Self-cleansing portable urine collection device

Abstract

A self-cleansing portable urine collection device and method of collecting urine in a self-cleansing portable urine collection device. The collection device includes a housing that houses a urine collection receptacle, a cleansing container, a reservoir, and a vacuum suction pump. The receptacle is movable between a stored position and a use position in which the receptacle is configured to collect urine from a user. The cleansing container is configured to supply a cleansing solution to the receptacle. The reservoir is configured to receive the urine and the cleansing solution collected by the receptacle. A vacuum suction pump is disposed within the housing downstream of the reservoir and is configured to transport the urine and the cleansing solution from the receptacle to the reservoir.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application is a continuation-in-part of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12 / 104,857, filed Apr. 17, 2008, the entirety of which is herein incorporated by reference.BACKGROUND[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]The present invention generally relates to a urine collection device. More particularly, the invention relates to a self-cleansing portable urine collection device.[0004]2. Description of Related Art[0005]Millions of people worldwide are afflicted with problems of urinary incontinence and the need to urinate in difficult circumstances. The economic costs and human suffering associated with these distressing conditions are extremely high. Urine collection devices have been extensively studied in conjunction with bedridden and incontinent individuals. Bedpans, diapers and catherization devices are generally utilized for those confined to beds for reasons of illness and disabilities. All of these practices, however, h...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0009]Embodiments of the present invention provide a self-cleansing portable urine collection device and a method of collecting urine in a self-cleansing portable urine collection device. The illustrative examples of the present invention reduce undesirable odors and system failures caused by bacterial growth resulting from a buildup of urine precipitates within a urine collection device.

Problems solved by technology

Millions of people worldwide are afflicted with problems of urinary incontinence and the need to urinate in difficult circumstances.

The economic costs and human suffering associated with these distressing conditions are extremely high.

All of these practices, however, have their drawbacks in view of suitable comfort and sanitary practices.

Bedpan positioning is often difficult and urine collection is often not complete.

Diapers are costly, time consuming to attach, and continued usage often leads to skin rashes, chaffing discomfort, and potential infections.

Catherization devices are associated with a host of medical problems, particularly urinary tract infections and urethral erosions.

The pumps are effective in pumping liquids, but are incapable of providing the required airflows to completely purge urine from the surfaces of the collection receptacle, tubing, and pump internals of the collection device.

Consequently, the incomplete removal of urine contributes to the probable buildup of precipitates resulting from the evaporation of urine residuals between device usages.

This in turn creates system maintainability issues and undesirable odor and bacterial control concerns.

In particular, urea decomposes resulting in the formation of ammonia and carbon dioxide, and a significant amount of solids precipitate out of solution resulting in the fouling of urine collection equipment.

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