U.S. patent application number 12/843510 was filed with the patent office on 2010-11-18 for manual breast pump.
This patent application is currently assigned to PLAYTEX PRODUCTS, INC.. Invention is credited to Daniel J. Nelsen, Aidan Petrie, Charles J. Renz, David Robson.
Application Number | 20100292636 12/843510 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 36336957 |
Filed Date | 2010-11-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100292636 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Renz; Charles J. ; et
al. |
November 18, 2010 |
MANUAL BREAST PUMP
Abstract
A manually actuated breast pump is provided. The breast pump has
a breast cup, pump mechanism and a container. The components of the
breast pump are easily assembled and disassembled to facilitate
use, cleaning, manufacture and transport. The breast pump can apply
a negative pressure, a positive pressure or both to a user's
breast. The breast pump provides fluid isolation between the
pressure source and the expressed milk.
Inventors: |
Renz; Charles J.;
(Briarcliff Manor, NY) ; Nelsen; Daniel J.;
(Providence, RI) ; Robson; David; (Riverside,
RI) ; Petrie; Aidan; (Jamestown, RI) |
Correspondence
Address: |
OHLANDT, GREELEY, RUGGIERO & PERLE, LLP
ONE LANDMARK SQUARE, 10TH FLOOR
STAMFORD
CT
06901
US
|
Assignee: |
PLAYTEX PRODUCTS, INC.
|
Family ID: |
36336957 |
Appl. No.: |
12/843510 |
Filed: |
July 26, 2010 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10982963 |
Nov 5, 2004 |
7776008 |
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12843510 |
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10637979 |
Aug 8, 2003 |
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10982963 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
604/74 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61M 1/066 20140204;
A61M 2205/071 20130101; A61M 1/0072 20140204; A61M 1/06 20130101;
A61M 1/064 20140204 |
Class at
Publication: |
604/74 |
International
Class: |
A61M 1/06 20060101
A61M001/06 |
Claims
1. A manually operated breast pump, comprising: a flexible insert
for engaging a breast of a user, said flexible insert having a
funnel-type shape; a housing sealingly engaging said flexible
insert; a holder sealingly engaging said housing and said flexible
insert, said holder providing an air volume in fluid isolation from
breast milk passing through said flexible insert; and a pump
mechanism sealingly engaging said holder, said pump mechanism
having a handle and a chamber, said chamber being in fluid
communication with the air volume of said holder, wherein said
handle can move so that an alternating negative pressure and
positive pressure are created on said flexible insert and thereby
on the user's breast.
2. The manual breast pump of claim 1, wherein said handle is a pair
of handles movable with respect to each other to generate said
alternating negative pressure and positive pressure.
3. The manual breast pump of claim 1, wherein said handle is a
first handle, wherein said pump mechanism comprises another second
handle, and wherein said first handle and said second handle are
moved toward one another to create said negative pressure.
4. The manual breast pump of claim 1, wherein said holder has a
holder wall with an aperture therethrough that is surrounded by a
flange protruding from said holder wall, and wherein said flexible
insert has an end with a pair of edges that each engage said flange
to sealingly engage said holder.
5. The manual breast pump of claim 1, wherein said flexible insert
has a planar sealing member connected to said funnel-type shape,
and wherein said planar sealing member is sealingly engageable
between said holder and said housing,
6. The manual breast pump of claim 5, wherein said flexible insert
has an extension protruding from said sealing member to surround an
aperture therethrough, and wherein said holder has a holder wall
with a holder opening therethrough so that said extension extends
through said holder opening and receives said breast milk
therethrough.
7. The manual breast pump of claim 1, wherein said housing and said
holder are a single component,
8. The manual breast pump of claim 7, wherein said housing has a
funnel-type shaped portion that is a complementary to said flexible
insert.
9. The manual breast pump of claim 8, wherein said housing has an
outer end that is larger than an inner end, and a back plate
positioned within said inner end, wherein said back plate has an
inner surface and a back plate flange protruding from said inner
surface, and wherein said inner surface is connected to an inner
dispenser that has a dispenser flange protruding from said inner
surface, and wherein said flexible insert has a first end that is
connectable to said outer end of said housing and a second end
connectable to said inner end of said housing between said
dispenser flange and said back plate.
10. The manual breast pump of claim 1, wherein said housing and
said holder are a single component,
11. The manual breast pump of claim 10, wherein said housing has a
portion that is a funnel-type shape complementary to said flexible
insert with an outer end that is larger than an inner end,
12. The manual breast pump of claim 11, wherein said housing has a
back plate connected to said inner end and a securing notch on an
inner surface of said back plate, wherein said flexible insert has
a first end connectable to said outer end and a second end
connected to a sealing cap, and wherein said sealing cap engages
said securing notch.
13. A manually operated breast pump, comprising: a flexible insert
for engaging a breast of a user, said flexible insert having a
funnel-type shape; a housing sealingly engaging said flexible
insert; a holder sealingly engaging said housing and said flexible
insert, said holder providing an air volume in fluid isolation from
breast milk passing through said flexible insert; and a pump
mechanism sealingly engaging said holder, said pump mechanism
having a handle extending in an upward direction from said holder
and a vacuum chamber, said vacuum chamber being in fluid
communication with the air volume of said holder, said handle
having a grip above a pivot point and a lower end below a pivot
point, wherein said handle moves by exerting a pressure on said
grip to move said grip toward said housing and the breast of the
user to create a negative pressure communicated to said flexible
insert and thereby on the user's breast and said handle moves said
grip away from said housing to create a positive pressure
communicated to said flexible insert and thereby on the user's
breast.
14. The manual breast pump of claim 13, wherein said pump mechanism
has an internal chamber wall that is circumferentially surrounded
by an external chamber wall forming an external chamber, and a
chamber liner connected between said external chamber wall and said
internal chamber wall, wherein said external chamber wall, said
internal chamber wall and said chamber liner are connected to form
said vacuum chamber in fluid communication with said air volume and
in fluid isolation from breast milk passing through said flexible
insert, and wherein when said handle moves by exerting a pressure
on said grip to move said grip toward said housing, a portion of
said external chamber wall opposite said pivot point moves away
from said junction producing a negative pressure in said vacuum
chamber and said air volume that is communicated to said flexible
insert.
15. The manual breast pump of claim 13, wherein said housing has a
pump orifice that allows for sealed attachment of a pump diaphragm
of a pump mechanism covering said pump orifice, and wherein when
said handle moves by exerting a pressure on said grip to move said
grip toward said housing, said handle moves said pump diaphragm
away from said housing to generate said negative pressure in said
inner volume.
16. The manual breast pump of claim 13, wherein said pump mechanism
has a pouch enclosing an interior volume with a neck, wherein said
housing is connected to said neck so that said interior volume of
said pouch is in fluid communication with said air volume and in
fluid isolation from breast milk passing through said flexible
insert, and wherein when said handle moves by exerting a pressure
on said grip to move said grip toward said housing, said lower end
of said handle expands said pouch to generate said negative
pressure in said inner volume.
17. The manual breast pump of claim 13, wherein said housing has a
gripping surface that is on said base below said funnel-type shape
of said flexible insert so that said second gripping surface is
engageable by a user's thumb while exerting pressure on said
handle.
18. A breast pump assembly for pumping of a breast, the assembly
comprising: a funnel having a size and shape that allows for
receiving of the breast; a flexible insert sealingly engageable
with said funnel to define an air volume in fluid isolation from
the breast, wherein said air volume is evacuated thereby causing a
vacuum to be applied to the breast; a holder having a handle for
different holding angles, said holder being connected to said
funnel, said handle having a gripping surface on at least a portion
thereof, said gripping surface being made from a material that
facilitates gripping thereof, said gripping surface being a first
gripping surface on at least a portion of said handle, said holder
having a base in proximity to said container; a container
releasably connected to said holder and being in fluid
communication with said holder and said funnel; and a pressure
source in fluid communication with said funnel for supplying a
vacuum to said funnel for pumping of the breast, said pressure
source being separate from said handle.
19. The assembly of claim 18, wherein said gripping surface has a
plurality of gripping projections extending therefrom, and wherein
said plurality of gripping projections are equi-distantly spaced
apart along said handle.
20. The assembly of claim 18, wherein said holder has a second
gripping surface that is on a diametrically opposite side of said
holder from said handle, and wherein said second gripping surface
is made from said material that facilitates gripping thereof.
21. The assembly of claim 20, wherein said holder has a third
gripping surface that is on said base, and wherein said third
gripping surface is made from said material that facilitates
gripping thereof.
22. The assembly of claim 18, wherein said pressure source is a
manual pump that is connected to the assembly.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of application Ser. No.
10/982,963, filed Nov. 5, 2004, which is a continuation-in-part of
application Ser. No. 10/637,979, filed Aug. 8, 2003. The disclosure
of application Ser. No. 10/982,963, filed Nov. 5, 2004, and
application Ser. No. 10/637,979, filed Aug. 8, 2003, are each
incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Field of the Disclosure
[0003] The present disclosure relates to devices and methods to
obtain breast milk. More particularly, the present disclosure
relates to a device and method for expressing breast milk through
use of a breast cup and manual pump.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] Breast pump systems that use either manual or automatic
means for obtaining breast milk are known in the art. Typically,
these systems use a vacuum source to generate a negative pressure
through a hood or cup that is applied to the breast. Contemporary
automated breast pumps typically use separate breast receiving
portions and pump mechanisms by applying the vacuum pressure
through tubing or conduit connected therebetween.
[0006] Conventional devices suffer from several drawbacks. These
devices often apply only a negative pressure and apply such
negative pressure from the base of the breast cup. This is an
inaccurate and inefficient simulation of the way a suckling baby
feeds. A baby often applies pressure all around the nipple area of
the breast, and from different directions. A baby often applies a
positive massaging pressure as well, which helps stimulate the
release of milk from the milk ducts.
[0007] Some of these devices function by having the user remove the
pump from her breast after each cycle of the vacuum device to
expose the breast cup to ambient air pressure. This is done because
such devices need the pressure inside the breast cup to be reset
before it can apply an effective negative pressure through
suction.
[0008] Many contemporary devices also do not separate the air in
the vacuum system from the air in the breast cup. This potentially
would allow the milk to enter the pump mechanism, causing damage to
the system and unwanted cleanup.
[0009] The contemporary manual pump systems have pump handles that
are not ergonomically designed to fit a woman's hand. The handles
slope away from the breast cup and require the woman to extend her
hand in an uncomfortable manner. Over repeated cycles of pumping,
such designs can result in prolonged pain to the user's hand.
Contemporary manual pumps often require that the pump mechanism be
connected to the breast cup, which may be uncomfortable and
tiresome for the user. Contemporary manual breast pump systems
further fail to facilitate cleaning of the devices through use of
easily separable components.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0010] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a breast
pump for applying a positive massaging pressure to the breast, as
well as the negative vacuum pressure to express breast milk.
[0011] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide the
breast pump with a barrier or isolation member that separates the
breast from the vacuum system, thereby reducing or eliminating the
risk of contamination of the breast milk.
[0012] A further object of the present disclosure is to provide the
user of the breast pump with handles that increase comfort when
using the breast pump.
[0013] A still further object of the present disclosure is to
provide an inverted manual pump handle that is better suited to the
characteristics of a female user's hand.
[0014] A still yet further object of the present disclosure is to
provide a breast pump with ergonomic pump handles that are
connectable to the breast cup or by manual pump handles that can be
used remotely from the cup and that create a vacuum in the cup
through tubing attached to the cup.
[0015] These and other objects and advantages of the present
disclosure are achieved by a breast pump that has a breast cup, a
pump mechanism and a container. The breast cup directly contacts
the breast. The pump mechanism utilizes one of several manually
actuated processes to apply positive and/or negative pressure to
the breast through the breast cup. The container is a depository
for the expressed milk.
[0016] The breast cup has a housing, a flexible insert sealingly
secured to the housing to form a vacuum air volume (air volume), an
air and liquid volume that are in contact with the user's breast
(liquid volume), and an air orifice in fluid communication with the
air volume and in fluid isolation from the liquid volume. The air
volume and liquid volume are in fluid isolation, and the air volume
contracts or expands as negative or positive pressure is applied.
The housing can have an air orifice that is in fluid communication
with the air volume and in fluid isolation from the liquid
volume.
[0017] The insert is secured to the housing so that there exists an
air volume between the insert and the housing. The flexible insert
thus isolates the fluid volume from the air volume.
[0018] The flexible insert can have a bladder and the air volume
can be at least partially in the bladder. The bladder moves in
response to a change in pressure in the air volume. The flexible
insert can also have a second portion with a circumferential wall
and two or more spacers formed in the circumferential wall with the
circumferential wall being separated from the housing by the
spacers. The circumferential wall and the spacers at least
partially define the air volume, and the circumferential wall is
moved in relation to the housing by the change in pressure in the
air volume.
[0019] The breast cup can also have a barrier member disposed
substantially adjacent to the bladder with the barrier member
preventing the breast from contacting the bladder. The barrier
member can have a cylindrical shape and is in the liquid
volume.
[0020] The flexible insert can have a funnel shape with a first
portion that at least partially defines the air volume and a
massaging projection formed on the first portion. The massaging
projection can be along the first portion in proximity to the
areola region of the breast. The massaging projection can have a
star-like shape.
[0021] The housing can have a first end and a second end. The
insert can have a third end and a fourth end. The first end can be
removably secured to the second end by a first securing structure,
and the third end can be removably secured to the fourth end by a
second securing structure. The first securing structure and the
second securing structure can be tongue and groove securing
structures. The air volume can have a maximum capacity for
expansion, and the maximum capacity for expansion can be an upper
limit for the positive pressure.
[0022] The housing, the insert and the holder can be securable to
each other at any rotational orientation. The holder can be secured
to the housing by a snap fit connection. The expressed milk passes
through the fluid volume in the flexible insert, through a one-way
valve that is connected to the holder, and into the container. The
container can be a first container having a first diameter and a
second container having a second diameter. The holder can have a
first securing structure and a second securing structure, with the
first securing structure being removably securable to the first
container and the second securing structure being removably
securable to the second container. The first securing structure can
be a first threaded surface having a first inner diameter and the
second securing structure can be a second threaded surface having a
second inner diameter. The first threaded surface and the second
threaded can be concentrically disposed on the holder.
[0023] The present disclosure also has a breast cup that reduces
the number of components to two, namely a flexible insert and a
holder. In these embodiments, the user places the insert into the
upper opening of the holder and seals it to the base of the holder.
The separate air and fluid volumes are maintained by sealing the
upper part of the insert around the upper edges of the holder and
by securing the base of the insert to a structure on the holder.
This embodiment also includes variations in which the user is
required to secure the insert in the holder by pulling it into the
base of the holder with a device located behind the base, or where
the insert is press-fitted into a securing structure in the base.
This variation also maintains the separate air and liquid
volumes.
[0024] The pump mechanism is connected to the holder so that the
air volume that is isolated between the flexible insert, and the
holder is in fluid communication with a chamber where positive and
negative pressures are created by the pump mechanism. The pressure
chamber can be located externally adjacent to the container. The
preferred embodiment of the pump mechanism is a diaphragm that is
connected to a handle that the user manipulates to expand or
contract the diaphragm, to create positive or negative pressure in
the chamber and, consequently, the air volume and flexible insert.
However, the present disclosure also includes any method in which
air in a chamber is moved with a manual device to create positive
or negative pressure on the isolated air volume located between the
flexible insert and the holder.
[0025] The handle to be manipulated by the user extends upward from
the chamber, providing an easy way for the user to grip the handle.
The handle is pulled toward the breast cup and released to create
negative and positive pressure in the chamber. The body of the
handle can be made of a stiff plastic to provide support, and the
grip can be made from a softer plastic for an easier grip.
[0026] The pump mechanism can also be removed from the container
and holder, for purposes of cleaning or maintenance. In this
variation, the pump mechanism would have a way for the chamber to
be sealed again when the mechanism is reattached.
[0027] The present disclosure also includes a pump mechanism that
can either be used while connected to the holder or removed and
used remotely. Under this variation, the pump mechanism is again
connected to the holder in a way so that the chamber in which
negative and positive pressure is created is in fluid communication
with the air volume located between the flexible insert and the
holder. The embodiment of this detachable handle can be a squeeze
pump or any device that moves air to create pressure, such as a
bellows, a piston or diaphragm. When the detachable pump is removed
from the holder, a hose connects the pump to the holder to create
pressure in the air volume.
[0028] The present disclosure also includes a breast pump assembly
for pumping of a breast that has a funnel, a holder, a container
and a pressure source. The funnel has a size and shape that allows
for receiving of the breast. The holder has a handle and is
connected to the funnel. The handle has a gripping surface on at
least a portion thereof. The gripping surface is made from a
material that facilitates gripping of the handle and breast pump
assembly. The container is releasably connected to the holder and
is in fluid communication with the holder and the funnel. The
pressure source is in fluid communication with the funnel for
supplying a vacuum to the funnel for pumping of the breast.
[0029] The pressure source can be an automatic pump or can be a
manual pump. The gripping surface can have a plurality of gripping
projections extending therefrom. The plurality of gripping
projections can be equi-distantly spaced apart along the handle.
The holder can have a second gripping surface that is on a
diametrically opposite side of the holder from the handle, that is
made from a material that facilitates gripping thereof. The
automatic pump can be remotely positionable from the funnel. The
handle may have a wave-like shape. The housing may have a third
gripping surface that is on a base of the housing that is made from
a material that facilitates gripping thereof. The assembly can also
have a flexible insert that is sealingly engageable with the funnel
to define a an air volume that is in fluid isolation from the
breast, where the air volume is evacuated thereby causing a vacuum
to be applied to the breast.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0030] Other and further objectives, advantages and features of the
present disclosure will be understood by reference to the
following:
[0031] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the Manual Breast Pump
assembly;
[0032] FIG. 2 is a side view of the assembly of FIG. 1;
[0033] FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the assembly of FIG. 1;
[0034] FIGS. 4 and 5 are cross-sectional views of the assembly of
FIG. 1;
[0035] FIGS. 6 through 8 are an alternative embodiment of the
Manual Breast Pump assembly;
[0036] FIGS. 9 and 10 are exploded cross-sectional views of the
assembly of FIG. 6;
[0037] FIGS. 11 and 12 are exploded cross-sectional views of
another alternative embodiment for the manual breast pump
assembly;
[0038] FIGS. 13 and 14 are exploded cross-sectional views of
another alternative embodiment for the manual breast pump
assembly;
[0039] FIGS. 15 through 17 are views of an alternative embodiment
for the breast pump assembly;
[0040] FIGS. 18 through 22 are views of alternative embodiments for
the breast pump assembly;
[0041] FIGS. 23 through 26 are views of an alternative embodiment
of the breast pump assembly having a selectively detachable squeeze
pump mechanism;
[0042] FIG. 27 is a plan view of another alternative embodiment of
a breast cup of the present disclosure having gripping material on
the handle; and
[0043] FIG. 28 is a plan view of another alternative embodiment of
a breast cup of the present disclosure having gripping material on
the handle.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0044] Referring to the drawings and in particular FIGS. 1 through
3, there is shown a preferred embodiment of a breast pump generally
referred to by reference number 200. The breast pump 200 has a pump
mechanism 300, a breast cup 400 and container 900.
[0045] Breast cup 400 has a housing 500, a flexible insert 600, a
holder 700 and a one way valve 800 (shown in FIG. 3). Referring to
FIG. 3, pump mechanism 300 has a handle 320, an actuator 340, a
chamber diaphragm 360, and a holder attachment or diaphragm housing
380.
[0046] Referring to FIGS. 1 through 4, housing 500 is preferably a
rigid or substantially rigid structure formed by a circumferential
wall 505 defining a housing volume 510. Circumferential wall 505
preferably has a funnel shape with a generally hour-glass-shaped
cross-section. Housing 500 has an outer section 520, a middle
section 550 and an inner section 580. In this embodiment, outer
section 520 generally has a diameter that is larger than the
diameters of middle section 550 or inner section 580.
Circumferential wall 505 of outer section 520 has a radius of
curvature that is smaller than the radius of curvature of the
circumferential wall at middle section 550 or inner section 580.
Alternative shapes can also be used for breast cup 400 and housing
500. However, the shape of this embodiment provides for a wide or
enlarged outer section 520 that facilitates engagement of breast
cup 400 with a user's breast.
[0047] Outer section 520 has an outer end 525 that is adapted for
engagement with insert 600. Outer end 525 preferably has a
generally uniform cross-section and uses a tongue and groove
connection to engage with insert 600. This type of engagement
between outer end 525 and insert 600 allows a user to engage the
outer end with the insert at any orientation or alignment to
facilitate assembly. However, alternative securing structures can
also be used, such as, for example, a projection or number of
projections formed on outer end 525 that engage with corresponding
grooves or orifices formed in insert 600.
[0048] Although not shown in the view of FIG. 4, middle section 550
of housing 500 can have an air orifice 560 formed through
circumferential wall 505, as shown in FIGS. 1 through 3. Air
orifice 560 allows for alternative use of the breast pump 200 with
a remote pump mechanism, whether manual or automated, as will be
discussed later in greater detail. Air orifice 560 can also have a
flow control mechanism (not shown) that allows the user to choose
between the remote pump mechanism and the pump mechanism 300.
[0049] Preferably, air orifice 560 is a projection extending
outwardly from circumferential wall 505 and has a central opening
formed therethrough. The central opening provides for fluid
communication through air orifice 560 into inner volume 510.
Preferably, air orifice 560 has a cylindrical shape and is
substantially perpendicular to circumferential wall 505. More
preferably, air orifice 560 has a height and diameter that allows
for a friction fit with air tubing or conduit (not shown). Air
orifice 560 can also have a securing structure connected thereto
(not shown), such as, for example, a retaining ring or have a
shape, such as, for example, inwardly tapered, to facilitate
securing of air tubing or conduit with the air orifice.
[0050] Inner section 580 of housing 500 has two retaining walls,
outer wall 581 and inner wall 582, thereby forming annular chamber
583. Preferably, outer and inner walls 581 and 582 are
concentrically aligned. Outer retaining wall 581 forms a seal with
holder 700 through sealer or sealing member 584. The embodiment of
FIG. 4 shows this sealer 584 as a continuous sealing ring, which
allows the user to insert the housing 500 at any orientation to
holder 700. However, other mechanisms in which the inner section
580, and specifically outer wall 581, are sealed to holder 700 may
be used, such as, for example, corresponding tongue and groove
seals on inner section 580, more precisely outer wall 581, and
holder 700. Inner wall 582 has an opening 585 that allows annular
chamber 583 to be in fluid communication with housing volume 510.
This opening can be a single opening, or a series of openings along
the circumference of inner wall 582.
[0051] Inner wall 582 of inner section 580 is also adapted for
engagement with insert 600. With the exception of opening 585 or
any other mechanism used to allow fluid communication between
annular chamber 584 and housing volume 510, inner wall 582
preferably has a generally uniform cross-section and can use any
mechanism for engaging with insert 600, such as a tongue and
groove. This type of engagement between inner wall 582 and insert
600 allows a user to engage the inner end with the insert at any
orientation or alignment to facilitate assembly. However,
alternative securing structures can also be used, such as, for
example, a projection or number of projections formed on inner wall
582 that engage with corresponding grooves or orifices formed in
insert 600.
[0052] Insert 600 has a size and shape that allows for assembly of
the insert to the housing 500 with sealing engagement of outer end
525 and inner wall 582 of the housing with the insert. Insert 600
has an outer portion 620 and an inner portion 650. Outer portion
620 has a substantially conical shape with a first side wall 622
defining an outer volume 625. Outer portion 620 has a first end 630
having an inner surface 631, and a second end 635. First sidewall
622 converges or tapers towards inner portion 650.
[0053] Inner portion 650 has a substantially cylindrical shape with
a second side wall 652 defining an inner volume 655. Inner portion
650 has a third end 660 and a fourth end 665. Outer portion 620 is
preferably integrally formed with inner portion 650 so that second
end 635 of the outer portion is in inner volume 655 and a
circumferential gap or space 670 is provided between the second end
of the outer portion and third end 660 of the inner portion.
[0054] First end 630 of outer portion 620 has an outer fastener 632
and a massaging member 634. In this embodiment, outer fastener 632
is a groove in first end 630 with a size and shape that corresponds
to outer end 525 of housing 500 for a tongue and groove connection
between the housing and insert 600. Preferably, first end 630 of
insert 600 is curled over to form the groove for the tongue and
groove connection. This connection provides for sealing engagement
between housing 500 and insert 600 at first end 630 of the insert
and allows for connection of the housing and the insert at any
orientation or alignment.
[0055] Massaging member 634 is a projection or other change in the
shape of insert 600 in the area of outer portion 620, which makes
contact with or is in proximity to the user's areola region.
Massaging member 634 provides the user with a massaging action on
the areola region, which facilitates expression of breast milk. In
this embodiment, massaging member 634 is a continuous ridge having
a star-like or wave-like shape. Preferably, massaging member 634 is
integrally formed with insert 600 along inner surface 631 of first
end 630.
[0056] Alternative shapes and sizes of massaging member 634 can
also be used. Additionally, massaging member 634 can be a number of
ridges, either continuous or portioned, and can also be
concentrically or eccentrically aligned. The positioning of
massaging member 634 along inner surface 631 depends on the size
and shape of the massaging member that is used. Massaging member
630 is preferably disposed along inner surface 631 so that the
massaging member traverses the areola region of the user's breast
when breast cup 400 is in use. In the preferred embodiment, the
star-like or wave-like shape of massaging member 634 provides more
contact area between the massaging member and areola region as
opposed to a circular shape.
[0057] Inner portion 650 has a number of folds or spacers 675 (as
shown in FIG. 3) formed in second sidewall 652. Preferably, there
are four spacers 675. spacers 675 have an upper end that are
adjacent to or in proximity with circumferential wall 505 of inner
section 580 of housing 500. Spacers 675 and second sidewall 652
form a number of bladders having bladder volumes. Preferably, there
are four bladders. Spacers 675 are preferably substantially
perpendicular to circumferential wall 505 of housing 500 and are
barriers between the housing and insert 600 to provide additional
structural integrity to inner portion 650 so that the bladder
volumes do not fully collapse upon the housing.
[0058] As a result of the use of these bladders, it has been found
that a lower level of suction is required for expressing breast
milk. This is an improvement over conventional breast cups that do
not have bladders because in such conventional breast cups some of
the suction force is used in stretching the flexible insert
material. An additional advantage of the use of the bladder design
is that bladders prevent softer breasts from being sucked a
substantial distance through outer and inner volumes 625, 655,
which could impinge the pressurization of breast cup 400. Bladders
provide a barrier for softer breasts against impingement. While
this embodiment uses folds or pleats 675 in second side wall 652 as
a barrier between the second side wall and housing 500, alternative
barriers can also be used, such as, for example, projections or
solid walls extending from the second side wall to the housing.
[0059] Although not specifically shown in this embodiment, the end
of fourth end 665 can have a fastening mechanism to correspond to
whatever mechanism is used on inner wall 582 to provide a seal
between insert 600 and housing 500.
[0060] Insert 600 is made of a flexible material that is safe for
contact with the breast milk. Such a flexible material is silicone.
However, alternative flexible materials may also be used for
flexible insert 600. When insert 600 is assembled to housing 500,
the insert sealingly engages with the housing along outer end 525
and inner wall 582 of the housing so that volume 510, which is
disposed between the insert and the housing, is in fluid
communication with annular volume 583 and air orifice 560.
[0061] While the preferred embodiment in this disclosure is to use
the pump mechanism 900 to apply the negative and positive pressures
to the breast cup 400 through annular volume 583, the pressures can
also be applied through the use of a breast pump connected to air
orifice 560. A breast pump (not shown) can be placed in fluid
communication with breast cup 400 via air tubing or conduit that is
connected to air orifice 560. The breast pump can supply both a
positive and negative pressure to breast cup 400. While this
embodiment of breast cup 400 can apply both a positive pressure and
a negative pressure to a user's breast, alternatively, only a
negative pressure or only a positive pressure may also be applied
to the user's breast with use of the breast cup. Additionally,
either an automatic or a manual breast pump can be connected to
breast cup 400 via the air tubing to supply a positive pressure, a
negative pressure or both.
[0062] The expandable and contractible volume disposed between
insert 600 and housing 500 provides an upper limit to the amount of
negative pressure that can be applied to a user's breast. The
sealing engagement of insert 600 and housing 500 provides a barrier
between the user's breast and the vacuum source to prevent any
breast milk from entering the air tubing, breast pump or the pump
mechanism 300.
[0063] Referring to FIG. 5, holder 700 has a back plate 720, a
support rod 750 and a base 780. Back plate 720 has a circular shape
with an inner surface 725, an outer surface 730 and a flange
740.
[0064] Inner surface 725 of back plate 720 has a barrier member 735
extending therefrom. Barrier member 735 has a distal end 737.
Preferably, barrier member 735 has a substantially cylindrical
shape and is substantially perpendicular to back plate 720. When
housing 500 and insert 600 are assembled to holder 700, distal end
737 of barrier member 735 is in circumferential space 670 between
outer portion 620 and inner portion 650 of the insert. Barrier
member 735 is substantially adjacent to the bladders and inner
volume 655 of insert 600. Barrier member 735 is a rigid barrier
between inner volume 655 and the bladders to prevent the breast
from making contact with and impinging the bladders, which would
reduce the amount of their inflation and deflation and thus reduce
the reciprocating pressure applied to the breast. Barrier member
735 especially provides a rigid barrier for softer breasts against
such impingement, which are more likely to extend beyond outer
volume 625 of insert 600 into inner volume 655.
[0065] Referring to FIGS. 3, 4, and 5, flange 740 is a circular
wall that surrounds inner surface 725 and extends towards housing
500. Flange 740 has a diameter larger than the diameter of inner
section 580 of housing 500 so that the inner section, and more
particularly outer wall 581, can be within the flange and
substantially abut against inner surface 725. The diagrammed
embodiment shows a fit between flange 740 and outer wall 581 that
does not require any mechanical sealing mechanism. The diameters of
outer wall 581 and holder 700 at flange 740 are close enough so
that a secure and tight fit can be achieved merely by pressing them
together. However, there may also be mechanical structures or
methods for securing the housing 500 to the holder 700 that would
be located at flange tip 745. One such example, and not limited
thereto, can be a snap fit engagement that uses detents to secure
the housing in place, with matching mechanisms for such fastening
located on the housing. In one embodiment of a snap fit engagement,
there would be three detents located throughout the flange 740 and
the user would be able to secure the housing to the holder in any
orientation or alignment.
[0066] Support rod 750 connects back plate 720 to base 780.
Preferably, support rod 750 is secured to back plate 720 so that
the back plate is angled slightly from the vertical, i.e., back
plate 720 leans backwards. Support rod 750 has a supply channel 760
formed therein. Supply channel 760 has an upper end 765 and a lower
end 770. Upper end 765 is connected to back plate 720 and is
connected to tubular member 735. Lower end 770 is connected to base
780 and is in fluid communication with the base.
[0067] Base 780 has a concave disk-like shape with an inner
securing member 785 and an outer securing member 790. Inner
securing member 785 is a first set of threads and outer securing
member 790 is a second set of threads. The dual thread arrangement
of securing members 785 and 790 allows a user to connect base 780
to either standard reusable bottles or disposable liner holders
which have differing diameters.
[0068] Valve 800 is a one-way valve that is sealingly engaged to
lower end 770 of supply channel 760. One-way valve 800 allows the
breast milk to flow into a container 900 that is secured to base
780 of holder 700, but prevents the negative pressure from sucking
the milk out of the bottle. Preferably, valve 800 is a duckbill
valve. However, alternative one-way valves can also be used.
[0069] In operation, the expansion and contraction of insert 600 as
described above, causes breast milk to be expressed from the user's
breast. The breast milk flows through inner volume 655 of inner
portion 650 of insert 600 and through tubular member 735 of holder
700. The breast milk then flows through supply channel 760, through
one-way valve 800, and into a container 900, which has been secured
to base 780 of holder 700.
[0070] Referring to FIGS. 3, 4, and 5, pump mechanism 300 is
generally located so as not to impede the user's view of the breast
cup 400 while in use. Holder attachment 380 connects with holder
700 at holder inlet valve 795. Holder attachment 380 has an inner
surface 385 with a shape that conforms to the shape of holder base
780. Holder attachment 380 connects with holder inlet valve 795 so
that a seal is formed at junction 387 therebetween.
[0071] In the embodiment of FIGS. 1 through 5, holder 700 and
holder attachment 380 are shaped so that a tight fit is formed at
junction 387 without the aid of any fastening mechanism. However,
any securing device, such as a tongue and groove or snap fit
system, located on holder 700, holder inlet valve 795, holder
attachment 380, inner surface 385 or any other position that
facilitates the formation of the seal at junction 387, may be used.
Also, while the preferred embodiment rigidly connects the holder
attachment 387 and the holder 700, the present disclosure
contemplates semi-rigid and flexible connections between the holder
and holder attachment to facilitate assembly and the pumping
process.
[0072] Holder attachment 380 defines an inner volume 383. By
securing a seal at junction 387, inner volume 383 is in fluid
communication with inner holder volume 755. Inner holder volume 755
is in fluid communication with annular volume 583 (shown in FIG.
4). Inner volume 383, inner holder volume 755, and annular volume
583, therefore, are all in fluid communication with each other and
in fluid isolation from the fluid volume that passes from the
user's breast through breast cup 400 and flexible insert 600.
[0073] Holder attachment 380 also has outer surface 389, which
generally conforms to the shape of holder base 780. Holder
attachment 380 has attachment extension 390, which can be circular,
that can engage with handle 320, actuator 340 and chamber diaphragm
360. Attachment extension 390 engages with chamber diaphragm 360 at
extension edge 392. Chamber diaphragm 360 has u-shaped edge 366 and
thick wall 367. U-shaped edge 366 sealingly engages extension edge
392 to form a circular tongue and groove connection. The extra
thickness of the chamber diaphragm 360 at thick wall 367 ensures
that there will be a tight enough fit with extension edge 392 so
that chamber diaphragm 360 remains secure even when the pressure
from the pump mechanism 300 is activated. Although the preferred
embodiment shows a fastening method using a circular tongue and
groove connection and an extra wall thickness to ensure a very
tight fit, other fastening structures, methods or mechanisms such
as, for example, a friction fit, may be used.
[0074] Chamber diaphragm 360 also has a casing wall 365 that
defines pump volume 350. Casing wall 365 extends toward container
900, and then bends to accommodate a tight fit with actuator 340.
Casing wall 365 bends to form a u-shaped edge 368 that bends around
edge 341 of flat end or disc portion 344 of actuator 340. The
casing wall 365 then extends upward so that casing tongue 369
sealingly engages an actuator groove 342 formed circumferentially
in main actuator shaft 343. Although the embodiment of FIGS. 1
through 4a shows a tongue and groove fastening system between the
actuator 340 and the chamber diaphragm 360, any fastening mechanism
can be used.
[0075] The seal between actuator 340, chamber diaphragm 360 and
holder attachment 380 defines an internal casing volume 370.
Internal casing volume 370 is in fluid communication with inner
volume 383.
[0076] The negative and positive pressures exerted on the breast
cup are controlled by the user through manipulation of handle 320.
Handle 320 has a grip point 325, a lower section 330, and an end
point 335. Grip 325 is preferably made of a soft co-molded
material, though other materials may be used. Lower section 330 has
an inner, convex surface 332 that along with casing wall 365 and
actuator 340 defines pump volume 350. Handle 320 is connected to
holder attachment 380 by pivot tab 375 (shown in FIG. 3), at pivot
point 331. Any fastener can be used to connect handle 320 to pivot
tab 375 at pivot point 331. The user exerts a pressure on handle
320 at or near grip point 325, pulling it toward the breast cup
400. The preferred amount of rotation of the handle about the pivot
point 331 is between about 10 and about 30 degrees, which ensures
maximum comfort to the user. Grip 325 is shown in the preferred
embodiment as having a concave shape to facilitate the ease of
gripping, but other shapes or surface textures can also be
used.
[0077] Handle 320 is connected to actuator 340 by a handle
securement attachment 333 that snap fits to actuator end 345.
Handle securement attachment 333 extends substantially
perpendicular to inner surface 332 of handle 320. Actuator end 345
is wider circumferentially than main actuator shaft 343 to ensure
that the fit of end 345 into securement attachment 333 is secure.
Actuator end 345 preferably has a spherical or rounded shape to
allow for some pivoting of securement attachment 333 with respect
to actuator main shaft 343 as the handle 320 pivots about pivot
point 331 as will be described below in greater detail.
[0078] When the user exerts a pressure by pulling grip 325 of
handle 320 toward the breast cup 400, lower end 330 exerts a
pulling pressure on actuator 340 at end 345. The flat end 344 of
actuator 340 moves in the direction away from container 900. A
negative pressure is thereby exerted on internal casing volume 370
as a result of the movement of chamber diaphragm 360. Because
volume 370 is in fluid communication with inner volume 383, and
therefore inner holder volume 755, annular volume 583 and housing
volume 510, the movement of actuator 340 and chamber diaphragm 360
in this manner exerts a negative pressure on flexible insert 600
and thereby causes the expression of breast milk. Sealing ring 850
ensures that there is no pressure loss in container 900 and that
there is no fluid communication between the air in the container
and the ambient air in the pump mechanism 300. Sealing ring 850
connects to holder base 780 at a point below inner holder volume
755.
[0079] After exerting the pulling force on grip 325, when the user
releases the grip, a positive pressure can also be created when
actuator 340 and chamber diaphragm 360, return to their unbiased
position. The positive pressure can be provided to the breast cup
400 by way of the same change of volumes as described above. Handle
320 can also have a biasing member (not shown), as well as a
controllable level of biasing force for the biasing member. This
biasing member facilitates cyclical movement of the handle, and can
further be used for providing both the positive and negative
pressure at breast cup 400.
[0080] One of the advantages of manual breast pump 200 is the
simplicity of assembly and cleaning. Breast cup 400 has only four
components, i.e., housing 500, insert 600, holder 700 and valve
800. These components can be readily snap fit together. Also, these
components can be secured to each other under any orientation or
alignment. Thus, a user does not have to spend time obtaining the
correct alignment of the components prior to assembly. Further, the
breast milk and airflow are sealingly separated by insert 600.
Thus, breast milk cannot enter the pump mechanism 300 or enter the
air tubing (for the alternative pumping method described
above).
[0081] Another advantage of manual breast pump 200 (and other
alternate embodiments of the present disclosure that use the manual
pump) is the design of handle 320 of pump mechanism 300, namely
that the handle extends upwards from the pump. This ensures better
comfort and ergonomics for the average female user, since the pinky
finger of the user's hand does not have to travel as far as it does
in currently available models.
[0082] Also, holder 700 separates very easily from container 900
through the use of a simple threaded system. Pump mechanism 300 can
also be easily detached from holder 700 at holder inlet valve 795.
This allows for the easy cleaning of all surfaces of the holder
700, and for the easy reattachment of pump mechanism 300. Thus, the
entire pump 200 is designed for easy assembly, disassembly,
reassembly, and cleaning.
[0083] Referring to FIGS. 6 through 22, several alternative
embodiments of a manual breast pump are shown. In FIGS. 6 through
10, manual breast pump 1200, pump mechanism 1300, breast cup 1400
and container 1900 are shown. The user inserts flexible insert 1600
into a housing 1500 of the breast cup 1400. Flexible insert 1600
has upper end 1610 that engages the user's breast. The preferred
embodiment shows the flexible material of insert 1600 to be
silicone, though other flexible materials are contemplated by the
present disclosure. Additionally, the preferred embodiment shows
housing 1500 and container 1900 to be made of polycarbonate, but
other rigid materials are contemplated by the present disclosure.
Through the pump mechanism that will be described later, breast
milk is expressed into flexible insert 1600 through upper insert
volume 1615. Upper insert volume 1615 is in fluid communication
with lower insert volume 1650. The expressed milk passes through
volumes 1615 and 1650 into container 1900 through one-way valve
1800. Valve 1800 performs in the same manner as valve 800 of manual
breast pump 200. The preferred embodiment shows one-way valve 1800
to be made of silicone, but other materials are contemplated by the
present disclosure.
[0084] Outer fastener 1625 of flexible insert 1600 connects to
outer end 1525 of housing 1500. Much like the embodiment of breast
cup 400 shown in FIGS. 1 through 4a, outer end 1525 preferably has
a generally uniform cross-section and uses a tongue and groove
connection to engage with outer fastener 1625. This type of
engagement between outer end 1525 and outer fastener 1625 allows a
user to engage the outer end with the outer fastener at any
orientation or alignment to facilitate assembly. However,
alternative securing structures can also be used, such as, for
example, a projection or number of projections formed on outer end
1525 that engage with corresponding grooves or orifices formed in
outer fastener 1625 of insert 1600.
[0085] Flexible insert 1600 has lower end 1675 that sealingly
engages with holder 1700. In the preferred embodiment, holder 1700
is made of polycarbonate, but other rigid materials are
contemplated by the present disclosure. Lower end 1675 has outer
edge 1680 and inner edge 1690, which connect to holder 1700 at
inner fastener 1785. Outer edge 1680 and inner edge 1690 sealingly
engage with holder 1700 on either side of inner fastener 1785.
Although the embodiment shown has a simple friction fit, any
sealing mechanism may be used, such a tongue and groove or snap
fit.
[0086] Housing 1500 has lower end 1575 that also sealingly engages
with holder 1700. Lower end 1575 has lower fastening end 1595.
Lower fastening end 1595 sealingly engages with holder 1700 at
holder fastening notch 1795. The type of engagement shown between
lower fastening end 1595 and holder fastening notch 1795, which is
a snap fit mechanism, allows a user to engage the fastening end
with the fastening notch at any orientation or alignment to
facilitate assembly. However, alternative structures, methods or
means for securing the two may be used. Inner housing volume 1550
is thus formed between flexible insert 1600, housing 1500, and
holder 1700. Inner housing volume is in fluid isolation from upper
insert volume 1615 and lower insert volume 1650.
[0087] Housing 1500 also has grip 1576. The user places her thumb
in or along grip 1576 while exerting pressure on pump mechanism
1300 as described below. This allows for easier and more
comfortable use of the breast pump. All alternate embodiments of
manual breast pump 200 have a similar feature to grip 1576 at the
base of the holder that allows for a more conformable use of the
breast pump.
[0088] Lower end 1575 also has outer edge 1580. Housing 1500
sealingly engages pump mechanism 1300 between outer edge 1580 and
lower fasten end 1595. Although a friction fit is used in this
embodiment, alternative connection structures or methods can also
be used so that pump mechanism 1300 is sealingly engaged to housing
1500. The sealing engagement described above allows external
housing volume 1560 to be formed. External housing volume 1560 is
in fluid communication with inner housing volume 1550 through inner
housing opening 1555. Thus, any fluid that passes through flexible
insert 1600 is in fluid isolation from the air, or other pressure
medium in pump mechanism 1300. Inner housing opening 1555 can be
either a single hole or a series of holes throughout lower fasten
end 1595.
[0089] Pump mechanism 1300 has internal chamber volume 1325, which
is in fluid communication with external housing volume 1560.
Internal chamber volume 1325 is defined in part by an internal
chamber wall 1330, which is circumferentially surrounded by an
external chamber 1335. An external chamber liner 1345 sealingly
engages with internal chamber wall 1330 at junction 1340. The
preferred embodiment shows the flexible material of external
chamber liner 1345 to be silicone, though other flexible materials
are contemplated by the present disclosure. Internal chamber volume
1325 and external chamber 1335 are thus in fluid isolation. The
present disclosure has a tongue and groove connection between the
chamber liner 1345 and the chamber wall 1330 at junction 1340,
although other structures, methods or means are contemplated for
securing the chamber liner to the chamber wall.
[0090] The chamber liner 1345 is made from a flexible material that
retains a seal at junction 1340. Such a flexible material includes,
but is not limited to, rubber or silicone. Preferably, the material
is silicone.
[0091] External chamber liner 1345 has an outer end 1350. The pump
mechanism 1300 has a handle 1375 and a lower end 1360. In the
preferred embodiment, handle 1375 is made of ABS plastic, but other
rigid materials are contemplated by the present disclosure. Outer
end 1350 of chamber liner 1345 sealingly engages with lower end
1360 of pump handle 1375. The embodiment shown uses a tongue and
groove connection, but other structures, methods or means of
securing external chamber liner 1345 to pump handle 1375 may be
used so that a seal is formed.
[0092] The pump handle 1375 has an upper end 1380. Although in this
embodiment upper end 1380 has an upper concave shape transitioning
into a lower convex shape in the direction away from housing 1500,
other shapes of the handle may also be used.
[0093] The user exerts pressure on upper end 1380 by pulling it
toward the breast cup 1400. This movement causes the lower end 1360
of the handle 1375 to move away from junction 1340, thereby
producing a negative pressure in internal chamber volume 1325.
Since external chamber liner 1345 is sealingly engaged to pump
handle 1375, there is no pressure loss from internal chamber volume
1325. Further, because internal chamber volume 1325 is in fluid
communication with external housing volume 1560, inner housing
opening 1555, and inner housing volume 1550, a negative pressure is
communicated to, and exerted on, flexible insert 1600, thereby
exerting the negative pressure on the user's breast, and causing
the expression of breast milk. Additionally, as will be described
later in greater detail, the negative pressure is developed
surrounding the areola region to facilitate expression of breast
milk, as compared to contemporary breast pumps that create a
negative pressure, and, thus, a negative force, downstream of the
areola region resulting in an uncomfortable and inefficient
longitudinal pulling force.
[0094] When the user releases pump handle 1375, a positive,
massaging pressure can also be exerted on the breast through the
return movement of air in the above-described volumes and openings.
As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, all of pump mechanism 1300 can be
removed from manual breast pump 1200. Also, housing 1500, flexible
insert 1600, holder 1700 and container 1900 can be removed from
manual breast pump 1200. This allows for easy cleaning of all
components. The mechanism for connecting container 1900 to holder
1700 is the same as that previously described for container 900 and
holder 700, respectively, although the present disclosure
contemplates other structures, methods or means for connection.
Holder 1700 also has an inner securing member similar to inner
securing member 785 of holder 700, as shown in FIG. 5.
[0095] FIGS. 11 and 12 show another embodiment of a manual breast
pump generally referred to by reference numeral 2200. Manual breast
pump 2200 has a pump mechanism 2300, a housing 2500, a flexible
insert 2600, a holder 2700, a one-way valve 2800 and a container
2900. The preferred embodiment shows the flexible material of
insert 2600 to be silicone, though other flexible materials are
contemplated by the present disclosure. Housing 2500, holder 2700,
and container 2900 are made of a rigid material. Such a material
includes, but is not limited to, polycarbonate. Preferably, the
material is polycarbonate. One-way valve 2800 is made of a flexible
material. Such a material includes, but is not limited to,
silicone. Preferably, the material is silicone.
[0096] Flexible insert 2600 has an upper part 2610 and a lower part
2675. Upper part 2610 can engage the user's breast and has an upper
insert volume 2615 through which the expressed breast milk flows.
Upper part 2610 also has an outer fastener 2625, which functions in
the same way as outer fastener 1625 of flexible insert 1600 in FIG.
6.
[0097] The upper part 2610 of flexible insert 2600 generally
conforms to the shape of the upper part 2510 of housing 2500,
thereby leaving little to virtually no air volume between them.
Thus, when negative pressure is applied to flexible insert 2600 by
pump mechanism 2300 as discussed below, the pressure that needs to
be exerted is less than in other embodiments of the present
disclosure and other conventional manual breast pumps. This
consequently reduces the amount of pressure that has to be applied
to the pump handle and the resulting amount of strain on the user's
hand.
[0098] Flexible insert 2600 has an insert neck 2620 that is just
below upper part 2610. Insert neck 2620 serves to reduce the
diameter of the flexible insert from its larger value at upper
insert volume 2615 to the lower value at lower insert volume
2650.
[0099] Upper part 2510 of housing 2500 further has outer end 2525.
Outer end 2525 of housing 2500 sealingly engages outer fastener
2625 in the same way that outer end 1525 sealingly engages outer
fastener 1625 in manual breast pump 1200, as discussed above. Lower
part 2675 of flexible insert 2600 also has circular sealing member
2681 and circular extension 2691.
[0100] Housing 2500 has lower end 2575 that sealingly engages with
holder 2700 and circular sealing member 2681. Lower end 2575
further has a lower housing 2580, a holder sealing edge 2581, and a
pump sealing edge 2582. The user pulls flexible insert 2600 through
the inside of housing 2500 such that circular sealing member 2681
aligns with the underside of lower housing 2580. Holder sealing
edge 2581 then sealingly engages holder 2700 at edge 2781, so that
sealing member 2681 is wedged between lower housing 2580 and holder
face 2780. Although a snap fit is the preferred method of
attachment shown, other structures, methods or means for fastening
sealing edge 2581 to edge 2781 that produce a seal can be used. On
the end of the pump where pump mechanism 2300 is attached, pump
sealing edge 2582 sealingly engages holder 2700 at edge 2782, so
that circular sealing member 2681 is also wedged between holder
sealing edge 2582 and holder face 2780. Although the embodiment
shown has a tongue and groove connection, other sealing structures,
methods or means can be used. One embodiment of circular sealing
member 2681 has member opening 2682 to engage in fluid
communication with pump mechanism 2300 as described below. Other
embodiments of sealing member 2681 may have a diameter that is
short enough so that the sealing member extends to the edge of side
chamber 2755 of holder 2700. A separate component 2683 could then
be placed between pump sealing edge 2582 and edge 2782 to complete
the sealing connection described above.
[0101] Housing 2500 has housing extension 2583 that extends from
lower housing 2580, at the end of housing 2500 closest to the point
at which pump mechanism 2300 is connected, toward holder face 2780.
Housing extension 2583 has inner housing opening 2555, which can
either be a single or a series of openings. When the sealing
engagement between lower housing 2580, circular sealing member
2681, and holder face 2780 is formed as described above, housing
extension 2583 extends to the surface of sealing member 2681 to
form a seal. By completing this seal, external housing volume 2560
and inner housing volume 2550 are formed. Volumes 2550 and 2560 are
in fluid communication with each other through inner housing
opening 2555, and are in fluid isolation with any fluid that would
pass through upper insert volume 2615 and lower insert volume
2650.
[0102] Also after completing this seal, circular extension 2691 of
insert 2600 extends through holder opening 2790 into inner holder
volume 2710. The diameter of holder opening 2790 is larger than
that of circular extension 2691 to facilitate assembly by the user.
By the process described above, however, when circular sealing
member 2681 is sealed between housing 2500 and holder 2700, the air
and liquid volume in container 2900 is kept in fluid isolation from
external housing volume 2550. This ensures that none of the
expressed breast milk is sucked up into the housing when negative
pressure is applied to the housing volume by the pump mechanism
2300. After inserting flexible insert 2600 into inner holder volume
2710, the user connects one way valve 2800. One-way valve 2800
functions in the same manner as valve 1800 of manual breast pump
1200, with the exception that one way valve sealingly engages the
flexible material of insert 2600 as opposed to the rigid structure
of holder 1700.
[0103] Holder 2700 has a side end 2750, which pump mechanism 2300
connects to. Side end 2750 also has outer securing member 2764,
which allows for connection of container 2900 to holder 2700. Side
end 2750 also has side holder volume 2755, which is in fluid
communication with external housing volume 2560 through circular
member opening 2682. Side end 2750 extends downward along the edge
of container 2900 and forms lower side end 2760 to interface with
pump mechanism 2300. Lower side end 2760 has an interface volume
2761, an interface housing 2762, and an lower extension 2763.
[0104] Pump mechanism 2300 has a lower end 2360. Lower end 2360 has
interface chamber 2330, internal interface volume 2325, external
chamber 2335, and external chamber liner 2345. External chamber
liner 2345 is made of a flexible material. Such a material
includes, but is not limited to, silicone. Preferably, the material
is silicone. External chamber liner 2345 sealingly engages
interface chamber 2330 at junction 2340. Thus, interface 2325 and
external chamber 2335 are in fluid isolation when the pump
mechanism 2300 is connected to the holder 2700 as described below.
This embodiment has a tongue and groove connection between sealing
chamber liner 2345 and interface chamber 2330, but other
structures, methods or means for securing the liner to the chamber
may be used. Further, although this embodiment has the chamber
liner 2345 made of silicone, alternative flexible, semi-flexible
and partially flexible materials and/or combination of materials
that retains a seal at 2340 may also be used.
[0105] External chamber liner 2345 also has an outer end 2350.
Outer end 2350 of chamber liner 2345 sealingly engages with lower
end 2360, forming internal pump volume 2336, which due to the seal
is in fluid isolation with external chamber 2335. The embodiment
shown is that of tongue and groove, but any mechanism or means to
seal external chamber liner 2345 to lower end 2360 may be used.
[0106] Pump mechanism 2300 is connects to holder 2700. The user
connects the pump mechanism 2300 to the holder 2700 by a
snap-fitting connection at junction 2765. Other structures, methods
or means for securing the pump mechanism 2300 to the holder 2700
that allow for easy assembly and removal by the user may also be
used. The connection or fit between interface chamber 2330 and
interface housing 2762 is such that a tight seal is formed between
the two when the pump mechanism 2300 is attached to the holder
2700. The embodiment shown utilizes a friction fit. However, other
structures, methods or means for securing the interface chamber
2330 and interface housing 2762 such that interface chamber remains
secured to interface housing when negative pressure is applied to
internal pump volume 2336 as described below, while still allowing
for easy assembly by the user, may be used.
[0107] Pump mechanism 2300 has a handle 2380. Although in this
embodiment the handle 2380 is in a convex shape in the direction
away from the housing 2500, alternative shapes and/or dimensions
can be used for the handle. Also, the preferred embodiment shows
handle 2380 to be made of ABS plastic. However, handle 2380 may be
made of other rigid materials. The user exerts pressure on handle
2380 by pulling it toward the breast cup 2400. The pump mechanism
2300 then pivots around junction 2765, which produces a negative
pressure in internal pump volume 2336. Because external chamber
liner 2345 is sealingly engaged to lower end 2360, no pressure is
lost to ambient air. Further, because internal pump volume 2336 is
in fluid communication with internal interface volume 2325,
interface volume 2761, side holder volume 2755, and therefore inner
housing volume 2550 through the channels described above, the
pressure applied to handle 2380 exerts a negative pressure on
flexible insert 2600 and the user's breast, to cause the expression
of breast milk. When the user releases handle 2380, a positive,
massaging pressure can be exerted on the breast through the same
channels. As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, all of the components of
manual breast pump 2200 can be separately removed and cleaned, in
much the same way as in manual breast pumps 200 and 1200.
[0108] FIGS. 13 and 14 show another alternate embodiment of the
manual breast pump generally referenced by numeral 3200. Manual
breast pump 3200 has a pump system 3300, a flexible insert 3600 and
a container 3900. Pump system 3300 combines the housing, holder,
and pump mechanism of previous embodiments into one component.
Also, the flexible insert 3600 combines the flexible insert and one
way valves of previous embodiments into one component, as well.
This allows for much easier assembly by the user.
[0109] Flexible insert 3600 is made of a flexible material. Such a
material includes, but is not limited to silicone. Preferably, the
material is silicone. The housing portion of pump system 3300 and
container 3900 are made of a rigid material. Such a material
includes, but is not limited to, polycarbonate. Preferably, the
material is polycarbonate. The handle portion and pump levers of
pump system 3300, discussed below, are also made of a rigid
material. Such a material includes, but is not limited to, ABS
plastic. Preferably, the material is ABS plastic.
[0110] Flexible insert 3600 has upper part 3610 and lower part
3675. Upper part 3610 engages the user's breast and has upper
insert volume 3615 through which the expressed breast milk flows.
Flexible insert 3600 is shaped so that upper part 3610 generally
conforms to upper part 3310 of pump system 3300. The matching shape
between upper part 3610 of flexible insert 3600 and upper part 3310
of pump system 3300 is such that there is little or virtually no
air volume between them. Thus, when negative pressure is applied to
flexible insert 3600 by pump mechanism 3300 as described below, the
pressure that needs to be exerted is less than in other embodiments
of the present disclosure and other conventional manual breast
pumps. This consequently reduces the amount of pressure that has to
be applied to the pump handle and the resulting amount of strain on
the user's hand.
[0111] Flexible insert 3600 further has outer fastener 3625, and
pump mechanism 3300 has outer end 3325. Outer fastener 3625
sealingly engages outer end 3325 in the same manner as the
corresponding parts of manual breast pump 1200, as discussed
above.
[0112] Lower part 3675 of flexible insert 3600 also has lower
insert volume 3650, circular base 3681, outer sealing edge 3682,
and dispensing valve 3683. When negative pressure is applied to the
insert 3600 and consequently the user's breast as described below,
the expressed milk flows through upper insert volume 3615, into
lower insert volume 3650, and through dispensing valve 3683.
Dispensing valve 3683 has a similar shape to the one-way valve of
previous embodiments, namely that of a duckbill, and serves to keep
the fluid in container 3900 from being sucked back up into flexible
insert 3600.
[0113] Flexible insert 3600 directly, sealingly engages container
3900. In particular, outer sealing edge 3682 sealingly engages
upper rim 3910 of container 3900. Although the shown embodiment
illustrates a tongue and groove connection, other sealing
structures, methods or means may be used, such as a snap fit or a
simple friction fit.
[0114] Pump system 3300 has a pump housing 3320 and a pump 3360.
Pump housing 3320 has a housing wall 3325 and a lower end 3330.
Lower end 3330 sealingly engages with the flexible insert 3600 and
the container 3900 so that the fluid and air volumes inside the
insert and container are in fluid isolation from the air volume in
the pump system 3300. In particular, lower end 3330 has a housing
sealing groove 3331 that is formed in a curved shape so that outer
sealing edge 3682 of flexible insert 3600 fits into the groove that
is formed. Lower end 3330 also has sealing threads 3332 that
correspond to sealing threads 3920 of container 3900. Thus, to
assemble the pump, the user inserts flexible insert 3600 into upper
opening 3315 of pump system 3300, and pulls it through so that
outer sealing edge 3682 of the insert is aligned with the groove
formed in housing sealing member 3331. The user then secures the
insert to the upper part 3610 of the pump system 3300 as described
above, and connects the components to the container 3900. By
completing this seal, inner volume 3350 is formed, which is between
housing wall 3325 and lower part 3330 of pump housing 3320, and in
fluid isolation from the liquid volume that passes through upper
insert volume 3615 and lower insert volume 3650.
[0115] On the side of pump housing 3320 where pump 3360 is
connected, there is a housing orifice 3365 in housing wall 3325
that allows for the attachment of pump diaphragm 3370. Pump
diaphragm 3370 sealingly engages pump housing 3320 at housing
sealing edge 3366. This embodiment has a friction fit connection to
complete this seal, but other sealing structures, methods or means,
such as a tongue and groove or a snap fit seal, may also be
used.
[0116] Pump 3360 has a pump handle 3380, a minor lever 3385, pivot
points 3386 and 3387, and a major lever 3390. Although the diagram
shows a concave upper part of the handle 3380 transitioning into a
convex lower part in the direction away from the housing 3320, the
present disclosure contemplates other shapes of handle 3380 that
provide an easy grip for the user. Major lever 3390 is connected to
diaphragm 3370 at diaphragm end 3371. The shown connection method
of this embodiment is that of a tongue and groove, but other
connection structures, methods or means to secure major lever 3390
to diaphragm 3370 may also be used.
[0117] The user applies pressure to pump handle 3370 by pulling it
toward pump housing 3320. The pump handle then pivots around pivot
point 3376, which applies a pressure to minor lever 3375. Minor
lever 3375 then pivots around pivot point 3377, and exerts a
pressure on major lever 3380 that pulls diaphragm 3370 away from
pump housing 3320. This produces a negative pressure in inner
volume 3350, and consequently a negative pressure on flexible
insert 3600 and the user's breast. When the pump handle is
released, a positive, massaging pressure can be applied to the
breast through the same channels.
[0118] FIGS. 15 through 17 show another embodiment of the manual
breast pump generally represented by reference numeral 4200, which
has a detachable pump 4300, a breast cup 4400 and a container 4900.
Breast cup 4400 also has a flexible insert 4600 and a holder
4700.
[0119] Flexible insert 4600 has upper part 4610, upper insert
volume 4615, and outer fastener 4625. These parts function in
substantially the same manner as their counterparts in previously
discussed embodiments. Flexible insert 4600 also has lower part
4630 that has a smaller thickness than upper part 4610. In this
embodiment of manual breast pump 4200, the user connects the
flexible insert 4600 to holder 4700 by press-fitting lower part
4630 into the holder as described below.
[0120] Holder 4700 has housing 4710, back plate 4740, support rod
4770, base 4780, and pump attachment 4790. Housing 4710 has upper
part 4720 and lower part 4715. Upper part 4720 has outer end 4725
that sealingly engages outer fastener 4625 of insert 4600 in the
same manner as the corresponding components of previous breast pump
embodiments.
[0121] Upper 4610 of insert 4600 and upper part 4720 of housing
4710 are shaped so that they generally conform to each other. When
they are connected as described above, there is virtually no air
volume between them. At bend 4722 of upper part 4720, the insert
and housing begin to separate so that housing volume 4730 is
formed.
[0122] Back plate 4740 has inner surface 4745, outer surface 4750,
and back plate flange 4755. Inner dispenser 4760 is fastened to
inner surface 4745. Inner dispenser 4760 has dispenser base 4761,
dispenser orifice 4762, and dispenser flange 4763. Dispenser
orifice 4762 can either be a single opening or multiple openings as
shown. When the user assembles the pump, they press fit lower part
4630 of flexible insert 4600 between dispenser flange 4763 and back
plate flange 4755. The spacing between dispenser flange 4763 and
back plate flange 4755 is such that when lower part 4630 is fit
between them, an airtight seal is formed. Thus, housing volume 4730
is in fluid isolation from the air and liquid volumes that pass
through flexible insert 4600.
[0123] Support rod 4770 has inner volume 4775, which is in fluid
communication with upper insert volume 4615 through dispenser
orifice 4762. Support rod 4770 also has lower end 4777, which
extends past base 4780 and sealingly engages one way valve 4800.
One-way valve 4800 performs in the same manner as one-way valve 800
of breast pump 200, as described above. Thus, when negative
pressure is applied to flexible insert 4600 as described below, the
expressed milk flows through upper insert volume 4615, through
dispenser orifice 4762, into inner volume 4775, and through one way
valve 4800 into container 4900, all of which is in fluid isolation
from housing volume 4730 and the pump mechanism 4300.
[0124] Base 4780 of holder 4700 has a concave disk-like shape with
an inner securing member 4781 and an outer securing member 4782.
These perform the same functions, respectively, as inner securing
member 785 and outer securing member 790 of base 780 of breast pump
200. Namely, the dual thread arrangement allows a user to connect
base 4780 to either reusable bottles or disposable liner holders
that have different diameters.
[0125] Base 4780 also has a pump extension 4786 that extends from
outer edge 4785 at the point of base 4780 where detachable pump
4300 is connected. Pump extension 4786 provides rigid support for
the bladder mechanism used in detachable pump 4300.
[0126] Pump attachment 4790 is fastened to lower part 4715 of
housing 4710 at housing end 4711. This can be a permanent
fastening, or one that allows the user to removably detach the
attachment as well. Outer wall 4791 of attachment 4790 extends down
the side of breast cup 4400, and has a shape that generally
conforms to back plate 4740, support rod 4770, and base 4780. Pump
attachment 4790 also has inner wall 4792 that extends from the base
of support rod 4770 along the surface of base 4880 to attachment
opening 4793 where detachable pump 4300 is connected. Inner wall
4791 and outer wall 4792 are separated so that inner attachment
volume 4795 is created. Inner attachment volume 4795 is in fluid
communication with housing volume 4730.
[0127] Detachable pump 4300 has a pouch or flexible member 4310, a
lower end 4350, and a handle 4370. Pouch 4310 can be a bladder or
other bellows-type device that has a flexible wall that can be
expanded to create a negative pressure at the opening. Pouch 4310
has neck 4315, internal pouch volume 4320, and lower pouch end
4325. Neck 4315 is of reduced diameter as compared to the rest of
pouch 4310, and sealingly engages inner wall 4791 and outer wall
4792 of pump attachment at attachment opening 4793, so that
internal pouch volume 4320 is in fluid communication with inner
attachment volume 4795. The sealing connection in this embodiment
is a friction or pressure fit, but alternative structures, methods
or means to create the connection or seal may be used.
[0128] The user exerts a pressure on grip 4380 of handle 4370,
which then pivots about point 4360. Grip 4380 can be made of a soft
or resilient material, such as, for example, TPE, soft plastic or
any other material that allows for easy manipulation of handle
4370. Lower end 4350 moves in a direction away from container 4900
when the handle 4370 is actuated, and causes pouch 4310 and
internal pouch volume 4320 to expand. Internal pouch volume 4320 is
in fluid communication with inner attachment volume 4795 and
housing volume 4730. Therefore, the user generates a negative
pressure by exerting pressure on handle 4370 that is communicated
to, and exerted on, the flexible insert 4600, causing the
expression of breast milk. When the user releases the handle, a
positive, massaging pressure can be exerted on the breast through
the same channels.
[0129] FIGS. 18 through 22 show another embodiment of the manual
breast pump generally referenced by reference numeral 5200. Manual
breast Pump 5200 functions in substantially the same manner as
manual breast pump 200, with the exceptions noted below.
[0130] In manual breast pump 5200, the housing and holder are
combined into one part, which is holder 5700. Manual breast pump
5200 also has a flexible insert 5600. Holder 5700 has a back plate
5720. Back plate 5720 has an inner surface 5725, a receptacle 5726,
which is cut into the inner surface, a securing notch 5627, and a
fastening hole 5728. Flexible insert 5600 has an upper end 5610, a
lower end 5650, an insert sealing cap 5655, and a sealing end 5660.
To assemble manual breast pump 5200, the user pulls flexible insert
5600 through the upper opening of housing 5700, and pulls sealing
end 5660 through fastening hole 5728 so that the insert sealingly
engages with housing 5700 at receptacle 5726. When the insert 5600
is pulled through the holder 5700 in this manner, sealing groove
5656 of sealing cap 5655 sealingly engages securing notch 5627. By
completing this seal, inner housing volume 5710 is defined, and is
in fluid isolation from any fluid and air volume that passes
through flexible insert 5600. Thus, the expressed milk flows from
the user's breast into upper insert volume 5615, through dispensing
orifice 5657 of the flexible insert 5600, through holder orifice
5729, and into supply channel 5760.
[0131] The pump mechanisms 5300A and 5300B shown in FIGS. 20 and 22
operate in virtually the same manner as pump mechanism 300 of
manual breast pump 200. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 18 and 19,
the pump mechanism 5300A differs from the pump mechanism 300 of
FIGS. 1 through 5 in that the pump housing 5380 is integrally
connected to the holder 5700 at holder inlet 5795. Further, outer
edge 5781 of holder base 5780 extends along and down the side of
the container 5900 to connect or fasten to the lower end 5382 of
the pump housing 5380. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 21 and 22,
the size of the diaphragm of pump mechanism 5300B relative to the
size of the internal pump chamber and the mechanism used to secure
the diaphragm to the pump wall are different from the embodiment of
manual pump 300.
[0132] FIGS. 23 through 26 show another embodiment of the manual
breast pump generally referred to as reference numeral 6200. Manual
breast pump 6200 has a pump mechanism 6300 that can be connected
directly to the breast pump or can be detached from the breast
pump. Manual breast pump 6200 functions in a substantially similar
manner as the previous embodiments described above. Manual breast
pump 6200 has a flexible insert 6600 that engages the user's
breast, an insert volume that provides for flow through the insert
into the container 6900 and is in fluid isolation from the air in
the pump system 6300, and the pump mechanism 6300 that exerts a
negative pressure on the insert and causes the expression of milk
from the user's breast.
[0133] The pump mechanism 6300 can either be used while attached to
the manual breast pump 6200, or removed and used remotely. When
used remotely, the pump mechanism 6300 is connected to the housing
of the manual breast pump 6200 by tubing or a hose (not shown).
Such tubing can be biased for easy retraction into a storage
position after being used. This allows the user to use the
detachable pump mechanism 6300 in whichever configuration that is
more comfortable. Also, using detachable pump mechanism 6300 in its
remote configuration provides a smaller profile of manual breast
pump 6200. This allows the user more flexibility in the use of the
pump, for example under-the-shirt use. The pump mechanism 6300 has
a pair of handles 6400 that are adapted to facilitate use and
manipulation.
[0134] The pair of handles 6400 is smaller than contemporary
handles found on breast pumps and are also more compact. The
handles 6400 are movable with respect to each other to generate a
pressure. To generate pressure, the present disclosure contemplates
the use of, for example, a bellows, a diaphragm, a piston, or any
other mechanism capable of producing a pressure in the pump
mechanism 6300. The pressure can be applied in the positive
direction, the negative direction, or both.
[0135] Additionally, handles 6400 provide for a squeezing motion
that is in the direction between the user's fingers and palm, which
provides a direction of pumping that can be easier for a user to
manipulate.
[0136] Referring to FIG. 27, an alternative embodiment of the
breast cup of the present disclosure is shown and generally
represented by reference numeral 7000. Breast cup 7000 is shown as
an automatic pump but is usable with a manual pump, including a
pumping mechanism that is affixed thereto such as the previously
described embodiments. Breast cup 7000 is usable with insert 600.
Breast cup 7000 has a funnel shaped housing 7500 that is connected
to a cylindrically-shaped holder 7700. Holder 7700 has a handle
7725, a pressure orifice 7750, and a pressure adjuster 7775. Handle
7725 is ergonomically contoured and has a wave-like shape 7730 that
provides for different holding angles. Handle 7725 is disposed
along holder 7700 on the opposing side from funnel 7500. Handle
7725 is preferably made of, or covered by, a material that
facilitates gripping. Handle 7725 can include various textures,
projections and/or embossments to sooth the user's hand during the
pumping process.
[0137] Pressure orifice 7750 can be attached to tubing 350 to place
breast cup 7000 in fluid communication with an automatic breast
pump. Pressure adjuster 7775 is in fluid communication with
pressure orifice 7750 and allows a user to adjust the pressure at
the breast cup 7000 without having to make an adjustment at the
breast pump. In this embodiment, pressure adjuster 7775 is a dial
but alternative actuators can also be used.
[0138] Referring to FIG. 28, another alternative embodiment of the
breast cup of the present disclosure is shown and generally
represented by reference numeral 8000. Breast cup 8000 is also
shown as an automatic pump but is usable with a manual pump,
including a pumping mechanism that is affixed thereto such as the
previously described embodiments. Breast cup 8000 is usable with
insert 600. Breast cup 8000 has a funnel 8500 that is connected to
a holder 8700. Holder 8700 has handle portions 8725, 8726, a
pressure orifice 8750, and a pressure adjuster 8775. Handle
portions 8725, 8726 are disposed on opposing sides of holder 8700
and facilitate grasping of the holder. Handle portions 8725, 8726
are preferably made of, or covered by, a material that facilitates
gripping. Handle portions 8725, 8726 can include various textures,
projections and/or embossments to sooth the user's hand during the
pumping process.
[0139] The present disclosure having been thus described with
particular reference to the preferred forms thereof, it will be
obvious that various changes and modifications may be made therein
without departing from the spirit and scope of the present
disclosure as defined in the appended claims.
* * * * *