초록 ▼

An individually wrapped absorbent article such as a sanitary napkin which is simple, compact, sanitary, and easy to unwrap for use and to dispose of after use. The absorbent article avoids the need for a separate peel strip and pouch because it is provided with a wrapper that can be folded into a po

An individually wrapped absorbent article such as a sanitary napkin which is simple, compact, sanitary, and easy to unwrap for use and to dispose of after use. The absorbent article avoids the need for a separate peel strip and pouch because it is provided with a wrapper that can be folded into a pouch. Substantially the entire backsheet of the absorbent article directly faces the wrapper and is secured to it to form an assembly. In the case of a winged or tabbed type absorbent article, this configuration obviates the need for a separate peel strip to cover the garment adhesive located on the wings or tabs. The assembly is wrapped by folding the lateral flaps thereof longitudinally over one another to enclose the article to prevent the garment adhesive from becoming contaminated. The package is then tri-folded laterally to form an e-shaped pouch. Wrapping and folding are performed by an in-line process that uses simple equipment and that does not require reversal in the direction of article conveyance. Folding is performed by a tri-folding mechanism that translates to convey wrapped packages through an in-line tri-folder assembly and that rotates to fold the packages into the e-shaped pouches.

대표청구항 ▼

[ We claim:] [1.] A method of tri-folding a package containing a wrapped absorbent article to form a pouch, said method comprising:a) conveying said package along a travel path;b) while said package travels along said travel path, rotating a tri-folding mechanism in contact with said package while t

[ We claim:] [1.] A method of tri-folding a package containing a wrapped absorbent article to form a pouch, said method comprising:a) conveying said package along a travel path;b) while said package travels along said travel path, rotating a tri-folding mechanism in contact with said package while translating said tri-folding mechanism at least generally along said travel path so as toi) fold a first longitudinal flap of said package about a central portion of said package so that said first longitudinal flap is aligned adjacent to said central portion; andii) fold said first longitudinal flap and said central portion of said package about a second longitudinal flap of said package so that said second longitudinal flap is aligned adjacent to said first longitudinal flap; andc) releasably securing said second longitudinal flap to said first longitudinal flap to form said pouch.