Appliance for cleaning at least one milk channel of nipple shield milk measuring device

Abstract

The present application relates to an appliance for cleaning at least one milk channel of a teat shield milk measurement device having a narrow channel for delivering milk from the mother through a remote flow observation or measurement device and back to the teat tip of the infant. The appliance has an adapter that tapers externally to match an inner surface of the teat device and an axial bore that provides a fluid connection between an outer base region and a tip of the tapering adapter fitted into the teat device. The axial bore can receive a spray output opening of the piston device such that cleaning fluid from the piston device can be flushed through a milk passage of the teat shield device when the adapter is positioned within the teat shield device. Another embodiment of the adapter has an internal tapering shape such that it fits closely on the outer surface of the teat device protrusion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure describes technology related to the field of cleaning the inner bore of a laminar flow fluid delivery channel, and in particular, for cleaning the inner bore of a laminar flow fluid delivery channel of an infant feeding nipple. Background Art

[0002] It is well known that when feeding a baby it is important to keep all parts of their feeding equipment (e.g. bottles and teats) sterile to reduce the risk of infection. Before baby equipment can be sterilized they must be thoroughly cleaned to remove any remaining residue from previous feedings. Many parents breastfeed their babies and there are a range of devices that can help resolve any problems or difficulties that may arise from breastfeeding.

[0003] One such device is a nipple shield that provides the mother with real-time information about the flow of milk that the baby is drawing. Such a device directs the flow of milk from the mother's breast to the baby's mouth through a narrow channel that directs the milk to an area away from the nipple area itself where the flow of milk becomes visible and can be seen by the mother. One such device is shown in published international patent application WO 2022 / 175833, co-owned by the present applicant, entitled "Device for Flow Detection of Mothern's Milk." The publication shows two channels extending completely within the device, from the inside of the nipple shield tip through the display channel and to the outer surface of the nipple shield tip for consumption by the baby. Other embodiments show channels that direct milk to and from an open port where an external flow meter at the periphery of the device measures the flow. A further embodiment of such a long milk channel is shown in published international patent application WO 2023 / 194997, entitled “System for Electronic Measurement of Milk Imbibed by an Infant”, also commonly owned by the present applicant.

[0004] However, unless the nipple shield is disposable, which is not very favourable today due to the need to save the world's resources (including manufacturing resources), it is necessary to be able to thoroughly clean the entire shield between feeding stages to ensure that it is clean before sterilization so that it is safe for use by children. It is difficult to completely clean milk residue from the channels of such devices by conventional washing procedures because the channels are small, relatively long capillary-like tubes that cannot be opened for cleaning.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need to create a device that can effectively clean those narrow passages so that the nipple shield can be a reusable device that is safe for infants to use.

[0006] The disclosure of each publication mentioned in this section and other sections of this specification is incorporated herein by reference in its respective entirety. Utility Model Content

[0007] The present disclosure provides novel systems and methods that overcome at least some of the disadvantages of prior art systems and methods. The present disclosure provides a novel device and method capable of cleaning narrow passages, such as those found in nipple shield milk flow indicating devices, such as those described in WO 2022 / 175833 or WO 2023 / 194997 cited above.

[0008] The cleaning kit is designed to provide a strong flow of cleaning fluid that enters the holes on the inside of the nipple shield and exits from the holes on the outer surface of the nipple shield. The fluid should be a cleaning or disinfecting fluid, but can be any other fluid suitable for this purpose.

[0009] The cleaning adapter has a structure adapted to match the inner surface of the protruding nipple portion of the nipple shield flow indicating device and has a base surround and a tip. The base is adapted to abut against the base of the nipple shield flow meter device and determines the cone height so that when the cone is inserted upwardly into its base, the tip does not reach the feed holes in the tip so that they are not blocked by the intrusive cone device. The base surround also prevents the cleaning fluid from splashing back onto the user when the fluid is forced into the nipple shield.

[0010] The tapered structure (or conical structure) has a hollow central tube extending from the base of the tapered structure to the tip of the adapter and having two openings, one at the base surface and the other at the tip, at the other end of the tube. According to another embodiment, the cleaning adapter has a structure suitable for fitting on the outer surface of the nipple shield flow indicating device. Such a cleaning adapter will have an internal tapered structure (or conical structure) suitable for matching the outer surface shape of the nipple shield. This cleaning adapter also has a hollow central tube extending from the outer top end of the adapter to the apex of the internal tapered space (internal conical space) of the adapter. The terms "tapered" and "conical" or similar terms used in this application have similar meanings and can be used interchangeably.

[0011] Other embodiments show a cleaning adapter that can be used internally or externally by having two shaped nipple shield device interfaces (corresponding to the two ends of the nipple shield device, respectively), one of the interfaces having an external tapered shape (external cone) for insertion into the inner surface of the nipple shield device, and the other having an internal tapered structure (internal cone structure) that matches the shape of the outer surface of the nipple shield device and is used to fit on the outer surface of the nipple shield device.

[0012] In use, depending on the configuration of the cleaning adapter used, a piston device containing a cleaning solution is inserted into the central hole of the conical structure, and then the conical structure with the attached piston device is inserted into the internal space of the nipple shield structure so that the tip of the conical structure is close to but not blocking the hole of the nipple shield, or the conical structure is placed on the nipple structure. Once the conical structure is in place, the cleaning fluid is caused to flow through the narrow milk flow channel, thereby clearing any milk residue from the previous feeding stage. In this way, an effective cleaning procedure can be performed without the need for a brush or a probe, the use of which may damage the fragile nipple shield device, especially its milk channel. The cleaning adapter of the present application ensures cleaning of the entire milk channel area, including the entrance to the hole. When a piston device with a "needle" at the end is used, it may result in a situation where the milk channel area penetrated by the needle is not actually clean, and the fragile nipple shield device may be damaged.

[0013] Alternatively, the conical structure is first inserted into the interior space of the nipple structure or onto the outer surface of the nipple shield device, and then a piston device containing the cleaning fluid is attached to the central hole of the cleaning device.

[0014] Therefore, according to an exemplary embodiment of the device described in the present disclosure, there is provided an apparatus for cleaning at least one milk channel of a nipple shield milk measuring device, the at least one milk channel being connected to at least one milk flow hole provided on the inner surface of a protrusion of a nipple shield device, or to at least one milk flow hole provided on the outer surface of a protrusion of a nipple shield device, the apparatus comprising:

[0015] (i) an elongated adapter that tapers externally along at least a portion of its length from a wider base region to a narrower tip region, the outer surface of the tapered portion of the adapter having a shape adapted to match the inner surface of the nipple shield device, such that the adapter, when positioned within the nipple shield device, is adapted to inhibit leakage between the outer surface of the adapter and the inner surface of the nipple shield device, i.e., such that the adapter can be positioned within the nipple shield device without significant leakage between the outer surface of the adapter and the inner surface of the nipple shield device; and

[0016] (ii) an axial bore providing a fluid connection between the base region and the tip of the tapered adapter,

[0017] Wherein, the shape and length of the adapter are such that when fully inserted into the nipple shield device, a space is left between the tip of the elongated adapter and the at least one milk flow hole provided on the inner surface of the nipple shield device.

[0018] It should be understood that the term "leakage inhibition" as used and claimed in this application is understood in the context of home use of the device to mean the degree to which the adapter fits to the nipple shield so that no excessive leakage of cleaning fluid occurs which would cause inconvenience to the user, nor excessive leakage of cleaning fluid occurs which would excessively reduce the force with which the cleaning fluid flows within the passage to be cleaned. Thus, the fit of the adapter within or over the nipple device may be described as being configured to inhibit, but not necessarily completely prevent, leakage between the adapter and the nipple surface.

[0019] In this device, the elongated adapter may further include a surrounding flange located at a position at the base region to prevent any cleaning fluid leaking from between the outer surface of the adapter and the inner surface of the nipple shield device from spilling or splashing. In addition, the elongated adapter may further include a surrounding flange located at a position at the base region, which is configured to limit the extent to which the adapter enters the nipple shield device so that a space is left between the tip of the inserter and at least one milk flow hole provided on the inner surface of the nipple shield device. In the present application, there is no limitation on the shape of the space, as long as the following condition is met: the shape of the space enables the at least one milk flow hole facing the device to communicate with the axial hole through the space. In some embodiments, in the case of multiple milk flow holes, the at least one milk flow hole may also communicate with each other through the space. The space may have a certain volume to achieve the purpose, and the size of the volume is not limited, for example, it may be 0.1 ml to 2 ml.

[0020] According to another embodiment of the above-mentioned device, the axial hole can be sized so that it can receive the ejection output opening of the piston device, so that when the adapter is positioned in the nipple shield device, the cleaning fluid from the piston device can pass through at least one milk channel of the nipple shield device in a flushing manner. This embodiment can also include a Luer connection or a Luer lock connection at the base end of the axial hole, so that the piston device can be connected to the elongated adapter. Alternatively, the piston device can be part of the device. The device can include the piston device in an integral manner or a separate manner. The specific structure of the piston device of the present application is not limited, and can be a manual pump mechanism for providing cleaning fluid, or an electric pump mechanism for providing cleaning fluid. In a specific embodiment of the present application, the piston device can be a syringe. The term syringe is intended to describe a device that pushes a cleaning liquid (water or soapy water). It is impossible to use only a syringe without an adapter because each side of the nipple shield device (the side facing the mother and the side facing the baby) usually has multiple (for example, three) holes. The adapter ensures that the flow passes through the multiple holes and thus through the milk channel.

[0021] In any of the above appliances, preventing significant leakage between the outer surface of the adaptor and the inner surface of the nipple shield device ensures that pressure within the axial bore of the insert is maintained so that said cleaning fluid is forced through said at least one milk passage.

[0022] Finally, a device of any type described above is also proposed, wherein the elongated adapter may further comprise an elongated hollow portion formed in a base region of the adapter, the elongated hollow portion tapering along at least a portion of its length, an inner surface of the tapered portion of the elongated hollow portion having a shape adapted to match an outer surface of a nipple shield device, such that the elongated hollow portion of the adapter may be positioned on the nipple shield device without significant fluid leakage between the inner surface of the tapered elongated hollow portion and the outer surface of the nipple shield device.

[0023] According to another embodiment of the device of the present disclosure, there is also provided an apparatus for cleaning at least one milk channel of a nipple shield milk measuring device, wherein the at least one milk channel is connected to at least one milk flow hole provided on the inner surface of the protrusion of the nipple shield device, or connected to at least one milk flow hole provided on the outer surface of the protrusion of the nipple shield device, the apparatus comprising:

[0024] (i) an elongated adapter having a recessed portion having an inner tapered profile along at least a portion of its length from a wider base region to a narrower tip region, an inner surface of the tapered portion of the adapter having a shape adapted to match an outer surface of the nipple shield device such that the adapter, when mounted on the nipple shield device, is adapted to inhibit leakage between the inner surface of the adapter and the outer surface of the nipple shield device; and

[0025] (ii) an axial bore providing a fluid connection between the tip region of the recess and the outer tip of the elongate adapter,

[0026] The shape and length of the recess of the elongated adapter are such that when fully mounted on the nipple shield device, a space is left between the at least one milk flow hole provided on the outer surface of the nipple shield device and the narrower tip area of ​​the recess of the adapter. In the present application, there is no restriction on the shape of the space, as long as the following conditions are met: the shape of the space is such that the at least one milk flow hole facing the device is connected to the axial hole through the space. In some embodiments, in the case of multiple milk flow holes, the at least one milk flow hole can also be connected to each other through the space. The space can have a certain volume to achieve the purpose, and the size of the volume is not limited, for example, it can be 0.1ml to 2ml.

[0027] According to a further embodiment of the last-described device, the axial hole may be dimensioned such that it can receive a spray output opening of the piston device, such that when the adapter is positioned over the nipple guard, cleaning fluid from the piston device can be flushed through at least one milk channel of the nipple guard. In such an embodiment, the piston device may be an integral part of the device, i.e. the device comprises the piston device.

[0028] According to an exemplary embodiment of the method described in the present disclosure, there is also provided a method for cleaning at least one milk channel of a nipple shield milk measuring device, at least one of the milk channels being connected to at least one milk flow hole provided on an inner surface of the nipple shield device, or to at least one milk flow hole provided on an outer surface of the nipple shield device, the method comprising:

[0029] (i) inserting a cleaning adapter into the interior space of the nipple shield device, the cleaning adapter comprising:

[0030] (a) a shaped outer surface adapted to fit closely into the interior space of the nipple shield device;

[0031] (b) an axial bore from its outer end to a tip thereof, the tip being adapted to be located at an inner end region of a nipple shield device; and

[0032] (c) a base flange adapted to position the cleaning adapter in an axial position such that a tip of the cleaning adapter is located a predetermined distance from an inner surface of the nipple shield device;

[0033] (ii) inserting a piston assembly containing a cleaning fluid into the outer end of the axial bore of the cleaning adapter; and

[0034] (iii) activating the piston device to inject the cleaning fluid flow under pressure into the at least one milk channel. The predetermined distance is not particularly limited, and can be, for example, 1 mm to 3 mm.

[0035] In this approach, the tip of the cleaning adapter may have a flat shape.

[0036] Finally, any of the above methods may include the additional step of connecting a fluid bridging connector to a distal end of a milk passageway connected to at least one milk flow hole provided on an inner surface of the nipple shield device and to a distal end of a milk passageway connected to at least one milk flow hole provided on an outer surface of the nipple shield device, such that injecting a flow of cleaning fluid under pressure generates a flow of fluid through both milk passageways.

[0037] It should be noted that although the nipple shield device described in the above-referenced WO 2022 / 175833 prior art publication can be used to indicate milk flow or measure milk flow, or use Figure 2 In the present invention, and other milk-related measuring instruments, for the sake of simplifying the naming, these devices are generally referred to as nipple shield milk flow devices or milk measurement devices, or similar terms throughout the present disclosure. However, it should be understood that the naming is intended to cover any other functional uses of such devices.

[0038] Furthermore, since the protrusion at the centre of the nipple shield milk flow device having the shape and function of a nipple shield is the main feature of the device, references to the “inner surface” or “outer surface” or “inserted into” or “mounted thereon” or similar terms of the nipple shield milk flow device should be understood to relate to said protrusion of the device itself. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0039] The present invention will be more fully understood and appreciated through the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0040] Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view showing a first embodiment of a prior art milk flow indicating device;

[0041] Figure 2 An isometric schematic diagram showing a second embodiment of a prior art milk flow indicating device;

[0042] Figure 3A is designed to be used with nipple shield milk measuring devices such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 Schematic diagram of a cleaning adapter for use with those shown in ;

[0043] Figure 3B is a scaled cross-sectional view of a cleaning adapter showing typical dimensions and features;

[0044] Figure 3C yes Figure 3A and Figure 3B an image of a cleaning adapter in use with the piston assembly attached to the cleaning adapter;

[0045] Figure 4A Another cleaning adapter designed to fit onto the outer surface of a nipple shield device is shown;

[0046] Figure 4B Shows Figure 4A An isometric cross-sectional view of a cleaning adapter;

[0047] Figure 4C It is installed on the nipple shield device Figure 4A and 4B A schematic cross-sectional view of an external cleaning adapter;

[0048] Figure 5A is attached to Figure 4C A schematic diagram of a piston arrangement of a cleaning adapter for mounting on the outside of a shielded connector;

[0049] Figure 5B is attached to Figure 4C A schematic diagram of a piston arrangement of a cleaning adapter for mounting on the outside of a shielded connector;

[0050] Figure 6 is an isometric skeleton diagram of another cleaning adapter designed to be used with a nipple shield, e.g. Figure 1 and Figure 2 those shown in ;

[0051] Figure 7 Yes Figure 6 Schematic diagrams of cleaning adapters shown being used in different C-shaped configurations;

[0052] Figure 8 is and Figure 2 An isometric view of another cleaning adapter for use with the nipple shield shown; and

[0053] Fig. 9 It is shown how the piston device and adapter of the present application can clean the inner bore of a narrow and convoluted milk flow channel. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0054] First reference Figure 1 , which shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of a prior art milk flow indicating device 10 as shown in the above-mentioned international patent application WO 2022 / 175833. Milk flows from the mother's breast 12 into the inner volume 14 of the nipple shield device 10, the limit mark for the nipple projection of the baby is marked at 18, and flows through a long and narrow indicator channel 15 to an outlet hole 17 in the tip 13 of the device, from which the baby can suck milk through his lips 19. Figure 1 As can be seen in Figure 1, effective cleaning of the long, narrow tube 15 is a difficult task.

[0055] Reference now Figure 2 , which shows an isometric schematic diagram of a second embodiment of a prior art milk measuring device as shown in the above-mentioned international patent application WO 2022 / 175833. The milk measuring device 70 is Figure 1 The milk measuring device shown differs in that the milk measurement is performed by an external replaceable measuring unit which is connected to the nipple shield device at a fluid dual connector 78. Starting from the tip of the nipple shield protrusion 71, milk flows from the internal volume of the nipple shield protrusion via one or more outlet holes 74 through a channel 72 to an output fluid connection port 76 where the milk is input to the external measuring unit from which the milk flows through an input fluid connection port 77, a return channel 73 and out of the tip of the nipple shield protrusion 71 via a supply hole 75 to a baby sucking on the device. The external measuring unit may be any one of a number of modules for measuring flow, total supply, milk analysis or any other function as described in WO 2022 / 175833 and WO 2023 / 1949997 cited above. Figure 1 The same as the example, Figure 2 The device of also has a long and narrow milk flow path, but differs in that the ends of the milk output channel 72 and the milk input channel 73 are open at the fluid connection port 76 so that a single flow cannot be used to clean both channels.

[0056] Reference now Figure 3A , which shows a schematic diagram of a cleaning adapter designed to be used with a nipple shield milk flow device, e.g. Figure 1 or Figure 2As shown, the cleaning adapter 30 is generally tapered so as to fit within the nipple shield protrusion so that a flow of cleaning liquid under positive pressure can pass through the cleaning adapter 30 and into the milk flow channel in the nipple shield flow device to clean the milk flow channel. However, any other shape that can fit tightly or snugly inside the nipple shield to provide a sealed internal volume that will prevent significant leakage of the cleaning fluid under internal pressure may also be used.

[0057] The cleaning adapter 30 has a base flange or surround 31 which defines the axial position of the cleaning adapter when inserted into the flow measurement device. At the opposite end of the cleaning adapter is a tip which may advantageously have a flat platform-like profile 32. Extending axially through the length of the cleaning adapter is an aperture 33 which is adapted to convey cleaning fluid from the base region to the tip region 32 where it can be forced into the milk passage through apertures on the inner surface of the nipple shield milk flow device which are located at the base of the nipple shield. Figure 1 and Figure 2 In use, the cleaning fluid will be injected into the axial hole 33 through the piston device, which will Figure 3C , and the piston arrangement can apply a small positive pressure to the cleaning fluid to force it through the milk flow channel.

[0058] This method of use now explains the function of the base flange 31, and of the optional but advantageous flat tip surface 32 of the cleaning adapter. In order to ensure that there is a clear path for the cleaning fluid to enter the one or more inlet holes of the milk passage from the axial hole, it is important that the tip of the cleaning adapter does not come into contact with the hole itself, which would cause an obstruction or even blockage to the flow of the cleaning fluid from the axial hole into the milk passage. In order to avoid this, the base flange seats against a reference surface in the bottom area of ​​the nipple shield device, and the known length of the cleaning adapter thereby precisely defines the axial position of the top surface of the cleaning adapter relative to the inner top surface of the nipple device, which inner top surface should be a small distance from the milk outlet hole. The flat tip also participates in the task of maintaining a free space at the tip of the cleaning adapter to achieve a free flow of the cleaning fluid by maintaining a free space between the flat tip surface 32 and the rounded inner surface of the teat device.

[0059] The base flange also has a secondary purpose of preventing cleaning fluid from escaping around the edge of the tapered insert if the base flange does not form a good seal with the internal volume of the nipple shield device.

[0060] Reference now Figure 3B , Figure 3B is a cross-sectional view of a cleaning adapter showing typical dimensions and features. Numbered features are Figure 3AThe Luer connector is identical to those shown in , except that a Luer connection flange 34 is added at the bottom end of the axial bore 33 so that a piston device containing a cleaning fluid can be locked in place to the cleaning adapter. The Luer connector may alternatively be of non-lockable form.

[0061] Reference now Figure 3C , which is an image of a complete teat cleaning kit (nipple cleaning kit) in use, showing how the piston device 35 is attached to the cleaning adapter 30. The piston device should have an injection end that matches the inner contour of the axial hole 33 of the cleaning adapter 30. A soft rubber or polymer end can be used to ensure a leak-proof connection. Alternatively, the piston device 35 can be combined with the cleaning adapter 30 as a single piece.

[0062] The cleaning adapter 30 is inserted into a nipple shield milk flow device (eg Figure 1 or Figure 2 ) or another type of nipple shield flow meter device, and a piston device 35 filled with a cleaning solution is attached to the cleaning adapter 30 by inserting the tip of the piston device 36 into the lower end of the axial bore 33 of the cleaning adapter. When the piston device plunger 37 is actuated, the cleaning fluid is forced under pressure through the axial bore 33 of the cleaning adapter 30 and Figure 1 In the case of the prior art embodiment, the milk flow path is cleaned through the holes 16 on the inner surface of the nipple shield, then through the entire length of the milk flow path 15 and out of the holes 17 on the outer surface of the nipple shield.

[0063] Reference now Figure 4A , which shows a design that is compatible with Figure 1 and Figure 2 Another cleaning adapter 40 for use with the nipple shield milk flow device shown. Figure 3A and 3B Different cleaning adapters are available. Figure 3A and 3B In the embodiment of the present invention, the cleaning adapter 40 is designed to fit over the outer surface of the nipple shield device. In order to ensure that the seal is as leak-proof as possible, the cleaning adapter 40 has a hollow inner base section which will be Figure 4B The hollow inner base section is shaped so that it can fit tightly on the outer surface of the nipple structure. The hole 43 extends axially through the length of the cleaning adapter 40, and the piston device (such as Figure 3C A piston arrangement (shown in Figure 4) can be attached to the end of the aperture 43 to inject cleaning fluid from the tip region of the cleaning adapter to the base region where the cleaning fluid can be forced into the milk passage through the apertures on the outer surface of the nipple shield milk flow device which are located at the base region. Figure 1 and Figure 2 Shown in.

[0064] Reference now Figure 4B , which shows Figure 4A 4 is an isometric cross-sectional view of a cleaning adapter 40, showing an internal hollow portion 41 shaped to fit closely over the outer surface contour of a nipple shield device with which it is used. The cleaning adapter 40 is configured so that when mounted on a nipple shield, the inner surface of the adapter does not block the aperture of the nipple shield, for example by designing the length and shape of the conical internal hollow portion 41 so that when it is securely positioned on a nipple shield device, a space remains between the tip of the nipple shield device and the top surface 44 of the hollow interior space 41. Alternatively or additionally, the hollow interior space 41 measured from a base surface 42 for resting on a surrounding portion of the nipple shield device to the top surface 44 of the hollow interior space 41 can be made longer than the length of a protrusion of the nipple shield device into which the hollow interior space 41 is intended to be mounted.

[0065] Reference now Figure 4C , Figure 4C yes Figure 4A and 4B Schematic cross-section of an external cleaning adapter 40 mounted on a nipple shield device 46, ready to perform a cleaning action on the milk hole 45 and its associated milk flow duct by means of a fluid injected into the central hole 43 by a piston device. Figure 4C For simplicity in the drawings, the hole 45 is shown as passing through the interior space of the nipple shield device, but in reality, for Figure 1 and Figure 2 For nipple shield devices that are connected to long and narrow milk passages, the cleaning adapter described herein is advantageously contemplated for cleaning the milk passages. Figure 4C It is clearly shown how the seal between the nipple shield device and the inner hollow portion is achieved by making the bevel of the inner tapered surface 47 to match the shape of the outer surface of the nipple shield device, so that a tight fit is obtained.

[0066] Now return to reference Figure 4A , 4B and 4C, and according to another embodiment of the cleaning adapter of the present disclosure, they can be configured so that a single adapter can be used to clean from the interior space of a nipple shield milk flow device, such as Figure 3A and 3B as shown, or clean from the outside of the nipple shield milk flow mechanism, as shown FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C By noting that Figures 4A to 4C In the adapter shown, the upper outer end of the adapter has been formed with a conical outer surface 48, which can be used as a mating surface for an internal cleaning adapter, e.g. Figure 3A and3B Those shown, the dual purpose adapter can be understood.

[0067] This dual-purpose cleaning adapter can be used to clean e.g. Figure 2 1. The milk channels of a nipple shield milk flow device shown. In such a nipple shield device there are separate milk channels to and from the periphery of the device, one 72 from the mother, from a hole leading to the inner surface of the nipple device protrusion, and another 73 to the baby, leading to a supply hole 75 in the outer surface of the nipple device. As long as the peripheral ends of the milk channels are not connected, their cleaning must be done from both the inside and the outside of the nipple shield device. Therefore, the cleaning adapter 40 must be used twice, in a position inside the inner surface of the nipple shield allowing cleaning of the milk flow channels 72 and in a second position on the outer surface of the nipple shield allowing cleaning of the milk flow channels 73.

[0068] Reference now Figure 5A and 5B , which shows that the piston device 35 can be connected to Figures 4A to 4C The dual-purpose cleaning adapter 40 is available. Figure 5A In FIG. 1 , a piston device is shown attached to the outer end of a dual-purpose cleaning adapter so that the adapter can be fitted over the outer surface of the teat of a nipple shield device to clean the milk passage leading to the baby's feeding hole. Figure 5B As shown, the piston device is shown attached to the other end of the dual-purpose cleaning adapter so that it can be inserted into the internal tapered hollow portion for cleaning the milk channel used to transfer milk from the mother.

[0069] Reference now Figure 6 and Figure 7 , which shows FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C How can the dual-use cleaning adapter be used to clean a nipple shield milk flow device 70 having two separate milk flow channels, such as Figure 2 A nipple shield milk flow device 70 is shown. Figure 6 A cleaning adapter 40 is shown mounted on the outside of a nipple shield device 70 for cleaning the milk passages to the baby that terminate on the outer surface of the device. Figure 7 A cleaning adapter 40 is shown mounted on the inside of a nipple shield device 70 for cleaning the milk passage from the mother starting from the inside surface of the device.

[0070] Reference now Figure 8 , which shows the cleaning Figure 2 Another method of cleaning the milk passages of a nipple shield device is described which differs from the method shown above in that both milk passages are cleaned simultaneously. Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of an adapter accessory 80 that can be used for this purpose. The adapter accessory 80 is designed to connect to Figure 2The adapter attachment 80 has a bifurcated channel structure, wherein the bifurcated single input portion 81 is adapted to enable a piston device containing a cleaning fluid to be attached. The two output lines of the junction 82, 83 are lines connected to the fluid connection ports 76, 77 of the nipple shield device. Once the adapter attachment 80 and the piston device are in place, the ejection of the cleaning fluid from the piston device causes the cleaning fluid to flow through the nipple shield device simultaneously. Figure 2 The nipple shield device has two milk channels 72, 73, the cleaning fluid passing through the milk flow channel 72 leaves the channel at the hole 74 located on the inner surface of the nipple shield, and the cleaning fluid passing through the milk flow channel 73 leaves the channel at the hole 75 located on the outer surface of the nipple shield.

[0071] According to another method of cleaning the two milk channels 72, 73, in one procedure, you can also use Figures 3A to 3C Internal cleaning adapter or Figures 4A to 4C An external or dual-use cleaning adapter of the type shown flushes cleaning fluid down one of the milk passages 72, 73, with a bridging connector (not shown) attached to the output ports 76, 77 so that the cleaning fluid exits from one port, passes through the bridging connection passage, and re-enters the second port to flush out the second of the milk passages. The bridging connector looks exactly like Figure 8 The adapter attachment 80 is different in that the lines 82 and 83 are simply connected together in contact as a fluid connection path without any intersection points attached thereto.

[0072] Alternatively, the cleaning procedure may be performed with the pressure measuring module still attached to the nipple guard, but this may not be recommended in the event that the cleaning fluid affects any sensors in the flow path within the measuring module.

[0073] As already shown with respect to cleaning adapter 30 and with respect to cleaning adapter 40 and adapter attachment 80 , piston arrangement 35 may be a separate component of the cleaning kit or it may be incorporated as a single piece with any cleaning adapter or attachment ( 30 , 40 or 80 ).

[0074] Final Reference Fig. 9 , Fig. 9 The diagram shows how the piston assembly 35 and the cleaning adapter 40 can be used to force a cleaning fluid through the long and narrow annular milk passage 71 of the nipple assembly 70, such as Figure 1 As shown in the embodiments of the present invention, it would otherwise be difficult to clean by prior art methods.

[0075] Exemplary embodiments are provided so that the present disclosure will be thorough and the scope will be fully conveyed to those skilled in the art. Many specific details, such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not be adopted, and the exemplary embodiments may be embodied in many different forms, and none of them should be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited by the contents specifically shown and described above. On the contrary, the scope of the present invention includes combinations and sub-combinations of the various features described above and variations and modifications thereto that would occur to those skilled in the art when reading the above description and that are not in the prior art.

Claims

1. An appliance for cleaning at least one milk channel of a nipple shield milk measuring device, wherein the at least one milk channel is connected to at least one milk flow hole arranged on the inner surface of the protrusion of the nipple shield, or to at least one milk flow hole arranged on the outer surface of the protrusion of the nipple shield, characterized in that The apparatus comprises: an elongated adapter that tapers externally along at least a portion of its length from a wider base region to a narrower tip region, an outer surface of the tapered portion of the adapter having a shape adapted to match an inner surface of the nipple shield such that the adapter, when positioned within the nipple shield, is adapted to inhibit leakage between the outer surface of the adapter and the inner surface of the nipple shield; and an axial bore providing a fluid connection between the base region and the tip of the elongated adapter, The shape and length of the adapter are such that when fully inserted into the nipple shield, a space is left between the tip of the elongated adapter and the at least one milk flow hole provided on the inner surface of the nipple shield.

2. The device for cleaning at least one milk channel of a nipple shield milk measuring device according to claim 1, characterized in that The elongate adapter also includes a surrounding flange located at the base region to prevent splashing of any cleaning fluid that leaks from between the outer surface of the adapter and the inner surface of the nipple shield.

3. The device for cleaning at least one milk channel of a nipple milk measuring device according to claim 1, characterized in that The elongated adapter further comprises a surrounding flange located in a position at the base region, the surrounding flange being configured to limit the extent to which the adapter enters the nipple shield such that a space is left between the tip of the adapter and the at least one milk flow hole provided on the inner surface of the nipple shield.

4. The device for cleaning at least one milk channel of a nipple milk measuring device according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that The axial bore is dimensioned to receive a spray output opening of a piston device such that when the adapter is positioned within the nipple shield, cleaning fluid from the piston device can be flushed through at least one milk passage of the nipple shield.

5. The device for cleaning at least one milk channel of a nipple milk measuring device according to claim 4, characterized in that Also included is a Luer connection or Luer lock connection at the proximal end of the axial bore so that a piston device can be connected to the elongated adapter.

6. The device for cleaning at least one milk channel of a nipple milk measuring device according to claim 4, characterized in that The piston arrangement is part of the apparatus, ie the apparatus comprises the piston arrangement.

7. The device for cleaning at least one milk passage of a nipple shield milk measuring device according to claim 1, characterized in that Inhibiting leakage between the outer surface of the adapter and the inner surface of the nipple shield ensures that pressure within the axial bore of the adapter is maintained so that cleaning fluid is forced through the at least one milk passageway.

8. The device for cleaning at least one milk passage of a nipple milk measuring device according to claim 1, characterized in that The elongated adapter further comprises an elongated hollow portion formed in a base region of the adapter, the elongated hollow portion being tapered along at least a portion of its length, an inner surface of the tapered portion of the elongated hollow portion having a shape adapted to match an outer surface of the nipple shield, such that the elongated hollow portion of the adapter may be positioned on the nipple shield without significant fluid leakage between the inner surface of the tapered elongated hollow portion and the outer surface of the nipple shield.

9. An appliance for cleaning at least one milk channel of a nipple shield milk measuring device, wherein the at least one milk channel is connected to at least one milk flow hole arranged on the inner surface of the protrusion of the nipple shield, or to at least one milk flow hole arranged on the outer surface of the protrusion of the nipple shield, characterized in that The apparatus comprises: an elongated adapter having a recessed portion having an inner tapered profile along at least a portion of its length from a wider base region to a narrower tip region, an inner surface of the tapered portion of the adapter having a shape adapted to match an outer surface of the nipple shield such that the adapter, when mounted on the nipple shield, is adapted to inhibit leakage between the inner surface of the adapter and the outer surface of the nipple shield; and an axial bore providing a fluid connection between the tip region of the recess and the outer tip of the elongated adapter, The shape and length of the elongated adapter is such that when fully mounted on the nipple shield, space is left between the at least one milk flow hole provided on the outer surface of the nipple shield and the narrower tip region of the recess of the adapter.

10. The device for cleaning at least one milk passage of a nipple milk measuring device according to claim 9, characterized in that The axial bore is dimensioned to receive a spray output opening of a piston device such that cleaning fluid from the piston device can flush through at least one milk passage of the nipple shield when the adapter is positioned over the nipple shield.

11. The device for cleaning at least one milk passage of a nipple milk measuring device according to claim 10, characterized in that The piston arrangement is part of the apparatus, ie the apparatus comprises the piston arrangement.

12. The device for cleaning at least one milk channel of a nipple milk measuring device according to claim 1 or 9, characterized in that The tip of the elongated adapter has a flat shape.

13. The device for cleaning at least one milk channel of a nipple milk measuring device according to claim 1 or 9, characterized in that Also included is a fluid bridging connector for connecting the fluid bridging connector to a distal end of a milk channel connected to at least one milk flow hole provided on the inner surface of the nipple shield and to a distal end of a milk channel connected to at least one milk flow hole provided on the outer surface of the nipple shield, so that injecting a flow of cleaning fluid under pressure generates a fluid flow through the two milk channels.

14. The device for cleaning at least one milk channel of a nipple milk measuring device according to claim 1 or 9, characterized in that The volume of the space is 0.1 ml to 2 ml.

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