Connecting piece, combined structure, extrusion kit and extrusion system for milk extrusion equipment

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a connector, a combination structure, an extrusion kit and an extrusion system for a milk extrusion device, the combination structure having: an extrusion kit (35) for extruding milk from a mammal breast, the extrusion kit (35) being configured for placement on the mammal breast to extrude milk and being configured to be coupled to the connector (1), the connection (1) is configured to be coupled to a source of negative pressure (105); and a connector (1), characterized in that the composite structure is configured for coupling the extrusion kit (35) and the connector (1) in an orientation selected from a plurality of discrete orientations excluding two discrete orientations.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present utility model relates to a connector for an expression kit for expressing milk from a mammalian udder, the connector being configured to be coupled to a source of negative pressure. The present utility model also relates to an expression kit and an expression system, both for use with the connector. BACKGROUND

[0002] Such connectors, expression kits and expression systems are known from, for example, WO2021191637A1.

[0003] WO2021191637A1 discloses a breast pump system for expressing milk from a human female udder, the system comprising at least one wearable milk expression kit connected via a tube to a combined external air pump and control unit. Each milk expression kit comprises: (a) a breast shield consisting of a breast flange and a nipple passage; (b) a flexible septum configured to prevent milk from reaching the external air pump; (c) a housing configured to be removably attached to the breast shield such that the breast shield and the housing, when attached, form a container for collecting milk; and (d) a septum cap configured to be fixed over the septum, forming part of a front face of the housing, and comprising a port connected to the tube. The tube is redirected from the port to pass through a passage located at the center of the septum cap. This is done to fit the milk expression kit inside a user’s bra. WO2021191637A1 further discloses that, in the terminology used in WO2021191637A1, the septum cap is omnidirectional and can be rotated against the housing to adjust the position of the port on the housing, and in turn the position and direction of the tube.

[0004] One disadvantage of the breast pump system disclosed in WO2021191637A1 is that the mechanism allowing the septum cap to be rotated against the housing is relatively expensive and made of several parts. The mechanism should also not allow negative pressure to escape into the environment. A further disadvantage is that the septum cap can not be able to maintain its desired orientation with respect to the housing, for example because a user can move around while using the breast pump system, causing the septum cap to rotate against the housing. A further disadvantage is that the redirection of the tube disclosed in WO2021191637A1 can cause kinks in the tube, negatively affecting the fluidic coupling between the external air pump and the expression kit. SUMMARY

[0005] It is an object of the present utility model to provide an expression system that is improved compared to known breast pump systems.

[0006] According to the present utility model, the purpose is achieved by the following means: the connecting piece or the extrusion sleeve or both are configured such that the connecting piece and the extrusion sleeve can be coupled to each other such that the connecting piece can have an orientation selected from a plurality of discrete orientations relative to the housing of the extrusion sleeve. In some embodiments, the plurality of discrete orientations comprises 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 discrete orientations.

[0007] The present utility model is based on the realization that if the connecting piece can assume a plurality of discrete positions relative to the housing of the extrusion sleeve, rather than being omnidirectional as in the septum cap of WO2021191637A1, the known breast pump system can be simplified.

[0008] According to one example, the connecting piece comprises a connecting piece shape configured to provide discrete orientations in which the connecting piece and the extrusion sleeve can be coupled to each other.

[0009] An additional benefit of the present example is that it provides a convenient way to enable multiple discrete positions. Having the connector comprise a connector shape and having the extrusion kit comprise a corresponding kit shape allows for providing multiple discrete positions in a plug-and-socket fashion. For example, the connector shape comprises the shape of the portion of the connector that is inserted into the interior volume of the extrusion kit. For example, the connector shape comprises the shape of the portion of the connector that completes the outer contour of the extrusion kit, i.e. the shape that is flush with the housing of the extrusion kit once the connector and the extrusion kit are coupled to each other. As mentioned above, the connector shape can be the shape of the connector or the shape of a portion of the connector. The term "connector shape" not only comprises the shape of the body contained in the connector, but can alternatively or additionally also comprise, for example, the arrangement of the connection interfaces configured to couple the connector and the extrusion kit to each other relative to each other. For example, two protrusions on opposite sides of the circular periphery of a disc-shaped connector can cooperate with two matching notches contained within a receiving member (for receiving the connector) contained in the extrusion kit. While the connector is disc-shaped, i.e. circular in one plane, and can thus be rotated by any angle in this plane, providing discrete elements provides discrete orientations of the connector relative to the extrusion kit. Similarly, three protrusions around the circular periphery cooperating with matching notches on the extrusion kit would provide three discrete orientations for the connector. Such a set of three protrusions would define a triangle therebetween, resulting in a triangular connector shape. If the three protrusions are equally spaced along the circular periphery, an equilateral triangle is defined. A pair of protrusions, for example on opposite sides of the periphery of the connector, can also cooperate with multiple pairs of matching notches, pairs defined by notches on opposite sides of the periphery of the opening matching the connector, resulting in more than two possible discrete orientations for the connector. Of course, it is not necessary that the protrusions are on the connector and the notches are on the extrusion kit. It is also possible to use protrusions on the extrusion kit and matching notches on the connector. Furthermore, it is also possible to use other matching shapes or elements than protrusions and notches, as long as the connector and the extrusion kit can be coupled to each other (if they cannot be coupled to each other, they cannot match; for example, flexible finger elements can be used, which can extend from the connector or the extrusion kit into a matching opening in the extrusion kit or the connector, respectively).

[0010] According to one example, the connector shape comprises a non-circular shape.

[0011] An additional benefit of the present example is that having a non-circular shape is a convenient way to provide a connector shape. For example, the non-circular connector shape is an oval shape. For example, the non-circular connector shape is a polygonal shape. For example, the polygonal connector shape is a triangular, rectangular, square, diamond, pentagonal, or hexagonal shape. Among others, the non-circular shape can be the shape of a body included in the connector. For example, the connector includes a hexagonal body that is to be inserted into a receiver included within a corresponding extrusion kit, where the receiver has a kit shape that matches the connector shape. The non-circular shape can be the shape of a connection interface included in the connector. For example, five protrusions equally spaced along a circular perimeter of a disc-shaped connector will define a pentagon therebetween.

[0012] According to one example, the connector includes a wall portion that includes a port for coupling the connector to a tube for transmitting negative pressure to the connector, where the wall portion defines a portion of an outer profile of the extrusion kit when the connector and the extrusion kit are coupled to each other, where the port defines a direction, and where the direction is not perpendicular to the wall portion.

[0013] The wall portion can include an opening and the port is accessible through the opening. For example, the port can be located in the wall portion. For example, the port can extend from the wall portion. An additional benefit of the present example is that there is no need to make a 90° turn of the tube connected to the port to fit within the shape of the fit inside the bra. WO2021191637A1 necessitates such a 90° turn of the tube.

[0014] An additional benefit of the present example is that changing the orientation of the wall portion will change the orientation of the port. This is especially true for changes in the orientation of the wall portion along an axis that is perpendicular to the wall portion. The present example provides an easy way to change the direction of the tube coupled to the port. If the port is perpendicular to the wall portion, rotating the wall portion about an axis that is perpendicular to the wall portion will not change the orientation of the port (unless the wall portion is curved and the port is not located on the axis of rotation, as the subsequent rotation will change both the location and the spatial orientation of the port; thus, a connector having a curved wall portion and a port that is perpendicular to the curved wall portion can be used to allow the user to change the location, orientation, or both of the port relative to the extrusion kit).

[0015] According to one example, the connector is configured such that changing the orientation of the connector in the extrusion kit from one orientation to a different orientation defines an axis of rotation, and the port is not located on the axis.

[0016] The benefit of the present example is that changing the orientation of the connector in the extrusion set changes the position of the port relative to the extrusion set. This helps managing the tubing connected to the port. For example, if the port is positioned along one side of the wall portion, for example when the port is located at or near the middle point of one side, or if the port is located at a corner of the wall portion, for example at a corner of a triangular, square, rhombic, pentagonal or hexagonal wall portion, changing the orientation of the connector relative to its extrusion set will change the position of the port relative to the extrusion set. If the port defines a direction that is not perpendicular to the outer contour, changing the orientation of the wall portion will not only change the position of the port, but also the orientation of the port. This also helps the user to manage the tubing.

[0017] According to one example, the connector is made of one piece.

[0018] The present example has the additional benefit of being easy to manufacture. It does not require assembly.

[0019] The present utility model also aims at an extrusion set comprising the connector as described above.

[0020] According to one example, the extrusion set comprises a receiving piece for receiving the connector, wherein the receiving piece comprises a set shape that matches the connector shape.

[0021] The present example has the additional benefit of providing a convenient way to enable a plurality of discrete positions. Having the connector with a connector shape and having the extrusion set with a corresponding set shape allows to provide a plurality of discrete positions in a plug-and-socket fashion. For example, the connector shape comprises the shape of the part of the connector that is inserted into the inner volume of the extrusion set, and the set shape matches the connector shape. For example, the connector shape comprises the shape of a part of the connector that is flush with the housing of the extrusion set once the connector and the extrusion set are coupled to each other, and the set shape matches the connector shape. For example, the connector shape relates to the relative position of the interface for coupling the connector to the extrusion set on the connector, and the set shape relates to the relative position of the interface for coupling the extrusion set to the connector with the matching connector shape on the extrusion set.

[0022] According to one example, the extrusion set is configured to be coupled to the connector such that, after the coupling, the position in which the connector is during use is facing away from the breast of the user.

[0023] The present example has the additional benefit that the connector and the tube do not interfere with the surface of the expression kit that the user has facing the user's field of view during use. Typically, the connector does not obstruct the user's field of view if the expression kit is configured to be coupled to the connector such that, after coupling, the position in which the connector is located is not within the user's field of view when the user looks at the expression kit during use of the expression kit. For example, the connector can be located at a position facing away from the user's torso during use. For example, the connector can be located at a position facing in the direction of the other breast of a human female user. For example, the connector can be located at a position facing away from the other breast of a human female user.

[0024] According to one example, the expression kit comprising the connector is configured such that, during use, the connector at least partially defines a pumping volume, the pumping volume defining a volume for receiving negative pressure from the source of negative pressure when the connector is coupled to the source of negative pressure.

[0025] The present example has the additional benefit that, once the connector is uncoupled from the rest of the expression kit, the user can access one or more parts of the expression kit for cleaning.

[0026] According to an example, the expression kit is configured to fit inside a bra.

[0027] The present example has the additional benefit that a convenient form factor is provided such that the expression kit can be worn inside a bra. The form factor is aesthetically pleasing and provides a degree of mobility for the user by enabling use inside a bra, allowing the user to move around while using the expression kit.

[0028] The present utility model also achieves the purpose through an expression system comprising the expression kit described above. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0029] These and other aspects of the present utility model will be further elucidated and described with reference to the drawings, in which:

[0030] Figure 1 A- Figure 1 C schematically illustrates an example of a connector according to the present utility model.

[0031] Figure 2 A- Figure 2 B schematically illustrates a further example of a connector according to the present utility model.

[0032] Figure 3 A- Figure 3 D schematically illustrates an example of an expression kit according to the present utility model and a further example of a connector according to the present utility model.

[0033] Figure 4Another example of an extrusion kit according to the present utility model is schematically shown.

[0034] Figure 5 An example of an extrusion system according to the present utility model is schematically shown.

[0035] Figure 6 Examples of how to obtain the shape of a receiving piece for receiving a matching piece contained in a connection piece or an extrusion kit are schematically shown. The drawings also show possible relative arrangements of the interfaces for coupling the connection piece and the extrusion kit to each other. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] Figure 1 An example of a connection piece according to the present utility model is schematically shown. Figure 1 Column A in the figure schematically shows an example of a connection piece 1 comprising a port 5 protruding from a wall portion 10. The port 5 allows the connection piece 1 to be coupled to a pipe system (not shown in Figure 1 ) in order to fluidically connect the connection piece 1 to a source of negative pressure (not shown in Figure 1 ). Figure 1 The port 5 shown in columns B and C of the figure serves the same purpose. In the upper drawing of the two drawings of column A, the port 5 protrudes perpendicularly from the wall portion 10. The direction in which the port 5 extends from the wall portion 10 forms a 90° angle with the wall portion 10. In the lower drawing of the two drawings of column A, the port 5 does not protrude perpendicularly from the wall portion 10. The direction in which the port 5 extends from the wall portion 10 forms an angle with the wall portion 10 which is not equal to 90°. In the two drawings of column A, the port 5 comprises a plug.

[0037] Figure 1 Column B in the figure schematically shows an example of a connection piece 1 which is contained within the body of the connection piece 1 without protruding from a wall portion 10. In the upper drawing of the two drawings of column B, the port 5 extends perpendicularly with respect to the wall portion 10. The direction of extension of the port 5 forms a 90° angle with respect to the wall portion 10. In the lower drawing of the two drawings of column B, the port 5 does not extend perpendicularly with respect to the wall portion 10. The direction of extension of the port 5 forms an angle with respect to the wall portion 10 which is not equal to 90°. In the two drawings of column B, the port 5 comprises a hole.

[0038] Figure 1Column C in FIG. 1 schematically illustrates an example of a connector 1 including a recess 15 in a wall portion 10, wherein a port 5 is positioned within the recess 15. In the example in column C, the recess 15 is defined by an opening in the wall portion 10, a sidewall 20, and a base surface that is parallel to the wall portion 10 in the illustrated example. In the figures in column C, the recess 15 comprises a rectangular opening in the wall portion 10. However, in other examples, the recess 15 comprises an opening of other shapes, such as a circular, oval, or triangular shape. In the top figure in column C, the port 5 extends perpendicular to the wall portion 10. The direction in which the port 5 extends forms a 90° angle relative to the wall portion 10. In the middle figure in column C, the port 5 extends non-perpendicular to the wall portion 10. In the middle figure in column C, the port 5 extends non-perpendicular to the wall portion 10. The direction in which the port 5 extends forms an angle that is not equal to 90° relative to the wall portion 10. In the bottom figure in column C, the port 5 extends from the sidewall 20. In the illustrated example, the port 5 extends perpendicularly from the sidewall 20. It will be clear that in another example, the port 5 may extend non-perpendicularly from the side wall 20. In all of the figures in column C, the port 5 comprises a plug. However, it will be clear that the port 5 in column C may alternatively comprise holes extending into the substrate surface or side wall 20. These holes may extend in a direction perpendicular or non-perpendicular to the substrate surface or side wall 20. In the figures in column C, the port 5 does not extend beyond the plane defined by the wall portion 10. However, it will be clear that in alternative examples, the port 5 may extend from the recess 15 beyond the plane defined by the wall portion 10.

[0039] exist Figure 1 In the embodiment, all connectors 1 include a port 5 extending from or within a rectangular shaped body. In combination with an extrusion kit including a receiver for receiving such connector 1, the connector 1 can be coupled to the extrusion kit in four discrete orientations. It will be clear that a rectangular shape (including a square shape) is not the only shape that provides such multiple discrete orientations. In addition to Figure 1 In other examples than the one shown, the body of the connector 1 has a polygonal shape, such as a triangle, a rhombus, a pentagon or a hexagon.

[0040] exist Figure 1 In the embodiment, the wall portion 10 is flat. However, in addition to Figure 1 In other examples than those shown, the wall portion 10 is curved (i.e., at least the outer surface is curved during use), for example, to complete the curved outer surface of the extrusion kit. In this case, it is necessary to locally assess at the location of the port whether the port extends perpendicularly or non-perpendicularly relative to the wall portion 10. If the port extends from the base surface of the recess or from the side wall of the recess, it is necessary to locally assess at the location of the port whether the port extends perpendicularly or non-perpendicularly relative to the base surface or the side wall.

[0041] Figure 2 Other examples of the connecting piece according to the present invention are schematically shown. Figure 2 Both figures show schematically a front view of a connector 1. The connector 1 comprises a port 5 extending from a side wall within a recess 15. In both figures, the port 5 extends from or within a square-shaped body. Figure 1 The example in column C of the figure below is similar. However, although Figure 1 The recess 15 shown in the figure below in column C has a rectangular opening, but Figure 2 The recess 15 in the figure has a circular opening.

[0042] Figure 1 The example shown in column C of the figure below is Figure 2 The example shown differs in that: Figure 1 In the example of FIG, the port 5 is located perpendicular to the central axis of the wall portion 10 or near the central axis. Figure 2 In the example of FIG. 5 , the port 5 is positioned away from the axis relative to the central axis 25 perpendicular to the wall portion 10 . As already explained with respect to FIG. Figure 2 The square body of the connector 1 provides four discrete orientations in which the connector 1 can be received in corresponding receiving members included in the extrusion kit. The four discrete orientations are obtained by rotating the connector 1 about the axis 25. Figure 2 The position of port 5 is not on axis 25, so rotating connector 1 along axis 25 will change the position of port 5 relative to the extrusion kit (in which connector 1 is housed) (if port 5 extends vertically from the body of connector 1 or extends vertically within the body of connector 1) or the position and orientation of port 5 (if port 5 does not extend vertically from the body of connector 1 or does not extend vertically within the body of connector 1).

[0043] exist Figure 2 In Figure A, the port 5 is located at a corner of the square body of the connector 1. Alternatively, the port 5 is located along one side of the square body of the connector 1. In the example given in Figure B, the port 5 is located at the midpoint of one side of the body of the connector 1. As already mentioned about Figure 1 As discussed, the body of the connector 1 can have a polygonal shape, such as a triangle, rhombus, pentagon, or hexagon. Similarly, for such a non-square polygonal body, the port 5 can be positioned at a corner of the body or along the side of the body. The port 5 on a body having a non-polygonal shape (such as an elliptical shape) can similarly be positioned to deviate from the central axis along the side of the body, or positioned at or near the end of the minor axis or major axis.

[0044] according to Figure 2It will be clear from the discussion that if one wants the rotation of the body along the central axis to change the position or position and orientation of the port 5 relative to the extrusion kit in which the connector is received, then with regard to Figure 1 each port 5 discussed can be positioned away from the central axis of the body of the connector 1 discussed. Figure 1

[0045] Figure 3 An example of an extrusion kit according to the utility model and another example of a connector according to the utility model are schematically illustrated. Figure 3 Figure A of the drawings schematically illustrates a connector 1 comprising a portion 30 comprising a port 5 within a recess 15, the port 5 being configured similarly to the configuration illustrated in Figure A of the drawings of Figure 2 Figure A of the drawings. The portion 30 comprises a square connector shape. The connector 1 further comprises a cylindrical portion 33. Due to the square connector shape and a receiver 40 on the extrusion kit 35, the receiver 40 having a square kit shape matching the square connector shape, the connector 1 can be coupled to the extrusion kit 35 in four different discrete orientations. These four orientations are obtained by rotating the connector 1 as illustrated by the double headed circular arrow. Due to the port 5 not being perpendicular to the wall portion 10, both the position and orientation of the port 5 change when the orientation of the connector 1 changes from one orientation to another. Being able to change the position or position and orientation of the port 5 allows the user to manage the position or position and orientation of the tubing that can be coupled to the port 5 to fluidly couple the port 5 to a source of negative pressure accordingly. In this way, the user can select a preferred configuration. In the illustrated example, after coupling of the connector (1) and the extrusion kit (35), the surface 10 is flush with the adjacent outer surface of the extrusion kit. It will be clear that this is not essential.

[0046] Figure 3 ​B of FIG. 1 illustrates schematically a connector 1 comprising a circular portion comprising a port 5 extending non-perpendicularly from a wall portion 10. The connector 1 further comprises a portion 30 having a triangular connector shape. Due to the triangular connector shape and a receiving piece 45 on an extrusion kit 35 having a triangular kit shape matching the triangular connector shape, the connector 1 can be coupled to the extrusion kit 35 in three different discrete orientations. These three orientations are obtained by rotating the connector 1 as indicated by the double headed circular arrow. Due to the port 5 not being perpendicular to the wall portion 10, both the position and orientation of the port 5 change when the orientation of the connector 1 changes from one orientation to another. Being able to change the position or position and orientation of the port 5 allows the user to manage the position or position and orientation of a tube piece that can be coupled to the port 5 to fluidically couple the port 5 to a source of negative pressure accordingly. In this way, the user can select a preferred configuration. In the illustrated example, after coupling of the connector (1) and the extrusion kit (35), the surface 10 is flush with an adjacent outer surface of the extrusion kit. It will be clear that this is not a necessity.

[0047] In Figure 3 the connector 1 comprises a portion having a connector shape enabling a plurality of discrete orientations of the connector 1 relative to the extrusion kit 35 when the connector 1 and the extrusion kit 35 are coupled to each other. The connector shape comprises not only the overall shape of the portion 30 as in the square portion in FIG. A of FIG. 1 or the triangular portion 30 in FIG. B of FIG. 1, but also the configuration of the interface contained in the body. For example, assume Figure 3 that the connector 1 is a circular connector having a circular portion comprising a port 5 extending non-perpendicularly from a wall portion 10. The connector 1 further comprises a portion 30 having a triangular connector shape. Due to the triangular connector shape and a receiving piece 45 on an extrusion kit 35 having a triangular kit shape matching the triangular connector shape, the connector 1 can be coupled to the extrusion kit 35 in three different discrete orientations. These three orientations are obtained by rotating the connector 1 as indicated by the double headed circular arrow. Due to the port 5 not being perpendicular to the wall portion 10, both the position and orientation of the port 5 change when the orientation of the connector 1 changes from one orientation to another. Being able to change the position or position and orientation of the port 5 allows the user to manage the position or position and orientation of a tube piece that can be coupled to the port 5 to fluidically couple the port 5 to a source of negative pressure accordingly. In this way, the user can select a preferred configuration. In the illustrated example, after coupling of the connector (1) and the extrusion kit (35), the surface 10 is flush with an adjacent outer surface of the extrusion kit. It will be clear that this is not a necessity. Figure 3 Figure 3 ​The portion 30 in Figure A of the present disclosure does not have a square shape, but rather has a circular shape, either with a diameter equal to the circular portion shown in Figure A (in which case the entire connector looks like a cylinder), or with a diameter greater than the cylindrical portion shown in Figure A (in which case the connector will look like two cylinders connected in series, with different diameters). In this case, a number of discrete orientations can be achieved, for example by providing one or more protrusions and / or notches at predetermined locations along the perimeter of either or both cylindrical portions. The one or more protrusions and / or notches will cooperate with matching features included in the corresponding extrusion kit. The features on the connector and the matching features on the extrusion kit will form an interface, providing the connector with a number of discrete orientations relative to the extrusion kit when the connector and the extrusion kit are coupled to each other. The positions of these features relative to each other on the connector or the extrusion kit will define the connector shape and the kit shape, respectively. For example, three protrusions equally spaced along the perimeter of one of the cylindrical portions and three matching notches in the corresponding extrusion kit will provide the connector with three different discrete orientations relative to the extrusion kit. The protrusions on the connector will define the connector shape (a triangle), and the notches on the extrusion kit will define the kit shape (a triangle). If desired and when desired, this arrangement can require a release mechanism to uncouple the connector from the extrusion kit. Such a release mechanism can include a protrusion or a notch on a flexible element, which can be bent to release the protrusion and the notch from each other. This flexible element also allows the connector and its corresponding extrusion kit to move relative to each other when the protrusion and the notch are not aligned. For example, the flexible element including the protrusion can be bent in one direction when the protrusion and the notch are not aligned, and the flexible element can relax and snap into place in the opposite direction when the protrusion and the notch are aligned. Subsequently, this flexibility can also provide a biasing force that holds the protrusion within the notch, as long as this biasing force is not overcome by an external force (e.g. a force applied by a user when the user wants to uncouple the connector and the extrusion kit).

[0048] Figure 3 Figure C of the present disclosure schematically illustrates a connector as described in the previous paragraph. The connector 1 is shaped as a cylinder overall. The port 5 is positioned away from the central longitudinal axis of the cylinder. The port 5 is included in a recess 15. In the present example, the port 5 extends from a side wall 20 of the recess 15, which is included in the wall portion 10. The connector 1 includes a plurality of flexible elements 50, which are shaped as rectangular pieces here, and which are connected to the rest of the connector 1 only at one side thereof. Towards their free end, the flexible elements 50 include a protrusion 55. Such a protrusion (or alternatively, a notch) is not necessary. The flexible elements (with or without a protrusion or a notch) can also be configured to have a biasing piece that extends outwardly from the rest of the connector.

[0049] Figure 3Figure D schematically shows a cross-section of the interface between the portion 60 comprised in the extrusion kit 35 and the flexible element 50 comprised in the connector 1 (as shown in Figure 3 Figure C). In the upper part of Figure D, the protrusion 55 extends into the recess 65 when the connector 1 and the extrusion kit 35 are coupled to each other. In the lower part of Figure D, the protrusion 55 and the recess 65 are not aligned and the protrusion 55 contacts the flat wall of the portion 60. As a result, the flexible element 50 is bent, as indicated by the angle a of the dashed lines. This situation occurs when the connector 1 is placed in the extrusion kit 1 or removed from the extrusion kit.

[0050] In Figures C and D, the flexible element 50 extends in the longitudinal direction of the connector 1. However, it is also conceivable to have a flexible element that extends circumferentially like the flexible element 50. When the connector is not coupled to the respective extrusion kit, such a flexible element can be biased so that its free end extends outwardly from the perimeter of the connector. The extending free end will form a sawtooth pattern that resembles the shape of a serrated blade of an electric saw. If the connector is coupled to the respective extrusion kit, then when the connector is inserted into the extrusion kit, the flexible element will interface with recesses in the surface of the extrusion kit that faces the connector. The recesses can have a sawtooth pattern and match the free end that extends from the connector. Here it is said that the recesses "can have a sawtooth pattern" because while recesses having a sawtooth shape are able to mate well with flexible elements that also form a sawtooth pattern, it is important that the recesses and the flexible elements mate with each other. An exact mating can be good, but it is not always necessary. Rotating the connector within the extrusion kit in one direction will alternately fix and release the connector. During the rotation of the connector in this direction, if its flexible element is tightly fitted in recesses having a sawtooth shape, the connector will be fixed in place. If the connector is rotated further (by overcoming the force of the free end in the recess) in the direction of decreasing amplitude (i.e. depth) of the recess, the free end of the flexible element will be forced to move towards the rest of the connector. Once the free end of the flexible element is again aligned with the next recess, the free end of the flexible element moves away from the rest of the connector, fitting again tightly in the recess. Then, the free end will be aligned with a recess near the recess with which the free end was fitted before the further rotation. If the connector is rotated in the opposite direction, the free end of the flexible element will hit the surface at the deeper end of the recess having a sawtooth shape (i.e. the free end will extend into the surface at the wider end of the sawtooth-shaped recess). Thus, further rotation in the latter direction will be prevented.

[0051] Recesses and protrusions (e.g. recesses and / or protrusions on a flexible element like the flexible element discussed above) can be used to keep any connector according to the present utility coupled to an extrusion kit. For example, Figure 3Any of the connectors in Figs. 1-4 can comprise a flexible element having a free end in two opposite side surfaces, i.e. two of the surfaces perpendicular to the wall portion 10. The free end can comprise one or more protrusions or notches to mate with a matching feature in the corresponding extrusion kit. In a direction perpendicular to the wall portion 10, such a flexible element can extend from its free end to an opposite end, at which it is connected to the rest of its connector. When the connector comprising the free end is inserted into the extrusion kit, the free end can be arranged to enter the extrusion kit first. This arrangement will allow the user to squeeze the free end towards the rest of the connector to insert the connector into the extrusion kit. Once aligned with a matching feature in the extrusion kit, e.g. a notch having a sawtooth shape, the free end relaxes and fits tightly into the matching feature, possibly by extending from the rest of the connector. Pulling the connector will cause the free end to be pushed again towards the rest of the connector, thereby releasing the connector from the extrusion kit. This lock-and-release mechanism is similar to the BIC TM M10 pen. However, one difference is that, contrary to the operation of the BIC TM M10 pen, the free end of the flexible element of the connector cannot be pressed when the connector is in the extrusion kit. However, the connector can comprise an actuator, e.g. a button, coupled to the free end to force the free end to move towards the rest of the connector, thereby allowing the connector to be removed from its extrusion kit. Removing the connector from its extrusion kit allows the connector and the extrusion kit or at least a part thereof to be cleaned.

[0052] In addition to the connector 1, Figure 1 Figs. A and B further illustrate the extrusion kits 35. Both extrusion kits 35 comprise a receiver (40, 45) configured to receive a respective connector 1, in particular the part 30 comprising the connector shape of the connector 1. Figure 3 The receiver 40 in Fig. A is configured to receive the square part 30 of the corresponding connector 1. This is the reason why the receiver 40 has a square kit shape. Figure 3 The receiver 45 in Fig. B is configured to receive the triangular part 30 of the corresponding connector 1. This is the reason why the receiver 45 has a triangular kit shape.

[0053] Given a certain symmetry for the connector, e.g. Figure 3 The four-fold symmetry of the connector shape of the connector 1 in Fig. A can be used to obtain more than four discrete orientations for the connector 1 using appropriate receivers on the extrusion kits. If Figure 3If the receiving member 40 in FIG. A is not a square, but resembles two concentric, equal-sized squares rotated relative to each other, additional discrete orientations for the connector 1 will become available without requiring any changes to the connector 1. In this example, the angle of rotation between the two imaginary squares defining the receiving member may be such that the final shape of the receiving member is symmetrical. For example, rotating the two imaginary squares by an angle of 45° relative to each other will produce eight equally spaced possible discrete orientations for the connector 1. Rotating by an angle other than 45° (but not 90°, because by 90° the two imaginary squares would coincide, thereby producing Figure 3 The example already shown in FIG. A of FIG. 1 will also provide eight possible discrete orientations for the connector 1. However, these discrete orientations will not be equally spaced around the axis of rotation. The two squares do not have to be concentric. It is also possible to use two squares of the same size that overlap but are not concentric and rotated relative to each other. See also Figure 3 and its description.

[0054] The same method can also be applied to Figure 6 The connector 1 in Figure B has three-fold symmetry. Figure 3 If the receiving member 40 in Figure B is not formed as a triangle, but is formed like two triangles of the same size that are rotated relative to each other and possibly concentric, more than three possible discrete orientations for the connector 1 can be obtained. The receiving member 40 obtained by this method has the outline of a Star of David, providing six possible discrete orientations for the connector. However, just like the imaginary square, the imaginary triangles can be rotated relative to each other at any angle as long as they do not overlap. For the connector, six possible discrete orientations will also be obtained, but these discrete orientations will not be equally spaced around the axis of rotation. As with the square mentioned above, the two triangles are not necessarily concentric. Two triangles of the same size that overlap but are not concentric and rotated relative to each other can also be used. The above method is Figure 3 Shown in. Figure 6 The upper left diagram of FIG schematically shows two concentric and overlapping triangles (one drawn with a solid line and one with a dotted line) defining the outer contour of the Star of David form. Figure 6 is shown in the upper right figure. Figure 6 The lower left figure schematically shows two concentric and overlapping squares (one drawn with a solid line and one with a dotted line). Figure 6 The lower right figure schematically shows two non-concentric but still overlapping squares.

[0055] exist Figure 6In the middle, the receiving pieces 40 and 45 with the kit shape are shown as openings, while the part 30 with the connector shape is shown as a protrusion. It will be clear that these arrangements can be reversed, such that the extrusion kit comprises a protrusion and the connector comprises an opening. In view of the preceding paragraph, this also means that according to the present invention, an opening can be provided on the connector to provide additional discrete orientations. For example, the extrusion kit can have an elongated rectangular protrusion as the kit shape, and the matching connector has a connector shape in the form of a cross-shaped opening, wherein each arm of the cross is configured to receive the protrusion of the extrusion kit. The arms of the cross can be perpendicular to each other. In another example, the arms of the cross are at a non-right angle to each other. In the latter example, the cross is oblique. In general, a smaller plug (e.g. elongated rectangular) can be provided and fitted in a larger socket, wherein larger socket means that the shape of the socket is generated by two identical plugs rotated relative to each other (i.e. the socket has a cross shape or an oblique cross shape generated by two identical elongated rectangular shapes rotated relative to each other). The two identical plugs need not be arranged concentrically. Either of the plug and the socket can be comprised in the connector, while the other of the plug and the socket is comprised in the extrusion kit.

[0056] As mentioned before, the connector shape and the kit shape are not limited to the shape of the entire body, but also include the configuration of the interface contained in the body. Therefore, the above description regarding obtaining additional possible orientations also applies to such interfaces. For example, a connector like the connector 1 in Fig. C of the Figure 3 A connector like the connector 1 in Fig. C of the Figure 3 In Fig. C of the, the flexible elements 50 extend longitudinally or circumferentially on the connector 1. Regardless of the direction of extension, the above-described method of obtaining additional possible orientations applies. For example, two flexible elements can be made to extend from four (i.e. two pairs) of sawtooth-shaped notches on the connector and the corresponding extrusion kit.

[0057] It should also be noted that other different shapes can provide the same number of symmetries and thus can provide possible discrete orientations for the connector according to the present utility model. For example, a square connector shape provides fourfold symmetry. However, a cross connector shape can also provide fourfold symmetry. Similarly, a triangular connector shape as shown in Figure 3 Figure B of the drawings provides threefold symmetry. Three posts arranged along an equilateral triangle can also provide threefold symmetry. The connector and the corresponding extrusion kit according to the present utility model form a plug-socket system, wherein the plug and the socket can have any shape as long as they match. In order to avoid any misunderstanding, the fact that the plug and the socket match includes the methods described above that produce additional symmetries.

[0058] Figure 3 Figures A and B of the drawings show that the connector 1 can include portions configured to enable a plurality of discrete orientations (portions 30 having square and triangular connector shapes, respectively) and portions not used for this purpose (circular portion of the connector 1). The portions of either kind can complete the outer surface of the extrusion kit coupled with the connector 1. Similarly, Figure 3 Figures A and B of the drawings show that the extrusion kit 35 can include a receiving member (for receiving the connector 1) configured to enable a plurality of discrete orientations of the connector 1 and an element not used for this purpose (circular opening 45).

[0059] Figure 3 Figures A and B of the drawings also show that the port 5 can extend from (Figure A) or within (Figure B) a portion having a differently shaped body (square in Figure A and circular in Figure B). In Figure A, the port 5 extends perpendicularly from the side walls of the recess 15 in the wall portion 10, while being positioned away from the central axis of the square portion 30 of the connector 1. In Figure B, the port 5 extends non-perpendicularly from the wall portion 10, while being positioned away from the central axis of the circular portion of the connector 1. However, the fact that the port can extend perpendicularly or non-perpendicularly from or within a portion having a differently shaped body has been discussed with respect to Figure 3 and Figure 1 The fact that the port can be positioned on or away from the central axis has been discussed with respect to Figure 2

[0060] Figure 2 Figures A and B of the drawings show the extrusion kit 35 without being coupled with the connector 1. This illustrates that the extrusion kit 35 and the connector 1 form a so-called "plug-socket" system, wherein the extrusion kit 35 cooperates with the connector 1 so that the connector 1 can be coupled to the extrusion kit 35 in a plurality of discrete orientations with respect to the extrusion kit 35.

[0061] ​It will be clear that in order to express milk from a mammalian breast, e.g. a human female breast, the expression kit 35 and the connector 1 need to be combined. For the sake of brevity, the combined structure of the expression kit 35 (i.e. the expression kit without the connector) and the connector 1 will be referred to as the "expression kit including connector".

[0062] Figure 3 Figures A and B of the drawings show that at least part of the connector 1 can serve to complete the outer surface of the expression kit 35. In Figure 3 Figure A and B of the drawings, the coupling of the expression kit 35 and the connector 1, the wall portion 10 of the connector 1 completes the outer surface of the expression kit including the connector at that time. As mentioned with respect to Figure 3 The wall portion 10 can be flat or curved.

[0063] Figure 1 Another example of an expression kit including a connector according to the present utility model is schematically shown. Figure 4 A cross-section along a vertical plane through the expression kit 35 including the connector 1 is shown. Here, the vertical direction is defined as the up-down direction during normal use of the expression kit, at which time the user stands or sits in an upright position. The expression kit 35 includes the connector 1. In this example, the wall portion 10 is flat and completes the otherwise curved outer surface of the expression kit 35. In this example, the port 5 is positioned away from the central axis of the connector 1 and extends non-perpendicularly from the wall portion 10. The expression kit 35 includes a breast volume 70 for receiving a breast 75. The expression kit 35 further includes a pumping volume 80. The pumping volume 80 can be fluidically coupled to a source of negative pressure (not shown in Figure 4 The pumping volume 80 is at least partially defined by the connector 1. In Figure 4 The pumping volume 80 is partially defined by a membrane 85 in The membrane 85 is flexible. When the pressure within the pumping volume 80 changes, the membrane 85 deforms, thereby changing the pressure within the breast volume 70. The creation of a negative pressure in the breast volume 70 causes a suction force on the breast 75, which in turn facilitates the expression of milk from the breast 75. In some embodiments, any connector according to the present utility model is configured to hold this membrane. This arrangement allows for easy assembly and cleaning.

[0064] Figure 4 In the example shown in The expression kit 35 further includes a milk volume 90 for collecting the expressed milk in this example. The breast volume 70 in the milk volume 90 is connected via a one-way valve 95. The one-way valve 95 allows milk to pass from the breast volume 70 into the milk volume 90, but prevents milk from flowing back from the milk volume 90 into the breast volume 70.

[0065] Figure 4An example of an extrusion system according to the present invention is schematically shown. Figure 5 Extrusion system 100 is shown. Extrusion system 100 has an extrusion kit 35 including a connector 1 and a negative pressure source 105. Negative pressure source 105 can include a pump. The pump can be electrically operated or manually operated. The manually operated pump can include a lever that can be actuated to generate negative pressure. Negative pressure source 105 is fluidically coupled to port 5 via tubing 110.

[0066] The port 5 is included in the connector 1. In the example shown, the wall portion 10 of the connector 1 has a curved triangular shape. The wall portion 10 completes the curved outer shape of the extrusion assembly 35 including the connector 1. The port 5 is located at one corner of the curved triangle. As previously explained, in alternative examples, the port 5 is located along a side of the curved triangle. As previously explained, in other examples, Figure 5 The triangles in can be other shapes. In addition, as Figure 5 As discussed in FIG. B of FIG. , the wall portion 10 need not be included in the portion of the connector 1 that is configured to achieve multiple discrete orientations of the connector 1 relative to the extrusion assembly 35. Figure 3 In this embodiment, the port 5 is located in the recess 15. As mentioned above, in other examples, the port 5 is not located in the recess, but extends from or within the body of the part of the connector 1.

[0067] Figure 5 The extrusion system 100 has a single extrusion assembly 35 including a connector 1. In another example, the extrusion system has two or more extrusion assemblies 35, each including a connector 1. If the extrusion system 100 has two or more extrusion assemblies 35, each including a connector 1, one or more negative pressure sources can be used. For example, a single negative pressure source can be used to generate negative pressure in both extrusion assemblies.

[0068] exist Figure 5 In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , the connector 1 is positioned so that the wall portion 10 faces away from the human female user during milk expression. This position prevents the connector 1 from obstructing the user's field of view. If the connector were located within the area indicated by the arrow at 35 , the connector could obstruct the user's field of view during milk expression.

[0069] As an example, Figure 5 as well as Figure 5 and Figure 3 Figure 4 The expression kit 35 (with or without connector 1) is shown configured to fit inside a bra. Compared to more traditional expression kits that include a funnel for receiving the breast (where the funnel is coupled to a bottle to collect expressed milk), the above exception kits provide additional comfort and maneuverability.

[0070] Example:

[0071] 1. A connector (1) for use in a milking cluster (35) for expressing milk from a mammary gland of a mammal, wherein the connector (1) is configured to be coupled to a source of negative pressure (105),

[0072] characterized in that

[0073] the connector (1) is configured to be coupled to the milking cluster (35) in an orientation selected from a plurality of discrete orientations.

[0074] 2. The connector (1) according to any one of embodiments 1, wherein the connector (1) comprises a connector shape configured to provide discrete orientations in which the connector (1) can be coupled to the milking cluster (35).

[0075] 3. The connector (1) according to embodiment 2, wherein the connector shape comprises a non-circular shape.

[0076] 4. The connector (1) according to any one of embodiments 3, wherein the connector shape is selected from the group comprising a triangle, a rectangle, a square, a diamond, a pentagon, a hexagon.

[0077] 5. The connector (1) according to any one of embodiments 2 to 4, wherein the connector shape is defined by an interface for coupling the connector (1) and the milking cluster (35) to each other.

[0078] 6. The connector (1) according to any one of embodiments 1 to 5, wherein the connector (1) comprises a wall portion comprising a port (5) for coupling the connector (1) to a tube for transmitting negative pressure to the connector (1), wherein the wall portion defines a part of an outer contour of the milking cluster when the connector (1) and the milking cluster are coupled to each other, wherein the port (5) defines a direction, and wherein the direction is not perpendicular to the outer contour.

[0079] 7. The connector (1) according to any one of embodiments 1 to 6, wherein the connector (1) is configured such that changing the orientation of the connector (1) in a milking cluster from one orientation to a different orientation defines an axis of rotation, and the port (5) is not located on this axis.

[0080] 8. The connector (1) according to any one of embodiments 1 to 7, wherein the connector (1) is constructed from a single piece.

[0081] 9. An expression kit (35) for expressing milk from a mammal’s breast, the expression kit (35) being configured for placement on the mammal’s breast for expressing milk,

[0082] characterized in that,

[0083] the expression kit (35) is configured to be coupled to the connector (1) according to any one of embodiments 1-8.

[0084] 10. The expression kit (35) according to embodiment 9, with reference limited to the connector (1) according to any one of embodiments 2-5, wherein the expression kit (35) comprises a receptacle for receiving the connector (1), wherein the receptacle comprises a kit shape matching the connector shape.

[0085] 11. The expression kit (35) according to any one of embodiments 9-10, wherein the expression kit (35) is configured to be coupled to the connector (1) such that, after coupling, the connector is positioned facing away from the user’s breast during use.

[0086] 12. The expression kit (35) according to any one of embodiments 9-11, wherein the expression kit (35) comprises the connector (1) according to any one of embodiments 1-8.

[0087] 13. The expression kit (35) according to embodiment 12, wherein the expression kit (35) comprises the connector (1) configured such that, during use, the connector (1) at least partly defines a pumping volume (80) defining a volume for receiving a negative pressure from a negative pressure source (105) when the connector (1) is coupled to the negative pressure source (105).

[0088] 14. The expression kit (35) according to any one of embodiments 9-13, wherein the expression kit (35) is configured to fit inside a bra.

[0089] 15. An expression system (100) for expressing milk from a mammal’s breast, comprising the expression kit (35) according to any one of embodiments 9-14.

Claims

1. A combined structure having: An expression kit (35) for expressing milk from a mammalian breast, the expression kit (35) being configured to be placed on the mammalian breast to express milk and being configured to be coupled to a connector (1), the connector (1) being configured to be coupled to a negative pressure source (105), and The connecting member (1) It is characterized in that The combined structure is configured to couple the extrusion kit (35) and the connector (1) to each other in an orientation selected from a plurality of discrete orientations excluding two discrete orientations.

2. The combined structure according to claim 1, characterized in that: During use, the connector (1) at least partially defines a pumping volume (80), which defines a volume for receiving negative pressure from the negative pressure source (105) when the connector (1) is coupled to the negative pressure source (105).

3. An extrusion kit (35) for use in a combined structure according to any one of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that: The extrusion sleeve (35) comprises a receiving part for receiving the connector (1), and wherein the receiving part comprises a sleeve shape matching the connector shape of the connector (1).

4. The extrusion kit (35) according to claim 3, characterized in that The kit shape includes a non-circular shape.

5. The extrusion kit (35) according to claim 4, characterized in that The kit shape is selected from the group consisting of: triangle, rectangle, diamond, pentagon, hexagon.

6. The extrusion kit (35) according to claim 5, characterized in that The shape of the kit includes a square.

7. The extrusion kit (35) according to any one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that The sleeve shape is defined by an interface for coupling the extrusion sleeve (35) and the connector (1) to each other.

8. The extrusion kit (35) according to any one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that The extrusion kit (35) is configured to be coupled to the connector (1) such that, after coupling, the connector is located out of the user's field of view when the user observes the extrusion kit (35) during use of the extrusion kit.

9. The extrusion kit (35) according to any one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that The extrusion kit (35) is configured to fit inside a bra.

10. The extrusion kit (35) according to claim 3, characterized in that The receiving member has a shape resulting from an overlapping orientation of the combined connecting member shapes.

11. A connector (1) for use in an expression kit (35) for expressing milk from a mammalian breast, wherein the connector (1) is configured to be coupled to a source of negative pressure (105), It is characterized in that The connector (1) is configured to be coupled to the extrusion assembly (35) in an orientation selected from a plurality of discrete orientations, wherein the connector (1) comprises a connector shape configured to provide discrete orientations in which the connector (1) can be coupled to the extrusion kit (35), wherein the connector shape comprises a non-circular shape.

12. The connecting piece (1) according to claim 11, characterized in that The shape of the connector is selected from the group consisting of: triangle, square, pentagon, and hexagon.

13. The connecting piece (1) according to claim 11, characterized in that The connector shape is defined by an interface for coupling the connector (1) and the extrusion sleeve (35) to each other.

14. The connecting piece (1) according to any one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that The connector (1) comprises a wall portion, the wall portion comprising a port (5) for connecting the connector (1) to a tube for transmitting negative pressure to the connector (1), wherein the wall portion defines a portion of an outer contour of the extrusion sleeve when the connector (1) and the extrusion sleeve are coupled to each other, wherein the port (5) defines a direction, and wherein the direction is not perpendicular to the outer contour.

15. The connecting piece (1) according to claim 14, characterized in that The connector (1) is configured such that changing the orientation of the connector (1) in the extrusion kit from one orientation to a different orientation defines an axis of rotation, and the port (5) is not located on this axis.

16. The connecting piece (1) according to any one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that The connecting piece (1) is composed of a single piece.

17. An expression system (100) for expressing milk from a mammalian breast, characterized in that Comprising an extrusion kit (35) according to any one of claims 3 to 10.

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