Wearable Breast Pump Manifold with Gravity Drainage Spout
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current breast pumps are not user-friendly, requiring private spaces for use, being obtrusive, difficult to assemble and clean, and prone to milk spills due to disjointed storage systems, making them unsuitable for modern nursing mothers who need to express milk discreetly and efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A smart breast pump system that includes wearable, discreet components such as cupped flanges, manifolds, and milk collection systems that can be worn under clothing, equipped with sensors and a smartphone app for real-time milk supply tracking, featuring easy assembly, leak-proof design, and pneumatic tubing for efficient milk extraction and collection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional breast pumps are used, then milk extraction function is achieved, but the device requires private spaces and is obtrusive
Solution Approach 1:
The breast pump system is nested within a bra structure, with the flange integrated into the bra cup and the collection bottle concealed within the bra or worn on the body. This nesting approach allows the pump to be worn under regular clothing without requiring private spaces, making it discreet and portable while maintaining all necessary pumping functions.
2Productivity
If traditional breast pumps with multiple parts are used, then milk extraction is achieved, but assembly and cleaning require considerable time and effort
Solution Approach 1:
The flange, collection bottle, and bra are merged into a single integrated unit that can be quickly assembled and disassembled. The flange is permanently attached to the bra cup, and the collection bottle connects to the flange with a simple snap-fit or screw mechanism, eliminating the need for complex assembly of multiple separate parts while maintaining effective milk extraction.
3Quantity of substance
If traditional breast pumps with disjointed storage systems are used, then milk collection is achieved, but milk spills occur
Solution Approach 1:
The collection bottle is nested within the bra structure or securely attached to the flange, with a tight-seal connection that prevents leakage. The bottle design includes anti-spill features such as a secure cap and proper orientation mechanisms, ensuring milk remains contained during movement and transport.
4Ease of operation
If wearable breast pump components are used, then discreet usage is enabled, but the device must be comfortable for extended wear
Solution Approach 1:
The bra and flange are constructed from soft, skin-friendly materials that conform to the body's contours, distributing weight and pressure evenly. The collection bottle is positioned to minimize discomfort, and the overall design considers ergonomics for extended wear, with adjustable straps and breathable materials to maintain comfort throughout the pumping process.
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 nursing mothers to express milk discreetly and efficiently anywhere, with real-time tracking and easy cleaning, reducing the need for private spaces and minimizing spills, while providing comfortable and hygienic milk collection.
Implementation Method 1
The manifold includes a nipple cavity within which, vacuum suction is applied to a nipple by a pump
Implementation Method 2
The manifold further includes a spout that drains milk away from the vacuum suction
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is a breast pump. The breast pump includes a milk capture system that includes a cupped flange. The cupped flange includes a nipple recess for receiving a nipple. The breast pump further includes a manifold which may be removably connected to the cupped flange. The manifold includes a nipple cavity in which vacuum suction is applied to a nipple. The manifold further includes a spout that drains milk away from the vacuum suction. The breast pump further includes a milk collection system which is removably connected to the manifold. The milk collection system includes a milk receptacle for containing milk expressed from a breast. Further disclosed is a breast pump system which includes a milk capture system, a manifold, and a milk collection system.