Detachable Absorbent Insert for Separating Topsheet
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing disposable absorbent articles, such as diapers and incontinence products, are designed for single-use disposal in landfills, lacking detachable components that would allow for sanitary disposal options like flushing or composting, leading to environmental contamination and inefficient waste management.
Innovation Solution
A disposable absorbent article with detachable components, where the liquid permeable topsheet can be partially or completely detached by removing the absorbent insert, allowing users to choose from various disposal options such as flushing, composting, recycling, or landfill disposal, thereby separating solid fecal waste from the absorbent article.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If disposable absorbent articles are designed as single-use non-detachable units, then ease of manufacture and simplicity are improved, but disposal options are limited and environmental harm increases
Solution Approach 1:
The disposable absorbent article is divided into separate detachable components including the absorbent insert, topsheet, and backsheet. This segmentation allows different components to be disposed of through different channels (landfill, composting, recycling, or flushing), thereby reducing environmental contamination while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through modular assembly processes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If detachable components are added to allow separation, then disposal options and environmental friendliness are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The absorbent insert is separated from the topsheet and backsheet through detachable connections, enabling multiple disposal options for different components. The segmentation is achieved through simple mechanical or adhesive bonds that allow easy separation without complex mechanisms, thus providing versatility while controlling structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection between components transitions from a fixed state during use to a detachable state for disposal. The bonds (adhesive or mechanical) are designed to maintain structural integrity during wearing but allow easy separation when needed, providing dynamic adaptability between functional and disposal states without requiring complex mechanisms.
3Ease of operation
If tabs or grips are attached to the topsheet for detachment, then ease of operation is improved, but direct contact with dirty topsheet is required
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of attaching tabs or grips to the topsheet (which would require direct contact with the soiled surface), the detachable connection is designed so that the absorbent insert can be pulled away from the topsheet through its own structure or through exposed edges. This inversion of the attachment approach allows users to detach components without touching the dirty topsheet, maintaining ease of operation while eliminating harmful contact.
Solution Approach 2:
The absorbent insert itself serves as an intermediary element that can be grasped and pulled to initiate detachment. By using the insert's clean outer surfaces or exposed edges as the gripping point rather than tabs on the soiled topsheet, users can operate the detachment mechanism without direct contact with waste, reducing harmful exposure.
4Ease of operation
If the absorbent insert is removed first, then the topsheet can be pushed out to detach, but exposed edges must allow user access to the insert
Solution Approach 1:
The absorbent insert is designed with exposed edges or protruding portions that extend beyond the bounds of the topsheet or backsheet. This segmentation creates accessible gripping points that allow users to easily grasp and pull the insert for detachment without requiring complex edge exposure designs, as the insert's structure naturally provides the necessary access points.
Data Source
AI summary
A disposable absorbent article utilized for absorption and containment of urine and other body exudates may incorporate components that may be detached from the article after use to provide disposal options based upon the user's preferences and circumstances. An absorbent insert positioned between a topsheet and a backsheet. The topsheet and insert may be releasably attached to the backsheet. An exposed edge is proximate the waist-side edge of the article, and the exposed edge is an opening allowing access to pull the insert by the insert end, protruding end, or tab to cause the topsheet to be pushed outward and detached from the article without the user directly touching or pulling the topsheet. The topsheet may be flushed down a toilet or septic tank, the insert may be composted, and the backsheet may be recycled; optionally, detachable components of the article may be discarded in a landfill or incinerated.