Prototypes
Each member dedicated time to create individual prototypes.
Olivia's Prototype
My prototype aimed to address the kits and needed elements when creating a kit. I used my research on the menstrual kits that were distributed after the 2015 Nepal Earthquake. These were designed to be accessible, reusable, and provide the user the ability to maintain and adjust to their flow. My kits are simple and include outer pad shells, two types of pad inserts for customizability, a waterproof storage bag, and extra clips. My design addressed our design elements of being discrete, customizable, and user friendly.
Jessica's Prototype
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My prototype focused on the design and manufacturing aspects of creating a pad. I used products I already had at home to keep the cost low and tried to create a waterproof insert for the pad. I did this by wrapping a napkin in cling wrap and inserting it in the middle section and securing it by sewing the insert in. I also wanted to see how hard it would be to sew my own pad and I concluded that it is not hard to make a pad, however, I didn’t test it out so I’m unsure how comfortable or practical it actually is.

Sophia'a Prototype
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​I focused on designing a pad that was culturally conscious. Aforementioned on the ‘Insights’ page of our website, existing initiatives have struggled to be successful in like-target populations that were unreceptive to their product design. One of the AFRIpads failures was designing a pad that used fabric that was light in color and failed to hide stains. Additionally, their pad design was very distinguishable and therefor users were felt unable to hang pads to dry on a communal clothesline out of fear of embarrassment. My prototype seeks to address both concerns.