Multi-layer perineal pad with segmented density for leakage control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing interlabial pads often interfere with diagnostic assays, can disrupt cellular structures, are susceptible to bacterial overgrowth, and have a design that leads to fluid distribution and leakage issues due to a low density core that wicks fluid to the center of the pad.
Innovation Solution
A multi-layer absorbent pad with an inner and outer denser layer and an intermediate lower density layer, where the intermediate layer acts as a reservoir to retain fluid and inhibit bacterial growth, preventing leakage and maintaining fluid distribution within the pad.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a low density core is used to absorb fluid, then absorption capacity is improved, but fluid wicks to the center and causes leakage from the ends
Solution Approach 1:
The pad is divided into multiple layers with different density characteristics. The first and second layers have higher density to prevent fluid wicking, while the intermediate layer has lower density to provide absorption capacity. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by assigning different functions to different segments.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the pad have different density properties tailored to their specific functions. The outer layers use higher density material for fluid containment, while the intermediate layer uses lower density material for absorption. This local differentiation eliminates the leakage problem while maintaining absorption capacity.
2Quantity of substance
If traditional absorbent materials are used, then fluid absorption is improved, but bacterial overgrowth occurs during storage and shipment
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediate layer acts as an intermediary between the outer absorbent layers and the collected fluid. This middle layer with its specific density and material properties creates a barrier that prevents direct contact between the fluid and materials that would promote bacterial growth, while still allowing effective fluid absorption.
Solution Approach 2:
The pad uses a composite structure combining materials with different properties in specific layers. The higher density outer layers provide fluid containment and absorption, while the intermediate layer with lower density provides a barrier against bacterial growth. This composite approach resolves the contradiction between absorption and bacterial resistance.
3Quantity of substance
If materials that bind cells are used for absorption, then fluid collection is improved, but diagnostic assays are interfered with
Solution Approach 1:
The pad structure is segmented into outer layers that collect fluid and an intermediate layer that retains it without binding cells. This segmentation allows the outer layers to perform fluid collection while the intermediate layer preserves cell integrity for diagnostic analysis, resolving the contradiction between collection efficiency and diagnostic accuracy.
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 multi-layer design effectively retains fluid in the intermediate layer, reducing leakage and bacterial growth, while allowing for even distribution and collection of biological samples for diagnostic analysis, and can be used for both catamenial and therapeutic purposes.
Implementation Method 1
liquid that enters the internal cavity is absorbed through the inner absorbent layer into the intermediate layer, and liquid external to the device is absorbed through the outer absorbent layer into the intermediate layer
Implementation Method 2
The lower density of the intermediate layer promotes the retention of liquid in the intermediate layer instead of in the cavity within the pad
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-layered, absorbent perineal pad is disclosed that has a generally ovate cross-section. In disclosed embodiments, the pad has an absorbent outer layer, antimicrobial intermediate layer, and absorbent inner layer. At least two opposing edges of the pad are sealed to one another so that the absorbent inner layer encloses an internal cavity within the pad. The pad may be used to absorb liquids from perineal structures (such as vaginal or anal liquids) or administer agents to perineal structures. Liquids that are absorbed in the pad can be subjected to diagnostic assays.