U.S. patent application number 10/820660 was filed with the patent office on 2004-09-30 for penile pump with side release mechanism.
Invention is credited to Almli, John G., Kuyava, Charles C., Morningstar, Randy L., Watts, Kevin R..
Application Number | 20040193005 10/820660 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 27358104 |
Filed Date | 2004-09-30 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040193005 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Almli, John G. ; et
al. |
September 30, 2004 |
Penile pump with side release mechanism
Abstract
A pump and valve assembly for an implantable prosthesis is
provided with an internal actuating bar positioned such that when
any portion of the housing is compressed, the check valves within
are opened allowing for deflation of the cylinders. The pump and
valve assembly also includes a textured surface over a portion of
the housing to allow for quick identification of the component, as
well as to make it easier for the patient to grasp it. The valve
assembly further comprising an actuating bar which has ribs to
enhance the spring force applied to a flow valve, a support
structure to support and appropriately position the actuating bar,
and a check valve made of metal with a segment covered with a
plastic material.
Inventors: |
Almli, John G.; (Chaska,
MN) ; Kuyava, Charles C.; (Eden Prairie, MN) ;
Morningstar, Randy L.; (Brooklyn Park, MN) ; Watts,
Kevin R.; (Plymouth, MN) |
Correspondence
Address: |
AMS RESEARCH CORPORATION
10700 BREN ROAD WEST
MINNETONKA
MN
55343
US
|
Family ID: |
27358104 |
Appl. No.: |
10/820660 |
Filed: |
April 8, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10820660 |
Apr 8, 2004 |
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10006335 |
Dec 3, 2001 |
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6723042 |
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10820660 |
Apr 8, 2004 |
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09749075 |
Dec 27, 2000 |
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60295326 |
Jun 1, 2001 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
600/40 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61F 2/26 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
600/040 |
International
Class: |
A61F 005/00 |
Claims
1. A pump assembly for an implantable prosthesis, comprising: a
housing having an outer wall with at least a portion of the outer
wall being compressible; a first flow valve positioned within the
housing and having a seated and an unseated position; and a bar
positioned within the housing and moveable between a first and a
second position so that when the bar is moved from the first
position to the second position the bar causes the first flow valve
to move from the seated to the unseated position.
2. The pump assembly of claim 1, wherein the outer wall further
comprises: a first compressible side wall positioned to intersect
an axis defined by a path of travel of the first flow valve from
the seated to the unseated position; a second compressible side
wall adjacent to the first compressible side wall, located such
that a first portion of the bar is adjacent to the first
compressible side wall and a second portion of the bar is adjacent
to the second compressible side wall so that if either the first or
the second compressible side wall is compressed, the bar is caused
to engage the first flow valve and move the first flow valve from
the seated to the unseated position.
3. The pump assembly of claim 2 wherein the housing has a
substantially rectangular configuration with the first compressible
side wall being shorter than the second compressible side wall.
4. The pump assembly of claim 3 wherein the second portion of the
bar is substantially parallel with the second compressible side
wall when the second compressible side wall is in an uncompressed
state.
5. The pump assembly of claim 4 wherein an interior angle formed
between the first portion of the bar and the second portion of the
bar is obtuse.
6. The pump assembly of claim 2 wherein the bar includes stainless
steel.
7. The pump assembly of claim 2 wherein the bar includes
plastic.
8. The pump assembly of claim 3 wherein the first portion of the
bar includes a curved free end wherein a curvature of the free end
operatively associates with a curvature of the first flow
valve.
9. The pump assembly of claim 8 wherein the curvature of the free
end also operatively associates with a curvature of an interior
portion of the outer wall.
10. The pump assembly of claim 2, further comprising: a pump bulb
coupled to the housing, wherein the pump bulb has a first exterior
texture and the housing has a second exterior texture that is
different than the first exterior texture.
11. The pump of claim 10 wherein the second exterior texture
includes a plurality of raised panels.
12. The pump of claim 11 wherein the raised panels are
circular.
13. The pump assembly of claim 2 further comprising a second flow
valve positioned such that when the first flow valve is moved from
the seated to the unseated position, the first flow valve contacts
the second flow valve and moves the second flow valve from a seated
to an unseated position.
14. An implantable prosthesis, comprising: a housing having a
generally rectangular configuration defined by a first and a second
minor side wall and a first and a second major side wall wherein
the major side walls are longer than the minor side walls, wherein
at least one of the major side walls and at least one of the minor
side walls is compressible; a first flow valve located within the
housing and oriented to be generally parallel with the major side
wall and perpendicular to the minor side walls; and a bar located
within the housing having a first portion that is substantially
parallel to the compressible major side wall and a second portion
that is angled toward the compressible minor side wall in proximity
to the first flow valve so that a compression of either the
compressible major side wall or the compressible minor side wall
causes the bar to move so that the second portion contacts the
first flow valve and moves it from a seated position to an unseated
position.
15. The implantable prosthesis of claim 14, further comprising: a
valve block located within the housing that supports and retains
the first flow valve and retains the first portion of the bar; a
recess within the valve block to receive the first portion of the
bar as it is moved by a compression of either the compressible
major or minor side wall; and a tab formed by a portion of the
valve block wherein the tab is deflectable into the recess.
16. The implantable prosthesis of claim 14, further comprising: a
pump bulb coupled to the housing, wherein the pump bulb has a first
exterior texture and the housing has a second exterior texture that
is different than the first exterior texture.
17. The implantable prosthesis of claim 16 wherein the second
exterior texture includes a plurality of raised panels.
18. The implantable prosthesis of claim 17 wherein the raised
panels are circular.
19. The implantable prosthesis of claim 14 wherein the bar includes
stainless steel.
20. (Canceled).
21. (Canceled).
22. (Canceled).
23. (Canceled).
24. (Canceled).
25. (Canceled).
26. (Canceled).
27. (Canceled).
28. An inflatable implantable prosthesis comprising: a pump
assembly; said pump assembly including a pump bulb; said pump
assembly including at least one internal check valve in a pathway
extending from said pump bulb to an inflatable portion of said
prosthetic; said pump assembly including an actuator arm
mechanically linking any randomly selected external surface of said
pump assembly to one end of said at least one internal check
valve.
29. A prosthesis as set forth in claim 28, wherein said actuator
arm includes a first portion that extends along a length of said
pump assembly and a second portion that extends at an angle to said
first portion toward said at least one internal check valve.
30. A prosthesis as set forth in claim 28, wherein a portion of
said pump assembly has an external textured surface different than
an external surface of the pump bulb.
31. A prosthesis as set forth in claim 28, wherein said pump bulb
is of a different size and shape from the rest of the pump
assembly.
32. A method of making a pump and valve assembly for an inflatable
prosthesis, comprising: providing a valve block having at least one
actuable valve; providing a shell including a pump bulb component;
and attaching the shell to the valve block to complete the pump and
valve assembly.
33. A method of manufacturing a pump and valve assembly for an
inflatable prosthesis, comprising: molding a unitary valve block;
inserting at least one valve; molding a unitary shell including a
pump bulb component; and joining the shell to the valve block to
complete the pump and valve assembly without requiring any other
components to be joined thereto.
34. A pump and valve assembly for an inflatable prosthesis,
comprising: a unitary molded valve block; and a unitary molded
shell attached to the valve block wherein the shell include a pump
bulb.
35. A pump assembly for an implantable prosthesis, comprising: a
housing having an outer wall with at least a portion of the outer
wall being compressible; a first flow valve positioned within the
housing and having a seated and an unseated position; and a bar
positioned within the housing, the bar comprising a spring and
being moveable between a first and a second position so that when
the bar is moved from the first position to the second position the
bar causes the first flow valve to move from the seated to the
unseated position.
36. The assembly of claim 35 wherein the bar has a bend connecting
a first portion and a second portion of the bar, at least one rib
extending the first and second portions of the bar such that the
bend augments the spring, the outer wall further comprising: a
first compressible side wall positioned to intersect an axis
defined by a path of travel of the first flow valve from the seated
to the unseated position; and a second compressible side wall
adjacent to the first compressible side wall, located such that the
first portion of the bar is adjacent to the first compressible side
wall and the second portion of the bar is adjacent to the second
compressible side wall so that if either the first or the second
compressible side wall is compressed, the bar causes the first flow
valve to move from the seated to the unseated position.
37. The assembly of claim 36 wherein the bar is a thin elongate
member, an end portion of the second portion of the bar engaging an
end of the first flow valve when the bar is in the first
position.
38. The assembly of claim 36 wherein the second portion of the bar
is substantially parallel with the second compressible side wall
when the second compressible side wall is in an uncompressed
state.
39. The assembly of claim 38 wherein the at least one rib extending
across the bend is shaped to as to make the bar stiff, such that
resistance to deflection forces is enhanced.
40. The assembly of claim 39 wherein the first portion of the bar
comprises at least one rib centrally located on thereon, such that
the when the first portion of the bar is compressed by the first
compressible side wall compression forces exerted on the first
portion of the bar are distributed substantially evenly along the
first portion of the bar.
41. The assembly of claim 35 wherein the first flow valve comprises
a synthetic portion and a metal portion.
42. The assembly of claim 37 wherein a segment of the first flow
valve includes a plastic member disposed thereon such that the bar
contacts the plastic member when the bar is in the first
position.
43. The assembly of claim 36 further comprising a support member
coupled to the housing, wherein the support member contacts a
portion of the first flow valve in such as manner as to prevent
sideways movement of the first flow valve.
44. The assembly of claim 43 wherein the support member further
comprises a shelf in contact with the first flow valve.
45. The pump assembly of claim 36 further comprising a second flow
valve positioned such that when the first flow valve is moved from
the seated to the unseated position, the first flow valve contacts
the second flow valve and moves the second flow valve from a seated
to an unseated position.
46. An implantable prosthesis, comprising: a housing having a
generally rectangular configuration defined by a first and a second
minor side wall and a first and a second major side wall wherein
the major side walls are longer than the minor side walls, and
wherein at least one of the major side walls and at least one of
the minor side walls is compressible; a first flow valve located
within the housing and oriented to be generally parallel with the
major side wall and perpendicular to the minor side walls; and a
bar located within the housing having a first portion that is
substantially parallel to the compressible major side wall and a
second portion that is angled toward the compressible minor side
wall in proximity to the first flow valve so that a compression of
either the compressible major side wall or the compressible minor
side wall causes an actuating arm to cause the bar to move so that
the second portion contacts the first flow valve and moves the flow
valve from a seated position to an unseated position.
47. The implantable prosthesis of claim 46 further comprising: a
valve block located within the housing that supports and retains
the first flow valve; a recess within the valve block to receive
and retain the first portion of the bar as it is moved by a
compression of either the compressible major or minor side wall;
and a support member coupled to the housing such that a portion
contacts a portion of the first flow valve.
48. The implantable prosthesis of claim 46, further comprising: a
pump bulb coupled to the housing, wherein the pump bulb has a first
exterior texture and the housing has a second exterior texture that
is different than the first exterior texture; and the bar further
comprising at least one rib extending across said bend.
49. The implantable prosthesis of claim 47 wherein the support
member has a shelf, the shelf contacting a portion of the first
flow valve in such a manner as to resist sideways movement of the
first flow valve when the flow valve is moving between the seated
and unseated positions.
50. (Canceled).
51. (Canceled).
52. (Canceled).
53. (Canceled).
54. (Canceled).
55. A bar for incorporation into an inflatable implantable
prosthesis which has a pump assembly including a pump bulb and at
least one internal check valve in a pathway extending from said
pump bulb to an inflatable portion of said prosthesis, said bar
comprising: a thin elongate member having a first portion connected
to a second portion by a bend, the bend forming a spring such that
a spring force may be exerted to mechanically link randomly
selected external surfaces of said pump assembly to one end of said
at least one internal check valve; at least one first rib extending
across the bend to resist deformation of the bend and prevent
diminishment of the spring stiffness; and at least one second rib
located on the first portion of the bar such that when the first
portion of the bar is compressed, compression forces exerted on the
first portion of the bar are distributed along the first portion of
the bar.
56. The bar of claim 55, wherein the first and second ribs are
discontinuities in the bar shaped to resist deformation.
57. The bar of claim 56, wherein the at least one second rib is a
spoon-shaped element located in a central area of the first portion
of the bar.
58. A support member for an inflatable implantable prosthesis that
includes a pump assembly, and at least one internal check valve in
a pathway extending from a pump bulb to an inflatable portion of
the prosthesis, said support member coupleable to the pump
assembly, the support member comprising a shelf for mechanical
interaction with the internal check valve to resist transverse
motion of the internal check valve.
59. A method of making a pump and valve assembly for an inflatable
prosthesis, comprising: providing a valve block having at least one
actuable valve, the valve made of a metal material with a segment
of the valve covered by a plastic material; providing a shell
including a pump bulb component; providing a bar having two
portions connected by a bend having at least one rib; providing a
support member having a shelf, the shelf preventing transverse
movement of the valve; and attaching the shell to the valve block
to complete the pump and valve assembly.
60. An internal check valve for an inflatable implantable
prosthesis, wherein the inflatable prosthesis comprises a pump
assembly including a pump bulb and a pathway extending from said
pump bulb to an inflatable portion of said prosthesis, a bar having
at least one rib extending across a bend, and a support member with
a shelf, said internal check valve being sized and shaped to be
insertable within said pump assembly, and being made of a metal
material with a segment of the internal check valve having a
plastic material disposed thereon, such that when assembled, the
plastic material of the check valve is adapted to engage a portion
of the bar and the shelf of the support member.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of related patent
application Ser. No. 09/749,075 entitled "PENILE PUMP WITH SIDE
RELEASE MECHANISM" which was filed on Dec. 27, 2000, and claims the
priority of provisional application Serial No. 60/295,326 entitled
"PENILE PUMP IMPROVEMENTS" which was filed Jun. 1, 2001 (the entire
contents of each of which are herein incorporated by
reference).
BACKGROUND
[0002] This invention generally relates to a pump and valve
assembly for inflating a prosthesis. More particularly, the
invention relates to pressure-based mechanisms that inhibit
spontaneous inflation of the prosthesis, including stiffening and
support mechanisms that also improve the function of the valve.
[0003] One common treatment for male erectile dysfunction is the
implantation of a penile prosthesis. Such a prosthesis typically
includes a pair of inflatable cylinders, which are fluidly
connected to a reservoir (typically liquid filled) via a pump and
valve assembly. The two cylinders are normally implanted into the
corpus cavernosae of the patient and the reservoir is typically
implanted into the patient's abdomen. The pump assembly is
implanted in the scrotum.
[0004] During use, the patient actuates the pump and fluid is
transferred from the reservoir through the pump and into the
cylinders. This results in the inflation of the cylinders and
thereby produces the desired penis rigidity for a normal erection.
Then, when the patient desires to deflate the cylinders, a valve
assembly within the pump is actuated in a manner such that the
fluid in the cylinders is released back into the reservoir. This
deflation then returns the penis to a flaccid state.
[0005] Presently, the pump and valve assembly used in such
implantable prostheses share certain similar characteristics. For
example, they include fluid pathways allowing the flow of fluid to
and from the reservoir, as well as to and from the cylinders. This
fluid flow is controlled by one or more check valves positioned in
the fluid pathways within the housing of the assembly.
[0006] A compressible pump bulb is also attached to the housing and
is in fluid communication with the various fluid pathways
therethrough. In order to inflate the cylinders, the compressible
pump bulb is actuated by the patient, thereby urging fluid past the
check valves into the cylinders. In order to deflate the cylinders,
the valve housing is grasped and squeezed (through the patient's
tissue), causing the various check valves to unseat and allow fluid
to flow back to the reservoir.
[0007] Since the pump and valve assembly is positioned within the
patient's scrotum, the various components of the assembly must be
small. As a result, manipulation of the pump and valve assembly is
sometimes difficult. For example, patients requiring the use of
penile prosthesis discussed herein are oftentimes elderly and have
a reduced dexterity as a result of aging. Thus, in some instances,
even locating the device within the tissue can be a challenge, let
alone identifying the correct portion of the assembly to actuate.
More specifically, with some patients, it may be difficult to
determine whether the housing portion of the assembly that leads to
release or deflation of the cylinders is being grasped or whether
the bulb portion which would be used to inflate the cylinders is
being grasped.
[0008] Notably, the length of the valve assembly is determined (at
least in one direction) by the size of the various check valves and
the distance such valves must move in order to open and close the
various fluid passageways. As a result, such a pump and valve
assembly typically is longer in a direction parallel with the check
valves. Moreover, in order to release the check valves in an
assembly configured in this manner, the patient must grasp the
narrower, shorter side walls of the assembly and compress them
together. Since such a configuration can present challenges insofar
as the spring tension of the check valves at the time of desired
deflation is typically at a maximum while the surface area of the
assembly which must be compressed in order to cause such deflation
is at a minimum. This condition can lead to a situation where the
patient has difficulty actually compressing the assembly, or in
extreme circumstances, actually loses grip of the assembly during
such attempts at deflation.
[0009] Although the existing devices function with extreme
efficiency and reliability, for some patients it appears there is a
desire for a pump and valve assembly in an implantable prosthesis
that improves operative manipulation of the assembly. One such
prosthesis pump is disclosed in co-pending U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 09/749,075, entitled "Penile Pump With Side Release
Mechanism," which is assigned to the Assignee of the present
invention and is incorporated herein by reference. However, the
operational efficiency of the prosthesis pump could be further
improved by optimizing the function of the check valves.
[0010] Metal on metal contact can cause undesired wear of
components over time. This can affect the performance of any
product. In the pump and valve assembly, the check valve and spring
engage one another at an end of the check valve to inhibit
movement. Typically, at least a portion of the check valve and
spring are made of a metal material such as stainless steel. The
repeated application of a spring force by the spring onto the end
of the check valve tends to wear or degrade the contact portions of
the check valve and spring. This metal on metal contact over time
negatively impacts the performance of the valve assembly.
[0011] The orientation of the pump and valve assembly creates a
condition where the spring applies a force in both the axial and
sideways directions onto the check valve, during actuation of the
prosthesis pump. The axial force acts to move the check valve
poppet into the valve assembly, while the side force has the
unintended consequence of pushing the check valve sideways causing
the valve to tip sideways. When the check valve is pushed sideways
into the valve housing, the valve housing deforms which causes the
check valve to be misaligned. This results in the check valve being
restrained from moving axially into the valve housing to reach its
open position.
[0012] Finally, the repeated exertion of axial and side forces of
the spring on the end of the check valve tends to cause a reduction
in the stiffness of the of the spring. Specifically, the spring is
a thin elongate member having a bent portion. As a patient grasps
the narrower, shorter side walls of the assembly and compresses
them together, the spring flexes inwardly to force, via axial and
side forces, the check valve to move to an open position. When the
patient releases the side walls of the assembly the spring returns
to its original position, permitting the check valve to return to a
closed position. The repeated flexing of the spring may cause a
reduction in stiffness of the spring, particularly at the bend.
This reduction in stiffness may lead to the spring deflecting
during actuation in an unintended manner, which can permanently
deform the spring. Permanent deformation of the spring has the
undesired effect of inhibiting the full axial travel of the check
valve between the open and closed positions.
[0013] There exists a need to provide a prosthetic penile implant
that reduces the wear of the contact point of the check valve and
the spring. There is a desire to improve the function of the valve
assembly by prevention of deformation of the valve housing and
misalignment of the check valve. There is a need to provide a
barrier to sideways movement of the check valve when moving between
the open and closed positions. Additionally, there is a desire to
increase the strength and stiffness of the spring to prevent the
spring from deflecting during actuation and prevent permanent
deformation of the spring.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0014] The present invention provides various features which taken
alone or in combination with one another provide for an improved
pump and valve assembly for an implantable prosthesis. The present
pump and valve assembly includes a pump bulb that must be
differentiated from the valve housing when inflation of the
cylinders is desired. The pump bulb itself has dimensions that are
somewhat different than the remainder of the housing. However, to
supplement differentiation between the bulb and the valve housing,
the valve housing is provided with a textured surface so that even
through tissue the patient is able to readily discern which area
comprises the pump bulb and which area comprises the valve housing.
This is important in that the pump bulb is compressed for inflation
while the valve housing is compressed for deflation.
[0015] The pump assembly of the present invention is also
configured such that it has a length longer than its width, with
its internal check valves running parallel with the length. To
release fluid from the inflated cylinders, the internal check
valves are actuated so that they move in a direction parallel to
the length, until they open. To achieve this action directly, the
opposing sides of the width of the valve housing are compressed.
This compression causes actuation of the internal check valves.
[0016] In addition, an actuating bar is positioned within the valve
housing parallel with and extending along at least one of the sides
of the length. An arm attached to the actuating bar extends along a
portion of one of the sides of the width in close proximity to the
tip of one of the check valves. Thus, the configuration of the
actuating bar causes it to engage and open the check valve allowing
fluid to flow from the cylinder to the reservoir. Furthermore, the
patient can grasp the valve housing in virtually any orientation
and when pressure is applied, the actuating bar will act either
directly or indirectly to open the appropriate check valves. Thus,
so long as the patient grasps any portion of the pump and valve
assembly other than the pump bulb, compression will result in the
desired opening of the check valves which will allow the cylinders
to deflate.
[0017] Furthermore, since the patient can grasp the valve housing
along the sides of the length, i.e., surfaces with larger surface
area, less pressure need be applied to achieve the successful
opening of the check valves. In other words, by increasing the
surface area that is engaged by the patient's fingers and
appropriately positioning the actuating bar, less force need be
exerted by the patient to achieve the desired result.
[0018] The textured surface of the valve housing not only helps the
patient identify the correct portion of the pump and valve assembly
to actuate, it also serves to prevent slippage once the patient
begins to compress the housing. Thus, what is achieved is an
efficient and ergonomic pump and valve assembly for an implantable
prosthesis. The pump and valve assembly can advantageously be
formed from a minimal number of components. That is, all that need
be molded are a valve block and a corresponding pump bulb which
surrounds the valve block. The various check valves can be inserted
into the valve block and then placed within the interior of the
pump bulb, thus forming a completed assembly. This results in
certain manufacturing efficiencies, thus reducing both cost and
time of production.
[0019] To further improve the operational efficiency of the pump
and valve assembly, the check valve is made of a metal material
with a plastic member disposed over a segment of the metal
material. The plastic segment of the check valve prevents undesired
frictional metal on metal contact with the actuating bar, and
prevents premature wearing of the contact point of the two
components.
[0020] To further improve the life of the valve assembly, ribs,
that extend across a bend, are added to the actuating bar. This
modification increases the strength and stiffness of the spring and
prevents the actuating arm from deflecting during actuation. In
turn, full axial travel of the check valve is ensured. Increasing
the strength of the bend also prevents permanent deformation of the
spring when normal deflection occurs during actuation of the valve
assembly. Another rib is disposed along the actuation face of the
actuating bar to limit deformation of the actuation face during
actuation of the valve assembly.
[0021] To improve the ease of deflation, a stiff poppet support
wraps around the valve body and rests against a portion of the
check valve. The poppet support has a shelf that provides smooth
surface for a portion of the check valve to slide along. The poppet
support contacts the check valve and prevents undesirable sideways
movement of the check valve against the valve body. The positioning
and configuration of the poppet support thus allows the check valve
to easily move axially into the valve body to an open position.
This results in improved operational efficiency of the check valve
and an extended operating life.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0022] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a pump and valve assembly
according to the present invention.
[0023] FIG. 2 is a front sectional view of the pump and valve
assembly illustrated in FIG. 1.
[0024] FIG. 3 is a top sectional view of the pump and valve
assembly illustrated in FIG. 1, shown in a state where the
cylinders are being deflated.
[0025] FIG. 4 is a top sectional view of the pump and valve
assembly illustrated in FIG. 1, shown in a state where the check
valves are in a deactivated position.
[0026] FIG. 5 is a top sectional view of the pump and valve
assembly illustrated in FIG. 1, shown in a state where the check
valves are in a pumping position.
[0027] FIG. 6 is a side sectional view of the pump and valve
assembly illustrated in FIG. 1.
[0028] FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of an alternative
embodiment of the present invention.
[0029] FIG. 8A is a side view of the reservoir poppet with a
plastic portion of the embodiment of FIG. 7.
[0030] FIGS. 8B and 8C are more detailed illustrations of portions
of the reservoir poppet, with FIG. 8B showing a poppet taper and
FIG. 8C showing a previous design.
[0031] FIG. 9 is perspective view of the actuating bar of the
embodiment of FIG. 7.
[0032] FIG. 10A is a top sectional view of the embodiment of FIG.
7.
[0033] FIG. 10B is a sectional view of the embodiment of FIG. 7
showing the elements when the cylinders are inflated.
[0034] FIG. 10C is a sectional view of the embodiment of FIG. 7
showing the elements actuated to afford flow of fluid from the
cylinders to the reservoir.
[0035] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the poppet support of the
embodiment of FIG. 7.
[0036] FIG. 12 is a sectional view of the embodiment of FIG. 7.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0037] Referring to FIG. 1, a pump and valve assembly is
illustrated and generally referred to as 10. Pump and valve
assembly 10 includes two different sections: valve housing 12 and
pump bulb 15. Pump bulb 15 is a compressible member, defining a
chamber more clearly shown in FIG. 2. Valve housing 12 is fluidly
coupled to pump bulb 15 and contains the various other working
components of pump and valve assembly 10. Pump and valve assembly
10 will be fluidly coupled to a reservoir and a pair of cylinders
(not shown). This is accomplished through tubing connected to
reservoir coupling 25 and cylinder couplings 30, which are integral
with valve housing 12. Pump and valve assembly 10 is configured
such that pump bulb 15 extends from one end of valve housing 12,
while reservoir coupling 25 and cylinder couplings 30 extend from
the other. Thus, when implanted in the patient, reservoir coupling
25 and cylinder couplings 30, and the fluid tubing they are coupled
to, are oriented toward the patient's abdomen, while the pump bulb
15 is disposed in the opposite direction. Therefore, when pump bulb
15 is grasped by a patient, there is no interference from or
contact with the tubing coupled to reservoir coupling 25 and
cylinder couplings 30.
[0038] Valve housing 12 is illustrated as being generally
rectangular, having a first major panel 35 that is longer than
first minor panel 45. The length of first major panel 35 is
determined by the distance required to incorporate the various
check valves described below and allow their proper functioning.
Likewise, first minor panel 45 need only be long enough to
incorporate the width of these check valves and once again allow
their proper functioning. Of course, some consideration can be
given to the optimal diameter of the fluid tubing and couplings
connecting pump and valve assembly 10 to the reservoir and
cylinders. Though shown as being generally rectangular, valve
housing 12 can take on any configuration (and dimension) so long as
the check valves contained therein operate correctly. The
illustrated configuration generally minimizes the volume required
for valve housing 12 to operate effectively. Thus, the net result
is that first major panel 35 is generally longer than first minor
panel 45.
[0039] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the internal configuration of
pump and valve assembly 10 will be described. Two separate molded
components are utilized to form pump and valve assembly 10. That
is, valve block 20 is combined with shell 17 to form the completed
unit. Pump bulb 15 and valve housing 12 are a single, integral unit
referred to as shell 17 that substantially surrounds valve block
20. As illustrated, shell 17 includes valve housing 12 which
surrounds valve block 20. Alternatively, shell 17 could be a
smaller component that does not surround valve block 20, but is
simply coupled to it. In either case, only two molded components
need be provided to complete the device. These components can be
formed from silicone or any other appropriate material.
[0040] The use of only two molded components to form pump and valve
assembly 10 is advantageous. Previous devices generally have four
or more molded components which must be individually put together.
Only two components can be bonded in a single step. Bonding
includes heating, using adhesive, or various other joining
techniques. The two bonded components then take time to set up
before the next component can be added. Thus, a four component
device results in a fairly long manufacturing process having
increased costs associated therewith.
[0041] With the present device, valve block 20 is molded and the
various valve components are inserted into place. Shell 17 is then
attached and bonded. Thus, only a single bonding or adhering step
is required to complete the product. This greatly increases
throughput, decreases costs, and decreases manufacturing time
without sacrificing quality or durability.
[0042] Located within valve block 20 are a plurality of fluid
passageways coupling reservoir coupling 25 and cylinder couplings
30 to pump bulb 15 through bulb passageway 95 via medial passageway
60. Disposed within medial passageway 60 are two spring-actuated
poppets: a reservoir poppet 65 and a cylinder poppet 75, which
respectively and selectively abut reservoir poppet valve seat 85
and cylinder poppet valve seat 90. Cylinder poppet 75 is an
uncomplicated, ball-shaped or conical-shaped check valve. Reservoir
poppet 65 is an elongated member having a somewhat more complicated
shape. The configuration of reservoir poppet 65, along with the
configuration of valve block 20 along medial passageway 60 is
designed to allow the proper operation of the poppets while also
preventing spontaneous inflation. The functionality and operability
of this arrangement is discussed in co-pending applications Ser.
No. 09/749,292, filed on Dec. 27, 2000, and entitled "Pressure
Based Spontaneous Inflation Inhibitor," and Ser. No.______,
(Attorney-Docket No. AMS-039) filed concurrently herewith, and
entitled "Pressure Based Spontaneous Inflation Inhibitor With
Penile Pump Improvements," the entire disclosures of which are
herein incorporated by reference.
[0043] During a compression of pump bulb 15, fluid is forced from
the internal chamber of pump bulb 15 through bulb passageway 95,
causing cylinder poppet 75 to open and allow fluid to flow through
cylinder couplings 30 into the respective cylinders. When pump bulb
15 is released, cylinder poppet 75 closes under spring pressure.
The vacuum generated by pump bulb 15 causes reservoir poppet 65 to
unseat itself and allow fluid to flow from the reservoir through
reservoir coupling 25 so that fluid once again fills pump bulb 15.
Repeated compressions are performed to entirely inflate the
cylinders to the patient's satisfaction.
[0044] When it is desired to deflate the cylinders, the patient
compresses valve housing 12 by squeezing first minor panel 45
towards second minor panel 50. As this occurs, the outer wall of
valve housing 12 engages actuating bar arm 130 which engages
reservoir poppet tip 70, causing reservoir poppet 65 to unseat
itself as well as unseating cylinder poppet 75. Fluid is then able
to flow from the cylinders to the reservoir through medial
passageway 60. When satisfactorily deflated, the patient releases
valve housing 12, allowing reservoir poppet 65 and cylinder poppet
75 to reseat themselves and prevent fluid flow.
[0045] To perform the above described deflation process, the
patient may compress first minor panel 45 and second minor panel
50. In some patients, however, it may be difficult to achieve this
compression because of the relatively small size of first and
second minor panels 45 and 50. Likewise, it may be difficult for
certain patients to grasp valve housing 12 in this manner since
valve housing 12 may slip out of position between the patient's
fingers. Thus, the present pump and valve assembly 10 provides an
actuating bar 100 that allows the patient to grasp the first major
panel 35 and second major panel 120 (as illustrated in FIGS.
3-5).
[0046] Referring to FIG. 3, the operation of actuating bar 100 is
illustrated. Actuating bar 100 is disposed within valve block 20 by
frictionally securing one end of actuating bar 100 into valve block
interface 125 which securely holds it in place. Actuating bar 100
extends substantially along the length of major panel 120.
Actuating bar arm 130 is integrally coupled with actuating bar 100
and generally extends substantially along the length of first minor
panel 45. Actuating bar 100 is comprised of a suitable material,
such as stainless steel or plastic. FIG. 3 illustrates a
configuration of actuating bar 100 when a patient is compressing
valve housing 12. The configuration illustrated in FIG. 4 is that
of a deactivated state. In this state, the patient does not intend
to inflate (nor deflate) the cylinders. The relationship between
reservoir poppet 65 and valve block 20 in the area of medial
passageway 60 is such that spontaneous inflation is prevented. FIG.
5 illustrates a pumping state. Reservoir poppet 65 is moved to the
right (as illustrated) and tip 70 abuts arm 130. When pump bulb
pressure is sufficient, cylinder poppet 75 will be unseated. FIG. 4
illustrates the position of actuating bar 100 in a deactivated
state, that is, when the patient is not compressing valve housing
12.
[0047] Returning to FIG. 1, major panels 35 and 120 contain a
textured surface 40, containing a plurality of raised sections.
These raised sections make it easy for the patient to identify and
distinguish valve housing 12 from pump bulb 15 and also allow the
patient to grasp it better. Furthermore, because major panels 35
and 120 are relatively large in comparison to minor panels 45 and
50, it is easier for the patient to grasp and compress these major
panels 35 and 120.
[0048] Referring once again to FIG. 3, when major panels 35 and 120
are compressed towards one another, actuating bar 100 is deflected
from the position illustrated in FIG. 4 to the position illustrated
in FIG. 3. Thus, by engaging reservoir poppet tip 70, actuating bar
arm 130 forces reservoir poppet 65 to move towards and open
cylinder poppet 75. More specifically, actuating bar 100 is
generally parallel with second major panel 120 in the deactivated
stage. When engaged, actuating bar 100 is deflected towards first
major panel 35. Because of the angle between actuating bar 100 and
actuating bar arm 130, actuating bar arm 130 is caused to move
towards reservoir poppet tip 70, as well as first major panel 35.
Insofar as this movement is defined by the internal wall of valve
housing 12, actuating bar arm 130 moves to the position illustrated
in FIG. 3, engaging and opening reservoir poppet 65. Of course,
this does not preclude the patient from grasping first minor panel
45 and second minor panel 50 and compressing them towards one
another. If this is done, reservoir poppet 65 will likewise be
effectively unseated. As such, it should be noted that the patient
can grasp valve housing 12 in numerous orientations and a
compression will effectively either directly engage reservoir
poppet 65 or cause actuating bar 100, and more particularly
actuating bar arm 130 to engage and open reservoir poppet 65. Thus,
the patient need not maintain any particular orientation of valve
housing 12 while deflating the cylinders. That is, any grip
achieved on the valve housing 12 can be utilized to effectively
open the poppets.
[0049] The configuration of major panels 35 and 120, including
textured surface 40, will allow patients to easily identify the
portion of valve housing 12 having a larger surface area and to
grip it more effectively. When doing so, it may seem to the patient
that less force need be applied in order to unseat reservoir poppet
65. That is, the spring tensions involved are constant for cylinder
poppet 75 and reservoir poppet 65. However, because of the larger
surface area of major panels 35 and 120, as compared to minor
panels 45 and 50, the patient need apply less force in order to
successfully actuate the device.
[0050] The configurations illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5 differ only
in that reservoir poppet 65 is in different positions with respect
to valve block 20, depending upon whether the device is in a
deactivated state as in FIG. 4 or in a pumping state as in FIG. 5.
This is more a characteristic of the spontaneous inflation
preventing mechanism as mentioned above, rather than being directly
related to the operation of actuating bar 100. Of note, actuating
bar arm 130 is configured to receive reservoir poppet tip 70 during
the pumping stage as illustrated in FIG. 5. That is, during the
compression of pump bulb 15 fluid pressure will force reservoir
poppet 65 to its right most position as illustrated in FIG. 5.
Because of the configuration of actuating bar arm 130 in its
unbiased position, it will not interfere with this operation.
[0051] FIG. 6 illustrates a side sectional view of pump and valve
assembly 10. Actuating bar 100 only extends along a portion of
valve block 20. When a patient engages first major panel 120,
actuating bar 100 will be relatively small in comparison to the
surface area defined by the patient's finger. To further facilitate
the ease with which the patient can compress actuating bar 100 and
effectively unseat reservoir poppet 65, valve block 20 is enhanced
by valve block tabs 115, which help define valve block recess 110
within which actuating bar 100 is seated. Thus, when the patient
engages first major panel 35, moving it towards second major panel
120, this movement is enhanced by the flexibility of valve block
tabs 115 allowing a larger portion of first major panel 35 to
deflect into valve block recess 110.
[0052] The ease with which the patient can identify, grasp and
compress the relevant portion of pump and valve assembly 10, may
ultimately determine the patient's overall satisfaction with the
device. FIG. 6 illustrates yet another factor which serves to
facilitate this. The width of pump bulb 15 is defined as A, while
the width of valve housing 12 is defined as B. Notably, the width A
of valve housing 12 is smaller than the width A of pump bulb 15.
The relevant factor is that pump bulb 15 is sized differently than
valve housing 12. It does not matter which component is larger or
smaller.
[0053] Thus, when the patient grasps pump and valve assembly 10,
there are several factors that can be utilized to determine which
portion the patient is grasping. First, the orientation of pump
bulb 15 towards the bottom is an initial indicator. The textured
surface 40 of the major panels 35 and 120 is a secondary indicator
and the relative size difference between pump bulb 15 and valve
housing 12 is a tertiary indicator. These components also work
together along with actuating bar 100 to make it easier for the
patient to compress valve housing 12 and open the internal poppets,
allowing the cylinders to be deflated. This is accomplished because
major panels 35 and 120 are larger and easier to grasp and their
compression towards one another actuates actuating bar 100 which in
turn actuates and opens reservoir poppet 65. The textured surface
40 makes it easier for the patient to grip valve housing 12 during
this process. Finally, the configuration of actuating bar 100 can
be configured to provide positive feedback to the patient that they
are successfully opening the valves to allow for deflation. That
is, actuating bar 100 can be provided with a bent area configured
such that when actuating bar 100 is actuated, it will cause a
clicking sensation that is audibly or physically sensed by the
patient to let them know that they have sufficiently compressed
valve housing 12. Other identifying devices or configurations could
be used as well.
[0054] FIGS. 7-12 illustrate an alternative embodiment of pump and
valve assembly 300 in which certain modifications have been made to
further improve performance. FIG. 7 shows an exploded view of the
alternative pump and valve assembly 300 with an improved actuating
bar 310, a pump bulb 316, an improved check valve 318, and a poppet
support 320. Assembly 300 comprises a valve block 317 for housing
fluid passageways that inter-connect inflatable cylinders and a
reservoir (not shown), as discussed in the embodiments above.
Actuating bar 310, having a plurality of ribs 328 and 330, attaches
to a side of valve block 317 and is positioned to engage an end of
a reservoir poppet 318. Reservoir poppet 318 is a check valve that
operates to control fluid flow into and out of the reservoir, and
is to be positioned within the passageway of valve block 317.
Poppet support 320 is to be disposed on an end of valve block 317,
proximate an end 266 of the reservoir poppet 318, to prevent
sideways sliding of the reservoir poppet 318 during actuation of
the pump. The pump bulb 316 is to be located over valve block 317,
actuating bar 310, reservoir poppet 318, and poppet support 320. As
discussed in the embodiments above, pump bulb 316 comprises major
panels 312 and 314 with textured surfaces that allow patients to
easily identify that portion of valve assembly 300. When a patient
applies pressure to major panels 312 and 314, major panel 312
engages actuating bar 310. Reservoir poppet 318, actuating bar 310
and poppet support 320 are described in detail below.
[0055] As illustrated in FIG. 8A, reservoir poppet 318 comprises an
elongate rigid member 260 and a synthetic member 262. Synthetic
member 262 is disposed over a segment/post portion 264 of rigid
member 260. Rigid member 260 is preferably made of a metal
material, such as steel, stainless steel, or the like. Synthetic
member 262 is preferably made of a strong, durable plastic
material, for example acetal, nylon and/or polyester, to prevent
undesired frictional contact with actuating bar 310. Synthetic
member 262 is rigidly attached to rigid member 260 by molding,
bonding, or the like. Synthetic member 262 prevents premature
wearing of reservoir poppet 318 and actuating bar 310. For example,
synthetic member 262 prevents direct metal-on-metal contact between
metal reservoir poppet 318 and actuating bar 310. The addition of
the synthetic member 262 reduces the frictional interaction of
reservoir poppet 318 and actuation bar 310 that typically occurs at
the end 266 of reservoir poppet 318. Thus, the risk of marking or
deforming reservoir poppet 318 and actuation bar 310 is reduced,
and the useful life of the two components is extended.
[0056] As shown in FIG. 8B, a poppet taper 777 provides a very
useful novel feature. When poppet 318 is pushed back into the
release or deflation mode, taper 777 permits the lip seal 200 to
separate from poppet 318. This allows fluid from the cylinder to
pass unimpeded through the pump. Without taper 777, lip seal 200
would rest on poppet 318 as shown in FIG. 8C. The arrangement of
FIG. 8C requires pressure to open lip seal 200 before fluid is
allowed to pass from the cylinder to the reservoir. Moreover, when
the pressure drops below a minimum value, lip seal 200 closes on
reservoir poppet 318 and traps pressurized fluid in the cylinder.
This typically happens at a less than flaccid cylinder condition.
Unfortunately, to force this pressurized fluid out of the cylinder
when it is at this state, the patient must squeeze his penis and
the cylinder to increase cylinder pressure and open the lip seal
design.
[0057] As illustrated in FIGS. 7, 9 and 10A-C, actuating bar 310 is
a thin elongated member formed to comprise an actuating face 322
and an actuating arm 324 that are connected by an angle portion
326. A U-shaped portion 332 connects a connecting end 338 to
actuating face 322. As shown in FIG. 10A, actuating bar 310 is
disposed within valve block 317 by securement of end 338 into a
valve block interface 336.
[0058] Connecting end 338 includes two forked portions 666, one of
which is shown in FIG. 9. As shown in FIG. 10A, actuating bar 310
is disposed within valve block 317 by securement of end 338 into a
valve block interface 336. The forked portions 666 of connecting
end 338 help hold actuating bar 310 in place.
[0059] Angle portion 326 provides actuating bar 310 with a spring
force that is applied to an end of reservoir poppet 318 in the same
manner as described in the embodiments of above. Angle portion 326
permits actuating face 322 of actuating bar 310 to extend along a
side of the length of valve block 317, while actuating arm 324
extends along a side of the width of valve block 317. The
configuration of actuating bar 310 enables it to engage an end 266,
e.g., the tip, of reservoir poppet 318. Actuating arm 324 includes,
opposite angle portion 326, a curved portion 325 for complementary
engagement with reservoir poppet end 266. See FIG. 10C. Preferably,
curved portion 325 presents a smooth face to the side of the pump
shell when the pump shell acts on the curved portion 325 of the
actuating bar 310.
[0060] As discussed in the embodiments above, when the patient
grasps valve assembly 300 in virtually any orientation and applies
pressure, actuating bar 310 acts either directly or indirectly to
open the appropriate check valves (FIG. 10C). Thus, when the
patient grasps a portion of the pump and valve assembly 300 other
than pump bulb 316, compression will result in the flexing of
actuating bar 310. During compression, actuating face 322 flexes
inwardly and actuating arm 324 flexes toward reservoir poppet end
266, as indicated by arrow A in FIG. 10A. Actuating arm 324 moves
into engagement with reservoir poppet end 266. The movement of
actuating arm 324 forces axial movement of reservoir poppet 318 in
the same direction as arrow A and into an open position. The axial
movement of reservoir poppet 318 permits fluid to flow through the
fluid pathways to the reservoir and allows the cylinders to
deflate.
[0061] When the patient ceases compression of the valve assembly
300, actuating face 322 returns to its original position. Actuating
arm 324 moves in a direction indicated by arrow B in FIG. 10A, and
out of forceful engagement with end 266 (see FIG. 10B). This
movement permits reservoir poppet 318 to return to the position
shown in FIG. 10A.
[0062] As disclosed in the embodiments above, angle portion 326 in
actuating bar 310, and its resistance to flexing outwardly, creates
a desirable stiffness, bias or spring force. Actuating bar 310 is
capable of forcing reservoir poppet 318 into a position (see FIG.
10C) that permits the flow of fluid through the fluid pathways and
back into the reservoir. For example, during patient compression of
pump and valve assembly 300, curved portion 325 of actuating arm
324 enters engagement with end 266. Actuating arm 324 applies the
spring force to poppet end 266 to force reservoir poppet 318 into
the interior of valve block 317 and into an open/active position.
When actuating arm 324 is engaged with poppet end 266, there is an
opposing force created by the resistance of reservoir poppet 318 to
move into the open position. This opposing force may overcome the
spring force and cause actuating arm 324 to improperly deflect.
Stated alternatively, this improper deflection occurs when the
opposing force exerted against actuating bar 310 overcomes the
inherent spring force and causes actuating arm 324 to bend
backwards or buckle.
[0063] To prevent improper deflection, stiffening ribs 328 are
formed on actuating bar 310, as shown by FIG. 9. Each rib 328 is a
recess or impression formed in actuating bar 310 and extends across
angle portion 326. Ribs 328 increase the strength and stiffness of
angle portion 326, which increases the resistance to deflection
during actuation. The surface area of angle portion 326 is disposed
along a given plane. Ribs 328 divide the surface area of angle 326
with recesses that extend into another plane. The portions of
material extending in a different plane increase the stiffness of
angle 326. This increase in stiffness decreases the likelihood of
improper deflection of actuating arm 324. The absence of improper
deflection thus ensures full axial travel of reservoir poppet 318
and attainment of the open position. Additionally, increasing the
strength of angle 326 prevents any permanent deformation that might
occur due to repeated actuation. This resistance to deflection or
bending helps prevent fatigue of actuating bar 310 and extends the
useful life of the component. Although ribs 328 may be formed by a
curved recess that extends in a plane perpendicular to the surface
of angle 326 as shown in the Figures, ribs 328 may exist in many
different orientations. A sufficient number of ribs 328 may be
provided to angle 326 so as to achieve a predetermined deflection
resistance. For example, two ribs 328 are provided in angle 326, as
shown in FIG. 9.
[0064] As discussed above, when a patient compresses valve assembly
300 to deflate the prosthesis, actuating face 322 flexes or pivots
inwardly about U-shaped portion 332. This causes actuating face 324
to move into engagement with poppet end 266 (FIG. 10B). The
repeated application of force to a particular area of actuation
face 322, may cause permanent deformation. As shown in FIG. 9, a
recess formed in and disposed along actuating face 322 defines a
rib 330. Rib 330 strengthens and stiffens actuating face 322 to
limit deformation. Rib 330 extends into a plane other than the
plane created by the surface of actuating face 322 to increase its
resistance to bending. During patient compression, rib 330
distributes the force applied throughout actuating face 322 rather
than permit the compression force to be concentrated in one area.
Thus, actuating face 322 properly flexes while resisting permanent
deformation. Rib 330 may be shaped to distribute the compression
force in any desired pattern. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, rib
330 may be a spoon-shaped impression centrally formed on actuating
face 322 with a larger oval portion disposed toward U-portion 332
of actuating bar 310. An elongate portion 334 of spoon-shaped rib
330 extends toward angle 326. This shape is preferred since the
compression forces applied to flex actuating face 322 are evenly
distributed over its entire surface.
[0065] The relatively thin composition of actuating bar 310 is
beneficial for several reasons. During actuation, U-portion 332
bends to flex actuating face 322 inwardly and actuating face 322
moves actuating arm 324 into engagement with reservoir poppet 318.
After actuation, U-portion 332, actuating face 322 and actuating
arm 324 return to their original position. With an actuating bar
formed with a thick material, U-portion 332 does not properly bend
during actuation. In operation with a thick actuating bar 310,
U-portion 332 does not bend, and connecting end 338 is pushed into
valve block 317 causing its inner cavities to distort, such that
annular ring 500 (FIG. 10A) of valve block 317 becomes out-of-round
and impedes or stops the movement of poppet 318 in direction A.
Preferably, actuating bar 310 is a thin member made of a material
with sufficient thickness and stiffness to provide the necessary
spring force to avoid improper deflection. For example, actuation
bar 310 may be formed from a stainless steel sheet having a
thickness of approximately 0.0100 inches. Actuation bar 310 may be
made of various metal materials, plastic, or the like.
[0066] Since the engagement of actuating arm 324 to poppet end 266
is applied from essentially one side of reservoir poppet 318, the
applied spring force is not completely along a longitudinal axis of
reservoir poppet 318. The spring force is applied to poppet end 266
in both the axial and transverse/sideways directions. The sideways
force has the unintended consequence of tipping reservoir poppet
318 sideways into valve block 317. In response, valve block 317
deforms to cause reservoir poppet 318 to be misaligned. This
misalignment results in reservoir poppet 318 being restrained from
moving axially into valve block 317 to reach an activated/open
position. As shown in FIGS. 10-11, a stiff poppet support 320 is
provided to prevent the misalignment of reservoir poppet 318.
[0067] As shown in FIG. 11, poppet support 320 is an elongate,
generally L-shaped member comprising a shelf 342 at one end.
Apertures 344 are provided in a portion of support 320 to attach
poppet support 320 to valve block 317. See FIG. 10A. Poppet support
320 wraps around a portion of valve block 317 and rests against a
portion of poppet end 266. Shelf 342 provides a smooth surface for
a segment of reservoir poppet 318 to slide axially along during
reservoir poppet 318 travel between open and closed positions.
During actuation, curved portion 325 of actuating bar 310 applies a
spring force to move reservoir poppet 318 to an open position.
Poppet support 342 prevents sideways movement of reservoir poppet
318 as the poppet is forced into the interior of valve body 317.
Poppet support 320 ensures the proper alignment of reservoir poppet
318 to easily move axially into valve body 317 to the open
position.
[0068] Those skilled in the art will further appreciate that the
present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without
departing from the spirit or central attributes thereof. In that
the foregoing description of the present invention discloses only
exemplary embodiments thereof, it is to be understood that other
variations are contemplated as being within the scope of the
present invention. Accordingly, the present invention is not
limited in the particular embodiments which have been described in
detail therein. Rather, reference should be made to the appended
claims as indicative of the scope and content of the present
invention.
* * * * *