Multilayer Bladder Control Pad with Removable Absorbent Layers

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing disposable absorbent articles, such as incontinence pads, are bulky and inconvenient when multiple pads are needed for extended use, as they require space and can be embarrassing to carry.

Innovation Solution

An absorbent article with multiple individual, removable cores, where each core is designed to be used successively, allowing a single pad to be used multiple times by removing and replacing soiled layers.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Duration of action of moving object

If multiple disposable absorbent articles are carried for extended use, then the duration of action is improved, but the volume and bulk of the articles increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveduration of useVSAvoidbulk
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of moving objectVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The absorbent article is divided into multiple functional layers (first absorbent assembly and second absorbent assembly) that can be independently used. Each assembly contains its own topsheet, backsheet, and absorbent core, allowing them to function as separate absorbent units when detached from one another.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The second absorbent assembly is releasably coupled to the first absorbent assembly in a nested configuration. The second backsheet is positioned adjacent to the first topsheet, creating a compact integrated structure that can be carried as a single unit while providing multiple usable layers.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Duration of action of moving object

If multiple disposable absorbent articles are packaged together, then the duration of action is improved, but the device complexity and packaging requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveduration of useVSAvoidpackaging complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple absorbent assemblies are combined into a single integrated article with releasable coupling between layers. The assemblies share common structural elements and can be attached/detached through simple fastening mechanisms, reducing packaging complexity compared to separate individual packages.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The absorbent article is designed to perform multiple functions through its layered structure. Each assembly can function independently as a complete absorbent unit, or work together as an integrated system, providing versatility in usage scenarios and reducing the need for multiple specialized products.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Volume of moving object

If a single absorbent article is designed for multiple uses, then the volume of articles to be carried is reduced, but the reliability of the article decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovebulkVSAvoidreliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The absorbent core is divided into multiple separate absorbent assemblies that can be independently removed and replaced. This segmentation allows users to discard soiled layers and retain clean ones, maintaining reliability across multiple uses without compromising absorbent performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The design enables selective discarding of used absorbent assemblies while recovering and reusing clean assemblies. The releasable coupling mechanism allows easy separation of soiled from clean layers, ensuring that only depleted absorbent materials are discarded while functional assemblies are preserved for continued use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #34Discarding and recovering

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 extends the usage duration of a single pad, reduces the bulk and number of pads needed, and allows for convenient and discreet carrying, addressing the inconvenience and bulkiness of traditional absorbent articles.

Implementation Method 1

an first absorbent core positioned between the first topsheet and the first backsheet and an second absorbent core positioned between the second topsheet and the second backsheet

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAbsorption: Absorption (physical)

Data Source

PatentEP3911289B1Multilayer bladder control pad
Publication Date: 2025.03.05 MEDLINE INDUSTRIES
  • EP3911289B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3911289B1 patent drawingFigure 3
  • EP3911289B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

The absorbent pad has a first layer, a second layer, and a third layer. Each layer of the pad has a liquid impervious back sheet. The backsheet or outer layer, which faces away from the wearer when the absorbent article is secured to the wearer, is composed of a moisture-impervious, flexible material. Further, each layer has a moisture pervious inner layer and an absorbent core positioned in between the inner layer and back sheet. The layers are coupled to each other via an adhesive. They can be removed by grasping a tab placed on each layer and pulling the layer away from the unsoiled layers.