Infant feeding accessory system, infant feeding assembly, accessory holder and accessory

Abstract

: Provided is an infant feeding accessory system (120) for mounting to an infant feeding apparatus. The infant feeding apparatus has a container (102) and a teat (104) for allowing an infant to drink liquid from the container. Further provided is an infant feeding assembly (100) including the infant feeding accessory system and the infant feeding apparatus. The infant feeding accessory system has a one-way air valve accessory (122A), and an accessory holder (124) mountable to the infant feeding apparatus so that at least part of the accessory holder is located inside the container, inside the teat and / or sandwiched in-between the container and the teat. The one-way air valve accessory is securable relative to, e.g. is securable to, the accessory holder, with the accessory holder being mountable, together with the one-way air valve accessory secured relative thereto (e.g. secured thereto), to the infant feeding apparatus to permit the one-way air valve accessory to restrict entry of air into the teat from the container but allow entry of air into the container from the teat. Yet further provided is the accessory holder as such. Additionally provided is an accessory, e.g. the one-way air valve accessory, that is securable relative to such an accessory holder.

Description

[0001] INFANT FEEDING ACCESSORY SYSTEM, INFANT FEEDING ASSEMBLY, ACCESSORY

[0002] HOLDER AND ACCESSORY

[0003] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The invention relates to an infant feeding accessory system for mounting to an infant feeding apparatus, which infant feeding apparatus has a container and a teat for allowing an infant to drink, e.g. suck, liquid from the container.

[0005] The invention further relates to an infant feeding assembly including the infant feeding accessory system and the infant feeding apparatus.

[0006] The invention still further relates to an infant feeding accessory holder relative to which an infant feeding accessory is securable.

[0007] The invention yet further relates to an infant feeding accessory securable relative to an accessory holder.

[0008] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Colic is a condition some infants suffer from during early months after birth, with presence of air in the digestive system being indicated as a major cause. Air ingestion is unavoidable both in breast-feeding and bottle-feeding, using a container and a teat that allows the infant to suck liquid, e.g. breast milk or formula milk, from the container. This is because of an under-pressure in the infant's mouth during feeding. However, it is desired to reduce the amount of air ingested by the infant in order to prevent or alleviate colic-like symptoms.

[0010] Different strategies may be used to minimize air ingestion during feeding, including reducing the effort required to be exerted by the infant when feeding. For example, an under-pressure in the container can be released via a venting valve that allows outside air to be drawn into the container. However, air can enter into the teat region in the scenario that the liquid level within the container drops below a certain level and / or the container is provided to the infant in a horizontal orientation, such that the teat is only partially filled by the liquid.

[0011] US 2022 / 287916 Al discloses a teat for a milk bottle.

[0012] CN 106 860 025 B discloses a feeding bottle that includes a nipple and a bottle body, with a nipple accessory being installed on the bottle body.

[0013] US 2020 / 016040 Al discloses a nursing bottle having an air returning function.

[0014] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0015] The invention is defined by the claims. According to examples in accordance with a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an infant feeding accessory system for mounting to an infant feeding apparatus, the infant feeding apparatus comprising a container and a teat for allowing an infant to drink liquid from the container, the infant feeding accessory system comprising: a one-way air valve accessory; and an accessory holder mountable to the infant feeding apparatus so that at least part of the accessory holder is located inside the container, inside the teat and / or sandwiched in-between the container and the teat, the one-way air valve accessory being securable relative to the accessory holder, the accessory holder being mountable, together with the one-way air valve accessory secured relative thereto, to the infant feeding apparatus to permit the one-way air valve accessory to restrict entry of air into the teat from the container but allow entry of air into the container from the teat.

[0016] The one-way air valve accessory allows air in the teat, e.g. air exhaled by the feeding infant, to be removed from the teat. Moreover, by the one-way air valve accessory restricting entry of air into the teat from the container, the risk of the infant ingesting air can be alleviated.

[0017] The modular design of the infant feeding accessory system, with the one-way air valve accessory being securable relative to, e.g. securable to, the accessory holder, may mean that the one-way air valve accessory can add to, or replace, functionality provided by the accessory holder and / or by other accessory(ies) that may be included in the infant feeding accessory system.

[0018] It is noted that the term “securable relative to the accessory holder” as used herein may, for instance, mean that the respective accessory (e.g. the one-way air valve accessory) is securable to, e.g. clickable into, the accessory holder, or that the respective accessory (e.g. the one-way air valve accessory) is securable, e.g. clampable, in-between the accessory holder and the teat or in-between the accessory holder and the container.

[0019] In some embodiments, the one-way air valve accessory is releasably securable relative to, e.g. is releasably securable to, the accessory holder, such that the one-way air valve accessory can itself be removed from the accessory holder, e.g. to assist with cleaning after use and / or to enable replacement of the one-way air valve functionality provided by the one-way air valve accessory with other functionality(ies) provided by other accessory(ies) that may be included in the infant feeding accessory system.

[0020] Securement, e.g. releasable securement, of the one-way air valve accessory relative to the accessory holder can for example be achieved via an interference fit of the one-way air valve accessory against the accessory holder.

[0021] The one-way air valve functionality provided by the one-way air valve accessory can be realized in any suitable manner. In some embodiments, the one-way air valve accessory comprises a valve component configured to control one or more fluidic paths that allow air to move from the teat to the container. The valve component may be configured to releasably seal against a surface of the accessory holder. The valve component can, for example, be regarded as a rim, e.g. a circular rim, for providing a releasable seal against the accessory holder.

[0022] In some embodiments, the infant feeding accessory system comprises a sieve accessory securable relative to, e.g. securable to, the accessory holder. The sieve accessory may, for example, be securable to the accessory holder via an interference fit.

[0023] The sieve accessory may be configured to, when the accessory holder is mounted to the infant feeding apparatus with the sieve accessory secured relative thereto, hinder air bubbles in the liquid from entering the teat from the container. In such embodiments, sieve openings provided in a sieve portion of the sieve accessory may allow the liquid to pass from the container through the sieve portion to enter the teat, but minimize ingress of bubbles into the teat.

[0024] The sieve openings may, for example, have a diameter in the range of 0.05 to 0.2 mm.

[0025] In some embodiments, the infant feeding accessory system comprises a suckling adjustment accessory securable relative to, e.g. securable to, the accessory holder, with the accessory holder being mountable, together with the suckling adjustment accessory secured relative thereto, to the infant feeding apparatus so that the suckling adjustment accessory protrudes into the teat so as to influence the infant’s sucking action on the teat. The suckling adjustment accessory may, for example, include a protruding element for protruding away from the container and into the teat. The protruding element may be shaped to influence how the infant sucks on the teat.

[0026] In some embodiments, the infant feeding accessory system comprises sensing functionality for sensing at least one characteristic of the liquid. In such embodiments, the sensing functionality may be provided by at least one of the one-way air valve accessory, the accessory holder and sensing accessory(ies) securable relative to the accessory holder.

[0027] In some embodiments, the sensing functionality is in the one-way air valve accessory and / or in the accessory holder.

[0028] In embodiments in which the sensing functionality is provided, at least in part, by the at least one sensing accessory, the accessory holder may be mountable, together with the at least one sensing accessory secured relative thereto, to the infant feeding apparatus to permit the at least one sensing accessory to sense the at least one characteristic of the liquid.

[0029] In some embodiments, the at least one characteristic of the liquid comprises a temperature of the liquid.

[0030] The sensing accessory may comprise a temperature measurement probe that is securable in the accessory holder, e.g. via an interference fit.

[0031] In this way, the temperature of the liquid, e.g. milk, can be monitored before, during and / or after feeding, noting that the liquid in the teat may beneficially be proximal to the temperature measurement probe. In some embodiments, the infant feeding accessory system comprises a confined volume forming component for arranging in the infant feeding apparatus to separate part of the liquid in the container from air received in the container while the infant is drinking liquid from the container using the teat.

[0032] The confined volume forming component may (at least partly) define a space in the container through which the air received in the container can, in use, be delivered towards a base of the container.

[0033] The confined volume forming component may assist to guide the air received in the container, e.g. via an air inlet valve and / or from the teat via the one-way air valve accessory, towards the base of the container.

[0034] This confined volume forming component can reduce formation of bubbles in the liquid, and thus help to reduce ingestion of air by the infant.

[0035] The confined volume forming component can have any suitable design. In some embodiments, the confined volume forming component is in the form of a leaf-like member. The leaf-like member may, for example, form a funnel together with the inside of the container. In other embodiments, the confined volume forming component can be in the form of a straw.

[0036] In some embodiments, the confined volume forming component is included in the accessory holder. Thus, when the one-way air valve accessory is not secured relative to the accessory holder, the confined volume forming component can help to reduce formation of air bubbles in the liquid, but without the additional functionality being provided by the one-way air valve accessory that keeps the teat filled with the liquid.

[0037] In this way, the consumer, e.g. the mother, may be provided with the choice of whether or not to use the functionality provided by the confined volume forming component only, or whether to combine this functionality with the one-way air valve functionality of the one-way air valve accessory.

[0038] If, for example, the consumer does not wish to use the one-way air valve functionality, the consumer may need only to be supplied with, e.g. and pay for, the accessory holder, for example the accessory holder comprising the confined volume forming component.

[0039] This can provide greater flexibility than alternative solutions in which the functionality provided by the confined volume forming component is provided only in combination with the one-way air valve functionality.

[0040] It is also noted that separating these functionalities, by the one-way air valve accessory being securable relative to the accessory holder, may facilitate individual tuning of the respective functionalities. Such tuning can, for example, assist to make the one-way air valve functionality easier / less expensive to provide, e.g. manufacture, and / or help to make the one-way air valve functionality more robust, to help maintain consistent performance. In embodiments, in which the confined volume forming component is detachable from the accessory holder, detachment of the confined volume forming component may facilitate cleaning and / or may facilitate attachment of different accessory(ies) to the accessory holder.

[0041] Alternatively or additionally, the confined volume forming component may comprise a valve element for controlling a fluidic path between the teat and the container. Thus, valve functionality can be additionally provided by the confined volume forming component.

[0042] According to examples in accordance with a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an infant feeding assembly comprising: an infant feeding apparatus comprising a container and a teat for allowing an infant to drink liquid from the container; and the infant feeding accessory system according to any of the embodiments described herein.

[0043] In embodiments in which the infant feeding accessory system comprises the confined volume forming component, the infant feeding apparatus may comprise an air inlet valve for allowing the air to be received in the container while the infant is drinking liquid from the container using the teat. The air inlet valve may be included in the teat and / or the container.

[0044] According to examples in accordance with a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an accessory holder relative to which a one-way air valve accessory is securable, the accessory holder being mountable to an infant feeding apparatus, which infant feeding apparatus has a container and a teat for allowing an infant to drink liquid from the container, the accessory holder being mountable to the infant feeding apparatus so that at least part of the accessory holder is located inside the container, inside the teat and / or sandwiched in-between the container and the teat, the accessory holder being mountable, together with the one-way air valve accessory secured relative thereto, to the infant feeding apparatus to permit the one-way air valve accessory to restrict entry of air into the teat from the container but allow entry of air into the container from the teat.

[0045] Features of the accessory holder described herein in relation to the first and second aspects may be applicable to the third aspect.

[0046] According to examples in accordance with a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an accessory securable relative to the accessory holder according to any of the embodiments described herein.

[0047] Features of the accessory(ies), e.g. the one-way air valve accessory, described herein in relation to the first, second and third aspects may be applicable to the fourth aspect.

[0048] These and other aspects of the invention will be apparent from and elucidated with reference to the embodiments described hereinafter.

[0049] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0050] For a better understanding of the invention, and to show more clearly how it may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, by way of example only, to the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. 1 provides a cross-sectional view of an infant feeding assembly according to an example;

[0051] Fig. 2A provides a perspective view of an infant feeding accessory system according to an example, with the infant feeding accessory system having an accessory holder and an accessory;

[0052] Fig. 2B provides a cross-sectional view of the infant feeding accessory system shown in Fig. 2A when the accessory is secured to the accessory holder;

[0053] Fig. 3 provides a cross-sectional view of the infant feeding assembly shown in Fig. 1, but without the accessory being secured to the accessory holder;

[0054] Fig. 4A provides a perspective view of an infant feeding accessory system according to another example, with the infant feeding accessory system having the accessory holder and an accessory different to that shown in Figs. 1, 2A and 2B;

[0055] Fig. 4B provides a cross-sectional view of the infant feeding accessory system shown in Fig. 4A when the accessory is secured to the accessory holder;

[0056] Fig. 5 provides a cross-sectional view of an infant feeding assembly according to an example, which infant feeding assembly comprises the infant feeding accessory system shown in Figs. 4A and 4B;

[0057] Fig. 6 provides a perspective view of an accessory according to another example;

[0058] Fig. 7 provides a schematic cross-sectional view of an infant feeding assembly according to yet another example; and

[0059] Fig. 8 provides a schematic cross-sectional view of an infant feeding assembly according to a further example.

[0060] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0061] The invention will be described with reference to the Figures.

[0062] It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating exemplary embodiments of the apparatus, systems and methods, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the apparatus, systems and methods of the present invention will become better understood from the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the Figures are merely schematic and are not drawn to scale. It should also be understood that the same reference numerals are used throughout the Figures to indicate the same or similar parts.

[0063] Provided is an infant feeding accessory system for mounting to an infant feeding apparatus. The infant feeding apparatus has a container and a teat for allowing an infant to drink liquid from the container. Further provided is an infant feeding assembly including the infant feeding accessory system and the infant feeding apparatus. The infant feeding accessory system has a one-way air valve accessory, and an accessory holder mountable to the infant feeding apparatus so that at least part of the accessory holder is located inside the container, inside the teat and / or sandwiched in-between the container and the teat. The one-way air valve accessory is securable relative to, e.g. is securable to, the accessory holder, with the accessory holder being mountable, together with the one-way air valve accessory secured relative thereto (e.g. secured thereto), to the infant feeding apparatus to permit the oneway air valve accessory to restrict entry of air into the teat from the container but allow entry of air into the container from the teat. Yet further provided is the accessory holder as such. Additionally provided is an accessory, e.g. the one-way air valve accessory, that is securable relative to such an accessory holder.

[0064] Fig. 1 shows an infant feeding assembly 100 according to an example. The infant feeding assembly 100 comprises an infant feeding apparatus, which infant feeding apparatus includes a container 102 and a teat 104 for allowing an infant to drink, e.g. suck, liquid, such as milk, from the container 102.

[0065] It is noted that the term “infant” as used herein may refer to babies and toddlers. Thus, the terms “infant feeding assembly” 100 and “infant feeding apparatus” (as well as the term “infant feeding accessory system” 120 described in more detail herein below) can be regarded as infant and toddler feeding devices.

[0066] A liquid outlet 105, e.g. drinking valve, of the teat 104 can allow the liquid to exit the infant feeding apparatus when the infant is feeding using the teat 104, e.g. by sucking on the teat 104.

[0067] The teat 104 can have any suitable design. In some embodiments, the teat 104 has a non- rotationally symmetric shape.

[0068] The container 102 and the teat 104 can each be formed of any suitable material. In some embodiments, the container 102 is formed from a plastic material, with the teat 104 being formed from an elastomeric material, such as silicone.

[0069] The manner in which the teat 104 is joined with the container 102 is not particularly limited. In some embodiments, such as shown in Fig. 1, the infant feeding apparatus comprises an attachment element 106 for attaching the teat 104 to the container 102. The attachment element 106 can, for example, be in the form of an attachment ring configured to screw onto a threaded neck of the container 102, so as to secure the teat 104 between an underside of the attachment ring and an upper side of the container 102.

[0070] The infant feeding apparatus may comprise an air inlet valve 108 for allowing air to be received in the container 102 while the infant is drinking, e.g. sucking, liquid from the container 102 using the teat 104. The air inlet valve 108 can enable an under-pressure in the infant feeding apparatus to be released during the infant’s drinking of the liquid from the container 102 using the teat 104, by allowing outside air to be drawn into the container 102.

[0071] This under-pressure release enabled by the air inlet valve 108 can help to reduce the effort required to be exerted by the infant when feeding using the infant feeding apparatus, with concomitant relief of colic-like symptoms.

[0072] The air inlet valve 108 can be arranged in any suitable manner. In some embodiments, such as shown in Fig. 1, the air inlet valve 108 is arranged in the teat 104. In alternative embodiments, the air inlet valve 108 is arranged in a wall of the container 102. Referring to Figs. 1, 2A and 2B, an infant feeding accessory system 120 includes a oneway air valve accessory 122A, and an accessory holder 124 mountable to the infant feeding apparatus. The one-way air valve accessory 122A is securable relative to, e.g. is securable to, the accessory holder 124.

[0073] The accessory holder 124 is mountable to the infant feeding apparatus so that at least part of the accessory holder 124 is located inside the container 102, inside the teat 104 and / or sandwiched inbetween the container 102 and the teat 104. In particular, the accessory holder 124 is mountable in this manner, together with the one-way air valve accessory 122A secured relative thereto, to the infant feeding apparatus to permit the one-way air valve accessory 122A to restrict entry of air into the teat 104 from the container 102 but allow entry of air into the container 102 from the teat 104.

[0074] The one-way air valve accessory 122A allows air in the teat 104, e.g. air exhaled by the feeding infant, to be removed from the teat 104. This exhaled air then may pass through the liquid, e.g. milk, in the container 102. Moreover, by the one-way air valve accessory 122A restricting entry of air into the teat 104 from the container 102, the risk of the infant ingesting air can be alleviated.

[0075] The modular design of the infant feeding accessory system 120, with the one-way air valve accessory 122A being securable relative to the accessory holder 124, may mean that the one-way air valve accessory 122A can add to, or replace, functionality provided by the accessory holder 124 and / or by other accessory(ies) that may be included in the infant feeding accessory system 120.

[0076] The accessory holder 124 and the one-way air valve accessory 122A (e.g. in common with the other accessories 122B, 122C, 122D, 122E described herein) can be made large enough to fulfill small part hazard requirements, and can be relatively easily manufactured separately from each other, assembled, and cleaned.

[0077] In some embodiments, the one-way air valve accessory 122A is releasably securable relative to the accessory holder 124, e.g. is releasably securable to the accessory holder 124, such that the one-way air valve accessory can itself be removed from the accessory holder 124, e.g. to assist with cleaning after use and / or to enable replacement of the one-way air valve functionality provided by the one-way air valve accessory 122A with other functionality(ies) provided by other accessory(ies) that may be included in the infant feeding accessory system 120.

[0078] Securement, e.g. releasable securement, of the one-way air valve accessory 122A to the accessory holder 124 can for example be achieved via an interference fit of the one-way air valve accessory 122A against the accessory holder 124.

[0079] In some embodiments, and referring to Fig. 2A, the one-way air valve accessory 122A includes one or more push-fit elements 126 configured to contact a surface 128 of the accessory holder 124 to provide the interference fit of the one-way air valve accessory 122A against the accessory holder 124. In some embodiments, the accessory holder 124 has an opening 124A, and the one-way air valve accessory 122A is securable to the accessory holder 124 by at least part of the one-way air valve accessory 122A being received within the opening 124A.

[0080] For example, the at least part of the one-way air valve accessory 122A may be an interference fit against the surface 128 that at least partly delimits the opening 124A.

[0081] In embodiments in which the accessory holder 124 has the opening 124A (and irrespective of the precise manner in which the one-way air valve accessory 122A is securable relative to the accessory holder 124), the opening 124A may provide a fluid path for the liquid to enter the teat 104 from the container 102, e.g. with (see Fig. 1) or without (see Fig. 3) the one-way air valve accessory 122A being secured relative to the accessory holder 124.

[0082] The accessory holder 124 may be mountable, together with the one-way air valve accessory 122A secured relative thereto, to the infant feeding apparatus in any suitable manner provided that the one-way air valve accessory 122A is able to fulfil its function and at least part of the accessory holder 124 is located inside the container 102, inside the teat 104 and / or sandwiched in-between the container 102 and the teat 104. In some embodiments, and referring to Fig. 1, the accessory holder 124 is mountable to a neck of the container 102.

[0083] For example, the accessory holder 124 may be mountable to the infant feeding apparatus so that a first surface of the accessory holder 124 contacts a base of the teat 104, and a second surface of the accessory holder 124, that faces away from the first surface, contacts the neck of the container 102.

[0084] In such embodiments, the teat 104 and the accessory holder 124 may be secured to the container 102 via the attachment element 106, for instance via the attachment ring being screwed onto the threaded neck of the container 102 with the teat 104 and the accessory holder 124 being sandwiched between the attachment ring and the neck of the container 102.

[0085] It is noted that the accessory holder 124 can be shaped to sealingly engage an interior surface of the container 102, e.g. an interior surface of the neck of the container 102.

[0086] This sealing engagement may in practice be a relatively loose seal against the interior surface of the container 102, as the inside of different containers 102 significantly vary in shape according to the material from which they are formed, and also their size. The surface tension of any air bubbles in the liquid may help to prevent the air bubbles escaping around edge(s) of the accessory holder 124.

[0087] The one-way air valve functionality provided by the one-way air valve accessory 122A can be realized in any suitable manner. In some embodiments, such as shown in Figs. 1, 2A and 2B, the one-way air valve accessory 122A comprises a valve component 130 configured to control one or more fluidic paths that allow air to move from the teat 104 to the container 102.

[0088] The valve component 130 may be configured to releasably seal against a surface of the accessory holder 124, e.g. the surface 128 that is also contactable by the push-fit element(s) 126. The valve component 130 can, for example, be regarded as a rim, e.g. a circular rim, for providing a releasable seal against the accessory holder 124. Suction provided by the infant’s sucking on the teat 104 may force the valve component 130 to seal against the surface 128 of the accessory holder 124, so that air is restricted from entering the teat 104 from the container 102. On the other hand, the valve component 130 may be released from the surface 128 of the accessory holder 124 by a higher pressure in the teat 104, e.g. caused by the infant exhaling into the teat 104, so as to allow air to pass into the container 102 from the teat 104.

[0089] The one-way air valve accessory 122A may provide one or more channels 132 along which fluid, e.g. air and / or liquid, can travel between the container 102 and the teat 104. For example, the valve component 130 may be arranged to allow air to pass into the container 102 from the teat 104 via such channel(s) 132, but restrict air from passing via the channel(s) 132 into the teat 104 from the container 102.

[0090] The channel(s) 132 may be provided by the one-way air valve accessory 122A in any suitable way, for example by being delimited partly by surface(s) of the one-way air valve accessory 122A and partly by the surface 128 of the accessory holder 124.

[0091] In some embodiments, and as best shown in Fig. 2A, the channel(s) 132 is / are defined, at least in part, between the push-fit element(s) 126 that contact the surface 128 of the accessory holder 124 to provide the interference fit of the one-way air valve accessory 122A against the accessory holder 124.

[0092] In some embodiments, the channel(s) 132 is / are provided by a plurality of indentations arranged around a circumference of the one-way air valve accessory 122A.

[0093] It is generally noted at this point that the infant feeding accessory system 120 may permit liquid, e.g. milk, to enter the teat 104 from the container 102, when the accessory holder 124 is mounted, together with the one-way air valve accessory 122A secured relative thereto, to the infant feeding apparatus.

[0094] An aperture 134 may, for example, be provided in the accessory holder 124 for allowing the liquid, e.g. milk, to enter the teat 104 from the container 102.

[0095] The aperture 134 can be regarded as an entrance of liquid path(s) defined between the accessory holder 124 and the one-way air valve accessory 122A for allowing the liquid to enter the teat 104 from the container 102.

[0096] In some embodiments, the infant feeding accessory system 120 comprises a liquid channel-defining structure configured to allow the liquid to pass therethrough from the container 102 into the teat 104, with the liquid channel-defining structure being further configured to extend into the teat 104, e.g. during use.

[0097] This can help to keep the teat 104 filled with the liquid for longer.

[0098] When the infant feeding apparatus is orientated for use, by the container 102 being at an angle that enables the infant to drink, e.g. suck, the liquid therefrom via the teat 104, the angle may be such that the liquid path(s) for allowing the liquid to enter the teat 104 from the container 102 is / are beneath the portion(s), e.g. the valve component 130, of the one-way air valve accessory 122A that provide(s) the one-way air valve functionality. In other words, the liquid path(s) may be situated, in use, at a downward position of the infant feeding accessory system 120, while the portion(s) of the one-way air valve accessory 122A that provide(s) the one-way air valve functionality are situated at an upward position of the infant feeding accessory system 120.

[0099] Thus when in use, a fdled teat 104 can be replenished by the remaining liquid from the container 102, whereas any air entering the teat 104, for example through the liquid outlet 105, e.g. drinking valve, may be guided and leave the teat 104 via the one-way air valve accessory 122A.

[0100] The accessory holder 124 and the one-way air valve accessory 122A can each be made of any suitable material. For example, one or both of the accessory holder 124 and the one-way air valve accessory 122A can comprise a flexible material, such as a flexible plastic or an elastomeric material.

[0101] It is generally noted that the one-way air valve functionality can be provided by a first part of the infant feeding accessory system 120, e.g. the valve component 130 of the one-way air valve accessory 122A, flexing against another part of the infant feeding accessory system 120, e.g. the surface 128 of the accessory holder 124.

[0102] In some embodiments, the infant feeding accessory system 120 comprises a feature that aligns or helps to align an orientation part of the infant feeding assembly 100 with respect to the teat 104.

[0103] In some embodiments, and still referring to Figs. 1, 2A and 2B, the infant feeding accessory system 120 comprises a confined volume forming component 136 for arranging in the infant feeding apparatus to separate part of the liquid in the container 102 from air received in the container 102, e.g. via the air inlet valve 108 and / or from the teat 104 via the one-way air valve accessory 122A, while the infant is drinking liquid from the container 102 using the teat 104.

[0104] The confined volume forming component 136 may (at least partly) define a space 138 in the container 102 through which the air received in the container 102 can, in use, be delivered towards the base of the container 102 (which base is at an opposite end of the container 102 with respect to the neck).

[0105] The confined volume forming component 136 may assist to guide the air received in the container 102, e.g. via the air inlet valve 108 and / or from the teat 104 via the one-way air valve accessory 122A, towards the base of the container 102. In this sense, the confined volume forming component 136 can be regarded as a guide member.

[0106] The confined volume forming component 136 can reduce formation of bubbles in the liquid, and thus help to reduce ingestion of air by the infant.

[0107] In some embodiments, the infant feeding assembly 100, e.g. the infant feeding accessory system 120 thereof, provides an air channel for guiding ambient air towards the confined volume forming component 136, or more precisely towards the space 138 in the container 102 (at least partly) defined by the confined volume forming component 136.

[0108] Such an air channel may, for example, be an annular air channel or a linear air channel.

[0109] The confined volume forming component 136 can have any suitable design. In some embodiments, the confined volume forming component 136 is in the form of a leaf-like member. The leaf-like member may, for example, form a funnel together with the inside of the container 102. In other embodiments, the confined volume forming component 136 can be in the form of a straw.

[0110] Irrespective of the precise form of the confined volume forming component 136, the confined volume forming component 136 can be an elongate structure that extends towards the base of the container 102.

[0111] Alternatively or additionally, the confined volume forming component 136 can additionally serve as an alignment feature that aligns or helps to align an orientation of part of the infant feeding assembly 100 with respect to the teat 104.

[0112] In some embodiments, the confined volume forming component 136 comprises an alignment element configured to align an orientation of the confined volume forming component 136, for example to align the orientation of the confined volume forming component 136 with the orientation of the teat 104 during use.

[0113] In some embodiments, such as shown in Figs. 1, 2A and 2B, the confined volume forming component 136 is included in the accessory holder 124.

[0114] In such embodiments, and referring also to Fig. 3, when the one-way air valve accessory 122A is not secured to the accessory holder 124, the confined volume forming component 136 can help to reduce formation of air bubbles in the liquid, but without the additional functionality being provided by the one-way air valve accessory 122A that keeps the teat 104 filled with the liquid.

[0115] In this way, the consumer, e.g. the mother, may be provided with the choice of whether to use the functionality provided by the confined volume forming component 136 only, or whether to combine this functionality with the one-way air valve functionality of the one-way air valve accessory 122A.

[0116] If, for example, the consumer does not wish to use the one-way air valve functionality, the consumer may need only to be supplied with, e.g. and pay for, the accessory holder 124, for example the accessory holder 124 comprising the confined volume forming component 136.

[0117] This can provide greater flexibility than alternative solutions in which the functionality provided by the confined volume forming component 136 is provided only in combination with the oneway air valve functionality.

[0118] It is also noted that separating these functionalities, by the one-way air valve accessory 122A being securable relative to the accessory holder 124, may facilitate individual tuning of the respective functionalities. Such tuning can, for example, assist to make the one-way air valve functionality easier / less expensive to provide, e.g. manufacture, and / or help to make the one-way air valve functionality more robust, to help maintain consistent performance.

[0119] Part of the infant feeding accessory system 120, comprising the one-way air valve accessory 122A secured relative to the accessory holder 124, located in the neck of the container 102 can be regarded as a first structure that provides a conduit for allowing air in the teat 104 to enter into the container 102, while allowing liquid from the container 102 to flow into the teat 104. The conduit of the first structure may, for example, be substantially ring-shaped.

[0120] The confined volume forming component 136 can be regarded as a second structure that extends from the first structure towards the base of the container 102 (which base is at an opposite end of the container 102 with respect to the neck). The second structure can form a fluid channel that extends between proximal to the base of the container 102 to the conduit provided by the first structure.

[0121] In use, air entering the teat 104 via the liquid outlet 105, e.g. drinking valve, of the teat 104 may be channeled into the container 102 via the conduit of the first structure. This air may be channeled via the fluid channel, formed by the second structure, towards the base of the container 102.

[0122] In this way, free movement of air through the liquid, e.g. milk, can be reduced, with concomitant decrease in formation of bubbles in the liquid.

[0123] In some embodiments, the confined volume forming component 136 is attachable to and / or detachable from the accessory holder 124. Thus, the consumer, e.g. the mother, can choose whether or not to combine the respective functionalities of the combined volume forming component 136 and the one-way air valve accessory 122A. In embodiments, in which the confined volume forming component 136 is detachable from the accessory holder 124, detachment of the confined volume forming component 136 may facilitate cleaning and / or may facilitate attachment of different accessory(ies) to the accessory holder 124.

[0124] Alternatively or additionally, the confined volume forming component 136 may comprise a valve element for controlling a fluidic path between the teat 104 and the container 102. Thus, valve functionality can be additionally provided by the confined volume forming component 136.

[0125] In some embodiments, such as shown in Figs. 4A, 4B and 5, the infant feeding accessory system 120 comprises a sieve accessory 122B securable relative to, e.g. securable to, the accessory holder 124, with the sieve accessory 122B being configured to, when the accessory holder 124 is mounted to the infant feeding apparatus with the sieve accessory 122B secured relative thereto, hinder air bubbles in the liquid from entering the teat 104 from the container 102.

[0126] As best shown in Fig. 4A, sieve openings provided in a sieve portion 140, in other words a filter element, of the sieve accessory 122B may allow the liquid to pass from the container 102 through the sieve portion 140 to enter the teat 104, but minimize ingress of bubbles into the teat 104. The sieve openings may, for example, have a diameter in the range of 0.05 to 0.2 mm.

[0127] At least part of the sieve accessory 122B may, for example, be secured in the opening 124A of the accessory holder 124, and / or the sieve accessory 122B may be securable to the accessory holder 124 via an interference fit.

[0128] Such an interference fit may, for instance, be realized by contact between a peripheral surface 142 of the sieve accessory 122B and the surface 128 of the accessory holder 124, e.g. the surface 128 that at least partly delimits the opening 124A of the accessory holder 124.

[0129] In some embodiments, and referring now to Fig. 6, the infant feeding accessory system 120 includes a suckling adjustment accessory 122C securable relative to, e.g. securable to, the accessory holder 124, with the accessory holder 124 being mountable, together with the suckling adjustment accessory 122C secured relative thereto, to the infant feeding apparatus so that the suckling adjustment accessory 122C protrudes into the teat 104 so as to influence the infant’s sucking action on the teat 104.

[0130] As shown in Fig. 6, the suckling adjustment accessory 122C may include a protruding element 144 for protruding away from the container 102 and into the teat 104. The protruding element 144 may be shaped to influence how the infant sucks on the teat 104.

[0131] At least part of the suckling adjustment accessory 122C may, for example, be secured in the opening 124A of the accessory holder 124, and / or the suckling adjustment accessory 122C may be securable to the accessory holder 124 via an interference fit.

[0132] Such an interference fit may, for instance, be realized by contact between an outer surface 146 of the suckling adjustment accessory 122C and the surface 128 of the accessory holder 124, e.g. the surface 128 that at least partly delimits the opening 124A of the accessory holder 124.

[0133] In some embodiments, the infant feeding accessory system 120 comprises sensing functionality for sensing at least one characteristic of the liquid. In some embodiments, the at least one characteristic of the liquid comprises a temperature of the liquid.

[0134] In some embodiments, and referring to Figs. 7 and 8, the sensing functionality may be provided by sensing accessory(ies) 122D, 122E securable relative to, e.g. securable to, the accessory holder 124. Alternatively or additionally, sensing functionality may be provided by the one-way air valve accessory 122A, and / or the accessory holder 124.

[0135] In some embodiments, the sensing functionality is in the one-way air valve accessory 122A and / or in the accessory holder 124.

[0136] In embodiments in which the sensing functionality is provided, at least in part, by the at least one sensing accessory 122D, 122E, the accessory holder 124 may be mountable, together with the at least one sensing accessory 122D, 122E secured relative thereto, to the infant feeding apparatus to permit the at least one sensing accessory 122D, 122E to sense the at least one characteristic of the liquid.

[0137] In some embodiments, such as shown in Figs. 7 and 8, the sensing accessory 122D, 122E comprises a temperature measurement probe 148 that is securable in the accessory holder 124, e.g. in the opening 124A thereof.

[0138] In this way, the temperature of the liquid, e.g. milk, can be monitored before, during and / or after feeding, noting that the liquid in the teat 104 may be proximal to the temperature measurement probe 148.

[0139] In such embodiments, temperature readings may be transmitted from the sensing accessory 122D, 122E wirelessly to a mobile device, such as a smartphone or tablet computer.

[0140] Alternatively or additionally, a battery of the sensing accessory 122D may be wirelessly chargeable. It is noted that in some embodiments, such as that shown in Fig. 7, the sensing accessory 122D, including the temperature measurement probe 148 and any wireless communication and / or charging functionality, may be located entirely within the container 102 and / or the teat 104.

[0141] In other embodiments, such as shown in Fig. 8, the temperature measurement probe 148 may be receivable within the container 102 and / or the teat 104, but with the sensing accessory 122E comprising an electronics module 150, e.g. for providing wireless communication and / or battery charging functionality, that is positioned outside the infant feeding apparatus.

[0142] More generally, the present disclosure relates to the accessory holder 124 as such, e.g. without accessory(ies) 122A, 122B, 122C, 122D, 122E, such as the one-way air valve accessory 122A, since the accessory holder 124 can be provided to the consumer by itself, with the accessory(ies) 122A, 122B, 122C, 122D, 122E being already in the consumer’s possession or sourced separately from the accessory holder 124.

[0143] The accessory holder 124 may be mountable to the infant feeding apparatus, together with the one-way air valve accessory 122A secured relative thereto, to permit the one-way air valve accessory 122A to restrict entry of air into the teat 104 from the container 102 but allow entry of air into the container 102 from the teat 104.

[0144] Alternatively or additionally, the accessory holder 124 may be mountable to the infant feeding apparatus, together with the sieve accessory 122B secured relative thereto, to permit the sieve accessory 122B to hinder air bubbles in the liquid from entering the teat 104 from the container 102.

[0145] Alternatively or additionally, the accessory holder 124 may be mountable to the infant feeding apparatus, together with the suckling adjustment accessory 122C secured relative thereto, so that the suckling adjustment accessory 122C protrudes into the teat 104 so as to influence the infant’s sucking action on the teat 104.

[0146] Alternatively or additionally, the accessory holder 124 may be mountable to the infant feeding apparatus, together with the at least one sensing accessory 122D, 122E secured relative thereto, to permit the at least one sensing accessory 122D, 122E to sense the at least one characteristic of the liquid.

[0147] Alternatively or additionally, the accessory holder 124 as such may comprise the confined volume forming component 136.

[0148] The present disclosure further relates to the accessory(ies) 122A, 122B, 122C, 122D, 122E, such as the one-way air valve accessory 122A, as such.

[0149] The accessory(ies) 122A, 122B, 122C, 122D, 122E can be provided to the consumer by itself / themselves, with the accessory holder 124 being already in the consumer’s possession or sourced separately from the accessory(ies) 122A, 122B, 122C, 122D, 122E.

[0150] It is generally noted that the accessory(ies) 122A, 122B, 122C, 122D, 122E, e.g. the oneway air valve accessory 122A, can comprise an insert that is insertable into the opening 124A of the accessory holder 124. Variations to the disclosed embodiments can be understood and effected by those skilled in the art in practicing the claimed invention, from a study of the drawings, the disclosure and the appended claims. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage.

[0151] If the term "adapted to" is used in the claims or description, it is noted the term "adapted to" is intended to be equivalent to the term "configured to".

[0152] Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. An infant feeding accessory system (120) for mounting to an infant feeding apparatus, the infant feeding apparatus comprising a container ( 102) and a teat ( 104) for allowing an infant to drink liquid from the container, the infant feeding accessory system comprising: a one-way air valve accessory (122A); and an accessory holder (124) mountable to the infant feeding apparatus so that at least part of the accessory holder is located inside the container, inside the teat and / or sandwiched in-between the container and the teat, the one-way air valve accessory being securable relative to the accessory holder, the accessory holder being mountable, together with the one-way air valve accessory secured relative thereto, to the infant feeding apparatus to permit the one-way air valve accessory to restrict entry of air into the teat from the container but allow entry of air into the container from the teat.

2. The infant feeding accessory system (120) according to claim 1, wherein the one-way air valve accessory (122A) is releasably securable relative to the accessory holder (124).

3. The infant feeding accessory system (120) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the one-way air valve accessory (122A) comprises a valve component (130) configured to releasably seal against a surface (128) of the accessory holder (124).

4. The infant feeding accessory system (120) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising a sieve accessory (122B) securable relative to the accessory holder (124), the sieve accessory being configured to, when the accessory holder is mounted to the infant feeding apparatus with the sieve accessory secured relative thereto, hinder air bubbles in the liquid from entering the teat (104) from the container (102).

5. The infant feeding accessory system (120) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising a suckling adjustment accessory (122C) securable relative to the accessory holder (124), the accessory holder being mountable, together with the suckling adjustment accessory secured relative thereto, to the infant feeding apparatus so that the suckling adjustment accessory protrudes into the teat (104) so as to influence the infant’s sucking action on the teat.

6. The infant feeding accessory system (120) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising sensing functionality for sensing at least one characteristic of the liquid.

7. The infant feeding accessory system (120) according to claim 6. wherein the at least one characteristic of the liquid comprises a temperature of the liquid.

8. The infant feeding accessory system (120) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, comprising a confined volume forming component (136) for arranging in the infant feeding apparatus to separate part of the liquid in the container (102) from air received in the container while the infant is drinking liquid from the container using the teat (104).

9. The infant feeding accessory system (120) according to claim 8, wherein the confined volume forming component (136) is included in the accessory holder (124).

10. The infant feeding accessory system (120) according to claim 8 or claim 9, wherein the confined volume forming component (136) is attachable to and / or detachable from the accessory holder (124).

11. The infant feeding accessory system (120) according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the confined volume forming component (136) comprises a valve element for controlling a fluidic path between the teat (104) and the container (102).

12. An infant feeding assembly (100) comprising: an infant feeding apparatus comprising a container (102) and a teat (104) for allowing an infant to drink liquid from the container; and the infant feeding accessory system (120) according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. The infant feeding assembly (100) according to claim 12, wherein the infant feeding accessory system (120) is according to any one of claims 8 to 11, and wherein the infant feeding apparatus comprises an air inlet valve (108) for allowing the air to be received in the container (102) while the infant is drinking liquid from the container using the teat (104).

14. An accessory holder (124) relative to which a one-way air valve accessory (122A) is securable, the accessory holder being mountable to an infant feeding apparatus, which infant feeding apparatus has a container (102) and a teat (104) for allowing an infant to drink liquid from the container, the accessory holder being mountable to the infant feeding apparatus so that at least part of the accessory holder is located inside the container, inside the teat and / or sandwiched in-between the container and the teat, the accessory holder being mountable, together with the one-way air valve accessory secured relative19 thereto, to the infant feeding apparatus to permit the one-way air valve accessory to restrict entry of air into the teat from the container but allow entry of air into the container from the teat.

15. An accessory (122A; 122B; 122C; 122D; 122E) securable relative to the accessory holder (124) according to claim 14.

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