Tampon with mechanically adjustable absorbency

Abstract

Tampon with mechanically adjustable absorbency, characterized in that the absorbent material can be changed in volume by a manually operated mechanism.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a hygiene product, in particular a tampon for vaginal use during menstruation, designed so that its absorbency or size can be mechanically adjusted by the user. The product is intended to combine the functions of different tampon sizes (e.g., mini, regular, super) in a single item in order to flexibly adapt to individual menstrual flow and the respective phase of the menstrual cycle. This not only simplifies handling for the user but also avoids the consumption and transport of multiple units.

[0002] The core of the invention lies in a mechanical adjustment mechanism that changes the volume of the absorbent part of the tampon. This can be achieved, for example, via a rotating sleeve, a sliding element, a thread, or interlocking structures. Manual operation before insertion into the body causes compression or expansion of the absorbent material, thereby increasing or decreasing the absorbency as needed.

[0003] The absorbent material can be made of viscose, cotton, or a combination of natural and synthetic fibers. The mechanism itself is designed to be fully integrated into the tampon and does not compromise hygiene during use. Ideally, the size is adjusted before insertion and remains stable while being worn. Locking mechanisms or fixation points ensure that the selected setting is not unintentionally changed.

[0004] Additionally, the tampon can be equipped with visual or tactile markings to indicate the selected absorbency level. The entire design is intended for single use and utilizes biocompatible, hypoallergenic materials. Another possible design features a telescopically extendable absorbent element, where the volume is increased by pulling or extending individual segments. Alternatively, the tampon can consist of chambers that are released or unfolded sequentially to progressively increase absorbency.

[0005] Conventional tampons are available in various sizes and absorbencies (e.g., mini, regular, super), with each variant individually packaged and sold. Users therefore need to carry or stock up on multiple products for different phases of their menstrual cycle. Customizing the absorbency of a single tampon is not currently possible. The market currently only offers products with a fixed, unchangeable absorbency.

[0006] Some recent developments attempt to improve comfort or insertion mechanisms (e.g., through applicators or softer materials), but a functional integration of a mechanically adjustable suction level has not yet been achieved. Products with absorbent gel elements or compression techniques are also either not manually adjustable or only industrially preset.

[0007] The invention described here differs fundamentally from existing solutions because it allows the absorbency of a tampon to be individually and manually adjusted immediately before use. This is achieved through an integrated, user-friendly mechanism such as a rotating sleeve, a sliding element, or a telescopic system that physically alters the volume and absorption capacity of the tampon.

[0008] This combination of mechanical adjustability, hygienic integrity, and biocompatible single use is novel and previously unknown on the market. The invention therefore represents a significant technological advancement and addresses a previously unmet need of female users: the flexible, needs-based use of a tampon with just a single product.

Claims

[1] Tampon with mechanically adjustable absorbency, characterized by that the absorbing material can be changed in volume by means of a manually operated mechanism. [2] Tampon according to claim 1, wherein the mechanism comprises a rotating sleeve, a sliding element or a telescopic system. [3] Tampon according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the mechanism includes interlocking structures, a thread or a locking profile. [4] Tampon according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the volume adjustment causes a change in absorbency. [5] Tampon according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the absorbency level is indicated by visual or tactile markings. [6] Tampon according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the absorbent material is viscose, cotton or a combination thereof. [7] Tampon according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the product is intended for single use and is made of biocompatible materials. [8] Tampon according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the adjustment mechanism is fully integrated inside the tampon and hygienic integrity is maintained. [9] Tampon according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the mechanism has a locking function to fix the set absorbency level. [10] Tampon according to one of the preceding claims, wherein several absorption chambers can be individually unlocked or unfolded.