MAV Project: Construction of a Sanitary Pad Dispenser Using 3D Printing to Combat Menstrual Poverty

• Breno Morgan Modesto Sousa Silva IFCE
• Fábio Timbó Brito IFCE
• Raissa Sales Bastos IFCE

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5753/ideia.2025.8346

Abstract

Menstrual poverty is a social issue that hinders access to essential hygiene products, such as sanitary pads. This article presents the development of the Automated Sanitary Pad Distribution Machine (MAV), an IoT solution that uses 3D printing to produce accessible components. The machine employs sensors, RFID, microcontrollers, and Wi-Fi/Ethernet connectivity for remote stock control and intelligent distribution. Tests validated its accuracy and efficiency, and its implementation at the Federal Institute of Education, Science, and Technology of Ceará demonstrated positive acceptance. The project offers an innovative and low-cost solution to combat menstrual poverty, with potential for replication in various locations.

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