US3769976A

US3769976A - Irrigation apparatus

Info

Publication number: US3769976A
Application number: US00205136A
Authority: US
Inventors: E Victory
Original assignee: PULSATRON CORP
Current assignee: PULSATRON CORP
Priority date: 1971-12-06
Filing date: 1971-12-06
Publication date: 1973-11-06
Anticipated expiration: 1990-11-06

Abstract

An irrigation apparatus particularly adapted for feminine hygiene applications. The apparatus utilizes a fluidic pulse generator to create a pulsating flow or jet. An anatomically contoured nozzle is provided with a plurality of discharge apertures for emitting a pulsating spray within a confined area, such as a vaginal cavity. Additionally, a medicament dispensing module is used in conjunction with the pulse generator for the introduction of an additive, such as an antiseptic, deodorant, medicinal preparation, etc. by aspiration of the additive into the flow. The nozzle is selectively connectible by snap-fitting couplings, to either the dispensing module or the pulse generator. Additionally, the nozzle is provided with a finger tip control valve for regulating the flow, and also includes a slidable gland, positionable around the nozzle for providing sealing contact with the vaginal cavity to control the nozzle reflux or drainage flow rate and to thereby prevent injury or discomfort to the user. An alternate embodiment encompasses the use of a modified fluidic pulse generator, for delivering two pulsating jets, and a nozzle for emitting alternately phased pulsating sprays through separate sets of discharge apertures.

Description

filmed stateS Patent 11 1 Victory 1 1 Nov. 6, 1973 IRRIGATION APPARATUS [57] ABSTRACT [75] Inventor: Ebrahim Victory, New York, NY. An irrigation apparatus particularly adapted for femi- [73] Assignee: Pulsatron Corp, Forest Hill, NY. P hygiene applications The apparfms utilize? a 1d1c pulse generator to create a pulsatmg flow OI'JCi. An

[22] Filed: Dec. 6, 1971 anatomically contoured nozzle is provided with a plu- 1 pp No: 205,136 rality oi: discharge apertures for emitting a pulsating spray w1th1n a confined area, such as a vaglnal cav1ty.

Additionally, a medicament dispensing module is used [52] US. Cl....; 128/229, 128/66 in conjunction with the pulse generator for the intro- [51] Int. Cl A61m 3/00 duction of an additive, such as'an antiseptic, deodor- [58] Field of Search 128/66, 239, 22-9, ant, medicinal preparation, etc. by aspiration of the adl28/25l, 224 ditive into the flow. The nozzle is selectively connect- 3 ible by snap-fitting couplings, to either the dispensing [56] References Cited module or the pulse generator. Additionally, the nozzle UNlTED STATES PATENTS is provided with a finger tip control valve for regulating 3,612,045 10/1971 Dudas et al... 128/66 the and includes a e? d Pmjtion' 3,682,176 8/1972 Kelsen 128/229 able around the nozzle for prov1d1ng sealmg contact 3537'444 H970 Gam et aL 123/66 with the vaginal cavity to control the nozzle reflux or 37 7 4 3 953 xendallmgw 123/229 drainage flow rate and to thereby prevent injury or dis- 3,480,008 11/1969 Chao 128/66 comfort to the user. An alternate embodiment encom- 3,50 .275 4/1 70 W e 2 X passes the use ofa modified fluidic pulse generator, for

Adams u delivering two pulsating jets and a nozzle for emitting Primary Examiner-Lucie H. Laudenslager Attorney-Seth Natter alternately phased pulsating sprays through separate sets of discharge apertures.

8 Claims, 17 Drawing Figures SHEET 2 BF 3 PATENTEUNUV 6&925

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention This invention relates to body treatment and care devices, and especially to a hydrodynamic irrigation apparatus.

In particular, the instant invention is concerned with a feminine hygiene device which includes a fluidic generator for producing a pulsating spray. 7

Specifically, the device of this invention emco'mpasses a vaginal syringe apparatus adapted for cleansing and therapeutic treatment. The apparatus also ineludes dispensing means for selectively introducing a medicament or other additive into the spray.

' 2. Description of the Prior Art The prior art irrigation apparatus generally employ a bulb syringe or gravity feed device for discharging a quantity of liquid from a fluid source in a steady stream. These devices however do not provide a spray having the maximum effectiveness for thorough cleansing and further require frequent interruptions necessitated in order to resupply the fluid source. Previously patented .devices have also included apparatus connected directly to a fluid source such as a water tap. However, these devices have distinct disadvantages such as the difficulty in controlling and preventing excessive nozzle pressures and the operationally inconvenient means for regulating flow, i.e'., by faucet or tap valve.v Other conventional devices use mechanical pumps operated by electrical means to provide a steady discharge flow. These devices have particular shortcomings, and it has been found for example that there is frequently excessivewater leakage from around the pump and housing and additionally there is the potential danger from electrical shock due to current leakage, particularly since the water and amedicant additive, if used, provide an effective electrical conductor. Furthermore, the mechanically moving pump parts of these apparatus are subject to malfunctioning, due to scale and sediment deposits, as well as to fatigue failure.;

The instant invention, in contrast to the pump operated-devices, has'no moving parts and consequently is more economical to manufacture and to maintain. In an attempt to improve upon the operation and efficiency'of these prior art devices, this invention is designed to operate on fluidic principles and produces a pulsating jet spray in contrast to the steady flow of the prior art devices. The spray is emitted-through an improved nozzle to achieve a more thorough cleansing action and to permit a greater penetration and a more efficient application of a medicament or other additive. lnthe prior art devices, utilizing a steady flow, only a small quantity of a dissolved additive actually contacts the vaginal cavity walls and most of the additive is drained with the reflux flow. Furthermore, with steady flow, some manual agitation of the applicator is neces sary in order to produce flow turbulence necessary for effective cleansing.

Another advantage of the present invention relates to automatic medicament dispensing by aspiration of an additive into the flow. This eliminates the former cumbersome, time consuming and ineffective manner of measuring, proportioning or otherwise dissolving the additive with, the fluid source. Additionally, flow tact with thevaginal cavity to thus control the reflux or through the nozzle can be remotely controlled by a tinger tip valve conveniently located in the nozzle.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Briefly, the apparatus of this invention includes a fluidic pulse generator or flip-flop oscillator, a medicament dispensing module and a nozzle. The fluidic pulse generator is provided with plural integral passageways for the purpose of diverting fluid flow therethrough and utilizes the Coanda effect to produce an intermittent flow or pulsating jet. The fluid input is preferably a steady pressure, and may be supplied from a conventional water faucet or tap. The pulse generator is mounted within a suitable housing or may be formed integrally therewith, and is adapted for accommodatingly receiving the medicament dispensing module, or alternately may be directly attached to the nozzle.

The dispensing module is a generally conically shaped container having a transfer tube passing therethrough for interconnecting the pulse generator and the nozzle. A medicament or other additive, such as an antiseptic, medicine, deodorant, etc., within the module is drawn into the transfer tube by aspiration as a result of a reduced pressure developed therein during flow. The additive is thus automatically dispensed and dissolved for application by the spray.

' The nozzle is anatomically contoured so as to conform to the general shape of the vaginal cavity or canal, and is provided with a plurality of discharge apertures for emitting a spray pattern. A fingertip control valve is incorporated into the nozzle for regulating the flow rate and an exhaust conduit is provided for relieving excessive pressure build-up. Additionally, a slidable gland is mounted around the nozzle for providing sealing condrainage flow. v v

The pulsating jet spray which issues from the nozzle has been found to perform a thorough vibrant cleansing of the cervix and vaginal canal, and additionally it has been determined that this pulsating spray is effective in producing a gentle turbulent flow to facilitate removal of mucosal tissue and other internal matter. Furthermore, the impingement of the pulsating jet upon contact causes repeated depression and recovery of the cavity walls and stimulates blood circulation. The resultant compression and relaxation of the surrounding tissue provides a therapeutic, massaging effect and improves muscle tone. The pulsating spray also improves the effectiveness of medicinal additives when dissolved in the spray. With a conventional non-pulsating or steady jet, the fluid, upon contacting a surface such as the vaginal cavity wall, forms a boundary layer which covers the surface and prevents further fluid contact. In effect, a thin shield of fluid forms a barrier against subsequent contact by dissolved additives as the later transmitted fluid particles reach the surface. The pulsation effect however disrupts this boundary layer or static covering of fluid and permits continuous and repeated surface contact with the fluid and dissolved medicine therein. Thus, because of this interrupted flow pattern, it'should be apparent that more, or a greater quantity of medicine will effectively contact the cavity wall. It has also been discovered that the flow pulsation effect permits better penetration of the fluid into the interstices of the cavity walls for greater surface area contact.

An alternate embodiment of the above described irrigation apparatus utilizes a pulse generator producing two pulsating jets in alternating phases. A modified nozzle is provided with two passageways having associated sets of discharge apertures. The nozzle is attachable to the pulse generator or alternatively to a medicament dispensing module, in such manner that each of the jets from the pulse generator is respectively connected to a separate nozzle passageway. In operation, alternately phased pulsating sprays will issue from separate sets of discharge apertures associated with each of the passageways. The modified nozzle is also provided with a fingertip control valve and a slidable gland sealing member similar to that utilized in conjunction with the previously described nozzle.

Another feature of this invention is the provision for snap-fitting engagement of the component parts and the selective use of the dispensing module. It is also contemplated that other nozzle shapes or designs or supplemental hose attachments for special applications may be readily adapted for use by snap-fit connection and will thus add to the versatility of the apparatus.

Having thus summarized the invention, it can now be seen that an object thereof is to provide an improved irrigation apparatus of the general character described herein which is not subject to the foregoing disadvantages of the prior art.

Specifically, it is an object of the present invention to provide an irrigation apparatus adapted for feminine hygiene application including cleansing, medicinal andlor therapeutic treatment of the vaginal cavity.

Another object of the invention is to provide an irrigation apparatus adapted for feminine hygiene application utilizing a fluidic pulse generator for providing a pulsating jet.

It is a further object of this invention to provide an irrigation apparatus wherein a medicament module may be selectively coupled to the flow path to automatically aspirate a predetermined quantity of an additive and thus eliminate the need to proportion, mix or otherwise dissolve a medicament.

Another object of this invention is to provide an irrigation apparatus having an anatomically contoured nozzle provided with a plurality of discharge apertures and including a remote control valve for regulating flow therethrough'and an exhaust conduit for relieving excessive pressures, thereby eliminating the necessity for periodic readjustment of the faucet.

A still further object of the invention is to provide an irrigation apparatus having a slidable gland for regulating nozzle reflux or drainage flow to prevent injury or discomfort to the user.

Yet another object of this invention is to provide an irrigation apparatus which is economically fabricated, sufficiently durable and suitably designed for mass production techniques to provide an inexpensive quality product.

The above and other objects, features and advantages of this invention will be apparent from the following description of the preferred embodiments when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS In the accompanying drawings in which are shown the preferred embodiments of the invention,

FIG. 1 is a perspective exploded view of the irrigation apparatus of this invention, including a pulse generator,

a dispensing module and a nozzle; also shown is an input conduit leading from a water source to the pulse generator;

FIG. 2 is an elevational view of the nozzle with a portion cut away to better illustrate an internal tapered flow passageway; a plurality of discharge apertures are also shown in a cruciform portion of the nozzle which terminates in a tip, additionally a fingertip control valve is shown incorporated in a stem portion and a slidable gland is also shown, in section, positioned circumferentially around the stem portion;

FIG. 3 is an enlarged sectional view through the stem portion taken along line 3--3 of FIG. 2 and shows the internal passageway;

FIG. 4 is an enlarged sectional view of the cruciform portion taken along line 4-4 of FIG. 2 and shows the internal passageway and discharge apertures;

FIG. 5 is an enlarged sectional view through the tip portion taken along lines 5-5 of FIG. 2 and shows the internal passageway including the discharge apertures and general cruciform shape;

FIG. 6 'is an enlarged sectional view through the portion taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 2 and shows the internal passageway including the discharge apertures;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the apparatus exploded for greater detail, and shows, in particular, the fluid pulse generator which is adapted for accommodation within a cylindrical housing; the pulse generator dispensing module and nozzle are provided respectively with coupling members to permit selective snapfit engagement of these components;

FIG. 8 is a front elevational view of the pulse generator with a portion cut away to better illustrate several interior flow passageways;

FIG. 9 is a sectional view taken through the dispensing module, the placement of a filler cap is shown in exploded fashion and a transfer tube, as shown, is provided with inlet and outlet coupling members;

FIG. 10 is a sectional view taken through the housing along line 10-10 of FIG. 1 and shows the pulse generator, a feedback loop, an exhaust conduit and the input conduit;

FIG. 11 is a perspective exploded view of a modified embodiment of the apparatus shown with a portion cut away to expose the interior flow passageways and includes a double feedback loop with a dual outflow arrangement;

FIG. 12 is an elevational view of the modified nozzle member with a portion cut away to better illustrate two internal tapered passageways and plural sets of discharge apertures are shown in a cruciform portion of the nozzle.

FIG. 13 is an enlarged sectional view of the stem portion taken along line 13--13 of FIG. 12 and shows in cross section the internal passageways;

FIG. 14 is an enlarged sectional view of the cruciform portion taken along line 14-14 of FIG. 12 and shows the internal passageways and the discharge apertures;

FIG. 15 is an enlarged sectional view of a tip portion of the nozzle taken along line 1515 of FIG. 12 and shows the internal passageways including the discharge apertures and general cruciform shape;

FIG. 16 is an enlarged sectional view of the tip portion taken along line 16-l6 of FIG. 12 and shows the 8 internal passageways including the discharge apertures; and

FIG. 17 is a sectional view taken through a modified dispensing module showing'two transfer tubes.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Referring now in detail to the drawings, the reference numeral 28 denotes generally the irrigation apparatus of this invention. The apparatus 20 includes the following component parts, a fluid pulse generator or flip-flop oscillator 22, a medicament dispensing module 24, and a nozzle 26. The pulse generator 22 is mounted within a housing 28 and is supplied with a liquid, e.g., tepid water, by an input conduit 38, which is connected to a fluid source, such as a water faucet 32.

A faucet adapter 34, which can be fabricated from a resilient material such as plastic, rubber, etc., is used to provide a convenient means for easily attaching the input conduit 30 to the water faucet 32. An exhaust conduit 36 is connected to the pulse generator 22 and extends contiguously with the input conduit 30 along a portion of its length and terminates at an open end 38 for discharge into a lavatory basin, tub, etc. Both the exhaust conduit 36 and the input conduit 30 are encased'by a coiled resilient band or wire 40 adjacent to and immediately after entry into the housing 28 to prevent twisting or entaglement of said conduits, especially while the apparatus 20 is in operational use. Optionally, the conduits can be joined together by various other'fastening devices, e.g., tape, clips, etc. or unitarily extruded.

The pulse generator 22 (See FIGS. 7 and 8) is preferably fabricated of a fluid impervious material such as a lightweight injection modable thermoplastic, e.g., acrilonitrile-butadiene-styrene, polyethylene, polypropylene', etc. In a bilithic block, as shown, the block has substantially planar front and

rear panels

42 and 44. One of the panels includes the'fluid passageways for producing a pulsating liquid output as shall be hereinafter described, while the other panel provides a sealing wall for the passageways. The

panels

42, 44! are laminated together with the-mating inner faces'in liquid sealing communication. Suitable conventional sealing techniques, e.g., heat seal, dielectric welding, ultrasonic welding, etc., may be utilized for joining the panels. I

A top wall 66 is provided with a conduit inlet fitting 48 'while a bottom wall 50 is provided with a female coupling 52 which extends through anopening 70 in the housing 28 when the generator is secured within the housing. The female coupling 52 is adapted for snap-fit engagement with a complementary male coupling 54 on the dispensing module 24!, or with a male coupling 56 on the nozzle 26. Thenozzle coupling 56 is also adapted for optional snap-fit engagement with a female coupling 55 of the dispensing module 24. The coupling members can be made of a resilient thermoplastic to facilitate rapid engagement. However, it is also feasible to provide threaded or alternate coupling devices.

The pulse generator block includes

parallel side walls

62, 64 each of which is provided with 'a longitudinal groove or channel 58. A pair of elongate bosses or

tongues

66, 68 extend from opposite sides of the cylindrical housing 28, and into the channels 88 in sliding engagement for insertion of .or removal of the generator block.

The housing 28 is further provided with an annular cover 74 having a downtumed peripheral lip 72 which overlaps the cylindrical wall of the housing 28. In order to accommodate the input conduit 30 and exhaust conduit 36, the cover 74 includes an annular central aperture therethrough with the input conduit 30 coupled to the inlet fitting 48 and the exhaust conduit 36 coupled to the generator block as will be subsequently described.

The pulse generator 22 is provided with a plurality of interior and accessory passageways, the sum effect of which is to provide an intermittent output flow from a steady input. The passageways are formed in one of the panels, e.g., the panel 44 and are desirably molded in one piece with the panel. Optionally each panel may include a mating passageway for cooperative registration when the panels are secured together. From the inlet fitting, power flow from the steady input extends through a supply passageway 76 which terminates at a power nozzle 77 opening into a flow control chamber 78. From the control chamber flow is controlled and bifurcated into two

separate outflow passageways

80,82. Output flow is interrupted in a flip-flop fashion between the outflow passageways through a feedback leading to one of two control passageways or

channels

84, 86. The control passageway 86 includes a control nozzle at the chamber 78 adjacent the power nozzle 77 and directed to issue a feedback control stream perpendicular to the power flow through the power nozzle to thereby deflect all power flow to the outflow passage 80. Upstream of the control passageways and downstream of the

outflow passageways

80, 82 two

ventilation passageways

92, 94 are positioned in communication with the control chamber 78. Appropriate access fittings are provided in the rear panel 44 foratmospheric communication through the exhaust conduit 36. For this purpose, a T-shaped connector 96 joins each of the ventilation passageways with the exhaust conduit, (see FIG. 7). The outflow passageway 82 terminates at a fitting 98 in the front panel 42 for feedback control flow through a helically coiled tube or loop 100 into the control passageway 86. An end of the loop 100 ,is joined to the outflow fitting 98 while another end of the loop 100 is joined to a control passageway fitting 90 projecting through the front panel 42. A second control passageway fitting 88 in communication with the control passageway 84 includes an appropriate orifice for atmospheric communication, the purpose of which will be subsequently described.

in operation, a substantially continuous and steady flow of water at a selected temperature and at a substantially uniform pressure from the faucet 32 enters the supply passageway through the input conduit. The water stream is ejected from the power nozzle 77 into the control chamber 78 and since the pulse generator 22 is essentially symmetrical, absent control, flow is bistable; the steady flow of liquid is initially split into two streams which pass through both of the outflow passageways, 80, 82 simultaneously. The stream passing through the outflow passageway 82 is conducted through the feedback loop to the control passageway 86. A feedback control stream issues from the control passage nozzle and deflects the power flow issuing from the power nozzle 77 to divert substantially all of this flow into the outflow passageway 80. It will be appreciated that now the flow of liquid to the passageway 82 has terminated. Thus, the pressure within the feedback loop 100 and the control passageway 86 is reduced, while substantially all of the flow from the power nozzle extends through the outflow passageway 80.

Because of the reduced pressure at the control passageway 86, a volume of ambient air is aspirated through the orifice and fitting 88 of the opposite control passage 84 to enter the control chamber 78. The net effect of this introduction of air through the control passage 84 diverts the stream of liquid issuing from the power nozzle 77 to the opposite outflow passageway 82 to thereby continue the cycle of output oscillations between the

passageway

80 and 82.

The ambient atmospheric pressure surrounds the pulse generator 22 to permit aspiration through the control chamber fitting. For this purpose, a suitable vent passageway may be provided through a wall of the housing 28, or as illustrated in FIG. 10, the conduit access aperture through the cover 74 may be oversized to prevent sealing engagement against the

conduits

30, 36.

It should be appreciated that the feedback control loop 100 is of a length which is predetermined such that the volumetric capacity of the feedback system is suitable to produce the desired frequency of oscillations. During the oscillation procedure, excess liquid exhausts through the

passageways

92, 94, the connector 96 and the exhaust conduit 36 for discharge.

It has been found that by way of example, with typical household tap pressures, ranging between p.s.i.g. through 40 p.s.i.g., the interrupted or pulsating outflow from the passageway 80 and into the vaginal cavity through the discharge nozzle is in the order of 0.7 liters per minute, with a frequency of about cycles per second. It should be noted that there are many possible variations of the aforedescribed generator 22, and for example, a 'monostable passageway system might be used. Furthermore, the entire internal and accessory passageways may be incorporated into a single laminated block, e.g., of cylindrical exterior configuration, thereby eliminating the need for a separate housing, external feedback loop, and other connectors.

Furthermore, it is also contemplated to control the switching of the flow stream solely through the utilization-of two feedback passageways with each in communication between one of the outflow passageways. A typical example of such oscillator structure is illustrated in U.S. Pat. No. 3,158,166.

The dispensing module 24 includes a funnel'shaped container having an annular rim 104 at its top with a plurality of upright projecting pilot pins 106 adapted to be snugly accommodated within mating sockets (not shown) within a circular bottom wall of the housing 28. The rim 104 is provided with one or more vent holes 108 to thus maintain atmospheric pressure in a space between the bottom of the housing 28 and a recessed partition wall 110 extending across the top of the module 24. A filler cap 112 incorporates a vent and liquid check valve to vent the interior of the module 24 to atmospheric pressure without permitting passage of the liquid therethrough should the module be inadvertently tilted or inverted to present liquid at the cap. It should be noted that the filler cap 112 is removable to permit module filling with a selected additive. A suitable additive may include any number of desirable medicaments, deodorants, etc. dissolved or dispersed in a liquid base.

The module contained additive is aspirated into the outflow stream while passing through a transfer tube 116 having, at its upper end, a coupling 54 adapted for connection to the pulse generator 22, and at its lower end a coupling 55 adapted for connection to the nozzle 26. The transfer tube 116 is provided with perforations therethrough in communication with the additive so that the pulse generator outflow provides a reduced pressure adjacent the perforations whereby the additive carried liquid within the module 24 is aspirated into the flow stream.

It should be appreciated that the couplings at the opposite ends of the transfer tube are adapted for snap-fit engagement, one to the pulse generally 22 and one to the nozzle 26 to provide a composite additive feeding device which may be conveniently hand held and manipulated during use.

It should be noted that the nozzle 26 may be optionally connected directly to the pulse generator 22 through a coupling 56 for use without the module (desirable in applications wherein an additive to the flowstream is not necessary).

The nozzle 26 is anatomically contoured to facilitate insertion and removal during usage, and includes an upper stem 118 having a substantially straight tip portion terminating with the coupling 56 and joined, distant from the coupling 56, to a shaft like body 119 by an arcuate section. An arc of approximately 135 is included between the upper stem and the shaft body. The shaft body includes a lower externally ribbed portion 120 terminating at a bulbous head 122.

An internal duct 124 provides a passageway for delivering' the outflow stream of the passageway 80 to the ribbed portion of the shaft body for discharge through a plurality of apertures 126. The apertures 126 extend outwardly from the shaft body and are spaced apart from one another in a plurality of rows extending downstream at intervals of approximately 1 centimeter apart to terminate at the distal end of the head 122. It will-be appreciated that each discharge aperture 126 may extend radially outward for discharge on the edges of each projecting rib 132. Optionally, each discharge aperture may be so positioned that it discharges intermediate each of the ribs. In the first alternative, the pulsating jet of liquid is discharged in more intimate contact with the cavity walls wherein in the second alternative, the pulsating jet travels a distance before impinging upon the cavity walls. Regulation of the outflow stream through the nozzle 26 is achieved through a flow control valve 128 which includes a cylindrical valve core journalled in the stem, to control flow through the duct 124. When the flow control valve is in a closed position, with no outflow through the discharge apertures 126, the liquid flow through the outflow passageway of the pulse generator 22 is blocked and therefore all liquid entering the pulse generator 22 is directed through the

passageways

92 and 94 to be discharged through the extend conduit 36.

It will be appreciated that the ribbed portion of the shaft body provides a plurality of passageways for drainage flow from within the vaginal cavity. The rate of drainage flow from the cavity is controlled by a slidable gland 130 positioned in circumscribing relationship around the stem 118. In operation, the user may manipulate the gland and, by presenting it at a desirable position from the cavity will thereby control the rate of drainage.

An exemplary nozzle 26 is approximately '16 centimeters in length with the ribbed portion of the shaft body having'a length'of approximately 8 centimeters. A bulbous head l22 having a length of approximately 4 centimeters and a maximum diameter of2 centimeters has been found quite suitable. The discharge apertures include terminal orifice diameters in the order of l milimeter with jets at a frequency of approximately c.p.s. A spacing of adjacent discharge apertures such that their axes are approximately 1 centimeter apart has been found satisfactory.

The nozzle 26 may be constructed of a suitable thermoplastic, such as the thermoplastics utilized for the pulse generator 22, or hard rubber, etc. The ribbed section of the shaft body is preferably cruciform in cross section and formed with symmetrically positioned radial fins R32. v a

A modified embodiment of the apparatus is illustrated in H68. 11 through 17 wherein like numerals designate corresponding components as heretofore described with respect to the previous embodiment, however, bearing the suffix a. A pulse generator 22a is provided with

dual outflow openings

102a and 103a, each issuing a pulsating flow and formed in a

corresponding coupling

52a, 53a respectively. The modified pulse generator 22a has two helically coiled feedback loops llfltla and Mia. Two internal passageways 134a and 136a draw off or divert a portion of the flowstream within the outflow passageways 80a and @Za. The conduits ltltla and 1101a interconnect each of the passageways llMa and l36a with a respective control passageway fida and Ma to impose alternate impinging flows put. if a medicament dispensing module 240 is not used, a coupling 56a connects the duct 124a with an outflow opening 102a; similarly, a coupling 57a connects the duct 125a with the outflow opening 103a. As previously mentioned, a flow control valve 128a, incorporated within the nozzle member 26a is used for regulating the flow through the nozzle. 7

The nozzle 26a may be equipped with a slidable gland 130a similar to the gland 130 previously described, and positioned around the stem 118a for manipulation to control nozzle reflux flow. In operation, the pulse generator 22a provides alternating pulsating flows which issue from each set of discharge apertures 126a associated with each of the

separate ducts

124a, 125a as a plurality of intermittent pulsating jets.

In a manner similar to that described with respect to I the previous embodiment, this alternate embodiment is across the fluid stream in a central chamber 78a to deflect the flow stream successively between the outflow passageways Ma and 82a. The control chamber 78a is maintained at atmospheric pressure by a pair of ventilation passageways 92a and 94a to thereby provide exhaust passageways for return flow should nozzle flow be terminated or restricted through the utilization of a control valve 112% asdescribed with respect to the pre-' scribed with respect to the previous embodiment.

Attention is directed to FIGS. 13 through 16 wherein it will be observed that the

ducts

124a, 125a may be of D-shaped transverse cross section and separated by a common parting wall 127a integrally formed with the nozzle.

Two sets of discharge apertures 126a are positioned within the ribbed portion 1200 with each set in liquid communication with one of the tapered ducts 1243a and 1250. Since the passageways discharge their pulsating flows in alternating fashion, it is necessary to provide a separate flow route from the pulse generator to each set of apertures 126a. If the flow routes are intermingled, the alternating pulsationsof flowwould each cancel the other out and result in a relatively steady outpared in a downstream direction for the purpose deadapted for snap-fit engagement of all components with two alternate modes of operation, i.e., with the utilization of the medicament dispensing module 24a interconnected between the pulse generator 22a and the nozzle 26a or with the nozzle 26a directly connected to the pulse generator.

It should be noted with respect to either embodiment that although the pulse generator 22 has been described as constructed of a bilithic block of two laminated panels, it is contemplated that a laminated block structure suitable for such application may include one or more intermediate panels which could provide the necessary side walls for the passageways with the front and back panels providing the remaining passageway walls.

' As mentioned heretofore, the pulsating jets which issue from the nozzle apertures impinge the cavity walls at a hydrostatic pressure sufficient to cause a localized depression at the area of impingement. The rate of flow pulsation (e.g. 20 c.p.s.) is such that the duration between alternate pulses permits the relaxation or recovcry of the depressedarea, thus providing not only a salubrious massaging effect, but in addition facilitating a hydrodynamic cleansing of the cavity walls and permitting a thorough degree of medicament penetration previously unavailable.

The beneficial flow turbulence resulting from the pulsating delivery of liquid to the nozzle results in an extremely effective utilization of the volume of liquid entering the vaginal cavity. Furthermore, the flow turbulence assures a thorough mixing of an aspirated additive.

As other possible embodiments may be made of the present invention, and as various changes may be made in the embodiments above set forth, it is to be understood that all matter herein described or shown in the accompanying drawings is to be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.

Having thus described the invention, there is claimed as new and desired to be secured by Letters Patent:

ll. A hygienic irrigator suitable for the application of a pulsating turbulent flow of liquid for the routine cleansing and therapeutic treatment of a vaginal cavity having an access orifice, said irrigator comprising a flow pulsator, a nozzle, means providing an anatomic contour to the nozzle for insertion into the vaginal cavity, the nozzle being dimensioned such that it is circumscribingly accommodated through the access orifice and within the cavity, means interconnecting the pulsator to a source of liquid under pressure for supplying a flow of liquid, the flow pulsator including a pulse generator having means forming two outflow passageways and at least one control channel, liquid under pressure from the source flowing through the coupling means to the generator, and in the generator as a power flow, and feedback means adapted to divert flow through one of the outflow passageways into the control channel, the control channel adapted to issue the diverted flow as a control stream to cause the power flow to enter the other outflow passageway, the interconnecting means linking the other outflow passageway and the nozzle for flow passage, whereby the flow of liquid leaving the nozzle is intermittent and broken into spurts to provide a therapeutic pulsating liquid turbulence in the cavity.

2. A hygienic device constructed in accordance with claim 1 wherein the feedback means includes a helically coiled control loop.

3. A hygienic device constructed in accordance with claim 1 wherein a second control channel is provided, the pulse generator including further feedback means adapted to divert flow from the other outflow passageway into the second control channel, the second control channel adapted to issue the diverted flow as a control stream to cause the power flow to enter the one outflow passageway, the interconnecting means linking the one outflow passageway and the nozzle.

4. A hygienic device constructed in accordance with claim 3 wherein the nozzle includes means forming a pair of ducts for carrying the pulsating flows of liquid therethrough, the interconnecting means linking each of the duets with an outflow passageway.

5. A hygienic device constructed in accordance with claim 1 wherein the nozzle includes means providing a duct carrying the pulsating flow of liquid therethrough,

means providing a plurality of discharge apertures in the nozzle, each of the discharge apertures being in liquid discharge communication with the duct, the discharge apertures being spaced along a region of the length of the nozzle, and means providing a substantially uniform pulsating jet pressure at all of the discharge apertures, said uniform pressure means including means providing a tapered contour in the duct along the region.

6. A hygienic device constructed in accordance with claim 1 wherein the interconnecting means includes a medicament dispensing module, and means coupling the module to both the other outflow passageway and the nozzle, the module including means for the aspiration of an additive into the flow of liquid through the nozzle.

7 A hygienic device constructed in accordance with claim 6 wherein the coupling means includes means adapted for removable selective engagement of the module to the other outflow passageway, the nozzle including a connector adapted for selective engagement to either the module or the other outflow passageway, whereby the nozzle may be directly connected to the other outflow passageway when no additive is desired in the nozzle liquid flow.

8. A hygienic device constructed in accordance with claim 6 wherein the means for the aspiration of the additive includes a walled transfer tube, the walled transfer tube carrying the liquid flow from the other outflow passageway into the nozzle, the additive being in liquid communication with the exterior wall of the tube, and means providing at least one aperture through the tube to permit the additive to be aspirated into the liquid flow.

Claims

1. A hygienic irrigator suitable for the application of a pulsating turbulent flow of liquid for the routine cleansing and therapeutic treatment of a vaginal cavity having an access orifice, said irrigator comprising a flow pulsator, a nozzle, means providing an anatomic contour to the nozzle for insertion into the vaginal cavity, the nozzle being dimensioned such that it is circumscribingly accommodated through the access orifice and within the cavity, means interconnecting the pulsator to a source of liquid under pressure for supplying a flow of liquid, the flow pulsator including a pulse generator having means forming two outflow passageways and at least one control channel, liquid under pressure from the source flowing through the coupling means to the generator, and in the generator as a power flow, and feedback means adapted to divert flow through one of the outflow passageways into the control channel, the control channel adapted to issue the diverted flow as a control stream to cause the power flow to enter the other outflow passageway, the interconnecting means linking the other outflow passageway and the nozzle for flow passage, whereby the flow of liquid leaving the nozzle is intermittent and broken into spurts to provide a therapeutic pulsating liquid turbulence in the cavity.

4. A hygienic device constructed in accordance with claim 3 wherein the nozzle includes means forming a pair of ducts for carrying the pulsating flows of liquid therethrough, the interconnecting means linking each of the ducts with an outflow passageway.

5. A hygienic device constructed in accordance with claim 1 wherein the nozzle includes means providing a duct carrying the pulsating flow of liquid therethrough, means providing a plurality of discharge apertures in the nozzle, each of the discharge apertures being in liquid discharge communication with the duct, the discharge apertures being spaced along a region of the length of the nozzle, and means providing a substantially uniform pulsating jet pressure at all of the discharge apertures, said uniform pressure means including means providing a tapered contour in the duct along the region.

7. A hygienic device constructed in accordance with claim 6 wherein the coupling means includes means adapted for removable selective engagement of the module to the other outflow passageway, the nozzle including a connector adapted for selective engagement to either the module or the other outflow passageway, whereby the nozzle may be directly connected to the other outflow passageway when no additive is desired in the nozzle liquid flow.