Inspiration:
The inspiration for Cyclone came from the frustration with current period-tracking apps that often fall short. They rely on outdated technology, lock essential features behind paywalls, don't calculate your cycles accurately, sell your data, and fail to address the pressing issue of period poverty. We wanted to create a platform that not only empowers users to manage their menstrual cycles with greater accuracy, and provides critical resources for those in need. Cyclone is built to break down barriers, offering a better experience than other apps, and not seeking any profit from it.
What it does:
Cyclone is an online platform that assists users throughout their menstrual cycle. Featuring a personalized dashboard and calendar to track your cycles with precise predictions powered by Wolfram’s API (All stored locally, no data collected!). Standout features include:
- A Menstrual Map that locates nearby public restrooms, community centres, etc. that offer free menstrual products, tackling the struggle of period poverty head-on.
- Cyclone’s AI chatbot, Peppa, provides confidential advice, reminders, and answers to user queries.
- The product finder recommends menstrual products based on individual preferences; applying algorithms to solve those times when what you buy just isn't for you.
- Cyclash gamifies menstrual education, making learning about the cycle fun and engaging (especially good for those who don't have cycles, but should learn!).
How we built it:
Cyclone was built using entirely static HTML, CSS, and Javascript. Our top priority for Cyclone was that you should be able to run it all on your device, risk-free of having your menstrual data collected and used. Using resources like Wolfram's Instant APIs, we're able to securely access tools such as OpenAI, which are typically only able to run on server platforms like Node.JS. For the Cyclash game, we used Unity and C# and embedded it into the site with WebGL, to ensure a smooth and performant experience.
Challenges we ran into:
The largest challenge was definitely the creation and fine-tuning of the menstrual calculator. We worked through many iterations and tweaked the values before finally settling on the current algorithm. Cyclone was created in part because other calculators and available resources were often inaccurate, so when working on it, we often had to verify accuracy ourselves. Another major roadblock when creating Cyclone was getting the entire site to run statically. Using a clever solution through Wolfram's Cloud-Deployed APIs, we managed to deliver the privacy of static sites without cutting corners on any of the site's features.
Accomplishments we’re proud of:
We’re proud of creating a platform that enhances individual menstrual health management and addresses the societal issue of period poverty. Successfully integrating advanced OpenAI's tools on a static platform (Github Pages) was especially challenging, but our solution through Wolfram's Cloud Deployment and Instant APIs opens the door for so many options that only servers with backends were thought to be capable of. Moreover, we're particularly excited about developing Cyclash as an innovative educational tool that makes learning about menstruation fun.
What we learned:
Throughout the development of Cyclone, we learned the importance of user-centric design, especially the importance of privacy when dealing with sensitive health topics. We also gained valuable experience in integrating AI and machine learning with practical applications, ensuring that technology genuinely enhances user experience. Additionally, the process of addressing period poverty through digital means taught us a great deal about the intersection of technology and social responsibility.
What’s next:
Looking ahead, we plan to expand Cyclone’s reach by developing a mobile app version for easier access on the go. We’re also considering partnerships with organizations to expand the Menstrual Map feature and provide more comprehensive resources for users. Further enhancements to Peppa, our AI chatbot, are on the horizon, including more advanced conversational abilities and integration with mental health support. Ultimately, our goal is to make Cyclone a global platform, providing menstrual health support to everyone, everywhere.
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