Absorbent article
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current absorbent articles require separate products for diaper and bed protection, leading to increased storage space and time consumption for caregivers, as existing solutions do not efficiently combine both functions.
Innovation Solution
An absorbent article with four fastening tabs, each having dual fastening means (adhesive and mechanical), allowing secure attachment to both the user's waist and a bed or chair, thereby serving as both a diaper and bed protector, reducing the need for multiple products.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional absorbent article with a single stretchable layer is used, then manufacturing is simpler, but the article cannot maintain both circumferential and biaxial stretchability simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The stretchable layer is divided into two separate layers: a circumferential stretchable layer providing stretchability in the circumferential direction, and a biaxial stretchable layer providing stretchability in both radial and circumferential directions. This segmentation allows each layer to specialize in specific stretch directions, achieving comprehensive adaptability while maintaining manageable complexity through functional division.
Solution Approach 2:
The biaxial stretchable layer serves multiple functions: it provides biaxial stretchability for fit adjustment, acts as a structural framework for the absorbent article, and works in conjunction with the circumferential stretchable layer to provide comprehensive stretchability. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the absorbent article is designed to fit different body sizes, then adaptability improves, but maintaining stretchability during absorption becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The stretchable layers are designed to dynamically adjust their properties based on the absorbent article's state. When dry, the layers maintain high stretchability for fit adjustment to different body sizes. As the absorbent article becomes saturated, the layers progressively reduce their stretchability to maintain structural integrity and prevent leakage, providing adaptive response to changing conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The stretchability parameters of the layers change in response to absorption levels. The material properties are designed to transition from a high-stretch state when dry to a lower-stretch state when saturated, allowing the article to maintain both size adaptability and structural reliability throughout its functional lifecycle.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple stretchable layers are added to achieve both circumferential and biaxial stretchability, then adaptability improves, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The circumferential stretchable layer and biaxial stretchable layer are arranged in a nested configuration where one layer is positioned over or adjacent to the other. This nesting approach allows both layers to be integrated into a compact structure without requiring complex assembly procedures, achieving multi-directional stretchability while maintaining manufacturing simplicity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design simplifies storage by consolidating products, saves time for caregivers, and enhances user comfort by providing a secure and breathable solution for both diaper and bed protection functions.
Implementation Method 1
a circumferential stretchable layer and a biaxial stretchable layer, each providing stretchability to the absorbent article
Implementation Method 2
a liquid distribution layer arranged between the stretchable layers
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3~4c
AI summary
Absorbent article having a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction, a front portion,a rear portion and a middle portion located between the rear portion and the front portion. The article having a first longitudinal side edge and a second longitudinal side edge extending in said longitudinal direction, and a first transverse side edge and a second transverse side edge extending in the transverse direction. The article comprising a liquid permeable topsheet, a liquid impermeable backsheet, and an absorbent core enclosed between the topsheet and the backsheet, and a first and a second fastening tab attached to said article. The first and second fastening tabs each has a first surface comprising a first fastening means and a second surface comprising a second fastening means.