Patent ID: 6299573
Filing Date: 2001-10-09
Classification: A61F,B30B,Y10S

Abstract:
A method for axially compressing a cylindrical blank having an insertion end, a withdrawal end, and cylindrical walls therebetween, into a dimensionally stable tampon comprising:introducing said blank coaxially into a cylindrical compression chamber having a closed insertion end, a withdrawal end and cylindrical walls therebetween wherein the cylindrical walls of said blank make frictional contact with the cylindrical walls of the compression chamber;axially compressing said blank to about 15 to about 30% of its length prior to compression, said compression being applied to the extent that, through the action of the frictional contact, a plurality of circular pleats are formed around the axially compressed blank, said compression being sufficient to fold said pleats, in the direction of the withdrawal end of the axially compressed blank, to overlie the next adjacent portion of the cylindrical wall of the axially compressed blank.