Halter Support Device for Lactation Pump Containers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing breast pumping apparatuses do not adequately support the weight of milk collection containers, leading to discomfort and the need for manual support as the milk volume increases, as they primarily secure the breast shield to the breast without providing sufficient support from underneath.
Innovation Solution
A halter support apparatus comprising an adjustable neck strap connected to support cups that securely hold milk collection containers, suspending them near the breasts to distribute the weight evenly and prevent pulling on the breasts and nipples, featuring adjustable fasteners and elastic bands for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a support brassiere or strap is used to secure the breast shield to the breasts, then the breast shield is securely held in place, but the weight of the milk collection containers pulls down on the breasts and nipples causing discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The support function is divided into two separate mechanisms: one for securing the breast shield to the breast (support brassiere/strap), and another for supporting the weight of the collection containers (halter strap with support cups). This segmentation allows each mechanism to perform its specific function without interfering with the other, eliminating the harmful pulling effect on the breasts.
Solution Approach 2:
The halter strap with support cups acts as an intermediary mechanism between the collection containers and the user's body. Instead of allowing the container weight to directly pull on the breasts through the breast shield, the halter strap intercepts and supports the weight through the support cups, transferring the load to the neck and shoulders rather than the breasts.
2Quantity of substance
If the volume of milk pumped increases, then more milk is collected, but the weight of the milk collection containers increases causing discomfort and requiring manual support
Solution Approach 1:
The support cups are specifically designed to provide upward support force that counteracts the downward gravitational force of the milk-filled collection containers. By positioning the support cups underneath the containers and securing them with the halter strap, the system creates a counterbalancing force that eliminates the harmful pulling effect on the breasts, allowing users to collect large volumes of milk without discomfort.
3Device complexity
If existing apparatuses are used without support cups, then the device complexity is reduced, but the hands-free functionality is compromised as users must hold the containers
Solution Approach 1:
The halter strap serves multiple functions: it secures the support cups to the user's body, supports the weight of the collection containers, and positions the containers near the breasts for effective pumping. This multi-functionality allows the apparatus to maintain hands-free operation without requiring excessive complexity, as one component (halter strap) performs several critical support functions.
Data Source
AI summary
A halter support apparatus for carrying milk collection containers comprise a halter strap and at least one support cup. The at least one support cup is capable of carrying the milk collection containers. The halter strap is connected to at least one support cup to support the weight of the milk collection containers. The halter strap is adjustable such that the milk collection containers inside the at least one support cup can be suspended in place near the user's breasts. The halter support apparatus also includes an elastic band wrapped around the user's body for securing the attachment of the breast shields to the user's breasts.