Modular, Adaptive, and Intelligent Menstrual Discharge Collection Devices

Publication ID: 24-11857455_0010_PTD
Published: October 28, 2025
Category:Future Evolutions & Paradigm Shifts

Legal Citation

pr1or.art Inc., “Modular, Adaptive, and Intelligent Menstrual Discharge Collection Devices,” Published Technical Disclosure No. 24-11857455_0010_PTD, Published October 28, 2025, available at https://archive.pr1or.art/24-11857455_0010_PTD
This technical disclosure describes improvements that would be readily apparent to a Person Having Ordinary Skill In The Art (PHOSITA) when considered in combination with the foundational architecture disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 11,857,455.

Summary of the Inventive Concept

Next-generation menstrual discharge collection devices featuring modular, interchangeable components, adaptive self-cleaning surfaces, integrated sensors, and customizable 3D printed designs to revolutionize menstrual health management.

Background and Problem Solved

The original patent described a reusable menstrual disc-shaped device produced from either a single contiguous mold or two molds. However, this design has limitations in terms of durability, cleaning, and customization. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing modular, adaptive, and intelligent features that enhance user experience, hygiene, and performance.

Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept

The new inventive concept comprises a modular, interchangeable rim and catch system, allowing users to swap out and replace components, thereby extending the lifespan of the device. The device features an adaptive, self-cleaning surface utilizing micro-robotic technology to remove residue and debris, reducing the risk of bacterial growth and odor. Integrated sensors and a companion mobile application enable personalized insights and recommendations for improving menstrual health. The device can be customized using 3D printing and machine learning algorithms, tailoring it to an individual user's specific needs and preferences. Additionally, advanced nanotechnology can be employed to create a superhydrophobic surface, reducing the risk of leakage and improving overall device performance.

Novelty and Inventive Step

The new claims introduce a paradigm shift in menstrual discharge collection devices by incorporating modular, adaptive, and intelligent features that overcome the limitations of the original patent. The inventive concept's novelty lies in its ability to provide a customizable, high-performance, and hygienic solution that transforms the user experience.

Alternative Embodiments and Variations

Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include variations in material selection, component design, and sensor integration. For instance, the device could be designed with different types of sensors, such as temperature or pH sensors, to provide additional health insights. The modular design could be adapted for use in other medical devices, such as wound care or incontinence management.

Potential Commercial Applications and Market

The new inventive concept has significant commercial potential in the feminine hygiene market, with potential applications in healthcare, wellness, and medical devices. The customizable and high-performance features of the device could appeal to a wide range of consumers, from young adults to seniors, and could be marketed through various channels, including online platforms, retail stores, and healthcare providers.

CPC Classifications

SectionClassGroup
A A61 A61F5/4553
A A61 A61F5/4404

Field of Art

Feminine hygiene devices, specifically reusable menstrual discharge collection devices, involving materials engineering, medical device design, and polymer molding technologies

Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile

A biomedical engineer or materials scientist with expertise in medical device design, polymer processing, injection molding techniques, and familiarity with medical device ergonomics and user-centered design principles

Obviousness Rationale

A PHOSITA would recognize that the PTD's modular and intelligent design represents predictable technological extensions of the source patent's core innovations in dual durometer menstrual disc manufacturing. The disclosed variations leverage known techniques in sensor integration, nanotechnology, and customizable manufacturing to enhance the fundamental device concept. These improvements represent logical progressions that would be apparent to a skilled practitioner seeking to optimize menstrual health device performance and user experience.

Obvious Combinations & Variations

Source Patent Element
Dual durometer molding technique for creating a single-piece menstrual disc with distinct rim and catch sections
PTD Variation
Modular, interchangeable rim and catch system allowing component replacement
Obviousness Reasoning
A PHOSITA would find it obvious to extend the source patent's multi-durometer concept into a fully modular design, as this represents a predictable design optimization enabling easier maintenance and customization
Source Patent Element
Injection molded high-temperature resistant thermoplastic rubber device
PTD Variation
3D printed customizable device with machine learning-driven design parameters
Obviousness Reasoning
Advanced manufacturing techniques like 3D printing are well-known alternatives to injection molding, and a PHOSITA would recognize the potential for personalization through computational design approaches
Source Patent Element
Reusable menstrual discharge collection device with specific geometric configuration
PTD Variation
Integrated sensor systems and companion mobile application for health tracking
Obviousness Reasoning
Adding electronic monitoring capabilities to medical devices is a known technique, and a PHOSITA would find it obvious to incorporate sensor technologies to enhance device functionality and user insights
Source Patent Element
Single continuous piece menstrual discharge collection device
PTD Variation
Nanotechnology-enhanced superhydrophobic surface for improved performance
Obviousness Reasoning
Surface modification using nanotechnology is a predictable engineering solution for addressing performance limitations, and a PHOSITA would recognize the potential for reducing leakage through advanced material treatments
Source Patent Element
Menstrual disc designed for ease of manufacturing and cleaning
PTD Variation
Self-cleaning surface utilizing micro-robotic technology
Obviousness Reasoning
Implementing automated cleaning mechanisms represents a logical extension of the original device's cleaning considerations, utilizing known micro-robotic and surface engineering techniques
35 U.S.C. § 103 Summary: Pursuant to 35 U.S.C. ยง 103, the variations disclosed in this publication would have been obvious to a person having ordinary skill in the art at the time of invention, with reasonable expectation of success, when considering the teachings of US Patent 11857455 in combination with known medical device design and materials engineering techniques. The disclosed innovations represent predictable technological progressions that do not rise to the level of non-obvious invention.

Original Patent Information

Patent NumberUS 11,857,455
TitleReusable dual durometer polymeric menstrual discharge collection device