Fluid collection devices with segmented porous material

Abstract

Example fluid collection devices and methods of use are described. The fluid collection devices include a fluid impermeable barrier, a porous material having a plurality of sections to increase compliance of the porous material, and a conduit disposed within the fluid impermeable barrier. The fluid impermeable barrier at least partially defines a chamber, and an opening configured to be positioned adjacent to a urethra. The porous material is positioned at least partially within the chamber to extend across at least a portion of the opening and configured to receive fluid through the opening. The porous material includes a plurality of sections longitudinally distributed along the longitudinal axis of the fluid collection device and the plurality of sections are at least partially separated from each other to increase compliance of the porous material.

Description

FLUID COLLECTION DEVICES WITH SEGMENTED POROUS MATERIALBACKGROUND

[0001] An individual may have limited or impaired mobility such that typical urination processes are challenging or impossible. For example, the individual may have surgery or a disability that impairs mobility. Tn another example, the individual may have restricted travel conditions such as those experience by pilots, drivers, and workers in hazardous areas. Additionally, fluid collection from the individual may be needed for monitoring purposes or clinical testing.

[0002] Bed pans and urinary catheters, such as a Foley catheter, may be used to address some of these circumstances. However, bed pans and urinary catheters have several problems associated therewith. For example, bed pans may be prone to discomfort, spills, and other hygiene issues. Urinary catheters be may be uncomfortable, painful, and may cause urinary tract infections.

[0003] Thus, users and manufacturers of fluid collection devices continue to seek new and improved devices, systems, and methods to collect urine.SUMMARY

[0004] Embodiments disclosed herein relate to fluid collection devices, systems, and method for collecting fluids from wearers. The fluid collection devices include porous material having a plurality of sections longitudinally distributed along the longitudinal axis of the fluid collection device to increase compliance of the porous material and the fluid collection device.

[0005] In an embodiment, a fluid collection device is disclosed. The fluid collection device includes a fluid impermeable barrier defining a chamber therein, having an opening therethrough, and an elongated shape defining a longitudinal axis. The fluid collection device includes a porous material disposed in the chamber, the porous material including a plurality of sections longitudinally distributed along the longitudinal axis, the plurality of sections being at least partially separated from each other to increase compliance of the porous material. The fluid collection device includes a conduit disposed within the chamber, the conduit including an intake at a distal end of the chamber.

[0006] In an embodiment, a system for fluid collection is disclosed. The system includes a fluid collection device having a fluid impermeable barrier defining a chamber therein, having an opening therethrough, and an elongated shape defining a longitudinalaxis; a porous material disposed in the chamber, the porous material including a plurality of sections longitudinally distributed along the longitudinal axis, the plurality of sections being at least partially separated from each other to increase compliance of the porous material; and a conduit disposed within the chamber, the conduit including an intake at a distal end of the chamber. The system includes a fluid storage container fluidly connected to the conduit. The system includes a vacuum source fluidly connected to the fluid storage container.

[0007] In an embodiment, a method for collecting fluid is disclosed. The method includes positioning an opening of a fluid collection device adjacent to a urethra of a user. The fluid collection device of the method includes a fluid impermeable barrier defining a chamber therein, having an opening therethrough, and an elongated shape defining a longitudinal axis. The fluid collection device of the method includes a porous material disposed in the chamber, the porous material including a plurality of sections longitudinally distributed along the longitudinal axis, the plurality of sections being at least partially separated from each other to increase compliance of the porous material. The fluid collection device of the method includes a conduit disposed within the chamber, the conduit including an intake at a distal end of the chamber. The method includes receiving fluids from the urethra into the fluid collection device.

[0008] Features from any of the disclosed embodiments may be used in combination with one another, without limitation. In addition, other features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art through consideration of the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] For better understanding, the like elements have been designated by like reference numbers throughout the various accompanying figures. Understanding that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are not therefore to be considered to be limiting of its scope, the embodiments of the invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:

[0010] FIG. 1A is an isometric view of a fluid collection device, according to an embodiment.

[0011] FIG. IB is an exploded view of the fluid collection device of FIG. 1A, according to an embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 1C is a cross-sectional view of the fluid collection device of FIG. 1A taken along the plane A-A, according to an embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 2A is an exploded view of a fluid collection device, according to an embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional view of the fluid collection device of FIG. 2A, according to an embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 3A is an exploded view of a fluid collection device, according to an embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view of the fluid collection device of FIG. 3A, according to an embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 4A is an exploded view of a fluid collection device, according to an embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of the fluid collection device of FIG. 4A, according to an embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a system for fluid collection, according to an embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of a method for collecting fluid, according to an embodiment.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] Embodiments disclosed herein are related to devices, systems, and methods of using fluid collection devices and systems having a porous material including a plurality of sections longitudinally distributed along the longitudinal axis therein or provide a compliant bendable fluid collection device for use in collecting bodily fluids from wearers. The fluid collection devices include a fluid impermeable barrier that at least partially defines a chamber. The fluid impermeable barrier also defines an opening extending therethrough that is configured to be positioned adjacent to a urethra of a wearer. The fluid collection devices include a porous material disposed within the chamber. The porous material includes a plurality of sections longitudinally distributed along the longitudinal axis of the fluid collection device, the plurality of sections being at least partially separated from each other to increase compliance of the porous material and the fluid collection device. The fluid collection devices include a conduit disposed in the chamber.

[0022] The fluid collection devices and systems disclosed herein are configured to collect fluid(s) from an individual. The fluid collected by the fluid collection devices mayinclude at least one of urine, vaginal discharge, penile discharge, reproductive fluids, blood, sweat, or other bodily fluids. By providing a relatively greater compliance to bending forces along a longitudinal axis of the device, the fluid collection devices having the porous material including a plurality of sections longitudinally distributed along the longitudinal axis allow wearers, caretakers, and healthcare workers to maintain a greater area of surface contact of the porous material with the wearer than conventional fluid collection devices. The fluid collection devices disclosed herein are configured to be used in fluid collection systems to collect and remove fluids from the wearer of the fluid collection device.

[0023] FIG. 1A is an isometric view of a fluid collection device 100, according to an embodiment. FIG. IB is an exploded view of the fluid collection device 100 of FIG. 1A. FIG. 1C is a cross-sectional view of the fluid collection device of FIG. 1A taken along the plane A- A, according to an embodiment. The fluid collection device 100 is an example of a fluid collection device for receiving and collecting fluid(s) from a female or male (e.g., male with buried penis). The fluid collection device 100 includes a fluid impermeable barrier 102 defining a chamber 104 therein, porous material 115 disposed in the chamber 104, and an optional conduit 108 at least partially disposed within the chamber 104. At least a portion of the porous material 115 includes a plurality of sections longitudinally distributed along the longitudinal axis L of the fluid collection device 100.

[0024] The fluid impermeable barrier 102 at least partially defines a chamber 104 (e.g. , interior region) and an opening 106. For example, the interior surface(s) 103 of the fluid impermeable barrier 102 at least partially define the chamber 104 within the fluid collection device 100. The fluid impermeable barrier 102 at least temporarily retains the fluid(s) in the chamber 104. The fluid impermeable barrier 102 may be formed of any suitable fluid impermeable material(s), such as a fluid impermeable polymer (e.g., silicone, polypropylene, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, a polycarbonate, etc.), a metal film, natural rubber, another suitable material, or combinations thereof. As such, the fluid impermeable barrier 102 substantially prevents the fluid(s) from passing through the fluid impermeable barrier 102.

[0025] In some examples, the fluid impermeable barrier 102 may be air permeable and liquid impermeable. In such examples, the fluid impermeable barrier 102 may be formed of a hydrophobic material that defines a plurality of pores that are air permeable but not liquid permeable. One or more portions of at least an outer surface of the fluid impermeable barrier 102 may be formed from a soft and / or smooth material, thereby reducing chaffing on the skin of a wearer.

[0026] In some examples, the fluid impermeable barrier 102 may be tubular (ignoring the opening), such as substantially cylindrical (as shown), oblong, prismatic, or flattened tubes. The fluid impermeable barrier 102 may be sized to fit between the legs of a female user. During use, the outer surface 105 of the fluid impermeable barrier 102 may contact the wearer.

[0027] The opening 106 provides an ingress route for fluids to enter the chamber 104. The opening 106 may be defined by the fluid impermeable barrier 102, such as by an inner edge of the fluid impermeable barrier 102. For example, the opening 106 is formed in and extends through the fluid impermeable barrier 102, from the outer surface 105 to the inner surface 103, thereby enabling fluid(s) to enter the chamber 104 from outside of the fluid collection device 100. The opening 106 may be located and shaped to be positioned adjacent to a female urethra. At least a portion of porous material(s) disposed in the chamber 104 may be exposed through the opening 106, to wick fluids inwardly into the chamber 104.

[0028] The fluid collection device 100 may be positioned proximate to the urethra and urine may enter the chamber 104 via the opening 106. When in use, the opening 106 may be an elongated shape that extends from a first location below the urethral opening (e.g. , at or near the anus or the vaginal opening) to a second location above the urethral opening (e.g. , at or near the top of the vaginal opening or the pubic region).

[0029] The opening 106 may exhibit an elongated shape thereby only permitting the flow of the fluid(s) along a path that corresponds to the elongated shape of the opening 106 (e.g. , longitudinally extending opening). For example, the opening 106 may be a longitudinally extending opening in the fluid impermeable barrier 102. The opening 106 in the fluid impermeable barrier 102 may exhibit a length that is measured along the longitudinal axis of the fluid collection device 100 that may be at least about 10% of the length of the fluid collection device 100, such as about 25% to about 50%, about 40% to about 60%, about 50% to about 75%, about 65% to about 85%, or about 75% to about 95% of the length of the fluid collection device 100.

[0030] The opening 106 in the fluid impermeable barrier 102 may exhibit a width that is measured transverse to the longitudinal axis of the fluid collection device 100 that may be at least about 10% of the circumference of the fluid collection device 100, such as about 25% to about 50%, about 40% to about 60%, about 50% to about 75%, about 65% to about 85%, or about 75% to about 100% of the circumference of the fluid collection device 100. The opening 106 may exhibit a width that is greater than 50% of the circumference of thefluid collection device 100 since the vacuum (e.g., suction) through the conduit 108 pulls the fluid through the porous material 115 and into the conduit 108. In some examples, the opening 106 may be vertically oriented (e.g., having a major axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the device 100). In some examples (not shown), the opening 106 may be horizontally oriented (e.g., having a major axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the device 100). In an example, the fluid impermeable barrier 102 may be attached to the individual, such as adhesively attached (e.g., with a hydrogel adhesive) to the individual. According to an example, a suitable adhesive is a hydrogel layer. In some examples, the fluid permeable membrane may be attached to the wearer, such as via a plurality of adhesive dots disposed on the outward facing surface of the fluid permeable membrane, by utilizing adhesive dots spaced from each other on the fluid permeable membrane, the membrane may be attached to the wearer and fluid may still flow through to the membrane and fluid permeable support. Suitable adhesive dots may be include any of the adhesives disclosed herein, such as silicone or the like.

[0031] The fluid collection device 100 includes porous material 115 disposed in the chamber 104. The porous material 115 may cover at least a portion (e.g., all) of the opening 106. For example, at least a portion of the porous material 115 may be exposed to an environment outside of the chamber 104 through the opening 106. The porous material 115 may be configured to wick any fluid away from the opening 106, thereby preventing the fluid from escaping the chamber 104. The permeable properties referred to herein may be porous, capillary action, diffusion, or other similar properties or processes, and are referred to herein as “permeable” and / or “wicking.” Such “wicking” may not include absorption of fluid into the porous material. Put another way, substantially no absorption of fluid into the material may take place after the material is exposed to the fluid and removed from the fluid for a time. While no absorption is desired, the term “substantially no absorption” may allow for nominal amounts of absorption of fluid into the porous material (e.g., absorbency), such as less than about 10 wt% of the dry weight of the porous material, less than about 7 wt%, less than about 5 wt%, less than about 3 wt%, less than about 2 wt%, less than about 1 wt%, or less than about 0.5 wt% of the dry weight of the porous material. The porous material 115 may also wick the fluid generally towards an interior of the chamber 104, as discussed in more detail below. The porous material 115 may include one or more of a fluid permeable membrane 118 or a fluid permeable support 120.

[0032] The fluid permeable membrane 118 may include any porous material that may hydrogen bond with or otherwise wick the fluid. For example, the fluid permeable membrane 118 may include fabric, such as a gauze (e.g., a silk, linen, or cotton gauze), another soft fabric, or another smooth fabric. The fluid permeable membrane 118 may include spun plastic fibers, such as a spun plastic mat or bed. Forming the fluid permeable membrane 118 from gauze, soft fabric, and / or smooth fabric may reduce chaffing caused by the fluid collection device 100. As shown in FIG. IB, the fluid permeable membrane 1 18 may be a single, continuous piece of material. The porous material 1 15 includes a plurality of segments of porous material longitudinally distributed along the longitudinal axis L of the fluid collection device 100.

[0033] The fluid permeable membrane 118 is at least partially disposed in the chamber 104. The fluid permeable membrane 118 may cover at least a portion (e.g., all) of the opening 106. For example, the fluid permeable membrane 118 may include a continuous sheet of porous material. The fluid permeable membrane 118 may be configured or composed to wick any fluid away from the opening 106, thereby preventing the fluid from escaping the chamber 104.

[0034] The porous material 115 may include the fluid permeable support 120 disposed in the chamber 104. The fluid permeable support 120 is configured to support the fluid permeable membrane 118. For example, the fluid permeable membrane 118 may be formed from a foldable, flimsy, or otherwise easily deformable material while the fluid permeable support 120 may be a relatively more rigid material. The fluid permeable support 120 also supports the fluid impermeable barrier and provides a structural matrix for transporting fluid through the chamber 104, such as via hydrogen bonding to water as the water passes therethrough. The fluid permeable support 120 may be positioned such that the fluid permeable membrane 118 is disposed between the fluid permeable support 120 and the fluid impermeable barrier 102. As such, the fluid permeable support 120 may support and maintain the position of the fluid permeable membrane 118. The fluid permeable support 120 may include a porous polymer (e.g. , nylon, polyester, polyurethane, polyethylene, polypropylene, etc.) structure, an open cell foam, polymer particles, or spun plastic fibers (e.g., spun nylon fibers). In some examples, the fluid permeable support 120 may be formed from a natural material, such as cotton, wool, silk, or combinations thereof. In some examples, the fluid permeable support 120 may be formed from fabric, felt, gauze, or combinations thereof. In some examples, the fluid permeable support 120 may include a plurality of threads including at least semi-rigid threads that are partially entangled witheach other to form a flexible body (e.g.,. a plastic fiber coil or mat). The fluid permeable support 120 may include any material that may wick the fluid, such as any of the fluid permeable membrane materials disclosed herein. For example, the fluid permeable membrane material(s) may be utilized in a more dense or rigid form than in the fluid permeable membrane 118 when used as the fluid permeable support 120. The fluid permeable support 120 may be formed from any fluid permeable material that is less deformable than the fluid permeable membrane 118, such as any of the materials disclosed herein for the fluid permeable membrane 1 18, in a more dense or rigid form. The fluid permeable support or material thereof may have a coating to prevent or limit absorption of fluid into the material, such as a water repellent coating. In some examples, the fluid permeable membrane 118 may be optional. For example, the porous material 115 may include only the fluid permeable support 120.

[0035] The fluid permeable support 120 may have a greater ability to transport fluids than the fluid permeable membrane 118, such as to move the fluid inwardly from the outer surface of the fluid collection device 100. In some examples, the porous transport ability of the fluid permeable support 120 and the fluid permeable membrane 118 may be substantially the same. In some examples, the fluid permeable support 120 may be hydrophobic, to allow fluids to move more quickly through the support material than if a hydrophilic material was used.

[0036] As shown in FIGS. IB and 1C, the porous material 115 includes a plurality of sections longitudinally distributed (e.g., sequentially arranged, spaced, or along the longitudinal axis L. For example, the fluid permeable support 120 may include at least three sections 161, 162, and 163. The sections may divide an otherwise unitary body of the fluid permeable support 120 into smaller individual sections 161, 162, and 163 distributed along the longitudinal axis L. The sections may be spaced, sequentially arranged, or otherwise disposed along the longitudinal axis L. One or more of the fluid permeable support or the fluid permeable membrane may include at least two or at least three sections radially separated from each other along the longitudinal axis L.

[0037] The plurality of sections may be at least partially separated from each other to increase compliance of the porous material. For example, the individual sections 161, 162, and 163 allow the porous material and fluid collection device to be more compliant to bending forces applied thereto and to be manipulated and maintained in a selected shape or configuration. The fluid collection device 100 may be bent into an arcuate shape to complement the shape of the wearer in the pelvic region along the sagittal plane. As thefluid permeable support 120 in the porous material is bent, the separations between the sections 161 and 162 as well as 162 and 163 allows the porous material to hingedly bend at the separations responsive to compression on the “inside” of the bend and spread apart at the separations responsive to compression on the “outside” of the bend. Accordingly, the porous material with a plurality of sections longitudinally distributed along the longitudinal axis, and fluid collection devices including the same, disclosed herein provide for relatively greater flexibility and compliance than fluid collection devices without the same.

[0038] The increased compliance of the porous material having a plurality of sections (and fluid collection devices including the same) disclosed herein is relative to an identically or even similarly constructed porous material that does not include the plurality of sections (and fluid collection device including the same). For example, bodies of porous material (and fluid collection devices including the same) with an identical material type (e.g., spun nylon fibers), density, size (e.g., outer dimensions), shape, etc., one with a unitary body and one with a plurality of sections may be tested for compliance to bending forces applied thereto. To determine the compliance of the porous material, a body of the porous material may be fixed at a section and a force may be applied to the body at a distance therefrom that includes at least one separation between the plurality of sections to bend the body of porous material. The body of porous material without sections therein may be tested with the same set-up, with the same distances between the fixed point and the point where the force is applied thereto. The forces used to bend the bodies of porous material the selected distance may be measured and compared for relative compliance.

[0039] While shown as three sections 161, 162, and 163, the one or more of the fluid permeable support or the fluid permeable barrier may be at least two sections, at three sections, at least five sections, at least ten sections, at least 15 sections, two sections to ten sections, two sections to four sections, three sections to five sections, five sections to ten sections, less than ten sections, or less than six sections. In embodiments with three sections, the sections 161, 162, and 163 may each be about one third of the length of the fluid permeable support or the fluid impermeable barrier. One or more of the individual section may be at least one tenth of the length of the fluid permeable support or the fluid impermeable barrier, at least one sixth, at least one fifth, at least one fourth, one half to one fifth, or less than one tenth of the length of the fluid permeable support or the fluid impermeable barrier. In some embodiments, at least some of the sections 161, 162, and 163 may differ in length from each other. For example, the first section 161 may be about one quarter of the length of the fluid permeable membrane or fluid impermeable barrier; thesecond section 162 may be about one half of the length of the fluid permeable membrane or fluid impermeable barrier; and the third section 163 may be about one quarter of the length of the fluid permeable membrane or fluid impermeable barrier.

[0040] The fluid permeable membrane 118 may be a single continuous sheet of material disposed over the support member. Accordingly, a wearer may not feel discontinuities (e.g., separations) in the fluid permeable support created by the sections due to the single, smooth, continuous layer of fluid permeable membrane material disposed thereover.

[0041] The fluid permeable membrane 118 and the fluid permeable support 120 may at least substantially completely fill the portions of the chamber 104 that are not occupied by the conduit 108. In some examples, the fluid permeable membrane 118 and the fluid permeable support 120 may not substantially completely fill the portions of the chamber 104 that are not occupied by the conduit 108. For example, the fluid collection device 100 includes the reservoir 122 in the chamber 104.

[0042] The fluid impermeable barrier 102, the fluid permeable membrane 118 and the fluid permeable support 120 may be configured to have the conduit 108 at least partially disposed therethrough. For example, at least one of the fluid permeable membrane 118 and the fluid permeable support 120 may be configured to form a space that accommodates the conduit 108. The fluid impermeable barrier 102 may define an aperture sized to receive the conduit 108. The at least one conduit 108 may be disposed in the chamber 104 via the aperture. The apertures may be configured to form an at least substantially fluid tight seal against the conduit 108 or the at least one tube thereby substantially preventing the fluid(s) from escaping the chamber 104. The fluid collected in the fluid collection device 100 may be removed from the chamber 104 via the conduit 108.

[0043] The conduit 108 (e.g., a tube) includes an inlet 110 at a first end region and an outlet 112 at a second end region positioned downstream from the inlet 110. The conduit 108 fluidly couples an interior region of the chamber 104 with the fluid storage container (not shown) or the vacuum source (not shown). The conduit 108 may include a flexible material such as plastic tubing (e.g., medical tubing). Such plastic tubing may include a thermoplastic elastomer, polyvinyl chloride, ethylene vinyl acetate, polytetrafluoroethylene, etc., tubing. In some examples, the conduit 108 may include silicon or latex. In some examples, the conduit 108 may include one or more portions that are resilient, such as to by having one or more of a diameter or wall thickness that allows the conduit to be flexible.

[0044] As shown in FIG. 1C, the conduit 108 may be at least partially disposed in the chamber 104. For example, the conduit 108 may extend into the fluid impermeable barrier 102 from the first end region 125 (e.g., proximate to the outlet 112) and may extend to the second end region 127 (e.g., opposite the first end region) to a point proximate to a reservoir 122 therein such that the inlet 110 is in fluid communication with the reservoir 122. The first end region 125 may be a proximal end and the second end region 127 may be distal end of the fluid collection device 100. In some examples (not shown), the conduit 108 may enter the chamber 104 in the second end region and the inlet 1 10 of the conduit 108 may be disposed in the second end region (e.g., in the reservoir). The fluid collected in the fluid collection device 100 may be removed from the chamber 104 via the conduit 108.

[0045] The fluid collection device 100 may include a reservoir 122 therein. As shown, the reservoir 122 is a substantially unoccupied portion of the chamber 104. The reservoir 122 may be defined between the fluid impermeable barrier 102 and one or both of the fluid permeable membrane 118 and the fluid permeable support 120. The end of the conduit 108 may extend to the fluid permeable membrane 118 and / or fluid permeable support 120, such into the reservoir 122. For example, the inlet 110 may extend into or be positioned in the reservoir 122. The fluid(s) that are in the chamber 104 may flow through the fluid permeable membrane 118 and / or fluid permeable support 120 to the reservoir 122. The fluid impermeable barrier 102 may retain the fluid(s) in the reservoir 122 until removed therefrom via the conduit 108. While depicted in the second end region 127, the reservoir 122 may be located in any portion of the chamber 104 such as the first end region 125. The reservoir 122 may be located in a portion of the fluid collection device expected to be positioned in a gravimetrically low point of the fluid collection device when worn by a user or wearer. The reservoir 122 may store at least some of the fluid(s) therein.

[0046] In some examples, the inlet 110 of the conduit 108 may not extend into the reservoir 122. In such examples, the inlet 110 may be disposed within the porous material 115 (fluid permeable membrane 118 and / or fluid permeable support 120) or at a terminal end thereof. For example, an end of the conduit 108 may be coextensive with or recessed within the fluid permeable membrane 118 and / or fluid permeable support 120.

[0047] In some examples, the fluid collection device 100 may include multiple reservoirs, such as a first reservoir that is located at the portion of the chamber 104 closest to the inlet 110 e.g., second end region 127) and a second reservoir that is located at the portion of the of the chamber 104 that is closest to the outlet 112 (e.g., first end region 125). In another example, the fluid permeable support 120 is spaced from at least a portion of theconduit 108 and the reservoir 122 may be the space between the fluid permeable support 120 and the conduit 108.

[0048] Locating the inlet 110 at or near a location expected to be the gravimetrically low point of the chamber 104 when worn by a user enables the conduit 108 to receive more of the fluid(s) than if inlet 110 was located elsewhere and reduce the likelihood of pooling (e.g. , pooling of the fluid(s) may cause microbe growth and foul odors). For instance, the fluid(s) in the fluid permeable membrane 118 and the fluid permeable support 120 may flow in any direction due to capillary forces. However, absent suction or a vacuum, the fluid(s) may exhibit a preference to flow in the direction of gravity, especially when at least a portion of the fluid permeable membrane 118 and / or the fluid permeable support 120 is saturated with the fluid(s). Accordingly, one or more of the inlet 110 or the reservoir 122 may be located in the second end region 127.

[0049] The conduit 108 may be configured to be selectively insertable into the chamber 104. For example, the conduit 108 may include one or more markers (not shown) on an exterior thereof that are configure to facilitate insertion of the conduit 108 into the chamber 104. The conduit 108 may include one or more markings thereon that are configured to prevent over or under insertion of the conduit 108, such as when the conduit 108 defines an inlet 110 that is configured to be disposed in or adjacent to the reservoir 122. The conduit 108 may include one or more markings thereon that are configured to facilitate correct rotation of the conduit 108 relative to the chamber 104. The one or more markings may include a line, a dot, a sticker, or any other suitable marking.

[0050] The fluid impermeable barrier 102 may include markings thereon, such as one or more markings to aid a user in aligning the device 100 on the wearer. For example, a line on the fluid impermeable barrier 102 (e.g., opposite the opening 106) may allow a healthcare professional to align the opening 106 over the urethra of the wearer or show where the sections are in the porous material. In examples, the markings may include one or more of an alignment guide or an orientation indicator, such as a stripe or hashes. Such markings may be positioned to align the device 100 to one or more anatomical features such as a pubic bone, etc.

[0051] Other embodiments of fluid impermeable barriers, fluid permeable membranes, fluid permeable supports, chambers, and their shapes and configurations are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 612,325 filed on June 2, 2017; U.S. Patent No. 10,390,989 filed on September 8, 2016; and U.S. Patent No. 10,226,376 filed on June 1, 2017, the disclosure of each of which is incorporated herein, in its entirety, by this reference.

[0052] One or more components (e.g., fluid impermeable barrier 102, conduit 108, the porous material 115, etc.) of the fluid collection device 100 may include an odor blocking or absorbing material such as a cyclodextrine-containing material or a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) polymer.

[0053] As described in more detail below, the conduit 108 is configured to be coupled to and at least partially extend between one or more of a fluid storage container (not shown) and a vacuum source (not shown). In an example, the conduit 108 is configured to be directly connected to the vacuum source (not shown). In such an example, the conduit 108 may extend from the fluid impermeable barrier 102 by at least one foot, at least three feet, at least six feet, or at least ten feet. In another example, the conduit 108 may be indirectly connected to at least one of the fluid storage container (not shown) and the vacuum source (not shown). In some examples, the conduit is secured to a wearer’s skin with a catheter securement device, such as a STATLOCK® catheter securement device available from C. R. Bard, Inc., including but not limited to those disclosed in U.S. Patent Nos. 6,117,163; 6,123,398; and 8,211,063, the disclosures of which are all incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0054] The inlet 110 and the outlet 112 may fluidly couple (e.g., directly or indirectly) the vacuum source (not shown) to the chamber 104 (e.g., the reservoir 122), such as via one or more connectors thereon. In an example, the inlet 110 and / or the outlet 112 may form a male connector. In another example, the inlet 110 and / or the outlet 112 may form a female connector. In an example, the inlet 110 and / or the outlet 112 may include ribs that are configured to facilitate secure couplings. In an example, the inlet 110 and / or the outlet 112 may form a tapered shape. In an example, the inlet 110 and / or the outlet 112 may include a rigid or flexible material.

[0055] In some embodiments, the sections may not be completely separated from each other. FIG. 2A is an exploded view of the fluid collection device 200, according to an embodiment. FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional view of the fluid collection device of FIG. 2A, according to an embodiment. The fluid collection device 200 is similar or identical to the fluid collection device 100 in one or more aspects. For example, the fluid collection device 200 includes the fluid impermeable barrier 102, the opening 106, the chamber 104, the conduit 108, and porous material 215. The porous material 215 may include one or more of the fluid permeable membrane 218 and the fluid permeable support 220. The fluid permeable membrane 218 and the fluid permeable support 220 are similar or identical tothe fluid permeable membrane 118 and the fluid permeable support 120 in one or more aspects, such as material composition, shape, position, or the like.

[0056] As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, one or more of the fluid permeable membrane 218 or fluid permeable support 220 may be at least partially separated into sections 261- 264. For example, the sections 261-264 may be partially separated from each other (e.g., radially) along the longitudinal axis, such as by cuts or discontinuities therebetween in the fluid permeable support 220 and / or the fluid permeable membrane 218. The first section 261 , the second section 262, the third section 263, and the fourth section 264 may be similar or identical to the sections 161-163 in one or more aspects, such as size, shape, number, dimension, or the like. As noted above, the plurality of sections 61-264 being at least partially separated from each other increases compliance of the porous material 215 and the fluid collection device 200 as a whole.

[0057] At least some of the sections 261-264 may be connected by a relative small portion of fluid permeable support 220 or the fluid permeable membrane 218 left intact. In such examples, the cut(s) or separations forming the sections may only travel through less than 95% of the diameter of the fluid permeable support 220 or fluid permeable membrane 218, such as through at least 50% of the diameter, at least 60%, 50% to 95%, 50% to 75%, 75% to 95%, less than 90%, or less than 80% of the diameter of one or both of the permeable support 220 or fluid permeable membrane 218.

[0058] The fluid permeable support 220 may include at least three sections connected to each other at the opening and radially separated from each other along the longitudinal axis on a side of the chamber 104 opposite the opening 106. Put another way, the portion of the permeable support 220 or fluid permeable membrane 218 connecting the respective sections 261-264 may be positioned at, and span across, the opening 106. In such examples, the connections between the sections 261-264 may provide a continuous surface so that a wearer cannot feel any discontinuities that would otherwise be present in the permeable support 220 or fluid permeable membrane 218 if the same were separated at the opening 106. Further, the continuous surface of material in the fluid permeable support 220 allows fluid to flow between sections.

[0059] As the fluid permeable support 220 is bent, the separations between the sections 261-264 allow the fluid permeable support 220 to hingedly bend responsive to compression on the “inside” of the bend and spread apart at the separations responsive to compression on the “outside” of the bend. Such a configuration is particularly effective when bending the fluid collection device 200 into an arcuate shape.

[0060] The fluid permeable membrane 218 may be a single continuous sheet of material disposed over the support member. Accordingly, a wearer may not feel discontinuities (e.g., separations) in the fluid permeable support 220 created by the sections when the fluid collection device 200 is bent due to the single, smooth, continuous layer of fluid permeable membrane material disposed thereover. In some examples, the fluid permeable membrane 118 or 218 may be separated like the fluid permeable support 120 or 220. More or fewer sections than those shown in FIGS. 1B-2B may be utilized in embodiments.

[0061] In some embodiments, the positioning of the cuts or separations in the fluid permeable membrane 218 or fluid permeable support 220 may be located in a position other than opposite the opening, such as to accommodate bending in a plane orthogonal or oblique to the plane A- A (FIG. 1A).

[0062] In some examples, the plurality of sections may include a plurality of polymer particles. FIG. 3A is an exploded view of the fluid collection device 300, according to an embodiment. FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view of the fluid collection device of FIG. 3A, according to an embodiment. The fluid collection device 300 is similar or identical to the fluid collection device 100 or 200 in one or more aspects. For example, the fluid collection device 300 includes the fluid impermeable barrier 102, the opening 106, the chamber 104, the conduit 108, and porous material 315. The porous material 315 may include one or more of the fluid permeable membrane 318 and the fluid permeable support 320. The fluid permeable membrane 318 and the fluid permeable support 320 are similar or identical to the fluid permeable membrane 118 or 218 and the fluid permeable support 120 or 220 in one or more aspects, such as material composition, shape, position, or the like.

[0063] As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the plurality of sections of the fluid permeable support 320 may include the plurality of particles 361. For example, the particles 361 are separated from each other (e.g., radially) along the longitudinal axis. The particles 361 may be constructed of any of the fluid permeable support materials disclosed herein. For example, the particles 361 may include substantially spherical particles of spun polymer (e.g., nylon) fibers. In some examples, the particles may be at least partially constructed of a natural material. The particles 361 may be hydrophobic. In some examples, the particles may be hydrophilic. The porosity of the particles 361 themselves and bulk porosity between the particles 361 may allow the fluid to wick therethrough. The plurality of particles being at least partially separated from each other increases compliance of the porous material 315and the fluid collection device 300 compared to fluid collection devices with a unitary porous material.

[0064] The particles 361 may be substantially spherical, polygonal, amorphous, or another other shape. The particles 361 may exhibit an average particle size of at least 1 mm in diameter or largest outer dimension, such as 1 mm to 1 cm, 1 mm to 3 mm, 3 mm, to 6 mm, 6 mm to 1 cm, less than 1 cm, or greater than 5 mm.

[0065] The particles 361 may be contained in a casing (not shown), such as in a porous bag, net, or the like. The casing may be tubular. The casing may form a bore therethrough to accommodate the conduit 108 therein. The fluid impermeable membrane 318 may contain or hold the particles in the chamber 104. For example, the fluid permeable membrane 318 may be substantially tubular and the particles 361 forming the fluid permeable support 320 may be disposed therein. The casing may be made from the fluid permeable membrane 318.

[0066] As the fluid permeable support 320 is bent, the separations between the sections or particles 361 allow the fluid permeable support 320 to hingedly bend responsive to compression on the “inside” of the bend and spread apart at the separations responsive to compression on the “outside” of the bend. Such a configuration is particularly effective when bending the fluid collection device 300 into an arcuate shape.

[0067] The fluid permeable membrane 318 may be a single continuous sheet of material disposed over the support member. Accordingly, a wearer may not feel discontinuities (e.g., separations) in the fluid permeable support 320 created by the sections or particles 361 when the fluid collection device 300 is bent due to the single, smooth, continuous layer of fluid permeable membrane material disposed thereover.

[0068] In some examples, the plurality of sections may include a plurality of threads including at least semi-rigid threads that are partially entangled with each other to form a flexible body. The at least partially entangle threads are also at least partially separated from each other to increase compliance of the porous material compared to threads that are not separated. FIG. 4A is an exploded view of the fluid collection device 400, according to an embodiment. FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of the fluid collection device of FIG. 4A, according to an embodiment. The fluid collection device 400 is similar or identical to the fluid collection device 100, 200, or 300 in one or more aspects. For example, the fluid collection device 400 includes the fluid impermeable barrier 102, the opening 106, the chamber 104, the conduit 108, and porous material 415. The porous material 415 may include one or more of the fluid permeable membrane 418 and the fluid permeable support420. The fluid permeable membrane 418 and the fluid permeable support 420 are similar or identical to the fluid permeable membrane 118, 218, or 318 and the fluid permeable support 120, 220, or 320 in one or more aspects, such as material composition, shape, position, or the like.

[0069] As shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the plurality of sections of the fluid permeable support 420 may include a plurality of threads being at least partially entangled with each other to form a flexible body. For example, the threads may be at least partially separated from each other (e.g., radially) along the longitudinal axis, such as by a coil configuration or plurality of coils. The structure of the plurality of threads may be similar or identical to the structure of steel wool or a scouring pad. The threads may be constructed of any of the fluid permeable support materials disclosed herein. For example, the threads may include relatively thick and at least semi-rigid nylon threads. In some examples, the threads may be at least partially constructed of a natural material. In some examples, the threads may be at least partially constructed of a metal material. The porosity of the threads themselves and bulk porosity between the threads may allow the fluid to wick therethrough.

[0070] The separations between the plurality of threads forming the separate sections of the porous material 415 may include the separation between the individual coils of threads or cuts between the mass of threads (as set forth in FIGS. 1A-2B). As the fluid permeable support 420 is bent, the separations between the sections or threads allow the fluid permeable support 420 to hingedly bend responsive to compression on the “inside” of the bend and spread apart at the separations responsive to compression on the “outside” of the bend. Such a configuration is particularly effective to increase compliance when bending the fluid collection device 400 into an arcuate shape.

[0071] The fluid permeable membrane 418 may be a single continuous sheet of material disposed over the support member. Accordingly, a wearer may not feel discontinuities (e.g., separations) in the fluid permeable support 420 created by the sections or threads when the fluid collection device 400 is bent due to the single, smooth, continuous layer of fluid permeable membrane material disposed thereover.

[0072] While depicted in a vertical orientation, the plurality of threads may be arranged in a horizontal stack, coil, or orientation. In such examples, the plurality of sections may be stacked on each other and loosely arranged along the longitudinal axis to allow bending and to provide flow longitudinal flow of fluids therealong. Similarly, sections of fluid permeable material (e.g., support or membrane) may be axially distributed along the longitudinal axis. For example, the sections of fluid permeable support or membranematerial (threads, particles, or spun plastic fiber strips) may be distributed horizontally along the longitudinal axis, or even strips of spun plastic.

[0073] In some embodiments, fluid collection devices may include more than one of types of fluid permeable support or membranes disclosed herein. For example, a mixture of the fluid permeable particles and the plurality of threads may be utilized, such as the fluid permeable particles being dispersed throughout a plurality of threads. One or more sections of spun plastic material may be separated by a section of fluid permeable particles or plurality of threads.

[0074] The fluid collection devices having porous materials with pluralities of sections disclosed herein provide greater compliance to bending forces than examples of fluid collection devices with a porous material having a single piece construction.

[0075] Any of the fluid collection devices disclosed herein may be utilized to collect fluid (e.g., urine) from the urethra of a user or wearer. Similarly, any of the fluid collection devices disclosed herein may be utilized in a system to collect fluid (e.g., urine) from the urethra of a user or wearer.

[0076] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a system 10 for fluid collection, according to an embodiment. The system 10 includes a fluid collection device 12, a fluid storage container 14, and a vacuum source 16. The fluid collection device 12 may include any of the fluid collection devices 100-400 described herein, such as the fluid collection device 100, 200, 300, or 400. The fluid collection device 12, the fluid storage container 14, and the vacuum source 16 may be fluidly coupled to each other via one or more conduits 17. The conduit 17 may include any of the conduits described herein, such as the conduit 108. The fluid collection device 12 may be operably coupled to one or more of the fluid storage container 14 or the vacuum source via the conduit 17. Fluid (e.g., urine or other bodily fluids) collected in the fluid collection device 12 may be removed from the fluid collection device 12 via the conduit 17, which protrudes into an interior region of the fluid collection device 12. For example, a first open end of the conduit 17 may extend into the fluid collection device 12 to a reservoir therein. The second open end of the conduit 17 may extend into the fluid storage container 14 or the vacuum source 16. The suction force may be introduced into the interior region of the fluid collection device 12 via the first open end of the conduit 17 responsive to a suction (e.g., vacuum) force applied at the second end of the conduit 17. The suction force may be applied to the second open end of the conduit 17 by the vacuum source 16 either directly or indirectly.

[0077] The suction force may be applied indirectly via the fluid storage container 14. For example, the second open end of the conduit 17 may be disposed within the fluid storage container 14 and an additional conduit 17 may extend from the fluid storage container 14 to the vacuum source 16. Accordingly, the vacuum source 16 may apply suction to the fluid collection device 12 via the fluid storage container 14. The suction force may be applied directly via the fluid storage container 14. For example, the second open end of the conduit 17 may be disposed within the vacuum source 16. An additional conduit 17 may extend from the vacuum source 16 to a point outside of the fluid collection device 12, such as to the fluid storage container 14. In such examples, the vacuum source 16 may be disposed between the fluid collection device 12 and the fluid storage container 14.

[0078] The fluid collection device 12 may be shaped and sized to be positioned adjacent to the urethra of the user. The fluid collection device 12 may include a fluid impermeable barrier at least partially defining a chamber (e.g., interior region of the fluid collection device) of the fluid collection device 12. The fluid impermeable barrier also defines an opening extending therethrough from the external environment. The opening may be positioned on the fluid impermeable barrier to be aligned adjacent to the urethra of the user. The fluid collection device 12 includes porous material including sections longitudinally distributed along the longitudinal axis of the fluid collection device 12. For example, the porous material may include a fluid permeable membrane and fluid permeable support disposed within the fluid permeable membrane. One or both of the fluid permeable support or the fluid permeable membrane may include one or more sections as disclosed herein. The conduit 17 may extend into the fluid collection device 12 at a first end region, through one or more of the fluid impermeable barrier, fluid permeable membrane, or the fluid permeable support to a second end region of the fluid collection member of the fluid collection device 12.

[0079] In some embodiments, the fluid storage container 14 may include a bag (e.g., drainage bag), a bottle or cup (e.g., collection jar), specimen container, or any other enclosed container for storing bodily fluids such as urine. In examples, the conduit 17 may extend from the fluid collection device 12 and attach to the fluid storage container 14 at a first point therein. An additional conduit 17 may attach to the fluid storage container 14 at a second point thereon and may extend and attach to the vacuum source 16. For example, the fluid storage container 14 may include a container fluidly coupled to a first conduit section that is also fluidly coupled to the fluid collection device 12. The container may befluidly coupled to a second section of the conduit 17 that is also fluidly coupled to a vacuum source. In such examples, the vacuum source 16 may provide a vacuum / suction through the container to the fluid collection device to provide suction in the chamber thereof. Accordingly, a vacuum (e.g., suction) may be drawn through fluid collection device 12 via the fluid storage container 14. As the fluid is drained from the chamber, the fluid may travel through the first section of conduit to the fluid storage container where it may be retained. Fluid, such as urine, may be drained from the fluid collection device 12 using the vacuum source 16.

[0080] In some embodiments, the vacuum source 16 may be disposed in or on the fluid collection device 12. In such examples, the conduit 17 may extend from the fluid collection device and attach to the vacuum source 16 at a first point therein. An additional conduit 17 may attach to the vacuum source 16 at a second point thereon and may extend out of the fluid collection device 12, and may attach to the fluid storage container 14. Accordingly, a vacuum (e.g., suction) may be drawn through fluid collection device 12 via the fluid storage container 14.

[0081] The vacuum source 16 may include a vacuum line in a hospital, care facility, or home, such as a wall mounted vacuum line. The vacuum source 16 may be portable and may include one or more of a manual vacuum pump, and electric vacuum pump, a diaphragm pump, a centrifugal pump, a displacement pump, a magnetically driven pump, a peristaltic pump, or any pump configured to produce a vacuum. The vacuum source 16 may provide a vacuum or suction to remove fluid from the fluid collection device 12. In some embodiments, the vacuum source 16 may be powered by one or more of a power cord (e.g., connected to a power socket), one or more batteries, or even manual power (e.g., a hand operated vacuum pump). In examples, the vacuum source 16 may be sized and shaped to fit outside of, on, or within the fluid collection device 12. For example, the vacuum source 16 may include one or more miniaturized pumps or one or more micro pumps. The vacuum sources 16 disclosed herein may include one or more of a switch, a button, a plug, a remote, or any other device suitable to activate the vacuum source 16. It should be understood that some of the vacuum sources 16 disclosed herein may provide a portable means of providing a suction or vacuum that allows use of the devices and systems herein outside of hospital or care facility environments where vacuum lines are plumbed into patient rooms or large (e.g., larger or heavier than a patient can readily carry) vacuum sources are located. For example, a portable vacuum source may be small and light enough to be carried by a user (e.g., patient) or aid (e.g., nurse) during transportation of the user.

[0082] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of a method 600 for collecting fluid, according to an embodiment. The method 600 may include act 610 of positioning an opening of a fluid collection device adjacent to a urethra of a user. Act 610 may be followed by act 620 of receiving fluids from the urethra into the fluid collection device. Acts 610 and 620 the method 600 are for illustrative purposes. For example, the act 610 or 620 of the method 600 may be performed in different orders, split into multiple acts, modified, supplemented, or combined. One or more of the acts 610 or 620 may be combined or omitted. For example, the acts 610 and 620 may be combined. Any of the acts 610 or 620 may include using any of the fluid collection devices, vacuum sources, fluid storage containers, systems, or components of the same disclosed herein.

[0083] Act 610 recites positioning an opening of a fluid collection device adjacent to a urethra of a user. The act 610 (and act 620) may include using any of the fluid collection devices disclosed herein, such as any of the fluid collection devices 100-400. For example, the fluid collection device may include a fluid impermeable barrier at least partially defining the chamber, the fluid impermeable barrier also defining an opening extending therethrough, and an elongated shape defining a longitudinal axis. The opening is configured to be positioned adjacent to a urethra of the user, such as on or over the female urethra (e.g., on or between the labia majora) or on or over the penis of a male user (e.g., on or over a micropenis or buried penis). The fluid collection device may include porous material (e.g., fluid permeable support and fluid permeable membrane) disposed with the chamber and a conduit disposed within the porous material, the conduit including an inlet positioned within the fluid collection device and an outlet. The porous material includes a plurality of sections longitudinally distributed (e.g., sequentially spaced or arranged) along the longitudinal axis of the fluid collection device, the plurality of sections being at least partially separated from each other to increase compliance of the porous material.

[0084] Positioning an opening of a fluid collection device adj acent to a urethra of a user may include shaping the fluid collection device, such as by applying bending force to the fluid collection device. The shaping may include bending the fluid collection device to have an at least partially arcuate shape, such as an arcuate shape matching the shape of the wearer or user along the sagittal plane. The plurality of sections in the porous material allow the fluid collection device to be manipulated into and maintained in a shape to at least partially match the shape of the anatomy of the user along the sagittal plane of the user.

[0085] The method 600 may include securing the fluid collection device to the user, such as with an attachment pad or other attachment means. Suitable attachment pads aredisclosed in International Patent Application No. PCT / US2023 / 031432 filed on August 29, 2023, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein, in its entirety, by this reference.

[0086] Act 620 recites receiving fluids from the urethra into the fluid collection device. Receiving fluids from the urethra into the fluid collection device may include receiving urine from the urethra of the user. The 620 may include receiving the fluids into the chamber of the fluid collection device. The act 620 may include flowing the fluid towards a portion of the chamber that is in fluid communication with an inlet of a conduit in fluid communication a vacuum source. For example, act 620 may include flowing the fluids to or towards a substantially unoccupied portion of the chamber (e.g., a reservoir) or to a gravimetrically low point of the chamber. Act 620 may include wicking, flowing, or otherwise moving the fluids away from urethra via the opening using porous material e.g., fluid permeable membrane and a fluid permeable support).

[0087] The method 600 may include applying suction with a vacuum source effective to suction the fluids from the chamber via a conduit disposed therein that is in fluid communication with the vacuum source. In examples, applying suction with a vacuum source may include using any of the vacuum sources disclosed herein. In some embodiments, applying suction may include activating or connecting the vacuum source e.g., suction device) in fluid communication with the inlet of the conduit in the fluid collection device. Activating the vacuum source in fluid communication with the inlet of the conduit in the fluid collection device may include supplying power to the vacuum source by one or more of flipping an on / off switch, pressing a button, plugging the vacuum source into a power outlet, putting batteries into the vacuum source, etc.

[0088] In some embodiments, applying suction with a vacuum source effective to suction the fluids from the chamber via a conduit disposed therein that is in fluid communication with the vacuum source may be effective to remove at least some fluid (e.g., urine) from the chamber (e.g. , interior region) of the fluid collection device. Applying suction with a vacuum source effective to suction the fluids from the chamber via a conduit disposed therein that is in fluid communication with the vacuum source may be effective to transfer at least some of the fluid from the chamber of the fluid collection device to a fluid storage container (e.g., a bottle or bag) in fluid communication with the vacuum source and the fluid collection device. In examples, the vacuum source may be spaced from the fluid collection device.

[0089] In some embodiments, the method 600 may include collecting the fluids that are removed from the fluid collection device, such as into a fluid storage container that isspaced from the fluid collection device that is in fluid communication with the conduit. The fluid storage container may include any of the fluid storage containers disclosed herein.

[0090] As used herein, the term “about” or “substantially” refers to an allowable variance of the term modified by “about” by ±10% or ±5%. Further, the terms “less than,” “or less,” “greater than”, “more than,” or “or more” include as an endpoint, the value that is modified by the terms “less than,” “or less,” “greater than,” “more than,” or “or more.”

[0091] While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments are contemplated. The various aspects and embodiment disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting.

[0092] The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A fluid collection device, comprising: a fluid impermeable barrier defining a chamber therein, having an opening therethrough, and an elongated shape defining a longitudinal axis; a porous material disposed in the chamber, the porous material including a plurality of sections longitudinally distributed along the longitudinal axis, the plurality of sections being at least partially separated from each other to increase compliance of the porous material; and a conduit disposed within the chamber, the conduit including an intake at a distal end of the chamber.

2. The fluid collection device of claim 1 wherein the opening is a longitudinally extending opening.

3. The fluid collection device of claim 1 wherein the porous material includes one or more of a fluid permeable support or a fluid permeable membrane disposed over a fluid permeable support.

4. The fluid collection device of claim 3 wherein the one or more of the fluid permeable support or the fluid permeable membrane includes at least two sections radially separated from each other along the longitudinal axis.

5. The fluid collection device of claim 3 wherein the fluid permeable support includes at least two sections connected to each other at the opening and radially separated from each other along the longitudinal axis on a side of the chamber opposite the opening.

6. The fluid collection device of any of claims 3-5 wherein the fluid permeable support includes spun plastic fibers.

7. The fluid collection device of any one of claims 3-6 wherein the fluid permeable membrane includes a continuous sheet of porous material.

8. The fluid collection device of claim 1 wherein the plurality of sections includes a plurality of polymer particles.

9. The fluid collection device of claim 1 wherein the plurality of sections includes a plurality of threads including at least semi-rigid threads that are partially entangled with each other to form a flexible body.

10. A system for fluid collection, the system comprising: a fluid collection device including,a fluid impermeable barrier defining a chamber therein, having an opening therethrough, and an elongated shape defining a longitudinal axis; a porous material disposed in the chamber, the porous material including a plurality of sections longitudinally distributed along the longitudinal axis, the plurality of sections being at least partially separated from each other to increase compliance of the porous material; and a conduit disposed within the chamber, the conduit including an intake at a distal end of the chamber; a fluid storage container fluidly connected to the conduit; and a vacuum source fluidly connected to the fluid storage container.

11. The system of claim 10 wherein the porous material includes one or more of a fluid permeable support or a fluid permeable membrane disposed over a fluid permeable support.

12. The system of claim 11 wherein the one or more of the fluid permeable support or the fluid permeable membrane includes at least three sections radially separated from each other along the longitudinal axis.

13. The system of claim 11 wherein the fluid permeable support includes at least two sections connected to each other at the opening and radially separated from each other along the longitudinal axis on a side of the chamber opposite the opening.

14. The system any of claims 11- 13 wherein the fluid permeable support includes spun plastic fibers.

15. The system of any one of claims 11-14 wherein the fluid permeable membrane includes a continuous sheet of porous material.

16. The system of claim 10 wherein the plurality of sections includes a plurality of polymer particles.

17. The system of claim 10 wherein the plurality of sections includes a plurality of threads including at least semi-rigid threads that are partially entangled with each other to form a flexible body.

18. The system of claim 10 wherein the fluid storage container includes one or more of a bag, a bottle, or a specimen container.

19. The system of claim 10 wherein the vacuum source includes one or more of a wall mounted vacuum line, a vacuum pump, or a manual pump.

18. A method for collecting fluid, the method comprising:positioning an opening of a fluid collection device adjacent to a urethra of a user, the fluid collection device including, a fluid impermeable barrier defining a chamber therein, having an opening therethrough, and an elongated shape defining a longitudinal axis; a porous material disposed in the chamber, the porous material including a plurality of sections longitudinally distributed along the longitudinal axis, the plurality of sections being at least partially separated from each other to increase compliance of the porous material; and a conduit disposed within the chamber, the conduit including an intake at a distal end of the chamber; and receiving fluids from the urethra into the fluid collection device.

19. The method of claim 18 wherein positioning an opening of a fluid collection device adjacent to a urethra of a user includes shaping the fluid collection device into an arcuate configuration.

20. The method of claim 18 wherein receiving fluids from the urethra into the fluid collection device includes receiving urine from the urethra of the user.

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