Absorbent pad for clothing

Abstract

The present disclosure relates generally to an absorbent pad (100) for use in a garment (400). The absorbent pad (100) comprises a liquid-impermeable barrier layer (106), a functional layer (101) attached to the barrier layer (106), the functional layer (101) containing a liquid-absorbent component (104), a liquid-impermeable circumferential sealing element (110) bonded to a circumferential portion (105, 107) of the functional layer (101) and the barrier layer (106), and a circumferential attachment element (112) having a first portion (112a) and a second portion (112b), the first portion (112a) being bonded to the circumferential sealing element (110). The second portion (112b) of the circumferential attachment element (112) is detached from the circumferential sealing element (110) and arranged to be attached to a fabric body (200) of the garment (400), thereby attaching the absorbent pad (100) to the garment (400).

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of Chinese invention patent application filed on July 28, 2020, with application number 2020800534163 and invention title "Absorbent Pad for Clothing". Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This disclosure claims the benefit of UK Patent Application No. 1911052.7, filed on 2 August 2019, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to absorbent pads for clothing. More specifically, this disclosure describes different embodiments of absorbent pads used in clothing and clothing that includes absorbent pads. Background Technology

[0004] Absorbent clothing, such as reusable and washable absorbent underwear, is worn for the purpose of absorbing bodily fluids. These fluids include vaginal secretions, urine, menstrual fluid, sweat, and breast milk. Many people suffer from involuntary bodily fluid leakage, and there are very few garments designed to absorb such excretions that are both practical and comfortable for the wearer.

[0005] For example, women who menstruate often use tampons or sanitary pads in addition to underwear to prevent their outer clothing from being soiled by menstrual fluid. While tampons or sanitary pads usually absorb all the fluid, accidental leaks can still occur. To avoid such leaks, she can choose to wear adult diapers, which provide a larger protected area and may be particularly useful for women with heavy menstrual flow. Adult diapers can also be useful for people with urinary incontinence. However, adult diapers tend to be bulky and unsightly, making them difficult to conceal under clothing, which can be embarrassing for the user. Some disadvantages of wearing adult diapers and sanitary pads include prolonged exposure to a moist environment, which can cause discomfort, irritant dermatitis, and / or infection. In addition, pads / tampons may sometimes be mispositioned, and adult diapers may be too loose, both of which can cause leaks. Furthermore, these regular products are usually disposable, meaning that environmental and economic costs can be high.

[0006] The bulkiness of conventional products means they don't allow users to easily wear low-coverage underwear. For example, absorbent pads must be placed in larger, maximum-coverage underwear to fully accommodate them, while diapers and absorbent underwear are typically large enough to adequately address the user's incontinence. Therefore, those who prefer thongs or low-rise bikinis are often forced to choose between wearing underwear that aligns with their preferences but risks leaking onto their outerwear, or wearing bulky and unsightly garments that ensure all leaks are prevented.

[0007] WO 2016 / 133458 describes an absorbent pad with a layered structure. However, this layered structure limits how the absorbent pad can be fitted to clothing, i.e., fitted to clothing without stitching. DE 102008057840 describes an incontinence pad attached to textiles by sewing. However, sewing in incontinence pads creates holes there, which increase the risk of leakage.

[0008] Therefore, in order to address or mitigate at least one of the aforementioned problems and / or disadvantages, there is a need to provide improved absorbent pads for use in clothing. Summary of the Invention

[0009] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, there exists an absorbent pad for use in clothing. The absorbent pad includes: a liquid-impermeable barrier layer; a functional layer attached to the barrier layer, the functional layer including a liquid-absorbing component; a liquid-impermeable circumferential sealing element coupled to the circumferential portions of the functional layer and the barrier layer; and a circumferential attachment element having a first portion and a second portion, the first portion being coupled to the circumferential sealing element, wherein the second portion of the circumferential attachment element is detached from the circumferential sealing element and arranged to attach to the fabric body of the clothing, thereby attaching the absorbent pad to the clothing.

[0010] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, there is a method for forming an absorbent pad for use in clothing. The method includes: attaching a functional layer to a liquid-impermeable barrier layer, the functional layer comprising a liquid-absorbing component; bonding a liquid-impermeable circumferential sealing element to a circumferential portion of the functional layer and the barrier layer; and bonding a first portion of a circumferential attachment element to the circumferential sealing element, wherein a second portion of the circumferential attachment element is detached from the circumferential sealing element and arranged to attach to the fabric body of the clothing, thereby attaching the absorbent pad to the clothing.

[0011] According to a third aspect of this disclosure, there exists a garment comprising: a fabric body; and an absorbent pad attached to the fabric body. The absorbent pad comprises: a liquid-impermeable barrier layer; a functional layer attached to the barrier layer, the functional layer including liquid-absorbing components; a liquid-impermeable circumferential sealing element coupled to the circumferential portions of the functional layer and the barrier layer; and a circumferential attachment element having a first portion and a second portion, the first portion being coupled to the circumferential sealing element, wherein the second portion of the circumferential attachment element is detached from the circumferential sealing element and attached to the fabric body.

[0012] According to a fourth aspect of this disclosure, there is a method for modifying clothing, the method comprising: providing clothing including a fabric body; and forming an absorbent pad for use in the clothing. The absorbent pad includes: a liquid-impermeable barrier layer; a functional layer attached to the barrier layer, the functional layer including a liquid-absorbing component; a liquid-impermeable circumferential sealing element coupled to a circumferential portion of the functional layer and the barrier layer; and a circumferential attachment element having a first portion and a second portion, the first portion being coupled to the circumferential sealing element and the second portion being detached from the circumferential sealing element. The method further includes attaching the second portion of the circumferential attachment element to the fabric body, thereby attaching the absorbent pad to the clothing.

[0013] Therefore, this document discloses an absorbent pad for use in clothing according to the present disclosure. The various features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following detailed description, together with the accompanying drawings, of embodiments of the present disclosure, which are merely non-limiting examples. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of an absorbent pad attached to the fabric body of clothing according to some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0015] Figure 2 This is another cross-sectional view of an absorbent pad attached to the fabric body of clothing, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0016] Figure 3 This is a flowchart of a method for forming an absorbent pad according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0017] Figures 4A to 4D These are different cross-sectional and plan views of the absorbent pads formed according to some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0018] Figure 5 This is a flowchart of a method for modifying clothing with absorbent pads according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0019] Figures 6A to 6F These are different cross-sectional and plan views of garments modified with absorbent pads according to some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0020] Figures 7A to 7D These are different cross-sectional views of absorbent pads formed according to some embodiments of this disclosure and garments modified with absorbent pads.

[0021] Figure 8A and Figure 8BThese are front and rear views of clothing including absorbent pads, according to some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0022] Figure 9A and Figure 9B These are cross-sectional and plan views of another garment including an absorbent pad, according to some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0023] Figure 10A and Figure 10B These are different cross-sectional views of an absorbent pad attached to the fabric body of clothing, according to some embodiments of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0024] For the purposes of brevity and clarity, the description of embodiments of this disclosure, with reference to the accompanying drawings, is directed to absorbent pads for use in clothing. While aspects of this disclosure will be described in conjunction with the embodiments provided herein, it should be understood that they are not intended to limit the disclosure to these embodiments. Rather, this disclosure is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents to the embodiments described herein, which are included within the scope of this disclosure as defined by the appended claims. Furthermore, specific details are set forth in the following detailed description to provide a thorough understanding of this disclosure. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that this disclosure can be practiced without specific details and / or with multiple details resulting from combinations of aspects of particular embodiments. In many cases, known systems, methods, procedures, and components have not been described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring aspects of embodiments of this disclosure.

[0025] In embodiments of this disclosure, the description of a given element in a particular drawing or the consideration or use of a particular element number or reference to it in the corresponding descriptive material may include the same, equivalent or similar element or element number identified in another drawing or related descriptive material.

[0026] References to "implementation / example," "another implementation / example," "some implementations / examples," "some other implementations / examples," etc., indicate that one or more implementations / examples thus described may include a particular feature, structure, characteristic, property, element, or limitation, but not every implementation / example must include that particular feature, structure, characteristic, property, element, or limitation. Furthermore, the repeated use of the phrase "in an implementation / example" or "in another implementation / example" does not necessarily refer to the same implementation / example.

[0027] The terms "comprising," "including," and "having" do not exclude the presence of other features / elements / steps besides those listed in the embodiments. Describing certain features / elements / steps in mutually different embodiments does not mean that a combination of these features / elements / steps cannot be used in one embodiment. The terms "a" and "an" are limited to one or more. Unless otherwise stated, the use of " / " in figures or related text should be understood as "and / or." References to specific numerical values ​​or ranges of values ​​herein should be understood to include approximate numerical values ​​or ranges of values ​​or to be references to approximate numerical values ​​or ranges of values.

[0028] In representative or exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, there exist... Figure 1 The absorbent pad or mat 100 shown is for use in clothing, such as, but not limited to, lining. Specifically, the absorbent pad 100 may be attached to the fabric body 200 of the clothing. The clothing may be intimate apparel or underwear worn by a user, particularly at body parts where bodily fluids may be present. For example, the clothing may be, but is not limited to, bras, underwear, sportswear, and similar intimate or fitted garments. The absorbent pad 100 includes a functional layer 101 and a liquid-impermeable barrier layer 106, wherein the functional layer 101 is attached to the barrier layer 106, for example by adhesive and / or sewing. The functional layer 101 includes a liquid-absorbing component 104 capable of absorbing liquids.

[0029] In such Figure 2 In some embodiments shown, functional layer 101 further includes a liquid-permeable wicking member 102, wherein absorbent member 104 is attached to wicking member 102, such as by adhesive and / or stitching, and disposed between wicking member 102 and barrier layer 106. Additionally, functional layer 101 is attached to barrier layer 106 at wicking member 102, such as by adhesive and / or stitching.

[0030] The wicking member 102 is capable of absorbing liquids or moisture and distributing them to the absorbent member 104 below. Specifically, when clothing including the absorbent pad 100 is worn by a user, the wicking member 102 faces the user's body and serves to deliver bodily fluids generated by the user's body to the absorbent member 104. In other words, the wicking member 102 delivers liquid from the surface of the wicking member that is in direct contact with the user to the inner surface of the wicking member that is in contact with the absorbent member 104. The wicking member 102 may be made of fibers or yarns made of fibers, wherein the fibers and yarns are selected from one or more of the group consisting of: polyamides, polyesters, polyolefins, polyurethanes, polyacrylonitrile, natural cellulose, regenerated cellulose, regenerated cellulose derivatives (i.e., cellulose acetate and cellulose triacetate), natural proteins, and regenerated proteins. The wicking component 102 can be manufactured using techniques such as knitting (warp knitting such as Raschel and Tricot, weft knitting such as circular or flat knitting), weaving, nonwoven methods (blowing, short-fiber nonwovens, spinning web, air-jet spinning, needle punching, thermal bonding, hydroentangling, chemical bonding, etc.), electrospinning, and power spinning. Additionally, the wicking component 102 may include one or more of coatings, treatment encapsulation, or entrapment (trapping, retention, or stabilization), which will enhance the liquid and moisture management functions of the wicking component, such as wicking rate, wicking capacity, diffusion and distribution rate, and unidirectional liquid delivery.

[0031] The material of the wicking member 102 can be naturally moisture-wicking and / or treated to be moisture-wicking. For example, the wicking material can be a 100% polyester fabric knitted in French terry weave and have a denier difference on both sides of the wicking member 102, which helps to move liquid from the skin-facing side of the wicking member 102 to the inner surface that contacts the absorbent member 104. Other suitable wicking materials include blends of polyester, polypropylene, and cotton. An advantage associated with using the wicking member 102 with a triangular ridge structure knitted in French terry weave facing the user's skin is that the surface area of ​​the wicking member 102 in contact with the skin is smaller, thus reducing any sensation of moisture on the skin.

[0032] As an example, the wicking member 102 may comprise a 51% cotton material, and one or both of the inner and outer surfaces of the wicking member 102 may be treated with a hydrophilic composition or material (e.g., polyethylene oxide, polyvinyl alcohol, polyacrylamide, polyacrylic acid, polyvinylpyrrolidone, hydrophilic silicone, or hydrophilic polyurethane) and / or a hydrophobic composition or material (e.g., silicone, polyfluoroalkyl acrylate, polyacrylate, polyurethane, or wax) to create a net hydrophilic gradient on the wicking member 102. In other words, the surface in direct contact with the user's skin may be less hydrophilic (i.e., more hydrophobic), while the outer surface may be more hydrophilic. For example, the surface of the wicking member 102 in direct contact with the user's skin may be treated with a hydrophobic material and / or the opposite surface may be treated with a hydrophilic material. This creates a combination of a "push" force generated by the hydrophobic properties of the surface in direct contact with the user's skin and a "pull" force generated by the hydrophilic properties of the outer surface, which can draw any moisture or liquid through the wicking member 102 and from the user's wick. The hydrophilic and hydrophobic composition can be applied to the wicking component 102 using any conventional method known to those skilled in the art.

[0033] Furthermore, the capillary force difference on either side can be generated by the fabric structure of the wicking member 102, wherein one side of the wicking member 102 has a smaller pore size compared to the other side. Ideally, this combination of pores creates a funnel-shaped structure in the cross-section through the wicking member 102, wherein liquid is drawn from the side with the larger pore size to the side with the smaller pore size due to the capillary pressure difference.

[0034] The wicking rate of the wicking member 102 can be controlled to be faster or slower. This rate can be set to the maximum absorption rate of the wicking member 102 to ensure that all or a significant percentage of the liquid is absorbed by the absorbent member 104 and does not leak beyond the scope of the clothing. The wicking rate can be controlled by the density, thickness, or composition of the wicking member 102 and / or by the amount and type of hydrophobic and / or hydrophilic material applied to the wicking member 102. In another embodiment, the wicking rate can be set such that the surface of the wicking member 102 that comes into direct contact with the user feels “dry” or nearly dry to the user, while the other surface feels moist.

[0035] In some embodiments, the wicking component 102 may include an antibacterial agent or substance. For example, the antibacterial substance may be one or more substances selected from the group consisting of: silver-containing substances, titanium dioxide, quaternary silanes, hydrogen peroxide, triclosan, and zinc pyrithione. Additionally or alternatively, the wicking component 102 may include an odor-eliminating agent or substance. For example, the odor-eliminating substance may be one or more substances selected from the group consisting of: nanoparticles with an acid-neutralizing pouch, high-surface-area mineral compositions, high-surface-area ceramic compositions, and high-surface-area clay compositions. Additionally or alternatively, the wicking component 102 may include an antifouling agent or substance or a stain-resistant agent or substance.

[0036] The absorbent component 104 may comprise any liquid absorbent / absorbent material known in the art (e.g., cotton, cotton blends, foam, synthetic materials, absorbent polymer foam, nanotechnology-based or nanotechnology-produced materials, or any other moisture-absorbing material). The weight of this material may be from 50 to 500 g / m³. 2 Such as 180 to 300 g / m 2 For example, the absorbent component 104 can be made of a polyester:nylon blend of 80:20 using microfiber double-sided terry knitting. Other suitable materials include polypropylene or any cellulose-based fabric and its blends, including cotton, bamboo, etc.

[0037] In some embodiments, the absorbent component 104 may be 100% polyester double-sided terry fabric. This material contains approximately 90% air, thus allowing for higher absorbency because moisture fills the air gaps in the polyester terry fabric without the polyester fibers expanding significantly. This does not result in a noticeably thicker absorbent pad 100.

[0038] In some embodiments, the absorbent component 104 may be made of a blend of two or more fibers including superabsorbent polymers (SAP), hydrogels, and polyesters, or at least a portion of the absorbent component 104 (e.g., the surface of the fabric body 200 facing the garment) may be treated with SAP and / or hydrogel. In these embodiments, the use of these materials can increase liquid absorption capacity and reduce the thickness and weight of the absorbent pad 100, and improve the dryness of the wicking component 102 surface when in contact with the user's skin due to the increased affinity in the absorbent component 104.

[0039] In such Figure 1In some embodiments shown, the functional layer 101 includes an absorbent component 104 but not a wicking component 102. In some embodiments, the functional layer 101 is treated such that it also achieves at least some of the characteristics of the wicking component 102 as described above. Specifically, the outer surface 103 of the functional layer 101 may be chemically treated such that it can effectively deliver liquid to the underlying absorbent component 104. Such chemical treatment is readily known to those skilled in the art. The treated outer surface 103 thus achieves the characteristics of the wicking component 102 as described above for acquiring and distributing liquid to the absorbent component 104. The functional layer 101 may be further treated with or have added reagents / substances such that it contains one or more of the following: antibacterial agents, deodorizing agents, and antifouling agents, such as those described above for the wicking component 102 to achieve the relevant characteristics.

[0040] The barrier layer 106 is leak-proof and may comprise any known complete or partial liquid-barrier material. Preferably, the barrier layer 106 is permeable, such that liquids cannot pass through the barrier layer, but gases (including water vapor) can pass through it. For example, the barrier layer 106 may comprise one or more layers of thermoplastic or thermosetting membranes, wherein the thermoplastic or thermosetting membranes are selected from one or more of the group consisting of polyurethane, polyester, polyolefin, and silicone. Specific examples of liquid-impermeable materials include layers made of liquid-impermeable polymers or thermoplastic polyurethane membranes.

[0041] In some embodiments, the barrier layer 106 may be a lightweight, tightly knitted / woven fabric coated with SAP / hydrogel, or it may be a lightweight, tightly knitted / woven fabric made using a textile / SAP blend of fibers. Alternatively, the barrier layer 106 may be a liquid-repellent membrane (such as liquid-repellent membrane materials supplied by Dingji Advanced Materials Co., Ltd., Taiwan). When used in clothing including the absorbent pad 100, the barrier layer 106 can provide the advantage of complete breathability in dry form while providing an effective barrier when exposed to liquids. Furthermore, these materials can enable the absorbent pad 100 to dry faster than using liquid-impermeable polymers such as thermoplastic polyurethane membranes.

[0042] In such Figure 1In some embodiments shown, functional layers 101 are bonded to barrier layers 106 at their respective circumferential portions or side edges by bonding devices 108. Alternatively, bonding devices 108 may be applied across the entire surface between functional layers 101 and barrier layers 106. Bonding devices 108 may be adhesives or ultrasonic bonding. For example, the adhesive may be adhesive tape, liquid glue, or hot melt powder adhesive. When the adhesive is adhesive tape, the tape is a double-sided adhesive tape (such as the type manufactured by Bemis Associates Inc.) and the tape may have a single layer or multiple layers, wherein the multiple layers may have one or more functions, such as a barrier layer, an elastic layer, etc. When the adhesive is a liquid glue, the glue may be a hot melt adhesive, a liquid resin, or a combination thereof (e.g., the adhesive may be a hot melt / liquid resin combination extruded through a nozzle or a liquid resin combination screen-printed / stencil-printed).

[0043] In such Figure 2 In some embodiments shown, functional layer 101 includes a wicking member 102, such as one attached to absorbent member 104 by adhesive and / or stitching. Absorbent member 104 and barrier layer 106 can be bonded to wicking member 102 at their respective circumferential portions or side edges by bonding means 108. Alternatively, absorbent member 104 can be bonded to barrier layer 106 by bonding means 108 applied across the entire surface between absorbent member 104 and barrier layer 106.

[0044] Functional layer 101 and barrier layer 106 can have the same 2D coverage area, meaning that when viewed from above / below the plane containing layers 101 and 106, the shape or area of ​​each layer 101 and 106 is substantially the same. In embodiments where functional layer 101 includes wicking member 102 and absorbent member 104, although the 2D coverage areas of functional layer 101 and barrier layer 106 are substantially the same size, the 2D coverage area of ​​absorbent member 104 is smaller than the 2D coverage areas of wicking member 102 and barrier layer 106. For example, the 2D coverage area of ​​absorbent member 104 around its circumference is about 2 mm to 20 mm smaller than the 2D coverage areas of wicking member 102 and barrier layer 106, such as 10 mm to 15 mm. This size difference allows the functional layer 101 (including wicking components 102 and absorbent components 104 of different sizes) and the barrier layer 106 to be integrated into a single pad via a single bonding device 108. Using a single bonding device 108 to integrate the individual layers / components can advantageously mitigate the risk of leakage.

[0045] It should be understood that the layers / components can have other possible arrangements by appropriately applying the bonding device 108. For example, the wicking member 102, the absorbent member 104, and the barrier layer 106 are bonded together by a single adhesive tape. Alternatively, the wicking member 102 is bonded to the absorbent member 104 by a first adhesive tape, and the wicking member 102 is bonded to the barrier layer 106 by a second adhesive tape. A third adhesive tape may also be used to bond the absorbent member 104 to the barrier layer 106.

[0046] In another exemplary arrangement of layers / components, the corresponding 2D coverage area can be increased from the wicking member 102 (minimum area) to the absorbent member 104, and then to the barrier layer 106 (maximum area). It should be understood that the bonding device 108 can be appropriately applied to bond the individual layers / components together.

[0047] The absorbent pad 100 also includes a liquid-impermeable circumferential sealing element 110 surrounding the circumferential portions of the functional layer 101 and the barrier layer 106. Specifically, the circumferential sealing element 110 is incorporated into the circumferential portion 105 of the functional layer 101 and the circumferential portion 107 of the barrier layer 106. Notably, the circumferential portion 105 of the functional layer 101 may be located at the side edge of the exposed wicking member 102 or the outer surface 103, and the circumferential portion 107 of the barrier layer 106 may similarly be located at the side edge of the exposed surface 109 of the barrier layer 106.

[0048] The circumferential sealing element 110 may include a single-sided adhesive tape, such as the type manufactured by Bemis Associates Inc., and the tape may have a single layer or multiple layers, wherein the multiple layers may have one or more functions, such as a barrier layer, an elastic layer, etc. The adhesive side of the single-sided adhesive tape faces the functional layer 101 and the barrier layer 106. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the circumferential sealing element 110 has a C-shaped fold or C-shaped arrangement that completely encloses the circumferential portion 105 of the functional layer 101 and the circumferential portion 107 of the barrier layer 106. This arrangement forms a liquid-impermeable barrier seal or clamp around the circumferential portion of the absorbent member 104, advantageously reducing leakage from the resulting absorbent pad 100 to clothing. This arrangement also produces durable clothing that can be washed and reused.

[0049] In some embodiments, the circumferential sealing element 110 is a liquid-impermeable element without adhesive properties. The circumferential sealing element 110 can be bonded to the circumferential portion 105 of the functional layer 101 and the circumferential portion 107 of the barrier layer 106 by suitable bonding means, such as adhesives or ultrasonic bonding. It should be understood that in different embodiments, the circumferential sealing element 110 can be bonded to all layers / components of the absorbent pad 100.

[0050] In some embodiments, instead of using a bonding device 108 for bonding, the functional layers 101 are attached to the barrier layer 106 by stitching at their respective circumferential portions 105, 107. Similarly, the wicking member 102, the absorbent member 104, and the barrier layer 106 can be stitched together at the circumferential portions 105, 107. However, these stitches may form channels for allowing liquid to pass through the barrier member 106. Therefore, the circumferential sealing element 110 is arranged such that it overlaps with the stitches at the circumferential portions 105, 107 to maintain the liquid impermeability of the absorbent pad 100.

[0051] In some embodiments, the barrier layer 106 and the circumferential sealing element 110 may be a continuous piece of liquid-impermeable material, i.e., there is no bond at the circumferential portion 107. This continuous material will be bonded to the circumferential portion 105 of the functional layer 101 in a manner similar to the following embodiment, in which the barrier layer 106 and the circumferential sealing element 110 are separate material pieces bonded together.

[0052] The absorbent pad 100 also includes a circumferential attachment element 112 having a first portion 112a and a second portion 112b. The circumferential attachment element 112 may be formed of a suitable material, which may optionally be elastic to facilitate attachment to the fabric body 200. The circumferential attachment element 112 may be formed of the same, similar, or different fabric or textile material as the fabric body 200. The first portion 112a of the circumferential attachment element 112 is arranged adjacent to the functional layer 101 and bonded to the circumferential sealing element 110. In some embodiments, the bonding of the first portion 112a is achieved by using a bonding device 113 similar to the bonding device 108 described above. For example, the bonding device 113 is a double-sided adhesive tape, such as the type manufactured by Bemis Associates Inc., and the tape may have a single layer or multiple layers, wherein the multiple layers may have one or more functions, such as a barrier layer, an elastic layer, etc. In some embodiments, the bonding is achieved by ultrasonic bonding or an adhesive such as a liquid glue or a hot melt powder adhesive. When the adhesive is a liquid adhesive, it can be a hot melt adhesive, a liquid resin, or a combination thereof (e.g., the adhesive can be a hot melt adhesive / liquid resin combination extruded through a nozzle or a liquid resin combination printed by screen printing / stencil printing).

[0053] The second portion 112b of the circumferential attachment element 112 is arranged adjacent to the barrier layer 106 and separate from the circumferential sealing element 110. As described above, the circumferential sealing element 110 can be a single-sided adhesive tape, with the adhesive side facing the sealing layer 106 and the non-adhesive side facing the second portion 112b. Furthermore, since the bonding device 113 is applied between the first portion 112a and the functional layer 101 rather than to the second portion 112b, there are no adhesive or bonding properties on the second portion 112b. Therefore, the second portion 112b is separate from and not bonded to the circumferential sealing element 110.

[0054] The second portion 112b is arranged to attach to the fabric body 200 of the garment, such as by stitching, sewing, and / or bonding (or any combination thereof), thereby attaching the absorbent pad 100 to the garment. When the second portion 112b is separated from the circumferential sealing element 110, it is freely positioned to attach to the fabric body 200 with minimal restrictions. For example, the second portion 112b can be stitched or sewn to the fabric body 200, and the separated second portion 112b allows for easier stitching, sewing, and / or bonding to the fabric body 200. This arrangement thus allows the second portion 112b to function as a fabric strip or flap for attaching the absorbent pad 100 to the garment. Furthermore, by using a freely movable fabric strip or flap to attach to the fabric body 200, stitching or sewing is not required at other layers / components of the absorbent pad 100, such as seams through the functional layer 101 or the circumferential sealing element 110, thereby minimizing the risk of leakage through the absorbent pad 100.

[0055] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the circumferential attachment element 112 may have a C-shaped fold or C-shaped arrangement similar to the C-shaped fold or C-shaped arrangement that fully encloses the circumferential sealing element 110. This arrangement forms a fabric cover over the circumferential sealing element 110, thereby protecting the circumferential sealing element and improving the texture and feel of the absorbent pad 100. It should be understood that the circumferential attachment element 112 may be arranged differently while maintaining the first portion 112a and the second portion 112b respectively engaged with and disengaged from the circumferential sealing element 110.

[0056] In different embodiments of this disclosure, there is a method 300 for forming the absorbent pad 100. (See reference...) Figure 3Method 300 includes step 302: bonding the functional layer 101 to the barrier layer 106. Method 300 further includes step 304: bonding a circumferential sealing element 110 to the circumferential portion 105 of the functional layer 101 and the circumferential portion 107 of the barrier layer 106. Method 300 further includes step 306: bonding a first portion 112a of a circumferential attachment element 112 to the circumferential sealing element 110. A second portion 112b of the circumferential attachment element 112 is separated from the circumferential sealing element 110, and the second portion of the circumferential attachment element is arranged to attach to the fabric body 200, thereby attaching the absorbent pad 100 to the garment.

[0057] It should be understood that the various aspects of the absorbent pad 100 described above are equally or similarly applicable to the method 300 for forming the absorbent pad 100, and will not be described further for the sake of brevity.

[0058] In some embodiments, functional layer 101 includes a wicking member 102 and an absorbent member 104. Step 302 may include attaching the wicking member 102 to the absorbent member 104 and the barrier layer 106, such that the absorbent member 104 is disposed between the wicking member 102 and the barrier layer 106, for example, by adhesive and / or stitching. For example, the wicking member 102, the absorbent member 104, and the barrier layer 106 are joined together by a bonding device 108. Step 304 may include bonding a circumferential sealing element 110 to the respective circumferential portions of the wicking member 102 and the barrier layer 106. Thus, steps 302 and 304 combine different layers / components into a configuration such as... Figure 4A and Figure 4B The layered composite shown.

[0059] In step 306, the first portion 112a of the circumferential attachment element 112 is attached to a portion of the circumferential sealing element 110. The circumferential attachment element 112 may be in the form of a fabric strip cutout, covering the outer edges of the functional layer 101 / wicking member 102 and the barrier layer 106. Therefore, steps 302 to 306 result in the formation of... Figure 4C and Figure 4D The absorbent pad 100 is shown in the diagram. The absorbent pad 100 is configured such that its liquid-impermeable layers / components are joined by a suitable bonding method, such as adhesive or ultrasonic bonding, without stitching or sewing. Therefore, the absence of seams minimizes the risk of leakage through the absorbent pad 100.

[0060] In such Figure 5 as well as Figures 6A to 6F In the different embodiments of this disclosure shown, there is garment 400 and a method 500 for modifying garment 400. Garment 400 includes fabric body 200 and absorbent pad 100 attached to fabric body 200.

[0061] Specifically, the absorbent pad 100 is attached to the inner surface of the fabric body 200 and extends over at least one area of ​​the user that experiences bodily excretions. One or more absorbent pads 100 can be part of the garment, either integral or removable. Any garment intended to come into contact with the user's skin can be fitted with one or more absorbent pads 100. For example, the garment can be outerwear such as shirts, T-shirts, shorts, trousers / pants, leggings, running shorts, cycling shorts, swimwear, yoga pants, shaping "elastic" pants, shorts, etc. In particular, the garment can be sportswear or underwear (e.g., bras or panties, sports or "functional" underwear). One or more absorbent pads 100 can be fitted to cover small areas of the garment that typically experience bodily excretions, such as the groin area, armpit area, and nipples for women before or after childbirth. Alternatively, the absorbent pad 100 may cover the main portion of the inner surface area of ​​the garment; for example, the absorbent pad 100 in a pair of underwear may cover 30-100% of the inner surface area of ​​the garment. The inner surface area coverage level of the absorbent pad 100 can be easily determined by a skilled practitioner based on the intended use and the user's desired level of comfort.

[0062] In some embodiments, the garment may be a pair of underwear. The underwear includes a fabric body 200 having a waist opening and a pair of leg openings, defining a crotch area between the waist opening and the pair of leg openings that covers some or all of the user's genital areas. The underwear includes an inner surface and an outer surface that contact the user's skin (in this case, the wearer's genital areas), some or all of the outer surface not in direct contact with the user's skin. The underwear also includes an absorbent pad 100 attached to the inner surface of the fabric body 200, specifically by sewing. The absorbent pad 100 may be configured to cover the crotch area and may extend over and / or beyond some or all of the crotch area. It should be understood that the underwear can be of any cut, size, style, color, and type.

[0063] Fabric body 200 may comprise one or more layers. For example, when fabric body 200 comprises one layer, absorbent pad 100 may be attached to the crotch area of ​​fabric body 200. When fabric body 200 comprises two layers, there is an inner fabric body layer that is in full or partial contact with the user's body and an outer fabric body layer that is not in contact with the user's body. The outermost fabric body layer may be one or more of various colors, patterns, or designs (e.g., black, white, pink, etc.) to provide the user with options, but dark colors may be preferred for fabric body 200 comprising a single layer. When fabric body 200 comprises more than one layer, the innermost fabric body layer may be dark (e.g., black or dark gray) to help provide stain resistance, making any stains on the innermost fabric body layer invisible or less visible or noticeable to the user. If fabric body 200 comprises two or more layers, when wearing the garment, the user or other observer may see all of the inner layers of one or more inner layers, some of the inner layers of one or more inner layers, or no inner layers. Any layer can be cut to the same size as the outer fabric body layer, or it can be cut to a size smaller than the full size of the layer.

[0064] When the fabric body 200 has a single fabric body layer, the material can be made of cotton, cotton blends, synthetic materials, elastic blends (such as SPANDEX), or any other material (such as natural or synthetic textiles). When the fabric body 200 has two or more layers, the inner layers can be made of thin fabric, while the outermost layers can be made of thicker fabric such as those mentioned above. One or more inner fabric body layers can be cut to the full shape of the fabric body 200 or to a shape smaller than the full shape of the fabric body 200. For example, if the garment is underwear, the inner fabric body layers can be cut to extend to cover only the crotch area. The inner fabric body layers can also be tightly sewn to the inner surface of the outer fabric body layer to prevent fluid from leaking from the wearer's body onto the outer surface of the underwear (or the wearer's outer clothing) and / or onto any point on the inner surface of the underwear outside the crotch area that may be felt or felt by the wearer. The underwear can be of any style. For example, underwear can be low-cut, with the waistband below the user's waist (typically at or near the user's hips), or underwear can be high-cut, including a fabric section that extends above the waistband. It should be understood that any waistband of suitable height can be used.

[0065] Figure 5A method 500 is shown for modifying garment 400 to include or fit an absorbent pad 100. Method 500 includes step 502: providing garment 400 including a fabric body 200. Method 500 further includes step 504: forming an absorbent pad 100 for use in garment 400. The absorbent pad 100 is formed according to method 300 described above, and will not be described in detail further for the sake of brevity.

[0066] Method 500 further includes step 506: attaching a second portion 112b of the circumferential attachment element 112, separated from the circumferential sealing element 110, to the fabric body 200 of the garment 400, thereby attaching the absorbent pad 100 to the garment 400. Figure 6A and Figure 6B In some embodiments shown, the second portion 112b is attached to the fabric body 200 by stitching or sewing. The stitching or sewing forms a seam 114 between the second portion 112b and the fabric body 200. Furthermore, the stitching can be performed using a return method such as single-needle sewing. The return method can be defined in a non-limiting manner as stitching the fabric from the inside out, then turning everything right-side out so that all seams, seam allowances, and stitches are on the inside of the synthetic fabric composite or garment 400.

[0067] In the return method used for sewing, an absorbent pad 100 is placed on the fabric body 200, exposing the barrier layer 106, thereby creating an inside-out arrangement. The seam 114 is then formed, for example, by single-needle sewing. Figure 6A As shown, the fabric body 200 has an inwardly folded edge 202 for sewing to the second part 112b along the side edge of the absorbent pad 100 using a return method. Using a return method and sewing or stitching along the edge 202 allows the resulting seam 114 to be hidden from the user or other observer when the garment 400 is worn. By visually concealing the seam 114, the garment 400 achieves an aesthetically pleasing appearance.

[0068] In such Figure 6C and Figure 6DIn some embodiments shown, the fabric body 200 is attached with one or more elastic bands 116, for example, by inserting or lining one or more elastic bands 116 to provide flexibility / elasticity to the user. This allows the garment 400 to have a few discrete sizes to accommodate users of various sizes. For example, the garment 400 is a pair of underwear and the elastic bands 116 are arranged to wrap around the leg openings. In one embodiment, the elastic bands 116 are inserted before the absorbent pad 100 is sewn or sewed to the fabric body 200, and the absorbent pad 100 is sewn or sewed to the fabric body 200 together with the elastic bands 116. In another embodiment, the absorbent pad 100 is sewn to the fabric body 200 first, and then the elastic bands 116 are attached to the fabric body 200.

[0069] After the absorbent pad 100 is sewn to the fabric body 200, the fabric body 200 is as follows: Figure 1 and Figure 2 Turn it so that the front side faces out. By, as shown... Figure 6E As shown, with the fabric body 200 turned outwards, the barrier layer 106 now contacts the fabric body 200 and the functional layer 101 / wicking member 102 is exposed. It is noteworthy that the functional layer 101 / wicking member 102 should extend over the area of ​​the user's body that experiences bodily excretions. Such as Figure 6F As shown, additional stitches 118 can be formed along the top and bottom edges of the absorbent pad 100 to further secure the absorbent pad 100 to the fabric body 200.

[0070] In some embodiments, in step 506, the second portion 112b is attached to the fabric body 200 by bonding the second portion to the fabric body 200, optionally without seams. This bonding can be performed by adhesive or ultrasonic bonding, which has been described above with respect to bonding devices 108 / 113 and will not be elaborated further for brevity. It should be understood that the above-described retraction method and various aspects including the elastic band 116 can be applied in the same or similar way to these embodiments of bonding the second portion 112b to the fabric body 200. For example, the second portion 112b can be bonded to the fabric body 200 using a similar retraction method to achieve an aesthetic appearance, and the elastic band 116 can be bonded to the fabric body 200, such as by adhesive or ultrasonic bonding, optionally without seams.

[0071] In some implementations, such as Figure 2The absorbent pad 100 shown has a functional layer 101, which includes an absorbent component 104 but does not include a wicking component 102. A method 300 for forming an absorbent pad 100 including the functional layer 101 and a method 500 for modifying clothing 400 to include the absorbent pad 100 are illustrated in… Figures 7A to 7D It should be understood that the various aspects of the methods 300 and 500 described above for the absorbent pad 100 will be applied in the same or similar manner. Figures 7A to 7D The implementation shown is illustrated.

[0072] Figure 8A and Figure 8B A final garment 400 is shown, modified by method 500 to include or incorporate an absorbent pad 100 attached to the fabric body 200. The absorbent pad 100 is leak-proof and effectively channels liquid from its surface, such as the outer surface 103 of the functional layer 101 or the wicking member 102, to the underlying absorbent member 104. The garment 400 incorporating the absorbent pad 100 also exhibits characteristics associated with it. For example, because the absorbent pad 100 provides sufficient and effective liquid absorption, when the garment 400 incorporating the absorbent pad 100 is in the form of underwear, it may not be necessary to combine disposable tampons / pads with the underwear. Furthermore, the absorbent pad 100 is thinner than conventional products, making the garment 400 more attractive and comfortable to wear than garments containing conventional pads, while providing enhanced leak protection. Although Figure 8A and Figure 8B The garment 400 is shown as a pair of underwear, but this should not be considered a limitation, as similar arrangements can be used for other types of garment 400.

[0073] Depending on the configuration of the absorbent pad 100, one or more of the functional layer 101, the wicking member 102, and the absorbent member 104 can be configured as follows: Figure 9A As shown, they are stitched at their respective intermediate portions 111. In some configurations, the functional layer 101, the wicking member 102, and / or the absorbent member 104 are themselves formed from two separate halves, which are joined together at the intermediate portions 111 by stitching. The stitches can be, but are not limited to, single stitches, double stitches, or lockstitches. Having these stitches at the intermediate portions 111 compresses the respective layers and members, and forms a well-like or bag-like profile at the intermediate portions 111.

[0074] In some embodiments, the absorbent component 104 is formed of a composite of multiple absorbent layers. For example... Figure 9AAs shown, the absorbent component 104 has a first absorbent layer 104a and a second absorbent layer 104b. It should be understood that each absorbent layer 104a is formed of the absorbent material described above for the absorbent component 104. The absorbent layers 104a may have the same or different dimensions. For example, Figure 9A It is shown that the first absorbent layer 104a has a smaller coverage area compared to the second absorbent layer 104b. The absorbent layers 104a and 104b can be joined together at their circumferential portions 105, such as by stitching and / or bonding.

[0075] like Figure 9A As shown, the wicking member 102 and the absorbent layer 104ab can be joined together at the intermediate portion 111, such as by stitching and / or bonding. For example, the wicking member 102 and the absorbent layer 104ab can be stitched together at the intermediate portion 111, thus achieving a flat seam when viewed from the wicking member 102. It is worth noting that the stitch does not penetrate the barrier layer 106 to maintain the integrity of the barrier layer. The stitch can be, but is not limited to, a single stitch, a double stitch, or a lockstitch. The barrier layer 106 can be joined to the absorbent member 104, particularly to the second absorbent layer 104b, at the intermediate portion 111 using non-stitching methods such as bonding to maintain the integrity of the barrier layer 106. For example, ultrasonic bonding or adhesives such as liquid glue or hot melt powder glue can be used to bond or adhere the barrier layer 106 to the second absorbent layer 104b at the intermediate portion 111. In some configurations, the barrier layer 106 is formed of two separate halves, which are joined together at a middle portion 111 by ultrasonic bonding, and the bonded area at the middle portion 111 is reinforced with a reinforcing strip. It should be understood that this bonding at the middle portion 111 can be applied in the same or similar way to other embodiments of the different configurations described above having the functional layer 101, the wicking member 102, and the absorbent member 104.

[0076] The absorbent pad 100 is attached to the garment 400 by sewing or bonding the second part 112b of the circumferential attachment element 112 to the fabric body 200. Figure 9BThe final garment 400 fitted with absorbent pad 100 is shown. The barrier layer 106 can be joined to the fabric body 200 at a central portion 111 using non-stitched methods such as ultrasonic bonding and optionally reinforced with reinforcing tape. Similar to the absorbent pad 100, the fabric body 200 may include seams at the central portion 111 to compress the fabric body 200 and achieve a well-like or bag-like profile at the central portion 111. Joining the various components and layers together at the central portion 111 allows the combination of the absorbent pad 100 and the fabric body 200 to be compressed more tightly, thereby forming a well-like or bag-like profile at the central portion 111. This well-like or bag-like profile of the absorbent pad 100 and the fabric body 200 makes the garment 400 suitable for use as men's underwear or male incontinence clothing.

[0077] In such Figure 10A and Figure 10B In some embodiments shown, the circumferential attachment element 112 has a Y-shaped structure. A first portion 112a is attached to the circumferential sealing element 110, and a second portion 112b is separated from the circumferential sealing element 110 to attach to the fabric body 200. In such embodiments... Figure 10A In one embodiment, the wicking member 102, the absorbent member 104, and the barrier layer 106 are joined together using a bonding device 108. In another embodiment, the wicking member 102, the absorbent member 104, and the barrier layer 106 are sewn together at their circumferential portions, and a Y-shaped circumferential sealing element 110 is arranged to overlap the sewn portion 115. For male incontinence clothing, the barrier layer 106 is preferably bonded to, rather than sewn to, the wicking member 102 and the absorbent member 104.

[0078] The circumferential sealing element 110 may be a double-sided adhesive tape or may include a double-sided adhesive tape. One adhesive surface faces the wicking member 102, the absorbent member 104, and the barrier layer 106, while the other adhesive surface faces the first portion 112a of the circumferential attachment element 112. Alternatively, the circumferential sealing element 110 may be a single-sided adhesive tape or may include a single-sided adhesive tape, and the first portion 112a of the circumferential attachment element 112 is bonded to the non-adhesive surface of the circumferential sealing element 110. The Y-shaped circumferential attachment element 112 may be integrally formed with the circumferential sealing element 110 and bonded as a single element to the wicking member 102 and the barrier layer 106. This saves time in forming the absorbent pad 100.

[0079] The Y-shaped circumferential attachment element 112 can be formed of an elastic material such as an elastic fabric or textile material to facilitate attachment to the fabric body 200. However, it should be understood that the Y-shaped circumferential attachment element 112 can also be formed of a non-woven / non-elastic material. The absorbent pad 100 having the Y-shaped circumferential attachment element 112 is suitable for various incontinence garments. It should be understood that the Y-shaped circumferential attachment element 112 can be applied in the same or similar way to other embodiments having the above-described different configurations of the functional layer 101, the wicking member 102, and the absorbent member 104.

[0080] In some embodiments, the absorbent pad 100 and / or garment 400 can be made washable and reusable, thereby helping to reduce environmental impact. For example, the absorbent pad 100 and / or garment 400 can withstand at least 30 (e.g., at least 50 or 100) machine wash and tumble dry cycles without altering the overall appearance, the integrity of components (including different layers, bonds, and adhesives), and liquid management parameters, as discussed herein. Material selection and unique construction ensure that the absorbent pad 100 and / or garment 400 are washable without compromising one or more of the following: moisture management, antimicrobial function, and odor control function.

[0081] Furthermore, the integrity of the absorbent pad 100 can be maintained for at least 30 (e.g., at least 50 or 100) wash and dry cycles. This ensures that the absorbent pad 100 will not leak during the service life of the garment 400. For example, the different layers / components of the absorbent pad 100 described herein are selected such that they remain chemically, thermally, and mechanically stable while undergoing up to 30 (e.g., up to 50 or 100) wash and dry cycles during the expected service life of the absorbent pad 100 / garment 400.

[0082] The various components of the absorbent pad 100 can be made of materials with thermal stability up to 190°C, such as up to 95°C. Adhesives or ultrasonic bonding can be thermally stable up to 190°C or 95°C, enabling the absorbent pad 100 to be used with garments 400 that can be washed and dried multiple times. Unless otherwise stated, the term "thermal stability" as used herein is intended to define that the physical state of the component in question remains unchanged after being subjected to the stated temperature for a period of time consistent with a machine drying cycle.

[0083] In the foregoing detailed description, embodiments of this disclosure relating to an absorbent pad 100 for use in clothing 400 are described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The description of different embodiments herein is not intended to imply or limit to specific or particular representations of this disclosure, but is merely to illustrate non-limiting examples of this disclosure. This disclosure is intended to address at least one of the aforementioned problems and situations associated with the prior art. Although only some embodiments of this disclosure are disclosed herein, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art, in view of this disclosure, that various changes and / or modifications can be made to the disclosed embodiments without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Therefore, the scope of this disclosure and the scope of the appended claims are not limited to the embodiments described herein.

Claims

1. An absorbent pad for use in clothing, the absorbent pad comprising: A barrier layer that is impermeable to liquids; A functional layer attached to the barrier layer, the functional layer including a liquid-absorbing component; A liquid-impermeable circumferential sealing element, said circumferential sealing element being incorporated into the circumferential portion of the functional layer and the barrier layer; as well as A circumferential attachment element having a first portion and a second portion, the first portion being coupled to the circumferential sealing element. The second portion of the circumferential attachment element is separated from the circumferential sealing element and arranged to attach to the fabric body of the garment, thereby attaching the absorbent pad to the garment.

2. The absorbent pad according to claim 1, wherein, The functional layer further includes a liquid-permeable wicking component, wherein the absorbent component is attached to the wicking component and disposed between the wicking component and the barrier layer.

3. The absorbent pad according to claim 2, wherein, The wicking component, the absorbent component, and the barrier layer are stitched together or bonded together with an adhesive.

4. The absorbent pad according to claim 3, wherein, The adhesive includes double-sided adhesive tape.

5. The absorbent pad according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The circumferential sealing element includes a single-sided adhesive tape.

6. The absorbent pad according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The circumferential attachment element includes a Y-shaped structure to facilitate attachment to the garment.

7. The absorbent pad according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The functional layer includes one or more of antibacterial agents, deodorizing agents, and antifouling agents.

8. The absorbent pad according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The functional layer includes a suture for compressing the functional layer at its middle portion.

9. A method for forming an absorbent pad for use in clothing, the method comprising: A functional layer is attached to a liquid-impermeable barrier layer, the functional layer including liquid-absorbing components; A liquid-impermeable circumferential sealing element is incorporated into the circumferential portion of the functional layer and the barrier layer; as well as The first part of the circumferential attachment element is attached to the circumferential sealing element. Specifically, the second portion of the circumferential attachment element is separated from the circumferential sealing element and the second portion of the circumferential attachment element is arranged to attach to the fabric body of the garment, thereby attaching the absorbent pad to the garment.

10. The method of claim 8, wherein the functional layer further comprises a liquid-permeable wicking component, and the method further comprises: The wicking member is attached to the absorbent member and the barrier layer, such that the absorbent member is disposed between the wicking member and the barrier layer.

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