U.S. patent application number 10/792351 was filed with the patent office on 2005-09-08 for tampon applicator having an expulsion force increaser.
Invention is credited to Gann, Diana Lynne, Osborn, Thomas Ward III.
Application Number | 20050197615 10/792351 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34911835 |
Filed Date | 2005-09-08 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050197615 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Gann, Diana Lynne ; et
al. |
September 8, 2005 |
Tampon applicator having an expulsion force increaser
Abstract
A tampon and a tampon applicator in combination for expulsion of
the tampon. The tampon applicator has a tampon holder tube and a
plunger. The tampon holder tube has a hollow interior portion, an
interior surface, an exterior surface, a longitudinal axis, an
outer perimeter, a first end dimensioned for insertion into a
vaginal cavity, a second end positioned oppositely to the first
end, an end expulsion force increaser, and at least one side
expulsion member. The tampon is a fluid permeable bag and absorbent
material loosely dispersed within the permeable bag. The tampon is
housed within the hollow interior portion of the tampon holder tube
in a pre-expelled position. A plunger may also be slidably mounted
in the hollow interior portion of the tampon holder tube and
adapted to expel the tampon through the end expulsion force
increaser.
Inventors: |
Gann, Diana Lynne; (Lebanon,
OH) ; Osborn, Thomas Ward III; (Clifton, OH) |
Correspondence
Address: |
THE PROCTER & GAMBLE COMPANY
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY DIVISION
WINTON HILL TECHNICAL CENTER - BOX 161
6110 CENTER HILL AVENUE
CINCINNATI
OH
45224
US
|
Family ID: |
34911835 |
Appl. No.: |
10/792351 |
Filed: |
March 3, 2004 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
604/11 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61F 13/26 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
604/011 |
International
Class: |
A61F 013/20; A61F
005/44 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A tampon and a tampon applicator in combination for expulsion of
said tampon into a vaginal cavity of a female user, comprising:
said tampon applicator comprising a tampon holder tube and a
plunger; said tampon holder tube comprising a hollow interior
portion, an interior surface, an exterior surface, a longitudinal
axis, an outer perimeter, a first end dimensioned for insertion
into said vaginal cavity, a second end positioned oppositely to
said first end, an end expulsion force increaser positioned at said
first end of said tampon holder tube, comprising at least one side
expulsion member positioned at said first end of said tampon holder
tube, said tampon comprising a fluid permeable bag and absorbent
material loosely dispersed within said permeable bag, said tampon
being housed within said hollow interior portion of said tampon
holder tube in a pre-expelled position; and said plunger being
slidably mounted in said hollow interior portion of said tampon
holder tube, said plunger being adapted to expel said tampon
through said end expulsion force increaser.
2. The tampon and tampon applicator of claim 1 wherein said side
expulsion member has an initial dimension and a deployed width,
said initial dimension changes to said deployed width as said
plunger expels said tampon from said tampon holder tube.
3. The tampon and tampon applicator of claim 1 wherein said tampon
holder tube comprises a plurality of side expulsion zones.
4. The tampon and tampon applicator of claim 1 wherein said end
expulsion force increaser causes said tampon to expand beyond said
outer perimeter of said tampon applicator along at least one of
said side expulsion members.
5. The tampon and tampon applicator of claim 1 wherein said tampon
when partially expelled from said tampon holder tube is wider than
said tampon holder tube.
6. The tampon and tampon applicator of claim 1 wherein said side
expulsion zone has a slot, arc, or curved configuration.
7. The tampon and tampon applicator of claim 6 wherein said side
expulsion zone is a void.
8. The tampon and tampon applicator of claim 6 wherein said side
expulsion zone is a weakened area.
9. The tampon and tampon applicator of claim 1 wherein said tampon
is compressed to a shorter length by said plunger before being
expelled through said end expulsion force increaser.
10. The tampon and tampon applicator of claim 1 wherein said end
expulsion force increaser further comprises a projection.
11. A tampon and a tampon applicator in combination for expulsion
of said tampon into a vaginal cavity of a female user, comprising:
said tampon applicator comprising a tampon holder tube; said tampon
holder tube comprising a hollow interior portion, an interior
surface, an exterior surface, a longitudinal axis, an outer
perimeter, a first end dimensioned for insertion into said vaginal
cavity, and a second end positioned oppositely to said first end;
said tampon holder tube comprising an end expulsion force increaser
and a side expulsion member each positioned at said first end of
said tampon holder tube, said tampon being housed within said
hollow interior portion of said tampon holder tube in a
pre-expelled position; and said tampon comprising a fluid permeable
bag tampon and absorbent material loosely dispersed within said
fluid permeable bag tampon.
12. The tampon and tampon applicator of claim 11 wherein said
tampon in said pre-expelled position is in a first axis and said
tampon in said expelled position is in a second axis.
13. The tampon and tampon applicator of claim 11 wherein said
tampon is reoriented during expulsion into a direction non-parallel
to said first axis of said tampon in said tampon's pre-expelled
position.
14. A tampon and a tampon applicator in combination for expulsion
of said tampon into a vaginal cavity of a female user, comprising:
said tampon applicator comprising a tampon holder tube; said tampon
holder tube comprising a hollow interior portion, an interior
surface, an exterior surface, a longitudinal axis, an outer
perimeter, a first end dimensioned for insertion into said vaginal
cavity, and a second end positioned oppositely to said first end;
said tampon holder tube comprising an end expulsion force increaser
and a side expulsion member each positioned at said first end of
said tampon holder tube, said tampon being housed within said
hollow interior portion of said tampon holder tube in a
pre-expelled position; said tampon comprising a fluid permeable bag
tampon and absorbent material loosely dispersed within said
permeable bag; and wherein a force to expel said tampon from said
tampon holder tube has a greater force to expel said tampon from
said end expulsion force increaser than from said side expulsion
member.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to a novel tampon applicator
having an expulsion force increaser providing directed expulsion of
a tampon.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] It is known that the internal vaginal cavity in its normal
collapsed state has a much wider dimension in its transverse plane
than in its vertical plane. It is also well known that the minimum
dimension of the vagina is near the introitus while the maximum
dimension is near the cervix. It is desirable, therefore, when
considering a tampon for catamenial use, to provide a structure
which, in its initial state, is of a size small enough to pass
through the vaginal orifice without discomfort, and once inside the
vaginal cavity and beyond the restrictions of the orifice, can
expand, particularly in the lateral direction, to cover
substantially large portions of the vaginal surface from one side
to the other to prevent early bypass of the menstrual discharges
from the cervix. This side-to-side coverage is a preferred object
of this invention. Further, since the vaginal wall in its normal
collapsed state is flaccid and has multiple folds and wrinkles
which provide channels through which a significant portion of the
menstrual fluids normally flow, it is also important that the
absorbent tampon be as soft and conformable as possible to conform
to the shape of the vaginal cavity and fit within these channels to
minimize leakage.
[0003] Generally, absorbent catamenial tampons are small, highly
compressed, cylindrical of plugs about 3/8 inch to about 1/2 inch
(about 1.0 cm to about 1.3 cm) in diameter and from about 11/2 to
about 21/2 inches in length (about 3.8 cm to 6.4 cm). Because of
the need for absorbent capacity, they are usually formed from batts
much larger in size than the vaginal orifice and compressed to the
small size indicated above to facilitate insertion. As fluid is
absorbed, these compressed tampons are designed to re-expand. While
it has been found that these compressed tampons perform their
intended function tolerably well, even the best of them do not
re-expand sufficiently, or fast enough, to provide good transverse
coverage against leakage even though the vertical blockage may be
satisfactory. Further, most of these tampons often use only a small
portion of their absorptive capacity before leakage. Since these
tampons rely on some fluid absorption to re-expand, it is clear
that fluid bypass and leakage can occur prematurely, particularly,
immediately or soon after the time of insertion.
[0004] Fortunately, it has been found during development of the
present invention that a bag-type tampon inserted using the tampon
applicator constructed according to the invention discussed herein
is caused to spread open during insertion, and thereby can provide
even further improvements in comfort, low wearing awareness, and
performance as compared to currently marketed tampon applicators
and previous attempts to improve tampon applicators.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] The present invention encompasses a tampon having a bag
structure and a tampon applicator in combination for expulsion of
the tampon into a vaginal cavity of a female user. The tampon
applicator has a tampon holder tube. The tampon applicator may also
have a plunger. The tampon holder tube comprises a hollow interior
portion, an interior surface, an exterior surface, a longitudinal
axis, an outer perimeter, a first end dimensioned for insertion
into the vaginal cavity, a second end positioned oppositely to the
first end, an end expulsion force increaser, and at least one side
expulsion member positioned at the first end of the tampon holder
tube. The tampon comprises a fluid permeable bag and absorbent
material loosely dispersed within the fluid permeable bag. A force
required to expel the tampon is greater for the end expulsion force
increaser than the side expulsion members.
[0006] The tampon is typically in a compressed state, such that it
can be housed within the hollow interior portion of the tampon
holder tube in a pre-expelled position. The plunger can be slidably
mounted in the hollow interior portion of the tampon holder tube.
The plunger can be adapted to expel the tampon through the end
expulsion force increaser, whereby the tampon is caused to undergo
expansion from its initial compressed state to a more expanded
state. In a typical mode, this expansion is at least 10 percent
volume, and can be much higher (100-500%), depending on the initial
amount of compression.
[0007] There are several alternative embodiments. First, the side
expulsion members can have an initial dimension and a deployed
width in which the initial dimension changes to a deployed width as
the plunger expels the tampon from the tampon holder tube. Second,
the tampon holder tube can comprise a plurality of side expulsion
members. Third, the end expulsion force increasers can cause the
tampon to expand beyond the outer perimeter of the tampon
applicator along at least one of the side expulsion zones. Fourth,
when the tampon is partially expelled from the tampon holder tube,
the tampon is wider than the tampon holder tube. Fifth, the side
expulsion zones can have a configuration of a slot, arc, or a
curve. The side expulsion zones can also be a void or a weakened
area. Finally, the tampon can be compressed to a shorter length by
the plunger before being expelled through the end expulsion force
increaser.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] While the specification concludes with claims particularly
pointing out and distinctly claiming the subject matter which is
regarded as forming the present invention, it is believed that the
invention will be better understood from the following descriptions
which are taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in
which like designations are used to designate substantially
identical elements, and in which:
[0009] FIG. 1a is a perspective view of a tampon applicator and
tampon in its pre-expelled state.
[0010] FIG. 1b is a top view of the tampon applicator of FIG.
1a.
[0011] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a tampon applicator and
tampon in its partially-expelled state.
[0012] FIG. 3a is a perspective view of a tampon applicator and
tampon in its expelled state.
[0013] FIG. 3b is a perspective view of a tampon fitting within the
vaginal cavity of a female user after the tampon has been expelled
by the tampon applicator of the present invention.
[0014] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the tampon before insertion
into the tampon applicator.
[0015] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the tampon.
[0016] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of
a tampon applicator with the tampon.
[0017] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of
a tampon applicator with the tampon.
[0018] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of
a tampon applicator.
[0019] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of
a tampon applicator.
[0020] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment
of a tampon applicator.
[0021] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment
of a tampon applicator.
[0022] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment
of a tampon applicator.
[0023] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a step in the Tampon Test
disclosed herein.
[0024] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a step in the Tampon Test
disclosed herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0025] The following are terms which will assist the reader in best
understanding the features of the invention and not to introduce
limitations in the terms inconsistent with the context in which
they are used in this specification. These definitions are not
intended to be limiting.
[0026] The term "fluid permeable bag" is meant and as seen in FIG.
5, as an easily deformable fluid permeable bag tampon consisting of
absorbent chips, spheres, or fibers such that the fluid permeable
bag tampon is readily deformable with a force of less than about 1
pound per square inch (hereinafter "psi"). The tampon is
substantially deformable at pressures of less than about 3 psi. As
seen in FIG. 5, the tampon 20 has a first portion 49 and a second
portion 50. The second portion 50 of the fluid permeable bag tampon
has a trailing edge 53.
[0027] By the terms "ready position" or "pre-expelled position," it
is meant herein and as seen in FIG. 1a, a position in which the
tampon 20 is placed or packed into the tampon holder tube 22 and
positioned for the tampon's 20 successful expulsion through the
tampon holder tube 22.
[0028] By the terms "directionally expel," "directed expulsion," or
"directional expulsion," it is meant herein and as seen in FIG. 1a,
that embodiments of the tampon applicators 21 of the present
invention will expel a tampon 20 along the longitudinal axis 45 and
cause it to be placed in a position within the vaginal cavity to
expand outwardly towards the walls of a female user's vaginal
cavity. Such directional expulsion causes the tampon applicator 21,
when inserted into the vaginal cavity of a female user, to allow
the tampon 20 to expand in the transverse direction thus providing
improved coverage of a female user's vaginal cavity.
[0029] The term "expelled," as used herein and as seen in FIG. 3a,
is meant the position after the tampon 20 is forced out of the
tampon applicator 21.
[0030] By the term "side-to-side coverage," it is meant herein and
as seen in FIG. 3b that the tampon 20 once directionally expelled,
will have at least two sections thereof positioned outwardly toward
the sides or walls of a female user's vaginal cavity.
[0031] By "side expulsion zone" is meant and as seen in FIG. 1a, a
weakened region as compared to the side expulsion members 31
vbetween a first side expulsion member 31 and a second side
expulsion member 31.
[0032] By "axial force," is meant and as seen in FIG. 1a, the force
40 applied along the longitudinal axis 45 in the direction of
expelling the tampon 20 from the tampon applicator 21.
[0033] Referring to FIG. 1a, the present invention relates to
directionally expelling tampon 20 into the vaginal cavity of a
female user from a tampon applicator 21. Before expulsion of the
tampon 20 from the tampon applicator 21, the tampon applicator 21
has an initial dimension 54. The tampon applicator 21 herein
comprises a tampon holder tube 22 having a hollow interior portion
(not shown), an interior surface (not shown), an outer perimeter
42, an exterior surface 25, a longitudinal axis 45, a first end 26
dimensioned for insertion into the body cavity (specifically the
vaginal cavity of a female user), a second end 27 positioned
oppositely to the first end 26, and a gripping portion 33.
[0034] The first end 26 of the tampon holder tube 22 further
comprises end expulsion force increasers 30 and side expulsion
members 31 positioned adjacent to the end expulsion force
increasers 30. The end expulsion force increasers 30 are separated
by force increaser sections 34 which may be between each end
expulsion force increaser 30. The end expulsion force increasers 30
and the force increaser sections 34 are positioned at a top 44 of
the first end 26. The end of the end expulsion force increasers 30
may have projections 38.
[0035] As noted above, the first end 26 comprises side expulsion
members 31 which may be separated by side expulsion zones 35. The
side expulsion members 31 and the side expulsion zones 35 are
positioned along the outer perimeter 42 of the tampon holder tube
22. The combination of the end expulsion force increasers 30, the
force increaser sections 34, the side expulsion members 31, and the
side expulsion zones 35 is configured to laterally expand the
tampon 20 during expulsion of the tampon 20 from the tampon
applicator 21.
[0036] Alternatively, the tampon applicator 21 may include a
plunger 29 that is slidably mounted in the tampon holder tube 22
distal to the first end 26. The plunger 29 is adapted to expel the
tampon 20 from the tampon holder tube 22 with an axial force 40.
However, such user activated expulsion may occur either by a
plunger 29, plunger-like device, or digitally with a user's
finger(s).
[0037] To use the tampon applicator 21 of the present invention the
user will typically hold the tampon holder tube 22 in one hand at
the gripping portion 33 on the same. When the plunger 29 is
present, the user holds the end of the plunger 29, such as with her
thumb and middle finger, and pushes the plunger 29 inwardly to
slide the plunger 29 within the tampon holder tube 22. In practice,
a user pushes the inserted plunger 29 until the entire tampon 20 is
deployed from the tampon applicator 21. The user then pulls the
entire tampon applicator 21 (i.e., with the plunger 29 inside) out
of the user's vaginal opening.
[0038] The tampon applicator 21 has a pre-expelled state (FIG. 1a),
a partially expelled state (FIG. 2), and an expelled state (FIG.
3a). During the pre-expelled state, as is readily seen in FIG. 1a,
the tampon 20 sits within the tampon holder tube 22 and can remain
snugly therein without any outside force to sustain its position in
the tampon holder tube 22. As shown in FIG. 1a, during the tampon's
pre-expelled state, the end expulsion force increasers 30 have the
initial dimension 54. FIG. 1b shows a top view of the tampon
applicator 21 with the initial dimension of 54 and an outer
perimeter 42. The end expulsion force increasers 30 are separated
by force increaser sections 34 and. In addition, the end expulsion
force increaser 30 may have a central opening 37.
[0039] In the partially expelled state, as is readily seen in FIG.
2, the tampon 20 is shown being directionally expelled with an
axial force 40. When the axial force 40 is applied, the tampon 20
is pushed toward the first end 26. During this time, the tampon 20
is held within the tampon applicator 21 by the end expulsion force
increasers 30. The end expulsion force increasers 30 may contain
projections 38. The end expulsion force increasers 30 require a
greater axial force 40 than the side expulsion members 31 to expel
the tampon 20. FIG. 2 illustrates a tampon 20 partially positioned
within and partially positioned without the tampon holder tube 22
of the tampon applicator 21 during the act of expulsion of the
tampon 20. During expulsion, at least one side expulsion member 31
is expanded. The combination of both the end expulsion force
increasers 30 and the side expulsion members 31 aide the end
expulsion force increasers 30 to change from its first position
with an initial dimension 54 in its pre-expelled state to its
second position (FIG. 2) with side expulsion members 31 deployed
width 55 in its partially expelled state and finally to a third
position in its fully expelled tampon applicator 21 state (FIG.
3a).
[0040] FIG. 3a shows the tampon applicator 21 in its expelled state
where the tampon 20 is expelled from the tampon applicator 21 along
the longitudinal axis 45. The tampon applicator 21 has a tampon
holder tube 22. The tampon holder tube 22 has a first end 26
dimensioned for insertion and a second end 27 opposite the first
end 26. The first end 26 comprises the end expulsion force
increasers 30, side expulsion members 31, and side expulsion zones
35. The end expulsion force increasers 30 may include projections
38. In its expelled state, the tampon 20 is positioned into the
vaginal cavity of a female user so that improved side-to-side
coverage of the vaginal opening is achieved. After the tampon 20 is
inserted vertically into the vaginal introitus, the tampon 20 may
change its orientation to a position which is non-parallel to the
tampon's 20 pre-expelled vertical position. As a result, the
tampon's 20 position during insertion could be in a different
orientation from the tampon's 20 position after insertion into the
vaginal cavity. Contact of a female user's vaginal walls is a
highly desired characteristic of a tampon 20 when it is worn during
a female's menstruation period. Menses, whether highly viscous or
less viscous, when flowing out of the user, follows the geometry of
a female user's vaginal walls. In other words, menses may
substantially flow along the vaginal walls of a female user.
Regardless of the orientation of the tampon 20 within the vaginal
cavity 60, FIG. 3b shows how such side-to-side coverage in the
vaginal cavity 60 of the tampon 20 and placement of the trailing
edge 53 of the tampon 20 within the vaginal cavity 60 is expected
to occur when using the present tampon applicator 21.
[0041] Referring to FIG. 4, a key advantage of the tampon
applicator 21 discussed herein is that the tampon 20 can be
inserted into the tampon applicator 21 in any orientation and/or
folded in any manner (i.e., concave or convex). Despite the
orientation of the tampon 20 upon insertion into the tampon
applicator 21, the tampon 20 will still provide effective
side-to-side coverage in the vaginal cavity. In one non-limiting
example, the second portion 50 of the tampon 20 is inserted first
into the second end 27 of the tampon holder 22 so that the second
end 27 of the tampon 20 expels first. Even when the second portion
50 of the tampon 20 is inserted first into the tampon holder tube
22, the tampon 20 still expels laterally and provides side-to-side
coverage in the vaginal cavity. Referring to FIG. 5, the tampon 20
has a first portion 49 and a second portion 50. The second portion
50 of the fluid permeable bag tampon has a trailing edge 53. A
withdrawal string 39 may also be attached.
[0042] FIG. 6 shows an alternative embodiment of a tampon
applicator 21 containing tampon 20 with a plunger 29. The tampon
holder tube 22 has a first end 26. The first end 26 comprises the
end expulsion force increasers 30, force increaser sections 34,
side expulsion members 31, and side expulsion zones 35. The force
increaser sections 34 can comprise of weakened regions. FIG. 7 and
FIG. 8 show perspective views of alternative embodiments of tampon
applicators 21 having end expulsion force increasers 30 and side
expulsion zones 35 which can be void. Alternatively, FIG. 9 shows
another perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the side
expulsion members 31 which can be one continuous film or sheet and
the end expulsion force increasers 30 which can be one continuous
film or sheet. The end expulsion force increasers 30 which are
located at the top 44 of the first end 26 and the sides of the side
expulsion members 31 may be completely enclosed. Moreover, FIG. 10
and FIG. 11 show another perspective embodiment of a tampon
applicator 21 having an initial dimension 54. The sides 48 of the
side expulsion members 31 which are located at the first end 26 may
be non-uniform. FIG. 12 shows another perspective embodiment of a
tampon applicator 21 having projections 38 located on the end of
the end expulsion force increaser 30.
[0043] FIG. 13 shows a perspective view of the tampon applicator 21
comprising a tampon 20 and a tampon holder tube 22 with reference
to dimensions along the inside diameter 56 of the tampon holder
tube 22, the length V of the tampon applicator and the plunger 29,
the length X of the plunger 29, and the length U of the tampon
20.
[0044] FIG. 14 shows a perspective view of the tampon applicator 21
after expulsion of tampon 20. The tampon 20 has an X -axis 58 and a
Y-axis 59. The tampon applicator 21 comprises a tampon holder tube
22. Bag 57 is ontop of tampon applicator 21 and tampon 20.
[0045] Below will detail each component of the tampon applicator
21.
[0046] I. End Expulsion Force Increaser and Force Increaser
Section
[0047] Referring primarily to FIG. 1a, the end expulsion force
increasers 30 are positioned at the top 44 of the first end 26. As
shown in FIG. 1b, each end expulsion force increaser 30 is
separated from the other by respective sections 34. As shown in
FIG. 1a, the end expulsion force increasers 30 counter the axial
force 40 which is applied along the longitudinal axis 45 when
expelling the tampon 20 from the tampon applicator 21. Thus, the
axial force 40 needed to expel the tampon 20 along the longitudinal
axis 45 requires a greater force to expel the tampon 20 through the
end expulsion force increasers 30 than to expel the tampon 20
through the side expulsion members 31.
[0048] The end expulsion force increasers 30 have a pre-expelled
position (FIG. 1a), a partially expelled position (FIG. 2), and an
expelled position (FIG. 3a).
[0049] FIG. 2 shows the position of the end expulsion force
increasers 30 when the tampon 20 is partially expelled. When a
tampon 20 is being expelled by an axial force 40 applied along the
longitudinal axis 45, the end expulsion force increasers 30 expand
beyond its initial dimension 54 along at least one of the side
expulsion members 31. The end expulsion force increasers 30 provide
resistance to expelling the tampon 20 by increasing the difficulty
of expelling the tampon 20 at the first end 26 thereof.
[0050] The manufacturer of the tampon applicator 21 may vary the
width of each end expulsion force increaser 30, the number of end
expulsion force increasers 30, the distance between each end
expulsion force increaser 30, and the configuration of the end
expulsion force increasers 30.
[0051] The width of each end expulsion force increaser 30 can vary
greatly. As seen in FIG. 1a, the width of each end expulsion force
increaser 30 is a function of the length of the outer perimeter 42
of the tampon holder tube 22 and the width of the force increaser
sections 34 which are located between each end expulsion force
increaser 30.
[0052] Any number of end expulsion force increasers 30 may be
utilized. Either an even or an odd number of end expulsion force
increasers 30 can be present. As shown in FIG. 1a and FIG. 1b,
although three end expulsion force increasers 30 are shown,
additional end expulsion force increasers 30 would give more
positive engagement of the tampon 20 and provide more resistance
during expulsion of the tampon 20 from the tampon holder tube
22.
[0053] Referring to FIG. 1a, the distance between each end
expulsion force increaser 30 which extends along the outer
perimeter 42 of the tampon holder tube 22 depends on the length of
the outer perimeter 42 of the tampon holder tube 22, the width of
each end expulsion force increaser 30, and the width of the force
increaser sections 34 which are located between each end expulsion
force increaser 30. Moreover, the end expulsion force increasers 30
can be equally spaced apart or they can be non-uniformly arranged.
Uniformly arranged end expulsion force increasers 30 are preferred,
but randomly arranged end expulsion force increasers 30 will work.
For ease of manufacturing, it is preferred that the end expulsion
force increasers 30 be equally spaced relative to one another. The
end expulsion force increasers 30, however, may be unequally spaced
relative to one another.
[0054] Referring to FIG. 1a, it is further noted herein that the
shape or configuration of each of the end expulsion force
increasers 30 may vary as long as the end expulsion force
increasers 30 provides enough resistance when applying an axial
force 40 in the longitudinal direction 45 to allow a substantial
portion of the tampon 20 to be generally released at one time. One
of skill in the art will readily recognize obvious variants on
those presented in the patent application herein. One versed in the
art can imagine that the shape of the end expulsion force
increasers 30 might be circular, square, rectangular, triangular,
arced, curved, or any other conceivable shape possible as long as
any such shape would work effectively to fully and properly provide
resistance of the tampon 20 upon expulsion from the tampon holder
tube 22, expel the tampon 20 from the tampon holder tube 22, and
provide a greater axial force 40 to expel the tampon 20 along the
longitudinal axis 45 from the end expulsion force increasers 30
than from the side expulsion members 31. The end expulsion force
increaser 30 is in no way limited by the size or shape that they
may assume except that they should not hinder directional expulsion
of a tampon 20. As shown in FIG. 6, in an alternative embodiment,
the side expulsion members 31 may be covered with a thin film
material which is not as strong as the end expulsion force
increasers' 30 material. The side expulsion members 31 could be
hinged; scored; and/or could be a thin film. As also shown in FIG.
6, the material of the end expulsion force increasers 30 can be a
polyethylene film and the side expulsion zones 35 can comprise of
weakened regions as compared to the side expulsion members 31 which
are perforated such that the end expulsion force increasers 30
provide resistance to the tampon 20 while the plunger 29 forces the
tampon 20 out of the end expulsion force increasers 30.
[0055] Referring to FIG. 1b, the force increaser sections 34 which
separate each end expulsion force increaser 30 can be void areas,
weakened regions, and/or regions covered in material. If the force
increaser sections 34 are covered in material, the material of the
force increaser sections 34 are not as strong as the end expulsion
force increasers' 30 material.
[0056] In one non-limiting example, the outer perimeter 42 can be
about 60.96 mm. In this example, there can be three end expulsion
force increasers 30. Additionally, each end expulsion force
increaser 30 can be about 6.35 mm and the force increaser sections
34 between each end expulsion force increaser 30 can be about 13.97
mm.
[0057] In yet another non-limiting example, the outer perimeter 42
can be about 75 mm. In this example, there can be five end
expulsion force increasers 30. Additionally, each end expulsion
force increaser 30 can be about 6.35 mm and the force increaser
sections 34 between each end expulsion force increaser 30 can be
about 8.65 mm.
[0058] As shown in FIG. 2, each end expulsion force increaser 30
may comprise projections 38. The projections 38 may extend far
enough into the center of the first end 26 to engage a tampon 20
disposed therein. The projections 38 may be any shape or size so
long as the projections 38 provide resistance to expelling the
tampon 20 by increasing the difficulty of expelling the tampon 20
out of the first end 26 thereof. For example, the projections 38
may be inward, outward, or substantially straight. As shown in FIG.
12, the projections 38 may be integrally formed on the end of each
end expulsion force increaser 30. Alternatively, the projections 38
may be separately attached to the end expulsion force increaser
30.
[0059] As shown in FIG. 1a, any number of projections 38 may be
utilized. Either an even or an odd number of projections 38 can be
present. The number of projections 38 may vary as desired.
Additional projections 38 give more positive engagement of the
tampon 20 and make it more difficult to expel the tampon 20 from
the tampon holder tube 22.
[0060] The projections 38 may be located anywhere on the end
expulsion force increasers 30. As shown in FIG. 1a, the projections
38 may be located at the end of the end expulsion force increaser
30. Furthermore, each end expulsion force increaser 30 does not
have to have a projection 38.
[0061] As axial force 40 is applied along the longitudinal axis 45,
the projections 38 retain the tampon 20 while forcing the end
expulsion force increasers 30 to expand beyond its initial
dimension 54 in its pre-expelled state. The projections 38 allow
the tampon 20 to laterally expand into the vagina and provide
better vaginal coverage. Projections 38 located at the end of the
end expulsion force increaser 30 especially complement conformable
tampons 20 requires less pressure to expand upon expulsion from the
tampon holder tube 22.
[0062] As shown in FIG. 1b, the top view of the tampon holder tube
22 (FIG. 1a) forms a substantially rounded tip. The tampon holder
tube 22 may have a central opening 37 at the top 44 (FIG. 1a) of
the first end 26 (FIG. 1a). As shown in FIG. 1a, the rounded shape
is useful to facilitate insertion of the tampon applicator 21 into
the vaginal cavity. As shown in FIG. 7, in an alternative
embodiment, the end expulsion force increasers 30 form a
substantially closed end configuration.
[0063] While not wishing to be bound by any particular theory, the
end expulsion force increasers 30 may be made from polyethylene or
duraform polyamide. Each end expulsion force increaser 30 may be
composed of different materials or may be composed of substantially
the same type of material.
[0064] The maximum expulsion force typically occurs at the moment
before expulsion of the tampon 20 from the tampon applicator 21.
The maximum expulsion force and the concurrent observation of the
moment of expulsion of the tampon 20 from the tampon applicator 21
may be determined by placing an arrangement of the invention in a
device employing a Dillon Force Gauge (Mecmesin AFG50N) or similar
gauge, which can measure the peak force or "maximum expulsion
force." The measurement is done by following the procedures in the
operating manual of the device concerning how to measure the peak
force.
[0065] A force gauge is oriented such that a load cell `foot` will
travel in a horizontal direction, and it is mounted to a stand and
it remains stationary during the test. A propelled, movable
horizontal slider is affixed to the stand to one side of the force
gauge and is controlled by a linear actuator. An anchored
applicator clamp with an internal diameter set to correspond to the
diameter of the applicator is attached to the slider. The clamp is
used to hold an inserter unit of the applicator stationary during
the test without deformation of the applicator.
[0066] When using a telescoping tubes arrangement, the tampon
holder tube 22 is anchored to the slider by the applicator clamp
and the plunger 29 is still free to slide within the tampon holder
tube 22. The slider and force gauge are so aligned on the stand
that the plunger's 29 longitudinal axis 45 and the force gauge's
load cell axis are in-line with each other, in this case a
horizontal line. The insertion end of the plunger 29 is positioned
to face the load cell `foot`.
[0067] When the slider is actuated, it will move the arrangement
towards the load cell foot. The measurement is done at a constant
speed setting of the device; a speed of 7.5 cm/sec is an exemplary
speed for the test of the arrangements of the invention. When the
slider engages the end of the plunger 29 against the load cell
foot, the plunger 29 starts its travel within the tampon holder
tube 22, first engaging the second portion 50 of the tampon 20 and
then expelling the tampon 20 through the end expulsion force
increaser 30. All the while, the force gauge measures the expulsion
force, as well as captures the peak expulsion force. The slider
stops its movement towards the force gauge after expelling the
tampon 20 from the tampon applicator 21 by the operator manually
turning off the slider power source or using some other form of
control that can cut the power.
[0068] The device will give a reading for the maximum expulsion
force. By coupling the device to a timer, the time of the start of
the experiment defined for calculation purposes as the time the
plunger 29 initially engages the second end 50 of the tampon 20,
and the time of expulsion through the end expulsion force
increasers 31 are monitored, thereby, the expulsion of the tampon
20 from the tampon applicator 21 at the moment of expulsion can
also be calculated. For the arrangements of the invention, the
maximum expulsion force is typically below about 2500 grams-force,
below about 2000 grams-force, below about 1500 grams-force, below
about 1000 grams-force, or even below about 700 grams-force.
Generally, the arrangement has a maximum expulsion force from about
700 grams-force to about 2500 grams-force to expel the tampon 20
through the end expulsion force increaser 31.
[0069] The maximum width in which the tampon 20 is spread before
leaving the tampon applicator 21 of the present invention is about
40 mms. In one non-limiting example, the tampon 20 may be spread
about 38 mms.
[0070] II. Side Expulsion Member and Side Expulsion Zone
[0071] Referring primarily to FIG. 1a, the side expulsion members
31 aide in the trajectory of the tampon 20 because the side
expulsion members' 31 axial force 40 to expel the tampon 20 is less
than the axial force 40 to expel the tampon 20 from the end
expulsion force increasers 30. Because the side expulsion members'
35 axial force 40 is less, this aides in the tampon's 20 proper
placement which provides side-to-side coverage in the vaginal
cavity. The axial force 40 is less because of the lack of
resistance of the tampon 20 to move through the side expulsion
members 31 as compared to the end expulsion force increasers 30. In
fact, when the tampon 20 is being expelled from the tampon holder
tube 22, the end expulsion force increasers 30 provide resistance
while the side expulsion members' 31 reach a deployed width 55.
[0072] The side expulsion members 31 are positioned around the
outer perimeter 42 of the tampon holder tube 22. The side expulsion
members are below and adjacent to the end expulsion force
increasers 30. The side expulsion members 31 are separated from
each other by respective side expulsion zones 35.
[0073] The side expulsion members 31 have a pre-expelled position
with a side expulsion zone initial dimension 54 which is less than
or equal to the outer perimeter 42 of the tampon holder tube 22.
Furthermore, the side expulsion members 31 also have a side
expulsion zone deployed width 55, shown in FIG. 2, which is greater
than the outer perimeter 42 (FIG. 1) of the tampon holder tube 22
and the side expulsion zone's initial dimension 54. In other words,
the side expulsion members 31 expand from a first transverse width
54 to a second transverse width 55. The second transverse width 55
is greater than the first transverse width 54. In one non-limiting
example, the side expulsion members 31 may have a side expulsion
zone initial dimension 54 of about 3/8 inch (about 1 cm) and a side
expulsion zone deployed width 55 of about 1/2 inch (about 1.3 cm)
to about 3/4 inch (about 1.9 cm).
[0074] FIG. 2 shows the side expulsion members 31 when the tampon
20 is partially expelled. FIG. 3a shows the side expulsion members
31 in its expelled position.
[0075] The manufacturer of the tampon applicator 21 may vary the
configuration of each side expulsion member 31, the number of side
expulsion members 31, the width of each side expulsion member 31,
and the distance between each side expulsion member 31.
[0076] Referring to FIG. 1a, the configuration of the side
expulsion members 31 is preferably created to decrease the weakness
along a portion of outer perimeter 42 of the tampon applicator 21.
It is further noted herein that the shape or configuration of the
side expulsion members 31 may vary as long as a substantial portion
of the tampon 20 is allowed to expel and they may assume except
that they should not hinder directional expulsion of the tampon 20.
One of skill in the art will readily recognize obvious variants on
those presented in the patent application herein. One versed in the
art can imagine that the side expulsion members 31 might be
circular, square, rectangular, triangular, or any other conceivable
shape possible as long as any such shape would work effectively to
fully and properly aide in the expulsion of the tampon 20 from the
tampon holder tube 22. As shown in FIG. 10 and FIG. 11, the sides
48 of the side expulsion members 31 may be non-uniform.
[0077] Referring to FIG. 1a, any number of side expulsion members
31 may be utilized. Either an even or an odd number of side
expulsion members 31 can be present. As shown in FIG. 1a, three
side expulsion members 31 are shown.
[0078] Referring to FIG. 1a, the width of each of the side
expulsion member 31 can vary greatly. The width of each side
expulsion member 31 is a function of the outer perimeter 42 of the
tampon holder tube 22 and the width of the side expulsion zones
35.
[0079] Referring to FIG. 1a, the distance between each side
expulsion member 31 which extends along the outer perimeter 42 of
the tampon holder tube 22 depends upon the outer perimeter 42 of
the tampon holder tube 22, the width of the each side expulsion
member 31, and the width of the side expulsion zones 35. They can
be equally spaced apart or they can be non-uniformly arranged.
Uniformly arranged side expulsion members 31 are preferred, but
randomly arranged side expulsion members 31 will work. For ease of
manufacturing, it is preferred that the side expulsion members 31
be equally spaced relative to one another. The side expulsion
members 31, however, may be unequally spaced relative to one
another.
[0080] The side expulsion members 31 are separated by side
expulsion zones 35. The side expulsion zones 35 can be void areas,
weakened regions, perforated areas, and/or thin areas. As shown in
FIG. 6, the configuration of the side expulsion members 31 may be
one continuous sheet with weakened regions as side expulsion zones
35. As shown in FIG. 1a, the side expulsion members 31 may be
separated from one another by void side expulsion zones 35.
[0081] In one non-limiting example, the outer perimeter 42 of the
tampon holder tube 22 can be about 60.96 mm. In this example, there
can be three side expulsion members 31. Additionally, each side
expulsion member 31 can be about 6.35 mm and the side expulsion
zones 35 between each side expulsion member 31 can be about 13.97
mm.
[0082] In yet another non-limiting example, the outer perimeter 42
of the tampon holder tube 22 can be about 75 mm. In this example,
there can be five side expulsion members 31. Additionally, each
side expulsion member 31 can be about 6.35 mm and the side
expulsion zones 35 between each side expulsion member 31 can be
about 8.65 mm. In this example, the length of the side expulsion
members 31 and the side expulsion zones 35 can be about 35.56
mm.
[0083] In an alternative embodiment, as seen in FIG. 9, the side
expulsion members 31 may have one continuous film or sheet and the
end expulsion force increasers 30 may have one continuous film or
sheet. The sheet of the end expulsion force increasers 30 may
completely enclose the top 44 of the first end 26. The sheet or
film of the side expulsion members 31 may completely enclose the
sides. The sheet of the side expulsion members 31 and the sheet of
the end expulsion force increaser 30 may overlap one another. The
sheet for the side expulsion members 31 and the sheet for the end
expulsion force increasers 30 can be sealed to one another by any
known means in the art such as heat seal, glue, or mold. This film
or sheet protects the tampon 20 from contamination. The sheet or
film for the side expulsion members 31 is not as strong as the film
or sheet for the end expulsion force increasers' 30 material.
[0084] The side expulsion members 31 may be composed of different
materials or may be composed of substantially the same type of
material.
[0085] III. Tampon
[0086] Referring to FIG. 1a, a tampon 20 may be stored within the
tampon holder tube 22. In one preferred embodiment herein, the
tampon 20 may comprise of at least one fluid permeable bag-like
tampon. As shown in FIG. 5, the withdrawal string 39 may be
attached to the rearward portion of the tampon 20, as is
conventional in the art.
[0087] The material used for the fluid permeable bag 22 is
preferably soft and flexible. In its pre-assembled state, the fluid
permeable bag 22 is rectangular in shape. However, other shapes for
the fluid permeable bag 22, such as but not limited to trapezoidal,
triangular, hemispherical, chevron, hourglass, cylindrical,
spherical, rectangular, and circular may also be used.
[0088] There are many possible compositions for the fluid permeable
bag 22 including woven and non-woven materials; polymeric materials
such as apertured formed themoplastic films, apertured plastic
films, and hydroformed thermoplastic films; porous foams;
reticulated foams; and reticulated thermoplastic films and
thermoplastic scrims. Other suitable materials can be comprised of
natural fibers (e.g., treated wood, rayon, or cotton fibers);
synthetic fibers (e.g., polymeric fibers such as polyesters, rayon,
polyethylene, polypropylene, or polyethylene fibers); or a
combination of natural and synthetic fibers. If the material
comprises a nonwoven material, it can be made by any suitable
process. Other suitable materials include hydroentangled materials
and any other suitable material known and typically used in
disposable absorbent articles intended for in vivo use.
[0089] Typical fluid permeable bags 22 may comprise cotton, rayon,
folded tissues, woven materials, non woven webs (e.g.,
hydroentangled webs and air laid webs), synthetic, natural fibers,
or sheeting. The fluid permeable bag 22 may comprise a single
material or a combination of materials. In one non-limiting
embodiment, the fluid permeable bag 22 comprises rayon, cotton, or
combinations of both materials. These materials have a proven
record of suitability for use in the human body. The rayon may be
any suitable type typically used in disposable absorbent articles
intended for in vivo use. Such acceptable types of rayon include
GALAXY Rayon (a tri-lobed rayon structure) available as 6140 Rayon
from Acordis Fibers Ltd., of Hollywall, England, SARILLE L rayon (a
round cross-section fiber rayon), also available from Acordis
Fibers Ltd. is also suitable.
[0090] The absorbent material can take many physical forms
including particles, fibers, agglomerates, powders, gels, foams,
superabsorbent fibers or foams, cotton, rayon, beads, and mixtures
thereof. Sizes of particles range from fine powders to about 8
millimeters. The dimensions of materials are measured without a
confining pressure. The absorbent materials may be of any shape
known in the art including but not limited to rods, cones, spheres,
squares, chevrons, cylindrical, ovate, rectangular, trapezoidal,
triangular, or amorphous. The absorbent materials may be comprised
of one material or may include blends of materials. Blends may
include different materials, different sized particles, or
different shaped particles. For example, one embodiment may include
a blend of the same type of material with different sizes and
different shapes. Another embodiment may include a blend of
different type of materials of the same size and same shape. The
surface charges of absorbent materials may be the same or
different. Moreover, the non-absorbent material may also be mixed
or blended with the absorbent material.
[0091] Gel compositions may be used for the absorbent material.
Such gel compositions may include polyacrylamide super-absorbent
premixed in water or glycerin to gel.
[0092] Various absorbent foams can be used as the absorbent
material. These foams may be relatively thin, collapsed, polymeric
foam materials which expand and absorb body fluid upon contact with
aqueous body fluids. The absorbent material may comprise an open
celled foam of the "High Internal Phase Emulsion" (hereinafter
"HIPE") type or may also include "Thin after Drying" (hereinafter
"TAD"). Such foam materials have cells and holes small enough to
provide a high capillary absorptive pressure, but large enough to
prevent or minimize blockage by the insoluble components of blood
and blood based liquids such as menses. Such suitable foams are
disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,387,207. Suitable foams or
combinations of foams may include those materials where the ratio
of absorbencies measured at 0 psi and 0.25 psi (e.g., 0.25 psi
absorbency/0 psi absorbency) are greater than 0.5.
[0093] If a mixture of materials is used, the surface charges of
the materials may be the same or different. The difference in
surface charges may be altered via the addition of charged polymers
to the outer surface of the particles or by using cationic
absorbents. For example, in one embodiment, a quatinized chitosan
may be used in combination with a HIPE foam.
[0094] III. Tampon Holder Tube Materials
[0095] Referring primarily to FIG. 1a, the tampon holder tube 22 is
preferably an elongate hollow tube that has a second end (or
"expulsion end") 27 and a gripping portion 33. The tampon holder
tube 22 can be constructed from similar materials to other tampon
holder tubes 22 known in the art of the type used in tampon
applicators currently in use. Examples of other such tampon holder
tubes are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,346,468 issued to Campion,
et al. on Sep. 13, 1994 and U.S. Pat. No. 5,558,631 issued to
Campion, et al. on Sep. 24, 1996. The tampon holder tube 22 can be
of any suitable cross-sectional shape. Suitable cross-sectional
shapes include, but are not limited to circular, oval, flattened
circular, and elliptical. Preferably, the tampon holder tube 22 has
a circular cross-sectional configuration.
[0096] Referring primarily to FIG. 1a, while not wishing to be
bound by any particular theory, the tampon holder tube 22 may be
made from polyethylene or duraform polyamide. Accordingly, the
exterior surface 25 of the tampon applicator 21 may be constructed
from any suitable smooth plastic material.
[0097] IV. Plunger
[0098] Referring primarily to FIG. 1a, the plunger 29 can be used
to expel the tampon 20 from its position within the tampon holder
tube 22 when the plunger 29 is pushed manually into the tampon
holder tube 22. The plunger 29 is usually pulled out to its
operative position when the tampon holder tube 22 is placed in the
vaginal cavity. Plunger 29 is then telescoped back into the tampon
holder tube 22 towards the second end 27 thereof, pushing the
tampon 20 through the first end 26 spreading open the yieldable end
expulsion force increaser 30 and side expulsion zone(s) 31.
[0099] The plunger 29 can be any type of component that is suitable
for this purpose. The plunger 29 can be constructed similarly to
plungers of the type used in tampon applicators currently in use.
An example of a suitable plunger is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.
5,346,468 issued to Campion, et al. on Sep. 13, 1994 and U.S. Pat.
No. 5,558,631 issued to Campion, et al. on Sep. 24, 1996.
[0100] It should also be understood that the plunger 29 is an
optional component for use with the tampon applicator 21 and that
the tampon applicator 21 will be fully functional if the plunger 29
is omitted, i.e., a user must insert and push the tampon 20 through
the tampon applicator 21 digitally.
[0101] Test Method
[0102] The following test method is a comparison of the present
tampon applicator 21 versus the same size applicator without the
end expulsion force increasers 30, side expulsion zones 35, and
side expulsion members 31.
[0103] The present tampon applicator 21 provides improved
side-to-side coverage in the vaginal cavity. To determine the
extent to which the present invention provides better side-to-side
coverage in the vaginal cavity, this test method measures the
length and the width of the tampon 20 after expulsion from the
tampon holder tube 22. Accordingly, the less the height of the
tampon 20 after expulsion from the tampon holder tube 22 the
greater the width of the tampon 20. In other words, when the width
of the tampon 20 is greater, there is greater side-to-side coverage
in the vaginal cavity. In addition, the tampon 20 placed lower in
the vagina may effectively cover the vagina because the vagina is
typically narrower in the lower region.
[0104] A. Test Stand Material
[0105] Mini Grip/Zip-Pak zipped bag 9".times.12" Stock No. 62-68
(Associated Bag Co.) filled with 1,500 ml of water
[0106] B. Products
[0107] Kimberly-Clark Corporation KOTEX.RTM. Security tampon and
applicator, Super Plus Absorbency, #AC218722X2318 (Kimberly-Clark
Corporation)
[0108] Conformable Tampon Materials and Making Instructions:
[0109] Tampon Materials:
[0110] a. Corolind PE HPC-2 0.23 gsm overwrap, Lot# TFOR23/1000,
Corvin GMBH Germany
[0111] b. TAMPAX.RTM. Cord, Lot# WYMAC7309A, Wehadkee
[0112] c. White Thread, Lot# ART.235, Coats of America
[0113] d. DT absorbent, Lot# DT7: 15, Procter & Gamble Company
Making Instructions:
[0114] a. Selfed coralind is made into a sealed tube (3.5" plus
1/4" seal.times.4").
[0115] b. One end of the tube is gathered together and stitched
with thread.
[0116] c. The bag is inverted and stuffed with up to 0.5 g of
DT
[0117] d. The string (14" folded) is sewn to the bottom of the bag
on one side.
[0118] e. The bag is gathered and stitched at the bottom securing
the string and measuring 2.5" in length.
[0119] Materials and Making Instructions for Force Increaser
Applicator "Selective Laser Sintering":
[0120] Force Increaser Applicator Materials: Duraform Polyamide,
Lot# B0461/7, DTM Corporation
ii. Procedure
[0121] 1. Referring to FIG. 13, measure the inside diameter 56 of
tampon holder tube 22. This will be considered the tampon width for
the pre-expelled tampon 20. Measure assembled applicator length V
and applicator plunger length X. The pre-expelled tampon length
will be determined as follows: assembled length V minus plunger
length X will equal the tampon length U.
[0122] 2. Referring to FIG. 14, place the 9".times.12" bag 57
filled with 1,500 ml of water onto a flat surface. Insert the
tampon applicator unit 21 under bag 57. Expel the tampon 20.
[0123] 3. Referring to FIG. 14, measure the tampon's 20 width at
the widest point along the X axis 58.
[0124] 4. Referring to FIG. 14, measure the tampon's 20 length at
the tallest point along the Y axis 59.
[0125] 5. Repeat steps 1-4 with the KOTEX.RTM. Super Plus Tampon
with KOTEX.RTM. Super Plus Applicator.
[0126] 6. Repeat steps 1-4 with the Conformable Tampon with
KOTEX.RTM. Super Plus Applicator.
iii. Calculation and Reporting
[0127] Referring to FIG. 14, when the tampon 20 was expelled from
the tampon holder tube 22 of the present invention, the length of
the tampon 20 was less. This was the result of a change in the
shape and/or orientation of the tampon. Given that the tampon
length was less, the present applicator covered a greater
width.
[0128] The following are results from the test method:
1 TAMPON PRE-EXPELLED LENGTH KOTEX .RTM. Super Plus Conformable
Tampon with Conformable Tampon Tampon with KOTEX .RTM. KOTEX .RTM.
Super Plus with Force Increaser Super Plus Applicator Applicator
Applicator rep 1 48 50 45 rep 2 49 53 49 rep 3 50 52 43 prep 4 48
52 45 rep 5 48 52 42 rep 6 49 47 45 rep 7 47 52 44 rep 8 50 50 41
rep 9 46 52 40 rep 10 50 49 43 Average 48.5 50.9 43.7 Std. Dev.
1.35 1.85 2.54
[0129] All documents cited in the Detailed Description of the
Invention are, are, in relevant part, incorporated herein by
reference; the citation of any document is not to be construed as
an admission that it is prior art with respect to the present
invention.
[0130] While particular embodiments of the present invention have
been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those
skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can
be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the
invention. It is therefore intended to cover in the appended claims
all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of
this invention.
* * * * *