NL1039286C2

NL1039286C2 - Portable non-invasive urinary aids for women.

Info

Publication number: NL1039286C2
Application number: NL1039286A
Authority: NL
Inventors: Astrid Madsy Senus
Original assignee: Astrid Madsy Senus
Priority date: 2012-01-06
Filing date: 2012-01-06
Publication date: 2013-07-25
Also published as: NL1039286A; WO2013103291A2; WO2013103291A3; NL1040294C2; NL1040294A

Abstract

The present invention describes a non invasive inlet opening (1) for urinary aids for women as well al the urinary aids in which said inlet opening is applied. Presented urinary aids allow women to urinate without leakage in a standing, a sitting or a lying position. The urinary aids are manufactured of a firm, easy to clean material are closable and may be used repeatedly. The urinary aids are small, portable, and may be used discreetly without assistance. When in use the inlet opening is pressed upon the commissural posterior and the labia majora forming a leak proof sealing while a passage for urine ensures all urine is guided via the urinary aid to a lower place. The vulva can be effectively dried by sliding the backside edge (2) of the inlet opening over the labia.

Description

Portable non-invasive urinary aids for women Field of invention

The here disclosed invention relates to the field of urinary aids for women, in 5 particular to portable devices that facilitate urination in a standing, a sitting or a supine position. Special attention is given to the features and the secure engagement of the inlet opening with the body-tissues in the region of the vulva and to the closure of the urinary aids.

10 Background of the invention

The direction and place of the outflow of urine from the female member are determined by the natural shape of the vulva and the position of the flexible tissue of the labia majora pudent and labia minora pudent. Urine outflow can occur along the edges of said labia before leaving the vulva. Also, usually a 15 residue of urine remains between said labia, which makes the drying of the vulva after urination desirable to prevent soiling of clothes.

In order to diminish the residue of urine in the vulva the most effective and natural position for women to urinate is to be sitting on a sanitary device (toilet) 20 with an opening below the body or in a crouching position. In said positions the vulva has a natural downward direction and is somewhat spread open which facilitates the outflow of urine in the desired direction.

However it is not always possible or desirable for women to urinate in the above mentioned positions. This may occur for instance when sanitary facilities 25 are absent or when physical conditions prevent the use of such facilities because it is difficult to crouch or sit down or. Also in situations that sanitary facilities are not suitable due to unhygienic conditions it is desirable for women to avoid physical contact with such facilities.

30 In order to prevent spilling of urine when urinating in a standing, sitting or supine position an adequate urinary aid is required to control the outflow of urine and it is obvious that reliable, easy to use urinary aids are desirable in all 1 0 3 9 2*8 6 2 above mentioned situations for the women concerned and when relevant also for caretakers in order to reduce their workload.

Bedridden women or women confined to a wheelchair are usually dependent 5 on the availability of adapted sanitary facilities as well as on assistance of a caretaker to use these facilities. It is known that women in this dependent situation often reduce their fluid intake in order to avoid unpleasant situations when assistance is not available in time. This not only places the women concerned in a dependent position for a frequent normal necessity, it also 10 consumes a lot of the caretakers time. This is an undesirable situation in terms of health and well-being.

Various urinary aids for women of different shapes, materials and sizes have been disclosed in the past. Many devices, often used in hospitalized situations 15 derive their working from absorbing material or are inserted in the urinary tract. Both may cause an increased risk of irritation or infection and therefore are considered to be uncomfortable or undesirable for the user and fall outside the focus of this invention.

Devices typically designed to be applied by nurses or other caregivers like 20 bedpans with a large inlet opening are difficult to handle by the user without assistance and therefore also fall outside the focus of this invention.

Urinary devices of the 'bottle-like' type for example as presented in US2009036848 and DE102005039004 that collect urine inside may be used 25 without assistance by bedridden women or women confined to a wheelchair. Urinary aids of this type are usually equipped with a round or oval inlet opening that covers the whole genital area. Some inventions of this type have special handles to hold on and a specially curved inlet opening to improve the engagement with the vulva in order to prevent leakage or to position the device 30 correctly. Devices of this type usually can be stored in a special holder at the bedside and are often equipped with a lid to close the inlet opening.

For supine use many inventions of urinary aids of the 'bottle-like' type are provided with a flat bottom side that may rest on the mattress when in use.

3

Although urine devices of the 'bottle-like' type are designed to be used independently they are bulky and, when used repeatedly without emptying become more and more cumbersome to handle because of the urine stored inside. Therefore the use of 'bottle-like' devices requires frequent assistance to 5 empty the urinal.

The problem of the accumulating urine is addressed in various inventions by providing urinary aids that are connected to an external collecting vessel via a hose. However, until now none of these devices are widely available for 10 women. Taking this observation into account, it may be concluded that existing urinary aids with an external collecting vessel have limitations with regard to the drainage of urine, the secure engagement with the vulva or the handling of the device.

15 The here presented urinary aid for use in a lying position provides a small device that is easy to handle, has a secure sealing with the vulva, a reliable drainage and may be used repeatedly without assistance. The present urinary aid can be closed and stored at the bedside in a cap that is equipped with a handle.

20 The here presented urinary aid for use in a sitting position is a slender elongated device that enables women to urinate from a wheelchair into a suited collecting vessel or a toilet without assistance.

Above mentioned characteristics make the presented urinary aids very suitable for use in a variety of situations as it may be used unassisted in hospitalized 25 situations, at home, or even as a sanitary aid for women with limited mobility when travelling.

To facilitate urination in a standing position for woman for example for medical use or for travelling purposes also many inventions have been disclosed in the 30 past.

Specially for travelling purposes many urinary devices intended for single use only (for example W00238089, US2009089919 and W09311691) are fabricated of disposable materials that are flexible in order to allow folding to 4 facilitate portability. Since these devices have to be disposed of after use it is not an ideal solution for travelling for a longer period as it is unknown on forehand how many will be required.

5 Urinary devices made of flexible material typically have a large inlet opening that is designed to be held under or against the whole region of the vulva without applying pressure on the vulva. Due to the flexible material these devices cannot withstand the pressure needed to form an intimate connection between the body and the device and careful handling is required. Also the 10 flexible material requires some disrobing in order to create sufficient space between garment and body to place the device in the correct position without deformation.

Therefore devices made of flexible material in general may be easy to store while travelling but are neither considered reliable in use nor easy to handle.

15

Urinary devices for a standing position made of rigid material that are designed to be placed under or against the vulva often display a funnel-like shape that is equipped with a large predominantly oval inlet opening, usually with somewhat curved edges to have a better fit on the outer periphery of the vulva (for 20 example US2007169253, US20090056003 and W003070131). The outlet opening is usually directed predominantly downward which makes some disrobing required for a correct positioning and directing of the device. When in use the inlet opening may be pressed upon the vulva to engage with the outer periphery of the vulva. However as the features of the inlet opening don't affect 25 the place where urine flows out of the vulva residues will remain between and along the labia. After the use of such a device said residues makes drying desirable to prevent soiling of clothes. Said residue of urine is often misinterpreted as a result of the splashing back of urine from the wall of a urinary device and in several inventions adaptations in the shape or course of 30 walls are described to reduce this effect, (for example US20090056003)

In US2001/0049520, US3613122 and US5687429 urinary devices are disclosed that are to be inserted between the labia of the user. The features of 5 the various inlet openings are designed to make direct contact with the body tissue around the urethra. In US5687429 a device is disclosed with an inlet opening forming a sealing engagement with the labia minora while the inner sides of the labia majora are contacting the divergent external surfaces of the 5 lateral walls. The curved lateral walls are connected without a well-defined border to the end walls forming a "pear-shaped" inlet opening. The rear end wall of this device forms a bulb that may have a length up to 2 cm meant to position the device and to prevent urine to flow backwards all in order to minimize the risk of spilling.

10

Although the outflow of urine may be controlled by devices like this, the positioning needs careful manual manipulation and unfolding of the labia. Therefore the devices that are to be inserted between the labia are considered not easy to handle and uncomfortable in use. Moreover the close contact of the 15 device with the body tissues between the labia and especially the contact area at the rear end (close to the anus) is considered a risk for infections and should be minimized as much as possible. Also when travelling in natural surroundings or in unhygienic conditions manual contact with the labia is undesirable in order to avoid infections or soiling of hands.

20

In the present invention the contact area of the urinary device with the body tissue between the labia is minimized by providing an inlet opening having relatively thin but comfortably rounded edges that are placed mainly perpendicular upon the outside skin of the labia majora and relevant body 25 tissues in the cavity between the buttocks.

The urinary device disclosed in US4528703 presents a slender urinary device for a standing position made of a rigid material suitable to be placed between the body and clothing without the need for disrobing. The device is equipped 30 with a cup-shaped receiving part holding an inlet opening with curved recessed sidewalls holding flexible membranes in order to create a better fit on the vulva. In addition to this the backside is equipped with a projection in the centre that may be used to position the device against the forward rim of the vagina and 6 spread out the labia in order to facilitate the outflow of urine. Projection and membranes may be used to wipe the vulva dry. However the protruding and rather pointed shape will, when used for wiping dry cause the projection to slip between the labia touching delicate parts of the vulva which is not effective for 5 wiping dry, causes discomfort and may be painful.

Testing with the here presented new urinary aids revealed that the above mentioned discomfort caused by the contact of a protruding backside edge with the delicate parts of the vulva was diminished by applying a flat area in the 10 centre of said backside edge. Moreover, testing also revealed that some women experienced difficulties with the discharge of the last urine from the bladder caused by the pressure exerted with a protruding backside edge on the area of the commissura posterior. This problem was minimized by further lowering the central region of said backside edge forming a central downward 15 curvature or notch in the backside edge.

In all above mentioned urinary devices for a standing position no provisions are taken for appropriate closure of the device which is considered essential for easy and hygienic transportation. In GB2356818 a portable device is presented 20 with an inlet opening that can be closed in combination with the handle of the accompanying collection vessel. The device has a slender receiving funnel with an elongated inlet opening with a projection at the front to cover the whole region of the vulva. The combination of funnel and closing handle of the collection vessel however makes the device rather bulky which is not 25 convenient when travelling.

In the presently disclosed invention this drawback is addressed by a pocket sized urinary aid that has not only an elegant closure of the inlet opening by a simple cap, also the outlet can be closed with a closing provision on the 30 extension which provides for a comfortable long spout during use.

7

Summary of the invention

It is the objective of this invention to provide improved urinary aids for women, hereinafter referred to as a ‘urinary aid’, that are reliable, comfortable, easy to use and can be handled by the user without assistance in order to increase 5 freedom of move and independency of said user.

It is another objective of this invention to provide affordable urinary aids that can be used repeatedly, that are small and portable and can be closed easily. The proper closure of the device, preventing odours or droplets to exit the device and preventing objects to enter the device when stored in a purse or 10 pocket is considered an important feature for a hygienic storage and transportation.

The urinary aids here presented are preferably made of a high quality rigid material with water resistant characteristics, suitable for long-term use that can 15 be cleaned easily. In this document will be disclosed successively the features of the urinary aids for a standing, a sitting and a supine position.

All here presented urinary aids are equipped with an improved inlet opening that makes sure all urine is guided into the urinary device in such a way that the residue of urine remaining in the vulva after urination is diminished to a 20 minimum and that a device equipped with this inlet opening is easy and comfortable in use.

Description of the invention

The present invention provides a device arranged to be used as an urinary aid 25 for women, having a mainly tubular drain pipe comprising a urine inlet opening with a mainly triangular shape formed by two elongated side edges interconnected via a rounded top at the front of the inlet opening and a backside edge connected to both side edges and extending in a projection plane (p) while protruding over its full length upwardly from its connection 30 points (4) with said elongated side edges forming an angle a, where 60° < a < 120°.

8

The backside edge rises acute upward from the connection points with the side edges thus ensuring a minimum contact area with the delicate body tissue between the labia or buttocks while the side edges can be placed upon the outside skin of the labia. This constellation of the inlet opening facilitates that all 5 edges can be pressed perpendicular upon the body tissues affected thus maximising the impact of said edges ensuring a sealing engagement.

Preferably, the backside edge of the inlet opening protrudes in an arch wise or semi-circular shape, wherein said backside edge, more preferably, comprises a 10 flat area or a rounded notch or downward curvature (6) located in the centre of said backside edge.

The preferred wall thickness of the backside edge (2) of the inlet opening is between 2 and 5 mm and preferably, at least the upwardly protruding part of said backside edge extending in said projection plane (p) is provided with 15 cross-sectional rounding-off radii r < 4 mm.

Preferably, the side edges of the inlet opening have a mainly straight course and a small downward angle of about 10° towards the connection points at the backside in order to allow both the side edges and the backside edge to be 20 pressed evenly upon both the labia majora and the region of the commissura posterior.

It is noted that, contrary to some prior art devices, the device according to the present invention aims to press its (radiused) edges of the inlet opening up against the outside skin of the labia majora.

25

Testing revealed that an inlet opening equipped with side edges having a downward angle of more than 15° were not suited for creating a secure sealing connection over the full length of the side edges with the outer skin of the labia.

30 The side edges are dimensioned so far apart that said side edges are fit to be placed upon/against a narrow elongated strip of both labia majora. Said side edges when pressed against the labia majora allow only a small part of those labia to enter between said edges into the inlet opening of the device.

9

The elongated narrow shape of the inlet opening in combination with the tapered course of said side edges towards the rounded tip bring about a compression of the affected labia preventing urine to flow between said labia.

This not only effectively prevents leakage during the use, it also diminishes the 5 residue of urine remaining in the vulva after urination.

Due to the triangular form, the small downward angle of the side edges and the protruding backside edge a relative high partial pressure can be applied evenly with all edges on the above mentioned relevant skin surfaces.

10 In this way, as surprisingly found by the applicant after extensive experimentation, the configuration of the inlet opening as presented here provides not only a comfortable and very reliable, leakage-proof sealing between the device and the user's relevant body parts it also facilitates the directing of all urine into the urinary device almost without leaving residues in 15 the vulva.

Depending on the position in which a urinary aid is used the correct outflow of urine requires a suited arrangement of said device, (being the input section), the output section and the outlet. In a standing or sitting position an elongated 20 output section pointing in a mainly forward direction is preferred while in a lying position only a small hose connection pointing mainly downward is most effective. In order to improve a comfortable use in the various positions some additional adaptations are added to the device.

25 Brief description of the drawings

In all figures visible parts are displayed in uninterrupted lines while dashed lines show parts that are not visible from the outside in order to present a clear view on the various parts and their position in the devices. Figures are numbered with the annotations a, b, c, d to display the same device from a different 30 perspective in order to provide a clear view on the embodiment as described.

Figures 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d, 2a, 2b, 2c, 4a, 4b, 4c are full size displays of the device.

In figures 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d and 4d the size is reduced by 1/3.

9 10

Fig. 1a is a perspective top view showing the inlet opening as it is placed in an input section of a urinary device.

Fig. 1b is a perspective side view of the input section as shown in Fig. 1a Fig. 1c is a side plan view of the input section as shown in Fig. 1a 5 Fig. 1d is a back plan view of the input section as shown in Fig. 1a

Fig. 2a is a perspective top view of a pocket sized urinary aid for a standing position, the extension is shown separately Fig. 2b is a perspective side view of the device showed in Fig. 2a showing the extension placed on the device in an open position 10 Fig. 2c is a perspective side view of the device showed in Fig. 2a when fully closed. The cap and the extension are placed on the device in a closed position; the cap is also shown separately Fig. 3a is a perspective top view of a urinary aid for a sitting position with the extension shown separately 15 Fig. 3b is a perspective side view of the device showed in Fig. 3a showing the extension placed on the device in an open position Fig. 3c is a perspective bottom view of the device showed in Fig. 3a Fig. 3d is a perspective side view of the device showed in Fig. 3a showing the extension placed on the device in a fully closed position, the cap is 20 shown separately

Fig. 4a is a perspective front view of a urinary aid for a supine position Fig. 4b is a perspective side view of the device showed in Fig. 4a Fig. 4c is a perspective back view of the device showed in Fig. 4a Fig. 4d is a perspective side view of the cap/holder and of the cap/holder 25 holding the device showed in Fig. 4a

Description of the preferred embodiments of the invention

In figures 1a, 1b, 1c and 1d the position of the inlet opening in an input section of a urinary aid is illustrated.

30 In Fig. 1a and Fig. 1b is shown that the inlet opening 1 has a triangular shape with two tapered elongated side edges 3 that connect in a rounded tip 5 pointing towards the front of the urinary aid and a mainly straight, thickened (2-5 mm) and rounded backside edge 2. (rounding-off radii r < 4 mm) 11

In Fig. 1b, is shown that the backside edge protrudes over its full length with a semi-circular course above the connection points 4 with the side edges. Preferably the backside edge has a central flat area or a rounded notch or inward curvature 6.

5 The side edges and the projection plane p through the backside edge form an angle a, where 60° < a < 120° while a is preferably about 80°.

In Fig. 1c a side plan view shows the predominantly straight side edges 3 that have a descending slope from the tip towards the back edge 2 with an angle of 10 approximately 10°.

In Fig 1d a back plan view shows the inlet opening as it is placed in a urinary aid. As is shown no parts or edges extend outside the outlines of the urinary aid which facilitates the closure of the inlet opening with a simple tubular cap.

15

The above described device forms the input section of the urinary aids described below and is accommodated with adapted output sections focussed on the specific operating orientation of the urinary aids as described below.

20 Description of the use and the preferred embodiment of a pocket sized urinary aid for women urinating in a standing position

The present urinary aid for women to urinate in a standing position hereinafter referred to as 'UA-stand' is a small, portable urinary aid for women that directs the urine away from the body to a lower positioned place without soiling clothes 25 or body.

When in use the device is held in a mainly horizontal position with the inlet opening at the upper side. To facilitate the correct outflow of urine in a normal standing position the backside has, when in use, a mainly vertical orientation 30 and at front the output section is connected to the device with a downward angle. During use the inlet opening is pressed with one hand upon the vulva of the user while the outlet opening is directed to a suitable place for discharge of the urine. Due to the construction with a rigid material the UA-stand may be 12 used without disrobing as it can be placed between the body and clothing and held firmly in position without deformation even if clothing is tight-fitting. The backside is suitable for comfortable removal of traces of urine by sliding it forward over the labia. In order to decrease the size of the device, facilitating a 5 discreet transportation in a purse or a (jeans) pocket the output section is equipped with a movable extension that closes the outlet. The inlet opening can be closed with a tight fitting tubular cap.

The preferred embodiment of a pocket sized UA-stand is illustrated in figures 10 2a, 2b and 2c.

In Fig. 2a and Fig. 2b is shown that the UA-stand is a small elongated tubular device comprising a predominantly straight input section 8 and a straight output section 9 interconnected with an angle of approximately 30°. The back of the 15 input section is closed by the predominantly flat backside 7. In the present embodiment of the UA-stand the output section holds at front an outlet opening 10a at the lower side and is partially closed at the upper side by closing piece 11 a that may vary in shape. The outlet opening is large enough to allow air to enter the device while urine flows out in order to obtain a stable flow. The 20 output section is accommodated with a tight fitting extension 14 in order to allow lengthening of the UA-stand for comfortable use and shortening for comfortable transportation. At front said extension holds an outlet opening 10b and is partially closed by closing piece 11b which is shaped in such a way that in combination with closing piece 11a the outlet opening of the device can be 25 closed completely. The tubular shape of both the front-section and the extension enables the extension to be moved along and rotated about said front-section. The inside of the front-section is smooth and without interruptions while the outside is equipped with groove 12 which ensures the correct guidance of the extension about and along the front-section by leading pin 15 30 that protrudes inside the extension.

The extension is guided by the groove in such a way that the outlet opening is completely closed when said extension is fully retracted and the outlet opening 13 is correctly opened when said extension is extended. The guiding groove contains a part 13a that enables the extension to be removed from the UA-stand for cleaning purposes and a part 13b that holds the extension in a closed position. In the here presented embodiment the shape of both closing piece 5 11a and closing piece 11b is semi-circular but it should be noted that other dimensions or shapes may be applied if desired.

In Fig. 2b the UA-stand is shown ready for use with the extension placed on the output section in an open position.

10

In Fig 2c is shown that the inlet opening is closed by cap 16 which is also shown separately. The front of the device is completely closed by both closing piece 11 a of the output section and by closing piece 11 b of the extension that fit together when the extension is in a retracted position.

15

The here presented method to close the outlet at front however is not essential for a proper functioning of the device. It should also be noted that the course of the guiding groove is related with and adjusted to both the shape of the closing pieces and the shape of the output section of the device. In particular when the 20 output section is not of a circular tubular shape, for instance a shape with multiple ridges, a more oval or triangular shape the extension cannot be rotated about the device but only moved in a straight forward and backward direction which requires a different (straight) course of the guiding groove.

25 Also the guiding groove may be located at the inside of the extension while the output section of the urinary device is equipped with a protruding pin that is to be guided through said groove. It is anticipated that there are various other options for a proper closure of the outlet opening, for example with a movable lid attached to the extension or with a cap. It is also envisioned that, for 30 example elderly or sick women who may use the device to overcome physical problems prefer a larger sized urinary aid then the very small embodiment for travelling purposes that is presently disclosed. If the device has a larger size there may be no need for a retractable extension and supporting components 14 and closing of the outlet opening can be done with a simple cap. Said options also should be considered included in the present invention.

Description of the use and the preferred embodiment of the urinary aid 5 for women urinating in a sitting position

The present urinary aid for women to urinate in a sitting position hereafter referred to as 'UA-sit' is an elongated portable urinary aid with a tubular shape for women to urinate in a sitting position, for example in a wheelchair. The UA-sit directs urine away from the body to a lower positioned place without soiling 10 clothes or body.

When in use UA-sit is placed flat on the chair seat between the legs of the user and held in a mainly horizontal position with the inlet opening at the upper side against the vulva of the user. To facilitate the flat positioning on the chair seat 15 the output section is connected in line with the input section of the device. In order to facilitate a correct outflow of urine the backside has, when in use, a mainly vertical orientation and at the inside of the UA-sit a bottom is placed that slopes down towards the outlet at front.

20 The output section is long enough to extend beyond the front of the chair seat and when in use the front is pushed downward by the user directed at a suitable place, for example a toilet. This causes the backside of the device to be tilted upward, pushing the inlet opening sealing against the vulva of the user while the outlet opening is moved downward facilitating the outflow of urine.

25 The output section of the UA-sit is equipped with an extension that extends the reachable distance for discharge of urine and, in a retracted state, closes the device facilitating the portability.

Due to the slender shape and the construction with suitable rigid material the 30 user can sit down normally on the UA-sit and handle it as required for a proper functioning without deforming it. The UA-sit may be used without removing clothes if said clothing is sufficiently loose to enable the UA-sit to be placed in the underwear and flat on the chair seat when in use. For example when a skirt

L

15 is worn or when clothing is adapted with an extended fly. If the required flat positioning on the chair seat cannot be achieved relevant clothing should be removed for a proper functioning of the device. The backside of the UA-sit can be used for comfortable removal of traces of urine by sliding it forward over the 5 labia which makes additional use of paper to prevent soiling of clothing unnecessary. The inlet opening can be closed with a tight fitting cap that encloses the area that is pressed upon the vulva.

The preferred embodiment of the UA-sit is illustrated in figures 3a, 3b, 3c and 10 3d.

The UA-sit is an elongated tubular device as is shown in Fig. 3a. The input section 8 is connected in a straight line with the elongated output section 9 which is as long as needed to allow the device to protrude beyond the seat of a 15 chair while in use. Preferably the device has a length of about 30 cm.

The back of the input section is closed by the predominantly flat backside 7. Inside the UA-sit bottom 17 slopes down from about halfway up in the device at the rear end to the bottom at the front end. The enclosed part below said 20 bottom is of no importance for the proper functioning of the device and may be hollow or solid. The front-side is partially closed at the top by closing piece 111a that may vary in shape. In the present embodiment is chosen for a closing piece that leaves open an arch-wise outlet opening 110a of about 1/3 of the front at the lower side of the device but it should be noted that other dimensions 25 or shapes may be applied if desired. The outlet opening is large enough to allow inflow of air during urination in order to enable a stable urine outflow. The front of the UA-sit is accommodated with an elongated tight fitting extension 114 in order to allow lengthening of the UA-sit for comfortable use and shortening for easy transportation.

The front of said extension holds outlet opening 110b and is partially closed by closing piece 111b that is shaped in such a way that in combination with closing piece 111a the front of the device can be closed completely.

k 30 16

In Fig. 3b the UA-sit is shown with the extension placed on the device in a partially extracted open position. The circular tubular shape of both the front-section and the extension enables the extension to be moved along and rotated about said front-section.

5

The inside of the UA-sit is smooth while the outside is equipped with groove 112 which ensures the correct guidance of the extension about and along the front of the device by leading pin 15 that protrudes inside the extension. The extension is guided by the groove which ensures the outlet opening is 10 completely closed when said extension is fully retracted and the outlet opening is correctly opened when said extension is in a more extended state. The guiding groove contains a part 113a that enables the extension to be removed from the UA-stand for cleaning purposes and a part 113b that holds the extension in a closed position.

15

In the here presented embodiment of the UA-sit the outlet opening is shaped in such a way that it can be opened or closed by rotating the extension approximately 120°. In order to facilitate the correct upward orientation of the inlet opening during use the bottom side opposite to the inlet opening contains 20 a flat section 18 as shown in Fig. 3c.

In Fig 3d is shown that the front of the device is closed completely by both closing piece 111a of the device and by closing piece 111b of the extension when the extension is in a fully retracted state. The inlet opening can be closed 25 by cap 116 which is shown separately. Cap 116 contains gap 19, which allows flat bottom 18 to protrude outside the cap when placed on the device.

It is anticipated that the UA-sit may be equipped with another type of extension to guide the urine to a suitable place. For example an extension containing a 30 hose connection with a hose in which case there is no need for a movable extension with supporting components. Closing of the outlet opening may be accomplished with said attachment that may be placed vice versa on the device holding the hose inside. Said options also should be considered as 17 included in the present invention. Also, as is noticed before the here presented method for closing the device or for guiding the extension is not essential for a proper functioning.

5 Description of the use and the preferred embodiment of the urinary aid for women urinating in a supine position

The present urinary aid for a supine position hereinafter referred to as 'UA-bed' is a small elongated urinary aid for women to urinate in a supine position that directs the urine away from the body via a hose to a lower positioned collection 10 reservoir without soiling clothes or body.

When in use the UA-bed is held with one hand between the legs of the user with the upper side, holding the inlet opening towards the user in a mainly vertical position while the backside is oriented downward. To facilitate a quick 15 drain-away of urine by gravity to a collecting reservoir the backside slopes down from the inlet opening towards a hose connection that forms the output section and outlet at the opposite side. Said backside may be funnel-shaped but may also slope down all the way to the bottom side.

20 A flat section at the bottom side opposite of the inlet opening facilitates the user to place the inlet opening correctly against the vulva without visual contact.

The hose connection is connected with the UA-bed in an angle that prevents the close kinking of the hose when in use. The attached hose should be led 25 below the leg and placed flat on the mattress in order to facilitate a correct draining of urine to a lower placed collection reservoir for example a bottle, a bucket or a plastic bag to which the hose is attached. The backside edge of the inlet opening may be used for comfortable removal of traces of urine by sliding upward over the labia which makes additional use of paper unnecessary. The 30 UA-bed can be stored in a holder that closes the inlet opening and is equipped with a handle to enable storage at the bedside.

18

The UA-bed offers a perfect solution for women to urinate without any assistance in a supine position provided it is stored at a place that is in easy reach of the user.

5 The preferred embodiment of the UA-bed is illustrated in figures 4a, 4b, 4c and 4d.

Fig. 4a shows the UA-bed in a vertical (operating) position. Inlet opening 1 is located at the upper side (towards the user). The front 211 of the UA-bed 10 (oriented upwardly during use) is closed and may hold a small air hole 20.

In Fig. 4b is shown that in the present embodiment at the lower side a funnel-shaped backside 107 is holding a hose connection 21 that is connected to the device with an angle of approximately 45° with the longitudinal axis (x). The 15 backside edge of the inlet opening protrudes in the same manner as described before (as shown in fig. 1b) with a semi-circular course above the connection points 4 with the side edges. As earlier noted the backside edge preferably has a central flat area or a rounded notch (inward curvature) 6 and the side edges form an angle a, where 60° < a < 120° with projection plane p through the 20 backside edge while a is preferably about 80°.

Fig. 4c shows the flat section 118 at the bottom side.

Fig. 4d shows cap/holder 216 holding gap 19 that allows flat section 118 and 25 hose-connection 21 to protrude outside when the UA-bed is stored. The cap/holder is equipped with handle 22.

It is anticipated that there are more options to facilitate the correct orientation of the device by the user, for instance a protruding ledge or a recessed part at the 30 backside. Said options also should be considered as included in the present invention.

19

The above descriptions in connection with apparent drawings are intended as a presentation of presently preferred embodiments of the invention and are not intended to represent the only forms in which the present invention may be constructed.

5 10 15 20 25 30 1039286

Claims

A female pin aid for women, characterized in that it is constituted by a composition of 5. an input portion with a generally straight tubular shape that has an input opening (1) at the top of which the predominantly triangular upper edge is formed by a. Two predominantly straight, long sides connected at the front in a rounded point and 10 b. a substantially straight rear, lying in the projection surface (p) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (x) of the device, which rises sharply from the connection points (4) with said long sides and - a discharge part which is connected in such a way to the input part that, depending on the orientation during use, good urine drainage is assured.

Sliding aid according to claim 1, characterized in that the rear edge of the inlet opening is arcuate or semi-circular, the rear edge (2) being provided with a sloping notch (6) in the middle.

Peeing aid according to claim 1, characterized in that the rear edge of the inlet opening is arcuate or semi-circular, the rear edge (2) being provided with a flat portion in the middle.

Peeing aid according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the side edges (3) of the inlet opening are predominantly straight and run with an angle of inclination <15 ° from the connection point (5) at the front of the inlet opening to the connection points (4) ) with the rear edge. 30

5. A plasma aid according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the rear edge of the inlet opening rises at an angle (a) 1039286 from the connection with the side edges in projection surface (p) at which 60 ° <a <120 °, and where a is preferably about 80 °.

Pee aid according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the inlet opening is placed in the tool such that none of the edges protrude beyond the contours of the tool and said inlet opening can be closed with a tight-fitting tubular cap according to claim 10 .

Panning aid according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that, at least the part of said rear edge in said projection surface (p) protruding above the connection on the side edges has a thickness between 2 and 5 mm and is provided with a rounded edge with radii <4 mm. 15

8. Peeing aid according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the side edges of the inlet opening are so far apart that they can be placed on an elongated strip in the longitudinal direction of both labia majora, wherein a narrow strip of said labia is placed between the side edges.

9. Peeing aid according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the rear edge of the inlet opening protrudes above the connections with the side edges such that when said rear edge is placed on the commissura posterior a free passage for urine over the entire length of the rear edge is created while the side edges are placed over the entire length against the labia majora.

Closure means for closing off the inlet opening of a peeing aid 30 according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is a tight-fitting elongated tubular cap of such a shape and size that it encloses at least the portion of the | pin tool that comes in close contact with the tissue of the vulva during use.

11. Peeing aid for women according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the drainage part is at least partially provided with an extension piece according to one or more of the claims 23-26.

12. A plasma aid as claimed in one or more of the foregoing claims, characterized in that the outside of the drainage section is at least partially provided with a guide device which guides an extension piece along and / or around the drainage section such that said aid can be extended, wherein the drain opening is extended opened and can be shortened, the discharge opening being closed by placing, rotating and or sliding said extension piece in the correct position. 15

13. A plasma aid as claimed in claim 12, characterized in that the guide arrangement is a guide groove which guides an extension piece according to one or more of claims 23-26 around and along the aid by means of a pin falling into the guide groove such that the extension piece extends into an extended is securely connected to the device with the discharge opening open and the extension piece in a retracted state closing off the discharge feed opening at the front of the discharge section by means of a closing device and the guide groove also includes a part to remove the extension from the device . 25

Pee aid according to claim 12, characterized in that the guide means is a pin for guiding an extension piece according to claim 26.

15. A plasma aid according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the front of the aid is partially closed at the top with a closure piece which in combination with a closure piece located on the front side of an extension piece according to one or more of the claims 23-26 completely closes the discharge opening.

Female peeing aid according to one or more of the preceding claims, suitable for urinating in a normal standing position, characterized in that the discharge part (9) is connected to the input part (8) at an angle of approximately 30 ° with longitudinal axis (x) of the input section.

Paste aid as claimed in claim 16, characterized in that the discharge part is provided with a closing piece (11a) on the front side and with a guide groove (12) on the outside which an extension piece (14) by means of a pin (15) around and along the aid is that said extension is firmly connected to the aid in an extended state, the outlet opening (10b) of the extension being in the open position at the bottom and that said extension in an inserted state by means of a closure (11b) closes the outlet opening (10a) of the aid, the outlet opening (10b) of the extension being closed by the closure (11a) of the aid.

18. A peeing aid for women according to one or more of claims 1-15, preferably suitable for urinating in a sitting position, characterized in that the drainage section (9) is connected in a straight line to the intake section (8) and is so long is that, in use, it protrudes outside the front of a chair seat.

19. Pee aid according to claim 18, characterized in that a flat bottom (17) is placed in the aid over the entire length, which bottom slopes down from approximately half the height of the aid at the rear to the bottom of the front of the tool.

Paste aid as claimed in one or more of the claims 18-19, characterized in that the discharge section is provided with a closing piece (111a) on the front side and with a guide groove (112) on the outside which an extension piece (114) by means of of a pin (15) is guided around and along the device such that the extension (114) is securely connected to the device in an extended state, the outlet opening (110b) of the extension being located at the bottom of the device and that the device extension piece in a retracted state closes the outlet opening (110a) of the aid by means of the closure piece (111b), the outlet opening (110b) of the extension piece being closed off by the closure piece (111a) of the aid.

21. A plasma aid according to one or more of the claims 18-20, characterized in that at least a part of the underside opposite to the inlet opening comprises a flat part (18).

A plasma aid according to one or more of claims 18-21, characterized in that the inlet opening (1) can be closed with a closure means (116) according to claim 10 in the form of a tubular cap which is provided with a recess (19) ) which provides room for the flat bottom (18) to pass.

23. Extension piece for the discharge part of a peeing aid for women according to one or more of the preceding claims, which fits snugly onto or around said discharge part, characterized in that the extension piece is provided with - at the front a discharge opening and a closing provision - on the on the inside a guide means for guiding said extension piece such that said extension piece is still firmly connected to the peeing aid while the outlet opening is open and that said extension piece closes the outlet opening of said peeing aid with said closing means in an inserted state.

An extension piece as claimed in claim 23, characterized in that the closure device is a closure piece which, in combination with a closure piece of the peeing aid, completely closes the front side of the aid. 5

Extension piece according to one or more of claims 23-24, characterized in that the guide provision is a pin (15) projecting inwards for the benefit of guidance through a guide groove.

An extension piece according to one or more of the claims 23-25, characterized in that the guide provision is a guide groove for the benefit of the guide over a guide pin.

27. A peeing aid for women as claimed in one or more of the claims 1-9, which is preferably suitable for urinating in a horizontal position, characterized in that - the inlet part (8) is closed at the front (211) and largely at the rear is closed with a preferably funnel-shaped rear side (107) - the discharge section consists of a hose connection with a discharge opening directed downwards, said rear side running away from the edge of the inlet opening in the direction of the outlet opening.

A plasma aid as claimed in claim 27, characterized in that, at the bottom opposite the inlet opening, the aid is at least partially provided with a flat portion (118).

The pee aid according to one or more of claims 27 to 28, characterized in that the hose connection makes an angle of about 45 ° with the longitudinal axis (x) of the aid. 30

A plasma aid according to one or more of claims 27-29, characterized in that the inlet opening can be closed with a closure means according to claim 10 in the form of a tubular cap which is provided with a suspension device (22) and also with a recess (19) which provides space for passing through said hose connection (21) and flat portion (118). 5 1 0 3 9 2 8 6