Breast Pump Filter Cartridge And Insert for Suction Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing breast pump systems lack discreet operation, are uncomfortable, noisy, and have complex components, failing to correlate pump settings with milk production, comfort, and quantifiable values, and often require separate tubes and hard plastic shields.

Innovation Solution

A breast pump system with integrated suction and milk tubing, a flexible diaphragm breast shield, and a filter cartridge system that includes vent holes for controlling suction, allowing for discreet operation and comfortable use, with a bra pad to secure the system, and a mobile app for data recording and analysis.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If separate tubes and hard plastic shields are used in prior art systems, then the system structure is simple and components are easy to manufacture, but the system requires multiple separate components that increase device complexity and reduce user comfort

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenumber of separate componentsVSAvoiduser comfort

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the suction tube and milk tube into a single integrated tube structure, reducing the number of separate components. The breast shield is also integrated with the tube assembly, creating a unified structure that is easier to handle and clean while maintaining all necessary functions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated tube structure serves multiple functions simultaneously - it acts as both the suction conduit and the milk collection conduit. The breast shield assembly also functions as both a comfort interface and a structural connector, reducing the need for separate specialized components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Power

If a larger pump is used to provide sufficient suction, then the pumping power is adequate, but the noise level increases and makes the system less discreet

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepumping powerVSAvoidnoise level

Core Design Contradiction:

PowerVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical pump components that generate noise with a diaphragm-based system. The diaphragm flexes to create suction and milk ejection, eliminating the need for noisy mechanical pistons or motors while maintaining adequate pumping power.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The diaphragm operates through periodic flexing motions that create the necessary suction and ejection cycles. This periodic action provides sufficient pumping power while being inherently quieter than continuous mechanical pumping systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

3Strength

If hard plastic breast shields are used, then the structural strength is adequate, but the comfort level decreases and the system becomes less adaptable to user needs

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural strengthVSAvoidcomfort and adaptability

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a flexible diaphragm made of elastomeric material for the breast shield interface. This flexible material adapts to the user's breast shape and provides comfort while maintaining sufficient structural strength to transmit the pumping forces effectively.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The diaphragm material properties are optimized to provide the right balance of flexibility and strength. The elastomeric material can deform under suction forces while returning to its original shape, providing both comfort and structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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 system enables discreet pumping, reduces noise, enhances comfort, and simplifies operation by correlating pump settings with milk production, providing a compact and efficient breast pump experience.

Implementation Method 1

a first filter element to minimize bacteria from contaminating first suction path

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFiltration: Filter (physical)

Implementation Method 2

a second filter element to minimize liquid ingress into the second suction path

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFiltration: Filter (physical)

Implementation Method 3

a second connector that has a first portion for fluid coupling to both a suction port of a breast shield and a second portion for fluid coupling to both a breast milk collecting port of the breast shield; wherein the second connector comprises one or more vent holes in the first portion for controlling suction

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPressure regulation: Pressure Gradient

Data Source

PatentUS12447246B1Filter system

Publication Date: 2025.10.21 BABYATION INC

AI summary

A filter system comprising a filter cartridge and a filter insert, wherein the filter cartridge has an internal main suction path and an internal bottle suction path. Positioned on the internal main suction path is an internal main suction path vent hole, and positioned on the internal bottle suction path is an internal bottle suction vent hole. Positioned between the internal bottle suction path and the internal bottle suction vent hole is an internal bottle suction path filter element, wherein the filter insert is configured to engage sealingly, moveably and releasably with the filter cartridge. The filter insert has two suction ports that align with the internal main suction path vent hole and the internal bottle suction vent hole when engaged with the filter cartridge.