Breast Pump Dual-Mode Vacuum Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional breast pumps are difficult for mothers to attach correctly, especially when using two expression kits simultaneously, as they require manual operation with one hand, leading to an unergonomical posture and increased complexity.
Innovation Solution
A breast pump with a control unit that operates in two modes: an attachment mode generating constant underpressure for easy funnel placement and a milk extraction mode producing a time-variable underpressure profile, allowing for hands-free operation and improved user comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional breast pump with manual operation is used, then the device structure is simple, but the ease of operation deteriorates when attaching two expression kits simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The vacuum pump operates in two distinct dynamic modes: attachment mode with constant underpressure to stabilize the expression kit on the breast, and milk extraction mode with time-variable underpressure profile. This dynamic switching enables easy attachment followed by effective milk extraction, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the pressure parameter from constant underpressure in attachment mode to time-variable underpressure in milk extraction mode. This parameter transformation allows the same device to perform both attachment and milk extraction functions effectively, improving ease of operation while maintaining controlled device complexity
2Ease of operation
If a special bra with integrated expression kits is used, then the ease of operation improves for hands-free operation, but the cost increases and convenience deteriorates due to requiring undressing
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the expression kits from the special bra concept, allowing them to be used independently with regular clothing. The vacuum pump provides the necessary holding force during attachment mode, enabling hands-free operation without requiring a specialized bra, thus improving convenience while maintaining ease of operation
3Reliability
If constant underpressure is applied during attachment, then the expression kit stays firmly attached, but milk extraction efficiency decreases without pressure variation
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches from constant underpressure in attachment mode to time-variable underpressure in milk extraction mode. The variable pressure profile creates rhythmic suction that mimics natural breastfeeding, maintaining attachment stability while maximizing milk extraction efficiency through pressure variation
Solution Approach 2:
During milk extraction mode, the vacuum pump applies periodic pressure variations rather than constant pressure. This periodic action creates a rhythm that stimulates milk flow while maintaining the expression kit's attachment, thereby achieving both reliable attachment and efficient milk extraction
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
Facilitates easier attachment and operation of breast pumps, especially with two kits, by allowing constant underpressure for initial attachment and switching to time-variable underpressure for milk extraction, enhancing user comfort and reducing ergonomic strain.
Implementation Method 1
a vacuum pump for generating an underpressure within the first breast receiving funnel
Implementation Method 2
Conventional breast pumps make use of vacuum to induce milk extraction from a nursing mother's breast
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a breast pump (10) for extracting milk (30) from a human breast, comprising:a first breast receiving funnel (16) for receiving a first breast (28) of a user;a vacuum pump (20) for generating an underpressure within the first breast receiving funnel (16); anda control unit (22) for controlling the vacuum pump (20); wherein the control unit (22) is configured to operate the vacuum pump (20) in at least two different modes, an attachment mode (48) and a milk extraction mode (50); wherein in the attachment mode (48) the control unit (22) is configured to control the vacuum pump (20) to generate a constant underpressure within the first breast receiving funnel (16) allowing the user to attach the first breast receiving funnel (16) to the first breast (28); and wherein in the milk extraction mode (50) the control unit (22) is configured to control the vacuum pump (20) to generate a time-variable underpressure profile within the first breast receiving funnel (16) for extracting milk (30) from the first breast (28).