Mcneil-ppc, Inc.

Gary Vogt

Curt Binner

Linda M Pierson

Raymond Hull

Methods for making a tubular device that has a rim disposed at one end thereof. In one method, a sleeve having an expandable profiling surface is inserted into an end of the tubular member, and the profiling surface is expanded to form a shoulder projecting outwardly from the tubular member adjacent the end of the tubular member. The profiling surface is collapsed inwardly away from tubular member, and a return margin is formed directed inwardly from the shoulder, distal the tubular member. In another method, return margin of the tubular device adjacent an end is folded inwardly and superposed on an inner surface of the tubular device adjacent the folded margin. A sleeve having an expandable profiling surface is inserted into the end of the tubular device, and the profiling surface is expanded to form the rim comprising a shoulder projecting outwardly from the tubular member and the return margin. As a result, the fold between the shoulder and the return margin defines an edge of the tubular member.

Tampon applicator having outwardly flared rim

The present invention relates to applicators for inserting objects into body cavities, and to methods for making the same. The applicators are particularly useful for inserting catamenial and prophylactic devices into a vaginal canal. The applicators comprise a tubular insertion member and a retrofitted gripping member. The gripping member has an outer diameter greater than that of the insertion member. An interface is created due to this size differential, which provides a visual or tactile cue of applicator insertion depth, and thereafter object positioning within the body cavity. The gripping member comprises at least one raised area on its outwardly disposed surface, providing resistance to movement of the user's manual digit in response to longitudinal forces on the insertion member. Longitudinal forces are created during both the insertion step of use, as well as the expulsion step delivering the contained object from the insertion member into the body cavity.

Applicator for catamenial device having improved gripper end

An applicator device for inserting an object into a mammalian body cavity includes a tubular member having a rim disposed at one end thereof. The rim has a shoulder projecting outwardly from the tubular member and a return margin directed inwardly from the shoulder distal the tubular member. The invention is especially useful in manufacturing paperboard applicators, such as tampon applicators.

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Newtown, PA, United States of America

Gary Vogt