of a durable absorbent shorts adapted or configured to house one or more removable absorbent inserts 150 is depicted. Figure 3E The durable absorbent shorts include a crotch portion 130 having a triangular gusset 230, wherein the triangular gusset 230 includes a durable absorbent sheet including a liquid permeable top layer 131a facing the wearer, a durable absorbent layer 131b below the liquid permeable top layer facing the wearer, and an outwardly facing liquid impermeable barrier layer 131c below the durable absorbent layer. Figure 3E Can be similar to the above Figure 3B The depicted example materials form and / or include these materials, but have an encapsulation structure 151 and lack one or more containment barrier segments 170b, 170c. Figure 3E As shown, the liquid-permeable top layer 131a facing the wearer and the durable absorbent layer 131b form an encapsulation structure 151 having a closed end and an open end, the open end being adapted to receive one or more removable absorbent inserts 150 in a position below the liquid-permeable top layer 131a of the durable absorbent sheet facing the wearer. The open end of the encapsulation structure 151 may include a slit 133 in the liquid-permeable top layer of the durable absorbent sheet facing the wearer. The slit 133 may be optionally enhanced (not shown). There are a variety of methods to enhance the slit, including stitching, material folding, folding the cut edges below and sealing or stitching in place, and / or applying tape or vinyl appliques (on the side facing the wearer, facing the outside, or both). Similar to the pillowcase opening, the open end may also be formed by folding the liquid-permeable top layer 131a or using multiple separate liquid-permeable top layer 131a materials.

[0046] refer to Figure 6, the wearer-facing liquid-permeable top layer 131a of the pants can be joined to the lower durable absorbent layer 131b of the pants on the outside of the encapsulation structure 151. In some examples, the joints between the layers can be formed by discrete depositions of adhesive between the layers on the outside of the encapsulation structure 151 to bond the layers together at the deposited locations. In other examples, the joints between the layers can be formed on the outside of the encapsulation structure 151 by thermocompression bonding, which can be more durable for multiple laundry washes. For the purpose of enabling thermocompression bonding, the wearer-facing layer and the lower absorbent layer can each contain a polymer component of a corresponding fusible composition (such as a similar polyester-based composition) that helps form a strong bond between the layers when heat and pressure are locally applied at the bonding site. (In this context, "meltable composition" means, for two respective polymers present in two respective layers, that the two polymers are miscible and are capable of melting and mixing at a temperature of 250° C. or less to form a single thermodynamic phase.) If the pants include one or more containment barrier segments, particularly a continuous containment barrier (e.g., a continuous containment barrier that completely surrounds the intersection 250 to form a liquid-impermeable perimeter seal, Figure 2B As shown), the encapsulation structure 151 is preferably on the inside of one or more containment barrier segments (in other words, one or more containment barrier segments are on the outside of the encapsulation structure 151).

[0047] The one or more removable absorbent inserts may have a mechanical direction (MD) / longitudinal direction of about 10 N / m 2 About 100N / m 2 , preferably about 10 N / m 2 About 80N / m 2 , more preferably about 20 N / m 2 To about 50N / m 2 One or more removable absorbent inserts may have a bending stiffness of about 10 N / m in the cross direction (CD) / lateral direction. 2 About 100N / m 2 , preferably about 10 N / m 2 About 80N / m 2 , more preferably about 20 N / m 2 To about 50N / m 2 Without being bound by theory, it is believed that there are preferred ranges of bending stiffness in the machine direction (MD) and the cross direction (CD), and within these preferred ranges, the comfort and ease of insertion of the removable absorbent insert into the pants is optimized. Bending stiffness can be managed via selection of component materials (e.g., thickness of component materials), and can also be managed via unidirectional or multidirectional activation of component materials using processes such as embossing, ring rolling, bending, scoring, and / or folding.

[0048] One or more removable absorbent inserts can each have a capacity of about 2 g to about 100 g, preferably about 5 g to about 80 g, more preferably about 10 g to about 50 g, even more preferably about 15 g to about 40 g. One or more removable absorbent inserts can each have a thickness of about 0.5 mm to about 7 mm, preferably about 0.5 mm to about 5 mm, more preferably about 1.0 mm to about 3.0 mm. One or more removable absorbent inserts can be durable or disposable, such as flushable. The size of the insert usually matches the size of the crotch portion and / or crotch gusset of the durable absorbent pants (e.g., 19 cm by about 5.7 cm).

[0049] As shown, the containment structure 151 can be opened along a location, such as along the front location of the crotch portion 130, to provide a pocket that permits the insertion and removal of the removable absorbent insert 150. The removable absorbent insert 150 can be durable or washable, but is preferably configured for a single use and then disposal, and is formed of and includes materials similar to those typically included in disposable feminine hygiene pads or incontinence pads. In some embodiments, each of the one or more removable absorbent inserts includes a pull tab, such as Figure 3E As shown, to facilitate the removal of one or more removable absorbent inserts from the encapsulation structure 151. The pull tab may not be easily wetted by urine, menstrual fluid or other fluids. Preferably, the pull tab is hydrophobic. The pull tab or any portion of the removable insert may have a color similar to or matching any portion of the durable underwear to reduce visual contrast. The portion with a different color may also serve as an indicator for how far to insert the removable insert through the slit.

[0050] The size and shape of typical plug-in are set to be held in the encapsulation structure of durable absorbent pants in the crotch area against the user / wearer's body moderately and comfortably. Removable absorbent plug-in generally comprises a liquid-impermeable backsheet of the plug-in (facing outward), a plug-in absorbent core arranged on the liquid-impermeable backsheet of the plug-in, and an optional plug-in liquid-permeable top sheet (not shown) arranged on the plug-in absorbent core. The plug-in absorbent core may include an absorbent material or an accumulation and / or a combination thereof that expands or swells in volume when absorbing liquid, such as an accumulation of absorbent gelling material (also referred to as superabsorbent polymer) particles, cellulose fiber wadding, a collapsed open-cell absorbent foam (such as a collapsed open-cell foam formed by a high internal phase emulsion (HIPE)) or a combination thereof. It should be understood that the shorts with feature described herein are particularly suitable for adapting to this expansion or swelling, because it gathers to swell the plug-in as a whole, while maintaining the contact level of improvement between the plug-in and the user / wearer's body.

[0051] In use, one or more removable absorbent inserts (each insert comprising an insert liquid-impermeable backsheet and an insert absorbent core disposed above the insert liquid-impermeable backsheet) are inserted into durable absorbent pants so that the insert absorbent core is positioned below the wearer-facing liquid-permeable top layer of the durable absorbent sheet. One or more removable absorbent inserts may also optionally comprise an insert liquid-permeable topsheet disposed above the insert absorbent core; in use, the insert is inserted into the durable absorbent pants so that the insert liquid-permeable topsheet is positioned below the wearer-facing liquid-permeable top layer of the durable absorbent sheet. Importantly, unlike most conventional pads and liners, in a preferred embodiment, the outwardly facing surface of the liquid-impermeable backsheet of each removable absorbent insert in the one or more removable absorbent inserts disclosed herein is substantially free of adhesive to facilitate removal of the one or more removable absorbent inserts from the encapsulation structure.

[0052] One or more removable absorbent inserts may also include additional layers, such as a distribution layer or a dehydration layer. A distribution layer may be present in the insert to help move feces and utilize more of the absorbent capacity of the insert. A dehydration layer may also be designed to effectively draw fluid from the liquid-permeable top layer of the durable absorbent pants.

[0053] Preferably, the coefficient of kinetic friction between the durable absorbent layer of the durable absorbent sheet and the liquid-impermeable backsheet of the removable absorbent insert beneath the durable absorbent layer of the durable absorbent sheet is from about 0.1 to about 0.9, preferably from about 0.3 to about 0.7. Preferably, the coefficient of kinetic friction between the wearer-facing liquid-permeable top sheet of the durable absorbent sheet and the liquid-permeable top sheet of the removable absorbent insert beneath the wearer-facing liquid-permeable top sheet of the durable absorbent sheet is from about 0.1 to about 0.9, preferably from about 0.4 to about 0.8. One or more removable absorbent inserts may each include a removable reinforcement layer to facilitate insertion of one or more removable absorbent inserts into the encapsulation structure.

[0054] As mentioned above, in some embodiments, the durable absorbent pants disclosed herein can be combined or used with more than one removable absorbent insert, such as a bundle or stack of two, three, four or more removable inserts, as described in EP0861641 A2, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The durable absorbent pants disclosed herein can be used with a stack of two to six removable absorbent inserts, preferably a stack of two to four removable absorbent inserts, more preferably a stack of three removable inserts, wherein the first removable absorbent insert is positioned below the wearer's liquid-permeable top layer of the durable absorbent sheet, the second removable absorbent insert is positioned below the first removable absorbent insert, and the third removable absorbent insert is positioned below the second removable absorbent insert.

[0055] In use, when the topmost removable plug-in is saturated with fluid, the user can remove it from the plug-in stack (and optionally discard it), thereby exposing the new plug-in below it. When the topmost removable plug-in is removed, the new plug-in below it can dehydrate the liquid-permeable top layer facing the wearer of the durable absorbent sheet of pants, thereby providing fresh and dry pants for the user. Each plug-in in the plug-in stack can be non-connected or connected in any way that allows each plug-in to be easily removed from this stack (for example, peeling off one by one). For example, peelable adhesive, peelable embossing or their combination can be used to connect the edge of the plug-in together. Importantly, as discussed above, the outward-facing surface of the liquid-impermeable backsheet of each removable absorbent plug-in in one or more removable absorbent plug-ins is substantially free of adhesive, embossing or other connecting mechanisms. In other words, any adhesive, embossing or other connecting mechanisms are all limited to the edge of the plug-in, so that each plug-in is easily removed from the encapsulation structure.

[0056] Durable absorbent pants may have a number of additional features that improve containment performance when the pants include or are used with removable absorbent inserts.

[0057] Crotch area / crotch gusset

[0058] width

[0059] It is desirable that the durable absorbent pants have sufficient width in the crotch portion, particularly within a range of sizes of pants designed to fit different body sizes, shapes, and user types. Thus, regardless of the size of the durable absorbent pants, the removable absorbent insert designed to be inserted into the pants has a standardized width or standardized width and length, because regardless of the size of the pants, the crotch portion of the pants has sufficient width to accommodate the insert. Thus, it is desirable that the crotch portion 130 has a relaxed width CW, which is measured from the right leg edge to the left leg edge at the narrowest portion of the crotch portion, is at least 5.5 cm or at least 6.0 cm, and is less than about 11 cm, preferably less than about 10 cm, and more preferably less than 9 cm.

[0060] thickness

[0061] For the purpose of minimizing bulk, it may be desirable that the combination of layered materials present in the crotch portion 130 and / or crotch gusset 230 be selected and configured to have a central z-direction thickness of no more than about 5 mm, more preferably no more than about 4 mm, and even more preferably no more than about 3.5 mm. (Herein, "central z-direction thickness" or "central thickness" is measured at a location in the crotch portion 130 that corresponds to the intersection 250 of the longitudinal axis 200 and the lateral axis 300 of the pant when the pant is opened and laid flat on a horizontal, flat surface.) Based on the disclosure herein and the teachings available in the art regarding textiles, one of ordinary skill in the art will be able to select a combination of suitable materials to create a structure in the crotch portion 130, such as a crotch gusset 230 having such thicknesses, as well as the other features and attributes described herein.

[0062] Absorption capacity

[0063] In order for a durable absorbent pant to provide suitable absorbency for a reasonable wear duration and to prevent unintended leakage of urine or menstrual discharges, when balancing considerations of limiting the thickness / bulkiness of the crotch portion, and when limiting the relative flat size / surface area of ​​the absorbent portion, it may be desirable for the combination of materials forming the structure within the crotch portion 130 of the pant to have an Absorbent Capacity of 0.1 ml / cm2 as measured according to the Absorbent Capacity Measurement Method described below: 2 Up to 1.0ml / cm 2 The area absorption capacity and 0.4ml / cm 3 Up to 0.8ml / cm 3 Based on the disclosure herein and the teachings available in the art regarding textiles, one of ordinary skill in the art will be able to select a combination of suitable materials to create a structure having such an absorbent capacity in the crotch portion 130. In addition, it is believed that based on the recent availability of fabric materials including yarns containing superabsorbent polymers (e.g., fabrics including "SAF" superabsorbent fibers, available from Technical Absorbents Limited, Grimsby, United Kingdom), the crotch portion can be configured to have a volumetric absorbent capacity of greater than 0.8 ml / cm 3 (e.g. up to 0.9 ml / cm 3 、1.0ml / cm 3 、1.1ml / cm 3 Or even up to 1.2 ml / cm 3Without intending to be bound by theory, it is believed that materials such as these can provide such levels of volumetric absorbent capacity by swelling beyond their dry volume with absorbed liquid.

[0064] Stretch Properties

[0065] It may be desirable that the crotch portion 130 exhibit a sufficient degree of longitudinal and lateral elongation to accommodate the increased volume of the absorbent insert caused by absorption and swelling, and to prevent the swelling of the insert from creating gaps between, for example, the leg bands and the wearer's skin. At the same time, it may be desirable that the longitudinal elongation be more limited than the lateral elongation to help maintain the pad in the crotch portion in a proper position against the wearer's body. Thus, it may be desirable that the crotch portion exhibit a lateral elongation of 50% to 200% and a longitudinal elongation of 5% to 100%. In some examples, it may be desirable to select materials to form the crotch portion so that these materials result in a ratio of lateral elongation to longitudinal elongation of 3:1 or greater.

[0066] In conjunction with the longitudinal and lateral stretch capabilities, it may be desirable for the crotch portion to have stretch modulus properties that are selected to strike a balance between appropriately allowing the crotch portion to expand in width and length. Thus, it may be desirable for the crotch portion to be formed of a material that imparts to it a longitudinal stretch modulus of 10 gf / mm to 150 gf / mm and a lateral stretch modulus of 2 gf / mm to 75 gf / mm, more preferably 2 gf / mm to 40 gf / mm, and even more preferably 2 gf / mm to 20 gf / mm. In some examples, it may be desirable to select materials to form the crotch portion such that these materials result in a ratio of longitudinal stretch modulus to lateral stretch modulus of 3:1 or greater.

[0067] It should be understood from the above description that, generally, the stretch properties required of the material of the crotch portion are generally relatively high elongation and relatively low tensile modulus in the lateral direction, and relatively low elongation and relatively high tensile modulus in the longitudinal direction.

[0068] Within the above ranges of elongation and tensile modulus values, it is contemplated that any combination of narrower ranges (sub-ranges) within the above broader ranges may be selected in specific circumstances, as may be desired based on, for example, pant size and style (e.g., bikini, low-rise pants, body shaping shorts, etc.), the elongation and modulus characteristics of the material used to form the waist portion, etc. As non-limiting examples, the selected sub-range of crotch lateral elongation may be 50% to 100%, or 100% to 200%, or 75% to 150%, etc., all of which are within the above broader ranges, and all permutations of such sub-ranges are within the contemplation of the present disclosure.

[0069] For purposes herein, elongation and tensile modulus are measured using the methods described below.

[0070] In combination with one or both of the above-mentioned features of elongation and tensile modulus, and in some examples particularly in combination with the above-mentioned elongation, it may also be desirable that the material used to form the crotch portion does not impart an excessive Poisson's shrinkage effect to the crotch portion when stretched / extended in the lateral direction. For the purposes of this article, the Poisson's shrinkage effect quantifies and represents the extent to which a material will shrink in a plane along a first direction when stretched / strained in a second direction in a plane perpendicular to the first direction. When the crotch portion is strained / stretched in the lateral direction, an excessive Poisson's shrinkage effect in the longitudinal direction may be detrimental to the purpose of allowing the crotch portion to expand to accommodate the increase in volume from the insert. Therefore, it may be desirable to select materials for the crotch portion so that when assembled, these materials will exhibit a Poisson's shrinkage effect resulting from lateral stretching / extension of no more than 0.4, more preferably no more than 0.2, and even more preferably no more than 0.15. For the purposes of this article, the Poisson's shrinkage effect is measured according to the Poisson's shrinkage effect method described below.

[0071] Many knitted fabrics exhibit anisotropic planar tensile elongation properties, with maximum elongation capability along a first direction, and minimum elongation capability along a second direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction. Some types of woven fabrics also exhibit anisotropic planar tensile elongation properties, with maximum elongation capability along a first direction, and one or two smaller and / or minimum elongation capabilities along two directions substantially 45 degrees from the first direction. For the purpose of providing the elongation capability described herein to the crotch portion 130, it may be desirable to select a layer or all layers of material for forming the crotch portion to be oriented in the crotch portion so that the direction of their maximum elongation capability is substantially along the lateral direction relative to the shorts. It may also be desirable that knitted fabrics be used to form one, more or all of the wearer-facing layer, the outer layer, and any intermediate layer of the crotch portion, because the knitted fabric of the selected knitting type can be determined to exhibit the desired limited Poisson contraction effect as discussed above.

[0072] In some examples, the material selected to form or be included in the crotch portion 130 may be a rib knit fabric. The ribs of the knitted fabric may be oriented to be substantially aligned with the longitudinal direction. In this orientation, the particular configuration of the rib knit fabric permits it to be substantially elongated in the lateral direction with relatively low longitudinal contraction. Therefore, for the purpose of providing the benefits of the limited Poisson contraction effect as discussed above, a rib knit fabric having ribs that are substantially oriented longitudinally may be desired.

[0073] In the case where the crotch portion is formed of or comprises only a single layer of material, the material forming the single layer may be selected so as to have the above-mentioned stretch properties. FIG. 3A to FIG. 3E In the case of a plurality of layers as suggested in the above, the materials forming the plurality of layers may be selected so as to have the above-mentioned tensile properties in combination. FIG. 3A to FIG. 3E As shown, in the case where the crotch portion is configured to include a durable absorbent layer 131b, the material forming the outer fabric layer 131d can be selected so as to have the above-mentioned stretch properties. Alternatively, all materials forming the wearer-facing liquid-permeable top layer 131a and the optional outer fabric layer 131d can be selected so as to have the above-mentioned stretch properties in combination.

[0074] In conjunction with the above-described features of the material suitable for the crotch portion 130, the material forming or included by the waist portions 100, 120 may be selected so as to have specific stretch properties that cooperate with the material of the crotch portion to have the desired expandable yet conformable insert retention properties of the material of the crotch portion. Thus, it may be desirable that one or both of the front waist portion 100 and the rear waist portion 120 be formed of or include a knitted material, a combination of these knitted materials having, for the waist portion: a maximum longitudinal elongation of 200% and a longitudinal tensile modulus of 5gf / mm to 25gf / mm, more preferably 10gf / mm to 20gf / mm, and even more preferably 13gf / mm to 17gf / mm; and a maximum lateral elongation of 200% and a lateral tensile modulus of 5gf / mm to 25gf / mm, more preferably 10gf / mm to 20gf / mm, and even more preferably 13gf / mm to 17gf / mm.

[0075] Product range

[0076] It is contemplated that a pant product within the contemplation of the above description may be sold as one of two or more products in a series that includes one or more removable absorbent insert products. In some examples, the corresponding products of the series may be accompanied by information that matches or couples them not only by associated trademarks but also by, for example, advertised size, advertised use (e.g., "moderate" or "mild" incontinence needs, "daytime" or "nighttime" use, etc.), pant design (e.g., bikini, low-rise pants, body shaping shorts, etc.), complementary or compatible lengths, crotch portion widths or other dimensions, or other features that make them particularly suitable, complementary or compatible for use together.

[0077] More specifically, it is contemplated to provide a package series comprising two or more different sized durable absorbent pants adapted to accommodate one or more removable absorbent inserts, the series comprising: a. a first package and a second package, wherein the first package comprises a first durable absorbent pants having a first size, and the second package comprises a second durable absorbent pants having a second size, wherein the second size is different from the first size, wherein each of the first durable absorbent pants and the second durable absorbent pants comprises: i. a front waist portion having a front waist edge and a left front leg opening edge and a right front leg opening edge; ii. a rear waist portion having a rear waist edge and a left rear leg opening edge and a right rear leg opening edge; iii. a crotch portion comprising a triangular gusset, the crotch portion having a front portion connected to the front waist portion and a rear portion connected to the rear waist portion; and and iv. a left hip side portion and a right hip side portion, which connect the front waist portion to the rear waist portion and thereby form a waist opening and left leg openings and right leg openings, the waist opening having a waist opening edge including a front waist edge and a rear waist edge; wherein each of the front waist portion, the rear waist portion and the triangular gusset comprises a knitted or woven material; wherein the triangular gusset comprises a durable absorbent sheet, the durable absorbent sheet comprising a liquid permeable top layer facing the wearer, a durable absorbent layer below the liquid permeable top layer facing the wearer, and a liquid impermeable barrier layer below the durable absorbent layer, the liquid permeable top layer facing the wearer and the durable absorbent layer forming an enclosure structure 151 having a closed end and an open end, the open end being adapted to receive one or more removable absorbent inserts in a position below the liquid permeable top layer of the durable absorbent sheet facing the wearer. This series can also include a third package, the third package includes at least a first removable absorption insert and a second removable absorption insert, wherein the length and / or width of the first removable absorption insert and the length and / or width of the second removable absorption insert are roughly the same, and the first removable absorption insert and the second removable absorption insert are configured to be inserted into the first durable absorption pants or the second durable absorption pants. The first removable absorption insert and the second removable absorption insert have substantially the same features, or the first removable absorption insert can have one or more features that are substantially different from one or more features of the second removable absorption insert. For example, the first removable absorption insert can have a first capacity, and the second removable absorption insert can have a second capacity.

[0078] It is also contemplated to provide a package series that includes durable absorbent pants suitable for accommodating one or more removable absorbent inserts, the series comprising: a. a first package, wherein the first package includes durable absorbent pants, the durable absorbent pants including: i. a front waist portion, the front waist portion having a front waist edge and left and right front leg opening edges; ii. a rear waist portion, the rear waist portion having a rear waist edge and left and right rear leg opening edges; iii. a crotch portion, the crotch portion including a triangular gusset, the crotch portion having a front portion connected to the front waist portion and a rear portion connected to the rear waist portion; and iv. a left hip side portion and a right hip side portion, the left hip side portion and the right hip side portion connecting the front waist portion to the rear waist portion and thereby forming a waist opening and left and right leg openings, the waist opening having a waist opening edge including a front waist edge and a rear waist edge; wherein each of the front waist portion, the rear waist portion and the triangular gusset comprises a knitted or woven material; wherein The triangular gusset comprises a durable absorbent sheet comprising a liquid-permeable top layer facing the wearer, a durable absorbent layer below the liquid-permeable top layer facing the wearer, and a liquid-impermeable barrier layer below the durable absorbent layer, wherein the liquid-permeable top layer facing the wearer and the durable absorbent layer form an encapsulation structure 151 having a closed end and an open end, wherein the open end is suitable for receiving one or more removable absorbent inserts in a position below the liquid-permeable top layer facing the wearer of the durable absorbent sheet; b. a second package, wherein the second package comprises a first removable absorbent insert having a first capacity and being configured for insertion into durable absorbent pants; c. a third package, wherein the third package comprises a second removable absorbent insert having a second capacity and being configured for insertion into durable absorbent pants; wherein the length and / or width of the first removable absorbent insert is substantially the same as the length and / or width of the second removable absorbent insert.

[0079] Measurement method

[0080] General sample preparation

[0081] Each of the following measurements is performed on 10 separate similar samples (10 separate similar samples taken from shorts), and the average of the 10 separate similar samples is considered the measurement result for that particular set of samples.

[0082] Collect the sample from the crotch portion (130) of the pants. Cut the sample from the crotch portion near the longitudinal and lateral center. In the test of longitudinal properties, cut the sample into a rectangular shape of 6 cm long (dimension measured in the longitudinal direction) by 2 cm wide (dimension measured in the lateral direction). In the test of lateral properties, cut the sample into a rectangular shape of 6 cm wide (dimension measured in the lateral direction) by 2 cm long (dimension measured in the longitudinal direction).

[0083] The specimens should be cut with a sharp knife or a suitably sharp cutting device designed to accurately cut the specimen. Data collection is accomplished by a combination of manual measurements, machine elongation measurements, and machine load measurements.

[0084] The test is performed under room temperature conditions (temperature between 15°C and 35°C and relative humidity between 35% and 75%). The samples are conditioned for at least two hours before testing under the same conditions.

[0085] All linear dimensions are measured manually with a ruler in the common xy plane using a ruler traceable to NIST or other standards organizations.

[0086] Tensile modulus

[0087] The tensile modulus of the sample is determined by stretching in the direction of the longer dimension of the sample using a constant extension rate tensile tester with a computer interface, such as Instron; MTS; Zwick; etc. (the load measured with the load sensor is within 10% to 90% of the limit of the sensor) and ensuring an accuracy of 0.1 N for a 5N load. The instrument is equipped with a single-wire contact grip that is wider than 3 cm (ensuring it is wider than the minor axis of the sample). Prior to testing, the equipment is calibrated according to the instrument manufacturer's recommendations.

[0088] The grips of the tensile testing machine consist of pneumatic grips designed to hold the sample. No slippage between the sample and the grips is allowed. The distance between the lines of gripping force (from one grip to the next along the machine axis of elongation) should be 3 cm, as measured by a steel ruler held beside the grips. This distance will be referred to hereinafter as the "starting gauge length".

[0089] The sample is mounted in the grips with its long axis parallel to the direction of applied elongation and the centerline of the long axis of the sample at the center of each grip. 1 cm from each end of the long axis of the sample is inserted into each grip, leaving 4 cm of the long axis of the sample between the grips. The 3 cm starting gauge length ensures some relaxation of the sample at the start of the test.

[0090] After the sample is installed, the machine's load channel is set to zero (this eliminates the weight of the sample in the calculation). The grips are slowly moved apart at a rate of 5.08 cm / min (2.0 in / min) until a load of 5 gf (gram-force) is reached. The spacing between the grips at this position is recorded as L0.

[0091] (L0 = starting gauge length + additional machine extension to reach 5 gf).

[0092] After reaching a load of 5 gf, extend the sample at a rate of 50.8 cm / min (20 in / min) with a 50 Hz data acquisition rate until a stress of 15 gf / mm is reached or the sample breaks.

[0093] For stress calculations, the thickness of the material is ignored, so stress values ​​are reported in gf / mm. Stress is calculated by dividing the load in the sample as recorded by the load cell by the width of the sample (minor axis measured in mm).

[0094] Sample strain is calculated by ΔL / L0. ΔL is any additional extension between the grips after L0 is reached and is recorded along with the load at a rate of 50 Hz. Sample strain is expressed as a number (not a percentage), so for the purposes of these calculations, 100% strain is 1.0.

[0095] The sample strain was recorded when the sample stress was 10 gf / mm and 20 gf / mm.

[0096] The tensile modulus is the linear slope between 10 gf / mm and 20 gf / mm and is calculated as:

[0097] Tensile modulus = [20 gf / mm - 10 gf / mm] / [sample strain at 20 gf / mm - sample strain at 10 gf / mm]

[0098] Repeat for 10 samples.

[0099] Elongation

[0100] Elongation is measured during the tensile modulus test. Elongation is the sample strain at a sample stress of 20 gf / mm. Elongation is expressed as a percentage of strain, for example, a 1.0 strain value from the tensile modulus method is expressed as 100% strain of elongation.

[0101] Repeat and record the results for 10 samples. Calculate and record the average of the results. The average will be the elongation value for the subject pant design.

[0102] Poisson shrinkage effect

[0103] The Poisson contraction effect is measured by stretching the sample in the direction of the longer dimension of the sample using a constant extension rate tensile tester with a computer interface, such as Instron; MTS; Zwick; etc. (the load measured with the load sensor is within 10% to 90% of the limit of the sensor) and ensuring an accuracy of 0.1 N for a 5N load. The instrument is equipped with a single-wire contact grip that is wider than 3 cm (ensuring it is wider than the minor axis of the sample). Prior to testing, the equipment is calibrated according to the instrument manufacturer's recommendations.

[0104] The grips of the tensile testing machine consist of pneumatic grips designed to hold the sample. No slippage between the sample and the grips is allowed. The distance between the lines of gripping force (from one grip to the next along the machine axis of elongation) should be 3 cm, as measured by a steel ruler held beside the grips. This distance will be referred to hereinafter as the "starting gauge length".

[0105] The sample is mounted in the grips with its long axis parallel to the direction of applied elongation and the centerline of the long axis of the sample at the center of each grip. 1 cm from each end of the long axis of the sample is inserted into each grip, leaving 4 cm of the long axis of the sample between the grips. The 3 cm starting gauge length ensures some relaxation of the sample at the start of the test.

[0106] After the sample is installed, the machine's load channel is set to zero (this eliminates the weight of the sample in the calculation). The grips are slowly moved apart at a rate of 5.08 cm / min (2.0 in / min) until a load of 5 gf (gram-force) is reached. The spacing between the grips at this position is recorded as L0.

[0107] (L0 = starting gauge length + additional machine extension to reach 5 gf).

[0108] After reaching the 5 gf load, the sample was extended at a rate of 50.8 cm / min (20 in / min) at a 50 Hz data acquisition rate. The extension was continued until a stress of 7 gf / mm was reached. The extension of the machine was stopped at this point, and the sample was maintained at this stress and the accompanying strain.

[0109] For stress calculations, the thickness of the material is ignored, so stress values ​​are reported in gf / mm. Stress is calculated by dividing the load in the sample as recorded by the load cell by the width (minor axis) of the sample.

[0110] Sample strain is calculated as ΔL / L0. ΔL is any additional extension between the grips after L0 is reached and is recorded continuously along with the load at a rate of 50 Hz.

[0111] Use a steel ruler to measure the narrowest width of the sample perpendicular to its long axis (W n ), accurate to 0.5 mm. The narrowest width is usually located at the center of the sample along its longer dimension.

[0112] The Poisson contraction effect (PCE) is calculated as follows:

[0113] PCE=[(W0–W n ) / W0] / [ΔL / L0]

[0114] in:

[0115] W0 = lateral dimension of the sample before stretching

[0116] W n = The narrowest dimension of the sample perpendicular to the stretching direction after stretching to a stress of 7 gf / mm

[0117] L0 = starting gauge length + additional machine extension to reach 5gf

[0118] ΔL = Additional extension between the clamps after reaching L0 at a sample stress of 7 gf / mm

[0119] Repeat and record the results for 10 samples. Calculate and record the average of the results. The average will be the Poisson shrinkage effect value for the subject pant design.

[0120] Liquid impermeability

[0121] When there is a question as to whether a particular pair of pants has a gusset with a liquid-impermeable barrier, this Liquid Impermeability Test Method can be used to measure the amount of test liquid that will pass through the sample and enable a determination to be made as to whether a "liquid-impermeable barrier" is present in the gusset according to the definition set forth in the description above.

[0122] The Liquid Impermeability Test measures the amount of liquid transferred to the outwardly facing side of a test specimen obtained from a pant after a specified volume of test liquid is added to the test specimen to simulate a liquid insult during actual use / wear of the pant.

[0123] All tests were conducted in a chamber controlled at 23°C ± 3°C and 50% ± 2% relative humidity.

[0124] Prior to performing the measurements of this method, wash the examples of the pants of interest (before removing the samples from the pants of interest) to simulate in-use conditions and follow the recommended "before use" instructions that come with these types of pants (e.g., wash before use). Place the examples in a mesh underwear bag and place in a high-efficiency front-loading washing machine (from any convenient source) along with a single small / light load dose of TIDE brand laundry detergent ("Original" designation; "HE" or other high-efficiency washing machine designation; without additives (such as FEBREZE, ODOR DEFENSE, OXI additives), bleach or bleach additives or fabric softening additives) (product of The Procter & Gamble Company, Cincinnati, Ohio) or equivalent. Set the washing machine to a delicate cycle using cold water. After the wash cycle, remove the examples from the mesh bag and lay flat on a drying rack to air dry for about 12 hours. After air drying, place the examples in a clothes dryer (from any convenient source) set to a delicate cycle and dry at very low heat for about 5 minutes, or until dry to the touch.

[0125] The test samples are prepared as follows. The pre-washed and dried sample pants are equilibrated in a room controlled at 23°C ± 3°C and 50% ± 2% relative humidity for approximately 2 hours. The test sample containing the entire gusset is removed from the sample as described in the General Sample Preparation section herein. Using scissors, cut the outermost fabric layer of the gusset facing outward along the entire gusset shape, on the inside of the seam, being careful not to cut into any edge seams that exist. Mark the dose position at the intersection of the midpoint of the longitudinal axis of the sample and the lateral axis located at the narrowest portion of the specimen.

[0126] For each test sample, a single layer of filter paper was cut to 10 cm x 2.54 cm. A suitable filter paper is Ahlstrom grade 989 (available from Ahlstrom-Munksjo North America LLC, Alpharetta, GA) or equivalent. The test liquid was deionized water at room temperature (23°C ± 3°C).

[0127] Record the mass of one layer of pre-cut filter paper and record it as dry mass fp, accurate to 0.0001 grams. Place the pre-weighed filter paper on a flat, horizontal work surface. Place the test specimen in the center of the filter paper, with the garment-facing side of the specimen facing the filter paper. Using a volumetric pipette, apply a 1.0 ml dose of the test liquid to the pre-marked dosing location, as follows. Keep the tip of the pipette about 3 mm above the surface of the test specimen and apply the dose slowly (about 30 seconds) to avoid splashing. Once the entire dose has been applied, start a 1 minute timer. After 1 minute has passed, remove the test specimen and record the mass of the filter paper as the wet mass fp , accurate to 0.0001 g. From the wet mass fp Subtract dry mass fp And record it as leakage in the z direction, accurate to 0.0001 grams.

[0128] Repeat the test specimens in a similar manner for a total of three replicates. Calculate the arithmetic mean of the z-direction leakage and report to the nearest 0.0001 g.

[0129] Common XY plane dimensions

[0130] For purposes herein, when the length or width of a characteristic portion of a pant is specified, that length or width is measured with the pant arranged to lie flat on a horizontal, flat surface (in an open configuration or an assembled configuration, as appropriate) with the material of the pant flattened but in a relaxed state and not pulled or stretched in any planar direction.

[0131] combination

[0132] A. A durable absorbent pant adapted to accommodate one or more removable absorbent inserts, the durable absorbent pant comprising:

[0133] a front waist portion having a front waist edge and a left front leg opening edge and a right front leg opening edge;

[0134] a rear waist portion having a rear waist edge and a left rear leg opening edge and a right rear leg opening edge;

[0135] a crotch portion including a gusset, the crotch portion having a front portion joined to the front waist portion and a rear portion joined to the rear waist portion; and

[0136] left and right hip side portions connecting the front waist portion to the rear waist portion and thereby forming a waist opening and left and right leg openings, the waist opening having a waist opening edge including a front waist edge and a rear waist edge;

[0137] wherein each of the front waist portion, the back waist portion and the gusset comprises a knitted or woven material;

[0138] The triangular gusset comprises a durable absorbent sheet comprising a liquid permeable top layer facing the wearer, a durable absorbent layer below the liquid permeable top layer facing the wearer, and a liquid impermeable barrier layer below the durable absorbent layer, the liquid permeable top layer facing the wearer and the durable absorbent layer forming an encapsulation structure having a closed end and an open end, the open end being adapted to receive the one or more removable absorbent inserts in a position below the liquid permeable top layer facing the wearer of the durable absorbent sheet.

[0139] B. An absorbent system comprising the durable absorbent pants described in paragraph A and one or more absorbent inserts arranged in the encapsulation structure, wherein each absorbent insert comprises an insert liquid-impermeable backing film and an insert absorbent core arranged on the insert liquid-impermeable backing film.

[0140] C. The absorbent system of paragraph B, wherein the insert absorbent core is positioned beneath the wearer-facing liquid-permeable top layer of the durable absorbent sheet.

[0141] D. The absorbent system of paragraph B or paragraph C, wherein each of the one or more removable absorbent inserts further comprises an insert liquid permeable topsheet disposed over the insert absorbent core.

[0142] E. The absorbent system of paragraph D, wherein the insert liquid-permeable topsheet is positioned beneath the wearer-facing liquid-permeable top layer of the durable absorbent sheet.

[0143] F. The absorbent system of any of paragraphs BE, wherein the outwardly facing surface of the liquid impermeable backsheet of each of the one or more removable absorbent inserts is substantially free of adhesive.

[0144] G. The absorbent system of any of paragraphs BF, wherein each of the one or more removable absorbent inserts comprises a pull tab.

[0145] H. The absorbent system of paragraph G, wherein the pull tab is hydrophobic.

[0146] I. The absorbent system of any of paragraphs BH, wherein the one or more removable absorbent inserts include a first removable absorbent insert, a second removable absorbent insert, and optionally a third removable absorbent insert.

[0147] J. An absorbent system according to any of paragraphs BI, wherein the first removable absorbent insert is positioned below the liquid-permeable top layer of the durable absorbent sheet facing the wearer, the second removable absorbent insert is positioned below the first removable absorbent insert, and the optional third removable absorbent insert is positioned below the second removable absorbent insert.

[0148] K. A durable absorbent pant according to paragraph A, wherein the open end of the encapsulating structure comprises a slit in the wearer-facing liquid-permeable top layer of the durable absorbent sheet.

[0149] L. A durable absorbent pant according to paragraph K, wherein the slits are reinforced.

[0150] M. An absorbent system according to any of paragraphs A, K or L, wherein the durable absorbent sheet includes a liquid-impermeable perimeter seal, and wherein the open end of the encapsulating structure is on the inner side of the liquid-impermeable perimeter seal of the durable absorbent sheet.

[0151] N. An absorbent system according to any of paragraphs BJ, wherein each of the one or more removable absorbent inserts has a mechanical direction (MD) / longitudinal direction of about 10 N / m 2 About 100N / m 2 , preferably about 10 N / m 2 About 80N / m 2 , more preferably about 20 N / m 2 To about 50N / m 2 flexural rigidity.

[0152] O. The absorbent system of any of paragraphs BJ or N, wherein each of the one or more removable absorbent inserts has a cross direction (CD) / lateral direction of about 10 N / m 2 About 100N / m 2 , preferably about 10 N / m 2 About 80N / m 2 , more preferably about 20 N / m 2 To about 50N / m 2 flexural rigidity.

[0153] P. An absorbent system according to any of paragraphs BJ, N or O, wherein each of the one or more removable absorbent inserts has a capacity of about 2g to about 100g, preferably about 5g to about 80g, more preferably about 10g to about 50g, and even more preferably about 15g to about 40g.

[0154] Q. An absorbent system according to any of paragraphs BJ, N, O or P, wherein each of the one or more removable absorbent inserts has a thickness of about 0.5 mm to about 7 mm, preferably about 0.5 mm to about 5 mm, and more preferably about 1.0 mm to about 3.0 mm.

[0155] R. An absorbent system according to any of paragraphs BJ, N, O, P or Q, wherein the dynamic coefficient of friction between the durable absorbent layer of the durable absorbent sheet and the liquid-impermeable backing sheet of the removable absorbent insert beneath the durable absorbent layer of the durable absorbent sheet is from about 0.1 to about 0.9, preferably from about 0.3 to about 0.7.

[0156] S. An absorbent system according to any of paragraphs BJ, N, O, P, Q or R, wherein the dynamic coefficient of friction between the liquid-permeable top layer of the durable absorbent sheet facing the wearer and the liquid-permeable top layer of the removable absorbent insert beneath the liquid-permeable top layer of the durable absorbent sheet facing the wearer is from about 0.1 to about 0.9, preferably from about 0.4 to about 0.8.

[0157] T. The absorbent system of any of paragraphs BJ, N, O, P, Q, R, or S, wherein the one or more removable absorbent inserts include a removable reinforcement layer.

[0158] U. A packaged series comprising two or more different sized durable absorbent pants adapted to accommodate one or more removable absorbent inserts, the series comprising:

[0159] a. A first package and a second package, wherein the first package comprises a first durable absorbent pant having a first size, and the second package comprises a second durable absorbent pant having a second size, wherein the second size is different from the first size, wherein the first durable absorbent pant and the second durable absorbent pant each comprise:

[0160] i. a front waist portion having a front waist edge and a left front leg opening edge and a right front leg opening edge;

[0161] ii. a rear waist portion having a rear waist edge and a left rear leg opening edge and a right rear leg opening edge;

[0162] iii. a crotch portion comprising a gusset, the crotch portion having a front portion joined to the front waist portion and a rear portion joined to the rear waist portion; and

[0163] iv. a left hip side portion and a right hip side portion, the left hip side portion and the right hip side portion connecting the front waist portion to the rear waist portion and thereby forming a waist opening and left leg openings and right leg openings, the waist opening having a waist opening edge including a front waist edge and a rear waist edge;

[0164] wherein each of the front waist portion, the back waist portion and the gusset comprises a knitted or woven material;

[0165] The triangular gusset comprises a durable absorbent sheet comprising a liquid permeable top layer facing the wearer, a durable absorbent layer below the liquid permeable top layer facing the wearer, and a liquid impermeable barrier layer below the durable absorbent layer, the liquid permeable top layer facing the wearer and the durable absorbent layer forming an encapsulation structure having a closed end and an open end, the open end being adapted to receive the one or more removable absorbent inserts in a position below the liquid permeable top layer facing the wearer of the durable absorbent sheet.

[0166] V. A product series according to paragraph U, wherein the series also includes a third package, which includes at least a first removable absorbent insert and a second removable absorbent insert, wherein the length and / or width of the first removable absorbent insert is approximately the same as the length and / or width of the second removable absorbent insert, and the first removable absorbent insert and the second removable absorbent insert are each configured for insertion into the first durable absorbent pants or the second durable absorbent pants.

[0167] W. The product line of paragraph V, wherein the first removable absorbent insert and the second removable absorbent insert have substantially the same characteristics.

[0168] X. The product line of paragraph V, wherein the first removable absorbent insert has one or more features that are substantially different than one or more features of the second removable absorbent insert.

[0169] Y. The product line of paragraph X, wherein the first removable absorbent insert has a first capacity and the second removable absorbent insert has a second capacity.

[0170] Z. A packaged series comprising durable absorbent pants adapted to accommodate one or more removable absorbent inserts, the series comprising:

[0171] a. A first package, wherein the first package comprises a durable absorbent pants, the durable absorbent pants comprising:

[0172] i. a front waist portion having a front waist edge and a left front leg opening edge and a right front leg opening edge;

[0173] ii. a rear waist portion having a rear waist edge and a left rear leg opening edge and a right rear leg opening edge;

[0174] iii. a crotch portion comprising a gusset, the crotch portion having a front portion joined to the front waist portion and a rear portion joined to the rear waist portion; and

[0175] iv. a left hip side portion and a right hip side portion, the left hip side portion and the right hip side portion connecting the front waist portion to the rear waist portion and thereby forming a waist opening and left leg openings and right leg openings, the waist opening having a waist opening edge including a front waist edge and a rear waist edge;

[0176] wherein each of the front waist portion, the back waist portion and the gusset comprises a knitted or woven material;

[0177] wherein the gusset comprises a durable absorbent sheet comprising a wearer-facing liquid permeable top layer, a durable absorbent layer beneath the wearer-facing liquid permeable top layer, a liquid impermeable barrier layer beneath the durable absorbent layer, the wearer-facing liquid permeable top layer and the durable absorbent layer forming an encapsulated structure having a closed end and an open end, the open end being adapted to receive the one or more removable absorbent inserts in a position beneath the wearer-facing liquid permeable top layer of the durable absorbent sheet;

[0178] b. a second package, wherein the second package comprises a first removable absorbent insert having a first capacity and configured for insertion into the durable absorbent pants;

[0179] c. a third package, wherein the third package comprises a second removable absorbent insert having a second capacity and configured for insertion into the durable absorbent pants;

[0180] The length and / or width of the first removable absorbent insert is substantially the same as the length and / or width of the second removable absorbent insert.

[0181] AA. A durable absorbent pant adapted to accommodate one or more removable absorbent inserts, the durable absorbent pant comprising:

[0182] a front waist portion having a front waist edge and a left front leg opening edge and a right front leg opening edge;

[0183] a rear waist portion having a rear waist edge and a left rear leg opening edge and a right rear leg opening edge;

[0184] a crotch portion including a gusset, the crotch portion having a front portion joined to the front waist portion and a rear portion joined to the rear waist portion; and

[0185] left and right hip side portions connecting the front waist portion to the rear waist portion and thereby forming a waist opening and left and right leg openings, the waist opening having a waist opening edge including a front waist edge and a rear waist edge;

[0186] wherein each of the front waist portion, the back waist portion and the gusset comprises a knitted or woven material;

[0187] The gusset comprises a durable pad including a liquid permeable top layer facing the wearer and a liquid impermeable barrier layer beneath the liquid permeable top layer facing the wearer, the liquid permeable top layer facing the wearer and the liquid impermeable barrier layer forming an encapsulation structure having a closed end and an open end, the open end being adapted to receive the one or more removable absorbent inserts in a position beneath the liquid permeable top layer facing the wearer of the durable pad.

[0188] The dimensions and values ​​disclosed herein should not be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values ​​cited. Instead, unless otherwise indicated, each such dimension is intended to represent the stated value and a functionally equivalent range around that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as "40 mm" is intended to mean "approximately 40 mm".

[0189] Unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited, each document cited herein, including any cross-referenced or related patent or application, is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Citation of any document is not an admission that it is prior art to any of the present invention disclosed or claimed herein, or that it, by itself or in combination with any one or more references, proposes, suggests, or discloses any such invention. In addition, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this invention conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assigned to that term in this invention shall govern.

[0190] Although specific embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, it is intended that all such changes and modifications within the scope of the present invention be covered in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A durable absorbent pant adapted to accommodate one or more removable absorbent inserts, the durable absorbent pant comprising: a front waist portion having a front waist edge and a left front leg opening edge and a right front leg opening edge; a rear waist portion having a rear waist edge and a left rear leg opening edge and a right rear leg opening edge; a crotch portion including a gusset, the crotch portion having a front portion joined to the front waist portion and a rear portion joined to the rear waist portion; as well as left and right hip side portions connecting the front waist portion to the rear waist portion and thereby forming a waist opening and left and right leg openings, the waist opening having a waist opening edge including the front waist edge and the rear waist edge; wherein each of the front waist portion, the back waist portion, and the gusset comprises a knitted or woven material; The gusset comprises a durable absorbent sheet comprising a liquid-permeable top layer facing the wearer, a durable absorbent layer below the liquid-permeable top layer facing the wearer, and a liquid-impermeable barrier layer below the durable absorbent layer, wherein the liquid-permeable top layer facing the wearer and the durable absorbent layer form an encapsulation structure having a closed end and an open end, wherein the open end is adapted to receive the one or more removable absorbent inserts in a position below the liquid-permeable top layer facing the wearer of the durable absorbent sheet.

2. An absorbent system comprising the durable absorbent pants according to claim 1 and one or more absorbent inserts arranged in the encapsulation structure, wherein each absorbent insert comprises an insert liquid-impermeable backing sheet and an insert absorbent core arranged on the insert liquid-impermeable backing sheet.

3. The absorbent system of claim 2, wherein the insert absorbent core is positioned beneath the wearer-facing, liquid-permeable top layer of the durable absorbent sheet.

4. The absorbent system of claim 2, wherein each of the one or more removable absorbent inserts further comprises an insert liquid permeable topsheet disposed over the insert absorbent core.

5. The absorbent system of claim 4, wherein the insert liquid permeable topsheet is positioned beneath the wearer-facing liquid permeable top layer of the durable absorbent sheet.

6. The absorbent system of any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the outwardly facing surface of the liquid impermeable backsheet of each of the one or more removable absorbent inserts is substantially free of adhesive.

7. The absorbent system of any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein each of the one or more removable absorbent inserts comprises a pull tab.

8. The absorbent system of claim 7, wherein the pull tab is hydrophobic.

9. The absorbent system of any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein the one or more removable absorbent inserts comprises a first removable absorbent insert, a second removable absorbent insert, and optionally a third removable absorbent insert.

10. The absorbent system of claim 9, wherein the first removable absorbent insert is positioned beneath the wearer-facing liquid-permeable top layer of the durable absorbent sheet, the second removable absorbent insert is positioned beneath the first removable absorbent insert, and the optional third removable absorbent insert is positioned beneath the second removable absorbent insert.

11. The durable absorbent pant of claim 1 wherein the open end of the containment structure comprises a slit in the wearer-facing, liquid-permeable top layer of the durable absorbent sheet.

12. The durable absorbent pant of claim 11 wherein the slits are reinforced.

13. A durable absorbent pant according to claim 1, claim 11 or claim 12, wherein the durable absorbent sheet includes a liquid impermeable perimeter seal, wherein the open end of the encapsulating structure is on the inside of the liquid impermeable perimeter seal of the durable absorbent sheet.

14. The absorbent system of claim 2, wherein each of the one or more removable absorbent inserts has a mechanical direction (MD) / longitudinal direction of about 10 N / m 2 About 100N / m 2 , preferably about 10 N / m 2 About 80N / m 2 , more preferably about 20 N / m 2 To about 50N / m 2 flexural rigidity.

15. The absorbent system of any one of claims 2 to 10, wherein each of the one or more removable absorbent inserts has a resistance of about 10 N / m in the cross direction (CD) / lateral direction. 2 About 100N / m 2 , preferably about 10 N / m 2 About 80N / m 2 , more preferably about 20 N / m 2 To about 50N / m 2 flexural rigidity.

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