Microsensor-based breastfeeding volume measurement device

Abstract

A nipple-shield mounted sensor with associated electronic interface and interconnect for measurement and display of milk flow and volume during breastfeeding. The sensor is mounted in the tip of the nipple-shield in order to minimise intrusion between mother and child. The sensor can be mounted transverse or parallel to the milk flow in the channel depending on the selected sensing technology. The dimensions of the sensor and associated cabling are such that the device does not appear substantially different to a nipple-shield alone, thereby having minimal impact on the feeding session. Microlitre flow levels are measured directly by the sensor in order to relay accurate, real-time information on milk volume back to the feeding mother. The electronics unit amplifies the sensor input and digitally processes the data with software algorithms to determine the fluid volume, and can be directly integrated in the shield or can constitute an external module depending on the nature of the sensing technology integrated in the flow channel.