Menstrual Cup Stem and Applicator for Insertion Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional menstrual cups are difficult to insert and remove, especially for individuals with dexterity or grip strength issues, often leading to leakage and discomfort due to the lack of effective mechanisms for unfolding and sealing within the vagina.
Innovation Solution
A menstrual cup design featuring a resiliently foldable rim and an elongated stem that applies a pulling force to aid in removal, combined with an applicator tool for easier insertion and removal, utilizing a stem with grip enhancements and a radial seal to facilitate the process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional menstrual cup with a small gripped stem is used, then the cup can be inserted into the vagina, but the mechanical suction force created by the seal prohibits easy removal
Solution Approach 1:
An air equalization channel is introduced as an intermediary mechanism to mediate between the sealed cup-vagina interface and the removal action. The channel allows air to equalize pressure when the stem is pulled, disrupting the vacuum seal and enabling easy removal without excessive pulling force
2Ease of operation
If existing menstrual cups are inserted with specific fold techniques, then the cup can be inserted, but the user requires dexterity and grip strength to maintain the folded shape and insert fingers into the vagina
Solution Approach 1:
The cup is designed with a resilient rim that dynamically changes from a folded insertion state to an expanded operational state. The rim's elasticity allows it to be compressed for insertion without dexterity requirements, then automatically expands to form a seal once inserted, adapting to the user's needs at each stage
Solution Approach 2:
The cup's resilient rim performs self-service by automatically expanding to its operational shape upon insertion without requiring manual manipulation. The elastic memory of the rim material causes it to self-unfold and seal against the vaginal wall, eliminating the need for users to maintain folded shapes or perform complex insertion maneuvers
3Ease of operation
If the cup relies on mechanical spring forces to unfold, then the cup can be inserted, but it often does not completely unfold and requires user manipulation to complete the unfolding
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient rim is designed with specific elastic parameters that ensure complete unfolding. By optimizing the rim's thickness, material composition, and geometric configuration, the cup achieves sufficient spring force to reliably expand to its full operational diameter without requiring user intervention, while maintaining the ability to form a proper seal
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 design improves ease of insertion and removal, reduces leakage, and enhances user comfort by allowing for a more straightforward unfolding and sealing mechanism, accommodating various anatomies and user abilities.
Implementation Method 1
a resiliently foldable rim defining a generally circular perimeter in an unfolded state... A folded position exists where a portion of the foldable rim is deformed to extend at least a portion of the top portion inward towards the center of the cavity
Implementation Method 2
The elongated stem is configured to apply a pulling force to the inner wall surface when a pulling force is applied to the distal end thereof
Implementation Method 3
Traditional menstrual cups form a seal with the vaginal wall that must be disrupted before the cup is removed... having only a small gripped stem which when pulled and due to the seal formed between the cup and the vagina creates a mechanical suction force
Data Source
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AI summary
A menstrual cup and applicator for use in the vagina. The menstrual cup having a receptacle for holding fluid and having a stem device connected to the top of the cup and extending through the open cavity through the bottom of the cup. The stem is configured to actuate the side and rim of the cup to allow for easier insertion and removal of the cup. The applicator may have several components and is configured to grasp a folded cup and position the cup in a deployed position within the vagina. Additionally, the applicator is designed to aid in the removal of the menstrual cup.