Alternating Pump Arrangement for Double Breast Pumps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing double breast pumps are large, heavy, and uncomfortable due to high suction requirements, making them unnatural to use and limiting flexibility, with mechanical issues and power constraints.
Innovation Solution
A pump arrangement using two valves and conduits to control suction and venting, allowing flexible operational parameters and a lightweight, compact design, with detachable expression kits for easy handling and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a high-performance pump is used to generate sufficient suction for both breasts simultaneously, then the suction strength is improved, but the device becomes large and heavy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the pumping function into two separate expression kits (first and second breast pump units), each capable of being pumped independently. This segmentation allows the use of smaller, lighter pumping mechanisms while maintaining sufficient suction strength for each breast separately, thereby resolving the contradiction between suction strength and device weight.
2Productivity
If simultaneous suction on both sides is implemented, then productivity is improved, but the device becomes unnatural and uncomfortable to use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control through a control mechanism that can alternately switch between pumping the first and second breast pump units. This dynamic operation allows the system to maintain high productivity by continuously pumping one breast while the other rests, mimicking natural lactation patterns and improving user comfort while preserving milk extraction efficiency.
3Force
If mechanical pumps are used to generate strong suction, then suction strength is improved, but the device produces vibrations and noise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic action by alternately pumping the two breast pump units in sequence rather than simultaneously. This periodic operation allows each pumping cycle to be shorter and less intense, significantly reducing vibrations and noise while maintaining effective milk extraction through cumulative pumping action over time.
4Force
If mechanical pumps are used for strong suction, then suction strength is improved, but the device complexity and susceptibility to mechanical faults increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the pumping system into two independent but simpler units, each with its own pumping mechanism. This segmentation reduces the complexity of individual components while maintaining overall suction strength through coordinated operation. The simplified mechanical design of each unit also reduces susceptibility to mechanical faults and eases maintenance.
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
Provides a more natural lactating experience, reduces noise and vibration, and allows battery operation, with flexible control of suction parameters and easy maintenance, enhancing user comfort and convenience.
Implementation Method 1
a pump for generating reduced pressure within said breast shields
Implementation Method 2
a suction valve connected to the pump by a connection conduit and to the first and second terminals by respective air conduits, and a venting valve connected to the first and second terminals by venting conduits
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a pump arrangement (1) for a double breast pump (2). The pump arrangement (1) comprises first and second terminals (23, 24) for connecting first and second expression kits (3, 4) having first and second breast shields (5, 6) and at least one container (7) for collecting breast milk (8) in fluidic connection with the expression kits (3, 4), a pump (9) for generating reduced pressure within said breast shields, a plurality of conduits (10, 11, 14, 15, 16), a suction valve (12) connected to the pump (9) by a connection conduit (14) and to the first and second terminals (23, 24) by respective air conduits (10, 11), and a venting valve (13) connected to the first and second terminals (23, 24) by venting conduits (15, 16), wherein the venting valve (13) comprises an opening (17) to the environment. The pump (9) is alternatingly connected to the first and second terminals (23, 24) by alternate opening and closing of the suction valve (12) and the venting valve (13).