Female Waste Capture Funnel With Insert for Clean Urine Collection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current waste management systems for human waste in low or no gravity environments are inadequate for female users, leading to issues such as backsplash and messiness due to improper fit and lack of directional urine flow, and require frequent replacement of consumable components.
Innovation Solution
The system includes a funnel with a contoured shape and adjustable skirt designed for female anatomy, a wicking capture insert, and a fluid driver to direct waste into a hose, along with a fluid separation junction and a removable container insert for improved sanitation and longevity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional waste management systems are used in confined spaces, then waste collection is possible, but cross-contamination between different waste types occurs and sanitation is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the waste collection function into separate compartments for different waste types (urine, feces, other waste) within a single portable unit. This segmentation prevents cross-contamination while maintaining sanitation in confined spaces where separate containers would be impractical.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements nested structures where collection containers are placed within larger portable waste management units. The funnel assembly nests within the housing, and multiple collection containers can be nested within each other or arranged in hierarchical configurations to maximize space utilization while maintaining separation of waste streams.
2Volume of moving object
If portable waste management systems are designed for confined spaces, then space utilization is improved, but structural stability and leak prevention become problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs curved and rounded designs in the portable unit housing and collection containers rather than sharp angles. The curved surfaces help distribute stress evenly and prevent stress concentration points that could lead to leaks or structural failures in the compact portable design.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes flexible sealing membranes and gaskets that can conform to the compact structure while maintaining leak-proof seals. These flexible elements adapt to the confined space requirements while ensuring reliable containment of waste materials.
3Reliability
If complex waste management systems are implemented, then waste separation and sanitation are improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The portable waste management unit is designed as a multi-functional integrated system that combines collection, separation, storage, and cleaning functions in a single device. The funnel assembly serves multiple purposes including guiding different waste types to appropriate containers and providing structural support.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates self-cleaning capabilities through integrated spray nozzles and drainage features that automatically clean surfaces and prevent buildup without requiring complex manual intervention. The design enables users to easily empty and maintain the system through intuitive access points.
4Reliability
If adequate drainage and cleaning facilities are provided, then sanitation is improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The drainage and cleaning functions are merged with the waste collection and storage systems. Drainage channels are integrated into the funnel and container structures, and cleaning spray nozzles are positioned to utilize existing water sources and drainage paths, eliminating the need for separate dedicated cleaning compartments.
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 system provides enhanced usability, sanitation, and reduced mess by ensuring a secure seal and directional waste capture, while allowing for user-specific, reusable components.
Implementation Method 1
The hose is preferably a siphon hose that utilizes siphonage to remove the liquid waste from the container
Implementation Method 2
The container may also include an adsorbent material to absorb liquid waste in the event that the portability waste management system is not emptied in a timely fashion
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3A~3C
Figure 4
AI summary
Waste management systems and capture funnels thereof are described. The waste management systems include a waste container (104), a reclamation system (118), a capture funnel (102), and a hose (106) fluidly connecting the capture funnel to each of the waste container and the reclamation system. The capture funnels include a funnel (200) having an inlet end (210) and an outlet end (214), wherein the inlet end has a non-circular shape, a skirt (212) arranged at the inlet end, and a capture insert (120) installed within the funnel.