Lacteal Extractors (e.g., Breast Pump, Etc.) Patents (Class 604/74)
  • Patent number: 6497677
    Abstract: An easy to assemble breastmilk pump with an effective and easy to operate manual pumping mechanism that allows in one aspect for one-handed or two-handed operation, a novel piston pump mechanism in another aspect of the invention, an improved vacuum regulator in yet another aspect that can be easily adjusted during operation, and a locking mechanism in still another aspect to prevent accidental disengagement of the reciprocating parts during operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2002
    Assignee: Medela Holding AG
    Inventor: Brian H. Silver
  • Publication number: 20020193731
    Abstract: A portable, hands-free and user friendly breast pump for facilitating breastfeeding, incorporates a dome-shaped housing having a servomotor mechanism; a hat-shaped flange having a chamber portion, a brim portion and an outlet, the chamber portion being formed so as to be placed over a nipple on a breast so as to define a chamber between the flange and the breast, and the brim portion being formed to surround the nipple and thereby form a suction seal therebetween; and a one-way venting element formed to operatively communicate with the chamber so as to vent pumped milk from the chamber via the outlet. The housing, the flange and the venting element are connected into an integral device held against the breast and underneath clothing so as to keep the integral device hidden. Breast milk is collected via a plastic collection bag that connects directly with the pump underneath clothing such that the milk is isolated from any contaminants in the air and may be easily stored immediately after being collected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2002
    Publication date: December 19, 2002
    Applicant: Whisper Wear, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth E. Myers, Ellen Lundy, Drew F. Meincke, Sharon Birdseye
  • Patent number: 6494859
    Abstract: Methods, kits, and apparatus for obtaining cellular, chemical, and other materials from breast ducts are described. A single milk duct is accessed and washed with a washing fluid to obtain marker materials from the lining the duct. The washing fluid is then collected, and the marker materials in the washing fluid identified and analyzed. Usually, the washing fluid is introduced using a syringe through a lumen of a dual-lumen catheter. The ductal volume is filled with the washing fluid and excess fluid flows outwardly through a second lumen of the dual-lumen catheter, from which it is collected. Methods and kits provide for collection of fluid and cells by a lavage procedure that includes applying external pressure to the breast to improve the yield of fluid and cells from the breast duct.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2002
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: Susan M. Love, David Hung, Xuanmin He
  • Publication number: 20020183718
    Abstract: Disclosed is a disposable closed fluid loop for providing heat and compression to an intraductal fluid aspiration device. A plurality of bladders are configured to receive a pressurized inflation fluid, and to inflate in response thereto. The fluid is further configured to flow adjacent a heat exchanger, thereby receiving thermal energy, which it imparts to the bladders through conduction. Accordingly, the disclosed fluid loop provides heated inflation media to inflate a plurality of bladders to provide heat and compression to an intraductal fluid aspiration patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2002
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventors: Kevin B. Morton, Rex O. Bare, Jeffrey C. Smith, Timothy J. Payne, Paul Gleason
  • Publication number: 20020183717
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method and apparatus for accomplishing a noninvasive screen for breast disease markers, including breast cancer markers and cytologically abnormal cells. Intraductal fluid is noninvasively aspirated using compression, heating and suction cycles. The removed sample is thereafter assayed for the presence of cytologically abnormal cells and/or one or more breast disease markers. In addition to the diagnostic applications of the disclosed method and apparatus, a therapeutic application is also contemplated wherein intraductal fluids are noninvasively aspirated using compression, heating and suction cycles to remove toxic buildups within the fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2002
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventors: Kevin B. Morton, Rex O. Bare, Jeffrey C. Smith, Timothy J. Payne, Paul Gleason
  • Publication number: 20020183719
    Abstract: Disclosed is a disposable patient interface for an intraductal fluid aspiration system. The interface has a flexible tubular distal member for contacting the patient, and a rigid proximal member forming a vacuum chamber therein. The rigid member has a vacuum aperture for communication with a source of vacuum. The flexible member preferably has a low modulus of elasticity and a high tear strength, such that it can be stretched to fit over a rigid support without rupture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2002
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventors: Kevin B. Morton, Rex O. Bare, Jeffrey C. Smith, Timothy J. Payne, Paul Gleason
  • Publication number: 20020156419
    Abstract: A disposable bag for attachment to a breastpump for containing breastmilk has a liquid containing portion with a releasably sealed opening, a tie for re-sealing the opening after use, a writing area formed integral with the bag which does not overlie the liquid containing portion, and an integral pour spout. The liquid containing portion of the bag can be hermetically sealed. The releasable seal provided defines the opening in the bag for attachment of the bag to the breastmilk pump. A tie is fit through two holes in the bag at substantially opposite sides of the opening of the bag so that the opening can be re-sealed when the bag is filled and removed from the breastmilk pump. The integrally formed writing area that is isolated from the liquid containing portion of the bag can be advantageously formed to further define the pour spout that is also integral with the bag. A notch is provided at the periphery of the bag at the pour spout to facilitate tearing of the bag to pour milk from the bag.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 1994
    Publication date: October 24, 2002
    Inventors: BRIAN H. SILVER, GOTTHILF WENIGER
  • Patent number: 6461324
    Abstract: A suction bell assembly, and an elastomeric liner therefor, are disclosed in which the bell includes a rigid outer shell (10,310) of generally Y-shaped axial cross section with a conical top portion (101) and a cylindrical body portion (106). A thin, flexible, elastic liner (11) is disposed within the shell and has a conical and preferably corrugated upper portion (111) disposed within the conical top portion of the shell and a peripheral lip (114) for sealingly engaging a rim (19) extending about the shell's top portion. The liner also includes an elongated tubular portion 112 spaced normally inwardly from the shell's inner surface, the tubular portion including a resilient annular flange (119) that sealingly engages a shoulder at the lower end of the shell to maintain the liner in an axially stretched and tensioned state. one-way valve means (13,43) is formed integrally with the liner and is disposed at the lower end of the tubular portion below the flange (119).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2002
    Inventor: Klaus Schlensog
  • Patent number: 6440100
    Abstract: A concealed apparatus for hands free breast milk pumping and storage includes one or more low profile nipple caps held in place beneath a support brassiere. The system permits concealed, hands free breast pumping in a public environment without any remarkable change in the user's visible appearance. Milk is expressed from the breasts through novel, low profile nipple caps linked to a reservoir via a milk storage conduit. A vacuum is applied to the storage reservoir by any suitable means such as an electric or manual vacuum pump. Suction is thus conveyed through related system components to express milk from the breasts and draw it into the storage reservoir, while being essentially unobserved by others.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2002
    Inventor: John Gilbert Prentiss
  • Publication number: 20020107502
    Abstract: Apparatus, methods and kits for simultaneous delivery of a fluid or other substance to two or more breast milk ducts are provided. The fluid can be delivered for a variety of purposes including lavage of the ducts and administering an agent for therapeutic, prophylactic, or diagnostic purposes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2002
    Publication date: August 8, 2002
    Applicant: Pro Duct Health, Inc.
    Inventors: David Hung, Xuanmin He
  • Patent number: 6423030
    Abstract: An improved breastshield for a breastpump having a coating of a lubricating material formed integral with the breastshield.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Assignee: Medela Holding AG
    Inventor: Brian H. Silver
  • Publication number: 20020072702
    Abstract: Biological samples of mammary fluid or components thereof are obtained using a breast pump device coupled with a solid phase sample collection medium, alternatively facilitated by administering oxytocin to the subject. The breast pump device stimulates expression of mammary fluid and provides for collection of diagnostic samples to evaluate breast disease, including cancer. The biological sample may include whole cells or cellular components, purified or bulk proteins, glycoproteins, peptides, nucleotides or other desired constituents comprising a breast disease marker. Methods, kits and adapter devices relating to the breast pump device are also provided. Yet additional methods, devices, accessories, and materials are provided for laboratory handling and processing of breast fluid samples and for related diagnostic methods.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2001
    Publication date: June 13, 2002
    Inventor: Steven C. Quay
  • Publication number: 20020072701
    Abstract: A breast pump arrangement is provided for connection to a pair of funnel-like breast receiving bodies via a corresponding pair of vacuum conduits. The vacuum conduits communicate with a vacuum source or pump. The pump unit is connected to a distribution valve to which the vacuum conduits are connected in turn. Furthermore, the distribution valve has a connection channel for the connection with the source of vacuum of the pump unit. Moreover, a regulator is provided for adjusting the suction pressure. This regulator releasably connects to the arrangement by a releasable connection. On the other hand, the regulator is suitably interposed between the source of vacuum and the connection channel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2001
    Publication date: June 13, 2002
    Inventor: Hans Ueli Nuesch
  • Patent number: 6398765
    Abstract: Apparatus, methods and kits for simultaneous delivery of a fluid or other substance to two or more breast milk ducts are provided. The fluid can be delivered for a variety of purposes including lavage of the ducts and administering an agent for therapeutic, prophylactic, or diagnostic purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Assignee: Pro Duct Health, Inc.
    Inventor: David Hung
  • Publication number: 20020062103
    Abstract: A breastpump is provided with a universal suction hood base that can be used with a set of different shields. An improved shield is further disclosed which is more flexible and conforms more readily to the breast, and also provides massage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2002
    Publication date: May 23, 2002
    Inventors: Karl O.A.H. Larsson, Beat J. Moser, Andy Greter, David A. Bates, Brian H. Silver
  • Patent number: 6387072
    Abstract: A breastpump is provided with a universal suction hood base that can be used with a set of different shields. An improved shield is further disclosed which is more flexible and conforms more readily to the breast, and also provides massage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Assignee: Medela Holding AG
    Inventors: Karl O. A. H. Larsson, Beat J. Moser, Andy Greter, David A. Bates, Brian H. Silver
  • Patent number: 6383163
    Abstract: An electric breast pump utilizes an electric motor to drive a piston vacuum pump to draw a negative pressure or suction up to 250 mm Hg at a flexible collapsible breast cup. The suction cycles between the set maximum and atmospheric under the control of a magnetic valve that is opened and closed by a vacuum sensor. The valve opens and closes a bypass to atmosphere. The speed of the electric motor can be selectively varied to increase the frequency of the suction cycles, which can vary between 20 to 44 cycles per minute. The breast cup collapses during a part of each cycle to simulate the peristaltic action of a suckling infant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Inventors: Patricia Ann Kelly, Joan Patricia Ortiz
  • Patent number: 6383164
    Abstract: A breast pump funnel is disclosed. The funnel is shaped and dimensioned to fit a woman's breast, and has a neck to receive the nipple, a cup to fit over an inner part of the breast and a plurality of fingers extending outwardly from the cup to contact an outer part of the breast. The pump section of the breast pump is connected to the neck of the funnel to apply a varying suction to draw milk from the breast and to deliver the milk into a receiving vessel. The tips of the fingers of the funnel serve to massage the breast and stimulate the release of milk from the breast during pumping.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignee: Gerber Products Company
    Inventors: Jean L. Johansen, Brenda J. Meyers, Alice A. Mensch, Patrick A. McCormick, Mark P. Slaven
  • Patent number: 6379327
    Abstract: A portable breast pump system that includes a breast receptor for receiving a breast, a vacuum suction compartment connected to the breast receptor and a collection container for receiving breast milk. The breast pump system also includes a breast milk collection tube having one end connected to the vacuum suction compartment and the other end connected to the collection container. The system also includes a suction pump connected to the breast receptor and the vacuum suction compartment for creating a vacuum for drawing breast milk into the collection container via the breast milk collection tube. Supporting the breast pump system in a portable manner on a mother are a breast receptor support strap for supporting and securing the breast receptor against the breast and a body strap for positioning on the body. The body strap has at least one retainer for portably holding the collection container or the suction pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Inventor: Ellen F. Lundy
  • Patent number: 6358226
    Abstract: A breast pump for continuously applying warmth at a temperature of not more than about 105 degrees Fahrenheit to a mammary gland both before and during milk withdrawal is described. The apparatus enables the mammary gland tissue to be raised to a temperature that makes milk withdrawal more comfortable, whereupon suction is applied to the gland, as the temperature is maintained in order to commence the withdrawal process and permit the milk so extracted to be administered artificially to a suckling infant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2002
    Inventor: Audrey M. Ryan
  • Publication number: 20020032404
    Abstract: An easy to assemble breastmilk pump with an effective and easy to operate manual pumping mechanism that allows in one aspect for one-handed or two-handed operation, a novel piston pump mechanism in another aspect of the invention, an improved vacuum regulator in yet another aspect that can be easily adjusted during operation, and a locking mechanism in still another aspect to prevent accidental disengagement of the reciprocating parts during operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2001
    Publication date: March 14, 2002
    Inventor: Brian H. Silver
  • Patent number: 6355012
    Abstract: A breast pump for connection to a pair of funnel-like breast bodies via a corresponding pair of vacuum conduits in order to pump mother's milk into a milk collection container, the pump comprising a source of vacuum including pumping devices. A conduit system leads from the vacuum source at one end and comprises a pair of connection portions to be connected to the vacuum conduits at the other end. A pair of valve devices are arranged within the conduit system to distribute the vacuum to the connection portions, the pair of valve devices including a pair of valve bodies separated from each other so as to move independently from each other, a pair of valve chambers each housing one of the pair of valve bodies and each having an inlet opening communicating with the source of vacuum, and an outlet opening communicating with one of the pair of connection portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2002
    Assignee: Nüesch Logistik
    Inventor: Heinrich Nüesch
  • Patent number: 6340469
    Abstract: An antiinfective-free formulation for prophylactic treatment of mastitis in dry cows comprises a seal formulation having approximately 65% by weight of bismuth sub-nitrate in a gel based on aluminum stearate. The seal formulation is prepared by adding the bismuth sub-nitrate to the gel base in at least two separate stages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2002
    Assignee: Bimeda Research and Development LTD
    Inventors: Vincent McNally, James Patrick Morgan
  • Publication number: 20020004642
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for expressing and collecting mother's milk from a donor utilizing an adapted breastpump assembly. The method includes providing a breastpump assembly having a flexible membrane engaged upon a breast shield of the breastpump assembly. The breast shield is adapted for engagement with a donor's breast to facilitate the expression of mother's milk therefrom. A temporary fluid reservoir is established between the flexible membrane and a portion of the breast shield, the temporary fluid reservoir is provided to initially collect mother's milk upon expression from the donor's breast. This configuration enables the donor to assume a reclined position during the expression process and at least initially collect expressed mother's milk in the temporary fluid reservoir. Supplementarily, a bypass assembly maybe provided for conveying mother's milk from the temporary fluid reservoir to a collection receptacle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2001
    Publication date: January 10, 2002
    Inventor: Lori M. Cloud
  • Patent number: 6328709
    Abstract: Devices, methods and kits for identifying a breast milk duct orifice capable of yielding fluid or releasing a keratin plug under a vacuum are described and claimed. The devices include a magnification lens integral to a nipple aspiration device or a nipple aspiration device having an attachment element for attaching a magnification tool to aid the practitioner to better observe a nipple surface under a vacuum. The devices also can include one or more access ports for such purposes as accessing the duct, marking the duct, or collecting fluid from the duct. The methods of nipple aspiration comprise identifying a duct that yields fluid or releases a keratin plug under a vacuum. The kits can comprise a device of the invention, a container for the kit contents, and instructions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2001
    Assignee: Pro Duct Health, Inc.
    Inventors: David Hung, Susan M. Love, Julian Nikolchev, William R. George
  • Publication number: 20010047148
    Abstract: This invention relates to a breast pump which can perform the automatic suction with the following advantages:
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2001
    Publication date: November 29, 2001
    Inventor: Kyoung Duk Suh
  • Publication number: 20010044593
    Abstract: A portable breast pump system that includes a breast receptor for receiving a breast, a vacuum suction compartment connected to the breast receptor and a collection container for receiving breast milk. The breast pump system also includes a breast milk collection tube having one end connected to the vacuum suction compartment and the other end connected to the collection container. The system also includes a suction pump connected to the breast receptor and the vacuum suction compartment for creating a vacuum for drawing breast milk into the collection container via the breast milk collection tube. Supporting the breast pump system in a portable manner on a mother are a breast receptor support strap for supporting and securing the breast receptor against the breast and a body strap for positioning on the body. The body strap has at least one retainer for portably holding the collection container or the suction pump.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventor: Ellen F. Lundy
  • Publication number: 20010038799
    Abstract: A motorized pump is disclosed that includes a flexible diaphragm fitting within a rigid member, a motor drive mechanism for drawing a puller member attached to the diaphragm away from the rigid member to create a space between the diaphragm and the rigid member and form a negative pressure region within that space, and an outlet communicating with the negative pressure region. In one embodiment, the pump provides a negative pressure in a single chamber which can be used to operate one or two breast shield assembles. In another embodiment, the pump is particularly adapted for double-pumping and provides two chambers which generate vacuum.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2001
    Publication date: November 8, 2001
    Inventors: Brian H. Silver, Larry D. Annis
  • Patent number: 6306115
    Abstract: An electric breast pump utilizes an electric motor to drive a piston vacuum pump to draw a negative pressure or suction up to 250 mm Hg at a flexible collapsible breast cup. The suction cycles between the set maximum and atmospheric under the control of a magnetic valve that is opened and closed by a vacuum sensor. The valve opens and closes a bypass to atmosphere. The speed of the electric motor can be selectively varied to increase the frequency of the suction cycles, which can vary between 20 to 44 cycles per minute. The breast cup collapses during a part of each cycle to simulate the peristaltic action of a suckling infant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Inventors: Patricia Ann Kelly, Joan Patricia Ortiz
  • Patent number: 6299594
    Abstract: “An improved vacuum regulator for a breastmilk pump comprising a rotary member having an internal groove that is positionable over at least one port on a nub that is adapted to be in communication with a volume of a breast pump in which negative pressure is periodically generated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2001
    Assignee: Medela, Inc.
    Inventor: Brian H. Silver
  • Patent number: 6290671
    Abstract: The partial vacuum generated in a vacuum chamber by a suction pump via an air aspirating line and a hose can be changed by admitting leakage air through an air supply line. The supplied amount of leakage air is determined by a relative movement of a regulating groove and a leakage groove in respect to each other, and the partial vacuum in the vacuum chamber is regulated in this way. Since in a breast pump the partial vacuum generated in the vacuum chamber is transmitted to the funnel-shaped breast body, it is possible in this way to also regulate the partial aspiration vacuum over the breast.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2001
    Assignee: Trimed AG
    Inventor: Anton Niederberger
  • Patent number: 6287521
    Abstract: Non-invasive methods are provided for obtaining biological samples of mammary fluid or mammary fluid components by administering oxytocin to a patient to stimulate expression of mammary fluid. During or after mammary fluid expression, a biological sample is collected in the form of whole mammary fluid, whole cells or cellular components, other selected liquid or solid fractions of the mammary fluid, purified or bulk proteins, glycoproteins, peptides, nucleotides or other desired Constituents of mammary fluid. Methods and kits are also provided for determining the presence or amount of a breast disease marker in biological samples of mammary fluid or mammary fluid components obtained according to the above sample collection methods. Also provided within the invention are novel breast pump and breast pump adapter devices which incorporate a solid phase sample collection medium integrated within the breast pump or adapter or otherwise fluidly connected therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Assignee: Atossa Healthcare, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven C. Quay, Debra L. Quay
  • Publication number: 20010016708
    Abstract: A fluid displacement pump includes a rigid hollow body having a first open end, a flexible partition disposed within the hollow body adjacent the first open end to create a variable volume fluid chamber between the partition and the hollow body, and an actuator acting upon the flexible partition. A movable piston including a shaft connected to the actuator and a head connected to the partition may be disposed within the hollow body. The fluid displacement pump can be incorporated into a number of designs to perform different functions, including a nursing pump, cutting mechanism, and rotational movement generator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2001
    Publication date: August 23, 2001
    Inventors: Carl Cheung Tung Kong, John Kong
  • Patent number: 6273868
    Abstract: Apparatus for milking a human breast comprising a breast cup, collecting means connected to the breast cup, a vacuum source, at least one source of pressurized fluid, and a regulating device. The breast cup includes a generally conical portion and a generally cylindrical portion connected to the part is the conical portion which is smallest in diameter The breast cup includes first and second stimulating members for stimulating the nipple and an area of the breast, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2001
    Assignee: Mamma Lactans AS
    Inventor: Tone Nordvik
  • Patent number: 6270474
    Abstract: A breast pump fitted with an element to be applied on a woman's breast, including an outflow duct and a pumping device branching off from the outflow duct through a first bypass. Another bypass leads to a milk collector through a check valve, which is fitted with a valve body with at least one outlet for the milk pumped on the front face and a valve reed of flexible material, intended to seal the outlet during suction, and which is connected to the valve body through a connecting device having on the edge of its front face a hinge for a valve reed freely extending from the hinge over at least part of the front face. In an another embodiment, the bypass in which the valve is located may be oriented downwards relative to the outflow duct, and the bypass in which the pumping device is located, or at least some segments of it, may be oriented upwards. To control the suction effect on the breast, an infiltrated air inlet can be provided in one of the ducts an/or bypasses or in a pipe connected thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2001
    Assignee: Nuesch Logistik
    Inventor: Heinrich Nüesch
  • Patent number: 6257847
    Abstract: A motorized pump is disclosed that includes a flexible diaphragm fitting within a rigid member, a motor drive mechanism for drawing a puller member attached to the diaphragm away from the rigid member to create a space between the diaphragm and the rigid member and form a negative pressure region within that space, and an outlet communicating with the negative pressure region. In one embodiment, the pump provides a negative pressure in a single chamber which can be used to operate one or two breast shield assembles. In another embodiment, the pump is particularly adapted for double-pumping and provides two chambers which generate vacuum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Assignee: Medela, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian H. Silver, Larry D. Annis
  • Patent number: 6213840
    Abstract: A hands-free breast pump support bra and system allow simple and effective breast milk expression from a lactating woman's breasts without the need of additional support, such as straps, bands, posts and mounting elements to support the weight of breast pump apparatuses. The support bra independently and as part of the system is made of a material of sufficient elasticity and strength that when worn firmly and frictionally holds against each breast the funnel-like portion of a breast pump during the complete breast milk expression operation. Slits are strategically located in both nipple areas of the bra's cups through which the funnel-like portions of breast pumps engage the breasts. Because of the elastic property of the bra's fabric, the fabric around the slits securely and simultaneously hold against each breast in a hands-free manner a funnel portion with a conventional breast milk bottle filled with milk and attached thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2001
    Inventor: Bonnifant Heeja Han
  • Patent number: 6210360
    Abstract: A fluid displacement pump includes a rigid hollow body having a first open end, a flexible partition disposed within the hollow body adjacent the first open end to create a variable volume fluid chamber between the partition and the hollow body, and an actuator acting upon the flexible partition. A movable piston including a shaft connected to the actuator and a head connected to the partition may be disposed within the hollow body. The rigid housing acts as a guide for the piston head. A piston stop may be provided for limiting the movement of the piston. Further, a movable mass may be disposed within the hollow body and controlled by either a linear motor or a pulley system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2001
    Inventor: Carl Cheung Tung Kong
  • Patent number: 6179845
    Abstract: An obstetrical vacuum extractor is disclosed herein which comprises: a vacuum cup having an interior; an elongated hollow stem having a longitudinal axis, a first open end fixedly joined to the cup so as to communicate with the cup interior, and an opposing second open end; and a handle having first and second handle portions on opposite sides of the stem longitudinal axis, the handle being mounted on the stem to allow rotation of the stem and cup with respect to the handle and substantially prevent axial movement of the handle on the stem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Inventors: Scott W. Peters, Donald L. Peters
  • Patent number: 6152896
    Abstract: A manual breast pump adapted for one-handed operation includes a pump body defining an inlet, an outlet and a vacuum port, a stationary handle connected to the pump body, and a movable handle connected to the manual breast pump and spaced from the stationary handle so that both handles can be grasped simultaneously between the palm and fingers of a hand. The movable handle is movable with respect to the stationary handle and is operably connected to a piston disposed within the pumping chamber so that movement of the movable handle with respect to the stationary handle results in movement of the piston within the pumping chamber to create a vacuum at the vacuum port. The invention provides a manual breast pump which can be easily and comfortably supported and operated using one hand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2000
    Assignee: Gerber/Baby Care
    Inventors: Rebecca J. Bachman, Karen L. Celata, Mark A. Gilbertson, Edward A. Raleigh, Jeffery R. Staszak, John W. Grosz
  • Patent number: 6149395
    Abstract: A suction pulsator (1) used to periodically generate a vacuum in a container connected to it, especially in a collection container for mother's milk, which is provided with a suction funnel. A central nozzle hole (25) of a nozzle body (20) is provided, wherein a compressed air flow flows through the nozzle hole (25) and the nozzle body (20) is concentrically surrounded by a ring-shaped suction gap (35), wherein the nozzle (25) opens into a narrow, radial outlet gap (36), which is formed between a radial deflecting surface (40), which guides the compressed air flow over the suction gap (35), and annular surfaces (29, 30) of the nozzle body (20) and of a nozzle jacket (13), which concentrically surround the nozzle hole (25) and the suction gap (35). The suction gap (35) opening openly into the outlet gap (36) is in connection with a suction line (39), which can be connected to the collection container through a connection opening (38), which is arranged away from the outlet gap (36).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Inventor: Siegfried Richter
  • Patent number: 6139521
    Abstract: A breastpump assembly for either single or double breastpumping has first and second breastpump units. Each breastpump unit has a breast shield within which a breast is received, and at least one container for collecting breastmilk expressed into a respective breast shield. A pumping mechanism, such as one having a battery power source, generates a periodic reduced pressure within the breast shields, with the pumping unit being carried by the first breastpump unit. A mechanism is advantageously provided for alternating the periodic reduced pressure between the first and second breastpump units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Assignee: Medela Holding AG
    Inventor: Karl O. A. H. Larsson
  • Patent number: 6110140
    Abstract: An easy to assemble breastmilk pump with an effective and easy to operate manual pumping mechanism that allows in one aspect for one-handed or two-handed operation, a novel piston pump mechanism in another aspect of the invention, an improved vacuum regulator in yet another aspect that can be easily adjusted during operation, and a locking mechanism in still another aspect to prevent accidental disengagement of the reciprocating parts during operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Assignee: Medela, Inc.
    Inventor: Brian H. Silver
  • Patent number: 6110141
    Abstract: A breast pump for pumping milk from a woman's breast comprises a breast hood to be applied onto the woman's breast. A suction chamber communicates with said breast hood, and a suction pump communicates with the suction chamber. A milk collecting vessel or other space receives the milk that is pumped from the woman's breast. Between said suction chamber and the milk collecting means is a check valve. In communication with the suction chamber and the suction pump is an overflow protection for protecting the suction pump from being flooded by an excess of milk. The overflow protection comprises an valve housing elongated along a longitudinal axis. The housing has two opposing end walls, a first one of which including an entrance opening nearer to the suction chamber, the second end wall defining an outlet opening nearer to the suction pump. Within the valve housing is an elongated valve body movable along the longitudinal axis of the housing and is provided with an impact surface opposite the entrance opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Assignee: Nuesch Logistik
    Inventor: Hansueli Nuesch
  • Patent number: 6093168
    Abstract: A breast pump for extracting milk from a human breast includes a bell-shaped member that receives at least a portion of the female breast. A receiving container connects to the bell-shaped member that stores the milk after it has been extracted. The bell-shaped member also connects to an air conduit that is able to attach to an accessory hose from a household vacuum cleaner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2000
    Assignee: OMW, Inc.
    Inventor: Wade Mendenhall
  • Patent number: 6090065
    Abstract: A self cycling breast pump including a nurser bottle and a suction assembly adapted to be situated on a breast of a human for delivering milk to the nurser bottle upon the application of a suction thereto. Further provided is an electric pump adapted to generate a vacuum at an inlet upon the activation thereof. The inlet of the electric pump is connected to the suction assembly. Also included is an electronic vent valve adapted to vent the vacuum created by the electric pump upon the activation thereof for releasing the vacuum. Associated therewith is vent control circuitry for determining a rate of activation of the electric vent valve thereby creating a cycling suction at the inlet of the electric pump. Vacuum control circuitry is provided for allowing the manual governing of the level of vacuum generated by the electric pump means. This is accomplished by controlling the speed of a motor associated with the pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Assignee: Evenflo Company, Inc.
    Inventor: John P. Giles
  • Patent number: 6045529
    Abstract: A drive unit is disclosed for at least one breastpump for pumping mother milk by sucking it from a breast hood to be applied on a mother's breast by means of a breast pump connected to a breast hood through a pathway including a conduit and a vacuum chamber shut by a check valve against a milk collecting space, the drive unit comprisingvalve means for intermittently connecting and disconnecting the breast pump with a pathway, a valve means including actuating means for providing the intermittent connecting and disconnecting movement;first drive means for the actuating means;second drive means for driving the breast pump for providing a sucking effect; andspeed varying means connected to and controlling at least one of the first and second drive means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2000
    Assignee: Nuesch Logistik
    Inventor: Hansueli Nuesch
  • Patent number: 6042560
    Abstract: The partial vacuum generated in a vacuum chamber by a suction pump via an air aspirating line and a hose can be changed by admitting leakage air through an air supply line. The supplied amount of leakage air is determined by a relative movement of a regulating groove and a leakage groove in respect to each other, and the partial vacuum in the vacuum chamber is regulated in this way. Since in a breast pump the partial vacuum generated in the vacuum chamber is transmitted to the funnel-shaped breast body, it is possible in this way to also regulate the partial aspiration vacuum over the breast.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Assignee: Trimed AG
    Inventor: Anton Niederberger
  • Patent number: 6004288
    Abstract: A breast pump that gently milks a lactating mother's breast is comprised of a housing having a flexible sleeve that receives the breast. A rotating wheel and connection rod combine to reciprocate the sleeve back and fourth relative to an opening on the housing while a cam operates to squeeze and unsqueeze the sleeve. A motor operatively connects to the cam and to the wheel. An adjustment mechanism adjusts the initial parameters of the sleeve in order to accommodate various sized breasts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1999
    Inventors: Judy R. Hochstedler, Curtis G. Hochstedler
  • Patent number: 5971952
    Abstract: A manual powered breast pump for efficiently removing milk from a patient's breasts which provides additional milk storage capacity. The breast pump includes an outer pumping cylinder, an inner pumping cylinder and pumping seal. The inner pumping cylinder or plunger is generally a hollow cylinder having a closed end and open end. The open end is fitted with a removable cap creating a secondary collection container. The plunger is also fitted with a seal for slidably contacting the interior wall of the hollow outer pumping cylinder. The outer pumping cylinder is fitted with a nipple for connection with a breast flange and an open end for collection with a collection container. A one-way valve is fitted within the outer pumping cylinder to provide for the efficient flow of milk into the collection container and to prevent the return of milk into the breast pump during pumping operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Inventor: Elena M. Medo