GB2439063A

GB2439063A - Baby formula dispenser system

Info

Publication number: GB2439063A
Application number: GB0611948A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Thomas Evans; Nigel Smith
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2006-06-16
Filing date: 2006-06-16
Publication date: 2007-12-19
Also published as: GB0611948D0

Abstract

The apparatus comprises a tube, which contains the product to be dispensed in paste form, and a dispenser into which the tube can be fitted. The product can be dispensed by operating the trigger on the dispenser, which moves a rod and which acts against a piston in the tube. The dispenser is equipped with an adjustable stop device to limit the arc of motion of the trigger. This device is marked to show units of volume or the age or weight of the infant (or other appropriate measure). When this is selected the appropriate amount of product can be dispensed upon operation of the trigger. The product is dispensed from the tube via a re-closable nozzle that is itself shrouded by a removable cover.

Description

1 2439063 Baby Formula Dispensing System This invention relates to a

system that will enable the easy, precise and hygienic preparation of a feed using baby formula.

Background

Baby formula is available in three forms, powder, ready-to-use and concentrates. The preparation of powdered formula, the most commonly used form of baby feed, has remained largely unchanged for decades. Many organisations in the U.K. and elsewhere, have expressed concerns regarding its preparation. Ready-to-use and concentrate forms, although easier to use, retain many of the disadvantages of the powder system.

The disadvantages encountered with the current powder formula system are in: * Correctly measuring the amount of formula e.g. losing count of the number of scoops.

* The powder adhering to the scoop after the first application due to condensation. Any subsequent scoops will be short of powder.

* Placing the formula in the feed bottle without spillage. Any spilled powder adheres to the outside and the rim of the feed bottle making it sticky, difficult to dean and to seal.

* Ensuring even distribution of the powder in the water so that there are no globules that could clog the hole in the teat.

* Preventing contamination of the contents of the carton once it has been opened. The unused powder in the container may potentially be contaminated by exposure to the atmosphere and from handling the scoop.

* Powdered baby formula not being sterile as bought.

Statement of invention

To overcome the above problems, this invention proposes that the formula be manufactured as a sterile paste, which is supplied in a tamperproof tube with a covered re-closable nozzle. Putting the product in such a tube reduces the likelihood that the contents become contaminated before and after opening.. The tube fits into a dispenser by which means the contents of the tube can be dispensed in the required dose without spillage directly into the infant feed bottle. The paste disperses easily in the prepared water without globules forming.

Advantages The Baby Formula Dispensing system outlined here will enable easy, precise and hygienic preparation of an infant feed.

Introduction to drawings

An example of the invention will now be described by referring to the accompanying drawings.

Figure 1 shows the tube in which the product or formula is contained.

Figure 2 shows the dispenser into which the tube can be fitted.

Figure 3 shows the tube fitted into the dispenser.

In figure 1 a tube 1 to contain the product or formula to be dispensed. The piston 2 at one end and the re-closable nozzle 3 and cover 4 at the other protect the contents.

Additionally the contents of the tube are protected before opening by seal 5. The piston 2 is revealed by removal of this seal.

In figure 2 the dispenser 6 into which the tube I can be fitted.

In figure 3 the tube fitted into the dispenser. When the tube is fitted the piston rod 7 engages with the piston 2 in the tube. When the trigger 8 is operated the piston rod 7 is made to push against the piston 2 and so dispense the contents 10 of the tube through the nozzle 3. The volume of product dispensed by each stroke of the trigger is dependant upon the internal diameter of the tube I and the distance moved by the piston rod 7.

Proportionately less of the product may be dispensed each trigger stroke by restricting arc of movement of the trigger by engaging the adjustable stop 9. This stop 9 has calibration marks in units of volume of product and/or the age or weight of the infant.

Claims

Clakns 1. A dispenser for dispensing metered volumes of a baby formula

in paste form.

2. A dispenser according to Claim I charactensed in that, the dispenser comprises adjustable means, which when the dispenser is in use, is set to deliver an appropriate volume of a baby formula in relation to an infants age and weight.

3. A dispenser according to either Claims I or 2 characterised in that the baby formula paste is supplied in a tamperproof tube accommodated within the dispenser.

4. A dispenser according to Claim 3 charactensed in that the dispenser comprises a piston rod arranged to engage a piston within the tampeiproof tube to cause, when the dispenser is in use, the piston to be moved along the tube whereby the metered volume of the baby formula contained therein is dispensed.

A dispenser according to Claim 4, characterised in that the piston rod is connected to a trigger mechanism, operation of which, when the dispenser is in use, causes the piston rod to engage the piston in the tamperproof tube whereby a metered volume of baby formula is dispensed as aforesaid.

6. A dispenser according to Claim 5, charactensed in that the movement of the trigger mechanism is controlled by the adjustable means, which, when the dispenser is in use, is set as aforesaid to deliver an appropriate volume of baby formula.

7. A dispenser substantially as described with reference to the accompanying drawings.