Enhanced Hip-to-Side Silhouettes for Disposable Absorbent Articles
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
This inventive concept introduces improvements to disposable absorbent articles, enhancing their comfort, fit, and performance. The design advancements address the limitations of the original patent, providing better fluid absorption, reduced material waste, and improved ergonomics.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed disposable absorbent articles with a hip-to-side silhouette, but these designs had limitations. The Relaxed Product Side Length was restricted, affecting the overall product shape and comfort. This inventive concept tackles these limitations by introducing an improved topsheet design, optimized pattern cutting, and ergonomic features.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept comprises five key enhancements: 1) an improved topsheet design with enhanced wicking properties for faster liquid absorption; 2) a system for configuring arrays of disposable absorbent articles by product size and type, with visual indicators for distinguishing between product lines and sub-brands; 3) a method for manufacturing disposable absorbent articles with reduced material waste through optimized pattern cutting and minimized scrap generation; 4) an ergonomic design featuring a curved waistband and contoured leg cuffs for improved fit and comfort; and 5) a disposable absorbent article with enhanced leak protection through a secondary absorbent core positioned adjacent to the primary absorbent core.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The inventive concept's novelty lies in the combination of these five enhancements, which collectively provide a significant improvement over the original patent. The improved topsheet design, optimized manufacturing method, and ergonomic features are non-obvious and provide a distinct advantage in terms of comfort, performance, and sustainability.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include variations in the topsheet design, such as different materials or structures, or modifications to the ergonomic features, like adjustable waistbands or customizable leg cuffs. Additionally, the manufacturing method could be adapted for use with different materials or production lines.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in the hygiene and personal care industry, particularly in the market for disposable absorbent articles. The enhanced comfort, fit, and performance of these articles could appeal to consumers seeking premium products, while the reduced material waste and optimized manufacturing method could attract manufacturers looking to improve their sustainability and efficiency.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61F13/49011 |
| A | A61 | A61F13/496 |
| A | A61 | A61F13/49061 |
| A | A61 | A61F13/4963 |
| A | A61 | A61F13/511 |
| A | A61 | A61F13/514 |
| A | A61 | A61F2013/49068 |
| A | A61 | A61F2013/49088 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Disposable Absorbent Articles (Personal Hygiene Products), specifically focused on design, manufacturing, and ergonomic optimization of boxer brief and underwear-like disposable articles
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A technical professional with expertise in textile engineering, materials science, and product design for personal hygiene products, possessing knowledge of fluid absorption technologies, manufacturing processes, and ergonomic design principles
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the PTD's enhancements represent predictable variations and incremental improvements to the source patent's core disposable absorbent article design. The technical solutions proposed are consistent with known design optimization strategies in the field of personal hygiene products. The modifications address standard design challenges such as fluid absorption, manufacturing efficiency, and wearer comfort through straightforward engineering approaches.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,401 |
|---|---|
| Title | Hip-to-side silhouettes for boxer brief type disposable absorbent articles and arrays |
| Assignee(s) | The Procter & Gamble Company |