Patent Publication Number: US-11382786-B2

Title: Apparatus and methods for receiving discharged urine

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/088,272 filed on Nov. 3, 2020, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/245,726 filed on Jan. 11, 2019; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/245,726 is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/611,587 (now issued as U.S. Pat. No. 10,226,376) filed on Jun. 1, 2017; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/611,587, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Nos. 62/485,578 filed on Apr. 14, 2017 and 62/414,963 filed on Oct. 31, 2016. 
     U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/611,587 also is a continuation-in-part of and claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/260,103, filed Sep. 8, 2016, entitled “Apparatus and Methods for Receiving Discharged Urine,” which is a continuation of and claims priority to PCT Patent Application No. PCT/US2016/049274, filed Aug. 29, 2016, entitled “Apparatus and Methods for Receiving Discharged Urine, which is a continuation-in-part of and claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/171,968, filed Jun. 2, 2016, entitled “Using Wicking Material To Collect Liquid For Transport,” the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. 
     U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/260,103 is also a continuation-in-part of and claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/952,591, filed Nov. 25, 2015, entitled “Container for Collecting Liquid for Transport,” which claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 62/084,078, filed Nov. 25, 2014, entitled “Container for Collecting Liquid for Transport,” the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. 
     U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/260,103 is also a continuation-in-part of and claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/947,759, filed Nov. 20, 2015, entitled “Stabilizing Disposition of Moisture-Wicking Article Portion of a Urine Collection Device During Use of the Device,” which claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 62/082,279, filed Nov. 20, 2014, entitled “Stabilizing Disposition of Moisture-Wicking Article Portion of a Urine Collection Device During Use of the Device,” the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. 
     U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/260,103 is also a continuation-in-part of and claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/625,469, filed Feb. 18, 2015, entitled “Urine Collection Apparatus and Related Methods,” which claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 61/955,537, filed Mar. 19, 2014, entitled “Urine Collection Apparatus and Related Methods,” the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present disclosure relates generally to systems, apparatus, and methods for collecting and transporting urine away from the body of a person or animal. 
     BACKGROUND 
     The embodiments described herein relate generally to collecting and transporting urine away from the body of a person or animal. In various circumstances, a person or animal may have limited or impaired mobility such that typical urination processes are challenging or impossible. For example, a person may experience or have a disability that impairs mobility. A person may have restricted travel conditions such as those experienced by pilots, drivers, and workers in hazardous areas. Additionally, sometimes urine collection is needed for monitoring purposes or clinical testing. 
     Urinary catheters, such as a Foley catheter, can be used to address some of these circumstances, such as incontinence. Unfortunately, however, urinary catheters can be uncomfortable, painful, and can lead to complications, such as infections. Additionally, bed pans, which are receptacles used for the toileting of bedridden patients, such as those in a health care facility, are sometimes used. Bed pans, however, can be prone to discomfort, spills, and other hygiene issues. 
     Thus, there is a need for a device capable of collecting urine from a person or animal comfortably and with minimal contamination of the user and/or the surrounding area. 
     SUMMARY 
     A system is disclosed that is suitable for collecting and transporting urine away from the body of a person or animal. The disclosed system includes an assembly that may include a fluid impermeable casing having a fluid reservoir at a first end, a fluid outlet at a second end, and a longitudinally extending fluid impermeable layer coupled to the fluid reservoir and the fluid outlet and defining a longitudinally elongated opening between the fluid reservoir and the fluid outlet. The assembly can further include a fluid permeable support disposed within the casing with a portion extending across the elongated opening, and a fluid permeable membrane disposed on the support and covering at least the portion of the support that extends across the elongated opening, so that the membrane is supported on the support and disposed across the elongated opening. The assembly can further include a tube having a first end disposed in the reservoir and extending behind at least the portion of the support and the portion of the membrane disposed across the elongated opening and extending through the fluid outlet to a second, fluid discharge end. The assembly can be configured to be disposed with the opening adjacent to a urethral opening of a user, to receive urine discharged from the urethral opening through the opening of the fluid impermeable layer, the membrane, the support, and into the reservoir, and to have the received urine withdrawn from the reservoir via the tube and out of the fluid discharge end of the tube. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a schematic block diagram of a system, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view of an assembly with a portion of the assembly shown in cut away, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view of the assembly of  FIG. 2  including a permeable membrane. 
         FIG. 4  is a schematic illustration of the assembly of  FIG. 2  as part of a system. 
         FIG. 5  is a schematic illustration of a system, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 6A  is front view of an assembly, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 6B  is front view of an assembly, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 6C  is front view of an assembly, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 7  is a perspective view of an assembly with a portion of the assembly shown in cut away, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 8  is a perspective view of an assembly, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 9  is a perspective view of the assembly of  FIG. 8  including a permeable membrane, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective view of a first end of a permeable support, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 11  is a perspective view of a second end of a permeable support, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective view of a first end cap, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 13  is a perspective view of a second end cap, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 14  is a schematic illustration of a urine test strip in a portion of tubing line, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 15  is a perspective view of an assembly, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 16  is a perspective view of a permeable support, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 17  is a cross-sectional view of the permeable support of  FIG. 16  taken along line  17 - 17 . 
         FIG. 18  is a side view of an assembly including the permeable support of  FIG. 16 , according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 19  is a perspective view of a permeable support, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 20  is a cross-sectional view of the permeable support of  FIG. 19  taken along line  20 - 20 . 
         FIG. 21  is a side view of an assembly including the permeable support of  FIG. 19 , according to an embodiment. 
         FIGS. 22-24  are front, back, and side views of an assembly, respectively, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 25  is a side view of the assembly of  FIG. 22  including an impermeable backing. 
         FIG. 26  is a front view of the assembly of  FIG. 22  including a permeable membrane. 
         FIG. 27  is a top view of an impermeable casing, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 28  is a cross-sectional side view of the impermeable casing of  FIG. 27  taken along line  28 - 28 . 
         FIG. 29  is a top view of a permeable support in a first configuration, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 30  is a perspective view of the permeable support of  FIG. 29  in a second configuration. 
         FIG. 31  is a perspective view of the permeable support of  FIG. 29  with a permeable membrane. 
         FIG. 32  is a cross-sectional side view of an assembly, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 33  is a cross-sectional side view of the assembly of  FIG. 32  engaged with a female body. 
         FIG. 34  is an exploded view of an assembly, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 35  is a side view of the assembly of  FIG. 34  in an assembled configuration. 
         FIG. 36  is an exploded view of a portion of an assembly, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 37  is a top view of a partially assembled configuration of the assembly of  FIG. 36 . 
         FIG. 38  is a side view of the assembly of  FIG. 36  in an assembled configuration. 
         FIG. 39  is a flowchart illustrating a method of using an assembly to collect urine from a user, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 40  is a back view of an impermeable casing including a vacuum relief opening, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 41  is a schematic illustration of a tube with a precurved shape, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 42  is a schematic illustration of a shape-retaining element, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 43  is a schematic illustration of a tube with a beveled intake end, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 44A  is a schematic illustration of an impermeable casing with a precurved shape including a channel and an opening to remove urine collected from a user, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 44B  is a schematic illustration of a cross-sectional view of the casing in  FIG. 44A , taken along the line  44 B- 44 B. 
         FIG. 44C  is a schematic illustration of a cross-sectional view of the casing in  FIG. 44A , taken along the line  44 C- 44 C. 
         FIG. 44D  is a schematic illustration of a cross-sectional bottom view of the impermeable backing in the casing shown in  FIG. 44A  showing an opening from a reservoir. 
         FIG. 45  is a schematic illustration of a casing with a tube and an opening from the reservoir of an assembly, according to an embodiment. 
         FIGS. 46 and 47  are a schematic side view and exploded view of an assembly with a casing and a porous support material, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 48  is an illustration of a top view of a sheet of material used as the permeable support of the embodiment of  FIGS. 46 and 47 . 
         FIG. 49A  is a schematic illustration of a cross-sectional view of an assembly, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 49B  is a schematic illustration of a cross-sectional view of an impermeable casing of the assembly of  FIG. 49A . 
         FIG. 49C  is a schematic illustration of a cross-sectional view of the impermeable casing of  FIG. 49B  taken along line  49 C- 49 C. 
         FIG. 50A  is a schematic illustration of an assembly with more than one outlet tube, according to one embodiment. 
         FIG. 50B  is a cross-sectional view of the assembly of  FIG. 50A , taken along the line  50 B- 50 B. 
         FIG. 51  is a shallow angled perspective view of the assembly of  FIG. 50A . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     A system is disclosed that is suitable for collecting and transporting urine away from the body of a person or animal. The disclosed system includes an assembly that may include a fluid impermeable casing having a fluid reservoir at a first end, a fluid outlet at a second end, and a longitudinally extending fluid impermeable layer coupled to the fluid reservoir and the fluid outlet and defining a longitudinally elongated opening between the fluid reservoir and the fluid outlet. The assembly can further include a fluid permeable support disposed within the casing with a portion extending across the elongated opening, and a fluid permeable membrane disposed on the support and covering at least the portion of the support that extends across the elongated opening, so that the membrane is supported on the support and disposed across the elongated opening. The assembly can further include a tube having a first end disposed in the reservoir and extending behind at least the portion of the support and the portion of the membrane disposed across the elongated opening and extending through the fluid outlet to a second, fluid discharge end. The assembly can be configured to be disposed with the opening adjacent to a urethral opening of a user, to receive urine discharged from the urethral opening through the opening of the fluid impermeable layer, the membrane, the support, and into the reservoir, and to have the received urine withdrawn from the reservoir via the tube and out of the fluid discharge end of the tube. 
     In some embodiments, a method includes disposing in operative relationship with the urethral opening of a female user, a urine collecting apparatus. The urine collecting apparatus can include a fluid impermeable casing having a fluid reservoir at a first end, a fluid outlet at a second end, and a longitudinally extending fluid impermeable layer coupled to the fluid reservoir and the fluid outlet and defining a longitudinally elongated opening between the fluid reservoir and the fluid outlet. The urine collecting apparatus can also include a fluid permeable support disposed within the casing with a portion extending across the elongated opening, a fluid permeable membrane disposed on the support and covering at least the portion of the support that extends across the elongated opening, so that the membrane is supported on the support and disposed across the elongated opening, and a tube having a first end disposed in the reservoir and extending behind at least the portion of the support and the portion of the membrane disposed across the elongated opening and extending through the fluid outlet to a second, fluid discharge end. The operative relationship can include the opening being adjacent to the urethral opening. The method can further include allowing urine discharged from the urethral opening to be received through the opening of the fluid impermeable layer, the membrane, the support, and into the reservoir; and allowing the received urine to be withdrawn from the reservoir via the tube and out of the fluid discharge end of the tube. 
     In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a fluid permeable support disposed between a fluid permeable membrane and a fluid reservoir, and a fluid outlet. The apparatus can be configured to be disposed with a portion of the fluid permeable membrane adjacent to a urethral opening of a user, to receive urine discharged from the urethral opening through the fluid permeable membrane, the fluid permeable support, and into the reservoir, and to have the received urine withdrawn from the reservoir via the outlet. 
     As used in this specification, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, the term “a member” is intended to mean a single member or a combination of members, “a material” is intended to mean one or more materials, or a combination thereof. 
     The embodiments described herein can be formed or constructed of one or more biocompatible materials. Examples of suitable biocompatible materials include metals, ceramics, or polymers. Examples of suitable metals include pharmaceutical grade stainless steel, gold, titanium, nickel, iron, platinum, tin, chromium, copper, and/or alloys thereof. Examples of polymers include nylons, polyesters, polycarbonates, polyacrylates, polymers of ethylene-vinyl acetates and other acyl substituted cellulose acetates, non-degradable polyurethanes, polystyrenes, polyvinyl chloride, polyvinyl fluoride, poly(vinyl imidazole), chlorosulphonate polyolefins, polyethylene oxide, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), and/or blends and copolymers thereof. 
       FIG. 1  is a schematic block diagram of a system  100 . The system  100  includes an assembly  102 . The assembly  102  includes a reservoir  110 , a permeable support  140 , and a permeable membrane  130 . The assembly  102  also includes an outlet  120  in fluidic communication with the reservoir  110 . The assembly  102  can be arranged such that a fluid can flow through the permeable membrane  130 , through the permeable support  140 , into the reservoir  110 , and out of the outlet  120 . In some implementations, the assembly  102  can also include an impermeable layer  150  for directing fluid toward the reservoir  110  and reducing and/or preventing fluid from exiting the assembly  102  except via the outlet  120 . In some implementations, the system  100  can include a discharge line  122 . The discharge line  122  can be fluidically coupled to an external receptacle  160 . The external receptacle  160  can be in fluidic communication with a vacuum source  170  via a vacuum line  124 . The discharge line  122  and the vacuum line  124  can both include flexible tubing, such as, for example, flexible plastic tubing. 
     The permeable membrane  130  can be formed of a material that has permeable properties with respect to liquids such as urine. The permeable properties can be wicking, capillary action, diffusion, or other similar properties or processes, and are referred to herein as “permeable” and/or “wicking.” The permeable membrane  130  can have a high absorptive rate and a high permeation rate such that urine can be rapidly absorbed by the permeable membrane  130  and/or transported through the permeable membrane  130 . In some implementations, the permeable membrane  130  can be a ribbed knit fabric. In some implementations, the permeable membrane  130  can include and/or have the moisture-wicking characteristic of gauze, felt, terrycloth, thick tissue paper, and/or a paper towel. In some implementations, the permeable membrane  130  can be soft and/or minimally abrasive such that the permeable membrane  130  does not irritate the skin of the user. The permeable membrane  130  can be configured to wick fluid away from the urethral opening and/or the skin of the user such that the dampness of the skin of the user is lessened and infections are prevented. Additionally, the wicking properties of the permeable membrane  130  can help prevent urine from leaking or flowing beyond the assembly onto, for example, a bed. In some implementations, the permeable membrane  130  can be formed of fine denier polyester fibers coated with a thermoplastic water-based binder system. The tensile with the Webb direction can be, for example, about 45 lbs/inch 2  measured using an Instron test method. The weight per permeable membrane can be, for example, about 12 grams measured using the Mettle Gram Scale. The thickness per ten permeable membrane can be, for example, about 2.5″, measured using the Gustin-Bacon/Measure-Matic. 
     The permeable support  140  can be positioned relative to the permeable membrane  130  such that the permeable support  140  maintains the permeable membrane  130  in a particular shape and allows for fluid, such as, for example, urine, to flow through the permeable membrane  130 , through the permeable support  140 , and into the reservoir  110 . In some implementations, the permeable support  140  can be configured to maintain the permeable membrane  130  against or near a urethral opening of a user. For example, the permeable support  140  can include a portion having a curved shape in contact with the permeable membrane  130  such that the permeable membrane  130  is also curved, thus creating a comfortable and secure interface for engagement with a user&#39;s urethral opening and/or the area of the body near the urethral opening. In some implementations, the permeable support  140  can be made of a rigid plastic. In some implementations, the permeable support  140  can have any suitable shape and be formed of any suitable material. For example, the permeable support  140  can be flexible. Additionally, the permeable support  140  can be formed of aluminum, a composite of plastic and aluminum, some other metal and/or a composite of plastic and another metal. In some implementations, the permeable support  140  can be formed of a natural material, such as, for example, plant fibers (e.g., Greener Clean manufactured by 3M®). The natural material can include openings that allow fluid to flow through the natural material. In some embodiments, the permeable support  140  can be cylindrical and can define a lumen. In some embodiments, the permeable support  140  can be formed of perforated coated paper, such as tubular waxed paper. 
     The permeable support  140  can define one or more openings (e.g., an array of openings) to allow for fluid flow from the permeable membrane  130  to the reservoir  110 . In some implementations, the permeable support  140  can be formed as a tube, a cylinder, or a curved cylinder with one or more openings. In some implementations, the permeable support  140  can include membrane supports (e.g., struts) extending across an opening such that the opening is divided into an array of distinct slot-shaped openings. The membrane supports can be used to support the permeable membrane  130 . For example, the membrane supports can maintain the shape of the permeable membrane  130  against or near a user&#39;s urethral opening such that urine flowing from the urethral opening contacts and travels through the permeable membrane  130 . In some implementations, the permeable support  140  can define several openings having a variety of shapes, such as a plurality of round openings. In some implementations, the permeable support  140  can be formed as a cylinder of spun plastic (e.g., non-woven permeable nylon and polyester webbing) such that the permeable support  140  can have many openings. For example, a rectangular portion of spun plastic can be folded or rolled into a cylinder shape for use in the assembly  102 . In some implementations, the permeable support  140  can be formed of a porous material. For example, the permeable support  140  can be a porous glass tubular container defining frits. In other implementations, the permeable support  140  can define an opening in a sidewall of the permeable support  140  and the sidewall can be covered by a mesh screen defining many smaller openings. 
     The reservoir  110  can be any suitable shape and/or size capable of collecting fluid transported through the permeable support  140 . In some implementations, the reservoir  110  can be sized such that the reservoir is capable of collecting and temporarily holding a large or small amount of urine until the urine can be removed from the reservoir via the outlet  120 . For example, the reservoir  110  can be sized such that the reservoir  110  is configured to hold a small amount of urine as may be released due to incontinence. In some implementations, the reservoir  110  can be sized such that the reservoir  110  is configured to hold a large amount of urine as may be released during voiding of a full bladder. In some implementations, the reservoir  110  can be sized such that the reservoir is configured to collect and hold a small or large amount of urine while the urine is simultaneously removed via, for example, gravity and/or a pump, such as the vacuum source  170 . Said another way, the reservoir  110  can function as a sump and be sized such that the reservoir  110  can form a portion of a passageway for urine from the permeable membrane  130 , through the permeable support  140 , through the reservoir  110 , and out of the outlet  120 . In a condition where the flow rate of urine into the assembly  102  via the permeable membrane  130  is greater than the flow rate of urine through the discharge line  122 , a temporary backup of urine may occur in the reservoir  110 . Thus, the reservoir  110  can be sized to contain a volume of fluid that may temporarily accumulate due to the difference in flow rates into and out of the assembly  102 . 
     Although the outlet  120  is shown as extending from the side of the reservoir  110 , in some implementations, the outlet  120  can extend from the bottom of the reservoir  110 . Positioning the outlet  120  lower in the reservoir  110  such that less or no urine can pool at the bottom of the reservoir  110  can allow for urine to be removed from the reservoir  110  more quickly and/or completely. In other implementations, the outlet  120  can be positioned within the reservoir such that at least a portion of tubing associated with the outlet  120  extends from the top of the reservoir  110 . For example, a portion of tubing associated with the outlet  120  can extend from the top of the reservoir  110  through at least a portion of the permeable support  140  (e.g., a central channel) and, optionally, through at least a portion of the permeable membrane  130 . In such an implementation, the outlet  120  can be positioned a distance from the reservoir  110  such that fluid can flow from the reservoir, through the tubing associated with the outlet  120 , and from the outlet  120 . In such implementations, positioning the reservoir end of the tubing associated with the outlet  120  towards the bottom of the reservoir  110  such that less or no urine can pool at the bottom of the reservoir  110  can allow for urine to be removed from the reservoir  110  more quickly and/or completely. In some implementations, the tubing associated with the outlet  120  can be precurved at least in the portion extending through the permeable support  140 . 
     In some implementations, the reservoir  110  and the permeable support  140  can be formed as separate components and coupled together during assembly. In some implementations, the permeable support  140  and the reservoir  110  can be formed as a cylindrical integral, unitary structure that is sealed at one end by a closed end of the reservoir  110  and at the other end by a closed end of the permeable support  140 . 
     The external receptacle  160 , via the discharge line  122 , can collect fluid exiting the reservoir  110  through the outlet  120 . The external receptacle  160  can be a sealed container. In some implementations, the external receptacle  160  can be disposable. In some implementations, the external receptacle  160  can be configured to be sterilized and reused. 
     In some implementations, gravity can cause fluid within the reservoir  110  to follow a flow path (i.e., the fluid flow path including the outlet  120  and the discharge line  122 ) from the reservoir  110  to the external receptacle  160 . In some implementations, the vacuum source  170  can assist and/or provide the pressure differential needed to draw fluid voided from the urethral opening of a user into the permeable support  140 , into the reservoir  110 , and from the reservoir  110  into the external receptacle  160 . The vacuum source  170  can be fluidically coupled to the external receptacle  160  via a vacuum line  124  such that gaseous fluid is drawn from the external receptacle  160  via the vacuum line  124 . As a result of the decrease in pressure within the external receptacle  160  caused by the drawing of gaseous fluid out of the external receptacle  160 , liquid and/or gaseous fluid can be drawn from the reservoir  110 , through the outlet  120 , through the discharge line  122 , and into the external receptacle  160 . In some implementations, the vacuum source  170  can apply sufficient suction to capture all or substantially all of the urine voided by a user in a variety of positions (e.g., when a female user is lying on her side). 
     The vacuum source  170  can have a sufficiently high vacuum strength and air volume transport rate such that rapid air and liquid aspiration is maintained over a portion of or the entire permeable membrane  130 . In some implementations, the one or more openings of the permeable support  140  are distributed over an area that is slightly larger than the area of the permeable membrane  130  that is configured to be wetted by urine flow in operation. Thus, the partial vacuum created by the vacuum source  170  in combination with the one or more openings of the permeable support  140  and the permeable membrane  130  can draw the urine contacting the permeable membrane  130  into the assembly  102 . In some implementations, however, the one or more openings of the permeable support  140  should not be distributed over too large of an area of the permeable support  140  because the partial vacuum strength may be reduced, thereby reducing the urine collection rate and the efficiency of the system  100 . 
     In some implementations, the vacuum source  170  can be a pump that is readily available, inexpensive, relatively quiet, and/or configured to run continuously. For example, the vacuum source  170  can be an aquarium aerator pump. The vacuum line  124  can be attached to the intake port of the aquarium aerator pump (rather than the exhaust port of the aerator) such that gaseous fluid is drawn into the aquarium aerator pump from the external receptacle  160  via the vacuum line  124 . In some implementations, the necessary static vacuum of the system  100  is about 3-10 feet of water (10%-30% of one atmosphere; 80-250 mm Hg) with a free-flow rate of about 10-100 cubic centimeters per second. In some implementations, the necessary static vacuum of the system  100  is higher or lower depending on the size of the user and the expected rate of urine flow from the user and/or through the system  100 . In some implementations, the discharge line  122  can be about 0.25″ in diameter and the vacuum source  170  can be configured to cause about 500 cubic centimeters of urine to flow through the discharge line  122  to the external receptacle  160  over the duration of a typical urination event for a user, which may typically range from 10 to 20 seconds but may be shorter or longer, e.g., 5 to 90 seconds. In some implementations, the vacuum source  170  can include a wall-mounted vacuum system, such as is found in hospitals. In some implementations, a wall-mounted vacuum system can be configured to apply a vacuum of, for example, about 20 mm Hg to about 40 mm Hg. In some implementations, the vacuum source  170  can be powered by electrical AC or DC power. For example, in mobile applications when the user is away from an AC power source, such as when the user is using the system  100  during transportation via a wheel chair or motor vehicle, the vacuum source  170  can be powered by DC power. 
     The impermeable layer  150  can be impermeable to fluid, such as, for example, urine. In some implementations, the impermeable layer  150  can have a fluid transportation function and can assist in directing fluid towards the reservoir  110  and/or through the outlet  120  of the reservoir  110 . In some implementations, the impermeable layer  150  can be formed as an integral, unitary structure. In other implementations, the impermeable layer  150  can be a multi-piece structure. The impermeable layer  150  can be a pre-molded (e.g., injection or blow molded) component. Alternatively, the impermeable layer  150  can be formed of a material, such as elongate strips of an adhesive tape, wrapped around at least a portion of the reservoir, a portion of the permeable support  140 , and/or a portion of the permeable membrane  130 . In some implementations, the impermeable layer  150  can be formed of cardboard, pressed paper, and/or coated paper. 
     In some implementations, as shown in  FIG. 1 , the assembly  102  can optionally include a shape-defining or shape-retaining element  151 . The shape-retaining element  151  can be attached to the impermeable layer  150  and can cause at least a portion of the assembly  102  to assume or maintain a curved shape. In some implementations, the shape-retaining element  151  can be disposed between the impermeable layer  150  and the permeable support  140  and/or the permeable membrane  130 . In some implementations, the shape-retaining element  151  can be attached to an outer surface of the impermeable layer  150  or can be imbedded in the impermeable layer  150 . In some embodiments the tubing associated with the outlet  120  can constitute the shape-retaining element  151 , i.e. the tubing can be relatively rigid and having a curved shape that defines the desired curved shape for at least a portion of the assembly  102 . 
     In some implementations, the permeable support  140  can optionally include a spine  148 . The spine  148  can divide an inner volume of the permeable support  140  into two or more longitudinal chambers and can strengthen the permeable support  140  such that the permeable support  140  maintains an intended shape. The two chambers can be aligned with an inlet of the permeable support  140  (i.e., the one or more openings in the permeable support  140 ) such that fluid can flow through the inlet, through at least one of the two chambers, and into the reservoir  110 . Although only one spine  148  is described, in some implementations, the permeable support  140  can include additional spines such that the permeable support  140  is divided into additional chambers. 
     In some implementations, the permeable support  140  can optionally include a tunnel  146 . The tunnel  146  can be coupled to the outlet  120  of the assembly  102  in a configuration in which the outlet  120  is positioned on the top of the assembly  102 . In some implementations, an external tube can be inserted through the tunnel  146  into contact with fluid in the reservoir  110  such that the fluid in the reservoir  110  can be removed from the assembly  102  via the external tube (e.g., using a vacuum source such as vacuum source  170 ). In some implementations, a length of tubing, such as the discharge line  122 , can be fluidically coupled to an end of the tunnel  146  such that fluid can be drawn up the tunnel  146  from the reservoir  110  and out of the assembly  102 . 
     In some implementations, the impermeable layer  150  can include an extension portion  156 . The extension portion  156  can extend away from the permeable membrane  130  and/or the permeable support  140  such that the extension portion  156  can be gripped by a user or caregiver without contacting the permeable membrane  130 . Thus, the extension portion  156  can be used to remove the permeable membrane  130  and the impermeable layer  150  from the permeable support  140 . In some implementations, the extension portion  156  can be shaped as an elongated tab that extends along the length of the assembly  102  on one or more sides of the assembly  102 . In some implementations, the extension portion  156  can be configured to prevent urine from traveling beyond the border between the permeable membrane  130  and the impermeable layer  150 . For example, the extension portion  156  can be shaped and disposed relative to the permeable membrane  130  such that in a condition where the rate of urine flowing from the urethral opening exceeds the rate the permeable membrane  130  or a portion of the permeable membrane  130  can wick fluid and/or the rate that fluid can travel through the permeable membrane  130  and permeable support  140 , the extension portion  156  can prevent urine from flowing onto an outer surface of the impermeable layer  150  beyond the extension portion  156  and can redirect urine along the permeable membrane  130  such that the urine is directed through the permeable membrane  130 . 
     In some implementations, the impermeable layer  150  can include a stabilizer  154 . The stabilizer  154  can be configured to stabilize the assembly  102  relative to a user&#39;s body. For example, in some situations of use, such as for incontinence, for disability that limits or impairs mobility, for restricted travel conditions (e.g., conditions experienced by pilots, drivers, and/or workers in hazardous areas), for monitoring purposes, or for clinical testing, it may aid the engagement between the permeable membrane  130  and the user&#39;s urethral opening and/or the area surrounding the urethral opening to include the stabilizer  154 . The stabilizer  154  can be coupled to or integrally formed with the impermeable layer  150 . In some implementations, a first end of the stabilizer  154  is coupled to the impermeable layer  150  and a second end of the stabilizer  154  is coupled to a user&#39;s body (e.g., via adhesive or tape) or an apparatus occupied by the user (e.g., a bed or wheelchair) to stabilize the position of the assembly  102  relative to a user&#39;s urethral opening and/or the area surrounding the urethral opening. The stabilizer  154  can be a thin, pliable strip of material. For example, in some implementations the stabilizer  154  can include tape, gauze, cotton, cloth, or plastic. The stabilizer  154  can be any suitable length and/or width. In some implementations, the stabilizer  154  can be as thin as a single thread. 
     In some implementations, the impermeable layer  150  can define one or more vacuum relief openings  158 . Thus, in the event that a user&#39;s body envelopes the assembly  102 , the one or more vacuum relief openings  158  can prevent suction from increasing against the skin of the user, which may be uncomfortable or painful. Said another way, the one or more vacuum relief openings  158  can be located between two ends of the impermeable layer  150  such that at least one additional airflow path exists in the assembly  102 . The one or more vacuum relief openings  158  can be disposed at any suitable location on the impermeable layer  150 . For example, in some implementations, the one or more vacuum relief openings  158  can be disposed near the outlet  120  of the apparatus  102 . In some implementations, the one or more vacuum relief openings  158  can be disposed in a location that reduces the likelihood that the skin of the labia or the thigh of the user inadvertently covers the hole, such as a location near the outlet  120 . 
     In some implementations, urine collected by any of the systems and/or assemblies described herein can be sampled for analysis using urine strips. Urine test strips can be used to test a variety of health measures. Urine test strips can be configured to change color in response to being wetted with urine to indicate a particular measurement (i.e., the colors can correspond to known measurement scales). In some implementations, a urine test strip  162  can be inserted into the discharge line  122  such that urine flowing from the outlet  120  to the external receptacle  160  contacts the urine test strip  162 . The discharge line  122  can be transparent such that data on the urine test strip  162  can be read through a wall of the discharge line  122 . In some implementations, the urine test strip  162  can be disposed within the external receptacle  160  such that urine flowing into the external receptacle  160  contacts the urine test strip  162 . The external receptacle  160  can be at least partially transparent such that the urine test strip  162  can be read through a wall of the external receptacle  160 . 
     As an example,  FIG. 14  is a schematic illustration of a portion of tubing line  1022  and a urine test strip  1062  affixed to the inside of the portion of tubing line  1022 . The portion of tubing line  1022  can be included in or form the entire discharge line (e.g., discharge line  122 ) from an outlet of an assembly (e.g., outlet  120 ) to an external receptacle (e.g., external receptacle  160 ). The urine test strip  1062  can be secured within the tubing line  1022  by friction or by using any suitable adhesive. In some implementations, the tubing line  1022  can be a short tube segment (e.g., less than six inches) that is configured to form a portion of or all of a discharge line (e.g., discharge line  122 ). For example, the tubing line  1022  can have a connector on each end (not shown) capable of connection with and removal from a line of tubing (e.g., discharge line  122 ), an outlet (e.g., outlet  120 ), and/or the external receptacle (e.g., external receptacle  160 ). After urine has passed through the tubing line  1022  and the data has been read from the urine test strip  1062 , the tubing line  1022  and the urine test strip  1062  can be disposed of. 
     In some implementations, a camera, such as a camera built into a portable communication device (e.g., a smartphone, an iPhone, or the like) can be used to read the data on the urine test strip  162 . The camera can capture an image of the test strip and the image can be processed using, for example, a smartphone application. The data read from the urine test strip can be sent to a clinician for analysis and/or sent to a cloud-based address for physician access. 
     In some implementations, the system  100  can include a scale  164 . For example, the scale  164  can be disposed underneath the external receptacle  160  such that the scale is configured to measure the weight of fluid (e.g., urine) in the external receptacle  160 . The data indicating the weight of the fluid that has been delivered to the external receptacle  160  via the discharge line  122  can be measured at different time intervals and processed to determine how much urine, for example, has been voided by a user of the system  100 . 
     Although described as being intended for use by an adult female, in some implementations the system  100  can be used in adult, pediatric, male, female, and veterinary applications for animals of different species and sizes. In female applications, the assembly  102  can be placed between the legs or labia of the user and held snugly against the external urethra by the pressure of friction from the user&#39;s body, by the pressure of the legs or by such means as an undergarment, elastic strips, and/or adhesive tape. In male applications, the assembly  102  can be secured around the penis. 
       FIG. 2  is a perspective view of an assembly  202  with a portion of the assembly  202  shown in cut away. The assembly  202  includes a permeable support  240  and a reservoir  210 . As shown in  FIG. 2 , the permeable support  240  and the reservoir  210  can be formed as a unitary structure. For example, the permeable support  240  and the reservoir  210  in combination can form a cylindrical container with closed ends. The cylindrical container with closed ends can define an interior volume. The permeable support  240  can define an inlet  242  in a sidewall of the permeable support  240  such that fluid can flow through the inlet  242  into the interior volume. The reservoir  210  can define an opening  211  and can be coupled to an outlet  220  such that the outlet  220  is in fluid communication with the opening  211 . Thus, fluid can flow from the interior volume, through the opening  211 , and through the outlet  220 . 
     The permeable support  240  can include one or more membrane supports  244 . The membrane supports  244  can be formed as struts that extend across the inlet  242 . Said another way, the membrane supports  244  can divide the inlet  242  into an array of distinct slot-shaped openings (or an array of slot-shaped openings can define the membrane supports). The membrane supports  244  can be used to support a permeable membrane (e.g., permeable membrane  230  shown in  FIG. 3 ). For example, the membrane supports  244  can maintain the shape of the permeable membrane  230  against a user&#39;s urethral opening and/or the area surrounding a user&#39;s urethral opening such that urine flowing from the urethral opening contacts and travels through the permeable membrane  230 . The membrane supports  244  can be formed in any suitable shape and/or thickness. 
     The permeable support  240  and the reservoir  210  can be formed of any suitable material. In some implementations, the permeable support  140  can be flexible. In some implementations, the permeable support  140  can be rigid. In some implementations, the permeable support  240  can be made of plastic, aluminum, a composite of plastic and aluminum, some other metal and/or a composite of plastic and another metal. Additionally, although not shown in  FIG. 2 , in some implementations the permeable support  240  can be curved. 
     The assembly  202  can include a permeable membrane  230 .  FIG. 3  is a perspective view of the assembly  202  with the permeable membrane  230  disposed on an outer surface of the permeable support  240 . In some implementations, the permeable membrane  230  can also be disposed on a portion of or on the entire outer surface of the reservoir  210 . The permeable membrane  230  can be at least partially supported by the membrane supports  244  (shown in  FIG. 2 ) such that the membrane supports  244  maintain the permeable membrane  230  against or near a urethral opening of a user. 
     The permeable membrane  230  can be formed of a material that is urine permeable and has wicking properties. The permeable membrane  230  can have a high absorptive rate and a high permeation rate such that urine can be rapidly wicked by the permeable membrane  230  and/or transported through the permeable membrane  230 . In some implementations, the permeable membrane  230  can be a ribbed knit fabric. In some implementations, the permeable membrane  230  can include and/or have the moisture-wicking characteristic of gauze, felt, terrycloth, thick tissue paper, and/or a paper towel. In some implementations, the permeable membrane  230  can be soft and/or minimally abrasive such that the permeable membrane  230  does not irritate the skin of the user. The permeable membrane  230  can be configured to wick fluid away from the urethral opening and/or the skin of the user such that the dampness of the skin of the user is lessened and infections are prevented. Additionally, the wicking properties of the permeable membrane  230  can help prevent urine from leaking or flowing beyond the assembly onto, for example, a bed. In some implementations, the permeable membrane  130  can be formed of fine denier polyester fibers coated with a thermoplastic water-based binder system. The tensile with the Webb direction can be, for example, about 45 lbs/inch 2  measured using an Instron test method. The weight per permeable membrane can be, for example, about 12 grams measured using the Mettle Gram Scale. The thickness per ten permeable membrane can be, for example, about 2.5″, measured using the Gustin-Bacon/Measure-Matic. 
     In some implementations, the permeable membrane  230  can be formed as a sock or sleeve that can be slid over the permeable support  240 . In some implementations, the permeable membrane  230  can be formed as a sheet that can be wrapped partially or completely around the permeable support  240 . The permeable membrane  230  can be secured in place with one or more securing elements  252 . In some implementations, the securing elements  252  can be impermeable and form a portion of or all of an impermeable layer (similar to impermeable layer  150  with reference to assembly  100  of  FIG. 1 ). In some implementations, the securing elements  252  can include elastic bands (e.g., rubber bands), water-resistant adhesive tape, spring clips, hook and loop fasteners, zippers, snaps, and/or any other suitable securing element. In other implementations, the permeable membrane  230  can be secured in place via friction between the permeable membrane  230  and the permeable support  240 . 
       FIG. 4  is a schematic illustration the assembly  202  as part of a system  200 . The system  200  includes an external receptacle  260  and a vacuum source  270 . The external receptacle  260  can be the same or similar in structure and/or function as the external receptacle  160  described above with reference to the system  100 . The vacuum source  270  can be the same or similar in structure and/or function as the vacuum source  170  described above with reference to the system  100 . The assembly  202  can be fluidically coupled to the external receptacle  260  via a discharge line  122 . The external receptacle  260  can be fluidically coupled to the vacuum source  270  via a vacuum line  224 . 
     In use, the system  200  can be positioned such that the assembly  202  is abutting and/or near the urethral opening of the user. In particular, the assembly  202  can be positioned such that the inlet  242  and membrane supports  244  are facing the urethral opening such that urine exiting the urethral opening can travel through the permeable membrane  230 , through the inlet  242 , through the interior volume defined by the permeable support  240  and the reservoir  210 , and through the outlet  220 . The assembly  202  can be arranged relative to the urethral opening of the user such that gravity causes or assists urine entering the permeable support  240  in traveling to the reservoir  210 . Similarly as described above with reference to system  100 , the vacuum source  270  can assist and/or provide the pressure differential needed to draw fluid voided from the urethral opening into the inner volume of the assembly  202 , and then from the reservoir  210  into the external receptacle  260 . The vacuum source  270  can have a sufficiently high vacuum strength and air volume transport rate such that rapid air and liquid aspiration is maintained over a portion of or the entire permeable membrane  230 . Additionally, the inlet  242  can be sized and shaped such that the inlet  242  is larger than the area of the permeable membrane  230  that is configured to be wetted by urine flow in operation. Thus, the partial vacuum created by the vacuum source  270  in combination with the inlet  242  and the permeable membrane  230  can draw the urine contacting the permeable membrane  230  into the assembly  202 . In some implementations, however, the inlet  242  should not be distributed over too large of an area of the permeable support  240  because the partial vacuum strength may be reduced, thereby reducing the urine collection rate and the efficiency of the system  200 . The vacuum source  270  can be fluidically coupled to the external receptacle  260  via a vacuum line  224  such that gaseous fluid is drawn from the external receptacle  260  via the vacuum line  224 . As a result of the decrease in pressure within the external receptacle  260  caused by the drawing of gaseous fluid out of the external receptacle  260 , liquid and/or gaseous fluid can be drawn from the reservoir  210 , through the outlet  220 , through the discharge line  222 , and into the external receptacle  260 . 
       FIG. 5  is a schematic illustration of a system  300 . The system  300  includes an assembly  302 . The assembly  302  can be the same or similar in structure and/or function to the assembly  102  or the assembly  202  described above. The system  300  can include an external receptacle  360  and a vacuum source  370 . The external receptacle  360  can be the same or similar in structure and/or function as the external receptacle  160  and/or the external receptacle  260  described above. The vacuum source  370  can be the same or similar in structure and/or function as the vacuum source  170  and/or the vacuum source  270  described above. 
     As shown in  FIG. 5 , the system  300  can include a chassis  372 . The vacuum source  370  can be mounted on the chassis  372 . A discharge pipe  374  and a vacuum intake pipe  376  can be mounted on or disposed within the chassis  372 . The discharge pipe  374  can be fluidically coupled to the assembly  302  via a discharge line  322 . The vacuum intake pipe  376  can be fluidically coupled to a vacuum line extending away from the chassis  372 . The chassis  372  can be mounted on and/or coupled to the external receptacle  360 . For example, in some implementations, the chassis can include helical threads configured to engage with helical threads on the external receptacle  360  such that the chassis  372  can engage with the external receptacle  360 . 
     In use, the system  300  can be positioned such that the assembly  302  is abutting and/or near the urethral opening of the user. In particular, the assembly  302  can be positioned such that one or more openings in the permeable support (not shown) of the assembly  302  face the urethral opening such that urine exiting the urethral opening can travel through a permeable membrane of the permeable support, through the one or more openings, through an interior volume defined by the permeable support and a reservoir of the assembly  302 , and through an outlet of the assembly  302  into the discharge line  322 . The assembly  302  can be arranged relative to the urethral opening of the user such that gravity causes urine entering the permeable support to travel to the reservoir. Similarly as described above with reference to system  100  and/or system  200 , the vacuum source  370  can assist and/or provide the pressure differential needed to draw fluid (e.g., urine) voided from the urethral opening into the inner volume of the assembly  302 , and then from the reservoir, through the discharge line  322 , and into the external receptacle  360 . The vacuum source  370  can have a sufficiently high vacuum strength and air volume transport rate such that rapid air and liquid aspiration is maintained over a portion of or the entire permeable membrane. The vacuum source  370  can be fluidically coupled to the external receptacle  360  via the vacuum intake pipe  376  such that gaseous fluid is drawn from the external receptacle  360  via the vacuum intake pipe  376 . The gaseous fluid can then be released from the system  300  via a vacuum line  324 . As a result of the decrease in pressure within the external receptacle  360  caused by the drawing of gaseous fluid out of the external receptacle  360 , liquid and/or gaseous fluid can be drawn from the assembly  302 , through the discharge line  322 , and into the external receptacle  360 . 
     In some implementations, rather than the permeable support and the reservoir being combined as a unitary or integral structure and shaped as a cylinder of constant diameter (e.g., permeable support  240  and reservoir  210  of  FIG. 2 ), a permeable support and a reservoir can be formed as a unitary structure having any suitable shape, as shown in  FIGS. 6A-6C , which are schematic illustrations of various assembly shapes. For example, as shown in  FIG. 6A , an assembly  402  includes a permeable support  440  and a reservoir  410 . The permeable support  440  and the reservoir  410  are formed as a unitary structure having a curved shape. The permeable support  440  defines an inlet  442  and includes a number of membrane supports  444 . The membrane supports  444  extend across the inlet  442 . In other words, the membrane supports  444  divide the inlet  442  into a number of discrete inlet portions. 
     As shown in  FIG. 6B , an assembly  502  includes a permeable support  540  and a reservoir  510 . The permeable support  540  and the reservoir  510  are formed as a unitary structure having a straight shape with a larger diameter end portion. Thus, the reservoir  510  can have a larger diameter than the permeable support  540 . The permeable support  540  defines an inlet  542  and includes a number of membrane supports  544 . The membrane supports  544  extend across the inlet  542 . In other words, the membrane supports  544  divide the inlet  542  into a number of discrete inlet portions. 
     As shown in  FIG. 6C , an assembly  602  includes a permeable support  640  and a reservoir  610 . The permeable support  640  and the reservoir  610  are formed as a unitary structure having concave sides. The permeable support  640  defines an inlet  642  and includes a number of membrane supports  644 . The membrane supports  644  extend across the inlet  642 . In other words, the membrane supports  644  divide the inlet  642  into a number of discrete inlet portions. 
       FIG. 7  is a perspective view of an assembly  702  with a portion of the assembly  702  shown in cut away. The assembly  702  can be similar in structure and/or function to the assembly  202  described above with respect to  FIG. 2 . For example, the assembly  702  includes a permeable support  740  and a reservoir  710 . The permeable support  740  and the reservoir  710  are formed as an integral, unitary cylindrical container with closed ends. The cylindrical container with closed ends defines an interior volume. The permeable support  740  can define an inlet  742  in a sidewall of the permeable support  740  such that fluid can flow through the inlet  742  into the interior volume. The permeable support  740  can include one or more membrane supports  744 . The membrane supports  744  can be the same or similar in structure and function to the membrane supports  244  described above with reference to the permeable support  240 . 
     Rather than including an outlet extending from a side of the reservoir  710 , the outlet  720  of the reservoir  710  can be formed as an elongated tube positioned within the reservoir  710  and extending through a portion of the reservoir  710 , through the permeable support  740 , and out a top end of the permeable support  740 . Thus, fluid can flow (e.g., via suction applied to the outlet  720 ) from the interior volume, through the outlet  720 , and out the top of the apparatus  702 . 
       FIG. 8  is a perspective view of an assembly  802 . The assembly  802  can be similar in structure and/or function to the assembly  702  described above with respect to  FIG. 7 . For example, the assembly  802  includes a permeable support  840  and a reservoir  810 . The permeable support  840  and the reservoir  810  are formed as an integral, unitary curved cylindrical container with closed ends. The cylindrical container with closed ends defines an interior volume. The permeable support  840  can define a number of inlets  842  in a sidewall  844  of the permeable support  840  such that fluid can flow through the number of inlets  842  into the interior volume. The sidewall  844  can support a permeable membrane, such as permeable membrane  130  described above with reference to  FIG. 1 . In particular, the portions of the sidewall  844  defining and separating the number of inlets  842  can be the same or similar in structure and function to the membrane supports  244  described above with reference to the permeable support  240 . The assembly  802  can include an outlet  820  similar to the outlet  720  describe above with reference to the assembly  702 . For example, the outlet  820  can be formed as an elongated tube positioned within the reservoir  810  and extending through a portion of the reservoir  810 , through the permeable support  840 , and out a top end of the permeable support  840 . Thus, fluid can flow (e.g., via suction applied to the outlet  820 ) from a urethral opening of a user, through the number of inlets  842  into the interior volume, to the reservoir  810 , through the outlet  820 , and out the top of the apparatus  802 . 
     In some implementations, the assembly  802  can include a permeable membrane (not shown) that includes a spray-on fabric, such as the spray-on fabric developed by Fabrican, Ltd. of London, England. The spray-on fabric can be applied to the exterior of the permeable support  840  and/or the reservoir  810 . The spray-on fabric can include a liquid suspension and can be applied via, for example, a spray gun or an aerosol can. The spray-on fabric can be formed by the cross-linking of fibers which adhere to the exterior of the permeable support  840  such that the spray-on fabric forms an instant non-woven fabric when applied to the exterior of the permeable support  840  and/or the reservoir  810 . 
     In some implementations, the assembly  802  can include a permeable membrane (not shown) similar in structure and function to any of the permeable membranes described above (such as, for example, permeable membrane  230 ) can be secured to the permeable support  840  and/or the reservoir  810 . In some implementations, such as is shown in  FIG. 9 , the assembly  802  can include a permeable membrane  830  covering a portion or all of the permeable support  840  and/or the reservoir  810 . The assembly  802  can also include an impermeable layer  850 . The permeable support  840  and the impermeable layer  850  can form, in combination, a sheath-like structure shaped and sized to be secured around at least a portion of the permeable support  840  and at least a portion of the reservoir  810 . The impermeable layer  850  can be disposed relative to the permeable support  840 , reservoir  810 , and permeable membrane  830  such that the permeable membrane  830  is configured for interfacing with a urethral opening and/or the area surrounding the urethral opening of a user and at least a portion of the number of inlets  842  are not covered by the impermeable layer  850  such that urine from the urethral opening can flow through the permeable membrane  830 , through the number of inlets  842 , and into the inner volume of the assembly  802 . The impermeable layer  850  can be disposed such that the impermeable layer  850  can direct fluid toward the reservoir  810  and reduce and/or prevent fluid from exiting the assembly  802  except via the outlet  820 . 
     The impermeable layer  850  can include one or more extension portions  856 . The one or more extension portions  856  can extend away from the permeable membrane  830  and/or the permeable support  840  such that the one or more extension portions  856  can be gripped by a user or caregiver without contacting the permeable membrane  830 . Thus, the one or more extension portions  856  can be used to remove the permeable membrane  830  and the impermeable layer  850  from the permeable support  840 . In some implementations, the one or more extension portions  856  can be shaped as an elongated tab that extends along the length of the assembly  802  on one or more sides of the assembly  802 . Although not shown, in some implementations, the permeable membrane  830  and/or the impermeable layer  850  can include a handle (not shown). The handle can be shaped as a hoop and disposed on one end of the permeable membrane  830  and/or the impermeable layer  850  to assist in positioning and removing the permeable membrane  830  and/or the impermeable layer  850  from the permeable support  840  and/or the reservoir  810 . 
     In some implementations, the permeable membrane  830  can be formed as a sheath with a closed end such that the permeable membrane  830  can be pulled over the permeable support  840  and the reservoir  810  like a sock. For example, the permeable membrane  830  can be heat sealed on one end. In such implementations, the impermeable layer  850  can be secured to a portion of the side and/or bottom of the permeable membrane  830 . In other implementations, the permeable membrane  830  can be formed as a sheath with two open ends that can be pulled over the permeable support  840  and the reservoir  810 . In such implementations, the end of the permeable membrane  830  near the reservoir  810  can be left uncovered, and the impermeable layer  850  can be secured to a portion of the side and/or the bottom of the permeable membrane  830 . In some implementations, the permeable membrane  830  can be a piece of material smaller than the external surface area of the permeable support  840 . The permeable membrane  830  can be heat sealed to the impermeable layer  850  such that the combination of the permeable membrane  830  and the impermeable layer  850  form a sheath that can be secured to permeable support  840  and/or the reservoir  810  via, for example, pulling over the permeable support  840  and/or the reservoir  810  like a sock. 
     In some implementations, the assemblies described herein can include internal structures to direct fluid flow and/or provide structural support. Additionally, in some implementations, the assemblies described herein can include a first end cap and a second end cap. For example, the assemblies described herein can include the features shown and described with respect to  FIGS. 10-13 .  FIGS. 10 and 11  are a perspective view of a first end  943 A and perspective view of a second end  943 B, respectively, of a permeable support  940 . The permeable support  940  can include a tunnel  946  and a spine  948 . The tunnel can define a first chamber  941 C. The spine  948  can divide an inner volume of the permeable support  940  into a second channel  941 A and a third channel  941 B. The first chamber  941 C, the second channel  941 A, and the third channel  941 B can each run the length of the permeable support  940  and run parallel to one another. The spine  948  can be used to strengthen the permeable support  940  such that the permeable support  940  maintains an intended shape. The permeable support  940  can include one or more openings (not shown) in a sidewall of the permeable support  940 . The one or more openings can be aligned with the second channel  941 A and the third channel  941 B such that fluid can flow through the one or more openings into the second channel  941 A and the third channel  941 B. Although only one spine  948  is shown, in some implementations, the permeable support  940  can include additional spines such that the permeable support  940  is divided into additional channels. In some implementations, the permeable support  940  can be formed without a spine such that the permeable support  940  only defines one channel in addition to the third channel  941 C defined by the tunnel  946 . 
       FIG. 12  is a perspective view of a first end cap  945  configured to be coupled to the first end  943 A of the permeable support  940 . The first end cap  945  includes a first flange  949 A, a second flange  949 B, and a third flange  949 C. The third flange  949 C defines an opening  941 D through the first end cap  945 . The first flange  949 A, the second flange  949 B, and the third flange  949 C can be shaped and sized such that the first flange  949 A, the second flange  949 B, and the third flange  949 C can be coupled within the third chamber  941 B, the second chamber  941 A, and the first chamber  941 C, respectively. In some implementations, the first flange  949 A, the second flange  949 B, and the third flange  949 C can be shaped and sized such that the first flange  949 A, the second flange  949 B, and the third flange  949 C are configured to engage with the third chamber  941 B, the second chamber  941 A, and the first chamber  941 C, respectively. 
       FIG. 13  is a perspective view of a second end cap  947  configured to be coupled to the second end  943 B of the permeable support  940 . The second end cap  947  includes a first flange  949 D, a second flange  949 E, and a third flange  949 F. The first flange  949 D, the second flange  949 E, and the third flange  949 F can be shaped and sized such that the first flange  949 D, the second flange  949 E, and the third flange  949 F can be coupled within the second chamber  941 A, the first chamber  941 C, and the second chamber  941 B, respectively. In some implementations, the second end cap  947  can be shaped and sized such that the second end cap  947  can sealingly engage with the first chamber  941 C, the second chamber  941 A, and the third chamber  941 B to prevent fluid leakage. 
     In an assembled configuration in which the first end cap  945  is coupled to the first end  943 A of the permeable support  940  and the second end cap  947  is coupled to the second end  943 B of the permeable support  940 , the second end cap  947  and/or the permeable support  940  can define a reservoir  910  for collection of fluid (e.g., urine). The third flange  949 C of the first end cap  945  can define an outlet for fluid collected within the reservoir  910 . In some implementations, an external tube can be inserted through the first end cap  945  via the opening  941 D defined by the third flange  949 C and through the third channel  941 C defined by the tunnel  946  until an end of the external tube reaches fluid in the reservoir defined by the second end cap  947  and/or the permeable support  940 . The external tube can then be used to remove the fluid via suction. In some implementations, an external tube can be coupled to the first end cap  945 , rather than extended through the first end cap  945  and into the permeable support  940 . In such embodiments, suction can be applied via the external tube such that fluid (e.g., urine) in the reservoir  910  can be transported via suction through the first channel  941 C and out of the opening  941 D. Although not shown, in some implementations, the second flange  949 C of the first end cap  945  can extend from both sides of the first end cap  945  such that the second flange  949 C can form a male fitting for an external tube such that the external tube can be coupled to the second flange  949 C. 
     In some implementations, the tunnel  946  can be formed such that a gap exists between the end of the tunnel  946  and the face of the second end cap  947  such that the tunnel  946  does not prevent fluid from flowing from the second channel  941 A and/or the third channel  941 B into the first channel  941 C. In some implementations, the tunnel  946  is formed such that the gap between the tunnel  946  and the face of the second cap  947  is small such that a large amount of fluid does not accumulate in the reservoir  910  before reaching a height capable of being suctioned via the tunnel  946 . 
     In some implementations, the first end cap  945  and/or the second end cap  947  can be rigid. The first end cap  945  and/or the second end cap  947  can be, for example, injection molded and formed of plastic, such as ABS or nylon. In some implementations, the first end cap  945  and/or the second end cap  947  can be flexible. In some implementations, the first end cap  945  and/or the second end cap  947  can be made of any suitable material using any suitable process. 
     In some implementations, the permeable support  940  can be formed of a soft material, such as, for example, polyurethane, polyethylene, or synthetic rubber. The permeable support  940  can be formed via an extrusion process. In some implementations, the material used to form the permeable support  940  can be coiled during the extrusion process such that the permeable support  940  has a curved shape to improve the fit of the permeable support  940  and/or a permeable membrane coupled to the permeable support  940  with a user&#39;s urethral opening and/or the region of a user&#39;s body surround the urethral opening. In some implementations, the permeable support  940  can be formed via injection molding. In some implementations, the permeable support  940  can be rigid or flexible, and can be formed of any suitable material or combination of materials. 
     In some implementations, a stabilizer can be used to maintain any of the assemblies described herein in a particular position relative to a user&#39;s body. For example,  FIG. 15  is a perspective view of an assembly  1102 . The assembly  1102  can be the same or similar in structure and function to the assembly  202  described above with reference to  FIG. 3 . As shown in  FIG. 15 , a stabilizer  1154  is coupled to the assembly  1102  such that the stabilizer  1154  can maintain the assembly  1102  in a certain position relative to a user&#39;s body. For example, in some situations of use, such as incontinence, disability that limits or impairs mobility, restricted travel conditions (e.g., conditions experienced by pilots, drivers, and/or workers in hazardous areas), monitoring purposes, or for clinical testing, the stabilizer  1154  can aid in maintaining the engagement between the assembly  1102  and the user&#39;s urethral opening and/or the area surrounding the urethral opening. In some implementations, the stabilizer  1154  can be coupled to or integrally formed with an impermeable layer of the assembly  1102 . In some implementations, a first end of the stabilizer  1154  can be coupled to an impermeable layer of the assembly  1102  and a second end of the stabilizer  1154  can be coupled to a user&#39;s body (e.g., via adhesive or tape) or to an apparatus occupied by the user (e.g., a bed or wheelchair) to stabilize the position of the assembly  1102  relative to a user&#39;s urethral opening and/or the area surrounding the urethral opening. The stabilizer  1154  can be a thin, pliable strip of material. For example, in some implementations the stabilizer  1154  can include tape, gauze, cotton, cloth, or plastic. The stabilizer  1154  can be any suitable length and/or width. In some implementations, the stabilizer  1154  can be as thin as a single thread. The stabilizer  1154  can be attached to the user&#39;s body or an apparatus occupied by the user via any suitable attachment mechanism, such as via skin-safe adhesive, tape, a hook, tying the stabilizer  1154  into a knot, or any other suitable attachment mechanism. 
     In some implementations, the permeable membrane can include a web of flexible porous material. For example, as shown in  FIG. 16 , a permeable support  1240  can be formed of a web of flexible porous material and shaped such that the permeable support  1240  defines a channel  1240 B. The flexible porous material can be, for example, spun plastic fibers. The spun plastic fibers can be, for example, spun polyester fibers such as is used in a typical scouring pad. The permeable support  1240  can have a tubular shape. The permeable support  1240  can be shaped such that the permeable support  1240  is cylindrical or non-cylindrical. As shown in  FIG. 17 , which is a cross-section of the permeable support  1240  shown in  FIG. 16  taken along the line  17 - 17 , the channel  1240 B can be shaped and configured to receive an outlet tube  1220 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 18 , a permeable membrane  1230  can be coupled to the permeable support  1240 . The permeable membrane  1230  can be the same or similar in structure and/or function to any of the permeable membranes described herein. The permeable support  1240  can have a first closed end  1243 A and a second closed end  1243 B. The second closed end  1243 B and the bottom of the permeable support  1240  can collectively form a reservoir  1210  to collect fluid that enters the channel  1240 B via the permeable membrane  1230  and the permeable support  1240 . The outlet tube  1220  can be inserted into the channel  1240 B such that fluid that travels into the permeable support  1240  can be removed from the permeable support  1240  via the channel  1240 B and the outlet tube  1220  (via, for example, a vacuum source). 
     In some implementations, a web of flexible porous material can be in the form of a flexible sheet rolled or folded into a tubular shape. For example, as shown in  FIG. 19 , a permeable support  1340  can include a flexible sheet formed of a web of flexible porous material and rolled or folded such that the permeable support  1340  defines a channel  1340 B. The flexible porous material can be, for example, spun plastic fibers. The spun plastic fibers can be, for example, spun polyester fibers such as is used in a typical scouring pad. The permeable support  1340  can be made to have a tubular shape by rolling a first end of the flexible sheet towards a second end of the flexible sheet such that the first end and the second end meet along an intersection plane identified by  1340 A. The permeable support  1340  can then be secured in this shape using securing elements  1352 . The securing elements  1352  can include any suitable securing element, such as, for example, adhesive or glue. In some implementations, rather than using one or more separate securing elements  1352 , the permeable support  1340  can be secured in a rolled or folded configuration via compression from a permeable membrane (e.g., the permeable membrane  1330  described below). The permeable support  1340  can be shaped such that the permeable support  1340  is cylindrical or non-cylindrical. As shown in  FIG. 20 , which is a cross-section of the permeable support  1340  shown in  FIG. 19  taken along the line  20 - 20 , the channel  1340 B can be shaped and configured to receive an outlet tube  1320 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 21 , a permeable membrane  1330  can be coupled to the permeable support  1340 . The permeable membrane  1330  can be the same or similar in structure and/or function to any of the permeable membranes described herein. For example, the permeable membrane  1330  can include a wicking material wrapped around the permeable support  1340 . In some implementations, the permeable membrane  1330  can include a wicking material attached or sprayed onto the web of flexible porous material prior to folding the web into the tubular shape. The permeable support  1340  can have a first closed end  1343 A and a second closed end  1343 B. The second closed end  1343 B and the bottom of the permeable support  1340  can collectively form a reservoir  1310  to collect fluid that enters the channel  1340 B via the permeable membrane  1330  and the permeable support  1340 . The outlet tube  1320  can be inserted into the channel  1340 B such that fluid that travels into the permeable support  1340  can be removed from the permeable support  1340  via the channel  1340 B and the outlet tube  1320  (via, for example, a vacuum source). 
       FIGS. 22-26  are various views of an assembly  1402  shown in a variety of configurations. As shown in  FIGS. 22-24 , which are a front view, back view, and side view of an assembly  1402 , respectively, in some implementations, the permeable support  1440  can be shaped as a flexible sheet. The flexible sheet can be formed of a porous flexible web of spun plastic fibers, such as, for example, spun polyester fibers such as is used in a typical scouring pad. In some implementations, polyester fibers are used due to their ability to remain odor free. In some implementations, the flexible sheet can be formed of any suitable type of fibers. An outlet tube  1420  can be attached to the permeable support  1440  via any suitable attachment mechanism. For example, the outlet tube  1420  can be attached to the permeable support  1440  via securement elements  1452 , such as, for example, adhesive tape. 
     The assembly  1402  can include an impermeable layer  1450 . As shown in  FIG. 25 , which is a side view of the assembly  1402  including the impermeable layer  1450 , the impermeable layer  1450  can be coupled to the permeable support  1440  such that fluid traveling through the permeable support  1440  can be directed toward an end of the outlet tube  1420 . The impermeable layer  1450  can, in combination with the permeable support  1440 , define a reservoir  1410  for collection of fluid that has entered the assembly  1402  via the permeable support  1440  and traveled to the bottom of the assembly  1402 . For example, the bottom end of the impermeable layer  1450  and/or the bottom end of the permeable support  1440  can be a closed end such that fluid does not exit the assembly  1402  except via the outlet tube  1420  (via, for example, a vacuum source). 
     The assembly  1402  can also include a permeable membrane  1430 . As shown in  FIG. 26 , which is a front view of the assembly  1402 , the permeable membrane  1430  can be disposed on the outer surface of the permeable support  1440  or on the outer surface of the permeable support  1440  and the backing  1450 . The permeable membrane  1430  can be the same or similar to any of the permeable membranes described herein. 
     In some implementations, the reservoir, the impermeable layer, and/or a portion of the outlet can be formed as an integral, one piece structure. For example,  FIGS. 27 and 28  are a top view and a cross-sectional side view, respectively, of an impermeable casing  1504 . The impermeable casing  1504  includes an impermeable layer  1550 , an outlet  1520 , and a reservoir  1510 . The outlet  1520  and the reservoir  1510  are coupled together by the impermeable layer  1550 . The impermeable layer  1550  defines an elongated opening  1504 A. The outlet  1520  can be configured to receive tubing such that fluid can be removed from an interior of the impermeable casing  1504  via the tubing. The impermeable casing  1504  can be formed of a flexible and compliant, impermeable material, such as, for example, silicone and/or another polymer. Additionally, the impermeable casing  1504  can be curved such that, in a configuration in which the impermeable casing  1504  includes a permeable membrane and/or a permeable support, the impermeable casing  1504  can expose the permeable membrane for a comfortable and secure interface for engagement with a user&#39;s urethral opening. 
     In some implementations, the impermeable casing  1504  can be configured to contain a permeable membrane disposed over a permeable support. For example,  FIG. 29  is a top view of a permeable support  1540 . The permeable support  1540  can define a number of inlets  1542 . The inlets  1542  can be symmetrical or non-symmetrical across the permeable support  1540 . In some implementations, the permeable support  1540  can be formed of a porous spun plastic or plastic netting material. The permeable support  1540  can be flexible and compliant. In some implementations, the permeable support  1540  can be formed of flexible polypropylene, nylon, polyester, another plastic, a natural material, and/or any other suitable material. As shown in  FIG. 30 , the permeable support  1540  can be folded or rolled into a tubular shape. As shown in  FIG. 31 , the permeable support  1540  can be covered with a permeable membrane  1530 . For example, the permeable support  1540  can form a flexible framework over which the permeable membrane  1530  can fit snugly. 
     The permeable support  1540  in combination with the permeable membrane  1530  can be disposed within the interior of the impermeable casing  1504  such that the permeable support  1540  can maintain the permeable membrane  1530  against or near a source of moisture (e.g., a urethral opening) through the elongated opening  1504 A. The permeable membrane  1530  and the permeable support  1540  can be positioned within the impermeable casing  1504  using any suitable method. For example, in some implementations, the permeable membrane  1530  can be pulled over or wrapped around the permeable support  1540 . The combination of the permeable membrane  1530  and the permeable support  1540  can then be inserted through the elongated opening  1504 A of the impermeable casing  1504  and the impermeable casing  1504  can be stretched and/or otherwise maneuvered such that the impermeable casing  1504  surrounds the permeable membrane  1530  except in the area of the elongated opening  1504 A. 
     In some implementations, the permeable membrane  1530  (e.g., a tubular gauze) can first be disposed over a hollow plastic pipe (not shown). The pipe covered with the permeable membrane  1530  can be inserted through the opening  1520  of the impermeable casing  1504  such that the permeable membrane  1530  is positioned within the impermeable casing  1504 . The permeable support  1540  can then be formed into a configuration such that the permeable support  1540  can function as a hollow framework for the permeable membrane  1530  (e.g., a tubular or cylindrical shape as shown in  FIG. 30 ). The permeable support  1540  can then be inserted through the pipe and/or the opening  1520  such that the permeable support  1540  is coextensive and arranged within the permeable membrane  1530 . The pipe can then be removed from the permeable membrane  1530  and the permeable support  1540  via the opening  1520  while the permeable membrane  1530  and the permeable support  1540  are grasped such that the permeable membrane  1530  and the permeable support  1540  remain within the impermeable casing  1504 . 
     In some implementations, the permeable membrane  1530  (e.g., a tubular gauze) can first be disposed over a hollow plastic pipe (not shown). The permeable support  1540  can then be formed into a configuration such that the permeable support  1540  can function as a hollow framework for the permeable membrane  1530  (e.g., a tubular or cylindrical shape as shown in  FIG. 30 ). The permeable support  1540  can then be inserted through the pipe such that the permeable support  1540  is coextensive and arranged within the permeable membrane  1530 . The pipe can then be removed from the permeable membrane  1530  and the permeable support  1540  while the permeable membrane  1530  and the permeable support  1540  are grasped such that the permeable membrane  1530  and the permeable support  1540  remain within the impermeable casing  1504 . If the permeable membrane  1530  is longer than necessary, such as if the permeable membrane  1530  is longer than the permeable support  1540 , the permeable membrane  1530  can be cut (e.g., with scissors) to the desired length. The permeable membrane  1530  in combination with the permeable support  1540  can then be inserted into the impermeable casing  1504  via the elongated opening  1504 A. 
     In some implementations, the permeable membrane  1530  can be attached to the permeable support  1540  via an adhesive or adhesive tape. In some implementations, the permeable membrane  1530  can be attached to the permeable support  1540  via compression from the impermeable casing  1504 . For example, the permeable membrane  1530  can be wrapped around the permeable support  1540  and inserted into the impermeable casing  1504  such that the impermeable casing  1504  applies compression to the permeable membrane  1530  and the permeable support  1540  such that the permeable membrane  1530  and the permeable support  1540  each maintain their shape and attachment to each other. In some implementations, the permeable membrane  1530  can be secured to the permeable support  1540  by compression as a result of the permeable membrane  1530  having elastic properties. For example, the permeable membrane  1530  can include tubular compression gauze that can be applied to the permeable support  1540  as a sleeve. 
       FIG. 32  is a cross-sectional illustration of an assembly  1602 . The assembly  1602  includes an impermeable casing  1604 . The impermeable casing  1604  can be the same or similar in structure and/or function to the impermeable casing  1504  described above with respect to  FIGS. 27 and 28 . For example, the impermeable casing  1604  can include a reservoir  1610 , an impermeable backing  1650 , and an outlet  1620 . Additionally, the assembly  1602  can include a permeable membrane  1630  and a permeable support  1640 . The permeable membrane  1630  and the permeable support  1640  can be the same or similar in structure and function to and of the permeable membranes and permeable supports, respectively, described herein. For example, the permeable membrane  1630  can be a ribbed knit fabric sleeve and the permeable support  1640  can be formed of spun plastic (e.g., non-woven permeable webbing) shaped as a tube. Thus, the assembly  1602  can be pliable and/or flexible such that the assembly  1602  can conform to differently shaped and/or sized users to ensure effective and secure placement of the assembly  1602 . The assembly  1602  can include a tube  1621  associated with the outlet  1620  such that fluid in the reservoir  1610  can be removed through the tube  1621  and out of the outlet  1620  via, for example, a vacuum source (not shown). 
       FIG. 33  is a cross-sectional side view of the assembly  1602  engaged with a female body. As shown in  FIG. 33 , the assembly  1602  can be arranged near the urethra such that the elongated opening  1604 A of the assembly  1602  is facing the urethral opening. Additionally, the assembly  1602  can be placed between the labia of the user and held snugly against or near the urethra by the pressure of friction from the user&#39;s body. Additionally, as shown in  FIG. 33 , the assembly  1602  can be curved such that the assembly  1602  provides a comfortable and secure interface for engagement with a user&#39;s urethral opening and the surrounding area of the user&#39;s body, with the elongated opening on the inside of the curve. Thus, upon the voiding of urine from the user&#39;s body, the urine can flow into the assembly  1602  via the elongated opening  1604 A, the permeable membrane  1630 , and an inlet of the permeable support  1640 . The urine can then flow to the reservoir  1610  of the assembly  1602  due to gravity and/or suction provided by a vacuum source via the tube  1621 . The suction provided by the vacuum source can then draw the urine from the reservoir  1610 , through the tube  1621 , and out of the assembly  1602 . 
     The assembly  1602  can have any suitable dimension such that the assembly  1602  can be configured to engage with the urethral opening and/or the area surrounding the urethral opening of users of different sizes and/or anatomical structures. For example, in some embodiments, the impermeable casing  1604  can range from about 7 inches to about 8 inches in length (i.e. from a tip of the reservoir  1610  to the opening in the outlet  1620 ). In some embodiments, such as for larger patients, the impermeable casing  1604  can range from about 9 inches to about 10 inches in length. In some embodiments, such as for smaller adult patients or children, the impermeable casing  1604  can range from about 3 inches to about 5 inches in length. In some embodiments, the impermeable casing  1604  can range from about 3 inches to about 10 inches in length. The elongated opening  1604 A can range from about 5 inches to about 6 inches in length. In some embodiments, the diameter of the impermeable casing  1604  can be about 1 inch. In some embodiments, the diameter of the impermeable casing  1604  can range from about 0.5 inches to about 1.5 inches in diameter. The elongated opening  1604 A can have a width of about 1 inch and a depth of about 0.5 inches relative to the height (i.e. diameter) of the impermeable casing  1604 . The permeable support  1640  can have a diameter of about 0.875 inches. The outlet  1620  can be about 0.25 inches long and about 0.5 inches wide. The opening of the outlet  1620  can have a diameter of about 0.375 inches. Additionally, the tube  1621  can have a diameter of about 0.375 inches. 
     Additionally, the assembly  1602  can include any suitable curve such that the assembly  1602  can engage with a user&#39;s urethral opening and/or area surrounding the urethral opening. For example, in some embodiments, the assembly  1602  and/or the impermeable casing  1604  can have an angle of curvature of about 40°. In some embodiments, the assembly  1602  and/or the impermeable casing  1604  can have an angle of curvature of about 60°. In some embodiments, the assembly  1602  and/or the impermeable casing  1604  can have a radius of curvature ranging from about 6 inches to about 10 inches. 
     In some embodiments, the permeable membrane  1630  and/or the permeable support  1640  can be disposed fully within the impermeable casing  1604  such that the permeable membrane  1630  and/or the permeable support  1640  does not extend through the elongated opening  1604 A. In some embodiments, the permeable membrane  1630  and/or the permeable support  1640  can be disposed within the impermeable casing  1604  such that a portion of the permeable membrane  1630  and/or a portion of the permeable support  1640  extends through the elongated opening  1604 A. 
       FIG. 34  is an exploded view of the components of an assembly  1802 . The assembly  1802  can be the same or similar in structure and/or function to the assembly  1602  described above. For example, the assembly  1802  includes an impermeable casing  1804 . The impermeable casing  1804  can be the same or similar in structure and/or function to the impermeable casing  1604  and/or the impermeable casing  1504 . The impermeable casing  1804  can include a reservoir  1810 , an impermeable backing  1850 , and an outlet  1820 . Additionally, the assembly  1802  can include a permeable membrane  1830  and a permeable support  1840 . The permeable membrane  1830  and the permeable support  1840  can be the same or similar in structure and function to and of the permeable membranes and permeable supports, respectively, described herein. For example, the permeable membrane  1830  can be a ribbed knit fabric sleeve and the permeable support  1840  can be formed of a flexible sheet of spun plastic (e.g., non-woven permeable webbing) that can be folded or rolled such that the permeable support  1840  is shaped as a tube. Thus, the assembly  1802  can be pliable and/or flexible such that the assembly  1802  can conform to differently shaped and/or sized users to ensure effective and secure placement of the assembly  1802 . The assembly  1802  can include a tube  1821  associated with the outlet  1820  such that fluid in the reservoir  1810  can be removed through the tube  1821  and out of the outlet  1820  via, for example, a vacuum source (not shown). 
     As shown in  FIG. 35 , which is a side view of the assembly  1802  in an assembly configuration, the permeable support  1840  can be folded or rolled such that its shape is changed from a sheet to a tube. The permeable membrane  1830  can be pulled over the permeable support  1840 . The combination of the permeable membrane  1830  and the permeable support  1840  can then be inserted through the elongated opening  1804 A of the impermeable casing  1804  and the impermeable casing  1804  can be stretched and/or otherwise maneuvered such that the impermeable casing  1804  surrounds the permeable membrane  1830  except in the area of the elongated opening  1804 A. The tubing  1821  can be inserted through the outlet  1820  such that it is disposed within a channel defined by the permeable support  1840  with one end in the reservoir  1810 . In some implementations, the tubing  1821  can be inserted into a channel defined by the permeable support  1840  prior to inserting the permeable support  1840  and the permeable membrane  1830  through the elongated opening  1804 A. The tubing  1821  can be threaded through the elongated opening  1804 A and through the opening  1820 , and the reservoir  1810  of the impermeable backing  1804  can be pulled around the opposite end of the tubing  1821 , the permeable support  1840 , and the permeable membrane  1830 . 
     In some implementations, an impermeable layer can define one or more vacuum relief openings. For example,  FIG. 40  is a back view of an impermeable casing  2004 . The impermeable casing  2004  can be the same or similar to the impermeable casing  1804  shown in and described with reference to  FIGS. 34 and 35 . The impermeable casing  2004  can include a reservoir  2010 , an impermeable backing  2050 , and an outlet  2020 . The impermeable casing can also include a vacuum relief opening  2058 . Thus, in the event that a user&#39;s body envelopes an assembly including the impermeable layer  2050 , such as an assembly the same or similar to assembly  1802 , the one or more vacuum relief openings  2058  can prevent suction from increasing against the skin of the user, which may be uncomfortable or painful. For example, the impermeable casing  2004  can define an elongated opening (not shown) the same or similar to the elongated opening  1804 A described above. The vacuum relief opening  2058  can be located between two ends of the impermeable casing  2004  such that at least one additional airflow path exists in the assembly in the event that the user&#39;s body obstructs a portion of or the entire elongated opening. Although shown as being located near the outlet  2020 , the vacuum relief opening  2058  can be disposed at any suitable location on the impermeable layer  2050 . In some implementations, the one or more vacuum relief openings  2058  can be disposed in a location that reduces the likelihood that the skin of the labia or the thigh of the user inadvertently covers the hole, such as a location near the outlet  2020 . Additionally, the impermeable casing  2004  can include any suitable number of vacuum relief openings  2058 . 
     In some implementations, rather than including an impermeable casing, an assembly can include an impermeable backing that includes adhesive tape. For example,  FIG. 36  is an exploded view of an assembly  1702 . The assembly  1702  includes a reservoir  1710 , a permeable support  1740 , a permeable membrane  1730 , and a tube  1721 . The assembly  1702  can be similar in structure and/or function to the assembly  1602  described above with reference to  FIGS. 32 and 33 . For example, the permeable membrane  1730  and the permeable support  1740  can be the same or similar to any of the permeable membranes and permeable supports described herein. For example, the permeable support  1740  can be a flexible sheet of spun plastic (e.g., non-woven permeable webbing). Thus, the assembly  1702  can be pliable and/or flexible such that the assembly  1702  can conform to differently shaped and/or sized users to ensure effective and secure placement of the assembly  1702 . In some implementations, the permeable membrane  1730  can be a ribbed knit fabric sleeve. Additionally, the tube  1721  can be associated with an outlet (e.g., the outlet  1720  in  FIG. 38 ) for drawing fluid out of the reservoir  1710  and into an external receptacle (such as external receptacle  160  shown and described with respect to  FIG. 1 ). The reservoir  1710  can include a flexible cap and can be configured to be attached to the permeable membrane  1730  and/or the permeable support via an impermeable backing (e.g., the impermeable backing  1750  in  FIG. 28 ). 
     As shown in  FIG. 37 , which is a side view of a partially assembled assembly  1702 , the permeable support  1840  can be folded or rolled such that its shape is changed from a sheet to a tube. The permeable support  1840  can then be inserted into the reservoir  1710  (e.g., a flexible cap). The tube  1721  can be inserted through a channel formed by the permeable support  1840  and into the reservoir  1710 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 38 , the assembly  1702  can include an impermeable backing  1750  that includes adhesive tape. The impermeable backing  1750  can include two securing portions  1752 A and  1752 B connected by a backing portion  1753 . The securing portions  1752 A and  1752 B in combination with the backing portion  1753  can define an elongated opening  1704 A through which a fluid (e.g., urine) can travel into the assembly  1702 . Additionally, the securing portion  1752 A can be used to secure the reservoir  1710  to the backing portion  1753 , the permeable membrane  1730 , and/or the permeable support  1740  (shown in  FIGS. 36 and 37 ). In some implementations, the securing portion  1752 B in combination with the tube  1721  can form a portion of or all of the outlet  1720 . Thus, the impermeable backing  1750  can direct fluid flow through the assembly  1702  such that fluid that enters the permeable membrane  1730  and the permeable support  1740  via the elongated opening  1704 A does not exit the assembly  1702  except via the tube  1721 . In use, the fluid can flow due to gravity and/or suction toward the reservoir  1710  and be contained by the reservoir  1710  and the impermeable backing  1750 . The tube  1721  can then be used to draw the fluid out of the assembly  1702  (via, for example, a vacuum source). Additionally, the impermeable backing  1750  can assist in limiting the area of the permeable membrane  1730  experiencing suction from a vacuum source such that the pressure differential is stronger and fluid can be drawn through the permeable membrane  1730  efficiently. 
       FIG. 39  is a flowchart illustrating a method of using an assembly to collect urine from a user, according to an embodiment. The method  1900  optionally includes, at  1902 , fluidically coupling the discharge end of the tube of the urine collecting apparatus to a fluid receptacle. Method  1900  optionally further includes, at  1904 , fluidically coupling the discharge end of the tube of the urine collecting apparatus to a source of vacuum. Method  1900  further includes, at  1906 , disposing in operative relationship with the urethral opening of a female user (e.g. human or animal) the urine collecting apparatus. The urine collecting apparatus can be the same or similar in structure and/or function to any of the urine collecting apparatus described herein, such as, for example, the assembly  102  in  FIG. 1 . For example, the urine collecting apparatus can include a fluid impermeable casing, a fluid permeable support, a fluid permeable membrane, and a tube. The fluid impermeable casing can have a fluid reservoir at a first end and a fluid outlet at a second end. A longitudinally extending fluid impermeable layer can be coupled to the fluid reservoir and the fluid outlet and can define a longitudinally elongated opening between the fluid reservoir and the fluid outlet. The fluid permeable support can be disposed within the casing with a portion extending across the elongated opening. The fluid permeable membrane can be disposed on the support and can cover at least the portion of the support that extends across the elongated opening, so that the membrane is supported on the support and disposed across the elongated opening. The tube can have a first end disposed in the reservoir and a second fluid discharge end. The tube can extend behind at least the portion of the support and the portion of the membrane disposed across the elongated opening and can extend through the fluid outlet to the second fluid discharge end. The operative relationship can include the opening being adjacent to the urethral opening of the female user. 
     The method  1900  also includes, at  1908 , allowing urine discharged from the urethral opening to be received through the opening of the fluid impermeable layer, the membrane, the support, and into the reservoir. 
     The method  1900  also includes, at  1910 , allowing the received urine to be withdrawn from the reservoir via the tube and out of the fluid discharge end of the tube. 
     The method  1900  optionally includes, at  1912 , removing the urine collecting apparatus from the operative relationship with the urethral opening of the user. 
     Finally, the method  1900  optionally includes, at  1914 , disposing a second urine collecting apparatus in operative relationship with the urethral opening of the user. 
     In some embodiments, the support and casing can be cylindrical and can have a curved shape with the elongated opening disposed on the inside of the curve. The disposing can include disposing the urine collecting apparatus with the elongated opening adjacent the urethral opening of the user and oriented with the reservoir proximal to the user&#39;s anus and the outlet disposed above the urethral opening. 
     In some embodiments, an assembly (such as, for example, the assembly  1602  shown in  FIG. 32 ) can have a curved shape that is defined or maintained at least in part by a shape-retaining member. In some embodiments, the shape-retaining member can be implemented as a tube with an intake end positioned within a reservoir such that the tube extends from the reservoir and through at least a portion of a permeable support, similar to, for example, the tube  1621  shown with respect to  FIGS. 32 and 33 , that has a precurved shape such that at least a portion of an assembly including the tube will also have a similar or corresponding precurved shape. For example, as shown in  FIG. 41 , a tube  2121  is precurved. The tube  2121  can be the same or similar in structure and/or function to any of the tubes described herein, such as the tube  1621 , the tube  1721 , and/or the tube  1821 . The tube  2121  can be precurved to any suitable curved shape (e.g., any suitable angle of curvature) such that, for example, an assembly including the tube  2121  can engage with a user&#39;s urethral opening and/or an area surrounding the urethral opening. 
     In some implementations, the tube  2121  can be initially formed such that it has an uncurved (i.e., straight) overall shape. The tube  2121  can then be curved via, for example, heat setting. Said another way, the tube  2121  can be formed of a stiff or rigid material, such as a stiff plastic, in a straight shape. The tube  2121  can be heated such that the tube  2121  is softened, and then the tube  2121  can be bent to a predefined curved shape. After being curved, the tube  2121  can be cooled such that the tube  2121  hardens. 
     In some implementations, the tube  2121  can be precurved by initially forming the tube  2121  such that the tube  2121  has a straight shape and then bending the tube  2121  beyond the elastic limit of the tube  2121  such that the tube  2121  has a preset curve. For example, the tube  2121  can be formed of a material such as metal that will retain a curved shape after being bent to the curved shape. 
     In some embodiments, an assembly (such as, for example, the assembly  1602  shown in  FIG. 32 ) can have a curved shape that is defined or maintained at least in part by a shape-retaining member that is separate from the tube that has an intake end in the reservoir. Thus, the assembly can have both a tube and a separate shape-retaining element for maintaining the assembly or a portion of the assembly in a precurved shape. For example, as shown in  FIG. 42 , a shape-retaining element  2251  can have a precurved shape. The shape-retaining element  2251  can be formed of, for example, a strip of semi-rigid material. The shape-retaining element  2251  can be attached to any suitable portion of the assembly. For example, in some implementations, the shape-retaining element  2251  can be attached to an inner surface of an impermeable layer, such as impermeable layer  1650 . In some implementations, the shape-retaining element  2251  can be disposed between an impermeable layer (e.g., the impermeable layer  1650 ) and a permeable support (e.g., the permeable support  1640 ) and/or a permeable membrane (e.g., the permeable membrane  1630 ). In some implementations, the shape-retaining element  2251  can be attached to an outer surface of an impermeable layer (e.g., the impermeable layer  1650 ) or can be imbedded in an impermeable layer (e.g., the impermeable layer  1650 ). 
     In some embodiments, a tube with an intake end positioned within a reservoir such that the tube extends from the reservoir and through at least a portion of a permeable support, similar to, for example, the tube  1621  shown with respect to  FIGS. 32 and 33 , can have a beveled intake end (i.e. a beveled reservoir end). As shown in  FIG. 43 , a tube  2321  includes a beveled intake end  2323 . The tube  2321  can be the similar in structure and/or function to any of the tubes described herein, such as, for example, the tube  1621 , the tube  1721 , the tube  1821  and/or the tube  2121 . The beveled intake end  2323  can prevent blockage of the tube  2321  in operation. For example, the beveled intake end  2323  can increase the size of an intake opening  2325  of the tube  2321  such that the intake opening  2325  is less likely to be blocked by an obstruction. Additionally, the beveled intake end  2323  can prevent the tube  2323  from becoming obstructed at the intake end by the material forming the reservoir. For example, in assemblies in which the reservoir is formed by a flexible and/or pliable material as part of a casing, such as the reservoir  1810  of casing  1804  in  FIG. 35 , the suction resulting from the vacuum through the tube  1821  and/or force applied to the outside of the reservoir may cause the material of the reservoir  1810  to move toward the intake end of the tube  1821  and obstruct and/or seal the intake end of the tube  1821 , preventing the flow of fluid through the intake end of the tube  1821 . A beveled intake end of the tube  2321  can prevent this obstruction from occurring due to the angled tip. Even if a portion of a reservoir (e.g.,  1810 ) flexes into contact with the distal end of the tube  2321 , the intake opening  2325  can remain at least partially or completely unobstructed. 
     In some embodiments, an assembly can include a casing that includes a channel defined in a sidewall of the casing, instead of the tube extending within the casing, as disclosed in many of the previous embodiments. For example,  FIG. 44A  is a cross-sectional side view of a casing  2404 . The casing  2404  can be similar in structure and/or function to any of the casings described herein, such as, for example, the casing  1604  shown in  FIG. 32 . For example, casing  2404  can include a reservoir  2410  and an impermeable backing  2450 . The casing  2404  can include a closed end  2499  opposite the reservoir  2410 . In some embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 44A , the casing  2404  can include an impermeable external wall  2451 , such that the impermeable backing  2450  and the external wall  2451  collectively define a channel  2490 . For example,  FIG. 44B , which is a schematic illustration of a cross-section of the casing  2404  taken along the line  44 B- 44 B in  FIG. 44A , shows the channel  2490  defined between the external wall  2451  and the impermeable backing  2450 . The impermeable backing  2450  can define an opening  2480  such that the channel  2490  can be in fluidic communication with the reservoir  2410  via the opening  2480 . For example,  FIG. 44C , which is a schematic illustration of a cross-section of the casing  2404  taken along the line  44 C- 44 C in  FIG. 44A , shows the opening  2480  defined in the impermeable backing  2450  such that fluid can flow from the reservoir  2410 , through the opening  2480 , and into the channel  2490 . Although  FIGS. 44A-44D  show the opening  2480  disposed at the point of line  44 C- 44 C (i.e., near or in the reservoir  2410 ), in some embodiments one or more openings similar in structure and/or function to opening  2480  can be disposed at one or more other positions along the impermeable backing  2450  that are suitable for forming a fluidic connection between the channel  2490  and the reservoir  2410 .  FIG. 44D , which is a schematic illustration of a bottom view of the impermeable backing  2450  (i.e., without the external wall  2451  attached), similarly shows the opening  2480  defined in the impermeable backing  2450  near the reservoir  2410 . 
     The channel  2490  can extend along the length of the casing  2404 , as shown, from the opening  2480  to an outlet  2420  such that fluid in the reservoir  2410  can be removed via the opening  2480  through the channel  2490  via, for example, a vacuum source (not shown) coupled to the outlet  2420 . Although shown as having a crescent shape, the channel  2490  can be formed in any suitable shape. For example, the channel  2490  can be tubular. In some implementations, as shown in  FIG. 44A , a tube  2429  can be coupled to or integrally formed with the casing  2404  such that the tube  2429  defines an additional length of the channel  2490  and thus the outlet  2420  is disposed at a distance from the impermeable backing  2450 . In some implementations, the outlet  2420  may be disposed proximal to the closed end  2499  of the casing. In some implementations, the tube  2429  and the other components of the casing  2404  can be formed as an integral, one-piece structure, as shown in  FIG. 44A . In some implementations, the external wall  2451  at least partially defining the channel  2490  and/or the tube  2429  can be separately formed and attached to the impermeable backing  2450  and/or the closed end of the casing  2499  via, for example, adhesive or tape. 
     The casing  2404  can be made from material similar in structure and/or function to any of the casings described herein, such as, for example, the casing  1504  shown in  FIG. 27 , the casing  1604  in  FIG. 32  and/or the casing  1804  shown in  FIG. 35 , such that the assembly can withstand the pressure differential needed to draw fluid voided from the urethral opening of a user into a permeable support (not shown) housed within the casing  2404  and into the reservoir  2410  without collapsing. The casing  2404 , the channel  2490  and/or the tube  2429  may include spines or other suitable structures to reinforce their structural integrity. The casing  2404 , and in particular the impermeable backing  2450  and the external wall  2451  defining the channel  2470 , can be made of a material and formed so as to be able to withstand the pressure differential needed to remove collected fluid from the reservoir  2410  through the channel  2490  via the opening  2480 , through the outlet  2420 , and into an external receptacle (not shown). Thus, the impermeable backing  2450  and the external wall  2451  can be made of a material sufficiently strong or rigid such that the channel  2490  can remain open and unobstructed when coupled to a vacuum source. 
     In some embodiments, rather than the channel being collectively defined by an external wall and an impermeable backing, the assembly can include an external tube defining a channel. For example,  FIG. 45  is a cross-sectional illustration of an assembly  2500 . The assembly  2500  can include a casing  2504 . The casing  2504  can be similar in structure and/or function to any of the casings described herein, such as, for example, the casing  2404  shown in  FIG. 44A . For example, casing  2504  can include a reservoir  2510  and an impermeable backing  2550 . The casing  2504  can include a closed end  2599  opposite the reservoir  2510 . The impermeable backing  2550  and/or the reservoir  2510  can define an opening  2580 . The assembly  2500  can include an outlet tube  2528  defining a lumen. The outlet tube  2528  can be disposed on the casing  2504  such that the outlet tube  2528  extends from the opening  2580  and the lumen of the outlet tube  2528  is in fluid communication with the opening  2580  and the reservoir  2510 . The outlet tube  2528  may be made of flexible or rigid material. The casing  2504  and the outlet tube  2528  can be formed together as an integral piece or formed separately and connected using any suitable coupling mechanism such as, for example, tube fittings, adhesive, and/or tape. Although in the embodiment shown in  FIG. 45  the opening  2580  is disposed in the reservoir  2510 , in other embodiments one or more openings similar in structure and/or function to the opening  2580  can be disposed at other position(s) along the impermeable backing, and an outlet tube such as the outlet tube  2528  can be coupled to each of the one or more openings. 
     In some implementations, the assembly  2500  can include an external tube  2522  defining a channel. The outlet tube  2528  can be coupled to the external tube  2522  such that the channel of the external tube  2522  is in fluidic communication with the lumen of the outlet tube  2528  (and, thus, the reservoir  2510 ). The outlet tube  2528  can have any suitable length for fluidically coupling the reservoir  2510  with the external tube  2522 . The outlet tube  2528  can be secured to the external tube  2522  using any suitable coupling mechanism such as, for example, a leak-proof tube connecting apparatus, adhesive, and/or tape. In some implementations, the external tube  2522  can be fluidically coupled to a vacuum source (not shown) such that fluid can be evacuated from the reservoir  2510  via suction created by the vacuum source. The outlet tube  2528  (and the casing  2504  if formed integrally with tube  2528 ) can be made from material similar in structure and/or function to any of the casings described herein, such as, for example, the casing  2404  shown in  FIG. 44A , such that the assembly can withstand the pressure differential needed to draw urine voided from the urethral opening of a user into a permeable support (not shown) housed within the casing  2504 , into the reservoir  2510 , through the outlet tube  2528  via the opening  2580 , and through the external tube  2522  connected to an external receptacle (not shown). 
     In some embodiments, rather than including a permeable membrane disposed on a permeable support, the permeable support can be formed of a material that provides the functions of both the permeable membrane and the permeable support. For example,  FIGS. 46 and 47  are a side view and an exploded view, respectively, of an assembly  2602 , according to an embodiment. The assembly  2602  includes a permeable support  2640 , a tube  2621 , and a casing  2604 . The permeable support  2640  can be formed of a material that includes the at least some of the features and/or provides at least some of the functions of both the permeable membrane and permeable support of embodiments described above. The assembly  2602  can otherwise be the same or similar in structure and/or function to the any of the embodiments described above. For example, the impermeable casing  2604  can be the same or similar in structure and/or function to the impermeable casings  1504 ,  1604 ,  1804 ,  2004 ,  2404 , and/or  2504 . The impermeable casing  2604  can include a reservoir  2610 , an impermeable backing  2650 , and an outlet  2620 . Additionally, the impermeable casing  2604  can define an elongated opening  2604 A. 
     As noted above, the permeable support  2640  can be the same or similar in function to the permeable membranes and/or the permeable supports, respectively, described in the previous embodiments. The permeable support  2640 , however, can be formed of a single material that meets the functional requirements and/or includes the functional benefits of the materials of both the permeable membranes and the permeable supports of the previous embodiments. Specifically, the material of which permeable support  2640  is formed can have sufficient structural integrity to serve as a permeable support for the casing  2604 , sufficient porosity and/or permeability to allow urine to pass freely through the permeable support  2640 , and/or sufficient loft and resiliency to extend to or out of the elongated opening  2604 A. The permeable support  2640  can also be sufficiently pliable and/or flexible such that the assembly  2602  can conform to differently shaped and/or sized users to ensure effective and secure placement of the assembly  2602 . 
     In addition, the material of which the permeable support  2640  is formed can have an exterior surface that provides the same functions as the permeable membranes of the previous embodiments. Thus, the permeable support  2640  can be urine permeable and can have wicking properties. Specifically, the permeable support  2640  can have a high absorptive rate and a high permeation rate such that urine can be rapidly absorbed and/or transported therethrough. The permeable support  2640  can be soft and/or minimally abrasive such that it does not irritate the skin of the user. Additionally, the permeable support  2640  can wick fluid away from the urethral opening and/or the skin of the user such that the dampness of the skin of the user is lessened and infections are prevented. The permeable support  2640  can also be sufficiently permeable and/or have sufficient wicking ability to help prevent urine from leaking or flowing beyond the assembly onto, for example, a bed. 
     The material of which the permeable support  2640  is formed can be in the form of a flexible sheet rolled or folded into a tubular form, for example, as shown in  FIG. 47  and in the illustration in  FIG. 48 . Alternatively, the permeable support  2640  can be formed as a cylinder such that the permeable support  2640  has the desired shape without rolling or folding. The permeable support  2640  can be made from, for example, polyester, recycled polyester fleece, and/or nylon knit mesh. The permeable support  2640  can be secured within a hollow casing (for example, the casing  2604  shown in  FIGS. 46 and 47 ) by inserting the permeable support  2640  into the casing via an elongated opening of the casing (e.g., elongated opening  2604 A of the casing  2604 ). In some implementations, the permeable support  2640  may be affixed to a casing such as the casing  2604  by using any suitable means, such as, for example, using adhesive, glue, and/or tape. 
     In use, once inserted and positioned against the impermeable backing  2650 , the assembly  2602  may be positioned relative to a user such that the surface of the permeable support  2640  contacts the urethral opening of the user. Urine can be drawn through the permeable support  2640  such that the urine collects in the reservoir  2610 . The urine can then be drawn from the reservoir  2610  via the tube  2621  and through the outlet  2620  using, for example, an external vacuum source (not shown). The material of which permeable support  2640  is formed may be compressible. The material can also have sponge-like properties such that the material can maintain shape when wet, thereby maintaining contact with the user during a urination event via a slight protrusion of the permeable support  2640  outside the casing  2604  via the elongated opening  2604 A. While the permeable support  2640  is shown with casing  2604  in  FIGS. 46 and 47  for illustration purposes, the permeable support  2640  can be used in conjunction with any of the assemblies or casings shown or described herein, such as, for example, the assembly  802  of  FIG. 9 , the assembly of  FIG. 18 , the casing  1504  of  FIG. 27 , the casing  1604  of  FIG. 32 , the casing  1804  of  FIGS. 34-35 , the assembly  1702  of  FIGS. 37-38 , the casing  2004  of  FIG. 40 , the casing  2404  of  FIG. 44A , and/or the casing  2504  in  FIG. 45 . 
     In some embodiments, rather than including an outlet tube as shown and described with respect to assembly  2500  in  FIG. 45 , an assembly can include an outlet tube inserted partially into the reservoir and extending away from the assembly. For example,  FIG. 49A  is a lengthwise cross-sectional view of an assembly  2702 . The assembly  2702  can include a casing  2704 , a permeable support  2740 , and a permeable membrane  2730 . The assembly  2702  can be similar in structure and/or function to any of the assemblies described herein, such as, for example, the assembly  102  shown and described with respect to  FIG. 1 , the assembly  1802  shown and described with respect to  FIG. 35 , and/or the assembly  2602  shown and described with respect to  FIG. 46 . Specifically, the casing  2704  can be similar in structure and/or function to any of the casings described herein, such as, for example, the casing  1504  shown and described with respect to  FIGS. 27 and 28 , the casing  1804  shown and described with respect to  FIG. 34 , the casing  2004  shown and described with respect to  FIG. 40 , the casing  2404  shown and described with respect to  FIG. 44A  and/or the casing  2504  shown and described with respect to  FIG. 45 . The casing  2704  can include, for example, an impermeable backing  2750 , a reservoir  2710 , a closed end  2799  opposite the reservoir  2710 , and an opening  2780  defined by the impermeable backing  2750  and/or the reservoir  2710 . The casing  2704  can be made with or without a precurved form. For example, in some implementations, the casing  2704  can be precurved such that the casing  2704  is concave or convex. Although shown as including a separate permeable membrane  2730  and permeable support  2740 , in some embodiments the assembly  2702  can include a permeable support  2740  made of a material such that the permeable support  2740  can include some or all of the functions of any of the permeable membranes described herein. In such embodiments, the assembly  2702  can include only a permeable support and not a separate permeable membrane disposed on the permeable support. 
     The assembly  2702  can include an outlet tube  2726  that can be inserted into the casing  2704  through the opening  2780  such that the inserted open end of the tube  2726  can be disposed within the reservoir  2710 . In such an arrangement, a lumen of the tube  2726  can be in fluidic communication with the reservoir. An exemplary casing  2704  with a mounted outlet tube  2726  is shown in cross-sectional view in  FIG. 49B . The outlet tube  2726  can be made of flexible or rigid material. As shown in  FIG. 49B  and in the cross-sectional view taken along line  49 C- 49 C shown in  FIG. 49C , the outlet tube  2726  can extend along the outside of and away from the casing  2704 . The outlet tube  2726  can have any suitable length such that the outlet tube  2726  is suitable for the extraction of fluid from the reservoir  2710 . The outlet tube  2726  can be secured to the casing  2704  through any leak-proof coupling mechanism, for example by using pressure insertion through the opening  2780 , or by using the stiction properties of the tube  2726  and the casing  2704 . In some implementations, the outlet tube  2726  can be secured to the casing  2704  due to the reservoir end of the outlet tube  2726  having a larger diameter than the opening  2880 A. In some implementations, the outlet tube  2726  can be secured to the casing  2704  via, for example, a leak-proof fastening mechanism such as, for example, adhesive and/or tape. In some implementations, the outlet tube  2726  can be directly coupled to an external receptacle (e.g., the external receptacle  160 ) such that urine collected in the reservoir can be transported to the external receptacle via the outlet tube  2726 . In some implementations, the outlet tube  2726  can be coupled to an external receptacle via another tube (not shown) coupled to the outlet tube  2726 . In some implementations, a vacuum source can be used to assist in drawing fluid from the reservoir  2710  via the outlet tube  2726 . 
     Although  FIG. 49A  shows the opening  2780  disposed in or near the reservoir  2710 , in other embodiments one or more openings similar in structure and/or function to the opening  2780  can be disposed at one or more other positions along the length of the impermeable backing  2750  as well as laterally along the width of the impermeable backing  2750  such that a tube such as the outlet tube  2726  can be inserted and secured in each of the one or more openings of the casing  2704 . For example, as shown in  FIG. 50A , the assembly  2802  includes a first tube  2826 A and a second tube  2826 B. The assembly  2802  can be similar in structure and/or function to any of the assemblies described herein. For example, the assembly  2802  can include a casing  2804  defining an elongated opening  2804 A, an impermeable backing  2850 , a reservoir  2810 , and a closed end  2899  opposite the reservoir end.  FIG. 51  shows a shallow angled perspective view of the assembly  2802  with the first tube  2826 A and the second tube  2826 B coupled to the casing  2804 . As shown in  FIGS. 50A and 51 , the casing  2804  can define a first opening  2880 A and a second opening  2880 B (shown in  FIG. 51 ) defined in the impermeable backing  2850  through which the first tube  2826 A and the second tube  2826 B, respectively, can be inserted. For example, as shown in phantom in  FIG. 50A , the reservoir end of the tube  2826 A can be inserted through the opening  2880 A into the reservoir  2810 . The portion of each of the first tube  2826 A and the second tube  2826 B disposed within the casing can be of any suitable length that allows proper extraction of fluid collected in the reservoir without any obstruction to the open tips of the first tube  2826 A and the second tube  2826 B. The open tips of the first tube  2826 A and the second tube  2826 B can be disposed within the reservoir  2810  such that fluid can flow from the reservoir  2810  during use without obstruction or interference by the casing  2804  with the assistance of, for example, vacuum suction or gravity. 
     In some implementations, the two openings  2880 A and  2880 B can be disposed at any suitable location along the length and width of the casing  2804  such that there may be sufficient spatial separation between the reservoir ends of the first tube  2826 A and the second tube  2826 B for maximal and effective extraction of urine collected in the reservoir  2810  during use of the assembly  2802 . Additionally, the two openings  2880 A and  2880 B may be positioned such that proper coupling between the first tube  2826 A, the second tube  2826 B, and the casing can be ensured. 
     The assembly  2802  can be fashioned such that the outlet tubes  2826 A and  2826 B extend along the outside of the casing  2804  as shown in  FIG. 50B , which is a cross-sectional view taken along the line  50 B- 50 B in  FIG. 50A . The assembly  2802  can include a permeable support  2840  and a permeable membrane  2830 , and can be positioned such that a portion of the permeable membrane  2830  extends through the elongated opening  2804 A and against or near the urethral opening of the user. In some implementations, the tubes  2826 A and  2826 B can be directly coupled to an external receptacle (e.g., the external receptacle  160 ) such that urine collected in the reservoir can be transported to the external receptacle via the tubes  2826 A and  2826 B. In some implementations, the tubes  2826 A and  2826 B can be coupled to an external receptacle via an external tube  2822  (shown in  FIG. 51 ) coupled to the tubes  2826 A and  2826 B. The tubes  2826 A and  2826 B can be connected to the external tube  2822  using any coupling mechanism that allows leak-proof connection, such as, for example, tube fittings, adhesive, or tape. In some implementations, a vacuum source can be used to assist in drawing fluid from the reservoir  2810  via the tubes  2826 A and  2826 B. The positioning, structure and material of the tubes  2826 A and  2826 B, external tube  2822 , and the casing  2804  can be such that the assembly  2802  allows for free flow of fluid from a urethral opening of a user, through the permeable membrane  2830 , through the permeable support  2840 , into the reservoir  2810 , through the openings  2880 A and  2880 B, and through the tubes  2826 A and  2826  without obstruction of the open reservoir ends of the tubes  2826 A and  2826 B. Additionally, the assembly  2802  can withstand the pressure differential due to the application of vacuum suction to draw out the fluid (e.g., urine) collected in the reservoir  2810 . The assembly  2802  can also simultaneously be sufficiently pliable and/or flexible to conform to the size and shape of different users to ensure effective transfer of voided urine. 
     Although the assembly  2802  is shown to include a permeable support  2840  (indicated by the dot pattern) and a permeable membrane  2830  (indicated by a cross pattern) in  FIG. 50B , in other embodiments the assembly may include a permeable support  2840  made of material such that it serves the functions of both the permeable support and the permeable membrane. Such a permeable support  2840  can be similar in structure and/or function to permeable support  2640  in assembly  2602 . For example, the permeable support  2840  can have an exterior surface with wicking properties, a high absorptive rate, and/or a high permeation rate such that urine can be rapidly absorbed and/or transported therethrough. Further, the permeable support  2840  can be soft and/or minimally abrasive such that the exterior surface of the permeable support  2840  does not irritate the skin of the user. The permeable support  2840  can also be made of a material that can wick fluid away from the urethral opening and/or the skin of the user such that the dampness of the skin of the user is lessened and infections are prevented. 
     While various embodiments of the system, methods and devices have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not limitation. Where methods and steps described above indicate certain events occurring in certain order, those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure would recognize that the ordering of certain steps may be modified and such modifications are in accordance with the variations of the invention. Additionally, certain of the steps may be performed concurrently in a parallel process when possible, as well as performed sequentially as described above. The embodiments have been particularly shown and described, but it will be understood that various changes in form and details may be made. 
     For example, although various embodiments have been described as having particular features and/or combinations of components, other embodiments are possible having any combination or sub-combination of any features and/or components from any of the embodiments described herein. In addition, the specific configurations of the various components can also be varied. For example, the size and specific shape of the various components can be different than the embodiments shown, while still providing the functions as described herein.