A collection bag for human body waste

Abstract

A collection bag (10) for human body wastes, the collection bag comprising: a bag member (1) comprising a first wall (2) and second wall (3), which are at least partly joined together along their edges to define a collection cavity (17) within the bag member (1); a discharge portion (8) comprising a discharge opening (9), where the discharge opening (9) is defined by an unsealed clearance between the first wall (2) and the second wall (3); a first plate member (21) mounted on a front side of the first wall (2); a second plate member (22) mounted on a front side of the second wall (3), wherein the first plate member (21) is mounted on the discharge portion (8) proximal the discharge opening (9) and the second plate member (22) is mounted distally the discharge opening (9); wherein a distal segment of the second wall (3) is adapted to be folded to align the first plate member (21) and the second plate member (22) to a position proximally the discharge opening (9) on opposing sides of the discharge portion (8), thereby reinforce the discharge opening (9).

Description

[0001] A collection bag for human body waste

[0002] Background

[0003] The invention relates to an ostomy appliance in the form of a collection bag for human body wastes. The collection bag comprises a bag member and an inlet opening for allowing human waste to be collected in the bag and an outlet opening for emptying the collected human waste from the bag member.

[0004] This type of drainable collection bags is often used by persons with a stoma. In the case of ileostomy patients and colostomy patients with uncontrolled release of faeces of a more or less fluid consistency, they use a collection bag that needs to be emptied rather frequently. The outlet opening has to be easy to open and re-close after emptying the collection cavity of the bag, while also providing a reliable and tight seal during wearing, i.e. between emptying's.

[0005] Several different designs of closures for human waste collection bag outlets have been developed and are generally known.

[0006] Published international application no. WO99 / 66859 discloses a collection bag having one or more resilient seal members positioned at or near the discharge opening. The resilience of the member or members provides an efficient sealing effect at the beginning and the end, respectively, of the folding operation.

[0007] Published application no. US2009 / 0192479 discloses a collection bag having a bag member and a discharge portion including a discharge opening. A first plate member is positioned on a first film blank forming part of the bag and a second plate member is positioned on an extension of a second film blank. At least one of the edges of the plate members is provided with a fillet or chamfer.

[0008] However, emptying collection bags for human body wastes may for some users be cumbersome and unpleasant. The outlet opening may be opened by a user by pressing the side edges of the discharge portion and the outlet opening towards each other in order to enlarge the area of the outlet opening, and some users may get in contact with output while trying to enlarge the outlet opening, e.g. by pressing a finger in between the edges of the outlet opening. Brief Description of the Drawing

[0009] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of embodiments and are incorporated into and a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate embodiments and together with the description serve to explain principles of embodiments. Other embodiments and many of the intended advantages of embodiments will be readily appreciated as they become better understood by reference to the following detailed description. The elements of the drawings are not necessarily to scale relative to each other. Like reference numerals designate corresponding similar parts.

[0010] Figure 1 shows prior art of a collection bag in a plane view seen from the back side intended to face towards the user, and

[0011] Figure 2 shows a plane view of an embodiment of a collection bag seen from the back side intended to face towards the user and in a first unfolded configuration,

[0012] Figure 3 shows a plane view of an embodiment as shown in figure 2, seen from the front side intended to face away from the user and in a first unfolded configuration,

[0013] Figure 4 shows a plane view of a front side of an embodiment of a collection bag,

[0014] Figure 5 shows a side view of a longitudinal section of the collection bag along the line ll-ll shown in figure 4,

[0015] Figure 6 shows, in a larger scale, a perspective view of the discharge portion of an embodiment of the collection bag,

[0016] Figure 7 shows a sectional side view along line IV-IV of the detail shown in figure 6,

[0017] Figure 8 shows a view corresponding to figure 7 of the detail of the discharge portion of the collection bag in a second folded configuration.

[0018] Detailed Description

[0019] In the following, whenever referring to back side of a device, the referral is to the skin-facing side of the device, when the ostomy appliance is worn by a user. This is the side closest to the user when the ostomy appliance is worn by a user. Likewise, whenever referring to the front side of a device, the referral is to the side facing away from the skin, when the ostomy appliance is worn by a user. Hence, the back side is the side closest to the user, when the appliance is fitted on the user and the front side is the opposite side - the side furthest away from the user in use. Thus, the back side and front side refers to the direction substantially parallel to the stoma of a user.

[0020] In the following, whenever referring to the proximal or distal direction, the referral is in a direction substantially radial the stoma of a user. Whenever referring to a distal end of an element of the collection bag, the referral is to the end furthest away from the stoma of a user, when the appliance is in use, and the proximal end of an element is the opposite end. In other words, when the collection bag is in use a proximal part of the bag is closer to the user than a distal part of the bag.

[0021] The use of the term "longitudinal centre axis" is meant in this disclosure as a centre axis arranged symmetrically extending from a proximal end to a distal end. The longitudinal centre axis (A) is illustrated in figure 2 by a dotted line A. The longitudinal direction is the direction from the proximal end to the distal end, hence parallel to the longitudinal centre axis (A). Hence, the longitudinal direction (D) is extending in the same direction as the longitudinal centre axis (A). The transverse direction is the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal centre axis and the longitudinal direction, which corresponds to the direction across the urine collection bag.

[0022] The use of the words "substantially" and / or "approximately" as a qualifier to certain features or effects in this disclosure is intended to mean that any deviations are within tolerances that would normally be expected by the skilled person in the relevant field.

[0023] The collection bag may assume various configurations, depending on whether the bag is in its discharge position, also called the unfolded and open configuration, an intermediate configuration, where the bag is closed but not locked, or in a configuration of use, where the bag is closed and locked, or any other configurations.

[0024] The term "closed" is to be interpreted as meaning sealingly closed such that virtually no material (ostomy output) present in the collection bag may travel from the inside of the bag to the outside. This closed configuration is attained already when the discharge portion has been folded once such that the plate members have been brought into contact with each other into the above-mentioned closed folded configuration, thereby closing of the discharge opening of the discharge portion. "Locked" should be interpreted to describe a configuration, in which there is no need for a user to keep the discharge portion in its folded configuration manually.

[0025] Embodiments relate to a collection bag for human body wastes, the collection bag comprising: a bag member comprising a first wall and second wall, which are at least partly joined together along their edges to define a collection cavity within the bag member, a discharge portion comprising a discharge opening, where the discharge opening is defined by an unsealed clearance between the first wall and the second wall, a first plate member mounted on a front side of the first wall, and a second plate member mounted on a front side of the second wall, wherein the discharge portion has a dimensional extent in the longitudinal direction corresponding to the size of approx. 3 times the largest size in longitudinal direction of the first plate member or the second plate member, wherein the first plate member is mounted on the discharge portion proximally the discharge opening and the second plate member is mounted distally the discharge opening, and wherein a distal segment of the second wall is adapted to be folded to align the first plate member and the second plate member in longitudinal direction to a position proximal the discharge opening on opposing sides of the discharge portion, thereby reinforce the discharge opening.

[0026] A collection bag as described above provides stiffness to the rim of the discharge portion and the discharge opening, which makes it easier to form a funnel and empty the collection bag. Moreover, when the second plate member is arranged away from the discharge opening when emptying the collection bag, the risk of the second plate member getting in contact with output is reduced. Thus, a user can handle the discharge portion with reduced risk of getting into contact with output at the discharge opening. Additionally, a sustainable solution is provided as the discharge portion of the collection bag is shortened. Hence, material usage is reduced, and due to the discharge portion being shorter the convenience of use is also enhanced, as fewer folding steps are needed when adjusting the discharge portion and the discharge opening between a closed configuration (for collecting human waste) and an open configuration (for emptying the bag).

[0027] In embodiments, the first plate member has a distal edge and the second plate member has a proximal edge, the discharge opening extending transverse the longitudinal direction between the distal edge of the first plate member and the proximal edge of the second plate member, and where the distal segment of the second wall is an extension of the second wall, the second plate member being mounted on the front side of the extension of the second wall. The reinforcement of the second wall is effected by folding and arranging the extension of the discharge portion in the longitudinal direction in order to bring the second plate member proximal the discharge opening to substantially align the first and second plate members in longitudinal direction around the discharge portion to reinforce the rim of the discharge opening. Hence, the stability of the structure of the discharge portion is enhanced, which provides a reliable structure, which may be of convenience to some users. The discharge portion is folded starting from the distal end by initially folding the second plate member against the first plate member, using the distal edge of the first plate member as a pivot.

[0028] The reinforcement provided by the first plate member and the second plate member to the first and second walls forming the discharge portion and discharge opening guides a user to fold the discharge portion as intended, when a user is going to alter the configuration of the collection bag.

[0029] The first and second plate members may be connected or mounted on the respective first and second walls in any suitable manner, for instance attached to the first and second walls in a welding or gluing operation.

[0030] The first and second plate members may be made from materials identical to the material used for the first and second walls, and the first and / or the second plate member may have a larger thickness or may have the same thickness and possess different properties in varying areas of the first and second plate members, such that the first and second plate member provide stiffness to the distal ends of the first and second walls.

[0031] In an embodiment, the collection bag has a configuration, in which the first plate member and the second plate member are arranged one after the other in the longitudinal direction of the discharge portion and substantially in parallel with each other in the transverse direction, wherein the distal edge faces the proximal edge and the first and second plate members have a predetermined distance between the facing edges, the distance being, in the open configuration, smaller than the total thickness of the first plate member and the second plate member. The provision of a distance smaller than the total thickness of the first and second plate members ensures that there will be a tensional force acting on the second wall when the discharge portion is folded to attain the folded and closed configuration. Moreover, this tensional force provides a sealing force acting to press the plate members towards each other in the area around the discharge opening. Additionally, a sustainable solution is provided by shortening the length of the discharge portion of the collection bag. This reduces material usage and enhances convenience, as fewer folding steps are needed, when a user adjusts the discharge portion and the discharge opening between a closed configuration and an open configuration.

[0032] In embodiments, the discharge portion is defined by the first wall and the second wall, where the discharge portion comprises three segments, an upper body portion, a middle body portion and a lower body portion, where the three segments extend consecutively in longitudinal direction of the discharge portion from the proximal end to the distal end, and where the first plate member is positioned on the middle body portion forming at least two folding lines, the at least two folding lines are arranged respectively proximally the proximal edge of the first plate member and distally the distal edge of the first plate member. Thus, a shortened discharge portion reduces material usage. The shortened discharge portion requires fewer folding steps, when handling the collection bag between open and closed configurations. One folding line is positioned at the discharge opening extending in parallel with the discharge opening.

[0033] The discharge portion and the discharge opening are defined by extension segments of the first wall and the second wall.

[0034] In embodiments, the second plate member is positioned on the lower body portion forming a folding line proximally the proximal edge of the second plate member.

[0035] The discharge opening is arranged between the first plate member on the first wall and the second plate member on the second wall. Hence, the discharge opening is arranged between the distal edge of the first plate member and the proximal edge of the second plate member. The most suitable distance in longitudinal direction between the facing edges of the first plate member and the second plate member depends on the stiffness of the plate members and on the resilience of the first and second walls. The distance in longitudinal direction between the distal edge of the first plate member and the proximal edge of the second plate member is in the range from 25-90%, preferably 28-70%, and most preferably 30-45%, of the total thickness of the first plate member and the second plate member.

[0036] In embodiments, the discharge portion comprises one or more first type of locking means arranged on the middle body portion on the back side of the second wall, the one or more first type of locking means being aligned in longitudinal direction with the first plate member. Hereby the second wall and second plate member may be temporarily locked in a position aligning the first plate member and the second plate member in an open configuration. Temporarily locking the first and second plate members in alignment can help distribute the load more evenly across the discharge portion. It also enhances the overall stability of the structure.

[0037] In embodiments, the discharge portion comprises one or more second type of locking means complementary to the one or more first type of locking means, the one or more second type of locking means being arranged on the lower body portion of the discharge portion, and the one or more second type of locking means being positioned on the second wall on the back side of the extension. Hereby, the locking means enable a user to fold and lock the discharge opening in a closed and folded configuration. The second type of locking means can connect with any of the first type of locking means, allowing the second type of locking means to be used in both the open and closed configurations of the collection bag. This flexibility of the locking means enhances the functionality and versatility of the bag, making it adaptable to different needs and situations.

[0038] In embodiments, the upper body portion of the discharge portion comprises foldable protruding locking strips extending transverse the longitudinal direction, where the foldable protruding locking strips comprise two or more of the second type of locking means on the front side of the first wall of the foldable protruding locking strips. The protruding locking strips can fixate the discharge portion in a closed and locked configuration. Hereby, a simple assembly making it easy to use for some users is provided.

[0039] The protruding locking strips may be made from a suitable material, such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), a copolymer of PE and ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), nylon.

[0040] The first and second plate members, the foldable protruding locking strips and the first and second wall may be formed from the same material although the thickness may vary, and the first and second plate members may be provided in a considerably larger thickness.

[0041] In embodiments, the first type of locking means and the second type of locking means are complementary mating locking means.

[0042] In embodiments, the first type of locking means and the second type of locking means are of complementary "hook-and-loop" type fasteners. The first type and second type of locking means are adapted to lock together, e.g., male and female loop and hook fasteners. In embodiments, the first type of locking means is of the type of loop Velcro fastener, and the second type of locking means is of the type hooks Velcro fastener. The ability of the second type of locking means to connect with any of the first type of locking means allows for flexible use in both open and closed configurations, adding to the overall functionality of the collection bag.

[0043] In order to keep the collection bag in the closed and locked configuration, the foldable protruding locking strips protrude from the side edges of the discharge portion at the proximal end thereof. The foldable protruding locking strips, which may be formed integrally with one or both of the first and second walls, are provided with a first set of locking means. The first and second type of locking means are releasably engageable with each other.

[0044] In embodiments, the discharge portion has a dimensional extent in the longitudinal direction corresponding to the size of approx. 3 times the largest size in longitudinal direction of the first plate member or the second plate member. Hereby, the discharge portion is adapted to effectively assist in closing the discharge opening, allowing a user to subsequently fold and secure the discharge portion using the fastening means. It improves convenience of use by reducing the number of folding steps required.

[0045] It is possible to form the first plate member with a larger height than the second plate member. The ratio between the heights of the first and the second plate member may lie in the interval from 1:1 to 4:1 depending on the height of the first plate member. The second plate member should, however, have such a height that it has sufficient torsional strength and stability in order to allow the folding operations to be carried out properly.

[0046] In embodiments, the discharge portion has a dimensional extent in longitudinal direction from the proximal end to the distal end of approx. 6 cm. Hereby, a convenient size for some users is provided.

[0047] The discharge portion may be formed by extending distal end sections of the first and second walls of the bag member. Other solutions are possible, including those in which the walls of the discharge portion are made as separate walls joined to the walls of the bag member in any suitable manner. The first and second walls and also the discharge portion may be made from a suitable flexible plastic sheet or foil material.

[0048] The term "approximately", in this context, means that the measurement is not exact but is close to 6 centimetres. This implies a small margin of error around the stated value. For example, "approx. 6 cm" could reasonably mean a range from about 5.8 cm to 6.2 cm, or even 5.5 cm to 6.5 cm depending on the context and the level of precision required.

[0049] In one embodiment, the segments of the discharge portion have a size in longitudinal direction of approximately 2 cm, such that the distance in longitudinal direction between two folding lines is approx. 2 cm. Hereby, folding of the discharge portion and closing the discharge opening is easier for some users.

[0050] In the longitudinal direction, the first plate member may have a size of 18-22 mm. In transverse direction, the first plate member may have a size of 6-7.2 mm, such as 6.6 mm. Hereby, a convenient size for some users is provided.

[0051] In the longitudinal direction, the second plate member may have a size of 1.2-2.6 mm. In the transverse direction, the first plate member may have a size of 4.7-7 mm.

[0052] In embodiments, the discharge portion has a dimensional extent in longitudinal direction from the proximal end to the distal end of approx. 50-70 mm. Some users may have dexterity issues and may be challenged in handling and folding discharge portions. The size of the discharge portion and the first and second plate members have a convenient size for some users.

[0053] Embodiments relate to the thickness ti of the first plate member and second plate member being larger than the thickness of the first and second walls. The first plate member and the second plate member provide stiffness to the flexible first and second walls, hence stiffness and stability to the discharge portion and the edges of the discharge opening.

[0054] Embodiments relate to the first and second plate members being formed by polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), a copolymer of PE and ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), nylon (PA) or any other suitable material, or a combination of any such materials.

[0055] These materials are known for their strength and resistance to wear and tear. These materials are generally lightweight, which can make the overall product easier to wear and handle.

[0056] In embodiments, the first and / or second walls which may be formed by one film blank being folded, or two or more film blanks joined together along the edges. The bag member and the discharge portion are formed by first and second walls, which are formed by one or more film blanks. In a substantial part of the collection bag, the walls are joined along their edges in any suitable manner, such as by means of one or more welding along the periphery. In embodiments, the walls in the bag member are joined at the periphery by one continuous periphery or by welding.

[0057] In embodiments, the discharge portion is formed by end sections of the walls of the bag member. Other solutions are possible, including those in which the walls of the discharge portion are made as separate walls joined to the walls of the bag member in any suitable manner. The walls (formed by film blanks) may be made from a suitable flexible plastic sheet or foil material. This material should to some extent be stretchable and possess at least some degree of elasticity. Each film blank defining the first and second walls has an inner side that is intended to face the contents of the collection bag and an outward facing outer side. The outward facing side of the first wall is intended to face away from the user in a position of use. Correspondingly, the second wall has an outer side intended to face the user in a position of use and thus forms the back wall of the collection bag.

[0058] In embodiments, closing of the discharge opening is effected by folding the discharge portion in the longitudinal direction in order to bring the first plate member into contact with the second plate member, wherein at least one of the edges of the first and second plate members is provided with a fillet or chamfer. The fillet is a rounded edge or corner. The chamfer is an angled or bevelled edge. The fillet and / or chamfer is used to smooth out a sharp edge, which can help reduce stress concentrations.

[0059] By forming at least one of the edges with a portion in which the cross-section is reduced by a fillet and / or a chamfer, a springing effect is obtained when the discharge portion is folded to attain the folded and closed configuration.

[0060] Preferably, each fillet and / or chamfer extends in the entire width of the first and / or second plate member. This provides for an optimum tight sealing effect during folding of the discharge portion.

[0061] It is preferred that each fillet or chamfer extends in a part of the thickness direction of the first and / or second plate member, preferably such that the chamfer extends in a part of the facing edges in the range 30 to 70% of the thickness of the respective plate member in the area adjacent the discharge opening.

[0062] In an advantageous embodiment, the distal edge of the first plate member and the proximal edge of the second plate member are each provided with a chamfer of approximately 45 degrees extending in the entire width of the respective plate member and over approximately 50% of the thickness of each plate member.

[0063] Alternatively, the fillet and / or chamfer may extend in the entire thickness of the first plate member and / or the second plate member. This presupposes that the first and second plate members are flexible and resilient. In this case, a film blank having lower stretchability may be used and still provide for reliable operation of the collection bag. However, the film blank should still have a relatively large tensile strength.

[0064] Detailed Description of the Drawings

[0065] Embodiments, and features of the various exemplary embodiments described in this application, may be combined with each other ("mixed and matched"), unless specifically noted otherwise.

[0066] The invention relates to an ostomy appliance in the form of a collection bag for human body wastes.

[0067] Figure 1 shows prior art of a collection bag a plane view. The collection bag is seen from the back side intended to face towards the user. The collection bag comprises a bag member 1, an inlet opening 5 and a base plate 6 for connection of the collection bag around a stoma on a user's abdominal wall.

[0068] The prior art collection bag has an elongated discharge portion 8, which extends from a proximal end 8a to a distal end 8d, the elongated discharge portion 8 is intended to be folded at least three times to achieve a closed configuration. The folding lines are indicated by dotted lines dividing the discharge portion into four segments 8x,8y,8z,3e.

[0069] The collection bag 10 comprises a bag member 1 with a first wall and a second wall 3. The first and second wall 3 are joined together to define a cavity for collecting stoma output. The collection bag 10 comprises an inlet opening 5 and an outlet opening for emptying the collected human waste from the bag member 1.

[0070] The bag member 1, which is defined by the first wall 2 and the second wall 3. The first wall 2 and second wall 3 are at least partly joined together along their edges to define a cavity within the bag member 1. Collection bag 10 comprises a locking system comprising protruding locking strips 12,13 and locking means 14. The locking system is mounted on two adjacent segments 8x,8y of the discharge portion 8 for locking the discharge portion 8 in a folded and closed configuration. The locking system comprises a first type of locking means 14, and protruding locking straps 13 having cooperating second type of locking means adapted to releasably couple with the first type of locking means.

[0071] The elongated discharge portion 8 is to be folded from the distal segment 3e towards the proximal end 8a at least three times indicated by dotted lines dividing the discharge portion into the four segments 8x,8y,8z,3e. Changing the configuration of the bag from an open configuration to a closed configuration, the three most distal segments 3e,8z,8y are folded and rolled up, then secured by the locking system in the folded and closed configuration.

[0072] This is possible when the three most distal segments 3e,8z,8y are folded and placed adjacent to the upper segment 8x having the protruding foldable locking straps 13, which may be bent to lock with cooperation first type of locking means keeping the discharge portion in folded and closed configuration.

[0073] Figure 2 shows a plane view of an embodiment of a collection bag seen from the back side intended to face towards the user and in a first unfolded and open configuration.

[0074] The collection bag 10 is seen from the back side intended to face towards the user. The collection bag 10 comprises a bag member 1 having a base plate 6. The base plate 6 and the second wall 3 comprises a through-going inlet opening 5. The base plate 6 is adapted for connecting the collection bag around a stoma on the user's abdominal wall. Human waste, also called output from the stoma, may pass through the inlet opening 5 into a cavity within the collection bag 10. The cavity is connected to the discharge portion 8 and the discharge opening 9 (which is arranged on the front side of the discharge portion, see e.g. fig. 3), which are adapted to allow passage of stoma output for emptying the cavity of human waste.

[0075] The bag member 1 is formed by the first wall and the second wall 3, which are joined together at the periphery 4 of the first and second walls. The discharge portion 8 is also formed by extensions of the first wall and second wall 3. The discharge portion 8 is joined along the edges in any suitable manner, preferably by means of one or more welding seams.

[0076] The discharge portion 8 comprises three segments, an upper segment 8x, a middle segment 8y and a lower segment 8z, respectively. The three segments, the upper, middle and lower segments 8x,8y,8z, extend consecutive in longitudinal direction from the proximal end 8a to the distal end 8b of discharge portion 8. The discharge portion 8 is intended to be folded at least two times, by rolling the discharge portion 8 from the distal end 8d towards the proximal end 8a one the front face of the discharge portion 8 to achieve a closed configuration.

[0077] Firstly, the discharge portion 8 is rolled up along its length, in longitudinal direction, by folding at the dotted line between the lower segment 8z and the middle segment 8y. Lower segment 8z is folded towards the front side of the bag effecting the lower segment 8z being positioned adjacent the middle segment 8y. Then, lower segment 8z and middle segment 8y are folded again at the dotted line between the middle segment 8y and the upper segment 8x to the effect that, by the second folding, the back face of the lower segment 8z is positioned adjacent the front face of the upper segment 8x.When the discharge portion 8 is rolled up by folding twice, a locking system may lock the discharge portion 8 in folded and closed configuration.

[0078] Figure 3 shows a plane view of an embodiment as shown in figure 2, seen from the front side intended to face away from the user and in a first unfolded and open configuration.

[0079] The collection bag 10 comprises a bag member 1, which is defined by the first wall 2 and the second wall. The discharge opening 9 extends transverse the longitudinal direction at the dotted line between the lower segment 8z and the middle segment 8y.

[0080] The middle segment 8y of the discharge portion comprises three layers, the first plate member 21 mounted on the first wall 2 and the second wall, respectively. The lower segment 8z comprises two layers, the second plate member and the extension 3e of second wall, respectively, where the second plate member is mounted on the front of the extension 3e.

[0081] The locking system (30) comprises cooperating first and second type of locking means. The first type of locking means 14 is arranged on the back side of the middle segment 8y, illustrated in figure 3. The second type of locking means is arranged on the front side of two protruding locking strips 12,13, illustrated in figure 2.

[0082] Figure 4 shows a plane view of a front side of an embodiment of a collection bag, and figure 5 shows a side view of a longitudinal section of the collection bag along line ll-ll shown in figure 4. Figures 4 and 5 show the collection bag lo comprising a first wall 2 and a second wall 3. The bag comprises a baseplate 6 mounted on the second wall 3. The baseplate 6 and the second wall 3 comprises a through-going inlet opening 5. At a distance from the inlet opening 5, the discharge portion 8 starts at a proximal end 8a adjacent the bag member 1 and extends in longitudinal direction of the discharge portion 8 to a distal end 8d. The end segments of the walls 2,3 are joined along opposed side edges 8c and 8d. The outlet opening 9 extends between the first plate member 21 and the second plate member 22.

[0083] The locking system (30) comprises a first and a second type of locking means which are re- leasably attachable. The first type of locking means 14 is arranged on the back side of the middle segment 8y, illustrated in figure 5. The second type of locking means 11 is arranged on the front side of two protruding locking strips 12,13 (illustrated in figure 4), and additionally the second type of locking means (15) is arranged on the back side of the extension 3e of the second wall 3 (illustrated in figure 5).

[0084] During emptying of the collection bag 10, the extension 3e distal the outlet opening 9 may be folded towards the back face of the bag, such that the extension 3e is arranged adjacent the back side of the second wall. The first type of locking means 14 and the second type of locking means 15 on the extension 3e may releasably lock the extension 3e away from the outlet opening 9 and to the effect that the first plate member 21 and the second plate member 22 are aligned proximally the outlet opening 9 on opposed sides of the discharge portion 8.

[0085] After emptying the collection bag 10, the extension 3e is detached from the locking means and folded towards the front of the bag and then the discharge portion is rolled / folded into closed configuration by rolling the discharge portion 8 in its longitudinal direction from the distal end towards the bag member 1. The locking means 14 on the middle segment 8y are brought into alignment with the protruding locking strips 12,13, and the locking means may engage with the second type of locking means 11 of the protruding locking strips 12,13, and the collection bag 10 is in closed and locked configuration.

[0086] Figure 6 shows, in a larger scale, a perspective view the discharge portion of an embodiment of the collection bag. The first plate member 21 has a generally rectangular shape, whereas the second plate member 22 has a generally trapezoid shape. The first plate member 21 has a larger height than the second plate member 22. The ratio between the heights of the first and the second plate member in longitudinal direction may lie in the interval from 1:1 to 4:1 depending on the height of the first plate member. The second plate member 22 should, however, have such a height that it has sufficient torsional strength and stability in order to allow the folding operations to be carried out properly. The width of each of the plate members 21,22 should be larger than the distance between the joints at each side edge 8c, 8b and may e.g. be such that the plate members extend over the entire width of the discharge portion. The dimensions of the first plate member may vary, e.g. within an interval of the heightwidth ratio ranging from 1:7 to 1:2.

[0087] Discharge opening 9 is defined by the unsealed clearance between the edges of the first and second plate members 21,22 on the first wall 2 and second wall 3. The first plate member 21 is arranged on the front side of the first wall 2 proximally the discharge opening 9. The second plate member 22 is arranged on the front side of the second wall distally the discharge opening 9. The discharge opening 9 extends in parallel with the edges 21b and 22a of the first and second plate members.

[0088] Figure 7 shows a sectional side view along line IV-IV of the detail shown in figure 6, and figure 8 shows a view corresponding to figure 7 of the detail of the discharge portion of the collection bag in a second folded configuration.

[0089] The first wall 2 is slightly shorter than the second wall 3 measured in the longitudinal direction of the discharge portion 8. The discharge opening 9 is formed in the discharge portion 8 by the clearance between edges of first wall 2 and second wall 3. The second wall 3 comprises the extension 3e, which corresponds to the lower segment 8z shown in figures 2-5.

[0090] The discharge opening 9 is provided as a slit-shaped opening between the distal edge of the first plate member 21 mounted on the edge of the first wall 2 and an inner face of the second wall 3.

[0091] The first plate member 21 is arranged on the front side of the first wall 2 proximally the discharge opening 9. The second plate member 22 is arranged on the front side of the second wall distally the discharge opening 9.

[0092] The second wall 3 extends distally the discharge opening 9. Both the first plate member 21 and the second plate member 22 are arranged on the front face of the first and second walls 2,3 defining the discharge opening 9 there between.

[0093] The first plate member 21 is provided on the first wall 2, such that a distal edge 21b of the first plate member 21 is positioned near or at the distal end edge 2b of the first wall 2. The second plate member 22 is provided on the extension 3e of the second wall, i.e. on the inner side of the extension 3d, such that a proximal edge 22a of the second plate member 22 is positioned opposite (in longitudinal direction) the distal edge 21b of the first plate member 21 and arranged such that the proximal edge 22a and the distal edge 21b face each other forming the discharge opening 9 there in-between.

[0094] In the transverse direction, the distal edge 21b of the first plate member 21 and the proximal edge 22a of the second plate extends in parallel, forming a folding line between the edges of the first and second plate members.

[0095] The discharge opening 9 extends transverse the longitudinal direction between the distal edge 21b of the first plate member 21 and the proximal edge 22a of the second plate member 22. The two edges, the distal edge 21b, and the proximal edge 22a, are facing each other and they are positioned on opposite sides of said discharge opening 9.

[0096] The first and the second plate members 21, 22 are provided with a chamfer 21c, 22c. The chamfer 21c, 22c extending in the entire width of the respective plate member 21, 22. Each chamfer 21c, 22c extends in a part of the thickness direction of the first and second plate member 21, 22, the chamfers 21c, 22c being situated such that the facing edges 21b, 22a are substantially perpendicular to the first and second walls 2 and 3 at the connection of the plate members 21, 22 to the respective first and second walls 2 and 3. The facing edges of the first and the second plate member 21, 22 are chamfered to form a substantially funnel- shaped cross-sectional configuration. Hence, the distal edge 21b of the first plate member 21 faces the proximal edge 22a of the second plate member 22.

[0097] The discharge opening 9 extends between the distal edge 21b of the first plate member 21 and the proximal edge 22a of the second plate member 22. The two edges, the distal edge 21b, and the proximal edge 22a are facing each other and they are positioned on opposite sides of said discharge opening 9.

[0098] Figure 8 shows a view corresponding to figure 7 of the detail of the discharge portion of the collection bag in a second folded configuration.

[0099] The figure illustrates the extension 3e of second wall 3 and the second plate member 22. The extension 3e of the second wall 3 is folded towards the front side of the collection bag such that the first plate member 21 and the second plate member 22 are positioned juxtaposed, to the effect of closing of the discharge opening 9.

[0100] In the unfolded and open configuration, the first and second plate members 21, 22 may be flexed slightly by applying opposite forces to the side edges of the discharge portion 8 in the area of the plate members 21, 22 such that the side edges are moved towards each other in order to enlarge the opening area. In the closed folded configuration, the first and second plate members 21, 22 are in contact with each other.

[0101] An embodiment relates to a collection bag (10) for human body wastes, the collection bag comprises a bag member (1), which comprises a first and second wall (2,3) which are at least partly joined together along the edges to define a collection cavity (17) within the bag member (1). The collection bag comprises a discharge portion (8) comprising a discharge opening (9), where the discharge portion (8) and the discharge opening (9) are defined by the first and second walls (2,3). The collection bag comprises a first plate member (21) mounted on a front side of the first wall (2) and a second plate member (22) mounted on a front side of the second wall (3), where the first plate member (21) is mounted on the discharge portion (8) disposed proximally the discharge opening (9) and the second plate member (22) is disposed distally the discharge opening (9), wherein a distal segment (3e) of the second wall (3) is adapted to be folded to align the first plate member (21) and second plate member (22) to a position proximally the discharge opening (9) on opposing sides of the first wall (2) and second wall (3) defining the discharge portion (8) to thereby reinforce the discharge opening (9).

[0102] An embodiment relates to a collection bag (10) for human body wastes, the collection bag comprises a bag member (1), which comprises a first and second wall (2,3) which are at least partly joined together along the edges to define a collection cavity (17) within the bag member (1). The collection bag comprises a discharge portion (8) comprising a discharge opening (9), where the discharge portion (8) and the discharge opening (9) are defined by the first and second walls (2,3). The collection bag comprises a first plate member (21) mounted on a front side of the first wall (2) and a second plate member (22) mounted on a front side of the second wall (3), where the first plate member (21) is mounted on the discharge portion (8) disposed proximally the discharge opening (9) and the second plate member (22) is disposed distally the discharge opening (9), and the second plate member (22) is disposed distal the discharge opening (9), wherein a distal segment (3e) of the second wall (3) comprising the second plate member (22) is adapted to be folded to position the second plate member proximally the discharge opening and align the first plate member (21) and the second plate member (22) on opposing sides of the discharge portion (8) to reinforce the discharge opening (9).

Claims

Claims1. A collection bag (10) for human body wastes, the collection bag comprising: a bag member (1) comprising a first wall (2) and a second wall (3), which are at least partly joined together along their edges to define a collection cavity (17) within the bag member (1), a discharge portion (8) comprising a discharge opening (9), where the discharge opening (9) is defined by an unsealed clearance between the first wall (2) and the second wall (3), a first plate member (21) mounted on a front side of the first wall (2), and a second plate member (22) mounted on a front side of the second wall (3), wherein the discharge portion (8) has a dimensional extent in the longitudinal direction corresponding to the size of approx. 3 times the largest size in longitudinal direction of the first plate member (21) or the second plate member (22), wherein the first plate member (21) is mounted on the discharge portion (8) proximally the discharge opening (9) and the second plate member (22) is mounted distally the discharge opening (9), and wherein a distal segment of the second wall (3) is adapted to be folded to align the first plate member (21) and the second plate member (22) to a position proximally the discharge opening (9) on opposing sides of the discharge portion (8), thereby reinforcing the discharge opening (9).

2. A collection bag according to claim 1, wherein the first plate member (21) has a distal edge (21b) and the second plate member (22) has a proximal edge (22a), the discharge opening (9) extending transverse the longitudinal direction between the distal edge (21b) of the first plate member (21) and the proximal edge (22a) of the second plate member (22), and where the distal segment of the second wall (3) is an extension (3e) of the second wall (3), the second plate member (22) being mounted on the front side of the extension (3a) of the second wall (3).

3. A collection bag according to claim 1, wherein the discharge portion (8) is defined by the first wall (2) and the second wall (3), where the discharge portion (8) comprises three segments, an upper body portion (8x), a middle body portion (8y) and a lower body portion (8z), where the three segments (8x,8y,8z) extend consecutively in longitudinal direction (A) of the discharge portion (8) from the proximal end (8a) to the distal end (8b), and where the first plate member (21) is positioned on the middle body portion (8y), forming at least two folding lines arranged respectively proximally the proximal edge ofthe first plate member(21a) and distally the distal edge (21b) of the first plate member (21).

4. A collection bag according to claim 3, wherein the second plate member (22) is positioned on the lower body portion (8z) forming a folding line proximally the proximal edge of the second plate member (22a).

5. A collection bag according to any of the preceding claims 3-4, wherein the discharge portion (8) comprises one or more first type of locking means (14) arranged on the middle body portion (8y) on the back side of the second wall (3), the one or more first type of locking means being aligned in longitudinal direction with the first plate member (21).

6. A collection bag according to claim 5, wherein the discharge portion (8) comprises one or more second type of locking means (15) complementary to the one or more first type of locking means (14), the one or more second type of locking means (15) being arranged on the lower body portion (8z) of the discharge portion (8), and the one or more second type of locking means (15) being positioned on the second wall (3) on the back side of the extension (3e).

7. A collection bag according to any of the preceding claims 5-6, wherein the upper body portion (8x) of the discharge portion (8) comprises foldable protruding locking strips (12,13) extending transverse the longitudinal direction, where the foldable protruding locking strips comprises two or more of the second type of locking means (10,11) on the front side of the first wall (2) of the protruding locking strips (12,13).

8. A collection bag according to any of the preceding claims 5-7, wherein the first type of locking means (14) and the second type of locking means (10,11,15) are complementary mating locking means.

9. A collection bag according to claim 5, wherein the first type of locking means (14) and the second type of locking means (10,11,15) are of complementary "hook-and-loop" type fastener, such as Velcro fastener.

10. A collection bag according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the discharge portion (8) has a dimensional extent in longitudinal direction from proximal end (8a) to the distal end (8b) of approx. 6 cm.

11. A collection bag according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the thickness ti of the first plate member (21) and second plate member (22) is larger than a thickness of the first and second walls (2,3).

12. A collection bag according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first and second plate members (21, 22) are formed by polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), a copolymer of PE and ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), nylon or a combination of any of these materials.

13. A collection bag according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first and / or second walls (2,3) may be formed by one film blank being folded, or two or more film blanks joined together along the edges.

14. A collection bag according to any of the preceding claims, wherein closing of the discharge opening (9) is effected by folding the discharge portion (8) in the longitudinal direction in order to bring the first plate member (21) into contact with the second plate member (22), and wherein at least one of the edges (21b, 22a) of the plate members (21, 22) is provided with a fillet and / or chamfer (21c).

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