[go: up one dir, main page]

WO1997048363A1 - Unite de transport pour bebes - Google Patents

Unite de transport pour bebes Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO1997048363A1
WO1997048363A1 PCT/US1997/010340 US9710340W WO9748363A1 WO 1997048363 A1 WO1997048363 A1 WO 1997048363A1 US 9710340 W US9710340 W US 9710340W WO 9748363 A1 WO9748363 A1 WO 9748363A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
heating
infant
temperature
transport unit
power source
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Ceased
Application number
PCT/US1997/010340
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Marthinus Van Der Merwe
Petrus Albertus Van Jaarsveld
Phillipus Bernardus Mostert
Rudolf Barend Johannes Gouws
Heinrich Christo Johannes Fourie
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Denel Pty Ltd
Original Assignee
Denel Pty Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from ZA965159A external-priority patent/ZA965149B/xx
Application filed by Denel Pty Ltd filed Critical Denel Pty Ltd
Priority to AU33940/97A priority Critical patent/AU3394097A/en
Publication of WO1997048363A1 publication Critical patent/WO1997048363A1/fr
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61G—TRANSPORT, PERSONAL CONVEYANCES, OR ACCOMMODATION SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR PATIENTS OR DISABLED PERSONS; OPERATING TABLES OR CHAIRS; CHAIRS FOR DENTISTRY; FUNERAL DEVICES
    • A61G11/00—Baby-incubators; Couveuses
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61G—TRANSPORT, PERSONAL CONVEYANCES, OR ACCOMMODATION SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR PATIENTS OR DISABLED PERSONS; OPERATING TABLES OR CHAIRS; CHAIRS FOR DENTISTRY; FUNERAL DEVICES
    • A61G1/00—Stretchers
    • A61G1/013—Stretchers foldable or collapsible
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61G—TRANSPORT, PERSONAL CONVEYANCES, OR ACCOMMODATION SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR PATIENTS OR DISABLED PERSONS; OPERATING TABLES OR CHAIRS; CHAIRS FOR DENTISTRY; FUNERAL DEVICES
    • A61G11/00—Baby-incubators; Couveuses
    • A61G11/009—Baby-incubators; Couveuses with hand insertion windows, e.g. in the walls
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61G—TRANSPORT, PERSONAL CONVEYANCES, OR ACCOMMODATION SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR PATIENTS OR DISABLED PERSONS; OPERATING TABLES OR CHAIRS; CHAIRS FOR DENTISTRY; FUNERAL DEVICES
    • A61G2203/00—General characteristics of devices
    • A61G2203/30—General characteristics of devices characterised by sensor means
    • A61G2203/46—General characteristics of devices characterised by sensor means for temperature
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61G—TRANSPORT, PERSONAL CONVEYANCES, OR ACCOMMODATION SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR PATIENTS OR DISABLED PERSONS; OPERATING TABLES OR CHAIRS; CHAIRS FOR DENTISTRY; FUNERAL DEVICES
    • A61G2210/00—Devices for specific treatment or diagnosis
    • A61G2210/90—Devices for specific treatment or diagnosis for heating

Definitions

  • THIS INVENTION relates to an infant transport unit.
  • an infant transport unit which includes a transport body having an interior in which an infant is receivable to be transported, the body being collapsible from an erect state and erectable from a collapsed state.
  • collasible is meant that the transport body is constructed so that it can relatively easily be changed from an erect or operative configuration or state in which the infant can be received within the body to be transported, to a collapsed or inoperative configuration or state, and vice versa.
  • the infant transport unit may include heating means for heating the interior of the transport body.
  • the heating means may be electrical heating means.
  • an infant transport unit which includes a transport body having an interior in which an infant is receivable to be transported; and heating means for heating the interior of the transport body.
  • the transport body may be collapsible from an erect state and erectable from a collapsed state.
  • the heating means may be electrical heating means. It is envisaged that the infant transport unit will primarily, but not exclusively, be used to transport an injured or sick infant or baby, for example from the scene of an accident or from a place where it has fallen ill, to a hospital or clinic.
  • the transport body may include a plurality of body panels which are hingedly or foldingly connected together, so that by hingedly or foldingly displacing the body panels relative to one another, the body can be collapsed from its erect state and erected from its collapsed state and releasable securing means for securing at least some of the panels together thereby to secure the body in its erect state.
  • the body With the transport body in its collapsed configuration or state, by appropriate folding of the body panels relative to one another and securing at least some of the panels together, the body may be changed from its collapsed configuration or state to its erect configuration or state and, with the transport body in its erect configuration, by releasing the releasable securing means, and appropriate folding of the body panels relative to one another, the body may be changed from its erect state to its collapsed state.
  • the transport body in its collapsed state, may be generally flat, with the body panels generally coplanar and in its erect state, the transport body may be box-shaped, comprising a base with two generally parallel upright side walls and two generally parallel upright end walls, the walls and the base being formed by at least some of the body panels.
  • the side walls may be longer walls and the end walls may be shorter walls.
  • the body panels may be arranged and hingedly or foldingly connected so that, in its collapsed state, the transport body may be folded into a generally flattened or stacked, folded configuration for storage.
  • the body panels of the transport body may be of composite structure and may include, for example, at least one of a reinforcing member, an insulating layer, a shock- absorbing layer, a combination of any two or more thereof and the like.
  • the composite body panels may have an outer skin of a water-resistant material, for example a synthetic polymeric material such as reinforced PVC (polyvinyl chloride).
  • At least one of the body panels which forms a side of the transport body in its erect state, may be provided with an entry port to enable, for example, a doctor or a nurse to treat a baby or infant in the infant transport unit.
  • an entry port to enable, for example, a doctor or a nurse to treat a baby or infant in the infant transport unit.
  • two entry ports will be provided.
  • the entry ports may, for example, be BRITAIN
  • the infant transport unit in its erect state, may include a lid or cover of a transparent material such as clear polyvinyl chloride (PVC) .
  • the lid may include two elongate strips or flaps of polyvinyl chloride secured to upper edges of opposed upright side walls of the transport body and a zip-fastener by which the strips or flaps are securable to one another.
  • the transport body may include a plurality of transparent body panels eg fabricated from clear polycarbonate (PC).
  • the transport body may include an oxygen inlet.
  • the infant transport unit may thus also function as an oxygen tent.
  • the heating means may permanently be incorporated into one of the body panels of the transport body.
  • the heating means will be incorporated into the body panel which forms the base of the transport body.
  • the heating means may instead comprise a removable heating assembly.
  • the infant transport unit body may include a pocket or opening and the heating assembly may be configured removably to be receivable in the pocket or opening.
  • the heating means may thus comprise a heating assembly which is permanently incorporated into at least one of the body panels of the transport body.
  • the heating means may comprise a heating assembly and at least one body panel of the transport body may be provided with a pocket or pouch and the heating assembly may be configured removably to be receivable in the pocket or pouch.
  • the infant transport unit may, further, include handles for transporting the transport body.
  • the infant transport unit may, further, include a storage bag for storing the transport body in its inoperative folded configuration or collapsed state.
  • a warming aid for an infant transport unit which includes a transport body in which an infant is receivable, the warming aid including a flexible body which is configured so that it is receivable within the transport body and so that at least part of the body of the infant is receivable on the flexible body; and heating means for heating at least part of the flexible body.
  • the invention extends to a warming aid for an infant, the warming aid including a flexible body which is shaped and configured and is of a size so that a baby or infant can lie on the flexible body; and heating means for heating at least part of the flexible body.
  • the flexible body may be in the shape of a generally flattened cushion, pillow or the like.
  • the flexible body may thus be generally square or rectangular in shape. It will typically be about 250 mm wide and about 400 mm long.
  • the warming aid of the invention will be placed in the transport body of the infant transport unit or in the incubator and the baby placed on it so that it is warmed by the warming aid.
  • the warming aid may be used in a variety of other ways other than in an infant transport unit or incubator.
  • the heating means may comprise a heating assembly which is permanently incorporated into the flexible body.
  • the heating element may, instead, comprise a removable heating assembly.
  • the heating means may comprise a removable heating assembly and the flexible body may be provided with a pocket or pouch and the heating assembly may be configured removably to be receivable in the pocket or pouch.
  • the flexible body may be of composite construction, comprising an outer flexible layer surrounding a cushioning material.
  • the cushioning material may be a resiliently deformable or shock-absorbing material such as a synthetic sponge material or the like.
  • the heating means may be electrical heating means and may include at least one heating element.
  • the or each heating element may be of the type which can be heated by means of a battery, for example a 12V or a 24V battery.
  • the heating element may include at least one length of nickel-chrome resistance wire coated with TEFLON (Trade name) . Such wire is available from Microcircuits (Pty) Limited.
  • the heating assembly may include a heating element as hereinbefore described, sandwiched between two layers or sheets of a synthetic polymeric material.
  • the transport body or the flexible body may thus include electrical connection means for connecting the heating element to a battery.
  • the electrical connection means may include an electrical connector or plug.
  • the electrical heating means may further include a temperature controller for controlling the temperature of the or each heating element. Typically the controller will regulate the temperature of the heating element at about 36 ⁇ 1 °C.
  • the temperature controller may include connection means for connecting the controller to an electrical power source, temperature sensing means for sensing temperature; power control means responsive to the temperature sensing means and operable to control supply of electrical power from the power source to at least one heating element thereby to control temperature; voltage sensing means operable to sense voltage received from the power source; and voltage control means responsive to the voltage sensing means and operable to control the supply of power from the power source to the heating element.
  • the electrical heating means may include at least two heating elements and the temperature controller may be connectable to a power source and may include temperature sensing means for sensing temperature; voltage sensing means for sensing an input voltage received from the power source; and power control means operable selectively to control power fed to the at least two heating elements in response to the temperature sensed when the input voltage is less than a preselected voltage level, and operable selectively to interrupt power fed to at least one heating element when the input voltage exceeds the preselected voltage level.
  • the voltage sensing means may be operable to sense when the power source is a 12 volt DC power source and when the power source is a 24 volt DC power source.
  • the voltage sensing means may be a comparator and the preselected voltage level is typically about 16 volts.
  • the voltage sensing means may include at least two comparators.
  • the power control means may include disabling means.
  • the temperature sensing means may be a first temperature sensor and the controller may include a second temperature sensor connected to the disabling means which is operable in response to a preselected maximum temperature sensed by the second temperature sensor to disable the at least two heating elements.
  • the temperature controller may include alarm generating means responsive to, for example, the second temperature sensor and operable to generate an alarm signal when the preselected maximum temperature is sensed.
  • the alarm generating means may be responsive to the voltage sensing means and may be operable to generate an alarm signal when a low input voltage from the power source is sensed.
  • the disabling means may be connected to the voltage sensing means and be operable to disable the heating apparatus when the low input voltage from the power source is sensed. Accordingly, for example, the load on a power source in the form of a battery may be reduced so that the remaining power in the battery may be used for more critical apparatus.
  • the alarm signal may be an audible alarm, e.g. a buzzer, and/or a visual alarm, e.g. a LED or the like.
  • the power control may means include a microprocessor connected, for example, to the first temperature sensor for monitoring the temperature sensed by the first temperature sensor, and switching means connected to the microprocessor and operable under control of the microprocessor to switch power form the power source to at least one heating element in response to the temperature sensed. Typically, two heating elements are connected in parallel.
  • the microprocessor may be a first microprocessor and the switching means may be first switching means.
  • the power control means may include a second microprocessor connected to the second temperature sensor; and second switching means connected to the second microprocessor and operable under control of the second microprocessor to interrupt power to the at least two heating elements when the preselected maximum temperature is sensed by the second temperature sensor.
  • the second microprocessor may independently monitor the heating apparatus to sense when the preselected maximum temperature is sensed.
  • the temperature controller controls the temperature of the heating apparatus at about 36 °C to 37°C and the preselected maximum temperature is between about 39 °C and about 42°C.
  • the first and second temperature sensors are typically temperature sensitive integrated circuits operable to provide a digital output signal to the first and second microprocessors.
  • each temperature sensitive integrated circuit may be a DS1 620 or DS1 821 digital thermometer and thermostat available from Dallas Semiconductor Corporation.
  • the temperature controller may include adjustment means for selectively adjusting a desired or preselected temperature of the heating apparatus.
  • the adjustment means may be defined by a microprocessor, e.g. the first microprocessor, and associated switches e.g. membrane switches.
  • the microprocessor may accordingly be programmed selectively to enable at least one heating element in response to a comparison between the preselected temperature and the sensed temperature.
  • the temperature controller may include display means for displaying at least the temperature sensed by the sensing means. Preferably, in addition, the display means is operable to display the desired or preselected temperature.
  • the display means may comprise a plurality of seven-segment LED displays or the like.
  • the first and second microprocessors are typically PIC1 6C54 chips or the like.
  • the invention extends to a temperature controller for controlling temperature in heating apparatus heated by at least two heating elements, the controller being connectable to a power source and including temperature sensing means for sensing temperature; voltage sensing means for sensing an input voltage received from the power source; and power control means operable selectively to control power fed to the at least two heating elements in response to the temperature sensed when the input voltage is less than a preselected voltage level, and operable selectively to interrupt power fed to at least one heating element when the input voltage exceeds the preselected voltage level.
  • the invention extends to a heating assembly as hereinbefore described.
  • the invention extends, further, to an infant transport assembly comprising an infant transport unit and a warming aid as hereinbefore described.
  • Figure 1 shows a three-dimensional view of an infant transport unit in accordance with the invention, with its body in its erect or operative configuration
  • Figure 2 shows the infant transport unit of Figure 1 with its body in its collapsed or inoperative configuration
  • Figure 3 shows the infant transport unit of Figure 1 with its body in a partly- erect configuration
  • Figure 4 shows, schematically, a cross-sectional view of the infant transport unit of Figure 1 ;
  • Figure 5 shows, schematically, a partly cut away plan view of a heating assembly for use with the infant transport unit of Figure 1 ;
  • Figure 6 shows a schematic circuit diagram of a temperature controller for use with the heating assembly of Figure 5;
  • Figure 7 shows a schematic circuit diagram of a microprocessor and display means of the temperature controller of Figure 6.
  • Figure 8 shows a three-dimensional view of a warming aid in accordance with the invention.
  • Figure 9 shows, schematically, a sectional view of the warming aid of Figure
  • Figure 1 0 shows a schematic block diagram of a further embodiment of a temperature controller in accordance with the invention
  • Figure 1 1 shows a schematic diagram of a heating element switching arrangement of the controller of Figure 10;
  • Figure 1 2 shows a schematic circuit diagram of the controller of Figure 10
  • Figure 1 3 shows a schematic partly cut away top plan view of another embodiment of a heating assembly
  • Figure 1 4 shows schematically a sectional side view of the heating assembly of Figure 1 3.
  • reference numeral 10 generally indicates an infant transport unit in accordance with the invention.
  • the infant transport unit 10 has a transport body 1 2 which is shown in the drawing in its erect or operative configuration.
  • the transport body 1 2 is shown in its collapsed or inoperative, but unfolded, configuration.
  • the transport body 1 2 in its collapsed state, is generally flat and rectangular in shape and includes nine body panels.
  • Three are elongate, side-by-side rectangular central panels, indicated by reference numerals 1 4, 1 6 and 1 8, the panel 1 6 being between the panels 1 4 and 1 8, and six are substantially square edge panels, indicated by reference numerals 20, 22; 24, 26; and 28, 30.
  • the edge panels 20 and 22 are foldingly connected to the centre panel 14 along fold lines indicated by the dotted lines 32, 34 and the edge panels 24, 26 and 28, 30 are, respectively, similarly foldingly attached to the centre panels 1 6, 1 8 along fold lines indicated by the dotted lines 36, 38 and 40, 42.
  • the centre panels 14, 1 8 are foldingly attached to the central panel 1 6 along fold lines indicated by the dotted lines 44, 46.
  • Rectangular flaps 52, 54 of clear polyvinyl chloride (PVC) are secured to the outer longitudinal edges of the panels 14, 1 8 and act as a cover or lid of the infant transport unit 1 0 as described in further detail below.
  • Each flap 52, 54 has two extensions 56, 58 and 60, 62 respectively which partly overlap the adjacent edge panels 22, 20 and 30, 28 respectively, as can be seen in the drawing.
  • other body panels are also of clear PVC.
  • Carrying handles 65 are attached to the panels 14, 1 8 as is described in further detail below.
  • Two complementary engagement parts 61 , 63 of a No. 10 zip-fastener for securing the flaps 52, 54 together, as shown in Figure 1 extend along the outer edges of the flaps 52, 54.
  • the panel 1 8 is provided with a pair of BRITAIN HEALTHCARE (trade name) entry ports 70, 72.
  • Strips of VELCRO (trade name) 74, 76, 78, 80 are provided on the lower faces of the extensions 56, 58, 60, 62 respectively of the PVC flaps 52, 54 and complementary strips 75, 79 and 77, 81 are provided adjacent the lateral outer edges on the lower faces of the edge panels 26 and 24 respectively for engagement with the strips 74, 78 and 76, 80 when the infant transport unit 10 is in its erect configuration.
  • a heating assembly 84 is embodied in the central panel 1 6. Pairs of oval openings 86 are provided adjacent the lateral outer edges of the edge panels 24, 26 and adjacent the longitudinal outer edges of the edge panels 20, 22. Pairs of rotatable clips 88 are provided adjacent the longitudinal outer edges of the edge panels 28, 30.
  • the transport body 1 2 In its collapsed configuration, as depicted in Figure 2, the transport body 1 2 can be folded up for storage or transport.
  • a bag (not shown) is provided for carrying the infant transport unit 10 in its folded state.
  • the infant transport unit can then be closed by folding the PVC flaps 52, 54 in the direction of the arrows 96, 98 engaging and securing the two parts 61 , 63 of the zip-fastener and folding the extensions 56, 58 and 60, 62 of the PVC flaps 52, 54 over the panels 24, 26 and securing them in position by engaging the VELCRO (trade name) strips 74, 76, 78, 80 with the strips 75, 77, 79, 81 respectively.
  • VELCRO trademark
  • the infant transport unit 1 0 has a single flap of clear polyvinyl chloride (PVC) secured to the body panel 1 8 and extending to the body panel 14 in the erect state of the body 1 2.
  • the zip extends along the meeting edges of the single flap of clear PVC and the upper edge of the body panel 1 4.
  • single openings 86 are provided in the middle of the outer edge portions of the edge panels 24, 26, 20, 22 and single clips 88 are provided in the middles of the outer edge portions of edge panels 28, 30.
  • each of the panels 14, 1 8 comprises a double layer of 550g/m 2 reinforced PVC (polyvinyl chloride), sealed along its upper edge and enclosing a flat 3 mm thick sheet of wood 102 to give rigidity to the panels 14, 1 8.
  • the edge panels 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30 are of similar construction.
  • the base 1 6 comprises a double layer of 550g/m 2 reinforced PVC and, successively, a lower reinforcing 3 mm wooden sheet 104, overlaid by a 25 mm thick layer 106 of low density sponge, the heating assembly 84 and then an insulating layer 108 of 450g/m 2 KAYTECH BATTING (trade name).
  • the heating assembly 84 is thus located between the sponge layer 106 and the KAYTECH BATTING 108.
  • Each handle 65 includes a length of circular cylindrical tubing 67 through which the extensions of the webbing 1 10 extend.
  • the heating assembly 84 comprises a lower rectangular 550g/m 2 sheet 1 1 2 of reinforced PVC which is welded along its edges by means of high frequency welding to a similar upper sheet (not shown).
  • a temperature controller 1 14 is sandwiched between the sheets approximately in the middle of the assembly 84.
  • the temperature controller 1 14 is connected to a plug 1 1 6 located on one of the lateral side edges of the assembly 84 by means of six electrical leads generally indicated by reference numeral 86.
  • the resistance wires 1 18 are secured to the sheet 1 12 by two overlaying strips 120, 122 of PVC (polyvinyl chloride) which are strip-welded to the sheet 1 1 2, the positions of the welds being indicated by the lines 1 24.
  • the resistance wires 1 1 8 are threaded between the welds 1 24 as can be seen in the drawing.
  • reference numeral 1 28 shows a schematic circuit diagram of the temperature controller 1 14.
  • the temperature controller 1 14 includes connection means in the form of a jack plug 128 for connecting an earth to line 130 and a variable DC voltage from the vehicle battery or from a separate battery to line 1 32.
  • the temperature controller 1 14 further includes temperature sensing means and in this embodiment a first temperature sensing means is in the form of a DS1 620 integrated circuit chip 1 34 and a second DS1 620 integrated circuit chip 1 36 available from Dallas Semiconductor Corporation.
  • the first chip 1 34 senses temperature and will emit low temperature or high temperature signals if the temperature sensed is either more than -1 °C or more than + 1 °C relative to a desired temperature of, for example, 36 °C.
  • the second integrated circuit chip 1 36 is arranged to sense in this embodiment, an over temperature of, for example, 4 °C above the desired temperature, ie. above 40 °C.
  • the temperature sensing chips 1 34 and 1 36 are connected to driver transistors 1 37 and 1 38 respectively, which in turn control MOSFET transistors 140 and 142 respectively.
  • the transistors 140 and 1 42 form power control means, the transistor 140 being switched on when a temperature below 35 °C is sensed.
  • the transistor 142 is permanently on unless a temperature in excess of 40 ° is sensed.
  • the controller further includes voltage sensing means implemented in this embodiment by a zener diode 144.
  • a pair of voltage control MOSFET transistors 146 and 148 are arranged to isolate a first heating element 1 50 to render it inoperative.
  • all power supplied across lines 1 30 and 1 32 is applied to a second heating element 1 52. If however the voltage applied across lines 1 30 and 1 32 drops below 1 8 volts, the MOSFET transistor 148 conducts thereby placing the heating element 1 50 in parallel with the heating element 1 52.
  • the controller further includes a pair of voltage regulating integrated circuit chips 1 54 and 1 56 which provide a fixed DC voltage to the temperature sensing chips 1 34 and 1 36 and their associated circuitry.
  • circuitry is shown whereby the desired temperatures can be varied.
  • the adjustment of the temperature is implemented by way of a microprocessor 1 60 having an oscillator circuit 1 62. Power is supplied to the circuit via a jack plug 1 64 and the voltage is regulated by a voltage regulator 1 66.
  • the Figure 7 circuit also includes display means in the form of three LED displays 1 74, 1 76 and 1 78.
  • the LED display 1 78 displays tens, the LED 1 76 displays units and the LED display 1 74 displays " °C".
  • the LED displays 1 76 and 178 are driven by a pair of decimal counters 1 80 and 182, respectively, and which are controlled by the microprocessor 160 to display the desired temperature.
  • the microprocessor 1 60 is connected via lines 1 84 and jack plug 1 68 to lines 1 88 in Figure 1 via the jack plug 128.
  • reference numeral 200 generally indicates a further embodiment of a temperature controller in accordance with the invention.
  • the controller 200 is similar to the controller 1 14 and, accordingly, like reference numerals have been used to indicate the same or similar features unless otherwise indicated.
  • the controller 200 includes a first or primary microprocessor 202 (see Figures 10 and 1 2), typically a PIC1 6C54, connected via driver circuitry 204.1 (used when powered by a 1 2 volt power source) and 204.2 (used when powered by a 24 volt power source) and a primary relay 206 to a first or primary heating 5 element 1 50.
  • the primary microprocessor 202 is also connected to associated oscillator circuitry 208, and via line 210 and connector 21 2 to a first or primary temperature sensor 134.
  • the primary temperature sensor 1 34 is typically a programable digital thermostat such as a DS1821 available from Dallas Technologies.
  • the controller 200 further includes a secondary microprocessor 214 with its associated oscillator circuitry 216.
  • the secondary microprocessor 214 is connected via driver circuitry 204.3 (used when powered by a 1 2 volt power source) and 204.4 (used when powered by a 24 volt power source) to a secondary relay 21 8.
  • the secondary microprocessor 214 is also connected via driver circuitry
  • the secondary micro-processor 214 is also connected via line 290 to a secondary temperature sensor 1 36 and via lines 226 to voltage sensing means 228 (see Figures 1 0 and 1 2).
  • the voltage sensing means 228 is connected via lines 230 to the primary
  • the controller 200 is operable to control heating of medical apparatus such as the infant transport unit 10 of Figure 1 or the warming aid 300 of Figure 8 by the primary and secondary heating elements 1 50 and 1 52 in response to a temperature sensed by the primary sensor 1 34.
  • a 5 volt voltage regulator 232 is connected via diode 234 and via a fuse 236 to the positive supply line 1 32.
  • the voltage regulator 232 provides a regulated 5 volt output on line 238 which is fed to the various chips of the
  • Microprocessor reset circuitry 240, 242 is connected to the primary and secondary microprocessors 202, 21 4 respectively in order to reset the primary and secondary microprocessors 202, 214 when the controller 200 is switched on.
  • the voltage sensing means 228 is connected via line 244 to the positive 5 supply line 1 32 and a potential divider 246 is arranged to divide the input voltage fed in from the power source by a factor of ten which is then fed via line 248 to positive inputs of four comparators 250, 252, 254, and 256.
  • the comparators 250 to 256 have their negative inputs 250.1 , 252.1 , 254.1 , and 256.1 , set at 2.1 volts, 1 .6 volts, 1 .1 5 volts, and 0.9 volt respectively.
  • Outputs 250.2, 252.2, 1 0 254.2, and 256.2 of the comparators 250 to 256 are connected to the primary and secondary microprocessors 202 and 214 thereby to enable them to monitor the input voltage.
  • the controller 200 further includes a membrane switch arrangement 258 comprising a "set” switch 260, an "increase temperature” switch 262 and a
  • the membrane switch arrangement 258 is connected via lines 266 to a pull-down resistor bank 268 and to the primary microprocessor 202.
  • the primary microprocessor 202 scans the membrane switch arrangement 258 to enable a user to set a desired reference temperature, typically 36 °C, by means of the switches 260, 262 and 264.
  • the primary microprocessor 202 scans the membrane switch arrangement 258 to enable a user to set a desired reference temperature, typically 36 °C, by means of the switches 260, 262 and 264.
  • microprocessor 202 is also connected to display drivers 270, and via resistor banks 272 to seven-segment LED displays 274.
  • display drivers 270 When the set switch 260 is depressed and adjustment of the desired reference temperature takes place, the displays 274 display the current setting of the desired or preselected temperature.
  • the temperature controller 200 is typically used to regulate the temperature 25 of the infant transport unit of Figure 1 or warming aid of Figure 8.
  • reference numeral 85 generally indicates another embodiment of a heating assembly for heating the infant transport unit 10 of Figure 1 or the warming aid 300 of Figure 8.
  • the assembly 85 includes a composite sheet 276 comprising a layer of HDPE (high density polyethylene) 400, which is vulcanised to a sheet 401 of 5 mm SVA 45 ( Figure 14).
  • the assembly 85 includes a connector 280 which is connected to the primary and secondary heating elements 1 50, 1 52 and, via lines 282, to primary and secondary connectors 284, 286 (see Figure 1 2).
  • the primary and secondary temperature sensors 1 34, 1 36 are also securely mounted to the sheet 276 and are connected via lines 288 to the connectors 21 2, 21 3.
  • a 3 mm sheet 402 of SVA 45 is vulcanised to the sheet 276 over the heating elements 1 50, 1 52 and the temperature sensors 1 34 and 1 36 so that the heating elements 1 50, 1 52 and the temperature sensors 1 34, 1 36 are sandwiched between the sheet 402 and the composite sheet 276.
  • the primary and secondary heating elements 1 50, 1 52 are selectively connected in parallel (see Figure 1 1 ) and connected in series with a primary relay contact 206.1 , of the primary relay 206, and a secondary relay contact 21 8. 1 , of the secondary relay 21 8.
  • the secondary heating element 1 52 is also connected in series with a voltage select relay contact 220. 1 and the secondary heating element 1 52 is operatively selectively enabled dependent upon the supply voltage fed to the temperature controller 200 via the jack plug 128.
  • the voltage select contact relay 220.1 is closed, as will be described in more detail below, thereby to allow heating by both the primary and the secondary heating elements 1 50, 1 52.
  • the voltage select relay contact 220.1 is open as only one of the heating elements 1 59, 1 52 is required to maintain the heating blanket 276 at the desired preselected temperature.
  • the primary microprocessor 202 monitors the temperature of the heating blanket 276 via the primary temperature sensor 1 34.
  • the primary temperature sensor 1 34 provides a digital read-out of the sensed temperature along lines 210 to the primary microprocessor 202.
  • the primary microprocessor 202 then compares the sensed temperature with the preselected temperature stored therein and/or set by the switch arrangement 258. If the sensed temperature exceeds the preselected temperature, the relay 206 is de-energized via the driver circuitry 204.1 or 204.2, as the case may be, and accordingly the primary relay contact 206.1 is opened thereby interrupting the flow of power to the primary and secondary heating elements 1 50, 1 52.
  • the primary microprocessor 202 energizes the relay 206 via the driver circuitry 204. 1 or 204.2, as the case may be, and depending upon whether or not the secondary relay contact 218.1 and the voltage select relay contact 220.1 are closed (see Figure 1 1 ), power is fed to the primary and secondary heating elements 1 50, 1 52 thereby to heat the infant transport unit 10 or warming aid 300 (described in further detail below with reference to Figures 8 and 9) .
  • the secondary microprocessor 214 has a preprogrammed reference temperature in the range of about 39 °C to about 42 °C which is continually and independently of the primary microprocessor 202 compared with the temperature sensed by the secondary temperature sensor 1 36 and fed into the secondary microprocessor 21 4 via lines 290.
  • the secondary temperature sensor 1 36 could be coupled to the primary microprocessor 202
  • the secondary microprocessor 214 is included to provide a redundancy feature so that, in the event of the primary microprocessor 202 malfunctioning, protection against excessive temperature is still provided by the secondary microprocessor 214 in conjunction with its associated circuitry.
  • the secondary microprocessor 214 is also connected via the driver circuitry 104.6 and a driver transistor 292 to the buzzer 222, and via the driver circuitry 204.7 to the LED warning light 224.
  • the secondary microprocessor 214 is also operable selectively to close voltage select relay contacts 220.1 (when a 1 2 volt source is sensed) thereby selectively to connect the secondary heating element 1 52 so that it may be selectively powered in addition to the primary heating element 1 50 at low voltage.
  • the secondary microprocessor 21 4 de-energizes the voltage select relay 220 via the driver circuitry 204.5. Accordingly, the secondary heating element 1 52 is disconnected.
  • the primary microprocessor 202 then senses the temperature for example of the infant transport unit 10 via the primary temperature sensor 1 34 and selectively heats the infant transport unit 10 by means of the primary heating element 1 50 only (as discussed in more detail below).
  • the secondary microprocessor 214 also disables the secondary relay 21 8 thereby to disable the primary heating element 1 50 as this is indicative of a low battery condition. Simultaneously, the secondary microprocessor 21 4 also switches on the transistor 292 via the driver circuitry 204.6 thereby to enable the buzzer 222 to advise of the low battery condition and the fact that the heating elements have been disabled.
  • the primary and secondary microprocessors 202, 214 selectively switch or energize the primary relay 206, and secondary relay 21 8 via the driver circuits 204.2 and 204.4 respectively which, in turn, are connected to relay coils 206.3 and 21 8.3 of the primary and secondary relays 206, 21 8 via 1 2 volt zener diodes 294.
  • the zener diodes 294 provide a 1 2 volt voltage drop since the relay coils 206.3, 21 8.3 are typically 1 2 volt coils. The relay coils 206.3, 21 8.3 are thus protected from the input voltage which is in excess of 1 2 volts.
  • the secondary microprocessor 214 senses this via the voltage sensing means 228 and energises the voltage select relay 220. Accordingly, voltage select relay contacts 220. 1 (see Figures 10 and 1 2) close and the secondary heating element 1 52 is connected in parallel with the primary heating element 1 50.
  • both the primary and secondary heating elements 1 50, 1 52 are used and, when a high voltage is applied, only the primary heating element 1 50 is used.
  • the primary and secondary microprocessors 202, 214 selectively switch or energise the primary relay 206, and the secondary relay 218 via the driver circuits 204.1 and 204.3 as no 1 2 volt voltage drop is required for the relay coils 206.3 and 218.3 via the zener diodes.
  • the controller 200 operates in a normal fashion in which the primary microprocessor 202 selectively controls heating of the heater blanket 276 by the primary heating element 1 50 in response to the temperature sensed by the primary temperature sensor 1 34.
  • the secondary microprocessor 214 continually via the secondary temperature sensor 1 56 monitors when an over temperature condition arises and, in response thereto, disables or de-energises the secondary relay 21 8 thereby to disconnect power from the primary heating element 34 and it also generates an alarm signal via the buzzer 222 as hereinbefore described.
  • the over temperature condition is however monitored in both the 1 2 volt and 24 volt mode of operation.
  • the controller 200 remains operative but the secondary microprocessor 214 monitors this low battery condition via the voltage sensing means 228 and, in response thereto, powers the LED warning light 224 via the driver circuitry 204.7 to indicate the low battery condition.
  • the controller 200 nevertheless continues to function in a normal fashion selectively heating the infant transport unit 10 via the primary heating element 1 50. If however the input voltage drops below 9 volts, power supplied to the controller 200 is too low to ensure proper heating of the infant transport unit 10 and a warning is thus generated.
  • the secondary microprocessor 214 senses that the input voltage is below 9 volts via the voltage sensing means 228 and enables the buzzer 222 via the driver circuitry 204.6. Simultaneously, the secondary microprocessor 214 intermittently powers the LED warning light 224 so that it flashes.
  • the primary microprocessor 202 disables the primary relay 206 and, accordingly, both the primary and secondary heating elements 1 50, 1 52 are disabled. Accordingly, the load on the battery may be reduced in order to allow the battery to power apparatus which is more critical.
  • the primary and secondary heating elements 1 50, 1 52 and the primary and secondary temperature sensors 1 34, 1 36 are mounted in the heating assembly 85.
  • the electronic circuitry of the controller 200 is mounted in an external housing which is located externally of the warming aid 300 and is connected to the primary and secondary heating elements 1 50, 1 52 and the primary and secondary temperature sensors 1 34, 1 36 via lines 282, 288 and the connector 280.
  • the temperature controller can be readily connected to a standard voltage source on a vehicle such as an ambulance and can be used accurately to control a desired temperature irrespective of the voltage of a battery in the vehicle. If necessary, the temperature controller can also be powered via a suitable stepdown transformer from a mains source if required. The controller can also be powered from an independent battery.
  • reference numeral 300 generally indicates a three-dimensional view of a warming aid in accordance with the invention.
  • the warming aid 300 is in the form of a generally rectangular shaped, flattened cushion or pillow with a body 31 1 from which an electrical lead 314 extends.
  • An electrical connector or plug 31 5 is connected to the end of the lead 314.
  • the body 31 1 is about 400 mm long and about 250 mm wide so that it can fit into an infant transport unit (not shown) .
  • the body 31 1 comprises an outer layer 31 3 of double- coated NYLON (trade name) surrounding an inner cushion 31 5 of 25 mm low density sponge.
  • An insulating layer 31 7 of KAYTECH BATTING (trade name) is provided between the outer layer 31 3 and the sponge cushion 31 5.
  • a heating assembly 31 6 identical to the heating assembly 85 of Figure 1 3 is located between the sponge cushion 31 5 and the insulating layer 31 7 adjacent the operatively upper side of the body 31 1 .
  • the infant transport unit and the warming aid can be used, particularly under emergency conditions, to provide heat to an injured or ill baby in an infant transport unit which is being transported, for example in an ambulance, to a hospital or clinic in a cold environment.
  • the infant transport unit is of a lightweight material and can easily be collapsed for storage and transport.
  • the heating assembly can be powered by for example an ambulance battery or an independent battery and can provide warmth for an injured or ill baby whilst it is being taken eg to a hospital.

Landscapes

  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Gynecology & Obstetrics (AREA)
  • Pediatric Medicine (AREA)
  • Pregnancy & Childbirth (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
  • Control Of Resistance Heating (AREA)

Abstract

Cette unité de transport (10) pour bébés comprend un couffin (12) dans lequel on peut placer le bébé pour qu'il soit transporté. Le couffin (12) est pliable de façon à pouvoir passer d'un état dressé à un état replié et il comprend un dispositif chauffant (84) servant à chauffer l'intérieur du couffin (12).
PCT/US1997/010340 1996-06-18 1997-06-17 Unite de transport pour bebes Ceased WO1997048363A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU33940/97A AU3394097A (en) 1996-06-18 1997-06-17 An infant transport unit

Applications Claiming Priority (8)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
ZA96/5156 1996-06-18
ZA96/5159 1996-06-18
ZA965159A ZA965149B (en) 1996-06-18 Vitamin and nutrient supplement compositions
ZA965158 1996-06-18
ZA965156 1996-06-18
ZA96/5158 1996-06-18
ZA972980 1997-04-08
ZA97/2980 1997-04-08

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO1997048363A1 true WO1997048363A1 (fr) 1997-12-24

Family

ID=27506098

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/US1997/010340 Ceased WO1997048363A1 (fr) 1996-06-18 1997-06-17 Unite de transport pour bebes

Country Status (2)

Country Link
AU (1) AU3394097A (fr)
WO (1) WO1997048363A1 (fr)

Cited By (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP1815835A3 (fr) * 2006-02-06 2007-09-19 General Electric Company Berceau d'accouchement d'urgence générale
US7442163B2 (en) 2005-12-22 2008-10-28 General Electric Company Humidification control system for infant care apparatus
ES2553502A1 (es) * 2014-06-05 2015-12-09 Universidad Pública de Navarra Incubadora plegable portátil
WO2016202317A1 (fr) * 2015-06-16 2016-12-22 Ingo Salzgeber Capsule de fuite-sauvetage pour nourrissons, bébés et jeunes enfants
US20170119609A1 (en) * 2014-06-11 2017-05-04 Mom Incubators Ltd A collapsible incubator
CN110545776A (zh) * 2017-02-03 2019-12-06 维萨姆·布里吉 用于固定或运输情况的一次性婴儿保育箱和一次性容纳微环境
FR3101528A1 (fr) 2019-10-05 2021-04-09 Camille DUFOND Dispositif de couchage d’appoint du bébé contenu dans un sac à dos

Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2600501A (en) * 1947-10-27 1952-06-17 Higgs George William Oxygen tent or like enclosure
US3202801A (en) * 1962-07-11 1965-08-24 Sam P Saluri Body heating means
US3470866A (en) * 1966-11-16 1969-10-07 Stanley B Gittelson Portable incubator
US3854156A (en) * 1972-03-20 1974-12-17 Kay Laboratories Inc Portable baby warming apparatus
US4954676A (en) * 1987-01-15 1990-09-04 Axti Pty Ltd. Electrically heated stuffed toy with concentrated heat dissipation

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2600501A (en) * 1947-10-27 1952-06-17 Higgs George William Oxygen tent or like enclosure
US3202801A (en) * 1962-07-11 1965-08-24 Sam P Saluri Body heating means
US3470866A (en) * 1966-11-16 1969-10-07 Stanley B Gittelson Portable incubator
US3854156A (en) * 1972-03-20 1974-12-17 Kay Laboratories Inc Portable baby warming apparatus
US4954676A (en) * 1987-01-15 1990-09-04 Axti Pty Ltd. Electrically heated stuffed toy with concentrated heat dissipation

Cited By (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US7442163B2 (en) 2005-12-22 2008-10-28 General Electric Company Humidification control system for infant care apparatus
EP1815835A3 (fr) * 2006-02-06 2007-09-19 General Electric Company Berceau d'accouchement d'urgence générale
ES2553502A1 (es) * 2014-06-05 2015-12-09 Universidad Pública de Navarra Incubadora plegable portátil
US20170119609A1 (en) * 2014-06-11 2017-05-04 Mom Incubators Ltd A collapsible incubator
US10722412B2 (en) * 2014-06-11 2020-07-28 Mom Incubators Ltd Collapsible incubator
WO2016202317A1 (fr) * 2015-06-16 2016-12-22 Ingo Salzgeber Capsule de fuite-sauvetage pour nourrissons, bébés et jeunes enfants
CN110545776A (zh) * 2017-02-03 2019-12-06 维萨姆·布里吉 用于固定或运输情况的一次性婴儿保育箱和一次性容纳微环境
FR3101528A1 (fr) 2019-10-05 2021-04-09 Camille DUFOND Dispositif de couchage d’appoint du bébé contenu dans un sac à dos

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
AU3394097A (en) 1998-01-07

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US5881410A (en) Air mat for operation bed
US5817147A (en) Hypothermic envelope and apparatus for providing cooled air thereto
US3438069A (en) Crib warmer
US6770848B2 (en) Thermal warming devices
US6653607B2 (en) Heating pad systems, such as for patient warming applications
US6596018B2 (en) Mattress with bedsore preventing function
CA2062223C (fr) Appareil de traitement de l'hyperthermie par un procede de convection
EP0766543B1 (fr) Couverture chauffante pour le haut du corps
US6486443B2 (en) Apparatus and method for heated food delivery
US6581224B2 (en) Bed heating systems
US6433313B1 (en) Apparatus and method for heated food delivery
EP0570118B1 (fr) ContrÔle pour dispositif de chauffage et soufflerie destinés à un patient
WO1997048363A1 (fr) Unite de transport pour bebes
WO2013039784A1 (fr) Contenant chauffant pour l'éradication d'organismes nuisibles
US7045743B2 (en) Heated vehicle cushion
WO2020037370A1 (fr) Sac de distribution d'aliment chauffé
EP0288473A1 (fr) Appareil destine a recouvrir un lit
WO2006110808A2 (fr) Matelas portatif chauffant pour animaux de compagnie
US11684685B1 (en) Ultraviolet light sanitizer
US20170245325A1 (en) Intelligently Powered Devices
WO1997049263A1 (fr) Appareil de sauvetage
US10966861B2 (en) Apparatus and method for maintaining enthalpy with secondary mechanisms
US20060198617A1 (en) Portable bed warmer
EP4084759B1 (fr) Civière chauffée
WO2000024348A9 (fr) Coussinet pour rechauffer un patient

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AK Designated states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AL AM AT AU AZ BA BB BG BR BY CA CH CN CU CZ DE DK EE ES FI GB GE GH HU IL IS JP KE KG KP KR KZ LC LK LR LS LT LU LV MD MG MK MN MW MX NO NZ PL PT RO RU SD SE SG SI SK SL TJ TM TR TT UA UG US UZ VN YU ZW AM AZ BY KG KZ MD RU TJ TM

AL Designated countries for regional patents

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): GH KE LS MW SD SZ UG ZW AT BE CH DE DK ES FI FR GB GR IE IT LU MC NL

121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application
REG Reference to national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: 8642

NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: CA

NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: JP

Ref document number: 98503174

Format of ref document f/p: F

122 Ep: pct application non-entry in european phase