Direct Disposal Urine Collection Systems and Associated Methods

Abstract

Embodiments relate to a urine management system and a method of using the system. The urine management system may include a urine collection device configured to receive fluids excreted from a user, a tube in fluid communication with the urine collection device configured to drain urine, the tube having a free end for drawing urine directly from the urine collection device for collection directly in a toilet bowl. The urine management system further includes a pump in fluid communication with the urine collection device and the tube. The pump is configured to draw urine from the urine collection device, through the tube, and into the toilet bowl.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a direct disposal urine collection system and related methods. [Background technology]

[0002] An individual may have limited or impaired mobility, making the normal process of urination difficult or impossible. For example, the individual may have undergone surgery or have a disability that impairs mobility. In another example, the individual may have restricted mobility conditions, such as those experienced by pilots, drivers, and workers in hazardous areas. Additionally, fluid collection from an individual may be necessary for monitoring purposes or clinical trials.

[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 associated problems. For example, bedpans can be prone to discomfort, spillage, and other hygiene issues. Urinary catheters can be uncomfortable, painful, and can lead to urinary tract infections. Conventional fluid collection devices may also be limited to use when the patient is seated in a chair or wheelchair.

[0004] Accordingly, users and manufacturers of fluid collection devices continue to seek new and improved devices, systems, and methods for collecting bodily fluids, such as urine. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2011 / 132043 [Patent Document 2] US Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 228642 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-14698 [Patent Document 4] Chinese Patent Application Publication No. 108420590 [Patent Document 5] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2021 / 275344 Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] Embodiments disclosed herein relate to urine management systems and methods of using the urine management system. In one embodiment, a urine management system is disclosed. The urine management system may include a urine collection device configured to receive fluids excreted by a user and a tube in fluid communication with the urine collection device configured to drain urine. In some embodiments, the tube may not be attached to an external collection container, and urine may be drawn from the urine collection device and deposited directly into the toilet bowl. The tube may have a free end for drawing urine directly from the urine collection device into the toilet bowl. The urine management system may further include a pump in fluid communication with the urine collection device and the tube. The pump may be configured to draw urine from the urine collection device through the tube and into the toilet bowl.

[0007] In one embodiment, the urinary management system may include a wearable urine collection device. The urinary management system may also include a first tube having a first end connected to the urine collection device and a second end connected to the suction of the pump. The urinary management system may also include a second tube having a first end connected to the discharge of the pump and a second end disposed in the toilet bowl.

[0008] In one embodiment, a method for urinating by a user is disclosed. The method may include placing a urine collection device at least near the user's urethra. The method may also include connecting a tube to the urine collection device. The method may further include drawing urine from the urine collection device and into the tube with a pump, discharging the urine directly into a toilet bowl, turning off the pump, and disconnecting the tube from the urine collection device. In some embodiments, placing the urine collection device at least near the user's urethra may include incorporating the urine collection device into a garment for the user. In other embodiments, placing the urine collection device at least near the user's urethra may include removably attaching the urine collection device to a garment for the user.

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

[0010] The drawings illustrate several embodiments of the present disclosure, with the same reference numbers referring to the same or similar elements or features in different views or embodiments shown in the drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a urine management system, according to one embodiment. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1 illustrates an isometric view of a urine management system, according to one embodiment. [Figure 2A] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a urine collection device, according to one embodiment. [Figure 2B] 2B is a cross-sectional view of the urine collection device of FIG. 2A. [Figure 3A] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a urine collection device, according to one embodiment. [Figure 3B] 3B is a cross-sectional view of the urine collection device of FIG. 3A. [Figure 4A] FIG. 1 is a front view of a fluid collection garment according to one embodiment. [Figure 4B]FIG. 4B is a schematic side view of the garment of FIG. 4A, according to one embodiment. [Figure 4C] FIG. 4B is a schematic side view of the garment of FIG. 4A, according to one embodiment. [Figure 4D] FIG. 4B is an isometric view of the back of the garment of FIG. 4A, according to one embodiment. [Figure 4E] FIG. 1 is a front view of a fluid collection garment according to one embodiment. [Figure 5A] 1 is a cross-sectional view of a pump, according to one embodiment. [Figure 5B] 1 is a cross-sectional view of a pump, according to one embodiment. [Figure 5C] FIG. 1 illustrates an isometric view of a pump connected to a wheelchair according to one embodiment. [Figure 5D] FIG. 1 is a side schematic view of a pump incorporated into a fluid collection garment, according to one embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a flow diagram of a method for draining urine, according to one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Embodiments disclosed herein relate to urinary management systems and methods of use. The devices and systems disclosed herein are configured to collect fluids from an individual. The fluids collected by the fluid collection device may include at least one of urine, vaginal secretions, penile secretions, reproductive fluids, blood, sweat, or other bodily fluids. Embodiments disclosed herein relate to urinary management systems and related methods that are chair- or wheelchair-mountable. Many users of fluid collection devices are over 65 years of age, have limited mobility, and often rely on wheelchairs as their primary means of transportation. Many users also spend a significant portion of their day sedentary. As such, users and caregivers can benefit from urinary management systems that can be discrete and portable, allowing users to use the urinary management system to collect fluids at home or on the go.

[0013] In many embodiments described herein, the urinary management system is configured for use by individuals who may use wheelchairs. The urinary management system embodiments described herein allow users to urinate without having to make a potentially dangerous transfer from their wheelchair to a toilet. In some embodiments, the urinary management system also does not rely on a collection container, which may need to be emptied and cleaned, which can be cumbersome and uncomfortable for the user and / or caregiver.

[0014] 1A is a block diagram of a urine management system 100, according to one embodiment. The urine management system 100 may be included in embodiments of the urine management systems described herein. The system 100 includes a fluid (e.g., urine) collection device 102 (e.g., any of the urine collection assemblies disclosed herein), a toilet or other waste container 104, and a pump 106. The urine collection device 102 and the pump 106 may be fluidly coupled to each other via one or more tubes. For example, the urine collection device 102 may be in fluid communication with the pump 106 via a first tube 108, and the pump 106 may be in fluid communication with the toilet 104 via a second tube 110. In some embodiments, the pump 106 may be configured to receive urine from the urine collection device 102, the urine may be drawn into the pump 106 and temporarily contained within the pump 106, and then the pump 106 may expel the urine into the toilet bowl 104 without the first tube 108 being attached to an external collection container, thereby drawing urine directly from the urine collection device 102 into the toilet bowl 104. In other embodiments, the pump 106 may be disposed within or attached directly to the urine collection container 104. Fluid (e.g., urine or other bodily fluids) collected in the urine collection device 102 may be removed from the urine collection device 102 via the first tube 108 coupled to the urine collection device 102. Suction may be applied to the urine collection device 102 via the first tube 108 in response to suction (e.g., vacuum) applied by the pump 106.

[0015] FIG. 1B is an isometric view of a urine management system 100, according to one embodiment. The toilet bowl 104 may also include any other suitable waste container. The pump 106 may include a motor 112 operably connected to the pump 106. The pump 106 may be configured to draw urine from the urine collection device 102 into the toilet bowl 104 solely in response to operation of the pump 106. The pump 106 may include one or more of a manual vacuum pump, a syringe, a centrifugal pump, a positive displacement pump, a magnetically driven pump, a peristaltic pump, or any pump configured to generate a vacuum, or any suitable pump configured to generate a vacuum. The pump 106 may provide a vacuum or suction to remove fluid from the urine collection device 102. In some embodiments, the pump 106 may include a screw-type positive displacement pump. Some embodiments of the pump 106 are described in further detail below.

[0016] In some examples, the motor 112 may be powered by one or more of a power cord (e.g., connected to a power socket), one or more batteries 114, or an automatic controller or remote operator. In some examples, the motor 112 may be sized and shaped to fit around or be coupled to the pump 106. In some embodiments, the pump 106 may be configured to couple to the outside, on, or inside of the urine collection device 102. The pump 106 may include one or more mechanical devices that work in combination to draw a vacuum. In some embodiments, the motor 112 may include an electric motor.

[0017] The urine management system 100 may include a urine collection device 102. The urine collection device 102 may include a male or female urine collection device configured to be positioned at least proximate to the urethra to receive fluids excreted by a user. PCT International Application No. PCT / US2019 / 029616 describes various embodiments of both male and female urine collection devices, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Furthermore, the urine collection device 102 may be interchangeable between different types, variations, and sizes of male or female urine collection devices in the urine management system 100. The urine collection assembly shown in FIGS. 1B-2B is an example of a female urine collection assembly configured to collect fluid(s) from a female (e.g., collect urine from a female urethra). Further examples of female fluid collection assemblies are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 10,390,989, issued August 27, 2019, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. However, the urine collection assemblies, devices, systems, and methods disclosed herein may include male fluid collection assemblies and / or devices shaped, sized, or otherwise configured to collect fluid(s) from a male (e.g., collect urine from a male's urethra). Examples of male fluid collection assemblies are disclosed in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 067,542, filed August 19, 2020, and U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 433,773, filed June 6, 2019, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by this reference in their entireties. Generally, the urine collection device 102 may be positioned near or adjacent the urethra and may include a surface sized and configured to wick urine or other fluids from a user. The urine or other fluids may be wicked from the surface into a reservoir within the urine collection device 102.

[0018] The urine management system 100 also includes a tube 108 that is in fluid communication with an interior region (e.g., a reservoir) of the urine collection device 102 and an interior region of the suction device 106. In some embodiments, as described above, the fluid collection system 100 may further include a second tube 110 that provides fluid communication between the pump 106 and the toilet bowl or waste container 104, without either the first tube 108 or the second tube 110 being attached to an external collection container. In some embodiments, the pump 106 may be coupled to or located within the urine collection device 102, and the first tube 108 may not be present in the urine management system 100 (as shown in FIG. 5D below). The first tube 108 and / or the second tube 110 may comprise flexible tubing. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the first tube 108 and / or the second tube 110 may be substantially opaque, thereby preventing viewing of the fluid within the first tube 108 and the second tube 110.

[0019] Figure 2A is an isometric view of a urine collection device 102, according to one embodiment. Figure 2B is a cross-sectional view of the urine collection device 102 taken along plane AA of Figure 2A. The urine collection device 102 may include a fluid-impermeable barrier 116, at least one opening 118, a chamber 120, a fluid outlet 122, and a porous material 124 disposed within the chamber 120 within the fluid-impermeable barrier 116. A tube 126 may be at least partially disposed within the chamber 120.

[0020] The inner surface of the fluid-impermeable barrier 116 at least partially defines a chamber 120 within the urine collection device 102. The fluid-impermeable barrier 116 temporarily stores bodily fluid within the chamber 120. The fluid-impermeable barrier 116 may be formed of any suitable fluid-impermeable material(s), such as a fluid-impermeable polymer (e.g., silicone rubber, thermoplastic polyurethane, polyolefin, polyvinyl chloride, etc.), a metal film, natural latex rubber, other suitable materials, or a combination thereof. Thus, the fluid-impermeable barrier 116 substantially prevents bodily fluid from passing through the fluid-impermeable barrier 116. In at least one embodiment, the fluid-impermeable barrier 116 may be air-permeable and fluid-impermeable, thus allowing air to flow through the chamber 120 while preventing leakage. In such an example, the fluid-impermeable barrier 116 may be formed of a hydrophobic material defining a plurality of pores. At least one or more portions of at least the outer surface 128 of the fluid-impermeable barrier 116 may be formed from a soft and / or smooth material to thereby reduce chafing.

[0021] In some examples, the fluid-impermeable barrier 116 may be tubular (disregarding openings), such as a substantially cylindrical (as shown), oval, prismatic, or flat tube. During use, the outer surface 128 of the fluid-impermeable barrier 116 may contact the wearer. The fluid-impermeable barrier 116 may be sized and shaped to fit in the intergluteal cleft between the legs of a female user.

[0022] The opening 118 may provide an entry path for fluid to enter the chamber 120. The opening 118 may be defined by the fluid-impermeable barrier 116, for example, by an inner edge of the fluid-impermeable barrier 116. For example, the opening 118 may be formed in the fluid-impermeable barrier 116 and extend through the fluid-impermeable barrier 116 from the outer surface 128 to the inner surface, thereby allowing fluid(s) to enter the chamber 120 from outside the urine collection device 102. The opening 118 may also be an elongated hole in the fluid-impermeable barrier 116. For example, the opening 118 may be defined as a notch in the fluid-impermeable barrier 116. The opening 118 may be positioned and formed to be disposed adjacent to the female urethra.

[0023] In some embodiments, bodily fluids can enter the chamber 120 of the fluid collection device 102 through the opening 118. The urine collection device 102 may be configured to receive a fluid(s) into the chamber 120 through the opening 118. In use, the opening 118 may have an elongated shape and extend from a first location below the urethral opening (e.g., at or near the anal or vaginal opening) to a second location above the urethral opening (e.g., at or near the top of the vaginal opening, or at the pubic hair).

[0024] The urine collection device 102 may include at least one porous material 124 disposed within the chamber 120. The porous material 124 may cover at least a portion (e.g., all) of the opening 118. The porous material 124 may be configured to wick fluid and / or allow fluid flow through the opening 118, thereby preventing fluid from leaking from the chamber 120. The permeability property referred to herein may be wicking, capillary action, diffusion, or another similar property or process, and is referred to herein as "permeability" and / or "wicking." Such "wicking" and "permeability" properties may not include absorption of fluid into the porous material 124. In other words, absorption or dissolution of bodily fluid into the material may not occur substantially for some time after the material has been exposed to and removed from bodily fluid. While no absorption or solubility is desirable, the term "substantially no absorption" can allow for a nominal amount of absorption and / or solubility (e.g., absorbency) of bodily fluid into the porous material 124 of, for example, less than about 30% by weight of the dry weight of the porous material 124, 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 porous material 124.

[0025] In one embodiment, the porous material 124 may include at least one absorbent or absorbent material. The porous material 124 disposed within the chamber 120 may include any material capable of wicking and / or flowing fluid. For example, the porous material 124 may be formed from nylon (e.g., spun nylon fibers), polyester, polyethylene, polypropylene, wool, silk, linen, cotton (e.g., cotton gauze), felt, other woven and porous polymers, hydrophobic foam, open-cell foam polyurethane, coated porous materials (e.g., hydrophobically coated porous materials, materials with an affinity for certain substances), polymer sintered particles from polyethylene, polypropylene, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), elastomeric particles, any other suitable porous material, or combinations thereof. For example, the porous material 124 may include a spun nylon fiber body and an outer woven gauze layer encasing the spun nylon fiber body.

[0026] The tube 126 may be at least partially disposed within the chamber 120. The tube 126 may be used to remove fluid from the chamber 120. The tube 126 may be in fluid communication with the fluid outlet 122 of the urine collection device 102. The tube 126 may include a tube inlet 130 and a tube outlet (not shown) disposed downstream of the tube inlet 130. The tube outlet may be operably coupled to the pump 106. In some embodiments, the tube outlet may not be coupled to any portion of the urinary management system 100 and may be configured to be disposed within a toilet bowl or waste container 104. In some embodiments, the tube 126 may comprise a flexible material, such as a tubular body of material (e.g., medical tubing). Such tubular bodies of material may include thermoplastic elastomers, polyvinyl chloride, ethylene vinyl acetate, polytetrafluoroethylene, flexible metals, ceramics, composite tubular bodies, and the like. The tube 126 may comprise silicone or latex.

[0027] In some embodiments, the fluid-impermeable barrier 116 may define an opening (e.g., a fluid outlet 122) appropriately sized to receive the tube 126. The tube 126 may be disposed within the chamber 120 via the fluid outlet 122. The fluid outlet 122 may be sized and shaped to form at least a substantially fluid-tight seal with the tube 126, thereby substantially preventing fluid(s) from leaking from the chamber 120 via the fluid outlet 122. As shown in FIG. 2B , the inlet 130 of the tube 126 may extend through the fluid outlet 122 into the chamber 120. In the illustrated embodiment, the tube 126 is disposed at least partially within the chamber 120. In other embodiments, the inlet 130 of the tube 126 may be disposed rearward of the chamber 120 or terminate at the end of the porous material 124. Fluid collected in the urine collection device 102 may be removed from the chamber 120 via the tube 126.

[0028] The urine collection device 102 may include a reservoir 132 disposed within the chamber 120. The reservoir 132 may be a substantially unoccupied portion of the chamber 120. The reservoir 132 may be at least partially defined between the fluid-impermeable barrier 116 and one or both of a porous material 124 and a tube inlet 130 disposed within the chamber 120. Fluid within the chamber 120 may flow through the porous material 124 to the reservoir 132. The reservoir 132 may retain fluid therein. In some embodiments, the reservoir 132 may temporarily retain fluid(s) until the fluid within the reservoir 132 is removed into the tube 126. Although the reservoir 132 is depicted in an end region in FIG. 2B , the reservoir 132 may be located in any portion of the chamber 120. The reservoir 132 may be located in a portion of the chamber 120 designed to be located at a gravimetrically low point on the fluid collection device when the device is worn.

[0029] Figure 3A is an isometric view of a urine collection device 140, according to one embodiment. Figure 3B is a cross-sectional view of the urine collection device 140 taken along plane AA of Figure 3A. The urine collection device 140 may include a fluid-impermeable barrier 142, at least one opening 144, a chamber 146, a connector or fluid outlet 148, and a seal 150 around the opening 144. The inner surface of the fluid-impermeable barrier 142 at least partially defines the chamber 146 within the urine collection device 140. The fluid-impermeable barrier 142 temporarily stores bodily fluids within the chamber 146. The fluid-impermeable barrier 142 may include a connector 148 for a tube 152. In some embodiments, the fluid-impermeable barrier 142 may include a concave inner surface shaped to accommodate a user's genitals, and the tube 152 is configured to removably couple to the fluid outlet connector 148. Similar to the above-described embodiments, the fluid-impermeable barrier 142 may be formed of any suitable fluid-impermeable material(s), such as silicone or a fluid-impermeable polymer (e.g., silicone rubber, thermoplastic polyurethane, polyolefin, polyvinyl chloride, etc.), a metal film, natural latex rubber, other suitable material, or a combination thereof. Thus, the fluid-impermeable barrier 142 substantially prevents bodily fluids from passing through the fluid-impermeable barrier 142.

[0030] In some examples, the fluid-impermeable barrier 142 may be cup-shaped and / or configured to fit around the user's genitals. The urine collection device 140 may include a seal 150 around the outer edge of the opening 144. During use, the seal 150 of the fluid-impermeable barrier 142 may contact the wearer. The seal 150 may be formed of silicone and sized and shaped to form a fluid-tight seal around the user's genitals (e.g., around the penis and scrotum of a male user, or around the intergluteal cleft between the legs of a female user).

[0031] The opening 144 may provide an ingress path for fluid to enter the chamber 146. The opening 144 may be defined by the fluid-impermeable barrier 142, such as by the inner edge of the fluid-impermeable barrier 142. The opening 144 may be a large hole in the fluid-impermeable barrier 142, where the opening 144 is the outer edge of the concave fluid-impermeable barrier 142. For example, the opening 144 may be defined as the outer edge of the fluid-impermeable barrier 142.

[0032] In some embodiments, bodily fluids can enter the chamber 146 of the urine collection device 140 through the opening 144. In use, the opening 144 has a shape that extends from a first location below the urethral opening (e.g., at or near the anus or vaginal opening) to a second location above the urethral opening (e.g., at or near the top of the vaginal opening or pubic hair), and may have a width that extends around the user's genitals and / or between the user's legs. In one embodiment, a portion of the chamber 146 may be substantially empty due to variations in the size and stiffness of a man's penis. Because the chamber 146 may be substantially empty (e.g., substantially all of the chamber 146 forms a reservoir), fluid may collect at a gravimetrically low point in the chamber 146. The gravimetrically low point in the chamber 146 may be a pocket formed in the cup-shaped portion of the urine collection device 140, or another suitable location (e.g., near the area opposite the opening 144). The fluid outlet 148 and the inlet of the tube 152 may be positioned adjacent or close to a gravimetric low point of the chamber 146 .

[0033] The fluid-impermeable barrier 142 may include at least one fluid outlet 148, which is sized and shaped to receive and seal a tube 152, such as within the chamber 146. The chamber 146 may thus be fluidly coupled to the pump 106 via the tube 152. During operation, a man using the urine collection device 140 may urinate into the chamber 146. The urine and / or fluid may pool or otherwise collect within the chamber 146, such as against the user's skin. At least a portion of the fluid may enter the tube 152 via the connector 148. The fluid may be drawn from the urine collection device 140 by vacuum / suction provided by the pump 106. Thus, urine may be removed via the tube 152. In some embodiments, as described above, urine may be pumped via the pump 106 into a section of the tube 152 disposed within the toilet bowl 104.

[0034] The urine collection device 140 may include a hydrophobic material 154 disposed within the chamber 146. Hard phobic coatings are made of ceramic materials such as nano-aluminum, silicon dioxide, other hard oxides, silsesquioxanes, and silanes. The hydrophobic material 154 may be sprayed or polished on. The hydrophobic material 154 coating may be transparent and less than 25 μm thick in some embodiments.

[0035] In some embodiments, the fluid outlet or connector 148 may include a valve 156. The valve 156 may include a ball valve, a butterfly valve, a gate valve, or other suitable valve. The valve 156 may include an operating handle to open and close the valve 156. In some embodiments, the user may activate the pump 106 to draw urine from the urine collection device 140 in a controlled manner before opening the valve 156. In some embodiments, the valve 156 may be coupled to the tubing 152 and may not be directly connected to the urine collection device 140 and / or the connector 148.

[0036] In some embodiments, the urinary management system 200 may include a wearable urine collection device 202. The urinary management system 200 may further include a first tube (such as tube 108) having a first end connected to the urine collection device 202 and a second end connected to a suction portion of a pump (such as pump 106). The urinary management system 200 may further include a second tube (such as tube 110) having a first end connected to a discharge portion of the pump and a second end disposed within the toilet bowl. In other words, the second end of the second tube is not attached to an external collection container, such that urine is drawn directly from the urine collection device 202 into the toilet bowl. The pump may be configured to draw a vacuum in an interior region of the wearable urine collection device 202 effective to draw urine from the urine collection device 202, through the first tube, and into the second tube.

[0037] The wearable urine collection device 202 may include a urine collection assembly 204 including a fluid-impermeable barrier 206 defining at least a chamber 208, at least one opening 210, a fluid outlet 212, and a garment 214 configured to receive the urine collection assembly 204. The urine collection assembly 204 may be any of the urine collection devices described above with reference to Figures 2A-3B.

[0038] FIG. 4A is a front view of an example of a fluid collection garment 214, according to one embodiment. The garment 214 may include an undergarment having a waistband 216 defining a waist opening and two leg openings, with the undergarment 214 having a pocket 218 disposed in the groin region configured to receive the urine collection assembly 204. The garment 214 includes a fabric body 220 sized and shaped to fit and maintain position over the wearer's pelvis. The fabric body 220 may be sized, shaped, and configured to form an undergarment in the form of briefs. The pocket 218 may be disposed in a crotch portion of the fabric body 220. The pocket 218 is positioned over the wearer's urethral region (e.g., in the genital region) when the garment 214 is worn. A urine collection assembly (e.g., urine collection device 102 or 140) may be disposed in the pocket 218, and fluid (e.g., urine) in that region may be collected by the urine collection assembly 204. Thus, the garment 214 and the pocket 218 thereon may serve to align the urine collection assembly 204 with the user's urethra, allowing fluids arising therefrom to be collected before they soil clothing or bedding.

[0039] FIG. 4B is a schematic side view of the garment of FIG. 4A , according to one embodiment. FIG. 4B shows a garment 214 including a pocket 218 that houses a female urine collection assembly 204, such as the urine collection device 102. The urine collection assembly 204 is sized and shaped to fit within the pocket 218. The pocket 218 is sized, positioned, and shaped to position the urine collection assembly 204 at or over the urethra of a woman wearing the garment 214. For example, the pocket 218 may be sized and positioned to receive the urine collection assembly 204 and position an opening (not shown) of the urine collection assembly 204 in the area or opening of the urethra of a wearer of the garment 214. The pocket 218 may be complementary in size to the urine collection assembly 204, for example, to hold the urine collection assembly 204 in a substantially fixed position within the garment 214. As shown, the pocket 218 may extend from the pubic area to the perineal area. The pocket 218 may be positioned within or on the garment 214. The pocket 218 may include sufficient fabric to allow the urine collection assembly 204 to be inserted and may limit movement of the urine collection assembly 204 within the pocket 218 and within the garment 214 upon insertion. In some examples, the pocket 218 may be adjustable, for example, having one or more adjustable straps to adjust the volume within the pocket 218 to hold the urine collection assembly 204.

[0040] The pocket 218 may include one or more holes to allow the tube 222 to pass through. For example, holes may be formed in the garment 214 at a lower portion of the pocket 218 (e.g., in the perineal area) to allow the tube 222 to be positioned at the lowest portion of the urine collection assembly 204 when worn. The tube 222 may be connected to the urine collection assembly 204 within the pocket 218.

[0041] FIG. 4C is a schematic side view of the garment 214 of FIG. 4A, according to one embodiment. FIG. 4C shows the garment 214 including a pocket 218 that receives a cup-shaped urine collection assembly, such as the urine collection device 140 shown in FIGS. 3A-3B. The urine collection assembly 204 is sized and shaped to fit within the pocket 218. The pocket 218 is sized, positioned, and shaped to position the urine collection assembly 204 at or over the genitals of a user wearing the garment 214. For example, the pocket 218 may be sized and positioned to receive the urine collection assembly 204 and position the cup portion (FIG. 3A) of the urine collection assembly over (e.g., on) the user's urethral area or opening in the garment 214. The pocket 218 may be complementary in size to the urine collection assembly 204, for example, to hold the urine collection assembly 204 in a substantially fixed position within the garment 214. As shown, the pocket 218 may extend from the pubic area towards the perineal area. The pocket 218 may be located within or on the garment 214. The pocket 218 may include sufficient fabric to allow for the insertion of the urine collection assembly 204 and may limit movement of the urine collection assembly 204 within the pocket 218 and within the garment 214 upon insertion.

[0042] The pocket 218 may include one or more holes to allow the tube 222 to pass through. For example, holes may be formed in the garment 214 at a lower portion of the pocket 218 to allow the tube 222 to be positioned at the lowest portion of the urine collection assembly 204 when worn. The tube 222 may be connected to the urine collection assembly 204 within the pocket 218. In some embodiments, one or more of the pocket 218 or the fabric body 220 may include a stretchable material. The stretchable material may accommodate the urine collection assembly 204 and hold the assembly within the pocket 218.

[0043] In some embodiments, the garment 214 may include a porous material to allow fluid to pass from the wearer to the urine collection assembly 204. FIG. 4D is an isometric view of the back of the garment of FIG. 4A, according to one embodiment. The garment 214 includes a fabric body 220 with a pocket 218 for receiving the urine collection assembly 204, such as a urine collection device 102 or 140. As shown, the pocket 218 may be located on the interior of the garment 214. FIG. 4D shows the interior of the garment 214, including the pocket 218 located on the front of the garment 214, for example, in the pubic area on the interior of the garment 214. The pocket 218 may include a porous material 224 in an area that is positioned between the wearer's skin and the urine collection assembly 204. The porous material 224 may allow fluid to flow from the wearer to the urine collection assembly in the pocket 218 with minimal absorption by the garment 214 (e.g., the material of the pocket 218). In some examples, the porous material 224 includes a hydrophobic or non-absorbent material, such as polypropylene, polyester, acrylic fibers, etc. In some examples, the porous material 224 includes a fabric mesh, such as a mesh of cotton, wool, silk, rubber, polyester, acrylic fibers, any fabric disclosed herein, etc. For example, the garment 214 may include a mesh material or non-absorbent material in locations that contact the patient and the opening of the fluid collection device.

[0044] In embodiments, the fabric body 220 may be made from one or more of a fabric mesh, a hydrophobic material, or a non-absorbent material. In such embodiments, the pocket 218 may be made from the same material as the fabric body or a different material, such as any of the fabric body materials disclosed herein. Fluids discharged by the wearer can pass through the fabric body 220 and enter the urine collection assembly 204 with minimal absorption by the fabric body 220.

[0045] In some examples, the garment 214 may include one or more holes or perforations in the fabric in the urethral region of the garment (e.g., the region that fits over the wearer's urethra). In such embodiments, fluid passes through the one or more holes or perforations in the fabric to enter the urine collection assembly. Openings in the urine collection assembly may be located in the one or more holes or perforations. In some embodiments, the garment 214 may have different forms, such as pants, shorts, briefs, boxer briefs, thongs, jockstraps, sanitary belts, etc.

[0046] FIG. 4E is a front view of a fluid collection garment 214, according to one embodiment. The garment 214 may be similar or identical in one or more aspects to the garment of FIGS. 4A-4D. The garment 214 includes a strap assembly 226 sized and shaped to fit and maintain position over the wearer's pelvis. The strap assembly 226 may, in some embodiments, be sized, shaped, and configured to form a jockstrap-style undergarment. In other words, the wearable urine collection device 202 includes at least one strap attached to the strap assembly 226, i.e., the urine collection assembly 204, and configured to maintain the urine collection assembly 204 near the user's urethra. The strap assembly 226 of the garment 214 may be similar or identical in one or more aspects to the fabric body 220. The strap assembly 226 of the garment 214 may include a pocket 218. The pocket 218 of the garment 214 may, in one or more aspects, be similar or identical to the pocket described in FIGS. 4A-4D. For example, the pocket 218 may be positioned in the groin region of the strap assembly 226. The pocket 218 is positioned over the wearer's urethral region (e.g., over the genitals) when the garment 214 is worn. The urine collection assembly 204 may be positioned within the pocket 218, such that fluids (e.g., urine) in that region may be collected by the urine collection assembly. Thus, the garment 214 and the pocket 218 thereon may serve to align the urine collection assembly with the user's urethra, allowing fluids resulting therefrom to be collected before they soil clothing or bedding.

[0047] 5A-5B, in some embodiments, the wearable urine collection device 202 of the urinary management system 200 incorporates a pump 228. Similar to the pump described above with reference to FIGS. 1A-1B, the pump 228 may be incorporated into the urinary management system 200 and fluidly coupled to the urine collection device 202 by a first tube (e.g., tube 222). The first tube 230 may include a first end connected to the urine collection device 202 and a second end connected to a suction portion 232 of the pump. The urinary management system 200 may include a second tube 234 having a first end connected to a discharge portion 236 of the pump 228 and a second end disposed within the toilet bowl. Thus, a vacuum (e.g., suction) may be drawn to the urine collection device 202 (such as the urine collection device 102 or 140) via the first tube 230. Once urine has been discharged from the chamber of the urine capture device 202, it may be pumped through the first tube 230, past the pump 228, and through the second tube 234 to a toilet or waste disposal means where it may be discarded.

[0048] The pump 228 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. In some examples, the pump 228 may include a motor 238 driven by one or more power sources operably coupled to the pump 228, such as a power cord (e.g., connected to a power socket). In other examples, one or more batteries 240 may serve as the power source. The pumps 228 disclosed herein may include one or more of a switch, button, plug, remote control, or any other device suitable for activating the pump 228.

[0049] In the illustrated embodiment, the pump 228 comprises a screw-type positive displacement pump. A screw-type positive displacement pump uses one or more screws 242 to move fluid along a screw axis in the direction of the arrows in the figure. In its simplest form (an Archimedes screw pump), a single screw 242 rotates within a cylindrical cavity 244, thereby moving urine along a screw rotor 246. In some embodiments, the cylindrical cavity 244 may be coupled to a motor 238 and configured to rotate around a fixed screw 242, which also moves fluid along the screw axis in the direction of the arrows in the figure. FIG. 5B shows a pump 228 having multiple (two) screws 242 rotating within cavities 244. The screws 242 may rotate around a screw rotor 246 to drive fluid through the pump 228. The multi-screw 242 pump 228 operates using two counter-rotating screw rotors 246 designed to rotate "toward each other." This traps fluid in the space between the screws 242 of the rotors 246. As the screws rotate, this trapped volume decreases, which can compress the fluid and move it toward the discharge 236 of the pump 228. Each screw-type pump 228 operates on the same basic principle: the screw(s) 242 rotate to separate a volume of fluid and transport it through the pump to the discharge 236. One advantage of a screw-type positive displacement pump is that urine moves axially without turbulence, eliminating foaming. Other advantages may include noise reduction, space-saving features, energy savings, cost savings, and simplicity. In some embodiments, the pump 228 can be disposed of with the other components of the urine management system 200 after one or several uses.

[0050] Many embodiments of the fluid collection systems described herein are fixable or attachable to a chair or wheelchair. Referring to FIG. 5C, the urinary management system 200 may be fixedly or removably attached to a wheelchair 250. The wheelchair 250 may include any of a variety of conventional wheelchairs and may include a backrest, a seat, and two arms. In some embodiments, the pump 252 may be attached inside the arms of the wheelchair 250. The pump 252 may be fixedly or removably attached to the wheelchair 250.

[0051] 5D, a urine management system 200 may include a urine collection device 202, which includes a urine collection assembly 204 removably attached to a garment 214. Thus, the urine collection assembly 204 may be stored outside the garment 214 (e.g., in a carrying case or pouch) and attached to the garment 214 when the user is preparing to urinate. In some embodiments, the urine collection assembly 204 may be attached to the garment 214 by at least one of a snap mechanism, Velcro, or magnets 252.

[0052] In some embodiments, the pump 252 may be directly coupled to the urine collection assembly 204. The pump 252 may be directly coupled to a connector (e.g., connector 148) and / or attached to a fluid-impermeable barrier (e.g., fluid-impermeable barrier 116 or 142). Thus, the wearable urine collection device 202 incorporates the pump 252. In some embodiments, the second tube 234 may have a first end connected to the discharge or outlet 236 of the pump 252 and a second end disposed in a toilet bowl. Thus, in use, the urine collection assembly 204 may be attached to the garment 214 and the second end of the second tube 234 may be disposed in the toilet bowl. The pump 252 may be coupled to the urine collection assembly 204 and operated to activate the pump before or when the user begins to urinate.

[0053] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of a method 300 for collecting urine excreted by a user, according to one embodiment. Method 300 may include operation 310 of placing a urine collection device at least near the user's urethra. In some embodiments, placing the urine collection device at least near the user's urethra includes incorporating the urine collection device into the user's clothing. In other embodiments, placing the urine collection device at least near the user's urethra includes removably attaching the urine collection device to the user's clothing. Method 300 may also include operation 320 of connecting a tube to the urine collection device. The tube may be coupled to a suction portion of a pump. In some embodiments, a first tube may include a first end connected to the urine collection device and a second end connected to the suction portion of the pump. A second tube may be connected, the second tube having a first end connected to the discharge portion of the pump and a second end disposed in the toilet bowl. The second end of the tube may be a free end for drawing urine directly from the urine collection device into the toilet bowl. In other words, the second end of the tubing is not attached to an external collection container, allowing urine to be drawn directly from the urine collection device into the toilet bowl. In some embodiments, the method 300 may include operation 330 of using a pump to draw urine from the urine collection device into the tubing and expelling the urine directly into the toilet bowl. The method may also include operation 340 of turning off the pump and removing the tubing from the urine collection device.

[0054] The operations of method 300 described above are for illustrative purposes. For example, the operations of method 300 may be performed in a different order, divided into multiple operations, modified, supplemented, or combined. In one embodiment, one or more of the operations of method 300 may be omitted from method 300. Any of the operations of method 300 may include using any of the fluid collection systems disclosed herein.

[0055] As used herein, the terms "about" or "substantially" refer to an acceptable variation of the term as modified by "about" or "substantially" up to ±10% or ±5%. Furthermore, the terms "less than," "or less than," "greater than," "greater than," or "or more than" include, as endpoints, the value modified by the term "less than," "or less than," "greater than," or "or more than."

[0056] While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments are contemplated, and the various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and not limitation.

Claims

1. a urine collection device configured to receive fluids excreted by a user; a first tube in fluid communication with the urine collection device configured to drain urine from the urine collection device; a second tube having a free end for directing the urine from the urine collection device directly into a toilet bowl; a pump secured to the first tube and the second tube between the first tube and the second tube, the pump being in fluid communication with the urine collection device via the first tube and in fluid communication with the free end of the second tube; The pump is configured to draw urine from the urine collection device through the first tube and simultaneously push the urine drawn from the urine collection device through the second tube and into the toilet bowl. Urinary management system.

2. The urine collection device comprises: a fluid-impermeable barrier defining at least a chamber, at least one opening, and a fluid outlet; at least one porous material disposed within the chamber; a first end of the first tube disposed at the fluid outlet and in fluid communication with the chamber; The urine management system of claim 1.

3. The urinary management system of claim 2 , wherein the fluid impermeable barrier comprises silicone.

4. 10. The urinary management system of claim 1, wherein the urine collection device includes a fluid-impermeable barrier that defines at least a chamber and a connector for the first tube, the fluid-impermeable barrier including a concave inner surface shaped to accommodate the user's genitals, and the first tube is configured to removably couple to the connector.

5. The urinary management system of claim 4 , wherein the concave inner surface comprises a hydrophobic surface.

6. The urinary management system of claim 4 , wherein the connector includes a valve.

7. A urine management system as described in claim 6, further comprising clothing configured to receive the urine collection device.

8. 8. The urinary management system of claim 7, wherein the garment includes an undergarment having a waistband defining a waist opening and two leg openings, the undergarment having a pocket disposed in the groin region configured to receive the urine collection device.

9. A urine management system as described in claim 7, further comprising a strap assembly having at least one strap attached to the urine collection device and configured to maintain the urine collection device near the user's urethra.

10. A urine management system as described in Claim 7, wherein the clothing includes a fabric body and an inner fabric arranged inside the fabric body, and the urine collection device is positioned inside the fabric body and removably attached to the inner fabric of the clothing by a magnet.

11. 7. The urine management system of claim 6, wherein the pump is configured to draw a vacuum on an interior region of the urine collection device to draw urine from the urine collection device, through the first tube, and into the second tube.

12. The system of claim 6, wherein the pump is configured to be removably mounted to an arm of a wheelchair.

13. The urinary management system of claim 6 , wherein the system further comprises a power source operably coupled to the pump.

14. The urinary management system of claim 13 , wherein the power source includes a battery.

15. The urinary management system of claim 6 , wherein the pump comprises a screw-type positive displacement pump.

16. A method for draining urine, comprising: placing a urine collection device at least proximate to the user's urethra; connecting a first tube to the urine collection device and pump; connecting a second tube to the pump; drawing urine from the urine collection device into the first tube using the pump and simultaneously using the pump to push the urine through the second tube and the free end of the second tube directly into a toilet bowl; turning off the pump and removing the first tube from the urine collection device; A method comprising:

17. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein placing a urine collection device at least near the user's urethra comprises incorporating the urine collection device into clothing for the user.

18. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein placing a urine collection device at least near the user's urethra comprises removably attaching the urine collection device to clothing of the user.

Images