Adhesive Breastfeeding Nipple Shield for Hands-Free Tandem Feeding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing nipple shields for breastfeeding are prone to dislodging, causing discomfort and are impractical for tandem breastfeeding of twins, as they require a free hand to position and secure, which is not feasible when both hands are needed for simultaneous feeding.
Innovation Solution
A breastfeeding nipple shield with an extended molded surface and adhesive strips for secure attachment to the breast, along with a molded feeding tube channel and adhesive segments to hold a separate feeding tube in place, allowing for secure and hands-free tandem feeding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing nipple shields are used, then breastfeeding facilitation is achieved, but the shields become dislodged easily causing pain and frustration
Solution Approach 1:
The adhesive strip is pre-applied to the extended molded surface of the nipple shield before use, creating preliminary bonding capability that prevents dislodgement during breastfeeding. This preliminary action ensures the shield remains securely attached without requiring manual holding.
2Ease of operation
If existing nipple shields are used, then breastfeeding assistance is provided, but a free hand is required to position and hold the shield
Solution Approach 1:
The adhesive strip enables the nipple shield to self-attach to the breast without requiring manual positioning or holding by the mother. The shield serves itself by maintaining attachment through adhesive bonding, freeing both hands for tandem breastfeeding.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing nipple shields are used, then single breastfeeding is facilitated, but tandem breastfeeding of twins is functionally impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The adhesive nipple shield design provides universal applicability for both single and tandem breastfeeding scenarios. By eliminating the need for manual positioning, the same shield design enables mothers to feed twins simultaneously without requiring additional hands for shield management.
4Reliability
If existing nipple shields are used, then breastfeeding is supported, but the shield may become fouled by falling on the floor
Solution Approach 1:
The adhesive strip creates preliminary secure attachment that prevents the shield from detaching and falling to the floor during breastfeeding. This preliminary bonding action eliminates the contamination risk associated with shields becoming dislodged and contacting the floor.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a secure and comfortable breastfeeding experience by preventing the nipple shield from dislodging and enabling tandem feeding of twins without the need for a free hand, enhancing the practicality and comfort of breastfeeding.
Implementation Method 1
an adhesive strip on the extended molded surface to attach the breastfeeding nipple shield to the nursing mother's breast
Implementation Method 2
The feeding tube channel may be flanked by adhesive segments to secure the feeding tube in place
Data Source
AI summary
A breastfeeding nipple shield includes an extended molded adhesive flap surface and an adhesive strip on the extended molded surface attached to the rim of the areola shield portion to attach the breastfeeding nipple shield to the nursing mother's breast and retain portion in place. The adhesive flap may be elongated to distribute the load and prevent painful pulling on the breast. A molded feeding tube channel may allow a separate feeding tube to be unobtrusively inserted into the nipple opening. The feeding tube channel may be flanked by adhesive segments to secure the feeding tube in place.