Nasal aspirator

Abstract

A nasal aspirator includes a hollow body for establishing a negative pressure therein, the hollow body having an end provided with an opening; a nozzle having a first open end for sealing engagement with a nostril of a subject, and a second open end adapted for removable sealing engagement in the opening of the hollow body; and a non-porous element fluidly sealing the first open end from the second open end.

Description

[0001] NASAL ASPIRATOR

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates to nasal aspirators and methods of using nasal aspirators.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] Nasal aspirators are used to clear fluids, mucus, and secretions from nasal passageways of a subject, typically by engagement of a nozzle of the aspirator with a subject’s nostril and application of a partial vacuum. There are many different nasal aspirators. One common type of nasal aspirators includes a bulb and a tip. The bulb is squeezed, the tip inserted into the subject’s nostril and the bulb is then released to create a partial vacuum to thereby aspirate mucus etc. from the nasal passageway of a subject.

[0006] Other manually operated aspirators include a mouthpiece and a collection cylinder connected to the mouthpiece via a tube. This type of aspirator is used by placing a tip of the cylinder in the nasal passage of a subject and then sucking on the mouthpiece to create a partial vacuum which sucks nasal fluid into the collection cylinder.

[0007] There are also electrically / battery operated nasal aspirators which include an electric motor generating the partial vacuum for aspirating nasal fluids.

[0008] Known nasal aspirators have drawbacks. For example, it is difficult to evenly control the degree of suction created by compressing the bulb of existing bulb aspirators. The use of mouth suction nasal aspirators on the other hand may be psychologically offensive because of the prospect of sucking nasal mucus toward the operator and may pose the risk of cross contamination with viruses and bacteria between the subject and the operator. Furthermore, batteries of electrically / battery operated devices may fail and a source of electricity is not readily available. It is an object of the present disclosure to address at least some of the drawbacks of existing devices by providing a nasal aspirator that is easy to manufacture and simple to use.

[0009] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0010] 1 .According to one aspect of the invention, an applicator for a nasal aspirator, includes a nozzle having a first open end for sealing engagement with a nostril of a subject, and a second open end adapted for removable sealing engagement in an opening of a hollow body of the nasal aspirator; and a non-porous element fluidly sealing the first open end from the second open end.

[0011] 2. According to another advantageous feature of the invention the applicator according to the embodiment 1., the non-porous element is non-elastically deformable;

[0012] 3. The applicator of embodiment 2., wherein at least a portion of the non-porous element is situated between the first and second open end of the nozzle.

[0013] 4. The applicator of embodiment 3., wherein said at least a portion is in a range of 10%- 100% of an entirety of the non-porous element.

[0014] 5. The applicator of any of embodiments 1.-3., wherein the nozzle is configured to be reversibly convertible between a substantially flat, folded configuration and a conical unfolded configuration.

[0015] 6. The applicator of any of embodiment 5., wherein the nozzle is convertible between a flat folded configuration and a unfolded configuration along areas of reduced thickness or greases provided in the nozzle material.

[0016] 7. The applicator of any of embodiments 2.-4., further comprising a reservoir for containing a nasal irrigant.

[0017] 8. The applicator of embodiment 7., wherein the reservoir is attached to the non-porous element.

[0018] 9. The applicator of any of embodiments 5.-6., wherein the reservoir is situated between the first and second open end of the nozzle.

[0019] 10. The applicator of any of embodiments 5.-7., wherein the reservoir is releasably attached to an inside of the nozzle. 11 . The applicator of any of embodiments 2.-8., wherein the reservoir is configured to release the irrigant in response to a positive pressure established in the hollow body or engagement of the reservoir against an inside wall of the nozzle.

[0020] 12. According to an aspect of the invention, an applicator for a nasal aspirator, includes a nozzle; a hollow body in flow communication with the nozzle, said body having a bottom provided with an opening; and a conduit in flow communication with said opening and with an interior of the body, said applicator configured to be reversibly convertible between a flat folded configuration and an unfolded configuration, wherein in the unfolded configuration the nozzle is substantially conical and the body is substantially cylindrical.

[0021] 13. The applicator of embodiment 12., wherein the collector is foldable along areas of reduced wall thickness or greases provided on the body and the nozzle.

[0022] 14. The applicator of any of embodiments 12.-13., wherein the body of the collector is configured for sealing engagement with the nasal aspirator.

[0023] Aspirators with the above applicators

[0024] 15. According to an aspect of the invention a nasal aspirator includes : a hollow body for establishing a negative pressure therein, the hollow body having an end provided with an opening; and an applicator according to any of embodiments 1.-14..

[0025] 16. The nasal aspirator of embodiment 16., further comprising a bracket attached to the end of the hollow body and configured for engagement with the nozzle and / or body of the applicator or the so as to urge the nozzle or body of the applicator against the end of the hollow body.

[0026] 17. The nasal aspirator of embodiment 11 , wherein the bracket is pivotal between a first position and a second position and securable on the body in the second position.

[0027] 18. The nasal aspirator of embodiment 11., wherein the bracket has a portion conforming to at least a portion of an outer circumference of the nozzle and is positioned so that engagement of the nozzle in the bracket causes resilient displacement of the bracket along a longitudinal axis of the hollow body so as to bias the nozzle against the end of the hollow body. 19. The nasal aspirator of any of embodiments 15-18, wherein the body is shaped as an elongated cylinder having a sidewall, and having an elongated slot extending longitudinally in the sidewall, the nasal aspirator further comprising a piston configured to slide within the body between first and second positions and having an actuator laterally extending therefrom through the elongated slot, the piston being manually movable between the first and second positions by a user.

[0028] 20. The nasal aspirator of embodiment 19., wherein an end of the piston facing the opening of the hollow body comprises a protrusion dimensioned so as to enable engagement of the reservoir against an inside wall of the nozzle by movement of the piston in a direction toward the forward end of the hollow body, thereby causing release of the irrigant from the nozzle.

[0029] 21 . The nasal aspirator of any of embodiments 15-18, wherein the hollow body can be shaped as an elongated cylinder, the nasal aspirator further comprising a plunger received in the hollow body and movable in the hollow body along a longitudinal axis of the hollow body and an actuator operatively coupled with the plunger so that movement of the actuator toward the hollow body causes frontward movement of the plunger in the hollow body.

[0030] 22. The nasal aspirator of embodiments 21 , wherein an end of the plunger facing the opening of the hollow body can include a protrusion dimensioned so as to enable engagement of the reservoir against an inside wall of the nozzle by movement of the plunger in a direction toward the forward end of the hollow body, thereby causing release of the irrigant from the nozzle.

[0031] 23. The nasal aspirator of any of embodiments 15-22, can further include a compartment for containing at least one of said nozzle.

[0032] 24. The nasal aspirator of embodiment 23., wherein the compartment is dimensioned for containing at least 2, preferably 5, more preferably 10, most preferably between 20- 50 of said nozzle.

[0033] 25. According to an aspect of the invention, a nozzle for a nasal aspirator includes a first part and a second part, said first and second parts hinged to each other for pivoting relative to each other between a first position in which a gap is formed between the first and second parts along a length of the nozzle and a second position in which the gap is closed.

[0034] 26. The nozzle of embodiment 28, wherein the nozzle is configured for sealing closure of said gap.

[0035] 27. According to an aspect of the invention a nasal aspirator includes: a hollow body for establishing a negative pressure therein, the hollow body having an end provided with an opening; and the nozzle according to any of embodiments 25.-26.

[0036] 28. According to an aspect of the invention a collector for a nasal aspirator, includes a conduit having an opening; a circumferential flange provided along an outer circumference of the opening of the conduit; and a deformable hollow body, said conduit in fluid communication with said hollow body.

[0037] 29. The collector of embodiment 28., wherein the flange extends toward the hollow body.

[0038] 30. The collector of embodiment 28., wherein the flange is shaped substantially conical. According to an aspect of the invention, a method of using a nasal aspirator, includes inserting the conduit of the collector of any of embodiments 28-30 into the gap of the nozzle of the nasal aspirator of embodiment 27 so as to fit the flange portion on the nozzle; closing the gap by pivoting the first and second parts of the nozzle toward each other; and sealingly engaging the nozzle on the end of the hollow body of the nasal aspirator.

[0039] According to another aspect of the invention a nasal aspirator, includes: a deformable body; a nozzle in fluid communication with an interior of the body; and an actuator arranged on the body for expanding the body.

[0040] According to another aspect of the invention a nasal aspirator, includes a hollow body; a nozzle in fluid communication with an interior of the body; and a reservoir for containing a nasal irrigant, said reservoir attached to the body substantially diametrically opposed to the nozzle.1

[0041] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The above and other advantages of the invention will be further described and appreciated by those skilled in the art by reference to the following detailed description of the invention, the claims and the appended drawings in which:

[0042] FIG. 1 is a schematic cross sectional view of an embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention;

[0043] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention;

[0044] FIG. 3A is a cross sectional view of the embodiment of FIG. 2 taken along the dashed line, with the piston in a frontward position;

[0045] FIG. 3B shows the embodiment of FIG. 3A with the piston in the rearward position;

[0046] FIG. 4A shows an embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention with a bracket provided on the hollow body with the bracket in the open position;

[0047] FIG. 4B shows the embodiment of FIG. 4A with the bracket in the closed position;

[0048] FIG. 5A shows an embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention with a bracket provided on the hollow body;

[0049] FIG. 5B shows the embodiment of FIG. 5A with the nozzle engaged in the bracket;

[0050] FIG. 6A shows an embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention with a reservoir for an irrigant provided on the non porous element and the piston provided with a protrusion;

[0051] FIG. 6B shows the embodiment of FIG. 6A with the protrusion of the piston engaging with the reservoir;

[0052] FIG. 6C shows the embodiment of FIG. 6B with the piston in the retracted position;

[0053] FIG. 6D shows another embodiment of the reservoir;

[0054] FIG. 6E shows another embodiment of the reservoir;

[0055] FIG. 7A shows another embodiment of the nozzle in a flat configuration; FIG. 7B shows the embodiment of FIG. 7A in an unfolded configuration;

[0056] FIG. 8A shows an embodiment of a collector according to the invention in a flat folded configuration;

[0057] FIG. 8B shows the embodiment of FIG. 8A in an unfolded configuration;

[0058] FIGS 9-11 show further embodiments of the nasal aspirator according to the invention with a plunger movable in a cylindrical body through actuation of an actuator;

[0059] FIG. 12A shows another embodiment of a nasal aspirator according to the invention with a nozzle in the open position;

[0060] FIG 12B shows an embodiment of a collector for a nasal aspirator according to the invention;

[0061] FIG. 12C shows the collector of FIG. 12B engaged on the nozzle of the embodiment of FIG. 12A, with the nozzle in the closed position;

[0062] FIG. 13A is a schematic top view of an embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention;

[0063] FIG. 13B is a cross sectional view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 taken along section A-A, with the nasal aspirator being in a contracted configuration;

[0064] FIG. 14 is a cross sectional view of the embodiment of FIG. 13B in which the nasal aspirator is in an expanded configuration;

[0065] FIGS. 15A-15C show schematic cross sectional views of further exemplary shapes of the nasal aspirator according to the invention;

[0066] FIGS. 16A and 16B show a further embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention;

[0067] FIG. 16C shows a further of the nasal aspirator according to the invention with a securing member for holding the body in the contracted configuration;

[0068] FIGS. 17A and 17B show a further embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention;

[0069] FIG. 18 shows a further embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention;

[0070] FIG. 19 shows a further embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention; FIGS. 20 and 21 show a further embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention with separable body;

[0071] FIGS. 22 and 23 show further embodiments of the nasal aspirator according to the invention

[0072] FIG. 24 shows exemplary configurations of the nozzle of the nasal aspirator;

[0073] FIG. 25 shows exemplary con figurations of the actuator of the nasal aspirator;

[0074] FIG. 26 shows an embodiment of the nasal aspirator with one-way valves;

[0075] FIG. 27 shows another embodiment of a one-way valve of the nasal aspirator;

[0076] FIGS. 28A and 28B show a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention with a nozzle plunger;

[0077] FIG. 29A and 29B show exemplary embodiments of the nozzle of the nasal aspirator;

[0078] FIG. 30A and 30B show further exemplary embodiments of the nozzle of the nasal aspirator;

[0079] FIGS. 31 A and 31 B show a further embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention;

[0080] FIG. 32A and 32 B show a further embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention;

[0081] FIG. 33A and 33B show a further embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention;

[0082] FIG. 34A and 34B show a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention with a reservoir;

[0083] FIGS. 35A and 35B show exemplary arrangements of the reservoir relative to the body of the nasal aspirator;

[0084] FIG. 36A-C is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention with a deformable reservoir;

[0085] FIG. 37A-C shows another embodiment of the nasal aspirator with reservoir with the body configured stable in the contracted configuration; FIG. 38 shows another embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention with deformable reservoir;

[0086] FIG. 39 shows another embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention with deformable reservoir;

[0087] FIG. 40 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a reservoir of the nasal aspirator;

[0088] FIG. 41 shows a further embodiment of a reservoir of the nasal aspirator;

[0089] FIG. 42 illustrates interaction of the body of the nasal aspirator with an embodiment of the reservoir;

[0090] FIG. 43 illustrates further ways of interaction of the body of the nasal aspirator with an embodiment of the reservoir;

[0091] FIG. 44A and 44B is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention with detachable reservoir;

[0092] FIG. 45 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention with detachable reservoir;

[0093] FIG. 46 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention with detachable reservoir;

[0094] FIG. 47 is an enlargement of the circled area of FIG. 36;

[0095] FIGS. 48A and 48B show a further embodiment of the reservoir;

[0096] FIG. 49A and 49B show a further embodiment of the reservoir;

[0097] FIG. 50A and 50B show a further embodiment of the reservoir;

[0098] FIG. 51 shows an embodiment of finger engagement members of the nasal aspirator;

[0099] FIGS. 52A and 52B show a further embodiment of finger engagement members of the nasal aspirator;

[0100] FIG. 53 shows a further embodiment of finger engagement members of the nasal aspirator;

[0101] FIG. 54 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention with foldable finger engagement members and actuator;

[0102] FIG. 55 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention with a rigid body and reservoir; FIG. 56 is a schematic diagram of a further embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention with a rigid body and reservoir;

[0103] FIG. 57 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention with a sideways expandable body;

[0104] FIG. 58 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention with a sideways expandable body;

[0105] FIG. 59 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention with a sideways expandable body;

[0106] FIG. 60 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention with a sideways expandable body illustrating interaction of the nasal aspirator with a human hand;

[0107] FIG. 61 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention with a sideways expandable body and support;

[0108] FIG. 62 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention with a sideways expandable body and support;

[0109] FIG. 63 is a schematic side and front view of a support of an embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention;

[0110] FIG. 64 is a schematic side and front view of another support of an embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention;

[0111] FIG. 65 is a schematic side view of the support of FIG. 64 illustrating the interaction of the support with the body of an embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention, according to the invention;

[0112] FIG. 66 is a schematic side view of the support of FIG. 63 illustrating the interaction of the support with a human hand;

[0113] FIG. 67 shows the support of FIG. 66 illustrating the interaction of the support with the body of an embodiment of the nasal aspirator, with the body in a contracted configuration;

[0114] FIG. 68 shows the support of FIG. 66 illustrating the interaction of the support with the body of an embodiment of the nasal aspirator, with the body in an expanded configuration; FIG. 69A is a schematic front view of a support of an embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention;

[0115] FIG. 69B is a schematic side view of the embodiment of FIG. 69A;

[0116] FIG. 690 is a schematic front view of an embodiment of a nasal aspirator with laterally expandable body;

[0117] FIG. 69D is a schematic back view of the embodiment of FIG. 69C;

[0118] FIG. 69E is a schematic side view of the support of FIG. 69A illustrating the interaction of the support with the nasal aspirator of FIGS 69C and 69C;

[0119] FIG. 70 is a schematic view of an embodiment of the nasal aspirator with deformable body and outer shell;

[0120] FIG. 71 is a schematic view of an embodiment of the nasal aspirator with deformable body and outer shell with the expanded body detached from the outer shell; FIGS. 72-76 are schematic views of another embodiment of the nasal aspirator with deformable body and outer shell with the body and nozzle detachable from the outer shell;

[0121] FIG. 77A is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention with laterally expandable body.

[0122] FIG. 77B is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention with laterally expandable body.

[0123] FIG. 78 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention with laterally expandable body and reservoir for irrigant.

[0124] FIG. 79 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary packaging embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention;

[0125] FIG. 80 is a schematic diagram of another exemplary packaging embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention;

[0126] FIG. 81 is a schematic diagram of another exemplary packaging embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention;

[0127] FIG. 82 is a schematic diagram of another exemplary packaging embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention; FIG. 83 is a schematic diagram of another exemplary packaging embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention; and

[0128] FIG. 84 is a schematic diagram of another exemplary packaging embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention;

[0129] Throughout all the Figures, the same or corresponding elements are identified by same reference numeral. The embodiments are to be understood as illustrative of the invention and not as limiting in any way. It will also be understood that the figures are not necessarily to scale and that the embodiments are sometimes illustrated by graphic symbols, phantom lines, diagrammatic representations and fragmentary views. In certain instances, details which are not necessary for an understanding of the present invention or which render other details difficult to perceive have been omitted.

[0130] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0131] Referring to FIG. 1A, an embodiment of a nasal aspirator according to the invention is shown and is generally designated by reference numeral 10. The nasal aspirator 10 has a hollow body 11 for establishing a negative pressure therein. The hollow body 11 can be comprised by or connected to a negative pressure source (not shown in FIG. 1 ). The nasal aspirator 10 can further include an applicator comprising a nozzle 12 having a first open end 17 for placement in or on a nostril of a subject and a second open end 18 configured for sealing removable engagement of the nozzle 12 with the body 11 for example in opening 16 of the hollow body 11. The applicator includes a nonporous deformable element 19 which fluidly seals the first open end 17 from the second open end 18 of the nozzle. At least a portion of the deformable element 19 can be situated between the first open end 17 and the second open end 18. In FIG. 1A, an entirety of the deformable nonporous element 19 is situated between the first and second open ends 17, 18. The deformable element 19 is expandable / deformable into body 11 when the applicator is engaged on the hollow body 11 and a negative pressure is established in the body 11 , as schematically illustrated in FIG. 1 B.

[0132] FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of the nasal aspirator 100 according to the invention. In this embodiment, the nasal aspirator 100 includes an elongate cylindrical hollow body 101 and an inner piston movable in the hollow body 101. The piston 104 has an actuator 103 protruding through a longitudinal slot 102 in the wall of the hollow body 101 . The actuator can be engaged for example by a thumb of a user to slide the piston 104 forward and backward in the hollow body 101. This embodiment further includes a nozzle 102 having a circumferential flange 107 for removable sealing engagement in circumferential groove 121 provided near opening

[0133] 106 of the hollow body 101. Operation ofthe embodiment of the nasal aspirator is shown more detail in FIGS. 3A and B. FIG. 3A shows the nasal aspirator 100 with the flange

[0134] 107 of nozzle 102 engaged in the groove 121 of body 101 and the piston 104 in a frontward position. Rearward movement of the piston 104 as shown in FIG. 3B causes a negative pressure in the hollow body 101 and expansion of nonporous element 108 into the hollow body 101. The nasal aspirator 100 can optionally include a compartment 105 for storing at least one of the nozzle 102. Preferably, the compartment 105 can be dimensioned for storing multiple of the nozzles 102, for example between 10-20, or between 10-50 of the nozzles 102. However, in other embodiments, the compartment can be absent and the hollow body can terminate on its end opposite the opening 106 with an end wall 120.

[0135] Referring to FIGS. 4A and B there is shown another embodiment of the aspirator according to the invention. In this embodiment, a bracket 109 is provided at the end of the hollow body 101. The bracket 109 can be pivoted between an open position shown in FIG. 4A and a closed position sown in FIG. 4B and can be secured in the closed position, for example by a latch 122. The bracket is shaped and dimensioned to engage about at least a portion of the circumference of the nozzle 102 so that the nozzle 102 is urged against flange 110 of the body 101. The flange 110 or at least a portion of the flange 110 facing the end of the second open end of the nozzle 102, can be made of a material to aid in sealing engagement of the nozzle 102 on the flange, for example rubber, silicone or the like.

[0136] Referring to FIGS. 5A and B, there is shown another embodiment of the aspirator according to the invention. In this embodiment, a bracket 111 is provided at the end of the hollow body 101. The bracket 111 has an opening 123 for inserting nozzle 102 and is shaped and dimensioned to engage about at least a portion of the outer circumference of nozzle 102 when the nozzle 102 is inserted in the bracket 111. The bracket 111 is positioned and dimensioned so that the bracket urges the nozzle 102 against flange 110 of body 101 when the nozzle 102 is engaged in bracket 111. The bracket 111 can be configured to be resiliently displaced in frontward direction as a result of engagement with an outer circumference of the nozzle 102, thereby resulting in a biasing force urging the nozzle against flange 110. The flange 110 or at least a portion of the flange 110 facing the end of the second open end of the nozzle 102, can be made of a material to aid in sealing engagement of the nozzle 102 on the flange, for example rubber, silicone or the like.

[0137] Referring now to FIGS. 6A-6D, there is shown another embodiment of the nasal aspirator according to the invention. In this embodiment, the applicator includes a reservoir 112 for containing an irrigant that can be administered to the nasal passageway of a subject. The reservoir 112 can be configured to release the irrigant in response to a positive pressure established in the hollow body 101 and / or in response to engagement of the reservoir 112 against an inner wall of the nozzle 102, for example by the piston 104. For example, the reservoir can be deformable and / or can have a predetermined breaking point which opens for example in response to a pressure increase in the reservoir, for example as a result of deformation of the reservoir through pressure increase in the hollow body or engagement against the inner wall of the nozzle 102. As shown in FIGS 6A-C, the reservoir 112 can be attached to the nonporous element 108 and positioned proximate to the first open end of nozzle 102. In this embodiment, the piston 104 has protruding portion 113. The protruding portion 113 can be brought to engage the reservoir 112 against an inner wall of nozzle 102 by forward movement of the piston 104, as shown in FIG. 6B, thereby causing release of the irrigant from the reservoir 112 indicated by the arrows. The piston 104 can then be moved backwards to cause aspiration of the mixture of mucus / irrigant into the nonporous element 108. In other, not shown embodiments, the reservoir 112 can be resleasably attached to the inner wall of the nozzle 102 for example by a friction fit. In another embodiment shown in FIG. 6D, the reservoir can be formed by a portion of the inner wall of nozzle 102 and anterior and posterior membranes 124, 125. As shown in FIG. 6E, the anterior membrane 124 can be situated at the end of nozzle 102 and for example configured to be removed prior to use of the nozzle 102 to provide free passage of the irrigant through the first open end. The membranes 124, 125 can also be configured to have predetermined braking points that rupture in response to a predetermined positive pressure and / or engagement for example by a portion of the piston 104.

[0138] Referring now to FIGS 7A and 7B, there is shown another advantageous embodiment of an applicator for a nasal aspirator. In this embodiment, the nozzle 102 is configured to be convertible between a flat folded configuration shown in FIG. 7A and an unfolded configuration shown in FIG. 7B for example by applying a force in the direction indicated by the arrows. This embodiment advantageously reduces storage place for the nozzle. The nozzle 102 can have areas of reduced thickness or greases in the side wall along which the nozzle can be folded and unfolded.

[0139] Referring now to FIGS 8A and 8B, there is shown an embodiment of an applicator 117 for a nasal aspirator according to the invention. The applicator has a substantially conical nozzle portion 116, a receptacle 117, a bottom 126, an opening 119 provided in the bottom and a conduit in flow communication with the opening and an interior of the receptacle 117. The applicator can be converted between a folded configuration shown in FIG. 8A and an unfolded configuration shown in FIG. 8B. This embodiment advantageously reduces storage place for the applicator 117. The applicator 117 can have a flange extending about at least a portion of the nozzle portion or the receptacle for example for engagement by the bracket 109 or 111 of the embodiments of the nasal aspirator shown in FIGS. 4 and 5.

[0140] Referring now to FIGS 9A - 11 B, there is shown further embodiments of a nasal aspirator according to the invention. In these embodiments, the nasal aspirator has a hollow elongate cylindrical body 201 , a plunger 204 movable in the hollow body 201 and an actuator coupled with the plunger so that movement of the actuator toward the hollow body causes movement of the plunger in the hollow body 201. In the embodiment of FIG. 9A and B the actuator 205 is coupled with the plunger via arm 206. Pivoting of actuator 205 toward body 201 causes the plunger 204 to move from the position shown in FIG. 9A to the position shown in FIG. 9B. In FIG. 10A, actuator 208 is coupled with plunger via meshing threadings. Movement of the actuator toward the body 201 cause the plunger to move from the position shown in FIG. 10A to the position shown in FIG. 10B. In FIG. 11A and B, the actuator 209 is configured as a ratchet that interacts with a pinion 210 rotatably supported in the body 201 and rotationally fixed with reel 211.

[0141] Referring to FIG. 12A, there is shown an end portion of a hollow body 301 of a nasal aspirator according to the invention. In this embodiment, the aspirator includes a nozzle having a first part and a second parts 314, 320, pivotal relative to each other about hinged region 320 (shown in phantom line) between a first position in which a gap 316 is formed between the first and second parts along a length of the nozzle and a second position in which the gap is closed (see FIG. 12C). The opposing sides of the first and second parts between the gap is formed can be configured to form a fluid seal when the gap is closed. The nozzle can be attached to the hollow body 11 for example by a hinge 315 about which the nozzle can be pivoted onto flange 310 for sealing engagement with the flange 310. Sealing engagement in the opening of hollow body 301 can also be achieved as shown in FIG. 2 for nozzle 102 and hollow body 101.

[0142] Referring to FIG. 12B, there is shown a collector 321 including a flange portion 316, a conduit 317 and a deformable body 318 in fluid communication with the conduit 317. The collector can be engaged on the nozzle of FIG 12A so that the flange is fitted on the nozzle. The nozzle can then be pivoted so that the gap 316 closes as shown in FIG. 12C. application of a negative pressure in the body 301 then results in expansion of the body 318 into the hollow body 301. An advantage of this embodiment is that a disposable collector can be provided that can be made from a relatively thin material including the flange.

[0143] Referring to FIGS. 13A, 13B and FIG. 14 an embodiment of a nasal aspirator according to the invention is shown and is generally designated by reference numeral 400. FIG. 13A shows a top view of the nasal aspirator 400 and FIGS. 13B and FIG. 14 a cross sectional view taken along section A-A of FIG. 13A. In this embodiment, the nasal aspirator 400 includes a generally hollow body 402, an actuator 408 and a nozzle 403 in fluid communication with an interior of the hollow body 402. In the embodiment of FIGS. 13-14, the nasal aspirator 400 is deformable between a contracted configuration shown in FIG. 13B and an expanded configuration shown in FIG. 14. The body 402 of the nasal aspirator 400 can be expanded from the contracted configuration to the expanded configuration by applying a force on actuator 408, for example with a thumb of a user, in a direction away from nozzle 403. Expansion of the body 402 causes increase of the volume enclosed by the body 402, thereby generating a negative pressure at opening 404.

[0144] The body 402 of the nasal aspirator 400 can have different shapes and can be made of different materials depending on the application. FIGS. 15A-15C show non-limiting exemplary shapes of the body in cross section. In FIG. 15A the body 402 of the nasal applicator 400 has a concave shape in its contracted configuration shown on the left and a substantially fusiform shape in its expanded configuration, shown on the right. In FIG. 15B, the body 402 is substantially cone-shaped in the contracted configuration, shown on the left and substantially diamond-shaped in cross section in the expanded configuration shown on the right. In FIG. 15C, the body 402 is substantially cup shaped in the contracted configuration and substantially spherical in the expanded configuration.

[0145] Other shapes of the body of the nasal aspirator are also possible including but not limited to cylindrical or drop shaped. The body of the nasal aspirator can also be irregular shaped.

[0146] The body 402 of the nasal aspirator 400 can be made of materials including but not limited to rubber, ceramic plastic, polymers, silicone, metal paper, including paper impregnated with a water-resistant agent for example a wax, or combinations thereof. For example, a first portion of the body 402 can be made of a first material and a second portion of the body 402 from a second, different, material. With reference to FIG. 14, for exemplary purposes only, the body 402 can have a first portion 406, made of a rigid material including for example cardboard, wood, metal, glass, ceramic or plastic, and a second portion 407 made of a deformable material for example paper, plastic, rubber, elastic polymers or non-elastic polymers or silicone. In other embodiments, the the body can be made in its entirety of an elastically or non-elastically deformable material.

[0147] FIG. 16, shows another embodiment of the nasal aspirator 400, in which the body 402 of the nasal aspirator 400 includes generally rigid portions 410 and 413, a deformable shell portion 411 and a spring 412 coupled to the deformable shell portion 411. The spring 412 provides resiliency to the deformable shell portion 411 and can for example be configured as a helical spring 412 as shown in FIG. 4. The spring 412 can be configured to bias the body 402 to a contracted configuration shown in FIG. 16A. In this embodiment, the body 402 can be expanded against the bias of the spring 412 by applying a force for example with actuator 408, in a direction away from the nozzle 403. The spring 412 can also be configured so as to bias the body 402 to the expanded configuration shown in FIG 16B. In this case, the body 402 can be contracted by applying a force on the body 402 in the direction toward the nozzle 403. In this embodiment, the actuator 4 is optional. In embodiments in which the spring is configured to bias the body to the expanded configuration, the nasal aspirator 400 can further include a retainer 414 attached to portions 410 and 413 as shown in FIG. 16C which aids retaining the body in the contracted configurations. This can for example be advantageous for space efficient storing, packaging and transport of the nasal aspirator. The retainer can for example be constructed as an adhesive that can be removed prior to use of the nasal aspirator 400. Other types of retainers can also be used such as hook and loop type systems, magnetic system, hook and eye connection systems.

[0148] In embodiments, the body can be configured to be stable in any configuration between and including a contracted configuration in which the body encloses a minimal possible volume and an expanded configuration in which the body encloses a maximally possible volume. For example, with reference to FIG. 14, the body can be configured so as to be stable in a configuration between and including the configuration indicated by the horizontal dashed line in which the body encloses a minimal possible volume and a configuration indicated by the solid line 407 in which the body encloses a maximal possible volume, i.e. the body is fully expanded. The dashed lines between the horizontal line and the solid line 407 are merely exemplary of intermediate configurations in which the body can be stable and nonlimiting, that is, the body of the embodiment of FIG. 14 can be stable in any configuration between and including the horizontal dashed line and the solid line 407. The term stable as used herein means that an external force is required for expanding or contracting the body from the respective configuration. Such an external force includes the force of gravity.

[0149] In embodiments, the body can be constructed so as to be expandable from a contracted configuration to an inflection point up to which the body is biased to return to the contracted configuration and past which inflection point the body becomes biased toward a further expanded configuration. FIGS. 17A and 17B show an embodiment of the nasal aspirator 400 in which the body 402 includes anterior portion 406 and posterior portion 407. In the contracted configuration, posterior portion 407 is received in anterior portion 406. Posterior portion 407 can be moved for example with actuator 408 up to an inflection point, for example up to a geometric center indicated by the dash-dotted line. Up to the inflection point, posterior portion 407 returns to the contracted starting configuration when released. Expanding posterior portion 407 past the inflection point causes portion 407 to become biased to assume a further expanded configuration shown in FIG. 17B. This property of the body is useful for example for enhancing dimensional stability aiding in counteracting negative pressure present in the expanded body. The property of the body of further expanding automatically when expanded past an inflection point can for example be accomplished by selecting the appropriate shape and material for the body. As an example, the body can be made of a shell portion made of a deformable material and resilient support members 409.

[0150] FIG. 18 shows an embodiment of the nasal aspirator 400 in which the body 402 includes a deformable shell portion 411 , substantially rigid end portions 410 and 413, and stabilizing ribs 415 that contribute to dimensional stability of the body 402. FIG. 18 shows the nasal aspirator in its expanded configuration. The body 402 can be contracted in the manner of an accordion by moving end portion 410 toward end portion 413 so that the folds 416 of the body 402 come to lie on top of each other. This embodiment can include actuator 408 at end portion 413 for expanding the body 402 from a contracted position. In other embodiments the stabilizing ribs 415 can be omitted. The number of folds can vary and can be in a range of from 2-100 folds, 3-90 folds, 4-80 folds, 5-70 folds, 6-60 folds, 7-50 folds, 8- 40, 2-6 folds.

[0151] FIG. 19 shows an embodiment of the nasal aspirator 1 in which the body 2 includes a shell portion 411 made of a resiliency or non-resiliently deformable material and substantially rigid end portions 410 and 413. The body 2 can be contracted by moving end portion 413 toward end portion 410. This embodiment can include actuator 408 at end portion 413 for expanding the body 402 from a contracted position.

[0152] In embodiments, the body of the nasal aspirator can comprise at least two parts that are sealingly and detachably attachable to one another. FIGS. 20 and 21 show an exemplary embodiment of a nasal aspirator in which the body 402 is configured separable. This facilitates for example cleaning of the nasal aspirator after use. The at least two parts can be secured to each other by various means including but not limited to adhesives, a magnetic system, tongue and groove connection system. In this embodiment, the body comprises two parts 406 and 407 sealingly secured to each other by securing mechanism 417.

[0153] FIGS. 22 and 23 show embodiments of the nasal aspirator in which the body is foldable in an origami pattern, for example a Kresling origami pattern shown in FIG. 22 or a Yoshimura origami pattern shown in FIG. 23.

[0154] The nozzle 403 can have different configurations. In advantageous embodiments, the nozzle 403 can be shaped and dimensioned to allow sealing engagement of the nozzle with the nostril of a subject, in particular a nostril of an infant or child. FIGS. 13 and 14 show an embodiment in which the nozzle 403 is substantially cone-shaped. Further nonlimiting examples of possible configurations of the nozzle are shown in in FIGS. 24 A- D. For example, the nozzle 403 can be substantially cylindrical as shown in FIG. 24A, the nozzle can have a cylindrical portion and terminate in a tapered end portion as shown in FIG. 24B or a rounded end portion as shown in FIG. 24C. The nozzle can also be substantially cup-shaped as shown in FIG. 24D.

[0155] The actuator 408 can have different configurations. In general, the actuator is shaped and dimensioned to allow application of a force on the actuator in a direction away from the nozzle to expand the body of the nasal aspirator from a contracted configuration. Non-limiting examples of the actuator 408 are sown in FIGS. 25 A-D. In embodiments, the actuator can be a loop made of a closed string. The actuator can also be attached to the body 402 so as to be foldable onto the body.

[0156] Referring to FIG. 26, the body 402 of the nasal aspirator 400 can have one or more venting valves 418 for venting air out of the body 402, when the body 402 is contracted. The valve 418 or valves can be constructed as one-way valves so as to permit passage of air out of the body 2 for example when the body 402 is contracted but prevent ingress of air into the body 2 for example when the body 402 is expanded. This helps for example preventing air or mucus present in the body 402 from being pushed into the nasal cavity of the subject when the body is contracted. This is especially advantageous when the body 402 is repeatedly contracted and expanded while the nozzle is engaged on or in the subject’s nostril.

[0157] With continued reference to FIG. 26, the body 402 of the nasal aspirator can also have a one-way valve 419 which prevents air and / or mucus present inside the body 402 from exiting the body 402. This helps prevent air and / or mucus from entering the subjects nasal passage while the opening 404 is engaged on or in the subjects nostril. The valve can be configured to facilitate reentry of a nozzle plunger (described in more detail below). For example, as shown in FIG. 27, the valve can have a flat portion which facilitates entry of the nozzle plunger through valve 419.

[0158] With reference to FIGS. 28A-28B, the nasal aspirator 500 according to the present invention can further include a nozzle plunger 501 shaped and dimensioned for sealing engagement in at least a portion of nozzle 503. Advantageously, this embodiment enables uptake of the nasal irrigant into the nozzle 3, for example from an irrigant source, by movement of the nozzle plunger 501 in the nozzle away from the opening 504. The irrigant taken up in the nozzle 3 can then be applied into the nasal cavity of a subject through opening 504 by movement of the nozzle plunger 501 toward the opening 504, and subsequently mucus present in the nasal cavity, advantageously loosened by the nasal irrigant, can be aspirated through nozzle 503 and into the interior of the body 2 by expanding the body 502 through movement of the actuator 508 in a direction away from the nozzle 503 as shown in FIG. 28B.

[0159] FIGS. 29A-B show an embodiment in which the nozzle plunger has a plunger head 501 . The nozzle 503 has a substantially cylindrical portion in which plunger head 501 is sealingly, slidably receivable. The nozzle 503 has internal protrusions 506 spaced apart along the longitudinal axis of the nozzle by a defined distance. Movement of the plunger head 501 along the longitudinal axis of the nozzle 503 causes the plunger head 501 to engage with the nozzle plungers so as to provide a haptically perceivable sensation for a user. This helps indicating a position of the plunger head 501 within the nozzle 503 thus aiding in determining an amount of irrigant taken up into or expelled out of the nozzle 350. The protrusions 506 can be circumferential protrusions extending along an entirety or a portion of the internal circumference of the nozzle 503.

[0160] FIGS. 30 A-B show another embodiment similar to the one of FIG. 29, in which the nozzle 503 has internal grooves 507 spaced apart by defined a distance along the longitudinal axis of the nozzle 503. Movement of the plunger head 501 along the longitudinal axis of the nozzle 503 causes the plunger head 501 to engage with the grooves 507 so as to provide a haptically perceivable sensation for a user. This helps indicating a position of the plunger head 501 within the nozzle 503, thus aiding in determining an amount of irrigant taken up into or expelled out of the nozzle 3.

[0161] According to another embodiment shown in FIGS. 31 and 32, the nozzle 603 can have sealing members 606, 607 for containing a nasal irrigant in the nozzle 603. The sealing members can advantageously be ruptured or pierced prior to use to permit delivery of the irrigant from the nozzle. For example the sealing members can be configured so as to be pierced or ruptured by engagement of the nozzle plunger 601 in the nozzle 603.

[0162] In other embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 33 A and B, the irrigant can be sealed in the nozzle 603 by the nozzle plunger 601 being engaged in a bottom portion of the nozzle, and by a sealing member 607 that seals opening 605.

[0163] With reference to FIGS. 34A and 34B, embodiments of the nasal aspirator 700 according to the invention can further include a reservoir 706, for example for containing a nasal irrigant. The reservoir 706 can be arranged on the inside of the body 702 substantially diametrically opposed to the nozzle 703. The reservoir 706 has an opening 707 for releasing the nasal irrigant contained in the reservoir 706. The embodiment shown in FIGS. 34A and B enables application of a nasal irrigant (schematically shown as dashed lines in FIG. 34A) present in the reservoir 6 into the nasal cavity of a subject, for example to loosen mucus present in the nasal cavity, and subsequent aspiration of the loosened mucus through nozzle 703 into the body 702 of the nasal aspirator 700 by expanding the body 702 of the nasal aspirator 1 as shown in FIG. 34B.

[0164] In embodiments, the reservoir 706 can be arranged so that an entirety of the reservoir 6 is situated in the interior of the body 702 for example as shown in FIGS. 34 A and B.

[0165] With reference to FIG. 35A, the reservoir 706 can also be arranged so that only a portion of the reservoir 706 is situated inside the body 702 while another portion of the reservoir 706 is situated outside the body 702. With reference to FIG. 35B, the reservoir 706 can also be located outside the body 702 substantially in its entirety. In this embodiment, as a non-limiting example, the reservoir 706 can for example be attached to the body 702 via a portion of the reservoir 706 that defines opening 707 of the reservoir 706 so that opening 707 is in fluid communication with the interior of the body 702.

[0166] In embodiments in which a portion of the reservoir 706 is situated outside the body 702, the body 702 can advantageously sealingly surround an outer surface of the reservoir 706 so as to allow the buildup of negative pressure in the body 702 when the body is expanded from a contracted to an expanded configuration. In embodiments, the actuator can be arranged on a portion of the reservoir 6 that is situated outside the body 702.

[0167] The reservoir 706 can be made of a rigid material, a non-elastically deformable material, an elastically deformable material or combinations thereof. FIG. 36 shows an embodiment of the nasal aspirator 700 in which the reservoir 706 is made of a deformable material, for example rubber, silicone, paper, metal foil, plastic. In the embodiment shown, the reservoir 706 is located inside the body 702 attached to an interior face of the body 2 substantially diametrically opposed to nozzle 703. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 36, the body 702 is configured to be stable in the expanded position as shown in FIG 36A and can be contracted to the contracted position shown in FIG. 36B by application of a force in the direction of nozzle 703. In this embodiment, urging the reservoir 706 against an inside wall of nozzle 3 results in deformation of the reservoir 706 which in turn leads to expulsion of the irrigant present in the reservoir 6 through opening 704. After delivery of irrigant into the nasal passage of a subject the body can then be expanded as shown in FIG. 36C to aspirate fluid from the subject’s nasal passage.

[0168] FIG. 37 shows another embodiment of the nasal aspirator 700 similar to that of FIG 36. In the embodiment of FIG. 37, the body 702 of the nasal aspirator 700 is configured to be stable in the configuration shown in FIG. 37A. In this configuration, the reservoir 6 is in close proximity to nozzle 703. Further contracting the body 702 for example as shown in FIG 25B, for example by applying a force on the body 702 in the direction of the nozzle 703, results in engagement of the reservoir 706 against nozzle 703 and compression of the reservoir 706, thereby aiding in expulsion of an irrigant that may be present in the reservoir 706 for example into the nasal cavity of a subject. After expulsion of the irrigant from the reservoir 706, the body 702 can be expanded, for example by applying a force on actuator 701 in a direction away from the nozzle 703, which creates a negative pressure at opening 704 for suction of mucus present in the nasal cavity of a subject into the body 702 of the nasal aspirator 700.

[0169] FIG. 38 shows an embodiment of the nasal aspirator 700 in which the reservoir 706 has a resilient portion 708 which can be resiliently compressed as indicated by the dotted line so as to increase the pressure in the reservoir 706 resulting in expulsion of the irrigant from the reservoir 6 through opening 707 of the reservoir 706. FIG. 39 shows an embodiment similar to the one shown in FIG. 38, in which a portion of the reservoir 706 is situated outside the body 702.

[0170] Advantageously, the reservoir can have a squeeze bottle valve for controlling expulsion of a fluid for example irrigant present in the reservoir through opening 707, for example in embodiments in which the reservoir is configured deformable either elastically or non- elastically. This helps preventing leakage of irrigant from the reservoir 706 prior to application of the irrigant to the subject.

[0171] In embodiments, the reservoir can be resiliently deformable and contain the irrigant in an amount that causes resilient deformation of the reservoir to an expanded position so that the irrigant is present in the reservoir under pressure.

[0172] The reservoir can be formed integral with the body, for example in a one-step injection molding process.

[0173] In embodiments, the reservoir can have an actuator which when actuated causes release of the irrigant present in the reservoir. FIG. 40 shows an embodiment of a reservoir 706 comprising an actuator 709. The general design of the reservoir can be analogous to spray or mist bottles known to a skilled person. As a non-limiting example, the actuator 8 can be operably coupled to a reciprocating piston mechanism (not shown) which allows delivery of the irrigant 711 present in the reservoir 706 through conduit 712 by depressing the actuator 709.

[0174] In embodiments, the reservoir can include an outer rigid shell and an inner deformable container for example in the manner of a bag on valve device (BOV). FIG. 41 shows an embodiment, in which the reservoir 706 has rigid shell 713 and flexible inner container 714. A fluid present in the rigid shell 713 can be maintained under pressure thereby pressurizing the irrigant in the flexible bag 714. The reservoir 706 of FIG. 41 can comprise an actuator 709 which is operatively coupled to a valve (not shown), and which when actuated opens the valve and permits expulsion of the irrigant present in the flexible container 714. The reservoir can also be configured so that the irrigant is maintained under pressure by an aerosol, for example analogous to aerosol bottles known to the skilled person.

[0175] The actuator 709 of the embodiments of FIGS. 40 and 41 can for example be actuated as shown in FIG. 42. The body 702 of the nasal aspirator 700 can be contracted so as to cause engagement of the actuator 709 against an inner wall portion of the body 702 or the nozzle 703. This results in actuation of the actuator 709 which in turn results in delivery of the irrigant from the reservoir 706. The body 702 can be configured to be stable in the expanded configuration shown in FIG. 42A or in the contracted configuration shown in FIG. 42B.

[0176] FIG. 43 A shows an embodiment in which the nozzle 703 has a cylindrical portion. In FIG. 43A, the actuator 709 engages with an inner wall portion of the body 702 where nozzle 703 opens into the interior of the body 702. In the embodiment of FIG. 43B, the actuator 709 has protrusions that engage with the inner wall portion of the body 702.

[0177] In embodiments, the reservoir 706 can be detachably engaged with the body 702. FIGS. 44 A and B show an embodiment of the nasal aspirator 700 in which the reservoir 706 has a circumferential protrusion 723 that is sealingly engageable with body 702. Protrusion 723 can engage with the body 702 by means including but not limited to adhesives, magnetic system, or tongue and groove interaction. For example, a first part of a magnetic system, for example magnet or magnetic material can be present on or in the protrusion 723 and another part of the magnetic system (magnet or magnetic material) can be present on or in the corresponding portion of the body 702 to which the protrusion is attached. The protrusion can be arranged for example on a side of the reservoir as shown in FIG. 44 or on a bottom of the reservoir 706 as shown in FIG. 45.

[0178] FIGS. 46 and 47 show another embodiment of the nasal aspirator 700 in which the reservoir 706 has a groove 722 in which the circumference of an opening 2.11 on the part of the body 702 opposite opening 703 can engage, preferably sealingly. Preferably, a force required for disengagement of the body 702 from the protrusion 723 or the groove 722 is greater than a force required for expanding or contracting the body. The groove 722 can also be arranged on the actuator 709 of the reservoir 706. In this case it is advantageous when the force required for expanding or contracting the body 702 is less than the force required for actuating the actuator 8.

[0179] In embodiments, the reservoir can have means for aiding in taking up a defined amount of irrigant into the reservoir and delivering a defined amount of irrigant from the reservoir. FIG. 48 shows an embodiment in which the reservoir is substantially cylindrical and has an open end. A plunger head 717 is engageable in the open end and is movable for expelling the irrigant that may be present in the reservoir 706. The reservoir 706 has internal protrusions 716 spaced apart along the longitudinal axis of the reservoir by a defined distance. Movement of the plunger head along the longitudinal axis of the reservoir causes the plunger head 717 to engage with the protrusions so as to provide a haptically perceivable sensation for a user. This helps indicating a position of the plunger head 717 within the reservoir 706. The nozzle protrusions can be circumferential protrusions extending along an entirety or a portion of the internal circumference of the reservoir 706.

[0180] FIG. 49 shows an embodiment of the reservoir 706 similar to that shown in FIG 48, in which the reservoir 706 has internal grooves 718 spaced apart by defined a distance along the longitudinal axis of the reservoir 706. Movement of the plunger head 717 along the longitudinal axis of the reservoir 670 causes the plunger head 717 to engage with the grooves 718 so as to provide a haptically perceivable sensation for a user. This helps indicating a position of the plunger head 717 within the reservoir 706, thus aiding in determining an amount of irrigant taken up into or expelled out of the reservoir 706.

[0181] FIG. 50 shows yet another embodiment of the reservoir 706 in which the reservoir 706 includes a member 721 which protrudes inwardly from the bottom opening of the reservoir 706. The plunger stem 717 has means for engagement with the flexible member. The means for engagement with the member 721 can for example be constructed as grooves or notches arranged along the longitudinal axis of the plunger stem 720. When the plunger 717 is moved inside the reservoir 706, the member 721 engages sequentially with the engagement means so that a user can haptically perceive the movement of the plunger 717.

[0182] The nasal aspirator can also include means for engagement with a finger or fingers or the hand of a user.

[0183] FIG. 51 shows an embodiment in which the body 2 of the nasal aspirator includes engagement members 11 shaped and dimensioned for engagement with a finger of a user. This helps preventing the nasal aspirator from slipping from a user’s grip for example when actuating the actuator 704 to expand the body 702. The engagement members 11 can be in the shape of hooks as shown in FIG. 51 or can be loops. The engagement members 11 can also be indentations on the body 702 or the nozzle 703 for example shaped and dimensioned for engagement of a finger of a user. An example for indentations 726 provided on the nozzle 703 is shown in FIG. 53.

[0184] FIG. 52 shows an embodiment of the nasal aspirator 700 which includes loops 724 provided on the body 702. The loops 724 can be engaged by for example the index and ring finger of a user to secure the nasal aspirator in the hand of the user and to provide a counter force when the actuator 704 is pulled away from the opening 727.

[0185] In embodiments, as shown in FIG.54, the actuator 704 and / or the loops can be folded upon the body 702. This advantageously saves space when storing the nasal aspirator. This also helps facilitating nesting of at least two nasal aspirators in each other for transport or storage of the nasal aspirator.

[0186] FIG. 55 shows another embodiment of the nasal aspirator 800. In this embodiment, the body 802 is configured rigid and cylindrical. Plunger 805 can be received in the body 802. Reservoir 806 is mounted on the plunger 805 and can be moved toward and away from the opening 804 by moving the plunger 805. The plunger 805 can be moved toward opening 804so that actuator 808 engages for example against a portion of end wall 807 of the body 802 thereby actuating the actuator 8 and causing delivery of the irrigantfrom the reservoir. After delivery of the irrigant into the nostril of a subject the plunger 805 can then be moved away from the nozzle to aspirate mucus present in the nasal cavity of the subject.

[0187] FIG. 56 shows another embodiment of the nasal aspirator 800 in which the reservoir 806 is slidably received in the body 802. The reservoir 806 can be moved toward the nozzle 803 so that actuator 801 engages with a portion of the end wall 807 of the body 802 thereby actuating the actuator 808 and causing delivery of the irrigant from the reservoir 806. After delivery of the irrigant into the nostril of a subject, the reservoir 6 can be moved away from the nozzle 803 by actuating actuator 801 to aspirate mucus present in the nasal cavity of the subject.

[0188] In embodiments, the nasal aspirator can have actuators for application of a force on the body in a direction that is angled relative a longitudinal axis of the nozzle. For example, in the embodiment of the nasal aspirator shown in FIG. 57 A and B, the nasal aspirator 900 includes nozzle 903 and body 902 and actuators 931 , 392 for engagement with a user’s fingers. Moving the fingers engaged with the actuators away from each other results in expansion of the body 902 from a contracted configuration show in FIG. 57 A, to an expanded configuration shown in FIG. 57 B. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 57 A and B, the body 902 is expanded by applying a force on the body 902 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the nozzle 903. The direction in which the force is applied on the body can also be smaller than 90 degrees, for example within a range from 10 degrees - 89 degrees. In embodiments, the body can have portions pivotally coupled to each other. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 58 A, B and FIGS. 59 A and B the body 902 has portions 933, 935, which can be pivoted relative to each other about pivot point. The body 902 can have a deformable portion 934 situated between portions 933, 935. The deformable portion 934 can have folds for example to allow portion 934 to be expanded and folded in the manner of an accordion. The number of folds can vary and can for example be within a range of from 1 - 100. The body 902 can have actuators 931 , 932, for engagement of a user’s fingers. Moving the fingers engaged in the actuators away from each other causes pivoting of portions 933, 935 relative to each other and expansion of the body from a contracted configuration shown in FIGS. 58 A and 59A respectively to an expanded configuration shown in FIGS. 58 B 59 B respectively. In embodiments, portions 933, 935 can be made of a rigid material, for example cardboard, plastic, metal, ceramic glass and the like. The actuators 931 , 932 can be configured for engagement with a user’s finger or thumb. The size and shape of the actuators can vary. In embodiments, at least one actuator can be dimensioned and shaped for engagement about a user’s palm.

[0189] Referring to FIG. 60, an embodiment of the nasal aspirator is shown in which the actuator 932 is configured for engagement with a user’s fingers and actuator 931 is configured for engagement about the back of a user’s hand. FIGS. 60 A and B show a top view of the aspirator and FIGS. 60 C, D a side view of the aspirator. FIGS. 60 A, C show the aspirator in a contracted configuration with the user’s hand substantially closed, and FIGS. 60 B, C in an expanded configuration resulting from opening the user’s hand.

[0190] In embodiments, instead of actuator 391 , the body 902 of the nasal actuator can be provided with an adhesive for securing the body on the palm of a user so as to counteract a force applied on the body opposite the side on which the adhesive is applied. The adhesive can be protected by a non adhesive layer prior to use of the nasal aspirator. The non adhesive layer can be removed prior to use and then the body 902 secured on the palm of a user.

[0191] In embodiments, the nasal aspirator can include a support for engagement with at least the body and for expanding the body through actuation of the support. An exemplary embodiment is shown in FIG. 61. In this embodiment, the support 1000 includes sides 1001 , 1006 which are pivotal relative to each other about pivot point P toward and away from each other. The sides can have engagement members 1005 for engagement of one or more of a user’s fingers. The body 1002 is similar to the body shown in the embodiment of FIG. 58. Nozzle 1003 of the body 1002 is engageable in aperture 1004 of the support and sides 1001 , 1002 of the support are engageable in engagement members 1031 of the body 1002. With sides 1001 , 1002 engaged in engagement members 3101 of the he body, pivoting of sides 1001 , 1002 away from each other results in expansion of the body 1002.

[0192] Another exemplary embodiment of the support is shown in FIG. 62. In this embodiment, the support is configured like the one shown in FIG. 61. In contrast to the embodiment of FIG. 61 , the support of FIG. 62 has nozzle 1003. The body 1002 is similar to the body of the embodiment of FIG. 61 but does not have nozzle 1003. The body 1002 is sealingly engageable with nozzle 1003.

[0193] FIG. 63 shows another embodiment of a support of the nasal aspirator. In This embodiment, the support 1100 has flat portion 1101 and arcuate portions 1104 for engagement about a user’s hand. The surface of the flat portion can be configured for engagement with body 2110 of the nasal aspirator for example via a hook and loop system, a magnetic system, an adhesive system.

[0194] FIG. 64 shows another embodiment of a support of the nasal aspirator 1100. In this embodiment the support includes elongate portion 1101 , arcuate portions 1104 and tongue 1103. As shown in FIG. 65, the tongue 1103 is engageable in engagement members 1131 of the body 1102. In the exemplary embodiments shown in FIGS. 63-65, the support helps restraining a side of the body of the nasal aspirator. The user can engage fingers in the engagement member 1132 of the body 1102 and by moving the fingers away from the palm of the hand of the user, the body can be expanded. This embodiment has the advantage that the body can be made of a relatively thin deformable material such as paper while the support provides structural stability to allow expansion of the body against a negative pressure inside the body.

[0195] FIGS. 66-68 illustrate the interaction of the support of FIG. 63 with a user’s hand and with the body 1102 of an embodiment of the nasal aspirator. FIG. 66 shows engagement of the support 1100 with a user’s hand. FIG. 67 shows the body 1102 in the contracted configuration, with the user’s hand in a substantially closed position. FIG. 68 shows the body 1102 in an expanded configuration, with the user’s hand in an opened position relative to the position shown in FIG. 67.

[0196] FIGS 69A-E show another embodiment of a support 1200 and nasal aspirator 1250 according to the invention. The support 1200 can have a base 1202, an engagement member 1204 for engagement about a user’s hand, and a nozzle support 1201 connected to the base 1202. The nozzle support 1201 can have a head portion 1204 and a connector 1205 connecting the head portion to the base 1202. The base 1202 can have a tongue 1203 for engagement with a loop 1254 arranged on the body 1256 of the nasal aspirator 1250 for securing body 1252 on the base portion 1202. In the embodiment of FIG 69C, the body 1252 has loop 1256 for engagement with a finger of a user. The nasal aspirator 1250 has conduit 1255 fluidly connected with the interior of the body 1252. The conduit has an opening provided with a circumferential flange 1253 which substantially corresponds in shape to a shape of the head of the nozzle support 1204 so that the flange can then be fitted over the head of the nozzle support 33.

[0197] The head portion 1204 can have a slot 1233 for insertion of the conduit 1255 and fitting the flange 1253 on the head portion 1204 of the nozzle support 1201. FIG. 69E shows a side view of the body 1252 of the nasal aspirator 1250 engaged on the support 1202 and the nozzle engaged on the nozzle support 1201. A user can engage at least one finger in loop 1256 of body 1252 secured on the base 1202. Movement of the finger away from the base 1202 will cause the body 1252 to expand thereby creating a negative pressure at the nozzle 1253. The base 1202 can be configured to have an internal compartment sized to accommodate at least one nasal aspirator. The base can further have an opening 1207 for dispensing / withdrawing the at least one nasal aspirator from the compartment of the base 1202.

[0198] In embodiments, the nozzle support 1201 can be connected to the base 1202 for movement relative to the base for example for pivoting or sliding between a deployed and a stowed position.

[0199] In other embodiments, the manner in which the body is secured on the base 1202 can differ. For example, instead of tongue 1203 , the base can have one part of a hook and loop system and the body 1252 can have the other part of the hook and loop system.

[0200] Embodiments with deformable outer shell

[0201] In embodiments, the nasal respirator can include a deformable outer shell as shown for example in FIG. 70. The outer shell 1307 can be deformable between a contracted configuration and an expanded configuration. In embodiments, the outer shell 1307 can be configured so as to be stable in the contracted configuration. In embodiments, the outer shell 30 can be configured so as to be stable in the expanded configuration. In embodiments, the outer shell 1307 can be configured so as to be stable in a configuration in which the outer shell encloses a volume in a range of < 01.%, <1 %, <10%, <20%, <30%, <40%, <50%, <60%, < 70 %, <80%, <90% of a volume the outer shell would enclose in its fully expanded configuration. The outer shell can be sealingly connected to the nozzle 3 so that expansion of the outer shell results in expansion of the body.

[0202] In embodiments, the outer shell can have engagement members for engagement with a user’s finger or fingers. The reservoir or nozzle can contain a nasal irrigant. The nasal irrigant can for example include but not limited to water, or a sodium chloride solution. The percentage of sodium chloride by weight in the sodium chloride solution can for example be in a range of from 0.1 % - 3%, 0.2% - 2.5%, 0.3% - 2%, 0.4% - 1 .5%, 0.5-1 %, 0.5%-2%.

[0203] In addition, or as an alternative, the reservoir can also contain other fluids or agents, for example those that are beneficial to apply to a subject in need thereof. For example, the reservoir can contain a nasal decongestant agent.

[0204] The amount of the nasal irrigant present in the reservoir can vary depending on the application. In embodiments, the amount of irrigant in the reservoir can be in the range of from 0.01 ml - 100 ml, 0.02 ml - 90 ml, 0.03 ml - 80ml, 0.04 ml - 7ml, 0.05 ml - 6ml, 0.05 ml - 5ml, 0.05 ml - 4ml, 0.05 ml - 3ml, 0.05 ml - 2ml, 0.05 ml - 1ml, 0.05 ml - 0.5ml, 0.05 ml - 0.25ml, 0.05 ml - 8ml.

[0205] In embodiments, a thickness d (see for example FIG. 1 B for indication of thickness dimension) of the body of the nasal aspirator in the contracted configuration can be in a range of from 0.1 mm - 10mm, from 0.2 mm - 9 mm, from 0.3 mm - 8 mm, from 0.4 mm - 7 mm, from 0.5 mm - 6 mm, from 0.6 - 5 mm, from 0.7 - 4 mm, from 0.8 - 3 mm, from 0.9 - 2 mm from 1 mm - 2 mm.

[0206] In embodiments, a diameter of the body of the nasal aspirator can be in a range of from 1 cm - 20 cm, from 2 cm- 18 cm, from 3 cm - 16 cm, from 4 cm - 14 cm, from 5 cm - 12 cm.

[0207] In embodiments, the nasal aspirator can be configured in the manner of a glove as for example shown in FIG. 77. In this embodiment, the nasal aspirator includes a body 1402, a nozzle 1403 in flow communication with an interior of the body and means for engagement of the body with at least a portion of a user’s hand, wherein the means for engaging are coupled with the body 1402 so that opening the users hand results in expansion of the body. In embodiments, a force required to deform the body can be less than a force to deform the means for engaging the user’s hand.

[0208] In embodiments the nasal aspirator can include a reservoir for a nasal irrigant, wherein the reservoir is arranged ion the body and / or the nozzle. The irrigant can be expelled from the reservoir for example by compressing the reservoir. The reservoir can have a conduit for conducting the irrigant out of the reservoir. Advantageously, the reservoir and the conduit are configured so that the irrigant can be introduced into the nostril of a subject when the nozzle is engaged on or in the subject’s nostril, into the nostril of a subject. The conduit can extend outside and / or inside the nozzle. An example of this embodiment is shown in FIG. 78. The reservoir 1406 can be arranged on an outside of the body and / or nozzle as shown in FIG. 78. Conduit 1404 allows expulsion of the irrigant from the reservoir 1406. The reservoir can also be arranged inside the body and / or nozzle and can for r example also be an integral part of the nozzle.

[0209] In embodiments, the nasal aspirator can be packaged so as to be easily dispensable from the packaging. For example, with reference to FIG. 79, a plurality of nasal aspirators 1 can be arranged in a container 20 having opening 21 so that the nasal aspirators 1 are stacked on top of one another with an anterior side of one of the nasal aspirators facing a posterior side of another nasal aspirator. An anterior portion of one aspirator can be detachably connected to a posterior portion of another nasal aspirator so that pulling the one aspirator from the container 20 through opening 21 causes movement of the next nasal aspirator in proximity of opening 21. The connection between the nasal aspirators can be such that a force required to detach the nasal aspirators from one another is smaller than a force required for overcoming interaction of the body of the nasal aspirator for example with a rim 22 of opening 21 . This allows detaching the nasal aspirator 1 intended to be used from the container while leaving the next nasal aspirator in the container ready to be pulled out.

[0210] In embodiments, the connection between the nasal aspirators can be between an anterior portion of one of the nasal aspirators and the actuator 4 of the neighboring nasal aspirator, for example as illustrated in FIG. 80. In this embodiment, the actuator 4 can be folded onto the body of the nasal aspirator and pulling the nasal aspirator most proximate to opening 21 causes unfolding of the actuator of the next nasal aspirator which then allows grasping the actuator 4 of the next nasal aspirator which facilitates withdrawal of the next nasal aspirator from the container.

[0211] In embodiments, the nasal aspirators may be arranged in the container so that an anterior side of the nasal aspirators faces the opening of the container as shown for example in FIG. 81. Analogous to the embodiment of FIG 79, a posterior portion of the body of the nasal aspirator closest to the opening 21 can be detachably connected to an anterior portion of the next nasal aspirator.

[0212] In embodiments, the nasal aspirator closest to the opening 21 can be detachably connected to one or more finger engagement elements arranged on and folded onto the anterior portion of the body of the next nasal aspirator 1 so that pulling the nasal aspirator closest to the opening out of the container results in unfolding of the one or more finger element elements. This allows grasping the unfolded finger engagement elements of the next nasal aspirator which facilitates withdrawal of the next nasal aspirator from the container.

[0213] In embodiments, the opening 21 of the container 20 can face downward. Removing the nasal aspirator closest to the opening of the container 20 causes the next nasal aspirator to take its place due to gravity. The container 20 may also include a spring 23 at the bottom of the container 20 which spring 23 biases the nasal aspirators toward the opening 21.

[0214] FIGS. 79-82 show embodiments in which the body of the nasal aspirator is substantially flat in the contracted configuration. In other embodiments, the nasal aspirators can be configured so that a posterior side of each nasal aspirators is recessed in the contracted configuration, for example as shown for the cone-shaped or convex shaped embodiments of the nasal aspirator of FIG. 14. Advantageously, in these embodiments, the nasal aspirators can be packaged so as to be nested within each other as for example shown in FIGS. 83-84.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . An applicator for a nasal aspirator, comprising: a nozzle having a first open end for sealing engagement with a nostril of a subject, and a second open end adapted for removable sealing engagement in an opening of a hollow body of the nasal aspirator; and a non-porous element fluidly sealing the first open end from the second open end.

2. The applicator of claim 1 , wherein the non-porous element is non-elastically deformable;3. The applicator of claim 2, wherein at least a portion of the non-porous element is situated between the first and second open end of the nozzle.

4. The applicator of claim 3, wherein said at least a portion is in a range of 10%- 100% of an entirety of the non-porous element.

5. The applicator of any of claims 1-3, wherein the nozzle is configured to be reversibly convertible between a substantially flat, folded configuration and a conical unfolded configuration.

6. The applicator of any of claim 5, wherein the nozzle is convertible between a flat folded configuration and a unfolded configuration along areas of reduced thickness or greases provided in the nozzle material.

7. The applicator of any of claims 2-4, further comprising a reservoir for containing a nasal irrigant.

8. The applicator of any of claim 7, wherein the reservoir is attached to the non- porous element.

9. The applicator of any of claims 5-6, wherein the reservoir is situated between the first and second open end of the nozzle.

10. The applicator of any of claims 5-7, wherein the reservoir is releasably attached to an inside of the nozzle.11 .The applicator of any of claims 2-8, wherein the reservoir is configured to release the irrigant in response to a positive pressure established in the hollow body or engagement of the reservoir against an inside wall of the nozzle.

12. An applicator for a nasal aspirator, comprising:a nozzle; a hollow body in flow communication with the nozzle, said body having a bottom provided with an opening; and a conduit in flow communication with said opening and with an interior of the body, said applicator configured to be reversibly convertible between a flat folded configuration and an unfolded configuration, wherein in the unfolded configuration the nozzle is substantially conical and the body is substantially cylindrical.

13. The applicator of claim 12, wherein the collector is foldable along areas of reduced wall thickness or greases provided on the body and the nozzle.

14. The applicator of any of claims 12-13, wherein the body of the collector is configured for sealing engagement with the nasal aspirator.

15. A nasal aspirator, comprising: a hollow body for establishing a negative pressure therein, the hollow body having an end provided with an opening; and an applicator according to any of claims 1-14.

16. The nasal aspirator of claim 16, further comprising a bracket attached to the end of the hollow body and configured for engagement with the nozzle and / or body of the applicator or the so as to urge the nozzle or body of the applicator against the end of the hollow body.

17. The nasal aspirator of claim 11 , wherein the bracket is pivotal between a first position and a second position and securable on the body in the second position.

18. The nasal aspirator of claim 11 , wherein the bracket has a portion conforming to at least a portion of an outer circumference of the nozzle and is positioned so that engagement of the nozzle in the bracket causes resilient displacement of the bracket along a longitudinal axis of the hollow body so as to bias the nozzle against the end of the hollow body.

19. The nasal aspirator of any of claim 15-18, wherein the body is shaped as an elongated cylinder having a sidewall, and having an elongated slot extending longitudinally in the sidewall, the nasal aspirator further comprising a pistonconfigured to slide within the body between first and second positions and having an actuator laterally extending therefrom through the elongated slot, the piston being manually movable between the first and second positions by a user.

20. The nasal aspirator of claim 19, wherein an end of the piston facing the opening of the hollow body comprises a protrusion dimensioned so as to enable engagement of the reservoir against an inside wall of the nozzle by movement of the piston in a direction toward the forward end of the hollow body, thereby causing release of the irrigant from the nozzle.

21. The nasal aspirator of any of claims 15-18, wherein the hollow body is shaped as an elongated cylinder, the nasal aspirator further comprising a plunger received in the hollow body and movable in the hollow body along a longitudinal axis of the hollow body and an actuator operatively coupled with the plunger so that movement of the actuator toward the hollow body causes frontward movement of the plunger in the hollow body.

22. The nasal aspirator of claims 21 , wherein an end of the plunger facing the opening of the hollow body comprises a protrusion dimensioned so as to enable engagement of the reservoir against an inside wall of the nozzle by movement of the plunger in a direction toward the forward end of the hollow body, thereby causing release of the irrigant from the nozzle.

23. The nasal aspirator of any of claims 15-22, further comprising a compartment for containing at least one of said nozzle.

24. The nasal aspirator of claim 23, wherein the compartment is dimensioned for containing at least 2, preferably 5, more preferably 10, most preferably between 20-50 of said nozzle.

25. A nozzle for a nasal aspirator, said nozzle comprising a first part and a second part, said first and second parts hinged to each other for pivoting relative to each other between a first position in which a gap is formed between the first and second parts along a length of the nozzle and a second position in which the gap is closed.

26. The nozzle of claim 28, wherein the nozzle is configured for sealing closure of said gap.

27. A nasal aspirator comprising: a hollow body for establishing a negative pressure therein, the hollow body having an end provided with an opening; and the nozzle according to any of claims 25-26.

28. A collector for a nasal aspirator, comprising: a conduit having an opening; a circumferential flange provided along an outer circumference of the opening of the conduit; and a deformable hollow body, said conduit in fluid communication with said hollow body.

29. The collector of claim 28, wherein the flange extends toward the hollow body.

30. The collector of claim 28, wherein the flange is shaped substantially conical.

31. A Method of using a nasal aspirator, comprising: inserting the conduit of the collector of any of claims 28-30 into the gap of the nozzle of the nasal aspirator of claim 27 so as to fit the flange portion on the nozzle; closing the gap by pivoting the first and second parts of the nozzle toward each other; and sealingly engaging the nozzle on the end of the hollow body of the nasal aspirator.

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