Techniques related to incontinence and menstrual and underwear

Abstract

1. An incontinence undergarment comprising a crotch area holding together stitches, first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh layers, wherein the first layer is innermost and the seventh layer is outermost, the second layer extends between the first and third layers, the fourth layer extends between the third and fifth layers, and the sixth layer extends between the fifth and seventh layers, wherein stitches extend through the first, sixth, and seventh layers, and wherein stitches avoid extending through the second, third, fourth, and fifth layers, and the second layer is bonded or adhered to the third layer.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] (Cross - Reference to Related Applications) This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 041,509, filed on June 19, 2020, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

[0002] (Technical Field) The present disclosure relates to absorbent garments and undergarments, including incontinence and menstrual undergarments and clothing.

Background Art

[0003] In the present disclosure, when a document, act, and / or item of knowledge is referenced and / or discussed, such reference and / or discussion does not admit that such document, act, and / or item of knowledge, and any combination thereof, was publicly available, known to the public, part of the common general knowledge at the priority date, and / or otherwise constituted any prior art based on the applicable statutory provisions and / or was known to be relevant to any attempt to solve any problem to which the present disclosure relates. Further, nothing is admitted to be abandoned.

[0004] There is a need to enable incontinence and menstrual undergarments and clothing that are sufficiently waterproof and also sufficiently wear - resistant. However, despite various attempts by others, this type of absorbent or incontinence and menstrual undergarment or clothing does not yet exist.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Patent Document 3

Patent Document 4

[0006] The present disclosure enables absorbent or incontinence and menstrual underwear and clothing that have sufficient waterproofness and are sufficiently wear-resistant. The present disclosure at least partially addresses at least one of the above inefficiencies. However, it can be seen that the present disclosure is also useful in other technical fields. Therefore, the various claims described below should not be construed as necessarily limited to addressing any of the above inefficiencies.

[0007] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the device comprises absorbent or incontinence and menstrual underwear or clothing including a crotch region that holds a stitch, a first layer, a second layer, a third layer, a fourth layer, a fifth layer, a sixth layer, and a seventh layer, with the first layer being the innermost, the seventh layer being the outermost, the second layer extending between the first layer and the third layer, the fourth layer extending between the third layer and the fifth layer, the sixth layer extending below the fifth layer and above the seventh layer, the stitch extending through the first layer, the sixth layer, and the seventh layer, the stitch avoiding extending through the second layer, the third layer, the fourth layer, and the fifth layer, and the second layer being bonded or adhered to the third layer.

[0008] The device according to one of the previous embodiments, wherein the second layer is bonded or adhered to the first layer.

[0009] The device according to one of the previous embodiments, wherein the second layer is adhered or bonded to the sixth layer.

[0010] The device according to one of the previous embodiments, wherein the first layer is bonded to the sixth layer via the second layer.

[0011] The material is the device according to one of the previous embodiments, extending from below the fifth layer to above the third layer. The material is the device according to one of the previous embodiments, coupled to the bottom of the fifth layer and the top of the third layer. The material is the device according to one of the previous embodiments, coupled to the bottom of the second layer. The material is the device according to one of the previous embodiments, coupled to the bottom of the first layer.

[0012] The second layer is the device according to one of the previous embodiments, extending to cover part of the sixth layer but not covering the third layer.

[0013] The material is the device according to one of the previous embodiments, covering the third layer and extending below the first layer but not extending below the second layer.

[0014] The second layer is the device according to one of the previous embodiments, extending below the first layer, covering the third layer and covering the material but not covering the sixth layer. The material is the device according to one of the previous embodiments, which is a bonding strip.

[0015] The sixth layer has a first portion and a second portion. The first portion of the sixth layer extends below the seventh layer, and the second portion of the sixth layer extends above the seventh layer, which is the device according to one of the previous embodiments.

[0016] The stitch extends through the second portion of the sixth layer but not through the first portion of the sixth layer, which is a device according to one embodiment.

[0017] The stitch passes through the second portion of the sixth layer and extends through the seventh layer but not through the first portion of the sixth layer, which is a device according to one embodiment.

[0018] The second portion of the sixth layer extends below the first layer, which is the device according to one of the previous embodiments.

[0019] The second portion of the sixth layer extends below the first layer and the second layer, which is the device according to one of the previous embodiments.

[0020] The first layer has a first portion and a second portion, the second portion of the first layer extends below the first portion of the first layer, and the stitch extends through the second portion of the first layer but not through the first portion of the first layer, a device according to one of the previous embodiments.

[0021] The first layer has a first portion and a second portion, the second portion of the first layer extends below the first portion of the first layer, the sixth layer has a first portion and a second portion, the first portion of the sixth layer extends below the seventh layer, the second portion of the sixth layer extends above the seventh layer, the stitch extends through the second portion of the first layer but not through the first portion of the first layer, through the second portion of the sixth layer but not through the first portion of the sixth layer, and through the seventh layer, a device according to one of the previous embodiments.

[0022] A device according to one of the previous embodiments, further comprising a material, such as a bonding strip, extending from below the fifth layer to above the third layer along the entire periphery of the third, fourth, and fifth layers.

[0023] The edge of the fifth layer extends above the third layer along the entire periphery of the third and fourth layers, and the edge of the fifth layer is joined to the upper part of the third layer, a device according to one of the previous embodiments. The edge of the fifth layer is joined to the third layer using a bonding strip, a device according to one of the previous embodiments. The second layer extends to cover the edges of the third and fifth layers but does not extend to cover the sixth layer, a device according to one of the previous embodiments. A material, such as a bonding strip piece, is positioned to cover below the first layer and the sixth layer but does not extend to cover the second layer, below the second layer, to cover the edge of the fifth layer, or to cover the third layer, a device according to one of the previous embodiments.

[0024] A device according to one of the previous embodiments, wherein a material, such as a bonding strip, includes a terminal portion that covers the sixth layer and extends below the second layer, and a stitch extends through the first layer, the second layer, the terminal portion of the material, the sixth layer, and the seventh layer.

[0025] A device according to one of the previous embodiments, wherein a material, such as a bonding strip, includes a terminal portion that covers the sixth layer and extends below the first layer but does not extend below the second layer, and a stitch extends through the first layer, the terminal portion of the material, the sixth layer, and the seventh layer.

[0026] A device according to one of the previous embodiments, wherein the first layer extends covering a material, such as a bonding strip, covering the sixth layer, and covering the second layer, the second layer extends below the first layer covering the sixth layer, a stitch extends through the first layer, the second layer, the sixth layer, and the seventh layer, the second layer is bonded to the first layer and the sixth layer, and the first layer is bonded to the material.

[0027] A device according to one of the previous embodiments, wherein the first layer extends covering a material, such as a bonding strip, covering the sixth layer, and covering the second layer, the second layer extends below the first layer covering the sixth layer, a stitch extends through the first layer, the sixth layer, and the seventh layer, the second layer is bonded to the first layer and the sixth layer, and the first layer is bonded to the material.

[0028] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a method includes causing an absorbent or incontinence and menstrual undergarment or clothing to include a crotch region that holds stitches, a first layer, a second layer, a third layer, a fourth layer, a fifth layer, a sixth layer, and a seventh layer, where the first layer is the innermost and the seventh layer is the outermost; causing the second layer to extend between the first layer and the third layer and be bonded or adhered to the third layer; causing the fourth layer to extend between the third layer and the fifth layer; causing the sixth layer to extend below the fifth layer and above the seventh layer; and causing the stitches to extend through the first layer, the second layer, the sixth layer, and the seventh layer and avoid extending through the third layer, the fourth layer, and the fifth layer.

[0029] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a method includes causing an absorbent or incontinence and menstrual undergarment or clothing to include a crotch region that holds stitches, a first layer, a second layer, a third layer, a fourth layer, a fifth layer, a sixth layer, and a seventh layer, where the first layer is the innermost and the seventh layer is the outermost; causing the second layer to extend between the first layer and the third layer and be bonded or adhered to the third layer; causing the fourth layer to extend between the third layer and the fifth layer; causing the sixth layer to extend below the fifth layer and above the seventh layer; and causing the stitches to extend through the first layer, the sixth layer, and the seventh layer and extend through the second layer, the third layer, the fourth layer, and the fifth layer.

[0030] The method according to one of the previous embodiments, wherein the second layer is adhered or bonded to the first layer.

[0031] The method according to one of the previous embodiments, wherein the second layer is adhered or bonded to the sixth layer.

[0032] The method according to one of the previous embodiments, wherein the first layer is bonded to the sixth layer through the second layer.

[0033] The method according to one of the previous embodiments, wherein the sixth layer has a first part and a second part, the first part of the sixth layer extends below the seventh layer, and the second part of the sixth layer extends above the seventh layer.

[0034] The method according to one embodiment, wherein the stitch extends through the second part of the sixth layer but not through the first part of the sixth layer.

[0035] The method according to one embodiment, wherein the stitch extends through the second part of the sixth layer and through the seventh layer but not through the first part of the sixth layer.

[0036] The method according to one of the previous embodiments, wherein the second part of the sixth layer extends below the first layer.

[0037] The method according to one of the previous embodiments, wherein the second part of the sixth layer extends below the first layer and the second layer.

[0038] The method according to one of the previous embodiments, wherein the first layer has a first part and a second part, the second part of the first layer extends below the first part of the first layer, and the stitch extends through the second part of the first layer but not through the first part of the first layer.

[0039] The method according to one of the previous embodiments, wherein the first layer has a first part and a second part, the second part of the first layer extends below the first part of the first layer, the sixth layer has a first part and a second part, the first part of the sixth layer extends below the seventh layer, the second part of the sixth layer extends above the seventh layer, the stitch extends through the second part of the first layer but not through the first part of the first layer, through the second part of the sixth layer but not through the first part of the sixth layer, and through the seventh layer.

[0040] The method according to one of the previous embodiments, further comprising the step of joining a bonding strip that extends from below the fifth layer to above the third layer along the entire periphery of the third layer, the fourth layer, and the fifth layer.

[0041] The method according to one of the previous embodiments, wherein the edge of the fifth layer extends above the third layer along the entire peripheral edge of the third and fourth layers, and the edge of the fifth layer is joined to the top of the third layer.

[0042] The method according to one of the previous embodiments, wherein the edge of the fifth layer is joined to the third layer using a bonding strip. The second layer extends over the edges of the third and fifth layers but does not extend over the sixth layer. Materials, such as part of a bonding strip, are disposed below the first layer and over the sixth layer but do not extend below the second layer, over the edge of the fifth layer, or above the third layer.

[0043] The method according to one of the previous embodiments, wherein a material, such as a bonding strip, includes a terminal portion that extends over the sixth layer and below the second layer, and stitches extend through the first layer, the second layer, the terminal portion of the material, the sixth layer, and the seventh layer.

[0044] The method according to one of the previous embodiments, wherein a material, such as a bonding strip, includes a terminal portion that extends over the sixth layer and below the first layer but does not extend below the second layer, and stitches extend through the first layer, the terminal portion of the material, the sixth layer, and the seventh layer.

[0045] The method according to one of the previous embodiments, wherein the first layer extends over a material, such as a bonding strip, over the sixth layer, and over the second layer, the second layer extends below the first layer over the sixth layer, stitches extend through the first layer, the second layer, the sixth layer, and the seventh layer, the second layer is joined to the first and sixth layers, and the first layer is joined to the material.

[0046] The first layer extends covering a material such as a bonding strip, covering the sixth layer and covering the second layer, the second layer extends below the first layer covering the sixth layer, the stitch extends through the first layer, the sixth layer and the seventh layer, the second layer is bonded to the first layer and the sixth layer, and the first layer is bonded to the material, the method according to one of the previous embodiments.

[0047] The present disclosure is embodied in various forms illustrated in the accompanying exemplary series of drawings. It should be noted that variations are intended to be part of the present disclosure, which is limited only by the scope of the various claims described below.

[0048] The accompanying exemplary series of drawings shows various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Such drawings are not necessarily to be construed as limiting the present disclosure. Similar numbers and / or similar numbering schemes can indicate similar elements and / or analogous elements throughout.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0049]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

Figure 17

Figure 18

Figure 19

Figure 20

Figure 21

Figure 22

Figure 23

Figure 24

Figure 25

Figure 26

Figure 27

Figure 28

Figure 29

Figure 30

Figure 31

Figure 32

Figure 33

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0050] Here, the present disclosure will be more fully described with reference to the accompanying exemplary series of drawings in which exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. The present disclosure can be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as necessarily limited to the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein. Rather, the exemplary embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the various concepts of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art.

[0051] Features described with respect to certain exemplary embodiments can be combined and / or partially combined in various other exemplary embodiments and / or with other exemplary embodiments. Also, different aspects and / or elements of the exemplary embodiments as disclosed herein can be combined and / or partially combined in like manner. Further, some exemplary embodiments can be components of a larger system, either individually and / or collectively, and other procedures can take precedence in their application and / or can be modified in other ways. Still further, as disclosed herein, multiple steps can be required before, after, and / or concurrently with an exemplary embodiment. Note that at least some and / or all of the methods and / or processes as disclosed herein can be performed at least in part through some means via at least one entity.

[0052] The various terms used herein can mean directly or indirectly, completely or partially, temporarily or permanently, operating or non-operating. For example, when an element is referred to as being "above," "connected to," or "coupled to" another element, this element can be directly above, connected to, or coupled to the other element, and / or intervening elements including indirect and / or direct variations can be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another element, intervening elements are not present.

[0053] As used herein, terms such as first, second, etc. can be used to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections, but these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections should not necessarily be limited by such terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or section from another. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer, or section described hereinafter can be referred to as a second element, component, region, layer, or section without departing from various teachings of the present disclosure.

[0054] The various terms used in this specification are for the purpose of describing particular exemplary embodiments and are not necessarily intended to limit the present disclosure. As used herein, the various singular forms "a", "an", and "the" are intended to include the various plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. As used herein, the various terms "comprise", "includes", and / or "comprising", "including" specify the presence of the features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components recited therein, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0055] As used herein, the term "or" is intended to mean an inclusive "or" rather than an exclusive "or". That is, unless otherwise specified or clear from the context, "X uses A or B" is intended to mean any of a series of natural inclusive permutations. That is, "X uses A or B" is satisfied in any of the cases where X uses A, X uses B, or X uses both A and B.

[0056] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are described herein with reference to illustrations of idealized embodiments (and intermediate structures) of the present disclosure. As such, for example, variations from the various illustrated shapes as a result of, for example, manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances are to be expected. Accordingly, the various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure should not necessarily be construed as limited to the particular shapes of the various regions illustrated herein, but are to include, for example, departures in shapes resulting from manufacturing.

[0057] As disclosed herein, any element and / or all elements can be formed from the same structurally continuous part such as an integral body, and / or can be separately manufactured and / or connected such as an assembly and / or a module. Any and / or all elements as disclosed herein can be manufactured via some manufacturing process, whether it is additive manufacturing, subtractive manufacturing, and / or any other type of manufacturing. For example, some manufacturing processes include three-dimensional (3D) printing, laser cutting, computer numerical control routing, milling, pressing, stamping, vacuum forming, hydroforming, injection molding, lithography, and the like.

[0058] Any and / or all of the elements as disclosed herein, whether partial and / or complete, can be solids including, and / or can include, metals, minerals, amorphous materials, ceramics, glass ceramics, organic solids such as wood, and / or polymers such as rubber, composite materials, semiconductors, nanomaterials, biomaterials, and / or any combination thereof. Any and / or all of the elements as disclosed herein, whether partial and / or complete, can be coatings including, and / or can include, information coatings such as inks, adhesive coatings, fusion bonding coatings such as vacuum seals and / or heat seals, release coatings such as tape liners, low surface energy coatings, color, color, hue, chroma, color tone, shade, transparency, translucency, opacity, luminescence, reflection, phosphorescence, anti-reflection, and / or optical coatings such as holography, photosensitive coatings, passivation, insulation, electronic and / or thermal property coatings such as resistance or conduction, magnetic coatings, waterproof and / or water-resistant coatings, fragrance coatings, and / or any combination thereof. As disclosed herein, any and / or all of the elements can be rigid, flexible, and / or any other combination thereof. Any and / or all of the elements as disclosed herein can be the same as and / or different from each other in terms of any measurable dimensions such as material, shape, size, color, and / or length, width, height, depth, area, orientation, perimeter, volume, width, density, temperature, resistance, etc.

[0059] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. Various terms defined as in a commonly used dictionary shall be interpreted to have a meaning consistent with the meaning in the context of the relevant art, and shall not be interpreted in an idealized and / or overly formal sense unless explicitly so defined herein.

[0060] Furthermore, relative terms such as "lower", "lower", "upper", and "upper" can be used herein to describe the relationship of one element to another element, as illustrated in the accompanying series of exemplary drawings. Such relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the illustrated technology in addition to the orientation depicted in the accompanying set of exemplary drawings. For example, if the device in the accompanying exemplary series of drawings is turned over, various elements described as being on the "lower" side of other elements will then be oriented on the "upper" side of those other elements. Similarly, if one of the devices in the exemplary drawings is turned inside out, various elements described as being "lower" or "lower" than other elements will then be oriented "above" those other elements. Accordingly, the various exemplary terms "lower" and "lower" can encompass both upper and lower orientations.

[0061] As used herein, the terms "about" and / or "substantially" mean a variation of + / - 10% from the nominal value / term. Such variations are always included in any given value / term provided herein, whether or not such variations are specifically recited.

[0062] If there is a conflict with part or all of the present disclosure, in the case of a conflicting scope, a broader disclosure, or a broader definition of a term, the present disclosure shall prevail. If such disclosures conflict with each other in part or in whole, in the event of a conflict, the more recent disclosure shall prevail, depending on the degree of conflict.

[0063] The term "garment" includes, but is not limited to, any article worn. Garments also include, but are not limited to, any article having a crotch region. Examples of garments include, but are not limited to, underwear, briefs, undershirts, swimsuits, pajamas, shorts, leotards, leggings, pants, skirts, panties, boy shorts, bikinis, T-backs, overalls, bodysuits, leotards, tights, pantyhose, boxer shorts, bike shorts, or compression shorts.

[0064] Figures 1-7 are various perspective views of an absorbent or incontinence and menstrual undergarment or garment according to the present disclosure. Figure 8 shows a cross-sectional view of the crotch region of an incontinence and menstrual undergarment or garment according to the present disclosure. In particular, the incontinence and menstrual undergarment or garment 100 includes a waistband 102, a front region 108, a rear region 110, and a pair of leg openings 104 that define a crotch region 106 therebetween, each of which can include any suitable material (e.g., cloth, natural thread, synthetic thread, cotton, silk, polyester, spandex, rubber, plastic, metal, merino wool, nylon, polypropylene, rayon, linen, spandex, bamboo, gore-tex, x-static, tencel).

[0065] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the undergarment or garment 100 includes an outer side (distal to the wearer's body) having a waistband 102, a front region 108, a rear region 110, a pair of leg openings 104, and a crotch region 106. Similarly, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the undergarment or garment 100 includes an inner side (proximate to the wearer's body) having a waistband 102, a front region 108, a rear region 110, a pair of leg openings 104, and a crotch region 106.

[0066] As shown in FIGS. 3-8, the crotch region 106 holds a stitch 112, a first layer 114, a second layer 116, a third layer 118, a fourth layer 120, a fifth layer 122, a sixth layer 124, a seventh layer 126, and a material 128, each of which can include any suitable material or textile (e.g., cloth, natural thread, synthetic thread, cotton, silk, polyester, spandex, rubber, plastic, metal, merino wool, nylon, polypropylene, rayon, linen, spandex, bamboo, gore-tex, x-static, tencel). The first layer 114 is the innermost. The seventh layer 126 is the outermost. Alternatively, the sixth layer 124 is the outermost. The second layer 116 extends between the first layer 114 and the third layer 118. The fourth layer 120 extends between the third layer 118 and the fifth layer 122. The sixth layer 124 extends below the fifth layer 122, below the second layer 116, below the first layer 114, and above the seventh layer 126.

[0067] The third layer 118 includes a hygroscopic material (e.g., fabric, natural yarn, synthetic yarn, wool, polypropylene, nylon, polyester). Alternatively, the fourth layer 120 or the fifth layer 122 can include a hygroscopic material. The fourth layer 120 includes an absorbent material (e.g., fabric, natural yarn, synthetic yarn, wool, polypropylene, nylon, polyester). Or, the third layer 118 or the fifth layer 122 includes an absorbent material. The fifth layer 122 includes a waterproof material (which can be a coating), but can also include a water-resistant or water-repellent material (which can be a coating). Or, the third layer 118 or the fourth layer 120 can include a waterproof material. The second layer 116 includes or is provided with a bonding tape (e.g., a strip).

[0068] As shown in FIG. 8, the stitch 112 extends through the first layer 114, the sixth layer 124, and the seventh layer 126. The stitch 112 avoids extending through the second layer 116, the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122. The second layer 116 is bonded or adhered to the third layer 118. In certain embodiments, the second layer 116 is bonded or adhered to the sixth layer 124. For example, such bonding can be performed via a suitable bonding tape (e.g., a strip). Similarly, for example, such adhesion can be performed via a suitable adhesive (e.g., an adhesive). In certain embodiments, the second layer 116 comprises a bonding tape or an adhesive.

[0069] In certain embodiments, at least two edges of the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, or the fifth layer 122 are sealed via a material 128 that extends between the second layer 116 and the sixth layer 124, or between the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124. The material 128 is U-shaped or C-shaped, but other shapes are possible (e.g., V-shaped). The material 128 seals the edges of the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122, but the material 128 can seal other layers or at least one of the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122.

[0070] In certain embodiments, the material 128 has a first edge and a second edge. In certain embodiments, the first edge of the material is on the opposite side of the material from the second edge.

[0071] Sealing can be achieved, for example, by extending the material 128 from below the fifth layer 122 to above the third layer 118 and extending it along the peripheries of the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122, and fixing the material 128 to the upper part of the third layer 118 and the lower part of the fifth layer 122. The material 128 extends between the second layer 116 and the third layer 118, and between the fifth layer 122 and the sixth layer 124.

[0072] In certain embodiments, the second layer 116 is bonded (e.g., bonding tape) or adhered (e.g., adhesive, glue) to the third layer 118 via the material 128. In certain embodiments, bonding tape or adhesive other than the material 128 is used to bond or adhere the second layer 116 to the third layer. In certain embodiments, the second layer 116 includes bonding tape or adhesive, and the first layer 114 is bonded to the third layer 118 via the second layer 116.

[0073] As shown in FIG. 8, the second layer 116 and the stitch 112 define a gap 132 therebetween. The gap 132 extends between the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124. The gap 132 can have any volumetric shape. Thus, since the second layer 116 extends between the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124 up to a first point 134 and the stitch 112 extends through the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124 at a second point 136, the first point 134 is spaced apart from the second point 136 (e.g., between about 0.001 inches and 3 inches).

[0074] In certain embodiments, for example, as shown in FIGS. 9, 10, 13, 17, and 18, there is no material 128, and the edge portion 138 of the fifth layer 122 extends over and covers the third layer 118 beyond the peripheral portions of the third layer 118 and the fourth layer 120 and is joined to the upper part of the third layer 118. In certain embodiments, for example, as shown in FIGS. 9, 10, 17, and 18, the edge portion 138 of the fifth layer 122 is joined to the upper parts of the third layer 118 and the first layer 114 via the second layer 116.

[0075] As shown in FIG. 9, the edge of the second layer 116 extends beyond the stitch 112 adjacent to or in proximity to the edges of the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124 such that the stitch 112 extends through the second layer 116. As shown in FIG. 10, the edge of the second layer 116 does not extend beyond the stitch 112 such that the stitch 112 extends through the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124 but does not extend through the second layer 116.

[0076] As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, in certain embodiments, the seventh layer 126 is disposed above the sixth layer 124 which is the outermost layer. The sixth layer 124 includes an edge portion 140 that extends over the seventh layer 126. The first layer 114 includes an edge portion 142 that extends downward and is folded under the first layer 114. In certain embodiments, the stitch 112 can extend through the edge portion 142 of the first layer 114, the edge portion 140 of the sixth layer 124, and the seventh layer 126 to provide a stitch that is not visible from the outside as it does not pass through the outermost part of the sixth layer 124 or the innermost part of the first layer 114.

[0077] As shown in FIG. 12, in certain embodiments, the first layer 114 includes an edge 142 that is folded under the first layer 114 and extends over the second layer 116 toward the third layer 118. In certain embodiments, the edge 142 of the first layer 114 is coupled to the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124 via the second layer 116. As shown in FIG. 11, in certain embodiments, rather than the edge 142 of the first layer 114, the first layer 114 is coupled to the sixth layer 124 rather than the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124 via the second layer 116. In certain embodiments, the second layer 116 includes a bonding strip or adhesive. In certain embodiments, the stitch 112 extends through the edge 142 of the first layer 114, the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124, and the seventh layer 126, but not through the innermost portion of the first layer 114 or the outermost portion of the sixth layer 124, thus providing a stitch that is not visible from the exterior.

[0078] As shown in FIG. 14, in certain embodiments, the first layer 114 and the edge 142 of the first layer 114 are coupled to the sixth layer 124 and the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124 via the second layer 116. In certain embodiments, the second layer 116 includes a bonding strip or adhesive. In certain embodiments, the stitch 112 extends through the edge 142 of the first layer 114, the second layer 116, the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124, and the seventh layer 126, but not through the innermost portion of the first layer 114 or the outermost portion of the sixth layer 124, thus providing a stitch that is not visible from the exterior.

[0079] As shown in FIG. 13, the edge portion 138 of the fifth layer 122 is coupled to the third layer 118 via a bonding strip or adhesive 144. The edge of the second layer 116 does not extend beyond the edge portion 138 in a direction towards the center of the third layer 118, or beyond the stitch 112 in other directions, such that the stitch 112 extends through the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124 and does not pass through the second layer 116. The first layer 114 either extends to the inner edge of the second layer 116 or extends beyond the inner edge of the second layer 116. When the first layer 114 extends to the inner edge of the second layer 116, the first layer is coupled to the second layer 116 using a bonding strip or adhesive, or the first layer 114 is coupled to the edge portion 138 of the fifth layer 122 via the second layer 116 which may constitute a bonding strip. When the first layer 114 extends beyond the inner edge of the second layer 116, the first layer 114 is coupled to the third layer 118 using a bonding strip or adhesive and not to the second layer 116, or the first layer 114 may be coupled to both the third layer 118 and the second layer 116 using a bonding strip or adhesive, or may be coupled to a combination of (a) a bonding strip or adhesive and (b) the second layer 116 including a bonding strip.

[0080] As shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, in certain embodiments, similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 8, the stitch 112 extends through the first layer 114, the sixth layer 124, and the seventh layer 126. The stitch 112 avoids extending through the second layer 116, the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122. The second layer 116 is coupled or adhered to the third layer 118 but does not extend beyond the material 128. As shown in FIG. 15, a piece of bonding tape or adhesive 150 is disposed between the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124 to couple the first layer 114 to the sixth layer 124, and the stitch 112 passes through the bonding tape or adhesive 150. In certain embodiments, the second layer 116 includes a bonding tape or adhesive.

[0081] As shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, in certain embodiments, the edge portion 138 of the fifth layer 122 is located above the third layer 118 and is coupled to the top of the third layer 118 via the second layer 116. The first edge of the second layer 116 extends over the third layer and couples the first layer 114 to the third layer 118 and the fifth layer 122. The second edge of the second layer 116 extends beyond the edge of the fifth layer 122. The stitch 112 extends through the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124, but not through the second layer 116. As shown in FIG. 17, a piece of bonding tape or adhesive 150 is disposed between the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124 to couple the first layer 114 to the sixth layer 124, and the stitching 112 passes through the bonding tape or adhesive 150. In certain embodiments, the second layer 116 includes bonding tape or an adhesive.

[0082] As shown in FIGS. 19 and 20, in certain embodiments, the seventh layer 126 is disposed above the sixth layer 124, which is the outermost layer. The sixth layer 124 includes an edge 140 that extends over the seventh layer 126. The first layer includes an edge 142 that extends downward and is folded below the first layer 114. In certain embodiments, the stitch 112 extends through the edge 142 of the first layer 114, the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124, and the seventh layer 126, but not through the outermost portion of the sixth layer 124 or the innermost portion of the first layer 114, thus providing stitches that are not visible from the outside.

[0083] In FIG. 19, in a particular embodiment, the second layer does not extend beyond the edge of material 128 and only bonds a portion of the first layer 114 to the material 128 and the third layer 118. The edge 142 of the first layer 114 is bonded to the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124. In a particular embodiment, the stitch 112 extends through the edge 142 of the first layer 114, the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124, and the seventh layer 126, but not through the innermost part of the first layer 114 or the outermost part of the sixth layer 124, thus providing a stitch that is not visible from the outside. As shown in FIG. 20, a piece of bonding tape or adhesive 150 is disposed between the edge 142 of the first layer 114 and the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124, bonding the edge 142 of the first layer 114 to the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124, and the stitching 112 passes through the edge 142 of the first layer 114, the bonding tape or adhesive 150, and the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124. In a particular embodiment, the second layer 116 includes a bonding tape or adhesive.

[0084] In a particular embodiment, the stitch 112 avoids extending through the material 128. In a particular embodiment, for example, as shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, a portion 154 of the material 128 extends radially with respect to the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122. In a particular embodiment, for example, as shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, a portion 154 of the material 128 is bonded to itself beyond the peripheral edges of the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122. The bonding of the material 128 to itself can be achieved, for example, if the material 128 includes a bonding tape or if an adhesive is disposed in the space between the layers of the material 128 that make up the portion 154. In a particular embodiment, for example, as shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, the stitch 112 extends through the portion 154 of the material 128 that extends beyond the peripheral edges of the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122.

[0085] In certain embodiments, such as shown in FIG. 25, material 128 replaces the second layer 116. In certain embodiments, material 128 includes a bonding tape or an adhesive. In certain embodiments, such as shown in FIGS. 23 and 24, material 128 replaces a portion of the second layer 116 that extends above the third layer 118. In certain embodiments, such as shown in FIGS. 23 and 24, the second layer 116 does not extend between the first layer 114 and the third layer 118. In certain embodiments, such as shown in FIGS. 23 and 24, the second layer 116 extends between the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124. In certain embodiments, such as shown in FIGS. 23 and 24, the second layer 116 includes a bonding tape or an adhesive, and the first layer 114 is coupled to the sixth layer 124 via the second layer 116.

[0086] In certain embodiments, such as shown in FIG. 26, the second layer 116 is in direct contact with the first layer 114 and the third layer 118. In certain embodiments, such as shown in FIG. 27, the second layer 116 is in direct contact with the first layer 114 and the material 128. In certain embodiments, such as shown in FIG. 22, the second layer 116 is in direct contact with the first layer 114, the third layer 118, and the material 128.

[0087] As shown in FIG. 28, in certain embodiments, the first layer 114, and the edge 142 of the first layer 114, are coupled to the sixth layer 124, and the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124, via the second layer 116. In certain embodiments, the second layer 116 includes a bonding strip or an adhesive. In certain embodiments, the stitch 112 extends through the edge 142 of the first layer 114, the second layer 116, the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122, the portion 154 of the material 128 that extends beyond the periphery, the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124, and the seventh layer 126, and does not pass through the innermost of the first layer 114 or the outermost of the sixth layer 124, and passes through the outermost of the first layer 116 to provide a stitching that is not readily visible.

[0088] FIG. 29, in certain embodiments, the second layer does not extend beyond the edge of material 128 and only joins a portion of the first layer 114 to material 128 and the third layer 118. The edge 142 of the first layer 114 is joined to the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124. In certain embodiments, the stitch 112 extends through the edge 142 of the first layer 114, the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the portion 154 of material 128 extending beyond the periphery of the fifth layer 122, the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124, and the seventh layer 126, but does not pass through the innermost portion of the first layer 114 or the outermost portion of the sixth layer 124, and passes through the innermost portion of the first layer 114 to provide a stitch that is not readily visible.

[0089] As shown in FIGS. 30 and 31, in certain embodiments, similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 15, a piece of fabric 160 is added that extends from a first edge 162 located below the seventh layer 124 to a second edge 164 located above the first layer 114. The stitch 112 extends through the second edge 164 of the fabric 160, the first layer 114, the sixth layer 126, the seventh layer 124, and the first edge 162 of the fabric 160. The stitch 112 avoids extending through the second layer 116, the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122. The second layer 116 is joined or adhered to the third layer 118 but does not extend beyond material 128. As shown in FIG. 30, a piece of bonding tape or adhesive 150 is disposed between the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 126 to join the first layer 114 to the sixth layer 126, and the stitching 112 also passes through the bonding tape or adhesive 150. In certain embodiments, the second layer 116 includes bonding tape or an adhesive.

[0090] As shown in FIG. 32, in certain embodiments, a gap can be included between the edge of the second layer 116 and the stitching 112. The method can include expanding the gap between the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124. The fabric piece 160 extends from a first edge 162 located above the first layer 114 to a second edge 164 located below the seventh layer 124. The stitch 112 extends through the first edge 162 of the fabric 160, the first layer 114, the sixth layer 126, the seventh layer 124, and the second edge 164 of the fabric 160.

[0091] In certain embodiments, for example, as shown in FIG. 33, the material 128 replaces a portion of the second layer 116 that extends above the third layer 118, and a portion of the fabric 160 extends from a first edge 162 located above the first layer 114 to a second edge 164 located below the seventh layer 124. The stitch 112 extends through the first edge 162 of the fabric 160, the first layer 114, the sixth layer 126, the seventh layer 124, and the second edge 164 of the fabric 160. In certain embodiments, for example, as shown in FIG. 33, the second layer 116 does not extend between the first layer 114 and the third layer 118. In certain embodiments, for example, as shown in FIG. 33, the second layer 116 extends between the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 126. In certain embodiments, for example, as shown in FIG. 33, the second layer 116 includes a bonding tape or an adhesive, and the first layer 114 is bonded to the sixth layer 126 via the second layer 116.

[0092] In certain embodiments, the first layer 114 and the second layer 116 define an elastic edge portion. In certain embodiments, the sixth layer 124 and the seventh layer 126 define an elastic edge portion. For example, the elastic edge portion can include rubber or any other suitable material (e.g., cloth, natural thread, synthetic thread, cotton, silk, polyester, spandex, rubber, plastic, metal, merino wool, nylon, polypropylene, rayon, hemp, spandex, bamboo, gore-tex, x-static, spandex, tencel, etc.).

[0093] As shown in FIG. 5, the first layer 114 defines an arcuate region 132 in which the third layer 118 is presented as arcuate. The third layer 118 is visually Distinguishable but it is also possible to avoid being visually Make distinguishable this. Note that the arcuate region 132 is not limited to being arcuate, and other shapes or shape patterns are possible (for example, triangles, circles, squares, octagons, pentagons, hexagons, pentagram or hexagram, rhombus, polka dots, etc.).

[0094] In one mode of operation, the method can include incorporating into the absorbent or incontinence and menstrual undergarment or garment 100 a crotch region 106 that holds the stitch 112, a first layer 114, a second layer 116, a third layer 118, a fourth layer 120, a fifth layer 122, a sixth layer 124, a seventh layer 126, and a material 128. The first layer 114 is the innermost layer and the seventh layer 126 is the outermost layer. Alternatively, the sixth layer 124 is the outermost. The method can include extending the second layer 116 between the first layer 114 and the third layer 118 such that the second layer 116 is bonded or adhered to the third layer 118. The method can include extending the fourth layer 120 between the third layer 118 and the fifth layer 122. The method can include extending the sixth layer 124 below the fifth layer 122, below the second layer 116, below the first layer 114, and above the seventh layer 126. The method can include causing the stitch 112 to extend through the first layer 114, the second layer 116, the sixth layer 124, and the seventh layer 126 and avoiding extending through the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122.

[0095] In one operating mode, the third layer 118 absorbs moisture (e.g., fabric, natural fiber, synthetic fiber, wool, polypropylene, nylon, polyester). Alternatively, the fourth layer 120 or the fifth layer 122 may absorb moisture. The fourth layer 120 absorbs moisture (e.g., fabric, natural fiber, synthetic fiber, wool, polypropylene, nylon, polyester). Or, the third layer 118 or the fifth layer 122 absorbs moisture. The fifth layer 122 prevents the movement of moisture (which may be a coating). Or, the third layer 118 or the fourth layer 120 prevents the movement of moisture. The second layer 116 includes or comprises a bonding tape (e.g., a strip).

[0096] According to one operating mode, as shown in FIG. 8, the method can include the step of extending the stitch 112 through the first layer 114, the sixth layer 124, and the seventh layer 126. According to one aspect of the operation, the method can include the step of avoiding the stitch 112 extending through the second layer 116, the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122. The second layer 116 is bonded or adhered to the third layer 118. In certain embodiments, the method can include the step of bonding or adhering the second layer 116 to the sixth layer 124. For example, such bonding can be performed via a suitable bonding tape (e.g., a strip). Similarly, for example, such adhesion can be via a suitable adhesive (e.g., an adhesive).

[0097] In certain embodiments, the method can include bonding or adhering the second layer 116 to the third layer 118 via the material 128. In certain embodiments, the method can include bonding or adhering the second layer 116 to the sixth layer 124. For example, such bonding can be performed via a suitable bonding tape (e.g., a strip). Similarly, for example, such bonding can be via a suitable adhesive (e.g., an adhesive). In certain embodiments, a bonding tape or adhesive other than the material 128 is used to bond or adhere the second layer 116 to the third layer. In certain embodiments, the second layer 116 includes a bonding tape or adhesive, and the first layer 114 is bonded to the third layer 118 via the second layer 116.

[0098] In certain embodiments, the method can include sealing at least two of the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, or the fifth layer 120 via the material 128 that extends between the second layer 116 and the sixth layer 124 or between the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124. The material 128 is U-shaped or C-shaped, although other shapes are possible (e.g., V-shaped). The method can include the step of the material 128 sealing the edges of the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122, although the material 128 can seal other layers or at least one of the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122.

[0099] Sealing can be achieved, for example, by extending the material 128 from below the fifth layer 122 over the third layer 118 and around the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122, and bonding the material 128 to the top of the third layer 118 and the bottom of the fifth layer 122. The material 128 extends between the second layer 116 and the third layer 118 and between the fifth layer 122 and the sixth layer 124.

[0100] As shown in FIG. 9, in certain embodiments, the method can include extending the edge of the second layer 116 adjacent to or proximate to the edges of the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124 such that the stitch 112 extends through the second layer 116 and beyond the stitch 112. As shown in FIG. 10, in certain embodiments, the method can include the stitch 112 extending through the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124, but the edge of the second layer 116 not extending beyond the stitch 112.

[0101] As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, in certain embodiments, the method can include positioning a seventh layer 126 above the outermost sixth layer 124. The sixth layer 124 includes an edge 140 that extends over and covers the seventh layer 126. The first layer 114 includes an edge 142 that extends and folds downwardly below the first layer 114. In certain embodiments, the method can include extending the stitch 112 through the edge 142 of the first layer 114, the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124, and the seventh layer 126, but not through the outermost portion of the sixth layer 124 or the innermost portion of the first layer 114, to provide a stitch that is not visible from the exterior.

[0102] As shown in FIG. 12, in certain embodiments, the method can include folding an edge 142 of a first layer 114 below the first layer 114 and extending the edge 142 upward over a second layer 116 and toward a third layer 118. In certain embodiments, the method can include coupling an edge 142 of the first layer 114 to an edge 140 of a sixth layer 124 via the second layer 116. As shown in FIG. 11, in certain embodiments, the method can include coupling the first layer 114, rather than an edge 142 of the first layer 114, to the sixth layer 124, rather than an edge 140 of the sixth layer 124, via the second layer 116. In certain embodiments, the second layer 116 includes a bonding strip or adhesive. In certain embodiments, the method can include providing a stitch 112 that extends along an edge 142 of the first layer 114, an edge 140 of the sixth layer 124, and a seventh layer 126, but not through the innermost portion of the first layer 114 or the outermost portion of the sixth layer 124, such that the stitch is not visible from the exterior.

[0103] As shown in FIG. 14, in certain embodiments, the method can include coupling a first layer 114 and an edge 142 of the first layer 114 to a sixth layer 124 and an edge 140 of the sixth layer 124 via a second layer 116. In certain embodiments, the second layer 116 includes a bonding strip or adhesive. In certain embodiments, the method can include extending the stitch 112 through the edge 142 of the first layer 114, the second layer 116, the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124, and the seventh layer 126, but not through the innermost portion of the first layer 114 or the outermost portion of the sixth layer 124, to provide a stitch that is not visible from the exterior.

[0104] As shown in FIG. 13, in certain embodiments, the method can include coupling an edge portion 138 of a fifth layer 122 to a third layer 118 via a bonding strip or adhesive 144. In certain embodiments, the method can include an edge of the second layer 116 not extending beyond the edge 138 in a direction toward the center of the third layer 118, or not extending beyond the stitch 112 in another direction, such that the stitch 112 extends through the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124 but not through the second layer 116. In certain embodiments, the method can include extending the first layer 114 to the inner edge of the second layer 116, or extending beyond the inner edge of the second layer 116. When the first layer 114 extends to the inner edge of the second layer 116, the first layer is coupled to the second layer 116 using a bonding strip or adhesive, or the first layer 114 is coupled to the edge portion 138 of the fifth layer 122 via the second layer 116 which can constitute a bonding strip. When the first layer 114 extends beyond the inner edge of the second layer 116, the first layer 114 can be coupled to the third layer 118 using a bonding strip or adhesive and not coupled to the second layer 116, or the first layer 114 can be coupled to both the third layer 118 and the second layer 116 using a bonding strip or adhesive, and may be a combination of (a) a bonding strip or adhesive and (b) the second layer 116 including a bonding strip.

[0105] As shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, in certain embodiments, similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 8, the method can include extending the stitch 112 through the first layer 114, the sixth layer 124, and the seventh layer 126. In certain embodiments, the method can include avoiding extending the stitch 112 through the second layer 116, the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122. In certain embodiments, the method can include bonding or adhering the second layer 116 to the third layer 118 without extending the second layer beyond the material 128. As shown in FIG. 15, in certain embodiments, the method can include positioning a portion of the bonding tape or adhesive 150 between the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124 to bond the first layer 114 to the sixth layer 124 and passing the stitch 112 through the bonding tape or adhesive 150. In certain embodiments, the second layer 116 includes a bonding tape or adhesive.

[0106] As shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, in certain embodiments, the method can include positioning the edge portion 138 of the fifth layer 122 above the third layer 118 and bonding it to the upper portion of the third layer 118 via the second layer 116. In certain embodiments, the method can include extending the first edge of the second layer 116 above the third layer and bonding the first layer 114 to the third layer 118 and the fifth layer 122. In certain embodiments, the method can include not extending the second edge of the second layer 116 beyond the edge of the fifth layer 122. In certain embodiments, the method can include extending the stitch 112 through the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124 but not through the second layer 116. As shown in FIG. 17, in certain embodiments, the method can include positioning a portion of the bonding tape or adhesive 150 between the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124, bonding the first layer 114 to the sixth layer 124, and passing the stitch 112 through the bonding tape or adhesive 150. In certain embodiments, the second layer 116 includes a bonding tape or adhesive.

[0107] As shown in FIGS. 19 and 20, in certain embodiments, the method can include positioning a seventh layer 126 above a sixth layer 124 that is the outermost layer. In certain embodiments, the method can include extending an edge 140 of the sixth layer 124 above the seventh layer 126. In certain embodiments, the method can include extending an edge 142 of the first layer and folding the edge 142 under the first layer 114. In certain embodiments, the method can include extending a stitch 112 through the edge 142 of the first layer 114, the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124, and the seventh layer 126, but not through the outermost portion of the sixth layer 124 or the innermost portion of the first layer 114 to provide a stitch that is not visible from the exterior.

[0108] In FIG. 19, in certain embodiments, the method can include only joining a portion of the first layer 114 to the material 128 and the third layer 118 without extending the second layer beyond the edge of the material 128. In certain embodiments, the method can include joining an edge 142 of the first layer 114 to an edge 140 of the sixth layer 124. In certain embodiments, the method can include extending a stitch 112 through the edge 142 of the first layer 114, the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124, and the seventh layer 126, but not through the innermost portion of the first layer 114 or the outermost portion of the sixth layer 124 to provide a stitch that is not visible from the exterior. As shown in FIG. 20, in certain embodiments, the method can include positioning a portion of a bonding tape or adhesive 150 between an edge 142 of the first layer 114 and an edge 140 of the sixth layer 124, joining the edge 142 of the first layer 114 to the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124, and passing a stitching 112 through the edge 142 of the first layer 114, the bonding tape or adhesive 150, and the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124. In certain embodiments, the second layer 116 includes a bonding tape or adhesive.

[0109] In certain embodiments, the method can include the step of avoiding extending stitch 112 through material 128. In certain embodiments, the method can include the step of extending a portion 154 of material 128 radially with respect to the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 21 and 22. In certain embodiments, the method can include the step of adhering a portion 154 of material 128 to itself beyond the peripheries of the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 21 and 22. In certain embodiments, the method can include the step of bonding material 128 to itself where material 128 includes a bonding tape or an adhesive is disposed in the space between layers of material 128 that make up portion 154. In certain embodiments, the method can include the step of extending stitch 112 through a portion 154 of material 128 that extends beyond the peripheries of the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 21 and 22.

[0110] In certain embodiments, such as shown in FIG. 25, the method can include the step of replacing the second layer 116 with material 128. In certain embodiments, material 128 includes a bonding tape or an adhesive. In certain embodiments, the method can include the step of replacing a portion of the second layer 116 that extends above the third layer 118 with material 128, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 23 and 24. In certain embodiments, the method can include the step of not extending the second layer 116 between the first layer 114 and the third layer 118, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 23 and 24. In certain embodiments, the method can include the step of extending the second layer 116 between the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 23 and 24. In certain embodiments, the method can include the step of coupling the first layer 114 to the sixth layer 124 through the second layer 116 where the second layer 116 includes a bonding tape or an adhesive, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 23 and 24.

[0111] In certain embodiments, the method can include, for example, as shown in FIG. 26, bringing the second layer 116 into direct contact with the first layer 114 and the third layer 118. In certain embodiments, the method can include, for example, as shown in FIG. 27, bringing the second layer 116 into direct contact with the first layer 114 and the material 128. In certain embodiments, the method can include, for example, as shown in FIG. 22, bringing the second layer 116 into direct contact with the first layer 114, the third layer 118, and the material 128.

[0112] As shown in FIG. 28, in certain embodiments, the method can include coupling the first layer 114 and the edge 142 of the first layer 114, through the second layer 116, to the sixth layer 124 and the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124. In certain embodiments, the method can include the second layer 116 including a bonding strip or an adhesive. In certain embodiments, the method can include extending a stitch 112 through the edge 142 of the first layer 114, the second layer 116, the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the portion 154 of the material 128 extending beyond the periphery of the fifth layer 122, the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124, and the seventh layer 126, but not through the innermost part of the first layer 114 or the outermost part of the sixth layer 124, to provide a stitch that is not visible from the exterior.

[0113] As shown in FIG. 29, in certain embodiments, the method can include only the step of bonding a portion of the first layer 114 to the material 128 and the third layer 118 without extending the second layer beyond the edge of the material 128. In certain embodiments, the method can include the step of bonding the edge 142 of the first layer 114 to the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124. In certain embodiments, the method can include the step of extending the stitching 112 through a portion 154 of the material 128 that extends beyond the peripheral edges of the edge 142 of the first layer 114, the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122, the edge 140 of the sixth layer 124, and the seventh layer 126, but not through the innermost portion of the first layer 114 or the outermost portion of the sixth layer 124 to provide a stitch that is not visible from the exterior.

[0114] As shown in FIGS. 30 and 31, in certain embodiments, the method can include the step of positioning a first edge 162 of the fabric piece 160 above the first layer 114 and extending a second edge 164 of the fabric piece to a position below the seventh layer 124, similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 15. In certain embodiments, the method can include the step of extending the stitch 112 through the first edge 162 of the fabric 160, the first layer 114, the sixth layer 126, the seventh layer 124, and the second edge 164 of the fabric 160. In certain embodiments, the method can include the step of preventing the stitch 112 from extending through the second layer 116, the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122. In certain embodiments, the method can include the step of bonding or adhering the second layer 116 to the third layer 118 without extending the second layer beyond the material 128. As shown in FIG. 30, in certain embodiments, the method can include the step of positioning a portion of the bonding tape or adhesive 150 between the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 126, bonding the first layer 114 to the sixth layer 126, and passing the stitch 112 through the bonding tape or adhesive 150. In certain embodiments, the second layer 116 includes the bonding tape or adhesive.

[0115] As shown in FIG. 32, in certain embodiments, the method can include providing a gap between the end portion of the second layer 116 and the stitching 112. In certain embodiments, the method can include extending the gap between the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124. In certain embodiments, the method can include positioning a first edge 162 of the fabric piece 160 above the first layer 114 and extending a second edge 164 of the fabric piece 160 to a position below the seventh layer 124. In certain embodiments, the method can include extending the stitch 112 through the upper edge of the fabric 160, the first layer 114, the sixth layer 126, the seventh layer 124, and the lower edge of the fabric 160.

[0116] In certain embodiments, for example, as shown in FIG. 33, the method can include replacing a portion of the second layer 116 that extends above the third layer 118 with the material 128, positioning the first edge 162 of the fabric piece 160 above the first layer 114, and extending the second edge 164 of the fabric piece 160 to a position below the seventh layer 124. In certain embodiments, the method can include extending the stitch 112 through the first edge 162 of the fabric 160, the first layer 114, the sixth layer 126, the seventh layer 124, and the second edge 164 of the fabric 160. In certain embodiments, for example, as shown in FIG. 33, the method can include not extending the second layer 116 between the first layer 114 and the third layer 118. In certain embodiments, for example, as shown in FIG. 33, the method can include extending the second layer 116 between the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 126. In certain embodiments, for example, as shown in FIG. 33, the method can include the second layer 116 including a bonding tape or an adhesive and bonding the first layer 114 to the sixth layer 126 via the second layer 116.

[0117] In certain embodiments, the method can include bonding (e.g., bonding tape) or adhering (e.g., adhesive, glue) the second layer 116 to the third layer 118 via the material 128. In certain embodiments, bonding tapes or adhesives other than the material 128 are used to bond or adhere the second layer 116 to the third layer. In certain embodiments, the second layer 116 includes a bonding tape or an adhesive, and the first layer 114 is bonded to the third layer 118 via the second layer 116. In certain embodiments, as shown in FIG. 25, the material 128 replaces the second layer 116. In certain embodiments, the material 128 includes a bonding tape or an adhesive. In certain embodiments, for example, as shown in FIGS. 23 and 24, the material 128 replaces a portion of the second layer 116 that extends above the third layer 118. In certain embodiments, for example, as shown in FIGS. 23 and 24, the second layer 116 does not extend between the first layer 114 and the third layer 118. In certain embodiments, for example, as shown in FIGS. 23 and 24, the second layer 116 extends between the first layer 114 and the sixth layer 124. In certain embodiments, for example, as shown in FIGS. 23 and 24, the second layer 116 includes a bonding tape or an adhesive, and the first layer 114 is bonded to the sixth layer 124 via the second layer 116.

[0118] In certain embodiments, the method can include avoiding extending stitch 112 through material 128. In certain embodiments, for example, as shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, a portion 154 of material 128 extends radially beyond the peripheries of the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122. In certain embodiments, for example, as shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, a portion 154 of material 128 is joined to itself beyond the peripheries of the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122. The joining of material 128 to itself can be accomplished, for example, if material 128 includes a bonding tape or if an adhesive is placed in the space between the layers of material 128 that make up portion 154. In certain embodiments, for example, as shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, stitch 112 extends through portion 154 of material 128 that extends beyond the peripheries of the third layer 118, the fourth layer 120, and the fifth layer 122.

[0119] In certain embodiments, for example, as shown in FIGS. 9, 10, 13, 17, and 18, the method can include extending edge portion 138 of the fifth layer 122 above the third layer 118 beyond the peripheries of the third layer 118 and the fourth layer 120 without using material 128 and joining edge portion 138 of the fifth layer 122 to the upper portion of the third layer 118. In certain embodiments, for example, as shown in FIGS. 9, 10, 17, and 18, the method can include joining edge portion 138 of the fifth layer 122 to the upper portions of the third layer 118 and the first layer 114 via the second layer 116.

[0120] In some embodiments, the absorbent or incontinence and feminine care undergarment or garment 100 can be embodied as disclosed in US20160089276, EP2879534, US20180014983, US20180092787, JP3718213, all of which are hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes. Thus, any of such documents can be modified based on the present disclosure using various principles as would be known to those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0121] In some embodiments, various functions or actions can be performed at a given location and / or in relation to the operation of one or more devices or systems. In some embodiments, a portion of a given function or action can be performed at a first device or location, and the remainder of the function or action can be performed at one or more additional devices or locations.

[0122] All means or step-plus-function elements in the following claims, their corresponding internal structures, materials, acts, and equivalents thereof, are intended to include any structure, material, or act that performs the functions in combination with other claimed elements as specifically claimed. This embodiment has been selected and described to enable those skilled in the art to understand the disclosure of various embodiments including various modifications suitable for the specific applications for which the principles and practical applications of the present disclosure are best explained.

[0123] The figures depicted herein are illustrative. Without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure, many variations can exist with respect to the drawings or the steps (or acts) described in the specification. For example, the steps can be performed in a different order, or steps can be added, deleted, or modified. All of these variations are considered to be a part of the present disclosure. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that various improvements and enhancements can be made within the scope of the appended claims, both now and in the future.

[0124] The description of the present disclosure has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive and / or limited to the disclosed form. Many modifications and variations in technology and structure will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure as defined in the following claims. Accordingly, such modifications and variations are intended to be part of the present disclosure. The scope of the present disclosure is defined by the various claims including known equivalents and unpredictable equivalents at the time of filing of the present disclosure.

Description of Reference Numerals

[0125] 100 Incontinence and menstrual underwear or clothing 102 Waistband 104 Leg openings 106 Crotch region

Claims

1. A device comprising an absorbent garment having a crotch region that holds stitches, a first layer, a second layer, a third layer, a fourth layer, a fifth layer, a sixth layer, and a seventh layer, wherein the first layer is the innermost layer and at least one of the sixth layer or the seventh layer is the outermost layer, the first layer extends along the second layer, the first layer extends beyond at least one periphery of the second layer or the third layer, and the first layer has a peripheral portion that extends along the periphery of the third layer so as not to cover the entire surface of the third layer, the second layer extends along a peripheral portion of the third layer, the second layer has a peripheral portion that extends along the periphery of the third layer so as not to cover the entire surface of the third layer, the second layer extends between the first layer and the third layer, the fourth layer extends between the third layer and the fifth layer, the sixth layer extends below the fifth layer and at least one of above or below the seventh layer, and the stitch extends through the first layer, the sixth layer, and the seventh layer, the stitch avoids extending through the second layer, the third layer, the fourth layer, and the fifth layer, and the second layer is bonded or adhered to the third layer, a device characterized by this.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the first layer is bonded or adhered to the sixth layer.

3. The device according to claim 1, wherein the third layer, the fourth layer, or the fifth layer contains a moisture-absorbing material.

4. The device according to claim 1, wherein the third layer, the fourth layer, or the fifth layer contains a waterproof material.

5. The device according to claim 1, wherein the second layer contains a bonding tape.

6. The device according to claim 1, wherein the second layer is bonded to the sixth layer. **Claim 7** At least two of the peripheral edges of the third layer, the fourth layer, or the fifth layer are surrounded by a material having a first edge and a second edge opposite the first edge, and the material extends from the first edge located between the second layer and the third layer to the second edge located between the fifth layer and the sixth layer. The device according to claim 1. **Claim 8** The device according to claim 1, wherein at least one of (i) the first layer and the second layer, (ii) the sixth layer and the seventh layer, or (iii) the first layer, the second layer, the sixth layer, and the seventh layer defines an elastic edge portion. **Claim 9** The device according to claim 1, wherein the first layer defines a region exposed outside the third layer, and the exposed region is an arcuate region having an arcuate shape on both sides. **Claim 10** The device according to claim 1, wherein the region exposed outside the third layer is visually distinguishable from the first layer. **Claim 11** The device according to claim 1, wherein the second layer is in direct contact with the first layer and the third layer. **Claim 12** The device according to claim 7, wherein the second layer is in direct contact with the first layer and a material overlapping the third layer. **Claim 13** The device according to claim 1, wherein the fifth layer overlaps the third layer and the peripheral edges of the third layer and the fourth layer. **Claim 14** The device according to claim 13, wherein the fifth layer extends from below the fourth layer to above the third layer and below the second layer, and the fifth layer is bonded to the third layer. **Claim 15** The device according to claim 14, wherein the fifth layer is bonded or adhered to the second layer.

16. The device according to claim 13, wherein the second layer does not extend beyond the fifth layer.

17. The device according to claim 1, wherein the absorbent garment is at least one of a disposable garment, a menstrual garment, or a disposable and menstrual garment.

18. A device comprising an absorbent garment including a crotch region holding a stitch, a first layer, a second layer, a third layer, a fourth layer, a fifth layer, a sixth layer, and a seventh layer, wherein the first layer is the innermost, at least one of the sixth layer or the seventh layer is the outermost, the second layer extends between the first layer and the third layer, the fourth layer extends between the third layer and the fifth layer, the sixth layer extends below the fifth layer and at least one of above or below the seventh layer, the stitch extends through the first layer, the sixth layer, and the seventh layer, the stitch avoids extending through the second layer, the third layer, the fourth layer, and the fifth layer, the second layer is bonded or adhered to the third layer, at least two of the peripheral edges of the third layer, the fourth layer, or the fifth layer are surrounded by a material having a first edge and a second edge opposite the first edge, the material extends from the first edge located between the second layer and the third layer to the second edge located between the fifth layer and the sixth layer, the material has a U-shaped, C-shaped, or V-shaped cross-section, and includes a portion of the material extending beyond the stitch from the apex opposite the opening of the U, C, or V, and the stitch extends through the portion of the material.

19. The device according to claim 18, wherein the second layer is at least one of (i) not extending beyond the apex of the material or (ii) not extending beyond the material.

20. The device according to claim 18, wherein the second layer extends only over the material and does not extend beyond the apex of the material. **Claim 21** The device according to claim 18, wherein the seventh layer is located above the sixth layer, and an edge of the sixth layer extends below the seventh layer and covers the seventh layer beyond an edge of the seventh layer in a direction toward the first layer, and an edge of the first layer extends below the first layer. **Claim 22** The device according to claim 21, wherein the second layer does not extend beyond the apex of the material. **Claim 23** The device according to claim 21, wherein the stitch extends through an edge of the first layer, an edge of the sixth layer, and the seventh layer, but does not pass through an innermost part of the first layer or an outermost part of the sixth layer. **Claim 24** The device according to claim 1, wherein at least two of the peripheral edges of the third layer, the fourth layer, or the fifth layer are surrounded by a material having a first edge and a second edge opposite the first edge, the material extending from the first edge located between the first layer and the third layer to the second edge located between the fifth layer and the sixth layer, and the second layer does not extend beyond the first edge. **Claim 25** A device comprising an absorbent garment having a crotch region that holds stitches, a first layer, a second layer, a third layer, a fourth layer, a fifth layer, a sixth layer, and a seventh layer, wherein the first layer is the innermost, at least one of the sixth layer or the seventh layer is the outermost, the first layer extends along the second layer, the first layer extends beyond at least one periphery of the second layer or the third layer, the first layer has a peripheral portion that extends along the periphery of the third layer so as not to cover the entire surface of the third layer, the second layer extends along a peripheral portion of the third layer, the second layer has a peripheral portion that extends along the periphery of the third layer so as not to cover the entire surface of the third layer, the second layer extends below the first layer, the fourth layer extends between the third layer and the fifth layer, the sixth layer extends below the fifth layer and at least one of above or below the seventh layer, at least two of the peripheries of the third layer, the fourth layer, or the fifth layer are surrounded by a material having a first edge and a second edge opposite the first edge, the material extending from the first edge located between the second layer and the third layer to the second edge located between the fifth layer and the sixth layer, the stitches extend through the first layer, the sixth layer, and the seventh layer, the stitches avoid extending through the second layer, the third layer, the fourth layer, the fifth layer, and the material, and the second layer is bonded or adhered to the third layer. **Claim 26** A step of including in an absorbent garment a crotch region that holds stitches, a first layer, a second layer, a third layer, a fourth layer, a fifth layer, a sixth layer, and a seventh layer, wherein the first layer is the innermost and at least one of the sixth layer or the seventh layer is the outermost. A step of extending the first layer along the second layer. A step of extending the first layer beyond at least one periphery of the second layer or the third layer. The step of making the first layer have a peripheral portion extending along the periphery of the third layer so as not to cover the entire surface of the third layer; The step of extending the second layer along the peripheral portion of the third layer; The step of making the second layer have a peripheral portion extending along the periphery of the third layer so as not to cover the entire surface of the third layer; The step of extending the second layer between the first layer and the third layer so that the second layer is bonded or adhered to the third layer; The step of extending the fourth layer between the third layer and the fifth layer; The step of extending the sixth layer below the fifth layer and at least one of above or below the seventh layer; The step of extending the stitch through the first layer, the sixth layer, and the seventh layer while avoiding extending through the second layer, the third layer, the fourth layer, and the fifth layer; The step of bonding or adhering the second layer to the third layer; A method comprising.

27. At least two of the peripheral portions of the third layer, the fourth layer, or the fifth layer are surrounded by a material having a first edge and a second edge opposite to the first edge, and the material extends from the first edge located between the first layer and the third layer to the second edge located between the fifth layer and the sixth layer. The material has a U-shaped, C-shaped, or V-shaped cross-section, and includes a portion of the material extending beyond the stitch from the apex on the opposite side of the opening of the U-shape, the C-shape, or the V-shape. The stitch extends through the portion of the material, and the second layer does not extend beyond the first edge. The device according to claim 1.

Images