Absorbent Structure for Items of Clothing, Operating Method and Uses Thereof

Abstract

A clothing item absorbing structure, in particular to a washable and reusable structure, for the absorption of body fluids in which at least a set of four overlapping layers are provided. A first layer has high density and porosity synthetic fibers suitable for the entry of body fluids. A second layer has a combination of hydrophilic and hydrophobic fibers with a plurality of protruding channels for dispersing body fluids. A third layer of cellulosic fibers neutralizes odors and absorb moisture. A fourth layer has a polymer, microporous and liquid impermeable membrane. And a strip connects along the periphery of said set of layers, wherein the strip together with the fourth layer seals said set of layers to prevent leakage of body fluids. In certain embodiments, the disclosure relates to underwear that incorporates the absorbing structure.

Claims

1. A clothing item absorbing structure for absorbing body fluids comprising at least a set of four overlapping layers, comprising: a first layer with high density and porosity synthetic fibers suitable for the entry of body fluids; a second layer comprising a combination of hydrophilic and hydrophobic fibers with a plurality of protruding channels for dispersing body fluids; a third layer of cellulosic fibers capable of neutralizing odors and absorbing moisture; a fourth layer comprising a polymer, microporous and liquid impermeable membrane; and a strip connected along the periphery of said set of layers, wherein the strip together with the fourth layer seals said set of layers to prevent leakage of body fluids.

2. The clothing item according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of protruding channels of the second layer is arranged in a rib knit structure.

3. The clothing item according to claim 1, wherein the third layer comprises a knit structure in the form of a matrix.

4. The clothing item according to claim 1, wherein the barrier strip includes a fold arranged face to face along the set of layers so that the strip forms a “U” or “V” shaped profile concavity.

5. The clothing item according to claim 1, wherein the first, second and third layers comprise a knit structure.

6. The clothing item according to claim 1, wherein the third and fourth layers of the set of layers are connected by lamination.

7. (canceled)

8. The clothing item according to claim 1, wherein the second layer comprises a combination of hydrophilic and hydrophobic fibers with protruding channels in density and thickness for the dispersion of body fluids.

9. (canceled)

10. The clothing item according to claim 1, wherein the first layer comprises a first elastomeric yarn with a linear mass of 20-40 dtex and a second yarn made of non-natural fibers of synthetic origin.

11. The clothing item according to claim 10, wherein synthetic fibers are selected from the group consisting of: polyamide, polyester, polypropylene, elastane, and combinations thereof.

12. (canceled)

13. The clothing item according to claim 12, wherein the cellulosic fibers are selected from a group consisting of: cotton, lyocell, modal, viscose fibers and combinations thereof.

14. The clothing item according to claim 8, wherein the first layer is formed by mixing polyamide and/or polyester fibers with elastane.

15. The clothing item according to claim 14, comprising 85-90% (w/w) polyamide and 10-15% (w/w) elastane.

16. The clothing item according to claim 8, wherein the thickness of the first layer ranges between 0.50-0.70 mm.

17. The clothing item according to claim 8, wherein the mass per unit area of the first layer ranges between 130-150 g/m.sup.2.

18. (canceled)

19. The clothing item according to claim 1, wherein the second layer is a rib knit structure and wherein the rib knit structure of the second layer comprises a loop length ranging between 24-26 mm, a thickness of 0.80-0.90 mm and a mass per unit area of 225-245 g/m.sup.2.

20. The clothing item according to claim 19, wherein the rib structure comprises a yarn with 65% (w/w) polyester and 35% (w/w) viscose with a linear mass ranging between 150-250 dtex, and a bare elastane yarn with a linear mass ranging between 22-33 dtex.

21. (canceled)

22. The clothing item according to claim 1, wherein the second layer comprises 60-65% (w/w) polyester, 30-35% (w/w) viscose and 3-5% (w/w) elastane.

23. (canceled)

24. The clothing item according to claim 1, wherein the third layer is formed by a derivative of Italian terry and, wherein the Italian terry comprises a loop length of 24-26 mm, a thickness of 0.70-0.95 mm and a mass per unit area of 200-220 g/m.sup.2.

25. The clothing item according to claim 24, wherein the Italian terry comprises a combination of functionalized lyocell cotton with ammonia neutralizers and natural fibers.

26. The clothing item according to claim 1, wherein the fourth layer comprises a density of 1.21 g/cc (kg/m.sup.3) and a melting point of 185-95° C.

27. (canceled)

28. The clothing item according to claim 1, wherein the polymer membrane of the fourth layer comprises polyurethane, polyester, or combinations thereof.

29. The clothing item according to claim 1, wherein the thickness of the fourth layer ranges between 8-20 μm.

30. The clothing item according to claim 29, wherein the barrier strip is thermally bonded for approximately 1.5-3 minutes and is resistant to approximately 8 water columns and washes up to 60° C.

31. The clothing item according to claim 1, wherein the third layer comprises carboxylic groups grafted onto the fiber.

32. (canceled)

33. (canceled)

34. (canceled)

35. The clothing item according to claim 1, wherein the clothing item is selected from the group consisting of: women's underwear, men's underwear, children's underwear, slips, boxer shorts, knickers, swimwear, thongs, pants, pantyhose, retros, leggings, t-shirts, bras, tops, and a medical device.

36. (canceled)

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0082] For an easier understanding, figures are herein attached, which represent preferred embodiments which are not intended to limit the object of the present description.

[0083] FIG. 1: Schematic representation of an embodiment of the developed absorbing system.

[0084] FIG. 2A: Schematic representation of an embodiment of the absorbing system applied to a bra.

[0085] FIG. 2B: Schematic representation of an embodiment of the absorbing system applied to a t-shirt.

[0086] FIG. 2C: Schematic representation of one embodiment of the absorbing system applied to a pair of knickers.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0087] The present invention relates to an absorbing system for use in an underwear clothing item, either male or female, adult or child, which may be of daily use and which is provided with an absorbing system for body fluids, such as such as urine, sweat, breast milk, menstrual or vaginal flows or any other fluid excreted by the human body. In particular, the absorbing system comprises hybridized layers of fibrous materials, designed to respond to different types of fluids/liquids and their different viscosities. The system herein presented contributes to maximizing the protection and psychological comfort of the user during use, since it promotes the neutralization of characteristic odors, inhibits the growth of microorganisms, does not compromise the user's mobility and guarantees a feeling of dryness next to the skin, as well as the imperceptibility of the product. In addition, said clothing item presents a better environmental performance throughout its life cycle, as it can be reusable, that is, it becomes a product of greater durability and is a resistant item, which allows it to be washable.

[0088] The present disclosure concerns a clothing item absorbing structure, in particular to a washable and reusable structure, for the absorption of body fluids comprising at least a set of four overlapping layers, comprising: a first layer with high density and porosity synthetic fibers suitable for the entry of body fluids; a second layer comprising a combination of hydrophilic and hydrophobic fibers with a plurality of protruding channels for dispersing body fluids; a third layer of cellulosic fibers capable of neutralizing odors and absorbing moisture; a fourth layer comprising a polymer, microporous and liquid impermeable membrane; and a strip connected along the periphery of said set of layers, wherein the strip together with the fourth layer seals said set of layers to prevent leakage of body fluids.

[0089] The present disclosure further relates to clothing items, namely underwear clothing items that incorporate the absorbing structure described in the present disclosure.

[0090] In one embodiment, the absorbing system for absorbing body fluids, comprises: [0091] at least four overlapping layers (1, 2, 3 and 4) formed by the combination of natural and synthetic, hydrophilic and hydrophobic, capillary and absorbing fibers, wherein [0092] layer (1) is formed by a set of high density and porosity synthetic fibers—1.sup.st layer; [0093] layer (2) is formed by hydrophilic and hydrophobic fibers and is provided with high density and thickness protruding channels—2.sup.nd layer; [0094] layer (3) is formed by cellulosic fibers and is responsible for neutralizing odors and absorbing moisture—3.sup.rd layer; and [0095] layer (4) comprises a polymer, microporous and impermeable membrane—4.sup.th layer; [0096] a barrier device/layer along the entire peripheral region, preferably a strip, more preferably a thermo-adhesive strip in the shape of a “U” or “V”.

[0097] In one embodiment, synthetic fibers are selected from the fiber group of: polyamide, polyester, polypropylene, elastane and/or a mixture thereof and natural fibers are selected from the group of cellulosic fibers.

[0098] In one embodiment, cellulosic fibers are selected from the group of cotton fibers, lyocell, modal, viscose and/or a mixture thereof.

[0099] In one embodiment, the first layer (1) is formed by mixing polyamide and polyester fibers with elastane, the second layer (2) is formed by polyester, viscose and elastane fibers, the third layer (3) is formed by cellulosic fibers and the fourth layer (4) is formed by polyurethane or polyester.

[0100] In one embodiment, the first layer (1) is a jersey structure of about 86% polyamide and 14% elastane, the second layer (2) is a 3×3 weft rib structure with a mixture of approximately 63% polyester, 33% viscose and 4% elastane and the third layer (3) is a structure formed by a derivative of Italian terry.

[0101] In one embodiment, the structure of Italian terry is based on the combination of cotton and functionalized lyocell with ammonia neutralizers and natural fibers, such as modal (modal is a generic name for rayon, a fiber manufactured by the viscose process, which has high tenacity and high modulus of elasticity to wet).

[0102] In one embodiment, between the third layer (3) and the fourth layer (4) there is an intermediate layer of cellulosic fibers based on cotton comprising three-dimensional rings in functionalized lyocell, weighing about 16-20 g/m.sup.2, having a thickness of about 8-10 micrometers and a variable width.

[0103] In one embodiment, the first layer (1) is formed by at least two polyamide yarns, knitted by elastane vanisation, where a first yarn is elastomeric with a linear mass between 20-40 dtex and a second yarn is made of non-natural fibers of synthetic origin.

[0104] In one embodiment, the rib structure of the second layer (2) is composed of a yarn of approximately 65/35% polyester/viscose of a linear mass of about 20 tex and a bare elastane yarn of 22-33 dtex and presents a loop length of 24-26 mm, a density of 17 columns/cm and 26 rows/cm, a thickness of 0.80-0.90 mm and a mass of 225-245 g/m.sup.2.

[0105] In one embodiment, the Italian terry forming the third layer (3) has a loop length of 24-26 mm, density of 13-15 columns/cm and 14-16 rows/cm, thickness of 0.80-0, 90 mm and a mass of 200-220 g/m.sup.2.

[0106] In one embodiment, the fourth layer (4) has a thickness of approximately 15 μm, density of 1.21 g/cc, melting point between 185-95° C., resistant to heat hydrostatic pressure greater than approximately 10 m and has <3 m.sup.2 PA/W.

[0107] In one embodiment, the barrier device is a thermo-adhesive strip or is integrated into the absorbing system by means of direct seam, having about 15-30 mm, softening point of approximately 100-110° C. at a pressure of about 180-220 mbar for approximately 1.5-3 minutes, being resistant to approximately 8 columns of water and washes approximately up to 60° C.

[0108] In one embodiment, the barrier device is applied at a temperature of approximately 130-160° C., for about 15-30 seconds, at a pressure of about 5-7 bar.

[0109] In one embodiment, the neutralization of odors is promoted by the carboxylic groups grafted onto the fiber and comprises about 8-15% sodium carbonate (Na.sub.2Co.sub.8), in a minimum bath ratio of 1:3 at pH 5-6.

[0110] In one embodiment, the absorbing system promotes maximization of absorption, neutralization of odors, inhibition of microorganism growth, protection from leakage of fluids and improvement of user comfort.

[0111] In one embodiment, the yarn tension ranges between 0.5-2.0 g/tex and the length of each loop ranges between 0.20-0.30 mm and the length of each loop in the area of most absorption ranges between 5-20% in relation to the length of each loop in the previous zone.

[0112] In one embodiment, the item is for male or female, adult or child use, of daily use, being sustainable and reusable.

[0113] In one embodiment, the clothing item is selected from a group consisting of: women's underwear, men's underwear, slips, boxer shorts, knickers, swimwear, thongs, pants, pantyhose, retro, leggings, t-shirts, bras, tops.

[0114] In one embodiment, the item comprises different materials and/or mixtures thereof, with different colors and textures.

[0115] In one embodiment, the absorbing system is integrated into the clothing item by means of mobile fastening systems, such as buttons, pressure, velcro, self-adhesive systems, among others or by means of fixed fastening systems, such as, direct stitching in the aesthetic system of the clothing item, heat sealing or others.

[0116] In one embodiment, the underwear clothing item described in the present disclosure can be a medical device for retaining and controlling body fluids.

[0117] In one embodiment, the item comprises advanced fibrous structures, aimed at maximizing absorption, neutralizing odors, protecting fluid leaks and improving user's comfort.

[0118] In one embodiment, said item comprises two systems: (i) an aesthetic system, which consists of the external configuration of the clothing item; and (ii) an absorbing system, which is integrated with the aesthetic system to obtain the clothing item and is located along the absorption region, for example, genital or breast area.

[0119] In one embodiment, said aesthetic system of the clothing item includes several configurations, which are common in underwear clothing items. Said item has an attractive and discreet design depending on the use thereof. The clothing item herein developed can be selected from the group of pieces: women's underwear, men's underwear, slips, boxer shorts, knickers, swimwear, thongs, pants, pantyhose, retro, leggings, t-shirts, bras, tops, among others. Additionally, said system can be made in different types of materials and/or mixtures thereof, with different colors and textures.

[0120] In one embodiment, the absorbing system comprises throughout its peripheral region a barrier device that, in conjunction with the absorbing system ensures the absorption of body fluids, in order to prevent leakage to the outer garment. The barrier described in the present disclosure can be a thermo-adhesive strip applied by pressure and heat, which is about 15-30 mm wide, seals along the peripheral region of the absorbing system, joining all the layers of the absorbing system and preventing the fluid absorbed by the absorbing area from leaking out thereof and compromising the user's comfort.

[0121] In one embodiment, the barrier described can be integrated into the absorbing structure of the present disclosure by means of direct stitching of the device to the system or by means of heat-sealing, which can be either inserted in bra bags for cupping or fixed directly on clothing.

[0122] Additionally, due to the intrinsic properties of said absorbing system, it comprises a mechanism capable of neutralizing odors and guaranteeing the sensation of dryness close to the user's skin.

[0123] In one embodiment, the regenerated cellulosic-based fiber comprises carboxyl groups (—COOH) which react with the surrounding ammonia, transforming it into odorless compounds. These carboxylic groups are grafts polymerized on the fiber during its dyeing process in aqueous medium, where about 8-15% sodium carbonate (Na.sub.2CO.sub.8) is added, in a minimum bath ratio of 1:3 at pH 5-6.

[0124] In one embodiment, the absorbing system is integrated into the clothing item by means of mobile fastening systems, such as buttons, push buttons, velcro, self-adhesive systems, among others or by means of fixed fastening systems, such as, sewn directly onto the aesthetic system of the garment, heat sealing or others. In a preferred embodiment, the absorbing system is completely fixed and integrated into the underwear clothing item, by means of heat sealing of the barrier device.

[0125] Specifically, said barrier device is applied at a temperature of approximately 130-160° C., for about 15-30 seconds, at a pressure of about 5-7 bar. In addition, its softening point is approximately 100-110° C. at a pressure of approximately 180-220 mbar for approximately 1.5-3 minutes, being resistant to approximately 8 columns of water. Another characteristic of this barrier device is that it is resistant to washing at temperatures up to 60° C.

[0126] Particularly, said absorbing system comprises hybridized layers of fibrous materials, designed to respond to different types of fluids and their viscosity, as in the case of fluids from, for example, urinary incontinence, sweat or menstruation. The absorbing system is based on the natural capillarity of the fibers that naturally carry the liquids, based on the immediate absorption of the fluid in contact with its outer surface and its orientation towards the furthest surfaces of the skin, in order to provide a better dryness and breathability sensation close to the skin.

[0127] In a preferred embodiment, the absorbing system comprises at least four layers.

[0128] In one embodiment, the clothing item is produced in three-dimensional knits, multilayer structures and differentiated leakage retention system. Said knits are produced on single-cylinder looms, large diameter cylinders and discs and the confection modeling provides the incorporation of absorbing systems to the clothing item and this combination contributes to maximizing the protection and psychological comfort of the user during use.

[0129] In addition, the clothing item developed has characteristics that promote the neutralization of characteristic odors, inhibits the growth of microorganisms, does not compromise the mobility of the user and guarantees a feeling of dryness close to the skin, as well as the imperceptibility of the product during use. Additionally, the clothing item now proposed is a sustainable item, since it presents a better environmental performance throughout its life cycle. It can be reusable, which makes it a product of greater durability and is a wash resistant item.

[0130] In one embodiment, the absorbing system comprises multiple layers of structures formed by the combination of natural and synthetic fibers and presented as a set of high capillary fibers (less absorbing) and a set of fibers with greater absorption and low capillarity, with at least four layers formed by a polymer film. The combination of synthetic and cellulosic (natural) fibers was strategically selected, since the first promotes an increase in the speed of wettability, capillarity and diffusion of body fluid and the second promotes fluid retention.

[0131] In one embodiment, FIG. 1, represents an embodiment wherein the layers that make up the absorbing system are superimposed so that the layers (1, 2 and 3) formed by the set of capillary fibers (less absorbing) and the absorbing fiber are firstly arranged in said system. While layer (4), comprising a microporous and impermeable membrane is arranged so that it is away from the contact surface of the user, that is, skin and/or mucosa and the barrier device (5) is arranged along the entire periphery of the absorbing system.

[0132] In a preferred embodiment, layer (1) is composed of a set of high structural density and porosity synthetic fibers, which provide greater capillarity and low absorption; layer (2), comprising hydrophilic and hydrophobic fibers and comprising protruding channels of high structural density with 7-10 pores per centimeter and thickness, in order to provide high absorption. Said layer (2) is positioned on one of the layers of the set of absorbing fibers, that is, layer (3), which comprises cellulosic fibers, this layer (3) being responsible for neutralizing odors and absorbing moisture. Layers (1, 2 and 3) configure the surface of the absorbing system, to allow the body fluid to be removed as quickly as possible from the user's contact surface.

[0133] In a preferred embodiment, the second layer comprises fibers with a thickness between 0.7-0.95 mm; a column density between 15-20 columns/cm and a row density between 22-30 columns/cm.

[0134] In one embodiment, the fibers making up the set of capillary fibers can be synthetic fibers or natural fibers. Synthetic fibers can be selected from: polyamide, polyester, polypropylene, elastane, or combinations thereof. Natural fibers are cellulosic fibers selected from: cotton, lyocell, modal, viscose or combinations thereof.

[0135] In a preferred embodiment, the fibers with the greatest capillarity used in the first layer structure of the absorbing system were polyamide, polyester and elastane fibers. This highly porous and drop-shaped structure facilitates the entry and permeability of more viscous body fluids through a first layer (1), in order to facilitate the routing of this fluid between the layers.

[0136] In a preferred embodiment, the second layer (2) of polyester, viscose and elastane fibers is composed of transverse channels that increase the surface area with the fluid (e.g. the rib knit structure). The increase in surface area favors capillarity, absorption and dispersion of the fluid over the entire surface of the absorbing system, facilitating the permeability of the fluid to the next layer (layer 3) where there is odor neutralization in the fourth waterproofing layer (4).

[0137] In one embodiment, the third layer (3) comprising superabsorbing materials, such as cellulosic fibers: cotton, modal, lyocell or combinations thereof, is responsible for the neutralization of odors, as the greatest effect on the neutralization of ammonia produced by bacteria.

[0138] In one embodiment, the fourth layer (4) is composed of an impermeable and microporous membrane formed by a polymer film, preferably a thermoplastic selected from polyurethane or polyester, which prevents the passage of the fluid, but facilitates the permeability of water vapors in order to allow breathing in the area and to decrease local temperature.

[0139] In a preferred embodiment, the first layer (1) of the absorbing system is preferably a planar fibrous structure, such as a weft knit derived from the jersey structure. Preferably, the jersey structure is based on the combination of a mixture of synthetic fibers, such as: polyamide, polyester and/or the like and/or a mixture thereof, with elastomer fibers.

[0140] In a preferred embodiment, at least two yarns of polyamide or similar are used for manufacturing of the structure, which are knitted by vanisation with elastane, or by any other usual technique.

[0141] In a preferred embodiment, a first yarn of the knit is elastomeric with a linear mass between 20-40 dtex, while a second yarn is made of non-natural fibers of synthetic origin. The preferred composition of the jersey-derived structure that makes up the first layer (1) of the absorbing system comprises about 86% polyamide and 14% elastane. During knitting, the parameters for controlling the production of the knit are adjusted to maintain the desired elasticity (10-30%) and promote a greater conformation of the final clothing item, as well as its elasticity.

[0142] In a preferred embodiment, the adjustment of the input tension of the elastane yarn with any other fibrous material, contributes to controlling the elasticity of the knit, while in the base yarn (of polyamide fiber) it is knitted according to the protocols usually known to those skilled in the art for knitting weft knits.

[0143] In a preferred embodiment, the second layer (2) of the absorbing system is a weft knit derived from a 3×3 weft rib structure, with a loop length of 24-26 mm, having a density of 17 columns/cm and 26 rows/cm, having a thickness of 0.80-0.90 mm and a mass of 225-245 g/m.sup.2. Due to its structure, this layer forms transverse channels that allow increasing the surface area with the liquid in order to increase the absorption speed and to direct the liquid more quickly between the first and the third layer (1 and 3). In addition to the channels, this transfer is also achieved by the combination of hydrophilic and hydrophobic fibers, such as polyester, viscose and elastane fibers.

[0144] In a preferred embodiment, the rib structure is based on the combination of a mixture of approximately 63% polyester, 33% viscose and 4% elastane, being composed of a yarn of approximately 65/35% polyester/viscose of a linear mass of about 20 tex and a bare elastane yarn of 22-33 dtex. This structure creates several transversal channels on the upper and lower surface of the structure, in addition to an intrinsic porosity that facilitates the entry of fluids with different viscosities.

[0145] In a preferred embodiment, the third layer (3) of the absorbing system is a structure formed by a derivative of Italian terry. The structure of Italian terry used is based on the combination of cotton and functionalized lyocell with ammonia neutralizers and natural fibers of cellulosic origin with high moisture resistance, such as modal.

[0146] In a preferred embodiment, said third layer structure of Italian terry is provided with a first smooth, uniform and regular surface, which will connect upon manufacturing to the fourth layer (4) of the absorbing system. Said membrane weighs about 16-20 g/m.sup.2, has a thickness of about 8-10 micrometers and a variable width according to the clothing item, in which the absorbing system will be inserted.

[0147] In a preferred embodiment, the fourth layer is applied onto the third layer (3), on the smoothest and most compact surface, by the laminating process, consisting of the joining of two layers by applying glues or resins through heat or pressure. This process serves to join several (layer) structures creating a sandwich of knit structures or joining one of the knit structures to a laminate or membrane. This membrane provides the fourth layer with particular characteristics, in order to make the absorbing system highly flexible, adaptable, breathable and of high thermal control.

[0148] In one embodiment, the fourth layer consists of a polymer membrane.

[0149] In a preferred embodiment, the physical characteristics of the Italian terry structure forming the third layer (3) of the absorbing system are: loop length of 24-26 mm, density of 13-15 columns/cm and 14-16 rows/cm, thickness of 0.80-0.90 mm and a mass of 200-220 g/m.sup.2.

[0150] In a preferred embodiment, the fourth layer (4) of the absorbing system has a thickness of approximately 15 μm, a density of 1.21 g/cc, melting point between 185-95° C., is resistant to hot hydrostatic pressure greater than approximately 10 m and has <3 m.sup.2 Pa/W.

[0151] In a preferred embodiment, the absorbing system of the present disclosure comprises a barrier strip (5) which helps the absorbing system to prevent unwanted fluid leakage.

[0152] In one embodiment, the barrier device/strip (5) may have a thread tension ranging between 0.5-2.0 g/tex and the length of each loop ranges between 0.20-0.30 mm, the length of each loop in a most absorbing zone ranging between 5-20% compared to the length of each loop in the previous zone. Preferably, the strip is a fabric or knit dimensionally stable to temperature and pressure, of synthetic origin, selected from Polyester, polyamide, polypropylene or a combination thereof.

[0153] In one embodiment, the manufacturing process of the absorbing system/structure described in the present disclosure is usual for those skilled in the art. Therefore, in general, said absorbing system is manufactured in single cylinder knitting machines (needles in the cylinder) of large diameter (20″-40″), a technology associated with the production of weft knit. The technology used herein has several advantages, namely: flexibility in the ability to select needles; greater variety of knit structures; ease in changing the design; allows the development of several types of tubular knit shapes; economical in terms of production costs and time; greater productivity as it offers maximum production efficiency due to the possibility of reaching high speeds; possibility to control the loop size; reduction of tension applied to the yarn; fiber type diversity; absence of bulky and irritating seams; it gives lightness, softness, since there are no seams; more constant product quality, gives a better appearance and greater comfort in contact with the body.

[0154] In one embodiment, the manufacturing process of the underwear clothing item is also a common process and consists of cutting the knit and its jersey derivatives by its adaptability and fixing to the user's body, then it goes on to the manufacturing phase of the piece itself and its aesthetic finish, so that the absorbing system can be integrated into the piece.

[0155] An embodiment of the present disclosure refers to the use of the absorbing system in an underwear clothing item. Finally, another embodiment refers to the use of said clothing item as a medical device for the retention and control of body fluids/liquids.

[0156] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, said clothing item does not compromise the clinical status of the user/patient nor the safety of the user, considering that the benefit provided to the user is compatible with a high degree of health protection and security.

[0157] The term “comprises” or “comprising” when used herein is intended to indicate the presence of the features, elements, integers, steps and components mentioned, but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, integers, steps and components, or groups thereof.

[0158] The embodiments described are combinable with each other.

[0159] The present invention is of course in no way restricted to the embodiments described herein and a person of ordinary skill in the art can foresee many possibilities of modifying it and replacing technical features with equivalents depending on the requirements of each situation as defined in the appended claims.

[0160] The following claims define additional embodiments of the present description.

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