Fixing device for sanitary tampon string

Abstract

Tampon String Fixing Device: The invention relates to an innovative device for fixing tampon strings, providing a practical solution for users. Tamfix is ​​available in two configurations: Solo and Duo. Tamfix Solo consists of a separate, unattached adhesive strip (1) made from an adhesive membrane similar to that used in plasters. This strip can be applied as needed for temporary fixation of the string (2) to the skin. Tamfix Duo incorporates a small adhesive pad made of medical-grade silicone (4) at the end of the tampon string. This pad is designed to adhere to the skin during bowel movements and can be folded back on itself or protected by a non-adhesive liner until use. A variant involves using a partially adhesive string (3) for temporary fixation, protected by a liner.The main applications of the invention include the integration of the device by brands of tampons and feminine hygiene products.

Description

Title of the invention: Fixing device for sanitary tampon string

[0001] The present invention relates to an innovative device designed to secure the string of a sanitary tampon to the user's body. This system aims to improve hygiene, user comfort during toileting, and prevent the tampon from being left inside the user's body.

[0002] A tampon is an intravaginal absorbent designed to collect menstrual flow. It is often made from cotton fibers and is equipped with a string attached to one end. This string plays two crucial roles:

[0003] 1. Facilitating removal, the string allows the user to remove the tampon from the vagina easily and safely by gently pulling it out.

[0004] 2. Preventing forgetfulness, it also helps to minimize the risk of forgetting the A tampon inside the vagina can lead to serious complications, such as toxic shock syndrome (TSS). It is recommended to change the tampon every 4 to 8 hours, depending on the intensity of the menstrual flow.

[0005] On average, a woman changes her tampon 2 to 4 times a day during her period, but generally this change does not happen every time the user goes to the toilet.

[0006] The identified problem lies in the fact that the tampon string, suspended outside the body, can come into contact with urine or feces during the user's trips to the toilet. The user must hold this string in her hand, a practice that is both impractical and unhygienic. A wet string is not only unsanitary, but the absorbed urine can travel up the string, increasing the risk of infection, and can also cause an unpleasant sensation for the user.

[0007] The technical problem addressed by this invention lies in the unhygienic and uncomfortable management of the tampon string, which hangs outside the user's body and can come into contact with urine or feces when using the toilet.

[0008] To solve this problem, the present invention proposes a device in the form of a sticker, called Tamfix, designed to securely fix the tampon string to the thigh or buttocks of the user, according to her preferences.

[0009] The invention is characterized by several key technical aspects:

[0010] The device named Tamfix is ​​available in two configurations:

[0011] With reference to the drawings provided in the appendix, regarding the so-called "SOLO" configuration: the stickers are not attached to the pad and are offered as products The tampons are packaged separately, either in a separate box or directly within the box containing the tampons. They can be applied as needed. The tampon string is secured by an adhesive membrane (1), similar to that used for plasters. This membrane is designed to be gentle on the skin while ensuring a firm hold on the string throughout the tampon's use.

[0012] This so-called “SOLO” configuration can be offered in several ranges: - The classic Tamfix is ​​a normal odorless sticker, its sole purpose is to fix the tampon string (2) to the body. - Tamfix Odora, which has two uses:

[0013] That of fixing the tampon string to the body and that of diffusing an odor such as mint, red fruits, vanilla, eucalyptus, any other fragrance compatible with the device, for a feeling of freshness as well as a pleasant odor when going to the toilet. - The Tamfix Relax has two uses:

[0014] That of fixing the thread of the tampon on the body and that of diffusing essential oils known for their soothing and analgesic effects such as Lavender, peppermint, ginger, marjoram or Roman chamomile by contact with the skin in order to relieve pain and allow relaxation.

[0015] The diffusion of essential oils will be carried out in particular with a carrier oil such as coconut oil or sweet almond oil or olive oil.

[0016] The so-called “DUO” configuration: Stickers integrated directly into the pads during the manufacturing process, allowing simultaneous application of the pad and the sticker.

[0017] One option involves applying an adhesive material directly to the thread of the tampon, designed to be compatible with the skin and to ensure direct attachment without additional elements.

[0018] This approach involves making the thread partially adhesive. This solution provides that the thread of the pad is equipped with a section having sticky properties (3), thus allowing for easy and temporary attachment to the user's leg.

[0019] In normal use, the string can be left inside the underwear, as with a traditional tampon. To prevent the sticky part from adhering to unwanted surfaces or collecting debris when not in use, it can be protected by a thin, non-adhesive film, a liner, which would be removed before the first use of the tampon. This system offers a discreet and practical solution, allowing the user to manage the tampon string hygienically and comfortably during menstruation.

[0020] Another alternative proposes a small sticky pad (4) attached directly to the end of the string. This pad is adhesive on one side, allowing the user to easily attach the string to her leg while using the toilet. To prevent the pad from sticking when not needed, it can be folded back on itself or protected by a liner, a non-stick film, before first use.

[0021] The material chosen for the adhesive pad is medical-grade silicone, used for silicone gel pads, often applied to the heels of shoes. This type of silicone is valued for its flexibility, durability, and hypoallergenic properties, making it ideally suited for applications requiring direct and prolonged contact with the skin. This approach not only ensures secure and discreet attachment of the pad's thread but also guarantees optimal comfort and safety for the user.

[0022] These technical characteristics, which will be detailed in the patent claims, offer a complete and adaptable solution to the different needs and preferences of users, significantly improving the user experience of sanitary tampons.

[0023] The attached drawings illustrate the invention:

[0024] Figure 1 represents the device of the invention

[0025] Figure 2 represents a variant of this device

[0026] Fig. 3 represents another variant of this device.

[0027] For the implementation of the invention of the device consisting of a self-adhesive sticker, i.e., for the so-called SOLO configuration: By way of non-limiting example, in this embodiment of the invention, the device consists of a self-adhesive sticker measuring 1 centimeter long and 0.5 centimeters wide. This design allows for increased flexibility of use for the user. The sticker is made from an adhesive membrane similar to that used in bandages. This membrane is specially designed to offer high adhesion while allowing adequate ventilation of the skin, thus ensuring optimal comfort during use.

[0028] The structure of the adhesive membrane incorporates several materials chosen for their specific properties, thus ensuring a secure and comfortable attachment: - Acrylate: Acrylate-based adhesives are selected for their strong adhesion and flexibility, which allows the sticker to be reliably held in place. - Polyurethane elastomer: The use of polyurethane elastomers offers flexibility and water resistance, ensuring that the sticker stays in place even in wet conditions. - Hydrocolloid: Hydrocolloid adhesives incorporate gel particles that are effective for moisture management, which is particularly advantageous in an environment where the skin needs to remain dry and healthy. - Silicone: Silicone is chosen for its hypoallergenic properties and softness, minimizing skin irritation while providing effective grip without compromising user comfort. - Natural or synthetic rubber: Rubber-based adhesives are used for their durability and strong adhesion, suitable for various skin types.

[0029] These materials are arranged to form a cohesive layer that adheres securely to the skin without causing irritation, while allowing for easy and painless removal. The arrangement and composition of these materials are essential to ensure the functionality of the device throughout the tampon's period of use.

[0030] Tamfix's invention is based on the use of customizable adhesive membranes, similar to those used in the manufacture of bandages. These membranes are designed taking into account various formulations and combinations of materials in order to meet specific needs in terms of comfort and cost.

[0031] For its packaging and presentation, Tamfix stickers are mounted on a backing, also called a liner, which is the initial material onto which the sticker is placed before being peeled off for application. This backing plays a crucial role in ease of application and preservation of the adhesive.

[0032] Here is a detailed description of the types of media that can be used, depending on the specific characteristics of the sticker and its use: - Coated paper: This smooth backing allows for easy removal of the sticker, ideal for standard uses without special durability requirements. - Kraft paper: More robust than coated paper, this material is suitable for thicker or heavier stickers, offering better mechanical resistance. - Plastic film: Used for stickers intended for outdoor or humid environments, this backing offers effective protection against moisture. - Silicone backing: This backing is treated with a silicone coating to facilitate the removal of the sticker, which is essential for very sticky or delicate stickers. - Vinyl backing: Vinyl stickers are fixed to a paper or plastic film backing, chosen according to the design and intended use. - Polyester backing: For stickers requiring increased durability or resistance to harsh environmental conditions, a polyester backing is preferred.

[0033] The choice of backing type is influenced by material costs and the functional requirements of the sticker. Furthermore, the number of stickers per backing can vary depending on the number of stamps in each box, allowing for adaptation to different sales formats and consumer needs.

[0034] For the Tamfix DUO device:

[0035] The Tamfix Duo device represents an innovation in response to the problems associated with the use of sanitary tampons. This solution incorporates two main embodiments that improve both hygiene and user comfort during menstruation. The DUO device can also be offered in several ranges as explained above, such as the Tamfix Odor range or the Tamfix Relax range. - Integrated sticky pad:

[0036] The Tamfix Duo is equipped with a small adhesive pad attached to the end of the tampon string. This pad is designed to be adhesive on the side that adheres to the skin, allowing the user to secure the string to her leg while using the toilet. The pad can be folded back on itself to avoid sticking when not needed or protected by a liner, a non-adhesive film, until its first use. The material used for the pad is medical-grade silicone, chosen for its flexibility, durability, and hypoallergenic properties, thus ensuring safe and comfortable contact with the skin for extended periods. - Partially sticky string:

[0037] One alternative considered in the design of the Tamfix Duo is the use of a partially adhesive string. This string would be equipped with an adhesive section allowing for temporary attachment to the user's leg when using the toilet. Between uses, the string can remain loose in the underwear, similar to a traditional tampon. To preserve the integrity of the adhesive section before use, it could also be covered with a non-adhesive liner.

[0038] The device of the invention has considerable potential for tampon and feminine hygiene brands, including: Tampax, Always, OB (ob), Playtex, Kotex, Lil-Lets, Cora, Seventh, Génération, Natracare etc.

[0039] These brands could integrate the Tamfix Solo or Duo innovations into their products, thereby improving the user experience. Furthermore, they could diversify their product lines by incorporating the different Tamfix variants, thus offering consumers a wider range of choices. This value Adding this would also justify a higher price for branded stamps compared to the economical options from distributors.

[0040] It would also be possible to create a separate brand, Tamfix, and market the products directly. This strategy could be implemented after initial exploitation by major brands, which would initially handle the communication. This would allow for the development of ranges exclusive to Tamfix, such as reusable tampons or tampons with unique designs.

[0041] In summary, the Tamfix invention offers several avenues for industrial application in collaboration with established brands or through the development of an independent brand, making it possible to improve the user experience and diversify product offerings in the feminine hygiene market.

Claims

Demands

1. A device intended to improve feminine hygiene and comfort, designed to fix the string of a sanitary tampon to the user's body, characterized in that it includes an adhesive sticker (1), called Tamfix, designed to be applied to the thigh or buttocks of the user, according to her preferences, and allowing the tampon string (2) to be held in place hygienically and comfortably.

2. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that the Tamfix device is available in two configurations: A "SOLO" configuration: Stickers not attached to the tampon, offered as separate products from the feminine hygiene product. The device can be sold separately or in the box of the original product. A "DUO" configuration: Stickers integrated directly into the tampons during the manufacturing process, allowing simultaneous application of the tampon and the sticker, and thus associating the original product with the directly integrated device.

3. The device according to claim 2, characterized in that the "SOLO" configuration and the "DUO" configuration comprise several variants: The classic Tamfix variant: A normal, odorless sticker. The Tamfix Odora variant: A sticker that diffuses a scent (mint, red berries, vanilla, eucalyptus, etc.) for a feeling of freshness. The Tamfix Relax variant: A sticker that diffuses essential oils known to have soothing properties recognized for relieving pain and promoting relaxation.

4. Device according to claim 2, characterized in that the "DUO" configuration comprises an adhesive material applied directly to the thread of the tampon, this material being compatible with the skin and ensuring direct attachment of the thread to the thigh or buttock of the user.

5. Device according to claim 4, characterized in that the thread of the pad is equipped with a section having adhesive properties, allowing temporary attachment to the user's leg, this section being protected by a thin non-adhesive film (liner) before first use.

6. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises a small sticky pad fixed directly to the end of the thread of the pad, this pad being adhesive on one side to allow the thread to be fixed to the leg of the user, and being protected by a liner before use.

7. Device according to claim 6, characterized in that the sticky pad is made of medical silicone, used for its properties of flexibility, durability and hypoallergenic, thus ensuring a secure and comfortable fixation of the tampon string.

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