Tampon applicator with improved fingergrip and method of making same
AssigneePlaytex Products, Inc.
InventorsMichael Miller, Wayne Melvin
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
The present invention provides a tampon applicator barrel having a fingergrip with one or more gripping structures that have an acute edge for improved gripping. Preferably, the one or more gripping structures are one or more embossed ring-like structures. The present invention also provides a method for forming the one or more gripping structures on the applicator barrel. The method preferably includes forming at least one embossed ring-like gripping structure on the barrel such that the radial compressive strength of the applicator barrel is not compromised.
Claims9
1-12. (canceled)
A process for forming at least one embossed gripping structure on a tampon applicator barrel comprising the steps of:
- (a) forming at least one embossment above an external surface of the barrel, wherein a weakened region is formed on the barrel;
- and
- (b) applying an axial force to a plunger-receiving end of the barrel,
- wherein the at least one embossment folds back upon itself at the weakened region forming at least one raised gripping structure.
A process for forming at least one embossed gripping structure and a tapered petal tip on a tampon applicator barrel comprising the steps of:
- (a) forming at least one embossment above an external surface of the barrel, wherein a weakened region is formed on the barrel;
- (b) loading the embossed barrel at a plunger-receiving end of the barrel with a mandrel;
- (c) loading a petal tip of the embossed barrel into a petal former;
- and
- (d) applying an axial pressure to a plunger-receiving end of the barrel,
- wherein a substantially closed petal tip and at least one embossed gripping structure are formed on the barrel.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.