Vertical Drop Pacifier
Objectives of the Vertical Drop Pacifier Prototype
The vertical drop pacifier is an invention promoted by a Spanish company specializing in product development for children. The issue of pacifiers falling repeatedly has been a problem for decades, which has been attempted to be solved in multiple ways. Until now, decorative chains have been the most commonly used solution to prevent the pacifier's nipple from touching the ground during frequent falls.
The challenge assigned to our industrial design team was to invent a mechanical system that would allow the nipple to retract in case of a fall, without compromising the ergonomics of the product for babies.
Proposed Solution for the Pacifier Prototype
The vertical drop pacifier includes a mechanical system that enables a discreet retraction of the nipple when the pacifier is not in use. This mechanical system does not exert uncomfortable pressure for natural use; therefore, the retraction itself is not enough to prevent the nipple from touching the ground in case of falls.
To achieve the objective of the prototype, the industrial design team proposed a geometric amplification of the curves that protect the nipple and provide ergonomics in its use. With this slight modification of the pacifier's wings, combined with the gentle mechanical retraction, the pacifier prototype successfully prevented unwanted contact.
In the prototype testing cycles, it was demonstrated that in falls from heights greater than 30 cm, any contact was prevented, allowing the pacifiers to be reused after unwanted falls.