A device for safely administering a soluble solid for consumption

Abstract

A device for safely administering a soluble solid for consumption. A device 100 for safely administering a soluble solid 108 for consumption, is disclosed. The device 100 comprises a first member 102 and a second member 104. The first member 102 may be configured to hold the soluble solid 108, and the second member 104 may be coupled to the first member 102. The first member 102 may be positioned inside the oral cavity of a subject, and the second member 104 may be positioned outside the oral cavity of the subject. The first member 102 may comprise of a plurality of planar plates 112, 114, disposed along its length, wherein at least one of the planar plates 112, 114, may comprise a plurality of perforations 116 along its length.

Description

A DEVICE FOR SAFELY ADMINISTERING A SOLUBLE SOLID FOR CONSUMPTIONBACKGROUNDField of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of medical devices, and more specifically, the invention pertains to devices for safe oral administration of solid substances.Discussion of Prior Art

[0002] A common method for delivering soluble solids, such as medication or nutritional supplements, involves dispensing them in the form of tablets, capsules, or lozenges. While these forms are widely used, they can present several challenges, particularly in vulnerable individuals such as young children, the elderly, or those with difficulty swallowing. One primary concern is the risk of accidental ingestion or choking, especially if a piece of the solid breaks off or if the user is unable to properly dissolve the solid in the mouth.

[0003] Another issue arises from the unpredictable dissolution rates of many soluble solids. In some cases, the medication may not dissolve at a consistent rate, potentially causing discomfort or reducing effectiveness. This is especially problematic in cases where precise dosing is critical. Additionally, users may accidentally swallow the solid without fully dissolving it, leading to an incomplete therapeutic effect.

[0004] Existing solutions for mitigating choking hazards posed by solid dosage forms have demonstrated limited efficacy. Approaches such as dissolvable coatings and encapsulated forms, while intended to mitigate risk, frequently fail to maintain the structural integrity of the dosage form. This can result in the formation of fragments that may still pose a significant hazard, particularly for individuals with limited dexterity or impaired swallowing function.

[0005] Thus, there remains a need for an improved device that can safely and effectively deliver soluble solids while minimizing the risks of choking, accidental swallowing, or incomplete dissolution, especially for vulnerable user groups. In view of the foregoing, there is a need for a device that effectively and safely delivers soluble solids, addressing the limitations of existing technologies.SUMMARY

[0006] The objective of the present invention is to provide a device that effectively addresses the challenges associated with the oral delivery of soluble solids, ensuring safe and controlledadministration while minimizing the risks of choking, unintended ingestion, or aspiration.

[0007] In one aspect of the invention, a device for safely administering a soluble solid for consumption, is disclosed. The device comprises a first member and a second member. The first member may be configured to hold the soluble solid, and the second member may be coupled to the first member. The first member may be positioned inside the oral cavity of a subject, and the second member may be positioned outside the oral cavity of the subject. The first member may comprise of a plurality of planar plates, disposed along its length, wherein at least one of the planar plates may comprise a plurality of perforations along its length.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0008] Embodiments are illustrated by way of example and not limitation in the figures of the accompanying drawings, in which like references indicate similar elements and in which:

[0009] FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective view of a device 100 holding a soluble solid 108 on a first member 102, in accordance with an embodiment;

[0010] FIG. IB illustrates a perspective view of the device 100, in accordance with an embodiment;

[0011] FIG. 2 illustrates another exemplary view of the device 100, in accordance with an embodiment;

[0012] FIG. 3 illustrates one exemplary view of the device 300, in accordance with an alternate embodiment;

[0013] FIG. 4 illustrates one exemplary view of the device 400, in accordance with an alternate embodiment;

[0014] FIG. 5A illustrates one exemplary view of the device 500, in accordance with an alternate embodiment;

[0015] FIG. 5B illustrates one exemplary view of the device 500, in accordance with an alternate embodiment; and

[0016] FIG. 5C illustrates one exemplary view of a shield 506, in accordance with an alternate embodiment.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] The following detailed description includes references to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed description. The drawings show illustrations in accordance with example embodiments. These example embodiments, which may be herein also referred to as “examples” are described in enough detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice thepresent subject matter. However, it may be apparent to one with ordinary skill in the art, that the present invention may be practised without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures and components have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of the embodiments. The embodiments can be combined, other embodiments can be utilized, or structural, logical, and design changes can be made without departing from the scope of the claims. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0018] In this document, the terms “a” or “an” are used, as is common in patent documents, to include one or more than one. In this document, the term “or” is used to refer to a nonexclusive “or,” such that “A or B” includes “A but not B,” “B but not A,” and “A and B,” unless otherwise indicated.

[0019] Referring to FIG. 1A, a device 100 for safely administering a soluble solid 108 for consumption is disclosed. The device 100 may comprise a first member 102 and a second member 104. The first member 102 may be configured to hold the soluble solid 108. The first member 102 may be positioned inside the oral cavity of a subject, such as, but not limited to, an adult or a child, in a manner that allows for controlled release of the soluble solid 108. Further, the first member 102 containing the soluble solid 108, may be placed into the subject’s mouth, but not limited to, the buccal mucosa, retromolar trigone, against the side of the tongue, or any other part inside the cheek, wherein the soluble solid 108 dissolves in the subj ect’ s saliva and is absorbed.

[0020] In an embodiment, referring to FIG. 1A, the soluble solid 108 may be attached to the first member 102. The soluble solid 108 may be cast into a desired shape and size and further the soluble solid cast is attached onto the surface of the first member 102. Alternatively, the soluble solid 108 may be formed by immersing the first member 102 into a liquid form of the medicament, allowing the liquid to solidify around the first member 102. The soluble solid 108 may be, but not limited to medicaments and may include other substances such as candy, cough drops, or similar edible substances.

[0021] In an alternate embodiment, the soluble solid 108 may be formed around the first member 102, by applying edible adhesive to the surface of the first member 102 before securing the soluble solid 108.

[0022] In an embodiment, an inner surface of the soluble solid 108 may employ a groove-like structure (not shown in the figure), which may be configured to interlock with a correspondingprojection on the first member 102 for enhanced attachment and release of the medicament.

[0023] In an embodiment, referring to FIG. 1A and IB, the second member 104 may be coupled to the first member 102. The second member 104 may be positioned outside the oral cavity of the subject, removably secured to the external cheek of the subject to support the first member 102. This mechanism ensures a secured and comfortable placement of the device 100 in the subject’s oral cavity preventing accidental dislodgement and providing a sense of stability to the subject.

[0024] In an embodiment, referring to FIG. 1A and IB, the device 100 may define a longitudinal axis A-A1extending longitudinally along the device 100, as show in the figures. The first member 102 and the second member 104 may be disposed along the longitudinal axis A-A1, with the first member 102 positioned inside the subject’s oral cavity and the second member 104 positioned outside to the subject’s oral cavity.

[0025] In one embodiment, the length of the first member 102 and the second member 104 may be identical. Alternately, the second member 104 may be shorter than the first member 102 to enhance the aesthetic appeal while maintaining similar functionality.

[0026] In an embodiment, referring to FIG. IB, the first member 104 may comprise a plurality of planar plates 112, 114, disposed along the length of the first member 102. The plurality of planar plates 112, 114, may include a first planar plate 112 and a second planar plate 114, wherein the first planar plate 112 is perpendicular to the second planar plate 114. Furthermore, the first planar plate 112 and the second planar plate 114, when positioned together, may form an angle at their intersection, wherein the angle defined between the first planar plate 112 and the second planar plate 114 at the point of their intersection (along the A-A1106).

[0027] In an embodiment, the first member 104 may further comprise of multiple planar plates such as, a third planar plate, a fourth planar plates, a fifth planar plates, and so on (not shown in the figure). These multiple planar plates may intersect with each other at a centre, along the longitudinal axis A-A1106.

[0028] In an embodiment, the plurality of planar plate 112, 114 may include a textured and / or patterned surface to improve the adhesion of the soluble solid 108. The texture and / or pattern on the surface of the planar plates 112, 114 may include, but not limited to an engraved lines and / or rough pattern (not shown in the figure), to prevent the soluble solid 108 from dislodging easily from the plurality of planar plates 112, 114.

[0029] In an embodiment, the plurality of planar plates 112, 114 may be chamfered around the edges of each of the planar plates 112, 114, reducing the risk of oral irritation to the subject(not shown in the figure). The chamfered edges may be a smooth, rounded or inclined surface, to minimize the potential for the first member 112, to rub against the delicate tissues of the subject’s oral cavity. Such a configuration may provide the device 100 for long-term use, preventing discomfort and irritation, ensuring a positive user experience.

[0030] In one embodiment, the width of the planar plates 112, 114 may differ based on the age of the subject and to accommodate for change in the distance between the first member and the second member while dissolution of the soluble solid 108 inside the oral cavity of the subject. This ensures that the device 100 remains stable and comfortable within the subject's oral cavity throughout the dissolution process.

[0031] In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. IB, the plurality of planar plates 112, 114 may include a plurality of perforations 116 extending along the length of each of the planar plates 112, 114. These perforations 116 may be configured to retain the soluble solid 108, thereby mitigating the risk of larger pieces of the soluble solid 108 obstructing the subject's airway. In other words, as the soluble solid 108 dissolves within the subject's oral cavity, the size of the soluble solid 108 diminishes, increasing the likelihood of dislodgement and potential choking hazards. The plurality of perforations 116 on the planar plates 112, 114 hold the smaller fragments of the soluble solid 108 securely and effectively preventing choking hazards for the subject.

[0032] In an embodiment, the plurality of perforation 116 may be disposed along at least one of the planar plates 112 or 114, i.e., either on the first planar plate 112, or the second planar plate 114. In an embodiment, the plurality of perforations 116 may be of different sizes, identical sizes, or alternating small and large sizes, among other alternatives as may be understood by person skilled in the art.

[0033] In an embodiment, the shape of plurality of perforations 116 may be, but not limited to, circular, elliptical, rectangular, square, or any other suitable shape to accommodate smaller fragments of the soluble solid 108, as may be understood by a person skilled in the art.

[0034] In an embodiment, the plurality of perforations 116 may be formed as a hollow space or an indentation on the planar plates 112, 114. The hollow space or indentation may be configured to retain smaller fragments of the soluble solid 108 as the larger pieces dissolve. Further, the plurality of perforations 116 may form a mesh or a groove for improved retention and controlled release of the soluble solid 108.

[0035] In an embodiment, referring to FIG. 1A and IB, the second member 104 may comprise a plurality of holes 118 to secure the device 100 to the subject's face. The plurality of holes 118may be disposed along the length of the second member 104. Further, the plurality of holes 118 may be used to secure the device 100 to the subject’s body to prevent drop-off. Furthermore, the plurality of holes 118 may be employed in conjunction with an external securing element, such as a tether, band, or strap, to affix the device 100 to the subject's face. The external securing element may be attached to the plurality of holes 118 and connected to an auricular appendage, an article of clothing, or an eyewear frame, for example. This may act as additional support mechanism suitable for children, elderly individuals, or those with limited mouth motor function. The plurality of holes 118 may vary in size to accommodate different facial structures.

[0036] In an embodiment, the second member 104 may not be fixed to the subject's cheek but may instead serve as a handle to hold the first member 102. Further, the second member 104 may be ergonomically designed to provide a comfortable grip for easy handling and removal of the device 100 from the subject's mouth.

[0037] In an embodiment, the second member 104 may be made of a soft and flexible material to avoid discomfort to the subject's cheek. In an embodiment, the second member 104 may be a flexible strap or band that can be adjusted to fit different head sizes. This strap may be secured to the subject's head using a hook-and-loop fastener, among other alternatives as may be understood by person skilled in the art.

[0038] In an embodiment, at least a portion of the second member 104 may include a magnetic surface to secure the device 100 to a subject’s body or clothing. A magnetic surface may couple with a corresponding magnetic tag to secure the device 100 to the subject’s clothing or accessories, thereby providing a hands-free and secure method for wearing the device 100.

[0039] In an embodiment, referring to FIG. IB, the second member 104 includes a retention element 110 formed towards the end of the second member 104. The retention element 110 may lock the position of the device 100 when the first member 102 is placed inside the subject's oral cavity. The retention element 110 may be configured as a clip that engages the outer surface of the subject's cheek.

[0040] In another embodiment, the terminal end 120 of the retention element 110 may form an outward projection to enable gripping and easy removal of the device 100 from the subject's oral cavity.

[0041] In an embodiment, the retention element 110 is a suction cup to secure the device 100 to the subject's cheek.

[0042] In an embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 2, the plurality of planar plates 112, 114 may include a plurality of barriers 204-210 disposed along the length of the first member 102. Theplurality of barriers 204-210 may be positioned at the intersections of adjacent planar plates 112, 114, as depicted in FIG. 2. The plurality of barriers 204-210 may be configured to retain the soluble solid 108, when the soluble solid 108 may be larger in size, preventing its dislodgement. Further, as the soluble solid 108 dissolves, the barriers 204 to 210 may enable controlled release of the soluble solid 108 while maintaining structural integrity.

[0043] In an embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 2, the plurality of barriers 204 - 210 may include a first barrier 204, a second barrier 206, a third barrier 208, and a fourth barrier 210. The first barrier 204, the second barrier 206, the third barrier 208, and the fourth barrier 210 may be similar in shape. Further, each of the barrier 204-210 may extend outwardly from the intersection of the planar plates 112, 114. The shape of the barriers 204-210 may be, but not limited to, a concave curve, a convex shape, a square, a rectangle, and a sector of a circle and / or so on. Furthermore, as illustrated in FIG. 2, the plurality of barriers 204-210 may extend in a direction which may be perpendicular to the length of the planar plates 112.

[0044] In an embodiment, the plurality of barriers 204 to 210 may form a concentric barrier around the first member 102 when placed between the intersections of adjacent planar plates 112, 114 (as shown in the FIG. 2).

[0045] In an embodiment, the plurality of barriers 204 to 210 may form a shape which include but not limited to a circle, a square, and a rectangle, among other shapes around the first member 102 when placed or aligned between the intersections of adjacent planar plates 112, 114.

[0046] In an embodiment, the first barrier 204, second barrier 206, third barrier 208, and fourth barrier 210 may be positioned randomly along the intersection of the two adjacent planar plates 112 and 114, parallel to the longitudinal axis A-A1106 (not shown in the figures). This staggered arrangement of barriers contributes to the controlled release of the soluble solid 108 and provides enhanced structural support to the device 100.

[0047] In an embodiment, the plurality of barriers 204-210 may be positioned between more than two planar plates. For instance, if there are three or more perpendicular planar plates, the plurality of barriers may be positioned between each pair of adjacent plates, or they may be positioned at specific intervals along the length of the device 100.

[0048] In another embodiment, the plurality of barriers 204-210 may include one or more perforations disposed on the barriers 204-210 (not shown in the figure). The perforations may enable unobstructed airflow, particularly in instances where the device 100 may be inadvertently swallowed.

[0049] In an embodiment, depicted in FIG. 3, provides an alternative configuration of the device 300. The second member 104 may be coupled to the first member 102 through a bolt and spring mechanism. The first member 102 and the second member 104 may be pivotally connected about a bolt 302. A spring 304 positioned between the first member 102 and the second member 104 may be configured to exert a compressive force to maintain a secured connection to the subject’s cheek. The bolt and spring mechanism may provide a flexible and adjustable connection between the first member 102 and second member 104. The tension of the spring 304 may be adjusted to accommodate varying levels of force and movement of the second member 104 relative to the first member 102.

[0050] In an embodiment, the second member 104 may be coupled to the first member 102 by employing a hinge mechanism to create a hinged joint between the first member 102 and the second member 104, allowing for limited motion of the second member 104 relative to the first member 102. Simultaneously, the friction and torque within the hinge mechanism ensure that the second member 104 remains securely fixed at the desired angular position as per the subject’s comfort.

[0051] In an alternative embodiment, the second member 104 may be coupled to the first member 102 by employing, but not limited to, a snap fit mechanism, a friction fit, among other alternatives as may be understood by person skilled in the art. The choice of coupling mechanism will depend on specific device requirements, such as desired flexibility, ease of assembly, and durability.

[0052] In an embodiment, referring to FIG. 4, the gap between the first member 102 and the second member 104 may taper from the coupling point of the first member 102 to the terminal end 120 of the second member 104. The second member 104 may be configured with a tapered shape, gradually narrowing from the coupling point to the terminal end 120.

[0053] In an embodiment, referring to Fig. 4, the inner surfaces of the first member 102 and second member 104 may be angled relative to each other, creating a tapered gap. The tapered gap may help to ensure a secure and comfortable fit between the device 100 and the subject’s cheek.

[0054] In an embodiment, referring to FIG. 4, the first member 102 and the second member 104 may be formed as a single integrated unit. The first member 102 may be a smooth, elongated component, and the second member 104 may be coupled to the first member 102 to form a unified structure.

[0055] In an embodiment, depicted in FIGs. 5A, 5B and 5C, provides an alternativeconfiguration of the device 500. The device 500 may include the first member 102, a handle 504, and a shield 506. The device 500 may be configured for use primarily by infants or toddlers and enables controlled administration of a dissolvable solid, such as medicated lozenges or therapeutic dissolvable tablets. The handle 504 may provide a gripping surface to enable manipulation, positioning, and removal of the device 100. The handle 504 may be formed by, but not limited to, a rigid material, such as plastic or fiber, to ensure durability, stability, and ease of handling. The handle 504 further includes an external threaded portion 502 that extends longitudinally along its axis A-A1, as depicted in FIG. 5B. The shield 506 may include an internal threaded portion along its inner circumferences, which may be configured to engage corresponding external threads of the threaded portion 502, thereby enabling a removable and adjustable attachment to the handle 504. Further, the shield 506 may be analogous to the second member 104 as disclosed previously in other embodiments. When the shield 506 is positioned between the handle 504 and the first member 102, the shield 506 provides a barrier to the infant’s mouth. The shield 506 is configured to fit comfortably around the infant’ s mouth, thereby minimizing any potential irritation to the infant’s skin by providing a smooth and gentle contact surface. The shield 506 may include vents that allow air to circulate, thereby preventing the buildup of saliva around the infant’s mouth, which can reduce the risk of skin irritation or rashes.

[0056] In an embodiment, the handle 504 may include a ring 508 configured to provide an easy grip for the infant or the caregiver to remove the device 100 from the mouth. The ring 508 may also be attached to a string to keep it within reach and prevent it from falling off. Alternatively, in an embodiment, the shield 506 may engage with the first member 102 through one or more of a threaded connection, a bayonet mount, a snap-fit, a magnetic coupling, a latching mechanism, or a spring-loaded pin, among other alternatives engaging mechanisms as may be understood by person skilled in the art. The specific engagement may be based on factors such as ease of use, durability, and hygiene.

[0057] In an embodiment, shield 506 may include a first shield and a second shield (not shown in FIGs). The first shield may comprise two planar surfaces, while the second shield may comprise one planar surface and one curved surface. The planar surface of the second shield may be configured to mate with the planar surface of the first shield, while the curved surface of the second shield may be configured to receive the handle 504. This configuration allows for a secure and adjustable attachment of the first and second shields to the handle 504, enabling precise positioning of the first member 102 relative to the infant's oral cavity.

[0058] In an embodiment, referring to FIG. 5C, the shield 506 may comprise of an internal thread 508 positioned along its inner circumference at the centre of the shield 506. This internal thread 508 complement the external thread 502 of the handle 504, enabling secure attachment. The shield 506 may be formed of rigid or semi-rigid materials, such as medical-grade plastic or silicone, which are both durable and safe for use for infants.

[0059] The present disclosure may find its advantage in the devices 100, 300, 400 and 500 for minimizing choking risk and enabling controlled release of soluble solids 108. The device's unique structural configuration, incorporating (specific structural feature, e.g., perpendicular planar plates 112, 114, plurality of barriers 204-210, or perforations 116), securely retains the soluble solid, inhibiting fragmentation and promoting controlled dissolution. This significantly reduces the risk of choking by preventing large particles from being inhaled, while optimizing therapeutic outcomes. Further, the plurality of holes 118 may provide an enhanced stability, customizable fit, and additional support, making the device secure and adaptable for various facial structures, especially for children, the elderly, or individuals with limited motor function.

[0060] Further, these devices 100, 300, 400 and 500 may find its advantage by offering improved speech articulation and reduced oral irritation by providing a smooth and comfortable surface that avoids contact with delicate oral tissues. Additionally, this device 100 may find its advantage in the adjustable width of the planar plates 112 and 114, which allows for a customized fit, ensuring optimal comfort and retention within the oral cavity. Further, these devices 100, 300, 400 and 500 provides a hands-free delivery method, allowing for convenient and discreet administration of the soluble solid. Furthermore, these devices 100, 300, 400 and 500 may be easy to apply and remove, simplifying the user experience. It also accommodates a variety of soluble solid forms, including tablets, lozenges, and custom-shaped medicaments, with suitable sizes, shapes, and materials designed to the type of subject (e.g., children or elderly people). Additional advantages may be apparent to a person ordinarily skilled in the art in view of the aforementioned details and the accompanying drawings.

[0061] Although, embodiments have been described with reference to specific example embodiments, it will be evident that various modifications, arrangements of components and changes may be made to these embodiments without departing from the broader spirit and scope of a device 100 for safely administering a soluble solid 108 for consumption for a system described herein. Further, the design of the second member may be modified to suit various applications for safe and effective administration of the soluble solid. Accordingly, the specification and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense.

[0062] Many alterations and modifications of the present invention will no doubt become apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art after having read the foregoing description. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. It is to be understood that the description above contains many specifications; these should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention but as merely providing illustrations of some of the personally preferred embodiments of this invention. Thus, the scope of the invention should be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents rather than by the examples given.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A device (100) for safely administering a soluble solid (108) for consumption, the device (100) comprising:a first member (102) configured to hold the soluble solid (108) and be positioned inside the oral cavity of a subject; anda second member (104) coupled to the first member (102) and positioned outside the oral cavity of the subject,characterized in that;wherein the first member (102) comprises a plurality of planar plates (112, 114) disposed along the length of the first member (102), andwherein at least one of the planar plates (112, 114) comprises a plurality of perforations (116) along the length of at least one of the planar plates (112, 114).

2. The device (100) according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of planar plates (112, 114) are perpendicular to each other.

3. The device (100) according to claim 2, wherein the surface of the at least one planar plate (112, 114) comprises an engraved pattern to prevent the soluble solid (108) from dislodging the planar plate (112, 114).

4. The device (100) according to claim 2, wherein the edges of at least one planar plate (112, 114) are chamfered to prevent soreness of the subject's oral cavity.

5. The device (100) according to claim 1, further comprises a plurality of barriers (204-210) disposed along the length of the first member (102) and positioned at the intersection of two adjacent planar plates (112, 114).

6. The device (100) according to claim 5, wherein the plurality of barriers (204-210) disposed around the intersections of the adjacent planar plates (112, 114) to form a concentric barrier around the first member (102).

7. The device (100) according to claim 6, wherein the plurality of barriers (204-210) extend in a direction perpendicular to the length of the planar plates (112, 114).

8. The device (100) according to claim 6, wherein the concentric barrier are in the shape of a square or a rectangular around the first member (102).

9. The device (100) according to claim 5, wherein each of the plurality of barriers (204-210) comprises a perforation.

10. The device (100) according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of perforations on at least one of the planar plates (112, 114) hold the soluble solid (108) and prevent pieces of soluble solid (108) from blocking an airway of the subject.

11. The device (100) according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of perforations (116) on at least one of the planar plates (112, 114) are of different sizes.

12. The device (100) according to claim 1, wherein the first member (102) and the second member (104) are coupled through a bolt and spring mechanism.

13. The device (100) according to claim 1, wherein the first member (102) and the second member (104) pivot around the bolt (302) and the spring (304) connecting the first member (102) and second member (104) exerts a compressive force between the first member (102) and the second member (104).

14. The device (100) according to claim 1, wherein the surface of the second member (104) comprises a plurality of holes (118) to secure the device (100) to the subject.

15. The device (100) according to claim 1, wherein the second member (104) comprises a retention element (110) configured to securely attachment of the second member (104) to a subject’s cheek.

16. The device (100) according to claim 15, wherein the first and second members (102, 104) coupled to form a single unit such that when the first member (102) is placed inside the subject’s oral cavity, the retention element (110) of the second member (104) locks the position of the device (100).

17. The device (100) according to claim 15, wherein the terminal end (120) of the retention element (110) forms an outward projection to enable gripping and easy removal of the device (100) from the subject’s cheek.

18. The device (100) according to claim 1, wherein the second member (104) is configured to provide an ergonomic grip for ease of handling and removal of the device (100) from the subject's mouth.

19. The device (100) according to claim 1, wherein the gap between the first member (102) and second member (104) tapers from the coupling point to the terminal end (120) of the second member (104).

20. The device (100) according to claim 1, wherein the device (100) comprises:a handle (504);a shield (506) is positioned between the handle (504) and the first member (102), wherein the shield (506) is configured to provide a barrier to the mouth of the subject.

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