Designer tracheostomy tube and other neck wearing device attachment

Info

Publication number: 20050144761
Type: Application
Filed: Dec 31, 2003
Publication Date: Jul 7, 2005
Inventor: Michelle Hatcher (Tallahassee, FL)
Application Number: 10/749,362

Abstract

A designer unisex horseshoe-shaped apparatus which is designed and configured to provide color accenting for tracheostomy tubes and other neck wearing devices. It is a designer attachment with a non-medical appearance. Therefore, the present invention will provide for any color, including gold and silver tone in order to accent the user's wardrobe. Other embodiments may include, but not limited to, stretching materials, any other suitable material and adjustable hangings with designer clamps in the back being that there are both adjustable and nonadjustable models. The present invention may be comprised of, but not limited to, various materials such as beads, chains, and fabrics including stretching fabrics or the like in order to provide various designs. The present invention is comprised of a closed-ended hook and go system which helps to make it a safe attachment.

Description

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to plurality of a decorative securing attachment for users of tracheostomy tubes and other neck wearing devices and, more particularly, to a plurality of a novel and unique horseshoe-shaped attachment that will provide users of tracheostomy tubes and other neck wearing devices with the option of coordinating and accenting colors of their wardrobe with the many selective colors, including gold and silver tone, of the attachment to provide a more non-medical look for the user.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Tracheostomy tubes are well known in the art and are widely used to enhance respiration. Often individuals with tracheostomy tubes and other related medical devices are forced to settle for an unpleasing appearance. Tracheostomy tubes are normally sold with cotton twill, with the option to purchase a holder which resembles a bandage. Both of these options draw negative attention to the wearer and are not aesthetically pleasing to the users, especially for women. What is needed are optional tracheostomy tube and other neck wearing device attachments which are designed and configured to be adaptable for modern tracheostomy tubes and neck devices, also that are safe, aesthetically pleasing, easy to wear and be easily detached and attached, and that will be quickly and easily interchangeable.

The present invention seeks to provide a safe and more colorful means by which attachments for securing today's tracheostomy tubes and other neck wearing devices can be personalized, i.e., where the user can coordinate the attachment color with their wardrobe color. The user can change attachments just as they change clothing.

A personalized and colorful attachment has the advantage of providing a more non-medical look for user.

One such tracheostomy tube device which is useless today is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 2,039,142. In this patent is a particularly effective organization of a tracheostomy tube in a necklace. The necklace embodies a medallion element which in service is adapted to overlie the incision or opening in the patient's throat. In addition to providing the cover for the incisional scar, the non-detachable medallion element receives and is secured to and constitutes a screen upon the outer end of the tube.

The device disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 2,039,142 is substantially outdated. It is no comparison to present invention. This patented device would not be compatible with the more efficiently designed tracheostomy tubes used today that present differently designed openings. For example, the present invention does not overlie an incision or scar, which may be uncomfortable to the wearer. In addition, the attachment of the present invention extends from the tracheostomy tube ends, and may be quickly and easily attached and detached, therefore not covering the opening where air is passed, also the device of the present invention does not require the use of a screen which had to be utilized with the tracheostomy tube in U.S. Pat. No. 2,039,142.

Hence, it is seen that the previous invention does not provide the benefits intended with the present invention, such as providing optional tracheostomy tube and other neck wearing device attachments. Additionally, prior technique does not suggest the present inventive combination of component elements as disclosed and claimed herein. The present invention achieves its intended purposes, objectives and advantages over the prior art devices through a new, useful and unobvious combination of component elements, which are simple to use, with the utilization of a minimum number of components, at a reasonable cost to manufacture, assemble, test and by employing only readily available materials.

It is therefore an object of the invention to provide for a designer tracheostomy tube and other neck wearing device attachment that will overcome the drawbacks, disadvantages and shortcomings of prior tracheostomy tube and other neck wearing device means thereof.

It is another object of the invention to enhance the appearance of tracheostomy tube and other neck wearing device users.

It is another object of the invention to provide for a non-medical look for users of tracheostomy tubes and other neck wearing devices.

It is another object of the invention to enhance self-esteem of the wearer by providing an attachment that may be coordinated with the wardrobe for an aesthetically pleasing appearance.

It is another object of the invention to provide an attachment which is safe for the user to wear during the participation of sporting activities.

A final object of the present inventive attachment, to be specifically enumerated herein, is to provide for a tracheostomy tube and other neck wearing device attachment in accordance with the preceding objects and which will conform to conventional forms of manufacture, be of simple construction and easy to use so as to provide for a tracheostomy tube and other neck wearing device attachment that will be economically feasible, long lasting and relatively trouble free.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a unisex horseshoe-shaped apparatus which is designed and configured for tracheostomy tubes and other neck wearing devices. It is a designer attachment with a non-medical appearance. Other embodiments may include, but not limited to, stretching materials and adjustable hangings in the back. The present invention provides for a novel and unique designer appearance which includes colors in addition to the standard colors provided with the devices upon purchasing. Therefore, the present invention will provide for any color, including gold and silver tone in order to accent the user's wardrobe. The present invention may be made of, but not limited to, various materials such as beads, chains, and fabrics including stretching fabrics or the like in order to provide various designs. The present invention contains a closed-ended hook and go system. Other embodiments may provide for adjustable styles including, but not limited to, a designer clamp in the back and may provide for adjustability and stretchability. It is important to note that none of the embodiments of the present invention contain any piece that might be placed in front of the opening of the tracheostomy tube or airway. Likewise, the present invention also provides that none of the embodiments would contain any piece that would cover the scar area. Thus the present invention is designed and configured to enhance the appearance of the user as well as provide for safety features. In addition, the present invention may be utilized in seconds in order to expedite it's attachment and utilization.

The present invention is utilized to support the tracheostomy tube as well as other neck wearing devices such as a voice box. Thus, the present invention provides comfort, style with color as well as a safe securing attachment device for tracheostomy tubes and other neck wearing devices. The present invention provides for an attachment device which must be fitted properly, unless adjustable, in order to achieve maximum comfort and efficiency. For example, the adjustable embodiments of the present invention are designed and configured in order to provide for a fitting which can be accomplished during all phases of wearing the present invention whether it be before or after application. The present invention provides for, but not limited to, a non-adjustable embodiment which requires proper measurement with a proper measuring tool, preferably a flexible measuring tape, to ensure a proper fit. The present invention provides detailed instructions for proper measuring. For example, it is very important when measuring to secure (attach) the tracheostomy tube or other neck wearing device with an alternate holding device before fitting to prevent expulsion of the tracheostomy tube or to prevent falling and potential damage of other neck devices. Thus, after the tracheostomy tube or other neck wearing device has been secured (attached) it is important to proceed with proper measuring. The user should measure from one end of the tracheostomy tube or other neck wearing device to the other. Then the user should adjust to a comfort level while measuring tape is in place. When the user has found their desired level of comfort, the user should record the measurement in order to place an order for the proper size.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A complete understanding of the present invention may be obtained by reference to the accompanying drawings, when considered in conjunction with the subsequent, detailed description, in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an attachment, illustrating how the elements are assembled.;

FIG. 2 is a front view of an a tracheostomy tube employing the present invention.;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an an adjustable attachment.;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a the present invention using different embodiments.; and

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a some of the available components of the attachment before assembly is carried out.

For purposes of clarity and brevity, like elements and components will bear the same designations and numbering throughout the FIGURES.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

FIG. 1 illustrates a separated view of the proposed attachment 12. FIG. 1 is comprised of a closed-ended closed-ended fastener 1 for securing attachment 12 to a tracheostomy tube 5 (not shown) or other neck wearing device, desired stringing line 2 for stringing ornamentation, a split ring 3 for attaching closed-ended fastener 1, desired ornamentation, which is beads 4 in this drawing. The body of the attachment 12, may be fabricated of beads 4, decorative metal or any other suitable material. A crimp bead 7 or other securing device can be used to secure stringing line 2 in any model except the fabric 11 model.

FIG. 2 illustrates the proposed attachment 12 connected to a modern tracheostomy tube 5. FIG. 2 shows the tracheostomy tube 5 with the attachment 12 that is comprised of a closed-ended closed-ended fastener 1 for securing attachment 12 to tracheostomy tube 5, split ring 3 for attaching closed-ended closed-ended fastener 1 to body, desired stringing line 2 for stringing desired ornamentation, which is beads 4 in this drawing.

FIG. 3 illustrates some alternate embodiments of the inventive attachment 12. This drawing shows an adjustable model of the proposed attachment 12. The attachment 12 comprises a designer clamp 6 to adjust the attachment 12 to users desired comfort level. It is also comprised of a closed-ended closed-ended fastener 1 for securing attachment 12 to tracheostomy tube 5, a split ring 3 for attaching closed-ended fastener 1, desired ornamentation, which is beads 4 in this drawing, stringing line 2 for stringing ornamentation. A crimp bead 7 is used to hold the attachment 12 together at the ends.

FIG. 4 illustrates alternate embodiments to show how using different materials still achieves the purpose of the proposed invention. FIG. 4 comprises a closed-ended fastener 1 for securing attachment 12 to tracheostomy tube 5, an jump ring 8 for attaching closed-ended fastener 1 and body of attachment 12, body consist of desired type of fabric 11 but is not limited to one specific type, an optional eyelet 9 for attaching the jump ring 8, the fabric 11 can be sewn around the jump ring 8 so that the eyelet 9 can be omitted, an adjusting device 10 for adjusting to users desired fit.

FIG. 5 is a drawing of the preferred elements used in the previous drawings before assembly. Closed-ended closed-ended fastener 1, stringing line 2 for stringing ornamentation, split ring 3, beads 4, designer clamp 6, crimp bead 7, jump ring 8, eyelet 9, adjusting device 10 for model consisting of fabric 11.

While the proposed invention has been shown and described with reference to different embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Since other modifications and changes varied to fit particular operating requirements and environments will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the invention is not considered limited to the example chosen for purposes of disclosure, and covers all changes and modifications which do not constitute departures from the true spirit and scope of this invention.

Having thus described the invention, what is desired to be protected by Letters Patent is presented in the subsequently appended claims.

Claims

1. A designer tracheostomy tube and other neck wearing device attachment for the purpose of providing a decorative and colorful way to attach a tracheostomy tube or other neck wearing device comprising:

means for securing the attachment to the tracheostomy tube or other neck wearing device;

means for stringing decorative ornaments;

means for connecting the securing device to the attachment;

means for the adjustable model to adjust to users desired fit;

means for holding attachment together at the ends;

means for connecting the closed-ended fastener;

means for adjusting fabric attachment to users desired fit; and

means for fabricating the body of the fabric attachment with any suitable fabric.

2. The designer tracheostomy tube and other neck wearing device attachment in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for securing the attachment to the tracheostomy tube or other neck wearing device comprises a closed-ended fastener.

3. The designer tracheostomy tube and other neck wearing device attachment in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for stringing decorative ornaments comprises a stringing line.

4. The designer tracheostomy tube and other neck wearing device attachment in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for connecting the securing device to the attachment comprises a split ring.

5. The designer tracheostomy tube and other neck wearing device attachment in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for the adjustable model to adjust to users desired fit comprises a designer clamp.

6. The designer tracheostomy tube and other neck wearing device attachment in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for holding attachment together at the ends comprises a crimp bead.

7. The designer tracheostomy tube and other neck wearing device attachment in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for connecting the closed-ended fastener comprises a jump ring.

8. The designer tracheostomy tube and other neck wearing device attachment in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for adjusting fabric attachment to users desired fit comprises an adjusting device.

9. The designer tracheostomy tube and other neck wearing device attachment in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for fabricating the body of the fabric attachment with any suitable fabric comprises a fabric.

10. A designer tracheostomy tube and other neck wearing device attachment for the purpose of providing a decorative and colorful way to attach a tracheostomy tube or other neck wearing device comprising:

a closed-ended fastener, for securing the attachment to the tracheostomy tube or other neck wearing device;

a stringing line, for stringing decorative ornaments;

a split ring, for connecting the securing device to the attachment;

a designer clamp, for the adjustable model to adjust to users desired fit;

a crimp bead, for holding attachment together at the ends;

a jump ring, for connecting the closed-ended fastener;

an adjusting device, for adjusting fabric attachment to users desired fit; and

a fabric, for fabricating the body of the fabric attachment with any suitable fabric.

11. The designer tracheostomy tube and other neck wearing device attachment as recited in claim 10, further comprising:

a beads, for providing the ornamental body of the attachment even though the body of the attachment may be fabricated of beads, decorative metal or any other suitable material, connected to said closed-ended fastener.

12. The designer tracheostomy tube and other neck wearing device attachment as recited in claim 10, further comprising:

an eyelet, for connecting fabric to jump ring if desired or fabric can be sewn to jump ring so that the eyelet can be eliminated.

13. The designer tracheostomy tube and other neck wearing device attachment as recited in claim 11, further comprising:

an eyelet, for connecting fabric to jump ring if desired or fabric can be sewn to jump ring so that the eyelet can be eliminated.

14. A designer tracheostomy tube and other neck wearing device attachment for the purpose of providing a decorative and colorful way to attach a tracheostomy tube or other neck wearing device comprising: