• 专利附录
  • 专利说明
  • 权利要求
  • 类似技术
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    • 专利摘要:
    A moisture monitoring system is provided for an absorbent article, the moisture monitoring system, including a signaling device, including an alarm to indicate that the absorbent article has reached an emission limit. The signaling device operates with a set of sensors, which is arranged on the outer surface of the outer covering of the absorbent article. The signaling device includes a detection circuit, which measures changes in inductance or capacitance. The moisture monitoring system does not make direct contact with the absorbent structure located inside an external cover of the absorbent article.
    公开号:BR112014000937B1
    申请号:R112014000937-6
    申请日:2012-06-06
    公开日:2021-03-02
    发明作者:Jose Kollakompil Abraham；Thomas Michael Ales；Sudhanshu Gakhar；Jeffrey Robert Heller；Davis Dang Hoang Nhan；Joseph Raymond Feldkamp；Sridhar Ranganathan
    申请人:Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.；
    IPC主号:
    专利说明:

    ABSTRACT
    [0001] The present invention relates generally to a system and method of detecting the amount of liquid in an absorbent article that is being used by a user and to alert that user or caregiver of its state of humidity.
    [0002] An absorbent article containing a superabsorbent material is generally capable of holding more than an average urine output from a user, such as a baby or an incontinent adult. Therefore, users will often not change the absorbent article until it contains an evacuation or until the absorbent article is saturated with urine. Humidity indicators have been developed so that users can know when an emission has occurred.
    [0003] Absorbent articles associated with moisture indicators provide a signal to a user when the absorbent article receives an emission. The indicators send an electrical signal to a device that transmits a visible vibrating and / or audible warning that an emission has occurred. In general, a pair of spaced parallel conductors is located within the absorbent material of the garment. These conductors are in electrical contact with the absorbent material of the garment and are connected to a detection circuit to monitor the electrical property.
    [0004] When the absorbent articles include a moisture indicator with conductors that are in electrical contact with the absorbent material of the garment, the machine line on which the absorbent articles are made is changed in the part of the line where the article structure is made pad. This is detrimental to the manufacturing process. In addition, the incorporation of conductive wires into an absorbent core at conventional manufacturing speeds has been problematic.
    [0005] In addition to the challenges associated with the manufacture of absorbent articles with electrodes incorporated in the absorbent article, the user may wish to know not only that the absorbent article is wet, but the level of humidity. Without knowing if the absorbent is close to reaching or has already reached saturation, the article can be changed prematurely. ABSTRACT
    [0006] A system is released that allows the caregiver or user to determine when an absorbent article should be changed according to a predetermined humidity level, and a solution to the manufacturing challenges mentioned here. More specifically, this is a description of a system that allows a caregiver or user to know the moisture content of the article's absorbent structure after several emissions. The system does not require modifications to the production line of the absorbent article. Instead, the user or caregiver has the option of placing the 100 system on a conventional absorbent garment.
    [0007] One aspect of the present description is a system for detecting and indicating the presence of a body exudate in an absorbent article. The system includes a signaling device, having a compartment that houses a detection circuit, and a set of sensors electrically connected to the detection circuit. The sensor array includes a plurality of sensors arranged on an elongated substrate.
    [0008] Another aspect of the description is a moisture detection kit. The kit includes a plurality of absorbent articles and a system for detecting and indicating the presence of a body exudate in an absorbent article. The system includes a signaling device, having a compartment that houses a detection circuit, and a set of sensors connected to the detection circuit. The sensor array has a plurality of sensors arranged on an elongated substrate. The system can be sequentially and removably connected to each of a plurality of absorbent articles.
    [0009] Yet another aspect of the description is a body exudate collection and detection system having an absorbent article and a signaling device. The signaling device consists of a compartment and a detection circuit. The set of sensors is electrically connected to the detection circuit and partially housed in the compartment, where the set of sensors has a plurality of sensors arranged on an elongated substrate. The system is coupled to the outer cover of the absorbent article. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
    [00010] The foregoing and other characteristics and aspects of the present disclosure and the way to achieve them will become more apparent and the disclosure itself will be better understood by reference to the following description, attached claims and accompanying drawings.
    [00011] Figure 1 is a rear perspective view of an aspect of an absorbent article; Figure 2 is a front perspective view of the absorbent article shown in Figure 1; Figure 3 is a plan view of the absorbent article shown in Figure 1 with the article in a detached, unfolded and horizontally arranged condition, showing the surface of the article, which is facing the user; Figure 4 is a plan view similar to Figure 3, showing the surface of the absorbent article that is facing the user when dressed and with cut-out parts to show the underlying characteristics; Figure 5 is a schematic representation of the signal detection electronics according to an aspect of the disclosure; Figure 6 is a schematic representation of an equivalent direct current source circuit according to an aspect of the disclosure; Figure 7 is a schematic representation of a DC controller according to an aspect of the disclosure; Figures 8A and 8B are examples of sensor electrodes in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure; Figure 9 is a set of inductive sensors 108 according to an aspect of the disclosure; Figures 10A and 10B are examples of inductors, according to an aspect of the disclosure that can be used in the sensor assembly of Figure 9; Figure 11 is a side cross-section of an absorbent garment according to an aspect of the disclosure where a display and related sensors are arranged; Figure 12 is an aspect of a schematic diagram of a circuit that has an inductive sensor in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure; Figure 13 is a graph showing a normalized variation of the impedance according to an aspect of the disclosure; Figure 14 is a graph showing a normalized variation of capacitance according to an aspect of the disclosure; Figure 15 is a flow chart showing an aspect of an algorithm for using capacitance data to determine when an absorbent article reaches a desired or predetermined level of moisture; and Figure 16 is a flow chart showing an aspect of an algorithm for using the inductance data to determine when an absorbent article reaches a desired or predetermined level of moisture.
    [00012] Figure 17 is a schematic diagram of an aspect of the disclosure, including an induction coil and a marginal oscillator.
    [00013] The repetitive use of reference characters in this specification and drawings is intended to represent the same characteristics / elements or characteristics / analogous elements of this disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
    [00014] A person skilled in the art should understand that the present discussion deals with a description of exemplary achievements only, and is not intended to limit the broader aspects of the present disclosure.
    [00015] Newborns and children have urination patterns that are different from those of children who are undergoing training in the use of the potty (sphincter control). Newborns and children will often emit 20 ml of urine at a time, with a few minutes, such as 10-20 minutes, between urination. Similar behavior can also be exhibited by users of adult incontinence products. To determine when the absorbent article is or will soon be saturated, a moisture detection system is used. This system can be enabled with higher order algorithms to collect and process electrical data captured from the absorbent article when the absorbent article and the moisture detection device are in use.
    [00016] As used herein, the terms user, adult or child, refers to the individual who placed the absorbent article. Caregiver refers to a person who is caring for the adult or child, including changing the absorbent article. User can refer to the caregiver or the user of the absorbent article, depending on the context of use and the capacities necessary to use the object in question.
    [00017] With reference to Figs. 1 and 2, by way of example, an absorbent article 20 which can be made in accordance with the present disclosure is shown. The absorbent article 20 may or may not be disposable. It is understood that the present disclosure is suitable for use with various other absorbent articles intended for personal use, including, but not limited to, diapers, training pants, swimming pants, feminine hygiene products, incontinence products, medical clothing, surgical and dressing pads, other personal or health care items, and the like, without departing from the scope of this disclosure.
    [00018] By way of illustration only, a variety of materials and methods for constructing absorbent articles such as diaper 20 of the various aspects of the present disclosure are disclosed in PCT Patent Application WO 00/37009 published on June 29, 2000 by A Fletcher et al .; US patent 4,940,464 issued July 10, 1990 to Van Gompel et al .; U.S. Patent 5,766,389 issued June 16, 1998 to Brandon et al .; and U.S. Patent 6,645,190 issued November 1, 2003 to Olson et al. which are hereby incorporated by reference, insofar as they are compatible (that is, they are not in conflict) in the annex.
    [00019] A diaper 20 is shown illustrated in Fig. 1 in a partially tightened condition. The diaper 20 shown in Figs. 1 and 2 is also shown in Figs. 3 and 4 in an open and unfolded state. Specifically, Fig. 3 is a plan view showing the outside of diaper 20, while Fig. 4 shows the inside of diaper 20. As shown in Figs. 3 and 4, diaper 20 defines a longitudinal direction 48 that extends from the front of the article when dressed to the rear of the article. Opposite the longitudinal direction 48 is the lateral direction 49.
    [00020] Diaper 20 defines a pair of longitudinal end regions, also referred to herein as a front region 22 and a rear region 24, and a central region, also referred to here as groin region 26, extending longitudinally between and connecting the front and rear regions 22, 24. The diaper 20 also defines an internal surface 28 adapted in use (eg positioned in relation to the other components of article 20) facing the user, and an external surface 30 opposite the surface internal 28. The front and rear regions 22, 24 are these parts of the diaper 20 that, when used, fully or partially cover or involve the waist or the lower-central part of the user's torso. The crotch region 26 is usually the part of the diaper 20 that, when used, is positioned between the user's legs and covers the lower part of the user's torso and groin. The absorbent article 20 has a pair of lateral, laterally opposite edges 36 and a pair of longitudinally opposed waist edges, respectively designated with front waist edge 38 and rear waist edge 39.
    [00021] The illustrated diaper 20 includes a chassis 32, which in this respect comprises the front region 22, the rear region 24 and the crotch region 26. With reference to Figs. 1-4, the chassis 32 includes an outer cover 40 and a body side liner 42 (Figs. 1 and 4) that can be joined up to the outer cover 40 in an overlapping relationship with the aid of adhesives, ultrasonic binders, ligands thermal or other conventional techniques. With reference to Figs. 4, the liner 42 can be properly attached to the outer cover 40 along the perimeter of the chassis 32 to form a front waist junction 62 and a rear waist junction 64. As shown in Fig. 4, lining 42 can be properly attached to the outer cover 40 to form a pair of side joints 61 in the front region 22 and in the rear region 24. The lining 42 can generally be adapted, that is, positioned in relation to the other components of article 20, facing the user's skin during the use of the absorbent article. The chassis 32 can also include an absorbent structure 44 particularly shown in Fig. 4, disposed between the outer cover 40 and the body side lining 42 for the absorption of liquid body exudates by the user, and can also include a pair of flaps. containment 46 attached to the lining on the side of the body 42 to inhibit the lateral leakage of body exudates.
    [00022] The elasticized containment flaps 46, as shown in Fig. 4, define a partially uncoupled edge that assumes a vertical configuration at least in the crotch region 26 of the diaper 20 to form a seal against the user's body. The containment flaps 46 can extend longitudinally along the entire length of the chassis 32 or can extend only partly along the length of the chassis 32. Suitable constructions and arrangements for the containment flaps 46 are generally well known to those skilled in the art. and are described in U.S. Patent 4,704,116 issued November 3, 1987 to Enloe, incorporated herein by reference.
    [00023] To improve the containment and / or absorption of body exudates, training pants 20 may also suitably include an elastic member 58 (Fig. 4), as are known to experts in the field. The elastic members of the leg 58 can be joined together. operatively to the outer cover 40 and / or the lining on the side of the body 42 and positioned in the crotch region 26 of the absorbent article 20.
    [00024] The elastic members of the leg 58 can be made of any suitable elastic material. As is well known to those skilled in the art, competent elastic materials include sheets, threads or tapes of natural rubber, synthetic rubber or thermoplastic elastomeric polymers. The elastic materials can be stretched and glued to a substrate, glued and a substrate collected or glued to a substrate and then elasticized or shrunk, for example, with the application of heat, so that the forces of elastic retraction are transmitted to the substrate. In a particular aspect, for example, the elastic members of the leg 58 may include a plurality of multifilamentous spandex elastomeric yarns coalesced by extrudate drying, marketed under the trade name LYCRA and available from Invista, Wilmington, Delaware, USA.
    [00025] In some respects, the absorbent article 20 may further include a wave control layer 60, which may optionally be located adjacent to the absorbent structure 44 and connected to various components in the article 20, such as the absorbent structure 44 or the lining on the side of the body 42 by methods known in the art, such as using an adhesive. A wave control layer 60 helps to slow down and diffuse waves or jets of liquid that can be quickly introduced into the absorbent structure 44 of article 20. Desirably, wave control layer 60 can quickly and temporarily accept and retain liquid before releasing it for the storage or retention parts of the absorbent structure 44. Examples of suitable wave control layers 60 are described in U.S. Patent No. 5,486,166 issued on January 23, 1996 to David F. Bishop et al. and U.S. Patent No. 5,490,846 issued February 13, 1996 to Clifford J. Ellis et al. Other suitable wave control materials are described in U.S. Patent No. 5,820,973, issued on October 13, 1998 to Richard N. Dodge II et al. The full descriptions of these patents are hereby incorporated for reference purposes, insofar as they are compatible (ie are not in conflict) in the appendix.
    [00026] As shown in Figs. 1-4, the absorbent article 20 further includes a pair of elastic side panels 34 which are coupled to the rear region of the chassis 32. As particularly shown in Figs. 1 and 2, side panels 34 can be stretched around a user's waist and / or hips in order to hold the part in place. As shown in Figs. 3 and 4, the elastic side panels 34 are coupled to the chassis 32 along a pair of opposite longitudinal edges 37. The side panels 34 can be coupled or connected to the chassis 32 using any suitable connection technique. For example, side panels 34 can be attached to the chassis 32 by means of adhesives, ultrasonic connections, thermal connections or other conventional techniques.
    [00027] In an alternative aspect, the elastic side panels 34 can also be formed integrally with the chassis 32. For example, the side panels 34 can include an extension of the lining on the side of the body 42 of the outer cover 40, or both the lining on the side of the body 42 and the outer cover 40.
    [00028] In the aspects shown in the figures, the side panels 34 are connected to the rear region 24 of the absorbent article 20 and extend through the front region 22 of the article 20 when fixing the article 20 in place on a user. It should be understood, however, that the side panels 34 can alternatively be connected to the front region 22 of the article 20 and extend to the rear region 24 when the article 20 is used.
    [00029] With the absorbent article 20 in the tight position, as partially illustrated in Figs. 1 and 2, the elastic side panels 34 can be connected by a closure system 80 to define a three-dimensional diaper configuration that has a waist opening 50 and a pair of leg openings 52. The waist opening 50 of article 20 is defined by the waist edges 38 and 39 that surround the user's waist.
    [00030] In the aspects shown in the figures, the side panels 34 are reliably attachable to the front region 22 of article 20 by the locking system 80. It should be understood, however, that in other aspects, the side panels 34 can be permanently attached to the chassis 32 at each end. The side panels 34 can be permanently linked together, for example, when forming training pants or absorbent swimwear.
    [00031] The elastic side panels 34 each have an outer longitudinal edge 68, an end edge of the leg 70 arranged in the direction of the longitudinal center of the diaper 20, and end edges of the waist 72 arranged in the direction of a longitudinal end of the absorbent article 20 The end leg edges 70 of the absorbent article 20 can be suitably curved or angled relative to the lateral direction 49 to provide a better fit around the user's legs. However, it is understood that only one of the end edges of the leg 70 can be curved or arranged at an angle, so that the end edge of the leg 70 of the rear region 24, or alternatively, none of the end edges of the leg 70 can be curved or arranged at an angle without departing from the scope of the present invention. As shown in Fig. 4, the outer edges 68 are generally parallel to the longitudinal direction 48 while the end edges of the waist 72 are generally parallel to the lateral direction 49. It is to be understood, however, that, in other respects, the outer edges 68 and / or the edges of the waist 72 can be angled or curved as desired. Ultimately, side panels 34 are generally aligned with a waist region 90 of chassis 32.
    [00032] The fastening system 80 may include first laterally opposing fastening components 82 adapted for re-fastening to the corresponding second fastening components 84. In the aspect shown in the figures, the first fastening component 82 is located on the elastic side panels 34, while the second fastener 84 is located in the front region 22 of the chassis 32. In one aspect, a front or outer surface of each of the fasteners 82, 84 includes a plurality of engagement elements. The engagement elements of the first fasteners 82 are adapted to repeatedly engage and disengage the corresponding engagement elements of the second fasteners 84 to detachably fix the article 20 in its three-dimensional configuration.
    [00033] The fastening components 82, 84 can be any reusable fastening elements suitable for absorbent articles, such as adhesive fasteners, cohesive fasteners, mechanical fasteners or the like. In particular aspects, the fastening components include mechanical fastening elements for improved performance. Suitable mechanical fastening elements can be provided by geometric shaped locking materials, such as hooks, loops, bulbs, mushrooms, arrows, rod balls, male and female coupling components, buckles, clasps or the like.
    [00034] In the illustrated aspect, the first fasteners 82 include hook fasteners and the second fasteners 84 include complementary loop fasteners. Alternatively, the first fasteners 82 include hook fasteners and the second fasteners 84 can include complementary hook fasteners. In another aspect, the fasteners 82, 84 can interconnect similar surface fasteners, or adhesive or cohesive fasteners, such as an adhesive fastener and a receptive adhesive landing zone or material; or the like. A person skilled in the art will recognize that the shape, density and polymeric composition of the hooks and loops can be selected to obtain the desired level of coupling between the fastening components 82, 84. Suitable fastening systems are also described in the Order for PCT patent previously incorporated WO 00/37009, published on June 29, 2000 by A. Fletcher et al. and previously incorporated US Patent 6,645,190 issued on November 11, 2003 to Olson et al.
    [00035] In the aspect shown in the figures, the fastening components 82 are connected to the side panels 34 along the edges 68. In this aspect, the fastening components 82 are not elastic or extensible. In other respects, however, the fasteners can be integral with the side panels 34. For example, the fasteners can be directly coupled to the side panels 34 on a panel surface.
    [00036] In addition to the possibility of having elastic side panels, the absorbent article 20 may include various elastic waist elements to provide elasticity around the waist opening 50. For example, as shown in the figures, the absorbent article 20 may include a front elastic waist member 54 and / or a rear waist elastic member 56.
    [00037] The materials used to form the absorbent article 20 surrounding the elastic waist elements 54 and 56 may vary depending on the particular application and the particular product being produced.
    [00038] The outer cover 40, for example, can be breathable and / or it can be impermeable to liquids. The outer covering 40 can be constructed of a single layer, of multiple layers, laminates, spunbond fabrics, films, meltblown fabrics, elastic networks, microporous webs, blanket by carding and consolidation by pressure and heat or foams provided by elastomeric or polymeric materials. The outer cover 40 can be a single layer of liquid impermeable material, or it can include a multilayer laminate structure in which at least one of the layers is liquid and permeable. In other respects, however, it should be understood that the outer cover 40 may be permeable to liquids. In this regard, for example, the absorbent article 20 may contain an internal liquid barrier layer.
    [00039] For example, the outer cover 40 may include an outer layer permeable to liquids and an inner layer impermeable to liquids that are suitably joined by an adhesive, laminate, ultrasonic bonds, thermal bonds or the like. Suitable laminated adhesives, which can be applied continuously or intermittently, in the form of beads, a spray, parallel swirls, or the like, can be obtained from Bostik Findley Adhesives, Inc., of Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, USA, or from National Starch and Chemical Company, Bridgewater, New Jersey, USA. The liquid-permeable outer layer can be of any suitable material and it is desirable to be a material that provides a cloth-like texture. An example of such a material is a 20 gsm (grams per square meter) spunbond polypropylene nonwoven web (grams per square meter). The outer layer can also be made of the same materials used for the manufacture of the lining on the side of the liquid-permeable body 42.
    [00040] The inner layer of the outer cover 40 may be either impermeable to liquids and vapor, or it may be impermeable to liquids and vapor permeable. The inner layer is conveniently made from a thin plastic film, although other flexible and liquid-impermeable materials can also be used. The inner layer, or the liquid-impermeable outer cover 40 when a single layer, prevents the residual material from wetting articles, such as sheets and clothing, as well as the user and caregiver. A liquid-impermeable film suitable for use as an inner layer, or a single liquid-impermeable outer layer 40, is a 0.02 millimeter polyethylene film, commercially available from the Pliant Corporation of Schaumburg, Illinois, USA.
    [00041] The lining on the side of the body 42 is suitably compatible, with a smooth texture and non-irritating to the user's skin. The body-side lining 42 is also sufficiently permeable to allow liquid body exudates to easily penetrate through its thickness to the absorbent structure 44. A suitable body-side lining 42 can be manufactured from a wide variety of blanket materials , such as porous foams, cross-linked foams, perforated plastic films, woven and non-woven blankets or a combination of such materials. For example, the body-side lining 42 may include a meltblown blanket, a spunbond blanket, or a carding and consolidation blanket by pressure and heat consisting of natural fibers, synthetic fibers or combinations thereof. The body-side lining 42 can be composed of a substantially hydrophobic material, and the hydrophobic material can optionally be treated with a surfactant or processed to give a desired level of wettability and hydrophilicity.
    [00042] [057] The absorbent structure 44 can be placed between the outer cover 40 and the lining on the side of the body 42. The absorbent structure 44 can be any structure or combination of components that are really compressible, conformable, do not irritate the skin of the user, and capable of absorbing and requires liquids and certain body wastes. For example, the absorbent structure 44, for example, can include cellulosic fibers (for example, wood pulp fibers), other natural fibers, synthetic fibers, woven and non-woven sheets, support fabric or other stabilizing structures, material superabsorbent, bonding materials, surfactants, selected hydrophobic materials, pigments, lotions, odor control agents or the like, as well as combinations thereof. In a particular aspect, the absorbent material of the mat is a matrix of cellulosic down and superabsorbent hydrogel-forming particles. Cellulosic down may include a mixture of wood pulp down. A preferred type of down is identified with the trade name CR 1654, available from Bowater of Greenville, South Carolina, USA, and is a highly absorbent bleached sulphate wood down, containing mainly softwood fibers. Absorbent materials can be molded into a blanket structure, using various conventional methods and techniques. For example, the absorbent mat can be formed with a dry molding technique, an airflow technique, a wet molding technique, a foam molding technique or the like, as well as combinations thereof. The methods and apparatus for carrying out such techniques are well known in the art. In addition, the absorbent structure itself can comprise several layers in the Z direction. These multiple layers can take advantage of differences in absorption capacity, for example, by placing a layer of lower capacity absorbent material closer to the liner 42 and an absorbent material higher capacity closer to the outer covering layer 40. Likewise, discrete parts of a single layer absorbent structure may comprise higher capacity absorbents, and other discrete parts of the structure may include lower capacity absorbers.
    [00043] As a general rule, the superabsorbent material is present in the absorbent mat in an amount of about 0 to about 90 weight percent based on the total weight of the mat. The blanket can have a density within the range of about 0.10 to about 0.60 grams per cubic centimeter.
    [00044] Superabsorbent materials are well known in the art and can be selected from natural, synthetic and modified natural polymers and materials. Superabsorbent materials can be inorganic materials, such as silica gels, or organic compounds, such as cross-linked polymers. Typically, a superabsorbent material is able to absorb at least about 10 times its weight in liquid, and it is desirable to be able to absorb more than about 25 times its weight in liquid. Suitable superabsorbent materials are readily available from several suppliers. For example, SXM 9394 and Favor 9543 superabsorbents are available from DeGussa, located in Parsippany, New Jersey, USA.
    [00045] After being molded or cut into the desired shape, the absorbent mat material can be wrapped or molded or wrapped by a suitable fabric or meltblown or similar mat, which helps in maintaining the integrity and shape of the absorbent structure 44.
    [00046] The absorbent mat material can also be an absorbent material composed of cellulose and melted polymers injected in hot air. The term "absorbent material composed of cellulose and molten polymers injected in hot air" (in English, "coform material") generally refers to composite materials that comprise a stabilized mixture or matrix of thermoplastic fibers and a second non-thermoplastic material. As an example, coform® materials can be manufactured by a process in which at least one die and blow die head is arranged next to a chute, through which other materials are added to the mat during molding. These other materials may include, but are not limited to, organic fibrous materials, such as wood pulp and non-wood such as cotton, rayon, recycled paper, pulp down and also superabsorbent particles, inorganic absorbent materials, treated polymeric cut fibers and the like . Any variety of synthetic polymers can be used as a casting and blowing component of the high-performance absorbent material. For example, in certain aspects, thermoplastic polymers can be used. Some examples of suitable thermoplastic materials that can be used include polyolefins, such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polybutylene, etc; polyamides; and polyesters. In one aspect, the thermoplastic polymer is polypropylene. Some examples of these coform materials are disclosed in U.S. Patent Nos. 4,100,324 to Anderson, et al .; 5,284,703 to Everhart, et al .; and 5,350,624 for Georger, et al .; which are hereby incorporated by reference, insofar as they are compatible (that is, they are not in conflict) in the annex.
    [00047] Shown in Figs. 3 and 11 is an example of the humidity monitoring system, usually indicated by reference number 100. Monitoring system 100 includes a set of sensors 108 and a signaling device 110 equipped with a detection circuit 112. The detection circuit 112 detects an electrical property (for example, inductance or capacitance) of article 20. When a body exudate is present in the absorbent article 20, the detection circuit 112 detects the presence of the body exudate and activates the signaling device 110. The monitoring system 100 has no physical contact with the inside of the diaper inside the outer cover 40. Therefore, the system 100 is disposed on the outer surface of the outer cover 40.
    [00048] The complete detection circuit 112 is arranged in a box 114 (see FIGS. 2 and 3) which is adapted to be attached to the absorbent article 20 together with the sensor set 108. The box 114 can be a bag or a rigid or semi-rigid box 114. Additional technical details are provided in the co-signed and co-signed U.S. Patent Application, No. Series 12 / 968,399, requested on December 15, 2010, by Nhan et al., and incorporated herein by reference to the extent that it is consistent with the attachment (ie, not in conflict).
    [00049] A fastening mechanism that can be used to attach the system 100 to the outer cover 40 of the absorbent article 20 includes adhesive, hook and loop, mechanical fasteners such as clasps, a clip or a bracket, any other suitable fastening mechanism , or any combination of these fasteners. Various securing mechanisms include those described in the copending and co-signed U.S. Patent Application, No. 2007/0142797 for Long et al. and entitled "Clothes with an easy-to-use signaling device"; US Patent No. 7,394,391 issued to Long and entitled "Connecting Mechanisms" and US Patent No. 7,477,156 issued to Long, et al. and entitled "Connection mechanisms in absorbent articles for body fluid signaling devices", which are hereby incorporated by reference, insofar as they are consistent (that is, they are not in conflict) in the appendix.
    [00050] The sensor set 108 is fixed on the outer surface of the outer cover 40. The sensor set 108 is oriented in the longitudinal direction 48 and can extend longitudinally from the front zone 22, through the crotch zone 26, to the region backside 24 of the absorbent article 20. However, the sensor assembly 108 can be located in only part of these regions, such as the front region 22 as illustrated in Fig. 1.
    [00051] As the sensor set 108 is coupled to the outer cover 40 and can monitor the state of the interior of the article 20 without making direct contact with the absorbent structure 44, the manufacture of the absorbent article 20 is simplified. Generally, this arrangement allows the addition of a set of sensors 108 to an absorbent article 20 without having to make any changes in the manufacturing process for the article 20.
    [00052] In some aspects of the present disclosure, the signaling device 110 may include a display of the number of emissions, a display of the elapsed time, a percentage of quantity or a combination thereof. When the signaling device 110 emits a visible signal, this signal may comprise a light, several lights or an interactive display. The lights can be an LCD monitor, a series of LED lights, or any other type of display suitable for displaying such information to a user. In other aspects of the present disclosure, signaling device 110 can be configured to vibrate.
    [00053] Signaling device 110 may include a transmitter and a receiver (not shown). In particular, in one aspect of the present disclosure, the transmitter sends a wireless signal to the receiver, which then indicates to a user or caregiver that the body exudate is present in the absorbent article 20. More details on this aspect can be obtained, for example, in U.S. Patent No. 7,394,391, granted to Longo and entitled "Connection Mechanisms", which is hereby incorporated by reference to the extent that it is consistent (that is, not in conflict) in this document.
    [00054] The signaling device 110, when connected or placed close to the absorbent article 20, collects electrical data that can be obtained by capacitive or inductive means, as described herein. The data is used in an algorithm that determines when the absorbent article 20 has reached a predetermined level of fullness. FIGS. 15 and 16 provide an example illustration of such an algorithm, discussed here.
    [00055] In an aspect of the disclosure, the sensor assembly 108 is defined by an inductor assembly 122, disposed on the outer cover 40 of the absorbent article 20. Together, the inductors 124 of the assembly measure the physical property of the absorbent article 20 by measuring the conductivity within of the monitoring area 128. Conductivity is directly correlated with the absorption capacity and, therefore, the saturation level of the absorbent structure 44. Additional technical details on the conductive elements and specific analysis of pulsation and electronic signaling are given in the Request for Copending and co-signed US patent, no. 2010/0114046 of October 30, 2008, by Ales et al.
    [00056] Detection circuit 112 monitors changes in impedance in response to body waste in the vicinity of a monitoring area 128. Monitoring area 128 is the region of absorbent article 20 that is close to inductor set 122. The inductor set 122 includes one or more induction coils 125 which, when placed close to a conductive liquid, such as urine, will generate weak electrical eddy currents in the liquid. The electric currents, in turn, generate a field that is coupled with the induction coil 125, changing its impedance.
    [00057] The inductor assembly 122 can be manufactured using techniques of fabrication of printed circuits on a flexible substrate. For example, conductive inks can be printed on a flexible plastic sheet. The typical form of inductor is circular. However, other forms of inductor, such as rectangular, square and triangular, can be used.
    [00058] Induction coils 125 can be manufactured in a small size, having a diameter of about 1.0 mm, although the field of view of induction coil 125 is reduced as the diameter of coil 125 is reduced. 125 induction can also be manufactured in large size to increase the field of view, with diameters up to 8 cm, but larger 125 induction coils may become impractical for use with absorbent article applications. Although induction coils 125 of any size can be used, coils 125 in the range of about 0.5 cm to about 3 cm are more practical. Likewise, coils 125 in the range of about 1 cm to about 2 cm provide additional advantages. Finally, coils 125 in the range of about 1 cm to about 1.5 cm are more practical.
    [00059] The detection circuit 112 includes a marginal oscillator circuit 130. The marginal oscillator circuit 130 is used to detect the changed impedance of the induction coil 125. An example of such an oscillator circuit 130 is illustrated in FIG. 17. The marginal oscillator circuit 130, in its simplest form, is a standard Colpitts type oscillator that has just enough feedback to trigger it in oscillation. In other aspects of the present patent application, the oscillator can be any suitable oscillator circuit including a Franklin or Hartley oscillator. When conductive objects are brought close to induction coil 125, energy is removed from the oscillator, due to ohmic losses in the conductive object. This removal of energy registers at the output of the oscillator, which in this case, can be interpreted to measure the amount of conductive liquid in the absorbent article or the conductivity of the liquid. Once the signaling device 110 is activated, the processor makes a reference measurement, which is automatic and transparent to the user. Detection circuit 112 automatically zeroes to establish the required zero humidity reference point.
    [00060] The electronic components associated with the 112 detection circuit are relatively simple and can be miniaturized to the size of a seal. The detection circuit 112 includes the induction coil 125, which, in one example, comprises about 40 turns of size 36 copper wire, molded in a planar circuit of about 2 cm in diameter. As can be seen in FIGS. 10a and 10b, the induction coils can be of various shapes, such as round, rectangular or any other shape.
    [00061] In some cases, it is possible that the detection circuit 112 has to deal with conductive objects nearby that may cause interference. In practical applications, however, such a situation is unlikely to occur, as the conductive object that causes the interference typically needs to be within a spiral diameter of the center of the coil 126. This makes the appearance of a conductive object that causes unlikely interference within a coil diameter of the center 126 of the induction coil 125 when the detection circuit 112 is used in conjunction with an absorbent article 20. However, such an interference problem can be managed by an intelligent processor that recognizes and stores the signal output once the induction coil 125 is in position and activated. The processor uses this output signal as a reference point and interprets subsequent signals in relation to this reference point. In other words, the processor includes an intelligent zeroing feature.
    [00062] In another aspect of the present disclosure illustrated in the circuit diagram, a ground plane between the electrical common of the inductor assembly 122 and the absorbent structure 44 can be used to ensure that the signaling device 110 and the liquid in the absorbent structure 44 are under the same potential or tension. Such a ground plane can help the detector circuit 112 to be more sensitive to the detection impedance variations in the induction coil 125 since the ground plane can reduce the noise in the system.
    [00063] In operation, when the absorbent article 20 receives a first emission, a signal from the marginal oscillating circuit 130 increases to a relatively high high level while swelling of the superabsorbent occurs, but then reaches a plateau as the liquid is absorbed away from the field of view of the induction coil 125. The field of view of the induction coil 125 is the region where an emission will affect the induction coil 125. Thus, an abrupt increase in the signal output of the marginal oscillator circuit is expected 130 followed by a leveling. In the absence of superabsorbent material, the signal would slowly drop in response to absorption. A second emission in the absorbent article 20 produces an abrupt drop in signal, since the urine received is generally less conductive than the swollen superabsorbent. After the second emission is completed, the signal starts to rise again, but for values that are higher than those after the first emission, but followed by a period of decay if the levels of superabsorbents are small. When detector circuit 112 detects an emission, signaling device 110 provides a signal to the user or caregiver, as described above.
    [00064] The data can be obtained through a bench test and a mannequin study carried out with saline. A 0.9% saline solution is used to create a series of six 60 ml emissions with a flow rate of 180 ml / min. For each emission, a drop in impedance occurs. The change in impedance as a function of each drop is measured. The percentage change in the impedance of each emission is computed. A graph showing normalized impedance is shown in FIG. 13.
    [00065] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the capacitance of the monitoring zone 128 of the absorbent article 20 is measured. Thus, sensor assembly 108 is constructed not with inductive coils 125, but with capacitors 148.
    [00066] With reference to FIGS. 2 and 8A - 8B, the moisture monitoring system based on capacitance 100 detects the fullness of the absorbent article 20. System 100 includes a set of sensors 108 of capacitors 148 that monitors changes in capacitance in response to body waste. Due to the high dielectric permissiveness of body waste related to air, the initial capacitance changes significantly when this type of ionic liquid is close to the condenser 148.
    [00067] With reference to FIGS. 5 and 8A - 8B, the electrical signal detection measures changes in the capacitance of the set of electrode sensors 108 using a circuit 150. Circuit 150 is optimized to have adequate sensitivity to detect changes in dielectric permittivity.
    [00068] In one aspect of the present disclosure it is best illustrated in Fig. 2, a set of sensors 108 includes capacitive sensors 142 adapted to detect the presence of a body exudate in the absorbent article 20. A non-invasive capacitance-based sensor can be used to determine the permittivity of the material close to the detection element. In this sense, each capacitive sensor 142 is an open virtual capacitor.
    [00069] Capacitive sensor 142 is defined by electrodes that create an electrostatic field that extends beyond the face of the electrodes. Conductive substances, such as body exudations in the absorbent article 20, act as dielectrics that alter the field dynamics, causing a load on the system. This amount of charge can be read as merely the presence or extent of the presence of moisture, for example. The construction and power applied to the electrodes can control the extent to which the field extends and the frequency of the feed can be adjusted to fine-tune the selectivity of certain dielectrics.
    [00070] For example, a capacitive non-invasive sensor 142 can be used to determine the permeability of the material close to the detection element. The detection element can take the form of an interdigitalized electrode forming an open virtual capacitor. Similar technology was used to determine the moisture content in the soil and in touch sensors, such as keyboards, THUMBWHEELS, etc. As described here, this technology can be applied to detect moisture in an absorbent article 20 outside the outer cover 40. One of the main challenges, however, with such a capacitive detection system is in managing the depth of penetration of the electric field. This challenge can be solved by conditioning signals and developing algorithms to ignore environmental interference.
    [00071] The sensor design is important in determining the sensitivity of capacitive sensor 142 to detect moisture in the absorbent article 20. Some of the design parameters include the physical aspects of sensor set 108, for example, a sensor set area it can be from about 0.0004 cm2 to about 0.04 cm2; the number of capacitors in a set, for example, can be about 1 to 10; and the spacing between the capacitor and a ground plane, for example, from about 1 mm to about 2.5 mm. The grounding plane can be positioned at the rear of the sensor to avoid interference from the rear of the sensor, such as touching the clothing-facing side of sensor assembly 108.
    [00072] When an absorbent article 20 or any other material with a dielectric greater than air is against capacitive sensor 142, the electrostatic fields present when only air was present now spread into the higher dielectric material and have a best path to a lower potential or ground. This increases capacitance and can be detected using the 100 system. This change can be verified using a standard bench method for such measurement, for example, using a BK Precision LCR meter. When water is present in the absorbent article 20 the dielectric constant increases much more than when the absorbent article 20 is dry or another dielectric is present. Water has a dielectric strength greater than 50 and provides a better path for electric fields of lower potential or ground.
    [00073] One aspect of a capacitor system design includes a microcontroller produced by Microchip Technologies Inc. of Chandler, Arizona USA, part number PIC24FJ128GA106, which has a dedicated charge time measurement unit (CTMU). CTMU is a complementary module to the microcontroller, which can be used directly to detect changes in capacitance. In this system design, a set of capacitor sensors are coupled to the A / D inputs of the Microchip PIC microcontroller series 24FJ and used to compute changes in capacitance as the dielectric strength changes in the presence of moisture.
    [00074] In another aspect, changes are detected in the resonant frequency of an LC circuit. As the capacitance value of the resonator circuit changes, the oscillating frequency of the resonator changes, and this can be detected by a frequency-to-voltage (F / V) chip, such as the TC 9400 produced by Microchip Technologies Inc. The F / V converter produces a voltage used by a microcontroller. When the voltage set point is reached, as determined by the microcontroller, an alarm signal is generated, as is further described here. A block diagram of such a system is illustrated in Fig. 5.
    [00075] Yet another aspect measures the time it takes to discharge a capacitor. A resistor-capacitor (RC) circuit has a characteristic discharge curve dependent on the capacitor under test. A system capable of measuring the time constant of this discharge curve can be used to detect changes in capacitance. In other words, as the capacity of the system is different, with a wet absorbent article, compared to a dry absorbent article, the discharge curve will also be different. In use, an open virtual capacitor is manufactured using an RC circuit, including a function / pulse generator. The system's capacitance discharge time is detected and processed using a digital signal processing algorithm (DSP) in a microcontroller. When emission occurs, as determined by the microcontroller, an alarm signal is generated, as described here.
    [00076] As with the inductive sensor, the electronics associated with capacitive detection circuit 112 is relatively simple and can be miniaturized.
    [00077] In one aspect, the system can be configured in such a way that the signaling device 110 does not emit signals within a certain period of time since the system 100 is activated for the first time, where being activated means that the system 100 is able to detect and provide a signal. The length of time may vary depending on the particular circumstances and the particular application. For example, in one aspect, the system can be configured to not emit signals for at least the first 15 minutes, as well as at least the first 30 minutes, as well as at least the first 45 minutes, as well as at least in the first hour that the absorbent article 20 is used.
    [00078] In an alternative aspect, the state of equilibrium is determined by the capacitive detection circuit 112 used in system 100. The state of equilibrium can be determined when there are no substantial or significant changes in capacitance during a certain period of time, indicating that the conditions steady state have been achieved. For example, the system can be configured to activate only when capacitive detection circuit 112 determines that no substantial changes have occurred within the article 20 over a period of about five minutes, as well as about 10 minutes, as well as about 20 minutes, as well as about 30 minutes, as well as about 45 minutes, as well as about an hour. For example, if the sensor is a capacitive detection circuit 112, the steady state can be determined when capacitive detection circuit 112 detects a change of no more than about 5 percent capacitance within the article 20 by a minimum period of 10 minutes.
    [00079] When using a set of capacitive sensors 108, the set of sensors 108 can be placed in any suitable location on the absorbent article 20. For example, the set of sensors 108 can be placed in the crotch region 26, in the back region 24, or in the frontal region 22 of article 20 depending on several factors. The sensor array 108 has a continuous length such that it can extend from one region to another.
    [00080] Like the set of inductive sensors 122, the set of capacitive sensors 108 can be configured to be removed from the absorbent article 20 when this 20 is discarded and the assembly is placed in a new absorbent article 20. In one aspect, the circuit of detection 112 and / or a signaling device 110 may include various configurations, depending on the absorbent article 20 to which it is attached. In this way, the signaling system can be modified based on the particular specifications of the product. The product purchased can provide the consumer with information about which configuration to use.
    [00081] In some instances, detection circuit 112 may have to deal with conductive objects in the vicinity that may cause interference. In practical applications, however, such a situation is unlikely to occur, as the object causing the interference typically needs to be very close to the capacitive detection circuit 112. As with the inductive detection circuit, an interference problem this type can be managed by an intelligent algorithm that recognizes and stores the signal output, since the capacitive detection circuit 112 is in position and activated. The algorithm uses this output signal as a reference point and interprets the subsequent signals in relation to this reference point. In other words, the algorithm includes an intelligent zeroing feature.
    [00082] The exchange time decision is based on two different protocols; one reading the total capacitance of the sensor set 108, and the other reading the capacitance of individual capacitors 148. You can measure both and determine that the exchange time signal will be generated if one of the measured values is above a pre-limit level -determined.
    [00083] With reference to FIG. 5, b which incorporates the circuits of Figs. 6 and 7, the change in capacitance is measured using a charge-discharge circuit 152. The change in capacitance is correlated with the amount of emission.
    [00084] Bench tests and mannequin studies were performed as previously described. FIG. 13 shows the normalized changes in percentage change measured in the impedance for six emissions. As you can see, the percentage change in impedance for a second emission changes dramatically from that of the first emission. However, the change becomes smaller and smaller for later issues. The impedance variation is reduced for consecutive emissions due to the saturation that approaches the absorbent article 20.
    [00085] Likewise, FIG. 14 shows the normalized changes in the measured capacitance for the six emissions. As you can see, the capacitance of a second emission changes dramatically compared to that of the first emission. However, the change becomes smaller and smaller for later issues. The capacitance variation is reduced for consecutive emissions due to the saturation that approaches the absorbent article 20.
    [00086] Regardless of whether the detection circuit uses capacitors or inductors to detect electrical changes associated with a wet absorbent article 20, the decision to change time is based on an algorithm shown in FIGS. 15 and 16. In one respect, the time of exchange decision will be made if the difference in a measured electrical property is less than or equal to 10% of the previous value, or other desired percentages. For example, a user sets the signaling device 110 to indicate a desired percentage of fullness. Some examples of desired percentages include 50% fullness, 75% fullness, 90% fullness and 100% fullness. In one aspect, the user can have options between certain levels of fullness, and can select his choice through a signaling device interface (not shown), such as a dial, button or switch, which is electrically connected to the device circuits signaling. In another aspect, the user can also provide an additional or optional input to the signaling device 110 to select an exchange time based on the number of issues that have occurred or the time that has elapsed since the first issue.
    [00087] With reference to FIG. 15, a possible algorithm is used to use the capacitance readings to determine the changeover time. The decision of the exchange time is made if the difference between the measured value is less than or equal to the predefined limit value. The algorithm includes the following steps: 1. Activate system 100 by turning on signaling device 110.
    [00088] 2. At T1, read the total capacitance of the sum of the sensors present in the sensor set 108.
    [00089] 3. At T2 (for example, 15 minutes), calculate the average capacity of the sensor set.
    [00090] 4. Calculate the delta between the average mobile reference capacitance T1 and the average capacitance T2.
    [00091] a. If the delta is below a limit value, an exchange time signal is sent to the user, outputting the user.
    [00092] b. If the delta is above the limit value, the moving average reference is equal to the last average capacitance. Steps 3 and 4 are repeated.
    [00093] With reference to FIG. 16, an algorithm is used to use the inductance readings to determine the changeover time. The decision of the exchange time is made if the difference of a measured value is less than or equal to a predefined limit value. The algorithm includes the following steps: 1. Activate system 101 by turning on signaling device 110.
    [00094] 2. At T1, determine if there is any conductivity due to the presence of moisture in the absorbent structure 44.
    [00095] a. If the absorbent structure 44 is not conductive, repeat step 2 at time T2.
    [00096] b. If the absorbent structure 44 is conductive, calculate a moving average reference impedance Z.
    [00097] 3. Calculate the delta between the mobile reference average impedance Z t1 and the average impedance T2.
    [00098] a. If the delta is below a limit value, an exchange time signal is sent to the user, outputting the user.
    [00099] b. If the delta is above the limit value, the moving average reference is equal to the last average impedance, and the moment T1 is equal to N. Steps 2 and 3 are repeated.
    [000100] Absorbent article 20 including sensor set 108 is worn by the user. The user can adjust the signal processing circuit to the predetermined limit level at which the switching time decision will be made. The user attaches the signaling device 110 to the absorbent article 20. When the signaling device provides a signal, the user knows that the absorbent article has reached the predetermined limit that corresponds to a level of fullness of the absorbent structure 44, and / or a certain amount of time elapsed and / or a desired number of issues.
    [000101] Another aspect of the disclosure is a moisture detection kit. The kit includes the 100 system and a plurality of absorbent articles (for example, diapers). System 100 can be semi-disposable where a power supply is incorporated into system 100 in such a way that it is not replaceable, or system 100 can have a replaceable power source, so that it can eventually be used by a complete duration of need that a person has to use the absorbent article, such as the months that a baby wears a diaper. As previously described, system 100 detects and indicates the presence of a body exudate in an absorbent article 20. System 100 includes a signaling device 100, having a compartment 114 that houses a detection circuit 112, and a set of sensors 108 electrically connected to the detection circuit 112. The sensor array includes a plurality of sensors arranged on an elongated substrate. System 100 can be sequentially and removably coupled to each of the various absorbent articles. It is considered that a system 100 can be packed with a count of 20, 30, 40, or 50 absorbent articles, so that a user can attach the removable system 100 to each of the absorbent articles in the package.
    [000102] The aspects of disclosure have been described with reference to various specific and illustrative aspects and techniques. However, it must be understood that many variations and modifications can be made while remaining within the spirit and scope. Therefore, it is intended to cover all these alternatives, modifications and variations that fit the spirit and scope of the attached claims. As several changes can be made to the constructions and methods mentioned above, without departing from the scope of the disclosure, it is intended that all information contained in the description above and illustrated in the attached drawings should be interpreted as illustrative, and not in a limiting sense.
    [000103] When introducing elements of the disclosure or the preferred aspect (s) of the same (s), the articles "one", "one", "o / a" and "said / said "are meant to mean that there are one or more elements. The terms "comprising", "including" and "having" are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements in addition to those listed.
    权利要求:
    Claims (19)
    [0001]
    1. System for the collection, detection and indication of the presence of a body exudate in an absorbent article (20) having an absorbent structure (44), a frontal region (22), a crotch region (26) and an external cover (40) ), characterized by the fact that the system comprises: an absorbent article (20) comprising an external cover, a frontal region, a crotch region and a longitudinal axis; a signaling device (110) comprising a compartment (114) which houses a detection circuit (112); a set of sensors (108) electrically connected to the detection circuit, where the set of sensors consists of a plurality of sensors arranged on a single elongated substrate, and in which the substrate is configured to extend out of the frontal region compartment ( 22) to the crotch region (26), in which the plurality of sensors (108) is configured to detect the amount of body exudate within the absorbent article (20) without making direct contact with the absorbent structure (44), and in which the The system can be sequentially and removably connected to each of a plurality of absorbent articles.
    [0002]
    2. System according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the plurality of sensors (108) comprises capacitive sensors.
    [0003]
    3. System according to claim 2, characterized by the fact that the capacitive sensors comprise open virtual capacitors.
    [0004]
    4. System according to claim 2, characterized by the fact that the measured value is a delta between an average mobile reference capacitance and an average capacitance.
    [0005]
    System according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the plurality of sensors (108) comprises induction coils (125).
    [0006]
    6. System according to claim 5, characterized by the fact that the induction coils (125) have a dimension, the longest axis or a diameter from 0.5 cm to 3 cm.
    [0007]
    7. System according to claim 5, characterized by the fact that the measured value is a delta between a moving average reference impedance and an average impedance.
    [0008]
    8. System according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the signaling device (110) comprises a display of a number of emissions of body exudates and / or the time elapsed from the first emission and / or a percentage of fullness of the absorbent article (20).
    [0009]
    System according to claim 8, characterized in that the signaling device (110) is adapted to provide visual notification.
    [0010]
    System according to claim 8, characterized in that the signaling device (110) is adapted to provide an audible notification.
    [0011]
    System according to claim 8, characterized in that the signaling device (110) is adapted to provide a vibrating notification.
    [0012]
    System according to claim 8, characterized in that the detection circuit (112) comprises a marginal oscillating circuit.
    [0013]
    13. System according to claim 1, characterized in that the system further comprises a fixing mechanism for removably fixing the system to one of the plurality of absorbent articles (20).
    [0014]
    14. System according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the set of sensors (108) is oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis.
    [0015]
    15. System according to claim 14, characterized by the fact that the absorbent article (20) further comprises a frontal region (22), a crotch region (26) and a rear region, and the sensor set (108) has a continuous length such that it extends from the front region (22) to the rear region (24).
    [0016]
    16. System according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the signaling device (110) comprises a display of a number of emissions of body exudate.
    [0017]
    17. System according to claim 1, characterized in that the signaling device (110) comprises an elapsed time display.
    [0018]
    18. System according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the signaling device (110) comprises a percentage display of fullness.
    [0019]
    19. System according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the sensor set (108) comprises an electronic grounding plane located on a surface of the sensor set substrate, which is oriented towards the external surface.
    类似技术:
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    同族专利:
    公开号 | 公开日
    MX2014000368A|2014-03-21|
    BR112014000937A2|2017-02-14|
    GB2506563A|2014-04-02|
    GB201401293D0|2014-03-12|
    KR20140042856A|2014-04-07|
    US9241839B2|2016-01-26|
    AU2012285498B2|2016-06-02|
    KR101667120B1|2016-10-17|
    WO2013011391A3|2013-04-04|
    WO2013011391A2|2013-01-24|
    MX340726B|2016-07-21|
    US20130018340A1|2013-01-17|
    AU2012285498A1|2014-01-16|
    GB2506563B|2017-09-20|
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    法律状态:
    2018-12-11| B06F| Objections, documents and/or translations needed after an examination request according art. 34 industrial property law|
    2019-10-01| B06U| Preliminary requirement: requests with searches performed by other patent offices: suspension of the patent application procedure|
    2020-08-18| B07A| Technical examination (opinion): publication of technical examination (opinion)|
    2020-12-29| B09A| Decision: intention to grant|
    2021-03-02| B16A| Patent or certificate of addition of invention granted|Free format text: PRAZO DE VALIDADE: 20 (VINTE) ANOS CONTADOS A PARTIR DE 06/06/2012, OBSERVADAS AS CONDICOES LEGAIS. |
    优先权:
    申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题
    US13/183,811|US9241839B2|2011-07-15|2011-07-15|Absorbent article fullness indicator|
    US13/183,811|2011-07-15|
    PCT/IB2012/052850|WO2013011391A2|2011-07-15|2012-06-06|Absorbent article fullness indicator|
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