Breast pump system

Abstract

The invention relates to a breast pump system (1) having - a connecting element (7) for connecting a milk container (2) to a breast shield (4), the connecting element (7) having a channel (8) for connecting a cavity (3) of the milk container (2) to a nipple tunnel (6) of the breast shield (4); - a pump element (10) which is designed to generate a negative pressure in the channel (8) of the connecting element (7); and - a handle (11) configured to actuate the pump element (10), wherein the connecting element (7) has a guide element (12) in the form of a groove or an elongate projection (14), and the handle (11) has a holding element (15); the holding element (15) and the guide element (12) are in engagement with one another at an engagement point (16) such that the handle (11) can be pivoted about the engagement point (16) in order to actuate the pump element (10); the holding element (15) can be moved along the guide element (12); and the handle (11) can be rotated about an axis of rotation (17) by moving the holding element (15) along the guide element (12).

Description

[0001] breast pump system

[0002] The invention relates to a milk pump system (breast pump system) comprising:

[0003] - a connecting element for connecting a milk container to a breast cap, wherein the connecting element has a channel for (in particular fluidic) connecting a cavity of the milk container to a nipple tunnel of the breast cap;

[0004] - a pumping element designed to create a negative pressure in the channel of the connecting element;

[0005] - a handle designed to operate the pumping element.

[0006] It is known to design breast pumps with a variable handle position. EP 3795188 Bl discloses a manual breast pump comprising: a main body with an opening through which expressed breast milk passes; a cap connected to the main body and placed on the breast; a diaphragm provided for the main body, which creates a vacuum in the opening; a retaining element attached to the main body and rotatable relative to it; and a handle for deforming the diaphragm, the handle being held by the retaining element. The handle and the retaining element can be rotated together relative to the main body. The handle is connected to the retaining element via a spindle section.A disadvantage of this design is the complexity of assembling the breast pump, as the retaining element must be attached to the main body and the handle to the spindle section. Furthermore, when the handle and retaining element are twisted simultaneously, the force is transmitted via the spindle section, which can lead to the handle tilting relative to the retaining element or the retaining element becoming jammed against the main body. Due to the retaining element, the pivot point of the handle for pumping is also shifted far upwards (even above the diaphragm), which can negatively impact ergonomics and necessitate a large pumping stroke. A similar breast pump, shown in EP 3646902 Bl, has similar drawbacks. Another similar breast pump, also using a pivoting axis, is shown in EP 4032566 Bl.An additional disadvantage is that the handle cannot be rotated around the axis of symmetry of the milk container, but around an axis that is tilted relative to it.

[0007] In US 7,727,182 B2, the handle is rotatable, but not around an axis of symmetry of the milk container. Furthermore, the handle rests only on the flexible membrane during pumping, which can lead to poor pumping performance.

[0008] Further breast pumps are shown in CN 105 477 704 A, US 2003 / 204164 Al, and CN 105 343 949 A.

[0009] These breast pumps are also difficult to assemble.

[0010] It is an object of the present invention to alleviate or eliminate at least one of the disadvantages of the prior art. In particular, it is an object of the present invention to propose a breast pump with a swiveling handle that is easy to assemble, requires a small stroke of the handle for pumping, can be mounted in any position within the swivel range, does not require disassembly and reassembly for angle adjustment, requires essentially the same maximum stroke and / or generates the same maximum vacuum in every swivel position, and / or has as few separate components as possible.

[0011] This is solved by a breast pump system as mentioned at the beginning, wherein the connecting element has a guide element in the form of a groove or elongated projection and the handle has a retaining element, wherein the retaining element and the guide element are in engagement with each other, so that the handle can pivot around the engagement point to actuate the pumping element.

[0012] The handle is thus supported directly on the connecting element. This eliminates the need for an intermediate piece between the handle and the connecting element. Furthermore, the pivot point is located close to the connecting element, resulting in a shorter stroke required for pumping and a smaller distance that needs to be reached by hand. This makes pumping easier and allows for ergonomic pumping, even for people with small hands. Since the guide element is formed by an elongated projection or a groove, the retaining element can be moved along the guide element (especially circumferentially). The handle is therefore rotatable. This allows the position of the handle to be changed, resulting in a more ergonomic position.The breast pump can be assembled in any rotational position of the handle by engaging the retaining element with the guide element at the relevant point. The engagement of the retaining element and the guide element specifically means that the retaining element engages with the guide element and / or that the guide element engages with the retaining element.

[0013] The breast pump system is preferably a breast pump or a component of a breast pump (e.g., connectable to an (external) breast shield and / or an (external) milk container). The breast pump system need not include the milk container and / or the breast shield, but may include them. Preferably, the connecting element is designed for a detachable connection (e.g., by screwing) to a milk container. Alternatively, the connecting element can also be integral with the milk container. Preferably, the connecting element is designed for a detachable connection with a breast shield, in particular by inserting the nipple tunnel of the breast shield into the connecting element. Alternatively, the connecting element can also be integral with the breast shield. Preferably, the channel of the connecting element connects an opening to the cavity of the milk container to the nipple tunnel of the breast shield.

[0014] The retaining element is preferably formed in the form of a retaining projection and / or a retaining recess (i.e., in particular, a convex section). A retaining projection may also be provided that has a recess with which the guide element engages. The retaining element and the guide element are designed such that the handle is supported on the guide element via the retaining element during pumping, and the point of engagement between the retaining element and the guide element defines a pivot axis about which the handle pivots during pumping.

[0015] Preferably, a pivot axis of the handle (for pumping, i.e., for actuating the pumping element by the user) passes through the engagement point. Preferably, the handle has a retaining section for connection to the pumping element and a lever arm (for actuation by a user of the breast pump or breast pumping system). Preferably, the pivot axis is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the lever arm. Preferably, the retaining section and the lever arm are connected at an angle to each other. Preferably, two retaining elements are provided, with each retaining element and the guide element engaging with each other. The retaining elements are preferably parallel to each other and / or of the same shape. Alternatively, the retaining elements can be at an acute or obtuse angle to each other.In this embodiment, the pivot axis of the handle (for actuating the pump element) is thus defined by the two engagement points. Preferably, each of the retaining elements has one or more of the preferred embodiments described in this disclosure.

[0016] Preferably, the pump element has a diaphragm through which the pump element (particularly in conjunction with the non-return valve mentioned below in the channel) can create a vacuum in the connecting element or in the milk flow channel via an opening in the connecting element, particularly in the channel of the connecting element. Preferably, the pump element is made in one piece. Preferably, the handle is made in one piece. Preferably, the connecting element is made in one piece. Preferably, the breast pump system is a manual breast pump or suitable for use in a manual breast pump. Alternatively, the breast pump system is an electric breast pump or suitable for use in an electric breast pump. Preferably, the pump element has an elastic material with a Shore A hardness of preferably between 0 and 100, particularly preferably between 20 and 85, and even more preferably between 40 and 70.Preferably, the pump element is made of an elastic material. The pump element can be made of different materials. The pump element can, for example, be manufactured using multi-component injection molding.

[0017] The groove is, in particular, an elongated depression. The projection is, in particular, an elongated projection. A groove, for example, can be provided as the groove. Preferably, the guide element has a cross-section perpendicular to a longitudinal direction of the guide element, at least in one section along the longitudinal direction, that is constant (in particular in a sliding section along which the retaining element is displaceable; wherein the sliding section preferably comprises at least 180°). Preferably, the guide element is rotationally symmetrical about a pump main axis.

[0018] The connecting element preferably has a breast cap connecting section that is designed for connection with, or accommodates, the nipple tunnel. The breast cap connecting section is generally cylindrical or conical. The breast cap is preferably insertable into the connecting element along with the nipple tunnel and is held in place by friction. Preferably, when removed from the breast cap connecting section, the nipple tunnel has an outer circumference that is equal to or larger than the inner circumference of the breast cap connecting section. Due to the increased size of the nipple tunnel, it advantageously seals against the connecting element. Preferably, the breast cap can be separated from the connecting element without damage. The breast cap connecting section preferably has the shape of a general cylinder, in particular a circular cylinder or an elliptical shape.The nipple tunnel preferably has the shape of a general cylinder or a truncated cone. The breast shield connection section of the connecting element is preferably adapted to the nipple tunnel. Instead of the generally cylindrical shape, a truncated cone or truncated pyramid shape can also be provided for the nipple tunnel and / or the breast shield connection section. Furthermore, the connecting element preferably has a connection element for connecting to the milk container (external or enclosed within the breast pump system). The connection element is preferably generally cylindrical. The milk container is preferably connectable to the connecting element, e.g., by screwing it onto the connecting element, by clipping it on, or by connecting it via a bayonet fitting.Preferably, the connecting element has an axial extension direction that is at an angle between 65° and 155°, more preferably between 80° and 140°, and particularly preferably substantially perpendicular, to an axial extension direction of the breast cap connection section. The fact that the breast cap connection section or the nipple tunnel is, in particular, generally cylindrical or conical, means especially that it has the shape of the lateral surface of a general cylinder or cone (i.e., a truncated cone).

[0019] The breast funnel is specifically designed for the (partial) intake of a breast. The breast funnel can be permanently or detachably connected to the nipple tunnel. The breast funnel is therefore optionally interchangeable. The breast funnel can, for example, be straight or angled. The milk container (external or enclosed by the breast pump system) is preferably rigid. Preferably, the channel forms a milk flow path from the nipple tunnel or the breast shield to the cavity of the milk container, the milk flow path passing through a valve that preferably allows a vacuum to build up in the channel or nipple tunnel, e.g., a check valve (one-way valve), in particular a duckbill valve. The check valve is specifically provided in the channel, in the opening to the cavity of the milk container. Preferably, the check valve is formed as a single piece.Optionally, the channel has a nipple tunnel section leading to the nipple tunnel and a milk container section leading to the cavity of the milk container, the two sections preferably being connected at an angle. Optionally, the check valve is located in one half of the milk container section that is closer to the pumping element. This further reduces the volume to be evacuated. Optionally, the check valve is located outside the space bounded by the milk container. During pumping, the pumped milk is guided along the milk flow path. Preferably, the channel has an opening or connection through which the pumping element can create a vacuum in the connecting element or in the milk flow channel.

[0020] It is advantageous if the retaining element is movable along the guide element.

[0021] It is preferred if the guide element extends essentially along a circular arc or a (open or closed) polygon. Preferably, one axis of rotation of the handle lies at the center of the circular arc. Thus, the stroke angle of the handle does not change when it is rotated.

[0022] It is advantageous if the guide element extends circumferentially around the connecting element over an angular range of at least 30°, preferably at least 90°, particularly preferably at least 180°, even more preferably at least 250°, and still more preferably at least 270°. At the very least, the handle can be adjusted over a wide angular range. In particular, this allows for both left- and right-handed use. Furthermore, it facilitates easier pumping by another person (e.g., a midwife).

[0023] It is advantageous if the handle can be rotated about an axis of rotation (in particular the one mentioned above) by sliding the retaining element along the guide element. Preferably, the maximum pivot angle through which the handle can be pivoted to actuate the pumping element is independent of the rotational position of the handle about the axis of rotation.

[0024] It is preferred that the connecting element has a (milk container) connecting section for attaching the (particularly external or enclosed by the milk pump system) milk container, wherein the connecting section has a substantially rotationally symmetrical surface, the axis of rotation of the handle being parallel to an axis of rotational symmetry of the surface, and in particular, the axis of rotation and the axis of rotational symmetry coinciding. This ensures that the handle allows the same pivoting stroke and thus the same vacuum level in every rotational (angle) position. Furthermore, the distance to be covered when pumping by hand is independent of the selected rotational position. The milk container connecting section preferably has a thread.

[0025] It is preferred if the milk container has a substantially rotationally symmetrical outer surface, wherein the axis of rotation of the handle is parallel to an axis of rotational symmetry of the outer surface of the milk container, and in particular these coincide.

[0026] It is advantageous if the retaining element (particularly in the form of a retaining projection) has a fork-shaped end piece that engages with the guide element. Preferably, the guide element is designed as a projection. This makes the guide element particularly easy to manufacture. In particular, the guide element can thus engage with the retaining element or (partially) lie within it. Specifically, the retaining element has two arms at its end (the end furthest from the lever arm).

[0027] It is preferred if the pump element has a retaining pin and the handle has a retaining opening, wherein the retaining pin is guided through the retaining opening and has an undercut to hold the handle (in particular by means of a snap connection), such that pivoting the handle about the engagement point causes the pump element to be actuated. Pivoting the handle (in particular the lever arm) towards the connecting element or the milk container thus results in a pull on the retaining pin of the pump element away from the connecting element (i.e. upwards in a stationary position of the breast pump or breast pump system with a connected (external) milk container).Preferably, the undercut has a preload on the retaining pin and / or the handle in the area of ​​the retaining opening has a preload in the disassembled (dismounted) state, so that in the assembled (mounted) state the handle is pulled by the undercut towards the connecting element (or towards a pump diaphragm of the pump element). In particular, an axis of rotation of the handle runs through the retaining pin and / or is located at the center of the retaining opening. The handle is thus easily rotatable, whereby when rotated, the handle with the retaining opening rotates around the retaining pin (and the retaining element is guided along the guide element). For assembly, the retaining pin with the undercut is pulled / pressed through the retaining opening. Preferably, the retaining pin with the undercut can be pulled and / or pressed through the retaining opening without damage.Preferably, the upper side of the retaining pin facing away from the milk container is closed.

[0028] It is advantageous if the connecting element forms a (particularly cup-shaped) receiving chamber for the pumping element, which is connected to the channel, with the pumping element essentially covering the receiving chamber. When the pumping element is actuated, the space between the pumping element and the receiving chamber is enlarged to generate a vacuum. A cup shape, in particular, allows for a smaller stroke required to generate a predetermined vacuum compared to a pot shape and improves cleanability.

[0029] It is advantageous if the pumping element (particularly adjacent to the cup-shaped section) has a circumferential snap-fit ​​rim that snaps into place with a circumferential mounting rim of the connecting element that defines the receiving chamber. This holds the snap-fit ​​element in place on the connecting element. To assemble the breast pump system, the snap-fit ​​rim is slid / pulled / pressed over the mounting rim. Preferably, the snap-fit ​​rim and the mounting rim are designed such that the pumping element is suctioned to the connecting element during pumping. This counteracts the mechanical pull-out force during pumping. Preferably, the snap-fit ​​rim seals the receiving chamber.

[0030] Preferably, the pump element has a sealing lip, which extends circumferentially. The sealing lip preferably extends (circumferentially) on a circumferential flange of the pump element, which adjoins or delimits the section of the pump element that covers or lies within the receiving space. Preferably, the snap-on edge (particularly circumferentially) abuts the circumferential flange. Advantageously, the same pump element can be used for both manual and electric pumping thanks to the sealing lip.

[0031] Preferably, the receiving chamber (except for an area around an opening for a connection to the channel of the connecting element, which connects the opening to the cavity of the milk container with the nipple tunnel, whereby a vacuum can be generated in the channel via the connection to the pump element) is spherical cap-shaped (cap-shaped). A spherical cap refers to the curved part of the surface of a spherical segment. A spherical segment is the part of a spherical body that is separated by a plane. In the area around the opening for the connection to the channel, the receiving chamber is optionally flat. This area preferably has a radius of less than 15 mm, more preferably less than 1 mm, and most preferably less than 0.7 mm. Alternatively, the receiving chamber can, for example, have an elliptical shape, a wave-like structure, or variable radius profiles in cross-section.The receiving space can also be cylindrical, conical, truncated conical, pot-shaped or flat.

[0032] In particular, the receiving space is rotationally symmetrical. Specifically, the connecting element in the region of the cup-shaped receiving space has a curvature with a radius of curvature of between 10 mm and 65 mm, preferably between 15 mm and 45 mm, and most preferably between 20 mm and 30 mm (in a section through a plane in which a rotational symmetry axis of the receiving space lies). In particular, the radius of curvature of the connecting element in the region of the cup-shaped receiving space varies by less than 50%, preferably less than 30%, with respect to a maximum radius of curvature (in a section through a plane in which a rotational symmetry axis of the receiving space lies).A wall of the connecting element in a circumferential edge region adjoining the circumferential edge of the receiving space forms an angle of preferably less than 30°, more preferably less than 20°, and even more preferably less than 10° with the rotational symmetry axis of the receiving space. This steep to vertical inner edge of the connecting element promotes a tight and stable fit during pumping.

[0033] It is preferred if the pump element (in a rest position of the handle) is designed to be at least partially or substantially in contact with the connecting element in the area of ​​the receiving space. This keeps the size of the space to be evacuated as small as possible.

[0034] It is advantageous if the pumping element has a (particularly shell-shaped) section, wherein the negative pressure in the channel of the connecting element can be generated by deformation of the shell-shaped section.

[0035] It is advantageous if an outer surface of the pump element facing the connecting element is substantially rotationally symmetric in the cup-shaped section. This allows for 360° free mounting of the pump element on the connecting element (especially if the receiving space of the connecting element is also rotationally symmetric). Preferably, an outer surface of the connecting element facing the pump element is rotationally symmetric in the receiving space. In a circumferential edge region adjoining the snap-on edge, the outer surface of the pump element facing the connecting element forms an angle of preferably less than 30°, particularly preferably less than 20°, and even more preferably less than 10° with the axis of rotational symmetry of the outer surface. This steep to vertical inner edge of the pump element ensures a tight and stable fit during pumping.

[0036] It is preferred that the cup-shaped section of the pumping element has a depth, measured from a tip of the cup-shaped section to a plane in which an edge of the cup-shaped section (in particular a line where the cup-shaped section is bounded by the snap-on edge) lies, and that the cup-shaped section has a width corresponding to the greatest extent in the plane in which the edge of the cup-shaped section lies, wherein the width is at least 1.5 times, preferably at least twice, particularly preferably 2.5 times, the depth. A shallow geometry allows for smaller stroke lengths to be required.

[0037] Preferably, the pump element has stiffening ribs on a side facing away from the connecting element. These enable a higher vacuum with a short stroke, thus allowing for a more ergonomic design of the breast pump system. Furthermore, the ribs allow the handle to return to a resting position, even when there is no negative pressure in the channel.

[0038] It is advantageous if the handle has a stop element that is longitudinally displaceable (in particular, displaceable along the lever arm) and which, in at least one sliding position, abuts the connecting element when the handle is pivoted to actuate the pump element, thus limiting the pivot angle of the handle in at least one sliding position. Preferably, in a second sliding position, the stop element limits the pivot angle to a different angle. Preferably, the maximum pivot angle of the handle is limited by the handle abutting the connecting element or the milk container. Preferably, in a further (e.g., third) sliding position, the stop element does not limit the pivot angle, so that the maximum pivot angle of the handle is predetermined by the handle abutting the connecting element or the milk container.

[0039] Preferably, the connecting element has a section with an increasing cross-section, wherein the stop element is at least partially displaceable along the longitudinal direction of the handle along the section with the increasing outer cross-section, such that when the handle is pivoted, the stop element abuts at the first position of the section of the connecting element with the increasing outer cross-section in a first sliding position and at a second position of the section of the connecting element with the increasing cross-section in a second sliding position, so that in the first sliding position the stop element limits the pivot angle of the handle to a first angle and in the second sliding position the pivot angle of the handle to a second (different from the first) angle. Preferably, the handle has a scale on a side facing away from the connecting element, which indicates different sliding positions of the stop element.Preferably, the stop element engages an outer surface of the (milk container) connecting section of the connecting element in at least one sliding position when the handle is pivoted. Preferably, at least two, more preferably at least three, and even more preferably at least four sliding positions are provided. Preferably, the stop element can be continuously moved and adjusted, thus allowing continuous adjustment of the maximum vacuum. The movable stop element makes it possible to adjust (or limit) the vacuum to be generated.

[0040] The invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to particularly preferred embodiments shown in the figures, to which, however, the invention is not limited.

[0041] Fig. 1 schematically shows a preferred embodiment of a milk pump system according to the invention in an exploded view.

[0042] Fig. 2 schematically shows the same design of the breast pump system as Fig. 1 from the side.

[0043] Fig. 3a schematically shows the same embodiment of the breast pump system as Fig. 1 in a sectional view.

[0044] Fig. 3b shows detail A of Fig. 3a.

[0045] Fig. 4a schematically shows the same embodiment of the milk pump system as Fig. 1 with a handle in a first rotational position in a top view.

[0046] Fig. 4b schematically shows the same embodiment of the milk pump system as Fig. 1 with the handle in a second rotational position in a top view.

[0047] Fig. 4c schematically shows the same embodiment of the milk pump system as Fig. 1 with the handle in a third rotational position in a top view. Figs. 5a and 5b schematically show a second preferred embodiment of a holding element and a guide element.

[0048] Figures 6a and 6b schematically show a third preferred embodiment of the retaining element and the guide element.

[0049] Fig. 7a schematically shows a preferred embodiment of a connecting element in a sectional view.

[0050] Fig. 7b schematically shows the same design of the connecting element as Fig. 7a in a perspective view.

[0051] Fig. 8a schematically shows a first preferred embodiment of a pump element in a perspective view.

[0052] Fig. 8b schematically shows the same embodiment of the pump element as Fig. 8a in a section.

[0053] Fig. 9a schematically shows another preferred embodiment of a breast pump system with a stop element in a first sliding position in a rest position in a side view.

[0054] Fig. 9b schematically shows the same breast pump system as Fig. 9a with the stop element in the first sliding position in a pumping position in a side view.

[0055] Fig. 9c schematically shows the same breast pump system as Fig. 9a with the stop element in the first sliding position in the rest position in a perspective view.

[0056] Fig. 10a schematically shows the same breast pump system as

[0057] Fig. 9a with the stop element in a second sliding position in a rest position in a side view.

[0058] Fig. 10b schematically shows the same breast pump system as Fig. 9a with the stop element in the second sliding position in a pumping position in a side view. Fig. 10c schematically shows the same breast pump system as Fig. 9a with the stop element in the second pumping position in a rest position in a perspective view.

[0059] Fig. 11a schematically shows a second preferred embodiment of a pump element in a perspective view.

[0060] Fig. 11b schematically shows the same design form of the pump element as Fig. 11a in a section.

[0061] Fig. 12a schematically shows the breast pump system of the embodiment of Fig. 1 in an alternative use case in a side view.

[0062] Fig. 12b schematically shows the breast pump system in the alternative application shown in Fig. 12a from below.

[0063] Fig. 12c schematically shows the breast pump system in the alternative application of Fig. 12a in a sectional view along the section line AA in Fig. 12b.

[0064] Fig. 12d shows detail B of Fig. 12c.

[0065] Fig. 1 schematically shows a preferred embodiment of a breast pump system 1 according to the invention in an exploded view. Fig. 2 shows the same breast pump system 1 assembled from the side. Fig. 3a shows the same breast pump system 1 in a sectional view. Fig. 3b shows detail A of Fig. 3a.

[0066] The breast pump system 1 is connected to a (preferably external) milk container 2 with a cavity 3 for receiving expressed milk and a (preferably external) breast shield 4, which has a breast funnel 5 and a nipple tunnel 6. The milk container 2 and the breast shield 4 are preferably each detachably connected to the breast pump system 1. The breast pump system 1 can also include the milk container 2 and the breast shield 4. In this case, the breast pump system 1 is preferably a breast pump. An insert for the breast shield 5 can also be provided (not shown), which can serve, in particular, to vary the diameter of the breast shield 5 to accommodate different sized nipples.The breast pump system 1 further comprises a connecting element 7 for connecting the milk container 2 to the breast shield 4, wherein the connecting element 7 has a channel 8 for (in particular fluidic) connection of an opening 9 to the cavity 3 of the milk container 2 to the nipple tunnel 6 of the breast shield 4, a pumping element 10 which is configured to generate a vacuum in the channel 8 of the connecting element 7, and a handle 11 which is configured to actuate the pumping element 10. The breast pump system 1 has a check valve 41 in the channel 8.The connecting element 7 has a guide element 12 in the form of an elongated projection 14, and the handle 11 has a retaining element 15 in the form of a recess (and an adjoining projection), wherein the retaining element 15 and the guide element 12 engage with each other (i.e., the elongated projection 14 engages in the recess), so that the handle 11 can pivot about the engagement point 16 to actuate the pumping element 10. During pivoting, the handle 11 is thus supported directly against the guide element 12 of the connecting element 7 by means of the retaining element 15. This means that a pivot axis about which the handle 11 pivots during pumping is located close to the connecting element 7 or its center, thus minimizing the necessary stroke or the distance to be covered during pumping. The pivot axis passes through the engagement point 16.

[0067] Figures 2 and 3 show the handle 11 in a rest position. The handle 11 has a retaining section 38 for connection to the pumping element 10 and a lever arm 39 (for actuation by a user of the breast pump system 1). The pivot axis is essentially perpendicular to the longitudinal extension direction 33 of the lever arm 39. The retaining section 38 and the lever arm 39 are connected at an angle to each other. To actuate the pumping element 10, the lever arm 39 is pivoted in the direction of the connecting element 7.

[0068] In particular, two corresponding retaining elements 15 are provided (not shown in Figures 1 to 3), which are parallel to each other and identically designed. Alternatively, the two retaining elements 15 can also be positioned at an angle to each other. These engage the guide element 12 in the circumferential direction of the connecting element 7 at intervals from each other, with the pivot axis passing through both corresponding engagement points 16. The following specifications for one retaining element 15 therefore refer to both retaining elements 15.

[0069] When assembling the breast pump system 1, the retaining element 15 (or, in the case of multiple retaining elements 15, the retaining elements 15) is engaged with the guide element 12 at the desired position. The retaining element 15 is slidable along the guide element 12. In the assembled state, the handle 11 can be rotated by sliding the retaining element 15(s) along the guide element 12. The guide element 12 extends essentially along a circular arc, which means that the (resting) swivel angle of the handle 11 does not change when rotated. (Alternatively, the guide element 12 could also run along a polygon. This would allow the handle 11 to be positioned at defined angles of rotation.)In this embodiment, the guide element 12 extends in the circumferential direction 40 of the connecting element 7 approximately over the largest possible angular range on both sides of the breast-cap connection section 37 of the connecting element 7, specifically over an angular range of approximately 280°. This allows the handle 11 to rotate over a large angular range about the axis of rotation 17. The connecting element 7 has a connecting section 18 for attaching the milk container 2, wherein the connecting section 18 essentially has a rotationally symmetrical surface 19. The axis of rotation 17 of the handle 11 coincides with the axis of rotation symmetry 20 of the surface 19. The maximum pump stroke (i.e., the maximum swivel angle of the handle 11) is determined and limited, in particular, by the handle 11 contacting the connecting element 7, specifically the rotationally symmetrical surface 19 of the connecting element 7.Since the axis of rotation 17 coincides with the axis of rotational symmetry 20, the same maximum stroke and thus the same maximum vacuum are always guaranteed, regardless of the rotational position of the handle 11. Figures 4a to 4c show the same breast pump system 1 with the handle 11 in different rotational positions. In Figure 4b, the handle 11 is in a central rotational position, in which the lever arm 39 is opposite the breast shield 4.

[0070] An alternative embodiment of the retaining element 15 (or the two retaining elements 15) and the guide element 12 (which could also be used in the embodiment of Fig. 1) is shown in Figs. 5a and 5b. In this embodiment, the retaining element 15 is designed as a retaining projection and has a fork-shaped end piece 21 with which the guide element 12 engages. The two arms of the fork-shaped end piece 21 encompass the elongated projection 14.

[0071] Another alternative embodiment of the retaining element 15 (or the two retaining elements 15) and the guide element 12 can be seen in Figures 6a and 6b. This embodiment can also be used as an alternative in the breast pump system 1 of Figure 1. In this embodiment, the retaining element 15 is designed as a single arm in the form of a retaining projection. The guide element 12 has a groove into which the retaining element 15 engages.

[0072] The connecting element 7 of the breast pump system 1 of Fig. 1 is shown separately in Figures 7a and 7b for better illustration. The pumping element 10 of the breast pump system 1 of Fig. 1 is shown separately in Figures 8a and 8b for better illustration.

[0073] The connecting element 7 forms a substantially bowl-shaped receiving space 24 for the pumping element 10, which is connected to the channel 8, with the pumping element 10 substantially covering the receiving space 24. The pumping element 10 has a circumferential snap-fit ​​edge 25 that snaps into place with a circumferential mounting edge 26 of the connecting element 7, which defines the receiving space 24. This secures the pumping element 10 to the connecting element 7 during pumping. It also seals the space to be evacuated between the connecting element 7 and the pumping element 10 from the surrounding environment. In the rest position of the handle 11, the pumping element 10 rests substantially against the connecting element 7 in the area of ​​the receiving space 24. This minimizes the size of the space to be evacuated, thereby reducing the required stroke.

[0074] The pump element 10 has a retaining pin 22, and the handle 11 has a retaining opening 23. The retaining pin 22 is guided through the retaining opening 23 and has an undercut 36 to hold the handle 11. Pivoting the handle 11 about the engagement point 16 thus actuates the pump element 10. When the handle 11 is rotated, the retaining opening 23 rotates about the retaining pin 22. The pump element 10 has a cup-shaped section 27. Deformation of the cup-shaped section 27 creates the vacuum in the channel 8 of the connecting element 7. When the handle 11 is pivoted, the retaining pin 22 is pulled upwards from the retaining opening 23 (away from the connecting element 7 or the milk container 2). The retaining pin 22 causes an upward pull on the cup-shaped section 27, thereby creating the negative pressure.The pump element 10 (in particular the retaining pin 22 and a diaphragm forming the shell-shaped section 27) is, in particular, manufactured as a single piece. The pump element 10 may also have a handle element (not shown in this embodiment) which simplifies assembly.

[0075] An outer surface 28 of the pump element 10 facing the connecting element 7 in the cup-shaped section 27 is essentially rotationally symmetric. Preferably, the receiving space 24 of the connecting element 7 is also rotationally symmetric. The cup-shaped section 27 of the pump element 10 has a depth 29, measured from a tip 30 of the cup-shaped section 27 to a plane 31 in which an edge of the cup-shaped section 27 lies, and a width 32, which corresponds to the greatest extent in the plane 31 in which the edge of the cup-shaped section 27 lies. The width 32 is more than twice the depth 29. This reduces the required stroke height.

[0076] The pump element 10 has a ribbing 44 in the form of ribs to reinforce the cup-shaped section 27. These make it possible to achieve a stronger vacuum with a short stroke and to allow the handle 11 to return to its original position even without a vacuum.

[0077] To assemble the breast pump, the retaining pin 22 of the pump element 10 with the undercut 36 is pulled / pressed through the retaining opening 23 of the handle 11 to attach the pump element 10 to the handle 11. This is simplified by the fact that the upper surface of the retaining pin 22 (especially adjacent to the undercut 36), which faces away from the milk container 2 or the connecting element 7, is closed. The closed upper surface also stiffens the connecting element 7 in the area of ​​the undercut 36. The handle 11, with the pump element 10 attached, is placed onto the connecting element 7. In doing so, the snap-on edge 25 is pulled over the fastening edge 26, and the retaining element 15 and the guide element 12 are engaged with each other.

[0078] The pump element 10 further comprises a sealing lip 45, which extends in particular around its entire circumference. The sealing lip 45 extends in particular from a circumferential flange 46 of the pump element 10, which connects to or delimits that section of the pump element 10 which covers or lies within the receiving space 24. The snap-on edge 25 connects to the circumferential flange 46. The sealing lip 45 serves in particular for the connection of an electric pump, as described in more detail in connection with Figures 12a to 12d.

[0079] Figures 9a to 10c show another preferred embodiment of the breast pump system. This embodiment is essentially the same as that shown in Figure 1, but in this embodiment, the handle 11 additionally has a stop element 34 for limiting the vacuum. This stop element is displaceable in the longitudinal direction 33 (particularly when viewed locally) of the handle 11 (or of the lever arm 39 of the handle 11). The handle 11 is shown in a rest position in Figures 9a, 9c, 10a, and 10c, and in its maximally pivoted position (in which the pumping element 10 is maximally actuated) in Figures 9b and 10b. In this embodiment, the stop element 34 is essentially displaceable between a first and a second sliding position. Figures 9a to 9c show the stop element 34 in the first sliding position, and Figures 9b and 10c show the stop element 34 in the second sliding position. 10a to 10c the stop element 34 in the second sliding position .The connecting element 7 has a section 42 with an increasing cross-section. The outer cross-section (or diameter) increases downwards in section 42. In the first sliding position, when the handle 11 is pivoted, the stop element 34 strikes a first (lower) point of the connecting element 7, thus limiting the maximum pivot angle 35 of the handle 11 and therefore the maximum negative pressure generated with each pumping movement to a first pivot angle. In the second sliding position, when the handle 11 is pivoted, the stop element 34 strikes a second (upper) point of section 42 of the connecting element 7, where the diameter of the connecting element 7 is smaller. Thus, in the second sliding position, the maximum pivot angle is limited to a second pivot angle that is larger than the first pivot angle.Alternatively, in the second sliding position, the stop element 34 could not abut the connecting element 7, so that the maximum swivel angle would only be limited by the lever arm 39 abutting the connecting element 7. The maximum swivel angle of the handle 11, and thus the generated negative pressure, is therefore greater in the second sliding position than in the first sliding position.

[0080] In a modified (not shown) embodiment of Figures 9a to 10c, three or more sliding positions can be provided for the stop element 34. As can also be seen in Figure 9a, the connecting element 7 has a section 42 with an increasing cross-section. In the modified embodiment, the stop element 34 is displaceable at least partially along the section 42 with increasing outer cross-section in the (particularly locally considered) longitudinal extension direction 33 of the handle 11, so that when the handle 11 is pivoted, the stop element 34 abuts at a first (lower) point of the section 42 with increasing outer cross-section in the first sliding position and at a second (further upper) point of the section 42 with increasing cross-section in the second sliding position. The outer cross-section increases downwards in the section 42.The stop element 34 thus limits the swivel angle of the handle 11 to a first angle in the first sliding position and to a second angle, which is larger than the first angle, in the second sliding position. In the third sliding position, the stop element 34 does not abut the connecting element 7; instead, the maximum swivel angle is limited by the contact of the handle 11 with the connecting element 7. Three (or more) different swivel angles and thus generable negative pressures can therefore be set. The handle 11 (in particular the lever arm 39) can also have a scale on a side facing away from the connecting element 7, which indicates different sliding positions of the stop element.

[0081] Continuous adjustment of the sliding position of the stop element 34 is also possible.

[0082] Fig. 11a schematically shows another preferred embodiment of the pump element 10 in a perspective view; Fig. 11b schematically shows the same embodiment in a section. This can be used, for example, in the milk pump system 1 instead of the embodiment of the pump element 10 shown in Figs. 8a and 8b. This embodiment of the pump element 10 is essentially constructed the same way as those in Figs. 8a and 8b, except that, unlike the latter, the upper side of the retaining pin 22 facing away from the milk container 2 or the connecting element 7 is closed, but rather the lower side of the retaining pin 22 facing the milk container 2 or the connecting element 7. This allows the space to be evacuated to be reduced. A sealing lip 45 is also not shown in this embodiment; however, one can also be provided here.

[0083] Fig. 12a schematically shows an alternative use of the breast pump system 1 of the embodiment of Fig. 1 in a side view; Fig. 12b in a bottom view; Fig. 12c in a sectional view along section line AA in Fig. 12b; and Fig. 12d detail B of Fig. 12c. In the alternative use, the breast pump system 1, in particular the connecting section 7 and the pumping element 10, can also be used for an electric breast pump.

[0084] In this application of the breast pump system 1, the handle 11 has been removed. (The breast shield 4 is also removed in Figures 12a to 12d). Instead of the handle 11, a vacuum cap 50 for connection to a pump-motor unit (not shown) is placed on the pump element 10. The vacuum cap 50 forms a sealed chamber over the pump element 10, with a hose connection 51 for connecting the pump-motor unit. By generating a vacuum in the sealed chamber using the pump-motor unit, the pump element 10 can be actuated and milk pumped.

[0085] The vacuum hood 50 preferably has a first circumferential projection 52 and a second circumferential projection 53. It is preferred if the first circumferential projection 52 (in particular with a circumferential tip of the circumferential projection 52) abuts the circumferential flange 46 of the pump element 10 and / or a tip of the sealing lip 45 abuts the first circumferential projection 52, in particular a side wall of the first circumferential projection 52. It is preferred if the second circumferential projection 53 (in particular a circumferential tip of the second circumferential projection 53) rests on the sealing lip 45. The sealing lip 45, in particular together with the first circumferential projection 52 and / or the second circumferential projection 53, serves to seal the enclosed space (except for the hose connection 51) from the environment. Under increasing vacuum influence, the vacuum hood 50 thus adheres more and more strongly to the sealing lip 45.the pump element 10 .

[0086] To convert the assembly shown in Fig. 1 to this alternative use as an electric breast pump, the handle 11 is first removed (or, during initial assembly, the pump element 10 is snapped onto the connecting element 7). The vacuum hood 50 is then placed onto the connecting element 7 and the pump element 10 (e.g., snapped into place or fastened using a bayonet or threaded connection). The sealing lip 45 is pressed tightly against the vacuum hood 50, so that, as the vacuum increases, it adheres more and more strongly to the pump element 7, as described above. The maximum vacuum can be controlled by the pump motor unit and / or by mechanical stops (ribs, ring ridges, etc.) within the vacuum hood 50 (projecting downwards from the inner dome, not shown here).

Claims

25 Claims:

1. Breast pump system (1) comprising - a connecting element (7) for connecting a milk container (2) to a breast cap (4) , wherein the connecting element (7) has a channel (8) for connecting a cavity (3) of the milk container (2) to a nipple tunnel (6) of the breast cap (4) ; - a pump element (10) which is configured to generate a negative pressure in the channel (8) of the connecting element (7); - a handle (11) which is configured to actuate the pumping element (10); wherein the connecting element (7) has a guide element (12) in the form of a groove or elongated projection (14) and the handle (11) has a retaining element (15), wherein the retaining element (15) and the guide element (12) engage with each other at an engagement point (16) so that the handle (11) is pivotable about the engagement point (16) for actuating the pumping element (10); characterized in that the retaining element (15) is displaceable along the guide element (12), wherein the handle (11) is rotatable about an axis of rotation (17) by displacing the retaining element (15) along the guide element (12).

2. Milk pump system (1) according to claim 1, wherein the guide element (12) extends substantially along a circular arc or a polygonal path.

3. Milk pump system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the guide element (12) extends in the circumferential direction (40) of the connecting element (7) over an angular range of at least 30°, preferably at least 90°, particularly preferably at least 180°, even more preferably at least 250°, and even more preferably at least 270°.

4. Breast pump system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the maximum angle about which the handle (11) can pivot for actuating the pumping element (12) is independent of the rotational position of the handle (11) about the axis of rotation (17).

5. Breast pump system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the connecting element (7) has a connecting section (18) for attaching the milk container (2), wherein the connecting section (18) essentially has a rotationally symmetrical lateral surface (19), wherein the axis of rotation (17) is parallel to an axis of rotational symmetry (20) of the lateral surface (19) is.

6. Milk pump system according to claim 5, wherein in particular the axis of rotation (17) and the axis of rotational symmetry (20) coincide.

7. Breast pump system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the retaining element (15) has a recess with which the guide element (12) engages.

8. Breast pump system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the pump element (10) has a retaining pin (22) and the handle (11) has a retaining opening (23), wherein the retaining pin (22) is guided through the retaining opening (23) and has an undercut (36) to hold the handle (11), such that pivoting the handle (11) about the engagement point (16) causes the pump element (10) to be actuated.

9. Milk pump system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the connecting element (7) forms a receiving space (24) for the pumping element (10) which is connected to the channel (8), wherein the pumping element (10) substantially covers the receiving space (24).

10. Breast pump system (1) according to claim 9, wherein the pump element (10) has a circumferential snap-on edge (25) which is in snap-on connection with a circumferential fastening edge (26) of the connecting element (7) which limits the receiving space (24).

11. Breast pump system (1) according to one of claims 9 or 10, wherein the pump element (10) is in a rest position of the handle (11) is substantially located at the connecting element (7) in the area of ​​the receiving space (24).

12. Milk pump system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the pump element (10) has a cup-shaped section (27), wherein the negative pressure in the channel (8) of the connecting element (7) can be generated by deformation of the cup-shaped section (27).

13. Milk pump system (1) according to claim 12, wherein an outer surface (28) of the pump element (10) facing the connecting element (7) is substantially rotationally symmetric in the shell-shaped section (27).

14. Milk pump system (1) according to one of claims 12 or 13, wherein the cup-shaped section (27) of the pump element (10) has a depth (29) measured from a tip (30) of the cup-shaped section (27) to a plane (31) in which an edge of the cup-shaped section (27) lies, and the cup-shaped section (27) has a width (32) corresponding to the greatest extent in the plane (31) in which the edge of the cup-shaped section (27) lies, wherein the width (32) is at least 1.5 times the depth (29).

15. Breast pump system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the handle (11) has a stop element (34) that is movable in the longitudinal direction (33) of the handle (11) and which, in at least one sliding position, strikes the connecting element (7) when the handle (11) is pivoted to actuate the pump element (10), so that the stop element (34) limits a pivot angle (35) of the handle (11) in the at least one sliding position.

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