LUBRICATING OBJECT APPLICATOR

Abstract: A device and method for placing an object into a body cavity comprising an applicator body (2), lubricating apparatus securable within the applicator body, and an object mover, which is operative to move the object (30) through the applicator body into the body cavity, the lubricating apparatus and the object mover may have separate apparatus, such as separate plunger (8) and (11) or a single plunger (41) performing both functions.

Description: LUBRICATING OBJECT APPLICATOR BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION This invention relates to a suppository applicator and more partic¬ ularly to a suppository applicator which can be self-lubricating. . . Constipation, diarrhea, pregnancy and over-exertion are common physical causes of hemorrhoids. Certain occupations that require continued standing or sitting also contribute to that condition. Most hemorrhoidal flare- ups are minor and may last for several days and can be self-treated. Presently, hemorrhoidal conditions are treated by the use of cream or suppositories. The cream or suppository may be placed or injected into the anus. Homorrhoids are internal or external varicose veins in the anal or rectal area. When these veins become swollen or irritated, pain results. The treatment by cream or suppository tends to lubricate the anal region reducing irritation and helping make bowel movements less painful. Creams and suppositories may also gfive comfort for the pain, itching, and discomfort of external and internal hemorrhoids, proctitis, papillitis, cryptitis, anal fissures, incomplete fistulas, pruritus ani and the relief of local pain and discomfort following anorectal surgery. One of the problems in dealing with creams or suppositories is that to place this medication into the anal cavity causes a pain associated with friction. This friction can be between the anal cavity walls and the internal or external hemorrhoids. To solve that problem, lubrication of the suppository or cream insertion device is required. This lubrication can be a messy, sloppy process. Insertion of suppositories in the anal or vaginal region has required use of the lubricated fingers of the patient or nurse to place the suppository in the appropriate position. The present invention provides a device and method for enabling a suppository to be placed into the appropriate body cavity without the patient or nurse touching the suppository. The present invention also provides a device and method for automatically lubricating a suppository applicator. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide a device which can place a suppository into a cavity in the body without the user or nurse touching the suppository. Another object of the present invention is to provide a device which can lubricate a cavity in the body in which a suppository is being placed at the time the suppository is being placed therein, without the user or nurse touching the body or the lubricating substance. A further object of the present invention is to provide a device with a compartment from which a lubricating substance can be propelled at a desired time. Still another object of the present invention is to provide a plunger with a shaped suppository seat on the end in order to hold and project a suppository completely through the body of a suppository applicator. Another object of the present invention is to provide a suppository shaft, within a suppository applicator, which extends from one end of the applicator body to the other end, within which the suppository can be placed without touching the suppository and through which the suppository can be propelled to be placed at a desired location. A further object of the present invention is to provide a lubricating suppository applicator comprised of a body through which a lubricating plunger can force a lubricating substance out from the body prior to a suppository plunger propelling a suppository through the same body. Still another object of the present invention is to provide a method and means for a compartment within the body of a suppository applicator to be filled with a lubricating substance. Another object of the present invention is to provide a device which can place any desired object into a body cavity; the device comprising an applicator body, and an object plunger securable within the applicator body, and an object plunger operative to move the object through the applicator body into the body cavity. Another object of the present invention is to provide a method and means to retain the lubricating substance within the compartment at the time the lubricating substance is placed into the compartment of the body of an applicator and prior to utilizing the lubricating substance. Still another object of the present invention is to provide lubricating means to lubricate external and internal hemorrhoids and the anal cavity wall when placing a suppository into the anal cavity without touching the suppository or the lubricating substance. A further object of the present invention is to provide a lubricating suppository applicator which is re-usable and comes apart for cleaning and placing new lubricating substance within the device. Another object of the present invention is to provide a device and method for keeping the lubricating plunger shaft in a lubricating suppository applicator secured within the body of the lubricating suppository applicator when desired. Still another object of the present invention is to provide a lubricating suppository applicator with a tapered end portion for easier access into a body cavity. A further object of the present invention is to provide a tapered end portion on a lubricating plunger in order to fit within the tapered end portion of the body of a lubricating suppository applicator in order to be able to force a lubricating substance out from the openings in the tapered portion of the lubricating suppository applicator. Another object of the present invention is to provide an injector which can lubricate the external portion of the injector and place an object into a desired cavity utilizing a single plunger. Still another object of the present invention is to provide an injector utilizing a single plunger which can be pre-packaged with a lubricating substance and an object, in order to lubricate the external surface of the injector and to place the object into an orifice of a body. A further object of the present invention is to provide a lubricating object injector in which the object can be loaded from the top, bottom, side, or can be pre-packaged therein. A further object of the present invention is to provide a lubricating object applicator in which one plunger acts as a lubricating plunger and an object plunger to lubricate the external portion of the applicator and to propel the object through, and out of the applicator. These and other objects and features of the invention will be apparent from the following description and appended claims. Briefly, the invention is a method and device for placing a suppository into a body cavity. The device comprises an applicator body with a shaft extending from a first open end to a second open end, and a void area surrounding the shaft. The void area may be considered a chamber or a compartment within which the lubricating cream or cream packet may be stored. A lubricating plunger is securable to the applicator body. The lubricating plunger is sized and shaped to fit within the compartment. A suppository plunger is sized and shaped to fit within the shaft. The suppository plunger may push the suppository from the first open end, to and out of the second open end, when the device is utilized. When the device is placed within the body cavity, the suppository may be pushed through the second open end and into the body cavity. The applicator body comprises an elongated body with a plurality of first openings which are open to the void area and to the exterior of the elongated body. A lubricating substance is stored in the compartment. The lubricating substance is operative to flow from the compartment, through the plurality of first openings, and to the exterior of the elongated body, when the lubricating plunger is placed within the compartment. The lubricating substance may be stored within a packet. The applicator body may further comprise a tapered end portion connected to the elongated body which contains a second open end. A plurality of second openings is located in the tapered end portion. A lubricating substance may be stored in the void area. The lubricating substance may flow through the plurality of first openings to the exterior of the elongated body, and through the plurality of second openings to the exterior of the tapered end portion, when the lubricating plunger is placed within the void area. The device may place any object into the body cavity. The device may comprise an applicator body, a lubricating plunger securable within the applicator body, and an object plunger operative to move the object through the applicator body into the body cavity. The lubricating plunger comprises a lubrication plunger shaft con¬ trolled by a lubrication plunger control means. A tapered lubrication end portion is connected to the lubrication plunger shaft. When the lubricating plunger is placed within the compartment, the tapered lubrication end portion is placed within the tapered end portion of the applicator body. The applicator body may further comprise an open retainer cap portion which is securable to the elongated body. The lubricating plunger and the suppository plunger may pass through the open retainer cap portion. The open retainer cap portion may comprise a stop surface. The lubricating plunger may comprise a stop. The lubricating plunger and the open retainer cap portion are loosely connected. When the open retainer cap portion is secured to the applicator body, the lubricating plunger is loosely connected to the applicator body. ITUTE SHEET The suppository plunger comprises a suppository plunger shaft, a suppository seat shaped to effectively push the suppository, and suppository plunger control means. The suppository seat, which is shaped to effectively push the suppository, is located one one end of the suppository shaft. The suppository plunger control means is secured to the other end of the suppository plunger shaft. A sheath is sized and shaped to fit over the applicator body. The sheath covers the plurality of first openings in the elongated body and is securable to the applicator body. The sheath also covers the plurality- of second openings in the tapered end portion. The applicator body further comprises a gripping area which is secured to the end of the elongated body. The gripping area aids in holding and utilizing the device. The open retainer cap portion may be secured to the gripping area. The lubricating substance may be a medicinal lubricant . for treating health problems within the body cavity. A retaining cap may be secured to the bottom of the applicator body to retain the lubricating substance within the compartment, when the compartment is being filled with lubricating substance. When the compartment is being filled with lubricating substance, the sheath may be located over the applicator body to prevent the lubricating substance from passing through the plurality of first openings and second openings. The method for placing a suppository into a body cavity comprises placing the suppository into the previously described device. The device is then placed into the body cavity. The lubricating plunger is pressed as the device enters the body cavity. The suppository plunger is pushed, thereby pushing the suppository through the device, out of the second open end, and into the body cavity. The device for placing an object into a body cavity comprises an applicator body, lubricating means, and movement means. The lubricating means is moveably secured within the applicator body. The movement means is moveably secured within the applicator body. The lubricating means and the movement means may comprise a single plunger. The object may be placed into the applicator body through the top of the applicator body, through the bottom of the applicator body, or through the side of the applicator body. The applicator body may have a first storage compartment within which the lubricating substance may be stored. A lubrication retaining membrane within the applicator body is operative to help form a first storage compartment. A second storage compartment may hold the ~- , Λ . m.^ m^ -l T 1 "" —> " ~ J" ~~* object. An object retaining membrane, along with the lubrication retaining membrane and the inner walls of the applicator body, may comprise the second storage compartment. The object may be a suppository or any desired object. The method for placing an object into a body cavity may comprise putting the object into a device in which the lubricating means and the movement means are a single plunger. The object may be placed into the device through the top, bottom, or side of the device and lubricating substance may be placed above the object. When the single plunger is pushed, the object passes through the lubricating substance, forcing the lubricating substance out of the applicator body. The invention will be more fully understood from the following detailed description and appended claims when taken with the drawings in which: BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is an isometric elevational view of lubricating suppository applicator 1. FIG. 2 is an exploded elevational view of lubricating suppository applicator 1 showing sheath 23 below body 2. FIG. 3 is an elevational view of cream packet 14. FIG. 4 is -a partial sectional view of the lubricating suppository applicator 1 with lubricating cream 22 in cream packet 14 in place, and suppository 30 within body 2 ready for insertion. FIG. 5 is a partial sectional view of lubricating suppository applicator 1 showing the cream packet 14 ruptured and the lubricating cream 22, within the anal cavity 24, lubricating suppository applicator 1, while the suppository 30 is inserted. FIG. 6 is an enlarged sectional view of the lubricating suppository applicator 1 in a closed position. FIG. 7 is a top sectional view of body 2 at section 7-7 of FIG. 2. FIG. 8 is a top view of lubricating plunger 8. FIG. 9 is a top view of suppository plunger 11. FIG. 10 is an isometric view of compartment 26 of body 2 being filled with lubricating cream 22 by an external cream dispenser 28 from an external cream source 27. FIG. 11 is an isometric view of retaining cap 29 secured onto the gripping area 3 of body 2. FIG. 12 is a longitudinal elevational view of a lubricating object injector 34. FIG. 13 is an isometric elevational view of lubricating object injector 34. FIG. 14 is an isometric elevational view of a .lubricating object injector 52. 5 FIG. 15 is an exploded sectional view of lubricating object injector 66. FIG. 16 is a sectional view of lubricating object injector 87. FIG. 17 is an elevational view of lubricating object injector 87 with the injecting-lubricating plunger 97 partially depressed and lubricating cream 95 10 flowing from the body 88 of lubricating object injector 87. FIG. 18 is an elevational view of lubricating object injector 87 inserted in an orifice 101 of a body. FIG. 19 is an elevational view of lubricating object injector 87 within orifice 101 of a body, with the 'injecting-lubricating plunger 97 pressed forward 15 to lubricate the orifice 101 and to move object 96 into the inner area of orifice 101. DETAILED DESCRIPTION Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 is an isometric elevational view of lubricating suppository applicator 1. Lubricating suppository applicator 20 1 has a body 2 and a griping area 3. Body 2 has an elongated body 4 with a tapered end 7. Body 2 has a suppository shaft 5 and lubricating openings 6 located in the elongated body 4 and in the tapered end 7. The lubricating suppository applicator 1 has a lubricating plunger 8 with a lubrication plunger shaft 9 and lubrication plunger control knob 10. Lubricating suppository 25 applicator 1 has a suppository plunger 11 with a suppository plunger shaft 12 and a suppository plunger control knob 13. FIG. 2 is an exploded elevational view of lubricating suppository applicator 1 showing sheath 23 below body 2. Lubricating suppository applicator 1 comprises body 2, lubricating plunger 8, and suppository plunger 11. Sheath 30 23 may be utilized to cover the lubricating openings 6 in body 2 prior to the utilization of the lubricating suppository applicator 1. Sheath 23 may be secured in any manner. A simple friction fit, with the end 25 of sheath 23 fitting closely over gripping area 3 of body 2, would be sufficient. Any other desired means to keep the lubricating openings 6 in body 2 covered may be utilized. 35 Lubricating plunger 8 has a lubrication plunger shaft 9 with a tapered portion 17. Suppository plunger 11 fits through lubricating plunger 8 and can push a suppository 30 through the suppository shaft 5 in body 2. Suppository shaft 11 has a suppository seat 18 on the end of suppository plunger shaft 12 m * . . m- -. -*--- — --— r -er*-j ~τ ~~~~ ~ which can cup and grip a suppository 30 for pushing the suppository 30 through the suppository shaft 5 in body 2. FIG. 3 is an elevational view of cream packet 14. A cream packet 14, which may be any type of packaging for a lubricating cream, liquid, or 5 ointment, may be utilized within the lubricating suppository applicator 1. If packaging, such as cream packet 14, is utilized, it is placed appropriately within the body 2 and, at the proper time, the cream packet 14 is ruptured by the movement of lubricating plunger 8. A packaging for a cream, liquid, or ointment, such as cream packet 14, may be utilized and all the cream, liquid, 10 or ointment may be placed in the appropriate cavity within body 2. FIG. 4 is a partial sectional view of the lubricating suppository applicator 1 with lubricating cream 22 in cream packet 14 in place, and suppository 30 within body 2 ready for insertion. A suppository 30 is within suppository shaft 5 of body 2. Cream packet 14 is fiEed with lubricating cream 15 22. Lubricating plunger 8 is placed within the body 2, through the open retainer cap 16. Open retainer cap 16 is secured onto gripping area 3. Open retainer cap 16 may be secured in any manner to gripping area 3. In FIG. 2, the gripping area 3 is shown having a threaded portion 15 to which the open retainer cap 16 is secured. 20 The lubricating plunger 8 has a lubrication plunger shaft 9 with a tapered end portion 17. The tapered end portion 17, as the lubricating plunger 8 presses into the body 2, ruptures the cream packet 14, which will cause the lubricating cream 22 to flow through the lubricating openings 6 in body 2. FIG. 5 is a partial sectional view of lubricating suppository applicator 25 1 showing the cream packet 14 ruptured and the lubricating cream 22, within the anal cavity 24, lubricating suppository applicator 1, while the suppository 30 is inserted. The lubricating cream 22, within cream packet 14, has coated the exterior of body 2 and is lubricating the anal cavity 24. The lubricating cream 22 is coating the area between the buttocks 32, including the anal cavity wall 30 31 where hemorrhoids 33 may be present. The lubricating cream 22, having been pressed by the lubricating plunger 8 from the compartment 26, within body 2, coats around the entire outside surface of body 2. Should there be external or internal hermorrhoids, the lubricating cream 22 would supply a soothing, lubricating action to enable the lubricating suppository applicator 1 to be placed 35 into position for the suppository 30 to be appropriately placed into the anal cavity 24. The design of the lubricating plunger 8 enables the maximum amount of lubricating cream 22, within the compartment 26, to be forced through the lubricating openings 6 to the exterior of the body 2. __O^PI_ The suppository plunger 11 can push the suppository 30 within the suppository plunger shaft 12 through body 2 and into the anal cavity 24. The suppository shaft 5 within body 2 may be completely free from contact with the compartment 26 and the rupturing action caused by the lubricating plunger 8 in compartment 26. The lubricating plunger 8 can force the lubricating cream 22 from the compartment 26 whether the lubricating cream 22 is in a packet, such as packet 14, or is simply stored within the compartment 26. FIG. 6 is an enlarged sectional view of the lubricating suppository applicator 1 in a closed position. The lubrication plunger shaft 9 may be designed to completely fill or almost fill the entire compartment 26, thereby utilizing the maximum amount of lubricating cream 22, which is stored within compartment 26. The tapered end 7 of body 2, with lubricating openings 6, helps prepare the anal cavity 24 for the entrance of the complete body 2 of lubricating suppository applicator 1. The tapered end portion 17 of lubricating plunger 8 acts, not only as a rupturer of a cream packet 14 or a mover of the lubricating cream 22, but is designed to fit within the tapered end 7 of body 2. The tapered end portion 17 of lubricating plunger 8 will, therefore, press the lubricating cream 22 through the lubricating openings 6 in the tapered end portion 7 of body 2, as well as the lubricating openings 6 in the elongated body 4 of body 2. The lubricating suppository applicator 1 may be designed to be opened in many different ways. FIG. 6 shows a threaded portion 15 on a gripping area 3 to which an open retainer cap 16 is attached. Open retainer cap 16 has an opening 19 extending around the body 2 allowing for the ' passage of the lubrication plunger shaft 9 of lubricating plunger 8. The tapered end portion 17 of lubricating plunger 8 has a stop 20, which will press on stop surface 21 within open retainer cap 16, in order to keep the lubricating plunger 8 from coming out of the body 2 of the lubricating suppository applicator 1. When the lubricating suppository applicator 1 is being used, the lubricating plunger 8 presses the lubricating cream 22 onto the anal cavity wall 31 allowing the entrance of the body 2 of the lubricating suppository applicator 1 into the anal cavity 24. The suppository plunger 11 is then moved by suppository plunger control knob 13 to cause the suppository plunger shaft 12 to force the suppository 30 out from the lubricating suppository applicator 1 and into the anal cavity 24. FIG. 7 is a top sectional view of body 2 at section 7-7 of FIG. 2. In FIG. 7, there is no lubricating cream 22 or cream packet 14 shown in the compartment 26. The relationship between the suppository shaft 5 and the OMPI β« ^^T Γ 7LΠΈ SHEET ' • WIPO compartment 26 is shown as the compartment 26 completely surrounds the suppository shaft 5. Lubricating openings 6 emanate from the compartment 26. FIG. 8 is a top view of lubricating plunger 8 showing the ideal shape of the lubricating plunger 8. FIG. 9 is a top view of the suppository plunger 11 showing the ideal shape of the suppository plunger 11. FIG. 10 is an isometric view of compartment 26 of body 2 being filled with lubricating cream 22 by an external cream dispenser 28 from an external cream source 27. The compartment 26 in body 2 may be filled with a packet, such as lubricating cream packet 14, or the compartment 26 may be filled by cream, liquid, or ointment from an external source, such as external cream source 27. Any type of external cream source 27 or external cream dispenser 28 may be utilized to place the lubricating substance 22 into the compartment 26. When placing the lubricating substance 22 into the compartment 26, the sheath 23, shown in FIG. 2, may be utilized to cover the lubricating openings 6 in body 2. Open retainer cap 16 may be removed or left in place. To seal the bottom openings in the body 2 of lubricating suppository applicator 1, a retaining cap 29 may be utilized. FIG. 11 is an isometric view of retaining cap 29 secured onto the gripping area 3 of body 2. Retaining cap 29 may be secured onto the threaded portion 15 of gripping area 3 or may be secured to the gripping area 3 by friction, or other means. The retaining cap 29 may also be secured, if desired, to the open retaining cap 16. The lubricating suppository applicator 1 may, therefore, be re-usable. Lubricating suppository applicator 1 may be taken apart, as shown in FIG. 2, to be cleaned or stored and may be re-supplied with lubricating substance 22 as indicated herein. The lubricating suppository applicator 1 of this invention may be utilized to place suppositories both anally or vaginally into the orifice of the body. The entrance to the orifice may be lubricated at the time the lubricating suppository applicator 1 is utilized without the user touching either the lubricating substance 22 or the suppository 30. FIGS. 12 - 19 illustrate configurations of the invention in which the lubricating function and the object or suppository movement function are performed utilizing a single plunger. FIG. 12 is a longitudinal elevational view of a lubricating object injector 34. Lubricating object injector 34 has a body 35 containing a shaft 36 and a gripping area 37. The gripping area 37 aids in the removal of the lubricating object injector 34, but is not necessary for the functions of * t-f - * £ -~--~-~ C PI ' T - ~" --— 3 i lubrication or object movement. Lubricating object injector 34 has an end opening 38. In FIG. 12, lubricating cream 49 has been placed near the top of shaft 36. The lubricating cream 49 can be simply placed within the shaft 36 or could be contained within a breakable packet, if desired. The lubricating cream 49 rests on a lubricating cream retaining membrane 50. Below lubricating cream retaining membrane 50, a suppository or object 40 is placed in the shaft 36. The lubricating cream 49 and the object 48 are in the interior 49 of the body shaft 36. An injecting-lubricating plunger 41 may be pressed against the object 48 to press the object 48 through the lubricating cream retaining membrane 50, in order to force the lubricating cream 49 from the lubricating object injector 34. In use, sheath 40 is removed. Body 35 has a plurality of lubricating openings 51. The injecting- lubricating plunger 41 is pressed forward, pushing the object 48 through the lubricating cream retaining membrane 50. The lubricating cream 49 is then forced out of the plurality of lubricating openings 51 and in front of object 48 as it emerges from the end opening 38 of body 35. The outer portion of the shaft 36 is, thereby, lubricated for easy movement into the orifice of a body. Lubrication is also present on the suppository or object 48. The injecting-lubricating plunger 41 has a plunger shaft 42 and a head 43. Head 43 has a pressing area 44. The injecting-lubricating plunger 41 has an object seat 47 on the end of injecting-lubricating plunger 41. The plunger shaft 42 may have a tapered end portion 65 which aids in projecting the lubricating cream 49 upward and outward as the injecting-lubricating plunger 41 passes through the area where the lubricating cream 49 is stored. Plunger shaft 42 has a retaining ridge 45 which, in conjunction with pressure ridge 46 on the interior surface 39, enables the injecting-lubricating plunger 41 to be held removably within the body 35 of lubricating object injector 34. FIG. 13 is an isometric elevational view of lubricating object injector 34. As can be seen, the plurality of lubricating openings 51 extends from the interior portion of the shaft 36 of body 35 to the outer portion. The lubricating object injector 34 may be re-usable or disposable. The portion closest to the end 38 of shaft 36 may be tapered, such as tapered end portion 103, in order to aid in the easy entry of lubricating object injector 34 into the orifice of a body. A tapered end portion 103 is shown which may have openings therein. FIG. 14 is an isometric elevational view of lubricating object injector 52. Lubricating object injector 52 can be loaded from the side. The lubricating OMPI EET W r I u PO vm object injector 52 has a body 53 with a shaft 54 and a gripping area 55. Lubricating object injector 52 has an injecting-lubricating plunger 56 with a shaft 57 and a head 58. Body 53 has a pluralilty of lubricating openings 59. Body 53 has an end opening 60. Body 53 has an object compartment 63. Object compartment 63 has a cover 61 which may open to allow the object 62 to be placed within body 53. Shaft 57 of injecting-lubricating plunger 56 may have any shaped end, such as tapered end portion 64. Lubricating object injector 34 in FIGS. 12 and 13, and lubricating object injector 52 in FIG. 14 are similar in function and use. In lubricating object injector 34, the lubricating cream 49 is shown pre-placed within the lubricating object injector 34. The same can be done with lubricating object injector 52. In lubricating object injector 34, the pre-placed lubricating cream 49 will not flow from the plurality of lubricating openings 51 because of sheath 40, and by the basic nature of the lubricating cream 49. The sheath 40 may be a plastic, molded piece or could simply be ' any removable covering for the plurality of lubricating openings 51 and end opening 38. The purpose of the sheath 40 is to aid in sanitation, cleanliness, and for packaging purposes. Lubricating object injector 34 could be a completely pre-packaged, re-usable, or disposable lubricating object injector. Lubricating object injector 52 could be packaged similarly for the lubricating function. In lubricating object injector 52, the compartment cover 61 may fit smoothly onto the body 53 and may be pivoted or friction- fit over the object 62. The exterior of body 53 will remain smooth so that there will be no interference with the functions of the lubricating object injector 52. Lubricating object injector 34 may have the object 48 pre-packaged therein or may have the object 48 placed in through the bottom of the lubricating object injector 34, with the injecting-lubricating plunger 41 removed and then replaced after the object 48 is within the shaft 36. FIGS. 15 - 19 illlustrate basically the principles of the utilization of the lubrication means and the object movement means using only one plunger. Basically, the lubricating cream can be placed within the shaft by any desired means, or can be pre-placed within the shaft. The object can be placed into the shaft by any means, or could be pre-placed within the shaft. FIG. 15 is an exploded sectional view of lubricating object injector 66. Lubricating object injector 66 has a body 67 with a shaft 68. Shaft 68 has a plurality of openings 69 and an end opening 70. The body 67 has a gripping area 79 with a sloped portion 78. SUBSTITUTE SHEET — A lubricating cream retaining membrane 72 holds lubricating cream 73 from flowing down the shaft 68 to the object 74. The sheath 71 is similar to sheath 40, previously discussed. Body 67 has an interior cavity 75 within which the object 74 and the lubricating cream 73 is placed. The object 74 is held between object retaining membrane 76 and lubricating cream retaining membrane 72. The lubricating object injector 66 has an injecting-lubricating plunger 80. Injecting-lubricating plunger 80 has a shaft 81 with a head 86. The injecting-lubricating plunger 80 may have a shaped object seat 84 in the end section 85 of injecting-lubricating plunger 80. Shaft 81 may have a retaining ridge 82 which works in conjunction with retaining ridge 77 on the interior surface of body 67 to secure the injecting-lubricating plunger 80 within the body 67, when desired. The injecting-lubricating plunger 80 has a sloped portion, such as tapered end portion 83, near the end of shaft 81 in order to help project the lubricating cream 73 upward and outward when the lubricating object injector 66 is utilized. ' In use, the lubricating object injector 66 may be pre-packaged. By use of the retaining ridge 77 and retaining ridge 82, or by any other desired means, the injecting-lubricating plunger 80 may be placed into the body 67 of lubricating object injector 66. The object 74 and the lubricating cream 73 may be pre-packaged within the lubricating object injector 66. In use, the injecting-lubricating plunger 80 is pressed forward, breaking the object retaining membrane 76 and pushing the object 84 through the lubricating cream retaining membrane 72. The sheath 71 is previously removed. When the object 74 presses through the lubricating cream 73, cream 73 is forced out of the plurality of openings 71 and lubricates the exterior of the shaft 68. The injecting-lubricating plunger 80 then presses forward to move the object 84 out of the end opening 70 of body 67 and into a desired area. FIG. 16 is a sectional view of lubricating object injector 87. Lubricating object injector 87 works in principle as the previously-discussed lubricating object injectors 34, 52 and 66. In lubricating object injector 87, the object or suppository 96 may be simply dropped into the shaft 104. Body 88 has a plurality of lubricating openings 89 and an end opening 90. The object 96 is dropped in through end opening 90. Body 88 has a gripping area 92 with a sloped portion 91 for easy movement and removal of the lubricating object injector 87. The lubricating cream 95 may be placed on top of the object 96 by any desired means. Illustrated in FIG. 16 is a cream tube 94 with a dispensing T ~~~~- tip 93. The dispensing tip 93 is placed near the top of the object 96 and is moved higher as the lubricating cream 95 is dispensed. Due to the nature of the lubricating cream 95, very little or no lubricating cream 95 will be lost through the pluralilty of openings 89 until the desired time of use. Lubricating object injector 87 has an injecting-lubricating plunger 97 with a shaft 98 and a head 99. Injecting-lubricating plunger 97 may have a tapered end portion, such as tapered end portion 100, near the end section 105 of injecting-lubricating plunger 97. A suppository or object seat 106 may be located in the end section 105. In use, the injecting-lubricating plunger 97 is pressed forward, pressing the object 96 through the lubricating cream 95. The lubricating cream 95 will begin exiting the open shaft 104 through the plurality of openings 89. As the object 96 is pressed closer to the end opening 90, the lubricating cream 95 will exit from the plurality of openings 8-p and the end opening 90. FIG. 17 is an elevational view of lubricating object injector 87 with the injecting-lubricating plunger 97 partially pressed and lubricating cream 95 flowing from the body 88 of lubricating object injector 87. The lubricating cream 95 which has exited through the plurality of openings 89, will lubricate the external portion of body 88. The lubricating cream 95 emerging through the end opening 90 will lubricate the forward area through which the object 96 will pass. Tapered end portion 107 may also have a plurality of openings 108 through which lubricating cream 95 may exit. FIG. 18 is an elevational view of lubricating object injector 87 Inserted in an orifice 101 of a body. The lubricating object injector 87 has had the injeeting-lubricating plunger 97 pressed forward and the upper external portion of body 88 has been lubricated. The lubrication of the external portion of body 88 enables an easy entrance into the orifice 101 for the object 96. FIG. 19 is an elevational view of lubricating object injector 87 within orifice 101 of a body, with the injecting-lubricating plunger 97 pressed forward to lubricate the orifice 101 and to move object 96 into the inner area of orifice 101. The injecting-lubricating plunger 97 has been pressed forward to lubricate the orifice 101 and to move the object 96 into the interior area of the orifice 101. Lubricating object injector 87 may be utilized for any desired orifice of the body utilizing any desired lubricating substance. Therefore, the various forms of the lubricating object injectors utilizing one plunger can perform the function of lubricating the external portion of the injectors, as well as forcing the desired object out of the injector and into the desired orifice. ~ t mi.t t _ OMPI c-- ' t-- . . i G-- --r-"τ As previously noted, the lubricating substance may be a form of medication. The object to be moved and the lubricating substance utilized may be placed within the injector in any manner. The injector may be made in any shape or size, including shapes and sizes to be used in the rectal cavity and in the vaginal area of the body. The present invention provides a device which can place a suppository and a lubricating substance into a body cavity without the user ever having touched the suppository or lubricant. The device provides a method and device for a compartment within the device to be filled with a lubricating substance and for that substance to be propelled from the device at a desired time by a lubricating plunger. The device also provides for the lubricating substance to be retained within the compartment at the time the lubricating substance is placed into the compartment and prior, to utilizing the lubricating substance. The device will provide lubricating means to lubricate external and internal hemorrhoids and the anal cavity wall when placing a supository into the anal cavity. A lubricating suppository applicator is provided which is re-usable and comes apart for cleaning and placing new lubricating substance within the device. The lubricating suppository applicator comprises a body through which a lubricating plunger can force a lubricating substance out from the body prior to a suppository plunger propelling a suppository through the same body. A suppository shaft is provided, within a suppository applicator, which extends from one end of the applicator body to the other end, within which a suppository can be placed and through which a suppository can be propelled to be placed at a desired location. A suppository seat is provided on the end of a suppository plunger to hold and project a suppository completely through the body of a suppository applicator. The invention provides a device and method for keeping the lubricating plunger shaft in a lubricating suppository applicator secured within the body of the lubricating suppository applicator, when desired. A tapered end portion on a lubricating plunger is also provided in order to fit within the tapered end portion of the body of a lubricating suppository applicator in order to be able to force a lubricating substance out from the openings in the tapered end portion of the lubricating suppository applicator. The lubricating suppository applicator also can be provided with a tapered end portion for easier access into a body cavity. The present invention enables a suppository to be placed into a body cavity without touching the suppository. The applicator in the present invention can utilize present-day packaging of suppositories to pull apart the outside OMFI Λr-i * Vv'IPO packaging and push the suppository into the suppository shaft within the body of the present applicator. The plunger of the present applicator can then push the suppository to a position within the shaft of the applicator prior to being pushed out of the other end of the applicator at the desired time. The applicator may be externally lubricated or the applicator may have an internal lubrication system in which a lubricating substance is stored within the applicator. The lubricating substance will be pressed out of the body of the applicator at a desired time when the applicator is placed in a desired location. The applicator discussed herein can aid in having those persons, who do not wish to manually place a suppository in position or to manually handle a suppository or lubricating substance, to avoid that task. Many methods will be utilized to place the lubricating substance within the applicator. Various shapes and sizes of applicators will be utilized using the principles of the method and device discussed herein. The method of storing a lubricating substance within an applicator and applying the lubricating substance at a desired time is encompassed by the present invention. The applicator is shown in the specification to be re-usable. It can, however, be manufactured as a disposable unit, if desired. The lubricating substance may be any lubricating substance desired, such as K-Y Jelly, or other sterile lubricant. The lubricating substance may also be a cream, liquid, or ointment medicinal lubricant, which would have the additional feature of medically treating the interior anal cavity walls through which the applicator would pass, in order to place the suppository within the anal cavity of the body. External hemorrhoids, which might not receive the desired benefit from a suppository, could be treated by a flowable medicinal substance which could flow through the openings of the body of the applicator. This additional medicinal feature would enable the hemorrhoidal problem to be attacked by a variety of medications. When using the applicator vaginally, a sterile lubricant would probably be most desirable for use in the lubricating suppository applicator. However, other medicines could be utilized if medically advisable. The applicator discussed herein could be utilized, not only by humans, but for the treatment of animals in veterinary medicine. The suppository, contemplated for use with the device and defined in the specification and appended claims, could be a suppository utilized for any purpose in any orifice of a body and would include any type of object with mass which might be inserted or injected into an orifice of a body. Suppositories for anal use for hemorrhoids or other problems are within the scope of this xY-rm------ ( OM?i ' -W **' ^~ ~~ - ~ invention. Any object, such as a tampon or a birth control means, injected or placed into the vaginal area could be utilized in the manner as illustrated herein. The applicator body may be any type of body in which a lubricating plunger may be placed and through which an object plunger may pass. The applicator body, discussed in detail herein, has a shaft extending from a first open end to a second open end. A compartment surrounds the shaft. The lubricating plunger is securable to the applicator body and is sized and shaped to fit within the compartment. The object plunger is sized and shaped to fit within the shaft. Other configurations of an applicator body might be utilized and be within the scope of the present invention and the appended claims. The compartment may be considered a chamber or a compartment within which the lubricating cream or cream packet may be stored. While the invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments, the description is illustr.ative and is not to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention. " Various modifications and changes may occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims: 1. A device for placing an object into a body cavity comprising: a. an applicator body; b. lubricating means moveably secured within said applicator body; and c. movement means, moveably secured within said applicator body, sized and shaped to fit within said applicator body, wherein said movement means may move said object out of said applicator body when said device is utilized, whereby when said device is placed within said body cavity, said object may be moved into said body cavity. 2. A device for placing a suppository into a body cavity comprising: a. an applicator body with a shaft; b. a compartment surrounding said shaft; c. lubricating means moveably secured to said applicator body, sized and shaped to fit within said compartment; and d. movement means, sized and shaped to fit within said shaft, wherein said movement means may push said suppository from said applicator body when said device is utilized, whereby when said device is placed within said body cavity, said suppository may be pushed into said body cavity. 3. A device according to claim 1 or claim 2 wherein said lubricating means and said movement means comprise a single plunger. 4. A device according to claim 1 or claim 2 wherein said lubricating means comprises a lubricating plunger and said movement means comprises an object plunger. 5. A device according to claims 1, 2, 3 and 4 wherein said applicator body comprises an elongated body with a plurality of first openings in said elongated body which are open to said applicator body and to the exterior of said elongated body and to the exterior of said elongated body. 6. A device according to claim 5 further comprising a lubricating substance placed in said applicator body operative to flow from said applicator body, through said plurality of first openings, to said exterior of said elongated body, when said lubricating means is placed within said applicator body. e ., , B -- i -.«-,.«,, ,- ^ r- ^^j -.^.--. __OM?I ~ * 7. A device according to claim 6 wherein said lubricating substance is stored within a packet. 8. A device according to claim 5 wherein said applicator body further comprises a tapered end portion connected to said elongated body. 9. A device according to claim 8 further comprising a plurality of second openings in said tapered end portion of said applicator body which are open to the exterior of said tapered end portion of said applicator body. 10. A device according to claim 9 wherein said lubricating substance stored in said applicator body is operative to flow from said applicator body, through said plurality of first openings to said exterior of said elongated body, ■ and through said plurality of second openings to said exterior of said tapered end portion, when said lubricating means is placed within said applicator body. 11. A device according to claim 9 wherein said lubricating means comprises a lubrication plunger shaft controlled by a lubrication plunger control means and a tapered lubrication end portion connected to said lubrication plunger shaft, whereby when said lubricating means is placed within said applicator body, said tapered lubrication end portion is placed within said tapered end portion of said applicator body. 12. A device according to claim 11 wherein said applicator body further comprises an open retainer cap portion, comprising a stop surface, securable to said elongated body through which said lubricating means and said movement means may pass, said lubricating means further comprising a stop secured onto said tapered lubrication end portion, whereby said open retainer cap portion is held loosely within said lubricating means, whereby when said open retainer cap portion is secured to said applicator body, said lubricating means is loosely connected to said elongated body. 13. A device according to claims 1, 2, 3 and 4 wherein said movement means comprises an object plunger shaft, an object seat shaped to effectively move said object on one end of said object shaft, and an object plunger control means secured to the other end of said object plunger shaft. 14. A device according to claim 5 further comprising a sheath, sized and shaped to fit over said applicator body, covering said plurality of first openings in said elongated body and securable to said applicator body. 15. A device according to claim 9 further comprising a sheath, sized and shaped to fit over said applicator body, covering said plurality of first openings in said elongated body and said plurality of second openings in said tapered end portion and securable to said applicator body. 16. A device according to claim 5 wherein said applicator body further comprises a gripping area secured to the end of said elongated body operative to aid in holding and utilizing said device. . 17. A device according to claim 16 further comprising an open retainer cap portion securable to said gripping area through whicl said lubricating means and said movement means may pass. 18. A device according to claim 6 wherein said lubricating substance is a medicinal lubricant for treating health problems within said body cavity. 19. A device according to claim 5 or claim 9 further comprising a retaining cap securable to the bottom of said applicator body to retain said lubricating substance within said applicator body, when said applicator body contains said lubricating substance. 20. A device according to claim 19 further comprising a sheath, sized and shaped to fit over said applicator body, covering said plurality of first openings in said elongated body and securable to said applicator body, whereby when said applicator body contains said lubricating substance, said sheath will prevent said lubricating substance from passing through said plurality of first openings and said retaining cap will prevent said lubricating substance from escaping through said bottom of said applicator body. 21. A device according to claims 1, 3 or 4 wherein said applicator body further comprises a first storage compartment within which said lubricating substance may be stored. SUBSTITUTE SHE 22. A device according to claim 21 further comprising a lubri¬ cation retaining membrane within said applicator body, operative to help form said first storage compartment and to keep said lubricating substance from flowing elsewhere in said applicator body. 23. A device according to claim 22 further comprising a second storage compartment within which said object may be stored within said applicator body prior to being placed into said body cavity by said single plunger. 24. A device according to claim 23 further comprising an object retaining membrane which, along with said lubrication retaining membrane and the inner walls of said applicator body, comprises said second storage compartment. 25. A method for placing an object into a body cavity comprising: a. placing said object into a device comprising: (1) an applicator body; (2) lubricating means moveably secured within said applicator body; (3) movement means moveably secured within said applicator body, sized and shaped to fit within said applicator body, wherein said movement means may move said object out of said applicator body when said device is utilized; b. placing said device into said body cavity; c. pressing said lubricating means as said device enters said body cavity, thereby lubricating the external portion of said applicator body; and d. pushing said movement means, thereby pushing said object through said device and into said body cavity. 26. A method according to claim 25 wherein said lubricating means and said movement means comprise a single plunger. 27. A method according to claim 25 or 26 further comprising placing said object into said device through the top of said applicator body. 28. A method according to claim 25 or 26 further comprising placing said object into said device through the bottom of said applicator body. 29. A method according to claim 25 or 26 further comprising placing said object into said device through the side of said applicator body. 30. A method according to claim 27, 28 or 29 further comprising placing a lubricating substance above said object within said applicator body, whereby when said single plunger is pushed, said object passes through said lubricating substance, forcing said lubricating substance out of said applicator body. ► ! t "

Inventors: KLINE LARRY HAROLD, KLINE, LARRY, HAROLD
Applicants: KLINE LARRY HAROLD, KLINE, LARRY, HAROLD
Application year: 1982
Main classification: A61M31
IPC codes: A61M31