Liquid collection device

Abstract

Liquid collection device, comprising: a flexible bag (1) comprising walls (2A, 2B) configured to provide between them an opening for introducing liquids; the walls (2A, 2B) comprising at least one first translucent or transparent wall (2A); a liquid analysis device (4), arranged in the bag (1) and visible from the first wall (2A), the liquid analysis device (4) comprising at least one reactive element (4A) configured to change appearance in the presence of at least one component of a liquid; a target (5) comprising at least two reference zones having distinct aspects revealing aspects adopted by the at least one reactive element (4A) in the presence of the at least one component to a determined extent, the target (5) being carried by the bag (1) so as to be visible with the liquid analysis device (4). Fig. 1B

Description

Title of the invention: Liquid collection device Technical field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a device for collecting liquids, for example biological liquids such as urine or vomit. Prior art

[0002] Devices for collecting urine or vomit are known in the state of the art, for example in European patent No. 3174512, having a pocket provided with a safety valve to substantially prevent the contents of the envelope from escaping through the opening.

[0003] These devices are used, for example, by bedridden patients, for example in hospitals, or by people with limited mobility. Statement of the invention

[0004] The need to collect fluids from a patient is known, for example to reduce the risk of contamination by these fluids, and to ensure their disposal.

[0005] The interest of the analysis of a patient's liquids for the evaluation of a pathology or the state of health of the patient is known, as the basis of medical biology.

[0006] Commonly, a patient's fluids are transferred between different containers between collection, analysis, and disposal, increasing the risk of contamination from improper handling.

[0007] The problem therefore arose of designing a device which could safely and reliably perform the functions of collecting and analyzing liquids, and which could be easily eliminated.

[0008] The present presentation aims to address this problem.

[0009] The present disclosure relates to a liquid collection device comprising a flexible bag comprising walls configured to provide between them an opening for introducing liquids; the walls comprising at least one first translucent or transparent wall; a liquid analysis device, disposed in the pocket and visible from the first wall, the liquid analysis device comprising at least one reactive element configured to change appearance in the presence of at least one component of a liquid; a target comprising at least two reference zones having distinct aspects revealing aspects adopted by the at least one reactive element in the presence of the at least one component to a determined extent, the target being carried by the bag so as to be visible with the liquid analysis device.

[0010] Liquids are understood to mean any type of liquid, for example, a user's biological liquids, such as urine or vomit, or a mixture of biological liquids. Liquids are also understood to mean non-biological liquids, for example, aqueous phase liquids such as wastewater or any other industrial liquid, or non-aqueous phase liquids, such as petroleum or oils.

[0011] The liquid collection device can thus have an application in medical or non-medical fields.

[0012] By element reactive to a component of a liquid is meant a device which reacts in a characteristic manner in response to contact with a liquid and / or with chemical species contained in the liquid, in this case by changing appearance.

[0013] A flexible bag is understood to mean a bag that can deform when filled with liquids. The use of a flexible bag makes it possible, for example, to reduce the volume of the liquid collection device before use in order to facilitate its storage. However, it is understood that the bag can also be a rigid or semi-rigid bag.

[0014] Flexible means a material that can deform under its own weight. Semi-rigid means a material that deforms little under its own weight, but can easily be deformed by hand. Rigid means a material that deforms little under its own weight and is difficult to deform by hand.

[0015] By “appearance” we mean in particular an optical property, for example color.

[0016] By "a target visible with the liquid analysis device" is meant that the sight and the liquid analysis device are visible simultaneously from outside the device. Typically, the sight and the liquid analysis device are visible simultaneously from the first wall in a sufficiently clear manner and in such a way that the useful surfaces of the sight and the analysis device are visible and readable simultaneously. In other words, the sight and the liquid analysis device are arranged sufficiently close (juxtaposed) to each other so as to allow their respective reading and comparison in a single image capture.

[0017] By “visible” we mean visible to an operator or to a reading device.

[0018] By "changing appearance in the presence of at least one component of a liquid" we mean means a change in appearance obtained after a certain duration of continuous contact or a certain duration after a point contact with the component of the liquid. Typically, the change in appearance is obtained after a duration of the order of a minute or less.

[0019] The liquid analysis device is an element reactive to a component of a liquid, in the sense that it allows an analysis of the liquid to be carried out following contact with this liquid. Liquid analysis means the detection of the presence of at least one component in the liquids and / or the measurement of the concentration of at least one component in liquids. The component can be a chemical species of biological origin, such as a protein, or of non-biological origin. The component can also be a cell, biological tissue, or bacteria. The analysis results are readable by a user.

[0020] Such a device makes it possible to carry out liquid collection and analysis operations in a secure manner.

[0021] Optionally, the sight is disposed against the first wall, typically attached to the first wall, against an interior surface or an exterior surface of the first wall.

[0022] By "interior" we mean interior to the liquid collection device, and conversely by "exterior" we mean exterior to the liquid collection device.

[0023] By fixing, we typically mean fixing by means of an adhesive, for example by plastic welding, or any other fixing means known to those skilled in the art allowing fixing without damaging the elements to be fixed.

[0024] Positioning against the first wall makes it easier to read the sight from the first wall.

[0025] Optionally, the liquid analysis device is disposed against an interior surface of the first wall.

[0026] By securing the target against an interior surface of the first wall, the target and the liquid analysis device may be subjected to similar disturbances, which tends to reduce the impact of the disturbances on the reading of the target and the liquid analysis device. The disturbances may include absorption or reflection of light by residual liquid or by the first wall of the flexible bag.

[0027] Optionally, the liquid analysis device and the target are respectively arranged against an inner surface and against an outer surface of the first wall.

[0028] Such positioning makes it possible to prevent contact between the liquid analysis device and the target, and thus to prevent damage by contact.

[0029] Optionally, the target is carried by an element of the liquid collection device other than the first wall. Optionally, the target is reproduced, for example by inkjet printing or the like, on a surface of the liquid collection device, for example on a surface of the first wall.

[0030] Optionally, the liquid analysis device comprises a test strip carrying the at least one reactive element.

[0031] Optionally, the test strip comprises a plurality of reactive elements separated from each other by at least one demarcation element.

[0032] The demarcation element makes it easier to identify and read the reactive elements.

[0033] The demarcation element is typically devoid of a reactive element that changes appearance in the presence of the liquid. In other words, the demarcation element retains its appearance in the presence of the liquid for a duration equal to or greater than a duration that allows a change in appearance of the reactive element to be obtained.

[0034] Typically, in the case where the change in appearance includes a change in color, the demarcation element may be black or white. Such colors make it possible to present a high contrast with the colors of the reactive element and / or make it possible to identify possible problems of contrast or brightness of a measurement reading by an optical reading device such as a camera.

[0035] Optionally, the target comprises a reading zone carrying the at least two reference zones and / or a positioning pattern.

[0036] Optionally, the device comprises a protective arrangement configured to protect the liquid analysis device from contact with a jet of liquid coming from the liquid introduction opening.

[0037] The protective arrangement makes it possible to avoid premature contact between the collected liquid and the liquid analysis device, and thus makes it possible to ensure that the measurement is carried out correctly.

[0038] Optionally, the collection device comprises an absorbent material.

[0039] The absorbent material is an element reactive to a component of a liquid, in the sense that it allows liquids to be absorbed, for example by retaining them in a solid phase or in a gel. The absorbent material can also flocculate liquids.

[0040] Such a bag makes it possible to collect liquids, then to retain them, for example in a solid phase or in a gel and thus to facilitate their elimination by suitable waste management channels. In the case where the liquids are urine from a patient following medical treatment, for example chemotherapy, the absorption and elimination of urine makes it possible to reduce the pollution of wastewater by toxic drug residues.

[0041] In addition, the protection by the protection arrangement allows the liquids to be collected in the flexible bag without them coming into contact with the absorbent material, which would result in premature absorption which could prevent an analysis of the liquids or impair the reliability of such an analysis.

[0042] Optionally, the absorbent material is provided in a soluble or free envelope in the second chamber or in the pocket.

[0043] By soluble is meant soluble in the liquids considered. In the case of liquids in aqueous phase, for example urine or vomit, soluble means water-soluble.

[0044] The soluble envelope allows the absorbent material to be held in position until contact with the liquids, after which the dissolved soluble envelope can release the absorbent material to absorb the residual liquids from the bag.

[0045] Optionally, the absorbent material comprises sodium polyacrylate. Other absorbent materials may be provided depending on the nature of the liquids to be absorbed, for example among superabsorbent polymers.

[0046] Optionally, the device comprises a non-return valve configured to prevent the flow of liquids collected in the flexible bag towards the outside of the flexible bag.

[0047] This configuration makes it possible to prevent liquids from escaping from the flexible bag. In particular, this configuration makes it possible to allow manipulations of the bag in order to bring the liquids into contact with the absorbent material and with the liquid analysis device while preventing accidental leakage of liquids from the flexible bag.

[0048] Optionally, the protective arrangement comprises at least a portion of the non-return valve.

[0049] The non-return valve can then have a dual function of protecting the liquid analysis device and the absorbent material from a jet of liquid coming from the liquid introduction opening, and of preventing accidental leakage of liquids from the flexible bag. In this way, the structure of the liquid collection device is simplified, which further reduces the risks of failure of the device.

[0050] Optionally, the check valve comprises a leaf check valve.

[0051] The non-return valve can then have a dual function of protecting the device liquid analysis and the material absorbing a jet of liquid from the liquid introduction opening, and preventing accidental leakage of liquids from the flexible bag. In this way, the structure of the liquid collection device is simplified, further reducing the risk of device failure.

[0052] Optionally, the protective arrangement comprises a portion of flexible sheets which delimits a first chamber with the first wall of the flexible pouch and which delimits a second chamber with a second wall of the flexible pouch.

[0053] The first chamber and the second chamber can then separately receive collected liquids.

[0054] Optionally, the liquid analysis device is located in the first chamber and the absorbent material is located in the second chamber, the liquid analysis device and the absorbent material being positioned in areas between the liquid introduction opening and one end of the protective arrangement opposite the liquid introduction opening.

[0055] Such a configuration allows the collected liquids to be distributed between a first chamber in which the collected liquids can come into contact with the liquid analysis device, and a second chamber in which the collected liquids can come into contact with the absorbent material. In this way, the liquid analysis and liquid absorption functions can be performed without interfering with each other.

[0056] Such a bag makes it possible to collect liquids while protecting the analysis device and / or the absorbent material from unwanted contact with the liquids. The analysis device and / or the absorbent material can then be brought into contact with the collected liquids so as to carry out the reaction between the analysis device and / or the absorbent material and the liquids.

[0057] Such a device then allows liquids to be collected safely and reliably, while reducing the handling phases necessary for contact and reaction of the liquid with the reactive element.

[0058] With this configuration, the liquids can be collected in the flexible bag without coming into contact with the liquid analysis device, which makes it possible to avoid premature contact of the liquid analysis device with the collected liquids, such premature contact risking degrading the quality of the measurements of the liquid analysis device or even preventing a measurement. In this way, the contact time of the collected liquids with the liquid analysis device can be controlled, so as to ensure the proper functioning of the liquid analysis device.

[0059] In particular, in the case where the liquids collected are the urine of a patient, the controlled contact of the urine and the liquid analysis device makes it possible to avoid contact with the urine at the start of urination, which may be unsuitable for carrying out certain analyses.

[0060] Optionally, the protective arrangement is configured to protect the liquid analysis device from contact with the absorbent material.

[0061] This configuration makes it possible to avoid any interference between the functions of collection, analysis, and absorption of liquids, which can then be ensured in a safe and reliable manner by the device.

[0062] The results of the analysis of liquids carried out by the device of the present invention may subsequently be submitted to the expertise of a health professional, who may compare the values ​​measured by the device with the reference values, for example the nominal values ​​of a healthy patient in order to make a diagnosis.

[0063] Optionally, the protective arrangement is configured to allow contact of liquids collected in the flexible bag with the absorbent material and with the liquid analysis device.

[0064] Once the liquids have been collected, contact with the absorbent material and with the liquid analysis device allows the liquid absorption and analysis functions to be performed respectively.

[0065] Optionally, the device comprises a non-return valve configured to prevent the flow of liquids collected in the flexible bag towards the outside of the flexible bag.

[0066] This configuration makes it possible to prevent liquids from escaping from the flexible bag. In particular, this configuration makes it possible to allow manipulations of the bag in order to bring the liquids into contact with the absorbent material and with the liquid analysis device while preventing accidental leakage of liquids from the flexible bag.

[0067] The invention also relates to a method for collecting and analyzing liquids from or by a user inside a flexible bag comprising walls configured to provide between them an opening for introducing liquids, the walls comprising at least one first translucent or transparent wall, the method comprising the following steps: collection in the flexible bag of liquids from or by a user through the liquid introduction opening; contacting the collected liquid with a liquid analysis device, the liquid analysis device being arranged in the pocket and visible from the first wall; change in appearance of at least one reactive element of the analysis device in the presence of at least one component of the liquid; simultaneous reading of the at least one reactive element and a target, the target comprising at least two reference zones having distinct aspects revealing aspects adopted by the at least one reactive element in the presence of the at least one component to a determined extent and the target being carried by the bag so as to be visible with the liquid analysis device.

[0068] Optionally, the method comprises: for a reactive element and after change of appearance of said reactive element, comparison of the appearance of said reactive element with the appearances of the at least two corresponding reference zones of the target and determination of a measurement of the at least one component of the liquid.

[0069] Optionally, the comparison step comprises, for a given reactive element, an interpolation of the at least two reference aspects and determination of the reference aspect closest to the aspect of said reactive element.

[0070] Optionally, the method of collecting liquids from or by a user includes protection of the liquid analysis device against contact with a jet of liquid from the liquid introduction opening.

[0071] Optionally, the method comprises protecting an absorbent material from contact with the analysis device.

[0072] Optionally, the method comprises the following steps: impeding a flow of liquids collected in the flexible bag to the outside of the flexible bag; inverting the flexible bag so as to bathe the liquid analysis device and the absorbent material in the liquids collected in the flexible bag for a predetermined exposure time.

[0073] By bathing is meant to immerse totally or partially. For example, by bathing a liquid analysis device in liquids is meant to bring at least the reactive element of the liquid analysis device into contact with the liquids.

[0074] Optionally, the method comprises absorbing liquids collected in the flexible bag by the absorbent material. Brief description of the drawings

[0075] [Fig.lA][Fig.lB] Figures 1A and 2B represent the same side view of a liquid collection device according to a first and a second embodiment respectively.

[0076] [Fig.2A][Fig.2B] Figures 2A and 2B are schematic sectional views of the liquid collection device according to alternatives of the first embodiment.

[0077] [Fig.2C][Fig.2D] Figures 2C and 2D are schematic sectional views of the liquid collection device according to alternatives of the second embodiment.

[0078] [Fig.3A] [Fig.3A] is a schematic sectional view of a liquid collection device of the first embodiment in the inverted position after collection of the liquids.

[0079] [Fig.3B] [Fig.3B] is a schematic sectional view of a liquid collection device of the second embodiment in the inverted position after collection of the liquids.

[0080] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] is a schematic sectional view of a liquid collection device after collection of the liquids. Description of the embodiments

[0081] The present invention will be described with reference to specific embodiments. However, it is obvious that modifications and changes may be made to these examples without departing from the general scope of the invention as defined by the claims. In particular, individual features of the different embodiments illustrated / mentioned may be combined in additional embodiments. Therefore, the description and drawings should be considered in an illustrative rather than restrictive sense.

[0082] The present invention relates to a liquid collection device 100, and will be described in the case of a bag comprising a leaf safety valve. A bag comprising a leaf safety valve is known to those skilled in the art, for example in European patent No. 3174512, to the content of which reference may be made when reading this disclosure, and will not be described in detail.

[0083] In the present disclosure, the liquid collection device 100 will be described in a direct orthogonal reference frame of axes X, Y, Z, in which, by convention, the Z axis is vertical. In fact, when liquids are collected in the device, the latter is normally positioned so that its introduction opening is oriented upwards, so that the Z axis is then vertical or in any case inclined relative to the horizontal.

[0084] As shown in the view along the plane YZ of [Fig. 1A], the liquid collection device 100 comprises a flexible bag 1. The flexible bag 1 is delimited by a first translucent or transparent wall 2A and a second wall 2B connected to each other over almost all of the contours of the walls 2A, 2B, for example by welding. The free parts of the contours of the walls 2A, 2B form a neck 2C on which a sleeve 3 is fixed.

[0085] The flexible pouch 1 may be made of a plastic material, for example polyethylene.

[0086] The liquid collection device 100 comprises a liquid analysis device 4, for example a test strip.

[0087] The liquid analysis device 4 comprises reactive elements 4A. The reactive elements 4A are configured to change appearance in the presence of a component of a liquid. Typically, the reactive elements 4A change color in a known manner depending on the presence, or even the concentration, of a chemical species or a biological marker of the liquid brought into contact with the reactive elements 4A.

[0088] The color taken by a reactive element 4A can then be associated with a corresponding measurement relating to the corresponding chemical species or biological marker.

[0089] The reactive elements 4A may be separated by demarcation elements 4B. For example, the demarcation elements may take the form of elements whose appearance is unchanged by the liquid. Typically, the demarcation elements 4B may take the form of a single-colored band, for example black in color.

[0090] The demarcation elements 4B make it easier to identify the areas corresponding to the reactive elements 4A.

[0091] The demarcation elements 4B further constitute easily identifiable markers facilitating the identification and reading of the reactive elements 4A even in the event of deformation of the liquid analysis device 4.

[0092] The liquid collection device 100 comprises a sight 5.

[0093] The target 5 comprises reference zones having distinct aspects revealing aspects adopted by the reactive elements 4A.

[0094] For example, in the case where the reactive elements 4A have variable colors depending on the concentration of a chemical species or a biological marker, the reference zones of the target 5 may have one or more characteristic colors taken by the reactive elements 4A in the presence of the chemical species or biological marker at variable concentrations.

[0095] The target 5 can thus comprise a matrix of reference colors which can be taken by the reactive elements 4A of the liquid analysis device 4, the reference colors corresponding to the colors adopted by the reactive elements 4A for predetermined concentrations of a chemical species or a biological marker.

[0096] The arrangement of the color matrix of the target 5 is provided in a predetermined manner, such that a predetermined position on the color matrix of the target 5 is associated with a color adopted by a reactive element 4A in the presence of a chemical species or a biological marker at a predetermined concentration.

[0097] As shown in Figures 1A and 1B, the target 5 and the liquid analysis device 4 are provided so as to be visible simultaneously, typically from one side of the bag 1 corresponding to the first wall 2A.

[0098] In this way, the analysis reading can be carried out by an operator by comparing the color of each reactive element 4A of the liquid analysis device with the corresponding reference colors carried by the color matrix of the target 5.

[0099] The analysis reading can be carried out by an optical reading device, typically a camera, coupled to a processing device comprising the positioning information of the reactive elements 4A of the liquid analysis device 4 and of the color matrix of the target 5.

[0100] The measurement of the corresponding chemical species or biological marker of a reactive element 4A is determined by the reference area corresponding to the chemical species or biological marker of the target 5 which has the color closest to the color taken by the reactive element 4A.

[0101] Typically, this determination can be carried out by interpolation by the processing device, the interpolation being able for example to relate to one or more indicators among brightness, the red level, the green level or the blue level.

[0102] The target 5 may also comprise a positioning pattern. The positioning pattern may for example be provided to facilitate the identification of the position and of the orientation of the target 5. In the same way as the demarcation elements 4B of the liquid analysis device, the positioning pattern of the target 5 can be provided with an appearance unchanged by the liquid, typically black in color.

[0103] The positioning pattern may for example be a pattern at least partially surrounding the color matrix, thus facilitating the identification of the contours of the color matrix.

[0104] For example, in the examples of Figures 1A and 1B, the positioning pattern is provided in the form of a black “L” on the left and bottom sides of the target 5, and an alternation of white and then black colored patterns on the top and right sides of the target 5.

[0105] The liquid collection device 100 also comprises an absorbent material 6 and a non-return valve 9, which will be described in more detail with respect to FIGS. 2 to 4.

[0106] The embodiments of Figures 1A and 1B differ in that in the embodiment of [Fig.1B], the liquid collection device 100 comprises an absorbent material 6.

[0107] The positioning of the liquid analysis device 4, of the target 5 and of the absorbent material 6, relative to the flexible bag 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 2A to 2D.

[0108] [Fig.2A] represents a schematic sectional view of the liquid collection and analysis device 100 along the YZ plane, orthogonal to the XZ plane of [Fig.1A].

[0109] The sleeve 3 delimits a liquid introduction opening 3A through which liquids can enter the liquid collection device 100.

[0110] A protective arrangement 9 is provided, in order to protect the liquid analysis device 4 and / or the absorbent material 6 against contact with a jet of liquid coming from the liquid introduction opening 3A.

[0111] The protective arrangement 9 forms a liquid flow passage in the extension of the liquid introduction opening 3A.

[0112] The protective arrangement 9 is for example a non-return valve 9.

[0113] In particular, the non-return valve 9 is a leaf non-return valve 9 comprising pairs of sheets 8 connected together by connecting points provided so as to allow the passage of liquids coming from the liquid introduction opening 3A to an interior of the flexible bag 1, while preventing a circulation of liquids from the interior of the flexible bag 1 to the exterior of the flexible bag 1.

[0114] As shown in Figures 1A and 1E, the non-return valve 9 extends between two ends of the contour of the walls 2A, 2B, so that the first wall 2A and sheets 8 of the non-return valve 9 delimit a first chamber 11, and the second wall 2B and sheets 8 of the non-return valve 9 delimit a second room 12, shown in [Fig.2A].

[0115] It is understood that the distinction between the first wall 2A and the second wall 2B, and between the first chamber 11 and the second chamber 12 is arbitrary, and that these are interchangeable.

[0116] The first chamber 11 and the second chamber 12 are separated by the leaves 8 of the non-return valve 9, and each form an open cavity which can communicate fluidly with each other beyond one end of the leaves 8 of the non-return valve 9.

[0117] It is understood that the extension of the first chamber 11 and the second chamber 12 depends on the extension of the non-return valve 9. In particular, the first chamber 11 and the second chamber 12 are here delimited by a plane perpendicular to the direction of flow of liquids from the liquid introduction opening 3A and passing through one end of the sheets 8 of the non-return valve 9, that is to say a plane perpendicular to the direction Z in the representation of [Fig.2A]. In other words, the first chamber 11 and the second chamber 12 are between the liquid introduction opening 3A and one end of the non-return valve 9 opposite the liquid introduction opening 3A.

[0118] The first chamber 11 and the second chamber 12 then correspond to positions inside the flexible bag 1 which cannot receive liquids when collecting a jet of liquid from the liquid introduction opening when the bag is in a vertical position.

[0119] The analysis device 4 is provided in the first chamber 11. The analysis device 4 is for example fixed to the first wall 2A, as shown in [Fig.2A], or fixed to the sheets 8 delimiting the first chamber 11, as shown in the alternative of [Fig.2B].

[0120] The sight 5 may be provided outside the flexible bag 1, for example fixed to the first wall 2A as shown in [Fig.2A], or else be provided inside the flexible bag 1, for example fixed to the non-return valve 9 as shown in the alternative of [Fig.2B].

[0121] The embodiment of [Fig.2C] corresponds to the embodiment of [Fig.2A] in which the liquid collection device 100 further comprises an absorbent material 6.

[0122] The absorbent material 6 is provided in the first chamber 11. The absorbent material 6 is for example fixed to the second wall 2B, as shown in [Fig.2C], or fixed to the sheets 8 delimiting the second chamber 12, as shown in the alternative of [Fig.2D].

[0123] It is understood that other combinations of positioning of the liquid analysis device 4, the target 5 and the absorbent material 6 based on the positionings individual measurements of the liquid analysis device 4, the target 5 and the absorbent material 6 described in Figures 2A and 2D are possible.

[0124] The protective arrangement 9 is provided to protect the liquid analysis device 4 from contact with the absorbent material 6.

[0125] The absorbent material 6 may be provided in a soluble envelope 7. The soluble envelope is for example a water-soluble envelope 7, for example comprising water-soluble polymers such as polymers from the dextrin and casein family.

[0126] The operation of the pocket will be described with reference to Figures 2A to 4.

[0127] After introducing the liquids through the liquid introduction opening 3A, the liquids flow out and are collected in the flexible bag 1 without coming into contact with the liquid analysis device 4, and where appropriate with the absorbent material 6, protected by the non-return valve 9.

[0128] As shown in Figures 3A and 3B, the flexible bag 1 can then be turned over so as to bathe the liquid analysis device 4, and / or the absorbent material 6, in the liquids 14.

[0129] In particular, the liquids 14 fill the first chamber 11 so as to bathe the liquid analysis device 4, and / or fill the second chamber 12, so as to bathe the absorbent material 6.

[0130] When the flexible bag 1 is turned over, the non-return valve 9 prevents liquids 14 from leaking from inside the flexible bag 1 to outside the flexible bag 1.

[0131] The extension of the non-return valve 9 may be provided in a manner adapted to the volume of liquids normally collected in the bag and therefore received in the chambers 11 and 12 when the bag is turned upside down. In particular, it may be designed so as to ensure separation of the liquids 14 in the first chamber 11 and in the second chamber 12 without fluid connection between the first chamber 11 and the second chamber 12, as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B.

[0132] For example, in the case where the liquids collected are the urine of a user, the first chamber 11 and the second chamber 12 may each be provided to collect a volume greater than half the average volume of urine emitted during a urination of urine.

[0133] It is understood, however, that in the inverted position of the flexible bag 1, the level of liquids can also exceed the end of the non-return valve 9.

[0134] In the first chamber 11, the liquid analysis device 4 is immersed in the liquids 14 in order to carry out a liquid analysis measurement. In order to carry out the liquid analysis, the duration of the bath in the liquids 14 must correspond to a predetermined exposure duration, which is a range of durations between a limit low which is a minimum contact duration allowing the reactions necessary for the measurement to take place, and an upper limit which is a maximum contact duration beyond which the measurement is degraded, for example by dissolution of reagents of the liquid analysis device 4 in the liquids 14. This predetermined exposure duration depends on the nature of the liquid analysis device 4 and the markers used, and is for example of the order of ten to one hundred seconds.

[0135] After a time corresponding to the predetermined exposure time, the flexible bag 1 can again be turned over so as to cause the liquids 14 and the residual absorbent material 6 to fall to the bottom of the flexible bag 1, and the residual absorbent material 6 can then finish absorbing the liquids 14 so as to form a residue 15 of liquids, as shown in [Fig.4].

[0136] In the second chamber 12, the absorbent material 6 bathed in the liquids 14 absorbs a portion of the liquids 14. In the case where the absorbent material 6 is provided in a soluble envelope 7, the absorption of the liquids by the absorbent material 6 begins after release of the absorbent material 6 following the dissolution of the soluble envelope 7.

[0137] The quantity of absorbent material 6 is provided to be able to absorb all of the liquids 14 collected in the flexible bag 1. For example, the absorbent material 6 may contain sodium polyacrylate, in quantities of the order of one to ten grams.

[0138] After a time corresponding to the predetermined exposure time, the flexible bag 1 can again be turned over so as to cause the liquids 14 and the residual absorbent material 6 to fall to the bottom of the flexible bag 1, and the residual absorbent material 6 can then finish absorbing the liquids 14 so as to form an aggregate 15 of absorbed liquids, as shown in [Fig.4].

[0139] The measurement results of the liquid analysis device 4 can then be recorded, by optical reading directly by a user or by means of a camera coupled to a processing device, typically by means of a smartphone or the like. The measurement results can then be transmitted by transmission via a wireless link to a server. These measurement results can then be used by medical personnel, who can then compare these measured values ​​to nominal values ​​of a healthy patient and then make a diagnosis. These measurement results can also be used by a user other than medical personnel in order to detect abnormal levels of quantities of interest, for example creatinine levels for athletes or nitrites and leukocytes for people susceptible to urinary tract infections. A user can then contact medical personnel capable of making a diagnosis.

[0140] The collection of liquids from a user can be carried out autonomously. by the same user, or with the assistance of another user, for example medical personnel.

[0141] The present invention has been described in the case of a flexible pouch 1 formed by the assembly of a first wall 2A and a second wall 2B. However, other flexible pouch structures may be adopted.

[0142] The present invention has been described in the case of a protection arrangement 9 comprising a leaf check valve. It is understood, however, that another type of check valve may be provided, for example depending on the nature of the liquids to be collected.

[0143] The present invention has been described in the case where the reactive device comprises a liquid analysis device 4, and an absorbent material 6. It is understood that other elements reactive to at least one component of a liquid can be provided, and that each of the reactive elements can be provided independently of the others.

Claims

Claims

1. A liquid collection device, comprising: a flexible bag (1) comprising walls (2A, 2B) configured to provide between them an opening for introducing liquids; the walls (2A, 2B) comprising at least one first translucent or transparent wall (2A); a liquid analysis device (4), arranged in the bag (1) and visible from the first wall (2A), the liquid analysis device (4) comprising at least one reactive element (4A) configured to change appearance in the presence of at least one component of a liquid; a target (5) comprising at least two reference zones having distinct aspects revealing aspects adopted by the at least one reactive element (4A) in the presence of the at least one component to a determined extent, the target (5) being carried by the bag (1) so as to be visible with the liquid analysis device (4);the device comprising a protective arrangement (9) configured to protect the liquid analysis device (4) against contact with a jet of liquid coming from the liquid introduction opening.;

2. Device according to claim 1, the sight (5) is arranged against the first wall (2A), typically fixed to the first wall (2A), against an interior surface or an exterior surface of the first wall (2A).

3. A device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the liquid analysis device (4) is disposed against an inner surface of the first wall (2A).

4. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the liquid analysis device (4) and the target (5) are respectively disposed against an inner surface and an outer surface of the first wall (2A).

5. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the liquid analysis device (4) comprises a test strip carrying the at least one reagent element (4A).

6. A device according to claim 5, wherein the test strip comprises a plurality of reactive elements separated from each other by at least one demarcation element.

7. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the target (5) comprises a reading zone carrying the at least two reference zones and / or a positioning pattern.

8. Method for collecting and analyzing liquids from or by a user inside a flexible bag (1) comprising walls (2A, 2B) configured to provide between them a liquid introduction opening, the walls (2A, 2B) comprising at least one first translucent or transparent wall (2A), the method comprising the following steps: collecting liquids from or by a user in the flexible bag (1) through the liquid introduction opening; bringing the collected liquid into contact with a liquid analysis device (4), the liquid analysis device (4) being arranged in the bag and visible from the first wall (2A); changing the appearance of at least one reactive element (4A) of the analysis device in the presence of at least one component of the liquid;simultaneous reading of the at least one reactive element (4A) and a target (5), the target (5) comprising at least two reference zones having distinct aspects revealing aspects adopted by the at least one reactive element (4A) in the presence of the at least one component to a determined extent and the target (5) being carried by the bag so as to be visible with the liquid analysis device; and protection of the analysis device against contact with a jet of liquid coming from the liquid introduction opening.;

9. Method according to claim 8, comprising: for a reactive element (4A) and after change of appearance of said reactive element (4A), comparison of the appearance of said reactive element (4A) with the appearances of the at least two corresponding reference zones of the target (5) and determination of a measurement of the at least one component of the liquid.

10. Method according to claim 9, the comparison step comprising, for a given reactive element (4A), an interpolation of the at least two reference aspects and determination of the reference aspect closest to the aspect of said reactive element (4A).

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