Variable Buffer Volume for Breast Pump Pressure Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing breast pump devices are complex and costly due to the need for bidirectional motors and transmissions to control vacuum pressure, leading to inefficiency and accelerated wear, as well as higher energy consumption and component wear.
Innovation Solution
A breast pump apparatus with a variable buffer volume that controls pressure depth by varying the buffer volume, allowing for pressure control using a unidirectional motor and transmission, forming a closed pneumatic system with a diaphragm chamber and flexible diaphragm to transmit pressure variations to the breast-receiving portion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a bidirectional motor and transmission are used to control vacuum pressure in breast pump devices, then pressure control capability is improved, but device complexity increases and manufacturing cost rises
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into two independent functional components: a unidirectional motor that generates rotational motion, and a piston mechanism with check valves that converts this rotation into bidirectional reciprocating motion. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, eliminating the need for a complex bidirectional motor while maintaining pressure control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The piston mechanism acts as an intermediary between the simple unidirectional motor and the vacuum chamber. It translates the unidirectional rotational input into bidirectional reciprocating motion that controls pressure variations, serving as a mechanical mediator that simplifies the overall system architecture.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a bidirectional motor and transmission are used to control vacuum pressure, then pressure control is achieved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the motor function (unidirectional rotation) from the motion conversion function (reciprocating piston), the system allows the motor to operate in its optimal efficiency range continuously, rather than requiring it to reverse directions and operate less efficiently during bidirectional cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The unidirectional motor operates continuously in one direction, maintaining steady rotational motion that drives the piston through check valves. This continuous unidirectional operation is more energy-efficient than intermittent bidirectional operation, as the motor remains in its optimal operating zone throughout the cycle.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a bidirectional motor and transmission are used to control vacuum pressure, then pressure control capability is improved, but component wear accelerates
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the high-wear reciprocating motion (piston and check valves) from the motor, allowing the motor to operate smoothly in one direction without reversal wear. The piston mechanism handles the bidirectional motion requirements through simple mechanical means with minimal wear components.
Solution Approach 2:
The check valves and piston seals are designed as simple, replaceable components that can be easily maintained or replaced if worn, rather than relying on a complex bidirectional motor with multiple wear-prone internal components. This approach prioritizes simplicity and ease of maintenance over component longevity.
4Ease of manufacture
If a unidirectional motor is used with a variable buffer volume, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but pressure control mechanism complexity changes
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure control function is segmented between the motor (simple unidirectional rotation) and the buffer volume mechanism (variable volume control). This allows the motor to be a simple, inexpensive unidirectional type while the buffer volume provides the necessary pressure modulation through its variable geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
Pressure control is achieved by changing the buffer volume parameter rather than changing motor rotation direction. The variable buffer volume modulates pressure variations by adjusting its internal volume, providing a simpler and more cost-effective control mechanism than bidirectional motor operation.
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
This design simplifies the system, reduces energy consumption, and lowers manufacturing costs while maintaining effective milk expression by controlling pressure variations at the breast, using a unidirectional motor and transmission, and includes features like leakage and over-pressure valves to maintain optimal pressure ranges.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible diaphragm mounted within the diaphragm chamber, separating the diaphragm chamber into a closed side which is in fluid communication with the vacuum pump and the buffer volume, and an open side which is in fluid communication with the breast-receiving portion
Data Source
AI summary
A breast pump apparatus, including a vacuum pump and a variable-volume buffer volume coupled together in fluid communication, also includes a breast-receiving portion coupled to the vacuum pump and the buffer volume such that the vacuum pump is operable to generate negative pressure at the breast-receiving portion to stimulate milk expression, and the negative pressure generated at the breast-receiving portion can be controlled by controlling the buffer volume.