摘要:
A method of folding a plurality of flexible elements about a central fluid storage element comprising the steps of urging an intravaginal device into a folding device; imparting relative rotation between at least a portion of the folding device and the intravaginal device; and contacting the plurality of flexible extensions with the folding device. Wherein the intravaginal device includes a fluid storage element and a plurality of flexible extensions extending therefrom, and the flexible extensions are folded about the fluid storage element in a uniform direction. Alternatively, in place of relative rotation, the flexible extensions are folded by means of guide rails of the folding device, the guide rails folding the flexible extensions about the fluid storage element. Several apparatus may be employed in this and related methods.
摘要:
An intravaginal device comprising: a. at least one fluid transport element comprising; i. a first plate having an outwardly oriented surface and an inwardly oriented surface; and ii. a second plate coupled to the first plate; 1. that has a first surface disposed and maintained in facing relationship with the inwardly oriented surface of the first plate and an opposite surface; and 2. that is capable of separating from the first plate sufficiently to provide inter-plate capillary action;
wherein the fluid transport element comprises a plurality of spacer elements that are disposed to separate the surfaces of the first and second plates; and b. a fluid storage element having a longitudinal axis, the fluid storage element being in fluid communication with the at least one fluid transport element; wherein the at least one fluid transport element is bendable about an axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the fluid storage element.