Breast feeding auxiliary system

Abstract

The invention discloses a breast feeding auxiliary system. The breast feeding auxiliary system comprises a bra body and bra straps, the bra belt supports the bra body and is worn on the chest of a user; an opening is formed in the front part of the bra body, so that nipples and mammary areola areas of a user are exposed; the bra body is of a multi-layer structure and sequentially comprises an outer layer, a middle layer and an inner layer from outside to inside; a gap is formed between the outer layer and the middle layer, and an air return layer cavity is defined by the gap; an air inlet layer cavity is defined by the middle layer and the inner layer; the inner layer is a wavy elastic layer; according to the breast feeding auxiliary system, by accurately simulating the sucking action of an infant, it is ensured that the infant contains mammary areola, and pains caused by nipple friction are effectively reduced. Meanwhile, by means of the periodic pushing and pressing effect of the wavy inner layer, the system promotes milk to flow smoothly, mammary gland blockage and mastitis are prevented, and the comfort and efficiency of breast feeding are improved. In addition, the heating function keeps the breasts warm, and the breast-feeding requirement in the cold environment is met.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention belongs to the field of maternal and infant care equipment, and in particular relates to a breastfeeding auxiliary system. Background Art

[0002] Currently, a major challenge in breastfeeding is ensuring that infants properly and effectively latch on to the areola and absorb milk. If an infant latches on to the nipple without adequately encompassing the areola, the nipple can repeatedly rub against the infant's hard palate. This improper latch not only causes severe nipple pain for the mother but also impairs effective milk flow, ultimately preventing the infant from receiving adequate milk.

[0003] Traditional nursing bras and supportive devices often only provide support and basic warmth, but fail to effectively help babies latch onto the areola and ensure a deep and correct sucking motion. Consequently, mothers often need to manually adjust the shape and position of their breasts during breastfeeding, a cumbersome process that makes it difficult to ensure consistency and effectiveness. When babies don't suck efficiently, mothers often need to prolong feedings, and babies can become restless.

[0004] In addition, the baby's suction force is insufficient during sucking, which prevents the milk from flowing smoothly from the breast to the nipple, which can easily lead to blocked milk ducts or mastitis. In this case, the mother has to rely on massage or other external methods to help the milk flow out, but these methods cannot accurately simulate the baby's natural sucking action, are limited in effect, and increase the mother's burden.

[0005] Therefore, existing breastfeeding methods and equipment are unable to effectively assist infants in completing the correct sucking action and ensuring smooth milk flow, which affects the breastfeeding experience and efficiency. This situation urgently requires a new breastfeeding assistance system that can accurately simulate the infant's sucking action, ensure that the baby latches on to the areola, and promote milk flow through external force, thereby effectively improving the breastfeeding process. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present invention aims to provide a breastfeeding support system that accurately simulates an infant's sucking motion, ensuring that the infant latches onto the areola and effectively reducing pain caused by nipple friction. Furthermore, the system utilizes the periodic compression of the wavy inner layer to promote smooth milk flow, prevent mammary gland blockage and mastitis, and improve breastfeeding comfort and efficiency. Furthermore, a heating function maintains breast warmth, adapting to the needs of breastfeeding in cold environments.

[0007] The technical solution adopted in the present invention is as follows: The breastfeeding support system of claim 1, wherein the bra strap supports the bra body and is worn on the user's chest; an opening is provided at the front of the bra body to expose the user's nipple and areola area; the bra body is a multi-layer structure, comprising an outer layer, a middle layer and an inner layer from the outside to the inside; a gap is provided between the outer layer and the middle layer and encloses an air return layer cavity; the middle layer and the inner layer enclose an air inlet layer cavity; the inner layer is a wavy elastic layer; the wavy undulations of the inner layer are distributed from the base of the breast toward the nipple, and a single wavy undulation forms a ring around the breast; the wavy undulations of the inner layer are against the inner surface of the middle layer on one side and against the surface of the breast on the other side; a portable micro-pulse compressor pulses and compresses air into the air inlet layer cavity from the base of the bra body; the air return layer cavity is provided with an exhaust port at the base of the bra body.

[0008] Wherein, an air intake pipe is embedded in the bra strap, one end of the air intake pipe is connected to the micro pulse compressor, and the other end is connected to the air intake layer cavity.

[0009] The inner wavy elastic layer is embedded with elastic electric heating sheets or wires to warm the breasts during breastfeeding.

[0010] Wherein, the inner layer is a composite material formed by carbon fiber and silica gel or polyurethane.

[0011] Wherein, the surface of the inner layer is coated with an antibacterial coating.

[0012] In summary, due to the adoption of the above technical solution, the beneficial effects of the present invention are: This breastfeeding support system is ergonomically designed to ensure comfort and stability, adapting to various breast sizes. The bra shell features a multi-layered construction, including an outer layer, a middle layer, and an inner layer. The outer and middle layers utilize a multi-directional elastic weave to achieve high horizontal elasticity and high vertical rigidity, allowing the bra shell to adapt to various breast shapes while maintaining its shape when subjected to compressed air. Both layers are also coated with TPU to ensure the system's airtightness and prevent air leakage.

[0013] The system features an opening at the front to fully expose the nipple and areola area, facilitating sucking. The inner layer is a wavy elastic layer, extending from the base of the breast toward the nipple, forming a circular undulation. When the micro-pulse compressor is operating, pulsed air enters the air inlet layer, pushing the crests of the wavy layer toward the breast and creating a pushing action. This design simulates a baby's natural sucking rhythm, effectively promoting milk flow while avoiding discomfort caused by nipple friction. The inner layer structure ensures even pressure distribution, achieving a gentle massage and milking effect, improving milk flow efficiency, and reducing the risk of milk blockage and mastitis caused by milk accumulation.

[0014] The system is equipped with a micro-pulse compressor that adjusts the pulse frequency and intensity as needed, with real-time adjustments made via a wireless controller. An embedded electric heating sheet within the inner layer provides a temperature range of 37-42°C, helping to keep the breasts warm in cold weather, promoting milk flow and preventing vasoconstriction. This heating function also soothes breast muscles, reducing pain and enhancing breastfeeding comfort.

[0015] In addition, the inner layer is coated with an antimicrobial coating, effectively inhibiting the growth of bacteria and fungi, ensuring hygiene and safety during long-term wear. The antimicrobial coating is designed to be a thin layer, without affecting the elasticity and breathability of the material. The overall system is compact and lightweight, and the micro compressor is designed as a portable wireless device, making it easy for users to use in various situations, providing a flexible and convenient breastfeeding experience. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the structure of the auxiliary system of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a bra cover when the auxiliary system of the present invention is worn; Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the bra body of the present invention when worn; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the present invention making the areola protrude before the baby latches on to the breast.

[0017] Markings in the figure: 1. Bra body; 11. Opening; 12. Nipple; 13. Areola; 14. Outer layer; 15. Middle layer; 16. Inner layer; 17. Return air layer cavity; 18. Breast; 19. Intake air layer cavity; 2. Bra strap; 3. Micro pulse compressor. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] In order to make the purpose, technical solutions and advantages of the present invention more clearly understood, the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only used to explain the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0019] See also Figures 1 to 3 , a breastfeeding auxiliary system, including a bra body 1 and a bra strap 2; the bra strap 2 supports the bra body 1 to be worn on the user's chest; the design takes ergonomics into consideration to ensure comfortable and stable wearing.

[0020] The front of the bra body 1 is provided with an opening 11 to expose the nipple 12 and areola 13 of the user; the opening 11 is designed to be circular or oval and of moderate size to ensure that the nipple (12) and areola (13) can be fully exposed to facilitate sucking by the baby, while providing sufficient space to prevent compression.

[0021] The bra body 1 is a multi-layer structure, which includes an outer layer 14, a middle layer 15 and an inner layer 16 from the outside to the inside. There is a gap between the outer layer 14 and the middle layer 15, which encloses an air return layer cavity 17; the middle layer 15 and the inner layer 16 enclose an air intake layer cavity 19. The inner layer 16 is a wavy elastic layer; the wavy undulations of the inner layer 16 are distributed from the base of the breast 18 toward the nipple 12, and the individual wavy undulations are circular around the breast 18; one side of the wavy undulations of the inner layer 16 abuts against the inner surface of the middle layer 15, and the other side abuts against the surface of the breast 18; a portable miniature pulse compressor 3 pulses compressed air into the air inlet layer cavity 19 from the base of the bra body 1; the return air layer cavity 17 is provided with an exhaust port at the base of the bra body 1.

[0022] The outer layer 14 and the middle layer 15 adopt a multi-directional elastic woven structure. The multi-directional elastic woven structure has strong stretching ability in the horizontal direction, so that the bra body 1 can adapt to different breast sizes and shapes when worn; and retains high rigidity in the vertical direction to resist the action of compressed air and ensure that the inner layer 16 produces the expected deformation effect during operation. At the same time, it is coated with TPU coating to ensure the sealing of the return air layer cavity 17 and the air intake layer cavity 19; since the side in contact with the breast 18 is the wavy inner layer 16, it can meet the breathability requirements of the breast 18.

[0023] The undulating structure of the inner layer 16 extends from the base of the breast 18 toward the nipple 12, forming a circular undulation that helps evenly distribute pressure and produces a gentle massage and milking effect when the system is in operation. Each undulation is approximately 0.5-1.0 cm apart to ensure breast coverage and milking efficiency.

[0024] The function of the return air chamber 17 is to ensure that excess air can be discharged smoothly from the exhaust port at the base of the bra body to prevent the internal pressure of the system from being too high. The exhaust port is an adjustable open and close design, allowing the user to adjust the exhaust speed as needed, thereby adjusting the internal pressure.

[0025] When the wavy inner layer is subjected to air pulse pressure, the undulating wave structure gradually applies pressure along the breast surface from the base toward the nipple. This pressure simulates the pushing action of a baby when sucking, stimulating the mammary glands inside the breast and promoting the flow of milk to the nipple.

[0026] Specifically, the "peaks" of the wave structure create a gentle push, while the "valleys" remain relaxed. When the pulsating air pushes the wave structure, the "peaks" move toward the nipple, as if "squeezing" milk from the base of the breast to the nipple. When the pulse ends, the wave layer returns to its original shape, ready for the next cycle.

[0027] This rhythmic "push" simulates the suction and push when the baby sucks, and because the wave layer is designed to fit the surface of the breast, the pressure can be effectively transmitted to the mammary gland area, helping milk flow smoothly to the nipple.

[0028] When the baby holds the nipple and areola correctly, the squeezing effect of the wavy inner layer is synchronized with the baby's sucking, increasing the efficiency of milk flow, allowing the baby to easily suck more milk and avoiding difficulty in feeding due to insufficient sucking.

[0029] The periodic pushing effect of the wavy inner layer can also continuously stimulate the mammary glands, promote the lactation reflex, make the milk flow out of the mammary glands more smoothly, avoid milk accumulation in the breasts, and reduce the risk of milk blockage or mastitis.

[0030] In this embodiment, for aesthetics, neatness, and ease of wear, an air inlet duct is embedded within the bra strap 2. One end of the duct connects to a miniature pulse compressor 3, and the other end connects to the air inlet cavity 19. The compressor 3 is a portable device, lightweight (approximately 50-100 grams) and compact (no more than 5 cm in diameter), making it easy for the user to carry around in their daily lives. The compressor features a pulse modulation function, capable of pulsing air at a frequency of approximately 60-120 times per minute, mimicking an infant's sucking rhythm. The compressor's output pipe connects to the air inlet duct within the bra strap, ensuring smooth air flow into the air inlet cavity 19.

[0031] In this embodiment, the wavy elastic layer of the inner layer 16 is embedded with an elastic electric heating sheet or wire to warm the breast 18 during breastfeeding. The heating system is powered by a power supply in the bra strap (2), which can be a rechargeable lithium battery module. The system is equipped with a temperature control device, and the user can adjust the temperature range (37-42 degrees Celsius) to keep the breast warm. This is particularly useful in the cold winter season.

[0032] In this embodiment, the inner layer 16 is a composite material formed by carbon fiber and silicone or polyurethane.

[0033] In this embodiment, the inner layer 16 is coated with an antimicrobial coating made of medical-grade silver ion coating or nano-scale antimicrobial polymer. The antimicrobial coating, with a thickness of 0.01-0.05 mm, effectively inhibits the growth of common bacteria and fungi, ensuring the hygiene and safety of the system during prolonged wear.

[0034] The method of using this embodiment is: 1. Wear a bra Adjusting the bra strap 2: First, place the bra shell 1 over your chest and adjust the bra strap 2 to the appropriate tightness. The bra strap is equipped with an adjustment mechanism (such as Velcro or a buckle), allowing you to adjust the tightness of the strap to ensure the bra shell fits snugly but not excessively, maintaining comfort.

[0035] Confirm the position of the opening 11: After putting on the bra, make sure that the opening 11 on the front of the bra body can completely expose the nipple 12 and areola 13 area so that the baby can have unobstructed contact when sucking.

[0036] 2. Adjust system settings Connect the micro pulse compressor 3: The micro pulse compressor is connected to the air intake layer cavity 19 of the bra shell through the air intake pipe embedded in the bra strap. Make sure that the compressor is completely connected to the air intake interface at the root of the bra shell and there is no leakage.

[0037] Adjusting the Pulse Frequency: Users can adjust the pulse frequency and intensity of the micro-compressor via a wireless controller or mobile app. Typically, the frequency ranges from 60-120 beats per minute to mimic a baby's natural sucking rhythm. Users can fine-tune the frequency based on their baby's sucking habits and personal preferences.

[0038] 3. Prepare for the feeding process Activate inner layer expansion function: see Figure 4 Before the baby latches on, the user temporarily blocks the vent at the base of the bra body (located at the exit of the return air layer cavity 17) with their hands. When the vent is blocked, the air in the return air layer cavity cannot be discharged, which increases the air pressure in the cavity, causing the inner layer 16 to further expand.

[0039] The inner layer compresses the breast: As the inner layer expands, the wavy elastic layer adheres more tightly to and compresses the breast 18, causing the areola 13 area to bulge significantly. This makes it easier for the baby to latch onto the areola, reducing friction on the nipple 12, preventing nipple pain, and ensuring the baby can effectively suck more milk. (If the baby latches incorrectly, latching only on the nipple without the majority of the areola, the nipple will repeatedly rub against the baby's hard palate, causing nipple pain and preventing the baby from effectively sucking more milk. As a result, the baby seems constantly hungry and doesn't gain weight. Milk can't be smoothly transferred out, and the accumulated milk can cause milk blockage in the mother, or even mastitis.)

[0040] 4. Start breastfeeding Release the vent: When the baby's mouth is aligned with the breast and ready to latch on, the user can release the blocked vent. This allows the air in the return air layer to escape freely, returning the inner layer 16 to its normal state. The system enters a stable operating mode, ensuring that the bra body does not over-compress the breast and provides a comfortable sucking experience.

[0041] Activating the electric heating function: If necessary, the user can activate the elastic electric heating sheet or wire embedded in the inner layer through the system controller. The electric heating system maintains a temperature between 37-42 degrees Celsius, providing gentle warmth to the breast. This helps promote milk flow, relieve muscle tension, and provide comfort to the baby. This is especially true during the cold winter months when the breasts are exposed during breastfeeding, causing a sudden drop in temperature and constricting blood vessels. This reduces blood flow around the mammary glands, leading to poor milk flow. This can make it more difficult for the baby to suckle, potentially resulting in insufficient milk supply and difficulty sucking.

[0042] 5. Dynamic regulation during sucking Adjustable Pulse Air Pressure: When a baby begins sucking, the micro-pulse air compressor operates at a preset frequency and intensity. The pulsed air passes through the air inlet cavity 19 and acts on the wavy elastic layer of the inner layer 16, producing a rhythmic massage similar to a baby's sucking. The user can fine-tune the pulse intensity and frequency at any time using the wireless controller to match the baby's sucking intensity and frequency.

[0043] Maintain constant temperature: The electric heating function can maintain a constant temperature according to the user's settings. If the user feels that the temperature is too high or too low, the temperature can be adjusted at any time through the controller to ensure comfort and effectiveness during feeding.

[0044] 6. What to do after feeding Shutdown function: After feeding, users can turn off the micro compressor and electric heating functions to avoid excessive power consumption. Users can disconnect the compressor from the bra body's air inlet pipe and clean the contact parts of the device to ensure hygienic use next time.

[0045] Removing and Cleaning the Bra: For frequent breastfeeding, the bra does not need to be removed. When removal is necessary, the user can remove the bra from the chest using the bra strap's tension adjustment mechanism. The outer and middle layers of the bra can be cleaned with a mild detergent, while the inner layer is recommended to be cleaned by spot wiping or replacing the lining to maintain the integrity and effectiveness of the antibacterial layer.

[0046] The specific working principle of the wavy inner layer 16 under the action of pulsed compressed air is as follows: 1. Initial state of the wavy structure The wave-like structure of the inner layer consists of a plurality of crests and troughs, with the crests having a smaller distance from the middle layer (15) and the troughs having a larger distance from the middle layer. In the initial state, the crests are close to the middle layer, while the troughs maintain a larger distance from the middle layer.

[0047] 2. Compressed air injection and pressure changes When the micro pulse compressor (3) starts working, pulse compressed air is injected into the air inlet cavity (19). As the compressed air gradually increases, the wave crest is first affected by the pressure. Since the distance between the wave crest and the middle layer is small, the air first acts on the wave crest.

[0048] When the pressure increases to a certain level, the wave crest deforms toward the breast under the push of the compressed air. This deformation process causes the adjacent wave trough to move closer to the breast surface, squeezing the breast.

[0049] 3. Pressure release and recovery of the peak As the wave crest deforms and moves, the gap between the crest and the middle layer increases, allowing compressed air to pass smoothly and reach the next crest area. As the air flows, the pressure gradually decreases, and the crest returns to its original state due to the elastic recovery force of the material.

[0050] This deformation-recovery cycle occurs sequentially between each peak and trough, gradually advancing from the base of the breast toward the nipple.

[0051] 4. Implementation of simulated milking action Due to the cyclical action of the pulsed air, each wave crest deforms and recovers sequentially after being stressed. This rhythmic compression and release simulates the natural sucking motion of a baby. As the wave crests deform toward the breast, they squeeze the troughs, moving milk from the mammary gland toward the nipple, effectively promoting milk flow.

[0052] This action gradually advances from the base of the breast to the nipple, as if it is "pushing" the milk layer by layer, achieving the effect of simulating milking.

[0053] This design ensures a gentle and rhythmic massage of the breasts while avoiding direct pressure on the nipples, thereby increasing the flow of breast milk and improving the efficiency and comfort of breastfeeding.

[0054] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions and improvements made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included in the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A breastfeeding support system, characterized in that: The invention comprises a bra cover (1) and a bra strap (2); the bra strap (2) supports the bra cover (1) to be worn on the chest of a user; an opening (11) is provided at the front of the bra cover (1) to expose the nipple (12) and areola (13) of the user; the bra cover (1) is a multi-layer structure, and comprises an outer layer (14), a middle layer (15) and an inner layer (16) from the outside to the inside; a gap is provided between the outer layer (14) and the middle layer (15) to enclose an air return layer cavity (17); the middle layer (15) and the inner layer (16) to enclose an air inlet layer cavity (19); the inner layer (16) is a wavy elastic layer; the wavy undulations of the inner layer (16) are distributed from the root of the breast (18) to the nipple (12), and the single wavy undulations are respectively formed into a ring around the breast (18); one side of the wavy undulations of the inner layer (16) abuts against the inner surface of the middle layer (15), and the other side abuts against the surface of the breast (18); a portable miniature pulse compressor (3) pulses compressed air from the root of the bra cover (1) into the air inlet layer cavity (19); the air return layer cavity (17) is provided with an exhaust port at the root of the bra cover (1).

2. A breastfeeding support system according to claim 1, characterized in that: An air intake pipe is embedded in the bra strap (2), one end of the air intake pipe is connected to the micro pulse compressor (3), and the other end is connected to the air intake layer cavity (19).

3. The breastfeeding support system according to claim 1, wherein: The wavy elastic layer of the inner layer (16) is embedded with elastic electric heating sheets or wires to warm and soften the breast (18) during breastfeeding.

4. A breastfeeding support system according to claim 3, characterized in that: The inner layer (16) is a composite material formed by combining carbon fiber with silica gel or polyurethane.

5. The breastfeeding support system according to claim 1, wherein: The surface of the inner layer (16) is coated with an antibacterial coating.

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