Segmented Menstrual Cup Case for Austere Cleaning and Drying
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Solution Overview
Problem
The need to clean and sanitize menstrual cups is problematic in austere environments lacking water and electricity, and existing cases are inefficient without essential components.
Innovation Solution
A portable menstrual cup case with three segments: a superior segment for drying, a median segment for connecting the other segments, and an inferior segment for cleaning, featuring compartments for storage and cleaning, and optionally a platinum disk for neutralizing hydrogen peroxide.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If menstrual cups are used for sustainability and cost-efficiency, then environmental impact is reduced and cost is lowered, but cleaning and sanitizing becomes problematic in austere environments
Solution Approach 1:
The case is divided into three separable segments: a superior segment with drying holes, a median segment with attachment means, and an inferior segment for cleaning. This segmentation allows the device to be disassembled for thorough cleaning and drying while remaining portable and functional in austere environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The case design enables self-contained cleaning and drying functionality without requiring external water sources or electricity. The inferior segment holds cleaning agents or water, the median segment connects components, and the superior segment provides drying surface with evaporation holes, allowing the menstrual cup to be cleaned and dried entirely within the case structure.
2Reliability
If existing menstrual cup cases include essential cleaning components, then cleaning effectiveness is improved, but device complexity and vulnerability to breakage increase
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the case into three functional segments that can be separated, the design provides effective cleaning surfaces and drying areas without requiring complex integrated mechanisms. Each segment serves a specific purpose that can be independently maintained or replaced.
Solution Approach 2:
The median segment serves multiple functions: it connects the superior and inferior segments, provides structural support, and enables reversible assembly. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components that would increase complexity and breakage risk.
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
Enables effective cleaning and drying of menstrual cups using readily available resources, maintaining hygiene and preventing infections, while being compact, leak-proof, and sturdy.
Implementation Method 1
the superior segment which is configured with holes in the top surface to facilitate evaporation
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention generally relates to a carrying and cleaning case for a menstrual cup. In particular, the carrying and cleaning case for a menstrual cup is configured with at least two, but preferably three, segments comprising of a cleaning segment and a drying segment. The exterior of the case is configured with finger grips to prevent slippage.