Maheena

Maheena aims to address the issue of limited menstrual hygiene awareness in rural India. A low-cost, high-quality educational tool was developed that assists teachers in explaining menstrual hygiene through a demonstration.

Before the workshop, a red liquid is poured into the reservoir at the top of the model. With the first tab on display, the teacher starts with a breakdown of the menstrual cycle. In the next step, the first valve is opened which releases the liquid into a uterus graphic, representing the endometrial lining that thickens during ovulation. The liquid is released through the bottom valve during the last step. By collecting the liquid in a menstrual pad, the teacher demonstrates how this pad can be a sanitary option for girls on their period.

Dezeen “Seven student design projects exploring women's health and experiences“

Dezeen “Brunel University London presents 10 design student projects“

New Designers
The annual London showcase offers a platform for hand-picked UK design graduates every year to present their visionary ideas to industry professionals and the public.

We Are Hmn “New Designers 2023: An insights into the future of Design.”

Development

In addition to extensive desk research, the product was developed with creative and technical methods. Initial sketches and concept generation was guided by matrix analysis, followed by cardboard prototypes and proof-of-principle models to test the functionality of the valves.

Functional form exploration and colour coding improved usability and aesthetics, while CAD enabled precise modelling. Materials were chosen with affordability and accesibility in mind, incorporating design-for-manufacture principles to streamline production and deliver a user-focused solution.

Rikke Geelen