US20060015080A1 - Fluid collection and aspiration unit for management of urinary incontinence - Google Patents
Fluid collection and aspiration unit for management of urinary incontinence Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20060015080A1 US20060015080A1 US10/891,637 US89163704A US2006015080A1 US 20060015080 A1 US20060015080 A1 US 20060015080A1 US 89163704 A US89163704 A US 89163704A US 2006015080 A1 US2006015080 A1 US 2006015080A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- layer
- pad
- unit
- set forth
- liquid
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
- A61F13/00—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads
- A61F13/15—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
- A61F5/00—Orthopaedic methods or devices for non-surgical treatment of bones or joints; Nursing devices; Anti-rape devices
- A61F5/48—Devices for preventing wetting or pollution of the bed
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
- A61F13/00—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads
- A61F13/15—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators
- A61F2013/15008—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators characterized by the use
- A61F2013/15048—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators characterized by the use for protection against contamination, or protection in using body disinfecting wipes
- A61F2013/15056—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators characterized by the use for protection against contamination, or protection in using body disinfecting wipes for the protection for furniture, e.g. car seats, chairs, beds
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
- A61F13/00—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads
- A61F13/15—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators
- A61F2013/15008—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators characterized by the use
- A61F2013/15154—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators characterized by the use for hospitalised patients
Definitions
- This invention relates to thin layer aspiration or perfusion units for collecting vapors or liquids and transferring such fluids to a receiving area.
- the invention comprises an aspiration unit for collecting and facilitating management of urinary excretions by individuals that are incontinent.
- a pad having an absorptive core encased within a polyethylene cover in which the normally uppermost layer of the cover is liquid permeable.
- a perforated tube centrally embedded in the absorptive core is connected via a tube to a urine collection vessel that is in turn coupled to a vacuum pump for withdrawing liquid from the pad absorbed into the central core.
- the core of the pad is described as having a number of perforated layers of absorbent cellulose tissue in the upper portion of the pad adjacent the upper, permeable layer of the cover, and a plurality of layers of defiberized wood pulp fluff below the cellulose layers. Another cellulose layer is provided below the layers of wood fiber fluff.
- the core of the pad may be expanded cellulose microcellular material.
- Disadvantages of the system of the '166 patent include the cost of the pad, the need to periodically replace the pad, inability to effectively remove all of the liquid absorbed by the core of the pad because a certain proportion of the urine will be retained on the absorbent cellular material, the need for the perforated tube embedded in the core to be relatively rigid in order to preclude collapse of the perforations in the tube thereby imparting a degree of rigidity to the pad, and the impracticality of periodically cleaning the absorbent core of the pad with a cleaning and sterilizing agent.
- TSE Treated Sewage Effluent
- Another embodiment may be used to control oil slicks on ocean water or the like, as well as aspirating oil out of sand.
- a further use is to introduce cooled or heated air or water between the layers of structural components such as multilayered roofs, walls or floors to effect heating or cooling, or to provide positive or negative buoyancy of floating structures.
- a vapor and/or liquid collection unit may comprise a thin flexible pad having a liquid permeable first outer polymeric layer and a liquid impermeable second outer polymeric layer, which cooperate to form an interior space.
- the outer perimeter portions of the permeable and impermeable polymeric layers are heat sealed to form a liquid tight pad.
- An intermediate cellular layer is positioned in the interior space of the pad between the first permeable outer layer and the liquid impermeable outer layer.
- the cellular layer is defined by a series of spaced, side-by-side discrete liquid impermeable cellular components containing an entrapped fluid, such as air, which substantially maintains the shape of each cellular component. Each of the cellular components extend from the liquid impermeable outer layer to the permeable outer layer of the pad.
- the cellular components collectively define inter-communicating liquid passages between the cellular components. These passages also extend from the liquid impermeable outer layer to the permeable outer layer of the pad.
- the cellular components preferably are made up of a series of individual, thin wall, liquid impermeable, polymeric cells which are joined by a common base sheet.
- a disposable liquid permeable porous sheet may be replaceably mounted in overlying relationship to the permeable outer layer of the pad.
- the porous sheet is of Dry-Weave® material which has a wicking action for facilitating flow of urine that comes into contact with the porous sheet to the outermost surface of the permeable outer layer of the pad.
- Snap fasteners may be provided on the perimeter of the pad for releasably affixing the porous sheet to the permeable outer layer of the pad.
- the outlet of the vacuum pump may also be joined to a filter adapted to absorb odoriferous constituents in the air emitted from the vacuum pump.
- the cellular layer in the interior space between the permeable outer layer and the impermeable outer layer of the flexible pad comprises a bubble defining sheet consisting of a series of impermeable cellular bubbles, which entrap air, and therefore remain inflated during use of the unit and serve to substantially maintain the integrity of the passages therebetween so that liquid collecting in the pad may be readily and rapidly removed from the interior space of the pad by the differential pressure device.
- the pad may be square shaped and of dimensions to be used as a bed pad or somewhat smaller as a chair pad.
- the pad may be of rectangular shape and of a size to be worn by a non-bedridden person beneath an undergarment.
- the bed or chair type pads may be provided with grommet openings in the perimeter openings thereof for receiving the hook of flexible retainers for securing the pad in place on an underlying structure such as a bed, or the seat of a chair.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a thin layer vapor or liquid collection and aspiration unit for management of urinary incontinence in accordance with one preferred embodiment of the invention, with a corner of the disposable porous member, which overlies the permeable layer of the pad, being lifted to reveal details of the layer of the permeable pad normally overlying the liquid permeable layer of the pad;
- FIG. 2 is a fragmentary enlarged vertical cross-sectional view of the pad as depicted in FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 3 is a bottom perspective view of the pad and schematically illustrating the aspiration assembly connected to the underside of the pad;
- FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a smaller pad than the pad of FIG. 1 and that is adapted to be worn by a incontinent individual;
- FIG. 5 is a fragmentary enlarged vertical cross-sectional view of the pad as shown in FIG. 4 .
- a unit 10 for facilitating management of urinary incontinence is depicted in FIG. 3 and includes as its primary component, a flexible pad 12 .
- the pad 12 includes an outer liquid impermeable layer 14 and a liquid permeable layer 16 in overlying relationship to layer 14 .
- the peripheral margins 14 a of layer 14 and 16 a of layer 16 of layers 14 and 16 are joined by a liquid tight heat seal 18 .
- the innermost face 14 b of layer 14 and the innermost face 16 b of layer 16 within the confines of the heat seal 18 joining layers 14 and 16 define an interior space 20 .
- An intermediate cellular layer 22 is confined within interior space 20 between innermost faces 14 b and 16 b of layers 14 and 16 respectively.
- Layer 22 is made up of a series of individual, thin wall, liquid impermeable polymeric cells 24 , which contain an entrapped fluid, such as air, and that are integral with a polymeric base sheet 26 as is apparent from FIG. 2 .
- Each of the cells 24 has liquid impermeable wall structure 28 , which is integral with base sheet 26 , and that projects upwardly from sheet 26 into proximity to the innermost face 16 b of layer 16 . It is to be observed from FIG.
- cells 24 in the illustrated embodiment of the invention are arranged in a series of parallel linear rows with each of the cells 24 of each row being offset longitudinally with respect to adjacent cells in proximal rows.
- the individual cells 24 may be of various configurations, as for example, generally cylindrical or of polygonal shape.
- Each of the cells 24 will be of generally pillow shaped configuration until inserted into the space 20 and confined between layers 14 and 16 , whereupon the individual cells normally would assume the shape thereof as shown in FIG. 2 .
- the sheet portion 26 of cellular layer 22 has a plurality of openings 34 therein aligned with passages 30 between cells 24 .
- the cells 24 of intermediate cellular layer 22 collectively cooperate to define a grid-like series of inter-communicating passages 30 which extend from the upper surface of layer 14 to the underlying surface of impermeable layer 16 of pad 12 .
- Cellular layer 22 may most be conveniently and economically be a form of bubble wrap in which each of the bubbles contains entrapped air so that the bubbles essentially retain their shape when force is applied to the upper face of the permeable upper layer 16 of pad 12 .
- the layers 14 and 16 of pad 12 are preferably fabricated of 9 mm thick polymeric material and the overall pad may have length and width dimension of, for example, 28 in. ⁇ 28 in. for hospital bed use, and 14 in. ⁇ 14 in. for use on the seat of a chair or for wheel chair seat use.
- the upper layer 16 of pad 12 has a plurality of openings 32 arranged in a gridlike pattern as shown in FIG. 1 .
- the openings 32 in permeable polymeric layer 16 may strategically be located in a 1 in. spacing pattern and preferably are pinhole size.
- a porous sheet member 36 overlays the outermost face of permeable layer 16 and is releasably secured to pad 12 by a series of snap fasteners 38 .
- each of the snap fasteners 38 has a female portion 40 extending through and carried by the peripheral margins 14 a and 16 a of layers 14 and 16 , and a removable male portion 42 , which affixes the sheet member 36 to pad 12 .
- snap fasteners 38 are to be provided at each of the corners of rectangular pad 12 and at points midway between the corner snap fasteners 38 .
- the resilient porous sheet member 36 desirably is of disposable material with Proctor & Gamble's Dry-Weave® material being preferred because of its liquid wicking characteristics.
- the Dry-Weave® sheet member 36 is shown schematically in FIG. 2 and may for example have a normally innermost apertured polymeric layer 44 and a normally outermost film layer 46 provided with three-dimensional open ended liquid conveying capillary passages 48 communicating with the passages of the polymeric film layer 44 .
- the passages 48 are shown schematically with only a few of the passages only present being depicted for clarity, in that Dry-Weave® material has a large number of such passages in closely spaced relationship.
- the passages 48 for example, are each configured to present generally conical surfaces oriented such that the smallest open end thereof is directed toward the innermost polymeric film layer 44 to enhance the wicking action of sheet member 36 .
- a fitting 50 heat-sealed to the outer face of a central portion of liquid impermeable layer 14 has L-shaped passage 52 therethrough which communicates with the interior space 20 of pad 12 .
- An elongated flexible conduit 54 which for example, may be latex or polymeric surgical hose, is affixed to fitting 50 and communicates with passage 52 .
- Conduit 54 leads to the input of a liquid collection vessel 56 illustrated schematically in FIG. 3 .
- a tubular line 58 communicates the interior of liquid collection vessel 56 with input port of a differential pressure device such as a vacuum pump 60 , also shown schematically in FIG. 3 .
- the air output port of vacuum pump 60 may be connected to a filter unit 62 via line 64 .
- Filter 62 is preferably of a type capable of removing odoriferous agents contained in the air output from vacuum pump 60 .
- unit 10 may be provided with a positive pressure pump in lieu of vacuum pump 60 for perfusion of sanitizing fluid for sterilization and ultimate extraction and drying for storage.
- the pad 12 is also preferably provided with grommets 66 in the corner areas of the pad permitting the hook portions of elastic straps, such as bungee cords, to be inserted in respective grommets 66 and affixed to the underside of a supporting structure, such as the patient's bed or components underlying a chair seat or a wheelchair seat. In this manner, the position of the pad 12 will maintain its flat condition even when a patient rests on the pad and assures that the pad will not shift into a crumpled or folded condition, which would be uncomfortable to the patient.
- elastic straps such as bungee cords
- the pad 12 of unit 10 is placed beneath the patient on the surface of a bed or a chair or wheelchair seat, and preferably affixed in a desirable position with suitable fasteners such as bungee cords using the openings of grommet 66 for that purpose.
- suitable fasteners such as bungee cords
- the liquid is received on the surface of porous sheet member 36 .
- the vacuum created in interior space 20 will cause the inadvertently discharged urine to rapidly be drawn through the capillary passages 48 of porous sheet member 36 , the perforations in film layer 46 , the openings 32 in permeable layer 16 of pad 12 , passages 30 , openings 34 in base sheet 26 , the passage 52 through fitting 50 and conduit 54 leading to collection vessel 56 . It is noteworthy in this respect that because of the inflated nature of cells 24 , opposed innermost faces of layers 14 and 16 of pad 12 will retain their desired spatial relationship to prevent collapse of passages 30 . In addition, because of the inter-connected nature of passages 30 as defined by the individual cells 24 , there is no tendency for the urine to be trapped in areas of pad 12 where the vacuum created by pump 60 is incapable of removing the liquid from interior space 20 .
- unit 10 is illustrated as having its own separate vacuum source, such as vacuum pump 60 , in a hospital setting, line 58 may be connected to the vacuum line normally present in the wall of the hospital room.
- Bed ridden patients can be repeatedly washed on the mats as the excess liquid will be drawn away by the vacuum.
- the porous sheet member 36 may be replaced as necessary to maintain a sanitary environment free of undesirable odors. This replacement may be accomplished by the simple expedient of unfastening snap fasteners 38 and placing the new porous sheet member 36 in place.
- the pad 36 may be repeatedly washed and cleaned with a suitable deodorizing and sanitizing agent by connecting a pressurized source of such agent to conduit 54 after removal of the porous sheet member 36 . Any excess liquid cleaning agent introduced into interior space 20 of pad 12 will simply flow out through the openings 32 in layer 16 . Agent remaining in the interior space 20 of pad 12 following the treatment procedure may be removed by recoupling vacuum pump 60 or a source of vacuum to line 58 which will withdraw the sanitizing agent from pad 12 .
- the pad 112 illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5 of the drawings is of construction similar to pad 12 except for its overall size and the manner of attachment of the porous sheet member 136 to the permeable layer 116 of pad 112 .
- pad 112 is preferably of a size having overall dimensions of about 10 in. ⁇ 5 in.
- the porous sheet member 136 which is also preferably Dry-Weave® material may be removably affixed to the outermost face of permeable layer 116 by use of double-stick tape located around the perimeter of the porous sheet member 136 , and at least at the corners of the sheet member 136 .
- pad 112 is adapted to be connected to a collection vessel and vacuum pump similar to vessel 56 and pump 60 , except for relative sizes, through the medium of a conduit 154 , which is again connected to the central portion of liquid impermeable layer 114 of pad 112 through the medium of a passage defining fitting 150 .
- the perimeter margin 116 a of layer 116 and perimeter margin of 114 a of layer 114 are liquid tight heat sealed as previously with respect to seal 18 .
- the internal space 120 of pad 112 contains a cellular layer 122 preferably formed of bubble wrap material identical in construction to cellular layer 22 described in detail herein above.
- pad 112 is the same as described with respect to pad 12 with the understanding that the liquid collection vessel should be of such nature that it can be attached by suitable means to the body of the patient and a battery operated, commercially available, relatively small vacuum pump provided as a source of vacuum.
- the porous sheet member 136 may be removed and replaced as necessary by simply pulling on the pad to displace the double-stick tape connection of the Dry-Weave® sheet member 136 from layer 116 of pad 112 .
- Sanitizing and deodorizing of pad 112 may be accomplished in the same manner as described with respect to pad 12 .
- pad 112 it is desirable that at least the layer 114 of the pad be fabricated of a polymeric material which is non-irritating to the skin of the user.
- a line of adhesive may be provided on the peripheral portion of layer 114 , which is normally protected by a peelable paper protective strip. The patient can remove the protective strip before positioning of the pad 112 thereby allowing the adhesive line to cause the pad 112 to fully conform to the surface of the patient's body and prevent leakage of liquid around the perimeter edges of the pad 112 .
- the thin layer aspiration or perfusion units for vapor and/or liquid collection have utility for collection and transfer vapors and liquids other than in the management of waste products from an incontinent patient.
- Exemplary in this respect is use of the units to distribute septic tank treated effluent waste products from a home, a business or a sewage treatment facility, through an array of shallowly buried (8 to 12 inches deep), mats or pads (long rolls 8 to 20 feet wide) serving as an alternative for a leachfield (to effect vertical evaporation of the water portion of the effluent and to provide nutrient at the base of roots of associated plants to facilitate a Bio-Enhanced Treatment System (BETS).
- BETS Bio-Enhanced Treatment System
- These industrial units are preferably fabricated using heavy (industrial-grade) plastic sheets.
- the units should include as component parts a perforate top layer, a perforated bubble layer and an imperforate bottom layer, an opening into the bottom layer and a tube connected to that opening.
- a pump be provided in the treated effluent line leading to the dispersion unit to positively direct treated effluent liquid to the inlet of the dispersion unit in a controlled fashion.
- a buried holding vessel having a liquid level controller may be provided in the treated effluent line between the septic tank and the dispersion unit to assure uniform delivery of treated effluent to the dispersion unit.
- a number of dispersion units may be provided in the underground leach bed with lines leading from the holding vessel to respective dispersion units.
- the openings provided in the upper permeable layer are sized to provide for proper and desired delivery of treated liquid effluent through the top permeable layer that collects in the dispersion unit and is received from the building's septic tank treated effluent drain pipe (to effect vertical evaporation through the soil and delivery of nutrient to plant roots).
- the sheets of polymeric film should be somewhat thicker (e.g., industrial grade) and the cells of the permeable cellular layer normally are larger than the cells of the cellular layer used in the unit for managing urinary excretions of individuals.
- the cells of the intermediate permeable layer which contain trapped air prevent the dispersion unit from collapsing even when a layer of gravel (2 to 3 inches) and then dirt (up to 12 inches) is filled in over the top of the buried dispersion unit.
- An underground dispersion unit similar to the one just described for delivery of treated effluent waste liquid products to a shallow leach bed, may be used to direct fresh irrigation water to the roots of plants.
- the fresh water underground watering unit normally would not be buried along with layers of gravel and typically would be of a smaller size than the size of the septic field dispersion units.
- the fresh water dispersion unit may be sized as appropriate for outdoor watering of plants, as well as for indoor use with plotted plants and the like.
- a pump is preferably provided to direct the irrigation water to the dispersion unit for delivery through the perforate unit to the surrounding ground.
- heated and cooled water or air may be introduced and recollected between layers of gunnite sprayed or poured concrete multi-layered walls, buildings, roofs, ceilings and floors by placing an imperforate dispersion unit plumbed with inlet and outlet only as described, between the layers of the walls, roofs, floors, etc., thus permitting heated or cooled water or air to be introduced uniformly across the surface area and withdrawn.
- a perforated dispersion unit as described herein with perforate layer out board may be laminated near the outer surface in a concrete structure such that liquid that is introduced into and then passes through the dispersion unit is expelled from a perforated layer thereof so that it may then weep outwardly into and through the concrete to effect evaporation of the water and consequent cooling of the concrete.
- heating and air conditioning requirements for confined building spaces may be decreased as a result of the heated/cooled air or water being supplied into such spaces via a unit of this invention.
- the same type of multi-layered unit used for the dispersion of treated effluent waste liquid in a leach bed, watering of plants and introducing treated water or air into building structural components is also useful in collecting oil from an oil slick released onto the surface of a lake, ocean or another body of water.
- Conventional inflated tubular rolls are placed around the perimeter of the oil slick and then one or more of the units described herein as having a permeable layer, an intermediate cellular layer and an opposed impermeable layer, are oriented such that the perforated layer faces downward so that the oil floating on the surface of the water is pulled into the interior of the unit through the permeable layer openings.
- a tube joined to and communicating with the upper imperforate layer of the unit is connected to an aspiration device which causes the oil to be drawn into the dispersion/aspiration unit where it collects in the perforated bubble layer of the unit between the lower permeable layer and the upper impermeable layer.
- This collected oil is then withdrawn through a tube connected to the aspiration device, and then directed to a suitable collection point or device.
- the multi-layered units of this invention are useful in a variety of veterinary and agriculture applications, e.g., use under animals during transport to collect urinary out put in transit. Incorporation or placement of a multi-layered unit as described herein in an indoor cat litter box will thereby eliminate tons of used cat litter now going into landfills annually. Additionally, these multi-layered mats can be placed under leaky hazardous waste containers for spill containment during storage or transport.
- the present device is operable to collect a vapor or a liquid product or to deliver a product to a suitable site either by suction created by an aspiration device or under perfusion pressure using a pressure pump.
- the perforated bubble layer prevents the unit from collapsing, regardless of whether a negative pressure or a positive pressure is applied to the unit.
- An elongated roll unit as described herein and adapted for vertical evaporative dispersion of treated sewage effluent may be manufactured of any desired length and width, and can even be supplied in roll form with the installer cutting segments from the roll of selected lengths and then sealing the transverse edges in the field using a conventional thermal sealing device.
Abstract
A flexible unit for collecting and transporting liquid to a collection point or to an area of use, and especially for facilitating management of urinary incontinence is provided which includes a flexible pad adapted to be positioned under an incontinent patient or worn under an undergarment. The pad is provided with an outer liquid permeable polymeric film layer, an outer liquid impermeable polymeric film layer and an intermediate cellular layer made up of a series of individual, spaced, thin wall, liquid impermeable polymeric cells. An aspiration assembly is connected to the pad for removing urine from the interior of the pad, which collects in the spaces between the individual cells. A disposable porous sheet, preferably comprising Dry-Weave® material, is releasably positioned over the outer permeable film layer of the pad. The pad may be sanitized and reused multiple times with only replacement of the Dry-Weave® sheet being required.
Description
- This invention relates to thin layer aspiration or perfusion units for collecting vapors or liquids and transferring such fluids to a receiving area. In its preferred form, the invention comprises an aspiration unit for collecting and facilitating management of urinary excretions by individuals that are incontinent.
- Management of excretions from incontinent patients is an ongoing and largely unsolved problem, not only in hospital and nursing home environments, but also for patients that are not hospitalized or in a care facility. Lack of control over the urinary function by incontinent patients who are not bedridden has for the most part has required the patients to wear large adult diaper pads which soon become fully sorbed and present an odor problem.
- In the case of a incontinent patient lying in bed, it has largely been the practice to place an leakproof backed absorbent pad under the patient. The pad soon becomes soaked and timely changing of the soiled pad is often delayed, especially in those instances where the patient is confined to a nursing home where personnel are required to care for a large patient population that is usually the case in a hospital setting. The patient is unable to avoid contact with the wet pad, which is not only uncomfortable, but also is odorous and unsanitary and can cause undesirable skin conditions to occur such as rashes and sores.
- Similarly, patients whose condition permits them to sit up in a chair or wheelchair for extended periods of time likewise must be provided with a pad to sit on to collect accidental urine excretions. Here again, changing of a pad as soon as it becomes soaked often cannot be accomplished by the patient and often results in the patient sitting on the wet pad for an extended period until a change out of the pad is ultimately accomplished after an undesirable time interval.
- One asserted solution to the incontinent patient problem is shown and described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,747,166. In this patent, a pad is provided having an absorptive core encased within a polyethylene cover in which the normally uppermost layer of the cover is liquid permeable. A perforated tube centrally embedded in the absorptive core is connected via a tube to a urine collection vessel that is in turn coupled to a vacuum pump for withdrawing liquid from the pad absorbed into the central core. The core of the pad is described as having a number of perforated layers of absorbent cellulose tissue in the upper portion of the pad adjacent the upper, permeable layer of the cover, and a plurality of layers of defiberized wood pulp fluff below the cellulose layers. Another cellulose layer is provided below the layers of wood fiber fluff. Alternatively, the core of the pad may be expanded cellulose microcellular material.
- Disadvantages of the system of the '166 patent include the cost of the pad, the need to periodically replace the pad, inability to effectively remove all of the liquid absorbed by the core of the pad because a certain proportion of the urine will be retained on the absorbent cellular material, the need for the perforated tube embedded in the core to be relatively rigid in order to preclude collapse of the perforations in the tube thereby imparting a degree of rigidity to the pad, and the impracticality of periodically cleaning the absorbent core of the pad with a cleaning and sterilizing agent.
- In addition to the problem of accumulating and disposing of fluid wastes from a bedridden or disabled person, there is a long standing need for inexpensive and efficient apparatus for collecting a variety of fluids, or to deliver fluid from a source to a relatively large surface area in a controlled low volume perfusion transfer manner. Such areas of need include, as an example, dispersion of Treated Sewage Effluent (TSE) in a shallow subsurface underground installation serving as an alternative to a conventional leachfield, to effect evaporation or vertical dispersion of the water in a waste effluent solution, as well as to provide underground irrigation water to the root systems of plants. Another embodiment may be used to control oil slicks on ocean water or the like, as well as aspirating oil out of sand. A further use is to introduce cooled or heated air or water between the layers of structural components such as multilayered roofs, walls or floors to effect heating or cooling, or to provide positive or negative buoyancy of floating structures.
- A vapor and/or liquid collection unit may comprise a thin flexible pad having a liquid permeable first outer polymeric layer and a liquid impermeable second outer polymeric layer, which cooperate to form an interior space. The outer perimeter portions of the permeable and impermeable polymeric layers are heat sealed to form a liquid tight pad. An intermediate cellular layer is positioned in the interior space of the pad between the first permeable outer layer and the liquid impermeable outer layer. The cellular layer is defined by a series of spaced, side-by-side discrete liquid impermeable cellular components containing an entrapped fluid, such as air, which substantially maintains the shape of each cellular component. Each of the cellular components extend from the liquid impermeable outer layer to the permeable outer layer of the pad. The cellular components collectively define inter-communicating liquid passages between the cellular components. These passages also extend from the liquid impermeable outer layer to the permeable outer layer of the pad. The cellular components preferably are made up of a series of individual, thin wall, liquid impermeable, polymeric cells which are joined by a common base sheet.
- A disposable liquid permeable porous sheet may be replaceably mounted in overlying relationship to the permeable outer layer of the pad. In a preferred embodiment, the porous sheet is of Dry-Weave® material which has a wicking action for facilitating flow of urine that comes into contact with the porous sheet to the outermost surface of the permeable outer layer of the pad. Snap fasteners may be provided on the perimeter of the pad for releasably affixing the porous sheet to the permeable outer layer of the pad.
- A flexible conduit or tube connected to the impermeable layer of the pad, preferably in the center thereof, inter-communicates the interior of the pad with a collection vessel that in turn is operably coupled to an pressure differential device, which for example may be an aspiration unit in the nature of a vacuum pump. The outlet of the vacuum pump may also be joined to a filter adapted to absorb odoriferous constituents in the air emitted from the vacuum pump.
- In the preferred embodiment of the vapor and/or liquid collection unit, the cellular layer in the interior space between the permeable outer layer and the impermeable outer layer of the flexible pad comprises a bubble defining sheet consisting of a series of impermeable cellular bubbles, which entrap air, and therefore remain inflated during use of the unit and serve to substantially maintain the integrity of the passages therebetween so that liquid collecting in the pad may be readily and rapidly removed from the interior space of the pad by the differential pressure device. If used, at least two configurations of the flexible pad hereof may be provided. In one configuration, the pad may be square shaped and of dimensions to be used as a bed pad or somewhat smaller as a chair pad. Alternatively, the pad may be of rectangular shape and of a size to be worn by a non-bedridden person beneath an undergarment. In addition, the bed or chair type pads may be provided with grommet openings in the perimeter openings thereof for receiving the hook of flexible retainers for securing the pad in place on an underlying structure such as a bed, or the seat of a chair.
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a thin layer vapor or liquid collection and aspiration unit for management of urinary incontinence in accordance with one preferred embodiment of the invention, with a corner of the disposable porous member, which overlies the permeable layer of the pad, being lifted to reveal details of the layer of the permeable pad normally overlying the liquid permeable layer of the pad; -
FIG. 2 is a fragmentary enlarged vertical cross-sectional view of the pad as depicted inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 3 is a bottom perspective view of the pad and schematically illustrating the aspiration assembly connected to the underside of the pad; -
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a smaller pad than the pad ofFIG. 1 and that is adapted to be worn by a incontinent individual; and -
FIG. 5 is a fragmentary enlarged vertical cross-sectional view of the pad as shown inFIG. 4 . - A
unit 10 for facilitating management of urinary incontinence is depicted inFIG. 3 and includes as its primary component, aflexible pad 12. Thepad 12 includes an outer liquidimpermeable layer 14 and a liquidpermeable layer 16 in overlying relationship tolayer 14. The peripheral margins 14 a oflayer layer 16 oflayers tight heat seal 18. The innermost face 14 b oflayer 14 and theinnermost face 16 b oflayer 16 within the confines of theheat seal 18 joininglayers interior space 20. - An intermediate
cellular layer 22 is confined withininterior space 20 betweeninnermost faces 14 b and 16 b oflayers Layer 22 is made up of a series of individual, thin wall, liquid impermeablepolymeric cells 24, which contain an entrapped fluid, such as air, and that are integral with apolymeric base sheet 26 as is apparent fromFIG. 2 . Each of thecells 24 has liquidimpermeable wall structure 28, which is integral withbase sheet 26, and that projects upwardly fromsheet 26 into proximity to theinnermost face 16 b oflayer 16. It is to be observed fromFIG. 2 thatcells 24 in the illustrated embodiment of the invention, are arranged in a series of parallel linear rows with each of thecells 24 of each row being offset longitudinally with respect to adjacent cells in proximal rows. It is to be understood that theindividual cells 24 may be of various configurations, as for example, generally cylindrical or of polygonal shape. Each of thecells 24 will be of generally pillow shaped configuration until inserted into thespace 20 and confined betweenlayers FIG. 2 . Thesheet portion 26 ofcellular layer 22 has a plurality ofopenings 34 therein aligned withpassages 30 betweencells 24. - The
cells 24 of intermediatecellular layer 22 collectively cooperate to define a grid-like series ofinter-communicating passages 30 which extend from the upper surface oflayer 14 to the underlying surface ofimpermeable layer 16 ofpad 12.Cellular layer 22 may most be conveniently and economically be a form of bubble wrap in which each of the bubbles contains entrapped air so that the bubbles essentially retain their shape when force is applied to the upper face of the permeableupper layer 16 ofpad 12. - The
layers pad 12 are preferably fabricated of 9 mm thick polymeric material and the overall pad may have length and width dimension of, for example, 28 in.×28 in. for hospital bed use, and 14 in.×14 in. for use on the seat of a chair or for wheel chair seat use. Theupper layer 16 ofpad 12 has a plurality ofopenings 32 arranged in a gridlike pattern as shown inFIG. 1 . Theopenings 32 inpermeable polymeric layer 16 may strategically be located in a 1 in. spacing pattern and preferably are pinhole size. - A
porous sheet member 36 overlays the outermost face ofpermeable layer 16 and is releasably secured to pad 12 by a series ofsnap fasteners 38. As is most evident fromFIGS. 1 and 2 , each of thesnap fasteners 38 has afemale portion 40 extending through and carried by theperipheral margins 14 a and 16 a oflayers male portion 42, which affixes thesheet member 36 to pad 12. In the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 1 , it is to be observed thatsnap fasteners 38 are to be provided at each of the corners ofrectangular pad 12 and at points midway between thecorner snap fasteners 38. - The resilient
porous sheet member 36 desirably is of disposable material with Proctor & Gamble's Dry-Weave® material being preferred because of its liquid wicking characteristics. The Dry-Weave® sheet member 36 is shown schematically inFIG. 2 and may for example have a normally innermostapertured polymeric layer 44 and a normallyoutermost film layer 46 provided with three-dimensional open ended liquid conveyingcapillary passages 48 communicating with the passages of thepolymeric film layer 44. It is to be appreciated in this respect that thepassages 48 are shown schematically with only a few of the passages only present being depicted for clarity, in that Dry-Weave® material has a large number of such passages in closely spaced relationship. Thepassages 48, for example, are each configured to present generally conical surfaces oriented such that the smallest open end thereof is directed toward the innermostpolymeric film layer 44 to enhance the wicking action ofsheet member 36. - A fitting 50 heat-sealed to the outer face of a central portion of liquid
impermeable layer 14 has L-shapedpassage 52 therethrough which communicates with theinterior space 20 ofpad 12. An elongatedflexible conduit 54, which for example, may be latex or polymeric surgical hose, is affixed to fitting 50 and communicates withpassage 52.Conduit 54 leads to the input of aliquid collection vessel 56 illustrated schematically inFIG. 3 . Atubular line 58 communicates the interior ofliquid collection vessel 56 with input port of a differential pressure device such as avacuum pump 60, also shown schematically inFIG. 3 . If desired, the air output port ofvacuum pump 60 may be connected to afilter unit 62 vialine 64.Filter 62 is preferably of a type capable of removing odoriferous agents contained in the air output fromvacuum pump 60. Alternatively,unit 10 may be provided with a positive pressure pump in lieu ofvacuum pump 60 for perfusion of sanitizing fluid for sterilization and ultimate extraction and drying for storage. - The
pad 12 is also preferably provided withgrommets 66 in the corner areas of the pad permitting the hook portions of elastic straps, such as bungee cords, to be inserted inrespective grommets 66 and affixed to the underside of a supporting structure, such as the patient's bed or components underlying a chair seat or a wheelchair seat. In this manner, the position of thepad 12 will maintain its flat condition even when a patient rests on the pad and assures that the pad will not shift into a crumpled or folded condition, which would be uncomfortable to the patient. - In use, the
pad 12 ofunit 10 is placed beneath the patient on the surface of a bed or a chair or wheelchair seat, and preferably affixed in a desirable position with suitable fasteners such as bungee cords using the openings ofgrommet 66 for that purpose. In the event of unintended urinary discharges by the patient, the liquid is received on the surface ofporous sheet member 36. If the vacuum pump is activated, the vacuum created ininterior space 20 will cause the inadvertently discharged urine to rapidly be drawn through thecapillary passages 48 ofporous sheet member 36, the perforations infilm layer 46, theopenings 32 inpermeable layer 16 ofpad 12,passages 30,openings 34 inbase sheet 26, thepassage 52 through fitting 50 andconduit 54 leading tocollection vessel 56. It is noteworthy in this respect that because of the inflated nature ofcells 24, opposed innermost faces oflayers pad 12 will retain their desired spatial relationship to prevent collapse ofpassages 30. In addition, because of the inter-connected nature ofpassages 30 as defined by theindividual cells 24, there is no tendency for the urine to be trapped in areas ofpad 12 where the vacuum created bypump 60 is incapable of removing the liquid frominterior space 20. - It is also to be appreciated that although
unit 10 is illustrated as having its own separate vacuum source, such asvacuum pump 60, in a hospital setting,line 58 may be connected to the vacuum line normally present in the wall of the hospital room. - Bed ridden patients can be repeatedly washed on the mats as the excess liquid will be drawn away by the vacuum.
- If desired, the
porous sheet member 36 may be replaced as necessary to maintain a sanitary environment free of undesirable odors. This replacement may be accomplished by the simple expedient of unfasteningsnap fasteners 38 and placing the newporous sheet member 36 in place. - An important feature and advantage of the present invention over previously available incontinent management devices is the fact that the
pad 36 may be repeatedly washed and cleaned with a suitable deodorizing and sanitizing agent by connecting a pressurized source of such agent toconduit 54 after removal of theporous sheet member 36. Any excess liquid cleaning agent introduced intointerior space 20 ofpad 12 will simply flow out through theopenings 32 inlayer 16. Agent remaining in theinterior space 20 ofpad 12 following the treatment procedure may be removed by recouplingvacuum pump 60 or a source of vacuum toline 58 which will withdraw the sanitizing agent frompad 12. - The
pad 112 illustrated inFIGS. 4 and 5 of the drawings is of construction similar to pad 12 except for its overall size and the manner of attachment of theporous sheet member 136 to thepermeable layer 116 ofpad 112. In order to permit wearing ofpad 112 by an ambulatory patient under his or her undergarment,pad 112 is preferably of a size having overall dimensions of about 10 in.×5 in. Theporous sheet member 136, which is also preferably Dry-Weave® material may be removably affixed to the outermost face ofpermeable layer 116 by use of double-stick tape located around the perimeter of theporous sheet member 136, and at least at the corners of thesheet member 136. Although not shown inFIG. 4 , it is to be understood thatpad 112 is adapted to be connected to a collection vessel and vacuum pump similar tovessel 56 and pump 60, except for relative sizes, through the medium of aconduit 154, which is again connected to the central portion of liquidimpermeable layer 114 ofpad 112 through the medium of apassage defining fitting 150. Theperimeter margin 116 a oflayer 116 and perimeter margin of 114 a oflayer 114 are liquid tight heat sealed as previously with respect to seal 18. Theinternal space 120 ofpad 112 contains acellular layer 122 preferably formed of bubble wrap material identical in construction tocellular layer 22 described in detail herein above. - The operation and use of
pad 112 is the same as described with respect to pad 12 with the understanding that the liquid collection vessel should be of such nature that it can be attached by suitable means to the body of the patient and a battery operated, commercially available, relatively small vacuum pump provided as a source of vacuum. Theporous sheet member 136 may be removed and replaced as necessary by simply pulling on the pad to displace the double-stick tape connection of the Dry-Weave® sheet member 136 fromlayer 116 ofpad 112. Sanitizing and deodorizing ofpad 112 may be accomplished in the same manner as described with respect to pad 12. - In the case of
pad 112, it is desirable that at least thelayer 114 of the pad be fabricated of a polymeric material which is non-irritating to the skin of the user. In addition, in the instance of adisposable pad 112, not intended for successive reuses, a line of adhesive may be provided on the peripheral portion oflayer 114, which is normally protected by a peelable paper protective strip. The patient can remove the protective strip before positioning of thepad 112 thereby allowing the adhesive line to cause thepad 112 to fully conform to the surface of the patient's body and prevent leakage of liquid around the perimeter edges of thepad 112. - The thin layer aspiration or perfusion units for vapor and/or liquid collection have utility for collection and transfer vapors and liquids other than in the management of waste products from an incontinent patient.
- Exemplary in this respect is use of the units to distribute septic tank treated effluent waste products from a home, a business or a sewage treatment facility, through an array of shallowly buried (8 to 12 inches deep), mats or pads (long rolls 8 to 20 feet wide) serving as an alternative for a leachfield (to effect vertical evaporation of the water portion of the effluent and to provide nutrient at the base of roots of associated plants to facilitate a Bio-Enhanced Treatment System (BETS). These industrial units are preferably fabricated using heavy (industrial-grade) plastic sheets. The units should include as component parts a perforate top layer, a perforated bubble layer and an imperforate bottom layer, an opening into the bottom layer and a tube connected to that opening. The nature of the outer liquid impermeable layer and the opposed liquid permeable layer of the unit, on opposite sides of the intermediate cellular layer, as previously described, remains the same, except in this instance, the porous Dry-Weave or the like layer is omitted and the tube or tubes connected to the lowermost impermeable layer of the assembled components is adapted to be joined to a septic tank outflow pipe leading from a residence or other source of waste effluent products. Because of the construction of the individual layers, including the bubble layer, each may be manufactured as a substantially continuous component with the longitudinal opposed edges, and respective end edges being joined to provide leak proof edge seals (e.g., long rolls of the order of 8 to 20 feet wide).
- Thus, by digging a wide, shallow, elongated trench in the
ground 10 to 12 inches deep, of a dimension that accommodates the width of the dispersion unit selected, leveling the exposed surface and unrolling the elongated dispersion unit in the trench with an additional layer of gravel (2 to 3 inches) and soil thereover, treated effluent waste from the septic tank of a residence, etc., delivered to the dispersion unit through the lower imperforate layer will flow along the length and width of the dispersion unit and then leak (perfuse) out through the various openings in the top liquid permeable layer. It is contemplated that a pump be provided in the treated effluent line leading to the dispersion unit to positively direct treated effluent liquid to the inlet of the dispersion unit in a controlled fashion. A buried holding vessel having a liquid level controller may be provided in the treated effluent line between the septic tank and the dispersion unit to assure uniform delivery of treated effluent to the dispersion unit. In addition, a number of dispersion units may be provided in the underground leach bed with lines leading from the holding vessel to respective dispersion units. - In this regard, it is to be understood that the openings provided in the upper permeable layer are sized to provide for proper and desired delivery of treated liquid effluent through the top permeable layer that collects in the dispersion unit and is received from the building's septic tank treated effluent drain pipe (to effect vertical evaporation through the soil and delivery of nutrient to plant roots). Furthermore, it is to be understood that the sheets of polymeric film should be somewhat thicker (e.g., industrial grade) and the cells of the permeable cellular layer normally are larger than the cells of the cellular layer used in the unit for managing urinary excretions of individuals. The cells of the intermediate permeable layer which contain trapped air prevent the dispersion unit from collapsing even when a layer of gravel (2 to 3 inches) and then dirt (up to 12 inches) is filled in over the top of the buried dispersion unit.
- An underground dispersion unit similar to the one just described for delivery of treated effluent waste liquid products to a shallow leach bed, may be used to direct fresh irrigation water to the roots of plants. The fresh water underground watering unit normally would not be buried along with layers of gravel and typically would be of a smaller size than the size of the septic field dispersion units. In that connection, it is to be recognized that the fresh water dispersion unit may be sized as appropriate for outdoor watering of plants, as well as for indoor use with plotted plants and the like. Again, a pump is preferably provided to direct the irrigation water to the dispersion unit for delivery through the perforate unit to the surrounding ground.
- Alternatively, heated and cooled water or air may be introduced and recollected between layers of gunnite sprayed or poured concrete multi-layered walls, buildings, roofs, ceilings and floors by placing an imperforate dispersion unit plumbed with inlet and outlet only as described, between the layers of the walls, roofs, floors, etc., thus permitting heated or cooled water or air to be introduced uniformly across the surface area and withdrawn. In addition, a perforated dispersion unit as described herein with perforate layer out board may be laminated near the outer surface in a concrete structure such that liquid that is introduced into and then passes through the dispersion unit is expelled from a perforated layer thereof so that it may then weep outwardly into and through the concrete to effect evaporation of the water and consequent cooling of the concrete. In this manner, heating and air conditioning requirements for confined building spaces may be decreased as a result of the heated/cooled air or water being supplied into such spaces via a unit of this invention.
- The same type of multi-layered unit used for the dispersion of treated effluent waste liquid in a leach bed, watering of plants and introducing treated water or air into building structural components is also useful in collecting oil from an oil slick released onto the surface of a lake, ocean or another body of water. Conventional inflated tubular rolls are placed around the perimeter of the oil slick and then one or more of the units described herein as having a permeable layer, an intermediate cellular layer and an opposed impermeable layer, are oriented such that the perforated layer faces downward so that the oil floating on the surface of the water is pulled into the interior of the unit through the permeable layer openings. A tube joined to and communicating with the upper imperforate layer of the unit is connected to an aspiration device which causes the oil to be drawn into the dispersion/aspiration unit where it collects in the perforated bubble layer of the unit between the lower permeable layer and the upper impermeable layer. This collected oil is then withdrawn through a tube connected to the aspiration device, and then directed to a suitable collection point or device.
- The multi-layered units of this invention are useful in a variety of veterinary and agriculture applications, e.g., use under animals during transport to collect urinary out put in transit. Incorporation or placement of a multi-layered unit as described herein in an indoor cat litter box will thereby eliminate tons of used cat litter now going into landfills annually. Additionally, these multi-layered mats can be placed under leaky hazardous waste containers for spill containment during storage or transport.
- It is therefore apparent that the present device is operable to collect a vapor or a liquid product or to deliver a product to a suitable site either by suction created by an aspiration device or under perfusion pressure using a pressure pump. In all instances, the perforated bubble layer prevents the unit from collapsing, regardless of whether a negative pressure or a positive pressure is applied to the unit. An elongated roll unit as described herein and adapted for vertical evaporative dispersion of treated sewage effluent may be manufactured of any desired length and width, and can even be supplied in roll form with the installer cutting segments from the roll of selected lengths and then sealing the transverse edges in the field using a conventional thermal sealing device.
Claims (21)
1. A vapor and/or liquid collection or delivery unit comprising:
a thin flexible pad of greater width than thickness and of selected length has a liquid permeable first outer layer and a liquid impermeable second outer layer cooperating to form an interior space therebetween, the outer perimeter portions of the first and second layers being joined to present a fluid tight seal, and an intermediate cellular layer between the first and second layers, said cellular layer being defined by a series of spaced, side-by-side discrete liquid impermeable cellular components between the first and second layers, each of said cellular components containing entrapped fluid, which substantially maintains the shape of each cellular component, said cellular components collectively presenting inter-communicating liquid passages between the cellular components; and
a differential pressure device communicating with the interior space of the pad for introducing or removing vapor or liquid which passes through the permeable first outer layer and collects in the passages between the cellular structures.
2. A unit as set forth in claim 1 wherein each of said cellular components and the passages presented thereby extend from the second layer to the first layer.
3. A unit as set forth in claim 1 wherein said cellular components are made up of a series of individual, relatively thin wall, liquid impermeable, polymeric cells containing entrapped air.
4. A unit as set forth in claim 1 wherein is provided a liquid permeable porous sheet in overlying relationship to said first permeable outer layer.
5. A unit as set forth in claim 4 wherein said porous sheet is releasably affixed to said first permeable outer layer.
6. A unit as set forth in claim 5 wherein is provided a series of couplers releasably affixing the porous sheet to the perimeter of the pad.
7. A unit as set forth in claim 6 wherein each of said couplers comprises a snap fastener.
8. A unit as set forth in claim 1 wherein said pad is provided with a plurality of grommets in the interconnected perimeter portions of the first and second outer layers for receiving elongated elements for affixing the pad to supporting structure underlying a patient.
9. A unit as set forth in claim 4 wherein said porous sheet is resilient and has a normally innermost apertured polymeric film layer, and a normally outermost polymeric film layer provided with three-dimensional open ended liquid conveying capillary passages communicating with the passages of said innermost polymeric film layer, said passages being oriented to direct liquid deposited on the outermost polymeric film layer via the capillary passages therein to the innermost polymeric film layer for flow through the apertures of the innermost polymeric layer.
10. A unit as set forth in claim 9 wherein each of said capillary passages is of generally conical configuration with the smallest open end thereof directed toward said innermost polymeric film layer of the porous sheet.
11. A unit as set forth in claim 1 wherein said cellular layer is a bubble defining member.
12. A unit as set forth in claim 1 wherein said cellular layer has an apertured planar portion adjacent the inner face of the impermeable layer, and said discrete cellular components engage the inner face of said permeable layer, the apertures in said planar portion of the cellular layer being strategically located between proximal cellular components.
13. A unit as set forth in claim 12 wherein the height dimension of each of said cellular component between said first permeable outer layer and the second impermeable outer layer is less than the width and length dimension of each cellular component.
14. A unit as set forth in claim 12 wherein said cellular components are arranged in generally parallel rows, with the cellular components in each row being offset relative to the cellular components of each row on opposite sides thereof.
15. A unit as set forth in claim 1 wherein is provided a liquid conduit connected to said second liquid impermeable layer and communicating with said interior space between the first and second layers.
16. A unit as set forth in claim 15 wherein is provided a vacuum pump connected to said conduit.
17. A unit as set forth in claim 16 wherein is provided a liquid collection vessel coupled to the conduit between the vacuum pump and said flexible pad.
18. A unit as set forth in claim 17 wherein said vacuum pump has an input connected to the liquid collection vessel and an output, and a filter connected to the output of the vacuum pump.
19. A unit as set forth in claim 1 wherein said pad is of rectangular configuration having a length dimension greater than the width dimension thereof and of a size to be worn by a patient suffering from incontinence beneath the patient's undergarment with the liquid permeable layer positioned against the patient's skin.
20. A unit as set forth in claim 19 wherein said pad is provided with a liquid permeable porous sheet in overlying relationship to said first permeable outer layer, and double sided sticky tape is provided for releasably securing the porous sheet to said first permeable outer layer of the pad.
21. A unit as set forth in claim 15 wherein is provided a pressure pump connected to said conduit.
Priority Applications (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/891,637 US20060015080A1 (en) | 2004-07-15 | 2004-07-15 | Fluid collection and aspiration unit for management of urinary incontinence |
US12/565,450 US8241262B2 (en) | 2004-07-15 | 2009-09-23 | Fluid collection and aspiration unit for management of urinary incontinence |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/891,637 US20060015080A1 (en) | 2004-07-15 | 2004-07-15 | Fluid collection and aspiration unit for management of urinary incontinence |
Related Child Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/565,450 Continuation US8241262B2 (en) | 2004-07-15 | 2009-09-23 | Fluid collection and aspiration unit for management of urinary incontinence |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20060015080A1 true US20060015080A1 (en) | 2006-01-19 |
Family
ID=35600424
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/891,637 Abandoned US20060015080A1 (en) | 2004-07-15 | 2004-07-15 | Fluid collection and aspiration unit for management of urinary incontinence |
US12/565,450 Active 2024-12-16 US8241262B2 (en) | 2004-07-15 | 2009-09-23 | Fluid collection and aspiration unit for management of urinary incontinence |
Family Applications After (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/565,450 Active 2024-12-16 US8241262B2 (en) | 2004-07-15 | 2009-09-23 | Fluid collection and aspiration unit for management of urinary incontinence |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US20060015080A1 (en) |
Cited By (39)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20040243075A1 (en) * | 2002-02-26 | 2004-12-02 | Harvie Mark R. | Automatic self cleaning bladder relief system |
US20050119630A1 (en) * | 2002-02-26 | 2005-06-02 | Harvie Mark R. | Automatic self cleaning bladder relief system and failsafe |
US20050154360A1 (en) * | 2002-02-26 | 2005-07-14 | Harvie Mark R. | Automatic self cleaning bladder relief and hydration system |
US20060241553A1 (en) * | 2002-02-26 | 2006-10-26 | Harvie Mark R | Automatic self cleaning bladder relief with battery pad system |
WO2008078117A1 (en) * | 2006-12-22 | 2008-07-03 | Iqol Design Limited | Incontinence aid |
WO2009052502A1 (en) * | 2007-10-18 | 2009-04-23 | Convatec Inc. | Aspiration system and body interface device for removing urine discharged by the human body |
US20100016818A1 (en) * | 2004-07-15 | 2010-01-21 | Michael Mahnensmith | Fluid collection and aspiration unit for management of urinary incontinence |
US20110145993A1 (en) * | 2009-12-17 | 2011-06-23 | Sharon F. Rader | Integral fluid disposal apparatus and system |
WO2011112655A1 (en) * | 2010-03-12 | 2011-09-15 | Omada Llp | Luggage for storage and transport of baby items |
WO2013014317A1 (en) * | 2011-07-28 | 2013-01-31 | Establecimientos Sumisan, S.A. | Collector of liquid |
US20130298330A1 (en) * | 2012-05-10 | 2013-11-14 | Charles A. Lachenbruch | Occupant Support and Topper Assembly with Liquid Removal and Microclimate Control Capabilities |
US20140276494A1 (en) * | 2013-03-14 | 2014-09-18 | Hollister Incorporated | Bodily Fluid Collection Devices, Bodily Fluid Collection Systems, and Methods for Removing Bodily Fluids |
CN104188762A (en) * | 2014-08-14 | 2014-12-10 | 珠海尚尔生物科技有限公司 | Novel nappy/paper diaper/paper urine mat |
CN104758064A (en) * | 2015-04-27 | 2015-07-08 | 孟凡青 | Lost blood collecting device used outside scalpel incision during placenta previa caesarean section |
US9463124B2 (en) | 2013-01-15 | 2016-10-11 | Hill-Rom Services, Inc. | Microclimate system for a patient support apparatus |
US10214129B2 (en) * | 2016-09-20 | 2019-02-26 | Ford Global Technologies, Llc | Air bladder with stacked cell system |
US10220754B2 (en) * | 2016-10-18 | 2019-03-05 | Ford Global Technologies, Llc | Inflatable member |
US10952889B2 (en) | 2016-06-02 | 2021-03-23 | Purewick Corporation | Using wicking material to collect liquid for transport |
US10973678B2 (en) | 2016-07-27 | 2021-04-13 | Purewick Corporation | Apparatus and methods for receiving discharged urine |
US11090183B2 (en) | 2014-11-25 | 2021-08-17 | Purewick Corporation | Container for collecting liquid for transport |
USD928946S1 (en) | 2016-06-02 | 2021-08-24 | Purewick Corporation | Urine receiving apparatus |
USD929578S1 (en) | 2019-06-06 | 2021-08-31 | Purewick Corporation | Urine collection assembly |
US11246573B2 (en) | 2016-02-18 | 2022-02-15 | Ur24Technology, Inc. | Automated collection and analysis of body fluids |
US20220071811A1 (en) * | 2020-09-10 | 2022-03-10 | Purewick Corporation | Fluid collection assemblies including at least one inflation device |
US11311405B2 (en) | 2020-05-22 | 2022-04-26 | Ur24Technology, Inc. | Methods and apparatus for collecting body fluids |
US11376152B2 (en) | 2014-03-19 | 2022-07-05 | Purewick Corporation | Apparatus and methods for receiving discharged urine |
US11382786B2 (en) | 2014-03-19 | 2022-07-12 | Purewick Corporation | Apparatus and methods for receiving discharged urine |
US11399999B1 (en) * | 2019-03-29 | 2022-08-02 | Ezra M. Nyankira | Easy drain mattress |
US20220265463A1 (en) * | 2021-02-20 | 2022-08-25 | Babyation Inc. | Liquid and Waste Collection System |
USD967409S1 (en) | 2020-07-15 | 2022-10-18 | Purewick Corporation | Urine collection apparatus cover |
USD969308S1 (en) | 2020-05-28 | 2022-11-08 | Ur24Technology, Inc. | Fluid collection apparatus |
US11504265B2 (en) | 2020-06-18 | 2022-11-22 | Medline Industries, Lp | Urine collection device, system, and method |
US11529252B2 (en) | 2018-05-01 | 2022-12-20 | Purewick Corporation | Fluid collection garments |
US11801186B2 (en) | 2020-09-10 | 2023-10-31 | Purewick Corporation | Urine storage container handle and lid accessories |
US11865030B2 (en) | 2021-01-19 | 2024-01-09 | Purewick Corporation | Variable fit fluid collection devices, systems, and methods |
US11925575B2 (en) | 2021-02-26 | 2024-03-12 | Purewick Corporation | Fluid collection devices having a sump between a tube opening and a barrier, and related systems and methods |
US11938053B2 (en) | 2018-05-01 | 2024-03-26 | Purewick Corporation | Fluid collection devices, systems, and methods |
US11938054B2 (en) | 2021-03-10 | 2024-03-26 | Purewick Corporation | Bodily waste and fluid collection with sacral pad |
US11944740B2 (en) | 2018-05-01 | 2024-04-02 | Purewick Corporation | Fluid collection devices, related systems, and related methods |
Families Citing this family (11)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
AU2011258202B2 (en) * | 2010-05-27 | 2016-06-16 | Huntleigh Technology Limited | Multi-layer support system |
DE102013104659A1 (en) | 2013-05-06 | 2014-11-06 | Eberhard Timm GmbH | Ventilation device for or as part of an absorbent article |
US10390989B2 (en) | 2014-03-19 | 2019-08-27 | Purewick Corporation | Apparatus and methods for receiving discharged urine |
US10226376B2 (en) | 2014-03-19 | 2019-03-12 | Purewick Corporation | Apparatus and methods for receiving discharged urine |
TWI575176B (en) * | 2014-09-03 | 2017-03-21 | Timeleader Ind Corp | Air cushion adjustment structure |
US10376407B2 (en) | 2016-08-16 | 2019-08-13 | Purewick Corporation | Using wicking material to collect urine from a male for transport |
US10376406B2 (en) | 2016-07-27 | 2019-08-13 | Purewick Corporation | Male urine collection device using wicking material |
WO2019099975A2 (en) | 2017-11-20 | 2019-05-23 | Hollister Incorporated | Urinary catheter assemblies and packaging for such assemblies |
RU2757195C1 (en) * | 2017-11-21 | 2021-10-11 | Винченцо БУОНИНФАНТЕ | Mattress |
BR112020022304A2 (en) * | 2018-05-01 | 2021-02-23 | Purewick Corporation | fluid collection devices and methods of using them |
US11839528B2 (en) * | 2018-10-22 | 2023-12-12 | Medline Industries, Lp | Drypad with rapid absorption and liquid removal |
Citations (42)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US1540685A (en) * | 1923-03-13 | 1925-06-02 | Ernest A Eiband | Combination automobile cushion and pillow |
US1886637A (en) * | 1931-06-19 | 1932-11-08 | Helen M Buckley | Pad for invalid cushions |
US2028060A (en) * | 1935-09-07 | 1936-01-14 | Gilbert Eskell | Protector |
US2590026A (en) * | 1950-06-14 | 1952-03-18 | Marman Products Co Inc | Vapor delivery pad for distributing moist heat |
US3293671A (en) * | 1965-06-14 | 1966-12-27 | Victor R Griffin | Cushions, and the like |
US3381999A (en) * | 1966-08-04 | 1968-05-07 | Frank W. Steere Jr. | Cushion and skin covering therefor |
US3605145A (en) * | 1968-12-05 | 1971-09-20 | Robert H Graebe | Body support |
US3653083A (en) * | 1970-05-11 | 1972-04-04 | Roy Lapidus | Bed pad |
US3757356A (en) * | 1972-07-13 | 1973-09-11 | H Freeman | Therapeutic bed pan |
US3929135A (en) * | 1974-12-20 | 1975-12-30 | Procter & Gamble | Absorptive structure having tapered capillaries |
US4525166A (en) * | 1981-11-21 | 1985-06-25 | Intermedicat Gmbh | Rolled flexible medical suction drainage device |
US4610679A (en) * | 1985-03-15 | 1986-09-09 | Masao Matsushita | Bedsore-free diaper |
US4614000A (en) * | 1984-06-19 | 1986-09-30 | Pacon Manufacturing Corp. | Patient undersheet for preventing bed sores |
US4669460A (en) * | 1986-04-07 | 1987-06-02 | Silber Arthur L | Anti-ulceration bandage |
US4747166A (en) * | 1987-05-15 | 1988-05-31 | Kuntz David H | Fluid aspiration system for the management of urinary incontinence |
US4780921A (en) * | 1987-04-08 | 1988-11-01 | Lahn Karen R | Cover for therapeutic support cushion |
US5034006A (en) * | 1987-06-22 | 1991-07-23 | Takeda Chemical Industries, Ltd. | Suction equipment for medical operation |
US5111544A (en) * | 1991-07-01 | 1992-05-12 | Graebe Robert H | Cover with elastic top and frictional bottom for a cushion |
US5176667A (en) * | 1992-04-27 | 1993-01-05 | Debring Donald L | Liquid collection apparatus |
US5274846A (en) * | 1990-06-12 | 1994-01-04 | Hpi Health Protection, Inc. | Cushion having multilayer closed cell structure |
US5349965A (en) * | 1991-12-16 | 1994-09-27 | Kimberly-Clark Corporation | Surgical fluid evacuation system |
US5364339A (en) * | 1993-04-07 | 1994-11-15 | Juanita Carver | Bed sore pad |
US5409511A (en) * | 1992-12-03 | 1995-04-25 | Michaud, Cooley, Erickson & Associates, Inc. | Centralized laser plume evacuation system through articulating arms |
US5473783A (en) * | 1994-04-04 | 1995-12-12 | Allen; Randall W. | Air percolating pad |
US5561875A (en) * | 1992-02-20 | 1996-10-08 | Crown Therapeutics, Inc. | Vacuum/heat formed cushion supported on a fluid permeable manifold |
US5590428A (en) * | 1994-06-24 | 1997-01-07 | Adelbar Importing And Marketing Ltd. | Air pressurized person supporting device with ventilation |
US5675854A (en) * | 1996-12-27 | 1997-10-14 | Zibelin; Henry S. | Mattress apparatus |
US5678564A (en) * | 1992-08-07 | 1997-10-21 | Bristol Myers Squibb | Liquid removal system |
US5827246A (en) * | 1996-02-28 | 1998-10-27 | Tecnol Medical Products, Inc. | Vacuum pad for collecting potentially hazardous fluids |
US5887304A (en) * | 1997-07-10 | 1999-03-30 | Von Der Heyde; Christian P. | Apparatus and method for preventing sudden infant death syndrome |
US6202689B1 (en) * | 1998-07-13 | 2001-03-20 | Kevin M. Williams | Fluid-collecting receptacle having hinged upper sheet |
US6290685B1 (en) * | 1998-06-18 | 2001-09-18 | 3M Innovative Properties Company | Microchanneled active fluid transport devices |
US20020082573A1 (en) * | 2000-11-29 | 2002-06-27 | Mcgrath Hill Loretta Maureen | Liquid absorbing pad and method of manufacturing the same |
US6487739B1 (en) * | 2000-06-01 | 2002-12-03 | Crown Therapeutics, Inc. | Moisture drying mattress with separate zone controls |
US6613953B1 (en) * | 2002-03-22 | 2003-09-02 | Dan Altura | Insulator-conductor device for maintaining a wound near normal body temperature |
US6692811B1 (en) * | 1999-07-19 | 2004-02-17 | Mcneil-Ppc, Inc. | Substrates comprising flocked fibers of superabsorbent polymer |
US6740066B2 (en) * | 1999-03-26 | 2004-05-25 | Brunel University | Urine collection device |
US20040143229A1 (en) * | 2003-01-17 | 2004-07-22 | Easter William Craig | Vacuum assisted relief system (VARS) |
US20040236292A1 (en) * | 2003-03-10 | 2004-11-25 | Wataru Tazoe | Automatic urine disposal device and urine receptacle used therefor |
US6855135B2 (en) * | 2000-11-29 | 2005-02-15 | Hill-Rom Services, Inc. | Vacuum therapy and cleansing dressing for wounds |
US20050070861A1 (en) * | 2003-09-30 | 2005-03-31 | Kenichi Okabe | Automatic urine disposal device and urine receptacle used therefor |
US20060015081A1 (en) * | 2004-07-15 | 2006-01-19 | Uni-Charm Corporation Hitachi, Ltd. | Urine receiver and urine collection processing system implementing urine receiver |
Family Cites Families (28)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US74340A (en) * | 1868-02-11 | Improved stuffing foe matteesses, sofas, and seats | ||
US2944551A (en) * | 1958-09-08 | 1960-07-12 | Breer Carl | Body appliance |
US3468311A (en) * | 1967-06-07 | 1969-09-23 | John P Gallagher | Absorbent pad |
DE1933456A1 (en) * | 1969-07-02 | 1971-06-03 | Eisenburger Kuno Dipl Ing | Two- or multi-layer edition, cover and the like. for seat and lounge furniture |
US3870450A (en) * | 1973-05-16 | 1975-03-11 | Robert H Graebe | Multicelled structure apparatus for making same |
DE3166588D1 (en) * | 1980-08-13 | 1984-11-15 | Patrick Robin David Paul | Mattress |
US4686724A (en) * | 1983-04-22 | 1987-08-18 | Bedford Peter H | Support pad for nonambulatory persons |
US4541136A (en) * | 1983-09-01 | 1985-09-17 | Graebe Robert H | Multicell cushion |
US4620333A (en) * | 1985-05-21 | 1986-11-04 | Ritter Russell F | Incontinent bed facility |
US4605582A (en) * | 1985-05-23 | 1986-08-12 | American Hospital Supply Corporation | Body support pad |
US4796948A (en) * | 1986-02-14 | 1989-01-10 | Ssi Medical Services, Inc. | Patient support system for wheelchairs and the like |
NL8600656A (en) * | 1986-03-13 | 1987-10-01 | Mandhy Prod Bv | URINE COLLECTION DEVICE. |
US4914772A (en) * | 1988-10-17 | 1990-04-10 | Difloe Donna M | Drainable cushion and furniture seating |
US4870710A (en) * | 1989-03-03 | 1989-10-03 | Richard Hartmann | Body-liquid collecting and mattress protecting apparatus |
US5152023A (en) * | 1990-11-13 | 1992-10-06 | Graebe Robert W | Cellular cushion having sealed cells |
US5379471A (en) * | 1991-01-28 | 1995-01-10 | Holdredge; Terry K. | Pneumatic wheel chair cushion for reducing ischemic injury |
JP2823402B2 (en) * | 1991-12-04 | 1998-11-11 | ユニ・チャーム株式会社 | Body fluid absorbent articles |
GB2269579A (en) * | 1992-08-14 | 1994-02-16 | John Richard Wickham Hardy | Waste product collection unit |
US5388296A (en) * | 1993-01-15 | 1995-02-14 | Mansour; Joseph | Fluid permeable bed accessory |
DE69413226T2 (en) * | 1993-06-23 | 1999-03-04 | Procter & Gamble | ABSORBENT DISPOSABLE ARTICLE WITH SELECTIVELY EXTENSIBLE OR INFLATING COMPONENTS |
US5352217A (en) * | 1993-09-14 | 1994-10-04 | The Proctor & Gamble Company | Absorbent article having multiple topsheets |
US5792127A (en) * | 1996-10-23 | 1998-08-11 | Marran; James E. | Urine collection and drainage device |
US6673982B1 (en) * | 1998-10-02 | 2004-01-06 | Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc. | Absorbent article with center fill performance |
US6569133B2 (en) * | 2000-04-06 | 2003-05-27 | Uroscientific, Inc. | Urine management system for human females |
US6892734B1 (en) * | 2000-10-19 | 2005-05-17 | Thomas R. Schleicher | Wound care suspension system |
US6450995B1 (en) * | 2001-01-10 | 2002-09-17 | Indira C. Prabhakar | Diaper for an incontinent person |
US6918899B2 (en) * | 2002-02-26 | 2005-07-19 | Mark R. Harvie | Automatic bladder relief system |
US20060015080A1 (en) * | 2004-07-15 | 2006-01-19 | Michael Mahnensmith | Fluid collection and aspiration unit for management of urinary incontinence |
-
2004
- 2004-07-15 US US10/891,637 patent/US20060015080A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2009
- 2009-09-23 US US12/565,450 patent/US8241262B2/en active Active
Patent Citations (42)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US1540685A (en) * | 1923-03-13 | 1925-06-02 | Ernest A Eiband | Combination automobile cushion and pillow |
US1886637A (en) * | 1931-06-19 | 1932-11-08 | Helen M Buckley | Pad for invalid cushions |
US2028060A (en) * | 1935-09-07 | 1936-01-14 | Gilbert Eskell | Protector |
US2590026A (en) * | 1950-06-14 | 1952-03-18 | Marman Products Co Inc | Vapor delivery pad for distributing moist heat |
US3293671A (en) * | 1965-06-14 | 1966-12-27 | Victor R Griffin | Cushions, and the like |
US3381999A (en) * | 1966-08-04 | 1968-05-07 | Frank W. Steere Jr. | Cushion and skin covering therefor |
US3605145A (en) * | 1968-12-05 | 1971-09-20 | Robert H Graebe | Body support |
US3653083A (en) * | 1970-05-11 | 1972-04-04 | Roy Lapidus | Bed pad |
US3757356A (en) * | 1972-07-13 | 1973-09-11 | H Freeman | Therapeutic bed pan |
US3929135A (en) * | 1974-12-20 | 1975-12-30 | Procter & Gamble | Absorptive structure having tapered capillaries |
US4525166A (en) * | 1981-11-21 | 1985-06-25 | Intermedicat Gmbh | Rolled flexible medical suction drainage device |
US4614000A (en) * | 1984-06-19 | 1986-09-30 | Pacon Manufacturing Corp. | Patient undersheet for preventing bed sores |
US4610679A (en) * | 1985-03-15 | 1986-09-09 | Masao Matsushita | Bedsore-free diaper |
US4669460A (en) * | 1986-04-07 | 1987-06-02 | Silber Arthur L | Anti-ulceration bandage |
US4780921A (en) * | 1987-04-08 | 1988-11-01 | Lahn Karen R | Cover for therapeutic support cushion |
US4747166A (en) * | 1987-05-15 | 1988-05-31 | Kuntz David H | Fluid aspiration system for the management of urinary incontinence |
US5034006A (en) * | 1987-06-22 | 1991-07-23 | Takeda Chemical Industries, Ltd. | Suction equipment for medical operation |
US5274846A (en) * | 1990-06-12 | 1994-01-04 | Hpi Health Protection, Inc. | Cushion having multilayer closed cell structure |
US5111544A (en) * | 1991-07-01 | 1992-05-12 | Graebe Robert H | Cover with elastic top and frictional bottom for a cushion |
US5349965A (en) * | 1991-12-16 | 1994-09-27 | Kimberly-Clark Corporation | Surgical fluid evacuation system |
US5561875A (en) * | 1992-02-20 | 1996-10-08 | Crown Therapeutics, Inc. | Vacuum/heat formed cushion supported on a fluid permeable manifold |
US5176667A (en) * | 1992-04-27 | 1993-01-05 | Debring Donald L | Liquid collection apparatus |
US5678564A (en) * | 1992-08-07 | 1997-10-21 | Bristol Myers Squibb | Liquid removal system |
US5409511A (en) * | 1992-12-03 | 1995-04-25 | Michaud, Cooley, Erickson & Associates, Inc. | Centralized laser plume evacuation system through articulating arms |
US5364339A (en) * | 1993-04-07 | 1994-11-15 | Juanita Carver | Bed sore pad |
US5473783A (en) * | 1994-04-04 | 1995-12-12 | Allen; Randall W. | Air percolating pad |
US5590428A (en) * | 1994-06-24 | 1997-01-07 | Adelbar Importing And Marketing Ltd. | Air pressurized person supporting device with ventilation |
US5827246A (en) * | 1996-02-28 | 1998-10-27 | Tecnol Medical Products, Inc. | Vacuum pad for collecting potentially hazardous fluids |
US5675854A (en) * | 1996-12-27 | 1997-10-14 | Zibelin; Henry S. | Mattress apparatus |
US5887304A (en) * | 1997-07-10 | 1999-03-30 | Von Der Heyde; Christian P. | Apparatus and method for preventing sudden infant death syndrome |
US6290685B1 (en) * | 1998-06-18 | 2001-09-18 | 3M Innovative Properties Company | Microchanneled active fluid transport devices |
US6202689B1 (en) * | 1998-07-13 | 2001-03-20 | Kevin M. Williams | Fluid-collecting receptacle having hinged upper sheet |
US6740066B2 (en) * | 1999-03-26 | 2004-05-25 | Brunel University | Urine collection device |
US6692811B1 (en) * | 1999-07-19 | 2004-02-17 | Mcneil-Ppc, Inc. | Substrates comprising flocked fibers of superabsorbent polymer |
US6487739B1 (en) * | 2000-06-01 | 2002-12-03 | Crown Therapeutics, Inc. | Moisture drying mattress with separate zone controls |
US20020082573A1 (en) * | 2000-11-29 | 2002-06-27 | Mcgrath Hill Loretta Maureen | Liquid absorbing pad and method of manufacturing the same |
US6855135B2 (en) * | 2000-11-29 | 2005-02-15 | Hill-Rom Services, Inc. | Vacuum therapy and cleansing dressing for wounds |
US6613953B1 (en) * | 2002-03-22 | 2003-09-02 | Dan Altura | Insulator-conductor device for maintaining a wound near normal body temperature |
US20040143229A1 (en) * | 2003-01-17 | 2004-07-22 | Easter William Craig | Vacuum assisted relief system (VARS) |
US20040236292A1 (en) * | 2003-03-10 | 2004-11-25 | Wataru Tazoe | Automatic urine disposal device and urine receptacle used therefor |
US20050070861A1 (en) * | 2003-09-30 | 2005-03-31 | Kenichi Okabe | Automatic urine disposal device and urine receptacle used therefor |
US20060015081A1 (en) * | 2004-07-15 | 2006-01-19 | Uni-Charm Corporation Hitachi, Ltd. | Urine receiver and urine collection processing system implementing urine receiver |
Cited By (58)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20040243075A1 (en) * | 2002-02-26 | 2004-12-02 | Harvie Mark R. | Automatic self cleaning bladder relief system |
US20050119630A1 (en) * | 2002-02-26 | 2005-06-02 | Harvie Mark R. | Automatic self cleaning bladder relief system and failsafe |
US20050154360A1 (en) * | 2002-02-26 | 2005-07-14 | Harvie Mark R. | Automatic self cleaning bladder relief and hydration system |
US20060241553A1 (en) * | 2002-02-26 | 2006-10-26 | Harvie Mark R | Automatic self cleaning bladder relief with battery pad system |
US7131964B2 (en) * | 2002-02-26 | 2006-11-07 | Harvie Mark R | Automatic self cleaning bladder relief system and failsafe |
US7135012B2 (en) * | 2002-02-26 | 2006-11-14 | Harvie Mark R | Automatic self cleaning bladder relief system |
US7141043B2 (en) * | 2002-02-26 | 2006-11-28 | Harvie Mark R | Automatic self cleaning bladder relief and hydration system |
US7335189B2 (en) * | 2002-02-26 | 2008-02-26 | Harvie Mark R | Automatic self cleaning bladder relief with battery pad system |
US20100016818A1 (en) * | 2004-07-15 | 2010-01-21 | Michael Mahnensmith | Fluid collection and aspiration unit for management of urinary incontinence |
US8241262B2 (en) * | 2004-07-15 | 2012-08-14 | Michael Mahnensmith | Fluid collection and aspiration unit for management of urinary incontinence |
WO2008078117A1 (en) * | 2006-12-22 | 2008-07-03 | Iqol Design Limited | Incontinence aid |
WO2009052502A1 (en) * | 2007-10-18 | 2009-04-23 | Convatec Inc. | Aspiration system and body interface device for removing urine discharged by the human body |
US20100211032A1 (en) * | 2007-10-18 | 2010-08-19 | Convatec Technologies Inc. | Aspiration system for removing urine discharged by the human body, and liquid sensor therefor |
US20100234820A1 (en) * | 2007-10-18 | 2010-09-16 | Conva Tec Technologies Inc. | Aspiration system and body interface device for removing urine discharged by the human body |
CN101970027A (en) * | 2007-10-18 | 2011-02-09 | 康沃特克科技公司 | Aspiration system and body interface device for removing urine discharged by the human body |
US8303554B2 (en) | 2007-10-18 | 2012-11-06 | Convatec Technologies, Inc. | Aspiration system and body interface device for removing urine discharged by the human body |
US20110145993A1 (en) * | 2009-12-17 | 2011-06-23 | Sharon F. Rader | Integral fluid disposal apparatus and system |
WO2011112655A1 (en) * | 2010-03-12 | 2011-09-15 | Omada Llp | Luggage for storage and transport of baby items |
WO2013014317A1 (en) * | 2011-07-28 | 2013-01-31 | Establecimientos Sumisan, S.A. | Collector of liquid |
ES2396090A1 (en) * | 2011-07-28 | 2013-02-19 | Establecimientos Sumisan, S.A. | Collector of liquid |
AU2012288771B2 (en) * | 2011-07-28 | 2016-07-21 | Establecimientos Sumisan, S.A. | Collector of liquid |
US20130298330A1 (en) * | 2012-05-10 | 2013-11-14 | Charles A. Lachenbruch | Occupant Support and Topper Assembly with Liquid Removal and Microclimate Control Capabilities |
EP2662064A3 (en) * | 2012-05-10 | 2014-04-09 | Hill-Rom Services, Inc. | Occupant support apparatus and assembly with liquid removal and microclimate control capabilities |
US9009892B2 (en) * | 2012-05-10 | 2015-04-21 | Hill-Rom Services, Inc. | Occupant support and topper assembly with liquid removal and microclimate control capabilities |
US9730847B2 (en) | 2013-01-15 | 2017-08-15 | Hill-Rom Services, Inc. | Microclimate system for a patient support apparatus |
US9463124B2 (en) | 2013-01-15 | 2016-10-11 | Hill-Rom Services, Inc. | Microclimate system for a patient support apparatus |
US20140276494A1 (en) * | 2013-03-14 | 2014-09-18 | Hollister Incorporated | Bodily Fluid Collection Devices, Bodily Fluid Collection Systems, and Methods for Removing Bodily Fluids |
WO2014153077A1 (en) * | 2013-03-14 | 2014-09-25 | Hollister Corporation | Bodily fluid collection devices, bodily fluid collection systems, and methods for removing bodily fluids |
US11806266B2 (en) | 2014-03-19 | 2023-11-07 | Purewick Corporation | Apparatus and methods for receiving discharged urine |
US11382786B2 (en) | 2014-03-19 | 2022-07-12 | Purewick Corporation | Apparatus and methods for receiving discharged urine |
US11376152B2 (en) | 2014-03-19 | 2022-07-05 | Purewick Corporation | Apparatus and methods for receiving discharged urine |
CN104188762A (en) * | 2014-08-14 | 2014-12-10 | 珠海尚尔生物科技有限公司 | Novel nappy/paper diaper/paper urine mat |
US11090183B2 (en) | 2014-11-25 | 2021-08-17 | Purewick Corporation | Container for collecting liquid for transport |
CN104758064A (en) * | 2015-04-27 | 2015-07-08 | 孟凡青 | Lost blood collecting device used outside scalpel incision during placenta previa caesarean section |
US11759185B2 (en) | 2016-02-18 | 2023-09-19 | Ur24Technology, Inc. | Automated collection and analysis of body fluids |
US11246573B2 (en) | 2016-02-18 | 2022-02-15 | Ur24Technology, Inc. | Automated collection and analysis of body fluids |
USD928946S1 (en) | 2016-06-02 | 2021-08-24 | Purewick Corporation | Urine receiving apparatus |
US10952889B2 (en) | 2016-06-02 | 2021-03-23 | Purewick Corporation | Using wicking material to collect liquid for transport |
US11628086B2 (en) | 2016-07-27 | 2023-04-18 | Purewick Corporation | Apparatus and methods for receiving discharged urine |
US10973678B2 (en) | 2016-07-27 | 2021-04-13 | Purewick Corporation | Apparatus and methods for receiving discharged urine |
US10214129B2 (en) * | 2016-09-20 | 2019-02-26 | Ford Global Technologies, Llc | Air bladder with stacked cell system |
US10220754B2 (en) * | 2016-10-18 | 2019-03-05 | Ford Global Technologies, Llc | Inflatable member |
US11944740B2 (en) | 2018-05-01 | 2024-04-02 | Purewick Corporation | Fluid collection devices, related systems, and related methods |
US11938053B2 (en) | 2018-05-01 | 2024-03-26 | Purewick Corporation | Fluid collection devices, systems, and methods |
US11529252B2 (en) | 2018-05-01 | 2022-12-20 | Purewick Corporation | Fluid collection garments |
US11399999B1 (en) * | 2019-03-29 | 2022-08-02 | Ezra M. Nyankira | Easy drain mattress |
USD929578S1 (en) | 2019-06-06 | 2021-08-31 | Purewick Corporation | Urine collection assembly |
US11903866B2 (en) | 2020-05-22 | 2024-02-20 | Ur24Technology, Inc. | Methods and apparatus for collecting body fluids |
US11311405B2 (en) | 2020-05-22 | 2022-04-26 | Ur24Technology, Inc. | Methods and apparatus for collecting body fluids |
USD969308S1 (en) | 2020-05-28 | 2022-11-08 | Ur24Technology, Inc. | Fluid collection apparatus |
US11504265B2 (en) | 2020-06-18 | 2022-11-22 | Medline Industries, Lp | Urine collection device, system, and method |
USD967409S1 (en) | 2020-07-15 | 2022-10-18 | Purewick Corporation | Urine collection apparatus cover |
US11801186B2 (en) | 2020-09-10 | 2023-10-31 | Purewick Corporation | Urine storage container handle and lid accessories |
US20220071811A1 (en) * | 2020-09-10 | 2022-03-10 | Purewick Corporation | Fluid collection assemblies including at least one inflation device |
US11865030B2 (en) | 2021-01-19 | 2024-01-09 | Purewick Corporation | Variable fit fluid collection devices, systems, and methods |
US20220265463A1 (en) * | 2021-02-20 | 2022-08-25 | Babyation Inc. | Liquid and Waste Collection System |
US11925575B2 (en) | 2021-02-26 | 2024-03-12 | Purewick Corporation | Fluid collection devices having a sump between a tube opening and a barrier, and related systems and methods |
US11938054B2 (en) | 2021-03-10 | 2024-03-26 | Purewick Corporation | Bodily waste and fluid collection with sacral pad |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US20100016818A1 (en) | 2010-01-21 |
US8241262B2 (en) | 2012-08-14 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US8241262B2 (en) | Fluid collection and aspiration unit for management of urinary incontinence | |
AU651918B2 (en) | Surgical fluid evacuation system | |
JP6845179B2 (en) | Wound dressing | |
EP2994085B1 (en) | Device comprising an absorption article and an air-extraction device, and method of operation using the air-extraction device for influencing the humid conditions in an absorption article | |
CN100486544C (en) | Automatic urine disposal device and urine receptacle used therefor | |
CA2141855C (en) | Liquid removal system | |
JP2868618B2 (en) | Method and apparatus for treating waste generated by patient care, maintenance and treatment | |
US4620333A (en) | Incontinent bed facility | |
US5549584A (en) | Apparatus for removing fluid from a wound | |
CN104127924B (en) | For decompression to be applied into tissue site and the dressing and method of the fluid at collection and storage organization position | |
JP5902227B2 (en) | Wound dressing | |
RU2261692C2 (en) | Removable wound bandage and method for temporarily closing and draining open wound | |
EP0613355B1 (en) | Improved pad and pad tube connector for the management of urinary incontinence | |
BRPI0717593B1 (en) | DISPOSABLE ARTICLE OF WASTE RETENTION AND A COMBINATION OF TWO SIMILARLY USED ARTICLES | |
CN102481441A (en) | Apparatus And Method For The Removal And Containment Of Human Waste Excretion | |
WO2000015031A1 (en) | Retaining apparatus for pet waste pad | |
EP4226867A1 (en) | Fluid collection assemblies including a sample port | |
CA3066090A1 (en) | Spacer layer for use in a wound dressing | |
US20040015141A1 (en) | Urine management system for human females | |
JP4551900B2 (en) | Interlabial absorbent article with improved water-disposable features | |
MX2012015206A (en) | Liquid-permeable panel. | |
CN109984898A (en) | A kind of open type urination mattress | |
CA2773557A1 (en) | The bib sheet poop sheet system | |
JPH1119138A (en) | Patient supporting device | |
US20240041638A1 (en) | Fluid collection devices with anatomical fit |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |