Closed-Loop Breast Pump with Real-Time Flow Sensor Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Breast pumps require manual adjustment of operating parameters, which can be challenging for users to set correctly for efficient and comfortable milk expression, as each mother prefers unique waveform settings.
Innovation Solution
A breast pump system with a closed-feedback loop that uses sensors to measure milk flow rate and volume, adjusting pumping parameters such as pressure, waveform, and suction patterns automatically to optimize milk expression and user comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual adjustment of pumping parameters is used, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation deteriorates because users struggle to set correct parameters for efficient and comfortable milk expression
Solution Approach 1:
The breast pump system automatically adjusts pumping parameters (vacuum level, cycle duration, interval timing) based on real-time sensor feedback about milk flow rate and volume, eliminating the need for manual user adjustment while optimizing performance for each individual user's preferences and needs
2Ease of operation
If automatic parameter adjustment with sensors is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases due to addition of sensors and control systems
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates sensors that continuously monitor milk flow rate and volume, feeding this information back to a controller that automatically adjusts pumping parameters in real-time, creating a closed-loop control system that adapts to each user's unique preferences and optimizes milk expression efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical adjustment of pumping parameters is replaced with an automated electronic control system that uses sensors and processors to dynamically adjust vacuum levels, cycle timing, and waveform patterns based on real-time feedback about milk flow characteristics
3Adaptability or versatility
If fixed pumping waveform is used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability deteriorates because each mother prefers unique waveform settings
Solution Approach 1:
The breast pump system dynamically adjusts pumping waveform characteristics (vacuum level, cycle duration, interval timing) in real-time based on sensor feedback about milk flow rate and volume, transitioning from a static fixed waveform to a dynamic adaptive waveform that evolves during each pumping session to match the user's unique preferences and milk expression patterns
Data Source
AI summary
Examples disclosed herein are relevant to breast pumps. Disclosed examples include breast pumps that automatically adjust various pumping parameters based on data obtained from one or more sensors. The one or more sensors can produce data regarding an amount of milk expressed by a user. The adjusting of the pumping parameters can be configured to, for example, help the user efficiently express milk by utilizing a closed-feedback system that monitors the flow rate of the expressed milk.