Breastfeeding Training Doll With Sensor Feedback

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current breastfeeding training devices do not provide effective feedback on proper latch-on positioning and do not interact directly with the user's breast, failing to effectively teach breastfeeding techniques.

Innovation Solution

A doll and chest piece system that includes a feedback mechanism, such as a sensor and LED, to indicate correct positioning and simulate the sucking motion of a baby, providing real-time feedback on latch-on and mimicking the natural sucking rhythms.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a breastfeeding training doll is used to teach proper latch-on positioning, then the ability to demonstrate positioning is improved, but the lack of real-time feedback on correct positioning reduces training effectiveness

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedemonstration of positioningVSAvoidfeedback on correct positioning
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies feedback by incorporating sensors that detect when the doll's mouth is properly positioned on the breast and provide real-time feedback to the user. This resolves the contradiction by adding information about correct positioning that was previously missing, while maintaining the ease of demonstration provided by the doll.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual assessment of latch-on positioning with electronic sensors and automated feedback systems. This substitution provides objective, real-time measurement of positioning accuracy, eliminating the loss of information about correct positioning while preserving the tactile, hands-on training experience.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Device complexity

If traditional breastfeeding training methods are used, then simplicity is maintained, but the inability to provide real-time feedback on latch-on reduces training effectiveness

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimplicity of training deviceVSAvoidreal-time feedback on latch-on
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces feedback mechanisms (sensors, indicators) that provide real-time information about latch-on quality. This resolves the contradiction by adding valuable feedback information while keeping the overall device relatively simple and maintaining ease of use for trainees.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The training system provides self-assessment capabilities through automated sensors and feedback indicators, allowing users to independently evaluate their latch-on technique without requiring an instructor's constant intervention. This adds feedback functionality while maintaining operational simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Device complexity

If manual assessment of breastfeeding technique is used, then device simplicity is maintained, but measurement precision of latch-on positioning is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassessment methodVSAvoidlatch-on positioning accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual visual assessment with electronic sensors that can precisely detect the position and depth of the doll's mouth relative to the breast. This substitution provides objective, quantifiable measurements of latch-on accuracy, dramatically improving measurement precision while keeping the device accessible and relatively simple.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces intermediary sensors and measurement devices that act as mediators between the physical act of latch-on and the assessment of its quality. These intermediaries provide precise, objective data about positioning accuracy that cannot be obtained through manual observation alone, while maintaining overall system simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

Enables expectant mothers to practice breastfeeding with real-time feedback on correct positioning, reducing discomfort and pain, and effectively teaching proper breastfeeding techniques.

Implementation Method 1

A breastfeeding training system includes a doll (100) and a chest piece (200)... The doll (100) and the chest piece (200) interact with one another to simulate the latch-on of the doll's (100) mouth to the user's breast and nipple

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSensor detection:

Implementation Method 2

A doll and chest piece system that includes a feedback mechanism, such as a sensor and LED, to indicate correct positioning

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight emission: Light Emitting Diode

Implementation Method 3

The doll (100) and the chest piece (200) interact with one another to simulate the latch-on of the doll's (100) mouth to the user's breast and nipple

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSuction: Suction

Data Source

PatentUS9430955B2Breastfeeding training system
Publication Date: 2016.08.30 DAULLARY CYNTHIA
  • US9430955B2 patent drawing
  • US9430955B2 patent drawing
  • US9430955B2 patent drawing

AI summary

This invention relates generally to breastfeeding training and more specifically to devices comprised of a doll and chest piece used for breastfeeding training.