Portable device for decontaminating a breast

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a portable device for decontaminating a breast.

[0002] A device for decontaminating a breast is known, for example, from US 2003 / 0073930 A1. The device described in this document comprises a cup that is placed over a female breast. Within the cup is a pressure element, to the surface of which an absorbent material is applied. The pressure applied by the pressure element presses the absorbent material against the nipple to either absorb moisture from it or apply a medical reagent, such as a fungicidal or antibacterial reagent. This can, for example, cure or reduce an inflammation of the breast.

[0003] A mother's lactating breasts are at increased risk of mastitis. This is because after milk has been removed, for example, by pumping or by the infant, the milk ducts are still open, which can lead to an invasion of pathogens.

[0004] Although the system known from US 2003 / 0073930 A1 can reduce the risk of mastitis, it can happen that the patient in question does not tolerate the medication with which the absorbent material is impregnated.

[0005] In light of this problem, the present invention proposes a portable device for decontaminating a breast having the features of claim 1.

[0006] The portable decontamination device is particularly characterized by the fact that the decontamination unit decontaminates the breast using a physical method.

[0007] By using such a physical method, no liquid or pasty substance is required for decontamination. Unlike biological or chemical decontamination methods, at least physical decontamination is performed here. A physical quantity is therefore used as the means of contamination. This quantity is generated, for example, using electrical energy, and the breast is exposed to the quantity generated using electrical energy.

[0008] The advantage of such physical decontamination is that it does not only target individual species of microorganisms, but rather acts "broadly" against a multitude of microorganisms. The term "microorganism" is used in this context as follows: Microorganisms can be microscopic living beings (organisms) that, as individuals, are not visible to the naked eye. They are also referred to as microbes or microorganisms. They do not form a uniform group within the system of living organisms. Microorganisms include bacteria (e.g., lactic acid bacteria), fungi (e.g., baker's yeast), microscopic algae (e.g., chlorella), and protozoa (e.g., paramecium and the malaria pathogen Plasmodium). Viruses are also considered microorganisms in this context. Although viruses are generally not considered living beings, they are therefore not considered microorganisms either.Occasionally, however, they are still counted among the microorganisms, and then virus research (virology) is accordingly considered a sub-field of microbiology.

[0009] In addition, such physical decontamination has the advantage that no resistance occurs, as is the case when, for example, antibiotics (chemical reagents) are used for decontamination.

[0010] The treatment is also possible during the breastfeeding period, as the nipple is available for the children to feed on without leaving any residue.

[0011] Further relevant prior art is disclosed in the following documents: WO 2006 / 037599 A1, US 2008 / 106896 A1, WO 2011 / 144344 A2, WO 2016 / 196395 A1, CN 201 046 247 Y, CN 203 915 153 U, JP H05 96018 A, US 2012 / 209124 A1 and WO 2015 / 088948 A1.

[0012] To solve the above-described problem, a portable device for decontaminating a breast is provided with the features of claim 1. Further advantageous embodiments are defined in the appended claims.

[0013] Some variants are described below that are helpful for understanding the invention. The portable device for decontaminating a breast according to the invention is characterized in that the decontaminating unit is provided in a pad or cushion made of a deformable material, which can be inserted into the bra as a separate element, and at least one decontaminating unit is provided on a side facing the breast and at least one decontaminating unit is provided on a side facing away from the breast.

[0014] According to an advantageous development of the invention, this decontamination unit can contain at least one of the following elements: a light source, in particular a UV light source, an ultrasound source, an ozonation source, a plasma source, in particular a cold plasma source. These sources all generate energetic / high-energy radiation and / or energetic / high-energy particles and / or energetic / high-energy molecules and / or energetic / high-energy waves, which interact with corresponding pathogens, such as bacteria and viruses, for decontamination purposes, rendering them harmless. An energy source, in particular an electrical energy source, is used to generate this radiation or particles.

[0015] An LED, particularly a UV LED, can be used as the light source. A piezoceramic element, for example, can be used as the ultrasound source. Both of these elements can now be built very compactly and mounted in close proximity to the area of ​​the breast to be decontaminated.

[0016] In particular, a UV-C light source is used as the light source or excitation radiation source. This type of UVC light is also referred to as far UV light and is distinguished from near UV light (UV-A or black light) and mid-UV light (UV-B) by its wavelength.

[0017] Specifically, UVC light has a wavelength of 280 to 100 nm and a photon energy of 4.43 eV to 12.4 eV. UV-C light can be further divided into UVC-FUV, with a wavelength range of 280 to 200 nm and a photon energy of 4.43 eV to 6.20 eV, and UVC-VUV, with a wavelength range of 200 nm to 100 nm and a photon energy of 6.20 eV to 12.4 eV. Below 200 nm (UVC-VUV), the ultraviolet radiation is so short-wave and energetic that it is absorbed by molecular oxygen. The molecular oxygen is split into two free oxygen radicals, each of which reacts with another molecule of oxygen to form ozone.

[0018] Where UVC-VUV radiation is used in this case, decontamination is not only caused by the radiation itself but also by the ozone produced.

[0019] Due to its relatively short wavelength and thus high scattering, UV-C light does not penetrate very deeply into the skin. While, for example, the amino acid tryptophan is damaged or degenerated at 280 nm, nucleic acids are most severely damaged at 265 nm.

[0020] Accordingly, the following wavelength ranges of radiation are preferably used in the present invention.

[0021] According to a variant that is helpful for understanding the invention, the device can have a bell-like structure that can be put over the breast and surrounds it at least in part. This bell-like structure can therefore be put over the breast. In this case, the bell-like structure can already be pre-shaped so that it can be placed against the breast. The corresponding decontamination unit can then be provided within this bell-like structure. The bell-like structure ensures that the area of ​​the breast that is to be decontaminated is sealed off from the external ambient atmosphere and that the area of ​​the breast surface within the bell is efficiently decontaminated. This bell-like structure can be a type of cap that is put over the breast.

[0022] The bell-shaped structure can essentially be formed by a front, flared section directed toward the chest, which is shaped like a funnel. A cylindrical tube, for example, protrudes rearward from the side of the flared section facing away from the chest. This tube is also referred to as a conical taper and preferably has a diameter that is smaller than the opening of the flared section, which is placed over the chest. The bell-shaped structure and the preferably adjoining conical taper can be integrally formed from a single material. These elements can also be formed in multiple parts.

[0023] The bell-shaped structure can be designed so that it only forms instantly upon application to the breast and preferably returns to its original state upon removal from the breast. The bell-shaped structure can also be designed so that it is in a basic state when not applied to the breast, e.g., as a flat structure that does not have a bell-shaped structure. The bell-shaped structure only forms instantly upon application to the breast. Upon removal from the breast, the element returns to its original state.

[0024] The bell-shaped structure can be designed to fit the breast precisely, with a recess formed on the inside of the nipple. This precise contour allows the decontamination unit to be placed as a single element at a well-defined location and in direct proximity to the area of ​​the breast to be treated, without exposing areas of the breast surface that are not to be decontaminated to energetic radiation or particles.

[0025] According to a variant that is helpful for understanding the invention, the decontamination unit can, for example, have a housing in which one or more excitation radiation sources are provided. The housing can be a separate element that can be detachably mounted on the device. This has the advantage that when the bell-shaped structure or other parts of the device are rinsed with water, the decontamination unit, which also contains electronics, for example, does not come into contact with water. Furthermore, this embodiment has the advantage that the decontamination unit can also be attached to bell-shaped structures of various designs.

[0026] The decontamination unit can, for example, contain one or more excitation radiation sources. This excitation radiation source is a source used to effect physical decontamination. Such an excitation radiation source can be, for example, a UV radiation source, in particular a UV-C radiation source, a plasma radiation source, an ultrasound radiation source, or an ozonation source.

[0027] The decontamination unit and its housing can be designed in such a way that the housing can be fastened to the device for decontaminating the breast by snapping it into place, in particular to a section of an expanded region which can be put over the breast and / or to a section of a cylindrical tube which protrudes from the expanded region on the side facing away from the breast.

[0028] This makes assembly and disassembly of the decontamination unit particularly easy.

[0029] The device may only have electronics connected to the housing for operating the decontamination unit. The device for breast decontamination may not have any other source of pathogen radiation other than the housing.

[0030] It has proven advantageous that no excitation radiation source is provided either on the expanded section or on the cylindrical tube itself. It is advantageous to provide the excitation radiation source(s) only in the housing of the decontamination unit, which is designed as a separate element. This ensures that, for example, no electronics are provided on the device (with the exception of the separate housing of the decontamination unit), at least no electronics for operating the decontamination unit.

[0031] The housing of the decontamination unit can radially surround the expanded area and / or the cylindrical tube. This ensures easy assembly. In particular, it may be advantageous to design the housing of the decontamination unit as a kind of sleeve that is placed around the cylindrical tube and / or the expanded area.

[0032] In particular, this cuff can have a C-shaped cross-section in order to be fastened to the cylindrical tube by means of a snap connection and thus preferably in a form-fitting manner.

[0033] It has been found to be advantageous that the widened area and / or the cylindrical tube is designed to be transparent, in particular UV-C transparent, for the excitation radiation of the decontamination unit, at least in a section in which an excitation radiation source is located when the decontamination unit is mounted thereon.

[0034] It is also conceivable that the housing of the decontamination unit is inserted into the expanded area and / or the cylindrical tube and is operable via an induction element placed on the outside of the expanded area and / or the cylindrical tube.

[0035] The induction element can be integral to the bell-shaped structure or provided as a separate element. To assemble and operate the decontamination unit, the cuff with the excitation radiation source is first inserted into the expanded area and / or the cylindrical tube. The induction element is then mounted externally to the expanded area and / or the cylindrical tube. This induction element can also be designed like a cuff. It can also be attached positively and / or non-positively, for example, using magnets.

[0036] The decontamination unit can also comprise an excitation radiation source, which is integrally and captively mounted on a base part. This base part can be coupled to the bell-shaped structure. Cables for operating the excitation radiation source can be routed through the base part, and contact elements can be provided on the outside of the base part, via which a power supply can be connected.

[0037] In the area of ​​the contact elements, means can be provided by which a battery pack can be repeatedly mounted and removed and connected to the contact elements.

[0038] The decontamination unit may comprise an excitation radiation source arranged integrally on the base part, wherein the base part is detachably mountable on the rear side of the bell-like structure.

[0039] According to a variant that is helpful for understanding the invention, the decontamination unit can rest against the breast after assembly of the device. The decontamination unit can thus preferably have a surface that rests directly against the surface to be treated. If the bell-shaped structure forms a recess on the inside in the area of ​​the nipple, the inner surface, in particular the entire inner surface, of this recess can be formed, for example, by the decontamination unit. Alternatively, a plurality of individual decontamination units can also be provided in this recess, each of which is designed to rest against the nipple.

[0040] According to an advantageous development of the invention, at least two decontamination units can be provided at different positions. Thus, one or more decontamination units can be mounted in the recess and / or one or more decontamination units in the bell-shaped structure. These are arranged, for example, so that the areola can be decontaminated. One or more decontamination units can be arranged so that they, or a group of them, selectively decontaminate different regions of the breast, namely the nipple, the areola, or another breast surface. These decontamination units can have different intensities or strengths of decontamination intensity, which are tailored to the different areas. Thus, different areas of the breast can be selectively decontaminated.

[0041] According to an advantageous development of the invention, the decontamination unit or units can be positioned such that, when the device is mounted on the breast, they physically decontaminate the nipple and / or areola. Furthermore, when the device is mounted on the breast, the decontamination unit or units can also decontaminate the areola. As already described, in this case, the different decontamination units, for example, if they decontaminate the nipple or areola, can have different decontamination intensities. Such different decontamination intensities can be adjusted via the wavelength of the light radiation (if it is a light source), the energy of an ultrasound source, or the amount of ozone or plasma generated.

[0042] According to the invention, the portable device is an insert pad, in particular an insert cushion. Alternatively, according to a variant that is helpful for understanding the invention, it can be an electrically operated or manually operated breast pump. A portable device is a device that can be carried so easily that it can be used by a single person without great effort and under different circumstances and in different places. It can be designed to be particularly compact. The entire device preferably does not exceed a weight of two kilograms, more preferably one kilogram. As far as a bra is concerned, all possible known types of bras are suitable. Breast pumps are used, for example, to express milk from the female breast.

[0043] According to an advantageous development of the invention, the decontamination unit can be connected to an autonomous power supply integrated into the device. Accordingly, if the device is a bra, a hand-operated or electrically operated breast pump, the power supply can be integrated into the respective device. Such a power supply can be a rechargeable battery or an accumulator. However, such a power supply can also be a transformer that converts the mains voltage into a lower power supply voltage. Preferably, the power supply is combined with the power generation, i.e., it is a rechargeable battery or a rechargeable accumulator.

[0044] According to the invention, the decontamination unit is provided in a pad or cushion which can be inserted into a bra as a separate element, or the decontamination unit can be permanently mounted on the device. A cushion is understood to be a soft, sponge-like, deformable pad. If the pad in question has the decontamination unit integrated into it, it can, for example, be inserted into pockets provided in the bra. However, the pad or cushion can also be clamped between the breast and the bra without, for example, being inserted into such a pocket. The pad itself accordingly comprises the physical decontamination unit. The pad can form a separate, autonomous unit, provided that the power supply and power generation are integrated therein. If the device is used in a breast pump, the decontamination unit can preferably be permanently connected to the latter.This ensures that the decontamination unit is aligned in a predetermined position with respect to the breast, for example, if the decontamination unit is attached to the back inside the bell-shaped structure that forms a suction port for the breast. This pad or cushion can also have a hose connection through which a pump can be connected to express milk from the breast.

[0045] Instead of the pad- or pillow-like structure, according to a variant not claimed, the bell-like structure can also be made of a dimensionally stable, e.g., hard material, which is particularly configured such that it does not collapse or only collapses slightly when a vacuum is applied. To ensure that a vacuum can be created, it is advantageous for the bell-like structure to be vacuum-tight and to be able to be applied to the breast in a sealed manner. The bell-like structure can thus be formed by a type of dimensionally stable breast cap.

[0046] According to the invention, a decontamination unit is provided on a side of the device facing the chest and on a side facing away from the chest.

[0047] According to an advantageous development of the invention, the device can have a control device that switches the decontamination unit on and off and / or regulates the intensity. A control device can be integrated into the device, by means of which the decontamination unit or units are controlled. Such a control device can be a simple on / off switch provided between the power supply of the decontamination unit, or a microcomputer that controls the decontamination unit or units depending on the need after the device has been applied to the breast. For example, a timer can be used to determine when the pump was applied, and from this, to determine when the decontamination unit should be switched on. This control device can, for example,If several decontamination units are provided, these can be controlled selectively and / or the intensity of the decontamination performance can be varied depending on the region in which the decontamination unit is provided on the device.

[0048] According to a subordinate aspect according to claim 12, the invention also relates to the operation of a portable device for decontaminating a breast, as described above. The method is characterized in that the decontamination unit is activated to kill microorganisms in order to prevent them from entering the milk ducts of the breast. Advantageously, the device is operated after mounting this device on the breast of a female human.

[0049] Further advantageous embodiments of the invention will become apparent from the following examples in conjunction with the drawings, in which: Figure 1 shows a first example of a hand-operated breast pump with a decontamination unit, Figure 2 a, 2b, 2c shows a second example of an electrically operated breast pump, wherein Figure 2b the circled area in Figure 2c enlarged; Figure 3a shows a third example, wherein the attachment for a breast is designed as a bell-shaped attachment, Figures 3b and 3c show a cross-sectional view of the example from Figure 3a , Figures 4a and 4b show a pad or cushion inserted into a bra in its cross-sectional view, wherein Figure 4b the circled area in Figure 4aenlarged; Figure 5 shows a special device used solely for decontaminating the breast, Figure 6 shows a further example of an alternative special device used solely for decontaminating the breast, Figure 7a shows a fourth example in which the decontamination unit is placed as a cuff outside the bell-like structure and the adjoining conical taper, Figure 7b shows a cross-sectional view of the example from Figure 7a along the line AA, Figure 7c and 7d top view of the example from Figure 7a from diagonally above, whereby Figure 7d the circled area in Figure 7c enlarged; Figure 8a shows a fifth example in which the decontamination unit is inserted inside the conical taper, Figure 8b shows a cross-sectional view of the example from Figure 8a along the line AA, Figure 8c and 8d top view of the example from Figure 8a from diagonally above, whereby Figure 8dthe circled area in Figure 8c enlarged; Figure 9a shows a sixth example in which a battery pack is repeatedly detachably provided on the back of the decontamination device, Figure 9b shows a cross-sectional view of the example from Figure 9a along the line GG, Figure 10a a sixth example in which the bell-like structure is placed on the front of the decontamination unit, Figure 10b a cross-sectional view of the example from Figure 9a along the line AA, and Figures 11a and b show a seventh example in which the decontamination unit is designed as a cushion or pad, wherein a hose connection for connection to a pump is further provided in the pad and wherein Figure 11b the circled area in Figure 11a enlarged.

[0050] According to one of the previously described examples in the figures, the examples are according to Figures 4 and 11Embodiments of the present invention. The following examples are variants that are helpful to the present invention.

[0051] The Figure 1The hand-operated breast pump shown is an example of a portable device for decontaminating a breast 2. This hand-operated breast pump has a bell-like structure 1 that tightly encloses an area of ​​the breast 2 so that milk can be sucked out of the milk duct of the breast 2. The nipple 2a is positioned in an area of ​​the bell-like structure 1 where it has a conical, tubular taper 3. The nipple 2a is thus advantageously provided in an area of ​​the tubular taper 3 during pumping. The conical, tubular taper 3 has, on its side 4 opposite the nipple 2a, a line 5 that leads to a collecting container 6. The bell-like structure 1 is integrally connected to the line 5 and a screw cap 7 and thus forms an attachment unit that can be screwed onto the collecting container 6.In addition, a lever 8 is provided on this attachment unit, via which a vacuum can be generated in the bell-like structure 1 and in the collecting container 6.

[0052] A decontamination unit 9 is provided on a wall on the side 4 of the conical, tubular taper 3 opposite the nipple 2a. In this case, this is a UV light-emitting diode (UV LED), whose UV light radiates onto the nipple 2a and at least partially onto the areola 10 formed around the nipple.

[0053] The UV LED is connected to a Figure 1A rechargeable battery (not shown) which can be inserted into the attachment unit and which has a standard size is supplied with energy. The attachment unit also contains a control device (not shown) via which the UV LED can be switched on and off and / or regulated. As an alternative to the power supply via an accumulator, a power supply via a battery (non-rechargeable) is conceivable. Alternatively, a capacitor can be charged by actuating the lever 8, which provides the power supply for the UV LED. Furthermore, a control device can be provided in the attachment unit which controls the operation of the LED in such a way that it is switched on during milk pumping or only shortly after milk pumping has ended. The bell-shaped structure 1 can also have a contact sensor, so that the LED only works when the bell-shaped structure 1 is in contact with the breast.This design provides increased safety, particularly when it comes to UV-based decontamination devices, as it prevents operation from taking place if a person can see into the decontamination unit.

[0054] An alternative example of a breast pump is in Figures 2a , 2b and 2c The pump itself is constructed in the same way as the pump in Figure 1 Therefore, a repeated description of the individual elements is omitted. Identical elements are provided with the same reference symbols.

[0055] In contrast to the pump from Figure 1 , the example shown in Figures 2a , 2b and 2c not a hand-operated pump, but an electrically operated pump.

[0056] As in Figures 2a and 2bAs can be seen, a vacuum generation station 11 is provided, which is separate from the attachment unit and the collecting container 6. The attachment unit with the collecting container 6 is connected to the vacuum generation station 11 via the vacuum hose 11a. A cross-sectional view of the attachment unit and the collecting container 6 is shown in Figure 2a As can be seen from this, the interior of the bell-shaped structure 1 is designed in the same way as in the embodiment according to Figure 1 .

[0057] With the hand-operated pump from Figure 1 An independent separate power supply source should be provided in the device. For the electrically operated pump from Figure 2a , 2b and 2c a separate power generation can be provided in addition to the power supply of the vacuum generation station 11 and / or the decontamination unit 9 is supplied with voltage via the vacuum generation station 11.

[0058] Figure 3a shows an alternative design of a bell-shaped structure 1. In this case, the bell-shaped structure 1 is already pre-shaped so that it can be applied to the breast. Alternatively, it can also be designed so that in a basic state, when not applied to the breast, it is a flat structure that does not have a bell-shaped structure. Only when applied to the breast 2 does the bell-shaped structure 1 form instantly. When removed from the breast 2, the element returns to its basic state. As shown in the cross-sectional view in Figures 3b and 3cAs can be seen, this bell-like structure 1 is designed such that it rests against the breast 2, following its contour. For this purpose, the bell-like structure 1 has a recess 12 in the area of ​​the nipple 2a. Individual decontamination units 9 are arranged in a circular pattern within the recess 12. In the bell-like structure 1, outside the recess 12, in the area where the bell-like structure 1 rests against the areola, further decontamination units 9 are provided at a short distance from the areola. All decontamination units 9 can be controlled via a common control device (not shown). This control device, as well as a power supply for the decontamination units, can be integrated into the bell-like structure 1.

[0059] As in Figures 3a and 3bAs shown, the decontamination units 9 have a slightly rounded surface in the area of ​​the nipple in order to lie flat and essentially completely against the rounded nipple 2a. These decontamination units 9 provided outside the recess 12 have a planar surface.

[0060] The decontamination units 9, which are radially outermost when viewed centrally on the bell-shaped structure 1, are arranged at the border between the areola and normal breast skin.

[0061] The decontamination units from the Figures 3a to 3c can be flat light sources or piezoceramic elements that emit ultrasonic waves.

[0062] Even if in this case for the embodiment from Figure 3a bell-like structure 1 is provided, a similar arrangement can also be provided within a separate pad which is inserted into a bra, e.g. into a pocket of a bra.

[0063] Such a pad 16 inserted into a bra 15 is in Figures 4a and 4b shown. Here, Figure 4b the section X from Figure 4aThe pad 16 is inserted into a cup 17 of the bra 15. Such a pad 16 can be made of a cushion-like, sponge-like material. In a basic state, when not inserted into the bra 15, the pad 16 can be designed as a flat cushion-like structure (e.g., with two corresponding surface curvatures on opposite sides) that does not have a bell-like structure. Only when inserted into the bra 15 and applied to the breast does the bell-like structure 1 form instantly. Upon removal from the bra, the pad returns to its basic state. On its side 18 facing the breast 2, the pad is constructed like the bell-like structure 1 in Figures 3 a to cTherefore, a repeated description of the individual elements will be omitted. Identical elements are provided with the same reference numerals. Additionally, decontamination units 9' are also provided on the side 19 of the pad 16 facing away from the chest.

[0064] The decontamination units 9 on the side 19 of the pad 16 facing away from the breast also have a slightly rounded surface in order to lie flat against the inside of the basket 17.

[0065] The decontamination units 9 on the side 19 of the pad 16 facing away from the breast are advantageous for also decontaminating the cup 17 of the bra 15.

[0066] The bell-like structure 1 in the embodiment in Figures 3a to 3c can be made of silicone or plastic or even a foam material.

[0067] Figures 5 and 6show two exemplary embodiments, whereby the decontamination device in this case is a device that only has the functionality of decontamination. That is, this device does not simultaneously function as a bra or breast pump.

[0068] The device is designed as a type of stamp 13, with a handle part 14 provided on the rear. The stamp 13 has a bell-shaped inner surface which is placed over the chest.

[0069] As in Figure 5 As can be seen, in this embodiment a UV light element is also positioned as a decontamination element 9 opposite the nipple 2a.

[0070] The embodiment from Figure 6 differs from the embodiment shown in Figure 5in that instead of this single decontamination element 9, which is formed opposite the nipple, a plurality of decontamination elements 9 are provided which treat the nipple from different sides.

[0071] In both embodiments, a separation wall 20 is provided, which separates the decontamination unit 9 from a space 21 formed between the separation wall 20 and the nipple 2a. This makes the inner surface of the plunger 13 easier to clean, and the decontamination unit 9 does not come into direct contact with the breast. If the decontamination unit 9 is a UV lamp, the separation wall 20 should be UV-transparent.

[0072] Figures 7a to d show a fourth embodiment in which the decontamination unit 9 is placed as a sleeve outside the bell-like structure 1 and the adjoining conical taper 3.

[0073] Same features as in the embodiment of the Figures 1 and 2, respectively, are provided with the same reference numerals and will not be described further below. Thus, in this embodiment, a collecting container 6 and a line 5 are also provided, through which the pumped milk is guided to the collecting container 6. Reference numeral 11 also designates a vacuum generating station, through which a vacuum is generated for pumping milk.

[0074] The bell-shaped structure 1 and the adjoining conical taper 3 are integral and formed from a single material. These elements can also be formed in multiple parts. In the present case, the entire cap, which is placed, in particular screwed, on the collecting container, is formed as a single element. It is also possible for only the bell-shaped structure 1 and the adjoining conical taper 3 to be formed as a single element and placed on a base part 27. The base part 27 is then placed, in particular screwed, on the collecting container.

[0075] The bell-shaped structure 1 is essentially formed by a front, flared section 23 directed toward the chest, which is shaped like a funnel. A cylindrical tube 24 protrudes rearward from the side of the flared section 23 facing away from the chest. This tube 24 is also referred to as a conical taper 3 and has a diameter that is smaller than the opening 25 of the flared section 23, which is placed over the chest.

[0076] The decontamination unit 9 in this case has a housing 26, which is designed as a type of sleeve. This sleeve can rest against an outer wall of the expanded section 23 and against an outer wall of the cylindrical tube 24 and can thus be provided in a transition area between the aforementioned sections.

[0077] A plurality of individual excitation radiation sources 37 are provided in the housing, the emitted radiation of which is Figure 7b The lines, each emanating from a common base region, indicate the direction of the radiation.

[0078] In a region of the housing adjacent to the outer wall of the widened section 23, the excitation radiation sources 37 are arranged such that they radiate obliquely toward the breast, i.e., are aligned obliquely to a central axis Z of the bell-shaped structure 1. In the region of the cylindrical tube 24, the excitation radiation sources 37 are aligned such that they are perpendicular to the central axis Z of the bell-shaped structure.

[0079] The housing therefore has a section that can be mounted on the cylindrical tube 24 (cf. Figure 7b, right side) and a section that can be mounted on the widened section 23 (cf. Figure 7b , left side). Thus, the housing 26 of the decontamination unit is also shaped like a funnel on a side facing the chest and has a cylindrical tube extending from it.

[0080] In the present case, an inner wall of the housing 26 lies essentially flat against the outer wall of the widened section 23 and against the outer wall of the cylindrical tube 24 and illuminates the material from which these sections are constructed.

[0081] Thus, it is advantageous that the widened section 23 and the cylindrical tube 24 are formed from a material which is transparent to the excitation radiation.

[0082] For example, if UV-C radiation is used, a material that is permeable to UV-C radiation should be used.

[0083] The housing 26 of the decontamination unit can be designed as a type of sleeve which is open on one side in its longitudinal direction and which is simply releasably fastened to the widened section 23 and / or the cylindrical tube 24 by means of a snap connection.

[0084] Any other fastening option is also possible. A completely closed sleeve can also be formed, which, for example, is threaded onto the cylindrical tube 24 from behind. For this purpose, it is advantageous to attach the cylindrical tube 24, with or without an integrally formed widened section 23, as a separate element to the base part 27. Once this housing, which is completely closed in its circumferential direction, has been attached, this assembly can then be reattached to the base part 27.

[0085] In Figures 7c and 7d are three-dimensional views of the embodiment from Figures 7a and 7bshown, wherein the sleeve-like design of the housing 26 of the decontamination unit can be seen.

[0086] The electronics for operating the decontamination unit can be provided in the housing 26 or can be connected to a control device or power supply device via lines that protrude from the housing 26.

[0087] In the present embodiment, the assembly of the cylindrical tube 24 with an integrally formed widened section 23 has no electronic components. Advantageously, the base part 27 and the collecting container 6 also have no electronic components, i.e., the only electronic components that can be provided when the decontamination unit is disassembled are those of the vacuum generation station 11.

[0088] Thus, the ensemble of cylindrical tube 24 and / or widened section 23 and / or base part 27 and / or collecting container 6 can be cleaned together or separately and preferably with liquid or steam without causing problems with the electronics.

[0089] In Figures 8a to d a fifth embodiment is shown in which the decontamination unit 9 is inserted inside the conical taper 3.

[0090] In contrast to the embodiment from Figures 7a to d In the fifth embodiment, the housing of the decontamination unit 9 is not provided radially outside on the ensemble of cylindrical tube 24 and widened section 23, but the housing 26 is inserted into the cylindrical tube 24.

[0091] The housing 26 has excitation radiation sources 37 on a front portion facing the chest. The excitation radiation sources 37 are arranged along a rounded wall section that closes the housing toward the chest in a trumpet-like configuration, so that they radiate onto the chest at an angle oblique to the central axis of the bell-like structure.

[0092] The Figure 8a The excitation radiation sources 27 provided on the far right are in relation to the Figure 8a The radiation sources provided further to the left are aligned more perpendicular to the central axis Z, whereas the radiation sources provided further to the left in the housing are positioned more obliquely.

[0093] If such an insert is used for the decontamination unit 9, it is advantageous to provide the power supply via an induction element 22 and not via cabling, which, for example, would then have to pass through the bell-shaped structure 1. Instead, it is advantageous to provide an induction element 22. In the present case, the induction element 22 is provided on the outer wall of the cylindrical tube 24.

[0094] This induction element 22 can be provided firmly and captively on the cylindrical tube 24 and / or the widened section 23 or can also be provided as a type of cuff (cf. Fig. 8c and d), whose cross-section is, for example, C-shaped, may be provided, and plugged onto the widened section 23 or the cylindrical tube 24. Thus, a simple modular structure can be provided, wherein the voltage or power supply of the excitation radiation sources, which are provided in the housing 26, is arranged physically separated by the wall of the widened section 23 or the cylindrical tube 24.

[0095] In this exemplary embodiment, the assembly of the cylindrical tube 24 with an integrally formed widened section 23 can also be devoid of electronic components. Advantageously, the base part 27 and the collecting container 6 also have no electronic components, i.e., the only electronic components that can be provided when the decontamination unit is disassembled are those of the vacuum generation station 11. Thus, the assembly of the cylindrical tube 24 and / or widened section 23 and / or base part 27 and / or collecting container 6 can be cleaned together or separately without causing problems with the electronics.

[0096] In Figures 9a and 9b a sixth embodiment is shown in which a battery pack is provided on the back of the decontamination device in a repeatedly detachable manner

[0097] In this exemplary embodiment, a means for detachably connecting to a power supply 28 is provided on the rear of the base part 27. The power supply 28 is provided in this case by a battery pack 29. This battery pack 29 has a housing 30 and a cap 31. Recesses are provided in the housing 30 of the battery pack 29, into which batteries 32 can be inserted. After the batteries 32 are inserted into the recess, the housing 30 is closed with the cap 31, so that the battery pack 29 is formed as a single unit.

[0098] On the front of the battery pack are Figure 9a contacts not shown are formed, which can be contacted with contact elements 33 provided on the back of the base part 27.

[0099] The excitation radiation source 37 (in the present embodiment a single one) is connected to the Figure 9aschematically shown lines 34, which run through the base part 27, are connected to the battery pack 29. In the decontamination unit 9, as in the examples from Figures 7 and 8 , several excitation radiation sources 37 and not just a single excitation radiation source 37 may be provided.

[0100] In the present case, the excitation radiation source 37, which forms the decontamination unit 9, is provided integrally on the base part 27. The base part 27 can be installed as a separate element between the assembly of the cylindrical tube 24 and the expanded section 23, and the collecting container 6.

[0101] The battery pack 29 can then be connected to this base part 27 in a detachable and reconnectable manner. In the present case, a screw connection is provided between the battery pack 29 and the base part 27, which serves as a means for detachable connection to the power supply 28.

[0102] In the embodiment shown in the Figures 9a, b the decontamination unit, in particular the excitation radiation source 37, is provided in a central axis of the bell-like structure 1 and on a rear wall which is formed by a wall of the base part 27.

[0103] In Figures 10a and 10b a further embodiment of the device according to the invention is shown.

[0104] In this case too, the decontamination unit, ie in this case a single excitation radiation source 37, is provided integrally in the base part 27. The base part 27 has a decontamination unit on the rear side, ie on a side facing away from the chest (cf. Figure 10a right side) the same design as the base part in Figure 9a . Consequently, contact elements 33 are also provided here, via which a battery pack 29 can be contacted.

[0105] On its side facing the breast, the base part 27 has a cylindrical edge portion 35, which is wider in diameter than the cylindrical tube 24, thus ensuring a plug-in connection between the cylindrical tube 24 and the base part 27. In the present case, the cylindrical tube 24 is also formed integrally with the widened portion 23.

[0106] The entire assembly, consisting of the separate base part 27 and the cylindrical tube 24 with the expanded section 23 integrally provided thereon, forms a type of breast shield unit. The front part formed by the tube 24 with the expanded section 23 integrally provided thereon is separable from the rear part of the breast shield formed by the base part 27. This breast shield can be coupled to the battery pack 29 or a housing part of the device.

[0107] The decontamination unit or the excitation radiation source is essentially provided in the central axis of the bell-shaped structure.

[0108] Even if the examples from Figure 9a and b or 10a and 10b only a single excitation radiation source is provided, here too, as in the embodiments from Figures 8 and 7 , several excitation radiation sources may be provided.

[0109] In the examples in Figures 7 and 8 In contrast, the excitation radiation sources are not provided at a rear part and in a central axis of the bell-like structure, but are arranged on an outer wall around the bell-like structure.

[0110] The embodiment in Figures 11a and 11b represents a further development of the embodiment in Figures 4a and 4b Therefore, for further details, please refer to the description Figures 4a and 4breferred to.

[0111] Instead of the pad- or pillow-like structure, the bell-shaped structure 1 can also be made of a dimensionally stable, e.g., hard material, which is particularly configured such that it does not collapse, or only collapses slightly, when a vacuum is applied. To ensure that a vacuum can be applied, it is advantageous for the bell-shaped structure to be vacuum-tight and to be able to be applied tightly to the breast. The bell-shaped structure can thus be formed by a type of dimensionally stable breast cap.

[0112] In addition, in the present embodiment, Figures 11b and 11aA hose connector 36 is provided in the pad or cushion, which ends in the recess in the pad surrounding the areola. A pump can be connected via this hose connector 36, creating a vacuum in the recess and thus pumping milk from the breast. Thanks to the design in which the hose connector is provided in the pad or cushion, it is possible to offer a very discreet pumping device, whereby the bra can be left on during pumping, and it is not even noticeable that decontamination and / or pumping is taking place.

[0113] In addition to the described decontamination unit or the excitation radiation source, a moisture sensor can also be provided in the device, by means of which, for example, a milk or liquid leakage is detected.

[0114] The control device that controls the decontamination unit or the excitation radiation source(s) can, for example, also have a functionality that activates the decontamination device or the excitation radiation source(s) upon detection of liquid or a certain humidity threshold. List of reference symbols

[0115] 1 bell-shaped structure 2 breast 2 a nipple 3 conical tube-like taper 4 side opposite the nipple 5 line 6 collecting container 7 screw cap 8 lever 9, 9 decontamination unit 10 areola 11 vacuum generation station 11 a vacuum hose 12 recess 13 plunger 14 handle 15 bra 16 pad 17 cup 18 side facing the breast 19 side facing away from the breast 20 separation wall 21 chamber 22 induction element 24 cylindrical tube 23 widened section 27 base part 25 opening 26 housing 37 excitation radiation source 28 means for detachable connection to a power supply 29 battery pack 30 housing 31 cap 32 battery 33 contact element 34Line 35Cylindrical edge section 36Hose connector

Claims

1. Portable device for decontaminating a breast (2), wherein respectively at least one decontamination unit (9, 9') is arranged on a side (20) of the device facing the breast (2) and on a side (19) of the device facing away from the breast (2), wherein the decontamination unit (9) on the side (20) facing the breast (2) decontaminates the breast (2) at least by means of a physical method, and wherein the decontamination units (9) are provided in a pad or cushion made of a deformable material, which can be inserted as a separate element into a bra, wherein the pad or cushion is configured such that, in a basic state in which it is not inserted into a bra, it is shaped as a flat cushion-like structure, wherein, when inserted into the bra, a bell-like structure is formed.

2. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the pad or cushion is provided with a hose connection (36) via which a pump can be connected to pump milk from the breast.

3. Device according to one of the previous claims, characterized in that it has a control device which switches the decontamination unit (9) on and / or off and / or regulates the intensity.