Container for receiving milk extruded by matter and milk extrusion device

Abstract

One or more embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a container for receiving milk extruded by a mother and a milk extrusion device. A container (102) for receiving milk (104) extruded by a mother is provided. The container is at least partially delimited by a wall comprising a visually transmissive wall (106). The visually transmissive wall is arranged within the mother's line of sight when the container is worn by the mother. A uniform extension of at least one surface of the cutout wall in the one or more discontinuities. The one or more discontinuities are integral with the wall and are disposed at one or more defined heights relative to a milk support base of the container to indicate a fill level when the container is worn by a mother's visual inspection of the one or more discontinuities and milk received in the container. A milk extrusion device (100) comprising the container is also provided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The utility model relates to a container which can visually estimate how much expressed breast milk is received in the container and also relates to a milk expressing device comprising the container. Background Art

[0002] Breastfeeding women use a breast pump and a breast collection device to extract milk so that the milk can be fed to the baby later.

[0003] With a breast pump, the breast is typically placed in a funnel-shaped cup and a vacuum is applied to extract the milk. Electric breast pumps typically have two modes of operation, a stimulation mode and an extraction mode. During the stimulation mode, the milk ejection reflex is stimulated. When the breast pump is activated, a pressure source inside the breast pump (e.g., a vacuum pump) creates a vacuum, and the stimulation mode can begin. The vacuum pump is typically driven by a motor. For portable breast pumps, these motors are driven by battery power. The cyclically applied vacuum causes the breast milk to be ejected from the nipple of the breast. The milk is then collected in a funnel-shaped cup. Gravity typically causes the milk to move further toward a tube connected to a milk collection container.

[0004] There are also breast pumps that use two compression kits (or cups) that are designed to be worn under a bra and connected to the pump. Such pumps can be worn on a belt of the user, for example.

[0005] In addition, there are wearable breast pumps that can be worn completely on the mother's body, allowing the mother to move around freely. Some of these are small enough to fit into the mother's bra. The motor, battery and milk container are integrated to form a single unit, for example.

[0006] There is also a class of cups that are worn under a bra, to which no cyclically applied vacuum is applied. These devices consist, for example, of a simple cup placed on a breast to collect milk from it, for example by a breast pump acting on the other breast, or they consist of a cup that provides a constant vacuum, for example by being made at least partially of compressible rubber; when the cup is applied to a breast, the compression creates the vacuum.

[0007] US2018 / 361040A1 discloses a wearable breast pump system comprising a housing shaped to at least partially fit inside a bra, and a piezoelectric air pump.

[0008] US 6,213,840 B1 discloses a hands-free breast pump supporting bra and system.

[0009] WO 2021 / 191637A1 discloses a wearable breast pump system. Utility Model Content

[0010] While such containers may have advantages, such as facilitating the mother's movement during expression, disadvantages have been identified associated with monitoring the milk filling of these containers while they are worn by the expressing mother.

[0011] Typically, mothers rely on fill level markings provided on the side of the container. However, such side-located fill level markings may be obscured by the mother's bra receiving the container. The mother often needs to stop expressing milk and remove the container from her breast, which may involve removing the container from her bra to check the amount of milk expressed with reference to the side-located fill level markings. Such interruptions to milk expression are undesirable. Obviously, the fill level may be indicated in different ways, such as relative to the level of the milk support base, volume, percentage of the total capacity of the container, or full / not full indication.

[0012] Fill level measuring sensors can be used to inform the mother how much milk has been expressed, for example using wireless data transmission from the sensor via the mother's smartphone. However, this method is relatively expensive, especially compared to visually estimating the milk fill level using fill level markings provided on the side of the container.

[0013] The utility model is defined by the claims.

[0014] According to an example according to the first aspect of the invention, there is provided a container for receiving milk expressed by a mother, the container being at least partially delimited by a wall comprising a visually transmissive wall arranged to be within the mother's sight when the container is worn by the mother, wherein one or more discontinuities interrupt the uniform extension of at least one surface of the wall, the one or more discontinuities being integral with the wall and being arranged at one or more defined heights relative to a milk supporting base of the container to indicate the fill level by visual inspection of the one or more discontinuities and the milk received in the container by the mother when the container is worn.

[0015] According to an embodiment according to the second aspect of the invention, there is provided a container for receiving milk expressed by a mother, the container being at least partially defined by a visually transmissive wall arranged to be within the mother's line of sight when the container is worn by the mother, wherein at least one structural element of the container is arranged to indicate a milk fill level by visual inspection of the at least one structural element and milk received in the container by the mother when wearing the container via an elevation of the at least one structural element relative to a milk supporting base of the container.

[0016] The term "within the mother's line of sight" means that the visually transmissive wall is visible during use of the container from the same or similar vantage point as the user of the container, such as between the mother's body and the neckline of one or more articles of clothing (e.g., a bra, dress, and / or top) in which the container is received when the container is worn to enable visual inspection by the mother.

[0017] Note that this visual inspection is performed from above the container when it is worn by the mother.

[0018] The term "within the mother's line of sight" refers to a direct line of sight to the vision-transmissive wall, in other words no optics, such as mirrors, are needed to enable the mother to view the vision-transmissive wall and perform a visual inspection, for example when she is wearing the container.

[0019] Due to the arrangement of visually transmissive walls and structural elements, the container enables the mother to estimate the fill level by visually inspecting the container while she is wearing it.

[0020] Similarly, and with respect to the first aspect, due to the arrangement of the visually transmissive walls and discontinuities, the container enables the mother to estimate the fill level by visually inspecting the container while she is wearing it.

[0021] Thus, she is able to monitor how much milk has been received in the container during expression without having to pause expression and remove the container from her breast in order to estimate the fill level, for example by checking fill level markings provided on the side wall of the container, which is out of the mother's sight when wearing the container. The present disclosure also serves to eliminate solutions based on costly fill level measurement sensors.

[0022] The at least one surface of the wall whose uniform extension is interrupted by one or more discontinuities may comprise an outer surface of the wall which cannot be contacted by milk received in the container. Alternatively or additionally, the at least one surface of the wall whose uniform extension is interrupted by one or more discontinuities may comprise an inner surface of the wall which can be contacted by milk received in the container.

[0023] The at least one structural element may generally be considered to be at least disposed within the container.

[0024] Note that the term "container-shaped element" may, for example, be used as an alternative to the term "structural element".

[0025] The term "elevation relative to the milk supporting base of the container" refers to the height of the structural element relative to the milk supporting base which provides a reference to which the level of milk received in the container can be visually compared in order to indicate the fill level to the mother.

[0026] The one or more discontinuities may be visible to the mother looking through the vision transmissive wall.

[0027] At least one structural element is visible to the mother by viewing through the visually transmissive wall.

[0028] Implicit in the visually transmissive wall is that the container is wearable, for example positionable in a mother's bra, oriented so that the mother can visually inspect the discontinuity (or at least one structural element) and the milk received in the container through the visually transmissive wall. In an embodiment, this means that at least a portion of either or both of the visually transmissive wall and the discontinuity or structural element is not parallel to the mother's line of sight during visual inspection of the fill level of the container during use of the container.

[0029] The term "visually transmissive" as used herein may mean that light is transmissive through the relevant component to enable visual inspection. Thus, the term includes transparent, such as "clear" components, but also includes translucent components whose visual transmittance allows visual inspection.

[0030] With regard to the first aspect, the one or more interruptions may comprise a visually transmissive element through which milk received in the container may be seen.

[0031] Similarly, and with respect to the second aspect, the at least one structural element may comprise (eg may be defined by) a visually transmissive element through which milk received in the container may be viewed.

[0032] Thus, the mother may be allowed to observe the milk received in the container through the visually transmissive element to perform a visual inspection.

[0033] With respect to the first aspect, the surface of one or more discontinuities (eg each discontinuity) may be contactable with milk when sufficient milk is received in the container to reach the surface.

[0034] Similarly, each of the at least one structural element may have a surface capable of contacting milk when sufficient milk is received in the container to reach that surface.

[0035] In such embodiments, the visual inspection may include assessing whether milk is contacting the surface, or which portion of the surface is contacted by milk.

[0036] In some embodiments, the surface is comprised in the visually transmissive element.

[0037] In such an embodiment, the visually transmissive element may be configured such that light transmitted through the visually transmissive wall is reflected at the interface between the surface and air, but is refracted at the interface between the surface and latex in contact with the surface.

[0038] Different reflection / refraction behaviors depending on whether milk contacts a surface, such as those described above, may help the mother visually discern whether milk contacts a surface, or which portion of a surface the milk contacts.

[0039] The refractive index of the visually transmissive element, for example made of a suitable visually transmissive plastic material, may be chosen to match breast milk closely enough so that light is refracted at the surface-milk interface.

[0040] In some embodiments the surface is arranged at a single height relative to the milk supporting base of the container, in other words horizontally.

[0041] In such an embodiment, a relatively simple visual estimation of the fill level may be achieved, corresponding to a yes / no assessment whether the milk has reached the height / level of the surface.

[0042] In other embodiments, the surface comprises surface portions arranged at different heights of the container, in other words at heights / levels above the milk supporting base, indicating different filling levels of milk received in the container. This facilitates a more detailed monitoring / tracking of the filling of the container with milk.

[0043] In some embodiments, the surface comprises a continuously sloping surface along which the surface portion is arranged.Such a continuously sloping surface can provide a continuous measurement of the fill level.

[0044] Alternatively, the surface may comprise a stepped surface comprising one or more ascending portions arranged between consecutive surface portions.Such a stepped surface may help to make the visual inspection / fill level estimation relatively robust with respect to tilting of the container.

[0045] Note that the surface portions and the rising portions can be visually distinguished from each other with the naked eye. Therefore, in these embodiments, due to the large number of possible surface portions and rising portions, the stepped surface cannot effectively constitute a surface of a continuous slope.

[0046] In some embodiments, the at least one structural element (eg, each of the at least one structural element) is removable from the container. Such removability of the structural element from the container may make the container and the structural element easier to clean and sterilize.

[0047] In some embodiments, the visually transmissive element is removable from the container.

[0048] In some embodiments, the one or more structural elements are integrated in a wall of the container, for example together with the visually transmissive wall.

[0049] In such an embodiment, no additional manufacturing steps are required to provide the structural element, as the structural element is manufactured, eg moulded, together with the rest of the container.

[0050] Thus, the assembly time may be reduced, for example relative to the case where the structural element is a different component of the container wall.

[0051] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the one or more structural elements is comprised in the visually transmissive wall.This may provide a relatively straightforward way of arranging structural elements.

[0052] With respect to the first aspect, the one or more interruptions are integral with the visually transmissive wall.

[0053] In some embodiments, the one or more interruptions comprise a ledge portion of the wall. In some embodiments, the one or more interruptions comprise a ledge portion of the visually transmissive wall.

[0054] Such ledge portions may be provided at one or more defined heights relative to the milk support base.

[0055] Such ledge portions may be on the inside of the container and / or on the outside of the container.

[0056] In some embodiments, the at least one structural element comprises a ledge portion of the visually transmissive wall. It is reiterated that such a ledge portion may be provided at one or more defined heights relative to the milk support base. Such a ledge portion may be internal to the container. Such a ledge portion may be external to the container.

[0057] Milk observed by the mother to be aligned with (eg, in contact with) the ledge portion may be indicative of a given fill level received in the container.

[0058] As an alternative or in addition to the ledge portion of the visually transmissive wall, the outer surface of the container may have one or more recessed portions, each recessed portion corresponding to a raised portion of the inner surface of the container, the raised portion being included in the discontinuity or in at least one structural element.

[0059] In such an embodiment, the recessed portion may assist the mother in gripping the container, while the corresponding raised portion on the inner surface of the container may enable the mother to determine the fill level by visually inspecting the raised portion and milk received in the container through the visually transmissive wall.

[0060] As an alternative or in addition to ledge portions and / or recessed / protruding portions, the interruption or at least one structural element may comprise one or more outwardly projecting portions of the outer surface of the container, each outwardly projecting portion corresponding to a recess in the inner surface of the container in which milk may be received.

[0061] In such an embodiment, the outward projection can help position and / or orient the container when the container is worn by the mother. For example, the outward projection can help the mother position and / or orient the container in the mother's bra. Alternatively or additionally, the outward projection can help the mother grasp the container.

[0062] Such a function of the outwardly projecting portion may be in addition to the recess in the inner surface of the container, enabling the mother to determine the fill level by visually inspecting the milk received in the recess through the visually transmissive wall.

[0063] With respect to the first aspect, the one or more discontinuities may comprise one or more recesses in the inner surface of the container in which milk is receivable, without at least one structural element comprising one or more corresponding outwardly projecting portions of the outer surface of the container.

[0064] Similarly, and in relation to the second aspect, the at least one structural element may comprise one or more recesses in the inner surface of the container (in which milk may be received), without at least one structural element comprising one or more corresponding outwardly projecting portions of the outer surface of the container.

[0065] The one or more recesses may help to provide the container with a desired outer shape for use of the container with clothing.

[0066] With respect to the first aspect, the one or more discontinuities may comprise one or more protrusions protruding into a container for receiving milk without the discontinuity comprising one or more corresponding recesses on an outer surface of the container.

[0067] Similarly, and with respect to the second aspect, the at least one structural element may comprise one or more protrusions that protrude into the container receiving the milk without at least one structural element comprising one or more corresponding recesses on the outer surface of the container.

[0068] In such an embodiment, as the fill level increases during milking, the user may observe the one or more protrusions disappear from view.

[0069] With respect to the first aspect, the one or more discontinuities may comprise an exterior shape of the container, an interior shape of the container, or a combination of both shapes.

[0070] Similarly, and with respect to the second aspect, the at least one structural element may comprise an exterior shape of the container, an interior shape of the container, or a combination of both shapes.

[0071] In some embodiments, the container includes a fill level mark, such as an alphanumeric character or symbol, paired with the discontinuity or structural element. Such a fill level mark can be, for example, arranged on the surface of the visual transmission element, such as embossing, engraving or printing. Alternatively or additionally, a number indicating the fill level can be included in the fill level mark. The fill level mark can help the user to qualitatively or quantitatively interpret the fill level of the container.

[0072] In some embodiments, the fill level markings include either or both recognizable characters and symbols, wherein at least some of these characters and symbols are configured such that they are recognizable to the mother during use of the container. Depending on the symmetry of the fill level markings, this may mean that the markings are oriented upside down and left-right compared to conventional configurations, in which the markings are not recognizable from above, but are recognizable when the container is viewed from the side.

[0073] In some embodiments, the container has a left side and a right side in a transverse direction, and includes an area of ​​maximum circumference measured between the left side and the right side, thereby defining an upper side and a lower side of the container, and wherein both the upper side and the lower side include fill level markings. In some embodiments, the upper side includes fill level markings that are oriented upside down and left-right oriented (because the upper side is the side that the mother views from above during use), and the lower side includes fill level markings that are right-side up when the container is viewed from the side. In some embodiments, the upper side includes fill level markings that are oriented upside down and left-right upside down (because the upper side is the side that the mother views from above during use), and the lower side includes fill level markings that are right-side up when the container is viewed from the side, and the fill level markings are left-right upside down. The left-right inversion allows the mother to read the markings on the lower side when looking through the container during use of the container.

[0074] In some embodiments, the fill level markings are laterally displaced relative to each other. In some embodiments, the fill level markings on the upper side are laterally displaced relative to the fill level markings on the lower side. The lateral displacement prevents the markings from overlapping when the user observes from above during use of the container.

[0075] In some embodiments, the container includes a background portion, such as a colored portion, for providing a visual contrast with the milk to facilitate viewing of the milk. The background portion can also be configured to indicate whether the fill level has reached a predetermined level, such as whether the container is full. For example, the background portion can include different levels of transparency or one or more colors. One color, such as green, can indicate that the container is not full. Another color, such as red, can indicate that the fill level has reached the maximum capacity of the container.

[0076] In some embodiments, the container is in the form of a cup that can be received in a brassiere worn by a mother. This cup-shaped container can be received in a brassiere worn by a mother together with a breast wearing the cup.

[0077] According to another aspect, there is provided a milk expression device comprising: a funnel for receiving a breast portion including a nipple and a container according to any of the embodiments described herein for receiving milk expressed by a mother from the funnel. In some embodiments, the milk expression device is in the form of a cup receivable in a brassiere worn by a mother. Such a milk expression device in the form of a cup can be received in a brassiere worn by a mother together with a breast wearing the cup.

[0078] The funnel may be comprised in a first device part of the milk expression device and the container may be comprised in a second device part of the milk expression device.

[0079] The first device part and the second device part may for example be regarded as two "halves" of a milk expression device.

[0080] In such an embodiment, the milk expression device preferably comprises a continuous contour or shape at the point where the first device part and the second device part are connected to each other.

[0081] This continuous shape helps to form a seal between the first device portion and the second device portion.

[0082] In some embodiments, the first device part and the second device part are configured to be detachably coupled to each other. In other words, the container can be separated from the funnel, for example, by the second device part being separable from the first device part. This facilitates cleaning of the funnel and the container.

[0083] In certain embodiments, the visual transmission wall is included in a flat viewing surface. In certain embodiments, this flat viewing surface is configured to be perpendicular to the mother's sight line during the use of the container. This flat viewing surface allows the mother to easily observe the inside of the container.

[0084] In some embodiments, at least one of the visually transmissive wall and the discontinuity (or structural element) is configured such that they act as a lens. This functionality facilitates visual inspection of the fill level by the mother using the container.

[0085] These and other aspects of the invention will become apparent from and elucidated with reference to the embodiments described hereinafter. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0086] In order to better understand the present invention and to more clearly show how to implement the present invention, reference will now be made, by way of example only, to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0087] Figure 1 A schematic side view of a milk expression apparatus according to a first example is provided;

[0088] Figure 2 A schematic side view of a milk expression apparatus according to a second example is provided;

[0089] Figure 3 A schematic side view of a milk expression apparatus according to a third example is provided;

[0090] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a container as viewed by a mother wearing the container according to an example is provided;

[0091] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a container viewed by a mother wearing the container according to another example is provided;

[0092] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a container viewed by a mother wearing the container according to yet another example is provided;

[0093] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of a container viewed by a mother wearing the container according to yet another example is provided;

[0094] Fig. 8A and Figure 8B Provides views of a container according to another example from the side and as viewed by a mother wearing the container, respectively;

[0095] Figure 8C and Fig.8D Provided Fig. 8A and Figure 8B view shown, but with the milk partially filling the container;

[0096] Fig. 8E and Fig.8F Provided Figure 8C and Fig.8D The view shown, but with more milk received in the container;

[0097] 9A to 9D Various schematic diagrams of containers and visually transmissive elements according to examples are provided;

[0098] Fig.10 A schematic side view of a milk expression apparatus according to a fourth example is provided;

[0099] Fig.11 A schematic side view of a milk expression apparatus according to a fifth example is provided;

[0100] Fig. 12A A schematic diagram of a container defining sides of the container is provided;

[0101] Fig. 12B - F provides a schematic diagram of a container according to some further examples;

[0102] Fig.13 A schematic diagram of a container according to yet another example is provided;

[0103] Fig.14 A schematic diagram of a container according to yet another example is provided; and

[0104] Fig.15 A schematic diagram of a breast pump comprising a container according to yet another example is provided. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0105] The present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0106] It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, although indicating exemplary embodiments of the device, system and method, are only for illustrative purposes and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. These and other features, aspects and advantages of the device, system and method of the present invention will become better understood from the following description, the appended claims and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the drawings are only schematic and not drawn to scale. It should also be understood that the same reference numerals are used in all drawings to represent the same or similar components.

[0107] A container for receiving milk expressed by a mother is provided. The container is at least partially bounded by a wall comprising a visually transmissive wall. The visually transmissive wall is arranged to be within the mother's line of sight when the container is worn by the mother. One or more interruptions interrupt the uniform extension of at least one surface of the wall. The one or more interruptions are integral with the wall and are arranged at one or more defined heights relative to a milk supporting base of the container to indicate the fill level by visual inspection of the one or more interruptions and milk received in the container by the mother when the container is worn. A milk expression device comprising the container is also provided.

[0108] A container for receiving milk expressed by a mother is provided. The container is at least partially delimited by a visually transmissive wall arranged to be within the mother's line of sight when the container is worn by the mother. The elevation of at least one structural element of the container (e.g. at least partially disposed inside) relative to a milk supporting base of the container enables the filling level to be estimated by visual inspection of the at least one structural element and milk received in the container. A milk expressing device comprising the container is also provided.

[0109] Figure 1A milk expression device 100 according to an example is schematically shown. The milk expression device 100 comprises a funnel 101 for receiving a portion NP of a breast BR including a nipple. A container 102 receives milk 104 expressed from the nipple of the breast BR. The container 102 may be included in the milk expression device 100 together with the funnel 101.

[0110] An electric breast pump (not shown) can apply a vacuum that causes milk 104 to be expressed from the nipple of the breast BR. In such an embodiment, the vacuum applied in cycles can cause milk 104 to be expressed from the nipple. The milk 104 is then collected in the container 102.

[0111] In some embodiments, the electric breast pump is a wearable breast pump, such as a wearable breast pump that is entirely wearable on the mother's body. In an embodiment, the milk expression device 100 includes the electric pump. In other embodiments, the milk expression system includes the milk expression device 100 and the electric pump located outside the milk expression device 100.

[0112] A wearable breast pump that is worn entirely on the mother's body may allow the mother to move around freely while expressing milk 104 .

[0113] In some embodiments, the wearable breast pump is sized to fit the mother's bra.Alternatively or additionally, the motor and battery of the wearable breast pump are integrated with the container 102 to form a single unit.

[0114] More generally, an electric breast pump may be included in the milk expression device 100 together with the funnel 101 and the container 102 .

[0115] In an alternative embodiment, the container 102 receives milk 104 from the nipple without applying a vacuum by an electric breast pump to the breast BR wearing the container 102. However, the milk 104 may be received in the container 102 by applying appropriate stimulation, such as by extracting milk from the mother's other breast, such as by expressing it from the mother's other breast using an electric breast pump.

[0116] Alternatively or additionally, a constant vacuum may be applied to the breast BR, for example by a compressible portion of the milk expression device 100 which creates a vacuum when the compression portion is applied to the breast BR.

[0117] Regardless of the particular technique used to achieve and / or stimulate milk expression, the container 102 is a container 102 for receiving milk 104 expressed by a mother (in other words, in the process of being expressed).

[0118] The container 102 can be worn on one breast BR of the mother, such as Figure 1Shown schematically.

[0119] In some embodiments, Figure 1 As shown, the container 102 is in the form of a cup that can be received in a brassiere worn by a mother. This cup-shaped container 102 can be received in a brassiere worn by a mother together with a breast BR wearing the cup.

[0120] While such containers 102 may have advantages, such as facilitating the mother's movement during expression, disadvantages have been identified associated with monitoring the filling of such containers 102 with milk 104 while the container 102 is worn by a mother expressing milk 104 .

[0121] As has been determined through interviews with mothers and user testing, monitoring the filling of milk 104 in container 102, e.g. identifying an amount, e.g. a fill level indicative of the amount of milk that has been expressed, is important for providing a mother with a measure of how successfully she is expressing milk.

[0122] Typically, mothers rely on fill level markings provided on the side of a container 102, such as a cup. However, such side-located fill level markings may be obscured by the mother's bra that receives the container 102. The mother often needs to stop expressing milk and remove the container 102 from her breast BR, which may involve removing the container 102 from her bra, to check the amount of expressed milk 104 with reference to the side-located fill level markings. Such interruptions in milk expression are undesirable.

[0123] In the case of a wearable breast pump, a fill level measurement sensor may be used to inform the mother how much milk has been expressed 104, for example using wireless data transmission from the sensor via the mother's smartphone. However, this approach is relatively expensive, especially compared to visually estimating the milk fill level using fill level markings provided on the side of the container 102.

[0124] Accordingly, and continue to see Figure 1 , a container 102 according to the present disclosure is at least partially defined by a wall comprising a visually transmissive wall 106 arranged to be within the mother's sight when the container 102 is worn by the mother, wherein one or more discontinuities of at least one surface of the wall of the container 102 or at least one structural element 108 of the container 102 are arranged to indicate a fill level by visual inspection of the discontinuity or the at least one structural element 108 and of the milk 104 received in the container 102. In an embodiment, the visual inspection may be performed through the visually transmissive wall 106.

[0125] For example, the visually transmissive wall may be comprised in a wall portion defining an outer boundary of the container, and the at least one structural element may be an inner surface area of ​​the container, wherein milk may contact the at least one structural element if the milk level reaches the level of the at least one structural element.

[0126] The at least one structural element 108 may generally be considered to be disposed at least inside the container 102 .

[0127] Note that the term “container-like element” may, for example, be used as an alternative to the term “structural element” 108 .

[0128] The elevation of the at least one structural element 108 of the container 102 relative to the milk supporting base 110 of the container 102 enables the fill level to be estimated by visual inspection of the at least one structural element 108 and the milk 104 received in the container 102 .

[0129] The term "elevation of the milk supporting base 110 relative to the container 102" refers to the height of the structural element 108 relative to the milk supporting base 110, which provides a reference to which the level of milk 104 received in the container 102 can be visually compared to in order to indicate the fill level to the mother.

[0130] With regard to the discontinuities, at least one surface of the wall whose uniform extension is interrupted by one or more discontinuities may comprise an outer surface of the wall that cannot be contacted by milk 104 received in the container 102. Alternatively or additionally, at least one surface of the wall whose uniform extension is interrupted by one or more discontinuities may comprise an inner surface of the wall that may be contacted by milk 104 received in the container 102.

[0131] In e.g. Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the discontinuity or at least one structural element 108 is viewable by the mother through the visually transmissive wall 106. Implicit in the visually transmissive wall 106 is that the container 102 is wearable when worn by the mother, for example positionable in the mother's bra, oriented so that the mother can visually inspect the discontinuity or at least one structural element 108 and the milk 104 received in the container 102 through the visually transmissive wall 106. This means that the container must be configured so that the discontinuity or at least one structural element presents a visible aspect to the mother.

[0132] The term "within the mother's line of sight" is intended to mean that when the container 102 is worn by the mother, the discontinuity or at least one structural element is visible to enable the mother to perform a visual inspection from above the container 102. Furthermore, the term "within the mother's line of sight" refers to a direct line of sight 111 to the discontinuity or at least one structural element, in other words, no optical device, such as a reflector, is required to enable the mother to observe the visually transmissive wall 106 and perform a visual inspection when she wears the container 102.

[0133] It should be noted that in order to enable the mother to perform a visual inspection, at least one structural element observed from above the container 102 can be considered to be associated with the mother's breast BR, the milk 104 of which can be received in the container 102 located below the mother's eyes ME, and the container 102 worn by the mother is also correspondingly located below the mother's eyes ME.

[0134] The term "visually transmissive" as used herein may mean that light can be transmitted through the relevant component so as to enable visual inspection. Thus, the term includes transparent, such as "transparent" components, but also includes translucent components whose visual transmittance allows visual inspection.

[0135] It should be noted that in some embodiments, the container 102 includes a background portion, such as a colored portion, for providing a visual contrast with the milk 104 to facilitate observation of the milk 104 .

[0136] The walls of the container 102 can be formed from any suitable material. In at least some embodiments, the walls of the container 102 are formed from a plastic material, such as polypropylene.

[0137] The visually transmissive wall 106 may be formed of a plastic material, such as polypropylene. Plastic materials such as polypropylene are available that have a suitable visual transmittance to enable a user to visually inspect the discontinuity or at least one structural element 108 and the milk 104 received in the container.

[0138] Note that so-called “transparent polypropylene” is available, the transparency of which may make this material particularly suitable for visually transmissive wall 106 .

[0139] In at least some embodiments, the visually transmissive wall 106 is formed from the same material as the remainder of the walls of the container 102 .

[0140] The walls of the container 102 and / or specifically the visually transmissive wall 106 may be formed using any suitable manufacturing process, such as a molding process, including, for example, molding from a plastic material such as polypropylene.

[0141] The structural elements 108 may be formed from any suitable material. In some embodiments, at least one structural element 108 is formed from a plastic material, such as polypropylene, for example, transparent polypropylene.

[0142] In some embodiments, at least one structural element 108 (eg, each of them) is formed of the same material as the material forming the visually transmissive wall 106. The material may be, for example, a plastic material such as polypropylene, for example transparent polypropylene.

[0143] The structural element 108 may be formed by any suitable manufacturing process, such as a molding process, for example a molding process including molding the structural element 108 from a plastic material (eg, polypropylene).

[0144] In some embodiments, Figure 1 As shown, at least a portion of the structural element 108 is comprised in the visually transmissive wall 106. This may provide a relatively straightforward way of arranging the structural element 108.

[0145] More generally, the structural element 108 may be integrated into a wall of the container 102 .

[0146] The interruption is integral with the wall of the container 102 .

[0147] In such an embodiment, no additional manufacturing steps are required to provide the discontinuity or structural element 108 as these are manufactured, eg, molded, with the remainder of the container 102 .

[0148] Thus, for example, the assembly time can be reduced relative to the case where the structural element 108 is a different component relative to the wall of the container 102. Fig.9D Examples of the latter which may have cleanability benefits are described.

[0149] In some embodiments, and with continued reference to Figure 1 , the discontinuity or at least one structural element 108 comprises a ledge portion of the visually transmissive wall 106. Such a ledge portion may be arranged at one or more defined heights relative to the milk support base 110, such that milk 104 observed by the mother in alignment with (e.g. contact with) the ledge portion indicates that a given fill level in the container 102 has been reached.

[0150] The ledge portion may interrupt the uniform extension of one or both of the inner and outer surfaces of the container wall 102 .

[0151] For example, the ledge portion interrupts the uniform extension of one or both of the inner and outer surfaces of the visually transmissive wall 106 .

[0152] The discontinuity or at least one structural element 108 may include, for example, being defined by a visually transmissive element through which the milk 104 received in the container 102 may be seen.

[0153] exist Figure 1 In the context of the illustrated embodiment, the visually transmissive elements are included in a ledge portion of the visually transmissive wall 106 .

[0154] The visually transmissive element may have a surface 112 that the milk 104 may contact when enough milk 104 is received in the container 102 to reach the surface 112 .

[0155] In e.g. Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, in which the discontinuity or structural element 108 includes a ledge portion, the surface 112 may include, for example be defined by, a surface 112 of the ledge portion, which surface 112 may contact the milk 104 when enough milk 104 is received in the container 104 to reach the surface 112 of the ledge portion.

[0156] Notice, Figure 1 The hatched line in shows the level at which the milk 104 reaches the surface 112 of the ledge portion.

[0157] In some embodiments, Figure 1 As shown, the interruption or structural element 108 is arranged at a single height, in other words at a level, relative to the milk supporting base 110 of the container 102. For example, the surface 112 may be arranged at such a single height or level.

[0158] In such an embodiment, a relatively simple visual estimation of the fill level may be achieved, corresponding to a yes / no assessment of whether the milk 104 has reached the height / level of the discontinuity or structural element 108 (eg, the height / level of the surface 112 ).

[0159] In some embodiments, and now with reference to Figure 2 and Figure 3 , surface 112; 112A, 112B, 112C comprises surface portions 112A, 112B, 112C, which are arranged at different heights of the container 102, in other words at heights / levels above the milk supporting base 110, indicating different filling levels of the milk 104 received in the container 102.

[0160] In some embodiments, Figure 2As shown, the surface portions 112A, 112B, 112C may be defined as discrete ledge portion surfaces. This may enable a yes / no assessment to be made as to whether the milk 104 has reached the height / level of each of the surface portions 112A, 112B, 112C.

[0161] This may provide a relatively clear and simple way for the mother to track the filling of the container 102 with milk 104 .

[0162] It should be noted that Figure 2 The hatched lines in show that the milk 104 reaches the level of the highest surface portion 112C, having previously reached the level of the lower surface portions 112A, 112B.

[0163] In an alternative embodiment, if Figure 3 As shown, the surface 112 comprises a continuously sloped surface 112 along which the surface portions 112A, 112B are arranged. Such a continuously sloped surface 112 can provide a continuous measurement of the fill level.

[0164] At this point it is noted that fill level markings may be provided on the container 102, for example on the structural element 108 (on Figures 1 to 3 Such fill level markings may be provided, for example, on the surface 112, for example on a continuously sloped surface 112. FIG. 8A to FIG. 8F Such an example is described.

[0165] In embodiments where the discontinuity or structural element 108 includes a visually transmissive element, the visually transmissive element may be configured such that light transmitted through the visually transmissive wall 106 is reflected at the interface between the surface 112; 112A, 112B, 112C and the air but refracted at the interface between the surface 112; 112A, 112B, 112C and the milk 104 in contact with the surface 112; 112A, 112B, 112C. This different reflection / refraction behavior depending on whether the milk 104 is in contact with the surface 112; 112A, 112B, 112C may help the mother visually discern whether the milk 104 is in contact with the surface 112; 112A, 112B, 112C, or which portion of the surface 112; 112A, 112B, 112C is in contact with the milk 104.

[0166] The refractive index of the visually transmissive element, for example made of a suitable visually transmissive plastic material, may be chosen to match breast milk 104 closely enough so that light is refracted at the surface-milk interface.

[0167] More generally, the visually transmissive element may be formed from any suitable visually transmissive material, such as polypropylene, such as so-called transparent polypropylene.

[0168] In some embodiments, Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the visually transmissive element is formed of the same material as the visually transmissive wall 106 (eg, polypropylene).

[0169] Note that, as an alternative to a visually transmissive element, a visually opaque element, for example in the form of an opaque plastic member, whose position (including height relative to the milk support base 110) provides a visual reference with which the mother can compare the level of milk 104 when performing a visual check. In an embodiment, the visually opaque element comprises one or more areas, wherein different areas have different colors, wherein the different colors provide different contexts to interpret the fill level qualitatively or quantitatively. Reaching a fill level with an area having a green color may indicate that the container can receive more milk. Reaching a fill level with a red area may indicate that the milk volume is approaching or has reached the maximum capacity of the container.

[0170] The discontinuity or structural element 108, such as a visually transmissive element, may be located at any suitable location, such as Figure 4 A single discrete location as shown, or Figure 5 Multiple locations shown.

[0171] In embodiments in which the interruption or structural element 108 (e.g., a visually transmissive element) is positioned at a single position, the single position may be such that during use of the container, it is close to (e.g., facing) the mother's other breast, in other words, a breast other than the breast BR on which the container 102 is being worn. Figure 4 Such an example is shown in .

[0172] Such positioning may facilitate visual inspection and / or may make performing a visual inspection more discreet because a location near the mother's other breasts may be more easily and discreetly approached for performing a visual inspection than a location farther away (eg, facing away) from the mother's other breasts.

[0173] In embodiments where the discontinuity or structural element 108 (e.g., visually transmissive element) is located at multiple locations, such multiple locations may include the right and left sides of the container 102 when the container 102 is viewed from above. Thus, one of these locations will be proximate to (e.g., facing) the mother's other breast, regardless of which breast BR the container 102 receives milk 104 from. Figure 5 Such an example is shown in .

[0174] Thus, when the container 102 is worn on either breast of the mother, visual inspection may be made easier and / or more discreet.

[0175] In some embodiments, Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, the outer surface of the container 102 has one or more recessed portions, each recessed portion corresponding to a raised portion of the inner surface of the container, the raised portion being included in the discontinuity or in at least one structural element 108 .

[0176] In such an embodiment, the recessed portion may assist the mother in gripping the container 102 , while the corresponding raised portion on the container interior surface may enable the mother to determine the fill level by visually inspecting the raised portion and milk 104 received in the container 102 through the visually transmissive wall 106 .

[0177] As an alternative or in addition to such a recessed / protruding portion, the discontinuity or at least one structural element 108 may include one or more outwardly projecting portions of the outer surface of the container, each outwardly projecting portion corresponding to a recess in the inner surface of the container, in which the milk 104 may be received. An example of this is shown in Figure 6 It is schematically shown in FIG.

[0178] In such an embodiment, the outward projections may help position and / or orient the container 102 when it is worn by the mother. For example, the outward projections may help the mother position and / or orient the container 102 in the mother's bra. Such a function of the outward projections may be in addition to the recesses in the inner surface of the container, enabling the mother to determine the fill level by visually inspecting the milk 104 received in the recesses through the visually transmissive wall 106. As with the previous embodiments, the recesses and projections described above may be positioned to indicate a single fill level, or they may be positioned to extend over a range of heights relative to the milk support base to indicate multiple fill levels.

[0179] Although Figures 4 to 6 The recessed portions / protruding portions or outwardly protruding portions / recesses are shown disposed at discrete locations, but this should not be considered limiting. In some embodiments, such as Figure 7 As shown, when viewed from above, the continuous ledge portion extends from the right side of the container 102 to the left side of the container 102. Figure 8B The sloped ledge shown, the ledge can also be limited to a portion of the container. The ledge can be located on one side of the container, which faces the other breast of the mother during use of the container.

[0180] FIG. 8A to FIG. 8F A side view and a mother's eye view are each provided of a container 102, the visually transmissive element of which has a surface 112 against which milk 104 may contact when enough milk is received in the container 102 to reach the surface 112. The surface 112 comprises a continuously sloping surface 112 along which surface portions of different heights are provided, in other words, at heights / levels above the milk support base 110.

[0181] Fig. 8A and Figure 8B The container 102 is shown when no milk 104 is received therein. Figure 8C and Fig.8D The container 102 is shown when it is partially filled with milk 104. Figure 8C The side view provided in FIG. 1 shows a milk level 113A above the milk support base 110 of the container 102. The milk level 113A corresponds to a position 113B along the continuously sloped surface 112, such as Fig.8D shown.

[0182] Fig. 8E and Fig.8F The container 102 is shown substantially full of milk 104 , as evident from the milk level 113A corresponding to a position 113B proximate to the highest portion of the continuously ramped surface 112 .

[0183] exist FIG. 8A to FIG. 8F As is apparent from the figure, a fill level marking 116, such as embossed, engraved or printed, is provided on the surface 112. Numbers indicating the fill level, such as in milliliters and / or fluid ounces, may be included in the fill level marking 116.

[0184] exist FIG. 8A to FIG. 8F In the non-limiting example shown, fill level markings 116 include the numbers 25 , 75 , and 125 , which in this case correspond to milliliters at different locations along surface 112 .

[0185] More generally, FIG. 8A to FIG. 8F A continuously sloped surface including discontinuities or structural elements 108 of the type shown in can be considered an angled level.

[0186] Although Fig. 8A , Figure 8C and Fig. 8E The surface 112 shown in FIG. 1 has a single upward slope extending from the breast support base 110 to provide a linear angled level, but this is not limiting and a curved ramped surface 112 may be employed in other embodiments (not visible).

[0187] The curvature of such a curved ramp surface 112 may, for example, be configured to compensate for an internal shape of the container 102 that results in a non-linearity of the milk level relative to the milk filling level. Similarly, when viewed by the mother during use of the container, the discrete structural elements may be positioned such that their appearance changes linearly with increasing filling level. For example, when viewed from above, the discrete structural elements may be positioned at equidistant positions around the apparent circumference of the container, while the discrete structural elements do not have equal sizes relative to height differences of the milk supporting base. The apparent position of the discrete discontinuities or structural elements then compensates for the non-linear filling behavior of the container 102 due to its shape.

[0188] In some embodiments, 9A to 9D As shown, the surface 112A, 112B, 112C of the visually transmissive element comprises a stepped surface including one or more ascending portions 114A, 114B disposed between continuous surface portions 112A, 112B, 112C.

[0189] Fig. 9B Schematically shows that when passing through the position 113B corresponding to the surface portion 112A ( Fig. 9B Side elevation of the upper part of Fig. 9B The milk 104 received in the container 102 reaches a level 113A when viewed from the lower part of the container 102.

[0190] Fig. 9C It is schematically shown that more milk 104 is received in the container 102 when passing through the position 113B corresponding to the surface portion 112C ( Fig. 9C Side elevation of the upper part of Fig. 9C When observed in the lower part of the figure, the milk 104 reaches level 113A.

[0191] Note that increasing the number of surface portions 112A, 112B, 112C (and riser portions 114A, 114B) to an infinite number will provide FIG. 8A to FIG. 8F Reducing the number of surface portions 112A, 112B, 112C (and rising portions 114A, 114B) may enhance the robustness of the visual inspection / fill level estimation with respect to the slope of the container 102 .

[0192] Once again, in 9A to 9DIn the context of the illustrated embodiment, visual identification of milk 104 in contact with surfaces 112A, 112B, 112C may be aided by a visually transmissive element configured such that light transmitted through visually transmissive wall 106 is reflected at an interface between surfaces 112A, 112B, 112C and air, but refracted at an interface between surfaces 112A, 112B, 112C and milk 104 in contact with surfaces 112A, 112B, 112C.

[0193] As mentioned above, the structural element 108, e.g. 9A to 9C The stepped surface including the visually transmissive element shown may be an integrated feature of the container 102, in other words, may be integrated into the wall of the container 102. However, this is not intended to be limiting, and in other embodiments, such as Fig.9D As shown, the structural element 108 (eg, a visually transmissive element) is removable from the container 102 .

[0194] Such removability of the structural element 108 (eg, visually transmissive element) from the container 102 may make the container 102 and the structural element 108 easier to clean and sterilize.

[0195] Reference Fig.10 , the milk expression device 100 comprises a funnel 101 including a nipple portion NP for receiving a breast BR, and a container 102 for receiving milk 104 expressed by a mother from the funnel 101. In such an embodiment, the funnel 101 may be included in a first device part of the milk expression device 100, and the container 102 may be included in a second device part of the milk expression device 100.

[0196] These first and second device parts may, for example, be considered as two “halves” of the milk expressing device 100 .

[0197] In such an embodiment, the milk expression device 100 preferably comprises a continuous contour or shape at the point where the first device portion and the second device portion are connected to each other.

[0198] This continuous shape helps to form a seal between the first device portion and the second device portion.

[0199] The continuous seal between the first device part and the second device part (e.g., "half") of the milk expression device 100 is Fig.10 The dotted line 117 indicates this.

[0200] In some embodiments, Fig.11As shown, the container 102 and the funnel 101 are detachably connected to each other. In other words, the container 102 can be separated from the funnel 101, for example, by a second device part separated from the first device part. This can facilitate the cleaning of the funnel 101 and the container 102.

[0201] In some embodiments, the milk expression device 100 includes a medium separation membrane 118 as well as a funnel 101 and a container 102 .

[0202] Such a media separation membrane 118 may help prevent milk 104 from being drawn into an electric breast pump connected to or included in the milk expression device 100 .

[0203] Refer again Fig. 9A and Fig.9D , the latex expression apparatus 100 may include a holder or chamber 119 in which a media separation membrane 118 may be mounted.

[0204] In some embodiments, Fig.11 As shown, the milk expression device 100 includes a valve 120 , such as a one-way valve 120 , for example a duckbill valve 120 .

[0205] The valve 120 may help prevent milk 104 from flowing back from the container 102 into the funnel 101 .

[0206] Fig. 12A -F shows a schematic front view of the container. Here, "front" means "facing the container when the mother uses the container". This is also Fig. 12A This is illustrated by a schematic diagram of a mother using the container 102 on her left hand breast. Fig. 12A The sides of the container are shown. The container 102 includes lateral sides corresponding to the left and right hand sides of the user. The lateral sides define between them an area of ​​maximum circumference 132. The area of ​​maximum circumference 132 divides the container 102 into an upper part and a lower part. During visual inspection of the filling level of the container during use of the container, the upper side will face the mother using the container. Fig. 12A The container shown in -F may include any or a combination of the above-mentioned measures for assessing the fill level of the container, including protrusions protruding from either or both of the inner and outer surfaces of the container and recesses extending into either or both of the inner and outer surfaces of the container. These measures are Fig. 12A - Not shown in F.

[0207] Fig. 12BA schematic front view of a container according to an example is shown. The upper portion includes fill level markings 134 and 138. The fill level marking 138 represents an alphanumeric or symbolic indication of the volume at a specific fill level. Since the fill level markings 138 are included in the upper portion of the container 102, they are turned upside down and left to right so that they are recognizable to a mother viewing the upper portion during use of the container 102. For example, if the fill level marking 138 is a (left-right symmetrical) sad "smile", there will be no need to turn it left to right or left to right to produce the same symbol, so that the sad smile only needs to be applied to the upper portion upside down to make it recognizable to the mother using the container 102.

[0208] Fig. 12C A schematic elevation view of a container according to an example is shown. The lower portion includes fill level marks 136 and 140. The fill level mark 136 represents a scale including the indication of one or more fill levels. The fill level mark 140 represents an alphanumeric or symbolic indication of the volume at a specific fill level. Since the fill level mark 140 is included in the lower portion of the container 102, they are right-side up and upside down so that during the use of the container 102, the mother who views the lower portion through the upper portion and the internal volume of the container 102 can recognize them. For example, if the fill level mark 140 will be a (left-right symmetrical) sad "smile", it will not be necessary to reverse left-right or reverse left-right to produce the same symbol, so that the sad smile only needs to be applied to the lower portion right up to make the mother who uses the container 102 recognizable.

[0209] Fig.12D A schematic front view of a container according to one example is shown. Fig. 12B and Fig. 12C Combination of the examples shown. On the one hand, the fill level markings 134 and 136 , and optionally on the other hand, the fill level markings 138 and 140 have the same lateral position on the container 102 .

[0210] Fig.12E A schematic front view of a container according to one example is shown. Fig. 12B The fill level markings 138 and 140 shown in FIG. -D are optional and are not shown here to simplify the drawing. Fig.12E In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , the fill level markings 134 and 136 have different lateral positions on the container 102. This reduces the risk of overlapping markings when the mother visually checks the fill level of the container 102 during its use.

[0211] Fig.12F A schematic front view of a container according to one example is shown. Fig. 12C and Fig.12DThe fill level markings 140 shown in the figure are optional and are not shown here to simplify the drawing. The fill level markings 142 extend over a range of lateral positions. This reduces the risk of overlapping markings when the mother visually checks the fill level of the container 102 during use of the container 102. Fig.12F , the fill level marking 142 is shown on the underside of the container 102. However, it will be clear that the transversely extending markings may be applied to either or both of the upper and lower portions of the container 102.

[0212] Fill level markings 134 and 136 represent scales that include an indication of one or more fill levels. The indication may include a first line element and a second line element. The first line element (not shown) Fig. 12B -F) can be a line parallel to the milk support base. Such first line elements can be distributed along second line elements that are perpendicular to the first line elements. The fill level markings 134 and 136 can be applied so that they appear to be arranged along a straight line to the mother during a visual inspection of the fill level of the container 102 by the mother during use of the container 102. Alternatively or simultaneously, the fill level markings 134 and 136 can be applied so that the indications of different fill levels (e.g., first line elements) appear to be equidistant from each other to the mother during a visual inspection of the fill level of the container 102 by the mother during use of the container 102. Similar to the description given for the discontinuities and structural elements, the positions of the fill level markings can be selected so that they appear to provide a linear scale for the mother using the container.

[0213] Fig.13 - Fig.15 The container shown in may include any or a combination of the above-mentioned measures for assessing the fill level of the container, including protrusions protruding from either or both of the inner and outer surfaces of the container and recesses extending into either or both of the inner and outer surfaces of the container. Fig.13 - Fig.15 These measures are not explicitly shown. Fig.13 - Fig.15 The container shown in the figure may or may also include any combination of fill level markings 134, 136, 138 and 140. These fill level markings may be associated with these metrics. For example, fill level markings including indications of different fill levels may be paired with protrusions protruding from the outer surface of the container at different heights relative to the milk support base. The fill level markings may or may also include characters or symbols that facilitate qualitative or quantitative interpretation of the fill level.

[0214] Fig.13 A schematic diagram of a container according to yet another example is provided. Fig.13 Shown as Fig. 12AIn this example, the container 102 includes two regions, namely region 1 (in Fig.13 below the lower horizontal line in the Fig.13 The two areas are configured so that they present at least one of different contrast, different transparency, and different colors to the mother during visual inspection of the fill level of the container 102 during use of the container 102. For example, area 1 can have a green color, indicating that the fill level of the container 102 has not yet reached the maximum milk capacity level. Area 2 can have a red color, indicating that the fill level of the container 102 has reached the maximum capacity. The container 102 can include any combination of fill level markings 134, 136, 138, and 140.

[0215] Fig.14 A schematic diagram of a container according to yet another example is provided. The container 102, which may include any combination of fill level markings 134, 136, 138, and 140, includes a flat viewing surface 148 that faces the mother when the mother visually checks the fill level of the container 102 during use of the container 102. The flat viewing surface 148 can be arranged to act as a lens.

[0216] Fig.15 A schematic diagram of a breast pump including a container according to yet another example is provided. The breast pump 130 includes a first device part 150 having a pump unit. The pump unit may include a motor and a battery. The breast pump 130 also includes a second device part 152, which includes a container for collecting expressed milk. Fig.15 In the embodiment, the second device portion 152 is confined to the underside of the container 102. The second device portion 152 and therefore the container does not extend beyond the Fig. 12A 102. However, in other examples, the container may extend beyond the area of ​​the maximum perimeter and occupy at least a portion of the lower side and upper side of the container 102. In the example, the first device part 150 and the second device part 152 are configured to be detachably coupled to each other. In other words, the container can be separated from the funnel, for example, by the second device part 152 being separated from the first device part 150. This facilitates cleaning of the funnel and the container. The container 102 may include any combination of fill level markings 134, 136, 138, and 140.

[0217] The following embodiments are also disclosed:

[0218] 1. A container (102) for receiving expressed milk (104) by a mother, the container being at least partially defined by a visually transmissive wall (106) arranged to be within the mother's line of sight when the container is worn by the mother, wherein at least one structural element (108) of the container is arranged to indicate a fill level by visual inspection of the at least one structural element and milk received in the container by the mother when wearing the container, via elevation of the at least one structural element relative to a milk supporting base (110) of the container.

[0219] 2. The container (102) according to embodiment 1, wherein the at least one structural element (108) comprises a visually transmissive element through which milk received in the container is visible.

[0220] 3. The container (102) of embodiment 1 or embodiment 2, wherein the at least one structural element (108) has a surface (112; 112A, 112B, 112C) that can contact milk when enough milk is received in the container to reach the surface.

[0221] 4. The container (102) according to embodiment 3, wherein the surface (112; 112A, 112B, 112C) includes surface portions (112A, 112B, 112C), which are arranged at different heights in the container indicating different filling levels of milk received in the container.

[0222] 5. The container (102) of embodiment 4, wherein the surface (112; 112A, 112B, 112C) comprises a continuously sloped surface (112) along which the surface portions (112A, 112B) are arranged.

[0223] 6. A container (102) according to embodiment 4, wherein the surface (112; 112A, 112B, 112C) includes a stepped surface, which includes one or more rising portions (114A, 114B) arranged between consecutive surface portions (112A, 112B, 112C).

[0224] 7. The container (102) according to any one of embodiments 1 to 6, wherein the at least one structural element (108) is removable from the container.

[0225] 8. The container (102) according to any one of embodiments 1 to 7, wherein at least a portion of the one or more structural elements is included in the visually transmissive wall (106).

[0226] 9. The container (102) according to any one of embodiments 1 to 8, wherein the at least one structural element (108) comprises a ledge portion of the visually transmissive wall (106).

[0227] 10. A container (102) according to any one of embodiments 1 to 9, wherein the outer surface of the container has one or more recessed portions, each recessed portion corresponds to a protrusion on the inner surface of the container, and the protrusion is included in the at least one structural element (108); and / or wherein the at least one structural element includes one or more outwardly protruding portions of the outer surface of the container, each of the one or more outwardly protruding portions corresponding to a recess in the inner surface of the container, and milk can be received in the recess.

[0228] 11. The container (102) of any one of embodiments 1 to 10, comprising a fill level marking (116) paired with one or more structural elements (108).

[0229] 12. The container (102) according to any one of embodiments 1 to 11, comprising a background portion for providing a visual contrast with the milk (104), the visual contrast facilitating observation of the milk.

[0230] 13. The container (102) according to any one of embodiments 1 to 12, wherein the container is in the form of a cup receivable in a bra worn by a mother.

[0231] 14. A container (102) according to any one of embodiments 1 to 13, wherein at least a portion of either or both of the visually transmissive wall (106) and the one or more structural elements (108) are not parallel to the mother's line of sight during the mother's visual inspection of the fill level of the container during use of the container.

[0232] 15. A milk expression device (100), comprising:

[0233] a funnel (101) for receiving a portion of a breast including a nipple; and

[0234] A container (102) according to any one of embodiments 1 to 14, arranged to receive milk expressed by the mother from the funnel.

[0235] By studying the drawings, the disclosure and the appended claims, those skilled in the art can understand and implement variations of the disclosed embodiments when practicing the claimed utility model. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality.

[0236] The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage.

[0237] If the term "suitable for" is used in the claims or the description, it should be noted that the term "suitable for" is intended to be equivalent to the term "configured to". If the term "arranged" is used in the claims or the description, it should be noted that the term "arranged" is intended to be equivalent to the term "system" and vice versa.

[0238] Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. A container (102) for receiving milk (104) expressed by a mother, characterized in that The container is at least partially delimited by a wall comprising a visually transmissive wall (106) arranged to be within the mother's sight when the container is worn by the mother, wherein one or more discontinuities interrupt the uniform extension of at least one surface of the wall, the one or more discontinuities being integral with the wall and arranged at one or more defined heights relative to a milk supporting base (110) of the container to indicate the fill level by visual inspection of the one or more discontinuities and of the milk received in the container by the mother when the container is worn.

2. The container (102) according to claim 1, characterized in that The at least one surface in the wall whose uniform extension is interrupted by the one or more discontinuities comprises an outer surface of the wall which cannot be contacted by the milk (104) received in the container.

3. The container (102) according to claim 1, characterized in that The at least one surface in the wall whose uniform extension is interrupted by the one or more discontinuities comprises an inner surface of the wall, the inner surface being capable of coming into contact with the milk (104) received in the container.

4. The container (102) according to claim 2, characterized in that: The at least one surface in the wall whose uniform extension is interrupted by the one or more discontinuities comprises an inner surface of the wall, the inner surface being capable of coming into contact with the milk (104) received in the container.

5. The container (102) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: The one or more interruptions comprise a visually transmissive element through which milk received in the container can be viewed.

6. The container (102) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: The surface of the discontinuity may be contactable by milk when sufficient milk is received in the container to reach the surface.

7. The container (102) according to claim 6, characterized in that The surface comprises surface portions which are arranged at different heights in the container indicating different filling levels of milk received in the container.

8. The container (102) according to claim 7, characterized in that The surface comprises a continuously sloped surface, and the surface portion is arranged along the continuously sloped surface.

9. The container (102) according to claim 7, characterized in that: The surface comprises a stepped surface including one or more ascending portions disposed between consecutive surface portions.

10. The container (102) according to any one of claims 1 to 4 and 7 to 9, characterized in that: The one or more interruptions are integral with the visually transmissive wall (106).

11. The container (102) according to any one of claims 1 to 4 and 7 to 9, characterized in that: The one or more discontinuities comprise a ledge portion of the wall.

12. The container (102) according to any one of claims 1-4 and 7-9, characterized in that: The one or more interruptions include a ledge portion of the visually transmissive wall (106).

13. The container (102) according to claim 11, characterized in that The surface includes a surface of the ledge portion that can be contacted by milk when enough milk is received in the container to reach the surface of the ledge portion.

14. The container (102) according to any one of claims 1-4, 7-9 and 13, characterized in that: The outer surface of the container has one or more recessed portions, each recessed portion corresponding to a protrusion of the inner surface of the container, the protrusion being included in the one or more discontinuities.

15. The container (102) according to any one of claims 1-4, 7-9 and 13, characterized in that: The one or more interruptions comprise one or more outwardly projecting portions of the outer surface of the container, each of the one or more outwardly projecting portions corresponding to a recess in the inner surface of the container in which milk can be received.

16. The container (102) according to any one of claims 1-4, 7-9 and 13, characterized in that: A fill level marking (116) is included that is paired with the discontinuity.

17. The container (102) according to any one of claims 1-4, 7-9 and 13, characterized in that: A background portion is included, the background portion being used to provide a visual contrast with the milk (104) to facilitate observation of the milk.

18. The container (102) according to any one of claims 1-4, 7-9 and 13, characterized in that: The container is in the form of a cup capable of being received in a bra worn by the mother.

19. The container (102) according to any one of claims 1-4, 7-9 and 13, characterized in that: At least a portion of either or both of the visually transmissive wall (106) and the discontinuity is non-parallel to a mother's line of sight during use of the container, during visual inspection of the fill level of the container by the mother.

20. A milk squeezing device (100), characterized in that: include: A funnel (101) for receiving a portion of a breast including a nipple; as well as A container (102) according to any one of claims 1 to 19, arranged to receive milk expressed by the mother from the funnel.

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