US20070062904A1 - Squeezable, fillable feeding device - Google Patents
Squeezable, fillable feeding device Download PDFInfo
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- US20070062904A1 US20070062904A1 US11/600,620 US60062006A US2007062904A1 US 20070062904 A1 US20070062904 A1 US 20070062904A1 US 60062006 A US60062006 A US 60062006A US 2007062904 A1 US2007062904 A1 US 2007062904A1
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- Prior art keywords
- spout
- assembly
- bottle
- nipple
- tubing
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61J—CONTAINERS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR MEDICAL OR PHARMACEUTICAL PURPOSES; DEVICES OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR BRINGING PHARMACEUTICAL PRODUCTS INTO PARTICULAR PHYSICAL OR ADMINISTERING FORMS; DEVICES FOR ADMINISTERING FOOD OR MEDICINES ORALLY; BABY COMFORTERS; DEVICES FOR RECEIVING SPITTLE
- A61J9/00—Feeding-bottles in general
- A61J9/006—Feeding-bottles in general having elongated tubes, e.g. for drinking from bottle in upright position
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61J—CONTAINERS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR MEDICAL OR PHARMACEUTICAL PURPOSES; DEVICES OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR BRINGING PHARMACEUTICAL PRODUCTS INTO PARTICULAR PHYSICAL OR ADMINISTERING FORMS; DEVICES FOR ADMINISTERING FOOD OR MEDICINES ORALLY; BABY COMFORTERS; DEVICES FOR RECEIVING SPITTLE
- A61J9/00—Feeding-bottles in general
Definitions
- the present device relates generally to a squeezable, collapsible, disposable and/or reusable bottle device with flexible tubing for dispensing liquid nutrition or the like to post-surgical maxillo, craniofacial, and other reconstruction patients.
- syringes generally hold only a limited amount of formula and must be repeatedly refilled during a single feeding. These infants are fussy and often in pain from the surgery and they are disturbed by the repeated halts in their feeding. Refilling the syringe is messy and inconvenient, especially in a hospital room or nursery.
- the baby moves around during feeding and the tubing sometimes comes loose from the syringe. Then the loose tube is a hazard in the baby's mouth, and the baby's wet shirt must be changed.
- feeding becomes more of an uncomfortable medical procedure when it is done with a syringe.
- Many hospitalized children associate a syringe with painful shots and become belligerent when they see a syringe.
- Syringe feeding can be intimidating for both the parent and the child.
- the child must be fed several times per day, and the disadvantages of this type of feeding make feeding time a chore for both the baby and the stressed mother or other caregiver.
- the baby expends a great deal of energy resisting feeding, and the mother or other caregiver is worn out. Feeding time should instead be a soothing experience for these babies and their mothers.
- the present invention also includes a bottle device for feeding liquid nutrition to a patient or for teaching a patient to suck, comprising:
- FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a feeding device according to the present invention, shown in use
- FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a feeding tube of a feeding device according to the present invention, shown in use;
- FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional side view of the first embodiment of the feeding device according to FIG. 1 , showing the various parts;
- FIG. 5 is an elevational view of the first embodiment of the feeding device according to FIG. 3 , showing the assembled bottle device;
- FIG. 6 is an elevational view of the second embodiment of the feeding device according to FIG. 4 , showing the assembled feeding device;
- FIG. 8 is a partial cross-sectional side view of a fourth embodiment of the feeding device according to the present invention.
- FIG. 9 is a bottom plan view of a spout portion of the fourth embodiment according to FIG. 8 ;
- FIG. 10A -D are cross-sections of a nipple assembly of a fifth embodiment of a feeding device according to the present invention, showing insertion of a tubing;
- FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of a feeding device according to the present invention
- FIG. 13 shows a perspective view of a portion of the feeding device according to FIG. 12 ;
- FIG. 14 shows a side view of the spout assembly of a feeding device according to FIG. 13 ;
- FIG. 19 shows a perspective view of a portion of a feeding device according to the present invention.
- a feeding bottle device generally referred to as 10
- a cap assembly 12 and a bottle portion 14 .
- a soft, flexible, medical-type tubing 17 extends into the baby's mouth from the cap assembly 12 .
- formula is being fed to a baby who has had surgery for a cleft lip and/or palate.
- Sutures 15 on the child's upper lip indicate in FIG. 1 where the cleft lip has been repaired.
- This invention is a feeding device of the baby-bottle type having a squeezable, or collapsible, bottle portion 14 adapted for feeding post-surgical patients who have had a lip, palate, or jaw reconstruction, where the sucking of nipple feeding devices, sipping cups, or conventional straws are contraindicated.
- the bottle device can be used to feed the baby, or other patient, any fluid or liquid, whether thin or viscous, such as formula, milk, apple juice, and even medication, which is often difficult to administer to a fussy baby.
- the cap assembly 12 includes a spout 16 , an upper portion 18 of which is insertable (capable of being inserted) through a circular aperture 20 in a threaded collar 22 .
- a lower portion 24 of the spout 16 includes a circular flange 26 .
- “Upper” and “lower” herein refer to positions when the bottle device 10 is upright, as it would be when it is placed on a table.
- the upper spout portion 18 extends through the collar aperture 20 , while the lower spout portion 24 remains within the collar 22 .
- the spout flange 26 extends across the width of the collar 22 .
- the threaded collar 22 is adapted to screw, or snap, over a correspondingly threaded neck 28 of the squeezable bottle portion 14 to prevent leaking of the bottle contents.
- the bottle neck 28 surrounds an open mouth.
- a circular base 30 of the spout 16 extends a short distance down from the flange 26 into the mouth of the bottle.
- the flange 26 sits on top of the bottle neck 28 .
- the lower spout portion 24 also includes a circular band 32 extending in an upward direction from the spout flange.
- the spout band 32 fits into the collar aperture 20 .
- the collar aperture 20 and the spout band 32 have approximately the same diameter.
- the separate tubing is advantageous because it can be replaced after use.
- the entire bottle device 10 may be disposable, or it can be cleaned and refilled for more feedings with the same patient.
- the bottle portion typically holds about four to ten, preferably eight, ounces of liquid. It is preferably includes calibration lines so that the caregiver can assess how much of the fluid the infant, or patient, has consumed.
- the present invention is also useful for feeding geriatric patients who have had strokes, periodontal patients, patients with oral, or pharyngeal cancers, or general weakness at the front of the mouth, etc. These patients may be in hospitals, clinics, extended care facilities, or under home care.
- the cap assembly 12 comprises a threaded collar 22 adapted to screw onto the neck 28 of the bottle portion 14 .
- the neck has a diameter that is slightly less than the inner diameter of the collar 22 .
- the cap assembly 12 includes a nipple assembly 42 .
- An upper portion of the nipple assembly 42 is formed as a soft nipple 44 .
- a lower portion of the nipple assembly 42 includes a flange 46 , with a band 48 between the flange and the nipple 44 .
- the flange 46 has a diameter approximately equal to the inside diameter of the collar 22 .
- the band 48 has a diameter that is approximately equal to the diameter of the aperture in the top of the collar 22 .
- the flange 46 and band 48 are preferably a relatively hard plastic and the nipple 44 is preferably substantially made of silicone or a rubber-type material.
- the cap assembly 12 further includes a tubing assembly 50 , which is comprised of a curved piece of flexible medical-type tubing 52 and a straw section 54 .
- the straw section 54 has a cylindrical upper end piece 56 having a wider diameter than the lower straw portion 58 .
- the lower end 60 of the straw portion 58 is angled so that it is relatively sharp.
- the sharp lower end 60 of the straw portion 58 is pushed into a slit 62 in the upper end of the nipple 44 .
- the slit 62 may be pre-formed in the nipple 44 , or it may be made in the nipple by the user at the time of use using the sharp end 60 of the straw portion 58 .
- the assembled, squeezable bottle device 10 is shown in FIG. 5 .
- the upper end 41 of the flared tubing section 36 is pushed onto the lower end of the tubing 17 .
- the upper end of the tubing 17 is pushed through the central aperture of the spout 16 .
- the upper spout portion 18 is pushed through the collar aperture 20 .
- the upper spout portion 18 extends above the collar 22 , while the lower spout portion 24 remains within the collar 22 .
- the collar 22 is then screwed onto the neck 28 of the filled bottle portion 14 and the bottle device 10 is ready for use.
- the assembled squeezable bottle device is shown in FIG. 6 .
- the enlarged end 52 of the curved tubing 52 is pressed down over the straw section 54 .
- the sharp lower end 60 of the straw section is inserted into the self-closing slit 62 in the soft end of the nipple 44 .
- the curved tubing 52 is easier to place in the baby's mouth when the baby is held in one arm and the bottle portion is held at a 45 degree angle with the caregiver's opposite hand.
- the nipple assembly provides a natural appearance, which is comforting to the caregiver and visitors, and it is soft to the touch so that it can safely brush against the child's face or be grasped by the child.
- FIG. 7 shows an upper portion of a third alternate embodiment 66 of the present invention.
- This spout 68 has an extended upper spout portion 70 , with three cut marks 71 - 73 marked on the outside of the upper spout portion 70 .
- the cut marks indicate where the extended spout 68 can be cut, using a conventional cutting instrument, to obtain different rates of flow of the fluid in the bottle device.
- the upper cut mark 71 would be used to obtain a smaller diameter orifice for feeding an infant, or where the fluid is thin, for example.
- the lowest cut mark 73 could be used where a viscous fluid, such as a thick medication, is to be administered, or where the child is older and a liquefied blend of food is being fed to the child. Ideally, instructions would be given with the bottle device regarding the cut marks.
- FIGS. 8 and 9 show a fourth alternate embodiment 77 of a feeding device according to the present invention.
- the feeding device 77 comprises a larger bottle portion 14 that can accommodate one or more full feedings, a threaded collar 22 , a flanged spout 79 , and a first valve 80 .
- the flange 74 on the bottom of the spout 79 fits closely inside the neck 28 to prevent leaking when the feeding device 77 is squeezed by the caregiver or baby.
- the part of the spout base 75 that extends beyond the outside of the flange 74 rests on the top edge of the bottle neck 28 .
- An extended upper spout portion 70 of the flanged spout 79 fits up into an aperture 20 in the top of the threaded collar 22 .
- the threads on the inside of the collar 22 correspond to the threads on the outside of the neck 28 .
- the collar 22 fits down over the top of the flanged spout 79 and screws onto the threaded neck 28 of the bottle portion 14 .
- the soft, flexible tubing is incorporated into (continuous with) the upper end of the upper spout portion 70 , forming one piece.
- the tubing may constitute the upper portion of the spout (see FIG.
- the tubing may be inserted up through the center of the spout or nipple (see FIG. 3 ); or c) the lower end of the tubing may be inserted via a straw into an orifice in the nipple (see FIG. 6 ) or be pushed over the outside of the end of the spout.
- FIG. 9 shows a bottom plan view of the flanged spout 79 with the circular valve 80 in it.
- the valve 80 fits closely into a correspondingly sized, centrally located projection 78 at the bottom of the flanged spout 79 .
- the valve 80 is preferably a silicone or rubber-type molded piece.
- the valve 80 has a central orifice 81 , which is continuous with the bottle and the hole extending through the center of the spout.
- FIG. 10A through 10D show the threading of tubing 83 in a fifth alternate embodiment 82 of the present invention. Since the tubing is made of a soft, flexible material, it is difficult to force it through an orifice in a nipple. This process remedies that problem.
- a straw 84 is placed through the bottom of a nipple assembly 85 (see FIG. 10A ), which comprises a soft nipple 86 , and pushed out through a small orifice 87 in the top of the nipple 86 (see FIG. 10B ).
- the upper end 89 of the straw 84 is cut at an angle to facilitate placement through the nipple orifice 87 .
- the straw is preferably made of a hard plastic or the like.
- the tubing 83 is then threaded through the straw 84 from the bottom of the nipple assembly.
- the straw 84 is removed by pulling it out of the orifice 87 from the top of the nipple assembly 85 , as shown in FIG. 10C , leaving the tubing in place.
- a hollow plug 88 at the opposite, lower end of the straw 84 is a hollow plug 88 .
- the plug 88 anchors the tubing in the nipple 86 , so that the tubing 83 does not slip out of the orifice 87 .
- the hollow plug 88 accomplishes this without impeding the flow of liquid through the tubing
- FIG. 11 shows the nipple assembly 85 of the fifth embodiment 82 , with the tubing 83 , along with a second valve 90 and an upper portion of the bottle portion 14 .
- the one-way valve 90 press fits into a matching space 91 at the base of the nipple assembly 85 .
- the valve 90 is preferably a silicone or rubber-type molded piece.
- nipple assembly 85 a circular first projection 93 at the base of the nipple assembly is popped into a corresponding circular groove 94 inside the neck 96 of the bottle portion 14 .
- the projection 93 fits closely into the matching groove 94 to prevent leaking.
- a larger, second projection around the nipple assembly and above the first projection rests on the top 98 of the bottle neck.
- the nipple assembly 85 and valve 90 are very easy to remove for cleaning. They can be boiled or cleaned with soap and water, and are disposable or reusable.
- the cap assembly 12 can alternatively be made as a unitary molded piece including the tubing 32 , 52 , 83 (see FIGS. 5 and 6 ).
- the cap assembly may or may not include a valve.
- a unitary molded piece could have an outer rim to prevent leaks, and an inner rim for a flow valve to snap into.
- Nipples 44 , 86 herein may be rounded, as shown in FIGS. 4, 6 , 10 and 11 , or flat at the top.
- the present invention does not require an inner rod or inner ribbing.
- the nipple and/or spout are not insertable in the patient's mouth; the tubing is insertable.
- the cap assembly may comprise a valve device that includes a resilient member acting in conjunction with a movable valve member to control fluid flow from the bottle portion through the valve device.
- the cap assembly may comprise a substantially flat, round disk structure with a slit, which is removably disposed against the top of the bottle portion in order to control fluid flow from the bottle portion through the tubing.
- the present invention also includes a feeding kit for a child or feeding-disabled adult comprising a bottle portion 14 , at least one tube 32 , 52 , 83 , and at least one spout 16 , 68 or nipple assembly 42 , 85 .
- a straw 84 may also be included for use in threading the tube through the nipple orifice 87 .
- a straw section 54 may alternatively be included in the kit for connecting the tubing 32 , 52 to a nipple 44 , 86 of the nipple assembly.
- FIGS. 12 through 16 illustrate a sixth alternate embodiment 100 of the present invention.
- This feeding device 100 allows patients of craniofacial surgery, deformities, facial trauma, or oral muscle weakness to consume liquids or pureed foods, even when sucking or using cups with straws is impossible. It is also effective for assisting speech pathologists to help children and adults (e.g., stroke victims, trauma victims) learn or re-learn how to suck on a straw. Alternatively, this bottle works very well for the same type of patients when sucking is contraindicated or impossible.
- the feeding device 100 includes: a cap assembly 102 affixed to a soft, squeezable bottle portion 104 for containing the ingestible fluid.
- the bottle portion 104 comprises an open top surrounded by a neck.
- the cap assembly 102 comprises a section of flexible fluid-flow tubing 106 having a first end that is insertable in the patient's mouth.
- the soft tubing 106 which may be made of a polyvinyl chloride, protects the deformed or traumatized mouth, allowing food/liquid to bypass the sutured or weak area in the front of the mouth and be directed to the back of mouth to be swallowed.
- the opposite, second end of the tubing 106 is pressed down over the outside of a peg 108 on a spout assembly 110 .
- the peg 108 preferably has a diameter that is slightly larger than the inside diameter of the tubing 106 , so the second end of the tubing fits closely over the peg.
- the peg 108 may have the general shape of an arrow-head, as shown in FIG. 20 , and preferably includes a projection 112 .
- the projection 112 helps keep the second end of the tubing 106 from sliding back off the peg.
- the cap assembly 102 includes a threaded collar 22 (see FIG. 12 ), which fits down over the correspondingly threaded neck of the bottle portion (as shown in FIG. 8 ).
- the spout assembly 110 includes a central channel 114 into which a first, upper end of a relatively rigid straw 116 is inserted.
- the spout assembly is preferably made of a strong yet flexible material.
- the first end of the rigid straw 116 closely fits into a lower opening of the channel 114 through the spout.
- the rigid straw is made of a harder plastic-type material than the soft tubing, though it too is somewhat flexible.
- the diameter of the peg, and the channel therethrough, may be narrow for thin fluids, such as water, or wider to accommodate more viscous material, such as pureed foods.
- the spout assembly 110 includes a lower flange 118 under a base 120 .
- a cut-out portion 122 Above the spout assembly base 120 , and continuous with it, is a cut-out portion 122 .
- the base 120 has a greater diameter than the peg 108 , the cut-out portion 122 , or the flange 118 .
- the flange 118 snaps or otherwise plugs into the hole through the neck of the bottle portion 104 . This novel feature prevents leaking when the bottle is tipped or squeezed.
- the outside diameter of the flange 118 matches the inside diameter of the hole in the neck.
- the outside of the flange 118 is convex, which enhances the seal between the flange and the inside of the top of the neck once the bottle is squeezed and the fluid begins to flow.
- the collar 22 is then placed over the top of the spout assembly, so that the cut-out portion 122 extends through, and fits snugly in, an aperture of the collar.
- the collar 22 which is threaded inside, screws onto corresponding threads on the outside of the bottle neck. Once the collar 22 is fastened, it extends down over the bottle neck.
- the fluid in the bottle is forced up through the rigid straw 116 and then through the tubing 106 , so the tubing is in fluid communication with the bottle portion. This allows a person who may not be able to move his or her head or neck to squeeze fluids up and out of the bottle via the rigid straw and the soft tubing.
- the spout assembly 110 may further include a valve assembly 124 .
- FIGS. 13 and 15 show the spout assembly without a valve assembly.
- the rigid straw 116 inserted in the channel 114 allows the bottle portion to be squeezed in an upright position for feeding.
- a valve assembly 124 as shown in FIG. 16 , to control the flow of fluid from the bottle portion through the spout assembly, the bottle portion can also be squeezed upside down or sideways. This is especially useful for patients who are restricted from a full range of movement, such as tilting their heads back. For example, some patients are fitted with an osteogenesis distraction apparatus, which pulls the jawbone forward over time.
- the osteogenesis distraction apparatus prevents these patients from using a cup normally. They can use the device of the present invention, though. Also, patients in a Striker frame, which moves to suspend the patient bound to it in many different positions, including an upside down position, can use the feeding device of the present invention. The feeding device allows these patients, who are often adults or teens, to feel more independent and in control.
- a preferred embodiment of the valve assembly 124 comprises a floppy disc 126 of a rubber-like material with a slit 128 at its center.
- the floppy disc 126 is held within the flange by a frame 130 having a circular orifice 132 at its center through which the slit is visible.
- the frame 130 which has rounded edges for contacting the inside of the flange, braces the floppy disc in the lower portion of the spout assembly.
- the slit controls the flow of fluid from the bottle portion into the spout assembly.
- the feeding device may be used with the tubing.
- the feeding device can be used without the rigid straw where the spout assembly is fitted with a valve assembly to control fluid flow.
- the soft tubing may be removed and the spout may be rounded at the top and made of a soft silicone-type material, so that it resembles a nipple.
- This embodiment is useful for babies for whom sucking is contraindicated (e.g., because of stitches in the mouth), and for newborns who for various reasons have not yet learned to suck to begin the learning process.
- the present invention provides a squeezable and leakproof way to administer and regulate fluids to convalescing babies, geriatrics, or patients of any age.
Abstract
An easy to use, squeezable device with a soft, flexible tube for feeding liquid nutrition to a person, includes: a) a squeezable bottle portion for holding the ingestible liquid therewithin, the bottle portion comprising an opening at its top surrounded by a neck; and b) a cap assembly comprising: flexible fluid-flow tubing, a spout or nipple assembly, and a threaded collar, an upper portion of the spout assembly being insertable through a central aperture in the collar, the flexible tubing having a first end in fluid communication with the bottle portion and a second end insertable in the patient's mouth, the flexible tubing extending through or encircling a central aperture in the spout assembly. The spout assembly preferably includes a leakproof flange, and a valve assembly for controlling flow. The device is particularly intended for use where suction such as nipples, straws, or sip cups are contraindicated after craniofacial surgery.
Description
- This is a divisional of pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/309,687, filed on Dec. 4, 2002.
- This invention was described in provisional U.S. patent application Ser. No. 60/338,475, which was filed in the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office on Dec. 4, 2001.
- 1. Technical Field
- The present device relates generally to a squeezable, collapsible, disposable and/or reusable bottle device with flexible tubing for dispensing liquid nutrition or the like to post-surgical maxillo, craniofacial, and other reconstruction patients.
- 2. Background Information
- Physicians prohibit infants and children who have had surgery for a cleft lip or cleft palate from breast feeding or sucking on a nipple or straw, so it is difficult to feed them. Suction on any feeding device is contraindicated after such reconstructive surgery. Currently, such infants are fed using a piece of tubing inserted over the open end of a syringe. A syringe with tubing is used so as not to disrupt, traumatize, or break open swollen, sutured tissue in the palate and/or lip. Suction, as occurs on a nipple, is contraindicated because it can cause bleeding, hematomas, dislodged sutures, and otherwise impair healing. The tube extending from the syringe must be inserted along the left or right side of the infant's mouth so as not to disturb the sutures and wound site.
- There are many problems with syringe feeding. First, a filled syringe is very difficult to manipulate. It takes both hands to fill the syringe and dispense the viscous formula through it. It is difficult to control pressure on the syringe plunger so that the correct amount of fluid is dispensed into the child's mouth. Dispensing too much fluid too fast can cause the child to gag or spit up. Holding the baby and depressing the syringe at the same time is awkward.
- Second, syringes generally hold only a limited amount of formula and must be repeatedly refilled during a single feeding. These infants are fussy and often in pain from the surgery and they are disturbed by the repeated halts in their feeding. Refilling the syringe is messy and inconvenient, especially in a hospital room or nursery.
- Third, the baby moves around during feeding and the tubing sometimes comes loose from the syringe. Then the loose tube is a hazard in the baby's mouth, and the baby's wet shirt must be changed.
- Fourth, feeding becomes more of an uncomfortable medical procedure when it is done with a syringe. Many hospitalized children associate a syringe with painful shots and become belligerent when they see a syringe. Syringe feeding can be intimidating for both the parent and the child. The child must be fed several times per day, and the disadvantages of this type of feeding make feeding time a chore for both the baby and the stressed mother or other caregiver. The baby expends a great deal of energy resisting feeding, and the mother or other caregiver is worn out. Feeding time should instead be a soothing experience for these babies and their mothers.
- The same types of problems are encountered in feeding other post-surgical patients who have had maxillo or craniofacial surgery, or who are simply infirm or unable to feed normally due to medical problems of the face or mouth. The problems are further aggravated in that some of these babies and children must undergo repeated reconstruction as they grow. For example, children with a cleft palate often have to return to the hospital for surgery several times between the ages of three weeks and about two years.
- The present invention is a squeezable, disposable or refillable device with a flexible tubing for feeding liquids to a patient who has had maxillo, craniofacial, or related types of reconstruction surgery, or has other facial impairments. The feeding device includes:
-
- a) a bottle portion for containing the ingestible fluid, the bottle portion comprising an opening at its top surrounded by a neck having exterior threads; and
- b) a cap assembly comprising: flexible, fluid-flow tubing, a spout or nipple assembly, and a threaded collar, the tubing extending through or encircling a central aperture in the spout or nipple assembly, an upper portion of the spout or nipple assembly being insertable through a central aperture in the collar, the collar having interior threading engageable with the correspondingly threaded neck of the bottle portion, the collar extending down over the neck; wherein the tubing is insertable into the mouth of the patient.
- The present invention also includes a bottle device for feeding liquid nutrition to a patient or for teaching a patient to suck, comprising:
-
- a) a squeezable bottle portion for holding the ingestible fluid therewithin, the bottle portion comprising an open top surrounded by a neck; and
- b) a leakproof cap assembly comprising: a spout assembly, a collar, and fluid conducting tubing, the collar comprising corresponding interior threads for removably interengaging the neck of the bottle portion; the spout assembly comprising a peg on its upper portion and a flange on its lower portion, the peg extending in an upward direction through a central aperture in the collar, the fluid-conducting tubing having a first, upper end that is insertable into a mouth of the patient and a second, lower end that is removably attachable over the peg, the flange extending closely into the open top of the bottle portion for preventing leaks, a portion of the spout assembly being mounted on the neck of the bottle portion, the spout assembly comprising a central channel for conducting fluid from the bottle portion to the tubing.
- Advantages of the present invention for a baby or older patient include the following:
-
- a) the squeezable bottle and flexible tubing allow passive administration of fluids while preventing suction by the patient and injury to the surgical site;
- b) the tubing portion of the present invention can easily be inserted in the side of the patient's mouth without being dislodged;
- c) the feeding device does not physically disrupt the sutures or swollen tissue in the jaw, palate or lip, and is very unlikely to cause trauma to the surgery site;
- d) the bottle portion of the present invention holds enough for a full feeding;
- e) the bottle portion is squeezable for administering the fluid in the bottle, so the mother can hold the baby and feed him or her at the same time, and fluid volume can be easily controlled;
- f) the baby can also grasp the bottle portion without adverse consequences;
- g) the baby and caregiver are more comfortable during feeding times, and feeding is effortless and more enjoyable for both;
- h) the present invention is more natural looking and less surgical in appearance, which is important to both parent and child;
- i) the present invention is inexpensive and refillable or disposable;
- j) formula, pureed food, and other types of fluids are passively and effortlessly dispensed to the patient;
- k) the present feeding device simplifies the ingestion of liquid nutrition, so the patient consumes more nutrients, and there are fewer postoperative complications, such as weight loss and dehydration; and
- l) the present invention is versatile and can be used by patients of any age. With the present feeding device, feeding times can be close to normal, even though the abnormal (hospital) environment remains.
- A more complete understanding of the invention and its advantages will be apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein examples of the invention are shown, and wherein:
-
FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a feeding device according to the present invention, shown in use; -
FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a feeding tube of a feeding device according to the present invention, shown in use; -
FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional side view of the first embodiment of the feeding device according toFIG. 1 , showing the various parts; -
FIG. 4 is an elevational view of a second embodiment of a feeding device according to the present invention, showing the various parts; -
FIG. 5 is an elevational view of the first embodiment of the feeding device according toFIG. 3 , showing the assembled bottle device; -
FIG. 6 is an elevational view of the second embodiment of the feeding device according toFIG. 4 , showing the assembled feeding device; -
FIG. 7 is an elevational view of an upper portion of a third embodiment of a feeding device according to the present invention; -
FIG. 8 is a partial cross-sectional side view of a fourth embodiment of the feeding device according to the present invention; -
FIG. 9 is a bottom plan view of a spout portion of the fourth embodiment according toFIG. 8 ; -
FIG. 10A -D are cross-sections of a nipple assembly of a fifth embodiment of a feeding device according to the present invention, showing insertion of a tubing; -
FIG. 11 is an elevational view of an upper portion of the fifth embodiment of a feeding device according to the present invention; -
FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of a feeding device according to the present invention; -
FIG. 13 shows a perspective view of a portion of the feeding device according toFIG. 12 ; -
FIG. 14 shows a side view of the spout assembly of a feeding device according toFIG. 13 ; -
FIG. 15 shows a perspective view of the spout assembly of a feeding device according toFIG. 13 ; -
FIG. 16 shows a perspective view of a spout assembly of a feeding device according to the present invention, shown with a valve assembly; -
FIG. 17 shows a perspective view of a portion of a valve assembly of a feeding device according to the present invention; -
FIG. 18 shows a perspective view of a portion of a valve assembly of a feeding device according to the present invention; -
FIG. 19 shows a perspective view of a portion of a feeding device according to the present invention; and -
FIG. 20 shows a perspective view of a portion of a feeding device according to the present invention. - In the following description, like reference characters designate like or corresponding parts throughout the several views. Also, in the following description, it is to be understood that such terms as “front,” “back,” “within,” and the like are words of convenience and are not to be construed as limiting terms. Referring in more detail to the drawings, the invention will now be described.
- Referring to
FIG. 1 , a feeding bottle device, generally referred to as 10, of the present invention comprises acap assembly 12 and abottle portion 14. A soft, flexible, medical-type tubing 17 extends into the baby's mouth from thecap assembly 12. InFIG. 1 , formula is being fed to a baby who has had surgery for a cleft lip and/or palate.Sutures 15 on the child's upper lip indicate inFIG. 1 where the cleft lip has been repaired. This invention is a feeding device of the baby-bottle type having a squeezable, or collapsible,bottle portion 14 adapted for feeding post-surgical patients who have had a lip, palate, or jaw reconstruction, where the sucking of nipple feeding devices, sipping cups, or conventional straws are contraindicated. The bottle device can be used to feed the baby, or other patient, any fluid or liquid, whether thin or viscous, such as formula, milk, apple juice, and even medication, which is often difficult to administer to a fussy baby. -
FIG. 2 shows the first embodiment of thefeeding device 10 in the mouth of a child with a sutured palate.Sutures 15 typically extend along the longitudinal centerline of the child's upper palate, as shown inFIG. 2 . During feeding, thetubing 17 is placed along the left or right side of the baby's mouth to keep the sutured wound as clean as possible so that it can heal quickly with as little infection as possible, and to prevent thebottle device 10 from physically interfering with the sutures or the wound site, which could cause bleeding from the incision and pain. Thetubing 17 is soft and flexible so that it is comfortable in the baby's mouth. - Various parts of a preferred embodiment of the
feeding bottle device 10 are shown inFIG. 3 . Thecap assembly 12 includes aspout 16, anupper portion 18 of which is insertable (capable of being inserted) through acircular aperture 20 in a threadedcollar 22. Alower portion 24 of thespout 16 includes acircular flange 26. “Upper” and “lower” herein refer to positions when thebottle device 10 is upright, as it would be when it is placed on a table. When thebottle device 10 is assembled, theupper spout portion 18 extends through thecollar aperture 20, while thelower spout portion 24 remains within thecollar 22. Thespout flange 26 extends across the width of thecollar 22. The threadedcollar 22 is adapted to screw, or snap, over a correspondingly threadedneck 28 of thesqueezable bottle portion 14 to prevent leaking of the bottle contents. Thebottle neck 28 surrounds an open mouth. When thecap assembly 12 is screwed onto thebottle portion 14, acircular base 30 of thespout 16 extends a short distance down from theflange 26 into the mouth of the bottle. Theflange 26 sits on top of thebottle neck 28. Thelower spout portion 24 also includes acircular band 32 extending in an upward direction from the spout flange. Thespout band 32 fits into thecollar aperture 20. Thecollar aperture 20 and thespout band 32 have approximately the same diameter. Thespout base 30 andspout band 32 have a diameter which is slightly less than the diameter of thespout flange 26. Theband 32,flange 26, andbase 30 block fluid from bypassing thespout 16 and leaking from thecollar 22. - Continuing with
FIG. 3 , thecap assembly 12 includes the soft,flexible feeding tube 17, which passes through the hole that extends through thespout 16. Themedical tubing 17 extends several inches beyond the mouth of thebottle portion 14, preferably about six inches. Thetubing 17 orspout 16 is long so that the fluid from the bottle bypasses most of the wound site and sutures in the patient's lip and upper palate. This is to keep the wound as clean as possible so that it can be as infection-free as possible, and heal as quickly as possible. During feeding, thetubing 17 is placed along the left or right of the baby's mouth. Thetubing 17 is soft and flexible so that it is comfortable in the baby's mouth. Also, the baby is unlikely to suck on the tubing when it is placed along the side of the mouth. Physicians discourage sucking because of possible attendant damage to the stitched lip and/or palate. For this reason, the diameter of the tubing of the present invention is preferably large enough to pass viscous liquid, such as baby formula, but not so large that it induces the child to suck on it. The present invention is also versatile in that thetubing 17 can be cut to the desired length. Where medicine is being administered using the present bottle device, a longer tubing can be used to extend to the back of the child's mouth, so that it bypasses the tongue and the child will not be as resistant. Nonliquid medicine should first be dissolved in a fluid that is capable of being ingested and digested (“ingestible”) before being administered through the present feeding device. - The
cap assembly 12 of the preferred embodiment illustrated inFIG. 3 also includes a flaredtubing section 36. The aperture in the flaredtubing section 36 is wider at thebase 38 of the tubing section than it is at theupper end 41 of the tubing section. Also, the flaredtubing base 38 is wider than theupper end 41 of the flaredtubing section 36. Thetubing section 36 is affixed to the lower end of thetubing 17. The flared, wide lower end of thetubing section 36 prevents thetubing 17 from inadvertently slipping out of the aperture in the upper end of thespout 16. Alternatively, theflexible feeding tube 17 itself has a flared lower end (rather than a separate flared tubing section) to prevent it from inadvertently slipping out of the aperture in the upper end of thespout 16. When thefeeding bottle device 10 is in use, fluid flows from the mouth of thebottle portion 14 into thespout 16 through thetubing 17 into the patient's mouth. - In this preferred embodiment, the separate tubing is advantageous because it can be replaced after use. Alternatively, the
entire bottle device 10 may be disposable, or it can be cleaned and refilled for more feedings with the same patient. The bottle portion typically holds about four to ten, preferably eight, ounces of liquid. It is preferably includes calibration lines so that the caregiver can assess how much of the fluid the infant, or patient, has consumed. - The
collar 22 and spout 16 may be made of molded silicone, synthetic or natural rubber, or other suitable material. Alternatively, thespout 16 may be comprised of several pieces that are affixed to one another. The tubing is made of a conventional soft, flexible tubing material. The body of the bottle portion is made of a soft, collapsible plastic, such as a polyethylene. - The present invention is also useful for feeding geriatric patients who have had strokes, periodontal patients, patients with oral, or pharyngeal cancers, or general weakness at the front of the mouth, etc. These patients may be in hospitals, clinics, extended care facilities, or under home care.
- Turning to the
alternate embodiment 40 shown inFIG. 4 , thecap assembly 12 comprises a threadedcollar 22 adapted to screw onto theneck 28 of thebottle portion 14. Again, the neck has a diameter that is slightly less than the inner diameter of thecollar 22. Thecap assembly 12 includes anipple assembly 42. An upper portion of thenipple assembly 42 is formed as asoft nipple 44. A lower portion of thenipple assembly 42 includes aflange 46, with aband 48 between the flange and thenipple 44. Theflange 46 has a diameter approximately equal to the inside diameter of thecollar 22. Theband 48 has a diameter that is approximately equal to the diameter of the aperture in the top of thecollar 22. Theflange 46 andband 48 are preferably a relatively hard plastic and thenipple 44 is preferably substantially made of silicone or a rubber-type material. To assemble thebottle device 10, thenipple assembly 42 is inserted through thecollar 22. The soft nipple flexes as it is pushed through the collar aperture, while theband 48 lodges in the collar aperture, and theflange 46 remains just below the top of thecollar 22. Theband 48 andflange 46 block fluid from leaking through the collar aperture. Once the bottle is filled, thecollar 22 is screwed onto theneck 28 of thebottle portion 14. - Continuing with
FIG. 4 , thecap assembly 12 further includes atubing assembly 50, which is comprised of a curved piece of flexible medical-type tubing 52 and astraw section 54. Thestraw section 54 has a cylindricalupper end piece 56 having a wider diameter than thelower straw portion 58. Thelower end 60 of thestraw portion 58 is angled so that it is relatively sharp. To use the tubing assembly, the sharplower end 60 of thestraw portion 58 is pushed into aslit 62 in the upper end of thenipple 44. Theslit 62 may be pre-formed in thenipple 44, or it may be made in the nipple by the user at the time of use using thesharp end 60 of thestraw portion 58. Since it is made of rubber or the like, theslit 62 flaps closed when the straw portion is removed. Thecurved tubing 52 is preferably soft and flexible, and the straw portion is preferably made of a harder plastic. As shown inFIG. 4 , thelower end 64 of thetubing 52 is enlarged so that it fits over theupper end piece 56 of thestraw section 54. - For the first embodiment, the assembled,
squeezable bottle device 10 is shown inFIG. 5 . To assemble the bottle device of this embodiment, theupper end 41 of the flaredtubing section 36 is pushed onto the lower end of thetubing 17. As indicated by the arrows inFIG. 3 , the upper end of thetubing 17 is pushed through the central aperture of thespout 16. Theupper spout portion 18 is pushed through thecollar aperture 20. Theupper spout portion 18 extends above thecollar 22, while thelower spout portion 24 remains within thecollar 22. Thecollar 22 is then screwed onto theneck 28 of the filledbottle portion 14 and thebottle device 10 is ready for use. - For the
second embodiment 40 ofFIG. 4 , the assembled squeezable bottle device is shown inFIG. 6 . To further assemble the bottle device of this second embodiment, theenlarged end 52 of thecurved tubing 52 is pressed down over thestraw section 54. The sharplower end 60 of the straw section is inserted into the self-closingslit 62 in the soft end of thenipple 44. Thecurved tubing 52 is easier to place in the baby's mouth when the baby is held in one arm and the bottle portion is held at a 45 degree angle with the caregiver's opposite hand. The nipple assembly provides a natural appearance, which is comforting to the caregiver and visitors, and it is soft to the touch so that it can safely brush against the child's face or be grasped by the child. - For the embodiments of both
FIGS. 5 and 6 , when the caregiver tips the bottle device downward, fluid flows from thebottle portion 14 into thespout 16 ornipple 44. The bottle portion is made of a soft, squeezable material, so that the fluid is forced out of the bottle portion into the tubing when the bottle portion is compressed. When the caregiver squeezes thebottle portion 14, as indicated by the arrows inFIGS. 5 and 6 , fluid flows down thetubing tubing bottle portion 14 up. The fluid and/orbottle device 10 can then be disposed of, or refrigerated for later use, or cleaned and refilled. -
FIG. 7 shows an upper portion of a thirdalternate embodiment 66 of the present invention. Thisspout 68 has an extendedupper spout portion 70, with three cut marks 71-73 marked on the outside of theupper spout portion 70. The cut marks indicate where theextended spout 68 can be cut, using a conventional cutting instrument, to obtain different rates of flow of the fluid in the bottle device. Theupper cut mark 71 would be used to obtain a smaller diameter orifice for feeding an infant, or where the fluid is thin, for example. Thelowest cut mark 73 could be used where a viscous fluid, such as a thick medication, is to be administered, or where the child is older and a liquefied blend of food is being fed to the child. Ideally, instructions would be given with the bottle device regarding the cut marks. - Continuing with
FIG. 7 , in thisthird embodiment 66, a lower portion of theextended spout 68 includes aflange 74 under abase 75. Thebase 75 has a greater diameter than theextended spout 68 or theflange 74. Theflange 74 snaps or otherwise fits into aneck 76 of thebottle portion 14. Thecollar 22 is then placed over the top of theextended spout 68, so that theupper spout portion 70 extends through thecollar aperture 20, and screwed onto corresponding threads on the outside of theneck 76. -
FIGS. 8 and 9 show a fourthalternate embodiment 77 of a feeding device according to the present invention. Thefeeding device 77 comprises alarger bottle portion 14 that can accommodate one or more full feedings, a threadedcollar 22, aflanged spout 79, and afirst valve 80. In use, theflange 74 on the bottom of thespout 79 fits closely inside theneck 28 to prevent leaking when thefeeding device 77 is squeezed by the caregiver or baby. The part of thespout base 75 that extends beyond the outside of theflange 74 rests on the top edge of thebottle neck 28. An extendedupper spout portion 70 of theflanged spout 79 fits up into anaperture 20 in the top of the threadedcollar 22. The threads on the inside of thecollar 22 correspond to the threads on the outside of theneck 28. Thecollar 22 fits down over the top of theflanged spout 79 and screws onto the threadedneck 28 of thebottle portion 14. In this embodiment, the soft, flexible tubing is incorporated into (continuous with) the upper end of theupper spout portion 70, forming one piece. Thus, in various embodiments of the instant feeding device: a) the tubing may constitute the upper portion of the spout (seeFIG. 8 ); b) the tubing may be inserted up through the center of the spout or nipple (seeFIG. 3 ); or c) the lower end of the tubing may be inserted via a straw into an orifice in the nipple (seeFIG. 6 ) or be pushed over the outside of the end of the spout. -
FIG. 9 shows a bottom plan view of theflanged spout 79 with thecircular valve 80 in it. Thevalve 80 fits closely into a correspondingly sized, centrally locatedprojection 78 at the bottom of theflanged spout 79. Thevalve 80 is preferably a silicone or rubber-type molded piece. Thevalve 80 has acentral orifice 81, which is continuous with the bottle and the hole extending through the center of the spout. When thebottle portion 14 is squeezed, fluid from the bottle flows through theorifice 81 in the top of thevalve 80 and down the extendedupper spout portion 70 into the patient's mouth. When pressure on the bottle is released, the flow of fluid from the bottle into the patient's mouth ceases. -
FIG. 10A through 10D show the threading oftubing 83 in a fifthalternate embodiment 82 of the present invention. Since the tubing is made of a soft, flexible material, it is difficult to force it through an orifice in a nipple. This process remedies that problem. In thisfifth embodiment 82, astraw 84 is placed through the bottom of a nipple assembly 85 (seeFIG. 10A ), which comprises asoft nipple 86, and pushed out through asmall orifice 87 in the top of the nipple 86 (seeFIG. 10B ). In this embodiment, theupper end 89 of thestraw 84 is cut at an angle to facilitate placement through thenipple orifice 87. The straw is preferably made of a hard plastic or the like. Thetubing 83 is then threaded through thestraw 84 from the bottom of the nipple assembly. - Finally, the
straw 84 is removed by pulling it out of theorifice 87 from the top of thenipple assembly 85, as shown inFIG. 10C , leaving the tubing in place. As shown inFIG. 10D , at the opposite, lower end of thestraw 84 is ahollow plug 88. Theplug 88 anchors the tubing in thenipple 86, so that thetubing 83 does not slip out of theorifice 87. Thehollow plug 88 accomplishes this without impeding the flow of liquid through the tubing -
FIG. 11 shows thenipple assembly 85 of thefifth embodiment 82, with thetubing 83, along with asecond valve 90 and an upper portion of thebottle portion 14. The one-way valve 90 press fits into a matchingspace 91 at the base of thenipple assembly 85. Thevalve 90 is preferably a silicone or rubber-type molded piece. When thebottle portion 14 is squeezed, fluid from the bottle flows through two intersecting, self-closingholes 92 in the top of thevalve 90. One hole, or three or more holes, can be utilized. When the user stops squeezing the bottle, theholes 92 flap closed, preventing backflow and control the rate of flow of fluid to the patient. With a valve, the fluid will not be dispensed unless and until the bottle portion is compressed. - Continuing with
FIG. 11 , once thesecond valve 90 is pressed up into thenipple assembly 85, a circularfirst projection 93 at the base of the nipple assembly is popped into a correspondingcircular groove 94 inside theneck 96 of thebottle portion 14. Theprojection 93 fits closely into the matchinggroove 94 to prevent leaking. Once the nipple assembly is in place, a larger, second projection around the nipple assembly and above the first projection rests on the top 98 of the bottle neck. Thenipple assembly 85 andvalve 90 are very easy to remove for cleaning. They can be boiled or cleaned with soap and water, and are disposable or reusable. - The
cap assembly 12 can alternatively be made as a unitary molded piece including thetubing FIGS. 5 and 6 ). The cap assembly may or may not include a valve. A unitary molded piece could have an outer rim to prevent leaks, and an inner rim for a flow valve to snap into.Nipples FIGS. 4, 6 , 10 and 11, or flat at the top. - The present invention does not require an inner rod or inner ribbing. The nipple and/or spout are not insertable in the patient's mouth; the tubing is insertable.
- Other suitable valves are also included herein. The cap assembly may comprise a valve device that includes a resilient member acting in conjunction with a movable valve member to control fluid flow from the bottle portion through the valve device.
- The cap assembly may comprise a substantially flat, round disk structure with a slit, which is removably disposed against the top of the bottle portion in order to control fluid flow from the bottle portion through the tubing.
- Kit
- The present invention also includes a feeding kit for a child or feeding-disabled adult comprising a
bottle portion 14, at least onetube spout nipple assembly straw 84 may also be included for use in threading the tube through thenipple orifice 87. Astraw section 54 may alternatively be included in the kit for connecting thetubing nipple -
FIGS. 12 through 16 illustrate a sixthalternate embodiment 100 of the present invention. Thisfeeding device 100 allows patients of craniofacial surgery, deformities, facial trauma, or oral muscle weakness to consume liquids or pureed foods, even when sucking or using cups with straws is impossible. It is also effective for assisting speech pathologists to help children and adults (e.g., stroke victims, trauma victims) learn or re-learn how to suck on a straw. Alternatively, this bottle works very well for the same type of patients when sucking is contraindicated or impossible. - As shown in
FIGS. 12 and 13 , thefeeding device 100 includes: acap assembly 102 affixed to a soft,squeezable bottle portion 104 for containing the ingestible fluid. As discussed hereinabove, thebottle portion 104 comprises an open top surrounded by a neck. Thecap assembly 102 comprises a section of flexible fluid-flow tubing 106 having a first end that is insertable in the patient's mouth. Thesoft tubing 106, which may be made of a polyvinyl chloride, protects the deformed or traumatized mouth, allowing food/liquid to bypass the sutured or weak area in the front of the mouth and be directed to the back of mouth to be swallowed. - As shown in
FIGS. 12 and 13 , the opposite, second end of thetubing 106 is pressed down over the outside of apeg 108 on aspout assembly 110. This facilitates assembly and dis-assembly of the feeding device for washing, etc. Thepeg 108 preferably has a diameter that is slightly larger than the inside diameter of thetubing 106, so the second end of the tubing fits closely over the peg. Thepeg 108 may have the general shape of an arrow-head, as shown inFIG. 20 , and preferably includes aprojection 112. Theprojection 112 helps keep the second end of thetubing 106 from sliding back off the peg. In addition to thespout assembly 110, thecap assembly 102 includes a threaded collar 22 (seeFIG. 12 ), which fits down over the correspondingly threaded neck of the bottle portion (as shown inFIG. 8 ). - As shown in
FIG. 13 , thespout assembly 110 includes acentral channel 114 into which a first, upper end of a relativelyrigid straw 116 is inserted. The spout assembly is preferably made of a strong yet flexible material. The first end of therigid straw 116 closely fits into a lower opening of thechannel 114 through the spout. The rigid straw is made of a harder plastic-type material than the soft tubing, though it too is somewhat flexible. The diameter of the peg, and the channel therethrough, may be narrow for thin fluids, such as water, or wider to accommodate more viscous material, such as pureed foods. - Referring to
FIG. 14 , thespout assembly 110 includes alower flange 118 under abase 120. Above thespout assembly base 120, and continuous with it, is a cut-outportion 122. Thebase 120 has a greater diameter than thepeg 108, the cut-outportion 122, or theflange 118. Theflange 118 snaps or otherwise plugs into the hole through the neck of thebottle portion 104. This novel feature prevents leaking when the bottle is tipped or squeezed. The outside diameter of theflange 118 matches the inside diameter of the hole in the neck. The outside of theflange 118 is convex, which enhances the seal between the flange and the inside of the top of the neck once the bottle is squeezed and the fluid begins to flow. Thecollar 22 is then placed over the top of the spout assembly, so that the cut-outportion 122 extends through, and fits snugly in, an aperture of the collar. Thecollar 22, which is threaded inside, screws onto corresponding threads on the outside of the bottle neck. Once thecollar 22 is fastened, it extends down over the bottle neck. When the bottle portion is depressed by the user (person being fed or his or her caregiver) during use, the fluid in the bottle is forced up through therigid straw 116 and then through thetubing 106, so the tubing is in fluid communication with the bottle portion. This allows a person who may not be able to move his or her head or neck to squeeze fluids up and out of the bottle via the rigid straw and the soft tubing. - Referring to
FIGS. 15 and 16 , thespout assembly 110 may further include avalve assembly 124.FIGS. 13 and 15 show the spout assembly without a valve assembly. In this embodiment, therigid straw 116 inserted in thechannel 114 allows the bottle portion to be squeezed in an upright position for feeding. With avalve assembly 124, as shown inFIG. 16 , to control the flow of fluid from the bottle portion through the spout assembly, the bottle portion can also be squeezed upside down or sideways. This is especially useful for patients who are restricted from a full range of movement, such as tilting their heads back. For example, some patients are fitted with an osteogenesis distraction apparatus, which pulls the jawbone forward over time. Unfortunately, the osteogenesis distraction apparatus prevents these patients from using a cup normally. They can use the device of the present invention, though. Also, patients in a Striker frame, which moves to suspend the patient bound to it in many different positions, including an upside down position, can use the feeding device of the present invention. The feeding device allows these patients, who are often adults or teens, to feel more independent and in control. - As shown in
FIGS. 16 through 18 , a preferred embodiment of thevalve assembly 124 comprises afloppy disc 126 of a rubber-like material with aslit 128 at its center. Thefloppy disc 126 is held within the flange by aframe 130 having acircular orifice 132 at its center through which the slit is visible. Theframe 130, which has rounded edges for contacting the inside of the flange, braces the floppy disc in the lower portion of the spout assembly. The slit controls the flow of fluid from the bottle portion into the spout assembly. - In a further alternate embodiment shown in
FIG. 19 , the feeding device may be used with the tubing. In a further alternate embodiment, the feeding device can be used without the rigid straw where the spout assembly is fitted with a valve assembly to control fluid flow. - In a further alternate embodiment (not shown), the soft tubing may be removed and the spout may be rounded at the top and made of a soft silicone-type material, so that it resembles a nipple. This embodiment is useful for babies for whom sucking is contraindicated (e.g., because of stitches in the mouth), and for newborns who for various reasons have not yet learned to suck to begin the learning process. The present invention provides a squeezable and leakproof way to administer and regulate fluids to convalescing babies, geriatrics, or patients of any age.
- From the foregoing it can be realized that the described device of the present invention may be easily and conveniently utilized. While preferred embodiments of the invention have been described using specific terms, this description is for illustrative purposes only. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention, and that such modifications are intended to be within the scope of the present invention.
- Without further analysis, the foregoing will so fully reveal the gist of the present invention that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily adapt it for various applications without omitting features that, from the standpoint of prior art, fairly constitute essential characteristics of the generic or specific aspects of this invention.
-
- 10 feeding bottle device
- 12 cap assembly
- 14 bottle portion
- 15 sutures
- 16 spout of first embodiment
- 17 tubing of first embodiment
- 18 upper spout portion
- 20 collar aperture
- 22 threaded collar
- 24 lower spout portion
- 26 spout flange
- 28 threaded neck
- 30 spout base
- 32 spout band
- 36 flared tubing section
- 38 base of flared tubing section
- 40 second embodiment of feeding device
- 41 upper end of flared tubing section
- 42 nipple assembly of second embodiment
- 44 nipple of second embodiment
- 46 nipple flange
- 48 nipple band
- 50 tubing assembly
- 52 curved tubing
- 54 straw section
- 56 upper end piece of straw section
- 58 lower straw portion
- 60 sharp lower end of straw portion
- 62 slit in nipple
- 64 enlarged lower end of tubing
- 66 third embodiment
- 68 extended spout
- 70 extended upper spout portion
- 71 upper cut mark
- 72 middle cut mark
- 73 lower cut mark
- 74 flange on spout
- 75 base on spout
- 76 unthreaded neck
- 77 fourth embodiment of feeding device
- 78 projection for valve
- 79 flanged spout of fourth embodiment
- 80 first valve
- 81 orifice in valve
- 82 fifth embodiment of feeding device
- 83 tubing of fifth embodiment
- 84 straw of fifth embodiment
- 85 nipple assembly of fifth embodiment
- 86 nipple of fifth embodiment
- 87 nipple orifice
- 88 tubing plug
- 89 sharp end of straw—fifth embodiment
- 90 second valve
- 91 space for valve in nipple assembly
- 92 holes in second valve
- 93 first projection
- 94 corresponding groove in neck
- 96 neck of fifth embodiment
- 97 second nipple projection
- 98 top of bottle neck
- 100 sixth embodiment of feeding device
- 102 cap assembly
- 104 bottle portion
- 106 tubing
- 108 peg
- 110 spout assembly
- 112 projection
- 114 channel in spout assembly
- 116 rigid straw
- 118 spout assembly flange
- 120 spout assembly base
- 122 spout assembly cut-out portion
- 124 valve assembly
- 126 disc in valve assembly
- 128 slit in valve assembly
- 130 frame in valve assembly
- 132 orifice
Claims (23)
1. A squeezable feeding device for feeding an ingestible liquid to a patient, the feeding device comprising:
a) a squeezable bottle portion comprising a top opening surrounded by a neck; and
b) a cap assembly comprising: flexible fluid-flow tubing, a separate spout or nipple assembly, and a detachable collar, an upper portion of the spout or nipple assembly being insertable through a central aperture in the collar, the flexible tubing comprising a first end in fluid communication with the bottle portion and a second end insertable in the patient's mouth the flexible tubing extending through a central aperture in the spout or nipple assembly the collar extending in a downward direction over the neck of the bottle portion an interior portion of the collar being engageable with an exterior portion of the neck; and
further comprising a separate flared tubing section at a lower end of the flexible tubing, the flared tubing section comprising a central aperture that is wider at a base of the flared tubing section than at an opposite, upper end of the flared tubing section, the flexible tubing being insertable through the flared tubing section aperture, the diameter of the aperture at the upper end of the flared tubing section closely corresponding to an outer diameter of the flexible tubing; and
further comprising a valve device comprising a resilient member disposed therewithin, and a movable valve member for releasably controlling a flow of the liquid through the valve device.
2. The feeding device according to claim 1 , wherein the collar comprises interior threading engageable with the correspondingly threaded exterior portion of the neck of the bottle portion.
3. A bottle device for feeding an ingestible fluid to a patient, the feeding device comprising:
a) a squeezable bottle portion for holding the ingestible fluid therewithin, the bottle portion comprising an open top surrounded by a neck; and
b) a leakproof cap assembly comprising: a nipple or spout assembly, a collar, and fluid-conducting tubing, the collar and bottle neck comprising corresponding threading, the nipple or spout assembly comprising a nipple or spout on its upper portion and a flange on its lower portion, the flange extending closely into the open top of the bottle portion, a portion of the nipple or spout assembly being mounted on the neck of the bottle portion, the fluid-conducting tubing extending from the interior of the spout or nipple assembly, the fluid-conducting tubing comprising an external flexible tube portion extending from an upper end of the nipple or spout assembly.
4. A bottle device for feeding liquid nutrition to a patient, the feeding device comprising:
a) a squeezable bottle portion for holding the ingestible fluid therewithin, the bottle portion comprising an open top surrounded by a neck; and
b) a leakproof cap assembly comprising: a spout assembly, a collar, and fluid-conducting tubing, the collar and bottle neck comprising corresponding interior threads, the spout assembly comprising a peg on its upper portion and a flange on its lower portion, the peg extending in an upward direction through a central aperture in the collar, the fluid-conducting tubing having a first, upper end that is insertable into a mouth of the patient and a second, lower end that is removably attachable over the peg, the flange extending closely into the open top of the bottle portion, a portion of the spout assembly being mounted on the neck of the bottle portion, the spout assembly comprising a central channel.
5. The feeding device according to claim 4 , further comprising a liquid control valve assembly mounted in a lower portion of the spout assembly.
6. The feeding device according to claim 4 , further comprising a substantially rigid straw comprising a first, upper end extending into the spout assembly channel and a second, lower end extending in a downward direction into the bottle portion.
7. The feeding device according to claim 1 , wherein the flexible tubing comprises a flared lower end portion for preventing the flexible tubing from sliding completely through the spout aperture.
8. The feeding device according to claim 1 , wherein the spout or nipple assembly is a nipple assembly comprising a nipple on its upper portion; and further comprising a straw section for connecting the flexible tubing to the nipple, the straw section comprising a cylindrical upper end piece having a greater diameter than an angled lower end portion of the straw section, the lower end portion of the straw section being insertable through an aperture in an upper end of the nipple, the cylindrical upper end piece being insertable into a lower end of the flexible tubing.
9. The feeding device according to claim 1 , wherein the spout or nipple assembly is a nipple assembly comprising a nipple on its upper portion; and the flexible tubing comprises a plug at its lower end, the plug comprising a central aperture.
10. The feeding device according to claim 3 , further comprising a fluid control valve device in a space in the lower portion of the spout assembly, the fluid control valve device comprising a resilient member disposed therewithin, and a movable valve member.
11. The feeding device according to claim 3 , further comprising a fluid control valve assembly comprising a floppy disc comprising a central slit, the floppy disc being suspended across the lower bore end of the extended spout by a frame, the frame closely fitting into the flange, the frame comprising a central orifice surrounding the slit.
12. The feeding device according to claim 4 , further comprising a fluid control valve assembly comprising a floppy disc comprising a central slit, the floppy disc being suspended across a lower end of the spout channel by a frame, the frame closely fitting into the flange, the frame comprising a central orifice surrounding the slit.
13. A bottle device for feeding an ingestible fluid to a patient, the feeding device comprising:
a) a squeezable bottle portion for holding the ingestible fluid therewithin, the bottle portion comprising a bottle neck, the bottle neck comprising an opening in its upper portion; and
b) a cap assembly comprising: a detachable, extended spout comprising a central bore with an opening at its upper end, and a detachable collar, an interior portion of the collar being engageable with an exterior portion of the bottle neck, the extended spout comprising a vertically extended upper spout portion, the extended spout bore decreasing in diameter from a wider lower bore end to a narrower upper bore end; a lower portion of the extended spout comprising a flange connected to a bottom surface of a base, the extended upper spout portion extending in a generally upward direction from a top surface of the base, an outside diameter of the flange generally corresponding to an inside diameter of the bottle neck.
14. The feeding device according to claim 13 , wherein the collar has an inside diameter generally corresponding to the outside diameter of the bottle neck, the base has a diameter generally corresponding to the outside diameter of the bottle neck, and the collar aperture has a diameter greater than the diameter of the lower portion of the extended spout and less than the diameter of the base.
15. The feeding device according to claim 14 , wherein an outside of the extended upper portion is marked with a plurality of horizontally oriented cut marks.
16. The feeding device according to claim 14 , further comprising a generally circular valve assembly inserted in the generally circular lower bore end of the extended spout.
17. The feeding device according to claim 13 , further comprising a valve assembly comprising a floppy disc, the floppy disc being suspended across the lower bore end of the extended spout by a frame, the frame closely fitting into the flange, the frame comprising a central orifice surrounding a central slit of the floppy disc.
18. The feeding device according to claim 13 , further comprising a length of flexible, fluid-conducting tubing inserted through the spout bore, with an upper end portion of the length of flexible tubing extending out through the upper bore end, and a lower end portion of the length of flexible tubing extending down through the lower bore end into the bottle portion.
19. The feeding device according to claim 18 , wherein the length of fluid-conducting tubing comprises a flared lower end portion.
20. A kit for feeding an ingestible fluid to a patient, the kit comprising:
(a) a bottle portion of a feeding device;
(b) flexible, fluid-conducting tubing of a length that is less than the length of the bottle portion;
(c) at least one spout or nipple assembly of the feeding device;
(d) at least one fluid control valve for insertion in a lower portion of the nipple or spout assembly; and
(e) a substantially rigid straw for use in threading the flexible tubing through an orifice of a nipple of the nipple assembly.
21. A method for assembling a bottle feeding device, comprising the steps of:
(a) inserting an angled upper end of a substantially rigid straw through a central lower space in a nipple assembly of the feeding device up through an orifice in an upper end of a nipple in an upper portion of the nipple assembly;
(b) threading a length of flexible, fluid-conducting tubing up through the straw, the flexible, fluid-conducting tubing having an outside diameter that is less than the inside diameter of the straw; and
(c) removing the straw by pulling it up through the nipple orifice, leaving a portion of the flexible, fluid-conducting tubing projecting from the nipple.
22. The method according to claim 21 , further comprising the steps of:
(d) inserting a generally cylindrical-shaped fluid control valve into a central, generally cylindrical-shaped space in a lower portion of the nipple assembly;
(e) filling a bottle portion of the feeding device with a desired amount of ingestible fluid; and
(f) detachably attaching the nipple assembly to a neck of the bottle portion.
23. The method according to claim 22 , wherein step (f) comprises the substeps of:
(f1) inserting the nipple assembly through a central aperture in a threaded collar until a first projection and a second projection on a lower portion of the nipple assembly lodge on opposite sides of the central aperture; and
(f2) screwing the internally threaded collar onto the correspondingly threaded outside of the bottle neck.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/600,620 US20070062904A1 (en) | 2001-12-04 | 2006-11-16 | Squeezable, fillable feeding device |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US33847501P | 2001-12-04 | 2001-12-04 | |
US10/309,687 US7172085B2 (en) | 2001-12-04 | 2002-12-04 | Squeezable, fillable feeding device |
US11/600,620 US20070062904A1 (en) | 2001-12-04 | 2006-11-16 | Squeezable, fillable feeding device |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/309,687 Division US7172085B2 (en) | 2001-12-04 | 2002-12-04 | Squeezable, fillable feeding device |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20070062904A1 true US20070062904A1 (en) | 2007-03-22 |
Family
ID=26976957
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/309,687 Expired - Fee Related US7172085B2 (en) | 2001-12-04 | 2002-12-04 | Squeezable, fillable feeding device |
US11/600,620 Abandoned US20070062904A1 (en) | 2001-12-04 | 2006-11-16 | Squeezable, fillable feeding device |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/309,687 Expired - Fee Related US7172085B2 (en) | 2001-12-04 | 2002-12-04 | Squeezable, fillable feeding device |
Country Status (1)
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US (2) | US7172085B2 (en) |
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US9737463B2 (en) * | 2015-01-27 | 2017-08-22 | C & A Marketing, Inc. | Baby bottle assembly including a diaphragm that augments a baby's ability to remove liquid from a receptacle |
US20170007052A1 (en) * | 2015-06-20 | 2017-01-12 | Russ Dean | For integral lid honey dipper |
US10299612B2 (en) * | 2015-06-20 | 2019-05-28 | Russ Dean | Integral lid honey dipper |
US10548811B2 (en) | 2017-01-09 | 2020-02-04 | R. Scott Turner | Valve for fluid flow assembly |
US11628988B2 (en) | 2020-12-19 | 2023-04-18 | 14Th Round Inc. | Child resistant airtight lid |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
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US20030132185A1 (en) | 2003-07-17 |
US7172085B2 (en) | 2007-02-06 |
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Legal Events
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STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |