Passive Milk Collection Vessel With Flexible Seal And Rigid Outer Shell
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional milk collection shells are prone to leaks, not discreet enough, and can cause discomfort to the mother.
Innovation Solution
A passive milk collection device comprising a flexible inner member with a nipple hole that securely seals onto the breast and a removable rigid outer member providing a free air space around the nipple for milk storage, with a design that minimizes visibility and discomfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional milk collection shells are used, then milk can be collected, but leaks occur and discretion is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into two distinct segments: a flexible inner member that contacts the breast and a rigid outer member that provides structure and discretion. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specialized function - the inner member ensures reliable sealing and collection, while the outer member provides a discreet profile that minimizes visibility under clothing.
Solution Approach 2:
The inner member is made of flexible material that can conform to the breast contour, ensuring reliable sealing and preventing leaks. The flexibility allows the shell to adapt to different breast shapes and movements, maintaining the seal integrity while the outer rigid member provides the discreet external profile.
2Reliability
If the inner member seals securely onto the breast, then milk collection is effective, but discomfort may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The device applies different qualities to different parts: the inner member has soft, flexible material properties optimized for comfortable contact and sealing with the breast, while the outer member has rigid properties optimized for structural support and discretion. This local differentiation of material properties allows effective sealing without compromising comfort in the contact region.
3Quantity of substance
If the outer member provides free air space for milk storage, then milk collection capacity is improved, but device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible inner member is nested within the rigid outer member, with the inner member's circumference being substantially larger than the outer member's circumference. This nesting arrangement allows the inner member to extend further to ensure complete sealing around the breast while the outer member maintains a compact, discreet profile for milk storage and wearability.
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 device effectively collects milk without leaks, is discreet when worn, and provides comfort to the mother, allowing her to wear any clothing and use it for extended periods.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible inner member including a nipple hole for receiving a nipple, and in which, in use, part of the rear surface of the inner member is configured to securely seal onto a user's breast
Data Source
AI summary
A passive milk collection device for storing milk comprises a flexible inner member including a nipple hole for receiving a nipple, and in which, in use, part of the rear surface of the inner member is configured to securely seal onto a user's breast. The device includes a removable rigid outer member configured to attach onto the front surface of the inner member and to provide a free air space around the nipple area for storing milk from the nipple. The circumference of the outer edge of the rear surface of the flexible inner member is substantially larger than the circumference of the rigid outer member.