Description:FIELD OF INVENTION
The present invention pertains to a biodegradable, multi-layered biosensing patch that provides tactile feedback for period detection in visually impaired women. Designed as a disposable strip, it changes texture upon contact with menstrual blood, enabling independent detection of menstrual onset without assistance. The patch is free of electronic components, ensuring both user safety and environmental sustainability.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:
Vision impairment affects approximately 2.2 billion people worldwide, with a substantial proportion being women of reproductive age. In India, there are an estimated 336 million menstruating women who are visually challenged. For these women, detecting the onset of their menstrual periods poses a significant challenge, as they cannot visually assess the presence of menstrual blood. This inability to independently detect their periods forces them to rely on others for assistance, compromising their personal privacy and autonomy.
The difficulty in distinguishing between menstrual blood and other vaginal secretions further exacerbates the problem. Visually impaired women often resort to unhygienic methods, such as smelling or tasting secretions, to identify menstrual blood. In other instances, they may need to ask friends or family members to check their undergarments, which is both invasive and embarrassing. Such practices not only jeopardize their dignity but also increase the risk of infections and other health issues.
Current solutions, such as period tracking apps or electronic devices, are inadequate in addressing these needs. While these technologies can track the menstrual cycle, they cannot reliably detect the presence of menstrual blood. Additionally, the use of sensors in close proximity to the vaginal area is often uncomfortable and impractical for everyday use. These limitations underscore the urgent need for a non-invasive, reliable, and user-friendly solution that empowers visually impaired women to independently monitor their menstrual health.
The present invention offers a groundbreaking solution to this unmet need. Present invention is a biodegradable and biocompatible multi-layered patch designed to provide tactile feedback specifically for detecting menstrual blood. The patch can be used as a wipe or placed in undergarments, where it interacts selectively with menstrual blood. Upon contact with period blood, the patch undergoes a change in texture from smooth to coarse creating a distinct tactile sensation. This tactile feedback enables visually impaired women to feel the presence of menstrual blood, signaling the onset of their period without the need for visual confirmation or external assistance.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:
The present invention relates to a Biodegradable Multi-Layered Biosensing Patch with Tactile Sensory Response for Visually Impaired Users, designed as a disposable strip for seamless period detection. This innovative patch is specifically engineered to empower visually impaired women to independently detect the onset of their menstrual periods without the need for external assistance. By providing a tactile sensory response, the patch changes its texture upon interaction with menstrual blood, allowing users to feel the difference and confirm the presence of period blood.
The invention comprises a stack of different layers, each coated with biochemicals that perform specific roles in detecting menstrual blood. The patch operates on the principle of selective differential filtration, with each layer contributing to the detection and tactile feedback mechanism.
Layer 1 - Selective Filtration Layer: The first layer consists of a PVDF (Polyvinylidene Fluoride) hydrophobic membrane coated with chitosan. This layer selectively allows vaginal secretions to pass through while repelling non-blood components, enhancing selectivity. The chitosan coating provides a biocompatible interface that further discriminates between menstrual blood and other secretions, allowing the menstrual blood to be filtered through while repelling hydrophobic or viscous discharges.
Layer 2 - Biosensing Layer: The second layer is composed of a PVDF membrane embedded with Glucose Oxidase enzyme within a PVA (Polyvinyl Alcohol) hydrogel matrix, along with gelatin, calcium chloride, and dextran as enhancers. This layer is also coated with TMB (Tetramethylbenzidine), which reacts with hemoglobin in the blood. When menstrual blood comes into contact with this layer, the glucose in the blood interacts with the Glucose Oxidase, releasing hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). This reaction creates an alkaline environment that causes the layer to rapidly expand and harden, producing a significant change in texture and color, serving as an indicator of the presence of menstrual blood.
Layer 3 - Enhancement Layer: The third layer consists of a nitrocellulose or cotton membrane embedded with microbeads responsible for providing tactile feedback. This layer is surrounded by a transparent waterproof backing, which also functions as a sticker that can be affixed to undergarments. When the second layer reacts with menstrual blood and expands, it pushes the microbeads in the enhancement layer, allowing the user to feel the tactile sensory response on the periphery of the patch.
Mechanism of Action:
• Periods Positive: Upon interaction with menstrual blood, the patch becomes rough indicating periods positive as the strip only reacts with menstrual blood.
• Periods Negative: If only vaginal secretions are present without menstrual blood there won't be any interactions and the rough texture is absent and this tactile response indicates that menstruation has not occurred.
Additionally, the invention includes a period detection probe, a pen-based accessory that can be used to confirm the presence of period blood beyond the tactile response. The probe detects the color change on the patch and vibrates to indicate menstrual blood, while also recording the start time of the period, aiding in period tracking.
This invention represents a significant advancement in menstrual health management for visually impaired women, offering a biodegradable, non-electronic, and user-friendly solution that enhances autonomy, hygiene, and personal dignity.
FIGURES :
Figure 1:illustrates the top view of the Biodegradable Multi-Layered Biosensing Patch with Tactile Sensory Response for Visually Impaired Users
Figure 2: illustrates Changes in texture before and after exposure to in-house lab made a mixture of hormones, electrolytes, and cells that mimic the vaginal secretion.
Figure 3: illustrates the tactical response of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION:
The invention, Biodegradable Multi-Layered Biosensing Patch with Tactile Sensory Response for Visually Impaired Users, is designed to provide an effective and user-friendly solution for detecting menstrual blood. This detailed description explains the structure, function, and advantages of the patch, with reference to the accompanying figures.
Figure 1 illustrates the top view of the Biodegradable Multi-Layered Biosensing Patch, which is composed of five distinct components:
1. Top Layer for Sample Induction and Backing(101): This outermost layer serves as the initial point of contact for vaginal secretions and provides structural support. It ensures that the sample is properly introduced to the underlying layers and serves as a backing layer to keep the patch in place.
2. Selective Filtration Layer (Layer 1)(102): This layer is a PVDF (Polyvinylidene Fluoride) hydrophobic membrane coated with chitosan. It functions as the primary filtration mechanism, allowing menstrual blood to pass through while repelling other vaginal secretions. The chitosan coating enhances the selectivity by creating a biocompatible interface that preferentially allows menstrual blood to interact with the subsequent layers.
3. Biosensing Layer (Layer 2)(103): Comprising a PVDF membrane embedded with a Glucose Oxidase enzyme within a PVA (Polyvinyl Alcohol) hydrogel matrix, this layer reacts with menstrual blood to detect its presence. The layer is further enhanced with gelatin, calcium chloride, dextran, and TMB (Tetramethylbenzidine) to facilitate the reaction and visual indicator. When menstrual blood interacts with the biosensing layer, glucose in the blood reacts with the enzyme, producing hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) that creates an alkaline environment, causing the layer to expand and harden. This results in a significant change in texture and color.
4. Tactile Feedback Layer (Layer 3)(104): This layer is made of nitrocellulose or cotton membrane embedded with microbeads. When the biosensing layer reacts with menstrual blood, it pushes the microbeads in this layer, providing a tactile sensory response. This feedback allows users to feel a change in texture, indicating the presence of period blood.
5. Backing Layer(105): The backing layer provides additional support and ensures that the patch remains securely in place when applied to undergarments or used as a wipe. It also includes a transparent waterproof backing that can be affixed to underwear.
Figure 2 illustrates the changes in texture of the patch before and after exposure to a lab-made mixture of hormones, electrolytes, and cells that mimic vaginal secretions. The texture modification is visible upon interaction with menstrual blood, showcasing the patch's ability to differentiate between menstrual blood and other vaginal secretions.
Figure 3 demonstrates the tactile response of the invention:
• 3A shows the absence of tactile response when the patch interacts with vaginal discharges, which causes no significant change in texture.
• 3B depicts the interaction with menstrual blood, leading to a noticeable surface texture modification. The change in texture from smooth to coarse provides a clear tactile indication that menstruation has occurred.
Mechanism of Action:
1. Sample Induction and Initial Contact: Upon application, the top layer (101) allows vaginal secretions to contact the selective filtration layer.
2. Selective Filtration: The primary layer(102), with its hydrophobic properties and chitosan coating, selectively allows menstrual blood to pass through while filtering out other secretions.
3. Biosensing Reaction: The menstrual blood reaches the biosensing layer(103), where glucose in the blood interacts with the Glucose Oxidase enzyme. This reaction generates hydrogen peroxide, creating an alkaline environment that causes the biosensing layer to expand and harden. The TMB enhances this reaction, resulting in a significant texture and color change.
4. Tactile Feedback: The expanded and hardened biosensing layer pushes the microbeads in the tactile feedback layer, producing a change in texture that is felt by the user. This tactile response confirms the presence of period blood.
5. Indicator and Tracking: Optionally, a period detection probe can be used to confirm the presence of period blood and track its onset by detecting color changes and recording start times.
This invention provides a hygienic, reliable, and autonomous method for menstruation detection, addressing the needs of visually impaired women by enhancing their independence and personal dignity.
. ADVANTAGES:
1. Environmental Impact:
o Biodegradable Materials: The present invention is constructed using biocompatible and biodegradable materials, such as chitosan and gelatin. This approach reduces environmental pollution compared to conventional synthetic menstrual products, contributing to sustainability and reduced ecological footprint.
2. Enhanced Awareness:
o Immediate Feedback: The tactile feedback mechanism provides users with clear and immediate indications of menstrual blood presence. This feature enhances menstrual hygiene management, reduces the risk of infections, and prevents complications associated with inadequate menstrual care.
3. Empowerment:
o Autonomy and Confidence: By offering a product that improves menstrual awareness, the present invention empowers women to proactively manage their menstrual health. This increased autonomy enhances confidence and encourages self-care.
4. Reduction in Health Issues:
o Prevention of Infections: Timely feedback about menstrual blood presence allows users to change their menstrual products more frequently. This proactive approach reduces the risk of infections and health issues related to prolonged use of soiled products.
o Enhanced Hygiene: The antimicrobial properties of chitosan, combined with the innovative design of the patch, help maintain superior hygiene and overall health.
5. Mental Health Impact:
o Reduced Anxiety and Stress: The present invention provides reliable and discreet menstrual monitoring, alleviating anxiety and stress associated with menstrual irregularities and unexpected periods. Enhanced confidence in managing menstrual health contributes to improved psychological well-being.
6. Education and Awareness:
o Increased Awareness: promotes greater awareness of menstrual health and hygiene. These fosters open discussions and education on menstruation, an often-taboo topic.
o Social Impact: By addressing menstrual hygiene effectively, the product helps reduce stigma and discrimination associated with menstruation, advancing gender equality and social inclusion.
7. Benefits to Blind Women:
o Independence and Autonomy:
 Tactile Feedback: The tactile feedback mechanism provides a sensory cue easily detectable through touch, enabling blind women to independently monitor their menstrual cycle without visual cues.
 Ease of Use: The distinct texture change when menstrual blood is present simplifies the process of determining when to change menstrual products, thereby enhancing independent menstrual hygiene management.
o Confidence and Comfort:
 Reliable Detection: Immediate and reliable detection of menstrual blood presence boosts confidence in menstrual hygiene management, reducing anxiety and uncertainty.
 Enhanced Comfort: The ability to identify when to change menstrual products based on tactile feedback prevents discomfort from prolonged use of soiled products, contributing to overall well-being.
o Accessibility:
 Inclusive Design: The product is designed with the needs of blind women in mind, ensuring that menstrual hygiene management is accessible and inclusive. This design promotes equality and provides equal access to advanced menstrual products.
 User-Friendly: The straightforward and intuitive feedback mechanism is easy to use, does not require complex technology, and is tailored to the needs of blind women.
8. Health and Safety:
o Reduced Risk of Complications: Timely feedback helps blind women manage menstrual hygiene more effectively, thereby reducing the risk of health complications associated with prolonged use of menstrual products.
o Biocompatibility and Safety: The use of biocompatible materials ensures that the product is safe for prolonged use, minimizing the risk of irritation or allergic reactions. This safety is particularly crucial for users who cannot visually inspect the product.
9. Innovation:
o First of Its Kind: The present invention represents a pioneering innovation in period management for blind women, achieving this without the use of electronics or complex equipment.
 Chemical-based biosensing patches made with biocompatible and biodegradable materials free from electronics.
 Multi-layered patch with leakproof materials
 Selective differential layer technology, which is designed especially for isolating blood and other vaginal secretions and detecting them individually by change of state from smoother to coarser textures rendering a tactile sensory response to the visually impaired.
 Each layer is assisted with an enhancement chemistry that assists accurate foolproof detection.
 Unique mechanism to differentiate the periods vs vaginal secretions with period blood-specific reactants coated on the primary layer and vaginal secretions specific secondary and tertiary layers.
 The pads has addition functionality of detecting the periods with a pen type probe like a life style accessory using color change as an indication.
, Claims:1. A biodegradable, multi-layered biosensing patch comprising:
A top layer(101) for sample induction and backing;
A selective filtration(102) layer consisting of a Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF) membrane coated with chitosan;
A biosensing layer made(103) of a Polyvinylidene Fluoride membrane with Glucose Oxidase enzyme embedded in a Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) hydrogel matrix, and coated with Tetramethylbenzidine (TMB);
A tactile feedback layer(104) comprising a nitrocellulose or cotton membrane embedded with microbeads;
A backing layer(105) providing additional support and a waterproof backing.
2. The biosensing patch of claim 1, wherein the selective filtration layer (Layer 1) allows menstrual blood to pass through while repelling other vaginal secretions.
3. The biosensing patch of claim 1, wherein the biosensing layer (Layer 2) expands and hardens upon reaction with menstrual blood, causing a noticeable change in texture and color.
4. The biosensing patch of claim 1, wherein the tactile feedback layer (Layer 3) provides a tactile response by changing texture based on the interaction with menstrual blood.
5. The biosensing patch of claim 1, further comprising an optional period detection probe that detects color changes on the patch and records the onset time of periods.
6. A method for detecting menstrual blood using the biosensing patch of claim 1, comprising:
a. Applying the patch to underwear or using it as a wipe;
b. Observing changes in texture upon contact with menstrual blood;
c. Using the optional period detection probe to confirm the presence of menstrual blood and track its onset.