Patent Description:
A wide range of infant feeding assemblies are known so as to provide parents and carers with the means to feed babies and infants. Assemblies include a container or bottle for holding the liquid, typically milk such as expressed breast milk or formula. A nipple, also known as a teat, is mounted to the container to enable the infant to suckle the liquid from the container. Such infant feeding assemblies are designed to be used by infants aged two years or younger, and may commonly be used by even new-born infants. Hygienic preparation of both the liquid as well as the infant feeding assemblies themselves is therefore essential.

A common technique to ensure adequate hygiene of the assemblies is to sterilise the components using steam. Providing direct contact of steam with the surfaces of the components for a sufficient period of time, perhaps several minutes or more, ensures effective sterilisation of their exposed surfaces.

Steam may be generated by loading the components into a larger vessel with a small amount of water. A heating element within the vessel may be activated so as to heat the water and generate steam which circulates within the vessel. Alternatively, vessels without a heating element may be placed in a microwave oven which is operated to provide microwave energy to heat the water and generate steam. Regardless of how it is generated, steam in the vessel contacts and sterilises the exposed surfaces of the components loaded within.

One drawback of known apparatus is that, once sterilised, components of an infant feeding assembly must be removed from the sterilising vessel before use. Removing the components from the sterilising vessel risks contamination from exposure to the open air. A further problem is that sterilised components must be manually reassembled, requiring the user to hold the components and risking inadvertent contamination of the sterilised surfaces. In either case, the user cannot reliably ensure avoidance of contamination and may proceed to feed an infant from a non-hygienic assembly.

A further problem is that sterilising dissembled components requires the use of an additional vessel, necessitating use of supplementary equipment. Also, the additional vessel will have a larger, sometimes significantly larger, volume than the infant feeding assembly. Thus, sterilisation requires generating excess steam in order to circulate steam within the whole volume of the vessel and ensure contact with all exposed surfaces. Sterilisation of individual infant feeding assemblies is known but the apparatus still requires reassembly post-sterilisation, thereby introducing the risk of contamination as set out above.

Accordingly, it would be useful to provide an infant feeding assembly which may be sterilised in a fully, or a substantially fully, assembled format. In particular, it would be useful to provide an assembly which ensures that sterilised surfaces are not contactable or otherwise exposed to contamination before the assembly is used to feed an infant. Yet further, it would be useful to provide an assembly which allows the user to reliably sterilise and then store a hygienic infant feeding assembly with reduced risk of contamination.

Further, it would also be useful to provide an infant feeding assembly and a method of sterilising the assembly which provides efficient steam sterilisation. In particular, it would be useful to provide an assembly which requires a reduced volume of steam to effectively provide a hygienic infant feeding assembly. It would also be useful to provide an assembly which is suitable for more efficient microwave steam sterilisation, that is, provide an assembly which can be sterilised using reduced electrical power or in a shorter period of time.

According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided an infant feeding assembly, the assembly including:.

According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a collar for an infant feeding assembly, the collar including:.

Aptly, the fluid flow path is selectively closable.

Aptly, the assembly is adapted to be selectively moveable relative to the container between a first position, in which the fluid flow path is open, and a second position, in which the fluid flow path is closed.

Aptly, when the assembly is in the second position, the assembly sealingly engages the mouth of the container. More aptly, when the assembly is in the second position, the nipple, typically a sealing flange of the nipple, sealingly engages the mouth of the container.

Aptly, when the infant feeding assembly includes a vent assembly.

More aptly, the vent assembly is mounted to the mouth of the container so that, in the second position, the nipple sealingly engages with the vent assembly. Typically, a sealing flange of the nipple engages with the vent assembly. That is, in the second position the nipple, typically a sealing flange of the nipple, urges a vent assembly into sealing engagement with the mouth of the container. The mouth of the container is thereby sealed by the vent assembly sandwiched between the nipple and the mouth by the securing member.

Aptly, wherein a portion of the fluid flow path is formed in at least one of the securing member and the nipple.

Aptly, a portion of the fluid flow path is provided as a channel along a surface of at least one of the securing member or the nipple.

Aptly, a portion of the fluid flow path is provided as a conduit extending though at least one of the securing member or the nipple.

Aptly, a portion of the fluid flow path is provided at an interface of the securing member and the nipple.

Aptly, the surface includes an opening forming an outlet to the fluid flow path.

Aptly, the opening is an elongated slot.

Aptly, the opening includes a plurality of openings arranged around the surface, the plurality of openings forming a plurality of outlets to the fluid flow path.

Aptly, the securing member includes a screw thread adapted to matingly engage a corresponding screw thread on the container.

Aptly, the infant feeding assembly further includes an infant nipple.

Aptly, the infant feeding assembly further includes a cover.

Aptly, the cover comprises an internal recess, the internal recess defining a volume sufficient to receive at least a nipple of an infant feeding assembly.

Aptly, when the cover is mounted to the cover contacting portion, the fluid flow path of the assembly is fluidly connected to the internal recess.

Aptly, the nipple includes a feeding fluid flow path, wherein the feeding fluid flow path is provided through the nipple, and is configured to enable an infant to feed from the infant feeding assembly. Optionally, the feeding fluid path is closed when the cover is mounted to the cover contacting portion. That is, an inner surface element in the internal recess of the cover sealingly engages and closes the feeding fluid flow path when the cover is mounted within the assembly.

Aptly, the nipple is integrally formed with the securing member.

Aptly, the infant feeding assembly further includes a container mounted to the securing member.

According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of sterilising an infant feeding assembly wherein the method includes the steps of:.

Aptly, the method includes a further step of generating steam for a predetermined time interval and then selectively closing the fluid flow path.

Aptly, the step of closing the fluid flow path includes moving the infant feeding assembly relative to the container from a first position, in which the fluid flow path is open to a second position, in which the fluid flow path is closed.

Aptly, the step of closing the fluid flow path further includes the securing member urging the nipple into sealing engagement with the mouth of the container.

According to a yet further aspect of the invention, there is provided a method including the steps of:.

Aptly, a method includes arranging a vent assembly in the mouth of the container. In such a method the step of closing the fluid flow path further includes the securing member urging the nipple, typically a sealing flange of the nipple, into sealing engagement with the vent assembly. That is, closing the fluid flow path includes moving the securing member to sandwich the vent assembly between the nipple and the mouth of the container.

Certain examples provide an infant feeding assembly which may be sterilised and then stored or used without exposure to possible contamination.

Certain examples provide an infant feeding assembly which is sterilisable without requiring reassembly of component parts. Particularly, the assembly may be sterilised in a fully, or a substantially fully, assembled format.

Certain examples provide an infant feeding assembly that may be sterilised in a format which allows the user to seal the assembly from contamination. Additionally, certain examples provide a convenient way to store an infant feeding assembly in a sealed hygienic state.

Certain examples provide an infant feeding assembly which may be more efficiently sterilised. Additionally, an assembly may be sterilised using a reduced volume of water, or without providing excessive steam.

Certain examples provide an infant feeding assembly which can be sterilised without additional equipment.

Embodiments of the invention are now described, by way of example only, hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:.

In the drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts.

Certain terminology is used in the following description for convenience only and is not limiting. The words 'inner' and 'outer' refer to directions toward and away from, respectively, a designated centreline or a geometric centre of an element being described (e.g. central axis), the particular meaning being readily apparent from the context of the description.

Further, as used herein, the terms 'attached', 'coupled', 'mounted' are intended to include direct connections between two members without any other members interposed therebetween, as well as, indirect connections between members in which one or more other members are interposed therebetween.

Referring now to <FIG>) and b) there is shown infant feeding assembly <NUM> of a general configuration as known in the prior art. The assembly includes a container <NUM>, in this case an infant feeding bottle. The assembly includes a securing member <NUM> and a nipple <NUM> mounted thereto so that the teat portion <NUM> of the nipple <NUM> is arranged to project away from the securing member <NUM>. The securing member <NUM> is annular with a central orifice extending therethrough to which the nipple <NUM> is mounted.

The securing member <NUM> is adapted for selectively mounting a cover <NUM> of the infant feeding assembly <NUM>.

The securing member <NUM> is engaged with a container <NUM> so as to mount the nipple <NUM> to the mouth of the container <NUM>. The securing member <NUM> is removable engaged with the container <NUM> so that, in use, a user may remove or demount the container <NUM> from the infant feeding assembly <NUM> and pour liquid inside ready for feeding to an infant.

The teat <NUM> is suitably shaped so to be comfortably received in an infant's mouth and includes an opening provided through the teat portion <NUM> which dispenses liquid during feeding.

In the example shown in <FIG>) the infant feeding assembly <NUM> must be dissembled for cleaning and sterilisation. Thus, each of the container <NUM>, nipple <NUM>, securing member <NUM> and cover <NUM> are separately loaded into a sterilising vessel, for example using sterilisation methods described above, so as to sterilise their exposed surfaces. Consequently, this infant feeding assembly <NUM> suffers from the drawbacks and problems noted above.

Referring now to <FIG>) there is shown a securing member <NUM> of an infant feeding assembly for mounting an infant feeding nipple to a mouth of a container.

The securing member <NUM> of the assembly includes a surface <NUM> with a cover contacting portion <NUM> for selectively mounting a cover to the assembly. That is the cover contacting portion <NUM> is adapted to cooperate with a portion of the cover so as to removably mount the cover to the assembly securing member <NUM>.

The securing member <NUM> of the assembly further includes a fluid flow path configured such that, when the securing member <NUM> mounts the infant feeding nipple to the container in use, the container is fluidly connected to the surface <NUM>. That is, the assembly provides fluid flow path so that, during sterilisation, a fluid circulating within the container, for example steam, is able to escape from inside the container.

In this way, the steam generated in the container is available not only to contact and sterilise the exposed inner surfaces of the container and the infant feeding assembly, but also is able to contact and sterilise surfaces outside the container.

The fluid flow path is formed in the securing member <NUM>. In particular, the fluid flow path is formed as a conduit extending through the securing member <NUM>. That is a conduit is formed through the securing member <NUM> so as to provide a fluid connection between an inner surface portion <NUM> and the surface <NUM>, that is the surface <NUM> including the cover contacting portion <NUM>.

The conduit <NUM> extends radially from the inner surface portion <NUM> to the surface <NUM>. That is, the conduit <NUM> extends radially outward from the inner surface portion <NUM> to the surface <NUM>.

In the example shown, the surface <NUM> includes an opening 135a which forms an outlet to the fluid flow path. The opening 135a is formed as an elongated slot. The elongated slot is arranged to extend circumferentially around the surface <NUM> of the securing member <NUM>.

The opening 135a is provided as one of a plurality of openings 135a-d arranged around the surface <NUM>. The example shown in <FIG> includes a first pair of slots 135a, 135b and a second pair of slots 135c, 135d. The first pair of slots 135a, 135b is spaced from the second pair of slots 135c, 135d. That is the first pair of slots 135a, 135b is arranged in an opposing orientation to the second pair of slots 135c, 135d on the surface <NUM>.

Each opening 135a-d forms an outlet to the fluid flow path. In this way, the fluid flow path includes outlets spaced around the securing member <NUM>. By providing spaced outlets, the assembly may more evenly distribute steam from the container around the securing member <NUM>.

The securing member <NUM> includes a radial projection <NUM> adapted to matingly engage with a nipple <NUM>. In the example shown, the radial projection <NUM> is annular and extends radially inward from the inner surface portion <NUM>. In this way, the radial projection <NUM> is adapted to be received by a corresponding annular recess in the nipple <NUM> to matingly engage therein.

The radial projection <NUM> includes a support surface <NUM>. The support surface <NUM> is angled so that, when the securing member <NUM> is mounted to a container then the support surface <NUM> faces away from the container. In this way, the support surface <NUM> is angled upwards to support the nipple <NUM> mounted to the securing member <NUM>.

The securing member <NUM> includes a screw thread <NUM>. The screw thread <NUM> is adapted to matingly engage a corresponding screw thread on the container. In this way, the screw threads provide an engagement means to mount the securing member <NUM> to the container. The securing member <NUM> is thereby removably mountable to the container. Thus, the infant feeding assembly includes a removably mountable container.

In the example shown, the screw thread <NUM> is provided proximal to the inner surface portion <NUM>. However, the screw thread <NUM>, or indeed any other suitable engagement means for mounting the infant feeding assembly to a container, is not limited to this position and may be provided any suitable arrangement on the infant feeding assembly.

The fluid flow path is provided as a conduit on the inner surface portion <NUM>. That is, the fluid flow path is configured so to extend from the inner surface portion <NUM>. The fluid flow path is configured to extend from a position on the infant feeding assembly proximal to the engagement means for mounting the infant feeding assembly to a container.

Referring now to <FIG> there is shown an infant feeding assembly <NUM> including the securing member <NUM> as described with reference to <FIG>. The securing member <NUM> is mounted to a container <NUM> so that the teat portion of the nipple <NUM> is arranged to project away from the container <NUM>.

With the nipple <NUM> mounted to the securing member <NUM>, the surface <NUM> of the securing member <NUM> is provided radially outward from the nipple <NUM>. The surface <NUM> is provided between the nipple <NUM> and the container <NUM>. In this way, the opening 135a is provided radially outward from the nipple <NUM>. That is, an outlet to the fluid flow path is provided radially outward from the nipple <NUM>. Stated alternatively, the opening 135a is provided between the nipple <NUM> and the container <NUM>. That is, an outlet of the fluid flow path is provided between the nipple <NUM> and container <NUM>.

The nipple <NUM> includes an aperture extending through the wall of the nipple <NUM>. The aperture is provided in the teat portion <NUM> of the nipple <NUM> so as to be located within an infant's mouth as they feed from the infant feeding assembly <NUM>. The nipple <NUM> thereby includes a feeding fluid flow path, configured to enable an infant to feed from the infant feeding assembly <NUM>.

The feeding fluid flow path may be provided by a single aperture or plurality of apertures extending through the wall of the nipple <NUM>. The aperture, or apertures, may be sized so as to provide an appropriate flow rate of liquid out of the nipple <NUM> during feeding. In other words, the flow rate of liquid out of the nipple <NUM> may be selected according to the needs of the infant.

The nipple <NUM> is removably mounted to the securing member <NUM>. That is, the nipple <NUM> is provided as a separate part which can be mounted and demounted to the securing member <NUM> by the user.

Alternatively, the nipple may be integrally formed with the securing member. That is, the nipple and securing member are formed as a unitary part so that the number of component parts of the infant feeding assembly <NUM> are reduced.

Also shown in <FIG> is a cover <NUM> demounted from the securing member <NUM>. The cover <NUM> includes an internal recess <NUM>. The internal recess <NUM> defines a volume sufficient to receive the nipple <NUM> of the infant feeding assembly <NUM>. In this way, when the cover <NUM> is mounted to the cover contacting portion <NUM> of the securing member <NUM> the cover <NUM> encloses the nipple <NUM>.

The cover <NUM> is mounted to the cover contacting portion <NUM> by moving the cover <NUM> toward the assembly as shown by the arrow B. An engaging portion of the cover <NUM> provided proximal to perimeter of the internal recess <NUM> engages the cover contacting portion <NUM>. In this way the cover <NUM> is mounted to the securing member <NUM> by engagement between the engaging portion and the cover contacting portion <NUM>. In the example shown, the cover <NUM> is mounted to the securing member <NUM> by an interference fit.

Referring now to <FIG>, there is shown a cross-sectional view of infant feeding assembly <NUM> of <FIG> with its cover <NUM> mounted to the securing member <NUM>. The assembly is shown in a first position. Thus, the securing member <NUM> is arranged to mount the infant feeding nipple <NUM> to the mouth <NUM> of the container <NUM> so that a fluid flow path is provided between the container <NUM> and the surface <NUM>.

The cover <NUM> of the infant feeding assembly <NUM> is mounted to the cover contacting portion <NUM> so that the cover <NUM> encloses openings 135a-d provided on the surface <NUM>. The cover <NUM> encloses the openings 135a-d without blocking the fluid flow path. In this way, with the cover <NUM> mounted to the securing member <NUM>, a fluid flow path is provided from the mouth <NUM> of the container <NUM> to the internal recess <NUM> of the cover <NUM>. The mouth <NUM> of the container <NUM> is thus fluidly connected to the internal recess <NUM> of the cover <NUM>.

The cover <NUM> may be mounted to the securing member <NUM> with a substantially fluid-tight seal. The cover <NUM> may be mounted to the securing member <NUM> so as to require a predetermined disengagement force. In these ways the cover <NUM> engaged with the securing member <NUM> so as to withstand increased temperatures provided by steam circulating in the cover <NUM>.

Also shown in <FIG>, the radial projection <NUM> of the securing member <NUM> is matingly engaged in an annular recess of the nipple <NUM>. The annular recess is also known as an undercut.

The annular recess separates a sealing flange <NUM> of the nipple <NUM> from a nipple base portion <NUM>. With the securing member <NUM> mounted to the nipple <NUM>, the support surface <NUM> engages the nipple base portion <NUM>. The support surface <NUM> thereby conveniently provides structural rigidity to the nipple base portion <NUM>, even where the nipple is moulded from a relatively pliable, or deformable material.

In the first position, as shown in <FIG>, the assembly is ready for use. That is the assembly is ready for sterilising by steam generated within its container <NUM>.

To sterilise the infant feeding assembly <NUM>, a user deposits an amount of water in the container <NUM> sufficient to generate enough steam to sterilise all exposed surfaces of the infant feeding assembly <NUM>. The container <NUM> is mounted within the assembly <NUM> in the first position and placed in a microwave oven which is operated to heat the water and generate steam within the container <NUM>.

The generated steam circulates within the container <NUM> and the internal cavity of the nipple <NUM>, as indicated by arrow S1. In this way, the steam sterilises all exposed internal surfaces of the assembly, that is internal surfaces of the securing member <NUM>, nipple <NUM> and container <NUM>. Thus, the steam sterilises the surfaces of the infant feeding assembly <NUM> which are contactable by liquid stored or deposited in the assembly <NUM> prior to feeding.

The generated steam is conveyed by the fluid flow path from the container <NUM> to the internal recess <NUM> of the cover <NUM>, as indicated by arrows S2. The steam circulates within the internal recess <NUM>. In this way, the steam sterilises exposed external surfaces of the nipple <NUM> and securing member <NUM>. Thus, the steam sterilises the surfaces of the infant feeding assembly <NUM> which are contactable by the infant's mouth during feeding.

The steam also sterilises the inner surface of the cover <NUM>, thereby ensuring the nipple <NUM> may be held in a sterile recess <NUM> for as long as the cover <NUM> remains mounted to the cover contacting portion <NUM>.

The microwave oven is operated to generate steam for several minutes, for example in the range <NUM> to <NUM> minutes. The prolonged contact of the steam with surfaces provides effective sterilisation of all critical surfaces of the infant feeding assembly <NUM> and the container <NUM>.

When operation of the microwave oven ceases, the infant feeding assembly <NUM> may be allowed to cool until easily handled by a user.

The fluid flow path in the infant feeding assembly <NUM> is selectively closable. That is the fluid flow path may be closed so as to fluidly isolate the container <NUM> from the surface <NUM>. The container <NUM> may be selectively fluidly isolated from the internal recess <NUM> of the cover <NUM>.

The infant feeding assembly <NUM> is adapted to be selectively moveable relative to the container <NUM> between the first position, in which the fluid flow path is open, and a second position, in which the fluid flow path is closed.

In particular, the infant feeding assembly <NUM> is rotatable relative to its container <NUM> due to the mating screw threads. Consequently, rotation of the infant feeding assembly <NUM> relative to its container <NUM> moves the infant feeding assembly <NUM> axially relative to container <NUM>. In this way, rotation of the infant feeding assembly <NUM> in a first direction moves the infant feeding assembly to the second position.

Rotation brings the assembly into a sealing engagement with the mouth <NUM> of the container <NUM>. In this way, the mouth <NUM> of the container <NUM> is sealed by a surface of the infant feeding assembly <NUM> so that nipple <NUM> is fluidly connected to the container <NUM> and the fluid flow path is closed.

Referring now to <FIG>, the assembly of <FIG> is shown in a second position. The infant feeding assembly <NUM> is sealingly engaged with the mouth <NUM> of its container <NUM> and the fluid flow path is closed.

Selectively moving the infant feeding assembly <NUM> from the first position to the second position urges the infant feeding assembly <NUM> towards its container <NUM>. In the example shown in <FIG>, the infant feeding assembly <NUM> is arranged so that a sealing flange <NUM> of the nipple <NUM> is disposed on the underside of the securing member <NUM>. In this way, moving the infant feeding assembly <NUM> from the first position to the second position urges the nipple <NUM> into sealing engagement with the mouth of the container <NUM>. In the example shown, in second position, the sealing flange <NUM> is urged against the mouth of the container <NUM>, thereby forming the fluid-tight seal.

If the user is to store the infant feeding assembly <NUM> in a sterile, hygienic state then the assembly may be moved to the second position immediately after sterilisation is complete. Due to the position of the fluid flow path, the user can move the infant feeding assembly <NUM> to the second position by simply rotating the infant feeding assembly <NUM> relative to the container <NUM>. Thus, the apparatus can stored in a hygienic format without substantially reassembly, or without the user exposing or contacting the sterile surface <NUM>.

When the infant feeding assembly <NUM> is to be used to feed a child, the user can demount the securing member <NUM>, the nipple <NUM> and the cover <NUM> from the container <NUM> and deposit liquid into the container <NUM> in the usual manner.

Referring now to <FIG>, there is shown a further example infant feeding assembly <NUM> for mounting an infant feeding nipple to the mouth of a container. Where the features are the same as a previous example, the reference numbers are the same, other than the initial digit is a "<NUM>". The assembly is substantially the same as the example of <FIG> except that the cover <NUM> includes a spacer member <NUM>.

Referring in particular to <FIG>, the infant feeding assembly <NUM> is shown in a first position.

The assembly <NUM> includes a securing member <NUM> for mounting an infant feeding nipple <NUM> to the assembly. The securing member <NUM> mounts the nipple <NUM> to a container <NUM> so that the teat portion <NUM> is arranged to project away from the container <NUM>.

In the example, a radial projection of the securing member <NUM> matingly engages with a corresponding annular recess in the nipple <NUM> in same manner as the example of <FIG>. Correspondingly, the support surface of the radial projection engages the nipple base portion of the nipple <NUM>.

The securing member <NUM> also includes cover contacting position <NUM> provided on a surface <NUM> thereof.

A cover <NUM> is mounted to the cover contacting portion. The cover <NUM> includes an internal recess <NUM> for receiving the infant feeding nipple <NUM>.

The cover <NUM> includes a spacer member <NUM> for selectively mounting the assembly to the container <NUM>. In the example shown, the spacer member <NUM> is provided as an annular projection extending around the cover <NUM>.

In the example shown in <FIG>, the spacer member <NUM> is configured to extend below the securing member <NUM>. In this way, the spacer member <NUM> is arranged to contact the mouth <NUM> of the container <NUM> as the assembly <NUM> is brought into engagement with the container <NUM>. The cover <NUM> is mounted to the container <NUM> so as to enclose the mouth <NUM> of the container <NUM>.

With the spacer member <NUM> mounted to the container <NUM>, the assembly <NUM> forms a fluid flow path configured such that the container <NUM> is fluidly connected to the internal recess <NUM>. In particular a fluid flow path is formed between the spacer member <NUM> and the securing member <NUM>.

The assembly <NUM> of <FIG> is provided in a first position. In the first position, the assembly <NUM> is ready for use. That is the assembly is ready for sterilising by steam generated within its container <NUM>.

To sterilise the assembly, a user deposits water in the container <NUM> and generates steam from the water using a microwave oven as explained above in reference to <FIG>.

The generated steam is conveyed by the fluid flow path from the container <NUM> to the internal recess <NUM> of the cover <NUM>, as indicated by arrows S2. The steam is conveyed by the fluid flow path around the securing member <NUM> by the spacer member <NUM> of the cover <NUM>.

The steam circulates within the internal recess <NUM>. In this way, the steam sterilises exposed external surfaces of the nipple <NUM> and securing member <NUM>. Thus, the steam sterilises the surfaces of the infant feeding assembly <NUM> which are contactable by the infant's mouth during feeding.

Referring in particular to <FIG>, the infant feeding assembly <NUM> is shown in a second position.

In particular, movement of the securing member <NUM> relative to the container <NUM> allows the securing member <NUM> to be mounted directly to the container <NUM>. That is, assembly is mounted to the container <NUM> via the securing member instead of the spacer member <NUM>.

In this way, the assembly is configured so that in moving from the first position to the second position, the spacer member <NUM> is disengaged or demounted from the mouth <NUM> of the container <NUM>.

At least the spacer member <NUM> of the cover <NUM> may be resiliently deformable. In this way, actuation of the cover <NUM>, for example by applying a pressure to diametrically opposed portions of the spacer member <NUM> may move the securing member <NUM> relative to the cover <NUM>. In this way, the assembly may be readily moved the second position so as to hygienically seal the feeding bottle assembly until the assembly is used to feed an infant.

Optionally, the securing member <NUM> may include engagement means (not shown) such as a screw thread of the type described above in reference to <FIG>. In this way, once in the second position, the assembly may be more reliably secured to the container <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, there is shown a further example infant feeding assembly <NUM> for mounting an infant feeding nipple to the mouth of a container. Where the features are the same as a previous example, the reference numbers are the same, other than the initial digit is a "<NUM>". The assembly is substantially the same as the example of <FIG> except that the assembly includes a venting member <NUM>.

Referring in particular to <FIG>, the securing member <NUM> is engaged with a nipple <NUM> so that the teat portion of the nipple <NUM> is arranged to project away from a container <NUM> in use. The securing member <NUM> is shown demounted from the container <NUM>.

A venting member <NUM> is provided for mounting to the mouth of the container <NUM>, as is known for infant feeding bottle assemblies. The venting member <NUM> is secured on the container using the securing member <NUM>.

The insert <NUM> includes a plurality of radial spokes and a series of apertures <NUM> therebetween. Each aperture extends through the insert <NUM> from a lower surface to an upper surface. The lower surface of the insert is adapted to be mounted to the mouth of the container. The upper surface of the insert <NUM> is an opposing surface to the lower surface so as to be oriented towards the nipple <NUM> in use.

The venting member <NUM> includes an air conduit communicating with the atmosphere through an inlet <NUM>. The air conduit is formed within an insert <NUM>, or body, of the venting member <NUM> which is mounted to the mouth of the container <NUM>. In the example shown, the air conduit extends with one of the radial spokes. The air conduit extends radially inward from the inlet <NUM> through a radial spoke.

The spokes are arranged to radiate outward with equidistant spacing around the venting member <NUM>. In this way, the series of apertures <NUM> form segments extending circumferentially around the insert <NUM>. Each aperture <NUM> is suitably sized to permit substantially free-flow of fluid therethrough. In particular, each aperture <NUM> permits liquid from the container <NUM> to flow to the nipple <NUM> when feeding an infant, and permits steam generated in the container <NUM> during sterilisation to flow into the securing member <NUM> and nipple <NUM>.

A tube <NUM> projects down from the insert <NUM> so that, when mounted to the container, the tube terminates at a distal end disposed close to the bottom of the container <NUM>. The tube may be removably attached to the insert, or the tube and the insert may be formed as a single part.

In the upright position the container <NUM> is filled with liquid for feeding an infant. When the infant is feeding the container <NUM> is inverted so that the distal end of the tube <NUM> projects above the level of the liquid. An air flow path is thereby provided from the atmosphere through the inlet <NUM>, air conduit, and tube <NUM>, into the bottle such that pressure equalisation is provided when the infant drinks.

In the example shown, the venting member includes an air valve <NUM> mounted to the distal end of the tube <NUM> so as to control air passage through the venting member <NUM>. In this way, the air valve <NUM> provides a one-way ingress of air into the container <NUM> without fluid in the container <NUM> leaking back into the venting member <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, there is shown a cross-sectional view of infant feeding assembly <NUM> of <FIG> with its cover <NUM> mounted to the securing member <NUM>. The assembly is shown in a first position. Thus, the venting member <NUM> is mounted to the mouth <NUM> of the container <NUM>. The securing member <NUM> is arranged to mount the infant feeding nipple <NUM> to the container <NUM> so that a fluid flow path is provided between the container <NUM> and the surface <NUM>. In particular, the fluid flow path extends through each aperture <NUM>.

As with earlier examples, the cover <NUM> of the infant feeding assembly <NUM> is mounted to the cover contacting portion <NUM> so that the cover <NUM> encloses openings <NUM> provided on the surface <NUM>. The cover <NUM> encloses the openings <NUM> without blocking the fluid flow path. In this way, with the cover <NUM> mounted to the securing member <NUM>, a fluid flow path is provided from the mouth <NUM> of the container <NUM> to the internal recess <NUM> of the cover <NUM>. The mouth <NUM> of the container <NUM> is thus fluidly connected to the internal recess <NUM> of the cover <NUM>.

Also shown in <FIG>, a radial projection <NUM> of the securing member <NUM> is matingly engaged in an annular recess of the nipple <NUM>. The annular recess separates a sealing flange <NUM> of the nipple <NUM> from a nipple base portion <NUM>. With the securing member <NUM> mounted to the nipple <NUM>, a support surface engages the nipple base portion <NUM> to conveniently provides structural rigidity to the nipple base portion <NUM>.

The generated steam circulates within the container <NUM> and the venting member <NUM>, as indicated by arrow S1. The steam flows through the series of apertures <NUM> to circulate in the internal cavity of the nipple <NUM>. In this way, the steam sterilises all exposed surfaces within the assembly. That is the steam sterilises the internal surfaces of the securing member <NUM>, nipple <NUM> and container <NUM>, as well as surfaces of the venting member <NUM>. Thus, the steam sterilises the surfaces of the infant feeding assembly <NUM> which are contactable by liquid stored or deposited in the assembly <NUM> prior to feeding.

As with other examples, the generated steam is conveyed by the fluid flow path from the container <NUM> to the internal recess <NUM> of the cover <NUM>, as indicated by arrows S2. The steam is conveyed by the fluid flow path around the securing member <NUM> by the openings <NUM> of the cover <NUM>.

As with other examples described herein, the infant feeding assembly <NUM> is adapted to be selectively moveable relative to the container <NUM> between the first position, in which the fluid flow path is open, and a second position, in which the fluid flow path is closed.

Rotation brings the assembly into a sealing engagement of the venting member <NUM> with the mouth <NUM> of the container <NUM>. Rotation also brings the assembly into a sealing engagement of the venting member <NUM> with a surface of the nipple <NUM>. That is, rotation of securing member <NUM> urges the venting member <NUM> against the mouth <NUM> so that nipple <NUM> is fluidly connected to the container <NUM> and the fluid flow path is closed.

Referring now to <FIG>, the assembly of <FIG> is shown in a second position. The infant feeding assembly <NUM> is sealingly engaged with the container <NUM> with the venting member <NUM> arranged in the mouth <NUM> of its container <NUM> and with the fluid flow path closed.

Selectively moving the infant feeding assembly <NUM> from the first position to the second position urges the infant feeding assembly <NUM> towards its container <NUM>. In the example shown in <FIG>, the infant feeding assembly <NUM> is arranged so that a sealing flange <NUM> of the nipple <NUM> is disposed on the underside of the securing member <NUM>. In this way, moving the infant feeding assembly <NUM> from the first position to the second position urges the nipple <NUM> into sealing engagement with the venting member <NUM> in the mouth <NUM> of the container <NUM>. The venting member <NUM> itself is thereby urged into sealing engagement with the mouth <NUM>.

If the user is to store the infant feeding assembly <NUM> in a sterile, hygienic state then the assembly may be moved to the second position immediately after sterilisation is complete. Due to the position of the fluid flow path, the user can move the infant feeding assembly <NUM> to the second position by simply rotating the infant feeding assembly <NUM> relative to the container <NUM>. Thus, the apparatus can be stored in a hygienic format without substantially reassembly, or without the user exposing or contacting the sterile surface <NUM>.

It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the above detailed examples have been described by way of example only and not in any limitative sense, and that various alterations and modifications are possible without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. Various modifications to the detailed examples described above are possible.

As will be apparent to the skilled person, the examples described herein may include an opening or the plurality of openings on the surface of the securing member may be provided in a number of different arrangements. The shape of the opening may be any suitable to convey steam from the mouth of the container. A plurality of openings distribute steam in a manner to ensure effective sterilisation of the exposed surfaces of infant feeding assembly.

Optionally, the fluid flow path may be provided in a number of ways. The fluid flow path may be formed in the nipple, or in a combination of the nipple and the securing member. For example, the fluid flow path may be formed as a channel along a surface of a least one of the securing member or the nipple. Thus, the fluid flow path may provided as a combination of features on both the nipple and the securing member.

Yet further, the fluid flow path may be provided at an interface between the nipple and the securing member. Preferably, the fluid flow path may be provided by an asymmetry between the nipple and the securing member at the interface between the two parts. That is within the interface portions of the nipple and the securing member may have surfaces which are non-complimentary. The non-complimentary portions thus provide a predetermined opening between the nipple and securing member.

Preferably, each fluid flow path arrangement may be selectively closable. That is the fluid flow path may be provided in one or both of the nipple or the securing member in a manner that is to selectively open or closed.

Optionally, the cover may include a locking mechanism so as to provide the cover with a releasable secondary engagement. For example, the cover may include a strap, cord or similar adapted to fasten to a member provided on the securing member or on the container. Or the strap, cord or similar may be provided on the container or the securing member adapted to provide suitable secondary engagement. In this way the reliability of the engagement between the cover and the infant feeding assembly may be further improved.

Claim 1:
A securing member (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) for mounting an infant feeding nipple (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) to a mouth of a container (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) in an infant feeding assembly (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>), the securing member (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) comprising a surface (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) having a cover contacting portion (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) for selectively mounting a cover (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) to the assembly;
characterised in that the securing member (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) forms a fluid flow path configured such that, when the securing member (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) mounts the infant feeding nipple (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) to the container (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) in use, the container (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) is fluidly connected to the surface (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>).