Breathable laminate permanently conformable to the contours of a wearer
US6579274B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 31, 2000 |
| Grant date | Jun 17, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 23, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F2013/51429
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A breathable, substantially liquid impermeable laminate is provided that is permanently conformable to the contours of a wearer's body when used in a personal care absorbent article or a medical article. The laminate includes a breathable (preferably microporous) film and a fibrous nonwoven web. Both the film and the web are extendible in a cross direction to a width at least 25% greater than an original, unstretched width upon application of a stretching force. The web and the film, and the overall laminate, exhibit little or no retractive force once they have been stretched. A diaper or other garment can be constructed in undersized fashion using the laminate, permitting material savings. When the garment is worn, the laminate stretches only where needed to provide a substantially perfect fit on the wearer. The minimal retractive force avoids the skin marks, rashes, etc. that can result from elastic garments.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.