WO2025122772A1 - Medical suction device - Google Patents

Abstract

A suction device may include a housing, a venturi tube having a low-pressure port in fluid communication with the venturi tube, and a source of compressed gas that supplies compressed gas through the venturi tube, thereby drawing an airflow from the low-pressure port and into the venturi tube. The suction device further includes a valve assembly having a valve that is moveable between a closed position and an open position, an actuator to move the valve to allow the compressed gas to flow into the venturi tube, a conduit having a first end coupled to the low-pressure port and a second end opposite the first end, wherein the second end includes a Yankauer suction tip. A collection container is coupled to the conduit between the first end and the second end for receiving the airflow and debris drawn from the airway of the person.

Description

MEDICAL SUCTION DEVICE

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims benefit to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/606,342, filed on December 5, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

[0002] The disclosure relates to a suction device, and more particularly to a medical emergency suction device for clearing the throat of a person choking.

SUMMARY

[0003] The disclosure provides, in one aspect, a suction device for clearing an airway of a person, the suction device including a housing and a venturi tube disposed within the housing. The venturi tube includes an inlet port, an outlet port, a neck disposed between the inlet port and the outlet port, and a low-pressure port in fluid communication with the venturi tube. The suction device further includes a source of compressed gas that is connectable to the housing and supplies compressed gas through the venturi tube, thereby drawing an airflow from the low- pressure port and into the venturi tube. The suction device further includes a valve assembly having a valve that is moveable between a closed position and an open position. The suction device further includes an actuator operable to move the valve from the closed position to the open position to allow the compressed gas to flow into the venturi tube, a conduit including a first end coupled to the low-pressure port and a second end opposite the first end, wherein the second end includes a Yankauer suction tip, and a collection container coupled to the conduit between the first end and the second end for receiving the airflow and debris drawn from the airway of the person.

[0004] Other features and aspects of the present disclosure will become apparent by consideration of the following detailed description and accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] FIG. l is a plan view of a suction device in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0006] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a portion of the suction device of FIG. 1, illustrating a quick-puncture mechanism.

[0007] FIG. 3 is a schematic view of a venturi tube of the suction device of FIG. 1.

[0008] FIG. 4 is an exploded view of a portion of the suction device of FIG. 1, illustrating a quick-puncture mechanism in accordance with another embodiment.

[0009] FIG. 5 is a perspective view the quick-puncture mechanism of FIG. 4.

[0010] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the quick-puncture mechanism of FIG. 5, illustrating the quick-puncture mechanism in a first, non-puncture position.

[0011] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the quick-puncture mechanism of FIG. 5, illustrating the quick-puncture mechanism in a second, puncture position.

[0012] FIG. 8 is an exploded view of a portion of the suction device of FIG. 1, illustrating a quick-puncture mechanism in accordance with yet another embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a conduit of the suction device of FIG. 1, illustrating a Yankauer tip with LEDs.

[0014] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a suction device in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.

[0015] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the suction device of FIG. 10, illustrating a housing, a venturi tube, and a valve assembly being displaced to an open position via an actuator.

[0016] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the venturi tube of the suction device of FIG. 10, illustrating a venturi tube in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. [0017] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a collection container of the suction device of FIG. 10, illustrating the collection container in an extended position.

[0018] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the collection container of FIG. 13, illustrating the collection container in a collapsed position.

[0019] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a collection container in accordance with another embodiment, illustrating the collection container in an extended position.

[0020] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the collection container of FIG. 15, illustrating the collection container in a collapsed position.

[0021] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a collection container in accordance with another embodiment, illustrating the collection container in an extended position.

[0022] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the collection container of FIG. 17, illustrating the collection container in a collapsed position.

[0023] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a collection container in accordance with another embodiment, illustrating the collection container in an extended position.

[0024] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the collection container of FIG. 19, illustrating the collection container in a collapsed position.

[0025] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a collection container in accordance with another embodiment, illustrating the collection container in an extended position.

[0026] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the collection container of FIG. 21, illustrating the collection container in a collapsed position.

[0027] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a collection container in accordance with another embodiment, illustrating the collection container in a collapsed position.

[0028] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the collection container of FIG. 23, illustrating the collection container in an extended position. [0029] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a collection container in accordance with another embodiment that is integral with a conduit.

[0030] FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a suction device in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.

[0031] FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view of the suction device of FIG. 26, illustrating a housing, a venturi tube, and a valve assembly being displaced to an open position via an actuator.

[0032] FIG. 28 is a perspective view of a suction device in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.

[0033] FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view of the suction device of FIG. 28, illustrating a housing, a venturi tube, and a valve assembly within the housing.

[0034] FIG. 30 is a perspective view of a suction device in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.

[0035] FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional view of the suction device along line 31 — 31 of FIG. 30, illustrating a passageway that places a CO2 cartridge in fluid communication with a venturi tube.

[0036] FIG. 32 is a cross-section view of the section device along line 32 — 32 of FIG. 30, illustrating the venturi tube.

[0037] Before any embodiments of the disclosure are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the present disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The present disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION [0038] FIG. 1 illustrates a suction device 10 that is configured to create an airflow AF. The airflow may be used, for example, to draw an object or other debris away from an airway 14 of a person 18 choking and into the suction device 10. The suction device 10 creates the airflow AF without the use of motors, fans, pumps, or electricity. Instead, the suction device 10 creates the airflow AF using principles of the venturi effect. As explained in further detail below, the suction device 10 is advantageously small, lightweight (e.g., less than 8 lbs), and portable for ease of use in medical emergency situations and includes minimal moving parts for robust and reliable use. The suction device 10 includes a source of compressed gas 100, a venturi tube 200, and a conduit 300 coupled to the venturi tube 200 and configured to be placed adjacent to or in the airway 14 of a person 18 choking to draw the object out of the airway 14. The suction device 10 also includes a main housing 500 for a user to grasp and maneuver the suction device 10.

[0039] With continued reference to FIG. 1, the source of compressed gas 100 is a disposable CO2 cartridge that is selectively coupled to a valve assembly 400. The valve assembly 400 includes an inlet 404, an outlet 408, and a valve 412 disposed between the inlet 404 and the outlet 408. The valve 412 is movable between an open position, in which compressed gas Cl is allowed to pass through the valve assembly 400, and a closed position, in which compressed gas Cl is inhibited from passing through the valve assembly 400. The valve 412 may also be movable to a plurality (or infinite) number of positions between the open position and the closed position to regulate the amount of compressed gas Cl passing through the valve assembly 400. As such, the valve 412 may be a pressure regulating valve in some embodiments. The valve assembly 400 also includes an actuator 416 that is user manipulable for moving the valve 412 between the open position, the closed position, and any position therebetween. As a result, a user may move the valve 412 to any number of desired positions to optimize the flow rate and the pressure of the compressed gas Cl traveling through the valve assembly 400 and the venturi tube 200.

[0040] With reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, an injector 420 is disposed adjacent the inlet 404 and configured to pierce and open the CO2 cartridge 100. The injector 420 remains stationary and the CO2 cartridge 100 is moved toward the injector 420 to open the CO2 cartridge 100. Specifically, a user may forceably translate the CO2 cartridge 100 toward the injector 420 via a quick-puncture mechanism 424 (e.g., a cammed lever, a bolt action, or other similar type of mechanism) to pierce the C02 cartridge 100, as shown in FIG. 2. The quick-puncture mechanism 424 enables a user to quickly change an empty CO2 cartridge for a new CO2 cartridge 100’. A cammed lever 426 of the quick-puncture mechanism 424 is pivotably coupled to a cartridge housing 504 and causes translation of the CO2 cartridge 100 when the cammed lever 426 is pivoted. In yet another embodiment, the injector 420 may move (instead of being stationary) to pierce the CO2 cartridge 100 as a result of a user actuating the actuator 416 to move the valve 412 to the open position, thereby allowing compressed gas Cl to exit the CO2 cartridge 100. A trigger lock 428 is capable of interacting with the actuator 416 to inhibit the actuator 416 from inadvertently moving and causing unintentional release of compressed gas Cl from the CO2 cartridge 100.

[0041] In other embodiments, as shown in the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 4-7, the CO2 cartridge 100 includes a threaded tip 104 that is threadably coupled to corresponding threads at the inlet 404 of the valve assembly 400. As a user rotates the CO2 cartridge 100, the threaded engagement causes the CO2 cartridge 100 to translate toward the injector 420 until the CO2 cartridge 100 is pierced and opened. To reduce the number of rotations required to pierce the CO2 cartridge 100, a quick-puncture mechanism 424’ may be provided between the main housing 500 and the CO2 cartridge 100. The CO2 cartridge 100 is fully threaded (via fine threads) to a sleeve 426’ of the quick-puncture mechanism 424’, at which point the sleeve 426’ is rotated (via coarse threads) to close the distance between the CO2 cartridge 100 and the injector 420, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7. A user needs only to rotate the sleeve 426’, for example, 90 degrees to fully draw the CO2 cartridge 100 up to the injector 420 for puncture. The injector 420 may be a needle (FIG. 2), while in other embodiments, the injector 420’ may alternatively be a cross-pointed puncture pick (FIG. 8).

[0042] As shown in FIG. 8, a quick-puncture mechanism 424” may alternatively be employed to quickly puncture the CO2 cartridge 100. The quick-puncture mechanism 424” is a quick-connect fitting that is capable of receiving and piercing a CO2 cartridge 100 upon entry into an aperture 426” of the quick-puncture mechanism 424”. The CO2 cartridge 100 may, for example, include an annular channel at the tip 104 of the CO2 cartridge 100 that selectively receives a plurality of balls within the aperture 426”. A sleeve 428” may be actuated to remove the plurality of balls from the annular channel of the tip 104, thereby allowing the CO2 cartridge 100 to be removed and the next CO2 cartridge 100’ can be inserted.

[0043] With continued reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the suction device 10 includes the main housing 500. The main housing 500 may house and encase at least the valve assembly 400 and the venturi tube 200. In some embodiments, the CO2 cartridge 100 is at least partially received within and couples to the main housing 500. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the cartridge housing 504 (FIG. 2) is provided to house and encase at least a portion of the CO2 cartridge 100. The cartridge housing 504 is separate from the main housing 500, but alternatively, the cartridge housing 504 may be integrally formed with the main housing 500. The cartridge housing 504 threadably couples to the main housing 500 to avoid inadvertent removal or damage of the CO2 cartridge 100. As the compressed gas Cl exits the CO2 cartridge 100, the CO2 cartridge 100 becomes cold due to rapid expansion of the compressed gas Cl. The cartridge housing 504 may also provide a thermal barrier between the CO2 cartridge 100 and the user.

[0044] With reference to FIGS. 1 and 3, the venturi tube 200 is disposed downstream of the CO2 cartridge 100 and the valve assembly 400. Specifically, the venturi tube 200 is coupled to and in fluid communication with the outlet 408 of the valve assembly 400. The venturi tube 200 includes a first end 204 with an inlet port 208, a second end 212 with an outlet port 216, and a neck 220 disposed between the first end 204 and the second end 212. The inlet port 208 of the venturi tube 200 is in fluid communication to the outlet 408 of the valve assembly 400, and the outlet port 216 of the venturi tube 200 is in fluid communication with, for example, the environment (i.e., atmospheric pressure). The first end 204 defines a first cross-sectional diameter DI, the second end 212 defines a second cross-sectional diameter D2, and the neck 220 defines a third cross-sectional diameter D3. The third cross-sectional diameter D3 of the neck 220 is smaller than the first and second cross-sectional diameters DI, D2. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second cross-sectional diameters DI, D2 are the same, while in other embodiments, the first and second cross-sectional diameters DI, D2 may be different from each other but still larger than the third cross-sectional diameter D3. Like a traditional venturi tube, a high-pressure region forms at the inlet port 208 as the compressed gas Cl enters the venturi tube 200. Due to the smaller cross-sectional diameter at the neck 220, the compressed gas Cl is constricted, and a low-pressure region forms at the neck 220. Beyond the neck 220, the cross- sectional diameter enlarges again and another high-pressure region forms at the outlet port 216. The compressed gas Cl exits through the outlet port 216 to the environment at atmospheric pressure.

[0045] With continued reference to FIGS. 1 and 3, a low-pressure port 224 is disposed between the first end 204 and the second end 212. Specifically, the low-pressure port 224 is disposed adjacent the neck 220 near the low-pressure region. As a result of the low-pressure region, the airflow AF is drawn toward the low-pressure port 224 and into the venturi tube 200, where the airflow AF and the compressed gas Cl merge and both exit the outlet port 216 to the environment.

[0046] In some embodiments, the CO2 cartridge 100 is pressurized at approximately 900 psi and the venturi tube 200 is configured to generate approximately 20-100 kPa (equivalent to 5.9- 17.7 inches of Mercury). As such, the suction device 10 is capable of producing a flow rate of the airflow AF that is at least 20-280 liters per minute and can suction material with a viscosity of 1 to 4300 centipoise (cP). In other embodiments, the suction device 10 may be capable of producing other flow rates, based on the configuration of the CO2 cartridge 100 and the venturi tube 200.

[0047] With reference to FIG. 1, the conduit 300 is coupled to the low-pressure port 224 to effectively extend the low-pressure region to a desired location (e.g., the airway 14 of a person 18). In the illustrated embodiment, the conduit 300 is flexible. As such, the conduit 300 may also be referred to as a flexible pipe or a flexible tube. The conduit 300 includes a first end 304 coupled to the low-pressure port 224 and a second end 308 opposite the first end 304. The first end 304 may also be referred to as a proximal end, and the second end 308 may also be referred to as a distal end. The second end 308 is configured to be placed in or near the airway 14 of a person 18. The conduit 300 defines an inner diameter that is sufficiently large to allow an object or other debris drawn from the airway 14 to travel through the conduit 300. For example, the conduit 300 may define an inner diameter of at least 8 millimeters. In preferred embodiments, the second end 308 of the conduit 300 includes a large bore Yankauer suction tip. The Yankauer suction tip is disposable, so that a new one can be used for each person 18. [0048] With reference to FIG. 9, a light 312 is optionally disposed at the second end 308 of the conduit 300. The light 312 is configured to illuminate the airway 14 of a person 18, so a user (e.g., medical personnel) may readily identify the object in the airway 14. The light 312 may be an LED. In other embodiments, the light 312’ may alternatively be disposed at the first end 304 of the conduit 300 or on the housing 500. With the conduit 300 preferably being translucent, light emitted from the first end 304 refracts down the conduit 300 to create a light tube. As such, light emitted from the light 312 travels from the first end 304 to the second end 308 of the conduit 300, regardless of whether the conduit 300 is curved or bending. Still, in other embodiments, there may be a light 312” coupled to the housing 500 adjacent the first end 304 of the conduit 300 (FIG. 26) with or without the lights 312, 312’ . In some embodiments, both lights 312, 312’ may exist. The light 312 may be powered by a power source, such as a battery. The battery may be disposed, for example, in the housing 500.

[0049] With continued reference to FIG. 1, a collection container 600 is disposed between the first end 304 and the second end 308 of the conduit 300. The Yankauer suction tip of the conduit 300 may couple directly to or be integrally formed with the collection container 600, such that both may be disposable components. In some embodiments, the entire suction device 10 including the Yankauer suction tip, the collection container 600, and the CO2 cartridge 100 may be disposable. The collection container 600 is upstream of the venturi tube 200 and configured to collect and store the object or other debris being drawn away from the airway 14 of the person 18. The internal volume of the collection container 600 is preferably 100-300 cubic centimeters. Specifically, the internal volume of the collection container 600 is approximately 250 cubic centimeters. The collection container 600 includes a filter 604 to contain the object or other debris within the collection container 600, while allowing the airflow AF to pass through the filter 604 and continue traveling toward the low-pressure port 224. The filter 604 is preferably a hydrophobic viral filter.

[0050] Although the illustrated embodiment shows a single CO2 cartridge 100 being employed, in other embodiments, more than one CO2 cartridge 100’ may be employed — either in series or in parallel — to provide additional compressed gas (e g., C2, C3) when one of the CO2 cartridges 100 depletes the compressed gas Cl. The disposable components of the suction device 10 include the CO2 cartridge 100, the Yankauer tip of the conduit 300, and the collection container 600.

[0051] During operation, a user (e.g., medical personnel) ensures the CO2 cartridge 100 is in fluid communication with the valve assembly 400. If not, a user may threadably couple (or otherwise insert) the CO2 cartridge 100 to the inlet 404 of the valve assembly 400, such that the injector 420 pierces and opens the CO2 cartridge. At this point, a user may actuate the actuator 416 to move the valve 412 to the open position, allowing the compressed gas Cl to flow out the CO2 cartridge 100 and through the valve assembly 400. Subsequently, the compressed gas Cl enters the venturi tube 200 and eventually exits through the outlet port 216. As the compressed gas Cl is constricted by the neck 220 of the venturi tube 200, the low-pressure region is formed adjacent the low-pressure port 224. As a result, the airflow AF is created through the conduit 300, enabling a user to draw the object or other debris from the airway 14 of the person 18 choking. The object or other debris — once drawn away from the airway — travels through the conduit 300 and deposits in the collection container 600. The airflow AF continues through the filter 604 of the collection container 600, merges with the compressed gas Cl in the venturi tube 200, and exits to the environment through the outlet port 216. The light 312 may be activated to increase visibility of the object in the airway 14.

[0052] FIGS. 10 and 11 illustrate a suction device 1010 in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. The suction device 1010 is similar to the suction device 10 with similar features given like reference numerals, plus “1000”. The main difference between the suction device 1010 and the suction device 10 is the formation of the main housing 1500, which is generally L-shaped, as described in detail below.

[0053] FIG. 10 illustrates the suction device 1010 that is configured to create an airflow AF. The airflow AF may be used, for example, to draw an object or other debris away from an airway 14 of a person 18 choking and into the suction device 1010. The suction device 1010 creates the airflow AF using principles of the venturi effect. The suction device 1010 includes a source of compressed gas 1100, a venturi tube 1200, and the conduit 1300 coupled to the venturi tube 1200 and configured to be placed adjacent to or in the airway 14 of a person 18 choking to draw the object out of the airway 14. [0054] With reference to FIG. 11, the source of compressed gas 1100 is a disposable CO2 cartridge that is selectively coupled to a first end 1508 of the housing 1500. That is, the CO2 cartridge 1100 is coupled at the first end 1508 of the housing 1500 to a valve assembly 1400, while the conduit 1300 is coupled adjacent an opposite, second end 1512 of the housing 1500. The valve assembly 1400 includes an inlet 1404, an outlet 1408, and a valve 1412 disposed between the inlet 1404 and the outlet 1408. The valve 1412 is movable along a valve axis 1410 between an open position (shown in broken lines), in which compressed gas Cl is allowed to pass through the valve assembly 1400, and a closed position (shown in solid lines), in which compressed gas Cl is inhibited from passing through the valve assembly 1400. The valve 1412 may also be movable to a plurality (or infinite) number of positions between the open position and the closed position to regulate the amount of compressed gas Cl passing through the valve assembly 1400. As such, the valve 1412 may be a pressure regulating valve in some embodiments. The valve 1412 includes a gasket 1414 that seats against a portion of the housing 1500 in an air-tight manner to inhibit the compressed gas Cl from inadvertently passing beyond the valve assembly 1400 toward the venturi tube 1200. The valve assembly 1400 also includes an actuator 1416 that is user manipulable for moving the valve 1412 between the open position, the closed position, and any position therebetween. Specifically, the actuator 1416 includes a cam lobe 1418 that slides against and moves the valve 1412. The actuator 1416 is pivotably coupled to the main housing 1500 between the first end 1508 and the second end 1512. As a result, a user may move the valve 1412 to any number of desired positions to optimize the flow rate and the pressure of the compressed gas Cl traveling through the valve assembly 1400 and the venturi tube 1200. The injector 420 is disposed adjacent the inlet 1404 and configured to piece and open the CO2 cartridge 1100. The injector 420 remains stationary and the CO2 cartridge 1100 is moved toward the injector 420 to open the CO2 cartridge 1100. Specifically, as shown in the illustrated embodiment, the CO2 cartridge 1100 includes a threaded tip 104 that is threadably coupled to corresponding threads at the inlet 1404 of the valve assembly 1400. As a user rotates the CO2 cartridge 1100, the threaded engagement causes the CO2 cartridge 1100 to translate toward the injector 420 until the CO2 cartridge 1100 is pierced and opened.

[0055] With continued reference to FIG. 11, the valve assembly 1400 and the venturi tube 1200 are disposed within the main housing 1500. The venturi tube 1200 is disposed downstream of the CO2 cartridge 1100 and the valve assembly 1400. Specifically, the venturi tube 1200 is coupled to and in fluid communication with the outlet 1408 of the valve assembly 1400. The venturi tube 1200 includes a first end 1204 with an inlet port 1208, a second end 1212 with an outlet port 1216, and a neck 1220 disposed between the first end 1204 and the second end 1212. The inlet port 1208 of the venturi tube 1200 is in fluid communication to the outlet 1408 of the valve assembly 1400 and the outlet port 1216 of the venturi tube 1200 is in fluid communication with, for example, the environment (i.e., atmospheric pressure). The outlet port 1216 of the venturi tube 1200 is parallel to and offset relative to the inlet 1404 of the valve assembly 1400. The compressed gas Cl exits through the outlet port 1216 to the environment at atmospheric pressure. The neck 1220 has a smaller cross-sectional area than the first end 1204 and the second end 1212. Due to the smaller cross-sectional diameter at the neck 1220, the compressed gas Cl is constricted, and a low-pressure region forms at the neck 1220.

[0056] With continued reference to FIG. 11, a low-pressure port 1224 is disposed between the first end 1204 and the second end 1212. Specifically, the low-pressure port 1224 is disposed adjacent the neck 1220 near the low-pressure region. As a result of the low-pressure region, the airflow AF is drawn toward the low-pressure port 1224 and into the venturi tube 1200, where the airflow AF and the compressed gas Cl merge and both exit the outlet port 1216 to the environment. The illustrated low-pressure port 1224 is generally oriented perpendicular relative to the direction of travel of the compressed gas Cl through the venturi tube 1200. However, in other embodiments, the low-pressure port 1224’ is acutely angled (FIG. 12) relative to the direction of travel of the compressed gas Cl through the venturi tube 1200, which improves the performance of the venturi effect since the airflow AF and the compressed gas Cl are traveling in a more similar direction as they merge.

[0057] The venturi tube 1200 is configured to generate approximately 20-100 kPa (equivalent to 5.9-17.7 inches of Mercury). As such, the suction device 1010 is capable of producing a flow rate of the airflow AF that is at least 20-280 liters per minute and can suction material with a viscosity of 1 to 4300 centipoise (cP).

[0058] With reference to FIG. 11, the conduit 1300 is coupled to the low-pressure port 1224 to effectively extend the low-pressure region to a desired location (e.g., the airway 14 of a person 18). The conduit 1300 includes a first end 1304 coupled to the low-pressure port 1224 and a second end 1308 opposite the first end 1304. The second end 1308 is configured to be placed in or near the airway 14 of a person 18. Specifically, the first end 1304 of the conduit 1300 is coupled to the low-pressure port 1224 along a low-pressure axis 1228, which is perpendicular to a cartridge axis 1108. Also, the airflow AF exiting the outlet port 1216 flows generally parallel to the cartridge axis 1108 in a direction away from the CO2 cartridge 1100 and perpendicular to the low-pressure axis 1228. On a separate note, the valve axis 1410 is acutely angled relative to both the low-pressure axis 1228 and the cartridge axis 1108. The illustrated conduit 1300 includes a large bore Yankauer suction tip. The conduit 1300 is removably coupled to the housing 1500 and is disposable, so that a new one can be used for each person 18. In some embodiments, the first end 1304 of the conduit 1300 is inserted straight into the housing 1500 to couple to the low-pressure port 1224, while in other embodiments, the first end 1304 may be coupled to the low-pressure port 1224 or the housing 1500 via a quick-disconnect mechanism 1316 (i.e., bayonet fitting, press-fit, snap-fit, etc.).

[0059] With reference to FIGS. 13 and 14, a collection container 1600 is disposed between the first end 1304 and the second end 1308 of the conduit 1300. The collection container 1600 is upstream of the venturi tube 1200 and configured to collect and store the object or other debris being drawn away from the airway 14 of the person 18. The internal volume of the collection container 1600 is preferably 100-300 cubic centimeters. Specifically, the internal volume of the collection container 1600 is approximately 250 cubic centimeters. The collection container 1600 includes a bag 1604 and a series of segments 1608a-d that are coupled together and can nestle within each other. The bag 1604 is configured to contain the object or other debris within the collection container 1600 that is extracted from the airway 14 of a person 18. The collection container 1600 is moveable between an extended position (FIG. 13) and a collapsed position (FIG. 14). Each segment 1608a-d includes a J-channel 1612 and a pin 1616 slidably received within the J-channel 1612 of an adjacent segment 1608a-d. In the collapsed position, each pin 1616 is at one end of the J-channels 1612, whereas each pin 1616 moves to the opposite, distal end of the J-channels 1612 in the extended position. Due to the shape of the J-channel 1612, each pin 1616 lodges at the distal end of the J-channel 1612 and inhibits the collection container 1600 from moving toward the collapsed position. In some embodiments, each pin 1616 may snap-fit or press-fit into either end of the J-channel 1612 to maintain the pins 1616 at the desired location within the J-channel 1612. Although there are four segments 1608a-d shown in the illustrated embodiment, there may alternatively be greater or fewer than four segments.

[0060] The collection container 1600 further includes a first or upper cap 1624 and a second or lower cap 1628. The upper cap 1624 is coupled to the first of the series of segments 1608a, and the lower cap 1628 is coupled to the last of the series of segments 1608d. When the collection container 1600 is in the collapsed position, the lower cap 1628 is adjacent the upper cap 1624. In contrast, when the collection container 1600 is in the extended position, the lower cap 1628 is spaced away from the upper cap 1624. The internal volume of the collection container 1600 increases when in the extended position. The upper cap 1624 includes an inlet port 1632 and an outlet port 1636 that are both fluidly connected to the bag 1604. Furthermore, the inlet port 1632 is in fluid communication with the second end 1308 and the outlet port 1636 is in fluid communication with the first end 1304. That is, the airflow AF travels through the second end 1308, the inlet port 1632, the bag 1604, the outlet port 1636, and the first end 1304, in that order.

[0061] FIGS. 15 and 16 illustrate another embodiment of a collection container 2600 which can be alternatively disposed between the first end 1304 and the second end 1308 of the conduit 1300. The collection container 2600 is upstream of the venturi tube 1200 and configured to collect and store the object or other debris being drawn away from the airway 14 of the person 18. The collection container 2600 includes a bag 2604 and a series of segments 2608a-c that are coupled together and can nestle within each other. The bag 2604 is configured to contain the object or other debris within the collection container 2600 that is extracted from the airway 14 of a person 18. The collection container 2600 is moveable between an extended position (FIG. 15) and a collapsed position (FIG. 16). Each segment 2608a-c includes a helical channel 2612 and a pin 2616 slidably received within the helical channel 2612 of an adjacent segment 2608a-c. In the collapsed position, each pin 2616 is at one end of the helical channels 2612, whereas each pin 2616 moves to the opposite, distal end of the helical channels 2612 in the extended position. Due to the shape of the helical channel 2612, each pin 2616 lodges at the distal end of the helical channel 2612 and inhibits the collection container 2600 from moving toward the collapsed position. Specifically, a flat section 2620 is disposed at the distal end of the helical channels 2612. When each pin 2616 is within the flat section 2620, the pins 2616 are inhibited from riding within the helical channel 2612, unless each segment 2608a-c is rotated. In some embodiments, each pin 2616 may snap-fit or press-fit into either end of the helical channel 2612 to maintain the pins 2616 at the desired location within the helical channel 2612. Although there are three segments 2608a-c shown in the illustrated embodiment, there may alternatively be greater or fewer than three segments.

[0062] The collection container 2600 further includes a first or upper cap 2624 and a second or lower cap 2628. The upper cap 2624 is coupled to the first of the series of segments 2608a, and the lower cap 2628 is coupled to the last of the series of segments 2608c. When the collection container 2600 is in the collapsed position, the lower cap 2628 is adjacent the upper cap 2624. In contrast, when the collection container 2600 is in the extended position, the lower cap 2628 is spaced away from the upper cap 2624. The internal volume within the collection container 2600 increases when in the extended position. The upper cap 2624 includes an inlet port 2632 and an outlet port 2636 that are both fluidly connected to the bag 2604. Furthermore, the inlet port 2632 is in fluid communication with the second end 1308 and the outlet port 2636 is in fluid communication with the first end 1304. That is, the airflow AF travels through the second end 1308, the inlet port 2632, the bag 2604, the outlet port 2636, and the first end 1304, in that order.

[0063] FIGS. 17 and 18 illustrate another embodiment of a collection container 3600 which can be disposed between the first end 1304 and the second end 1308 of the conduit 1300. The collection container 3600 is upstream of the venturi tube 1200 and configured to collect and store the object or other debris being drawn away from the airway 14 of the person 18. The collection container 3600 includes a bag 3604 and a series of segments 3608a-c that are coupled together and can nestle within each other. The bag 3604 is configured to contain the object or other debris within the collection container 3600 that is extracted from the airway 14 of a person 18. The collection container 3600 is moveable between an extended position (FIG. 17) and a collapsed position (FIG. 18). Each segment 3608a-c includes a channel 3612 and a pin 3616 slidably received within the channel 3612 of an adjacent segment 3608a-c. In the collapsed position, each pin 3616 is at one end of the channels 3612, whereas each pin 3616 moves to the opposite, distal end of the channels 3612 in the extended position. Within the distal end of each channel 3612 is a tab 3620 that each pin 3616 is configured to engage when the collection container 3600 moves to the extended position. That is, each pin 3616 slides past and temporarily deforms the tabs 3620 until the collection container is in the extended position, at which point the tabs 3620 return to their undeformed state and mechanically interfere with the pins 3616. As a result, the series of segments 3608a-c are inhibited from moving toward the collapsed position. Although there are three segments 3608a-d shown in the illustrated embodiment, there may alternatively be greater or fewer than four segments.

[0064] The collection container 3600 further includes a first or upper cap 3624 and a second or lower cap 3628. The upper cap 3624 is coupled to the first of the series of segments 3608a, and the lower cap 3628 is coupled to the last of the series of segments 3608c. When the collection container 3600 is in the collapsed position, the lower cap 3628 is adjacent the upper cap 3624. In contrast, when the collection container 3600 is in the extended position, the lower cap 3628 is spaced away from the upper cap 3624. The internal volume within the collection container 3600 increases when in the extended position. The upper cap 3624 includes an inlet port 3632 and an outlet port 3636 that are both fluidly connected to the bag 3604. Furthermore, the inlet port 3632 is in fluid communication with the second end 1308 and the outlet port 3636 is in fluid communication with the first end 1304. That is, the airflow AF travels through the second end 1308, the inlet port 3632, the bag 3604, the outlet port 3636, and the first end 1304, in that order.

[0065] FIGS. 19 and 20 illustrate another embodiment of a collection container 4600 which can be disposed between the first end 1304 and the second end 1308 of the conduit 1300. The collection container 4600 is upstream of the venturi tube 1200 and configured to collect and store the object or other debris being drawn away from the airway 14 of the person 18. The collection container 4600 includes a bag 4604, a first or upper cap 4624, a second or lower cap 4628, and a spring 4608 disposed between the upper cap 4624 and the lower cap 4628. The bag 4604 is configured to contain the object or other debris within the collection container 4600 that is extracted from the airway 14 of a person 18. The collection container 4600 is moveable between an extended position (FIG. 19) and a collapsed position (FIG. 20). When the collection container 4600 is in the collapsed position, the lower cap 4628 is adjacent the upper cap 4624. In contrast, when the collection container 4600 is in the extended position, the lower cap 4628 is spaced away from the upper cap 4624. The spring 4608 is a compression spring that biases the upper cap 4624 away from the lower cap 4628, such that the default position of the collection container 4600 is the extended position. The collection container 4600 may be held in the collapsed position against the bias of the spring 4608 by a release mechanism. For example, the lower cap 4628 may include one or more pins received in one or more L-shaped slots of the upper cap 4624, and the lower cap 4628 may be released from the upper cap 4624 by a small rotation. Alternatively, the release mechanism may include a band or strap wrapped around the upper and lower caps 4624, 4628. The band or strap may be removed or broken to allow separation of the upper and lower caps 4624, 4628. Alternatively, the release mechanism may include another frangible object (e.g., a plastic molding) between the upper and lower caps 4624, 4628 that may be removed or broken to allow separation of the upper and lower caps 4624, 4628. The upper cap 4624 includes an inlet port 4632 and an outlet port 4636 that are both fluidly connected to the bag 4604. Furthermore, the inlet port 4632 is in fluid communication with the second end 1308 and the outlet port 4636 is in fluid communication with the first end 1304. That is, the airflow AF travels through the second end 1308, the inlet port 4632, the bag 4604, the outlet port 4636, and the first end 1304, in that order.

[0066] FIGS. 21 and 22 illustrate another embodiment of a collection container 5600 which can be disposed between the first end 1304 and the second end 1308 of the conduit 1300. The collection container 4600 is upstream of the venturi tube 1200 and configured to collect and store the object or other debris being drawn away from the airway 14 of the person 18. The collection container 5600 includes a bag 5604, a first or upper cap 5624, a second or lower cap 5628, and a plurality of springs 5608 disposed between the upper cap 5624 and the lower cap 5628. The bag 5604 is configured to contain the object or other debris within the collection container 5600 that is extracted from the airway 14 of a person 18. The collection container 5600 is moveable between an extended position (FIG. 21) and a collapsed position (FIG. 22). When the collection container 5600 is in the collapsed position, the lower cap 5628 is adjacent the upper cap 5624. In contrast, when the collection container 5600 is in the extended position, the lower cap 5628 is spaced away from the upper cap 5624. The internal volume within the collection container 5600 increases when in the extended position. The plurality of springs 5608 are leaf springs that bias the upper cap 5624 away from the lower cap 5628, such that the default position of the collection container 5600 is the extended position. The collection container 5600 may be held in the collapsed position against the bias of the springs 5608 by a release mechanism, such as the release mechanisms described above for the collection container 4600. The upper cap 5624 includes an inlet port 5632 and an outlet port 5636 that are both fluidly connected to the bag 5604. Furthermore, the inlet port 5632 is in fluid communication with the second end 1308 and the outlet port 5636 is in fluid communication with the first end 1304. That is, the airflow AF travels through the second end 1308, the inlet port 5632, the bag 5604, the outlet port 5636, and the first end 1304, in that order.

[0067] FIGS. 23 and 24 illustrate another embodiment of a collection container 6600 which can be disposed between the first end 1304 and the second end 1308 of the conduit 1300. The collection container 6600 is upstream of the venturi tube 1200 and configured to collect and store the object or other debris being drawn away from the airway 14 of the person 18. The collection container 6600 includes a bag 6604, a first or outer frame 6624, a second or inner frame 6628, and a spring 6608 disposed between the outer frame 6624 and the inner frame 6628. The bag 6604 is configured to contain the object or other debris within the collection container 6600 that is extracted from the airway 14 of a person 18. The collection container 6600 is moveable between an extended position (FIG. 23) and a collapsed position (FIG. 24). When the collection container 6600 is in the collapsed position, the inner frame 6628 is in coplanar with the outer frame 6624. In contrast, when the collection container 6600 is in the extended position, the inner frame 6628 is oriented perpendicular to the outer frame 6624. The internal volume within the collection container 6600 increases when in the extended position. The inner frame 6628 is pivotably coupled to the outer frame 6624 via a shaft 6630. A user can grasp the shaft 6630 and rotate the shaft 6630, such that the inner frame 6628 co-rotates with the shaft 6630 to move the collection container 6600 between the collapsed position and the extended position. In other embodiments, the collection container 6600 may be biased to the extended position by a spring (e.g., a torsion spring between the outer frame 6624 and the inner frame 6628).

[0068] The outer frame 6624 includes an inlet port 6632 and an outlet port 6636 that are both fluidly connected to the bag 6604. Furthermore, the inlet port 6632 is in fluid communication with the second end 1308 and the outlet port 6636 is in fluid communication with the first end 1304. That is, the airflow AF travels through the second end 1308, the inlet port 6632, the bag 6604, the outlet port 6636, and the first end 1304, in that order. The spring 6608 biases the inner frame 6628 in a direction along the shaft 6630 toward the inlet port 6632 and the outlet port 6636 of the outer frame 6624 to inhibit the inner frame 6628 from moving away from the extended position. Specifically, the inner frame 6628 is biased toward and received within a notch 6640 via the spring 6608 to maintain the collection container 6600 in the extended position.

[0069] With reference to FIG. 25, a collection container 7600 is disposed between the first end 1304 and the second end 1308 of the conduit 1300. The collection container 7600 is upstream of the venturi tube 1200 and configured to collect and store the object or other debris being drawn away from the airway 14 of the person 18. The collection container 7600 includes a reservoir 7604, which is configured to contain the object or other debris within the collection container 7600 that is extracted from the airway 14 of a person 18. The collection container 7600 also includes a grip 7608 disposed on the reservoir 7604 for a user to easily grasp. The conduit 1300 and the collection container 7600 are integrally formed as a single piece. The conduit 1300 and the collection container 7600 are disposable together, so that a new one can be used for each person 18. The airflow AF travels through the second end 1308, the reservoir 7604, and the first end 1304, in that order.

[0070] FIGS. 26 and 27 illustrate a suction device 2010 in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. The suction device 2010 is similar to the suction device 10 with similar features given like reference numerals, plus “2000”. The main difference between the suction device 2010 and the suction device 10 is the formation of the main housing 2500, which is generally linear, as described in detail below.

[0071] FIG. 26 illustrates the suction device 2010 that is configured to create an airflow AF. The airflow may be used, for example, to draw an object or other debris away from an airway 14 of a person 18 choking and into the suction device 2010. The suction device 2010 creates the airflow AF using principles of the venturi effect. The suction device 2010 includes a source of compressed gas 2100, a venturi tube 2200, and the conduit 1300 coupled to the venturi tube 2200 and configured to be placed adjacent to or in the airway 14 of a person 18 choking to draw the object out of the airway 14. [0072] With reference to FIG. 27, the source of compressed gas 2100 is a disposable CO2 cartridge that is selectively coupled to a first end 2508 of the housing 2500. That is, the CO2 cartridge 2100 is coupled to a valve assembly 2400 at the first end 2508 of the housing 2500, while the conduit 1300 is coupled to an opposite, second end 2512 of the housing 2500. The valve assembly 2400 includes an inlet 2404, an outlet 2408, and a valve 2412 disposed between the inlet 2404 and the outlet 2408. The valve 2412 is movable along a valve axis 2410 between an open position (shown in broken lines), in which compressed gas Cl is allowed to pass through the valve assembly 2400, and a closed position (shown in solid lines), in which compressed gas Cl is inhibited from passing through the valve assembly 2400. The valve 2412 may also be movable to a plurality (or infinite) number of positions between the open position and the closed position to regulate the amount of compressed gas Cl passing through the valve assembly 2400. As such, the valve 2412 may be a pressure regulating valve in some embodiments. The valve 2412 includes a gasket 2414 that seats against a portion of the housing 2500 in an air-tight manner to inhibit the compressed gas Cl from inadvertently passing beyond the valve assembly 2400 toward the venturi tube 2200. The valve assembly 2400 also includes an actuator 2416 that is user manipulable for moving the valve 2412 between the open position, the closed position, and any position therebetween. Specifically, the actuator 2416 includes a cam lobe 2418 that slides against and moves the valve 2412. The actuator 2416 is pivotably coupled to the main housing 2500 between the first end 2508 (or CO2 cartridge 2100) and the second end 2512 (or conduit 1300). As a result, a user may move the valve 2412 to any number of desired positions to optimize the flow rate and the pressure of the compressed gas Cl traveling through the valve assembly 2400 and the venturi tube 2200. An injector 2420 is disposed adjacent the inlet 2404 and configured to piece and open the CO2 cartridge 2100. The injector 2420 remains stationary and the CO2 cartridge 2100 is moved toward the injector 2420 to open the CO2 cartridge 2100. Specifically, as shown in the illustrated embodiment, the CO2 cartridge 2100 includes a threaded tip 2104 that is threadably coupled to corresponding threads at the inlet 2404 of the valve assembly 2400. As a user rotates the CO2 cartridge 2100, the threaded engagement causes the CO2 cartridge 2100 to translate toward the injector 2420 until the CO2 cartridge 2100 is pierced and opened. [0073] With continued reference to FIG. 27, the valve assembly 2400 and the venturi tube 2200 are disposed within the main housing 2500. The venturi tube 2200 is disposed downstream of the CO2 cartridge 2100 and the valve assembly 2400. Specifically, the venturi tube 2200 is coupled to and in fluid communication with the outlet 2408 of the valve assembly 2400. The venturi tube 2200 includes a first end 2204 with an inlet port 2208, a second end 2212 with an outlet port 2216, and a neck 2220 disposed between the first end 2204 and the second end 2212. The inlet port 2208 of the venturi tube 2200 is in fluid communication to the outlet 2408 of the valve assembly 2400, and the outlet port 2216 of the venturi tube 2200 is in fluid communication with, for example, the environment (i.e., atmospheric pressure). The compressed gas Cl exits through the outlet port 2216 to the environment at atmospheric pressure. Specifically, the compressed gas Cl exits through the outlet port 2216 that faces the CO2 cartridge 2100, such that the compressed gas Cl and the airflow AF flow toward and around the CO2 cartridge 2100. As a result, the compressed gas C 1 and the airflow AF tend to thermodynamically warm the colder CO2 cartridge 2100 as warmer air (i.e., compressed gas Cl, airflow AF, environment ambient air, etc.) flow around the CO2 cartridge 2100. The neck 2220 has a smaller cross- sectional area than the first end 2204 and the second end 2212. Due to the smaller cross- sectional diameter at the neck 2220, the compressed gas Cl is constricted, and a low-pressure region forms at the neck 2220.

[0074] With continued reference to FIG. 27, a low-pressure port 2224 is disposed between the first end 2204 and the second end 2212. Specifically, the low-pressure port 2224 is disposed adjacent the neck 2220 near the low-pressure region. As a result of the low-pressure region, the airflow AF is drawn toward the low-pressure port 2224 and into the venturi tube 2200, where the airflow AF and the compressed gas C l merge and both exit the outlet port 2216 to the environment. The illustrated low-pressure port 2224 is generally oriented perpendicular relative to the direction of travel of the compressed gas Cl through the venturi tube 2200.

[0075] The venturi tube 2200 is configured to generate approximately 20-100 kPa (equivalent to 5.9-17.7 inches of Mercury). As such, the suction device 2010 is capable of producing a flow rate of the airflow AF that is at least 20-280 liters per minute and can suction material with a viscosity of 1 to 4300 centipoise (cP). [0076] With reference to FIG. 27, the conduit 1300 is coupled to the low-pressure port 2224 to effectively extend the low-pressure region to a desired location (e.g., the airway 14 of a person 18). The first end 1304 of the conduit 1300 is coupled to the low-pressure port 2224 and the second end 1308 is configured to be placed in or near the airway 14 of a person 18. Specifically, the first end 1304 of the conduit 1300 is coupled to the low-pressure port 2224 along a low- pressure axis 2228, which is parallel to a cartridge axis 2108. The low-pressure axis 2228 is also offset from the cartridge axis 2108. Also, the airflow AF exiting the outlet port 2216 flows generally parallel to the cartridge axis 2108. On a separate note, the valve axis 2410 is acutely angled relative to both the low-pressure axis 2228 and the cartridge axis 2108. The illustrated conduit 1300 is removably coupled to the housing 2500 and is disposable, so that a new one can be used for each person 18. In some embodiments, the first end 1304 of the conduit 1300 is inserted straight into the housing 2500 to couple to the low-pressure port 2224, while in other embodiments, the first end 1304 may be coupled to the low-pressure port 2224 or the housing 2500 via the quick-disconnect mechanism 1316 (i.e., bayonet fitting, press-fit, snap-fit, etc.).

[0077] FIGS. 28 and 29 illustrate a suction device 3010 in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. The suction device 3010 is similar to the suction device 10 with similar features given like reference numerals, plus “3000”. The main difference between the suction device 3010 and the suction device 10 is the formation of the main housing 3500, which is generally L-shaped, as described in detail below.

[0078] FIG. 29 illustrates the suction device 3010 that is configured to create an airflow AF. The airflow may be used, for example, to draw an object or other debris away from an airway 14 of a person 18 choking and into the suction device 3010. The suction device 3010 creates the airflow AF using principles of the venturi effect. The suction device 3010 includes a source of compressed gas 3100, a venturi tube 3200, and the conduit 1300 coupled to the venturi tube 3200 and configured to be placed adjacent to or in the airway 14 of a person 18 choking to draw the object out of the airway 14.

[0079] With reference to FIG. 29, the source of compressed gas 3100 is a disposable CO2 cartridge that is selectively coupled to a first end 3508 of the main housing 3500. That is, the CO2 cartridge 3100 is coupled at the first end 3508 of the housing 3500 to a valve assembly 3400, while the conduit 1300 is coupled adjacent an opposite, second end 3512 of the housing 3500. In fact, a portion of the CO2 cartridge 3100 is received within the main housing 3500. Specifically, a grip 3516 surrounds and receives at least a portion of the CO2 cartridge 3100. The valve assembly 3400 includes an inlet 3404 and an outlet 3408, which forms a narrow passage to limit the amount of compressed gas Cl escaping from the CO2 cartridge 3100. The valve assembly 3400 is fixed in size, so the flow rate of the compressed gas Cl does not change. The valve assembly 3400 is threadably coupled to the venturi tube 3200. In other embodiments, the valve assembly 3400 may alternatively be threadably coupled to the main housing 3500. There is an actuator 3416 that is user manipulable in a direction toward the CO2 cartridge 3100 and an injector 3420 that is disposed adjacent the inlet 3404 and configured to piece and open the CO2 cartridge 100, thereby releasing compressed gas Cl to travel through the valve assembly 3400 and the venturi tube 3200. The actuator 3416 is movably coupled to the main housing 3500 between the first end 3508 and the second end 3512. The CO2 cartridge 3100 includes a threaded tip 3104 that is threadably coupled to corresponding threads at the inlet 3404. Rather than the CO2 cartridge 3100 moving toward the injector 3420, the actuator 3416 is depressed to move the injector 3420 toward to open the CO2 cartridge 3100.

[0080] With continued reference to FIG. 29, the venturi tube 3200 is disposed within the main housing 3500. In fact, the venturi tube 3200 is removably coupled to the main housing 3500 and the valve assembly 3400. The venturi tube 3200 and the valve assembly 3400 are disposed downstream of the CO2 cartridge 3100. Specifically, the venturi tube 3200 is coupled to and in fluid communication with the outlet 3408 of the valve assembly 3400. The venturi tube 3200 includes a first end 3204 with an inlet port 3208, a second end 3212 with an outlet port 3216, and a neck 3220 disposed between the first end 3204 and the second end 3212. The inlet port 3208 of the venturi tube 3200 is in fluid communication with the CO2 cartridge 3100, and the outlet port 3216 of the venturi tube 3200 is in fluid communication with, for example, the environment (i.e., atmospheric pressure). The compressed gas Cl exits through the outlet port 3216 to the environment at atmospheric pressure. The neck 3220 has a smaller cross-sectional area than the first end 3204 and the second end 3212. Due to the smaller cross-sectional diameter at the neck 3220, the compressed gas Cl is constricted, and a low-pressure region forms at the neck 3220. [0081] With continued reference to FIGS. 28 and 29, a low-pressure port 3224 is disposed adjacent the neck 3220 near the low-pressure region. The low-pressure port 3224 also extends through the same surface as the actuator 3416. As a result of the low-pressure region, the airflow AF is drawn toward the low-pressure port 3224 and into the venturi tube 3200, where the airflow AF and the compressed gas C 1 merge and both exit the outlet port 3216 to the environment. The illustrated low-pressure port 3224 is generally oriented perpendicular relative to the direction of travel of the compressed gas Cl through the venturi tube 3200.

[0082] The venturi tube 3200 is configured to generate approximately 20-100 kPa (equivalent to 5.9-17.7 inches of Mercury). As such, the suction device 3010 is capable of producing a flow rate of the airflow AF that is at least 20-280 liters per minute and can suction material with a viscosity of 1 to 4300 centipoise (cP).

[0083] With reference to FIG. 29, the conduit 1300 is coupled to the low-pressure port 3224 to effectively extend the low-pressure region to a desired location (e.g., the airway 14 of a person 18). The first end 1304 of the conduit 1300 is coupled to the low-pressure port 3224 and the second end 1308 is configured to be placed in or near the airway 14 of a person 18. Specifically, the first end 1304 of the conduit 1300 is coupled to the low-pressure port 3224 along a low- pressure axis 3228, which is parallel to a cartridge axis 3108. The low-pressure axis 3228 is also offset from the cartridge axis 3108. Also, the airflow AF exiting the outlet port 3216 flows generally perpendicular to the cartridge axis 3108. The conduit 1300 is removably coupled to the housing 3500 and is disposable, so that a new one can be used for each person 18. In some embodiments, the first end 1304 of the conduit 1300 is inserted straight into the housing 3500 to couple to the low-pressure port 3224, while in other embodiments, the first end 1304 may be coupled to the low-pressure port 3224 or the housing 3500 via the quick-disconnect mechanism 1316 (i.e., bayonet fitting, press-fit, snap-fit, etc.).

[0084] FIGS. 30-32 illustrate a suction device 4010 in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. The suction device 4010 is similar to the suction device 10 with similar features given like reference numerals, plus “4000”. The main difference between the suction device 4010 and the suction device 10 is the formation of the main housing 4500, which is generally linear, as described in detail below. [0085] FIG. 30 illustrates the suction device 4010 that is configured to create an airflow AF. The airflow may be used, for example, to draw an object or other debris away from an airway 14 of a person 18 choking and into the suction device 4010. The suction device 4010 creates the airflow AF using principles of the venturi effect. The suction device 4010 includes a source of compressed gas 4100, a venturi tube 4200, and the conduit 1300 coupled to the venturi tube 4200 and configured to be placed adjacent to or in the airway 14 of a person 18 choking to draw the object out of the airway 14.

[0086] With reference to FIGS. 31 and 32, the source of compressed gas 4100 is a disposable CO2 cartridge that is selectively coupled to a first end 4508 of the housing 4500. That is, the CO2 cartridge 4100 is coupled to a passageway 4400 of the main housing 4500 at the first end 4508, while the conduit 1300 is coupled to an opposite, second end 4512 of the housing 4500. The passageway 4400 leads the compressed gas Cl from the CO2 cartridge 4100 to the venturi tube 4200. The CO2 cartridge 4100 includes a threaded tip 4104 that is threadably coupled to corresponding threads of the main housing 4500. As a user rotates the CO2 cartridge 4100, the threaded engagement causes the CO2 cartridge 4100 to translate toward the injector 4420 until the CO2 cartridge 4100 is pierced and opened.

[0087] With continued reference to FIGS. 31 and 32, the venturi tube 4200 is disposed within the main housing 4500. The venturi tube 4200 and the passageway 4400 are disposed downstream of the CO2 cartridge 4100. Specifically, the venturi tube 4200 is coupled to and in fluid communication with the passageway 4400. The venturi tube 4200 includes a first end 4204 with an inlet port 4208, a second end 4212 with an outlet port 4216, and a neck 4220 disposed between the first end 4204 and the second end 4212. The inlet port 4208 of the venturi tube 4200 is in fluid communication with the CO2 cartridge 4100, and the outlet port 4216 of the venturi tube 4200 is in fluid communication with, for example, the environment (i.e., atmospheric pressure). The compressed gas Cl exits through the outlet port 4216 to the environment at atmospheric pressure. Specifically, the compressed gas Cl exits through the outlet port 4216 that faces the CO2 cartridge 3100, such that the compressed gas Cl and the airflow AF flow toward and around the CO2 cartridge 4100. As a result, the compressed gas Cl and the airflow AF tend to thermodynamically warm the colder CO2 cartridge 4100 as warmer air (i.e., compressed gas Cl, airflow AF, environment ambient air, etc.) flow around the CO2 cartridge 4100. The neck 4220 has a smaller cross-sectional area than the first end 4204 and the second end 4212. Due to the smaller cross-sectional diameter at the neck 4220, the compressed gas Cl is constricted, and a low-pressure region forms at the neck 4220.

[0088] With continued reference to FIGS. 31 and 32, a low-pressure port 4224 taps into the venturi tube 4200 between the first end 4204 and the second end 4212. Specifically, the low- pressure port 4224 is disposed adjacent the second end 4212. As a result of the low-pressure region, the airflow AF is drawn toward the low-pressure port 4224 and into the venturi tube 4200, where the airflow AF and the compressed gas Cl merge and both exit the outlet port 4216 to the environment. The illustrated low-pressure port 4224 is generally oriented perpendicular relative to the direction of travel of the compressed gas Cl through the venturi tube 4200.

[0089] The venturi tube 4200 is configured to generate approximately 20-100 kPa (equivalent to 5.9-17.7 inches of Mercury). As such, the suction device 4010 is capable of producing a flow rate of the airflow AF that is at least 20-280 liters per minute and can suction material with a viscosity of 1 to 4300 centipoise (cP).

[0090] With reference to FIG. 32, the conduit 1300 is coupled to the low-pressure port 4224 to effectively extend the low-pressure region to a desired location (e.g., the airway 14 of a person 18). The first end 1304 of the conduit 1300 is coupled to the low-pressure port 4224, and the second end 1308 is configured to be placed in or near the airway 14 of a person 18. Specifically, the first end 1304 of the conduit 1300 is coupled to the low-pressure port 4224 along a low- pressure axis 4228, which is parallel to a cartridge axis 4108. The low-pressure axis 4228 is also offset from the cartridge axis 4108. Also, the airflow AF exiting the outlet port 3216 flows generally parallel to the cartridge axis 4108. The conduit 1300 is removably coupled to the housing 4500 and is disposable, so that a new one can be used for each person 18. In some embodiments, the first end 1304 of the conduit 1300 is inserted straight into the housing 4500 to couple to the low-pressure port 4224, while in other embodiments, the first end 1304 may be coupled to the low-pressure port 4224 or the housing 4500 via the quick-disconnect mechanism 1316 (i.e., bayonet fitting, press-fit, snap-fit, etc.).

[0091] Various features and advantages are set forth in the following claims.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A suction device for clearing an airway of a person, the suction device comprising: a housing; a venturi tube disposed within the housing and including an inlet port, an outlet port, a neck disposed between the inlet port and the outlet port, and a low-pressure port in fluid communication with the venturi tube; a source of compressed gas that is connectable to the housing and supplies compressed gas through the venturi tube, thereby drawing an airflow from the low-pressure port and into the venturi tube; a valve assembly including a valve that is moveable between a closed position and an open position; an actuator operable to move the valve from the closed position to the open position to allow the compressed gas to flow into the venturi tube; a conduit including a first end coupled to the low-pressure port and a second end opposite the first end, wherein the second end includes a Yankauer suction tip; and a collection container coupled to the conduit between the first end and the second end for receiving the airflow and debris drawn from the airway of the person.

2. The suction device of claim 1, wherein the low-pressure port is disposed between the inlet port and the outlet port of the venturi tube.

3. The suction device of claim 1, wherein the compressed gas enters the housing through the inlet port and exits the housing via the outlet port, and wherein a low-pressure region is formed adjacent the low-pressure port.

4. The suction device of claim 1, wherein the venturi tube further includes a first end at the inlet port with a first cross-sectional diameter, a second end at the outlet port with a second cross-sectional diameter, and a neck disposed between the first end and the second end, wherein the neck has a third cross-sectional diameter that is smaller than the first and second cross- sectional diameters.

5. The suction device of claim 4, wherein the first cross-sectional diameter is the same as the second cross-sectional diameter, and wherein the low-pressure port is disposed adjacent the neck of the venturi tube.

6. The suction device of claim 1, wherein the source of compressed gas is a CO2 cartridge, and wherein the suction device further comprises a puncture mechanism that punctures the CO2 cartridge for releasing the compressed gas towards the valve.

7. The suction device of claim 6, wherein the puncture mechanism is a quick-puncture mechanism including a cam lever.

8. The suction device of claim 6, wherein the puncture mechanism is a quick-puncture mechanism including coarse threads that engage fine threads on the CO2 cartridge.

9. The suction device of claim 6, wherein the puncture mechanism is a quick-puncture mechanism including a quick-connect fitting.

10. The suction device of claim 1, wherein the valve assembly is disposed between the source of compressed gas and the venturi tube.

11. The suction device of claim 10, wherein the valve assembly is movable along a valve axis that is obliquely angled relative to a low-pressure axis of the low-pressure port, a cartridge axis of the CO2 cartridge, or both the low-pressure axis and the cartridge axis.

12. The suction device of claim 11, wherein the conduit is coupled to the low-pressure port along the low-pressure axis, wherein the CO2 cartridge is coupled to the housing along the cartridge axis, and wherein the low-pressure axis is perpendicular to the cartridge axis.

13. The suction device of claim 1, wherein the outlet port of the venturi tube is parallel to and offset relative to an inlet of the valve assembly.

14. The suction device of claim 1, further comprising a trigger lock coupled to the actuator to inhibit the actuator from moving the valve.

15. The suction device of claim 1, wherein the collection container includes a filter to inhibit debris from exiting the collection container while allowing the airflow to pass through the collection container.

16. The suction device of claim 1, wherein the conduit is translucent, and wherein the suction device further comprises a light disposed adjacent the first end of the conduit for emitting light in a direction through the conduit.

17. The suction device of claim 1, further comprising a light and a Yankauer tip, both of which are disposed adjacent the second end of the conduit.

18. The suction device of claim 1, wherein the valve includes a gasket that seats against a portion of the housing to form a seal.

19. The suction device of claim 1, wherein the actuator includes a cam lobe that interfaces with the valve to move the valve.

20. The suction device of claim 1, wherein the collection chamber is moveable between a collapsed position and an extended position, and wherein a volume within the collection container increases when moved to the extended position.

21. The suction device of claim 20, wherein the collection container includes a bag and a series of segments coupled to the bag, wherein the series of segments is coupled together and nestle within each other when the collection container is in the collapsed position, and wherein the series of segments move apart from each other when the collection chamber is moved to the extended position.

22. The suction device of claim 21, wherein at least one segment of the series of segments includes a pin that is slidably received within a channel of an adjacent segment, and wherein the pin moves between opposite ends of the channel when the collection container moves between the collapsed position and the extended position.

23. The suction device of claim 20, wherein the collection chamber includes a spring that biases the collection chamber toward the extended position.

24. The suction device of claim 1, wherein the outlet port of the venturi tube discharges the compressed gas and the airflow toward the source of compressed gas.

25. The suction device of claim 1, wherein the low-pressure port merges with the venturi tube at an acute angle.