Molded or extruded fluid collection devices and related systems and methods - Patents.com

Abstract

The examples relate to a fluid collection device 200 and related systems and methods. In some embodiments, the fluid collection device 200 includes a fluid-impermeable barrier 210 and an elongated body 230 that is at least partially fluid-permeable. The fluid-impermeable barrier 210 has a distal end region 218 and a proximal end region 216 that defines an aperture 212 sized and dimensioned to draw urine through the aperture 212 by a vacuum source. The elongated body 230 has a portion of the body 230 between the distal end region 218 and the proximal end region 216 that is not covered by the fluid-impermeable barrier 210 and is positioned in the fluid collection device 200 to receive urine discharged from the urethra near at least that portion of the body 230. The fluid collection device 200 includes at least one of the fluid-impermeable barriers 210 that is an injection-molded fluid-impermeable barrier, or the body 230 includes at least an extruded support 240.

Description

[Background technology]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 228,252, filed August 2, 2021, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] An individual may have limited mobility or impaired mobility, which makes the typical urination process difficult or impossible. For example, an individual may have surgery or a physical disability that impairs mobility. In another example, an individual may have limited mobility conditions, such as those experienced by pilots, drivers, and workers in hazardous areas. In addition, fluid collection from an individual may be required for monitoring purposes or clinical testing.

[0003] Bedpans and urinary catheters, such as Foley catheters, may be used to address some of these situations. However, bedpans and urinary catheters have several problems associated with them. For example, bedpans can be prone to discomfort, spills, and other hygiene issues. Urinary catheters can be uncomfortable, painful, and can result in urinary tract infections. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] US Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 374848 [Patent Document 2] International Publication No. 2022 / 035745 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Thus, users and manufacturers of fluid collection devices continue to search for new and improved devices, systems and methods for collecting urine. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The embodiments disclosed herein relate to a fluid collection device, and related systems and methods. In an embodiment, the fluid collection device includes a fluid impermeable barrier and an at least partially fluid permeable elongated body. The fluid impermeable barrier has a distal end region and a proximal end region defining an aperture sized and dimensioned to draw urine through the aperture by a vacuum source. The elongated body has a portion of the body between the distal end region and the proximal end region that is not covered by the fluid impermeable barrier and is positioned in the fluid collection device to receive urine discharged from the urethra near at least that portion of the body. The fluid collection device includes at least one of a fluid impermeable barrier that is an injection molded fluid impermeable barrier or a body that includes at least an extruded support.

[0007] In an embodiment, a method of manufacturing a fluid collection device includes injection molding a fluid impermeable barrier of the fluid collection device to include a chamber, an opening in fluid communication with the chamber, and an aperture at least partially defined by the fluid impermeable barrier. The opening is positioned in the fluid collection device to receive urine discharged from the urethra at least proximate the opening, and the aperture is sized and dimensioned to draw urine through the aperture by a vacuum source. The method also includes positioning a fluid permeable body within the chamber to extend across at least a portion of the opening.

[0008] In an embodiment, a method of manufacturing a fluid collection device includes extruding a support to include at least one slot extending longitudinally in the extruded support. The method also includes securing an at least partially fluid permeable body including the extruded support to a fluid impermeable barrier having a distal end region and a proximal end region defining an aperture such that a portion of the body is not covered by the fluid impermeable barrier between the distal end region and the proximal end region and is positioned in the fluid collection device to receive urine discharged from the urethra near at least that portion of the body. The aperture is in fluid communication with the at least one slot and is sized and dimensioned to draw urine through the aperture by a vacuum source.

[0009] The features of any of the disclosed embodiments may be used in combination with each other without limitation.In addition, other features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the following detailed description and accompanying drawings.

[0010] The drawings illustrate several embodiments of the present disclosure, in which the same reference numbers indicate the same or similar elements or features in different views or embodiments illustrated in the drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a fluid collection system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2 illustrates a front isometric view of a fluid collection device according to an embodiment. [Figure 2B] 2B is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the fluid collection device of FIG. 2A. [Figure 2C] FIG. 2B is an exploded view of the fluid collection device of FIG. 2A. [Figure 3A] FIG. 2 illustrates a front isometric view of a fluid collection device according to an embodiment. [Figure 3B] 3B is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the fluid collection device of FIG. 3A. [Figure 3C] FIG. 3B is an exploded view of the fluid collection device of FIG. 3A. [Figure 4] 1 is an exploded view of a fluid collection device according to an embodiment. [Figure 5A] FIG. 2 illustrates a front isometric view of a fluid collection device according to an embodiment. [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view of the fluid collection device of FIG. 5A. [Figure 5C] FIG. 5B is an exploded view of the fluid collection device of FIG. 5A. [Figure 5D] 5B is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the fluid collection device of FIG. 5A. [Figure 6A] FIG. 2 illustrates a front isometric view of a fluid collection device according to an embodiment. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view of the fluid collection device of FIG. 6A. [Figure 6C] FIG. 6B is an exploded view of the fluid collection device of FIG. 6A. [Figure 7] 1 is a flow chart of a method of manufacturing a fluid collection device according to an embodiment. [Figure 8] 1 is a flow chart of a method of manufacturing a fluid collection device according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] The embodiments disclosed herein relate to fluid collection devices, associated systems and methods of manufacture. The devices and systems disclosed herein are configured to collect fluid from an individual. The fluid collected by the fluid collection device may include at least one of urine, vaginal secretions, penile secretions, reproductive fluids, blood, sweat, wound exudates, or other bodily fluids. The fluid collection devices described herein include alternative and improved methods of manufacturing and assembling the fluid collection device, and improved fluid collection devices resulting from these methods of manufacturing and assembling. In at least one, some, or all of the embodiments described herein, efficient and repeatable manufacturing and assembly of the fluid collection device produces the technical effect of repeatability and reduced cost and / or time for assembly of the fluid collection device.

[0013] In various embodiments, the manufacturing and / or assembly methods may include one or more of: molding an outer fluid-impermeable barrier to accommodate an internal component (e.g., body and / or conduit) rather than using manual labor to align the fluid-impermeable barrier and the internal component; molding a fluid-impermeable barrier with a flat back side such that only about half of the fluid-permeable body is needed in the fluid collection device; and / or extruding a three-layer structure including the inner lumen (e.g., conduit), extruded support, and fluid-permeable membrane in one structure that may be cut to length and capped at the ends (one end having an aperture for the tube).

[0014] Additionally, embodiments of the fluid collection device may include shape memory materials (e.g., bendable spines) that provide positioning and fixation use benefits for the user. Some embodiments may include the incorporation of a label into the fluid collection device that includes instructions, product identification, and / or user-written usage data. The incorporation of labeling in at least one, some, or all of the embodiments described herein produces the technical effect of reducing packaging required for the fluid collection device, providing information and instructions to the user in a location that is less likely to be discarded by the user, and / or providing space for the user to record relevant data related to fluid collection.

[0015] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a fluid collection system 10 according to an embodiment. The fluid collection system 10 may be included in the embodiments of the fluid collection system described herein. The system 10 includes a fluid collection device 12 (any of the fluid collection devices disclosed herein), a urine collection container 14, and a pump 16 (or a vacuum source). The fluid collection device 12, the urine collection container 14, and the pump 16 may be fluidly coupled to one another via one or more conduits 17. For example, the fluid collection device 12 may be operably coupled to one or more of the urine collection container 14 or the pump 16 via the conduit 17. In some embodiments, the pump 16 may be directly secured to the urine collection container 14. Fluid (e.g., urine or other bodily fluid) collected in the fluid collection device 12 may be removed from the fluid collection device 12 via the conduit 17 secured to the fluid collection device 12. In response to a suction (e.g., vacuum) force applied at the outlet of the conduit 17, a suction force may be introduced into a chamber of the fluid collection device 12 via the inlet of the conduit 17.

[0016] Suction may be applied directly or indirectly to the outlet of the conduit 17 by the pump 16. Suction may be applied indirectly via the urine collection container 14. For example, the outlet of the conduit 17 may be disposed within or fluidly coupled to an interior region of the urine collection container 14, and an additional conduit 17 may extend from the urine collection container 14 to the pump 16. Thus, the pump 16 may apply suction to the fluid collection device 12 via the urine collection container 14. Suction may be applied directly via the pump 16. For example, the outlet of the conduit 17 may be disposed within the pump 16. The additional conduit 17 may extend from the pump 16 to a location outside the fluid collection device 12, such as the urine collection container 14. In such an example, the pump 16 may be disposed between the fluid collection device 12 and the urine collection container 14.

[0017] The urine collection container 14 is sized and shaped to hold fluid within the urine collection container 14. The urine collection container 14 may include a bag, bottle, canister, or cup (e.g., collection jar), or any other enclosed container for storing bodily fluids such as urine. In some examples, a conduit 17 may extend from the fluid collection device 12 and be attached to the urine collection container 14 at a first location on the urine collection container 14. An additional conduit 17 may be attached to the urine collection container 14 at a second location on the urine collection container 14 and may extend to and be attached to the pump 16. Thus, a vacuum (e.g., suction) may be drawn through the fluid collection device 12 via the urine collection container 14. Fluids such as urine may be evacuated from the fluid collection device 12 using the pump 16.

[0018] The pump 16 may include one or more of a manual vacuum pump, an electric vacuum pump, a diaphragm pump, a centrifugal pump, a positive displacement pump, a magnetically driven pump, a peristaltic pump, or any pump configured to generate a vacuum. The pump 16 may provide a vacuum or suction to remove fluid from the fluid collection device 12. In some examples, the pump 16 may be powered by one or more of a power cord (e.g., connected to a power socket), one or more batteries, or even manually (e.g., a hand-operated vacuum pump). In some examples, the pump 16 may be sized and shaped to fit outside, on, or within the fluid collection device 12. For example, the pump 16 may include one or more miniature pumps or one or more micropumps. The vacuum sources disclosed herein may include one or more of a switch, a button, a plug, a remote, or any other device suitable for actuating the pump 16.

[0019] The fluid collection device described herein may include a fluid-impermeable barrier and an at least partially fluid-permeable body. The fluid-impermeable barrier may include a distal end region and a proximal end region defining an aperture, the aperture being sized and dimensioned such that urine is drawn through the aperture by a vacuum source. The elongate body may have a portion of the body that is not covered by the fluid-impermeable barrier between the distal end region and the proximal end region (e.g., a fluid-impermeable barrier is not present between at least a portion of the distal end region and the proximal end region of the elongate body, or at least a portion of the elongate body between the distal end region and the proximal end region of the elongate body is not covered by the fluid-impermeable barrier) and is positioned on the fluid collection device to receive urine discharged from the urethra near at least that portion of the body. The fluid collection device may include at least one of a fluid-impermeable barrier that is an injection-molded fluid-impermeable barrier or a body having an extruded support.

[0020] 2A-2C, the fluid collection device may include a fluid impermeable barrier 210 and a fluid permeable body 230. The fluid impermeable barrier 210 may be elongated and may include a distal region 218, a proximal end region 216, an aperture 212 or port positioned at the proximal end region 216 and sized and dimensioned to draw urine therethrough by a vacuum source. The fluid impermeable barrier 210 may include a rear side 215 and a front side 217. The front side 217 is positioned to face a user when the fluid collection device 200 is in use. In some embodiments, the fluid impermeable barrier 210 may at least partially define a chamber 204 and an opening 206 in the front side 217. The opening 206 is in fluid communication with the chamber 204 and is positioned on the fluid collection device 200 to receive urine discharged from the urethra at least near the opening 206 (e.g., adjacent to the opening 206). In some embodiments, an inner boundary or edge 214 of the fluid impermeable barrier 210 defines the opening 206. The edge 214 may include two or more opposed arcuate portions that follow the perimeter or circumference of the fluid impermeable barrier 210.

[0021] The fluid impermeable barrier 210 may also define, at least in part, a reservoir 208 (e.g., a sump) in the chamber 204 at a distal end region 218 of the fluid impermeable barrier 210. The reservoir 208 may be positioned for fluid collection in the fluid collection device 200 prior to withdrawal from the fluid collection device 200 through a conduit 250 having an inlet 252 positioned near the reservoir 208. In some embodiments, the reservoir 208 may be an at least partially (e.g., entirely) unoccupied portion of the chamber 204 and at least partially (e.g., entirely) devoid of other materials. In some embodiments, the reservoir 208 may be substantially filled with one or more fluid permeable materials described herein. In some embodiments, the reservoir 208 is defined, at least in part, by an end of the fluid permeable body 230 (as shown in FIG. 2B) and the distal end region 218 of the fluid impermeable barrier 210.

[0022] In some embodiments, the fluid-impermeable barrier 210 may include one or more protrusions 211 a positioned within the chamber 204 at the distal end region 218 to space at least a portion of the inlet 252 from the distal end region 218 of the fluid-impermeable barrier 210 effective to allow fluid communication between the chamber and the inlet 252. For example, the fluid-impermeable barrier 210 may include a protrusion 211 a at the distal end region 218 that protrudes into the reservoir 208. The protrusion 211 a may be sized smaller than the inlet 252 such that if the conduit 250 is pushed too far into the chamber 204, the protrusion 211 a will only contact a portion (e.g., a front portion) of the inlet 252 of the conduit 250, but may also space a portion of the inlet 252 from the distal end region 218 of the fluid-impermeable barrier 210. This space between the inlet 252 and the distal end region 218 of the fluid impermeable barrier 210 allows fluid to still be drawn into the conduit 250 even when the protrusion 211 a is in contact with a portion of the inlet 252. Thus, the protrusion 211 a in at least one, some or all of the embodiments provides the technical effect of preventing the conduit 250 from becoming blocked or occluded if the conduit 250 is pushed too deeply into the chamber 204.

[0023] In some embodiments, the fluid-impermeable barrier 210 may include one or more protrusions 211b positioned in the chamber 204 at the distal end region 218 to position at least a portion of the fluid-permeable body 230 spaced from the distal end region 218 of the fluid-impermeable barrier 210. For example, the fluid-impermeable barrier 210 may include a protrusion 211b at the distal end region 218 that protrudes into the reservoir 208. The protrusion 211b may be sized smaller than the distal end of the fluid-permeable body 230 such that if the fluid-permeable body 230 is pushed too far into the chamber 204, the protrusion 211b may contact only a portion of the fluid-permeable body 230 (e.g., a front portion), but may also position a portion of the fluid-permeable body 230 spaced from the distal end region 218 of the fluid-impermeable barrier 210. This space between the fluid permeable body 230 and the distal end region 218 of the fluid impermeable barrier 210 allows the reservoir 208 to remain empty or open for urine collection.

[0024] The fluid impermeable barrier 210 may be substantially cylindrical. In some embodiments, the fluid impermeable barrier 210 may include other geometric shapes and configurations. The fluid impermeable barrier 210 may be formed from any suitable fluid impermeable material, such as a fluid impermeable polymer (e.g., silicone, polypropylene, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polycarbonate, etc.), polyurethane film, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), rubber, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), another suitable material, or a combination thereof. The fluid impermeable barrier 210 is flexible, thereby allowing the fluid collection device 200 to bend or curve when positioned against the wearer's body. Exemplary fluid impermeable barriers may include fluid impermeable barriers including at least one of, but not limited to, Versaflex CL 2000X TPE, Dynaflex G6713 TPE, or Silpuran 6000 / 05 A / B silicone. In embodiments, the fluid impermeable barrier 210 may be air permeable. In such embodiments, the fluid impermeable barrier 210 may be formed from a hydrophobic material that defines a plurality of pores. In embodiments, one or more portions of at least an outer surface of the fluid impermeable barrier 210 may be formed from a flexible and / or lubricious material, thereby reducing debris.

[0025] In some embodiments, the fluid impermeable barrier 210 may be molded, e.g., injection molded. For example, the fluid impermeable barrier 210 may be injection molded from one or more of silicone or polymers such as TPE or TPU. The fluid impermeable barrier 210 may be injection molded as one component. In some embodiments, the fluid impermeable barrier 210 may be injection molded into a longitudinal curve or arc. Injecting the fluid impermeable barrier 210 may reduce the cost of manufacturing the fluid impermeable barrier 210 and the fluid collection device 200. For example, injection molding the fluid impermeable barrier 210 in at least one, some, or all of the embodiments provides the technical effect of reducing material costs and provides faster cycle times for manufacturing the fluid impermeable barrier 210. Injecting molding the fluid impermeable barrier 210 in at least one, some, or all of the embodiments also provides the technical advantages of repeatability and consistency. Injection molding the fluid impermeable barrier 210 in at least one, some or all of the embodiments may also provide the technical advantage of incorporating the features described herein into one body.

[0026] The fluid collection device 200 also includes a fluid-permeable body 230 positioned within the chamber 204 and extending at least partially across the opening 206 and at least partially between the distal end region 218 and the proximal end region 216. The fluid-permeable body 230 may generally be shaped complementary to the shape of the chamber 204 of the fluid-impermeable barrier 210. In some embodiments, the fluid-permeable body 230 fills substantially all of the chamber 204, except for the reservoir 208.

[0027] The fluid-permeable body 230 can be configured to wick and / or allow transport of fluid from the opening 206 toward the reservoir 208 and / or the inlet 252. More specifically, the fluid-permeable body 230 can be configured to wick and / or allow transport of fluid from the opening 206 toward the reservoir 208 and the inlet 252. The fluid-permeable body 230 can include any material capable of wicking and / or allowing transport of fluid. The permeability characteristics referred to herein can be wicking, capillary action, diffusion, or other similar properties or processes, and are referred to herein as "permeability" and / or "wicking". Such "wicking" or other physical properties may preclude absorption into the fluid-permeable body 230, and do not include, for example, adsorption of a resistant wall to the fluid-permeable body 230. In other words, after the material is exposed to bodily fluid and removed from the bodily fluid for a period of time, there may be substantially no absorption or solubility of bodily fluid into the material. While no absorption or dissolution is desired, the term "substantially no absorption" may allow for absorption and / or dissolution (e.g., absorbency) of a nominal amount of bodily fluids into the fluid-permeable body 230, for example, less than about 30% by weight of the dry weight of the fluid-permeable body 230, less than about 20% by weight, less than about 10% by weight, less than about 7% by weight, less than about 5% by weight, less than about 3% by weight, less than about 2% by weight, less than about 1% by weight, or less than about 0.5% by weight of the dry weight of the fluid-permeable body 230. In embodiments, the fluid-permeable body 230 may include at least one absorbent or adsorbent material.

[0028] The fluid-permeable body 230 may include a unidirectional fluid transfer fabric, which allows the fluid-permeable body 230 to remove fluid from the area around the urethra, wound, and / or skin, thereby keeping the area dry. The fluid-permeable body 230 may allow fluid to flow generally toward the reservoir 208 and the inlet 252. The fluid-permeable body 230 may include a porous or fibrous material, such as a hydrophilic polyolefin. In some embodiments, the fluid-permeable body 230 consists or consists essentially of a porous or fibrous material, such as a hydrophilic polyolefin. Examples of polyolefins that may be used in the fluid-permeable body 230 include, but are not limited to, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyisobutylene, ethylene propylene rubber, ethylene propylene diene monomer, or combinations thereof. Additionally, the fluid-permeable body 230 may be manufactured according to various manufacturing methods, such as molding, extrusion, or sintering. For example, in some embodiments, the fluid-permeable support 240 of the fluid-permeable body 230 may be formed by extrusion. In some embodiments, the fluid-permeable support 240 may comprise an open-cell or closed-cell foam extrusion. The fluid-permeable body 230 may comprise a variety of densities or dimensions.

[0029] In some embodiments, the fluid-permeable body 230 can include two or more layers of fluid-permeable material. For example, the fluid-permeable body 230 can include a fluid-permeable membrane 232 wrapped around or over a fluid-permeable support 240, the fluid-permeable membrane and the fluid-permeable support being at least partially disposed in the chamber 204. The fluid-permeable membrane 232 can extend across or over at least a portion (e.g., all) of the side of the fluid-permeable support 240 that faces the user's urethra. The fluid-permeable membrane 232 and the fluid-permeable support 240 can be configured to wick any fluid away from the opening 206, thereby preventing fluid from escaping from the chamber 204 through the opening 206 and facilitating removal of fluid from the chamber 204 through the conduit 250. The permeability properties referred to herein can be wicking, capillary action, diffusion, or other similar properties or processes, and are referred to herein as "permeability" and / or "wicking."

[0030] The fluid-permeable membrane 232 and the fluid-permeable support 240 can generally wick and / or allow transport of fluid toward the reservoir 208. The fluid-permeable membrane 232 can include any material capable of wicking fluid. For example, the fluid-permeable membrane can include a fabric, such as gauze (e.g., a polymer-based material such as silk, linen, polyester, or cotton gauze), nylon (e.g., spun nylon fibers), another soft fabric (e.g., a jersey knit fabric or the like), or another smooth fabric (e.g., rayon, satin, or the like). Forming the fluid-permeable membrane from gauze, a soft fabric, and / or a smooth fabric can reduce debris generated by the fluid collection device 200. Other embodiments of the fluid-permeable membrane and fluid-permeable support are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 612,325, filed June 2, 2017, U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 260,103, filed September 8, 2016, U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 611,587, filed June 1, 2017, and International Patent Application No. PCT / US19 / 29608, filed April 29, 2019, the disclosures of each of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. In many embodiments, the fluid-permeable body 230 includes a fluid-permeable support 240 including a porous spun nylon fiber structure and a fluid-permeable wicking membrane 232 including a gauze at least partially surrounding the spun nylon fiber structure. For example, the fluid-permeable body 230 may include a gauze or other wicking fabric positioned to contact the user's skin through the openings 206. In some embodiments, the gauze or other wicking fabric is wrapped around the body of the spun nylon fiber material and / or covers both sides of the substantially flat spun nylon fiber material, hi some embodiments, the gauze or other wicking fabric covers the side of the substantially flat spun nylon fiber material that faces the user's skin.

[0031] The fluid collection device 200 also includes a conduit 250 disposed at least partially within the chamber 204. The conduit 250 (e.g., a tube) may provide fluid communication between an interior region of the chamber 204 (e.g., the reservoir 208) and a fluid storage container (not shown) or a vacuum source (not shown). For example, the conduit 250 may directly or indirectly fluidly couple the interior region of the chamber 204 to a fluid storage container or a portable vacuum source. The conduit 250 includes an inlet 252 positioned within the chamber 204 near the distal end region 218 of the reservoir 208 and / or the fluid impermeable barrier 210. The inlet 252 may be substantially flush with the distal end of the fluid permeable body 230, may extend at least partially from the fluid permeable body 230, or may be recessed from the fluid permeable body 230. In some embodiments, the conduit 250 extends through the aperture 212 and includes an outlet 254 positioned outside the chamber 204. The outlet 254 may be configured to be connected to an additional conduit 117 in fluid communication with a vacuum source effective to provide fluid communication between the conduit 250 and the additional conduit 117 .

[0032] 3A-3C, the fluid collection apparatus 300 may include a fluid impermeable barrier 310 and a fluid permeable body 330. Unless otherwise specified, the fluid collection apparatus 300 may include any embodiment of the fluid collection apparatus 200. For example, the fluid collection apparatus 300 may include a fluid impermeable barrier 310 having a proximal end region 316 and a distal end region 318 and defining a chamber 304 and an opening 306 at a front side 317 of the fluid impermeable barrier 310. The fluid collection apparatus 300 may include one or more protrusions 311a, 311b and a reservoir of space 308 at the distal end region 318 of the fluid impermeable barrier 310. The fluid collection apparatus 300 may also include a fluid permeable body 330 including a fluid permeable membrane 332 and a fluid permeable support 340.

[0033] In some embodiments, the fluid impermeable barrier 310 may include an aperture 312 defined by an external port at a proximal end region 316 of the fluid impermeable barrier 310. The external port is sized and dimensioned to removably secure an additional conduit 317 effective to provide fluid communication between the additional conduit 117 and the chamber 304. In some embodiments, the fluid impermeable barrier 310 may define an internal port 323 positioned within the fluid collection device 300 at the proximal end region 316 of the fluid impermeable barrier 310 and in fluid communication with the aperture 312. The fluid collection device 300 may also include a conduit 350 partially positioned or positionable at the internal port 323 of the fluid impermeable barrier 310. For example, the conduit 350 may also include an outlet 354 positioned or positionable at the internal port 323. The conduit 350 may also include an inlet 352 positioned within the chamber 304 near the reservoir 308 at the distal end region 318 of the fluid impermeable barrier 310 .

[0034] In some embodiments, the fluid impermeable barrier 310 includes a rear side 315 and a front side 317. The rear side 315 of the fluid impermeable barrier 310 includes an elongated flat portion that extends at least partially between the proximal end region 316 and the distal end region 318. The front side 317 of the fluid impermeable barrier 310 includes an arcuate region at each of the distal end region 318 and the proximal end region 316. This configuration of the fluid impermeable barrier 310 produces the technical effect of using less material, thereby reducing the cost of manufacturing the fluid collection device 300 while still providing the same effective fluid collection diameter. The fluid impermeable barrier 310 may include one or more internal longitudinal ribs 313 that protrude into the chamber 304 and help maintain the shape of the fluid impermeable barrier 310. The one or more ribs 313 may include a stiffer material than the remainder of the fluid impermeable barrier 310.

[0035] In some embodiments, the fluid-permeable body 330 includes at least an elongated fluid-permeable support 340 having an arcuate profile that defines a channel 342 and is complementary to the arcuate regions in each of the distal end region 318 and the proximal end region 316. For example, the fluid-permeable support 340 may include a semicircular cross-sectional shape. The conduit 350 may be positioned at least partially (e.g., completely) within the channel 342. In some embodiments, the fluid-permeable body 330 also includes a fluid-permeable membrane 332 positioned about the fluid-permeable support 340. In some embodiments, the fluid-permeable membrane 332 is wrapped or positioned about the fluid-permeable support 340, the conduit 350 is positioned within the channel 342, and the conduit 350 is positioned between a portion of the fluid-permeable support 340 and a portion of the fluid-permeable membrane 332. The fluid-permeable membrane 332 may help secure the conduit 350 within the channel 342. This configuration of the fluid-permeable body 330 in at least one, some, or all of the embodiments provides the technical effect of using less material, thereby reducing the cost of manufacturing the fluid collection device 300.

[0036] 4, the fluid collection apparatus 400 may include a support member 460 secured to the rear side of the fluid impermeable barrier 410. Unless otherwise specified, the fluid collection apparatus 400 may include any embodiment of the fluid collection apparatus 200, 300. Additionally, the support member 460 may include any of the fluid collection apparatuses 200, 300. The support member 460 may include a shape memory polymer or a metal. For example, the support member 460 may include a malleable metal strip or wire captured between the fluid permeable body 330 and the fluid impermeable barrier 310.

[0037] In some embodiments, at least the support member 460 may include a shape memory material, such as a shape memory polymer or metal (e.g., a shape memory metal). The shape memory material may be affixed to or embedded in at least a portion of the fluid impermeable barrier 310. Suitable shape memory materials are configured to assume an intermediate or permanent shape in response to a stimulus. The stimulus may include an external physical force (e.g., bending force), heat, an electrical bias, or a magnetic field. Although the term "shape memory" is used herein to describe some of the "shape memory materials," in some instances, the material modified by the term "shape memory" may not necessarily return to a preselected shape upon application of a stimulus, as understood as the conventional definition of a "shape memory material." Rather, at least some of the shape memory materials in the present invention may simply retain a selected shape when bent, set, or cured into a particular shape and / or cooled in a particular shape, despite a stimulus subsequently applied thereto. The shape memory material may be returned to its original shape or changed to a new shape upon application of a stimulus. For example, a wire bent into a first shape may be utilized as a shape memory material, and the metal wire may then be modified into a second shape via a physical force applied thereto or via heat.

[0038] In embodiments, the shape memory material may include metals such as elemental metals, alloys, or shape memory alloys. Suitable shape memory metals may include standard steel, stainless steel, carbon alloy steel, heat treated steel, aluminum, silver, copper, iron, nickel, zinc, tin, beryllium, or the like. Suitable shape memory alloys may include stainless steel, galvanized steel, aluminum alloys, nickel-titanium alloys, such as Nitinol, Ni-Ti-Cu, Ni-Ti, Co, or the like, copper-based alloys, such as Cu-Zn-Al, Cu-Al-Ni, Cu-Al-Sn, or the like, Co-Cr-Ni-Mo alloys (e.g., Elgiloy®) or the like, or any other alloys that have shape memory properties. As explained above, a shape memory metal or alloy may simply be a metal or alloy that may be formed into a selected configuration. In some instances, a shape memory metal or alloy may return to an initial shape when an external stimulus is applied thereto. In some instances, the exterior surface of the shape memory metal may be coated with a polymer, anodized, passivated, or otherwise treated to prevent corrosion.

[0039] Shape memory polymers ("SMPs") may include polyurethane-based SMPs, such as copolymers (e.g., copolyesters, polyurethanes, polyetheresters, etc.) comprising one or more blocks of poly(ε-caprolactone), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene oxide (PEO), polyethylene glycol (PEG), polystyrene, polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polybutyl methacrylate (PBMA), poly(N,N-butadiene), poly(N-methyl-N-oxazoline), polytetrahydrofuran, or poly(butylene terephthalate), or thermoplastic polymers, such as polyetheretherketone (PEEK), nylon, acetal, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polysulfone or the like, or polynorbornene, or other deformable polymers, or any other shape memory polymer.

[0040] 5A-5D, the fluid collection device 500 may include a fluid impermeable barrier having a distal end region 518 and a proximal end region 516 defining an aperture 512 sized and dimensioned to draw urine therethrough by a vacuum source. The fluid collection device 500 may include an elongate body 530 that is at least partially fluid permeable and has a portion of the body 530 that is not covered by the fluid impermeable barrier between the distal end region 518 and the proximal end region 516 and is positioned on the fluid collection device 500 to receive urine discharged from the urethra near at least that portion of the body 530. For example, the fluid impermeable barrier may cover only a portion of the elongate body 530, such that the fluid impermeable barrier does not cover a portion of the elongate body 530 between the distal end region 518 and the proximal end region 516. Thus, a portion of the elongate body 530 between the distal end region 518 and the proximal end region 516 may not be covered by a fluid impermeable barrier.

[0041] In some embodiments, the body 530 includes a fluid-permeable membrane 532 and an extruded support 540. In some embodiments, the extruded support 540 may include a foamed or flexible material extrusion, such as a closed-cell foam extrusion. The extruded support 540 may be generally fluid impermeable and may support the fluid-permeable membrane 532 of the body 530. The fluid-permeable membrane 532 may include any aspect of the fluid-permeable body 230 described above, such as a spun nylon fiber fluid-permeable membrane. The fluid-permeable membrane 532 may cover at least a portion of the extruded support 540, as described in more detail below.

[0042] In some embodiments, the extruded support 540 includes a distal end region 548, a proximal end region 546, and at least one slot 544a extending longitudinally on the extruded support 540. More specifically, the extruded support 540 may include a rear side and a front side, the front side including two side slots 544b extending longitudinally on the front side of the extruded support, the slot 544a being positioned between the two side slots 544b. The extruded support 540 may include a plurality of longitudinal ridges that at least partially define the slots 544a, 544b. For example, the slot 544a may be at least partially defined by the longitudinal ridge 545a. The side slot 544b may be at least partially defined by one of the longitudinal ridges 545a and the side longitudinal ridge 545b. The extruded support 540 may include a channel 542 extending longitudinally through the extruded support 540. The channel 542 may be completely enclosed within the extruded support 540, such that the extruded support 540 surrounds and / or defines the channel 542. For example, the channel 542 may include an O-shaped or D-shaped channel extending longitudinally through the extruded support 540 from the distal end region 548 to the proximal end region 546.

[0043] In some embodiments, the fluid-permeable membrane 532 is fixed or fixable to the extruded support 540 such that a portion of the fluid-permeable membrane 532 extends across at least one slot 544a at the front side of the extruded support 540. The portion of the fluid-permeable membrane 532 extending across at least one slot 544a may include a portion of the body 530 that is not covered by a fluid-impermeable barrier (i.e., the fluid-impermeable barrier is absent) between the distal end region 518 and the proximal end region 516 and is positioned in the fluid collection device 500 to receive urine discharged from the urethra. A portion of the fluid-permeable membrane 532 may be positioned in the two side slots 544b. For example, the fluid collection device 500 may include a shape memory polymer or metal 560 that is positioned in each of the two side slots 544b and that fixes a portion of the fluid-permeable membrane 532 positioned in the two side slots 544b. In some embodiments, the fluid-permeable membrane 532 may include at least a partial loop in each of the two side slots 544b, and the shape memory polymer or metal 560 includes an elongated U-shaped shape memory polymer or metal that extends through the distal end region 518 and into at least a partial loop in each of the two side slots 544b.

[0044] In some embodiments, the fluid impermeable barrier of the fluid collection device 500 includes two caps. For example, the distal end region 518 of the fluid impermeable barrier may include a distal end cap 518, and the proximal end region 516 of the fluid impermeable barrier may include a proximal end cap 516. At least a portion of the distal end cap 518 and the proximal end cap 516 may be complementary shaped to the contour of the body 530. At least a portion of the distal end region 548 of the extruded support 540 may be positioned within the distal end cap 518, and at least a portion of the proximal end region 546 of the extruded support 540 may be positioned within the proximal end cap 516. A reservoir of space 508 may be positioned between a distal end region of the extruded support 540 and at least a portion of the distal end cap 518 and is effective to provide fluid communication between at least one slot 544a of the extruded support 540 and the channel 542. The reservoir 508 may be at least partially defined by a portion of each of the distal end region 548 of the extruded support 540 and the distal end cap 518.

[0045] In some embodiments, the distal end cap 518 has one or more tabs on an inner surface positioned to prevent or block the extruded support 540 from being pressed too deeply into the distal end cap 518, which would prevent fluid communication between the at least one slot 544a and the channel 542. Instead, the one or more tabs ensure that the reservoir 508 is formed in the distal end cap 518 and fluid communication is maintained between the at least one slot 544a and the channel 542. In some embodiments, the distal end cap 518 includes an alignment means 519 (e.g., a boss) that extends partially into the channel 542 at the distal end region 548 of the extruded support 540. The alignment means 519 may be complementarily shaped relative to at least a portion of the channel 542 and may include one or more slits 509, openings, apertures, or pores configured to provide fluid communication between the channel 542 and the reservoir 508. In some embodiments, at least one of the alignment means 519 or the channel 542 includes one or more tabs or stops positioned on the alignment means 519 and / or the channel 542 to prevent the alignment means 519 from being inserted too deeply into the channel 542. Thus, the one or more tabs or stops in at least one, some, or all of the embodiments produce the technical effect of ensuring that fluid communication between the channel 542 and the reservoir is maintained. In some embodiments, the distal cap 518 includes a wire socket for the U-shaped wire shape memory polymer or metal 560 or a socket for a malleable strip. For example, the U-shaped wire may include an elongated staple extending through at least the distal end cap 518. In some embodiments, the elongated staple may extend through the distal end cap 518 and the proximal end cap 516 and may be crimped into the proximal end cap 516. In some embodiments, the distal end cap 518 and the proximal end cap 516 may be attached to an extruded support 540 or may be secured to the body 530 by an adhesive.

[0046] In some embodiments, the proximal end cap 516 at least partially defines an aperture 512. The aperture 512 may be defined by a portion of the proximal end cap 516 extending outwardly from the proximal end cap 516 and configured to be removably secured to a conduit (e.g., a tube). The proximal end cap 516 may also include an internal port 513 that extends partially into the channel 542 at the proximal end region 546 of the extruded support 540. The end caps 516, 518 may include any of the fluid impermeable materials described above with respect to the fluid impermeable barrier 210. In some embodiments, the end caps 516, 518 include a TPE material.

[0047] In use, the fluid collection device 500 may be positioned such that the fluid-permeable membrane 532 covers the at least one slot 544a at least near (e.g., adjacent) the user's urethra. The ridges 545a on the extruded support 540 may support the fluid-permeable membrane 532 such that the at least one slot 544a remains open and is devoid of material (other than urine). A vacuum creating a negative pressure on the fluid collection device 500 may cause urine discharged onto the fluid-permeable membrane to be drawn or otherwise enter the at least one slot 544a and flow into the reservoir 508. The vacuum may draw urine in the reservoir 508 through the alignment means 519 into the channel 542 and out of the fluid collection device 500 through the aperture 512.

[0048] In some embodiments, the fluid collection device may include a label thereon that includes instructions, product identification, and / or user written usage data. With reference to Figures 6A-6C, the fluid collection device 600 may include a fluid impermeable barrier having a distal end region 618 and a proximal end region 616 that defines an aperture 612 sized and dimensioned to draw urine therethrough by a vacuum source. The fluid collection device 600 may include an elongated body 630 that is at least partially fluid permeable and has a portion of the body 630 that is not covered by the fluid impermeable barrier (e.g., the fluid impermeable barrier is absent) between the distal end region 618 and the proximal end region 616 and is positioned on the fluid collection device 600 to receive urine discharged from the urethra near at least that portion of the body 630. The label 670 may be secured to the body 630 distal to a portion of the body 630 that is not covered by the fluid impermeable barrier between the distal end region 618 and the proximal end region 616. Unless otherwise specified, the fluid collection apparatus 600 may include any embodiment of the fluid collection apparatus 500.

[0049] In some embodiments, the body 630 includes a fluid-permeable membrane 632 and an extruded support 640. In some embodiments, the extruded support 640 may include a foamed or flexible material extrusion, such as a closed-cell foam extrusion. The extruded support 640 may be generally fluid impermeable and may support the fluid-permeable membrane 632 of the body 630. The fluid-permeable membrane 632 may include any aspect of the fluid-permeable body 230 described above, such as a spun nylon fiber fluid-permeable membrane. The fluid-permeable membrane 632 may cover at least a portion of the extruded support 640, as described in more detail below.

[0050] In some embodiments, the extruded support 640 includes a distal end region 648, a proximal end region 646, and at least one slot 644a extending longitudinally on the extruded support 640. More specifically, the extruded support 640 may include a rear side and a front side including multiple slots 644a, 644b. The multiple slots may include two side slots 644b and a slot 644a positioned between the two side slots 644b. Each of the multiple slots 644a, 644b may have an angled center relative to the center of the other slots in the multiple slots 644a, 644b. The extruded support 640 may include a plurality of longitudinal ridges 645 that at least partially define the multiple slots 644a, 644b.

[0051] The extruded support 640 may include a channel 642 extending longitudinally through the extruded support 640. The channel 642 may be completely enclosed within the extruded support 640 such that the extruded support 640 surrounds and / or defines the channel 642. For example, the channel 642 may include an O-shaped or D-shaped channel extending longitudinally through the extruded support 640 from the distal end region 648 to the proximal end region 646. The extruded support 640 may also include one or more lumens 647a, 647b extending longitudinally partially through the extruded support 640 and positioned to receive a shape memory polymer or metal 660. For example, the extruded support 640 may include a lumen 647a sized and dimensioned to receive a malleable polymer or metal and / or two lumens 647b sized and dimensioned to receive arms or prongs of a U-shaped malleable polymer or metal wire. In some embodiments, the distal end cap 618 and the proximal end cap 616 may be bonded to the extruded support 640 or secured to the body 630 by an adhesive.

[0052] In some embodiments, the fluid-permeable membrane 632 is secured or securable to the extruded support 640 such that a portion of the fluid-permeable membrane 632 extends across the multiple slots 644a, 644b at the front side of the extruded support 640. The portion of the fluid-permeable membrane 632 extending across the multiple slots 644a, 644b may comprise a portion of the body 630 that is not covered by the fluid-impermeable barrier between the distal end region 618 and the proximal end region 616 and is positioned on the fluid collection device 600 to receive urine discharged from the urethra. In some embodiments, the fluid-permeable membrane 632 may be wrapped around the extruded support 640. For example, the fluid-permeable membrane 632 may be generally tubular when wrapped around the extruded support 640. Ridges 645 on the extruded support 640 may support the fluid-permeable membrane 632 such that multiple slots 644a, 644b remain open and emptied of material (other than urine). When wrapped around the extruded support 640, the portion of the fluid-permeable membrane 632 that is not covered by the fluid-impermeable barrier may include a substantially flat central region that covers the slot 644a and two substantially flat side regions that cover the slot 644b and are angled toward the substantially flat central region.

[0053] In some embodiments, the fluid impermeable barrier of the fluid collection device 600 includes two caps. For example, the distal end region 618 of the fluid impermeable barrier may include a distal end cap 618, and the proximal end region 616 of the fluid impermeable barrier may include a proximal end cap 616. At least a portion of the distal end cap 618 and the proximal end cap 616 may be complementary shaped to the contour of the body 630. At least a portion of the distal end region 648 of the extruded support 640 may be positioned in the distal end cap 618, and at least a portion of the proximal end region 646 of the extruded support 640 may be positioned in the proximal end cap 616. A reservoir of space (not shown) may be positioned between the distal end region 648 of the extruded support 640 and at least a portion of the distal end cap 618 and is effective to provide fluid communication between the multiple slots 644a, 644b of the extruded support 640 and the channel 642. The reservoir may be at least partially defined by each of the distal end region 648 of the extruded support 640 and the distal end cap 618, similar to the reservoir 508 of the fluid collection device 500.

[0054] In some embodiments, the distal end cap 618 has one or more tabs on the inner surface positioned to prevent or block the extruded support 640 from being pushed too deeply into the distal end cap 618, which would prevent fluid communication between the multiple slots 644a, 644b and the channel 642. Instead, the one or more tabs ensure that a reservoir is formed in the distal end cap 618 and that fluid communication is maintained between the multiple slots 644a, 644b and the channel 642. In some embodiments, the distal end cap 618 includes alignment means (not shown) similar or the same as the alignment means in the distal end cap 518 of the fluid collection device 500. In some embodiments, at least one of the alignment means or the channel 642 includes one or more tabs or stoppers positioned on the alignment means and / or the channel 642 to prevent the alignment means from being inserted too deeply into the channel 642. The one or more tabs or stoppers thus help ensure that fluid communication is maintained between the channel 642 and the reservoir. The distal end cap 618 may include a housing for a shape memory polymer or metal 660. For example, the distal end cap 618 may include a socket 665 for a strip or U-shaped wire shape memory polymer or metal 660.

[0055] In some embodiments, the proximal end cap 616 at least partially defines the aperture 612. The aperture 612 may be defined by a portion of the proximal end cap 616 extending outwardly from the proximal end cap 516 and configured to be removably secured to a conduit (e.g., a tube). The proximal end cap 616 may also include an internal port (not shown) that extends partially into the channel 642 at the distal end region 648 of the extruded support 640. The end caps 616, 618 may include any of the fluid impermeable materials described above with respect to the fluid impermeable barrier 210. In some embodiments, the end caps 616, 618 include a TPE material.

[0056] In some embodiments, the fluid impermeable barrier of the fluid collection device 600 includes a substantially fluid impermeable sheet 670 secured to a portion of the body 630 by an adhesive and extending at least partially between the proximal end cap 616 and the distal end cap 618. The fluid impermeable sheet 670 may include a waterproof label and / or adhesive configured to prevent fluid migration around the body 630. In some embodiments, the fluid impermeable sheet 670 may include any of the fluid impermeable materials described above with respect to the fluid impermeable barrier 210, such as TPE. In some embodiments, the fluid impermeable sheet 670 may be spray painted onto the fluid permeable membrane 632. The fluid impermeable sheet 670 may also include graphics, instructions, product identification, and / or user written usage data. The incorporation of labeling in at least one, some, or all of the embodiments produces the technical effect of reducing packaging required for the fluid collection device 600, providing information or instructions to a user in a location that is less likely to be discarded by the user, and / or providing a space to record relevant data regarding a user's fluid collection. The fluid impermeable sheet 670 may be adhered to the fluid permeable membrane 632 prior to securing the body 630 to the proximal end cap 616 and / or the distal end cap 618.

[0057] In use, the fluid collection device 600 may be positioned such that the fluid-permeable membrane 632 covering the multiple slots 644a, 644b is positioned near (e.g., adjacent) at least the user's urethra. Ridges 645 on the extruded support 640 may support the fluid-permeable membrane 632 such that the multiple slots 644a, 644b remain open and empty of material (other than urine). A vacuum creating a negative pressure in the fluid collection device 600 may cause urine discharged onto the fluid-permeable membrane 632 to be drawn or otherwise enter one or more of the slots 644a, 644b and flow to the reservoir. The vacuum may draw urine in the reservoir through the alignment means into the channel 642, through the aperture 612, and out of the fluid collection device 600.

[0058] 7 is a flow diagram of a method 700 of manufacturing a fluid collection device according to an embodiment. The method 700 includes an act 710 of injection molding a fluid impermeable barrier of the fluid collection device to include a chamber, an opening in fluid communication with the chamber, and an aperture at least partially defined by the fluid impermeable barrier. The opening may be positioned in the fluid collection device to receive urine discharged from the urethra at least near the opening, and the aperture may be sized and dimensioned to draw urine therethrough by a vacuum source. The act 710 of injection molding a fluid impermeable barrier of the fluid collection device may include injection molding a fluid impermeable barrier including at least one of a thermoplastic polyurethane or a thermoplastic elastomer. The method 700 also includes an act 720 of positioning a fluid permeable body within the chamber to extend across at least a portion of the opening.

[0059] In some embodiments, the method 700 may further include positioning the inlet of the conduit at least partially within the chamber. The act of injection molding 710 the fluid-impermeable barrier of the fluid collection device may include injection molding the fluid-impermeable barrier to include a front side defining an opening, a rear side opposite the front end, a proximal end region defining an aperture, a distal end region opposite the proximal end region, and one or more protrusions positioned within the chamber at the distal end region to position at least a portion of the inlet spaced apart from the distal end region of the fluid-impermeable barrier. In some embodiments, injection molding the fluid-impermeable barrier may include injection molding the fluid-impermeable barrier to be substantially cylindrical, and positioning the inlet of the conduit at least partially within the chamber may include inserting the conduit at least partially through the fluid-permeable body and the aperture.

[0060] In some embodiments of method 700, injection molding the fluid impermeable barrier may include injection molding the fluid impermeable barrier to (1) define an internal port positioned within the fluid collection device and in fluid communication with the aperture, and (2) include an external port at a proximal end region defining the aperture. The external port may be sized and dimensioned to removably secure an additional conduit and is effective to provide fluid communication between the additional conduit and the conduit. In these and other embodiments, the act of positioning the inlet of the conduit at least partially within the chamber may include positioning the inlet of the conduit at least partially within the chamber and positioning the outlet of the conduit within the port.

[0061] In some embodiments, act 710 of injection molding the fluid impermeable barrier may include injection molding the fluid impermeable barrier to include an elongated flat portion at a rear side extending at least partially between the proximal and distal end regions and an arcuate region at a front side of each of the distal and proximal end regions. In these and other embodiments, method 700 may further include an act of positioning the conduit in a channel of the elongated fluid-permeable support of the fluid-permeable body.

[0062] In some embodiments, the method 700 may further include positioning a fluid-permeable membrane around the fluid-permeable support and the conduit prior to positioning the fluid-permeable body within the chamber so as to extend across at least a portion of the opening. In these and other embodiments, the method 700 may further include securing a support member to a rear side of the fluid-impermeable barrier, the support member comprising a shape memory polymer or a metal.

[0063] The acts of method 700 described above are for illustrative purposes. For example, the acts of method 700 may be performed in a different order, divided into multiple acts, modified, supplemented, or combined. In embodiments, one or more of the acts of method 700 may be omitted from method 700. Any of the acts of method 700 may include manufacturing any of the fluid collection devices and systems disclosed herein.

[0064] FIG. 8 is a flow diagram of a method 800 of manufacturing a fluid collection device, according to an embodiment. The method 800 includes an act 810 of extruding a support to include at least one slot extending longitudinally in the extruded support. In some embodiments, extruding the support includes extruding a closed cell foam extrusion forming the support. The method 800 also includes an act 820 of securing a body including the extruded support and being at least partially fluid permeable to a fluid impermeable barrier having a distal end region and a proximal end region defining an aperture, such that a portion of the body is not covered by the fluid impermeable barrier between the distal end region and the proximal end region and is positioned in the fluid collection device to receive urine discharged from the urethra near at least that portion of the body. The aperture is in fluid communication with the at least one slot and is sized and dimensioned to draw urine therethrough by a vacuum source.

[0065] In some embodiments, the method 800 includes an act of securing a fluid-permeable membrane to an extruded support to form a body that is at least partially fluid permeable. Act 810 may include extruding the support to include a channel extending longitudinally through the support. In these and other embodiments, the method 800 may include an act of aligning the channel with an aperture in the fluid-impermeable barrier before or at the time of securing the body to the fluid-impermeable barrier. In some embodiments, act 820 may include securing a proximal end cap to a proximal end region of the extruded support and securing a distal end cap to a distal end region of the extruded support to form a reservoir of space between the distal end region of the extruded support and at least a portion of the distal end cap, the reservoir providing fluid communication between the at least one slot and the channel. The method 800 may also include securing an additional fluid impermeable barrier to a backside of the extruded support with an adhesive prior to securing the distal end cap to the distal end region of the extruded support, and securing the proximal end cap to the proximal end region of the extruded support. The additional fluid impermeable barrier may extend continuously between the distal end cap and the proximal end cap when the body is secured to the fluid impermeable barrier.

[0066] In some embodiments, act 810 may include extruding the support to include a front side including two side slots extending longitudinally on the front side of the extruded support and at least one slot extending longitudinally on the front side of the extruded support between the two side slots. In these and other embodiments, act 820 may include securing a portion of a fluid-permeable membrane to the two side slots, with a shape memory polymer or metal extending through the two side slots and a portion of the fluid-permeable membrane extending at least partially across the front side of the extruded support between the two side slots, thereby covering one or more slots and including a portion of the body that is uncovered between the distal end region and the proximal end region of the fluid impermeable barrier. Act 820 may also include inserting an elongated U-shaped shape memory polymer or metal through the distal end cap and into the two side slots.

[0067] In some embodiments, act 810 includes extruding a support including a front side including three slots, each having a center angled relative to the center of the other of the three slots. In these and other embodiments, act 820 may include wrapping a fluid-permeable membrane around the front and back sides of the extruded support such that a portion of the fluid-permeable membrane covers the three slots to include a portion of the body that is uncovered between the distal end region and the proximal end region of the fluid-impermeable barrier. Method 800 may also include inserting a shape memory polymer or metal to extend longitudinally through the distal end cap and at least a portion of the extruded support.

[0068] In some embodiments, the method 800 also includes inserting an alignment means of a distal end cap into a channel at a distal end region of the extruded support and an internal port in a proximal end cap into the channel. The internal port may be in fluid communication with the aperture, and the alignment means may include one or more slits that provide fluid communication between the reservoir and the channel.

[0069] The acts of method 800 described above are for illustrative purposes. For example, the acts of method 800 may be performed in a different order, divided into multiple acts, modified, supplemented, or combined. In embodiments, one or more of the acts of method 800 may be omitted from method 800. Any of the acts of method 800 may be included in manufacturing any of the fluid collection devices and systems disclosed herein.

[0070] As used herein, the terms "about" or "substantially" refer to an acceptable variation of the term modified by "about" or "substantially" by ±10% or ±5%. Additionally, the terms "less than," "equal to," "greater than," "more than," or "equal to" include as endpoints the value modified by the term "less than," "equal to," "greater than," "more than," or "equal to"

[0071] While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments are contemplated. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes and are not intended to be limiting.

Claims

**Claim 1** A fluid collection device comprising a fluid-impermeable barrier having a distal end region including a distal end cap and a proximal end region including a proximal end cap defining an aperture sized and dimensioned to draw urine therethrough by a vacuum source, the proximal end cap being remote from the distal end cap; an elongate body having a distal end cap and a proximal end cap fixed to the elongate body such that the elongate body has a portion of the elongate body between the distal end region and the proximal end region not covered by the fluid-impermeable barrier, the elongate body being positioned relative to the fluid collection device to receive urine discharged from the urethra, at least near the portion of the elongate body, the elongate body including at least an extruded support; a shape memory polymer or metal positioned within the extruded support of the elongate body, the fluid collection device being characterized by comprising the shape memory polymer or metal. **Claim 2** The fluid collection device according to claim 1, wherein the elongate body has a distal end region to which the distal end cap is fixed, a proximal end region to which the proximal end cap is fixed, and the extruded support having at least one slot extending longitudinally therein; and a fluid-permeable membrane covering the at least one slot in the extruded support, the fluid collection device being characterized by comprising the fluid-permeable membrane. **Claim 3** The fluid collection device according to claim 2, wherein the extruded support includes a channel extending longitudinally therethrough and in fluid communication with the at least one slot and the aperture of the fluid-impermeable barrier, the fluid collection device being characterized by comprising the channel. **Claim 4** The fluid collection device according to claim 3, wherein the distal end region of the fluid-impermeable barrier includes a space reservoir positioned between the distal end region of the extruded support and at least a portion of the distal end cap effective to provide fluid communication between the at least one slot and the channel, the fluid collection device being characterized by comprising the space reservoir. **Claim 5** The fluid collection device according to claim 4, wherein the fluid-impermeable barrier comprises a substantially fluid-impermeable sheet fixed to a part of the elongated body by an adhesive and extending between the proximal end cap and the distal end cap.

6. The fluid collection device according to claim 4, wherein the extruded support includes a rear side and a front side including two side slots extending longitudinally on the front side of the extruded support, and the at least one slot is positioned between the two side slots, a part of the fluid-permeable membrane is positioned within the two side slots, and a part of the fluid-permeable membrane extends at least partially across the at least one slot. The fluid collection device is characterized by this.

7. The fluid collection device according to claim 6, wherein the shape memory polymer or metal is positioned in each of the two side slots and fixes the part of the fluid-permeable membrane positioned within the two side slots. The fluid collection device is characterized by this.

8. The fluid collection device according to claim 7, wherein the shape memory polymer or metal includes an elongated U-shaped shape memory polymer or metal extending into the two side slots through the distal end cap. The fluid collection device is characterized by this.

9. The fluid collection device according to claim 4, wherein the extruded support includes a rear side and a front side, and the at least one slot includes three slots on the front side, and each slot has a center angled with respect to the center of the other slots among the three slots. The fluid collection device is characterized by this.

10. The fluid collection device according to claim 9, wherein the fluid-permeable membrane is wound around the front side and the rear side of the extruded support such that a part of the fluid-permeable membrane covers the three slots and extends at least partially across the opening of the fluid-impermeable barrier. The fluid collection device is characterized by this.

11. The fluid collection device according to claim 9, wherein the shape memory polymer or metal extends longitudinally through the distal end cap and at least a part of the extruded support. The fluid collection device is characterized by this.

12. The fluid collection device according to claim 4, wherein the distal end cap includes alignment means that partially extends into the channel in the distal end region of the extruded support, the proximal end cap includes an internal port that partially extends into the channel, and the alignment means includes one or more slits that provide fluid communication between the reservoir and the channel. A fluid collection device characterized by that.

13. The fluid collection device according to claim 4, wherein the extruded support includes a closed-cell foam extruded product. A fluid collection device characterized by that.

14. A method of manufacturing a fluid collection device, Extruding a support so as to include at least one longitudinally extending slot in the extruded support; Fixing a distal end cap of a fluid-impermeable barrier to a body including the support, and fixing a proximal end cap of the fluid-impermeable barrier defining an aperture to the body including the support, whereby a part of the body is not covered by the fluid-impermeable barrier between the distal end cap and the proximal end cap, and is positioned in the fluid collection device to receive urine discharged from the urethra near at least the part of the body, and the aperture is in fluid communication with the at least one slot and is sized and dimensioned to draw urine through the aperture by a vacuum source. Fixing; Inserting a shape memory polymer or metal into the body. A method characterized by including that.

15. The method according to claim 14, further comprising fixing a fluid-permeable membrane to the extruded support to form the body that is at least partially fluid-permeable. A method characterized by that.

16. The method according to claim 14, Extruding the support includes extruding the support so as to include a channel that extends longitudinally through the support, The method further comprising aligning the channel with the aperture of the fluid-impermeable barrier before or during fixing the body to the fluid-impermeable barrier. A method characterized by that.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein a reservoir of space is formed between the distal end region of the extruded support and at least a part of the distal end cap, and the reservoir provides fluid communication between the at least one slot and the channel.

18. The method according to claim 17, further comprising fixing an additional fluid-impermeable barrier to the rear side of the extruded support by an adhesive before fixing the distal end cap to the distal end region of the extruded support and fixing the proximal end cap to the proximal end region of the extruded support, wherein the additional fluid-impermeable barrier extends continuously between the distal end cap and the proximal end cap when the body is fixed to the fluid-impermeable barrier.

19. The method according to claim 17, extruding the support includes extruding the support such that a front side includes two side slots extending longitudinally on the front side of the extruded support and the at least one slot extending longitudinally on the front side of the extruded support between the two side slots. Fixing the fluid-permeable membrane to the extruded support to form the body includes fixing a part of the fluid-permeable membrane at the two side slots by the shape memory polymer or metal extending through the two side slots, and a part of the fluid-permeable membrane covers the one or more slots and at least partially crosses the front side of the extruded support between the two side slots to include a part of the body not covered by the fluid-impermeable barrier between the distal end region and the proximal end region of the fluid-impermeable barrier.

20. The method according to claim 16, extruding the support including at least one slot includes extruding the support such that a front side includes three slots each having a center angled with respect to the center of the other of the three slots. Fixing the fluid-permeable membrane to the extruded support to form the body includes winding the fluid-permeable membrane around the front and back sides of the extruded support such that a portion of the fluid-permeable membrane covers the three slots to include a portion of the body not covered by the fluid-impermeable barrier between the distal end region and the proximal end region of the fluid-impermeable barrier. A method characterized by that.

21. The method according to claim 20, wherein inserting the shape memory polymer or metal into the body further includes inserting the elongated U-shaped shape memory polymer or metal so as to extend longitudinally through at least a portion of the distal end cap and the extruded support. A method characterized by that.

22. The method according to claim 17, further including inserting the alignment means in the distal end cap into the channel in the distal end region of the extruded support and inserting the internal port in the proximal end cap into the channel, wherein the internal port is in fluid communication with the aperture, and the alignment means has one or more slits providing fluid communication between the reservoir and the channel. A method characterized by that.

23. The method according to claim 15, wherein extruding the support includes extruding a closed-cell foam extruded product forming the support. A method characterized by that.

24. The fluid collection device according to claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the shape memory polymer or metal includes a strip of shape memory polymer or metal positioned within the extruded support of the elongated body. A fluid collection device characterized by that.

25. The fluid collection device according to claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the shape memory polymer or metal includes a wire of shape memory polymer or metal positioned within the extruded support of the elongated body. A fluid collection device characterized by that.

26. The method according to claim 14, wherein inserting the shape memory polymer or metal into the body includes inserting a strip of shape memory polymer or metal into the body. A method characterized by that. Claim 27: The method according to claim 14, wherein inserting the shape memory polymer or the metal into the body includes inserting a wire of the shape memory polymer or the metal into the body.

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