US PATENT SUBCLASS 604 / 378
.~.~ Containing layers having differing absorption characteristics (e.g., flow control, wicking, etc.)

Current as of: June, 1999
Click HD for Main Headings
Click for All Classes

Internet Version by PATENTEC © 1999      Terms of Use


604 /   HD   SURGERY

317  DF  MEANS AND METHODS FOR COLLECTING BODY FLUIDS OR WASTE MATERIAL (E.G., RECEPTACLES, ETC.) {5}
358  DF  .~ Absorbent pad for external or internal application and supports therefor (e.g., catamenial devices, diapers, etc.) {13}
378.~.~ Containing layers having differing absorption characteristics (e.g., flow control, wicking, etc.) {3}
379  DF  .~.~.~> Compressed layer {1}
381  DF  .~.~.~> Layer coated or treated to decrease absorbency {1}
383  DF  .~.~.~> Needled or punched layer

DEFINITION

Classification: 604/378

Containing layers having differing absorption characteristics (e.g., flow control, wicking, etc.):

(under subclass 358) Subject matter wherein significance is attributed to a layer or the collecting means which is characterized by specific structure or composition which, by the nature of the material provides capillary action and allows the movement of the absorbed body liquids from one component of the collecting means or the movement of the absorbed body liquids from one portion of the component to another portion thereof in order to maintain that portion of the collecting means next to the body or body orifice as dry as possible.

(1) Note. This subclass takes any patent which contains at least two components of a different fiber or woven material wherein the very nature of the different materials some capillary action (wicking) takes place between the layers.

(2) Note. Patents are included in this subclass which disclose the movement of body liquids by capillary action (wicking) from one component layer to another component layer, as for example, the movement of menstrual fluid from the cover of a sanitary napkin by capillary action (wicking) by a underlying absorbent layer wherein the fluid is retained.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:

368, wherein collogen or gel forming materials are used for flow control or wicking.

369, wherein foam or cellular materials are used for flow control or wicking.