There are few products that pose as many sensual demands and technical and regulatory constraints as the design of a pacifier. For Medela, we designed this all-silicone pacifier that, for all its cuteness, also conveys a sense of medical expertise and Swiss excellence.
Babies can be picky when it comes to their pacifiers. The nipple shape and feel must be just right, or they'll spit it out. Also, it must be safe for the baby to use and appeal to the parents' tastes. Since it is mass-produced in Switzerland, it must comply with various manufacturing standards and regulations. We work with our engineering partner to fulfill all these requirements and create a top-quality product that aligns with Medela's brand values and stands out in the market.
Kindchenschema refers to the physical features that are commonly associated with babies or infants, such as a round face, big eyes, chubby cheeks, and a small nose and mouth. These characteristics trigger an innate caregiving response in humans, which motivates us to protect and care for infants. The face of a panda bear also has these features. So we incorporated it into the product to make it adorable and appealing to parents.
When designing pacifiers for optimal user satisfaction, it is essential to balance cuteness, ergonomics, and manufacturing technology. However, achieving this can be challenging as babies and parents have vastly different needs and expectations.
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