阅读说明：本技术 鼻腔装置 (Nasal cavity device ) 是由 M·赫尔曼 A·吕安 于 2018-05-03 设计创作，主要内容包括：用于过滤呼吸的空气的鼻腔装置包括细长的支撑构件和两个圆形的保持器构件,每个圆形的保持器构件分别布置在细长的支撑构件的相应端部处。保持器构件适于插入到鼻孔中,其中远端指向鼻孔中,并且近端邻近鼻孔口。保持器构件包括在远端-近端延伸部中的至少一个平面中的钟形横截面。(The nasal device for filtering breathing air includes an elongated support member and two circular retainer members, each circular retainer member disposed at a respective end of the elongated support member.)

1, nasal device (1, 31, 41, 51, 61, 71, 81) comprising

An elongated support member (2, 32, 42, 52, 62, 72, 82), and

or two circular retainer members (3, 33, 43, 53, 63, 73, 83), each arranged at a respective end of the elongated support member (2, 32, 42, 52, 62, 72, 82), wherein the retainer members (3, 33, 43, 53, 63, 73, 83) are adapted to be inserted into the nostrils with a distal end directed towards the nostril and a proximal end adjacent to the nasal orifice,

it is characterized in that the preparation method is characterized in that,

the holder member (3, 33, 43, 53, 63, 73, 83) is formed in pieces and is made of a flexible material, and

said holder members (3, 33, 43, 53, 63, 73, 83) each comprising a bell-shaped cross-section in at least planes in the distal-proximal extension,

the holder members (3, 33, 43, 53, 63, 73, 83) each comprise

A rounded distal end portion (5), and

an open proximal portion (7) including an outer edge (8, 38, 48, 58, 68, 78, 88) disposed circumferentially around a periphery of the proximal portion (7) and extending radially outward from the retainer member (3, 33, 43, 53, 63, 73, 83), and

an intermediate waist portion (9) arranged between said distal portion (5) and said proximal portion (7), said intermediate portion (9) having at least circumferences in a plane substantially transverse to the distal-proximal direction, said circumferences being smaller than the respective largest circumference of at least said distal portion (5),

wherein said outer edges (8, 38, 48, 58, 68, 78, 88) arranged circumferentially around the periphery of the proximal portion (7) are adapted to engage with the nostril mouths and project outwardly from the nostrils when the nasal device is placed in the nostrils.

2. The nasal device according to claim 1, wherein the periphery of the intermediate portion (9) is smaller than the respective maximum periphery of each of the distal (5) and proximal (7) portions.

3. The nasal device according to , wherein the retainer member (3, 33, 43, 53, 63, 73, 83) is substantially oval or elliptical in a plane extending substantially transverse to the distal-proximal end.

4. The nasal device according to , wherein the rounded distal portion (5) is provided with or more through holes (6, 36, 46, 56, 66, 86) adapted to allow air to pass through the distal portion (5).

5. The nasal device according to , wherein the circular distal portion (5) is provided with a plurality of through holes (6, 36, 46, 56) adapted to allow air to pass through the distal portion (5), and the plurality of holes (6, 36, 46, 56) in the distal portion (5) form a honeycomb pattern.

6. The nasal device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the length of the support member (2, 32, 42, 52, 62, 72, 82) is adjustable.

7. The nasal device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the retainer member (3, 33, 43, 53, 63, 73, 83) and the support member (2, 32, 42, 52, 62, 72, 82) form a -body.

8. A nasal cavity device according to claim 7, wherein an extension of the outer edge (58) forms the support member (52).

9. The nasal device according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a filter member (20, 21, 26) arranged inside the distal portion (5) or the intermediate portion (9) such that substantially all air passing through the nasal device is directed through the filter member (20, 21, 26) at least when the air flows in the distal direction.

10. A nasal device according to claim 9, wherein the filter member (20, 21) is held in place by an inner peripheral edge (24) extending radially inwardly at the intermediate portion (9).

11. A nasal device according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the filter member (20, 21) is held in place by an attachment member.

12. The nasal device of claim 9, wherein the filter member (20, 21, 26) is physically attached to the retainer member.

13. The nasal device according to claim 9 or 12, wherein the distal portion (5) of the retainer member further comprises or more through-going holes (100) arranged substantially in a direction perpendicular to the distal-proximal extension.

14. The nasal device according to any of claims 9-13, wherein the filter member (20, 21, 26) is an electrostatic filter.

15. The nasal device according to , wherein the filter member (20, 21, 26) is a mechanical filter.

16. The nasal device of any , wherein the nasal device includes a releasable substance dispersed in the material of at least part of the nasal device or disposed on a surface of at least part of the nasal device.

17. A method for manufacturing a nasal device, comprising the steps of:

providing a mould (200) adapted to the shape of a nasal device (1, 31, 41, 51, 61, 71, 81) comprising an elongated support member (2, 32, 42, 52, 62, 72, 82) and or two circular retainer members (3, 33, 43, 53, 63, 73, 83), each retainer member being arranged at a respective end of the elongated support member, wherein the retainer members are adapted to be inserted into nostrils with a distal end directed towards the nostril and a proximal end close to the nasal orifice, and wherein the retainer members comprise a circular distal end portion (5), an open proximal end portion (7) and an intermediate waist portion (9) arranged between the distal end portion (5) and the proximal end portion (7);

arranging or two filter members (20, 21, 26) in the mould;

the nasal device is formed by filling the mold with a material such that the filter member and the nasal device are bodies.

18. The method of claim 18, wherein the first and second portions are selected from the group consisting of,

wherein a void-forming member (200c) is provided in the mould distal to the filter member (26) and adjacent to the filter member (26) before filling the mould with the material, and the void-forming member (200c) is removed after filling the mould, such that a void (101) is formed between the filter member (26) and the rounded distal end portion (5).

Technical Field

The present invention relates to nasal devices according to the preamble of the independent claim.

Background

In many environments and situations, there is a need to be able to purify, filter and/or deodorize the air that we breathe. For example, there are many situations where odor removal is required, such as in healthcare, military operations, and the like. In other cases, filters may be used to remove dust, pollen, gases, smoke, odors, or other harmful and/or irritating particles from the air we breathe. There are many types of breathing or filtering devices, from face masks to mouth masks and nasal plugs. Many of these are bulky, uncomfortable and also aesthetically unpleasing because they change appearance. Furthermore, such devices often do not function due to air leakage.

An example of a nasal dust filter is described in US 4,200,150, which discloses nasal filters adapted to be inserted into the nasal passages and held in place by clips that apply tension to the septum wall the filter comprises pairs of circular cups in the shape of an umbrella, the outer surface of which are covered.

Another examples are shown in US 7,207,333, which discloses a nasal clip having plug-like ends for insertion into the nostrils, in embodiments, each plug includes pairs of circular filters connected by a central shaft.

US 2016/0256715 discloses another type of nasal plug for filtering air the device comprises an inner plug and an outer plug, between which is sandwiched a flap, a filter, and a nose clip CN204246706U shows a nasal plug with a cup-shaped frame comprising an internal recess for holding the filter.

A further nasal plug for filtering air is shown in US 2015/0182766, in which the air filtering device comprises two ring-shaped or cup-shaped support structures with concave-convex or planar filters for insertion into the nostrils and connected by bridges.

The inventors of the present invention have identified a need for an improved nasal device that provides improved fit and usability. Many known nasal plugs cause irritation and discomfort due to friction between the nasal plugs and the inner surfaces of the nostrils. Others do not function to seal the air flow around each prong, thereby rendering the device ineffective at filtering, directing or blocking air.

Disclosure of Invention

It is an object of the present invention to provide nasal devices that are comfortable to wear and discrete in appearance when in use.

It is another objects of the present invention to provide nasal devices that fit securely into the user's nostrils a further object of the present disclosure is to provide nasal devices with minimal risk of irritation to the nostrils.

Another objects of the invention are to provide nasal devices which, when provided with filters, can effectively filter air passing through the nose and can be used in different types of situations, such as filtering pollen, dust, smoke, etc. however, the other objects of P41706025EP00 are to provide nasal devices which are inexpensive to manufacture.

The above object is achieved by the invention according to the independent claims.

Preferred embodiments are set forth in the dependent claims.

According to the present invention, a nasal device for filtering breathing air comprises an elongated support member and or two circular retainer members, each circular retainer member being arranged at a respective end of the elongated support member, the retainer members being adapted to be inserted into nostrils with distal ends directed into the nostrils and proximal ends adjacent to nasal orifices, the retainer members being formed in pieces and being made of a flexible material, and each retainer member comprising a bell-shaped cross-section in at least planes in a distal-proximal extension, furthermore, each retainer member comprises a circular distal portion, an open proximal portion comprising an outer rim arranged circumferentially around the outer circumference of the proximal portion and extending radially outward from the retainer member, and an intermediate waist arranged between the distal and proximal portions, the intermediate portion having at least outer circumferences in a plane substantially transverse to the distal-proximal direction, which are smaller than the respective largest outer circumference of each of the distal and proximal portions.

Drawings

Figures 1a to 1d show various views of the nasal device.

Fig. 2a-2h show various views of another nasal devices.

Fig. 3a-3d show various views of another nasal devices.

Fig. 4a-4d show various views of another nasal devices.

Fig. 5 schematically shows how the nasal device fits into position in the nostrils of the nose.

Fig. 6a shows a cross-sectional view of the nasal device shown in fig. 1b along plane a-a or a '-a', the nasal device further comprising an electrostatic filter member.

Fig. 6B shows a cross-sectional view of the nasal device of fig. 1B along plane B-B, further including an electrostatic filter member.

FIG. 7a shows a cross-sectional view of the nasal device of FIG. 1b along plane A-A or A '-A', the nasal device further including a mechanical filter member.

Fig. 7B shows a cross-sectional view of the nasal device of fig. 1B along plane B-B, further including a mechanical filter member.

Figure 8a shows a cross-sectional side view of a nasal device placed in a nostril.

Figure 8b shows a cross-sectional elevation view of the nasal device placed in a nostril.

Figures 9a-9c are perspective views of the retainer member of the nasal device as viewed from the underside of the nose with differently shaped nostrils.

Fig. 9d is a perspective view of the nasal device as viewed from the underside of the nose.

Fig. 10a and 10B show cross-sectional views of the nasal device of fig. 1B along plane B-B.

Fig. 11a-11d show various views of another nasal devices.

Fig. 12a-12d show various views of another nasal devices.

Fig. 13a-13d show various views of yet another nasal device.

Fig. 14a and 14b show two examples of a moulding tool and a nasal device during manufacture of the nasal device.

Fig. 15 and 16 show cross-sectional views of two different nasal devices.

Detailed Description

The present invention is an nasal device for various uses, such as use with an air filter , as a plug to administer medication or other substances to a user to facilitate breathing, etc. the nasal device is designed to be small, convenient, discrete, while providing an effective seal against the mouth of the nostril, secure attachment in the nostril, and minimal irritation.

In fig. 1a is shown an aspect of a nasal device configured when inserted into a nostril, in particular, the nasal device comprises a semi-rigid elongated support member 2 at both ends of the support member 2, two circular retainer members 3 are provided, wherein the closed end 4 of each circular retainer member is adapted to be inserted distally into a respective nostril, correspondingly, the open end of each circular retainer member 3 is referred to as proximal end and adapted to be disposed at the nostril orifice, i.e. towards the exterior of the nose, when inserted into a nostril, fig. 1b shows the nasal device as viewed from the distal direction, as shown two shown planes a and a' arranged in a generally proximal-distal direction may be arranged at an angle of relative to each other, or in a generally parallel manner, as will be described in further detail below at .

The support member 2 may initially be substantially straight and bendable such that when inserted into a nostril, the holder accommodates the configuration shown in, for example, figure 1. Thus, prior to use, the initial configuration of the nasal device may be as shown in fig. 1a, or may be a configuration in which the elongate support structure 2 is substantially straight and the closed ends 4 of the two retainer members 3 point in substantially opposite directions (not shown in the figures). The initial configuration may also be such that the holder members 3 are arranged in a parallel configuration, similar to the view shown in fig. 2b, i.e. the planes a and a' are parallel to each other, when seen from the distal direction.

The support member 2 is preferably generally U-shaped, at least when the nasal device is inserted into a nostril, the support member 2 may be adapted to retain the retainer members 3 in an configuration of fig. 1a, and may also preferably be adapted to clamp over a nasal septum so as to retain the nasal device in place during use, hi many of the figures, the support member 2 is shown attached to the interior of the side wall of each retainer member 3. however, the support member 2 may alternatively be attached to other locations of the retainer members 3, such as adjacent the proximal end, adjacent the distal end, etc. alternatively to , the support member may be integrally formed with the retainer members, as will be described below in connection with fig. 4a-4d, fig. 2a-2h, 3a-3d and 4a-4d show additional nasal devices, these devices include many of the same features 353532 as described for fig. 1a-1d, and it should be understood that the nasal device may have any compatible combination of the features described.

Fig. 2a-2d show another nasal device 31 in perspective, distal, front and side views, respectively, the nasal device 31 includes a support member 32, two circular retainer members 33 with circular distal ends 34, and an open proximal end, similar to the nasal devices described above.

The two illustrated planes A and A' disposed in a generally proximal-distal direction may be disposed at an angle of degrees relative to each other, as described above, or in a generally parallel manner, as shown in FIG. 2 b.

Fig. 2e-2h show another variation of the nasal device 31 in perspective, distal, front and side views, respectively.

Fig. 3a-3d show another similar nasal device 41 in perspective, distal, front and side views, respectively, the nasal device 40 as best shown in fig. 3b has a generally more rounded shape when viewed from the distal direction than the nasal device shown in fig. 1b, 2b or 2 f.

Fig. 4a-4d show another similar nasal devices 51 in perspective, distal, front and side views, respectively, where support member 52 is formed in body with retainer member 53 , specifically on the side facing another retainer member 53 by an extension of rim 58. preferably, as shown in fig. 4c and 4d, the substantially flat extension of outer rim 58 of two adjacent retainer members 53 forms a curved support member 52.

, the holder member 3, 33, 43, 53 is preferably formed -piece, and , the two holder members and the support member 2, 32, 42, 52 are all moulded or formed as a single integral member at least the material of the holder member is preferably a biocompatible flexible polymer non-limiting examples of materials are silicone elastomers, thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), Polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), Polyurethane (PUR), fluoropolymers (PTFE, FEP, PFA, EFTE, ECTFE, PVDF), Polyamide (PA), polypropylene (PP), Polystyrene (PS), polylactic acid (PLA), Polycarbonate (PC), polyether ether ketone (PEEK) furthermore, the material of the holder member 3 and/or the support member 2 may be a cellulose based material, such as a starch based material, such as Polylactide (PLA) plastic or Polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) plastic.

Preferably, the material is a clear or skin-tone material such that the nasal device is substantially invisible when applied in the nose, however, it is also contemplated that materials may be selected such that the nasal device has a contrasting color or a particular pattern.

The support member may be reinforced by, for example, a metal wire core covered by the above-mentioned material. Nasal devices including such reinforced support members may be useful for obtaining a more secure fit in certain applications.

Each retainer member 3, 33, 43, 53 described in the above different nasal devices comprises a bell-shaped cross-section in at least planes in the distal-proximal extension, as mentioned above, FIGS. 1a, 2e, 3a and 4a show a perspective view of each nasal device, furthermore, FIGS. 1c, 2g, 3c and 4c show each nasal device from a front view, and FIGS. 1d, 2h, 3d and 4d show the nasal devices from a corresponding side view, these figures show that the retainer members 3, 33, 43, 53 have a generally circular or bell-shaped profile and for illustrative purposes can be considered to comprise three different integrally formed parts, a circular distal part 5, an open proximal part 7 and an intermediate waist part 9 provided between the distal part 5 and the proximal part 7. the intermediate part 9 forms a narrowed waist compared to at least the distal part 5. in other words, the intermediate part 9 has at least in a plane substantially transverse to the distal-proximal direction which is smaller than the maximum outer circumference of at least the distal part 5. in the corresponding intermediate outer circumferential direction 633, 53, preferably also in a substantially transverse to the proximal direction of the proximal end-proximal end of the intermediate part 3, 7.

In addition, the flexible rim 8, 38, 48, 58 of the circular retainer member 3, 33, 43, 53 (the rim being circumferentially disposed about the periphery of the proximal portion 7) is adapted to project substantially radially outwardly such that the retainer member 3, 38, 48, 58 and, thus, the nasal device 1, 31, 41, 51, seals tightly against the nasal orifice preferably, the rim 8, 38, 48, 58 is formed in the proximal portion 7 in body in this manner, when the nasal prong is inserted into the nasal orifice, any air passing through the nasal device will be substantially directed only through the retainer member if provided with through holes, as will be described in further detail below, the rim enhances the sealing effect of the overall profile of the retainer member against the nasal orifice such that the retainer member is securely held in place in a substantially airtight manner in the nasal orifice, further preferably, as the air pressure in the nostril decreases, the rim will provide an airtight seal against the exterior of the nasal device when the user inhales, as the air pressure in the nostril is reduced, fig. 5 shows the device disposed in the nostril 10, wherein it can be seen that the substantially 2 supports only the flexible rim 8, 48, 58, effectively, as the shape of the narrow, effectively, narrow, intermediate, narrow, intermediate, and narrow, intermediate, narrow, and narrow, generally narrow, intermediate, proximal and narrow, proximal and intermediate, nasal orifice, nasal device 3, 367, 7, 367, 8, 367, and intermediate nasal device 3, 367, 365, 368, and 368, 7, 368, and.

In addition, the nasal device will not interfere with the natural function of the nares, such as warming and moistening inhaled air, and will also substantially avoid affecting or irritating nasal hair on the inner surface of the nasal passage.

, the distal surface of the circular portion 5 may be provided with or more through holes 6, 36, 46, 56 adapted to allow air to pass through the distal portion, examples being seen in the distal views of fig. 1b, 2f, 3b and 4b these through holes allow air to pass through the distal portion, from the inside to the outside of the nasal device and vice versa when the nasal device is placed in the nostril mouths, this allows air to flow freely through the nostrils and may also provide support for a filter member in a holder member, as will be described in more detail below sets of through holes 6, 36, 46, 56 may be formed by a mesh structure or a plurality of holes arranged in different patterns, such as but not limited to holes, petal-shaped holes, circular holes, square or rectangular holes, elliptical holes, triangular holes-some preferred structures of are best shown in fig. 1b, 2f and 3b, showing the distal view of the nasal device.

Alternatively, the rounded distal portion 5 may be provided with larger through holes or no holes at all, as will be discussed in further detail below at step .

In some aspects of , the distal portion 5 of the retainer members 33, 43, 53 may further comprise or more access holes 100 therethrough arranged substantially perpendicular to the distal-proximal extension these access holes 100 are a result of the manufacturing method and will be discussed in further detail below at step however, these holes also provide further steps of airflow through the nasal device in use, as described above for distal through- holes 6, 36, 46, 56.

As can also be seen in e.g. fig. 1b, 2b and 2f, the retainer members may each have a slightly oval or elliptical shape, or a more rounded shape, as shown in fig. 3b, these shapes in combination with the slightly deformable/resilient material provide the retainer members 3, 33, 43, 53 with adaptability to different shaped nostrils, thereby providing a wider range of for a single size nasal device, as will be explained in further detail below at step .

Furthermore, the two holder members 3 may be arranged at an angle relative to each other to conform to the orientation of the two nostrils relative to each other. This is shown in fig. 1b with two planes a and a', which may be arranged at an angle in the range of 1 to 40 degrees or in the range of 10-35 degrees or in the range of 20-30 degrees with respect to each other. However, the nasal device may also be provided with two retainer members 3 arranged parallel to each other. This is shown in fig. 2b, 2f, 3b and 4b as two planes a and a', preferably arranged substantially parallel to each other. It is noted that during use, due to the use of flexible material, the angle of the holder members relative to each other may be adjusted, if desired, when inserted into the nostrils of the user.

The general shape of the nasal device, and in particular the retainer members 3, 33, 43, 53, provides a nasal device which is easy to use and which is adapted to the user's nares and which is securely located in the nasal orifice. Furthermore, for nasal devices that include through holes in the distal portion 5, this configuration allows the user to effectively breathe when inserted into the nostril by only minimally inhibiting air flow. In addition, the retainer member 3 seals tightly against the nasal orifice, particularly when the user inhales. At the same time, the bell shape of the retainer member with the narrowed waist allows the nasal device to effectively stay in place in the nasal orifice during use.

The nasal device 1 as described above may be used with a filter member , described in more detail below, it may also be used with or as a plug to prevent any airflow from completely passing through the member, such as for swimming, it may also be used with other types of inserts or attachments , such as for treating air flowing through a user's nares, as described in further detail below at step .

Fig. 6a and 7a show a cross-sectional view of the nasal device as shown in fig. 1B along plane a-a or a '-a', fig. 6B and 7B show a cross-sectional view of the nasal device as shown in fig. 1B along plane B-B, as also applies to any other nasal device described herein, as shown in fig. 6a, 6B, 7a and 7B, the nasal device 1 may further comprise filter members 20, 21 arranged against the inner surface of the distal portion 5 such that substantially all air passing through the nasal device 1 is directed through the filter, as described above, the distal portion comprises sets of through holes 6 for air passage, in these figures the filter is shown arranged against the inner surface of the distal portion 5, the filter may be held in place by internal projections (such as the projections 22 shown in fig. 6a and 6B), these projections 22 may be continuous (i.e., marginal) or intermittent around the inner periphery of the retainer member 3, as shown in fig. 6B, the filter member may also be arranged against the distal portion of the support member 2 or by the support member 2, in place in the distal portion of the retainer member 3B, as shown in this figure 6B, the retainer member 2B, or any other suitable manner as described above, the retainer member 2B, the retainer member 2, or the retainer member 2, and the filter member 2.

The filter member may also be otherwise disposed within the retainer member, preferably within the distal end portion 5. for example, internal protrusions may be provided within the retainer member such that the filter member may be disposed adjacent to or against or proximal to the protrusions examples of such arrangements will be described in connection with FIGS. 10 and 10 b. furthermore, the filter member 26 may be formed integrally with the retainer member , as described below.

The filter members 20, 21, 26 may be any type of air filter, including but not limited to electrostatic filters, mechanical filters, microfilter filters (fimmer filters), submicron filters or nano filters, the filter members may be adapted to filter out particulate contaminants, different types of dust or biological contaminants, more specifically, the filter members may be adapted to capture smoke, tobacco smoke, soot, fly ash, cement dust, suspended atmospheric dust, heavy dust, sand, smoke, contaminants, oil mist, tobacco smoke or dust, metallurgical dust, pesticides, gaseous molecules, allergens (e.g., animal allergens or house dust mites), mold spores, pollen, chemical vapors, odors, etc. it may also be desirable to protect a user from airborne diseases, and the filter members may provide for filtering out bacteria, viruses or other types of pathogens the filter members 20, 21, 26 may be adapted to filter particles having diameters within a size range of 0.01 nanometers and larger, fig. 6a and 6b show devices having thin filters (e.g., electrostatic filters) 20, fig. 7a and 7b show devices having thicker or more than mechanical filters (e.g., nasal filters) with the filter members 3583, which may be adapted to be used with a nasal filter or other filter members.

In some aspects , the filter members 20, 21 comprise a flexible material adapted to the interior shape of the retainer member, in addition, the filter members 20, 21 may be provided in a generally oval or elliptical shape to match the interior shape of the retainer member 3 in some aspects the filter may be formed by laser cutting or other cutting techniques in some aspects cutting techniques that stiffen or stiffen the edges of the filter members 20, 21 may be used to provide a better fit within the retainer member 3.

The rounded distal end shape of the holder member 3 and any filter placed therein has the advantage that the surface area exposed to the breathing air is increased compared to using a flat filter surface. This provides enhanced filtration of air flowing through the nasal device 1 while not impeding the user's ability to breathe.

, the filter members 20, 21 are held in place by the narrowed intermediate portion 9, essentially forming an inner peripheral edge 24 extending radially inwardly at the intermediate portion 9 the narrowed intermediate portion 9 preferably works with a press fit arrangement of the filter members 20, 21 in the retainer member 3 to hold the filter members 20, 21 in place.

In another aspect, the filter members 20, 21 are held in place by attachment members which may be any non-limiting example of a pin, thread, glue or adhesive, a frame or retainer or extension of the support member 2. the filter members may be attached in such a way as to allow at least portions of the filter members to move freely when air is exhaled, essentially acting as a check valve. in such an arrangement, the filter members may be arranged such that all air passing through the nasal device is directed through the filter members when the user inhales, ensuring effective filtration of the inhaled air. when the user exhales, at least some air is allowed to pass around or outside the filter members.any arrangement satisfying these conditions may be used as an example, the filter members may be arranged such that the filter members tightly press against the inner surface of the retaining member when the user inhales, and adapted to be more loosely arranged when the user exhales. examples are shown in FIGS. 10a and 10B. similar to the arrangement shown in FIGS. 6B and 7B, FIGS. 10a and 10B show the nasal device as shown in FIGS. 1B, and the nasal device may be applied to any other cross-section of the nasal device as shown in FIGS. 2B, 13B, 3B, or 3B, as described herein, e..

As mentioned above, the nasal device 1 further comprises a filter member 20. Here, the filter member is held in place by a pin 25, attached at the distal end of the pin 25 to the distal end of the holder member 3, and attached at the proximal end of the pin 25 to the filter member 20. Fig. 10a shows the initial state and configuration when a user applying the nasal device in a nostril inhales, with the filter member 20 abutting against a protrusion 23 arranged around the distal inner part of the holder member 3. Thus, all air entering the nostrils will pass through the filter member 20. However, as shown in fig. 10b, when the user exhales, air passing in the proximal direction will move the edge of the filter member 20 away from the protrusion 23, allowing air to pass both through the filter member 20 and around the filter member 20.

Using this check valve arrangement, users may feel the increased ability to breathe.

To further explain how a nasal device according to any aspect disclosed herein is advantageously adapted to fit within the nostril mouths, fig. 8a shows a cross-sectional side view of the nasal device shown in fig. 6a and 6b fig. 8b shows the nasal device in a cross-sectional elevation view each retainer member 3 fits into the nostril mouths 11 of the nose 10 such that the wider distal ends 5 are disposed within the nostrils and the proximal portions, particularly the edges 8, are disposed to protrude outwardly from the nostrils, in fig. 8b it can also be seen that the support members 2 secure the nasal device further into the nose and nostrils.

Figures 9a-9d further illustrate the adaptability of the nasal device, and in particular the retainer members 3, 33, 43, 53, to different shapes of nostrils, these figures show a perspective view from the underside of the nose, i.e. from the proximal direction, even though the nasal device may be provided in different oval or circular shapes, an example of which can be seen in figures 1a, 2a and 3a, the adaptability of the shape of the nasal device minimizes the need to provide a number of different sizes and shapes of nasal devices, figure 9a shows the initial shape of an elliptical retainer member of a nasal device, for example as shown in figures 1a, 2a or 2f, figure 9b shows the same retainer member when inserted into a nostril 11 having an elliptical shape, figure 9c shows the same retainer member when inserted into a nostril 11 having a circular shape, the shape of the retainer member in combination with its being made of a deformable and flexible material, enabling it to adapt to substantially any nostril shape, the user may, for example, slightly squeeze the retainer member in any direction to easily adapt to the shape as required, figure 9d shows a view of a nasal device with two retainer members.

In , the length of the support member as described in any of the nasal devices above may be adjustable (not shown in the figures) to make the nasal device more adaptable to different sizes and shapes of nose and nostrils.

Fig. 11a-11d, 12a-12d and 13a-13d show additional nasal devices. These devices include many of the same features as described with respect to fig. 1-4, and it should be understood that the nasal device may have any compatible combination of the described features. However, for purposes of illustration, only a select few variations are shown. Similar features should be understood to have similar functions unless explicitly stated otherwise. Notably, all nasal devices described herein include a retainer member having a bell-shaped cross-sectional shape, and thus will all provide a secure and comfortable fit in the nasal orifice, as shown, for example, in fig. 5, 8a, 8b and 9 d.

Fig. 11a-11d show another nasal device 61 in perspective, distal, front and side views, respectively, the nasal device 61 comprises a support member 62, two circular retainer members 63 and an open proximal end 7, a rim 68 is circumferentially arranged around the periphery of the proximal end portion 7, similar to the nasal device described above, however, in this nasal device a single large through hole 66 is provided at the distal end 5.

Fig. 11b shows the nasal device 61 as seen from the distal direction the two illustrated planes a and a' arranged in a generally proximal-distal direction may be arranged at an angle with respect to each other, as described above, or in a generally parallel manner, as shown in fig. 11 b.

The nasal device as shown in fig. 11 may be used as a nostril dilator and may thus provide enhanced ability to breathe through the nose. This is particularly useful for users with small or tight nostrils, either natural or due to blockage or trauma.

According to any compatible aspect described herein, the nasal device as shown in FIG. 11 may also be provided with a filter member comprising a filter member with edges integrated or molded into the sides of the retainer member accordingly, the filter member may be arranged to filter all air passing through the retainer member, or a selected portion of air, or air in only directions.

Fig. 12a-12d show another nasal device 71 in perspective, distal, front and side views respectively, the nasal device 71 comprising a support member 72, two circular retainer members 73 and an open proximal end, a rim 78 disposed circumferentially around the periphery of a proximal portion 7 similar to the nasal device described above, however, the nasal device differs from the nasal device described previously in that it has a closed distal end 5, and therefore will act as a plug for the nostrils in use it is noted that the plug member may also be formed by providing a blocking member in the nasal device or in any of the nasal devices described herein for further support of steps.

The two illustrated planes a and a' arranged in a generally proximal-distal direction may be arranged at an angle of degrees with respect to each other, as described above, or in a generally parallel manner, as shown in fig. 12 b.

Fig. 13a-13c show in perspective view, distal view and side view, respectively, yet another nasal devices 81. the nasal device 81 comprises a support member 82, two circular retainer members 83 and an open proximal end.a rim 88 is arranged circumferentially around the periphery of the proximal portion 7 similar to the nasal devices described above.at least retainer members 83 are provided with larger through holes 86 fig. 13d shows a cross-sectional view taken along line a or a' in fig. 13b, wherein it can be seen that the retainer members 83 may be provided at the distal end as a substantially solid piece of material with through holes 86, whereby air may pass through the retainer members via the holes 86. in such a nasal device, the retainer members 86 and through holes 86 may be adapted for attaching tubes or connecting members.

In figures 13a and 13b both holder members 83 are provided with through holes 86 however, it is also possible to provide a nasal device with holder members 83 as shown in figure 13 and holder members 73 as shown in figure 12 for example, i.e. holder members with through holes and holder members in the form of plug members, which is useful for connecting tubes to nostrils to enhance the application of substance in nostrils while plugging the other nostrils.

Even though each nasal device disclosed herein is shown with two retainer members of the same type, it is also conceivable to combine two different types of retainer members 3, 33, 43, 53, 63, 73, 83 with each other in a single nasal device.A stopper-type retainer member 73 is combined with a retainer member 83 adapted to connect the tubes.Another examples may be a nasal device having a retainer member 83 adapted to attach a tube in combination with a retainer member 3, 33, 43 provided with a filter member 20, 21 for filtering air while applying a substance such as oxygen or an anesthetic through the tube.Another examples are combinations of retainer members having different sizes and/or shapes to accommodate the case where both nostrils have different sizes or shapes.A further examples are the use of only retainer members having support members such that a single retainer member may be steps fixed by the support members and then clipped onto the nostril septum.

It is worth noting that, similar to the holder member described in relation to fig. 1 to 10, the holder member shown in fig. 11, 12 and 13 has a substantially circular or bell-shaped contour and may for illustrative purposes be seen as comprising three different integrally formed parts, a circular distal end part 5, an open proximal end part 7 and an intermediate waist part 9 arranged between the distal end part 5 and the proximal end part 7, the intermediate part 9 forming a narrowed waist compared to at least the distal tip part 5, the intermediate part 9 thus having at least outer circumferences in a plane substantially transverse to the distal-proximal direction which are smaller than the respective largest outer circumference of at least the distal end part 5, preferably the intermediate part 9 also has at least outer circumferences in a plane substantially transverse to the distal-proximal direction which are smaller than the respective largest outer circumference of the proximal end part 7, the narrowed intermediate part 9 of the holder members 63, 73, 83 in the figures.

Furthermore, the flexible rim 68, 78, 88 is adapted to project substantially radially outwardly so that the retainer member 63, 73, 83 and thereby the nasal device 33, 43, 53 seals tightly against the nasal orifice preferably the rim 68, 78, 88 is formed physically in the proximal portion 7 the rim enhances the sealing effect of the overall profile of the retainer member against the nasal orifice so that the retainer member is held securely in place in the nasal orifice in a substantially airtight manner.

Non-limiting examples of ways of producing the nasal device include injection molding, die casting, molding, 3D printing, extrusion molding, blow molding, rotational molding, vacuum forming, and the like.

In fig. 14a there are shown examples of molds that may be used for injection molding to form nasal devices, such as the nasal devices in fig. 2, 3 or 4, shown as a cross-sectional view of mold 200 and the resulting nasal device a non-limiting example of such a nasal device formed by, for example, injection molding is shown in fig. 15, shown as a cross-sectional view through a plane corresponding to, for example, line a-a or a '-a' in fig. 2 b.

Another examples of molds that may be used for injection molding to form nasal devices, such as the nasal devices of FIGS. 2, 3 or 4, are shown in FIG. 14b, showing a cross-sectional view of mold 200 and the resulting nasal device, A non-limiting example of such a nasal device formed by, for example, injection molding is shown in FIG. 16, showing a cross-sectional view through a plane corresponding to, for example, line A-A or A '-A' in FIG. 2 f.

As shown in fig. 14a and 14b, a mold 200 having at least two separate portions 200a, 200b is used to form a retainer member, such as retainer members 33, 43, 53, and at the same time integrally connect filter member 26, the retainer member is also preferably formed in pieces in the same mold as support members 32, 42, 52 (not shown) .

A method of manufacturing a nasal device according to any of the nasal devices disclosed herein includes the steps of providing a mould suitable for the desired nasal device, arranging the filter member 20, 21, 26 in the mould, and forming the nasal device by substantially filling the mould with material such that the filter member and nasal device are bodies.

, the filter members 20, 21, 26 are provided as uncut filter members and the die is adapted to cut or punch out the filter when the top and bottom of the die are assembled or combined at in the die prior to or during molding.

Further , the method may also include in some aspects providing a void former 200c on the distal side of the filter element 26 in the mold prior to filling the mold, as shown in FIG. 14b, such void former 200c may be an integral part of the provided mold 200, however, it may also be provided as a separate element and inserted from the side of the mold, for example, prior to filling the mold with the desired material for the nasal device, after forming the nasal device by filling the mold with the desired material for the nasal device, prior to, simultaneously with, or after removing the nasal device from the mold, removing the void filler 200c from the nasal device, as seen in FIG. 16, which creates a void 101 between the filter element 26 and the interior of the rounded distal portion 5.

As shown in FIG. 16, the resulting nasal device will thus include a retainer member 33, 43, 53 having a distal end portion 5 with or more through holes 100 arranged in a direction substantially perpendicular to the distal-proximal extension, and an internal void 101 between the filter member and the inner surface of the distal end 5. As noted above, the access holes 100 are the result of providing a void-forming member during manufacture of the nasal device.

Providing a gap 101 between the filter member 26 and the distal end 5 having the through holes 36, 46, 56 has the advantage of increased air flow due to the reduced air resistance through the nasal device and thus through the filter member 26. The visible access hole 100 also makes it easier for the user to distinguish the direction of insertion of the nasal device.

Here, the filter will be integrally connected at the circumference of the filter member 26, and preferably also attached or integrated substantially around each through hole 36 additionally with the distal end of the retainer member.

The nasal device as described herein may further comprise a releasable substance dispersed in the material of at least portion of the nasal device or disposed on the surface of at least portion of the nasal device.

The releasable substance may be provided in or more of the holder member, support member and filter member, the releasable substance may be a fragrance or perfume that provides a pleasant smell to the user, the substance may also be menthol or other attractive fragrance, furthermore, the releasable substance may be a pharmaceutical compound or composition, as another example, the releasable substance may be water or saline to wet the nostrils.

The invention is not limited to the preferred embodiments described above. Various alternatives, modifications, and equivalents may be used. Accordingly, the above embodiments should not be taken as limiting the scope of the invention, which is defined by the appended claims.