Asymmetric Absorptive Sponge with Extraction String for Hygiene
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing anal hygiene devices lack a shape that can be comfortably held within the user's buttocks adjacent the anus and do not have an easy, hygienic removal mechanism, such as an extraction string.
Innovation Solution
A sponge body with a larger bottom side and a tab coupled with an extraction string, designed to be inserted within the buttocks to absorb fecal matter and prevent clothing soiling, with the string allowing for easy removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If a flat pad or diaper-like structure is used, then the device can be manufactured simply, but it cannot be comfortably held within the user's buttocks adjacent the anus
Solution Approach 1:
The sponge body is formed with an asymmetric contoured shape where the bottom side is larger than the top side, allowing it to fit comfortably within the user's buttocks adjacent the anus. This asymmetric geometry enables the device to conform to the natural curvature of the buttock region while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates a tab extending from the top side of the sponge body, creating a localized structural feature that facilitates proper positioning and insertion. This local structural modification allows the main body to maintain its contoured shape while adding functional capability for user application.
2Ease of operation
If no removal mechanism is provided, then the device structure remains simple, but hygienic removal becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
An extraction string is coupled to the tab, serving as an intermediary element that enables hygienic removal of the device. The string allows the user to grasp and remove the device without direct contact with the contaminated sponge body, maintaining hygiene while simplifying the removal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is segmented into distinct functional components: the absorptive sponge body, the positioning tab, and the extraction string. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, with the string serving solely as a removal aid without interfering with the absorption function.
3Shape
If the bottom side is made larger than the top side, then the device fits better in the buttocks, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sponge body is formed with specific dimensional parameters where the bottom side is intentionally made larger than the top side. This parameter change creates the contoured shape that fits the buttocks while allowing for standard manufacturing tolerances. The asymmetric dimensions are established as fixed parameters during the molding process.
4Ease of operation
If an extraction string is added, then hygienic removal is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The extraction string is implemented as a simple, inexpensive component that is discarded after single use. This approach enables easy and hygienic removal functionality without requiring complex or expensive mechanisms. The string serves its purpose effectively and is then discarded, aligning with the disposable nature of the hygiene device.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution effectively prevents fecal matter transfer to clothing and facilitates hygienic removal of the device, enhancing user comfort and hygiene.
Implementation Method 1
The sponge body is an absorptive material configured to be inserted within a user's buttocks adjacent the anus to prevent transfer of fecal matter from the user's anus to a user's clothing
Data Source
AI summary
An absorptive anal hygiene apparatus for anal hygiene includes a sponge body having a body top side, a body bottom side, a body front side, a body back side, a body left side, and a body right side. The body bottom side is larger than the body top side. The sponge body is an absorptive material configured to be inserted within a user's buttocks adjacent the anus to prevent transfer of fecal matter from the user's anus to a user's clothing. A tab is coupled to the body top side of the sponge body. An extraction string is coupled to the tab. The extraction string is pullable to remove the sponge body from the user's buttocks.