Absorbent pads for clothing and clothing containing absorbent pads

Abstract

The present disclosure generally relates to an absorbent pad (100) for a garment (200) and a garment (200) including the absorbent pad (100). The absorbent pad (100) includes a liquid-impermeable barrier layer (120), a functional assembly (110) attached thereto, and a peripheral assembly (130) attached to the periphery of the functional assembly (110), and is at least partially liquid-impermeable. The functional assembly (110) includes an absorbent layer (112) for absorbing liquid, the absorbent layer (112) attached to the barrier layer (120), and a wicking layer (114) for transferring liquid to the absorbent layer (112), the wicking layer (114) attached to the absorbent layer (112) and positioned to face the skin of a user in use. The wicking layer (114) and absorbent layer (112) are attached at discrete points (116) therebetween to facilitate liquid transport from the wicking layer (114) to the absorbent layer (112) around the periphery of the discrete points (116).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Reference to Related Applications This disclosure claims the benefit of Singapore Patent Application No. 10202260133X, filed November 18, 2022, Singapore Patent Application No. 10202260482Y, filed December 16, 2022, and Singapore Patent Application No. 10202301653W, filed June 12, 2023, each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety herein.

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to absorbent pads for garments and garments having absorbent pads. More specifically, the present disclosure describes various embodiments of absorbent pads for use in garments, such as panties, and garments having absorbent pads. [Background technology]

[0003] Absorbent garments, such as reusable and washable absorbent underwear, are worn to absorb bodily fluids, including vaginal fluids, urine, menstrual fluid, sweat, and breast milk. Many people suffer from the involuntary loss of bodily fluids, and few garments exist that are designed to absorb such exudates in a manner that is both functional and comfortable for the wearer.

[0004] For example, menstruating women typically wear tampons or sanitary napkins over their underwear to prevent their outer clothing from being soiled with menstrual fluid. While the tampon or napkin absorbs all of the fluid flow, unexpected leakage can still occur. To prevent such leakage, women can instead choose to wear adult briefs, which offer a larger protective surface area and can be particularly useful for women with heavy menstrual flow. Adult briefs can also be useful for people with urinary incontinence. However, adult briefs tend to be bulky and unattractive, making them difficult to hide under outer clothing and potentially embarrassing for the wearer. Some disadvantages of wearing adult briefs and sanitary napkins include prolonged exposure to infiltration, which can cause discomfort, irritation, and / or infection. Furthermore, napkins / tampons are sometimes misplaced, and adult briefs can be too loose to wrap, both of which can lead to leakage. Furthermore, these existing products are generally disposable, which can result in significant environmental and economic costs.

[0005] The bulkiness of existing products makes it difficult for users to easily wear low-coverage undergarments. For example, absorbent pads must be placed in large, maximally-covering undergarments to adequately contain them, while diapers and absorbent undergarments are generally large enough to adequately address the wearer's incontinence. As a result, those who prefer thong or low-rise bikini-style undergarments are often forced to choose between wearing their preferred undergarments, which carry the risk of leaking into outer clothing, or wearing a garment that reliably prevents all leaks but is cumbersome and unattractive.

[0006] Accordingly, there is a need to provide improved absorbent pads for use in garments, and improved garments including absorbent pads, to address or mitigate at least one of the problems and / or drawbacks set forth above. Summary of the Invention

[0007] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an absorbent pad for use in a garment. The absorbent pad is a liquid-impermeable barrier layer; a functional assembly (or construct) attached to a liquid-impermeable barrier layer; and A peripheral assembly (or structure) attached to the periphery of the functional assembly and Functional assemblies include: an absorbent layer attached to the liquid-impermeable barrier layer for absorbing liquid; and A wicking layer attached to the absorbent layer that transfers liquid to the absorbent layer and At least a portion of the peripheral assembly is liquid impermeable; the wicking layer is positioned to face the user's skin during use; The wicking layer and absorbent layer are attached at a plurality of discrete points therebetween to promote liquid transfer from the wicking layer to the absorbent layer through areas surrounding the discrete points.

[0008] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a garment, the garment comprising: Fabric body; an absorbent pad attached to the fabric body; and A liquid-impermeable barrier layer that forms part of the fabric body and / or part of the absorbent pad. It consists of: The absorbent pad is a functional assembly attached to the liquid-impermeable barrier layer; and A peripheral assembly attached to the periphery of the functional assembly and At least a portion of the peripheral assembly is liquid impermeable; Functional assemblies include: an absorbent layer attached to the liquid-impermeable barrier layer and configured to absorb liquid; and a wicking layer attached to the absorbent layer and positioned to face the user's skin during use and transferred to the absorbent layer; and The wicking layer and the absorbent layer are attached at a plurality of discrete points therebetween, and liquid transfer from the wicking layer to the absorbent layer is promoted through areas around the plurality of discrete points.

[0009] In accordance with the present disclosure, an absorbent pad for a garment, and a garment including the absorbent pad, are described herein. The various features, aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following detailed description of embodiments of the present disclosure, shown by way of example only and not by way of limitation, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] 1A to 1C show various examples of absorbent pads for clothing according to embodiments of the present disclosure. 2A and 2B show various examples of wicking layers of absorbent pads. 3A-3C show various examples of the top layer of the absorbent pad. 4A-4D show various examples of liquid channels in absorbent pads. 5A-5C show various examples of functional assemblies for absorbent pads. 6A and 6B are various examples of peripheral assemblies for absorbent pads. 7A and 7B show various examples of absorbent pads attached to clothing. 8A to 8K show various examples of how absorbent pads are attached to clothing. 9A to 9F show various examples of how the absorbent pad is sewn onto clothing. 10A-10D are various examples of peripheral assemblies having different subassemblies. 11A and 11B are further illustrations of peripheral assemblies. 12A to 12O are further examples of absorbent pads attached to clothing. 13A-13D show various examples of garments that include tensioning elements. 14A-14C show various examples of absorbent pads containing hydrochromic materials. FIG. 15 is an illustration of a garment including a pocket and a laundry bag. FIG. 16 is an illustration of a garment that includes a second wicking layer that can be attached to an absorbent pad. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] For brevity and clarity, the description of the embodiments of the present disclosure will be directed to absorbent pads for use in garments and garments including absorbent pads, and will be provided in accordance with the drawings. While each aspect of the present disclosure will be described in conjunction with the following embodiments, it will be understood that the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to these embodiments. Rather, the present disclosure is intended to encompass alternatives, modifications, and equivalents to the embodiments described herein, which are included within the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims. Furthermore, in the following detailed description, specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that the present disclosure can be practiced without the use of specific details and / or by combining the features of specific embodiments. In many instances, well-known systems, methods, procedures, and components have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0012] In embodiments of the present disclosure, the description of a given element, or the use or discussion of a particular element number in a particular figure or corresponding description, can encompass the same, equivalent, or similar element or element number identified in another figure or description to which it pertains.

[0013] References to "an embodiment / example," "another embodiment / example," "some embodiments / examples," "some other embodiments / examples," etc., indicate that such embodiment / example may include a particular feature, structure, characteristic, property, element, or limitation, but do not necessarily mean that each embodiment / example includes that particular feature, structure, characteristic, property, element, or limitation. Furthermore, repeated use of the phrase "in an embodiment" or "in another embodiment" does not necessarily mean that they are referring to the same embodiment / example.

[0014] The use of terms such as "comprising," "including," and "having" does not exclude the presence of other features / elements / steps than those listed in an embodiment. The description of particular features / elements / steps in mutually different embodiments does not indicate that a combination of these features / elements / steps cannot be used in a single embodiment. The terms "a" and "an" are defined to mean one or more. The use of " / " in the drawings or related description should be understood to mean "and / or" unless otherwise specified. The description of particular values ​​or ranges in this specification should be understood to include or be the approximate values ​​or ranges.

[0015] The term "set" is defined in accordance with known mathematical definitions as a finite, non-empty set having mathematical cardinality of at least 1 (e.g., as defined herein, a "set" can correspond to a unit, a simplex, a set of single elements, or a set of multiple elements). Terms such as "first," "second," etc. are used merely as labels or identifiers and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on the terms to which they are attached.

[0016] In a representative or exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, as illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B , there is an absorbent pad 100 for use in a garment 200, for example, but not limited to, in the form of a gusset. For example, the absorbent pad 100 can be attached to a fabric body 210 of the garment 200. The garment 200 can be a tight-fitting garment or undergarment worn by a user, particularly in areas of the body where fluid loss occurs. For example, but not limited to, the garment 200 can be a bra, panties, lingerie, activewear, sportswear, swimwear, and similar tight-fitting or form-fitting garments. When attached to the garment, the absorbent pad 100 can be applied such that it is sufficiently attached to the fabric body 210. In some embodiments, the absorbent pad 100 only needs to be attached in certain areas, such as (all or part of) the longitudinal periphery of the absorbent pad 100, to provide a flotation effect. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is expected that this configuration will allow the garment 200 and absorbent pad 100 to be more stretchable, improving comfort and freedom of movement for the user.

[0017] The absorbent pad 100 includes a functional assembly (or construct) 110 with an absorbent layer 112 that absorbs liquid, such as bodily fluids. The functional assembly 110 has a wicking (wet) layer 114 attached to the absorbent layer 112 for transporting liquid to the absorbent layer 112. The wicking layer 114 is positioned to face toward the user's skin during use. In some embodiments, the functional assembly 110 includes a functional layer having an upper portion that has the wicking properties of the wicking layer 114 and a lower portion that has the absorbent properties of the absorbent layer 112.

[0018] 1B , the absorbent pad 100 includes a liquid-impermeable barrier layer 120 to which the functional assembly 110 is attached. Specifically, the absorbent layer 112 is attached to the liquid-impermeable barrier layer 120, which prevents liquid absorbed by the absorbent layer 112 from leaking out of the absorbent pad 100. The absorbent pad 100 includes a peripheral assembly 130 attached to the periphery of the functional assembly 110, at least a portion of which is liquid-impermeable. For example, the peripheral assembly 130 includes a liquid-impermeable sealing element 132 attached to the periphery of the functional assembly 110 and the liquid-impermeable barrier layer 120. For example, the peripheral assembly 130 includes an absorbent material.

[0019] As used herein, the term "adhesive" or "adhesive material" refers to a material that allows objects to adhere to one another. For example, the adhesive material may include a material that becomes liquid-impermeable after curing, such as a thermoplastic or thermosetting adhesive. For example, the adhesive material may be in the form of a liquid adhesive, such as a hot melt adhesive, a drop-on-demand adhesive, a line-on-demand adhesive, a liquid resin, or the like, or a combination thereof. For example, the adhesive material may be in the form of an adhesive film or tape, such as a single-sided or double-sided adhesive film or tape.

[0020] 1C, the wicking layer 114 and the absorbent layer 112 are attached at a plurality of discrete points 116 therebetween, which facilitates liquid transfer. The absorbent 112 and the wicking layer 114 can be attached together using various means to physically connect the absorbent layer 112 and the wicking layer 114 at the plurality of discrete points 116 therebetween, which facilitates liquid transfer. Specifically, liquid transfer occurs from the wicking layer 114 to the absorbent layer 112 through the areas surrounding the discrete points 116. The absorbent layer 112 and the wicking layer 114 are directly attached to each other at these discrete points 116, and the areas of the absorbent layer 112 and the wicking layer 114 surrounding the discrete points 116 are positioned closer to each other. The closer placement of the absorbent layer 112 and wicking layer 114 in these areas around the discrete points 116 advantageously improves the efficiency of liquid transfer through these areas from the wicking layer 114 to the absorbent layer 112. More areas of the absorbent layer 112 and wicking layer 114 are positioned closer to each other, which improves the efficiency of liquid transfer compared to pre-made products where the layers are attached only along their periphery.

[0021] Furthermore, without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that attaching the absorbent layer 112 and the wicking layer 114 using the discrete points 116 may increase comfort for the user and may result in a more compact absorbent pad 100 compared to commercially available products. It is understood that the discrete points 116 may be located at any position and / or in any area of ​​the absorbent layer 112 and the wicking layer 114. For example, the discrete points 116 may be distributed over most of and / or around the periphery of the absorbent layer 112 and the wicking layer 114, e.g., distributed throughout or only around the entire absorbent layer 112 and the wicking layer 114. For example, the discrete points 116 may be located at and / or around the interface where they are integrally attached to one another, between the wicking layer 114 and the absorbent layer 112, or between the absorbent layer 112 and the barrier layer 120. It can be understood that the discrete points 116 can be located at any location and / or in any area of ​​the absorbent layer 112 and the barrier layer 120 .

[0022] In some embodiments, the absorbent layer 112 and the wicking layer 114 are attached to one another by knitting. Specifically, the absorbent layer 112 and the wicking layer 114 are knitted together with cross-link yarns that bridge the layers at discrete points 116. The absorbent layer 112 includes absorbent yarns formed from a liquid-wicking material, and the wicking layer 114 includes wicking yarns formed from the wicking material. The absorbent yarns are interconnected with the wicking yarns in an intermittent loop-like fashion. For example, each absorbent yarn has a loop structure, and each wicking yarn has a loop structure, and each absorbent yarn is held by each loop of the wicking yarn, or vice versa. This forms bridges at discrete points 116 between the absorbent layer 112 and the wicking layer 114.

[0023] Various knitting methods include, but are not limited to, plain knitting, weft knitting, and warp knitting. For example, the absorbent layer 112 and the wicking layer 114 may be knitted as an integrated layer having both wicking and absorbent functions, i.e., the functional assembly 110 includes a single integrated layer for the wicking and absorbent functions. The barrier layer 120 may then be attached to the single integrated layer by, for example, adhesive lamination or ultrasonic lamination.

[0024] In some embodiments, the absorbent layer 112 and the wicking layer 114 are attached to one another by lamination. The discrete dots 116 preferably comprise an adhesive material. For example, the adhesive material may be applied to one or both layers to be attached using a roller lamination device (e.g., a dot roller). This roller lamination device can provide micro-level dots at an appropriate density, i.e., number of dots per unit area, which can be varied based on the requirements of the absorbent pad 100 being manufactured. Any appropriate density of dot adhesive may be used across the second side of the wicking layer and the first side of the absorbent layer, as long as it provides the desired effect. For example, an adhesive concentration of 4 to 12 grams per square meter (GSM) between the absorbent layer 112 and the wicking layer 114 can provide an appropriate dot density of adhesive. The roller lamination provides a predetermined density of micro-level dots, which can be varied based on the requirements. Adhesive lamination may include adhesive bonding with hot melt adhesive, liquid resin bonding with nozzle extrusion / adhesive spray, and liquid resin bonding with screen printing / template printing.

[0025] The functional assembly 110 may be attached to the barrier layer 120 in a similar manner using a corresponding plurality of discrete points 116. For example, this attachment method may improve vapor transfer efficiency from the barrier layer 120 to the functional assembly 110, thereby improving breathability. Additionally or alternatively, the absorbent pad 100 may include a set of absorbent films 102 to join various layers, elements, and / or portions of the absorbent pad 100. For example, as shown in FIG. 1B , the peripheral edges of the absorbent layer 112 and the wicking layer 114 are attached to each other by adhesive films 102 in addition to or in place of the discrete points 116. For example, the peripheral edges of the absorbent layer 112 and the barrier layer 120 are attached to each other by the adhesive films 102. For example, the absorbent layer 112 and the barrier layer 120 may be attached to each other over their entire surfaces by the adhesive films 102, i.e., the adhesive films 102 may be applied over the entire surface between the functional assembly 110 and the barrier layer 120.

[0026] The adhesive film 102 may comprise an adhesive tape, a liquid adhesive, or a hot-melt powder adhesive. If the adhesive film 102 is an adhesive tape, the tape may be a double-sided adhesive tape, and the tape may be single-layered or multi-layered. If the tape is multi-layered, it may have one or more functions, such as a liquid barrier function, an elastic function, etc. For example, the adhesive tape may be Bemis tape. If the adhesive is a liquid adhesive, the adhesive may be a hot-melt adhesive, a liquid resin, or a combination thereof (e.g., the adhesive may be a hot-melt adhesive / liquid resin bonded by nozzle extrusion, or a liquid resin bonded by screen printing / template printing). Alternatively, the adhesive film 102 may be replaced by a bonding or joining process, such as ultrasonic bonding. In some embodiments, the adhesive film 102 may be replaced by sewing.

[0027] The wicking layer 114 is capable of capturing liquid or moisture and distributing it to the underlying absorbent layer 112. Specifically, when a user wears the garment 200 including the absorbent pad 100, the wicking layer 114 faces the user's body / skin and serves to transport bodily fluids generated by the user's body to the absorbent layer 112. In other words, the wicking layer 114 transports liquid from its upper interface (which may be in direct contact with the user's skin) to its lower interface attached to the upper interface of the absorbent layer 112. The wicking layer 114 may be formed from fibers or yarns comprising fibers, and the fibers and yarns may be one or more selected from the group consisting of polyamide, polyester, polyolefin, polyurethane, polyacrylonitrile, natural cellulose, regenerated cellulose, regenerated cellulose derivatives (i.e., cellulose acetate and cellulose triacetate), natural proteins, and regenerated proteins. The wicking layer 114 may be manufactured using techniques such as knitting (warp knitting, such as raschel tricot, weft knitting, such as circular knitting or plain knitting), weaving, nonwoven processes (blow spinning, staple nonwoven, spunlaid, airlaid, needle punched, thermal bonded, hydroentangled, chemical bonded, etc.), electrospinning, force spinning, etc. Additionally, the wicking layer 114 may include one or more coatings, treatments, encapsulations, or entrapments to enhance its liquid and moisture management capabilities (e.g., wicking rate, wicking capacity, diffusion and distribution rate, unidirectional liquid transport, etc.).

[0028] The material of the wicking layer 114 may be inherently moisture-wicking and / or may be treated to have wicking properties. For example, the wicking material may be a 100% polyester fabric with a French terry knit and a denier difference across the two interfaces of the wicking layer 114, which assists in the transfer of liquid from the upper interface of the wicking layer 114 to the lower interface attached to the upper interface of the absorbent layer 112. Other suitable wicking materials include blends of polyester, polypropylene, polyethylene, nylon, recycled materials (e.g., viscose blends), natural fibers (e.g., bamboo), and cotton. Optionally, the wicking layer 114 may have a triangular ridge structure of the French terry knit facing the user's skin; the advantage of these structures is that the surface area of ​​the upper interface of the wicking layer 114 in contact with the skin is reduced, reducing the sensation of wetness on the skin. Optionally, the wicking layer 114 may have a planar structure with a capillary gradient to create a capillary force gradient to transport the liquid.

[0029] As an example, the wicking layer 114 may be or be made from a 51% cotton material, and one or both interfaces of the wicking layer 114 may be treated with a hydrophilic material or composition (e.g., polyethylene oxide, polyvinyl alcohol, polyacrylamide, polyacrylic acid, polyvinylpyrrolidone, hydrophilic silicone, or hydrophilic polyurethane) and / or a hydrophobic material or composition (e.g., silicone, polyfluoroalkyl acrylate, polyacrylate, polyurethane, or wax) to create a net hydrophilic gradient across the wicking layer 114. In other words, the upper interface, which may be in direct contact with the user's skin, may be less hydrophilic / more hydrophobic, and the lower interface may be more hydrophilic / less hydrophobic. For example, the upper interface may be treated with a hydrophobic material and / or the lower interface may be treated with a hydrophilic material. This results in a combination of a "pushing" force caused by the hydrophobicity of the upper interface and a "pull" force caused by the hydrophilicity of the lower interface, which results in wicking moisture or liquid through the wicking layer 114 and away from the user. The hydrophilic and hydrophobic materials or compositions may be applied to the wicking layer 114 using any method known to those skilled in the art.

[0030] Furthermore, the difference in capillary force at each interface of the wicking layer 114 can be created by the fibrous structure of the wicking layer 114, with the lower interface having smaller pore sizes compared to the upper interface. This combination of pores creates a funnel-like structure in the cross section of the wicking layer 114, where the difference in capillary pressure draws liquid from the upper interface, which has larger pores, to the lower interface, which has smaller pores.

[0031] The wicking rate through the wicking layer 114 can be controlled to be faster or slower. The absorption rate of the wicking layer 114 may be set to a maximum absorption rate of the wicking layer 114, ensuring that the absorbent layer 112 absorbs all, substantially all, or at least a significant percentage of the liquid it can absorb and that the liquid does not leak beyond the boundaries of the absorbent pad 100 and the garment 200. The wicking rate can be controlled by the density, thickness, or composition of the wicking layer 114, and / or the amount and type of hydrophobic and / or hydrophilic material applied to the wicking layer 114. In other embodiments, the wicking rate may be set so that the upper interface of the wicking layer 114 feels "dry" or "almost dry" to the user when in direct contact with the user.

[0032] In some embodiments, the wicking layer 114 may include an antimicrobial agent or substance. For example, the antimicrobial 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 layer 114 may include an anti-odor agent or substance that has odor-preventing properties. For example, the odor-preventing substance may be one or more substances selected from the group consisting of nanoparticles with acid-neutralizing pockets, high-surface-area mineral compositions, high-surface-area ceramic compositions, high-surface-area clay compositions, and botanical-derived deodorants such as mint essential oil. Additionally or alternatively, the wicking layer 114 may include a stain-resistant, soil-releasing, or stain-resistant agent or substance.

[0033] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 2A , the wicking layer 114 may include or be an intake / distribution layer 118 to facilitate liquid transport from the wicking layer 114 to the underlying absorbent layer 112 or layers 112. The intake / distribution layer 118 refers to a layer that allows for liquid distribution across both the width and length of the absorbent pad 100, thereby allowing access to the entire absorbent layer 112. This can be achieved by any of the means described herein, such as embossing / debossing the wicking layer 114 as described above. It may also be achieved by using certain materials, such as 100% polyester French terry fabric or 100% polyester double terry fabric. Other suitable materials and constructions for the intake / distribution layer 118 may include those described above for the wicking layer 114.

[0034] In some embodiments, the wicking layer 114 may include one or more hydrophilic, hydrophobic, and hydrochromic materials. For example, as shown in FIG. 2B , the wicking layer 114 includes an array of hydrophobic yarns 115 and hydrophilic yarns 117, which form channels for directing liquid flow. The hydrophobic yarns 115 repel water toward adjacent hydrophilic yarns 117, and the hydrophilic yarns 117 direct water flow along them, thereby improving liquid transport across the wicking layer 114. The hydrophobic yarns 115 are treated to repel water, while the hydrophilic yarns 117 are treated so that the yarns 115, 117 cooperate to form channels for directing liquid flow (similar to how the channels direct liquid flow in the example shown in FIG. 4D ). These channels allow for greater liquid movement and spreading over a larger surface area, resulting in faster evaporation.

[0035] The liquid-repellent properties of the hydrophobic material 115 also provide stain-resistant / soil-shedding properties, which can enhance the aesthetics or provide a visual effect of the absorbent pad 100. Optionally, the wicking layer 114 includes a hydrochromic material configured to change color in response to contact with liquid. Hydrochromic materials can allow for the incorporation of various colors and designs into the aesthetics of the absorbent pad 100. For example, hydrochromic materials include hydrochromic printing and water-based dyes (pigments). One example of hydrochromic printing is printing a paste containing an ink that is normally opaque but becomes transparent when wet. Such printing inks can be used under a white coating to create a hidden effect that appears when wet. The printed areas return to their original opaque colored appearance when dry.

[0036] In some embodiments, the functional assembly 110 includes an absorbent pad 112, and instead of or in addition to the wicking layer 114, the functional assembly 110 includes a liquid transfer layer attached to the absorbent layer 112. The liquid transfer layer is oriented to face the user's skin in use and is for transferring liquid to the absorbent layer 112. Additionally, the liquid transfer layer includes an arrangement of hydrophobic and hydrophilic materials, as described above for the wicking layer 114, to direct the flow of liquid across the functional assembly 110. It will be appreciated that various aspects of the absorbent pad 100 described herein in other embodiments may be equally applicable to these embodiments that include a liquid transfer layer.

[0037] In some embodiments, the functional assembly 110 includes an absorbent pad 112, and instead of or in addition to the wicking layer 114, the functional assembly 110 includes a liquid detection layer attached to the absorbent layer 112. The liquid detection layer is positioned to face the user's skin during use for the purpose of transporting liquid to the absorbent layer 112. Additionally, the liquid detection layer includes a hydrochromic material configured to change color in response to contact with a liquid. It will be appreciated that various aspects of the absorbent pad 100 described in other embodiments herein may be equally applicable to these embodiments that include a liquid detection layer.

[0038] The absorbent layer 112 may comprise any liquid absorbent / liquid absorbing material known in the art (e.g., cotton, cotton blends, foams, synthetic materials, absorbent polymer foams, materials based on or produced by nanotechnology, or other wicking materials). The weight of this material may be between 50 and 900 g / m 2 For example, 180 to 300 g / m 2 For example, the absorbent element 112 may be made from a fine fiber double terry knit fabric of an 80:20 blend of polyester:nylon. Other suitable materials include polypropylene, polyethylene, or cellulose-based fabrics and blends thereof, including cotton, bamboo, etc.

[0039] In some embodiments, the absorbent layer 112 may be a 100% polyester double terry cloth. This material is approximately 90% air, allowing for high absorption capacity by allowing moisture to fill the air gaps in the polyester terry cloth without the polyester fibers expanding significantly. This does not mean that the absorbent pad 100 will be significantly thicker.

[0040] In some embodiments, the absorbent layer 112 may be made of a blend of fibers including two or more superabsorbent polymers (SAPs), hydrogels, and polyesters. Alternatively, at least a portion of the absorbent layer 112, such as the lower interface facing the barrier layer 120, may be treated with or integrated with SAPs and / or hydrogels. In these embodiments, the use of these materials increases the liquid absorption capacity while reducing the thickness and weight of the absorbent pad 100. Additionally, the improved compatibility of the absorbent layer 112 improves the dryness of the upper interface of the wicking layer 114, which may come into contact with the user's skin. The wicking layer 114 and / or absorbent layer 112 may optionally have antibacterial / anti-odor and moisture management properties.

[0041] The barrier layer 120 may be attached to the functional assembly 110 by laminating the barrier layer 120 to the absorbent layer 112. As mentioned above, in some embodiments, the functional assembly 110 may include a single, integral layer having both wicking and absorbent functions, and the barrier layer 120 may be laminated to the single, integral layer. The barrier layer 120 may include a known leak-resistant, fully or partially liquid-blocking material. Preferably, the barrier layer 120 is breathable, such that it cannot transmit liquids but can transmit gases (including water vapor). For example, the barrier layer 120 may include one or more thermoplastic films and / or one or more thermosetting films, where the thermoplastic or thermosetting films are selected from one or more of the group consisting of polyurethanes, polyesters, polyolefins, and silicones. Specific examples of liquid-impermeable materials include layers made of liquid-impermeable polymers or thermoplastic polyurethane films. Barrier layer 120 may alternatively or additionally include or be made from liquid impermeable fabric and / or soluble yarns.

[0042] In some embodiments, the barrier layer 120 is a lightweight, tightly knitted / woven fabric coated with a hydrogel or treated with a hydrophobic finish such as a durable water repellent (e.g., DWR). Alternatively, the barrier layer 120 is a lightweight, tightly knitted / woven fabric made using a textile / SAP hybrid fiber. Alternatively, the barrier layer 120 may be a freestanding liquid-impermeable membrane or may be laminated / attached to a textile material using other attachment methods, including adhesive attachment, ultrasonic attachment, or sewing. When used with a garment 200 including the absorbent pad 100, the barrier layer 120 offers the advantage of being sufficiently breathable in the dry state while providing an effective barrier material when exposed to liquids. Furthermore, these materials can allow the absorbent pad 100 to dry more quickly than when using liquid-impermeable polymers such as thermoplastic polyurethane film.

[0043] In some embodiments, the peripheral assembly 130 includes a liquid-impermeable sealing (or seal) element 132 attached to the periphery of the functional assembly 110 and the barrier layer 120. More specifically, the sealing element 132 is attached to the upper interface of the wicking layer 114 and the lower interface of the barrier layer 120. The sealing element 132 may include a single-sided adhesive (sticky) tape, which may be single-layered or multi-layered. If multi-layered, the tape may have one or more functions, such as liquid barrier function, elastic function, etc. The adhesive (sticky) side of the single-sided adhesive (sticky) tape faces the functional assembly 110 and the barrier layer 120. As shown in FIGS. 1B and 1C , the sealing element 132 has a C-fold or C-shaped configuration that generally surrounds the peripheral edges of the functional assembly 110 and the barrier layer 120. This configuration advantageously forms a liquid-impermeable barrier seal or cuff, reducing leakage of bodily fluids from the absorbent pad 100 into the garment 200. This arrangement also results in a durable garment 200 that can be washed and reused multiple times.

[0044] In some embodiments, the sealing element 132 is liquid-impermeable and, optionally, non-adhesive (sticky) elastic. The sealing element 132 may be bonded to the periphery of the functional assembly 110 and to the barrier layer 120 by any suitable bonding means, such as, for example, adhesive or ultrasonic attachment. It is understood that the sealing element 132 may be bonded to multiple or all layers of the absorbent pad 100.

[0045] In some embodiments, the functional assembly 110 is attached to the barrier layer 120 by stitching around its periphery. Similarly, the wicking layer 114, absorbent layer 112, and barrier layer 120 can be sewn together around their peripheries. The sealing element 132 is positioned to cover these peripheral stitches, which could potentially provide a pathway for liquid to pass through, in order to maintain the liquid impermeability of the absorbent pad 100.

[0046] In some embodiments, the barrier layer 120 and the sealing element 132 may be a continuous piece of liquid-impermeable material that is bonded to the periphery of the functional assembly 110, similar to embodiments in which the barrier layer 120 and the sealing element 132 are separate pieces of material that are bonded together.

[0047] 3A, the functional assembly includes a top layer 140 attached to the wicking layer 114 and positioned to face toward the user's skin during use. For example, the top layer 140 is attached to the wicking layer 114 by an adhesive (sticky) film 102. Alternatively, the top layer 140 is knitted to the wicking layer 114. The top layer 140 may include one or more hydrophilic, hydrophobic, and hydrochromic materials. The various aspects of the hydrophilic, hydrophobic, and hydrochromic materials described above for the wicking layer 114 may also apply to the top layer 140 and will not be described in further detail for the sake of brevity.

[0048] Further, in some embodiments shown in Figures 3B and 3C, the upper layer 140 includes an array of openings 142 to transfer liquid from the user's skin to the wicking layer 114. For example, the upper layer 140 includes or is a mesh layer, which preferably directly contacts the user's skin during use. The mesh layer has an array of openings 142 for transferring liquid from the user's skin to the wicking layer 114. While some exemplary shapes and sizes of the mesh layer are shown in Figures 3B and 3C, it will be understood that the mesh layer may be formed in other shapes and sizes, similar to the various shapes and sizes of the liquid flow channels 144 in Figures 4A-4D. Furthermore, the mesh layer may be formed using a variety of manufacturing methods, such as molding, die-cutting, laser-cutting, printing, sewing, knitting, gluing, embossing, debossing, or extrusion.

[0049] The mesh layer preferably includes or is made from a hydrophobic material. For example, the mesh layer may be treated to be hydrophobic, and optionally may be treated to have stain-resistant, stain-release, or stain-shedding properties, which may be used to enhance the aesthetics of the absorbent pad 100 or to provide a visual effect. If the mesh layer is hydrophobic, it allows bodily fluids to pass through the openings 142, thereby keeping the upper interface dry. If a mesh layer is present in addition to the wicking layer 114, the mesh layer may form additional wicking windows to improve rewet.

[0050] 4A, the top layer 140 may include an array of channels 144 for directing the flow of liquid, and the channels 144 may include a hydrophobic material 144a. For example, the top layer 140 may include a fabric structure, such as a quilted structure or an origami structure, to form the channels 144. For example, the hydrophobic material 144a may include a cured polymer material patterned to form the channels 144. The cured polymer material may be a thermoset and / or thermoplastic polymer, such as a silicone polymer.

[0051] The channels 144 may be formed using a variety of manufacturing methods, such as molding, die cutting, laser cutting, printing, sewing, knitting, gluing, embossing, debossing, or extrusion. For example, the channels 144 may be formed using pressure molding or injection molding. With injection molding, other layers, such as the wicking layer 114, may be placed in a mold first, and then a liquid foam material, such as the polymeric materials described above, may be injected under pressure into the mold cavity, where it quickly fills and hardens to assume its final molded shape.

[0052] The hardened polymer material may provide an embossed structure that may result in more effective fluid flow across the entire surface area. Furthermore, this embossing may aid in shaping the absorbent pad 100. This shaping may contribute to a better fit of the absorbent pad 100 to the body area where it is intended to be used, and may also ensure that the garment 200 stays in place, further enhancing the functionality of the absorbent pad 100. Additionally or alternatively, the hardened polymer material may be provided with a debossed structure. This debossed structure has the same properties as those described for the embossed structure above. It will be appreciated that, herein, embossing and a combination of debossed patterns may be used to help maximize the distribution of bodily fluids across the entire surface and / or to improve the fit / conformity of the absorbent pad 100 to the body area where it is intended to be used.

[0053] The channels 144 may be arranged in various ways to guide the flow of liquid. Examples of channel 144 arrangements are shown in FIGS. 4A-4C. FIG. 4D shows another example in which the channels 144 are arranged as a linear array of hydrophobic material 144a and hydrophilic material 144b. For example, the top layer 140 may be formed from hydrophilic material 144b, and the hydrophobic material 144a may be applied in alternating lines on top of the hydrophilic material 144b. Alternatively, the top layer 140 may be formed from hydrophobic material 144a, and the hydrophilic material 144b may be applied in alternating lines on top of the hydrophobic material 144a. The alternating lines of hydrophobic material 144a or hydrophilic material 144b may be applied using various means. For example, alternating lines of hydrophobic material 144a or hydrophilic material 144b may be printed on the top layer 140. For example, alternating lines of hydrophobic material 144a or hydrophilic material 144b are knitted or woven into the top layer 140. In use, the hydrophobic material 144a repels water toward the adjacent hydrophilic material 144b, which directs water to flow along the hydrophilic material 144b, thereby improving liquid transport across the top layer 140.

[0054] In some embodiments, the absorbent pad 100 does not include a top layer 140, and the wicking layer 114 is the outermost layer facing toward the user's skin. The wicking layer 114 may include channels similarly shaped as the channels 144 of the top layer 140 that are arranged to direct the flow of liquid. The wicking layer 114 may function like a mesh layer. It will be understood that the various aspects of the top layer 140 described above may be equally applicable to the wicking layer 114, and vice versa. For example, the top layer 140 may have anti-odor / anti-bacterial properties.

[0055] In some embodiments, the absorbent layer 112 and / or the wicking layer 114 may comprise a foam material. The absorbent pad 100 may optionally be molded. The foam material may be provided in the final absorbent pad 100 in either a molded or unmolded form, depending on the desired final shape of the product. For example, the foam material may include a thermosetting polymer and / or a thermoplastic polymer. For example, the foam material may comprise 50-100 wt% polyurethane. Other suitable foam materials may include, but are not limited to, polyethylene foam, polypropylene foam, polyurethane foam, ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) foam, and nonwoven foam. Further examples of suitable foam materials include blends of the aforementioned foams with materials such as elastane.

[0056] In embodiments in which the foam material is molded, the foam material may first be provided flat and attached to other layers or components of the absorbent pad 100 to form a stack, such as a composite of the wicking layer 114, absorbent layer 112, and barrier layer 120. This stack may then be molded to impart the desired 3D shape. This molding may be done by thermoforming, injection molding, or any other suitable method. In the case of injection molding, the other layers, such as the wicking layer 114, may be placed in a mold first, after which a liquid foam material, such as a thermosetting polymer and / or a thermoplastic polymer, may be injected under pressure into the mold cavity and rapidly fill and cure within the cavity to form the final molded shape.

[0057] Alternatively or additionally, the absorbent layer 112 and / or wicking layer 114 may be formed using suitable textile materials and / or garment constructions / techniques instead of or in addition to foam materials. For example, the textile material may be a spacer fabric. For example, the textile material may be formed into a desired shape using various techniques, such as molding, sewing, stitching, and knitting. For example, darts may be sewn into the absorbent layer 112 / wicking layer 114 to achieve the desired shape. For example, textile materials such as terry fabric may be knit into a desired 3D shape using a suitable knitting method, such as flat knitting or circular knitting.

[0058] As will be appreciated, foam material or fabric material, such as spacer fabric or terry fabric, can be molded together to form the desired shape of the absorbent layer 112 / wicking layer 114. For example, a liquid foam material can take the shape of a mold and harden. Molding the absorbent layer 112 and wicking layer 114, and molding the functional assembly 110 in general, can provide a more organic fit that conforms to the body's natural curves, resulting in a custom foam shape that enhances aesthetics and comfort for the end wearer. For example, the functional assembly 110 and resulting absorbent pad 100 can be molded into a 3D pouch shape for men's underwear to enhance comfort for male users.

[0059] In some embodiments, the functional assembly 110 may have various shapes instead of a planar structure. For example, the absorbent pad 100 is molded so that the functional assembly 110 has deformed portions 111. The deformed portions 111 may be raised portions (or ridges) as shown in FIG. 5A, may form a debossed structure on the functional assembly 110, or may be recessed portions as shown in FIG. 5B, forming an embossed structure on the functional assembly 110. The functional assembly 110 may be molded to have the deformed portions 111. Alternatively, or in addition, the functional assembly 110 may have the deformed portions 111 using suitable knitting structures and / or materials, such as foam materials and fabric materials, such as spacers or terry cloth, or by various garment construction techniques, such as darts. As shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the absorbent pad 100 may optionally include a fabric layer 122 underneath and attached to the barrier layer 120.

[0060] 5C, functional assembly 110 may be molded to have a recessed center 113. In particular, central portions of absorbent layer 112 and wicking layer 114 are removed to create recessed center 113, thereby forming a debossed structure for functional assembly 110. Alternatively, or in addition, a small absorbent layer may be added on top of the center of absorbent layer 112 to form the embossed structure.

[0061] The combination of embossed and debossed structures, such as those resulting from the deformed portions 111 in Figure 5B and the recessed center portion 113 in Figure 5C, increases absorbent capacity and provides a more ergonomic fit of the absorbent pad 100 to the user to prevent leakage in the groin / genital area. In particular, the increased capacity of the functional assembly 110 makes the absorbent pad 100 and garments 200 including the absorbent pad 100 more suitable for use in or as male underwear or male urinary incontinence garments.

[0062] 3A and 5A-5C, the peripheral assembly 130 includes pad attachment elements 134 attached to the periphery of the functional assembly 110. The pad attachment elements 134 may include one or more of a hydrophilic material, a hydrophobic material, and a hydrochromic material. Additionally, as shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the pad attachment elements 134 may be positioned to sew the absorbent pad 100 to the inside of the garment 200. For example, a portion of the pad attachment elements 134 may be attached to the sealing element 132 by an adhesive (sticky) film 102, and another portion of the pad attachment elements 134 may be attached to the main fabric body 210 of the garment 200 by sewing or other methods.

[0063] As shown in FIG. 6A , the pad attachment element 134, like the sealing element 132, may have a C-fold or C-shaped configuration that completely covers the sealing element 132. The pad attachment element 134 may be formed from a suitable material, which is preferably liquid-impermeable. For example, the pad attachment element 134 may be formed from the same, similar, or different fabric or textile material as the fabric body 210. For example, the pad attachment element 134 may include a hydrophobic material, such as a durable water-repellent material or a silicone material. The pad attachment element 134 may be treated with a durable water-repellent agent that forms a coating on the pad attachment element 134. For example, the pad attachment element 134 may have a silicone lining or extrusion thereon. In some embodiments, shown in FIG. 6B , the pad attachment element 134 forms a liquid-impermeable ridge (or ridges) 136 around the periphery of the functional assembly 110. The liquid-impermeable ridges 136 promote the flow of liquid into the functional assembly 110 and reduce leakage around the periphery of the functional assembly 110.

[0064] 7A and 7B , the peripheral assembly 130 includes a plurality of fasteners 138 attached to the pad attachment elements 134. For example, the absorbent pad 100 may include a fabric layer 122 that extends below and covers the barrier layer 120. Furthermore, the fabric layer 122 may be continuous with the pad attachment elements 134, for example, by being formed from the same fabric material. The fasteners 138 are configured to fasten the absorbent pad 100 to the apparel 200. More specifically, the fasteners 138 are configured to engage with corresponding fasteners 220 on the apparel 200, and the fasteners 220 may be located on the interior and / or exterior of the fabric body 210. The fasteners 138 and 220 may include snap buttons and / or hook-and-loop fasteners (or touch fasteners).

[0065] As mentioned above, in any of the embodiments described herein, the absorbent pad 100 may be attached to the garment 200. Various embodiments of the present disclosure describe a garment 200 including a fabric body 210 and an absorbent pad 100 attached to the fabric body 210. The absorbent pad 100 may be in any suitable form and may be used for any suitable purpose within the garment 200. The absorbent pad 100 may be used alone or integrated into the garment 200. For example, the absorbent pad 100 may be permanently attached to the fabric body 210 of the garment 200. Examples of such garments 200 may include leggings, panties, boxer shorts, hipster shorts, and the like. In some embodiments, the garment 200 may relate to hygiene care. In some embodiments, the garment 200 may relate to athletic apparel, may be intended to assist a user who suffers from hyperhidrosis, or may be intended to assist a user who requires targeted absorption of bodily fluids during the day and / or exercise. The garment 200 may be associated with use as an undergarment or an outer garment. Further examples of the garment 200 include, but are not limited to, absorbent undergarments, leakproof swimwear, baby diapers, swim diapers, absorbent nursing garments, bras, shorts, swimwear, activewear, leggings, and tights, and the garment 200 may be any other garment 200 that may incorporate the absorbent pad 100.

[0066] Preferably, the absorbent pad 100 is attached to the inner surface of the fabric body 210 and extends over at least a portion of the user's body that is exposed to bodily exudates. One or more absorbent pads 100 may form an integral or detachable part of the garment 200. Any garment 200 intended to contact the user's skin may include one or more absorbent pads 100. One or more absorbent pads 100 may be attached to cover a small area of ​​the garment 200, typically an area where bodily exudates occur, such as the crotch, armpits, or nipples in pre- and post-partum women. Alternatively, the absorbent pad 100 may cover a majority of the inner surface area of ​​the garment 200; for example, absorbent pads 100 in underwear may cover 30% to 100% of the inner surface area of ​​the garment 200. The degree of coverage of the interior surface area by the absorbent pad 100 can be readily determined based on the intended use and the level of comfort desired by the user.

[0067] The fabric body 210 may include one or more layers, and each layer may include one or more fabric materials. Additionally, the fabric body 210 may include and / or be treated with one or more materials, such as thermal control agents, cooling agents, stain resistant agents, antibacterial agents, deodorizing agents, and hydrophobic agents. Preferably, the materials of the absorbent pad 100 and the garment 200 allow the absorbent pad 100 and the garment 200 to be washable and reusable, thereby reducing their environmental impact. For example, the absorbent pad 100 and the garment 200 can withstand at least 15 (e.g., at least 50 or 100) washing and tumble drying cycles in a domestic washing machine without compromising one or more of their overall appearance, component integrity, liquid / moisture management, antibacterial, and deodorizing functions. Furthermore, the integrity of the absorbent pad 100 and the garment 200 can be maintained for at least 15 (e.g., at least 50 or 100) washing and drying cycles. This ensures that the absorbent pad 100 will not leak throughout the life of the garment 200. For example, the various materials of the absorbent pad 100 are selected to be chemically, thermally, and mechanically stable through expected wash and dry cycles and over the expected life of the absorbent pad 100 and garment 200.

[0068] In some embodiments, the garment 200 may have a waist opening and / or leg openings. Optionally, the waist opening and / or leg openings may include or be made of a material to improve the grip of the garment 200 against the user's body. For example, such materials may include nanoyarn or nanofiber materials (e.g., ultrafine polyester, exposed spandex fabric, stretchable materials with polyurethane or silicone lines, polyurethane / thermoplastic polyurethane tape, neoprene material, or similar materials), which increase surface area and friction resistance, thereby improving grip performance. In embodiments such as those shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B , the garment 200 includes one or more elastic bands 230 to provide flexibility / elasticity / stretchability to the user. For example, the elastic bands 230 may be disposed on (or backed by) or attached to the fabric body 210 by adhesive (sticker), ultrasonic bonding, or the like. The elastic bands 230 allow the garment 200 to be available in a small number of discrete sizes to accommodate a wide variety of users of different sizes. For example, the elastic band 230 may be positioned to surround the waist opening and / or leg openings of the garment 200 .

[0069] 8A-8K illustrate various methods of attaching the absorbent pad 100 to the garment 200, and in particular, methods of attaching the pad attachment elements 134 to the fabric body 210. The pad attachment elements 134 are preferably liquid-impermeable. For example, the pad attachment elements 134 may be made from a liquid-impermeable material and / or may be treated with a hydrophobic or waterproofing agent. Furthermore, the liquid-impermeable barrier layer 120 may be part of the fabric body 210 and / or part of the absorbent pad 100. For example, the fabric body 210 may be made from or include a hydrophobic material or may be treated with a hydrophobic or waterproofing agent to achieve liquid-impermeable properties.

[0070] The treatments applied to the pad attachment element 134 and the fabric body 210, as well as to any components of the absorbent pad 100 and the garment 200 that may require liquid impermeability, may be any suitable material capable of providing a liquid-impermeable material. Examples of such materials include, but are not limited to, hydrophobic and water-repellent finishes, such as durable water-repellent treatments. Such finishes may include, but are not limited to, wax-based water repellents, silicone-based water repellents, and fluorocarbon-based and non-fluorocarbon-based water repellents. Alternatively or additionally, the treatment may include a coating with a suitable material, which may include, but is not limited to, a SAP / hydrogel coating or a thermoplastic and / or thermoset coating. The latter two coatings may be derived from one or more polymers selected from the group consisting of polyurethanes, polyesters, polyolefins, and silicone polymers.

[0071] 8A , the absorbent pad 100, including the functional assembly 110 and the barrier layer 120, is sewn to a fabric body 210. The pad attachment element 134 is an extension of the fabric body 210 and is attached to the wicking layer 114 via an adhesive film 102. The fabric body 210 functions as a liquid-impermeable barrier, and the pad attachment element 134 is similarly liquid-impermeable. For example, the fabric body 210 and the pad attachment element 134 optionally include a liquid-impermeable material or are treated with a hydrophobic material. The liquid-impermeable pad attachment element 134 and fabric body 210 cooperate to cover the visible stitching line 212 and seal the periphery of the absorbent pad 100 to prevent side leakage.

[0072] 8B , the absorbent pad 100, including the functional assembly 110 and the barrier layer 120, is sewn to a fabric body 210. A liquid-impermeable sealing element 132 is attached to the wicking layer 114 and the fabric body 210. Additionally, a pad attachment element 134 is attached to the sealing element 132 so as to cover the sealing element 132. For example, the pad attachment element 134 is a separate piece of fabric material, which may optionally be liquid-impermeable or treated with a hydrophobic material. The sealing element 132 and the pad attachment element 134 cooperate to cover the visible stitching line 212 and seal the periphery of the absorbent pad 100 to prevent side leakage.

[0073] In one embodiment shown in FIG. 8C , the absorbent pad 100 includes a functional assembly 110 but does not have a barrier layer 120. The functional assembly 110, including the absorbent layer 112 and the wicking layer 114, is sewn to a fabric body 210. The pad attachment element 134 is an extension of the fabric body 210 and is attached to the wicking layer 114 via an adhesive (sticky) film 102. The fabric body 210 and the pad attachment element 134 comprise a liquid-impermeable material or are treated with a hydrophobic material. In this manner, the liquid-impermeable fabric body 210 replaces the barrier layer 120 and prevents leakage from the bottom and sides of the absorbent pad 100. The liquid-impermeable pad attachment element 134 and the fabric body 210 cooperate to cover the visible stitching line 212 and seal the periphery of the absorbent pad 100 to prevent side leakage.

[0074] In one embodiment, shown in FIG. 8D , the absorbent pad 100 includes a functional assembly 110 but does not have a barrier layer 120. The functional assembly 110, including the absorbent layer 112 and the wicking layer 114, is sewn to a fabric body 210. A liquid-impermeable sealing element 132 is attached to the wicking layer 114 and the fabric body 210. Additionally, a pad attachment element 134 is attached to the sealing element 132 so as to cover the sealing element 132. For example, the pad attachment element 134 is a separate piece of fabric material that may be liquid-impermeable or may be treated with a hydrophobic material. The sealing element 132 and the pad attachment element 134 cooperate to cover the visible stitching line 212 and seal the periphery of the absorbent pad 100 to prevent side leakage. Additionally, the fabric body 210 may comprise a liquid impermeable material or may be treated with a hydrophobic material to replace the barrier layer 120 and prevent leakage from the bottom of the absorbent pad 100 .

[0075] 8E , the absorbent pad 100, including the functional assembly 110 and the barrier layer 120, is sewn to a fabric body 210. The sealing element 132 is an extension of the barrier layer 120 and is attached to the wicking layer 114. The pad attachment element 134 is an extension of the fabric body 210 and is attached to the sealing element 132 so as to cover it. The pad attachment element 134 covers the visible stitching line 212, and the sealing element 132 seals the periphery of the absorbent pad 100 to prevent side leakage. The fabric body 210 and the pad attachment element 134 may comprise a liquid-impermeable material or may be treated with a hydrophobic material.

[0076] In one embodiment shown in Figure 8F, the absorbent pad 100, including the functional assembly 110 and the barrier layer 120, is sewn to the fabric body 210 without sewing through the absorbent layer 112. The peripheral edges of the wicking layer 114 and the absorbent layer 112 may be attached by an adhesive film 102. A sealing element 132 is attached to the wicking layer 114 and the barrier layer 120 to seal the peripheral edges of the absorbent pad 100 to prevent side leakage. This embodiment avoids the use of a separate piece of fabric material that covers the visible stitching line 212. The C-shaped sealing element 132 may comprise a suitable liquid-impermeable fabric and material such as melt-fit thread, and may be attached using any suitable means, such as ultrasonic sealing, welding, etc.

[0077] In one embodiment shown in Figure 8G, the absorbent pad 100, including the functional assembly 110 and the barrier layer 120, is sewn to the fabric body 210. The sealing element 132 is an extension of the barrier layer 120 and is attached to the wicking layer 114 to seal the periphery of the absorbent pad 100 and prevent side leakage. Additionally, the sealing element 132 is folded over to cover the visible stitching line 212.

[0078] In one embodiment shown in Figure 8H, the absorbent pad 100, including the functional assembly 110 and the barrier layer 120, is sewn to a fabric body 210. The sealing element 132 is an extension of the barrier layer 120 and is attached to the wicking layer 114. The pad attachment element 134 is an extension of the fabric body 210 and is attached to the sealing element 132 so as to cover the sealing element 132. The sealing element 132 and the pad attachment element 134 cooperate to seal the periphery of the absorbent pad 100 and prevent side leakage. Furthermore, the sealing element 132 and the pad attachment element 134 are folded over to cover the visible stitching line 212.

[0079] In one embodiment shown in FIG. 8I, the absorbent pad 100, including the functional assembly 110 and the barrier layer 120, is sewn to a fabric body 210. The sealing element 132 is an extension of the barrier layer 120 and is attached to the wicking layer 114. The pad attachment element 134 is an extension of the fabric body 210 and is attached to the sealing element 132 so as to cover it. The sealing element 132 and the pad attachment element 134 cooperate to seal the perimeter of the absorbent pad 100 and prevent side leakage. The peripheral assembly 130 further includes a second pad attachment element 135, which is attached to the wicking layer 114 and the pad attachment element 134, for example, by sewing or bonding with an adhesive. The sealing element 132, the pad attachment element 134, and the second pad attachment element 135 are further folded over to cover the visible stitching line 212. As used in various embodiments herein, the second pad attachment element 135 may include one or more of a hydrophilic material, a hydrophobic material, and a hydrochromic material. For example, the second pad attachment element 135 may be a separate piece of fabric material, which may be liquid impermeable or may be treated with a hydrophobic material.

[0080] 8J , the absorbent pad 100, including the functional assembly 110 and the barrier layer 120, is sewn to the fabric body 210. The peripheral assembly 130 includes a second pad attachment element 135, which is attached to the wicking layer 114 and the fabric body 210, for example, by sewing or bonding with an adhesive. Additionally, the sealing element 132 is attached to the second pad attachment element 135 so as to cover the second pad attachment element 135. Additionally, the pad attachment element 134 is attached to the sealing element 132 so as to cover the sealing element 132. For example, the pad attachment element 134 and the second pad attachment element 135 are separate pieces of fabric material, which may be liquid impermeable or may be treated with a hydrophobic material. The sealing element 132, pad attachment element 134 and second pad attachment element 135 cooperate to cover the visible stitching line 212 and seal the periphery of the absorbent pad 100 to prevent side leakage.

[0081] In one embodiment, shown in FIG. 8K, the absorbent pad 100 includes a functional assembly 110 but does not have a barrier layer 120. The functional assembly 110 includes an absorbent layer 112 and a wicking layer 114, which are sewn to a fabric body 210. The peripheral assembly 130 includes a second pad attachment element 135, which is attached to the wicking layer 114 and the fabric body 210, for example, by stitching or bonding with an adhesive. Additionally, the sealing element 132 is attached to the second pad attachment element 135 so as to cover the second pad attachment element 135. Furthermore, the pad attachment element 134 is attached to the sealing element 132 so as to cover the sealing element 132. For example, the pad attachment element 134 and the second pad attachment element 135 are separate pieces of fabric material, which may be liquid impermeable or may be treated with a hydrophobic material. The sealing element 132, the pad attachment element 134, and the second pad attachment element 135 cooperate to cover the visible stitching line 212 and seal the periphery of the absorbent pad 100 to prevent side leakage. Additionally, the fabric body 210 may comprise a liquid impermeable material or be treated with a hydrophobic material to replace the barrier layer 120 and prevent leakage from the bottom of the absorbent pad 100.

[0082] 9A and 9B, the absorbent pad 100, which may or may not include the barrier layer 120, is attached to a fabric body 210. More specifically, the peripheral assembly 130 includes a pad attachment element 134, which is coupled to the wicking layer 114 via an adhesive (or glue) film 102 and sewn to the fabric body 210. For example, the pad attachment element 134 is a separate piece of fabric material, which may be liquid impermeable or may be treated with a hydrophobic material. The absorbent layer 112 and the wicking layer 114 may be divided into upper and lower wicking layers, respectively, for example, to create a debossed / embossed effect if desired.

[0083] In some embodiments, the barrier layer 120 extends further along the fabric body 210, for example, to the leg openings of the garment 200. For example, the barrier layer 120 and the fabric body 210 have approximately the same size. The pad attachment element 134 may be coupled to the barrier layer 120 via an adhesive film 102 or may be sewn to the barrier layer 120 and the fabric body 210. The pad attachment element 134 is preferably hydrophobic to enhance liquid sealing.

[0084] As shown in Figures 9C and 9D, this method of attaching the absorbent pad 100 to the fabric body 210 provides a more aesthetically pleasing island shape. The islands can be in a variety of shapes, including a bean shape as shown in Figures 9C and 9D, respectively, showing the top and bottom sides, a dumbbell shape as shown in Figure 9E, and a humanoid shape as shown in Figure 9F.

[0085] In some embodiments shown in FIGS. 10A-10D , the peripheral assembly 130 includes a first peripheral subassembly 150 and a second peripheral subassembly 160. The first peripheral subassembly 150 is disposed on the front and back sides of the absorbent pad 100 (extending between the left and right edges of the absorbent pad 100). The second peripheral subassembly 160 is disposed on the left and right sides of the absorbent pad 100 (extending between the front and back edges of the absorbent pad 100). Notably, when a user wears the garment 200, the first peripheral subassembly 150 is disposed on the front and back sides of the user, and the second peripheral subassembly 160 is disposed on the left and right sides of the user. The peripheral subassemblies 150 and 160 may be of various sizes or lengths. For example, the peripheral subassemblies 150 and 160 may extend to the waist opening and / or leg openings of the garment 200. For example, as shown in FIG. 10A, the second peripheral subassembly 160 extends around the leg openings of the garment 200.

[0086] Furthermore, the first peripheral subassembly 150 and the second peripheral subassembly 160 are structurally different from one another. Figure 10B shows an exemplary structure of the first peripheral subassembly 150. The first peripheral subassembly 150 includes a pad attachment element 134, which is coupled to the wicking layer 114 via an adhesive (sticky) film 102. The pad attachment element 134 may be liquid impermeable or may be treated with a hydrophobic material.

[0087] 10C shows an exemplary structure of the second peripheral subassembly 160. The second peripheral subassembly 160 includes a C-shaped sealing element 132, which is attached to the upper interface of the wicking layer 114 and the lower interface of the barrier layer 120 to seal the periphery of the absorbent pad 100. The second peripheral subassembly 160 includes a pad attachment element 134 and a second pad attachment element 135. The second pad attachment element 135 is connected to the sealing element 132 via an adhesive (sticky) film 102 and sewn to the fabric main body 210. The pad attachment element 134 has a C-shape and is connected to the second pad attachment element 135 and the outer side of the fabric main body 210 via the C-shaped adhesive (sticky) film 102 so as to cover the visible stitching line 212. The pad attachment element 134 and the second pad attachment element 135 may optionally be liquid impermeable or treated with a hydrophobic material.

[0088] 10D shows another exemplary structure of the second peripheral subassembly 160. The second peripheral subassembly 160 includes a pad attachment element 134 and a second pad attachment element 135. The second pad attachment element 135 is bonded to the upper interface of the wicking layer 114 and the upper interface of the barrier layer 120 via an adhesive (sticky) film 102. The C-shaped, partially folded pad attachment element 134 is bonded to the second pad attachment element 135 via the adhesive (sticky) film 102 so as to cover the visible stitching line 212, and is sewn to the outside of the fabric body 210. The pad attachment element 134 and the second pad attachment element 135, together with their respective adhesive (sticky) films 102, cooperate to seal the periphery of the absorbent pad 100. The pad attachment element 134 and the second pad attachment element 135 may be liquid impermeable or may be treated with a hydrophobic material.

[0089] In some embodiments shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B , the peripheral assembly 130 may include a hydrophobic material and / or a stretchable material. For example, the pad attachment elements 134 include a hydrophobic material and / or a stretchable material. The hydrophobic material may have a water-repellent finish, as described above. The fabric body 210 may also include a hydrophobic material and / or a stretchable material. For example, regions 240 of the fabric body 210 on the front and back of the absorbent pad 100 include a hydrophobic material and / or a stretchable material. For example, the waist opening and / or leg openings of the garment 200 include a hydrophobic material and / or a stretchable material. The stretchability of the absorbent pad 100 and the garment 200, particularly when a stretchable pad attachment element 134 is used, allows the garment 200 to adjust to the user's body shape, thereby improving fit and reducing the risk of leakage.

[0090] 12A-12O illustrate various ways in which the absorbent pad 100 can be attached to the garment 200, specifically cross sections of the left, right, front, and back sides of the absorbent pad 100 as attached to the fabric body 210. In particular, the absorbent pad 100 is attached to the fabric body 210 using a pad attachment element 134, which is a separate piece of fabric material that may optionally be liquid impermeable or treated with a hydrophobic material.

[0091] 12A , the absorbent pad 100 is attached to the fabric body 210 via a peripheral assembly 130. The peripheral assembly 130 includes a pad attachment element 134 and a double-sided adhesive (sticky) film 102, which bonds the pad attachment element 134 to the wicking layer 114 and the fabric body 210. Optionally, the adhesive (sticky) film 102 may bond the pad attachment element 134 to the absorbent layer 112 and the barrier layer 120. Furthermore, there is no bonding (binder) or adhesion (adhesive) in the peripheral region 214 between the fabric body 210 and the barrier layer 120. The left, right, front, and back sides of the absorbent pad 100 may have similar cross-sectional structures.

[0092] In one embodiment shown in Figure 12B, similar to the embodiment of Figure 12A, the absorbent pad 100 is attached to the fabric body 210 via a peripheral assembly 130. However, instead of a single double-sided adhesive (sticky) film 102, the embodiment of Figure 12B has two separate double-sided adhesive (sticky) films 102 that bond the pad attachment element 134 to the wicking layer 114 and the fabric body 210, respectively. Also, there is no bond or adhesive in the peripheral region 214 between the fabric body 210 and the barrier layer 120. The left, right, front, and back sides of the absorbent pad 100 may have similar cross-sectional structures.

[0093] 12C, the absorbent pad 100 is attached to the fabric body 210 via a perimeter assembly 130. The perimeter assembly 130 includes pad attachment elements 134 and drop-on-demand adhesive 102, which bonds the pad attachment elements 134 to the wicking layer 114 and fabric body 210. The drop-on-demand adhesive 102 may optionally bond the pad attachment elements 134 to the absorbent layer 112 and barrier layer 120. The wicking layer 114, absorbent layer 112, and barrier layer 120 may be laminated or adhered to one another, for example, by using adhesive at a plurality of discrete points 116. The left, right, front, and back sides of the absorbent pad 100 may have similar cross-sectional configurations.

[0094] 12D , the absorbent pad 100 is attached to the fabric body 210 via a peripheral assembly 130. The peripheral assembly 130 includes a pad attachment element 134 and a double-sided adhesive (sticky) film 102, which bonds the pad attachment element 134 to the wicking layer 114 and the fabric body 210. The adhesive (sticky) film 102 may optionally bond the pad attachment element 134 to the absorbent layer 112 and the barrier layer 120. Furthermore, the pad attachment element 134 is sewn to the fabric body 210 and the barrier layer 120 (stitch lines 212). This cross-sectional configuration, as well as the cross-section of the second peripheral subassembly 160, may be adapted to the left and right sides of the absorbent pad 100.

[0095] In one embodiment shown in FIG. 12E , the absorbent pad 100 is attached to the fabric body 210 via a peripheral assembly 130. The peripheral assembly 130 includes a pad attachment element 134 and a double-sided adhesive (sticky) film 102, which bonds the pad attachment element 134 to the wicking layer 114 and the inner layer of the fabric body 210. Optionally, the adhesive (sticky) film 102 may bond the pad attachment element 134 to the absorbent layer 112 and the barrier layer 120. Furthermore, the pad attachment element 134 is sewn (sewn lines 212) to the barrier layer 120 and the inner and outer layers of the fabric body 210. Furthermore, the outer layer of the fabric body 210 may include fasteners 220, such as snap buttons and / or hook-and-loop fasteners (or touch fasteners). This cross-sectional configuration, as well as the cross-section of the second peripheral subassembly 160, may be applied to the left and right sides of the absorbent pad 100.

[0096] In one embodiment shown in FIG. 12F, the absorbent pad 100 is attached to the fabric body 210 via a peripheral assembly 130. The peripheral assembly 130 includes a liquid-impermeable sealing element 132 and a pad attachment element 134. The sealing element 132 may be a double-sided adhesive (sticky) film. The pad attachment element 134 is attached to the wicking layer 114 and the fabric body 210 via the sealing element 132. The wicking layer 114, absorbent layer 112, and barrier layer 120 may be laminated or adhered to one another, for example, by using adhesive at a plurality of discrete points 116. This cross-sectional configuration, as well as the cross-section of the second peripheral subassembly 160, may be applied to the left and right sides of the absorbent pad 100.

[0097] In one embodiment shown in FIG. 12G, the absorbent pad 100 is attached to the fabric body 210 via a peripheral assembly 130. The peripheral assembly 130 includes a liquid-impermeable sealing element 132 and a pad attachment element 134. The sealing element 132 may be a single-sided adhesive (sticky) film that bonds the peripheral edges of the wicking layer 114 and the barrier layer 120. A first double-sided adhesive (sticky) film 102 bonds the peripheral edges of the wicking layer 114, absorbent layer 112, and barrier layer 120 to one another. Furthermore, a second double-sided adhesive (sticky) film 102 bonds the pad attachment element 134 to the sealing element 132 and the fabric body 210. This cross-sectional configuration, as well as the cross-section of the second peripheral subassembly 160, may be applied to the left and right sides of the absorbent pad 100.

[0098] In one embodiment shown in Figure 12H, similar to the embodiment of Figure 12G, the absorbent pad 100 is attached to the fabric body 210 via the peripheral assembly 130. However, a second double-sided adhesive (sticky) film 102 joins a portion of the pad attachment element 134 to the sealing element 132. Another portion of the pad attachment element 134 is sewn to the fabric body 210. This cross-sectional configuration may be applied to the left and right sides of the absorbent pad 100, as well as the cross-section of the second peripheral subassembly 160.

[0099] In one embodiment shown in FIG. 12I, the absorbent pad 100 is attached to the fabric body 210 via a peripheral assembly 130. The peripheral assembly 130 includes a pad attachment element 134 and a double-sided adhesive (sticky) film 102. A first double-sided adhesive (sticky) film 102 bonds the peripheral edges of the wicking layer 114, absorbent layer 112, and barrier layer 120 together. A second double-sided adhesive (sticky) film 102 bonds the pad attachment element 134 to the sealing element 132 and the fabric body 210. Furthermore, the pad attachment element 134 is sewn to the fabric body 210. This cross-sectional configuration, as well as the cross-section of the second peripheral subassembly 160, may be applied to the left and right sides of the absorbent pad 100.

[0100] 12J , the absorbent pad 100 is attached to the fabric body 210 via a peripheral assembly 130. The peripheral assembly 130 includes a pad attachment element 134 and a double-sided adhesive (sticky) film 102, which connects the pad attachment element 134 to the peripheral edges of the wicking layer 114, the absorbent layer 112, and the barrier layer 120. Furthermore, the pad attachment element 134 is sewn to the fabric body 210 with stitching lines 212 (stitching lines 212). Specifically, at least some of the stitching lines 212 pass through the pad attachment element 134, the adhesive (sticky) film 102, the barrier layer 120, and the fabric body 210, and at least some of the stitching lines 212 also pass through the absorbent layer 112. This cross-sectional structure, similar to the cross-section of the second peripheral subassembly 160, may be applied to the left and right sides of the absorbent pad 100.

[0101] 12J , the absorbent pad 100 is attached to the fabric body 210 via the peripheral assembly 130. However, the pad attachment elements 134 are longer than the adhesive (sticky) film 102, and portions of the pad attachment elements 134 are sewn directly to the fabric body 210. Specifically, at least some of the stitching lines 212 pass through the pad attachment elements 134, the barrier layer 120, and the fabric body 210 without passing through the adhesive (sticky) film 102. This cross-sectional structure, similar to the cross-section of the second peripheral subassembly 160, may be applied to the left and right sides of the absorbent pad 100.

[0102] 12K, the absorbent pad 100 is attached to the fabric body 210 via the peripheral assembly 130. However, a portion of the pad attachment elements 134 are sewn directly to the fabric body 210, and at least some of the stitching lines 212 pass through the pad attachment elements 134 and the fabric body 210 without passing through the adhesive (sticky) film 102 or the barrier layer 120. This cross-sectional configuration, as well as the cross-section of the second peripheral subassembly 160, may be applied to the left and right sides of the absorbent pad 100.

[0103] 12M, the absorbent pad 100 is attached to the fabric body 210 via a peripheral assembly 130. The peripheral assembly 130 includes a pad attachment element 134 and a double-sided adhesive (sticky) film 102. The double-sided adhesive (sticky) film 102 connects a portion of the pad attachment element 134 to the sealing element 132. Another portion of the pad attachment element 134 is sewn to the fabric body 210. Additionally, the peripheral edges of the wicking layer 114, absorbent layer 112, and barrier layer 120 are bonded to one another by ultrasonic bonds 104. This cross-sectional structure, as well as the cross-section of the second peripheral subassembly 160, may be applied to the left and right sides of the absorbent pad 100.

[0104] In one embodiment shown in Figure 12N, the absorbent pad 100 is attached to the fabric body 210 via a peripheral assembly 130. The peripheral assembly 130 includes threads or yarns that sew the periphery of the absorbent pad 100 to the fabric body 210 (stitching lines 212). More specifically, the threads or yarns are made of or include a liquid-impermeable or hydrophobic material. This cross-sectional structure, as well as the cross-section of the second peripheral subassembly 160, may be applied to the left and right sides of the absorbent pad 100.

[0105] In one embodiment shown in FIG. 12O, the absorbent pad 100 is attached to the fabric body 210 via a peripheral assembly 130. The peripheral assembly 130 includes a liquid-impermeable sealing element 132, a pad attachment element 134, and a second pad attachment element 135. The sealing element 132 may be a single-sided adhesive (sticky) film that joins the peripheral edges of the wicking layer 114 and the barrier layer 120. A first double-sided adhesive film 102 joins the peripheral edges of the wicking layer 114, the absorbent layer 112, and the barrier layer 120 to one another. A second double-sided adhesive film 102 joins a portion of the pad attachment element 134 to the sealing element 132. Another portion of the pad attachment element 134 is sewn to the fabric body 210. A third double-sided adhesive (sticky) film 102 joins the second pad attachment element 135 to the pad attachment element 134 and the fabric body 210. Additionally, the second pad attachment element 135 is folded over to cover the visible stitching line 212. This cross-sectional configuration may be applied to the left and right sides of the absorbent pad 100, as well as the cross-section of the second peripheral subassembly 160.

[0106] In some embodiments shown in FIGS. 13A-13D, the garment 200 includes a set of tensioning elements (or tensioning elements) 250 connected to the absorbent pad 100. For example, the tensioning elements 250 are secured at the waist opening and / or leg openings and connected to the absorbent pad 100. For example, the tensioning elements 250 may include strings connected to the absorbent pad 100 in a tensioned state. The tensioning elements 250 press the absorbent pad 100 against the user's body, allowing it to more effectively capture bodily fluids. The pressure exerted by the absorbent pad 100 can help alleviate uncomfortable conditions such as pelvic organ prolapse. Specifically, the absorbent pad 100 allows for greater pressure to be applied to the vulva, improving comfort. The pressure exerted by the absorbent pad 100 can also be used to manage other conditions, such as mild cystocele and uterine prolapse. The tensioning elements 250 may be positioned differently to adjust the tension and pressure, as well as the position, against the user's body.

[0107] 14A , the peripheral assembly 130 may include a set of liquid detection elements 170 configured to change state in response to contact with a liquid. For example, the pad attachment element 134 and / or the second pad attachment element 135 may include the liquid detection elements 170. The liquid detection elements 170 may include a hydrochromic material configured to change color in response to contact with a liquid. For example, the hydrochromic material may include a hydrochromic print and a water-based pigment. Additionally or alternatively, the liquid detection elements 170 may include a deformable foam material, such as a polyurethane-containing material, configured to deform in response to contact with a liquid.

[0108] 14B and 14C, the absorbent pad 100 may include a top layer 140 disposed on the wicking layer 114. The top layer 140 may include a similar liquid detection element 170, particularly the hydrochromic material described in detail above. Similarly, the garment 200 may include a hydrochromic material. For example, the hydrochromic material may be disposed in the fabric body 210, e.g., at the waist opening and / or leg openings, as well as on the interior and / or exterior of the garment 200. For example, the hydrochromic material may be disposed on the exterior of the garment 200 to function as an exterior wetness indicator, particularly to indicate any liquid leakage from the absorbent pad 100.

[0109] In some embodiments shown in FIG. 15 , garment 200 includes a pocket 260 that contains a laundry bag 262 therein. Laundry bag 262 is detachable from pocket 260 to hold garment 200 therein. Laundry bag 262 with garment 200 inside can be sent to laundry 264 together. For example, laundry bag 262 can be completely removed from pocket 260 and replaced if damaged. Pocket 260 and laundry bag 262 improve the convenience of handling and washing soiled garment 200. Pocket 260 may be located on the bottom or back of garment 200. Pocket 260 may include an opening for accessing laundry bag 262, which can be fastened with a suitable closure mechanism, such as a waterproof drawstring or zipper. Pocket 260 may include a stretchable material, and laundry bag 262 may include a water-resistant and / or odor-resistant material.

[0110] In some embodiments, instead of having a laundry bag 262, a pocket 260 is located on the outside of the garment 200. The garment 200 can be folded inward into the pocket 260 so that the absorbent pad 100 is covered by the pocket 260.

[0111] 16 , the garment 200 includes a second wicking layer 270 that is secured to the rear of the absorbent pad 100 and removably attached to a waistband 280 of the garment 200. The second wicking layer 270 can be removed from the waistband 280 and reattached to the front of the absorbent pad 100, such that the second wicking layer 270 is layered over the absorbent pad 100. For example, the second wicking layer 270 is layered over the wicking layer 114 or top layer 140 of the absorbent pad 100. The second wicking layer 270 can include a set of fasteners 272 for attachment to the front of the absorbent pad 100. The fasteners 272 can include snap buttons and / or hook-and-loop fasteners (touch fasteners). For example, the second wicking layer 270 may be used by the user if it is necessary to provide additional liquid transport performance and / or better comfort, such as when the absorbent pad 100 becomes wet and causes discomfort to the user.

[0112] Various embodiments of the present disclosure describe an absorbent pad 100 that prevents leakage and efficiently transports liquid from the surface of the absorbent pad 100, such as the wicking layer 114, to the underlying absorbent layer 112. The garment 200 to which the absorbent pad 100 is attached also exhibits the associated characteristics of the absorbent pad 100. For example, if the garment 200 to which the absorbent pad 100 is attached is in the form of underwear, the absorbent pad 100 may provide sufficient and effective liquid absorption, eliminating the need for disposable tampons / pads in conjunction with the underwear. Furthermore, the absorbent pad 100 is thinner than conventional garments, making it more attractive and comfortable to wear than garments containing conventional pads, while still providing improved leakage protection. Some embodiments describe attaching the absorbent pad 100 directly to the garment 200 by sewing, without the use of additional fabric strips such as pad attachment elements 134, 135. Such embodiments obviate the need for such fabric strips and allow for other options for sealing the periphery of the absorbent pad 100. Other options include, but are not limited to, ultrasonic welding and fusible (fusible) threads.

[0113] This disclosure describes many embodiments of the absorbent pad 100 and the garment 200. It will be understood that various aspects of one or more embodiments of the absorbent pad 100 and / or the garment 200 may be equally applicable to one or more other embodiments, and for the sake of brevity, those aspects will not be described in further detail.

[0114] In the above detailed description, embodiments of the present disclosure relating to absorbent pads for use in garments and garments including absorbent pads have been described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The description of each embodiment herein is not intended to refer to or limit the present disclosure to only specific or particular representative examples, but merely to describe non-limiting examples of the present disclosure. The present disclosure aims to solve at least one of the above-mentioned problems and problems associated with the prior art. Although only some embodiments of the present disclosure are disclosed herein, it will be understood that, in light of this disclosure, those skilled in the art can make various changes and / or modifications to the disclosed embodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the scope of the present disclosure and the following claims should not be limited to the embodiments described herein.

Claims

1. An absorbent pad for use on clothing, the absorbent pad comprising: a liquid impermeable barrier layer; a functional assembly attached to the liquid-impermeable barrier layer; and A peripheral assembly attached to the periphery of the functional assembly and Functional assemblies include: an absorbent layer attached to the liquid-impermeable barrier layer for absorbing liquid; and a wicking layer attached to the absorbent layer and positioned to face the user's skin in use, for transporting liquid to the absorbent layer; and At least a portion of the peripheral assembly is liquid impermeable; An absorbent pad, wherein the wicking layer and the absorbent layer are attached at a plurality of discrete points therebetween to promote liquid transfer from the wicking layer to the absorbent layer through areas around the discrete points.

2. 10. The absorbent pad of claim 1, wherein the wicking layer and the absorbent layer are knitted together with bridging yarns at discrete points.

3. 10. The absorbent pad of claim 1, wherein the wicking layer and the absorbent layer are attached to one another by lamination, and the discrete points include adhesive.

4. 4. The absorbent pad according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the discrete points are distributed throughout the wicking and absorbent layers and / or at the periphery of the wicking and absorbent layers.

5. 5. The absorbent pad according to claim 1, wherein the wicking layer and the absorbent layer are attached to each other at their peripheral edges with an adhesive film.

6. An absorbent pad according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the wicking layer comprises an arrangement of hydrophobic and hydrophilic yarns that form channels for directing the flow of liquid.

7. The absorbent pad according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the wicking layer comprises a linear arrangement of a hydrophobic material and a hydrophilic material.

8. 8. The absorbent pad of claim 7, wherein the wicking layer is made from a hydrophilic material and includes alternating lines of a hydrophobic material disposed over the hydrophilic material.

9. An absorbent pad according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the functional assembly comprises a top layer attached to the wicking layer and arranged to face towards the skin of the user in use.

10. 10. The absorbent pad of claim 9, wherein the top layer comprises one or more of a hydrophilic material, a hydrophobic material, and a hydrochromic material.

11. 11. The absorbent pad of claim 9 or 10, wherein the top layer comprises an array of openings for liquid transfer from the user's skin to the wicking layer and comprises a hydrophobic material.

12. 11. An absorbent pad according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the top layer comprises an array of channels for directing the flow of liquid, the channels comprising a hydrophobic material.

13. 13. The absorbent pad of claim 12, wherein the hydrophobic material comprises a cured polymeric material that is patterned to form channels.

14. 11. The absorbent pad of claim 9 or 10, wherein the top layer comprises a linear arrangement of hydrophobic and hydrophilic materials.

15. 15. The absorbent pad of claim 14, wherein the top layer is made from a hydrophilic material and includes alternating lines of a hydrophobic material disposed over the hydrophilic material.

16. An absorbent pad according to any one of claims 9 to 15, wherein the top layer comprises a set of liquid-sensing elements configured to change state in response to contact with liquid.

17. 17. The absorbent pad of claim 16, wherein the liquid-sensing element comprises a hydrochromic material configured to change color in response to contact with a liquid.

18. The absorbent pad according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the wicking layer and / or the absorbent layer comprises a foam material and / or a spacer fabric material.

19. 19. The absorbent pad of claim 18, wherein the absorbent pad is configured such that the functional assembly includes a deformation, the deformation being a convex or concave portion.

20. An absorbent pad according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the functional assembly is formed using darts.

21. 21. The absorbent pad of any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the peripheral assembly includes a pad attachment element attached to the periphery of the functional assembly, and optionally the pad attachment element is liquid impermeable.

22. 22. The absorbent pad of claim 21, wherein the pad attachment element forms a liquid impermeable raised portion around the functional assembly.

23. 23. The absorbent pad of claim 21 or 22, wherein the peripheral assembly includes a plurality of fasteners attached to the pad attachment elements, the fasteners being configured to secure the absorbent pad to a garment and optionally including snap buttons and / or hook-and-loop fasteners.

24. The peripheral assembly is a first peripheral subassembly disposed along the front and rear of the absorbent pad; and a second peripheral subassembly disposed along the left and right sides of the absorbent pad; and The absorbent pad according to any one of claims 21 to 23, wherein the first and second peripheral subassemblies are structurally different from each other.

25. 25. The absorbent pad of claim 24, wherein the first peripheral subassembly includes a pad attachment element, the pad attachment element being coupled to the wicking layer.

26. The second peripheral subassembly includes: a sealing element attached to the wicking layer and the barrier layer; a pad attachment element; and a second pad attachment element attached to the sealing element and the second pad attachment element is for sewing to the garment; 26. The absorbent pad of claim 24 or 25, wherein the pad attachment element is for attachment to a second pad attachment element for attachment to a garment, and is positioned to cover the stitching.

27. The second peripheral subassembly includes: a pad attachment element; and a second pad attachment element attached to the wicking layer and the barrier layer; and the pad attachment element is attached to the second pad attachment element and is for attachment to the garment; 26. The absorbent pad according to claim 24 or 25, wherein a portion of the absorbent pad is folded over to cover the stitched portion.

28. An absorbent pad according to any preceding claim, wherein the peripheral assembly includes a set of liquid-sensing elements configured to change state in response to contact with liquid.

29. 30. The absorbent pad of claim 28, wherein the liquid-sensing element comprises a hydrochromic material configured to change color in response to contact with a liquid.

30. A garment, Fabric body; an absorbent pad attached to the fabric body; and A liquid-impermeable barrier layer that is part of the fabric body and / or part of the absorbent pad and The absorbent pad is a functional assembly attached to the liquid-impermeable barrier layer; and A peripheral assembly attached to the periphery of the functional assembly, the peripheral assembly being at least partially liquid impermeable. and Functional assemblies include: an absorbent layer attached to the liquid-impermeable barrier layer for absorbing liquid; and A wicking layer attached to the absorbent layer that transports liquid to the absorbent layer and the wicking layer is positioned to face the user's skin during use; A garment in which the wicking layer and the absorbent layer are attached at a plurality of discrete points therebetween, facilitating liquid transport from the wicking layer to the absorbent layer through areas surrounding the plurality of discrete points.

31. 31. The garment of claim 30, wherein the wicking layer and the absorbent layer are knitted together at a plurality of discrete points with bridging yarns.

32. 31. The garment of claim 30, wherein the wicking layer and the absorbent layer are attached to one another by lamination, and the discrete points include adhesive.

33. A garment according to any one of claims 30 to 32, wherein the discrete points are distributed throughout the wicking and absorbent layers and / or at the periphery of the wicking and absorbent layers.

34. 34. The garment of any one of claims 30 to 33, wherein the peripheral edges of the wicking layer and the absorbent layer are attached to each other by an adhesive film.

35. A garment according to any one of claims 30 to 34, wherein the wicking layer comprises an arrangement of hydrophobic and hydrophilic yarns that form channels for directing the flow of liquid.

36. The garment of any one of claims 30 to 35, wherein the wicking layer comprises a linear array of hydrophobic and hydrophilic materials.

37. 37. The garment of claim 36, wherein the wicking layer is made from a hydrophilic material and includes alternating lines of a hydrophobic material disposed over the hydrophilic material.

38. A garment according to any one of claims 30 to 35, wherein the functional assembly comprises a top layer attached to the wicking layer and arranged to face towards the skin of the user in use.

39. 39. The garment of claim 38, wherein the top layer comprises one or more of a hydrophilic material, a hydrophobic material, and a hydrochromic material.

40. 40. The garment of claim 38 or 39, wherein the top layer comprises an array of apertures for liquid transport from the user's skin to the wicking layer, the top layer comprising a hydrophobic material.

41. 40. The garment of claim 38 or 39, wherein the top layer comprises an array of channels for directing fluid flow, the channels comprising a hydrophobic material.

42. 42. The garment of claim 41, wherein the hydrophobic material comprises a cured polymeric material that is patterned to form channels.

43. 40. The garment of claim 38 or 39, wherein the top layer comprises a linear array of hydrophobic and hydrophilic materials.

44. 44. The garment of claim 43, wherein the top layer is made from a hydrophilic material and includes alternating lines of a hydrophobic material disposed over the hydrophilic material.

45. A garment according to any one of claims 38 to 44, wherein the top layer includes a set of liquid-sensing elements configured to change state in response to contact with a liquid.

46. 46. ​​The garment of claim 45, wherein the liquid-sensing element comprises a hydrochromic material configured to change color in response to contact with a liquid.

47. A garment according to any one of claims 30 to 46, wherein the wicking layer and / or absorbent layer comprises a foam material and / or a spacer fabric material.

48. 48. The garment of claim 47, wherein the absorbent pad is shaped so that the functional assembly includes a deformation, the deformation being a convex or concave portion.

49. The garment of any one of claims 30 to 48, wherein the functional assembly is formed using darts.

50. 50. The garment of any one of claims 30 to 49, wherein the peripheral assembly includes a pad attachment element attached to the periphery of the functional assembly, and optionally the pad attachment element is liquid impermeable.

51. 51. The garment of claim 50, wherein the pad attachment element forms a liquid impermeable protrusion around the functional assembly.

52. 52. The garment of claim 50 or 51, wherein the garment further comprises a plurality of fasteners, the peripheral assembly including a corresponding plurality of fasteners attached to the pad attachment element, the fasteners configured to fasten the absorbent pad to the garment, and optionally the fasteners including snap buttons and / or hook-and-loop fasteners.

53. The peripheral assembly is a first peripheral portion assembly disposed along both left and right edges of the absorbent pad; and a second peripheral portion assembly disposed along both the front and rear edges of the absorbent pad; and 53. The garment of any one of claims 50 to 52, wherein the first and second peripheral subassemblies are structurally different from each other.

54. 54. The garment of claim 53, wherein the first peripheral subassembly includes a pad attachment element, the pad attachment element being coupled to the wicking layer.

55. The second peripheral subassembly includes: a sealing element attached to the wicking layer and the barrier layer; a pad attachment element; and a second pad attachment element attached to the sealing element and sewn to the garment; and 55. The garment of claim 53 or 54, wherein the pad attachment element is attached to the second pad attachment element and to the garment, the pad attachment element being positioned to cover the stitching.

56. The second peripheral subassembly includes: a pad attachment element; and a second pad attachment element attached to the wicking layer and the barrier layer; and 55. The garment of claim 53 or 54, wherein the pad attachment element is attached to a second pad attachment element and sewn to the garment, the pad attachment element being folded over to cover the sewn portion.

57. A garment according to any one of claims 30 to 56, wherein the peripheral assembly includes a set of liquid-sensing elements configured to change state in response to contact with a liquid.

58. 58. The garment of claim 57, wherein the liquid-sensing element comprises a hydrochromic material configured to change color in response to contact with a liquid.

59. 59. The garment of any one of claims 30 to 58, further comprising a set of tensioning elements connected to the absorbent pad, the tensioning elements configured to press the absorbent pad against the body of a user.

60. 60. The garment of any one of claims 30 to 59, further comprising a pocket, the pocket containing a laundry bag therein, the laundry bag being removable from the pocket to hold the garment within the laundry bag.

61. 61. The garment of any one of claims 30 to 60, further comprising a pocket on the exterior of the garment, the garment being foldable inwardly into the pocket.

62. 62. The garment of any one of claims 30 to 61, further comprising a second wicking layer attached to the rear of the absorbent pad and removably attached to a waistband of the garment, the second wicking layer being removable from the waistband and reattachable to the front of the absorbent pad, thereby overlying the second wicking layer on top of the absorbent pad.

63. 63. The garment of claim 62, wherein the second wicking layer includes a set of fasteners for fastening to the front of the absorbent pad, and optionally the fasteners include snap buttons and / or hook-and-loop fasteners.

64. An absorbent pad, comprising: a liquid impermeable barrier layer; a functional assembly attached to the liquid-impermeable barrier layer; and A peripheral assembly attached around the functional assembly and Functional assemblies include: an absorbent layer attached to the liquid-impermeable barrier layer for absorbing liquid; and A liquid transfer layer attached to the absorbent layer and At least a portion of the peripheral assembly is liquid impermeable; the liquid transfer layer is positioned to face the user's skin in use and transfers liquid to the absorbent layer; The liquid transfer layer comprises an arrangement of hydrophobic and hydrophilic materials for directing the flow of liquid across the functional assembly.

65. 65. The absorbent pad of claim 64, wherein the functional assembly includes a wicking layer for transferring liquid to the absorbent layer, the wicking layer including a liquid transfer layer.

66. 66. The absorbent pad of claim 65, wherein the hydrophobic and hydrophilic materials include hydrophobic and hydrophilic threads that form channels for directing the flow of liquid.

67. 67. The absorbent pad of claim 65 or 66, wherein the wicking layer comprises a linear array of hydrophobic and hydrophilic materials.

68. 68. The absorbent pad of claim 67, wherein the wicking layer is made from a hydrophilic material and comprises alternating lines of a hydrophobic material disposed over the hydrophilic material.

69. 66. The absorbent pad of claim 65, wherein the functional assembly includes a top layer attached to the wicking layer and positioned to face towards the user's skin in use, the top layer including a liquid transfer layer.

70. 70. The absorbent pad of claim 69, wherein the top layer comprises an array of channels for directing fluid flow, the channels comprising a hydrophobic material.

71. 71. The absorbent pad of claim 70, wherein the hydrophobic material comprises a hardened polymeric material that is patterned to form channels.

72. A garment, Fabric body; an absorbent pad attached to the fabric body; and A liquid-impermeable barrier layer that is part of the fabric body and / or part of the absorbent pad. and The absorbent pad is a functional assembly attached to the liquid-impermeable barrier layer; and A peripheral assembly attached to the periphery of a functional assembly and Functional assemblies include: an absorbent layer attached to the liquid-impermeable barrier layer for absorbing liquid; and A liquid transfer layer attached to the absorbent layer and At least a portion of the peripheral assembly is liquid impermeable; the liquid transfer layer is positioned to face the user's skin in use and transfers liquid to the absorbent layer; The liquid transfer layer comprises an arrangement of hydrophobic and hydrophilic materials for directing the flow of liquid across the functional assembly.

73. 73. The garment of claim 72, wherein the functional assembly includes a wicking layer for transferring liquid to the absorbent layer, the wicking layer including a liquid transfer layer.

74. 74. The garment of claim 73, wherein the hydrophobic and hydrophilic materials include hydrophobic and hydrophilic yarns that form channels to direct the flow of liquid.

75. 75. The garment of claim 73 or 74, wherein the wicking layer comprises a linear array of hydrophobic and hydrophilic materials.

76. 76. The garment of claim 75, wherein the wicking layer is made of a hydrophilic material and includes alternating lines of a hydrophobic material disposed over the hydrophilic material.

77. 74. The garment of claim 73, wherein the functional assembly includes a top layer attached to the wicking layer and positioned to face toward the user's skin in use, the top layer including a liquid transfer layer.

78. 78. The garment of claim 77, wherein the top layer comprises an array of channels for directing fluid flow, the channels comprising a hydrophobic material.

79. 79. The garment of claim 78, wherein the hydrophobic material comprises a hardened polymeric material that is patterned to form channels.

80. An absorbent pad for use on clothing, comprising: a liquid impermeable barrier layer; a functional assembly attached to the liquid-impermeable barrier layer; and A peripheral assembly attached to the periphery of a functional assembly and Functional assemblies include: an absorbent layer attached to the liquid-impermeable barrier layer for absorbing liquid; and a liquid-sensing layer attached to the absorbent layer that transports liquid to the absorbent layer; and At least a portion of the peripheral assembly is liquid impermeable; the liquid sensing layer is positioned so as to face the skin of a user in use; The absorbent pad, wherein the liquid sensing layer comprises a hydrochromic material configured to change color in response to contact with a liquid.

81. 81. The absorbent pad of claim 80, wherein the functional assembly includes a wicking layer for transporting liquid to the absorbent layer, the wicking layer including the liquid sensing layer.

82. 82. The absorbent pad of claim 81, wherein the functional assembly comprises a top layer attached to the wicking layer and positioned to face towards the skin of a user in use, the top layer comprising the liquid sensing layer.

83. A garment, the garment comprising: Fabric body; an absorbent pad attached to the fabric body; and A liquid-impermeable barrier layer that is part of the fabric body and / or part of the absorbent pad and The absorbent pad is a functional assembly attached to the liquid-impermeable barrier layer; and A peripheral assembly attached to the periphery of a functional assembly and Functional assemblies include: an absorbent layer attached to the liquid-impermeable barrier layer for absorbing liquid; and a liquid-sensing layer attached to the absorbent layer that transports liquid to the absorbent layer; and At least a portion of the peripheral assembly is liquid impermeable; the liquid sensing layer is positioned so as to face the skin of a user in use; The garment wherein the liquid sensing layer comprises a hydrochromic material configured to change color in response to contact with a liquid.

84. 84. The garment of claim 83, wherein the functional assembly includes a wicking layer for transporting liquid to the absorbent layer, the wicking layer including the liquid sensing layer.

85. 85. The garment of claim 84, wherein the functional assembly includes an upper layer attached to the wicking layer and positioned to face toward the user's skin in use, the upper layer including the liquid sensing layer.

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