US20060272077A1 - Protective mask drinking tube coupling device and method of use - Google Patents
Protective mask drinking tube coupling device and method of use Download PDFInfo
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- US20060272077A1 US20060272077A1 US10/545,302 US54530204A US2006272077A1 US 20060272077 A1 US20060272077 A1 US 20060272077A1 US 54530204 A US54530204 A US 54530204A US 2006272077 A1 US2006272077 A1 US 2006272077A1
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- Prior art keywords
- container
- punch
- fluid
- central body
- wall
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A62—LIFE-SAVING; FIRE-FIGHTING
- A62B—DEVICES, APPARATUS OR METHODS FOR LIFE-SAVING
- A62B18/00—Breathing masks or helmets, e.g. affording protection against chemical agents or for use at high altitudes or incorporating a pump or compressor for reducing the inhalation effort
- A62B18/08—Component parts for gas-masks or gas-helmets, e.g. windows, straps, speech transmitters, signal-devices
- A62B18/086—Adaptations for consuming refreshments without unmasking
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a coupling device for connecting a drinking tube of a protective mask with a standard, commercially-available drinking fluid container.
- Protective suits worn by individuals in hazardous or contaminated environments often include head coverings with protective masks. Governments, militaries, and private industries have developed such protective masks and suits in an attempt to allow personnel to function in areas where there may be nuclear, biological, or chemical contamination. These protective masks and suits are hot to wear. As a result, major problems for the wearers of such protective masks and suits include rapid and potentially life-threatening dehydration and associated elevated core body temperature, which necessitate frequent fluid intake.
- the present invention relates to a device for connecting a drinking tube extending from a protective mask to a standard, commercially-available drinking fluid container, such as a plastic water bottle, to enable the wearer of the mask to drink the fluid from the container without contaminating the wearer or the fluid.
- a standard, commercially-available drinking fluid container such as a plastic water bottle
- the present invention provides a hand-operated coupling device which includes a central cylindrical body with a punch at one end for insertion into a fluid container, and a capture port at the other end for insertion of a drinking tube extending from a protective mask.
- the punch has a sharp tip at one end which punctures a wall of the fluid container.
- the coupling device can be secured to the container in a number of ways.
- the punch could include a threaded portion which is rotated into the container, whereby the threads secure the punch to the wall of the container.
- the punch could include one or more annular ridges shaped to engage a wall of the container upon insertion of the punch thereinto.
- a gasket could be included for engaging with the outer wall of the container to seal the connection between the coupling device and the container.
- the gasket could be provided adjacent the central body of the coupling device.
- Apertures in the wall of the punch allow fluid to enter the punch and flow to the central body.
- a central bore that may vary in diameter extends through the central body.
- a valve positioned within the central body and seated in the port, controls fluid flow between the punch and the port. Insertion of the mask drinking tube into the port moves the valve from a closed position seated in the bottom of the port to an open position so that fluid can flow through the device and into the mask tube to allow an individual wearing the protective mask to drink from the drinking fluid container.
- the present invention also provides a method for a wearer of a protective mask in a contaminated environment to access fluid from a standard fluid container.
- the method of the present invention comprises piercing a wall of the fluid container with a punch on the coupling device, securing the device to the wall of the fluid container, and inserting a male connector of a drinking tube into a port on the device. Insertion of the male connector into the port unseats the valve from a closed position to an open position, forming a flow path between the punch and the port through which the drinking fluid flows from the container to the drinking tube of the protective mask.
- FIG. 1 is an exploded exterior side view of the main components of an embodiment of the device of the present invention.
- FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional exploded view of the device shown in FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional exploded view of another embodiment of the device shown in FIG. 2 in which the shaft of the punch has a uniform diameter.
- FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional exploded view of another embodiment of the device shown in FIG. 2 in which the punch has annular ridges.
- FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional exploded view of another embodiment of the device shown in FIG. 3 in which the punch includes a spring-loaded arm.
- FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a gasket of the device taken along line 6 - 6 of FIG. 2 .
- FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional exploded view of another embodiment of the device shown in FIG. 3 wherein the gasket may is biased against a container wall.
- FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of an annular projection within the device taken along line 8 - 8 of FIG. 2 .
- FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the device shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 in an assembled form.
- FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the device shown in FIG. 9 connected at one end to a drinking fluid container and connected at the other end to a protective mask drinking tube.
- FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the device shown in FIG. 1 having a locking nut for urging the gasket against a wall of a drinking fluid container.
- FIG. 12 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the punch and cover of the present invention.
- FIG. 13A is a side view of the punch shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 B is a cross-sectional view thereof.
- FIG. 14A is a side view of the punch and cover shown in FIG. 12
- FIG. 14B is a cross-sectional view thereof.
- the present invention provides a drinking fluid delivery system comprising a coupling device suitable for connecting drinking tubes found on military-type protective masks (e.g., M-Series including M17A1 series masks and M40/42 series masks, as well as mask upgrades, such as Joint Service General Purpose Masks (JSGPM) found on NATO-standard government issue and industrial protective clothing and equipment, or other similar masks) to standard, commercially-available drinking fluid containers, such as plastic water bottles and the like.
- the coupling device includes a central body with a punch at one end and a port at the other end. The punch penetrates the wall of a fluid container and creates a contamination-resistant seal.
- the central body includes a valve assembly which is activated by inserting a mask drinking tube into the port.
- the coupling device of the present invention provides a safe and contamination-resistant means of connecting a drinking fluid container and a protective mask drinking tube in a contaminated environment.
- FIGS. 1 through 11 The device of the invention is shown in FIGS. 1 through 11 , wherein like numbers are used to designate like parts throughout the drawings.
- the coupling device of the present invention is generally indicated at 10 .
- the components of the coupling device shown in exploded view, are centrally-oriented on a longitudinal axis as indicated by line 19 .
- the coupling device includes a punch 20 , central body 30 , port 50 and gasket 60 .
- the punch 20 is made of rigid plastic, resin, or other suitable material strong enough for the tip of the punch to puncture or pierce a wall of a drinking fluid container using moderate manual force without damaging the integrity of punch 20 .
- the punch 20 is connected to the body 30 , and could be formed integrally therewith.
- the gasket 60 could be provided, and is preferably disposed annularly about a cylindrical portion of the punch 20 and proximate to an end of the body 30 , so as to seal the entire coupling device 10 against a side wall of a container.
- the port 50 preferably resides within an end of the body 30 , and receives an end of a standard drinking tube.
- the port 50 includes one or more ridges for engagement with and retention by the body 30 .
- the punch 20 has a tip 21 , one or more apertures 22 , a threaded shaft portion 23 , and a cylindrical shaft portion 24 .
- Threaded shaft portion 23 includes initial thread portion 26 which winds around to terminal thread portion 27 .
- Terminal thread portion 27 is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 19 .
- the thread is of an increasing diameter as it advances away from the tip of the punch and along the threaded portion.
- the thread has a sharp peripheral edge to facilitate catching and entering through the container wall.
- the punch 20 has one or more apertures 22 through which the fluid in the container flows into threaded shaft portion 23 and into cylindrical shaft portion 24 .
- Cylindrical shaft portion 24 may be formed integrally with threaded shaft portion 23 , or it could be formed separately and attached to threaded shaft portion 23 when the device is assembled.
- the diameter of cylindrical shaft portion 24 may vary. As shown in FIG. 3 , the diameter of cylindrical shaft portion 124 is the same as the threaded shaft portion 123 .
- FIG. 4 shows a punch configuration that does not include a thread.
- the punch 220 includes a tip 221 , one or more apertures 222 , a ridged shaft portion 223 , and cylindrical shaft portion 224 .
- Ridged shaft portion 223 has one or more annular ridges 280 along the length of shaft portion 223 . Where more than one ridge is included, initial ridge 281 is positioned closest to the tip of the punch, and terminal ridge 282 is positioned farthest from the tip.
- Each ridge has a leading edge extending on an angle from the ridged shaft portion 223 to a peak, and a second trailing edge extending generally perpendicularly from the ridge back to the ridged shaft portion 223 . The peaks of succeeding ridges extend further out from the ridged shaft portion.
- FIG. 5 shows a punch 320 having a tip 321 , one or more apertures 322 , an angled shaft portion 323 , a shoulder 396 defining the back edge of the angled shaft portion, a cylindrical shaft portion 324 , and a spring-loaded arm 390 .
- Arm 390 is attached to the angled shaft portion 323 towards the tip and extends back to the shoulder.
- the arm 390 is biased away from the angled shaft portion 323 such that the back end 393 of the arm 390 moves outward from the angled shaft portion 323 .
- the bias can be provided by a spring 394 positioned in recess 395 . Further, the bias could be provided by the flexibility of the arm 390 itself, such that the arm 390 snaps back to an initial position after being pressed against the shaft portion 323 . Such an arrangement would obviate the need for a spring.
- Central body 30 of the device is generally cylindrical and includes a lower receptacle 31 for engaging punch 20 , and an upper receptacle 37 .
- Central body 30 is preferably made of rigid plastic, resin, or other suitable material.
- Cylindrical shaft portion 24 of punch 20 may be permanently affixed to the interior of central body 30 , for example, by glue or other adhesive or attachment means, or it may be formed integrally therewith.
- the diameter of lower receptacle 31 is sized to securely receive cylindrical shaft portion 24 of punch 20 .
- a gasket 60 is provided between punch 20 and central body 30 .
- gasket 60 has a central aperture 61 for positioning over cylindrical shaft portion 24 , 124 , 224 , or 324 .
- Gasket 60 may be made of a rubber, polymeric, or other similar compressible material.
- terminal thread portion 27 of punch 20 or, likewise, terminal flange 282 of punch 220 , or shoulder 396 and arm end 393 of punch 320 , engages the interior wall 7 of fluid container 8 (as shown in FIG. 10 ), and gasket 60 bears against the exterior wall of container 8 , to provide a seal resistant to leakage and contamination.
- Gasket 60 may be permanently secured to the central body 30 using adhesive or the like.
- Gasket 60 could be biased away from the central body, and against a container wall, by one or more springs contained within the central body 30 .
- spring 100 is positioned in an annular recess, preferably within the periphery of the central body adjacent lower receptacle 31 . Spring 100 bears against gasket 60 to bias the gasket 60 against the container wall.
- Valve 45 is disposed within central body 30 to control the flow of fluid through the device.
- Valve 45 has a cylindrical shaft 46 and an annular flange 47 .
- Shaft 46 has a lower shaft portion 46 a and upper shaft portion 46 b .
- Spring 48 is inserted onto lower shaft portion 46 a adjacent to annular flange 47 to bias shaft 46 in a first, closed position wherein flange 47 is seated in seat 52 at the edge of port 50 .
- Shaft 46 of valve 45 is maintained in an orientation along the longitudinal axis 19 by an annular projection 32 within central body 30 .
- Annular projection 32 separates upper receptacle 37 and lower receptacle 31 of central body 30 .
- annular projection 32 includes an inner ring 34 having a central aperture 36 and spokes 35 .
- Shaft 46 extends through central aperture 36 of annular projection 32 . Fluid can flow through openings between spokes 35 from lower receptacle 31 of central body 30 and into upper receptacle 37 .
- a port 50 allows a mask drinking tube to be removably connected with the coupling device 10 .
- Port 50 is preferably constructed of firm, compressible rubber or other suitable material generally in the shape of a cylinder.
- Port 50 is positioned within upper receptacle 37 of central body 30 .
- Port 50 may include exterior grooves 51 , an inner bore 53 , and a seat 52 centrally located at a first end of inner bore 53 .
- Exterior grooves 51 engage one or more annular ribs 38 on the inner wall of upper receptacle 37 to secure port 50 within central body 30 .
- a lip 40 on the open end of upper receptacle 37 further engages port 50 to retain the port within central body 30 .
- Port 50 includes a compressible female receptacle 55 at the second end of inner bore 53 sized and shaped to receive a rigid male connector on the mask drinking tube, and to retain the male connector therein.
- the receptacle could include a shoulder to retain the male connector in position. The male connector can be removed by pulling it from the female receptacle with sufficient force.
- FIGS. 9 and 10 show the assembled components of the device of the invention.
- cylindrical shaft portion 24 of punch 20 is inserted in lower receptacle 31 of central body 30 .
- Gasket 60 is seated between the bottom end of lower receptacle 31 of central body 30 and terminal thread portion 27 of threaded shaft 23 .
- Valve 45 extends from upper receptacle 37 to lower receptacle 31 of central body 30 .
- Lower portion 46 a of shaft 46 extends through central aperture 36 of annular projection 32 .
- Spring 48 is positioned against upper side 32 b of annular projection 32 .
- the upper shaft portion 46 b extends into inner bore 53 of port 50 .
- Annular flange 47 of valve 45 is seated in seat 52 at the first end of inner bore 53 of port 50 .
- FIG. 10 shows the coupling device of the present invention inserted into a fluid container 8 .
- Threaded shaft portion 23 As threaded shaft portion 23 is rotated, the thread rides into the drinking fluid container.
- Initial thread portion 26 is open-angled to catch the wall of container 8 .
- Terminal thread portion 27 is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 19 of the device and enters container 8 and engages or entraps the punch within the container by sitting against interior wall 7 of container 8 .
- cylindrical shaft portion 224 of punch 220 is inserted in lower receptacle 31 of central body 30 .
- Gasket 60 is seated between the bottom end of lower receptacle 31 of central body 30 and terminal ridge 282 on shaft 223 .
- the terminal ridge 282 enters container 8 and the trailing edge thereof engages or entraps the punch within the container by sitting against interior wall 7 of container 8 .
- cylindrical shaft portion 324 of punch 320 is inserted in lower receptacle 31 of central body 30 .
- Gasket 60 is seated between the bottom end of lower receptacle 31 of central body 30 and shoulder 396 and the back end 393 of arm 390 .
- arm 390 is retained against angled shaft 323 by the force of the container wall bearing on the arm.
- arm 390 is urged away from the angled shaft, along with shoulder 396 engages or entraps the punch within the container by sitting against interior wall 7 of container 8 .
- fluid from container 8 enters the device through apertures 22 , flows into cylindrical shaft portion 24 which is positioned within lower receptacle 31 , and flows through the openings between spokes 35 in annular projection 32 into upper receptacle 37 .
- the male connector of mask tube 70 is inserted into female receptacle 55 at the second end of the inner bore 53 of port 50 .
- the male connector pushes valve 45 against its bias in the direction of the fluid container, unseating annular flange 47 from seat 52 .
- Fluid contained in upper receptacle 37 can then flow into the first end of inner bore 53 of port 50 through the connection between the male connector and female receptacle and into mask drinking tube 70 which is connected to a mouth inlet of the protective mask.
- the device of the invention may further include a fitted cap placed over the top of the open end of upper receptacle 37 of central body 30 to secure port 50 in the central body.
- the cap would have an aperture to provide access for mask drinking tube 70 to port 50 .
- the device could further include a protective covering placed over the cap to cover the access port until the device is used.
- the device could also include a protective covering over the entire device to protect it from contamination before use.
- Such protective covering should be strong to resist inadvertent tearing, yet be capable of being torn open by hand, for example, along a scored line. An example of such a covering is plastic wrapping.
- FIG. 11 shows another embodiment of the invention which includes a nut 65 for further tightening and securing the device to a wall of the fluid container.
- the nut 65 could be a locking wheel, winged nut, or the like which can be threaded down to compress the gasket 60 against the side wall of the fluid container.
- the nut engages a second set of threads 63 on the shaft 23 of punch 20 .
- the nut could engage a second set of threads on shaft 124 , 223 or 324 , respectively.
- the device of the present invention can be used as follows:
- FIG. 12 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the punch 420 , punch body 430 , and cover 419 of the present invention.
- the cover 419 can be engaged with the punch body 430 in any desired manner to cover the punch 420 prior to use.
- a stopper 470 can be used to cover the port in the punch housing 430 .
- FIG. 13A is a side view of the punch shown in FIG. 12
- FIG. 13B is a cross-sectional view thereof.
- the punch 420 has a tip 421 , one or more apertures 422 , and a threaded shaft 423 .
- the thread starts at initial thread portion 426 and winds around to terminal thread portion 427 .
- the punch has an internal shaft 424 in fluid communication with the one or more apertures 422 .
- a connection receptacle 425 is provided at an end of the punch 420 opposite the tip 421 .
- FIG. 14A is a side view of the punch and cover shown in FIG. 12
- FIG. 14B is a cross-sectional view thereof.
- the device includes a punch body 430 and a punch cover 419 .
- a stopper 470 includes a plug 472 and cover 474 for insertion into port 450 to cover same.
- the stopper 470 can be connected to the body 430 by a tether 445 .
- FIG. 14B is a cross-sectional view of the punch 420 covered and protected by cover 419 .
- Punch 420 is shown interconnected to a punch body 430 .
- the connection can be any suitable connection.
- the punch body 430 has an outer surface that is sized to be substantially similar to the outer cover 419 of the punch 420 .
- the body 430 includes a central core 439 having an inner conduit or receptacle 437 through which fluid can travel from the internal shaft 424 of punch 420 .
- the body 430 also contains a port 450 for interconnection of a drinking tube. Insertion of the drinking tube into the port 450 actuates a valve to allow fluid to flow from receptacle 437 to the drinking tube.
- the punch 420 can be made of metal or any other suitable rigid material.
- the tip 421 can be attached to the punch 420 by a UV curing process.
- the thread on the punch can be a single thread or a double thread.
- a double thread, with threads offset at 180 degrees provides balance to the device when inserted into a container.
- a gasket if used, can be made of rubber and/or micro-resistant material such as a micro-core material that is biologically resistant. The gasket can be positioned at the end of the terminal thread 427 .
- the punch 420 is adhered to center core 439 .
- An elastomer is over molded over the center core 439 to form the exterior of punch body 430 .
- an elastic band covers apertures in the central core to prevent fluid flow therethrough.
- the insertion of a drinking tube moves the elastic band away from the apertures to allow for fluid to flow out of the center core and into the drinking tube.
- the device that is described herein can be used to supply hydration, electrolytes, nutrition-calories, and oral medication (for prophylaxis and/or treatment) to the protective mask user. Removing the drinking tube from the devices seals the device and the tube to avoid contamination. Accordingly, fluids can be saved for future use.
- each device is packed with a disposable decontamination wipe.
- the device can be used to puncture any relatively thin-walled fluid container such as one made of plastic, cardboard, etc.
- the device can be inserted in any direction, i.e. through a sidewall, the bottom, top, or even the cap of such a container.
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Abstract
A coupling device is provided for allowing one wearing a protective mask to drink fluids from a standard drinking fluid container. The device includes a punch at one end, a central body, and a capture port at the other end of the central body. The punch punctures a wall of a fluid container. Drinking fluid flows into the central body. The drinking tube is inserted into the port to allow one to drink fluid from the container. The device allows one wearing a protective suit in a contaminated environment to obtain drinking fluid from a standard, commercially-available container.
Description
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The present invention relates to a coupling device for connecting a drinking tube of a protective mask with a standard, commercially-available drinking fluid container.
- 2. Related Art
- Protective suits worn by individuals in hazardous or contaminated environments often include head coverings with protective masks. Governments, militaries, and private industries have developed such protective masks and suits in an attempt to allow personnel to function in areas where there may be nuclear, biological, or chemical contamination. These protective masks and suits are hot to wear. As a result, major problems for the wearers of such protective masks and suits include rapid and potentially life-threatening dehydration and associated elevated core body temperature, which necessitate frequent fluid intake.
- Many masks, such as the “M” series protective type, have drinking tubes that allow the mask wearer to access and drink from compatible “canteen” fluid sources. However, the canteen sources have a limited volume, and are very difficult to safely refill in a contaminated area. In order to obtain additional fluids, individuals are forced to leave the contaminated site, decontaminate themselves, and drink hydrating fluids from non-contaminated sources. From a military standpoint, as well as a Post-9/11 First Responder perspective, this is not only dangerous, but also impractical. Today's operating environment may require military forces, allies, first responders, and critical infrastructure managers to remain “in place” for extended periods of time, even days, to accomplish their assigned tasks.
- Thus, there is a need for a system of connecting the drinking tube of a protective mask with a commercially-available fluid container in a contaminated environment, such that both the mask wearer and the fluid in the container are maintained contaminant-free, and which also allows the uninterrupted functioning of personnel in the contaminated environment.
- The present invention relates to a device for connecting a drinking tube extending from a protective mask to a standard, commercially-available drinking fluid container, such as a plastic water bottle, to enable the wearer of the mask to drink the fluid from the container without contaminating the wearer or the fluid.
- The present invention provides a hand-operated coupling device which includes a central cylindrical body with a punch at one end for insertion into a fluid container, and a capture port at the other end for insertion of a drinking tube extending from a protective mask. The punch has a sharp tip at one end which punctures a wall of the fluid container. The coupling device can be secured to the container in a number of ways. For example, the punch could include a threaded portion which is rotated into the container, whereby the threads secure the punch to the wall of the container. Alternatively, the punch could include one or more annular ridges shaped to engage a wall of the container upon insertion of the punch thereinto. Another way to secure the coupling device to the container is with a spring-loaded arm extending along the punch which bears against the inner wall of the container after the punch is inserted into the container. A gasket could be included for engaging with the outer wall of the container to seal the connection between the coupling device and the container. The gasket could be provided adjacent the central body of the coupling device. Apertures in the wall of the punch allow fluid to enter the punch and flow to the central body. A central bore that may vary in diameter extends through the central body. A valve, positioned within the central body and seated in the port, controls fluid flow between the punch and the port. Insertion of the mask drinking tube into the port moves the valve from a closed position seated in the bottom of the port to an open position so that fluid can flow through the device and into the mask tube to allow an individual wearing the protective mask to drink from the drinking fluid container.
- The present invention also provides a method for a wearer of a protective mask in a contaminated environment to access fluid from a standard fluid container. The method of the present invention comprises piercing a wall of the fluid container with a punch on the coupling device, securing the device to the wall of the fluid container, and inserting a male connector of a drinking tube into a port on the device. Insertion of the male connector into the port unseats the valve from a closed position to an open position, forming a flow path between the punch and the port through which the drinking fluid flows from the container to the drinking tube of the protective mask.
- Other important objects and features of the invention will be apparent from the following Detailed Description of the Invention taken in connection with the accompanying drawings in which:
-
FIG. 1 is an exploded exterior side view of the main components of an embodiment of the device of the present invention. -
FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional exploded view of the device shown inFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional exploded view of another embodiment of the device shown inFIG. 2 in which the shaft of the punch has a uniform diameter. -
FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional exploded view of another embodiment of the device shown inFIG. 2 in which the punch has annular ridges. -
FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional exploded view of another embodiment of the device shown inFIG. 3 in which the punch includes a spring-loaded arm. -
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a gasket of the device taken along line 6-6 ofFIG. 2 . -
FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional exploded view of another embodiment of the device shown inFIG. 3 wherein the gasket may is biased against a container wall. -
FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of an annular projection within the device taken along line 8-8 ofFIG. 2 . -
FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the device shown inFIGS. 1 and 2 in an assembled form. -
FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the device shown inFIG. 9 connected at one end to a drinking fluid container and connected at the other end to a protective mask drinking tube. -
FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the device shown inFIG. 1 having a locking nut for urging the gasket against a wall of a drinking fluid container. -
FIG. 12 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the punch and cover of the present invention. -
FIG. 13A is a side view of the punch shown inFIGS. 12 and 13 B is a cross-sectional view thereof. -
FIG. 14A is a side view of the punch and cover shown inFIG. 12 , andFIG. 14B is a cross-sectional view thereof. - The present invention provides a drinking fluid delivery system comprising a coupling device suitable for connecting drinking tubes found on military-type protective masks (e.g., M-Series including M17A1 series masks and M40/42 series masks, as well as mask upgrades, such as Joint Service General Purpose Masks (JSGPM) found on NATO-standard government issue and industrial protective clothing and equipment, or other similar masks) to standard, commercially-available drinking fluid containers, such as plastic water bottles and the like. The coupling device includes a central body with a punch at one end and a port at the other end. The punch penetrates the wall of a fluid container and creates a contamination-resistant seal. The central body includes a valve assembly which is activated by inserting a mask drinking tube into the port. The coupling device of the present invention provides a safe and contamination-resistant means of connecting a drinking fluid container and a protective mask drinking tube in a contaminated environment.
- The device of the invention is shown in
FIGS. 1 through 11 , wherein like numbers are used to designate like parts throughout the drawings. As shown inFIG. 1 , the coupling device of the present invention is generally indicated at 10. The components of the coupling device, shown in exploded view, are centrally-oriented on a longitudinal axis as indicated byline 19. The coupling device includes apunch 20,central body 30,port 50 andgasket 60. - The
punch 20 is made of rigid plastic, resin, or other suitable material strong enough for the tip of the punch to puncture or pierce a wall of a drinking fluid container using moderate manual force without damaging the integrity ofpunch 20. Thepunch 20 is connected to thebody 30, and could be formed integrally therewith. Optionally, thegasket 60 could be provided, and is preferably disposed annularly about a cylindrical portion of thepunch 20 and proximate to an end of thebody 30, so as to seal theentire coupling device 10 against a side wall of a container. Theport 50 preferably resides within an end of thebody 30, and receives an end of a standard drinking tube. Preferably, theport 50 includes one or more ridges for engagement with and retention by thebody 30. - Referring to the embodiment of the invention shown in
FIG. 2 , thepunch 20 has atip 21, one ormore apertures 22, a threadedshaft portion 23, and acylindrical shaft portion 24. Threadedshaft portion 23 includesinitial thread portion 26 which winds around toterminal thread portion 27.Terminal thread portion 27 is generally perpendicular to thelongitudinal axis 19. The thread is of an increasing diameter as it advances away from the tip of the punch and along the threaded portion. Preferably, the thread has a sharp peripheral edge to facilitate catching and entering through the container wall. Thepunch 20 has one ormore apertures 22 through which the fluid in the container flows into threadedshaft portion 23 and intocylindrical shaft portion 24.Cylindrical shaft portion 24 may be formed integrally with threadedshaft portion 23, or it could be formed separately and attached to threadedshaft portion 23 when the device is assembled. The diameter ofcylindrical shaft portion 24 may vary. As shown inFIG. 3 , the diameter ofcylindrical shaft portion 124 is the same as the threaded shaft portion 123. -
FIG. 4 shows a punch configuration that does not include a thread. Thepunch 220 includes a tip 221, one ormore apertures 222, aridged shaft portion 223, andcylindrical shaft portion 224.Ridged shaft portion 223 has one or moreannular ridges 280 along the length ofshaft portion 223. Where more than one ridge is included,initial ridge 281 is positioned closest to the tip of the punch, andterminal ridge 282 is positioned farthest from the tip. Each ridge has a leading edge extending on an angle from the ridgedshaft portion 223 to a peak, and a second trailing edge extending generally perpendicularly from the ridge back to the ridgedshaft portion 223. The peaks of succeeding ridges extend further out from the ridged shaft portion. -
FIG. 5 shows apunch 320 having atip 321, one or more apertures 322, an angled shaft portion 323, ashoulder 396 defining the back edge of the angled shaft portion, acylindrical shaft portion 324, and a spring-loadedarm 390.Arm 390 is attached to the angled shaft portion 323 towards the tip and extends back to the shoulder. Thearm 390 is biased away from the angled shaft portion 323 such that theback end 393 of thearm 390 moves outward from the angled shaft portion 323. The bias can be provided by aspring 394 positioned inrecess 395. Further, the bias could be provided by the flexibility of thearm 390 itself, such that thearm 390 snaps back to an initial position after being pressed against the shaft portion 323. Such an arrangement would obviate the need for a spring. -
Central body 30 of the device is generally cylindrical and includes alower receptacle 31 for engagingpunch 20, and anupper receptacle 37.Central body 30 is preferably made of rigid plastic, resin, or other suitable material.Cylindrical shaft portion 24 ofpunch 20 may be permanently affixed to the interior ofcentral body 30, for example, by glue or other adhesive or attachment means, or it may be formed integrally therewith. The diameter oflower receptacle 31 is sized to securely receivecylindrical shaft portion 24 ofpunch 20. - A
gasket 60 is provided betweenpunch 20 andcentral body 30. As shown inFIG. 6 ,gasket 60 has acentral aperture 61 for positioning overcylindrical shaft portion Gasket 60 may be made of a rubber, polymeric, or other similar compressible material. When the device of the invention is inserted into a fluid container, the container wall is held between a terminal portion of the punch and the gasket. For example,terminal thread portion 27 ofpunch 20, or, likewise,terminal flange 282 ofpunch 220, orshoulder 396 andarm end 393 ofpunch 320, engages the interior wall 7 of fluid container 8 (as shown inFIG. 10 ), andgasket 60 bears against the exterior wall ofcontainer 8, to provide a seal resistant to leakage and contamination.Gasket 60 may be permanently secured to thecentral body 30 using adhesive or the like. -
Gasket 60 could be biased away from the central body, and against a container wall, by one or more springs contained within thecentral body 30. As shown inFIG. 7 ,spring 100 is positioned in an annular recess, preferably within the periphery of the central body adjacentlower receptacle 31.Spring 100 bears againstgasket 60 to bias thegasket 60 against the container wall. - A
valve 45 is disposed withincentral body 30 to control the flow of fluid through the device.Valve 45 has acylindrical shaft 46 and anannular flange 47.Shaft 46 has a lower shaft portion 46 a and upper shaft portion 46 b.Spring 48 is inserted onto lower shaft portion 46 a adjacent toannular flange 47 to biasshaft 46 in a first, closed position whereinflange 47 is seated inseat 52 at the edge ofport 50. -
Shaft 46 ofvalve 45 is maintained in an orientation along thelongitudinal axis 19 by anannular projection 32 withincentral body 30.Annular projection 32 separatesupper receptacle 37 andlower receptacle 31 ofcentral body 30. As shown inFIG. 8 ,annular projection 32 includes aninner ring 34 having acentral aperture 36 and spokes 35.Shaft 46 extends throughcentral aperture 36 ofannular projection 32. Fluid can flow through openings between spokes 35 fromlower receptacle 31 ofcentral body 30 and intoupper receptacle 37. - A
port 50 allows a mask drinking tube to be removably connected with thecoupling device 10.Port 50 is preferably constructed of firm, compressible rubber or other suitable material generally in the shape of a cylinder.Port 50 is positioned withinupper receptacle 37 ofcentral body 30.Port 50 may include exterior grooves 51, aninner bore 53, and aseat 52 centrally located at a first end ofinner bore 53. Exterior grooves 51 engage one or moreannular ribs 38 on the inner wall ofupper receptacle 37 to secureport 50 withincentral body 30. Alip 40 on the open end ofupper receptacle 37 further engagesport 50 to retain the port withincentral body 30. Other configurations of the port, and its attachment to the central body, are considered within the scope of the invention.Port 50 includes a compressiblefemale receptacle 55 at the second end ofinner bore 53 sized and shaped to receive a rigid male connector on the mask drinking tube, and to retain the male connector therein. The receptacle could include a shoulder to retain the male connector in position. The male connector can be removed by pulling it from the female receptacle with sufficient force. -
FIGS. 9 and 10 show the assembled components of the device of the invention. Referring toFIG. 9 ,cylindrical shaft portion 24 ofpunch 20 is inserted inlower receptacle 31 ofcentral body 30.Gasket 60 is seated between the bottom end oflower receptacle 31 ofcentral body 30 andterminal thread portion 27 of threadedshaft 23. -
Valve 45 extends fromupper receptacle 37 tolower receptacle 31 ofcentral body 30. Lower portion 46 a ofshaft 46 extends throughcentral aperture 36 ofannular projection 32.Spring 48 is positioned against upper side 32 b ofannular projection 32. The upper shaft portion 46 b extends intoinner bore 53 ofport 50.Annular flange 47 ofvalve 45 is seated inseat 52 at the first end ofinner bore 53 ofport 50. -
FIG. 10 shows the coupling device of the present invention inserted into afluid container 8. As threadedshaft portion 23 is rotated, the thread rides into the drinking fluid container.Initial thread portion 26 is open-angled to catch the wall ofcontainer 8.Terminal thread portion 27 is generally perpendicular to thelongitudinal axis 19 of the device and enterscontainer 8 and engages or entraps the punch within the container by sitting against interior wall 7 ofcontainer 8. - Similarly, with reference to the ridged punch configuration described above and shown in
FIG. 4 ,cylindrical shaft portion 224 ofpunch 220 is inserted inlower receptacle 31 ofcentral body 30.Gasket 60 is seated between the bottom end oflower receptacle 31 ofcentral body 30 andterminal ridge 282 onshaft 223. As the ridged punch is inserted into the drinkingfluid container 8, theterminal ridge 282 enterscontainer 8 and the trailing edge thereof engages or entraps the punch within the container by sitting against interior wall 7 ofcontainer 8. - Likewise, with reference to the spring-loaded arm punch configuration described above and shown in
FIG. 5 ,cylindrical shaft portion 324 ofpunch 320 is inserted inlower receptacle 31 ofcentral body 30.Gasket 60 is seated between the bottom end oflower receptacle 31 ofcentral body 30 andshoulder 396 and theback end 393 ofarm 390. As the punch is inserted into the drinking fluid container,arm 390 is retained against angled shaft 323 by the force of the container wall bearing on the arm. Once inside the container,arm 390 is urged away from the angled shaft, along withshoulder 396 engages or entraps the punch within the container by sitting against interior wall 7 ofcontainer 8. - After
punch 20 is inserted intofluid container 8, fluid fromcontainer 8 enters the device throughapertures 22, flows intocylindrical shaft portion 24 which is positioned withinlower receptacle 31, and flows through the openings between spokes 35 inannular projection 32 intoupper receptacle 37. The male connector ofmask tube 70 is inserted intofemale receptacle 55 at the second end of theinner bore 53 ofport 50. The male connector pushesvalve 45 against its bias in the direction of the fluid container, unseatingannular flange 47 fromseat 52. Fluid contained inupper receptacle 37 can then flow into the first end ofinner bore 53 ofport 50 through the connection between the male connector and female receptacle and intomask drinking tube 70 which is connected to a mouth inlet of the protective mask. - The device of the invention may further include a fitted cap placed over the top of the open end of
upper receptacle 37 ofcentral body 30 to secureport 50 in the central body. The cap would have an aperture to provide access formask drinking tube 70 toport 50. The device could further include a protective covering placed over the cap to cover the access port until the device is used. The device could also include a protective covering over the entire device to protect it from contamination before use. Such protective covering should be strong to resist inadvertent tearing, yet be capable of being torn open by hand, for example, along a scored line. An example of such a covering is plastic wrapping. -
FIG. 11 shows another embodiment of the invention which includes anut 65 for further tightening and securing the device to a wall of the fluid container. Thenut 65 could be a locking wheel, winged nut, or the like which can be threaded down to compress thegasket 60 against the side wall of the fluid container. The nut engages a second set ofthreads 63 on theshaft 23 ofpunch 20. Similarly, for the alternate embodiments shown inFIGS. 3, 4 and 5, the nut could engage a second set of threads onshaft - The device of the present invention can be used as follows:
-
- 1. A drinking fluid in a standard container, such as water in a plastic water bottle, is obtained.
- 2. The container wall is checked for contamination with a commercially available detection device, e.g., military issued M8 detector paper.
- 3. If contaminated, the exterior of the container, or a portion thereof, is decontaminated using a commercially available decontamination kit, e.g., >5% dilute chlorine bleach solution or a military issued M258A1 decontamination set.
- 4. The drinking coupling device is removed from a protective covering or wrapper if present.
- 5. The wall of the container is punctured with the tip of the punch of the drinking coupling device.
- 6. The punch is engaged with the container by threading a threaded shaft portion though the wall of the container, or by applying force to engage a terminal ridge with the wall of the container, or by applying force to engage a spring-loaded arm with the container, or otherwise engaging the punch with the container, a gasket of the punch, if present, bearing against the exterior of the container wall.
- 7. A locking wheel, if present, is screwed down to urge the gasket against the wall of the container.
- 8. A protective covering, if present, is removed from the access port of the coupling device cap.
- 9. The male connector of the drinking tube from the M-series protective mask is pushed into the female receptacle of the port of the drinking coupling device.
- 10. Air is blown into the container to create positive pressure.
- 11. Several swallows of fluid are taken from the container by raising and inverting the container.
- 12. Pressure in the container is equalized after several swallows by a) removing the tube from the mouth, b) lowering the container, and c) blowing air into the mask tube and into the container to prevent the container from collapsing.
- 13. The drinking procedure is repeated as required.
- 14. After drinking is completed, the container with the drinking coupling device attached is discarded, and the drinking tube is replaced in the M-series Protective Mask.
-
FIG. 12 is a perspective view of another embodiment of thepunch 420,punch body 430, and cover 419 of the present invention. Thecover 419 can be engaged with thepunch body 430 in any desired manner to cover thepunch 420 prior to use. Astopper 470 can be used to cover the port in thepunch housing 430. -
FIG. 13A is a side view of the punch shown inFIG. 12 , andFIG. 13B is a cross-sectional view thereof. Thepunch 420 has atip 421, one ormore apertures 422, and a threadedshaft 423. The thread starts atinitial thread portion 426 and winds around toterminal thread portion 427. The punch has aninternal shaft 424 in fluid communication with the one ormore apertures 422. Aconnection receptacle 425 is provided at an end of thepunch 420 opposite thetip 421. -
FIG. 14A is a side view of the punch and cover shown inFIG. 12 , andFIG. 14B is a cross-sectional view thereof. As can be seen, the device includes apunch body 430 and apunch cover 419. Astopper 470 includes aplug 472 and cover 474 for insertion intoport 450 to cover same. Thestopper 470 can be connected to thebody 430 by a tether 445. -
FIG. 14B is a cross-sectional view of thepunch 420 covered and protected bycover 419.Punch 420 is shown interconnected to apunch body 430. The connection can be any suitable connection. Thepunch body 430 has an outer surface that is sized to be substantially similar to theouter cover 419 of thepunch 420. Thebody 430 includes acentral core 439 having an inner conduit orreceptacle 437 through which fluid can travel from theinternal shaft 424 ofpunch 420. Thebody 430 also contains aport 450 for interconnection of a drinking tube. Insertion of the drinking tube into theport 450 actuates a valve to allow fluid to flow fromreceptacle 437 to the drinking tube. - The
punch 420 can be made of metal or any other suitable rigid material. Thetip 421 can be attached to thepunch 420 by a UV curing process. The thread on the punch can be a single thread or a double thread. A double thread, with threads offset at 180 degrees provides balance to the device when inserted into a container. A gasket, if used, can be made of rubber and/or micro-resistant material such as a micro-core material that is biologically resistant. The gasket can be positioned at the end of theterminal thread 427. Thepunch 420 is adhered tocenter core 439. An elastomer is over molded over thecenter core 439 to form the exterior ofpunch body 430. At the terminal end of thecenter core 439, adjacent theport 450, an elastic band covers apertures in the central core to prevent fluid flow therethrough. The insertion of a drinking tube moves the elastic band away from the apertures to allow for fluid to flow out of the center core and into the drinking tube. - The device that is described herein can be used to supply hydration, electrolytes, nutrition-calories, and oral medication (for prophylaxis and/or treatment) to the protective mask user. Removing the drinking tube from the devices seals the device and the tube to avoid contamination. Accordingly, fluids can be saved for future use. Preferably, each device is packed with a disposable decontamination wipe. The device can be used to puncture any relatively thin-walled fluid container such as one made of plastic, cardboard, etc. The device can be inserted in any direction, i.e. through a sidewall, the bottom, top, or even the cap of such a container.
- Having thus described the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the foregoing description is not intended to limit the spirit and scope thereof. What is desired to be protected by Letters Patent is set forth in the appended claims.
Claims (40)
1. A device for coupling a drinking tube of a protective mask to a drinking fluid container comprising:
a punch for piercing a wall of the fluid container, the punch having an aperture for fluid to flow therein;
a central body in fluid communication at a first end with the punch; and
a port disposed at the second end of the central body, the port having an inner bore in fluid communication with the central body, the inner bore having a female receptacle for receiving a male connector of the drinking tube;
wherein the aperture in the punch, the central body, and the inner bore of the port form a flow path through which the fluid from the container flows to a drinking tube of a protective mask.
2. The device of claim 1 , further comprising a valve disposed in the central body for controlling fluid flow through the central body.
3. The device of claim 2 , wherein the valve is biased to a first, closed position wherein a flange is seated at an end of the port, and the valve is moved against its bias to a second open position by the male connector of a drinking tube when the male connector is inserted into the female receptacle.
4. The device of claim 1 further comprising a thread on the punch for threading the punch into the wall of the fluid container.
5. The device of claim 4 , wherein the thread on the punch increases in diameter from an initial thread to a terminal thread.
6. The device of claim 5 , wherein the terminal thread on the punch is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the punch.
7. The device of claim 5 , further comprising a gasket between the terminal thread on the punch and the first end of the central body.
8. The device of claim 7 further comprising a locking ring positioned adjacent the gasket to move the gasket against a container.
9. The device of claim 8 wherein the locking ring is threadably engaged with the device.
10. The device of claim 1 further comprising one or more annular ridges on the punch.
11. The device of claim 10 , wherein the one or more ridges comprise a plurality of ridges that increase in height from an initial ridge to a terminal ridge.
12. The device of claim 10 , wherein the one or more ridges have angled leading edges and trailing edges that are generally perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the punch.
13. The device of claim 11 , further comprising a gasket the terminal ridge and the first end of the central body.
14. The device of claim 13 , further comprising a locking ring positioned adjacent the gasket to move the gasket against the wall of the container.
15. The device of claim 14 wherein the locking ring is threadably engaged with the device.
16. The device of claim 1 , further comprising a movable arm positioned along the surface of the punch.
17. The device of claim 16 , wherein the back end of the arm is biased away from the punch.
18. The device of claim 17 , further comprising a gasket between the between the back end of the arm and the first end of the central body.
19. The device of claim 18 further comprising a locking ring positioned adjacent the gasket to move the gasket against the wall of the container.
20. The device of claim 19 wherein the locking ring is threadably engaged with the device.
21. The device of claim 1 , further comprising a gasket between the punch and the first end of the central body.
22. The device of claim 21 , further comprising means for biasing the gasket against a wall of a container.
23. A method for a wearer of a protective mask with a drinking tube to drink fluid from a standard fluid container comprising:
a) acquiring a fluid container having drinking fluid therein;
b) puncturing a wall of the fluid container with a punch of a coupling device;
c) inserting the coupling device into the fluid container;
d) securing the coupling device to the fluid container;
e) inserting a drinking tube into a port in the coupling device; and
f) drinking fluid from a fluid container through the drinking tube.
24. The method of claim 23 wherein the step of inserting the coupling device comprises threading the punch into a container wall.
25. The method of claim 24 wherein the step of securing the coupling device to the container comprises seating a terminal thread of the punch against an inside surface of a wall of a container.
26. The method of claim 23 wherein the step of inserting the coupling device comprises forcing one or more ridges of a ridged portion of the punch into a container wall.
27. The method of claim 26 wherein step of securing the coupling device to the container comprises seating a terminal ridge of the punch against an inside surface of a wall of a container.
28. The method of claim 23 wherein the step of inserting the coupling device comprises forcing a punch having an arm through a container wall.
29. The method of claim 28 wherein the step of securing the coupling device to the container comprises allowing the arm to be biased out from the punch so that an end of the arm bears against an inside surface of a wall of the container.
30. The method of claim 23 further comprising compressing a gasket against an outer wall of the container to create a seal between the coupling device and the container.
31. The method of claim 23 further comprising threading a locking nut against an outer wall of the container to create a seal between the coupling device and the container.
32. The method of claim 23 further comprising checking the container for contamination.
33. The method of claim 32 further comprising decontaminating a portion of a contaminated container.
34. The method of claim 23 further comprising blowing air into the container through the drinking tube to create positive air pressure in the container.
35. The method of claim 34 further comprising blowing air into the container through the drinking tube after several swallows to maintain positive air pressure in the container.
36. A device for coupling a drinking tube of a protective mask to a drinking fluid container comprising:
a punch for piercing a wall of the fluid container, the punch having an aperture for fluid to flow therein;
a central body in fluid communication at a first end with the punch;
a port disposed at the second end of the central body, the port having an inner bore in fluid communication with the central body, the inner bore having a female receptacle for receiving a male connector of the drinking tube; and
a cover attachable to the central body for covering the punch;
wherein the aperture in the punch, the central body, and the inner bore of the port form a flow path through which the fluid from the container flows to a drinking tube of a protective mask.
37. The device of claim 36 further comprising a stopper for covering the port.
38. The device of claim 37 wherein the stopper is tethered to the central body.
39. The device of claim 36 further comprising a valve at the second end of the central body.
40. The device of claim 39 wherein the valve comprises an elastomeric band having a first position covering apertures on a central body, the band moveable to a second position uncovering the aperture to allow fluid to flow therethrough.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/545,302 US20060272077A1 (en) | 2003-02-11 | 2004-02-11 | Protective mask drinking tube coupling device and method of use |
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/364,296 US6932239B2 (en) | 2003-02-11 | 2003-02-11 | Protective mask drinking tube coupling device and method of use |
US10/364,296 | 2003-02-11 | ||
PCT/US2004/003858 WO2004071582A2 (en) | 2003-02-11 | 2004-02-11 | Protective mask drinking tube coupling device and method of use |
US10/545,302 US20060272077A1 (en) | 2003-02-11 | 2004-02-11 | Protective mask drinking tube coupling device and method of use |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20060272077A1 true US20060272077A1 (en) | 2006-12-07 |
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ID=32824421
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Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US10/364,296 Expired - Fee Related US6932239B2 (en) | 2003-02-11 | 2003-02-11 | Protective mask drinking tube coupling device and method of use |
US10/545,302 Abandoned US20060272077A1 (en) | 2003-02-11 | 2004-02-11 | Protective mask drinking tube coupling device and method of use |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US10/364,296 Expired - Fee Related US6932239B2 (en) | 2003-02-11 | 2003-02-11 | Protective mask drinking tube coupling device and method of use |
Country Status (2)
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US (2) | US6932239B2 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2004071582A2 (en) |
Families Citing this family (15)
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US8100879B2 (en) * | 2002-11-18 | 2012-01-24 | Nestec S.A. | Connector device for enteral administration set |
US6932239B2 (en) * | 2003-02-11 | 2005-08-23 | Mckitrick Robert | Protective mask drinking tube coupling device and method of use |
US7198079B2 (en) * | 2003-09-09 | 2007-04-03 | Tvi Corporation | Liquid delivery system of gas mask |
US20070013143A1 (en) * | 2005-07-18 | 2007-01-18 | Kalsi Engineering, Inc. | Filled hydrodynamic seal with contact pressure control, anti-rotation means and filler retention means |
CA2635046C (en) | 2006-01-04 | 2012-05-29 | Kalsi Engineering, Inc. | Stabilizing geometry for hydrodynamic rotary seals |
US7810493B2 (en) * | 2006-10-19 | 2010-10-12 | Tmr-E, Llc | Drink tube system for respiratory protective device |
US20100259015A1 (en) * | 2009-04-08 | 2010-10-14 | Lannie Laroy Dietle | Hydrodynamic seal with improved exclusion and lubrication |
US8469405B2 (en) * | 2009-10-20 | 2013-06-25 | Dave Wheatley Enterprises, Inc. | Securing mechanism for a coupling device |
EP3359116B1 (en) * | 2015-10-09 | 2021-04-07 | Fresenius Kabi Deutschland GmbH | Lid for a container for receiving an enteral nutrient solution |
US10589079B2 (en) | 2016-01-27 | 2020-03-17 | Jennifer A. LINTON | Breathing mask |
USD821570S1 (en) | 2017-01-26 | 2018-06-26 | Jennifer A. LINTON | Breathing mask |
ES2875530A1 (en) * | 2020-05-06 | 2021-11-10 | Tobar Jon Carazo | PROTECTION MASK (Machine-translation by Google Translate, not legally binding) |
US11420080B2 (en) | 2020-05-12 | 2022-08-23 | Katherine M. Lean | Secure liquid consumption face covering |
WO2021231715A1 (en) * | 2020-05-13 | 2021-11-18 | D. Wheatley Enterprises, Inc. | Nutrition tube connector for sealed nutrition pouch |
ES1253722Y (en) * | 2020-07-07 | 2021-01-07 | Rigo Andreu Mas | PROTECTION MASK |
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Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US6932239B2 (en) | 2005-08-23 |
WO2004071582A9 (en) | 2004-09-30 |
WO2004071582A3 (en) | 2004-11-04 |
WO2004071582A2 (en) | 2004-08-26 |
US20040155054A1 (en) | 2004-08-12 |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
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STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |