Stool and urine collection device

Abstract

The invention relates to a stool and urine collection device (1) comprising a U-shaped inflatable cushion (2), a guide sleeve (11) received between two arms (3) of the inflatable cushion (2), and a removable internal assembly (23) comprising a mobile collection unit, a drive member, and a connecting nozzle (55). The mobile collection unit is configured to collect stool and urine and is movable within the sleeve (11), by the action of the drive member, between a collection position and an extraction position at a distal (13) or proximal (12) end of the sleeve (11), respectively. The device (1) further comprises a pneumatic urine pump (63) for aspirating and expelling the urine received in the mobile collection unit, an air pump connected to the inflatable cushion (2), the drive member, and the pneumatic urine pump (63), and an air pump control unit. Figure to be published with the abbreviation: Fig. 1.

Description

Title of the invention: Stool and urine collection device

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of sanitary articles for bedridden or seated persons, and more particularly to a device for collecting stool and urine.

[0002] Medical devices are known that enclose the user's pelvis to absorb and transform urine into a gel and contain feces. Such medical devices require, on the one hand, replacement after each use due to their limited retention capacity and, on the other hand, often lead to more or less prolonged contact between feces and urine and the user's skin and mucous membranes. This generates problems of irritation and infection. Furthermore, these medical devices have the disadvantages of requiring frequent changes and lengthy perineal hygiene procedures. The handling associated with changing this type of device makes the work of caregivers tiring, with risks of musculoskeletal disorders in the long term.

[0003] Furthermore, the use of single-use medical devices that are frequently changed or replaced generates foul-smelling and infected waste that must be transported and treated remotely.

[0004] Devices for aspirating stool and urine such as KR101214456B1 are also known. However, such devices are not practical with regard to their cleaning and sterilization.

[0005] Rigid or inflatable medical devices also exist that a caregiver can insert under the user's pelvis before elimination and remove after elimination. This device prevents skin contact with urine and feces but requires the availability, intervention, and handling of a caregiver.

[0006] Urinary medical devices are also known. Although they allow users with full arm mobility to urinate without caregiver intervention, these devices require caregiver intervention to empty them. Furthermore, they do not treat fecal incontinence.

[0007] There is therefore a need for a stool and urine collection device that prevents irritation and infection with the user's body, is convenient to use for both the user and the caregiver, and is easily cleanable.

[0008] The Applicant therefore proposes to meet these needs by using a stool and urine collection device comprising an inflatable cushion to elevate the user during elimination, a mobile collection unit configured to selectively collect stool and urine, and capable of being moved in view of being remotely collected by healthcare staff for cleaning without the need to handle the user.

[0009] The present invention therefore relates to a device for collecting feces and urine, characterized in that it comprises: - an inflatable cushion, U-shaped, having two arms and a base, configured to be placed under the buttocks and thighs of a user; - a guide sleeve, configured to be received between the two arms and attached in a detachable manner to the cushion, the sleeve having a proximal end disposed at the bottom and an open distal end, opposite the proximal end, the guide sleeve further having at the proximal end a hole oriented upwards in use; - an internal removable assembly comprising a mobile collector unit, a drive element for the mobile collector unit and a connecting nozzle, • the mobile collection unit, having a base, side walls extending from the base to a collection opening, the mobile collection unit being received in the guide sleeve, movable between the distal and proximal ends and configured to collect feces and urine through the collection opening, the mobile collection unit further comprising a removable filter basket configured to retain feces and allow urine to pass through and to be received in and fixed to the mobile collection unit, leaving between a base of the filter basket and the base of the mobile collection unit an interval suitable for receiving urine, the mobile collection unit further comprising a urine suction nozzle having a first orifice opening at the level of the interval and in communication with a second orifice opening outside the mobile collection unit, and • the drive member of the mobile collecting unit being fixed in a sealed manner to it, and configured to move it, guided in the guide sleeve, between a stool and urine collection position at the proximal end of the guide sleeve, where the opening of the mobile collecting unit coincides with the hole in the guide sleeve, and an extraction position at the distal end of the guide sleeve, and implemented under the effect of a pneumatic force; - a pneumatic urine pump, configured to aspirate and expel the urine received in the mobile collection unit via a flexible urine transport tube connected to the second orifice of the urine suction nozzle, and configured to be attached to the inflatable cushion; - an air pump, configured to be connected to the airbag, to the drive unit for its pneumatic actuation, and to the pneumatic urine pump for pneumatic actuation thereof, the connecting nozzle being configured to connect the drive element pneumatically to the air pump and mechanically to the pneumatic urine pump in a leak-proof and separable manner, the urine transport tube being further connected to the connecting nozzle; and - an air pump control unit.

[0010] The mobile collecting unit may advantageously also include spacers configured to keep the filtration basket away from the bottom of the mobile collecting unit so as to provide said gap.

[0011] Advantageously, the connecting tip has an air passage configured to connect the drive element with the air pump and a urine passage configured to connect the urine transport tube with the pneumatic urine pump, the mechanical connection between the connecting tip and the pneumatic urine pump being made at the urine passage.

[0012] Advantageously, the pneumatic urine pump comprises a chamber with three orifices, namely a first orifice through which an inflatable balloon received inside the chamber is in communication with the air pump, a second orifice to which the urine transport tube is connected and a third orifice through which the inside of the chamber opens onto the outside of the chamber, the balloon being configured so as, under the action of the air pump, to be deflated so as to draw urine into the chamber through the second orifice and inflated so as to expel urine from the chamber through the third orifice, two non-return valves being mounted in the same direction and disposed at the level of the second orifice and the third orifice and configured to prevent the return of urine into the urine transport tube and into the chamber, respectively.

[0013] Advantageously, the drive element consists of a flexible bellows sleeve, comprising a flexible envelope equipped with stiffening rings received in correspondingly shaped sections of the envelope, the bellows sleeve having a first end fixed in a sealed manner to the mobile collecting unit and a second end fixed in a sealed manner to the connecting nozzle.

[0014] Advantageously, the second orifice of the suction nozzle opens into a projection in a side wall of the mobile collecting unit, the urine transport tube being received inside the bellows sleeve and the second end of the envelope enveloping the projection.

[0015] Advantageously, the stiffening rings are of frustoconical shape, oriented with the small diameter base on the distal end side of the guide sleeve and the large diameter base on the proximal end side of the guide sleeve, and have a size increasing in the direction from the proximal end to the distal end so as to be able to interlock with each other.

[0016] Advantageously, the connecting tip includes a pneumatic connecting element for connection to the air pump, extending from the air passage, the pneumatic urine pump having a retaining ring for passage and retention of the pneumatic connecting element.

[0017] Advantageously, the pneumatic urine pump includes arms configured to engage with the inflatable cushion.

[0018] Advantageously, the inflatable cushion includes knee-push extensions.

[0019] Advantageously, a textile is attached to the inflatable cushion, the guide sleeve being attached to the textile.

[0020] Advantageously, the stool and urine collection device further comprises a urine bag connected in a separable manner to the pneumatic urine pump, where appropriate to its third orifice.

[0021] Advantageously, the stool and urine collection device further comprises two crotch bands forming a belt attached to the guide sleeve.

[0022] Advantageously, the mobile collecting unit has a groove on the entire periphery of the opening, the filter basket having a sealing lip, one edge of which is received in the groove, the device further comprising a locking ring having a rib configured to be received in the groove, the filter basket further comprising handles configured to engage with corresponding fixing elements arranged on the side walls of the mobile collecting unit.

[0023] To better illustrate the object of the present invention, several embodiments will be described below, by way of indication and not limitation, with reference to the attached drawings.

[0024] On these drawings:

[0025] [Fig.1] is a perspective view of the stool and urine collection device according to the present invention;

[0026] [Fig.2] is a perspective view of the guide sleeve of the [Fig.1];

[0027] [Fig.3] is a perspective view of the internal extractable assembly of [Fig.1];

[0028] [Fig.4] is a perspective and exploded view of the mobile collecting unit of the [Fig.l];

[0029] [Fig.5] is a cross-sectional view of the internal removable assembly, the pneumatic urine pump and the urine bag of [Fig.1] in a collection position;

[0030] [Fig.6] is a cross-sectional and perspective view of the internal extractable assembly, pneumatic urine pump and urine bag of [Fig.1] in an extraction position;

[0031] [Fig.7] is a perspective and exploded view of the bellows sleeve and connecting end of [Fig.1];

[0032] [Fig-8] is a cross-sectional and perspective view of the pneumatic pump urine of the [Fig.l];

[0033] [Fig.9] is a perspective and exploded view of the fitting nozzle of the pump pneumatic urine and urine bag of the [Fig.l];

[0034] [Fig. 10] is a schematic representation of the control box, air pump, inflatable cushion, connecting nozzle and pneumatic urine pump; and

[0035] [Fig. 11] is a cross-sectional view at the collection opening of the mobile collection unit.

[0036] Referring to [Fig. 1], a stool and urine collection device 1, comprising an inflatable cushion 2, is shown. The inflatable cushion 2 is U-shaped and has two arms 3 extending substantially parallel to each other, connected at the base of the U by a bottom 4. A receiving space 5 is defined between the arms 3 and the bottom 4. Advantageously, the free ends 6 of the arms 3 are extended by knee pushers 7. The inflatable cushion 2 is configured, in use, to be placed under a bedridden person with their torso raised or seated, with the bottom 4 of the U positioned under the buttocks, the arms 3 of the U under the thighs, and the knee pushers 7 to the left and right of the knees. Additionally, thigh straps can be used to secure the arms 3 of the inflatable cushion 2 to the thighs.The airbag 2 also has a semi-flexible air nozzle (not shown) through which it is inflated and deflated.

[0037] The inflatable cushion 2 is initially placed deflated under the user. The inflatable cushion 2 functions, when inflated, to raise the user so that the anus, meatus or urine outlet of the user's penis is above the receiving space 5.

[0038] The knee push-back parts 7 are designed to keep the thighs sufficiently apart, especially for seated persons, so that they do not interfere with the operation of the stool and urine collection device 1.

[0039] Advantageously, the knee-repellent parts 7 are of outwardly curved shapes.

[0040] For example, the inflatable cushion 2 is made by welding two plastic films 8 welded together, along a weld line 9. The contour of the weld line 9 is made of a succession of inclinations of the internal and external edges with respect to a median line which allows during inflation to go from two inclined arms 3 to two parallel arms 3 at the end of inflation to ensure support for the buttocks and thighs of the user, preferably with a minimum height of 10 cm.

[0041] The weld line 9 has occasionally wider areas pierced with slots 10, some of which can serve for the passage of thigh straps, which are in the form of straps passing through a slot 10 on the side inside arm 3 and a slot 10 on the outside side of arm 3.

[0042] It should be noted that the inflatable cushion 2 is not limited to a U-shape and that those skilled in the art will be able to consider other shapes, for example a horseshoe shape, provided that the inflatable cushion conforms to the shape of the user's buttocks and thighs and provides the function of raising the user to facilitate the drainage of feces and urine by gravity. Advantageously, the feces and urine collection device 1 comprises a textile (not shown), attached to the inflatable cushion 2, on which the user rests and configured to allow respiration and perspiration of the skin above the inflatable cushion 2. The textile comprises a first fabric with warp threads having a percentage of elastane in its composition, ensuring traction along the length of the inflatable cushion 2. In addition, the textile comprises a second honeycomb weave fabric, for the user's comfort, sewn to the first fabric.The textile is fitted with hook and loop type fastening tabs which fit into slots 10 for fixing the textile to the inflatable cushion 2.

[0043] The stool and urine collection device 1 also includes a guide sleeve 11. In [Fig.1], it can be seen that the guide sleeve 11 is arranged in the receiving space 5 of the inflatable cushion 2 against the bottom 4 of the U.

[0044] In [Fig. 2], it can be seen that the guide sleeve 11 is cylindrical in shape with a longitudinal orientation. The guide sleeve 11 has a proximal end 12 and an open distal end 13, opposite the proximal end 12.

[0045] By proximal, we mean a position, in use, at the level of the bottom 4 of the U-shaped inflatable cushion 2, i.e. in the vertical axis of the anus and meatus of the user, and by distal, we mean a position, in use, away from the natural orifices of the user, i.e. at the level of the ends 6 of the arms 3 of the U of the inflatable cushion 2.

[0046] The guide sleeve 11 has at the proximal end 12 an oblong hole 14 oriented upwards in use.

[0047] By top, in use, we mean the side facing the user and by bottom, in use, we mean the side facing away from the user.

[0048] Preferably, the cylindrical guide sleeve 11 is assembled by welding a rectangular plastic film between these two longitudinal edges 15 with a circular plastic film to close the proximal end 12.

[0049] The guide sleeve 11 is further provided with fixing pieces 16 configured to fix the guide sleeve 11 in a separable manner with respect to the airbag 2. In particular the guide sleeve 11 is suspended from the airbag 2 by means of the textile, directly at its proximal end 12. Advantageously, the fastening piece 16 is a semi-flexible molded part with a circular base 17 welded to the cylindrical film of the guide sleeve 11, from which extends a foot 18 terminating in a perpendicularly curved ellipsoidal shape 19. Furthermore, the ellipsoidal shape 19 may have perforations to enhance its flexibility.

[0050] The fastening piece 16 is configured to fit into a buttonhole in the fabric and thus to detachably fix the guide sleeve 11 to the fabric, which is itself fixed to the airbag 2. Advantageously, the fastening pieces 16 are configured to be able to be broken by sharply pulling on the guide sleeve 11, in the direction of the user's knees, in case it is difficult to detach or unbutton the fastening pieces 16 from the guide sleeve 11 to the fabric.

[0051] It should be noted that the stool and urine collection device 1 may be reduced to the use of the inflated inflatable cushion, allowing intimate hygiene to be performed through the intervention space left.

[0052] Advantageously and as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the guide sleeve 11 is surmounted by a belt 20, connected to the guide sleeve 11 by two crotch bands 21. The guide sleeve 11 and the crotch bands 21 are welded together by a weld line 22 around the oblong hole 14.

[0053] Preferably, the crotch bands 21 are made of plastic film, with a fabric of natural or artificial fibers bonded to the inner surface of the plastic film, against the user's skin. It should be noted here that the crotch band 21a must first be separated from the crotch band 21b, which forms a waistband and is joined together by hook-and-loop fasteners of the collection sleeve 11, before pulling on the guide sleeve 11 to remove it.

[0054] The stool and urine collection device 1 also includes an extractable internal assembly 23 as can be seen in [Fig.3] in the deployed state.

[0055] The internal removable assembly 23 includes a mobile collecting unit 24.

[0056] In [Fig.4], it can be seen that the mobile collecting unit 24 is shown there in perspective and exploded view. The mobile collection unit 24, preferably made of a flexible material, has a base 25 and side walls 26 extending from the base 25 to a collection opening 27. The collection opening 27 has dimensions corresponding to those of the oblong hole 14 in the guide sleeve 11. The mobile collection unit 24 is configured to be received in the guide sleeve 11, which is movable between the distal end 13 and the proximal end 12. The mobile collection unit 24 is configured so that, when positioned at the proximal end 12, with the collection opening 27 aligned with the oblong hole 14 in the collection sleeve 11, it collects the feces and urine flowing through the oblong hole 14 and the collection opening 27. Advantageously, and as shown on In [Fig. 4], the side walls 26 are provided with ribs 84 acting as sliding pads, configured to facilitate the movement of the mobile collecting unit 24 inside the guide sleeve 11, particularly if the latter is twisted. In addition, the periphery of the collection opening 27 is equipped with a groove 28.

[0057] The mobile collection unit 24 also includes a removable filtration basket 29 configured to be received in and fixed to the mobile collection unit 24, having an opening 30 of a dimension corresponding to that of the collection opening 27 and configured to retain the feces and allow the urine to pass through at the level of a bottom 31 of the filtration basket 29. For example, the filtration basket 29 is made of a perforated molded piece, separating the feces from the urine by filtration.

[0058] Advantageously, the mobile collection unit 24 also includes spacers 32 configured to maintain the filtration basket 29 at a distance from the bottom 25 of the mobile collection unit 24 so as to generate a gap 33 between the bottom 31 of the filtration basket 29 and the bottom 25 of the mobile collection unit 24. Urine is received at the level of the gap 33, while feces are retained by the filtration basket 29. The spacers also serve, by extending up the walls 26, to prevent the collection opening 27 of the mobile collection unit 24 from sagging. It should be noted that those skilled in the art will be able to consider all types, numbers, and arrangements of spacers 32 provided that they ensure the function of generating a gap 33 between the bottom 31 of the filtration basket 29 and the bottom 25 of the mobile collection unit 24.

[0059] In [Fig.4], it can be seen that the filter basket 29 is provided with handles 34 and that the walls 26 of the mobile collection unit 24 are provided with corresponding fixings 35 for fixing the filter basket 29 to the mobile collection unit 24. The filter basket 29 can be detached from the mobile collection unit 24 to empty its contents by simple pouring, then washed and disinfected separately for reuse.

[0060] Advantageously, the filter basket 29 has a sealing lip 85, more flexible than the mobile collection unit 24, extending from the periphery of the opening 30. The sealing lip 85 conforms to the shape of the guide sleeve and the contours of the oblong hole 14, so as to leave no gaps for the passage of feces and urine between the oblong hole 14 and the opening 30 of the filter basket 29. The sealing lip 85 has an edge 86 configured to be received in the groove 28 of the mobile collection unit 24. Furthermore, in order to further reduce the adhesion of feces to the surface of the filter basket 29 and to accelerate its cleaning, toilet paper P covers the sealing lip 85 down to the inner bottom 31 of the filter basket 29. To this end, and as can be seen in Figures 4 and 11, the mobile collector unit 24 includes a locking ring 87.The locking ring 87 has a geometry corresponding to the groove 28 and has a rib 88 configured to be received in the groove 28. The groove 28 has a sufficient width to receive, on the side. Inside the mobile collection unit 24, the edge 86 of the sealing lip 85 of the filter basket 29 and, on the outside of the mobile collection unit 24, the rib 88 of the locking ring 87, as can be seen more clearly in [Fig. 11], with the toilet paper P interposed between them. The locking ring 87, via the rib 88, functions to clamp the edge of the toilet paper P against the sealing lip 85 of the filter basket 29. Advantageously, the rib 88 has a projection 89 configured to engage with the groove 28.

[0061] The mobile collection unit 24 further comprises a suction nozzle 36. The suction nozzle 36 is in the form of a conduit having a first orifice 37 opening at the level of the interval 33, preferably at the bottom 25 of the mobile collection unit 24 as shown in Figures 5-6, and a second orifice 38 opening at a lateral wall 26, outside the mobile collection unit 24. Preferably, and as shown in Figures 4-6, the mobile collection unit 24 comprises a projection 39 extending from a lateral wall 26, through which the suction nozzle 36 extends and at which the second orifice 38 opens. The function of the suction nozzle 36 is to allow the urine contained in the interval 33 to be aspirated and conveyed towards the outside of the mobile collecting unit 24 under the effect of a suction force.

[0062] Figures 5-6 show that the stool and urine collection device 1 comprises a urine transport tube 40, which forms part of the internal retractable assembly 23. The urine transport tube 40 is connected in a sealed manner to the second orifice 38 of the suction nozzle 36 by a proximal end 41 and extends to a distal end 42. The urine transport tube 40 is made of a flexible material, preferably an elastomer, so that it can retract, exploiting the properties of the elastomer, when the proximal end 41 is brought closer to the distal end 42. When the mobile collection unit 24 is in the collection position, the urine transport tube 40 uses the properties of the elastomer; it is taut in this position and its initial length is extended by approximately 30%.

[0063] The urine transport tube 40 has the function of transporting the urine collected at the suction nozzle 36.

[0064] The mobile collection unit 24 has the function, on the one hand, of collecting stool and urine and, on the other hand, of selectively extracting stool by movement of the mobile collection unit 24 and urine by aspiration, respectively.

[0065] The removable internal assembly 23 also includes a bellows sleeve 43. As can be seen in Figures 5-7, the bellows sleeve 43 comprises a casing 44 having a proximal end 45 and a distal end 46. The bellows sleeve 43 is made of a flexible material, preferably molded from elastomer, so that it can be compressed when the end is brought together. proximal 45 of the distal end 46. Advantageously, and as can be seen in Figures 5-7, the casing 44 comprises several frustoconical sections 47 connected by a connecting portion 48. Each frustoconical section 47 has a base of large diameter 49 and a base of small diameter 50, the base of large diameter 49 being oriented proximally and the base of small diameter 50 being oriented distally. Furthermore, the frustoconical sections 47 increase in size from the proximal end 45 of the casing 44 towards the distal end 46 of the casing 44 and are dimensioned so as to be able to interlock with one another as the proximal end 45 of the casing 44 approaches the distal end 46 of the casing 44.

[0066] Furthermore, the bellows sleeve 43 is equipped with stiffening rings 51, as can be seen in Figures 5-7. Corresponding to the frustoconical sections 47 of the casing 44, the stiffening rings 51 are frustoconical in shape, having a large-diameter base 52 and a small-diameter base 53, the large-diameter base 52 being oriented proximally and the small-diameter base 53 being oriented distally. Also, the stiffening rings 51 are of increasing size from the proximal end 45 of the casing 44 towards the distal end 46 of the casing 44 and are dimensioned so as to be able to interlock with each other as the proximal end 45 of the casing 44 approaches the distal end 46 of the casing 44.The stiffening rings 51 are received inside the envelope 44 in the frustoconical sections 47 of the envelope 44, in matching size, the large diameter base 52 of the stiffening rings 51 in contact with the large diameter base 49 of the frustoconical sections 47 and the stiffening rings 51 conforming to the shape of the corresponding frustoconical sections 47. In order to ensure a stronger connection between the stiffening rings 51 and the casing 44, the large diameter base 52 of the stiffening rings 51 has an added thickness in the form of a bead 54 and the large diameter base 49 of the truncated conical sections 47 has a curvature adapted to receive the bead 54. The stiffening rings 51 have the function of point-stiffening the flexible casing 44 so as to prevent the flexible casing 44 from being pulled towards its center and deformed, during the extraction of the air contained in the casing 44, in the vacuum phase of the air pump 79.It should be noted that a person skilled in the art will be able to adapt the number of frustoconical section / stiffening ring pairs and their proximal / distal orientation so that they interlock with each other when the proximal end 45 of the envelope 44 is brought towards the distal end 46 of the envelope 44.

[0067] The bellows sleeve 43 is fixed to and sealed to the mobile collecting unit 24 at the proximal end 45 of the casing 44. As can be seen in Figures 5-6, the proximal end 45 of the casing 44 covers the outside of the projection 39 of the mobile collecting unit 24. A clamping ring (not shown) ensures the seal.

[0068] Furthermore, the urine transport tube 40 runs inside the bellows sleeve 43.

[0069] The bellows sleeve 43 functions to drive the mobile collection unit 24 in translation between a stool and urine collection position at the proximal end 12 of the guide sleeve 11, where the opening of the mobile collection unit 24 coincides with the oblong hole 14 of the guide sleeve 11, as can be seen in [Fig. 1], and an extraction position at the distal end 13 of the guide sleeve 11. The bellows sleeve 43 thus constitutes a drive element for the mobile collection unit 24. The guide sleeve 11 ensures the translational guidance of the mobile collection unit 24 along its longitudinal direction.

[0070] The removable internal assembly 23 also includes a mechanical and pneumatic connection fitting 55. As can be seen in [Fig. 1], the connection fitting 55 has a proximal face 56 and a distal face 57. The bellows sleeve 43 is attached to and sealed to the connection fitting 55 at the distal end 46 of the casing 44. As can be seen in [Fig. 3], the distal end 46 of the casing 44 covers the periphery of the proximal face 56. A clamping ring (not shown) ensures the seal.

[0071] The connecting tip 55 has a urine passage 58 and an air passage 59. The distal end 42 of the urine transport tube 40 is hermetically connected to the urine passage 58. The urine passage 58 is configured to connect the urine transport tube 40 to the outside of the connecting tip 55. The air passage 59 is configured to connect the inside of the bellows sleeve 43 to the outside of the connecting tip 55. Advantageously, a pneumatic connecting element 60 extends from the air passage 59 along the distal face 57 and perpendicularly thereto.

[0072] Advantageously, the bellows sleeve 43 is connected in a hermetic manner to the mobile collection unit 24 and to the connecting nozzle 55 by means of clamping rings. Similarly, the urine transport tube 40 is connected in a hermetic manner to the suction nozzle 36 and to the connecting nozzle 55 by means of clamping rings.

[0073] On [Fig.9], it can be seen that the distal face 57 of the connecting tip 55 is equipped with arms 61. The arms 61 are provided with a notch 62, the role of which will be explained later in the description.

[0074] In Figures 1, 5-6 and 9, it can be seen that the stool and urine collection device 1 comprises a pneumatic urine pump 63. In [Fig. 8], it can be seen that the pneumatic urine pump 63 comprises a rigid, sealed chamber 64 with three orifice 65, 66, 67. An inflatable balloon 68 is received in chamber 64 and is connected in a leak-proof manner to the first orifice 65. The pneumatic urine pump 63 also has a connection to air pump 69 in communication with the first orifice 65. Preferably, the balloon 68 is made of a leak-proof and stretchable material such as latex.

[0075] The second 66 and third 67 orifices constitute an inlet orifice for urine into chamber 64 and an outlet orifice for urine out of chamber 64.

[0076] The pneumatic urine pump 63 includes a urine inlet fitting 70 in communication with the urine inlet port 66. The pneumatic urine pump 63 is connected in a separable and leak-proof manner to the connection nozzle 55 via the urine inlet fitting 70 configured to be mechanically and leak-proofly fixed to a mechanical fitting 71 of the connection nozzle 55, in communication with the urine passage 58 of the connection nozzle 55, so as to allow communication of the urine transport tube 40, and therefore the interval 33 of the mobile collecting unit 24, with the chamber 64 of the pneumatic urine pump 63.

[0077] The pneumatic urine pump 63 also includes a urine outlet fitting 72 in communication with the urine outlet port 67. The pneumatic urine pump 63 is connected in a detachable and leak-proof manner, via the urine outlet fitting 72, to a tube 73 which is detachably connected to a urine bag 74, as can be seen in Figures 1, 5-6 and 9. As is known, the urine bag 74 can be made of two plastic films welded together. Advantageously, the urine bag 74 is positioned higher than the suction nozzle 36 of the mobile collection unit 24.In this way, and unlike devices where the urine bag 74 is attached to the user's calf or to bed rails with a conduit carrying the urine and ensuring a downward slope, such an arrangement reduces bulk and discomfort for caregivers and is beneficial for the user, who can thus turn from left to right and vice versa in bed. For example, the urine bag 74 has hook-and-loop fasteners to secure it to the knee-pull sections 7 of the inflatable cushion 2.

[0078] A non-return valve (not shown) is located at the urine inlet port 66 and is configured to allow urine to be drawn into the chamber 64 and to prevent urine from flowing back out of the chamber 64. Conversely, a non-return valve (not shown) is located at the urine outlet port 67 and is configured to allow urine to flow out of the chamber 64 and to prevent urine from flowing back into the chamber 64. The valves are thus mounted in the same direction.

[0079] The pneumatic urine pump 63 according to the present invention allows for the extremification of both the urine aspiration equipment and the air production source by sur pressure / depression and externalizing the storage location of the aspirated urine in the urine bag 74.

[0080] In [Fig. 9], it can be seen that the pneumatic urine pump 63 comprises two flexible arms 75 connected to it by a fixed link 76. The arms 75 have a curvature 77 configured to conform to the internal shape of the arms 3, at the knee-repellent sections 7, of the inflatable cushion 2. Advantageously, the curvature 77 and the knee-repellent sections 7 are equipped with corresponding hook-and-loop fasteners. The arms 75 of the pneumatic urine pump 63 are thus configured to engage with the inflatable cushion 2 in both its inflated and deflated states, so as to serve as fixed anchor points for the pneumatic urine pump 63 on the knee-repellent sections 7.

[0081] Thus, because the connecting tip 55 is mechanically connected to the pneumatic urine pump 63 via the mechanical connection 71 of the connecting tip 55 and the urine inlet connection 70 of the pneumatic urine pump 63, the removable internal assembly 23 is attached to the inflatable cushion 2 via the pneumatic urine pump 63. The connecting tip 55 thus has a pneumatic and mechanical connection function for the removable internal assembly 23.

[0082] Furthermore, due to the detachable connection between the connecting nozzle 55 and the pneumatic urine pump 63, the removable internal assembly 23 can be easily separated from the pneumatic urine pump 63 for cleaning. Cleaning of the removable internal assembly 23 can be carried out using washer-disinfector machines, currently used for washing and disinfecting bedpans and urinals.

[0083] Advantageously, and as can be better seen in Figures 5-6 and 9, the pneumatic urine pump 63 is provided with a retaining ring 78. The pneumatic connection element 60 of the connecting nozzle 55 is received in the retaining ring 78 and guided and held by it. The retaining ring 78 serves to facilitate the complete connection of the connecting nozzle 55 and the pneumatic urine pump 63 and to help secure the connecting nozzle 55 and the pneumatic urine pump 63.

[0084] The pneumatic urine pump 63 has the function of extracting the urine collected in the mobile collection unit 24 and expelling it to the outside, more precisely to the urine bag 74. As can be seen in [Fig. 10], the stool and urine collection device 1 independently supplies, with forced air or negative pressure air, at a variable flow rate as needed, the three sealed cavities: the balloon 68 of the pneumatic urine pump 63, the inflatable cushion 2, and the bellows sleeve 43 of the removable internal assembly 23. To this end, the stool and urine collection device 1 includes an air pump 79, the air pump connection 69 of the pump The pneumatic urine pump 63 is connected to the air pump 79 via an air-to-pneumatic urine pump 80 line. Air forced from the air pump 79 to the pneumatic urine pump 63 inflates the balloon 68, as shown in [Fig. 6], and air drawn from the pneumatic urine pump 63 by the air pump 79 deflates the balloon 68, as shown in [Fig. 5]. The deflation of the balloon 68 creates a vacuum in the chamber 64 of the pneumatic urine pump 63. This vacuum draws the contents of the urine inlet fitting 70, the urine transport tube 40, the suction nozzle 36, and thus the gap 33 of the mobile collection unit 24. The inflation of the balloon 68 creates an overpressure in the chamber 64 of the pneumatic urine pump 63.This overpressure causes the contents of chamber 64 of the pneumatic urine pump 63 to be expelled through the urine outlet fitting 72, the urine bag tubing 73, and the urine bag 74. The inflow / outflow of fluids (air, urine) is permitted / prevented, depending on the overpressure or underpressure state of chamber 64, by check valves located at the urine inlet port 66 and the urine outlet port 67, and mounted in the same orientation. The change in the overpressure or underpressure state of chamber 64 is ensured by the balloon 68 and the two check valves.

[0085] The second major function of the pneumatic urine pump 63 is to be an anchor point for the drive member (43), which allows the movement of the mobile collecting unit (24).

[0086] In [Fig. 10], it can be seen that the air pump 79 is connected to the airbag 2, more precisely to the air nozzle, by an air line to the airbag 81. Advantageously, the airbag 2 is deflated by opening a solenoid valve to release the air, using the user's weight. The air pump 79 is also connected to the fitting 55, more precisely to the pneumatic fitting 60, by an air line to the fitting 82. Solenoid valves (not shown) are provided between the air pump 79 and the air lines 80, 81, and 82. Thus, the air pump 79 is configured to create overpressure / underpressure in the bellows sleeve 43 via the fitting 55 in order to cause its deployment / retraction.The air pump 79 is also connected to the balloon 68 via the air line 80, creating positive / negative pressure in the balloon 68 and therefore in the chamber 64 of the pneumatic urine pump 63 in order to draw in / expel urine or air. Finally, the air pump 79 is configured to create positive / negative pressure in the inflatable cushion 2 in order to inflate / deflate it. The present invention thus makes it possible to use only one air pump 79 to perform these three functions.

[0087] Advantageously, the pneumatic connection element 60 of the connecting nozzle 55 and the retaining ring 78 of the pneumatic urine pump 63 are dimensioned such that the connection of the pneumatic fitting element 60 to the air line to the fitting tip 82 is made at the retaining ring 78 so as to bring the fitting tip 55 against the pneumatic urine pump 63, as can be seen in Figures 5-6. The mechanical connection of the fitting tip 55 and the pneumatic urine pump 63 is completed by clipping the fitting tip 82, female air inlet, with the pneumatic fitting 60, male air inlet, at the retaining ring 78.

[0088] As can be seen in [Fig. 9], the connecting tip 55 has three arms 61 with notches 62 for receiving and holding the fastening pieces 16 of the guide sleeve. Thus, the guide sleeve 11 is suspended from the inflatable cushion 2 proximally by means of the textile and distally by means of the pneumatic urine pump 63 and the connecting tip 55. Pulling the fastening pieces 16 of the guide sleeve 11 distally by the notches 62 of the connecting tip 55, which is attached to the pneumatic urine pump 63, allows the film of the guide sleeve 11 to be stretched and a straight sleeve to be obtained, facilitating the translation of the internal removable assembly 23.

[0089] Advantageously, the pneumatic urine pump 63 is equipped with a notch (not shown) configured to retain the conduit to the inflatable cushion 81.

[0090] In [Fig. 10], it can be seen that the stool and urine collection device 1 comprises a control unit 83 connected to the air pump 79. The control unit 83 is configured to control the operation of the air pump 79. Advantageously, the control unit 83 can be operated directly from a control box, either wired or remotely, for example via Bluetooth or a smartphone. Advantageously, the control box 83 has a primary switching system that provides either forced air or negative pressure air. The dual pump used has a variable rotational speed, electronically controlled, to select the forced or negative pressure air flow rate compatible with the requirements of the balloon 68, the inflatable cushion 2, and the bellows sleeve 43.The secondary system of the control unit 83 distributes the produced air to the three cavities to be inflated or deflated by opening or closing three independent 2 / 2 solenoid valves. The control unit 83 can be operated by radio frequency via a three-button remote control for simplified use at home or in a clinic. The control unit 83 can also be operated via smartphone (Bluetooth) for use with an electric wheelchair equipped with a smartphone holder. The control unit 83, fixed to the base of the bed, will also be operated by push buttons on the control unit 83, for caregivers to align the inflatable cushion 2 and the user's pelvis in a seated position and to test the back-and-forth movement of the mobile collection unit 24 (extraction position / collection position / extraction position) within the [unclear]. guide sleeve 11 before deflation.

[0091] As previously mentioned, the mobile collection unit 24, the bellows sleeve 43, and the connecting nozzle 55 are joined together to form the removable internal assembly 23. This assembly thus constitutes an inseparable and reusable unit, configured to be washed and disinfected, independently of the other constituent elements of the stool and urine collection device 1, in washer-disinfectors, thanks to the detachable connection between the connecting nozzle 55 and the pneumatic urine pump 63. The present invention therefore has the advantage of having a reduced number of parts to clean, easier removal, and easier installation, which reduces inconvenience for the user and healthcare personnel.

[0092] The stool and urine collection device 1 comprises an electropneumatic control part including the control unit 83, the air pump 79 and the pneumatic conduits 80, 81, 82, a part grouping reusable elements including the inflatable cushion 2 with a textile covering it, the removable internal assembly 23 and the pneumatic urine pump 63, and a part grouping single-use, disposable elements including the guide sleeve 11 with its two crotch bands (21a, 21b) and the urine bag 74.

[0093] The present invention has the advantage of allowing both the externalization of a control block comprising the control unit 83 and the air pump 79, the control box 83 being able to be fixed on the foot panel of a medical bed or under the armrest of an electric chair, the externalization of the pneumatic urine pump 63 at the level of the knee push-back parts 7 by means of the corresponding hook and loop type, and the externalization of the urine bag 74 at the level of the user's knees.

[0094] Advantageously, the pneumatic fittings are of the well-known clip-on type.

[0095] The embodiment shown in Figures 3 and 5-9 has the advantage of being compact.

[0096] Advantageously, the inflatable cushion 2 is also equipped with handles 90. These handles 90 allow, among other things, the inflatable cushion 2, inflated, to be oriented at the edge of a height-adjustable medical bed, perpendicular to the length of the bed, so that a person with limited mobility can sit on it, equipped or not with the guide sleeve 11 attached to it and the removable internal assembly 23 inserted into the guide sleeve 11. After the person is seated on the inflatable cushion, it is possible to pull and rotate the user's pelvis, so that it is placed in an optimal position in a bed (close to the pivot axis of the bed's backrest) or on an electric wheelchair, which often has a space at the rear of the seat to pull the user to the back of the seat.

[0097] We will describe below the operation of the stool and urine collection device 1 according to the present invention.

[0098] For independent use of the device 1 by a bedridden patient, the caregiver in a clinic or home caregiver inserts the removable internal assembly 23 (with the mobile collection unit 24 first) into the guide sleeve 11 held vertically and attaches the three fastening pieces 16 (distal side) of the guide sleeve 11 to the three notches 62 on the arm 61 of the connector 55. Next, the caregiver takes the inflatable cushion with the fabric, attached to it by hook-and-loop fasteners, and attaches the three fastening pieces 16 (proximal side) to the fabric. The caregiver then helps the patient turn onto their side (lateral decubitus position) and lays the unfurled crotch strap 21a flat, corresponding to the patient's pelvic position, and pleats the inflatable cushion 2 under the patient.Next, the caregiver helps the patient turn back onto the crotch strap 21a, the flexible guide sleeve 11, and the inflatable cushion 2. They then pull and fasten the hook-and-loop adhesive straps of the belt 20. The caregiver then pneumatically connects the control unit 83, located on the foot panel of the hospital bed, to the inflatable cushion 2 and activates the inflation of the cushion 2 using a push button, while asking the patient to raise the backrest of the hospital bed. During inflation, the caregiver ensures the correct alignment of the inflatable cushion 2, which has pull handles, and the correct alignment of the guide sleeve 11 (oblong hole 14 / anus) after attaching the two crotch straps 21a and 21b, which form the belt 20.Once the inflation of cushion 2 has stopped, the caregiver connects the fitting 55 to the pneumatic urine pump 63, pneumatically connects the control unit 83 to the pneumatic fitting 60 and to the air pump fitting 69, ensuring that the pneumatic lines 80, 81, and 82 pass between the legs. Then, using a push button on the control unit 83, the caregiver initiates a command to inject pressurized air into the bellows sleeve 43, and verifies, using sensory and visual cues, that the mobile collection unit 24 is correctly aligned with the oblong hole 14 in the guide sleeve 11. This is followed by a command to release negative air pressure to bring the mobile collection unit 24 into the extraction position. The caregiver then gives the patient the three-button remote control to deflate the inflatable cushion 2.

[0099] Before the flow of stool and / or urine, the user commands the control unit 83 to operate the air pump 79 in order to inflate the airbag 2. Air is then pulsed into the conduit to the airbag 81 and due to the inflation of the airbag, the user is in a raised position.

[0100] A control of the control unit 83 stops the air pump 79 when the pressure in the measured airbag 2 has reached a boost pressure value.

[0101] It should be noted that pre-inflation may be carried out beforehand to ensure seating comfort and favorable positioning in relation to the user's body.

[0102] An air pump control 79 draws air from the conduit to the connecting nozzle 82. The air passes through the air passage 59 of the connecting nozzle 55 into the casing 44 of the bellows sleeve 43, where overpressure is generated. A thrust force is then exerted against the projection 39 of the mobile collector unit 24. This thrust causes the mobile collector unit 24 to move in translation within the guide sleeve 11 from its distal end 13 to its proximal end 12, accompanied by the deployment of the bellows sleeve 43. During this movement, the stiffening rings 51 gradually separate from one another.

[0103] Once the mobile collecting unit 24 is in the collecting position, which is also the stop position against the proximal end 12 of the guide sleeve 11, this causes a rapid rise in internal pressure in the bellows sleeve, detected by a pressure sensor, and the air pump 79 is stopped.

[0104] Advantageously, the mobile collecting unit 24 is equipped with flexible sensory markers 91, for example in the form of protrusions extending upwards from the mobile collecting unit 24, so that the passage of the sensory markers 91 near the anus provides tactile feedback that the mobile collecting unit 24 has passed over the anus and is in the collection position.

[0105] During the flow of stool and urine, these pass through the oblong hole 14 of the guide sleeve 11, and flow through the collection opening 27, the stool being retained by the filtration basket 29 and the urine being collected at the interval 33 of the mobile collecting unit 24.

[0106] The patient, after eliminating urine or stool or stool and urine, will be able, with the help of a control (in the case of a three-button remote control), to control a urine pumping cycle followed by a movement of the mobile collecting unit 24 into the extraction position by introducing air under vacuum into the bellows sleeve 43, the stopping of the air pump 69 being controlled by a measurement of the air under vacuum.

[0107] In the event of simultaneous flow of stool and urine, the urine pump is activated first.

[0108] In the extraction position, the mechanical connection between the connecting nozzle 55 and the pneumatic urine pump 63 is disengaged; it is then possible for healthcare personnel to extract the removable internal assembly 23 and its contents. The filter basket 29 is then detached by the handles 34 from the mobile collection unit 24 and the locking ring 87. With the toilet paper P no longer retained, the feces contained in the filter basket 29 are flushed down the toilet. After waste disposal, the removable internal assembly 23, the filter basket 29, and the Locking rings 87 are washed and disinfected in dedicated machines.

[0109] At this stage, it is possible for the care staff to perform an intimate hygiene procedure on the user.

[0110] A control from the control unit 83 activates the air pump 79 to deflate the airbag and then a control from the control unit 83 stops the air pump 79.

[0111] A new removable internal assembly 23 can be pneumatically connected to the conduit to fitting 82 and mechanically to pneumatic urine pump 63.

[0112] It should be noted that the stool and urine collection device according to the present invention may include sensors connected to the control unit 83, in particular limit switches of the mobile collection unit 24, stool and / or urine flow sensors in the mobile collection unit 24.

[0113] It is understood that the embodiments which have just been described have been given by way of indication and not limitation and that embodiments may be added to them without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. Demands Stool and urine collection device (1), characterized in that it comprises: - an inflatable cushion (2), in the shape of a U, having two arms (3) and a base (4), configured to be placed under the buttocks and thighs of a user; - a guide sleeve (11), configured to be received between the two arms (3) and detachably attached to the cushion (2), the sleeve (11) having a proximal end (12) disposed at the bottom (4) and an open distal end (13), opposite the proximal end (12), the guide sleeve (11) further having at the proximal end (12) a hole (14) oriented upwards in use; - an internal removable assembly (23) comprising a mobile collecting unit (24), a drive element (43) of the mobile collecting unit (24) and a connecting nozzle (55), • the mobile collection unit (24), having a base (25), side walls (26) extending from the base (25) to a collection opening (27), the mobile collection unit (24) being received in the guide sleeve (11), movable between the distal end (13) and the proximal end (12) and configured to collect feces and urine through the collection opening (27), the mobile collection unit (24) further comprising a removable filtration basket (29) configured to retain feces and allow urine to pass through and to be received in and fixed to the mobile collection unit (24) leaving between a base (31) of the filtration basket (29) and the base (25) of the mobile collection unit (24) an interval (33) suitable for receiving urine,the mobile collection unit (24) further comprising a urine suction nozzle (36) having a first orifice (37) opening at the level of the interval (33) and in communication with a second orifice (38) opening outside the mobile collection unit (24), and, • the drive element (43) of the mobile collecting unit (24) being fixed in a sealed manner to it, and configured to to move this, guided in the guide sleeve (11), between a feces and urine collection position at the proximal end (12) of the guide sleeve (11), where the opening (27) of the mobile collection unit (24) coincides with the hole (14) of the guide sleeve (11), and an extraction position at the distal end (13) of the guide sleeve (11), and implemented under the effect of a pneumatic force; - a pneumatic urine pump (63), configured to aspirate and expel the urine received in the mobile collection unit (24) by means of a flexible urine transport tube (40) connected to the second orifice (38) of the urine suction nozzle (36), and configured to be attached to the inflatable cushion (2);- an air pump (79), configured to be connected to the inflatable cushion (2), to the drive unit (43) for pneumatic actuation thereof and to the pneumatic urine pump (63) for pneumatic actuation thereof, the connecting fitting (55) being configured to connect the drive unit (43) pneumatically to the air pump (79) and mechanically to the pneumatic urine pump (63) in a leak-proof and separable manner, the urine transport tube (40) being further connected to the connecting fitting (55); and - a control unit (83) for the air pump (79).

2. Stool and urine collection device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the connecting tip (55) has an air passage (59) configured to connect the drive member (43) with the air pump (79) and a urine passage (58) configured to connect the urine transport tube (40) with the pneumatic urine pump (63), the mechanical connection between the connecting tip (55) and the pneumatic urine pump (63) being made at the urine passage (58).

3. A stool and urine collection device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the pneumatic urine pump (63) comprises a chamber (64) with three openings (65, 66, 67), namely a first opening (65) through which an inflatable balloon (68) received inside the chamber (64) is connected to the air pump (79), a second opening (66) to which the urine transport tube (40) is connected, and a third opening (67) through which the inside of the chamber (64) opens to the outside of the chamber (64), the balloon (68) being configured so as, under the action of the air pump (79), to be deflated so as to draw urine into the chamber (64) through the second opening (66) and inflated so as to expel urine from the chamber (64) through the third opening (67), two non-return valves being mounted in the same direction and disposed at the second opening (66) and the third opening (67) and configured to prevent backflow of urine in the urine transport tube (40) and in the chamber (64), respectively.

4. Stool and urine collection device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the drive member (43) consists of a flexible bellows sleeve (43), comprising a flexible cover (44) equipped with stiffening rings (51) received in correspondingly shaped sections (47) of the cover (44), the bellows sleeve (43) having a first end (45) fixed in a hermetic manner to the mobile collecting unit (24) and a second end (46) fixed in a hermetic manner to the connecting nozzle (55).

5. Stool and urine collection device (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that the second orifice (38) of the suction nozzle (36) opens into a projection (39) of a side wall (26) of the mobile collecting unit (24), the urine transport tube (40) being received inside the bellows sleeve (43) and the second end (46) of the casing (44) enveloping the projection (39).

6. Stool and urine collection device (1) according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that the stiffening rings (51) are frustoconical in shape, oriented with the small diameter base (53) on the distal end side (13) of the guide sleeve (11) and the large diameter base (52) on the proximal end side (12) of the guide sleeve (11), and have an increasing size in the direction from the proximal end (12) to the distal end (13) so as to be able to interlock with each other.

7. Stool and urine collection device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the connecting nozzle (55) includes a pneumatic connection element (60) for connection to the air pump (79), extending from the air passage (59), the pneumatic urine pump (63) including a retaining ring (78) for passage and retention of the pneumatic connection element (60).

8. Stool and urine collection device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the pneumatic urine pump (63) has arms (75), configured to engage with the inflatable cushion (2).

9. Stool and urine collection device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the inflatable cushion (2) has knee push-back extensions (7).

10. Stool and urine collection device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that a textile is attached to the inflatable cushion (2), the guide sleeve (11) being attached to the textile.

11. Stool and urine collection device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that it further comprises a urine bag (74) connected in a separable manner to the pneumatic urine pump (63), optionally to its third orifice (67).

12. Stool and urine collection device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that it further comprises two crotch bands (21a, 21b) forming a belt (20) attached to the guide sleeve (11).

13. Stool and urine collection device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the mobile collection unit (24) has a groove (28) on the entire periphery of the opening (27), the filtration basket (29) having a sealing lip (85) of which an edge (86) is received in the groove (28), the device (1) further comprising a locking ring (87) having a rib (88) configured to be received in the groove (28), the filtration basket (29) further comprising handles (34) configured to engage with corresponding fastening elements (35) disposed on the side walls (26) of the mobile collection unit (24).

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