Tampon packaging system containing lubricant

Abstract

The present invention relates to methods, systems, and apparatuses for a tampon packaging system that integrates a lubricant designed to be easily dispensed and applied by a user. After applying the lubricant to the applicator within the outer packaging, the outer packaging is disposed of, offering a practical and efficient method for including lubricant in the tampon packaging system.

Description

[0001] TAMPON PACKAGING SYSTEM CONTAINING LUBRICANT FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] 0001 The present invention relates to methods, systems, and apparatus for a tampon packaging system that integrates a lubricant designed to be easily dispensed and applied to an applicator by a user. After applying the lubricant to the applicator within the outer packaging, the outer packaging is disposed of, offering a practical and efficient method for including lubricant in the tampon packaging system.

[0003] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0004] 0002 Typically, a woman inserts and positions a feminine hygiene product (e.g. a tampon pledget) using a cardboard or plastic applicator tube. However, at particular times (e.g. during times of light menstrual flow, etc.), insertion of a tampon pledget or tampon applicator can be very uncomfortable. Vaginal dryness is a condition experienced by 17% to 50% of individuals with vulvas during their premenopausal years. The use of tampons can exacerbate this problem, as they have been shown to increase dryness.

[0005] 0003 Tampon pledgets and tampon applicators have been coated with one or more lubricants to make insertion and positioning more comfortable. However, tampon pledgets and tampon applicators that have been coated with lubricant may absorb the lubricant over time and, thus, the lubricant is lost. The lubricant may also simply evaporate or dry out.

[0006] 0004 On the other hand, the lubricant may be held separately from the tampon pledget or tampon applicator until the moment that the tampon is inserted. However, women may not always be receptive to a product that obligates them to use an awkward, time consuming second step every time they insert a lubricant tampon pledget or lubricant tampon applicator.

[0007] 0005 Typical tampon applicator assemblies include a tampon pledget, a tampon applicator encasing the tampon pledget, and may sometimes include a plunger section and some form of outer packaging. The combined tampon applicator section and plunger section function as a conventional plunger-type tampon applicator. The outer

[0008] 339418.00004 / 317670340.4 housing section may consist of a sleeve with a proximal portion and a distal portion. The (distal) insertion end of the tampon applicator section essentially fits inside the proximal portion of the sleeve, and the distal portion of the sleeve is designed to accommodate a feminine hygiene product, such as a tampon.

[0009] 0006 Currently, individuals who experience vaginal dryness when looking to use a tampon, need to choose between having an uncomfortable product experience, or they must bring a bottle of lubricant to ease application. Experiences become a trade-off between discomfort and inconvenience.

[0010] 0007 In light of the foregoing, there is a need for an easy-to-use, convenient tampon applicator having lubrication that may be used on an as needed basis.

[0011] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0012] 0008 The present invention relates to systems, apparatus and methods for lubricating tampon applicators. The current invention is directed at creating a convenient and user-friendly tampon solution with enhanced applicator lubrication. The embodiments of the present invention may also be efficient to manufacture.

[0013] 0009 There are at least four key stages in a person's life where changes in purchasing habits for menstrual care are likely: the onset of periods (ages 10 to 15), first independence (young adulthood), post-pregnancy, and menopause. With the embodiments of the present invention, the inventors aim to make tampons a comfortable and approachable solution, targeting the first two stages.

[0014] 0010 A preferred embodiment of the present invention provides a tampon application system, the system comprising: (a) outer packaging forming a cavity; (b) a tampon applicator having a pledget disposed within the applicator; (c) a “blister” or envelop disposed inside the cavity and associated with the applicator; and (d) a lubricant disposed within the blister, wherein the tampon applicator is disposed within cavity of the outer packaging such that when the blister has pressure applied thereto through the outer packaging causing the blister to burst the blister releasing the lubricant in the outer packaging and allowing a user to coat a portion of the applicator.

[0015] 339418.00004 / 317670340.4 0011 A preferred embodiment of the present invention provides a tampon application system, the system comprising: (a) outer packaging forming a cavity; (b) a tampon applicator having a pledget disposed within the applicator; (c) a cap element slidably attached to the applicator forming a gap between the applicator and the cap element; and (d) a lubricant disposed within the gap, wherein the tampon applicator is disposed within cavity of the outer packaging such that when the cap element is slide along an axis of the applicator, by a user, the lubricant coats a portion of the applicator.

[0016] 0012 A further preferred embodiment of the present invention provides a tampon application system, the system comprising: (a) outer packaging forming a cavity; (b) a tampon applicator having a pledget disposed within the applicator; and (c) a non-rigid burstable lubricant container having a lubricant disposed therein, wherein the tampon applicator and lubricant container are disposed within the cavity of the outer packaging such that when pressure is applied to the outer packaging by a user, the lubricant container releases the lubricant to coat the applicator. In yet a further preferred embodiment, the tampon application system of the present invention further provides the lubricant is selected from the group consisting of: mineral oil, vegetable oil, silicone oil, water, propylene glycol, polyglyceryl methacrylate, glyceryl laurate, polysorbate, and any mixture thereof.

[0017] 0013 A further preferred embodiment of the present invention provides wherein the applicator has an exterior surface and the lubricant container is associated with the exteriors surface or is free floating in the outer packaging.

[0018] 0014 A further preferred embodiment of the present invention provides wherein the lubricant container is anon-rigid pressurized blister pack that contains the lubricant, the blister pack adapted to release the lubricant upon a user squeezing the outer packaging

[0019] 0015 A further preferred embodiment of the present invention provides wherein the blister pack is adapted to release the lubricant when it receives 360 degrees of pressure from a user, upon which the user can then move the lubricant inside the outer packaging to coat the tampon applicator.

[0020] 0016 A further preferred embodiment of the present invention provides that the blister pack is secured to an interior of the outer packaging.

[0021] 339418.00004 / 317670340.4 0017 A further preferred embodiment of the present invention provides that the blister pack is free moving in the cavity of the outer packaging.

[0022] 0018 A further preferred embodiment of the present invention provides that the blister pack is made of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) plastic and contains lubricant sealed within.

[0023] 0019 A further preferred embodiment of the present invention provides wherein the lubricant dispenser is fabricated in a “twist to deploy” package, a push through blister or a sticker pouch.

[0024] 0020 The preferred embodiments of the present invention relate to consumer activated methods of lubricating tampon applicators for comfort and ease of insertion. Embodiments of the present invention are directed to systems, methods and apparatuses for a tampon packaging system that integrates a lubricant designed to be easily dispensed and applied by a user within the original outer packaging for the tampon applicator. After applying the lubricant to the applicator within the outer packaging, the outer packaging is disposed of, offering a practical and efficient method for including lubricant in the tampon packaging system.

[0025] 0021 In a preferred embodiment, the invention comprises at least four (4) elements: (a) the outer packaging; (b) the tampon and applicator; (c) a lubricant; and (d) a lubricant dispenser. In a further preferred embodiment, there is provided an outer packaging wherein there is provided, the tampon, tampon applicator and a lubricant containing pouch or container all packaged together. After release of the lubricant from the lubricant containing pouch and application of the lubricant to tampon applicator, the outer packaging is opened, and the lubricated tampon applicator can be removed and used accordingly.

[0026] 0022 A tampon or tampon pledget (e.g. in a preferred embodiment, an organic cotton tampon) disposed within a tampon applicator is provided. The tampon may be made entirely from 100% organic cotton, which may be grown without the use of synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). This type of tampon is designed to be gentle on the body, reducing the risk of irritation or allergic reactions, and is also environmentally friendly, as it is biodegradable and produced through sustainable farming practices.

[0027] 339418.00004 / 317670340.4 0023 Lubricants are well known in the art. The preferred lubricant of the present invention are designed to provide smoothness and reduce friction during tampon insertion, ensuring comfort for the user. Water / Oil-based lubricants are easily absorbed by the body, non-greasy, and free from harsh chemicals, making them ideal for sensitive skin and compatible with a wide range of materials, including organic cotton. The lubricant may be provided in some form of pouch, pod, blister pack or other distribution system within some for or outer packaging in combination with the tampon applicator. In a preferred embodiment, lubricant is not applied to the tampon.

[0028] 0024 In each embodiment, there is a lubricant dispensing apparatus such as, but not limited to, a lubricant container or lubricant containing pouch for applying lubricant to the tampon applicator (with the tampon disposed in the interior of the applicator). The lubricant dispenser has several embodiments, at least three of such preferred embodiments: (a) a Plastic Chamber “Pen Cap”; (b) a Secured Blister Pack “Squeeze to Deploy”; and (c) a Ball Blister.

[0029] 0025 Inspired by a pen cap, the “pen cap” embodiment separates the lubricant from the applicator by use of a second element that snaps into place around the tampon applicator. Removing this element dispenses the lubricant across the entire tampon applicator. A secondary plastic ring component contains two breakable membranes. It clips onto the base of tampon applicator or lives loose in package. Deployed by breaking the membranes as the user slides the plastic component over the applicator. The embodiments secure around the base of the applicator for enhanced grip to the user. This embodiment provides a larger area for users to grip during application, along with the lubricant sealed in airtight package. Further, the tail cap can be manufactured independently. The majority of lubricant will reside on portion of the applicator that will be inserted into the vagina. Lubricant dispensation is controlled and will not affect users’ grip. Made from the same materials as the applicator, the tampon is packaged with an outer shell that encapsulates the lubricant. This concept takes advantage of geometry features to prevent the lubricant from deploying early. By removing the outer shell, the lubricant is moved up and around the tampon which is now ready to use.

[0030] 0026 In a second preferred embodiment, there is provide a “squeeze to deploy” system, which provides securing a pressurized blister pack, pouch or pod that contains lubricant within the outer packaging, the user can deploy the lubricant and remove the

[0031] 339418.00004 / 317670340.4 packaging without dealing with any additional components. The user releases the lubricant into the packaging by squeezing the tampon applicator, still sealed in the outer packaging, so as to apply pressure around the entire applicator through the outer packaging. In a preferred embodiment, the blister pack will contain enough pressure to be deployed only when it receives 360 degrees of pressure (such as when grasped by a hand tightly). The lubricant can then be moved around by users inside the outer packaging to coat the tampon applicator as desired. A pressurized blister pack is secured to the interior of the tampon packaging containing lubricant. The user releases the lubricant into the packaging by squeezing the tampon (still sealed in its package) in their hand, which applies pressure around the entire barrel. There are no loose plastic components in the package. The embodiment provides no additional parts for user to manage, is easy to deploy system, the lubricant is sealed in airtight package, no changes to tampon geometry, and the lubricant can be moved around by users inside the system to coat the tampon applicator as desired.

[0032] 0027 An easy to manufacture solution that involved a free moving blister pack that contain lubricant. This blister pack lives in the tampon packaging and is deployed by being popped by the user while the package is closed. Advantages of this embodiment include, being easy to deploy system, the lubricant sealed in airtight package, no changes to tampon geometry. The lubricant can be moved around by users inside the system to coat the tampon as desired. It is also easy manufacturing pathway.

[0033] 0028 A further preferred embodiment provides an easy to manufacture solution that involved a free moving blister pack that contain lubricant. This blister pack is disposed in the tampon packaging and is deployed by being popped by the user while the packaged is closed. In a preferred embodiment, it may be made of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) plastic and contains lubricant sealed within. The blister pack is free-moving and is maintained under sufficient internal pressure to ensure it can be easily popped by the user. Once popped, the lubricant can be applied to the applicator. In a preferred embodiment, a highly pressurized blister may be dropped into the tampon outer packaging. To deploy, the user will press the blister between their finger to rupture the package. As with the other embodiments, this preferred embodiment is an easy to deploy system. The lubricant may be sealed in airtight package and requires no changes

[0034] 339418.00004 / 317670340.4 to tampon geometry. The lubricant can be moved around by users inside the system to coat the tampon as desired. Finally, it is easily manufactured.

[0035] 0029 In yet a further preferred embodiment, there is provided a “twist blister” system. A secondary element is fabricated that contains lubricant in a “twist to deploy” package. The element would live around the applicator component that contains the cotton. While still in the outer package, users would twist the element in opposing directions to release the lubricant, the element would then be removed with the outer package.

[0036] 0030 In this further preferred embodiment, there is an outer cap on top of the applicator and the lubricant is stored in micro chambers between the applicator, and the outer cap. The user twists the outer cap and the twist triggers the micro chambers to rupture thereby releasing lubricant on to the applicator. Once twisted, the outer cap can be removed and disposed of. The user inserts the tampon with the lubricated applicator as normal.

[0037] 0031 Push through blister. The wrapper is separated into top half and bottom half by a membrane. The user opens the bottom of the wrapper (at the tear notch line). Once the bottom half of the applicator is exposed, the user pushes the applicator (containing the tampon) through the membrane and it comes in contact with the lubricant. The user then pulls the tampon applicator back out through the same membrane opening. Now the tampon applicator is covered in lubricant, and the user can insert it as normal.

[0038] 0032 The lubricant is applied to the inside of a thin fdm layer known in the manufacturing arts. This lubricated fdm is wrapped around the tampon applicator and secured in place with a peelable sticker. The applicator, with the fdm-and-sticker assembly applied, is then placed in an air-sealed wrapper. When the user opens the wrapper, they simply peel off the sticker. As the sticker is removed, it lifts away the underlying fdm in a single motion, leaving a thin layer of lubricant on the surface of the applicator. The lubricated applicator is then ready for normal insertion.

[0039] 0033 Spray lubricant. The lubricant is sprayed onto the tampon applicator. This is placed into an air sealed wrapper. The user opens the wrapper. The lubricated applicator is ready, and the tampon can be inserted as normal.

[0040] 339418.00004 / 317670340.4 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] 0034 The foregoing and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention should become apparent from the following description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings (see Figure 1). The patent or patent application fde contains at least one drawing executed in color. Copies of this patent or patent application publication with color drawing(s) may be provided by the office upon request and payment of the necessary fee.

[0042] 0035 FIG. 1 depicts a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] 0036 FIG. 2 depicts another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0044] 0037 FIG. 3 depicts another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] 0038 FIG. 4 depicts a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0046] 0039 FIG. 5 depicts a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0047] 0040 FIG. 6 depicts another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0048] 0041 FIG. 7 depicts another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0049] 0042 FIG. 8 depicts a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0050] 0043 FIG. 9 depicts a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0051] 0044 FIG. 10 depicts another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0052] 0045 FIG. 11 depicts another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0053] 0046 FIG. 12 depicts a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0054] 0047 FIG. 13 depicts a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0055] 0048 FIG. 14 depicts another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0056] 0049 FIG. 15 depicts another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0057] 0050 FIG. 16 depicts a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0058] 339418.00004 / 317670340.4 0051 FIG. 17 depicts a preferred embodiment of the present invention; and

[0059] 0052 FIGS. 18 to 27 depict preferred embodiments of the present invention;

[0060] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0061] 0053 The description that follows, and the embodiments described therein, is provided by way of illustration of an example, or examples, of particular embodiments of the principles and aspects of the present invention. These examples are provided for the purposes of explanation, and not of limitation, of those principles and of the invention.

[0062] 0054 It should also be appreciated that the present invention can be implemented in numerous ways, including as a process, method, an apparatus, a system, a device, or a method. In this specification, these implementations, or any other form that the invention may take, may be referred to as processes. In general, the order of the steps of the disclosed processes may be altered within the scope of the invention. The description that follows, and the embodiments described therein, is provided by way of illustration of an example, or examples, of particular embodiments of the principles and aspects of the present invention. These examples are provided for the purposes of explanation, and not of limitation, of those principles and of the invention.

[0063] 0055 In this disclosure, a number of terms and abbreviations are used. The following definitions of such terms and abbreviations are provided. It will be understood by a person skilled in the relevant art that in different geographical regions and jurisdictions these terms and definitions used herein may be given different names but relate to the same respective systems.

[0064] 0056 Preferred embodiments of the present invention can be implemented in numerous configurations depending on implementation choices based upon the principles described herein. Various specific aspects are disclosed, which are illustrative embodiments not to be construed as limiting the scope of the disclosure. Although the present specification describes components and functions implemented in the embodiments with reference to standards and protocols known to a person skilled in the art, the present disclosures as well as the embodiments of the present invention are not limited to any specific standard or protocol.

[0065] 339418.00004 / 317670340.4 0057 As used herein, a person skilled in the relevant art may generally understand the term “comprising” to generally mean the presence of the stated features, steps, or components as referred to in the claims, but that it does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, components, or groups thereof.

[0066] 0058 As used herein, the term “tampon” or “tampon pledget” refers to catamenial devices, absorbent pledgets, and any article or device inserted into a body cavity for the purpose of absorbing fluids therein.

[0067] 0059 As used herein, the term “tampon applicator” incorporates any article or device inserted into a body cavity for the purpose of delivering a tampon pledget. An example is provided in FIG. 17.

[0068] 0060 As used herein, a person skilled in the relevant art will understand that the term “blister” “blister pack” , “blister pouch” or “blister pod” refers to a non-rigid container that under pressure that can be “popped” when pressed (e.g. between the fingers) by a user. This is referred to as being “burstable”. A person skilled in the art will understand that these embodiments of the present invention employ a pressurized blister packet or sachet (e.g. a small bag or pouch, made from paper, foil, plastic film or another type of packing material), containing a single-use quantity material such as lubricants. In the present invention, such packets may be opened upon the application of pressure. In a preferred embodiment, the blister pouches or pods of the present invention are provided with a thin encapsulating film. The film needs to stay intact while holding the lubricant during non-use but release the contents under pressure applied by the user when it is desired to use the product. Upon being “popped”, the contents (e.g. lubricant) can then be released. In a preferred embodiment, blister pods / pouches / packs of the present invention may be made from LDPE. Such embodiments should contain enough internal pressure that it can be “popped” or burst easily. Low density polyethylene (LDPE) plastic is a high clarity material commonly used for producing shopping bags and food wrapping.

[0069] 0061 Tampon packaging system containing lubricants are well known in the art (see, for example, US7982089, CA1274053, GB2056283, JP2006167407 and US4312348). Also, there is prior art which teach the application of a lubricant to a tampon in a blister package (see, for example, US4428747 and US4373631). For example, US7226436

[0070] 339418.00004 / 317670340.4 provides lubricants disposed within layers of a cardboard applicator (e.g. one or more inner layers are modified to include lubricant, which is capable of migrating through, into, or onto the surface of the outer layer to provide lubrication to a user of the tampon applicator). In another example, US20070219479 provides an applicator where the lubricant is added through an opening of applicator by lubricant applicator such that the distal end of absorbent material is coated. A lubricant applicator in that case may be, for example, a squeezable bottle of lubricant.

[0071] 0062 A number of references teach various mechanisms for tampon packaging systems to deliver medications or other materials, including lubricants, through built-in reservoirs, chambers, cells or microcapsules. The tampon (and / or the applicator) and lubricant appear to be kept separate within outer packaging. These systems require user activation to release and / or apply the lubricant to the tampon or the applicator at the time of use, either by moving components, breaking seals, or bursting capsules.

[0072] 0063 None of the prior art, however, address the issues with lubricating tampon applicators as provided in the current invention.

[0073] 0064 In a preferred embodiment, the lubricant used in the present invention may be any known in the art, such as, for example, mineral oil, vegetable oil, silicone oil, water, propylene glycol, polyglyceryl methacrylate, glyceryl laurate, polysorbate, or mixtures thereof. A preferred lubricant is medical grade water or oil based lubricant, including but not limited to mineral oil, with a preferred final lubricant amount, in each blister pack, of about 0.6 milliliters (ml). The preferred lubricant weight range varies, as it is dependent on the lubricant used and other factors, such as, but not limited to, dimensions, etc.

[0074] 0065 The tampon pledget may be made of any material known in the art to be suitable for insertion into the body and / or the absorption of bodily fluids. Typically, tampon pledget may be made of a fibrous material, such as cotton and rayon. Where a tampon applicator is used to insert tampon pledget, the tampon applicator may be made of paper, cardboard, plastic, or any other suitable material.

[0075] 0066 Wrapper 25 is preferably a flexible or semi -flexible material. It is substantially fluid impermeable, usually resistant to water vapor transmission, and will withstand normal handling without rupturing. Materials suitable for producing wrapper 25

[0076] 339418.00004 / 317670340.4 include, without limitation, polypropylene, polyethylene, polyester, cellophane, polyvinylidene chloride, wax coated paper, film coated paper, treated paper, or combinations thereof.

[0077] 0067 The embodiments of the present invention represent an improvement over the prior art. The embodiment of the present invention provide an easy to deploy system with the lubricant sealed in airtight package. The embodiments of the present invention do not require any changes to tampon applicator or pledget geometry. In addition, the user can select the amount of lubricant applied and how the lubricant can be moved around by users inside the system to coat the tampon applicator as desired. Finally, a further improvement is that the embodiment of the present invention do not require complex manufacturing (e.g. they provide an easy manufacturing pathway).

[0078] 0068 The preferred embodiments of the present invention also use various forms of blister packs which provide the user with better control over the dispersion of the lubrication. In the case of the prior art, the user has to rupture a number of microcapsules in order to control the release of the lubricant; it may not be known to the user whether sufficient microcapsules have been ruptured. It is arguable, therefore, that the embodiments of the present invention represents an improvement over such prior art systems by ensuring that the user knows that sufficient lubricant has been released. Another advantage of the present invention over the prior art is that a consumer only has to squeeze to deploy once. With multiple micro-capsules, the user would have to keep on popping until everything is popped. There may also be possibility that upon opening the wrapper, the user / consumer will determine that the lubricant still hasn’t deployed through enough micro-capsules rupturing and at that point it’s too late to do anything.

[0079] 0069 There is provided a tampon pledget or tampon applicator system that is encompassed in an outer wrapper with a lubricant dispenser. The lubricant dispenser may be ruptured prior to inserting the tampon applicator and the resultant free-flowing lubricant is spread on the tampon applicator. The lubricant increases the ease and comfort of inserting and positioning the tampon applicator. The amount of lubricant desired may be controlled by the user by varying the pressure applied by the user to the lubricant dispenser.

[0080] 339418.00004 / 317670340.4 0070 Referring to the FIGS., there is provided a tampon application system 10 containing a tampon applicator, itself containing a pledget. The tampon application system includes atampon pledget (see 5 in FIG. 17), a outer wrapper / packaging 25, and a tampon applicator 30. In various embodiments, a lubricant is provided in a sealed container (see for example 40 in FIGS. 1 and 2). The lubricant containers are associated with the tampon applicator containing the pledget. The one or more lubricant containers and the tampon applicator are disposed within the wrapper 25. In a preferred embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the lubricant container 40 can be affixed onto a surface of the tampon applicator 30, but it will be understood by a person skilled in the relevant art that the lubricant container 40 may also be separate from the applicator (e.g. free floating within the wrapper 25, as shown in FIG. 2). The lubricant containers 40 may apply the lubricant to the applicator, as set out below, prior to inserting the applicator 30 into the vagina in order to release the contents of the lubricant container onto the tampon applicator, but not the pledget.

[0081] 0071 As shown in FIG. 1, the “pen cap” embodiment separates the lubricant from the applicator by use of a second ring element 40 that snaps into place around the tampon applicator 30. Removing this ring element 40 dispenses the lubricant across the tampon applicator 30. The secondary plastic ring component 40 contains a lubricant. The space between 30 and 40 may serves as an empty chamber that is fdled with the lubricant 45 (see FIG. 3). Alternatively, the lubricant 45 may be found in a packet with one of more breakable membranes. Element 40 clips onto the base of tampon applicator 30, and lubricant is deployed as the user slides the component 40 over the applicator (see FIG.

[0082] 5). The component 40 may also secure around the base of the applicator 30 for enhanced grip to the user 15 (see FIGS. 4 and 5). This embodiment provides a larger area for user to grip during application (see FIG. 4), along with the lubricant sealed in an airtight package. The majority of lubricant 45 will reside on portion of the applicator that will be inserted into the vagina. Lubricant 45 dispensation is therefore controlled and will not affect users grip. The tampon applicator 30 is packaged with an outer shell 40, preferably made from the same material, which are well know in the art, the outer shell encapsulating the lubricant. This concept takes advantage of geometry features to prevent the lubricant 45 from deploying early. By removing the outer shell the lubricant is moved up and around the tampon applicator 30 which is then ready to use.

[0083] 339418.00004 / 317670340.4 0072 As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, there is provided a second preferred embodiment, wherein there is provide a “squeeze to deploy” system, which provides securing a pressurized blister pack, pouch or pod 50 that contains lubricant within the outer packaging 25. In operation, the user 16 can deploy the lubricant and remove the packaging 25 without dealing with any additional components. The user 16 releases the lubricant into the packaging by squeezing the outer wrapper 25 (see FIG. 6) containing the tampon applicator 30 still sealed in the outer packaging 25, so as to apply pressure around the pack 50 and the applicator 30 through the outer packaging 25 (see FIGS. 7 and 8). In a preferred embodiment, the blister pack 50 will contain enough pressure to be deployed only when it receives 360 degrees of pressure (such as when grasped by a hand tightly as shown in in FIG. 6, for example). The lubricant can then be moved around by users inside the outer packaging to coat the tampon applicator as desired. In a further preferred embodiment, the pressurized blister pack 50 may secured to the interior of the outer packaging 25 (see C of FIG. 8). The user 16 releases the lubricant into the packaging by squeezing the tampon applicator (still sealed in the outer package) in their hand, which applies pressure around the entire pack 50 (see FIG. 9). This is preferred as it provides that there are no loose plastic components in the package. The embodiment provides no additional parts for user to manage, is easy to deploy system, the lubricant is sealed in airtight package, no changes to tampon geometry are required, and the lubricant can be moved around by users inside the packaging 25 to coat the tampon applicator as desired.

[0084] 0073 A further preferred embodiment is provided in FIGS. 10 to 15. As shown in FIGS. 11, 12 and 23, for example, a free moving blister pack or lubricant container 60 that contain lubricant 45 is provided. This blister pack 60 is disposed in the outer packaging 25 and is deployed by being popped by the user while the packaged is closed (see arrows in FIG. 11). Advantages of this embodiment include, being easy to deploy system, the lubricant sealed in airtight package, and no changes to tampon geometry. The lubricant can be moved around by users inside the system to coat the tampon as desired (see B in FIG. 14). In a preferred embodiment, the pack 60 may be made of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) plastic and contains lubricant sealed within. The blister pack is free-moving and is maintained under sufficient internal pressure to ensure it can be easily popped by the user 17. Once popped, the lubricant can be applied to the applicator. In a preferred embodiment, a highly pressurized blister may be

[0085] 339418.00004 / 317670340.4 dropped into the tampon outer packaging (see FIG. 13). Alternatively, the blister may be attached to the top or upper half of the wrapper with an adhesive (see FIG. 23). To deploy, the user will press the blister between their finger to rupture the package. As with the other embodiments, this preferred embodiment is an easy to deploy system. The lubricant may be sealed in airtight package and requires no changes to tampon geometry. The lubricant can be moved around by users inside the system to coat the tampon as desired. Finally, it is easily manufactured. As noted herein, the “blister” or lubricant dispenser can be free floating but in a further embodiment shown in FIG. 13, the “blister” may be attached to the top half of the wrapper 25 with an adhesive (see FIG. 23).

[0086] 0074 In yet a further preferred embodiment, there is provided a “twist blister” system. As shown in FIG. 24, a secondary element 40’ is fabricated that contains lubricant in a “twist to deploy” package. The element 40’ would live around the tampon applicator 30. While still in the outer package, users would twist the element in opposing directions to release the lubricant, the element would then be removed with the outer package (see FIG. 24). In this further preferred embodiment, there is an outer cap on top of the applicator and the lubricant is stored in micro chambers between the applicator, and the outer cap. The user twists the outer cap and the twist triggers the micro chambers to rupture thereby releasing lubricant on to the applicator. Once twisted, the outer cap can be removed and disposed of. The user inserts the tampon with the lubricated applicator as normal.

[0087] 0075 In a further embodiment shown in FIG. 25, called the “push through blister”, the wrapper 25 is separated into top half 23 and bottom half 24 by a membrane 21. The user opens the bottom of the wrapper (at the tear notch line 26) to form an opening. Once the bottom half of the applicator 30 is exposed, the user pushes the applicator (containing the tampon) through the membrane 21 so as to come in contact with the lubricant. The user then pulls the tampon applicator back out through the opening. Now the tampon applicator is covered in lubricant, and the user can insert it as normal.

[0088] 0076 In yet a further embodiment, called the “sticker pouch,” the lubricant is applied to the inside of a thin fdm layer 41 known in the manufacturing arts. This lubricated fdm 41 is wrapped around the tampon applicator 30 and secured in place with a peelable sticker 42 (see FIG. 26). The applicator 30, with the fdm-and-sticker assembly applied,

[0089] 339418.00004 / 317670340.4 is then placed in an air-sealed wrapper. When the user opens the wrapper, they simply peel off the sticker 42. As the sticker is removed, it lifts away the underlying film 41 in a single motion, leaving a thin layer of lubricant on the surface of the applicator 30. The lubricated applicator is then ready for normal insertion.

[0090] 0077 In yet a further embodiment, spray lubricant 40 may be applied as set out in FIG. 27. The lubricant may be sprayed onto the tampon applicator. This is placed into an air sealed wrapper 25 . The user opens the wrapper 25 and the lubricated applicator 30 is ready, and the tampon can be inserted as normal.

[0091] 0078 In a further preferred embodiment, there is provided a wrapper having multiple small micro-blisters or containers 5 embedded into the upper section or top half (see FIG. 18). These micro-blisters can be fdled with lubricant. When the user applies pressure at the top half of the wrapper, the micro-blisters burst, deploying lubricant onto the tampon applicator 30. User opens the wrapper and removes the tampon and tampon applicator that has lubricant on it.

[0092] 0079 In a further preferred embodiment, there is provided a wrapper having at least two compartments (see FIGS. 19 to 21). As shown in FIG. 19, the top or upper compartment stores lubricant and the bottom compartment stores the tampon and tampon applicator. The compartments are divided with an impermeable seal 20 that can’t be forced open, except for two small areas that can burst open with enough pressure (see 1 and 1’). When the user applies pressure at the top half of the wrapper i.e. compartment containing lubricant, the two openings 1 and 1’ burst and lubricant travels down to the bottom compartment with more control as there are only two openings, creating two streams of lubricant around the applicator. User opens the wrapper and removes the tampon and tampon applicator that has lubricant on it.

[0093] 0080 In a further preferred embodiment, there is provided a packaging having at least lubricant pack or blister 40 generally located near the top half of the applicator (see FG.

[0094] 20). This lubricant pack is sealed on all sides and can’t be opened with force / pressure, except for one side that protrudes out 48 and can burst with enough pressure (see FIG 20). User applies pressure at the top of the wrapper where the lubricant blister 40 is floating; the lubricant is released from the pack through the pointed opening 48. The lubricant is deployed onto the tampon applicator 30. The small area of the opening

[0095] 339418.00004 / 317670340.4 controls the lubricant deployment, and helps make it less messy. User opens the wrapper 25 and removes the tampon applicator 30 (containing the tampon) that has lubricant on it. Alternatively, the lubricant pack is attached to the top half of the wrapper with adhesive, instead of being free floating.

[0096] 0081 In a further preferred embodiment, there is provided a wrapper having two compartments (see FIG 21). The upper or top half 25’ contains the lubricant, and the bottom half 25” contains the tampon and the tampon applicator 30. The compartments are divided by a tab / impermeable string 2 that can be removed by pulling it out by the user (see FIG. 21). As can be seen in FIG. 21, aportion ofthe tab / string may be provided on the outside of the wrapper 25 so the user can pull on that and remove the full string. Once the tab / string is pulled out, the lubricant from the top compartment is deployed into the lower or bottom compartment where it applies onto the tampon applicator. User opens the wrapper and removes the tampon and tampon applicator that has lubricant on it. Alternative, as shown inn FIG. 22, an alternative version is provided where the compartments are separated vertically into left / right sections instead of horizontally into top / bottom sections.

[0097] 0082 Overall, this allows the consumer to apply as much lubricant and / or fragrance as desired without having to actually touch the lubricant or fragrance itself. Thus, no mess is created and no subsequent clean up is required. The lubricant provides for comfort, as well as, ease of insertion of the tampon pledget and / or tampon applicator.

[0098] 0083 Even though numerous characteristics and advantages of the present invention have been set forth in the foregoing description, together with details of the structure and function of the invention, the disclosure is illustrative only. Changes may be made in detail, especially in matters of shape, size and arrangement of parts within the principles of the invention to the full extent indicated by the broad general meaning of the terms in which the appended claims are expressed.

[0099] 339418.00004 / 317670340.4

Claims

We claim:

1. A tampon application system, the system comprising:(a) outer packaging forming a cavity;(b) a tampon applicator having a pledget disposed within the applicator;(c) a cap element slidably attached to the applicator forming a gap between the applicator and the cap element; and(d) a lubricant disposed within the gap,wherein the tampon applicator is disposed within cavity of the outer packaging such that when the cap element is slide along an axis of the applicator, by a user, the lubricant coats a portion of the applicator.

2. A tampon application system, the system comprising:(a) outer packaging forming a cavity;(b) a tampon applicator having a pledget disposed within the applicator; and(d) a non-rigid burstable lubricant container having a lubricant disposed therein.wherein the tampon applicator and lubricant container are disposed within the cavity of the outer packaging such that when pressure is applied to the outer packaging by a user, the lubricant container releases the lubricant to coat the applicator.

3. The tampon application system according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein said lubricant is selected from the group consisting of: mineral oil, vegetable oil, silicone oil, water, propylene glycol, polyglyceryl methacrylate, glyceryl laurate, polysorbate,339418.00004 / 317670340.4and any mixture thereof.

4. The tampon application system of claim 2, wherein the applicator has an exterior surface and the lubricant container is associated with the exteriors surface or is free floating in the outer packaging.

5. The tampon application system of claim 2 wherein the lubricant container is a non-rigid pressurized blister pack that contains the lubricant, the blister pack adapted to release the lubricant upon a user squeezing the outer packaging6. The tampon application system of claim 5 wherein the blister pack is adapted to release the lubricant when it receives 360 degrees of pressure from a user, upon which the user can then move the lubricant inside the outer packaging to coat the tampon applicator.

7. The tampon application system of claim 6 wherein the blister pack is secured to an interior of the outer packaging.

8. The tampon application system of claim 6 wherein the blister pack is free moving in the cavity of the outer packaging.

9. The tampon application system of claim 7 or 8 wherein the blister pack is made of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) plastic and contains lubricant sealed within.

10. The tampon application system of claim 9 wherein the lubricant dispenser is fabricated in a “twist to deploy” package, a push through blister or a sticker pouch.339418.00004 / 317670340.4

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