Talking valve, closing device and method of talking valve

Abstract

The invention relates to a speaking valve comprising at least a housing and a closing device. The housing comprises an insert part and a cover part with a breathing hole, wherein: the cover part can be arranged on the insert part, the closing device comprises an outer ring, a sealing device and at least one seat frame, the sealing device is arranged on the outer ring via the seat frame, the cover part forms a valve seat for abutting against the sealing device and the breathing hole can be closed by the sealing device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a speaking valve comprising at least a housing and a closing device, a closing device for a speaking valve and a method for adjusting the closing pressure. Background Art

[0002] Speaking valves are well known in the prior art. For example, DE 10 2014 002 063 A1 describes a speaking valve with a cover part, an actuating device, a housing part and a filter, wherein the housing part provides a valve seat arranged in close proximity, wherein the actuating device comprises a closing part and when the speaking valve is transferred from an open position to a closed position, the closing part cooperates with the valve seat, wherein the cover part is at least partially formed of an elastic material, wherein the transfer of the speaking valve from the open position to the closed position causes at least a partial deformation of at least one area of ​​the cover part, and wherein the filter is arranged at the actuating device so that the filter can substantially follow the movement of the actuating device.

[0003] A disadvantage of known speaking valves is that they have to be manually moved from the open position to the closed position in order to start speaking. This means that the speaking action cannot occur naturally and the user cannot gesture freely.

[0004] The object of the present invention is therefore to improve the speaking valve known in the prior art. In particular, the object is to provide a speaking valve that can start speaking without using the hands. Summary of the invention

[0005] According to the invention, this object is achieved by a speaking valve comprising at least a housing and a closing device, wherein the housing comprises an insert part and a cover part with a breathing hole, wherein the cover part can be arranged on the insert part, wherein the closing device comprises an outer ring, a sealing device and at least one seat frame, wherein the sealing device is arranged on the outer ring via the seat frame, wherein the cover part forms a valve seat for abutting against the sealing device and the breathing hole can be closed by the sealing device.

[0006] Furthermore, according to the invention, the object is achieved by a closing device for a speaking valve, which closing device comprises an outer ring, a sealing device and at least one seat, wherein the sealing device is arranged on the outer ring via the seat.

[0007] Furthermore, according to the present invention, the object is solved by a method for adjusting the closing pressure of a speaking valve, the speaking valve comprising a housing and a closing device, the housing comprising an insert component and a cover component with a breathing hole and a valve seat, the cover component being displaceable on the insert component, wherein the closing device comprises an outer ring, a sealing device and at least one seat frame, wherein the sealing device is arranged on the outer ring via the seat frame, wherein the distance between the sealing device and the valve seat is changed by rotating the cover component on the insert component.

[0008] A speaking valve is proposed which comprises at least a housing and a closing device. The housing comprises an insert part and a cover part with a breathing hole, wherein the cover part can be arranged on the insert part, wherein the closing device comprises an outer ring, a sealing device and at least one seat, wherein the sealing device is arranged on the outer ring via the seat, wherein the cover part forms a valve seat for abutting against the sealing device and the breathing hole can be closed by the sealing device.

[0009] During surgical interventions on the upper respiratory tract, it may be necessary to create an artificial breathing hole (tracheostomy) in the trachea so that air can be breathed directly into the lungs, bypassing the mouth and larynx. For example, in laryngectomy patients, i.e. people without a larynx whose larynx has been surgically removed, the tracheostomy must remain permanently open and stable, for which purpose a tracheal tube, usually consisting of an external and an internal cannula, is inserted into the tracheostomy. But so-called "tracheostomy buttons" can also be used, especially for people who no longer need a tracheostomy tube.

[0010] Finally, filtering systems can also be inserted into the tracheostomy of tracheotomized and laryngectomized patients. Such filtering systems are particularly composed of a patch in a housing with an inserted filter or a substrate, generally made of plastic, usually self-adhesive, into which filters of various types can be inserted. Filter systems for laryngeal tracheal devices such as endotracheal tubes, diverter valves, tracheostomy buttons and filtering systems with patches or substrates include universal heat and moisture exchangers, also called "artificial noses". These are used to recreate the regulatory mechanisms that are lacking in laryngectomized and tracheostomized people for heating and humidifying the air for breathing, and to avoid contact of the trachea with increasingly dry, cold and unfiltered air. This is because the resulting irritation can lead to increased secretion of mucus and subsequent risk of blockage. The inhaled air is humidified, heated and filtered at the same time by the heat and moisture exchanger. This largely prevents the formation of the above-mentioned blockages. Wearing an artificial nose regularly can help, especially in cases of excessive secretions, because moistening the mucous membranes in the trachea reduces the production of secretions.

[0011] Heat and moisture exchangers for laryngectomy and tracheotomy patients have a filter material - usually made of paper or foam, through which the inhaled and exhaled air passes. During exhalation, the filter material retains moisture, which is then transported to the trachea during inspiration. Heat and moisture exchangers known in the prior art are available with a large number of different adapters of different designs. Universal adapters according to DIN EN ISO 5356-1 have a diameter of about 15 mm, but other adapters with a diameter of about 22 mm are also known in the prior art.

[0012] Another aid for laryngectomy patients is a voice prosthesis to restore the voice after laryngectomy. The voice can be restored surgically. The most important aid in this procedure is the voice prosthesis, also called a "shunt valve". With the help of a voice prosthesis, the function of the removed larynx can be replaced. On the one hand, the use of a voice prosthesis enables air supplied by the lungs to pass through the esophagus into the pharynx. The exhaled air is used for speaking. On the other hand, the voice prosthesis seals the connection between the esophagus and the trachea when swallowing food and drinks, so that the user of the voice prosthesis does not accidentally swallow food.

[0013] Once the wound heals after surgery, people are no longer able to speak normally. In order to be able to speak, when the larynx of a person with a voice prosthesis or tracheotomy is still present, the vent in the neck must be closed so that air can pass through the voice prosthesis or larynx respectively. A speaking valve is used for this.

[0014] The proposed speaking valve has the advantage that it closes automatically when one intends to speak. This is achieved in particular by the fact that the exhalation pressure naturally increases when one starts to speak. The increased pressure moves the seal in the speaking valve so that it comes into contact with the valve seat. This closes the breathing hole and the exhaled air can pass through the diverter valve or the larynx which may still be present.

[0015] The speaking valve comprises a housing. The housing has a first side and an opposite second side. The first side of the housing is preferably arranged at a distal end to face away from the user's body surface during use. The second side of the housing is preferably arranged at a proximal end to face the user's body surface during use.

[0016] The housing further comprises an insertion member. In one embodiment, the insertion member comprises a first side and a second side opposite to the first side. The first side of the insertion member is preferably arranged at the distal end to face away from the user's body surface during use. The second side of the insertion member is preferably arranged at the proximal end to face the user's body surface during use.

[0017] In one embodiment, the insertion member comprises an insertion portion. The insertion portion is preferably associated with the second side. Further, the insertion portion comprises a connector for connecting to the laryngeal tracheal device. In a further embodiment, the insertion portion is configured as a connector. In a further preferred embodiment, the outer diameter of the insertion portion is about 10 mm to about 25 mm, preferably about 15 mm or about 22 mm.

[0018] If, within the scope of the present invention, the term "about" is used in conjunction with a numerical value or a numerical range, this will be understood as the tolerance range that a person skilled in the art considers customary in this field, in particular providing a tolerance range of ±20%, preferably ±10%, further preferably ±5%.

[0019] Where various value ranges are indicated in the present invention, for example preferred and further preferred value ranges, the lower limits and upper limits of the various value ranges can be combined with one another.

[0020] For example, the laryngeal tracheal device may be a tracheostomy tube and / or a tracheostomy patch.

[0021] The exemplary enumeration is not to be regarded as decisive in the sense of the invention but rather can be supplemented within the scope of general technical knowledge.

[0022] In a further embodiment, the insert component comprises a threaded portion. The threaded portion is preferably associated with the first side of the insert component. Preferably, the threaded portion comprises a height extending in the longitudinal direction of the insert component. Further preferably, the threaded portion comprises at least one thread, preferably exactly one thread. Further preferably, the threaded portion is configured as an external thread. In one embodiment, the threaded portion comprises a metric thread pitch of about 0.5 to about 2 times, preferably about 0.7 to about 1 times, more preferably about 0.75 times the height of the threaded portion.

[0023] In the sense of the present invention, the metric thread pitch is the distance that a cover part on a housing travels in a full rotation in the longitudinal direction. In particular, the metric thread pitch is the distance in the longitudinal direction between two thread tips that follow each other of a thread.

[0024] In a further embodiment, the insert part comprises a filter recess. The filter recess is in particular a space at least partially surrounded by the inner wall of the insert part. In particular, the filter recess is a recess for accommodating a filter, in particular as described below, in particular in the insert part. Further preferably, the insert part is designed substantially as a cylinder. Further preferably, the insert part comprises a cylindrical recess which can be referred to as a filter recess. In particular, the filter recess is at least radially limited by a substantially cylindrical inner wall. The cylindrical inner wall is in particular the inner surface of the insert part. In another embodiment, the cylindrical inner wall comprises a filter stopper. In one embodiment, the speaking valve comprises a filter arranged in the insert part, the insert part comprising a filter stopper for holding the filter in the insert part. In particular, the filter stopper is configured so that the filter arranged in the insert part does not substantially move in the first side direction, further preferably does not contact the closing device, further preferably does not hinder the function of the closing device when pressure, preferably respiratory pressure, acts on the filter. The filter stopper can be designed, for example, as a significant material accumulation point radially inwards. In a further embodiment, the filter stopper comprises at least one hook. In a further embodiment, the filter recess is defined by the breathing mask towards the second side. The breathing mask preferably prevents a user of the filter located in the insert component from inhaling. In particular, in one embodiment, the breathing mask comprises at least one strut or grid.

[0025] The term “substantially” indicates a tolerance range that is acceptable to a person skilled in the art from an economic and technical point of view, so that the corresponding features can still be recognized or realized as well.

[0026] In a further embodiment, the insertion part comprises a stopper. In particular, the stopper can be used to limit the insertion of the insertion part into the laryngeal tracheal device. The stopper can be designed, for example, as a hoop of at least part of the circumference. In a further embodiment, the stopper is configured as at least one material accumulation point on the outer circumference of the insertion part. In particular, the stopper is arranged on a first side of the insertion part. Further preferably, the stopper is arranged between the threaded portion and the insertion part.

[0027] In an alternative embodiment, the cover part can be arranged on the insert part by snapping.

[0028] In a further embodiment, the housing, more preferably the insert part or the cover part, comprises a closure device socket. In one embodiment, the closure device socket is particularly associated with a first side of the insert part. In one embodiment, the closure device socket is particularly associated with a second side of the cover part. Preferably, the closure device socket is arranged on or formed by the cylindrical inner wall of the insert part or the inner wall of the cover part. In one embodiment, the closure device socket is configured as an at least partially circumferential cutout, preferably a completely circumferential cutout, preferably in the cylindrical inner wall of the insert part or the inner wall of the cover part. In a further embodiment, the closure device socket comprises a blocking device, preferably a blocking device formed as a material accumulation point. In a further embodiment, the closure device socket comprises at least one at least partially circumferential ridge, in particular on the cylindrical inner wall of the insert part or the inner wall of the cover part. Further preferably, two at least partially circumferential ridges, which can be referred to as closure device sockets, are provided, which are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the housing. Preferably, the closure device receptacle is designed to substantially secure the closure device in or on the housing, preferably to space the closure device from the filter, further preferably to restrict movement of the closure device in the first lateral direction, in particular under exhalation pressure.

[0029] The housing further comprises a cover. In particular, the cover member is hood-shaped or dome-shaped. In a further embodiment, the cover member is in the form of a cap nut. In particular, the cover member comprises a first side and a second side opposite to the first side. Preferably, when a speaking valve is used, the first side may be arranged at the distal end and the second side may be arranged at the proximal end.

[0030] In particular, the cover part comprises a shell. Further preferably, the cover part comprises an inner wall, which is preferably an inner surface of the shell. Further preferably, the cover part comprises an annular wall. The annular wall is preferably associated with the first side of the cover part. In addition, the surface of the annular wall facing the first side comprises a surface vector pointing substantially in the direction of the first side. In particular, the breathing hole is formed by the annular wall. Preferably, the annular wall is adjacent to the shell or incorporated into the shell. In particular, the transition area between the shell and the annular wall is formed as a chamfer and / or a radius. In a further embodiment, the annular wall forms a valve seat, in particular on the second side. The valve seat is specifically a surface on the second side of the annular wall, the annular wall comprising a surface vector pointing in the direction of the second side. In particular, the valve seat is formed in a manner that can cooperate with the closing part.

[0031] The cover part comprises a cover thread. In particular, the cover thread is designed as an internal thread. In particular, the cover thread, which is preferably designed as an internal thread, is arranged on the inner wall of the cover part. In one embodiment, the inner wall of the cover part comprises the cover thread. In another embodiment, the cover thread comprises a metric thread pitch of about 0.5 to about 2 times, preferably about 0.7 to about 1 times, more preferably about 0.75 times the height of the cover thread.

[0032] Preferably, the thread paths of the insert and the lid threads match each other. In one embodiment, the threads and the lid threads are arranged to have a pitch of about 0.5 to about 2 turns, preferably about 0.7 to about one turn, more preferably about 0.75 turns. In another embodiment, the threads and the lid threads are a metric thread pitch of about 0.5 to about 2 times, preferably about 0.7 to about 1 times, more preferably about 0.75 times the height of the threaded member and / or the lid threads.

[0033] In one embodiment, the insert component comprises a threaded portion with a thread and the cover component comprises a cover thread, wherein the threads of the insert component and the cover thread are configured to correspond to each other. In a further embodiment, the cover thread and / or the threaded portion of the insert component have a stopper, which preferably limits the cover component from rotating on the insert component. The stopper can be associated with the end of the cover thread and / or the end of the threaded portion, for example. In one embodiment, the stopper can be overcome by a limited force or a limited moment. For example, the cover component can be screwed onto the insert component by applying an increased torque to the insert component, preferably until the stopper is overcome, and more preferably, the cover component is buckled onto the insert component. In one embodiment, for example, it can be screwed on with a torque smaller than that of the cover component that can be unscrewed. In particular, the stopper of the cover component and / or the insert component comprises at least one inclined plane. In particular, the geometry of the stopper of the cover component and / or the insert component is set, wherein a flatter inclined plane must be overcome when screwing on than when unscrewing. In a preferred embodiment, the cover component is snapped on the insert component with an audible noise after overcoming the stopper. The stop is preferably arranged to secure against accidental removal when the cover part is rotated on the insert part.

[0034] In one embodiment, the speaking valve comprises a filter. The filter is preferably arranged in an embodiment in which the speaking valve is also configured as a heat and moisture exchanger. Preferably, the filter can store heat and moisture in the exhaled air and release it to the inhaled air during inhalation. In one embodiment, the filter comprises a first side and a second side opposite to the first side. Preferably, when the speaking valve is in use, the first side can be arranged at the distal end and the second side can be arranged at the proximal end. In one embodiment, the filter is cylindrical. In particular, the filter can be arranged in a filter groove of the insertion component. In one embodiment, the filter comprises at least one material selected from a group of materials including paper, polyurethane, polyethylene, polypropylene and / or biopolymers.

[0035] The speaking valve comprises a closing device. The closing device comprises a first side and a second side opposite to the first side. Preferably, when the speaking valve is in use, the first side may be arranged at the distal end and the second side may be arranged at the proximal end.

[0036] In one embodiment, the closing device can be at least partially arranged in a closing device receptacle of at least part of the circumference of the housing. In particular, a form-fitting connection can be produced between the closing device receptacle and the closing device. In particular, the closing device snaps into the closing device receptacle.

[0037] The closing device is particularly intended to close the breathing aperture of the cover part. Preferably, the closing device allows the breathing aperture to be closed by the closing device at a defined exhalation pressure, in particular without manual intervention of the user.

[0038] The closing device comprises an outer ring. Preferably, the outer ring is completely closed. In particular, the outer ring comprises an annular surface. In particular, the annular shell surface is a radial surface of the outer ring. In one embodiment, the annular shell surface comprises at least one at least partially circumferential material accumulation point. In particular, the material accumulation point is convex. In a further embodiment, the material accumulation point is designed to cooperate with the closing device socket, in particular to snap into the latter.

[0039] The closing device comprises a sealing device. The sealing device is particularly centrally, preferably concentrically arranged in the outer ring. Further preferably, the shape of the sealing device is substantially circular. In one embodiment, the sealing device is designed to be closed over the entire surface, in particular the sealing device is designed as a disk. Preferably, the sealing device has a larger radius than the breathing hole of the cover part. In a further embodiment, the sealing device is configured so that it can be placed at least partially on the valve seat of the cover part. Preferably, the sealing device cooperates with the valve seat to close the breathing hole.

[0040] Preferably, the sealing device is arranged on the outer ring by at least one mount. In particular, at least one mount is arranged between the outer ring and the sealing device. Further preferably, the closing device comprises about 1 to about 12, preferably about 3 to about 8, more preferably about 3 to about 4, more preferably exactly 4 mounts. In one embodiment, at least one mount is mesh-shaped. In particular, at least one mount can be slotted or unslotted. If the mount is slotted, it comprises one or more grooves, in particular in the center, which are completely continuous from the first side to the second side and further preferably extend in the longitudinal direction of the mount. In a further embodiment, at least one mount is substantially bonded to the outer ring. In a further embodiment, at least one mount is substantially connected to the sealing device. In a further embodiment, the mount is glued, cast or otherwise attached to the sealing device and / or the outer ring.

[0041] In one embodiment, the sealing device is elastically mounted on the outer ring via a mount. Preferably, the closing device, more preferably the outer ring, the sealing device and / or at least one mount comprise at least one material selected from a group of materials comprising at least thermoplastic elastomers, silicone and / or rubber.

[0042] Advantageously, the sealing device is arranged in the housing in such a way that a defined exhalation pressure presses the sealing device towards the first side, in particular towards the valve seat. Typically, the exhalation pressure is greater at the start of speaking than during normal breathing. In particular, the sealing device is placed in such a way that the breathing aperture is closed when speaking is started or the breathing pressure increases. The exhaled air can thus be introduced into the esophagus, for example via a voice prosthesis or via the larynx, so that the user is able to speak without manually actuating the speaking valve. In particular, the speaking valve is adjustable so that when an exhalation pressure is applied to start speaking, the sealing device is in sealing contact with the valve seat and the breathing aperture is closed. Since the exhalation pressure when speaking varies from person to person and the exhalation pressure of normal breathing may also vary depending on the actions of the user, the proposed speaking valve can advantageously be adjusted by turning a cover part on the insertion part.

[0043] In one embodiment, the distance between the sealing device and the valve seat can be changed by rotating the cover member on the insert member. By rotating the cover member on the insert member, the cover member can be further screwed on or off, so that the distance between the valve seat and the sealing device in the middle position can be changed. When there is no exhalation pressure or inhalation pressure in the speaking valve, the middle position of the sealing device is particularly given and the sealing device is kept in the center of the outer ring. For example, if the cover member is completely screwed on, the distance between the valve seat and the sealing device is very small. In this case, only a lower exhalation pressure is required to move the sealing device far enough away from the middle position so that the sealing device contacts the valve seat. For example, if the cover member is almost completely screwed off, especially to the stopper, the exhalation pressure needs to be increased to move the sealing device far enough away from the middle position so that the sealing device rests on the valve seat. If necessary, the cover member can be unscrewed to the following extent, specifically, the distance between the valve seat and the sealing device in the middle position can be adjusted so that the exhalation pressure applied by the user does not contact the sealing device with the valve seat. This may be particularly desirable for sports activities. If speaking is then desired again, the user can continue to screw the cover part onto the insert part until the distance between the valve seat and the sealing device in the intermediate position is close enough to start speaking.

[0044] In an exemplary embodiment, the speaking valve includes a housing having a cover component and an insert component. The cover component includes a first side and a second side opposite thereto. When the speaking valve is in use, the first side may be arranged at a distal end. When the speaking valve is in use, the second side may be arranged at a proximal end. The cover component includes a shell having a cover thread on its inner side. The cover thread is an internal thread, exemplarily a single thread, whose pitch is approximately 0.75 times the height of the cover thread. In addition, the cover component, for example, includes an annular wall, which is connected to the shell via a transition portion in the form of a chamfer. The annular wall includes a breathing hole in the center. In addition, the annular wall includes a valve seat arranged on a second side of the annular wall. The valve seat surrounds the breathing hole.

[0045] The exemplary housing further includes an insertion component. This includes a first side and a second side opposite thereto. When the speaking valve is used, the first side may be arranged at the distal end. When the speaking valve is used, the second side may be arranged at the proximal end. The insertion component includes an insertion portion and a threaded portion. The threaded portion includes a thread having a certain height and a metric thread pitch of approximately 0.75 times the height, for example. In association with the second side, the insertion component includes an insertion portion, which assumes the function of a 15mm or 22mm connector. Via the insertion portion, the speaking valve can be connected to an exemplary tracheostomy assist device not shown. A stopper is arranged between the insertion portion and the threaded portion, which limits the screwing of the cover component onto the threaded portion and the insertion of the insertion portion into the tracheostomy assist device.

[0046] An exemplary insert component comprises a filter recess in which a filter can be accommodated. The filter recess is defined by the breathing mask towards the second side. For example, the breathing mask comprises a plurality of nets that prevent inhalation of the filter. Associated with the first side is a shut-off device socket arranged in the inner wall defining the filter recess, the shut-off device socket being designed as a circumferential cut-out. The shut-off device can be snapped into the shut-off device socket. For this purpose, the shut-off device comprises, for example, a convex edge on the outer ring.

[0047] In an exemplary embodiment, if the cover part is screwed onto the insert part, the threaded portion engages with the cover thread. By rotating the cover part on the insert part, the distance between the valve seat and the closing device locked in the insert part can thus be changed. Exemplarily, the threaded portion and / or the cover thread can include a stopper which limits the rotation of the cover part on the insert part and in particular prevents the cover part from being accidentally separated from the insert part.

[0048] The exemplary closing device comprises a first side and a second side. When a speaking valve is used, the first side can be arranged at a distal end. When a speaking valve is used, the second side can be arranged at a proximal end. The closing device comprises an outer ring having a circumferential convex edge on its annular shell. The sealing device is concentrically arranged in a middle position in the outer ring. The sealing device is supported by four exemplary mounts. In further exemplary embodiments, more or fewer mounts can also be provided.

[0049] When using the exemplary speaking valve, pressure is generated from the second side during exhalation, which causes the seal to move toward the first side. This displacement is greater when the user attempts to speak, because the exhalation pressure is naturally greater when speaking. When the cap member is screwed onto the insert member to the extent that the seal thereby contacts the valve seat, the speaking valve is closed and the exhaled air can flow through the user's larynx or diverter valve, so that the user can speak.

[0050] In addition, a closing device of the above-mentioned speaking valve is proposed. The closing device comprises an outer ring, a sealing device and at least one seat frame, wherein the sealing device is arranged on the outer ring through the seat frame. In particular, the closing device can be constructed as described above.

[0051] The closing device comprises a first side and a second side opposite to the first side. Preferably, when the speaking valve is used, the first side may be arranged at the distal end and the second side may be arranged at the proximal end.

[0052] In particular, the closing device is intended to close the breathing aperture of the above-mentioned cover part.Preferably, the closing device allows the breathing aperture to be closed by the closing device at a defined exhalation pressure, in particular without manual intervention of the user.

[0053] The closing device comprises an outer ring. Preferably, the outer ring is completely closed. In particular, the outer ring comprises an annular surface. The annular shell surface is in particular a radial surface of the outer ring. In one embodiment, the annular shell surface comprises at least one material accumulation point which is at least partially circumferential. In particular, the material accumulation point is convex. In a further embodiment, the material accumulation point is designed to cooperate with the closing device socket, in particular to be snap-fitted into the closing device socket.

[0054] The closing device comprises a sealing device. The sealing device is particularly centrally, preferably concentrically arranged in the outer ring. Further preferably, the shape of the sealing device is substantially circular. In one embodiment, the sealing device is designed to be closed over the entire surface, in particular the sealing device is designed as a disk. Preferably, the sealing device has a larger radius than the breathing hole of the cover part. In a further embodiment, the sealing device is configured so that it can be placed at least partially on the valve seat of the cover part. Preferably, the sealing device cooperates with the valve seat to close the breathing hole.

[0055] Preferably, the sealing device is arranged on the outer ring by at least one mount. In particular, at least one mount is arranged between the outer ring and the sealing device. Further preferably, the closing device comprises about 1 to about 12, preferably about 3 to about 8, more preferably about 3 to about 4, more preferably exactly 4 mounts. In one embodiment, at least one mount is mesh-shaped. In particular, at least one mount can be slotted or unslotted. If the mount is slotted, it comprises one or more grooves, in particular in the center, which grooves are in particular completely continuous from the first side to the second side and further preferably extend in the longitudinal direction of the mount. In a further embodiment, at least one mount is substantially bonded to the outer ring. In a further embodiment, at least one mount is substantially connected to the sealing device. In a further embodiment, the mount is glued, cast or otherwise fixed to the sealing device and / or the outer ring.

[0056] In one embodiment, the sealing device is elastically mounted on the outer ring via a mount. Preferably, the closing device, more preferably the outer ring, the sealing device and / or at least one mount comprise at least one material selected from a group of materials comprising at least thermoplastic elastomers, silicone and / or rubber.

[0057] Advantageously, the sealing device is arranged in the housing in such a way that a defined exhalation pressure presses the sealing device towards the first side, in particular towards the valve seat. Typically, the exhalation pressure is greater at the beginning of speaking than during normal breathing. In particular, the sealing device may move at the beginning of speaking or when the breathing pressure increases.

[0058] The exemplary closing device comprises a first side and a second side. When a speaking valve is used, the first side can be arranged at the distal end. When a speaking valve is used, the second side can be arranged at the proximal end. The closing device comprises an outer ring having a circumferential convex edge on its annular shell. The sealing device is concentrically arranged in the middle position of the outer ring. The sealing device is supported by four exemplary mounts. In further exemplary embodiments, more or fewer mounts can also be provided.

[0059] In addition, a method for adjusting the closing pressure of the above-mentioned speaking valve is proposed. The speaking valve comprises a housing and a closing device, wherein the housing comprises an insert component and a cover component having a breathing hole and a valve seat. The cover component can be arranged on the insert component. The closing device comprises an outer ring, a sealing device and at least one seat frame, wherein the sealing device is arranged on the outer ring through the seat frame. By rotating the cover component on the insert component, the distance between the sealing device and the valve seat is changed.

[0060] In an exemplary embodiment of the method, the cover part is rotated at least to such an extent that the distance between the closing means, in particular the sealing means, is such that the exhalation pressure does not bring the sealing means into contact with the valve seat. This is particularly advantageous if the user does not want to talk, for example during exercise, and particularly wants to prevent air from flowing through the diverter valve.

[0061] In a further exemplary embodiment of the method, the cover part is rotated at least to such an extent that the distance between the closing means, in particular the sealing means, is such that the exhalation pressure brings the sealing means into contact with the valve seat. In particular, the user can screw the cover part onto the insert part so that the displacement of the sealing means during exhalation intended for speaking is sufficient to bring the sealing means into contact with the valve seat. Preferably, the user attempts to speak and screws the cover part onto the insert part until the breathing aperture is closed. If the breathing aperture is closed unintentionally, the user preferably unscrews the cover part again until this no longer occurs during normal breathing in the given case. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0062] Further advantageous embodiments are shown in the following figures. However, the further embodiments shown there should not be interpreted restrictively; on the contrary, the features described there can be combined with each other and with the above-described features to form further embodiments. Furthermore, it should be noted that the reference numerals given in the description of the figures do not limit the scope of protection of the invention, but only refer to the embodiments shown in the figures. In the following, identical components or components with the same function have the same reference numerals. They show:

[0063] Figure 1 showing an exploded view of the speaking valve; and

[0064] Figure 2 A detailed view showing the closing device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0065] Figure 1 An exploded view of a speaking valve 10 is shown, which includes a housing 20 having a cover member 50 and an insert member 30. The cover member 50 includes a first side 60 and a second side 62 opposite the first side 60. When the speaking valve 10 is used, the first side 60 can be disposed at a distal end. When the speaking valve 10 is used, the second side 62 can be disposed at a proximal end. The cover member 50 includes a shell 52 having a cover thread 58 on its inner surface. The cover thread 58 is a single-start internal thread, and its pitch is about 0.75 times the height 59 of the cover thread 58. In addition, the cover member 50 includes an annular wall 54, which is connected to the shell via a transition portion 53 configured as a chamfer. The annular wall 54 includes a breathing hole 56 in the center. In addition, the annular wall 54 includes a valve seat 57 arranged on the second side 62 of the annular wall 54. The valve seat surrounds the breathing hole 56.

[0066] The housing 20 further includes an insertion member 30, which includes a first side 22 and a second side 24 opposite to the first side 22. When the speaking valve 10 is used, the first side 22 can be set at the distal end. When the speaking valve 10 is used, the second side 24 can be set at the proximal end. The insertion member 30 includes an insertion portion 32 and a threaded portion 36. The threaded portion 36 includes a thread 38 having a height 37 and a metric thread pitch 39 of approximately 0.75 times the height 37. In association with the second side 24, the insertion member 30 includes an insertion portion 32 that performs the function of a 15mm or 22mm connector. Through the insertion portion 32, the speaking valve 10 can be connected to a tracheostomy assist device not shown. A stopper 34 is arranged between the insertion portion 32 and the threaded portion 36, which limits the screwing of the cover member 50 onto the threaded portion 36 and the insertion of the insertion portion 32 into the tracheostomy assist device.

[0067] The insert part 30 comprises a filter recess 40 in which a filter 70 can be accommodated. The filter recess 40 is delimited towards the second side 24 by a breathing mask 42. The breathing mask 42 comprises a plurality of webs that prevent inhalation of the filter 70. In association with the first side 22, a shut-off device receptacle 44 is provided in the inner wall 43 delimiting the filter recess 40 and is configured as a circumferential cutout. The shut-off device 80 can be snapped into the shut-off device receptacle 44. To this end, the shut-off device comprises a convex edge 88 on the outer ring 82.

[0068] When the cover part 50 is screwed onto the insert part 30, the threaded portion 36 engages with the cap thread 58. By rotating the cover part 50 on the insert part 30, the distance of the valve seat 57 to the closure device 80 locked in the insert part 30 can thus be changed. As mentioned in the general overview, the threaded portion 36 and / or the cap thread 58 can include a stopper which limits the rotation of the cover part 50 on the insert part 30 and in particular prevents the cover part 50 from being accidentally separated from the insert part 30. Embodiments of the stopper are described above by way of example.

[0069] Figure 2 Show Figure 1 Detailed view of the closing device 80 of the present invention. The closing device 80 includes a first side 90 and a second side 92. When the speaking valve 10 is used, the first side 90 can be arranged at the distal end. When the speaking valve 10 is used, the second side 92 can be arranged at the proximal end. The closing device 80 includes an outer ring 82, which includes a circumferential flange 88 on its annular shell 86. A sealing device 94 is concentrically arranged in a middle position in the outer ring 82. The sealing device 94 is supported by four seats 100, 102, 104, 106, which are illustrated here. In further exemplary embodiments mentioned in the overall overview, more or fewer seats can also be provided, or the design of the seats can be different from Figure 2 The design shown in .

[0070] When the speaking valve 10 is in use, pressure is generated from the second side 92 when the user exhales, causing the sealing device 94 to move toward the first side 90. This displacement is greater when the user attempts to speak, because the exhalation pressure is naturally greater when speaking. When the cap member 50 is screwed onto the insert member 30 to the point where the sealing device 94 is in contact with the valve seat 57, the speaking valve 10 is closed and the exhaled air can flow through the user's throat or diverter valve so that the user can speak.

[0071] The proposed speaking valve 10 advantageously enables the user to free his hands when speaking. In addition, the user can comfortably adjust the speaking valve 10 and adjust the required exhalation pressure to start speaking according to the needs or current situation.

Claims

1. A speaking valve (10), comprising at least a housing (20) and a closing device (80), wherein the housing (20) comprises an insert part (30) and a cover part (50) with a breathing hole (56), wherein the cover part (50) can be arranged on the insert part (30), wherein the closing device (80) comprises an outer ring (82), a sealing device (94) and at least one seat frame (100, 102, 104, 106), wherein the sealing device (94) is attached to the outer ring (82) via the seat frame (100, 102, 104, 106), wherein the cover part (50) forms a valve seat (57) for abutting against the sealing device (94) and the breathing hole (56) is formed via the sealing device (94). The sealing device (94) is closed, the insert component (30) includes a threaded portion (36) having a thread (38) and the cover component (50) includes a cover thread (58), the thread (38) of the insert component (30) and the cover thread (58) are constructed to correspond to each other, the thread (38) and the cover thread (58) have 0.5±20% turns to 2±20% turns, the thread (38) and the cover thread (58) have a metric thread pitch (39) of 0.5±20% to 2±20% times the height (37) of the threaded portion (36), and the distance of the closing device (80) from the valve seat (57) can be changed by rotating the cover component (50) on the insert component (30).

2. The speaking valve (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The at least one mount (100, 102, 104, 106) is mesh-shaped.

3. The speaking valve (10) according to claim 2, characterized in that: The sealing device (94) is elastically mounted on the outer ring (82) via the mount (100, 102, 104, 106).

4. The speaking valve (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The closure device (80) can be arranged at least partially in a closure device receptacle (44) of at least a portion of the circumference of the housing (20).

5. The speaking valve (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that: A filter (70) is disposed in the insert component (30), wherein the insert component (30) comprises a filter lock for retaining the filter (70) in the insert component (30).

6. A method for adjusting the closing pressure of a speaking valve (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the speaking valve (10) comprises a housing (20) and a closing device (80), wherein the housing (20) comprises an insert part (30) and a cover part (50) having a breathing hole (56) and a valve seat (57), wherein the cover part (50) can be arranged on the insert part (30), wherein the closing device (80) comprises an outer ring (82), a sealing device (94) and at least one seat frame (100, 102, 104, 106), wherein the sealing device (94) is arranged on the outer ring (82) by the seat frame (100, 102, 104, 106), wherein the distance between the sealing device (94) and the valve seat (57) is changed by rotating the cover part (50) on the insert part (30).

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