ORAL HYDRATION SYSTEM

Abstract

An oral hydration system, which includes a fluid reservoir; a supply tube fluidly coupled to the reservoir at its distal end; and a mouthpiece pump molded as a single piece utilizing one pliable material and deformable along its entire length, wherein the mouthpiece pump is fluidly coupled at its distal end to a proximal end of the supply tube, wherein the mouthpiece pump or the supply tube comprises a one-way distal valve and the mouthpiece pump is sealed proximally with a proximal face in a form of a mouthpiece containing a proximal valve that seals until the pump is deformed by a user for the purpose of creating a priming and pumping action to draw fluid from the reservoir, through the supply tube and out of the mouthpiece pump to the user.

Claims

1. An oral hydration system comprising: a) a fluid reservoir; b) a supply tube fluidly coupled to the reservoir at its distal end; and c) a mouthpiece pump molded as a single piece utilizing one pliable material and deformable along its entire length, wherein the mouthpiece pump is fluidly coupled at its distal end to a proximal end of the supply tube, wherein the mouthpiece pump or the supply tube comprises a one-way distal valve and the mouthpiece pump is sealed proximally with a proximal face in a form of a mouthpiece containing a proximal valve that seals until the pump is deformed by a user for the purpose of creating a priming and pumping action to draw fluid from the reservoir, through the supply tube and out of the mouthpiece pump to the user, wherein the mouthpiece pump can be safely compressed or bitten at any portion of the mouthpiece pump without risk of biting or dislodging a rigid or secondary piece.

2. The oral hydration system of claim 1, wherein a pump portion of the mouthpiece pump is formed with sidewalls of varying thickness creating sections that are relatively softer to promote a soft spot that requires less compressing force, and stiffer sections to promote the pump to draw fluid from the reservoir with increased vacuum force.

3. The oral hydration system of claim 1, wherein the proximal valve and mouthpiece portion of the mouthpiece pump are formed to direct and shape the spray of fluids ejected when the mouthpiece pump is compressed.

4. The oral hydration system of claim 1, wherein the fluid reservoir comprises one or more bendable handles, each handle optionally comprising a bendable metal wire with a polymer coating.

5. The oral hydration system of claim 4, wherein the one or more bendable handles are configured to reversibly bend into and out of a hooked configuration, wherein the hooked configuration is configured to support the reservoir when hanging from the hook and when full of liquid.

6. The oral hydration system of claim 4, wherein the one or more bendable handles are configured to bend into and out of a stand configuration that stands the reservoir upright or at an inclined position.

7. The oral hydration system of claim 4, wherein at least one of the one or more handles comprises a section that can be permanently attached or releasably attached to improve attaching of the hydration system to a structure by way of an increased surface area, increased friction, or by increasing stability of the hydration system when positioned on a flat surface, wherein the section is optionally formed in the likeness of a an ornamental feature.

8. The oral hydration system of claim 1, wherein the reservoir, a reservoir lid, or the one or more handles comprises a magnet and an opposing magnet is located at the mouthpiece pump or at the proximal end of the supply tube for releasably holding the pump or supply tube.

9. The oral hydration system of claim 1, further comprising an adapter that attaches to the reservoir, the one or more handles, the supply tube, or the mouthpiece pump to maintain the reservoir in an upright or inclined position.

10. The oral hydration system of claim 9, wherein the adapter is a clip that attaches to the one or more handles, the reservoir, the supply tube, or the mouthpiece pump and clips to another surface for mounting or standing the reservoir or providing a secondary attachment for the mouthpiece pump.

11. The oral hydration system of claim 1, wherein the supply tube comprises rigid sections reversibly joined by angled, semi rigid, or bend and stay connectors, such that the supply tube can be adjustably bent and maintain its bent shape when primed with fluid and boomed out toward the user.

12. The oral hydration system of claim 1, wherein a secondary piece is permanently or reversibly attached to the mouthpiece pump to increase compressing force and direct the spray of fluids from the mouthpiece pump, wherein the secondary piece is optionally formed in the likeness of an ornamental feature.

13. The hydration system of claim 1, wherein the mouthpiece pump comprises three valves comprising the proximal valve, the distal valve, and a third valve positioned between the distal and proximal valves, forming one central chamber and the third valve is a redundant check valve to the proximal valve and opens in response to proximal fluid flow and closes when fluid flow ceases independent of the proximal valve remaining open when decompressed.

14. The hydration system of claim 1, wherein the mouthpiece pump comprises three valves comprising the proximal valve, the distal valve, and a third valve positioned between the distal and proximal valves to form two sub-chambers of different volumes within the mouthpiece pump.

15. The hydration system of claim 14, wherein the third valve is biased in a closed position and is selectively opened during compression of the mouthpiece pump or suction from the user.

16. The hydration system of claim 14, wherein the third valve is biased in an open position and closes in response to decompression of the mouthpiece pump.

17. The hydration system of claim 14, wherein each of the three valves are biased in a closed position, wherein the proximal valve is configured to open and the distal and third valves are configured to close when compressing a proximal sub-chamber of the pump, optionally by biting or pinching, thereby releasing a volume of fluid from the proximal sub-chamber and upon decompression the proximal valve is configured to close and the distal and third valves are configured to open to permit refilling the proximal sub-chamber under vacuum.

18. The hydration system of claim 1, further comprising a boom that is adjustable or bendable and reversibly attaches to the reservoir, a reservoir lid, or the one or more handles, wherein the boom is configured for adjustably positioning the mouthpiece pump near the user.

19. The hydration system of claim 18, wherein the boom comprises a means for attaching the supply tube to the boom, wherein the means for attaching the supply tube is optionally selected from the group consisting of clips, magnets, and hook and loop.

20. The hydration system of 1, further comprising a safety ring positioned around an outside of the mouthpiece pump to limit entry of the hydration system into a mouth of an individual receiving hydration, wherein the safety ring is reversibly attachable around the mouthpiece pump.

21. The hydration system of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of disposable sleeves that fit over the mouthpiece pump.

22. The hydration system of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of magnets affixed to the hydration system and an adapter that reversibly attaches to the hydration system or to magnetically attaches to at least one of the affixed magnets.

23. An oral hydration system comprising: a fluid reservoir; and one or more handles reversibly attached or permanently attached to the reservoir or a reservoir lid, wherein the one or more handles can be reversibly bent or shaped and maintained in the bend or shape while supporting the reservoir when filled with fluid, to enable the reservoir to remain in an upright or inclined position, on a flat surface, or to reversibly hang or attach the reservoir to a variety of different shaped objects.

24. The hydration system of claim 23, wherein the one or more handles each comprise a metal wire covered by a polymer coating that can be bent and shaped and remain in the bent shape while supporting the weight of the reservoir when filled or partially filled with liquid or until a sufficient unbending force is applied.

25. The oral hydration system of claim 23, further comprising a supply tube fluidly coupled to the reservoir, thereby providing a conduit for a user to access liquid from the reservoir, the supply tube comprising rigid sections reversibly joined by permanently angled, semi rigid, or bend and stay connectors, such that the supply tube can be adjustably bent and maintain its bent shape when primed with liquid and boomed towards the user.

26. The oral hydration system of claim 23, further comprising a supply tube fluidly coupled to the reservoir at its distal end and at its proximal end is a pliable mouthpiece containing a valve that is sealed to prevent flow of liquid until deformed by the user, which opens the valve to permit liquid flow.

27. The oral hydration system of claim 26, wherein the mouthpiece is a mouthpiece pump molded as a single piece and deformable along its entire length, further wherein the mouthpiece pump is fluidly coupled at its distal end to the proximal end of the supply tube, wherein the mouthpiece pump or the supply tube comprises a one-way distal valve and the mouthpiece pump is sealed proximally with a proximal face containing a proximal valve that seals until the pump is deformed by a user.

28. The hydration system of claim 23, wherein the reservoir, a reservoir lid, or the one or more bendable handles further comprises a magnet and an opposing magnet is located in close proximity to the mouthpiece pump and at the proximal end of the supply tube for releasably holding the supply tube to the reservoir, the reservoir lid or the one or more handles.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] Embodiments of the invention can be better understood with reference to the following drawings, which are part of the specification and represent preferred embodiments. The components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention. And, in the drawings, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the several views.

[0032] FIG. 1 is a partially exploded view of a preferred oral hydration system 10 equipped with a channeled lid 24.

[0033] FIG. 2 is another preferred embodiment of the oral hydration system 10 equipped with a self-support opening 30 and a detachable mount 22.

[0034] FIG. 3 is another preferred embodiment of the oral hydration system 10 shown mounted to a structure 100 and a boomed supply tube 14.

[0035] FIGS. 4A-E depict a dual operation of a compressible chamber 16.

[0036] FIG. 5 shows two additional embodiments of the oral hydration system 10 shown mounted to a structure 100.

[0037] FIG. 6 depicts the reservoir resting on a flat surface and supported vertically or inclined by one or more handles.

[0038] FIG. 7 depicts different options for additional parts used to support the hydration system and provide a secondary means for releasably attaching the mouthpiece pump to a structure.

[0039] FIG. 8 depicts a guidewire releasably or permanently attached to the reservoir, reservoir lid, or one or more handles to adjustably boom the supply tube and mouthpiece pump toward the user.

[0040] FIG. 9 depicts the bendable used in different ways to suspend or attach the reservoir to a variety of structures.

[0041] FIG. 10 depicts the mouthpiece pump with check valves configured to allow the proximal and third valves to operate redundantly.

[0042] FIG. 11 depicts the mouthpiece pump with enhanced features to promote a direct stream of fluid out of the mouthpiece pump.

[0043] FIG. 12 depicts a supply tube with rigid sections of tubing joined by adjustable connectors.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0044] For clarity of disclosure, and not by way of limitation, the invention is discussed according to different detailed embodiments; however, the skilled artisan would recognize that features of one embodiment can be combined with other embodiments and is therefore within the intended scope of the invention.

[0045] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as is commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. If a definition set forth in this document is contrary to or otherwise inconsistent with a well-accepted definition set forth in the art, the definition set forth in this document prevails over a contradictory definition.

[0046] The term “proximal” and “proximate” as used herein refers to a position which is nearest to the patient receiving hydration through the mouthpiece. The mouthpiece is proximate to the supply tube, which is proximate to the reservoir since fluid travels from the reservoir, through the supply tube and into the mouthpiece. The term “at a proximal end” as used herein refers to the half or portion closest to the patient.

[0047] The term “distal” as used herein refers to a position which is farthest from to the patient receiving hydration through the mouthpiece. The reservoir is distal to the supply line, which is distal to the mouthpiece.

[0048] The term “fluidly coupled” or “fluidly connected” as used herein refers to the joining of two structures, each having a lumen through which a fluid may pass. A variety of complementary structures are known in the art to fluidly couple lumens. Among these include luer locks, complementary mating structures, or friction fit connection.

[0049] Among the improvements of the oral hydration systems herein, include an improved pumping mechanism, which results in a variable delivery rate under precise control. In particular, the hydration system permits a caregiver to initially prime a supply of liquid which can be later selectively delivered aggressively or passively as needed by a patient even when in a weakened state.

[0050] Among the additional improvements of the oral hydration systems herein, include a bendable mount configured to reversibly mount the hydration system to a structure by bending the mount around the structure or bending the mount to form a handle. In particular, the mount facilitates mounting the hydration system to a bed rail or other appropriate structures.

[0051] Among the additional improvements of the oral hydration systems herein, include a supply tube operably connected to a bendable guidewire that permits the supply tube to be bent to a desired position then released to function as a boom, thereby permitting adjustable positioning for a variety of patients.

[0052] Although the invention has particular benefit for those in the medical industry, such as for the treatment of hydration in human patients, adaptations of the invention are also envisioned for use with sports, gym workout, outdoor activities, driving, pets, children, infants or anywhere improved access to hydration is desired.

[0053] As depicted collectively in FIGS. 1-12, an exemplary hydration system 10 provides a fluid reservoir 12; a supply tube 14 fluidly coupled to the reservoir 10 at its distal end 14a; a reversibly compressible chamber 16 fluidly coupled to the supply tube 14; a mouthpiece 18 proximate to but preferably forming a proximal end of the collapsible chamber 16; and optionally at least two valves 20a, 20b that regulate the flow of fluid through the hydration system 10, wherein a distal valve 20a is positioned at a distal end 14a of the chamber 14 or along the supply tube 16 and closes in response to compression of the chamber 14 to reduce backflow of fluid into the reservoir 10 during compression, and a proximal valve 20b is positioned generally at the mouth piece 18 for regulating the delivery of fluid out of the mouthpiece 18, wherein the proximal valve 18 is biased closed to prevent leakage but preferably configured to selectively open when the chamber 16 is sufficiently compressed. Preferably, the hydration system 10 also includes one or more mounts 22 for reversibly mounting the hydration system 10 to a structure 100.

[0054] Also as shown in FIGS. 1-5, a variation of the hydration system 10 provides a fluid reservoir 12 having one or more bendable mounts 22 configured to reversibly mount the oral hydration system 10 to a structure 100 by bending the mount or mounts 22 around the structure 100; a supply tube 14 fluidly coupled to the reservoir 10 at its distal end 14a; and a compressible chamber 16 configured as a squeeze bulb with integral mouthpiece 18 fluidly coupled to a proximal end 14b of the supply tube 14, wherein the squeeze bulb mouthpiece is molded as a single piece with a proximal face containing a proximal valve 20b that seals the mouthpiece until deformed by the user.

[0055] In each of the related aspects, the reservoir 12 provides a housing for maintaining a supply of liquid and therefore may be adapted from other hydration systems or may be improved as demonstrated herein. Examples of suitable reservoirs 12 include, but are not limited to a bottle, a cup, a glass, a pitcher, a box, or a bag. The reservoir 12 can be either rigid or flexible and can be constructed from any suitable material such as glass, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC), polypropylene, polystyrene, and other opaque or transparent polymers. To this end, the reservoir 12 can be either disposable or reusable depending on the materials used. In some embodiments the reservoir 12 is insulated or has an insulating sleeve, which can be reversibly removable. In some embodiments the reservoir includes a mechanism for temperature change and adjustment. The skilled artisan will appreciate that the reservoir can have volume measurement and time of day indicia and/or can be made of a material or textured so that it can be written on using pens or markers used in the medical field, such as ballpoint pens, felt tip pens, and others.

[0056] In medical applications, it may be desirable to have the reservoir 12 prefilled with liquid; however, in some embodiments the reservoir 12 is fillable or refillable by an outside source. In furtherance of the above, the reservoir 12 can be pre-filled and refillable after use. A refillable reservoir 12 should have at least one opening large enough to be filled with hydrating liquid, which may include one or more of water, electrolyte liquid, juice, melting ice, thickened liquids, bowel prep, vitamins, medicaments, soft foods, or any other suitable oral liquids. A refillable reservoir 12 also provides a convenient mode to administer one or more therapeutic or analytes in that doses may be adjusted depending on volume.

[0057] FIG. 1 depicts a preferred embodiment of the oral hydration system 10 with reservoir 12 having a removable lid 24, which itself has an aperture 26 capable of receiving the supply tube 14 there through and recessed channels 28 that provide one or more guides for guiding or releasably holding the supply tube 14. Another preferred embodiment is depicted in FIG. 2, where a reservoir 12 has a self-supporting opening 30, which provides sufficient rigidity to maintain the integrity of the reservoir 12 when mounted to a structure 100.

[0058] Thus reservoir 12 may be open (as shown in FIG. 2); partially open (as indicated in FIG. 1 due to the gap around the supply tube 14; or sealed fluid tight seal to prevent contaminants from entering the reservoir 12. Furthermore, reservoirs 12 can be include a suitable lid 24 or complementary mating structures (e.g. a ZIPLOC seal). In some embodiments, the reservoir 14 is configured as a collapsible bag and thus collapses as fluid is removed; however, if a rigid or semi rigid reservoir 12 is utilized a one way air vent or other suitable fenestrations or gas permeable barriers can be provided to promote better fluid flow.

[0059] As shown in FIG. 2, FIG. 3 and FIG. 5, the reservoir 12 can be configured to mount to a variety of structures 100 using a suitable mount or mounts 22. Among the structures 100 include an IV pole, a bed, wheelchair, sitting chair, or a walker when the oral hydration system is for medical use. Exemplary mounts 22 can include a reinforced aperture, a hook, a clip, a bendable rod or other hanging structure. In a preferred embodiment the mount or mounts 22 is formed as a bendable rod with a polymer coating, such as silicone, that can hook (as shown in FIGS. 1-2) and/or wrap around a structure 100 (as shown in FIG. 2, FIG. 3 and FIG. 5). In some embodiments a bendable mount 22 is formed from a bendable metal or metal alloy coated in a vinyl or silicone. As shown in FIG. 2, in some embodiments, the mount 22 is hooked at one end for hooking to a reservoir 12, is configured for wrapping around a structure 100 to support the reservoir 12, and booms outward to provide a support for the supply tube 14. The supply tube 14 is shown supportively connected to the mount 22 by clips 36. The hooked end of the mount 14 can be pre-formed and more rigid than the remaining portion of the mount 22, but this is not a requirement. In any event, the bendable mount or mounts 22 should maintain a sufficiently bent shape under pressure exerted by the reservoir 12 when filled with an aqueous solutions so that the mount 22 does not release the reservoir 12. In a further nonlimiting embodiment a force need to bend the bendable mount 22 is about three or four times the force exerted by the reservoir 12 in the filled state. FIG. 9 depicts the one or more bendable handles 22 are configured to reversibly bend into and out of a hooked configuration, wherein the hooked configuration is configured to support the reservoir 12 when hanging from the hook and when full of liquid. In addition the one or more mounts 22 are reversibly bendable yet remain sufficiently rigid to support the hanging weight of a reservoir, 12 when filled with fluid, in a straightened orientation extending perpendicularly from the reservoir 12 and compressed between objects such as a bed mattress and frame. Furthermore, the bendable yet semi rigid nature of the one or more mounts 22 allow the reservoir 12 to be adjusted in a vertical orientation when attached to an inclined or angled structure such as a hospital bed.

[0060] In FIG. 1 and FIG. 3, the mount or mounts 22 is co-molded or bonded to the reservoir 12; whereas in FIG. 2, the mount 22 is releasably attached to reservoir 12. In still other variations are provided in FIG. 5, where the mount or mounts 22 is affixed to a receptacle 46 or wrapped around a contoured region 48 to hold the reservoir 12. Alternatively, or in addition the reservoir 12 can be configured to stand upright by forming a suitable base. Additionally other variations are provided in FIG. 6, the one or more mounts 22 can be configured to form a tripod or other bent shapes that allow the reservoir 12 to remain in an upright or inclined position resting on a flat surface.

[0061] As shown in FIG. 7, an adapter is provided as a clip that attaches to the one or more handles 22, the reservoir 12, the supply tube 14, or the mouthpiece pump 16 and clips to another surface for mounting or standing the reservoir 12 or providing a secondary attachment for the mouthpiece pump 16. Other adapters can be provided such as a bendable coated wire, hook and loop, or magnet that are separate from the hydration system that mount to a structure providing a secondary attachment for the mouthpiece pump 16 to be reversibly attached. The supply tube 14 supplies fluid, such as hydrating liquid, from the reservoir 12 to a reversibly compressible chamber 16 via a pumping mechanism. The supply tube 14 can be attached permanently to the reservoir 12 in that it does not disconnect and reconnect. Alternatively, the tube 14 can be releasably mated to the reservoir 12 through surface modification, such as barbs, complementary connectors or friction fit. Suitable connectors can be selected from any that are known in the art to which the invention belongs, such as luer locks, bayonet, or tongue and groove connectors. If using a releasable supply tube connection, a leak proof disconnect system can also be utilized akin to a bayonet or septum/Huber needle configuration known in the medical device arts. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 1, the supply tube 14 can merely feed through an aperture 26 of the lid 24 to access the internal fluid of the reservoir 12. Thus, the supply tube 14 can be fluidly coupled to the reservoir 12 to access liquid from the bottom, the sides, corners, or from the top of the reservoir 12.

[0062] The length of the supply tube 14 can vary depending on the position of the oral hydration system 10 in relation to the individual in need of hydration. Accordingly, the hydration system 10 includes further notable advantages. For example, the hydration system 10 can include means for attaching the supply tube to the reservoir 12 and/or to the mount 22. These means for attachment 32 can be formed integral with the reservoir 12 or mount 22 or attach separately. Nonlimiting examples of suitable means for attachment 32 include a hook, hook and loop (VELCRO), a strap, and a stick on. However, a particularly useful embodiment is shown in FIG. 3, where the supply tube 14 and reservoir 12 and/or lid 24 have magnets 34 that attach to one another to provide a holding mechanism for the supply tube 14. In another particularly useful embodiment, FIGS. 1-2 depict clips 36, slidably positioned along the mount 22, that reversibly clip the supply tube 14, thereby permitting the mount 22 to act as a boom for adjusting the position of the supply tube 14.

[0063] The supply tube 14 can be semi-rigid and bendable or can be made semi-rigid and bendable using a suitably formed guidewire 38 so that the supply tube 14 can be suspended and directionally boomed toward the user. FIG. 8 depicts a guidewire 38 which can be permanently or releasably attached to the reservoir 12 reservoir lid 24, or one or more bendable handles 22. The supply tube 14 can be permanently attached to the guidewire 38 or it can be releasably attached by using 34 magnets, 36 clips, hook and loop, tape, or other means of releasable attachment known in the art. Alternately (as shown in FIG. 12) a bendable and boomed supply tube 14 is provided where the supply tube 14 comprises rigid sections reversibly joined by angled, semi rigid, or bend and stay connectors 52 such that the supply tube 14 can be adjustably bent and maintain its bent shape when primed with fluid and boomed out toward the user. These bendable connectors 52 can be made with a bend and stay conduit material such as metal or plastic, or a pliable material that is reinforced with a bend and stay material such as metal wire or mesh. The pliable material can be overmolded or permanently joined with a bend and stay material or the bend and stay material may connect with the pliable material optionally by way of friction fit to provide an adjustable conduit to connect the rigid sections of supply tubing. Additionally, this provides a method for the supply tube 14 to made into different lengths utilizing different length rigid sections 54 joined by connectors 52. This also enables a more efficient way to clean the supply tube 14 when the rigid sections 54 are separated from their connectors 52 by providing smaller parts that can be cleaned and inspected compared to one continuous supply tube 14.

[0064] This improves patient access to the supply tube 14, prevents the user from pulling the supply tube 14 and reservoir 12 too far, and prevents the user from rolling or sitting on the chamber 16 or mouthpiece 18. An elevated and boomed supply tube 14 also minimizes contact with other surfaces and possible contamination. Such a guidewire 38 can be made from any materials that provide enough rigidity to support the supply tube 14 such that it may be temporarily bent and directed or boomed toward the mouth of the user then moved away as desired. Preferably, the supply tube 14 is formed from a bendable polysiloxane (silicone) or other suitable medical grade bendable polymer to permit bending and preferably the guidewire 38 is formed from a bendable metal alloy. This configuration maintains a bent shape when releasing the bending force thereby providing a supply tube 14 that can be adjustably bent and released for positioning in a variety of orientations. The bendable guidewire 38 may be permanently connected to the supply tube 14 or temporarily connected to the supply tube 14, such as by slidable insertion or movement. This allows a patient with limited mobility to benefit from the boomed supply tube 14 and as their mobility improves, the guidewire 38 can be removed from the hydration system and they can use their hands to reach for the mouthpiece pump 16. Still further, as shown in FIG. 1, the oral hydration system 10 may include a brush 40 adapted for reversible connection to either end of the guidewire 38 and sized to brush the interior of the mouthpiece 18, chamber 16 and/or supply tube 14.

[0065] The supply tube 14 terminates proximally at the distal end of a reversibly compressible chamber 16, which itself is fluidly coupled to at least two valves 20a, 20b to form a pumping mechanism. The artisan will appreciate the volume of the compressible chamber 16 can vary but when used in medical situations it is usually at least 1 mL but less than 250 mL, more typically the volume is about 25 mL to 50 mL. The chamber 16 is preferably embodied as a squeeze bulb formed from a polymer, such as a polysiloxane (silicone) that is elastic and contoured to form a mouthpiece 18, such that the chamber 16 deforms when squeezing and returns to its original form when squeezing pressure is released. The chamber 16 can compress longitudinally and/or radially. For instance, longitudinal compression can be achieved by incorporating a bellows configuration having alternating folds and squeezing to induce further folding. A bellows configuration provides an advantage in that the actuating the pumping mechanism is primarily by longitudinal compression, which may prevent leakage during accidentally applied radial forces. A radial compressible chamber 16 can be by way of molding the chamber 16 using a pliable plastic or rubber so that it can be squeezed akin to a squeeze bulb. Further, in configurations where radial compression is desired, the chamber 16 can be made of a same material across the entire chamber 16 or may be made with materials that more easily compress about its mid-region, thereby providing relatively stiffer ends and a relatively softer mid region to further direct pumping or compression at the mid-region. As shown in FIG. 11 the mouthpiece pump 16 can be molded as a single piece with one material, wherein varying thickness of the its walls can promote softer sections for compression and stiffer sections for promoting a increased vacuum force when decompressed.

[0066] As will follow, the chamber 16 can have a single undivided central volume or can be formed of two sub-chambers 42a, 42b, such as a smaller proximal sub-chamber 42b and a larger distal sub-chamber 42a. This two sub-chamber 42a, 42b configuration may provide additional advantages in that a slow or low volume delivery approach can be employed from the proximal sub-chamber 42b without affecting the larger distal sub-chamber 42a. This approach permits a smaller aliquot of fluid to be easily delivered without spilling by patients with significant impairment.

[0067] As shown in FIGS. 4A-4E, the pumping mechanism can be formed using at least two valves 20a, 20b, referred to as a distal valve 20a and proximal valve 20b, but preferably includes a third valve 20c between the distal and proximal valves 20a, 20b. The valves 20a-c can be permanently molded or connected to the chamber 16, mouthpiece 18 or supply tube 14. Further, a reservoir valve 20e may be positioned within the supply tube 14 and within the reservoir 12. The chamber 16 can be reinforced at sections having the valves 20a-c to encourage compression at regions between the valves 20a-c. In particular, the chamber 16 can be reinforced at valve regions by increasing the thickness of the chamber 16 at those regions or increasing polymer crosslinking at those regions. Alternatively, molding the valves 20a-c within the chamber 16 would itself increased the rigidity due to the supporting material surrounding the valve 20a-c. The chamber 16 can be molded with the mouthpiece 18 as one unit or as separate pieces then fused or reversibly attached. The mouthpiece 18 may have a slidable cover 19, such as a soft or high-density foam or silicone.

[0068] In some embodiments the distal end of the chamber 16 (also referred to herein as “an inlet side”) is fluidly coupled to the supply tube 14; whereas the proximal end of the chamber 16 (also referred to as “an outlet side”) terminates at or with the mouthpiece 18. The chamber 16 is preferably integral with the mouthpiece 18.

[0069] Fluidly connected to the distal or inlet side of the chamber 16 is preferably the distal valve 20a. The distal valve 20a may be any suitable valve such as a diaphragm valve, duck bill valve, a ball valve, a flap valve, a louver valve, or any other valve that closes to block or interfere with the flow of fluid distally during compression of the chamber and permits the flow of fluid proximally to refill the chamber by vacuum during release of a compressed chamber. Preferably, compressing the chamber 16 closes the distal valve 20a to forcibly direct liquid proximally from the chamber 16 and decompressing a compressed chamber 16 opens the distal valve 20a to draw liquid into the chamber 16 from the supply line 14 or reservoir 12.

[0070] Fluidly connected to the proximal or outlet side of the chamber 16 or mouthpiece 18 is a proximal valve 20b. The proximal valve 20b may be any suitable valve such as a diaphragm valve, a duck bill valve, a ball valve, a flap valve, a louver valve, or any other valve that regulates flow of liquid. Preferably, the proximal valve 20b is biased closed and substantially compressing the chamber 16 opens the proximal valve to eject liquid proximally from the oral hydration system 10. In some embodiments decompressing a compressed chamber 16 closes the proximal valve 20b to form a vacuum that draws liquid into the chamber 16 from the supply line 14.

[0071] With reference to FIGS. 4A-4E, the following is an advantageous configuration that delivers fluid using two different mechanisms, each with a different delivery volume and rate. Beginning with FIG. 4A, the compressible chamber 16 preferably includes a distal valve 20a positioned distally, a proximal valve 20b positioned proximally and a third valve 20c positioned between the distal and proximal valves 20a, 20b. Furthermore, the proximal and third valves 20a, 20c define a proximal sub-chamber 42b having a comparatively small volume and the distal and third valves 20a, 20c define a distal sub-chamber 42a have a comparatively larger volume.

[0072] Turning to FIG. 4B, substantial radial compression of the compressible chamber 16 opens the third valve 20c, which is biased closed, to deliver fluid housed in the distal sub-chamber 42a proximally into the proximal sub-chamber 42b and then proximally out of the proximal valve 42b. The distal valve 42a, which is biased closed, remains closed.

[0073] FIG. 4C depicts the decompression of the compressible chamber 16. In particular, release of the compressed chamber 16 induces its expansion and a corresponding vacuum force, which closes the third valve 20c, thereby permitting the proximal valve 20b to return to its biased closed state. The vacuum force opens the distal valve 20a and the resulting vacuum induced through the supply tube 14 draws more fluid into the distal sub-chamber 42a for refilling.

[0074] As shown in FIGS. 4D-4E, the smaller proximal chamber 42b can itself be actuated separately to release a smaller volume of fluid, such as for a sip. In FIG. 5D, the proximal sub-chamber 42b is compressed and fluid is expelled from the smaller sub-chamber 42b through the proximal valve 20b. Compressing the proximal sub-chamber 42b can be accomplished by the individual by simply biting the mouthpiece region between the proximal and third valves 20b, 20c. Preferably, the proximal valve 20b is a bite valve and the third valve 20c is a one-way valve, such as a flap valve, configured to flow proximally and prevent or minimize the amount of air entering the chamber 16 distally.

[0075] FIG. 4E demonstrates the mechanics upon release of the smaller proximal sub-chamber 42b. In particular, releasing the compressing force from the smaller sub-chamber 42b causes its expansion and closure of the proximal valve 20b. Closing the proximal valve 20b induces a vacuum force which opens the third valve 20c to refill the proximal sub-chamber 42b. In some instances the vacuum force is sufficiently strong to also open the distal valve 20a to further refill the emptying distal sub-chamber 42a. Once the vacuum forces are within the tolerances of the biasing forces of the third and distal valves 20c, 20a, they subsequently close. Alternately, FIGS. 10A-10C demonstrates the third valve 20c positioned adjacent to the proximal valve 20b, so as to act as a redundant proximal valve 20b allowing the proximal valve 20b to be opened by biting or squeezing while the third valve 20c remains closed. The third valve 20c is opened to permit fluid flow but closes when fluid flow stops even when the proximal valve 20b is open. This allows the pumping action to be achieved by simply biting the mouthpiece pump to the eject fluid. When the biting force is released and the mouthpiece pump 16 is decompressed the third valve 20c closes and then proximal valve 20b closes while the distal valve 20a opens to allow refilling of the mouthpiece pump 16 by vacuum force drawing fluid from the reservoir.

[0076] Accordingly, among the advantages of the hydration system 10 is the selective delivery of liquid using different approaches, each configured to deliver liquid in different amounts or at different delivery forces. In a first approach, outlined in FIGS. 4A-4C, the compressible chamber 16 is compressed to forcibly inject a greater volume of liquid into the mouth of the user in need of hydration.

[0077] As shown in FIG. 11, the proximal valve 20b and mouthpiece portion 42b of the mouthpiece pump 16 are formed to direct and shape the spray of fluids ejected when the mouthpiece pump 16 is compressed. This can be accomplished by externally shaping the spray of fluid. Additionally, the internal design of the proximal valve 20b can be designed to encourage the proximal valve 20b to open in the center of the slit first when mouthpiece pump 16 is compressed.

[0078] In embodiments where the chamber 16 is provided as a bellows configuration with alternating folds (not shown), a user may push the chamber 16 proximally toward their mouth for longitudinal compression along the folds to forcibly eject liquid. In either variation, when a user squeezes the chamber 16 with their fingers, hand, mouth or teeth, the distal valve 20a at the inlet side of the chamber 16 remains closed, which directs liquid flow proximally towards the subject in need of hydration. When the user releases pressure from the chamber 16 it decompresses to about its original volume, which closes the proximal valve 20b and creates a vacuum that opens the distal valve 20a, which pulls liquid from the supply tube 14 into the chamber 16, thereby refilling the chamber 16. Once the vacuum pressure is reduced, the distal valve 20a is permitted to return to its biasing closed state. A benefit of this first approach is that the pumping can be performed either by a subject in need of hydration or a caretaker in instances where the subject is too weak. In addition, by closing the distal valve 20a after refilling the chamber 16, the distal valve 20a helps maintain liquid in the chamber 16 by preventing backflow into the supply tube 14.

[0079] In the second approach outlined in FIGS. 4D-4E, the user opens the proximal valve 20b by compression of the proximal sub-chamber 42b. This approach permits the user to receive the liquid at a slow rate and in some embodiments added suction permits opening of the distal valve 20a to receive more liquid from the supply tube 12. A benefit of this approach is that the user can receive the liquid generally at a slower rate or volume than compressing the distal chamber 42a.

[0080] In some embodiments the distal sub-chamber 42a and proximal sub-chamber 42b incorporate a same compressing mechanism to inducing pumping; however, in other embodiments each incorporates a different compressing mechanism to induce pumping. For instance, both the distal sub-chamber 42a and proximal sub-chamber 42b can be configured to compress radially to pump fluid. In other embodiments, the distal sub-chamber 42a can be configured to compress primarily radially, while the proximal sub-chamber 42b can be configured as a bellows that compresses primarily longitudinally. In still other embodiments the distal sub-chamber 42a can be configured to compress primarily longitudinally via bellows, while the proximal sub-chamber 42b can be configured to compresses primarily radially.

[0081] Referring back to FIGS. 1-5 collectively, the hydration system 10 includes still further advantages. As shown in FIG. 3, in some embodiments, a safety ring 44 is attached to the supply tube 14, mouthpiece 18, or pump chamber 16 to prevent a patient from inserting the hydration system 10 too far and possibly choking. The safety ring 44 can be permanently attached or temporarily attached and removable. The safety ring 44 can be provided with openings so that if a patient inserts the safety ring into their mouth airflow will be maintained. The safety ring 44 can be connected to the supply tube 14 on the proximal side of the pump chamber 16 or between the mouthpiece 18 and chamber 16.

[0082] As depicted in FIG. 2, an additional flow rate control valve 20d can be added to the supply tube 14 or inlet side of the chamber 16 to function as a flow restrictor slowing the refill rate of the chamber 16 and the amount of liquid the user can intake over time. This flow rate control valve 20d can provide a fixed amount of liquid flow. The flow rate control valve 44 can also be adjustable and indexed to allow the caregiver and user to set a relative setting and expected flow rate as well provide a complete shutoff. In some embodiments the flow rate control valve 20d has an adjustable selector to select the maximum rate of flow through the flow rate control valve 20d. Selection may be by way of a twist valve that opens when twisting the selector in a first direction and closes when twisting in an opposing direction. The flow rate control valve 20d can also be added anywhere along the supply tube 14 as well as a part of the reservoir 12 itself and can take any suitable form as known in the intravenous infusion arts.

[0083] As depicted in FIG. 3, a reservoir valve 20e may be place in the supply line 14 to ensure the supply line remains primed.

[0084] In view of the above, the oral hydration system 10 can be used to maintain hydration or to treat dehydration in a subject by providing any of the above described hydration systems 10, filled with a hydrating fluid; and opening the proximal valve 20b to deliver fluid to an individual in need of hydration. In embodiments where the proximal valve 20b is a bite valve, the method may include opening the proximal valve 20b by biting the bite valve. Biting can deform the valve 20b for opening or can pressurize a proximal sub-chamber 42b to forcibly eject the fluid. In each configuration, preferably the distal valve 20a remains closed while the proximal valve 20b is open.

[0085] In embodiments where the hydration system 10 includes a third valve 20c positioned between the distal and proximal valves 20a, 20b, optionally at the proximal region of the compressible chamber 16, and where the third valve 20c is biased in a closed position, the method also includes opening the third valve 20c by the compression of the chamber 16. Furthermore, closing the proximal valve 20b and optionally a third valve 20c and releasing the chamber 16 to open the distal valve 20b refills the chamber under vacuum.

[0086] The invention described herein may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics thereof. The specific embodiments previously described are therefore to be considered as illustrative of, and not limiting, the scope of the invention.