Elasticized Waist Region Technology for Enhanced Comfort and Support in Various Industries
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept leverages the core technology of absorbent articles with elasticized waist regions to provide enhanced comfort and support in various industries, including office ergonomics, manufacturing, athletics, extreme outdoor environments, and healthcare.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed absorbent articles with improved structural design of elasticized regions and/or the chassis to provide enhanced comfort and/or ease of use while maintaining fit. However, the patent's focus was limited to the absorbent article industry. The new inventive concept addresses the problem of limited comfort and support in various industries, where workers or individuals require prolonged periods of physical activity or exposure to harsh environments.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new inventive concept integrates the elasticized waist region technology into wearable devices, providing a snug, comfortable fit around the torso. This technology can be applied to various industries, including office ergonomics, where it can reduce fatigue and discomfort; manufacturing, where it can improve worker comfort and productivity; athletics, where it can enhance performance and reduce injury risk; extreme outdoor environments, where it can provide improved comfort and protection; and healthcare, where it can monitor vital signs and provide real-time feedback.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a novel application of the elasticized waist region technology to various industries, which is not obvious from the original patent. The inventive step lies in recognizing the potential of this technology to address comfort and support limitations in industries beyond absorbent articles.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include adjustable waist regions, integrated sensors for tracking physiological data, or waterproof and breathable materials for use in harsh environments. Variations could include wearable devices with modular components, allowing users to customize their comfort and support needs.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in various industries, including office ergonomics, manufacturing, athletics, extreme outdoor environments, and healthcare. The target market includes companies and organizations seeking to improve worker comfort and productivity, enhance athletic performance, or provide real-time health monitoring.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61F13/49 |
| A | A61 | A61F13/4902 |
| A | A61 | A61F13/49011 |
| A | A61 | A61F13/49406 |
| A | A61 | A61F13/49466 |
| A | A61 | A61F13/51476 |
| A | A61 | A61F13/55105 |
| A | A61 | A61F2013/49038 |
| A | A61 | A61F2013/49093 |
| A | A61 | A61F2013/49493 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Wearable ergonomic and medical devices, specifically absorbent articles and body-conforming support systems with elasticized regions, encompassing biomechanical design, materials engineering, and human factors integration
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A professional with expertise in textile engineering, biomechanical design, and ergonomic product development, possessing advanced knowledge of material elasticity, body conformance technologies, and cross-industry adaptive design strategies
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize the fundamental elasticized waist region technology from the source patent as a versatile design principle capable of adaptation across multiple technical domains. The core mechanical principles of strain, elasticity, and body-conforming fit are universally applicable beyond absorbent articles. The disclosed variations represent predictable extensions of known elasticity engineering principles into adjacent technological domains.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,400 |
|---|---|
| Title | Absorbent article with elasticized waist region |
| Assignee(s) | The Procter & Gamble Company |