U.S. patent application number 11/109144 was filed with the patent office on 2005-12-08 for tampon applicator having a force controller.
Invention is credited to Gann, Diana Lynne, Hines, Letha Margory, Minoguchi, Ryo, Osborn, Thomas Ward III, Pollard, Ricky Alan, Still, James Douglas.
Application Number | 20050273044 11/109144 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34911835 |
Filed Date | 2005-12-08 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050273044 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Gann, Diana Lynne ; et
al. |
December 8, 2005 |
Tampon applicator having a force controller
Abstract
A tampon and a tampon applicator in combination for expulsion of
the tampon. The tampon applicator has a tampon holder tube and
optionally 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, a force controller, and at least one side expulsion
member. The side expulsion member has a weakened region located at
its base. The tampon is a fluid permeable bag and absorbent
material loosely dispersed within the fluid 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 force
controller.
Inventors: |
Gann, Diana Lynne; (Lebanon,
OH) ; Minoguchi, Ryo; (Blue Ash, OH) ; Osborn,
Thomas Ward III; (Clifton, OH) ; Hines, Letha
Margory; (Cincinnati, OH) ; Still, James Douglas;
(Cleves, OH) ; Pollard, Ricky Alan; (Moscow,
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.: |
11/109144 |
Filed: |
April 19, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
11109144 |
Apr 19, 2005 |
|
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|
10792351 |
Mar 3, 2004 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
604/15 ;
604/385.18 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61F 13/26 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
604/015 ;
604/385.18 |
International
Class: |
A61F 013/20 |
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, a force controller positioned at said first end of
said tampon holder tube, at least one side expulsion member
positioned at said first end of said tampon holder tube, wherein
said side expulsion member comprises a weakened region; 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 force
controller.
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 members.
4. The tampon and tampon applicator of claim 1 wherein said side
expulsion member comprises said weakened region located at a base
of said side expulsion member.
5. The tampon and tampon applicator of claim 1 wherein said
weakened region is selected from a group consisting of a T-cut,
V-cut, notch, differential wall thickness, groove, perforation, and
slot.
6. The tampon and tampon applicator of claim 1 wherein said tampon
holder tube further comprises a side expulsion zone located between
said side expulsion members.
7. 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.
8. The tampon and tampon applicator of claim 6 wherein said side
expulsion zone has a slot, arc, or curved configuration.
9. The tampon and tampon applicator of claim 6 wherein said side
expulsion zone is a void.
10. The tampon and tampon applicator of claim 10 wherein said side
expulsion zone is a weakened area.
11. 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 force controller.
12. The tampon and tampon applicator of claim 1 wherein said force
controller further comprises a projection.
13. The tampon and tampon applicator of claim 12 wherein said
projection is selected from a group consisting of a rib, notch,
perforation, hook, knob, bump, ridge, adhesive, and Velcro.
14. The tampon and tampon applicator of claim 1 wherein said side
expulsion member further comprises a projection.
15. 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 a force controller and a side
expulsion member each positioned at said first end of said tampon
holder tube, wherein said side expulsion member comprises a
weakened region located at a base of said side expulsion member and
a projection from said side expulsion member; 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.
16. The tampon and tampon applicator of claim 15 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.
17. The tampon and tampon applicator of claim 15 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.
18. 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 a force controller and a side
expulsion member each positioned at said first end of said tampon
holder tube, said side expulsion member comprises a weakened region
located at a base of said side expulsion member and a projection
from said side expulsion member, 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
permeable bag.
19. The tampon and tampon applicator of claim 18 wherein said
projection is selected from a group consisting of a rib, notch,
perforation, hook, knob, bump, ridge, adhesive, and Velcro.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S.
application Ser. No. 10/792,351 filed on Mar. 3, 2004, pending.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to a novel tampon applicator
having an expulsion force controller providing expulsion of a
tampon.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] It is known that the internal vaginal cavity in its normal
state has a shape of a flattened bag with its minimum width near
the introitus and its maximum width 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 delivered and placed inside the vaginal cavity
beyond the restrictions of the orifice, can increase its dimension,
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 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.
[0004] Generally, absorbent catamenial tampons are small, highly
compressed, cylindrical rigid plugs about 5 to about 20 mm in
diameter and from about 35 to about 60 mm in length. 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.
[0005] Fortunately, it has been found during development of the
present invention that a tampon, in particular, a fluid permeable
bag tampon, inserted using the tampon applicator constructed
according to the invention discussed herein yields the side-to-side
coverage of the vaginal cavity immediately or soon after the time
of insertion, even with no help of fluid absorption, and thereby
can provide even further improvements in leakage protection,
comfort, and low wearing awareness, as compared to currently
marketed tampon applicators and previous attempts to improve tampon
applicators.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] 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, a force controller, and at least one side expulsion
member positioned at the first end of the tampon holder tube. The
side expulsion member has a weakened region located at its base.
The tampon comprises a fluid permeable bag and absorbent material
loosely dispersed within the fluid permeable bag.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] 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:
[0008] FIG. 1a is a perspective view of a tampon applicator and a
tampon in its pre-expelled state.
[0009] FIG. 1b is a top view of the tampon applicator of FIG.
1a.
[0010] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a tampon applicator and a
tampon in its partially-expelled state.
[0011] FIG. 3a is a perspective view of a tampon applicator and a
tampon in its expelled state.
[0012] 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.
[0013] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the tampon before insertion
into the tampon applicator.
[0014] FIG. 5a is a perspective view of a bag tampon.
[0015] FIG. 5b is a perspective view of an alternative tampon.
[0016] FIG. 6a is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment
of a tampon applicator with the tampon.
[0017] FIG. 6b is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment
of a tampon applicator with the tampon.
[0018] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of
a tampon applicator.
[0019] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of
a tampon applicator.
[0020] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of
a tampon applicator.
[0021] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment
of a tampon applicator.
[0022] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment
of a tampon applicator.
[0023] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment
of a tampon applicator.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0024] 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.
[0025] As used herein, the term "tampon," refers to any type of
absorbent structure that is inserted into the vaginal canal or
other body cavities for the absorption of fluid therefrom, to aid
in wound healing, or for the delivery of active materials, such as
medicaments, or moisture.
[0026] The term "deformable tampon" is meant as a tampon which is
easily deformable and readily deforms generally under a force of
less than about 1 pound per square inch (hereinafter "psi").
[0027] The term "fluid permeable bag tampon" is meant and as seen
in FIG. 5a, as a tampon comprising a fluid permeable bag and
absorbent material loosely dispersed within the fluid permeable
bag, such as that disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 3,815,601, issued to
Schaefer, on Jun. 11, 1974; U.S. Pat. No. 4,278,088, issued to
Reeves, et al., on Jul. 14, 1981; U.S. Pat. No. 6,533,771, issued
to Suga, et al., on Mar. 18, 2003; and U.S. patent application Ser.
No. 10/900,950, filed on Jul. 28, 2004, entitled "Highly Deformable
Tampon," to Thomas Ward Osborn, III, Case 9721.
[0028] 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.
[0029] 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.
[0030] 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.
[0031] 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.
[0032] By "side expulsion zone" is meant and as seen in FIG. 1a, a
weakened region as compared to the side expulsion members 31. The
side expulsion zone 35 is located between a first side expulsion
member 31 and a second side expulsion member 31.
[0033] 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.
[0034] 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.
[0035] The first end 26 of the tampon holder tube 22 further
comprises force controllers 30. The force controllers 30 are
positioned adjacent to the side expulsion members 31. The weakened
regions 61 are located around, at, or near, the base of the side
expulsion members 31. The weakened regions 61 can extend
circumferentially around, at, or near, the base of the side
expulsion members 31. The force controllers 30 are separated by
force controller sections 34 which may be between each force
controller 30. The force controllers 30 and the force controller
sections 34 are positioned at the top 44 of the first end 26. The
end of the force controllers 30 may have projections 38.
[0036] 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 force controllers 30, the force
controller 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.
[0037] 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).
[0038] 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.
[0039] 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 force controllers 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
force controllers 30 are separated by force controller sections 34.
In addition, the force controller 30 may have a central opening
37.
[0040] 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 along the longitudinal axis 45. 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 force controllers 30. In one embodiment, the
tampon 20 is spread by force controllers 30. Specifically, when the
axial force 40 is applied, the axial force 40 is transferred to
horizontal spreading force of the tampon 20 and the consequent
separation of the engaged tampon 20. The force controllers 30 may
contain projections 38. (FIG. 1a). The force controllers 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.
[0041] The combination of the weakened regions 61, force
controllers 30, and the side expulsion members 31 aide the force
controllers 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).
[0042] 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 force controllers 30, side
expulsion members 31, and side expulsion zones 35. The force
controllers 30 may include projections 38 (FIG. 1a). 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.
[0043] Referring to FIG. 4, 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 first portion 49 of the
tampon 20 is inserted first into the second end 27 of the tampon
holder 22 so that the first portion 49 of the tampon 20 expels
first. In yet another 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 portion 50 of the tampon 20
expels first. FIGS. 5a and 5b show two non-limiting examples of
tampons 20. Referring to FIGS. 5a and 5b, the tampon 20 has a first
portion 49 and a second portion 50. The second portion 50 of the
tampon has a trailing edge 53. A withdrawal string 39 may also be
attached.
[0044] FIG. 6a shows an alternative embodiment of a tampon
applicator 21 comprising the tampon holder tube 22 and the plunger
29. The tampon holder tube 22 has a first end 26. The first end 26
comprises the side expulsion members 31 and side expulsion zones
35. To reduce the expulsion force required to bend the side
expulsion members 31 open, a weakened region 61 is formed into the
outer surface of tampon holder 22 around, at, or near, the base of
the side expulsion members 31. The weakened regions 61 can extend
circumferentially around, at, or near, the base of the side
expulsion members 31. In use, as plunger 29 is pressed inwardly,
side expulsion members 31 hinge at the weakened regions 61, and the
tampon is expelled through the first end 26 of the tampon holder
tube 22. The more the weakened regions 61 allow the side expulsion
members 31 to hinge, the greater the horizontal spreading of tampon
20.
[0045] FIG. 6b shows yet another 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
force controllers 30, force controller sections 34, side expulsion
members 31, and side expulsion zones 35. Weakened regions 61 are
formed into the outer surface of tampon holder 22 around, at, or
near, the base of the side expulsion members 31. The weakened
regions 61 can extend circumferentially around, at, or near, the
base of the side expulsion members 31. The force controller
sections 34 can comprise of weakened regions. FIG. 7 and FIG. 8
show perspective views of alternative embodiments of tampon
applicators 21 having force controllers 30 and side expulsion zones
35 which can be void. Weakened regions 61 are formed into the outer
surface of tampon holder 22 around, at, or near, the base of the
side expulsion members 31. The weakened regions 61 can extend
circumferentially around, at, or near, the base of the side
expulsion members 31. 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 force
controllers 30 which can be one continuous film or sheet. The force
controllers 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. Weakened regions 61 are
formed into the outer surface of tampon holder 22 around, at, or
near, the base of the side expulsion members 31. The weakened
regions 61 can extend circumferentially around, at, or near, the
base of the side expulsion members 31. FIG. 12 shows another
perspective embodiment of a tampon applicator 21 having projections
38 located on the end of the force controller 30. Weakened regions
61 are formed into the outer surface of tampon holder 22 around,
at, or near, the base of the side expulsion members 31. The
weakened regions 61 can extend circumferentially around, at, or
near, the base of the side expulsion members 31.
[0046] Below will detail each component of the tampon applicator
21.
[0047] I. Force Controller and Force Controller Section
[0048] Referring primarily to FIG. 1a, the force controllers 30 are
positioned at the top 44 of the first end 26. As shown in FIG. 1b,
each force controller 30 is separated from the other by respective
sections 34. As shown in FIG. 1a, the force controllers 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 force controllers 30 than to expel the tampon 20
through the side expulsion members 31.
[0049] The force controllers 30 have a pre-expelled position (FIG.
1a), a partially expelled position (FIG. 2), and an expelled
position (FIG. 3a).
[0050] FIG. 2 shows the position of the force controllers 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 force controllers 30 expand beyond its initial dimension 54
along at least one of the side expulsion members 31. The force
controllers 30 provide resistance to expelling the tampon 20 at the
first end 26 thereof. In the present invention, the tampon 20 is
deformable which allows the force controllers 30 to reshape the
tampon 20. In other words, the tampon 20 for the lateral dimension
change during expulsion.
[0051] The manufacturer of the tampon applicator 21 may vary the
width of each force controller 30, the number of force controllers
30, the distance between each force controller 30, and the
configuration of the force controllers 30.
[0052] The width of each force controller 30 can vary greatly. As
seen in FIG. 1a, the width of each force controller 30 is a
function of the length of the outer perimeter 42 of the tampon
holder tube 22 and the width of the force controller sections 34
which are located between each force controller 30.
[0053] Any number of force controllers 30 may be utilized. Either
an even or an odd number of force controllers 30 can be present. As
shown in FIG. 1a and FIG. 1b, although three force controllers 30
are shown, additional force controllers 30 may give more positive
engagement of the tampon 20.
[0054] Referring to FIG. 1a, the distance between each force
controller 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 force controller
30, and the width of the force controller sections 34 which are
located between each force controller 30. Moreover, the force
controllers 30 can be equally spaced apart or they can be
non-uniformly arranged. Uniformly arranged force controllers 30 are
preferred, but randomly arranged force controllers 30 will work.
For ease of manufacturing, it is preferred that the force
controllers 30 be equally spaced relative to one another. The force
controllers 30, however, may be unequally spaced relative to one
another.
[0055] Referring to FIG. 1a, it is further noted herein that the
shape or configuration of each of the force controllers 30 may vary
as long as the force controllers 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 force controllers 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 force
controllers 30 than from the side expulsion members 31. The force
controller 30 is in no way limited by the size or shape that they
may assume except that they should not substantially hinder
directional expulsion of a tampon 20. As shown in FIG. 6b, in an
alternative embodiment, the side expulsion members 31 may be
covered with a thin film material which is not as strong as the
force controllers' 30 material. The side expulsion members 31 could
be hinged; scored; and/or could be a thin film. As also shown in
FIG. 6b, the material of the force controllers 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 force controllers 30 provide
resistance to the tampon 20 while the plunger 29 forces the tampon
20 out of the force controllers 30.
[0056] Referring to FIG. 1b, the force controller sections 34 which
separate each force controller 30 can be void areas, weakened
regions, and/or regions covered in material. If the force
controller sections 34 are covered in material, the material of the
force controller sections 34 are not as strong as the force
controllers' 30 material.
[0057] In one non-limiting example, the outer perimeter 42 can be
about 60.96 mm. In this example, there can be three force
controllers 30. Additionally, each force controller 30 can be about
6.35 mm and the force controller sections 34 between each force
controller 30 can be about 13.97 mm.
[0058] In yet another non-limiting example, the outer perimeter 42
can be about 75 mm. In this example, there can be five force
controllers 30. Additionally, each force controller 30 can be about
6.35 mm and the force controller sections 34 between each force
controller 30 can be about 8.65 mm.
[0059] In one further non-limiting example, the outer perimeter 42
can be about 53.5 mm. In this example, there can be six force
controllers 30. Additionally, each force controller 30 can be about
8 mm and the force controller sections 34 between each force
controller 30 can be about 1 mm.
[0060] As shown in FIG. 1a, each force controller 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. The projections may take the form of a
variety of shapes such as a rib, a notch, a knob, a hook, a
perforation, an adhesive, VELCRO.RTM., a bump, a ridge, or any
mixtures thereof. In yet another 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
force controller 30. Alternatively, the projections 38 may be
separately attached to the force controller 30.
[0061] 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 may give more positive engagement of the
tampon 20.
[0062] The projections 38 may be located anywhere on the force
controllers 30. As shown in FIG. 1a, the projections 38 may be
located at the end of the force controller 30. Furthermore, each
force controller 30 does not have to have a projection 38.
[0063] Referring to FIG. 1a, as axial force 40 is applied along the
longitudinal axis 45, the projections 38 retain the tampon 20 while
forcing the force controllers 30 to expand beyond its initial
dimension 54 in its pre-expelled state. The projections 38 (FIG.
1a) allow the tampon 20 to laterally expand into the vagina and
provide better vaginal coverage. Projections 38 (FIG. 1a) located
at the end of the force controller 30 especially complement
deformable tampons 20 which require less pressure to expand upon
expulsion from the tampon holder tube 22.
[0064] 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 force controllers 30 form a substantially closed
end configuration.
[0065] While not wishing to be bound by any particular theory, the
force controllers 30 may be made from any polymeric material such
as polyethylene, polypropylene, polybutylene, polystyrene,
polyvinylchloride, polyacrylate, polymethacrylate, polyacrylnitril,
polyacrylamide, polyamide, nylon, polyimide, polyester,
polycarbonate, ethylene vinyl acetate, polyurethane, silicone,
derivatives thereof, copolymers thereof, mixtures thereof, and the
like. The force controller 30 may also be made of paper,
paperboard, cardboard, or any combinations thereof. Each force
controller 30 may be composed of different materials or may be
composed of substantially the same type of material. The force
controller 30 need not be of the same material as the body of the
tampon applicator 21.
[0066] The maximum width in which the tampon 20 is spread before
leaving the tampon applicator 21 of the present invention is from
about 20 mms to about 60 mms, depending on the tampon design.
[0067] II. Side Expulsion Member and Side Expulsion Zone
[0068] Referring primarily to FIG. 1a, the side expulsion members
31 aid 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 force
controllers 30. Because the side expulsion members' 35 axial force
40 is less, this aids in 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 between the side expulsion members 31 as compared to the
force controllers 30. In fact, when the tampon 20 is being expelled
from the tampon holder tube 22, the force controllers 30 provide
resistance while the side expulsion members' 31 reach a deployed
width 55 (FIG. 2).
[0069] To reduce the expulsion force required to bend the side
expulsion members 31 open, a weakened region 61 is formed into the
outer and/or inner surface of tampon holder 22 around, at, or near,
the base of the side expulsion members 31. The weakened regions 61
can extend circumferentially around, at, or near, the base of the
side expulsion members 31. In use, as plunger 29 is pressed
inwardly, side expulsion members 31 hinge at the weakened regions
61, and the tampon is expelled through the first end 26 of the
tampon holder tube 22. The more the weakened regions 61 allow the
side expulsion members 31 to hinge, the greater the horizontal
spreading of tampon 20.
[0070] The weakened regions 61 may take a variety of forms such as
differential wall thickness, grooves, perforations, slots, T-cuts,
V-cuts, hinges, and mixtures thereof.
[0071] The weakened regions 61 can be any size or shape. Weakened
regions 61 can be any size or shape as long as the weakened region
61 is able to reduce the force required to bend the side expulsion
member 31. The weakened region 61 can be circular, square,
rectangular, triangular, arced, curved, or any other conceivable
shape possible. While the weakened regions 61 can be a wide range
of shapes, it is preferred to use a member selected from the group
consisting of straight grooves, tapered grooves, rectangular,
flower petals, ellipses, and mixtures thereof.
[0072] The weakened regions 61 may be formed to have essentially
identical sizes and shapes. In one non-limiting example, the tampon
holder tube comprises ten weakened regions 61. In this example,
each weakened region 61 can be identical to the other weakened
regions 61. Alternatively, the weakened regions 61 may be formed to
have various sizes and shapes as compared to another weakened
region 61 on the tampon holder tube. In one non-limiting example,
the tampon holder tube 22 has five weakened regions 61. However,
each weakened region 61 may have a different geometric shape.
Additionally, each weakened region 61 may have a different
size.
[0073] The number of weakened regions 61 and the distance over
which the weakened regions 61 extend may vary. Typically, the
weakened regions 61 are formed at the base of the side expulsion
members 31. The number of side expulsion members 31 may range from
about 1 to infinity. Either an even or an odd number weakened
regions 61 can be present. For ease of manufacturing, it is
preferred that the weakened regions 61 be equally spaced relative
to one another. The weakened regions 61, however, may be unequally
spaced relative to one another.
[0074] The distance between each weakened region 61 depends upon
the area of the side expulsion members 31 and the size and number
of weakened regions 61.
[0075] More than one weakened region 61 can be formed at the base
of the side expulsion members 31. If more than one weakened region
61 is formed, the weakened regions 61 may be arranged randomly or
in a pattern. For example, weakened regions 61 can be arranged to
form any three-dimensional geometric pattern known including but
not limited to diagonal lines, straight lines, checkerboard,
flowers, ovals, circles, rectangles, trapezoids, triangles, cones,
alphabet letters, and mixtures thereof. Alternatively, the weakened
regions 61 may be along the full length of the base of the side
expulsion member 31 or may have thinned regions spaced
intermittently along the length of the base of the side expulsion
member 31. Alternatively, weakened regions 61 may be randomly
arranged so that the multiplicity of weakened regions 61 may
comprise merely a surface roughness in no apparent pattern. In
addition, weakened regions 61 may be arranged such that the areas
between the weakened regions 61 may form any geometric pattern
known including but not limited to flowers, ovals, circles,
rectangles, trapezoids, triangles, cones, alphabet letters, and
mixtures thereof.
[0076] 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 force controllers 30. The
side expulsion members 31 are separated from each other by
respective side expulsion zones 35.
[0077] 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 {fraction (5/8)} inch (about 1.6
cm) and a side expulsion zone deployed width 55 of about {fraction
(3/4)} inch (about 1.9 cm) to about 11/4 inch (about 3.2 cm).
[0078] 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.
[0079] 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.
[0080] 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 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.
[0081] 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. 1b, three
side expulsion members 31 are shown.
[0082] 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.
[0083] 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.
[0084] 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. 6b, 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.
[0085] 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.
[0086] 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.
[0087] In one further non-limiting example, the outer perimeter 42
can be about 53.5 mm. In this example, there can be six side
expulsion members 31. Additionally, each side expulsion members 31
can be about 8 mm and the side expulsion zones 35 between each side
expulsion member 31 can be about 1 mm. In this example, the length
of the side expulsion members 31 and the side expulsion zones 35
can be about 20 mm.
[0088] FIG. 6a shows an alternative embodiment of a tampon
applicator 21 comprising the tampon holder tube 22 and the plunger
29. The tampon holder tube 22 has a first end 26. The first end 26
comprises the side expulsion members 31 and side expulsion zones
35. To reduce the expulsion force required to bend the side
expulsion members 31 open, a weakened region 61 is formed into the
outer surface of tampon holder 22 around, at, or near, the base of
the side expulsion members 31. The weakened regions 61 can extend
circumferentially around, at, or near, the base of the side
expulsion members 31. In use, as plunger 29 is pressed inwardly,
side expulsion members 31 hinge at the weakened regions 61, and the
tampon is expelled through the first end 26 of the tampon holder
tube 22. The more the weakened regions 61 allow the side expulsion
members 31 to hinge, the greater the horizontal spreading of tampon
20.
[0089] In an alternative embodiment, as seen in FIG. 9, the side
expulsion members 31 may have one continuous film or sheet and the
force controllers 30 may have one continuous film or sheet. The
sheet of the force controllers 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 force controller 30 may
overlap one another. The sheet for the side expulsion members 31
and the sheet for the force controllers 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 force controllers' 30
material.
[0090] The side expulsion members 31 may be composed of different
materials or may be composed of substantially the same type of
material.
[0091] III. Tampon
[0092] The present invention may be used with any type of tampon.
As used herein, the term "tampon" refers to any type of absorbent
structure that can be inserted into the vaginal cavity or other
body cavities for the absorption of fluid therefrom or for the
delivery of active materials, such as medicaments or moisture. A
tampon can be straight or non-linear in shape, such as curved along
the longitudinal axis.
[0093] Generally, there are two types of tampons. The first type of
tampon is a self-sustaining tampon. Tampons are generally
"self-sustaining" in that they will tend to retain their general
shape and size before use. A typical self-sustaining tampon is
35-60 mm long, the length measured from the top of the tampon to
the base of the tampon along a longitudinal axis. The measurement
to the base of the tampon does not include any overwrap, secondary
absorbent member, or withdrawal cord which extends beyond the
tampon's main absorbent material. A typical self-sustaining tampon
is 5-20 mm wide corresponding to the largest cylindrical cross
section. The width can vary along the length of the self-sustaining
tampon.
[0094] The second type of tampon is a deformable tampon. Such a
deformable tampon can easily deform generally under a force of less
than about 1 psi applied or released. The deformable tampon may
comprise any material which exhibits bulkiness, resiliency,
flexibility, compressibility, or twistability. The deformable
tampon may comprise any structure which includes unfilled volume,
void, perforation, slit, pleat, tab, ribbon, fringe, flare,
bellows, fold, wrinkle, segmentation, and the likes, generating
deformability of the tampon. When expelled from the tampon
applicator of the present invention into the vaginal cavity, such a
deformable tampon tends to deform, spread, open or expand inside
the vaginal cavity during the insertion primarily in the lateral
direction of the vaginal cavity and, thus provides the side-to-side
coverage of the vaginal cavity. Unlike the highly compressed rigid
tampon, the deformable tampon also provides a fit to the channels
in the vaginal wall and leads to further improvement of leakage
protection.
[0095] Referring to FIG. 5a, one example of such a deformable
tampon is a "fluid permeable bag tampon" (hereinafter "bag
tampon"). The bag tampon consists of, but is not limited to,
discrete pieces such as absorbent chips, spheres, or fibers
contained in a fluid permeable bag, such as that disclosed in U.S.
Pat. No. 3,815,601, issued to Schaefer, on Jun. 11, 1974; U.S. Pat.
No. 4,278,088, issued to Reeves, et al., on Jul. 14, 1981; U.S.
Pat. No. 6,533,771, issued to Suga, et al., on Mar. 18, 2003; and
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/900,950, filed on Jul. 28,
2004, entitled "Highly Deformable Tampon," to Thomas Ward Osborn,
III, Case 9721.
[0096] The material used for the bag tampon 22 is preferably soft
and flexible. In its pre-assembled state, the bag tampon 22 is
rectangular in shape. However, other shapes for the bag tampon 22,
such as, but not limited to, trapezoidal, triangular,
hemispherical, chevron, hourglass, cylindrical, spherical,
rectangular, and circular may also be used.
[0097] There are many possible compositions for the bag tampon 22
including woven and non-woven materials; polymeric materials such
as apertured formed thermoplastic 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, or
polypropylene 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.
[0098] Typical bag tampons 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 bag
tampon 22 may comprise a single material or a combination of
materials. In one non-limiting embodiment, the bag tampon 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
fiber) available from Kelheim Fibres GmbH, Kelheim, Germany;
DANUFIL rayon (a round cross-section rayon fiber), also available
from Kelheim Fibres GmbH, Kelheim, Germany is also suitable.
[0099] The absorbent material can take many physical forms
including particles, fibers, agglomerates, powders, gels, foams,
beads, and mixtures thereof. Sizes of particles range from fine
powders to about 8 mm. 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.
[0100] Gel compositions may be used for the absorbent material.
Such gel compositions may include polyacrylamide super-absorbent
premixed in water or glycerin to gel.
[0101] 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/O psi absorbency) are greater than 0.5.
[0102] 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.
[0103] Referring to FIG. 5b, another example of such deformable
tampons is a tassel tampon comprising a plurality of absorbent
strips or cords, such as that disclosed in currently pending and
commonly assigned, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/836,892,
filed on Apr. 30, 2004, entitled "Tampon Comprising a Plurality of
Strips or Cords," to Minoguchi, et al, Case 9615.
[0104] IV. Tampon Applicator Materials
[0105] Different tampon applicator parts can be constructed from
different materials and processes.
[0106] A. Tampon Holder Tube Materials
[0107] Referring primarily to FIG. 1a, 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. Moreover, the tampon holder tube 22
may be made from any polymeric material such as polyethylene,
polypropylene, polybutylene, polystyrene, polyvinylchloride,
polyacrylate, polymethacrylate, polyacrylnitril, polyacrylamide,
polyamide, nylon, polyimide, polyester, polycarbonate, ethylene
vinyl acetate, polyurethane, silicone, derivatives thereof,
copolymers thereof, mixtures thereof, and the like. The tampon
holder tube 22 may also be made of paper, paperboard, cardboard, or
any combinations thereof. Accordingly, the exterior surface 25 of
the tampon applicator 21 may be constructed from any suitable
smooth plastic material.
[0108] B. Plunger Materials
[0109] 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
force controller 30 and side expulsion zone(s) 31.
[0110] 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. Moreover,
the plunger 29 may be made from any polymeric material such as
polyethylene, polypropylene, polybutylene, polystyrene,
polyvinylchloride, polyacrylate, polymethacrylate, polyacrylnitril,
polyacrylamide, polyamide, nylon, polyimide, polyester,
polycarbonate, ethylene vinyl acetate, polyurethane, silicone,
derivatives thereof, copolymers thereof, mixtures thereof, and the
like. The plunger 29 may also be made of paper, paperboard,
cardboard, or any combinations thereof.
[0111] 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.
[0112] All documents cited in the Detailed Description of the
Invention 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. To the
extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this written
document conflicts with any meaning or definition of the term in a
document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition
assigned to the term in this written document shall govern.
[0113] 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.
* * * * *