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WO1997049263A1 - Appareil de sauvetage - Google Patents

Appareil de sauvetage Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO1997049263A1
WO1997049263A1 PCT/US1997/010189 US9710189W WO9749263A1 WO 1997049263 A1 WO1997049263 A1 WO 1997049263A1 US 9710189 W US9710189 W US 9710189W WO 9749263 A1 WO9749263 A1 WO 9749263A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
rescue apparatus
support body
person
temperature
heating
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/US1997/010189
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 AU33898/97A priority Critical patent/AU3389897A/en
Publication of WO1997049263A1 publication Critical patent/WO1997049263A1/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
    • A61G1/00—Stretchers
    • A61G1/01—Sheets specially adapted for use as or with stretchers
    • 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 rescue apparatus. It relates in particular to rescue apparatus for lifting and carrying a person, for example an injured person.
  • a rescue apparatus for lifting and carrying a person, the apparatus including a flexible support body for supporting the body of a person, the support body being shaped and dimensioned so that a person can lie on it; and heating means for heating the body of the person when it is supported on the flexible support body.
  • a flexible support body is meant that the support body is not a rigid body, for example in the way in which a stretcher is a rigid body, and may be bent and preferably folded or rolled, sleeping bag-fashion, into a generally compact folded or rolled shape.
  • the rescue apparatus of the invention may be used essentially in the same way as that in which a stretcher is used and will typically be used for lifting and moving a person who has been injured, particularly under circumstances in which the person is suffering from a spinal, cervical or fracture injury and/or is in a cold environment.
  • the flexible support body may be of composite or layered structure. For example, it may have an upper and a lower outer fabric layer and one or more intermediate layers.
  • the flexible support body may thus comprise an operatively upper and an operatively lower outer layer which are connected to each other and, optionally, one or more intermediate layers.
  • the upper and lower outer layers may be of a synthetic polymeric or plastics material, preferably a water resistant or water impermeable material such as 550g/m 2 reinforced polyvinyl chloride (PVC).
  • PVC polyvinyl chloride
  • the heating means may be incorporated into the flexible support body.
  • the heating means may be embodied in the upper layer.
  • the heating means may instead, comprise a separate heating assembly.
  • the rescue apparatus may include a pocket or opening and the heating means may comprise a separate heating assembly which is removably received or receivable in the pocket or opening.
  • the pocket may form part of, or be attached to, the upper layer.
  • the upper and lower layers of the rescue apparatus may be secured together along their outer peripheries thereby defining a flattened sheath-like structure or primary sheath.
  • the flexible support body may include at least one stiffening body.
  • the body may be in the form of a rigid support such as a spinal board. Instead, it may be in the form of a stiffening layer located between the upper and lower outer layers of the rescue apparatus.
  • the stiffening body may be in the form of at least one sheet of a synthetic polymeric or plastics material. Typically, the material will be high density polyethylene (HDPE).
  • the rescue apparatus may include a stiffening body in the form of a sheet of high density polyethylene (HDPE) . The sheet may be about 2mm to 3mm thick.
  • the sheet will thus be thick enough so that, when the body of the person is lying on the rescue apparatus and outer parts of the flexible support body and the sheet are wrapped at least partly around the body of the person, the sheet will because of its partly folded, channel-like configuration become rigid so that it is able to support the body of the person.
  • the planar sheet by deforming the planar sheet into a generally semi-cylindrical or channel shape, the resistance to bending or buckling when subjected to a downward force is substantially increased so that the sheet can support a substantial weight.
  • the flexible support body may be in the form of an elongate, closed, generally flattened bag which is packed with a compressible filling.
  • the upper and lower layers may be of an essentially air-impermeable material and the apparatus may include valve means for evacuating air from the bag and allowing air to flow into the bag.
  • the flexible support body may include a flattened bag-like structure having within it a secondary support body which includes a second, closed, flattened bag-like structure which is packed with a compressible filling.
  • the second bag-like structure may then also be of an essentially air- impermeable material and the rescue apparatus may include valve means for evacuating air from the second bag-like structure and allowing air to flow into the second bag-like structure.
  • the compressible filling may be a compressible particulate material and may, in particular, comprise beads or pellets of a compressible or deformable synthetic polymeric foam. More particularly, the compressible material may be in the form of expanded polystyrene beads. The beads may have a diameter of about 1 ,5 - 5,0 mm.
  • the rescue apparatus may thus include valve means in the form of at least one outlet valve which is connectable to a vacuum pump for pumping or evacuating air from the closed flattened bag or the second closed, flattened bag-like structure as the case may be.
  • the rescue apparatus may include at least one inlet valve for allowing air to flow into the interior of the closed flattened bag or the second closed, flattened bag-like structure after it has been partly evacuated.
  • a single two-way valve will serve as both air inlet and air outlet.
  • the rescue apparatus may include a plurality of lifting handles. It may, further, include securing straps for securing the body of the person to the flexible support body.
  • the flexible support body may, for example, include a reinforcing or support layer located between and secured to the upper and lower outer layers to which a plurality of lifting handles are secured.
  • the support layer may comprise a sheet of a synthetic polymeric or plastics material such as a sheet of NYLON (TRADE NAME) material.
  • the lifting handles may then comprise strips of NYLON (TRADE NAME) secured to, for example sewn or adhesively attached to, the sheet such that loops project outwardly from the side edges of the sheet, the loops then functioning as the handles.
  • the securing straps may be attached to the reinforcing layer or to the upper or lower fabric layers for securing the body of the person to the flexible support body.
  • the flexible support body may be generally of flattened rectangular shape. It may, instead, be of generally flattened elongate shape, having a pair of opposed longer side edges and a pair of opposed shorter side edges, one of the shorter side edges being about one half of the length of the other so that the flexible support body has a wider or head end and a narrower or foot end.
  • the flexible support body may include a head support structure for supporting, in use, the head of a person being carried on the flexible support body.
  • the flexible support body may thus include a head support structure or assembly located near the wider end for supporting, in use, the head of a person being carried on the rescue apparatus.
  • the head support structure or assembly may include a pillow formation. It may, further, include attachment means for attaching, to the head support structure, head support blocks or head restraints, of the type commonly used to support, or brace, the head and neck of a person suspected of, or having, a head or neck injury.
  • the attachment means may include belts or straps.
  • the attachment means may, further, include hook and eye securing means such as strips of VELCRO (TRADE NAME) to attach the head support structure to complementary hook and eye securing strips on the head support blocks.
  • the rescue apparatus may include buoyancy or flotation means so that in use, when the body of a person is supported by the flexible support body, the rescue apparatus will float in water.
  • the rescue apparatus may then include a weight located near the narrower end of the flexible support body which serves as a counterweight to tilt the rescue apparatus when it is floating so that the wider or head end is elevated relative to the narrower or foot end.
  • the buoyancy means may include at least one pocket or cavity, defined in the flexible support body, and containing a buoyant material.
  • the support body may be provided with elongate cavities adjacent its longer side edges, the cavities being filled with polystyrene beads or closed cell foam such as SVA 45 (TRADE NAME) as marketed by SONDOR.
  • the flexible support body comprises a top assembly including the upper layer, the head support structure, heating means, buoyancy means, secondary support structure and weight, a bottom assembly including the lower layer, and a middle assembly including the reinforcing layer to which the lifting handles are secured.
  • the top assembly comprises a secondary sheath-like structure having a second layer secured to the upper layer with the secondary support structure located within the secondary sheath-like structure.
  • the rescue apparatus includes a carrying bag for carrying the flexible support body in its rolled up state.
  • rescue apparatus for lifting and carrying a person
  • the apparatus including a flexible support body for supporting the body of a person, the body being shaped and dimensioned so that a person can lie on it ; and a layer or sheet of a synthetic polymeric or plastics material, the layer or sheet being shaped and being of a thickness so that, when the body of the person is lying on the rescue apparatus and outer parts of the flexible support body and the sheet are wrapped at least partly around the body of the person, the sheet becomes rigid so that it is able to support the body of the person.
  • the sheet may be a sheet of high density polyethylene (HDPE) as hereinbefore described.
  • HDPE high density polyethylene
  • the rescue apparatus may include heating means for heating the body of a person when it is supported on the flexible support body as hereinbefore described.
  • the flexible support body may be as hereinbefore described.
  • the rescue apparatus may include buoyancy means as hereinbefore described.
  • a rescue apparatus for lifting and moving the body of a person, the apparatus including an outer, flexible, substantially air-impermeable skin defining a support body with a hollow interior, the body being shaped and dimensioned so that a person can lie on it; a compressible filling which at least partly fills the hollow interior; air extraction means for extracting air from the hollow interior; air inlet means for allowing air to flow into the hollow interior; and heating means for heating at least part of the support body.
  • a rescue assembly which includes a rescue apparatus having valve means as hereinbefore described ; and a vacuum pump for connecting to the valve means.
  • the heating means may be electrical heating means.
  • the heating means may include at least one electrical heating element and the apparatus may include electrical connection means for connecting the heating element to a source of electricity.
  • the electrical heating element may be of the type which can be heated by a battery.
  • the heating element may for example be of the type which can be heated by a 12V or a 24V battery.
  • the heating element may include a length of nickel-chrome resistance wire, coated with TEFLON (trade name) such as that marketed by Microcircuits (Pty) Limited.
  • the rescue apparatus may then include electrical connection means for connecting the heating element to the battery.
  • the rescue apparatus may for example be connected to a battery of an emergency vehicle or aircraft and may be used in areas where no electricity is available.
  • the separate heating assembly may include at least one heating element as hereinbefore described, sandwiched between two layers or sheets of a synthetic polymeric material which layers or sheets have been sealed along their edges. It may instead be sandwiched between sheets of SVA 45 (TRADE NAME) marketed by SONDOR which have been vulcanised together.
  • the heating assembly may include a fuse e.g. a 6,3 Amp slow blow fuse.
  • the heating means may include a temperature controller for controlling the temperature of the heating element. Typically the temperature controller will regulate the temperature of the heating element at 36 ⁇ 1 °C.
  • the heating means may include a buzzer for indicating an equipment malfunction.
  • the temperature controller may include connecting 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 heating means may include two heating elements and the 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; 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 be 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.
  • 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 a DS1620 or DS1821 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 temperature controller may be provided with a waterproof cover.
  • the invention extends to a temperature controller for controlling temperature in a 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; power control means operable selectively to control power fed into 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.
  • Figure 1 shows a top view of an embodiment of a rescue apparatus in accordance with the invention
  • Figure 2 shows, in part, a schematic sectional view of the rescue apparatus of Figure 1 showing a top assembly including a headrest assembly, a middle assembly, a bottom assembly and a stiffening layer;
  • Figure 3 shows a top view of the bottom assembly of the rescue apparatus of Figure 1
  • Figure 4 shows a top view of the top assembly of the rescue apparatus of Figure 1 ;
  • Figure 5 shows a sectional view taken at V - V in Figure 4.
  • Figure 6 shows a top view of the middle assembly of the rescue apparatus of Figure 1 ;
  • Figure 7 shows a top view of the stiffening layer of the rescue apparatus of Figure 1 ;
  • Figure 8 shows a partly cut away plan view of a heating assembly for the rescue apparatus of Figure 1 ;
  • Figure 9 shows a schematic circuit diagram of a temperature controller of the heating assembly of Figure 8;
  • Figure 10 shows a schematic circuit diagram of a microprocessor and display means of the temperature controller of Figure 9;
  • Figure 1 1 shows a three-dimensional view of another embodiment of a rescue apparatus in accordance with the invention
  • Figure 12 shows a schematic block diagram of a further embodiment of a temperature controller in accordance with the invention.
  • Figure 13 shows a schematic diagram of a heating element switching arrangement of the controller of Figure 1 2;
  • Figure 14 shows a schematic circuit diagram of the controller of Figure
  • Figure 1 5 shows a schematic, partly cut-away top plan view of another embodiment of a heating assembly in accordance with the invention.
  • Figure 16 shows schematically a sectional side view of the heating assembly of Figure 1 5.
  • reference numeral 10 generally indicates a rescue apparatus in accordance with the invention.
  • the rescue apparatus 10 includes a bottom assembly 1 2 ( Figures 2 and 3), a middle assembly 14 ( Figures 2 and 6) and a top assembly 1 6 ( Figures 2 and 4) which are sewn together along their respective side edges.
  • the top assembly 16 is of flattened sheath-like structure and comprises an upper layer or sheet 18 and a lower layer or sheet 20 of 550g/m 2 polyvinyl dichloride (PVC) which are secured along their edges to form a cavity 22 ( Figure 2) in which a secondary support 5 body in the form of a flattened mattress-like bag 24 ( Figure 2) filled with polystyrene beads 26 is located.
  • the top assembly 1 6 includes a valve (not
  • the top assembly 10 is of generally rectangular shape as can be seen in 10 the drawings having a leading or head end portion 30, with a head end 31 , and a trailing or foot end portion 32, with a foot end 33.
  • the head end portion 30 is wider than the foot end portion 32 which is a tapering portion having a wedge like appearance, as can be seen in the drawings.
  • the head end 31 is about 1 m wide and the foot end 33 is about 1 5 380mm wide.
  • the top assembly 10 is about 2 m long and the foot end portion tapers inwardly or narrows from a distance of about 1 , 1 m from the foot end 33.
  • Two elongate pockets 36 are integral with, and extend along the 20 longitudinal edges of, the upper layer 18 for almost the full length of the upper layer 18, ending about 50 mm from the head end 31 and about 30 mm from the foot end 33.
  • the pockets 36 are of generally half-moon shape in profile, as can be seen in Figure 5, and are secured to the upper layer 1 8 by a high frequency welding process.
  • Each pocket 36 is packed with a closed cell foam 25 37 ( Figure 5) and the pockets 36 together act as a flotation aid for the rescue apparatus 10 which, in use, will float in water.
  • An electrical connector (not shown) allows the heating assembly 40 to be plugged into a source of power.
  • a still further pocket 42 (Figure 1 ), not shown in Figure 4, is secured in the same way near to the foot end 33 and holds about 2 kg of lead balls (not shown).
  • the lead balls act as a counter-weight to the weight of a person supported by the rescue apparatus 10 which causes the rescue aid 10, in use, to float with the foot end portion 32 partly submerged and the head end portion 30 slightly raised.
  • a headblock assembly 46 is positioned on the head end portion 30 adjacent the pocket 38.
  • the headblock assembly 46 is generally rectangular in shape and includes a rectangular NYLON (TRADE NAME) base sheet 48 secured to the upper layer 1 8 and having two VELCRO (TRADE NAME) hook and eye securing strips 50 extending along its shorter sides and a central convex pillow 52 comprising a convex foam portion (not shown) covered by a PVC (TRADE NAME) sheet 56.
  • TRADE NAME NYLON
  • TRADE NAME VELCRO
  • PVC TRADE NAME
  • TRADE NAME straps 58 extend outwardly from the shorter sides of the base sheet 48 and each is provided with a buckle 60.
  • the VELCRO (TRADE NAME) strips 50 and the buckles 60 are selected to be complementary to the corresponding VELCRO (TRADE NAME) strips and buckles of conventional head restraining blocks or neck brace blocks of the type commonly used in medical emergencies when a person has, or is suspected of having, a neck and/or a spinal injury.
  • the middle assembly 14 comprises a sheet of
  • NYLON (TRADE NAME) 64 having a shape complementary to that of the top assembly 1 6 to which four, spaced apart continuous loops 66 of NYLON (TRADE NAME) belt are stitched to extend laterally across the bottom of the sheet 64 so that short loop portions 68 forming handles project outwardly from the sides of the sheet 64.
  • a further continuous loop 70 is stitched to the sheet 64 to extend axially along the length of the sheet so that two further loops portions 68 project from the opposed top and bottom ends of the sheet 64 as can be seen in the drawing.
  • NYLON (TRADE NAME) belts 72 are stitched to, and extend laterally across the width of, the sheet 64.
  • the belts 72 are provided near their opposed ends with complementary 72 can be used to secure a person to the rescue apparatus as is described in further detail below.
  • the bottom assembly 12 comprises a sheet
  • a NYLON ⁇ TRADE NAME] belt 82 is stitched to the sheet 80 to extend axially from a position near to its centre so that a first end 81 with a buckle 82 projects from its narrower end 83 and a second end 84 with a second buckle 85 is positioned about 500 mm inwardly from the narrower end 83.
  • the buckles 82, 85 are used to secure the rescue apparatus 10 in a rolled-up state when it is not being used.
  • the rescue apparatus 10 further includes a sheet of high density polyethylene (HDPE) 86, having a thickness of 2 - 3 mm and a shape complementary to that of the top assembly 16, positioned between the top assembly 16 and the middle assembly 14.
  • HDPE high density polyethylene
  • the heating assembly 40 comprises a lower rectangular sheet 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 92 is sandwiched between the sheets approximately in the middle of the assembly 40.
  • the temperature controller 92 is connected to a plug 94 located on one of the lateral side edges of the assembly 40 by means of six electrical leads generally indicated by reference numeral 96.
  • TRADE NAME nickel- chromium TEFLON
  • the resistance wires 98 are secured to the sheet 90 by two strips 100, 102 of PVC which are strip-welded to the sheet 90, the positions of the welds being indicated schematically by the lines 104.
  • the resistance wire 98 is threaded between the welds 104 as can be seen in the drawing.
  • reference numeral 120 shows a schematic circuit diagram of the temperature controller 92.
  • the temperature controller 92 includes connection means in the form of a jack plug 122 for connecting an earth to line 124 and a variable DC voltage from a vehicle battery or from a separate battery to line 1 26.
  • the temperature controller 92 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 128 and a second DS 1620 integrated circuit chip 130 available from Dallas Semiconductor Corporation.
  • the first chip 128 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 130 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 128 and 130 are connected to driver transistors 132 and 1 34 respectively, which in turn control MOSFET transistors 1 36 and 1 38 respectively.
  • the transistors 136 and 138 form power control means, the transistor 136 being switched on when a temperature below 35 °C is sensed.
  • the transistor 1 38 is permanently on unless a temperature in excess of 40 ° is sensed.
  • the controller 92 further includes voltage sensing means implemented in this embodiment by a zener diode 140.
  • a pair of voltage control MOSFET transistors 142 and 144 are arranged to isolate a first heating element 146 to render it inoperative.
  • all power supplied across lines 124 and 1 26 is applied to a second heating element 148. If however the voltage applied across lines 1 24 and 126 falls below 18 volts, the MOSFET transistor 144 conducts thereby placing the heating element 146 in parallel with the heating element 148.
  • the controller further includes a pair of voltage regulating integrated circuit chips 1 50 and 1 52 which provide a fixed DC voltage to the temperature sensing chips 128 and 130 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 64 having an oscillator circuit 166. Power is supplied to the circuit via a jack plug 1 68 and the voltage is regulated by a voltage regulator, a pair of switches 172 and 1 74 are depressed simultaneously. Likewise, when it is desired to lower the desired temperature, the switch 1 72 is depressed simultaneously with a switch 1 76.
  • the Figure 10 circuit also includes display means in the form of three LED displays 1 78, 1 80 and 182.
  • the LED display 182 displays tens, the LED 180 displays units and the LED display 178 displays " °C" .
  • the LED displays 180 and 182 are driven by a pair of decimal counters 184 and 1 86, respectively, and which are controlled by the microprocessor 1 64 to display the desired temperature.
  • the microprocessor 164 is connected via lines 188 and jack plug 1 90 to lines 192 in Figure 9 via the jack plug 122.
  • the temperature controller 92 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 92 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, eg. during mountain rescue operations, or the like.
  • 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 12), typically a PIC1 6C54, connected via driver circuitry 204.1 (used when powered by a 12 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 element 150.
  • the primary microprocessor 202 is also connected to associated oscillator circuitry 208, and via line 210 and connector 212 to a first or primary temperature sensor 1 34.
  • the primary temperature sensor 134 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 12 volt power source) and 204.4 (used when powered by a 24 volt power source) to a secondary relay 218.
  • the secondary microprocessor 214 is also connected via driver circuitry 204.5, 204.6, 204.7 to a voltage select relay 220, alarm generating means in the form of a buzzer 222, and an LED warning light 224, respectively.
  • the secondary micro-processor 214 is also connected via line 290 to a secondary temperature sensor 136 and via lines 226 to voltage sensing means 228 (see Figures 1 2 and 14).
  • the voltage sensing means 228 is connected via lines 230 to the primary microprocessor 202.
  • the controller 200 is operable to control heating of medical apparatus such as the infant transport device 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 134.
  • power to the controller 200 is fed in via a jack plug 128 to a ground line 130 and to a positive supply line 1 32.
  • a 5 volt voltage regulator 232 is connected via diode 234 and via a fuse 236 to the positive supply line 132.
  • the voltage regulator 232 provides a regulated 5 volt output on line 238 which is fed to the various chips of the controller 200.
  • Microprocessor reset circuitry 240, 242 is connected to the primary and secondary microprocessors 202, 214 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 supply line 132 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, 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 “decrease temperature” switch 264.
  • 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 is also connected to display drivers 270, and via resistor banks 272 to seven-segment LED displays 274. 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 of the rescue apparatus of Figures 1 or 1 1 .
  • reference numeral 41 generally indicates another embodiment of a heating assembly in accordance with the invention for heating the rescue apparatus of Figures 1 or 1 1 .
  • the assembly 41 includes a composite sheet 276 of high density polyethylene (HDPE) 400 with a sheet 401 of 5 mm SVA 45 vulcanised to it.
  • the assembly 41 includes a connector 280 which is connected to the primary and secondary heating elements 150, 152 and, via lines 282, to primary and secondary connectors 284, 286 (see Figure 14).
  • the primary and secondary temperature sensors 1 34, 136 are also securely mounted to the sheet 276 (see Figure 1 2) and are connected via lines 288 to the connectors 212, 213.
  • a sheet 402 of 3 mm SVA 45 ( Figure 1 6) is vulcanised to the composite sheet 276 with the heating elements 1 50, 1 52 and the temperature sensors 1 34, 1 36 sandwiched between the sheets 276 and 402.
  • the primary and secondary heating elements 1 50, 1 52 are selectively connected in parallel (see Figure 1 2) and connected in series with a primary relay contact 206.1 , of the primary relay 206, and a secondary relay contact 218.1 , 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 1 28.
  • 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 150, 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 rescue apparatus 1 0 or 300 via the primary temperature sensor 1 34.
  • the primary temperature sensor 1 34 provides a digital read-out of the sensed temperature along lines 21 0 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 21 8.1 and the voltage select relay contact 220.1 are closed (see Figure 1 3), power is fed to the primary and secondary heating elements 150, 1 52 thereby to heat the infant transport device 1 0 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 136 and fed into the secondary microprocessor 214 via lines 290.
  • the secondary temperature sensor 136 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 12 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 214 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 warming aid 300 via the primary temperature sensor 1 34 and selectively heats the warming aid 300 by means of the primary heating element 1 50 only (as discussed in more detail below).
  • the secondary microprocessor 214 If the voltage sensing means 228 senses that the input voltage is between about 16 volts and about 22 volts, 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 214 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 218 via the driver circuits 204.2 and 204.4 respectively which, in turn, are connected to relay coils 206.3 and 218.3 of the primary and secondary relays 206, 218 via 1 2 volt zener diodes 294.
  • the zener diodes 294 provide a 12 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 12 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 150, 152 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 21 8.3 via the zener diodes.
  • the controller 200 When the voltage sensing means 228 senses that the input voltage is below 1 6 volts and above 1 1 .5 volts, the controller 200 operates in a normal fashion in which the primary microprocessor 202 selectively controls heating of the rescue apparatus of Figures 1 or 1 1 by the primary heating element 1 50 in response to the temperature sensed by the primary temperature sensor 134. Simultaneously, 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 218 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 12 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 heating blanket 276 via the primary heating element 1 50.
  • 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 134, 1 36 are mounted in the heating assembly 41 .
  • 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, 136 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 another embodiment of a rescue device in accordance with the invention.
  • the rescue device 300 comprises a hollow support body 31 2 which is generally mattress-shaped, having an outer, flexible, substantially air- impermeable skin of 550 g/m 2 reinforced PVC (polyvinyl chloride) which is loosely packed with expanded polystyrene beads (not shown) having a diameter of about 1 ,5 - 2,5 mm.
  • PVC polyvinyl chloride
  • a two-way valve 314 for evacuating air from the hollow interior of the support body 31 2, and for allowing air to flow into the interior, is located adjacent one of the corners of the body 31 2.
  • a loop 318 is secured to a side edge of the support body 31 2 adjacent the valve 314 and two further loops 319, 320 are secured to the same side edge approximately in the middle of the body 312 and near the upper end opposite the valve 314. Each is secured by means of a short strip of NYLON (trade name) belt 321 , 322, 323 respectively.
  • Clips 324, 325, 326 are secured to the opposite side edge of the body 31 2 opposite the loops 31 8, 31 9, 320 each by a further short strip of NYLON (trade name) belt 327, 328, 329 respectively.
  • a NYLON (trade name) belt 330 extends from the loop 318 and thence, in zig-zag fashion, respectively to the clip 324, the loop 31 9, the clip 322, the loop 320 to the clip 326 for securing a person to the support body 31 2.
  • An indentation, formed by a person's body is generally indicated by reference numeral 332.
  • a heating assembly 344 identical to the heating assembly 41 of Figure 1 5 is located in a pocket (not shown) formed by a NYLON (trade name) sheet which is secured approximately to the middle of the body 31 2 along its edges.
  • the pocket is open along one of its edges so that the heating assembly can be slid into and removed from the pocket.
  • the rescue apparatus 10 In use, for example during the rescue of an injured person in a cold environment, the rescue apparatus 10, in its rolled up state, is unrolled and the injured person is placed on the top assembly with the head of the person supported on the headblock assembly 46.
  • Neck or head bracing blocks are then used to brace the head and neck of the person in conventional fashion the blocks being secured by the VELCRO strips 50 and the straps 58 to the headrest assembly 46.
  • the polystyrene bead filling of the secondary support body or bag 24 deforms to conform with the contours of the patient's body.
  • the filling may further be manually deformed or packed around an injured part of the body of the patient eg his neck.
  • the bag 24 When the bag 24 is evacuated by a vacuum pump, it partly collapses and the polystyrene bead filling is compressed by the flexible skin of the bag 24. During this process, the compressed filling becomes substantially rigid and maintains the shape of the contours of the patient's body. When sufficiently evacuated, the bag becomes rigid enough to support the patient's weight when the bag is lifted.
  • the prior packing of the filling around the injury particularly in the case of a neck and/or spinal injury, effectively acts as an additional neck brace when the filling becomes rigid. This further helps to immobilise the patient's head and neck when he is lifted and moved.
  • the sheet 86 of HDPE becomes rigid and resists bending deformation in a downward direction, and further helps to support the body of the person.
  • the heating assembly is switched on prior to, or after, the body of the person has been positioned on the rescue apparatus in order to warm the person during the rescue operation.
  • the rescue apparatus of the invention provides medical personnel with a warming aid for warming persons during land and water rescue operations.
  • Land scenarios include mountaineering, caving, avalanche and crevasse rescues.
  • Water accidents encompass recreation and commercial activities, while disaster situations refer to flooding, mud slides, earthquakes (confined space rescue) and transportation accidents.
  • the rescue apparatus is durable, washable and flexible and is suited for operation under all weather conditions. It has a working temperature range of - 20°C to + 39 °C and a storage temperature range of - 20° C to + 60°C.
  • the warm-up time is generally about 1 0 - 25 minutes depending upon ambient temperatures.
  • the rescue aid can support a mass of up to 350 kg.
  • the polystyrene bead filling deforms to conform with the contours of the patient's body as is shown in Figure 1 1 .
  • the filling may further be manually deformed or packed around an injured part of the body of the patient eg his neck or a limb.
  • the bag When the bag is evacuated by the vacuum pump, it partly collapses and the polystyrene bead filling is compressed by the flexible skin. During this process, the compressed filling becomes substantially rigid and maintains the shape of the contours of the patient's body. When sufficiently evacuated, the bag becomes rigid enough to support the patient's weight when the bag is lifted.
  • the prior packing of the filling around the injury effectively produces a neck brace when the filling becomes rigid. This serves to immobilise the patient's head and neck when he is lifted and moved.
  • the spinal board can be used to aid additional rigidity to the lifting device.
  • the rescue device illustrated can be rolled up or folded and relatively easily transported and can provide warmth to an injured person.

Landscapes

  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Nursing (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
  • Thermotherapy And Cooling Therapy Devices (AREA)

Abstract

Un appareil de sauvetage pour soulever et transporter une personne comporte un support souple (10) destiné à soutenir le corps de cette personne. L'élément de support est configuré et dimensionné de manière qu'une personne puisse y être étendue, et il comporte un moyen de chauffage (40) permettant de chauffer le corps de la personne lorsqu'il est soutenu sur l'élément de support souple.
PCT/US1997/010189 1996-06-18 1997-06-17 Appareil de sauvetage Ceased WO1997049263A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU33898/97A AU3389897A (en) 1996-06-18 1997-06-17 A rescue apparatus

Applications Claiming Priority (8)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
ZA96/5154 1996-06-18
ZA965154 1996-06-18
ZA96/5159 1996-06-18
ZA965159A ZA965149B (en) 1996-06-18 Vitamin and nutrient supplement compositions
ZA97/2937 1997-04-07
ZA972937 1997-04-07
ZA972980 1997-04-08
ZA97/2980 1997-04-08

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO1997049263A1 true WO1997049263A1 (fr) 1997-12-24

Family

ID=27506097

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/US1997/010189 Ceased WO1997049263A1 (fr) 1996-06-18 1997-06-17 Appareil de sauvetage

Country Status (2)

Country Link
AU (1) AU3389897A (fr)
WO (1) WO1997049263A1 (fr)

Cited By (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE10010720B4 (de) * 1999-05-03 2004-12-23 Dräger Medical AG & Co. KGaA Behandlungseinheit für die Intensivpflege und Verfahren zur Steuerung der Wärmezufuhr
CN104274279A (zh) * 2014-10-03 2015-01-14 李泓胜 一种急诊用骨折病人防止二次伤害装置
WO2016074860A1 (fr) * 2014-11-10 2016-05-19 Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems Gmbh Brancard de sauvetage

Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2162021A (en) * 1936-12-01 1939-06-13 Grover C Kidwell Heated mattress
US3380087A (en) * 1965-08-30 1968-04-30 Frances M. Petty Electrically heated sleeping bag
US4825868A (en) * 1987-06-22 1989-05-02 Tensho Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. Far infrared ray radiating mattress
US5138138A (en) * 1988-02-03 1992-08-11 Stihler Electronic Medizintechnische Gerate Prod. Und Vertriebs-Gmbh Heating system for an operating table
US5329096A (en) * 1993-04-09 1994-07-12 Toa Giken Co., Ltd. Heat storage mat

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2162021A (en) * 1936-12-01 1939-06-13 Grover C Kidwell Heated mattress
US3380087A (en) * 1965-08-30 1968-04-30 Frances M. Petty Electrically heated sleeping bag
US4825868A (en) * 1987-06-22 1989-05-02 Tensho Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. Far infrared ray radiating mattress
US5138138A (en) * 1988-02-03 1992-08-11 Stihler Electronic Medizintechnische Gerate Prod. Und Vertriebs-Gmbh Heating system for an operating table
US5329096A (en) * 1993-04-09 1994-07-12 Toa Giken Co., Ltd. Heat storage mat

Cited By (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE10010720B4 (de) * 1999-05-03 2004-12-23 Dräger Medical AG & Co. KGaA Behandlungseinheit für die Intensivpflege und Verfahren zur Steuerung der Wärmezufuhr
CN104274279A (zh) * 2014-10-03 2015-01-14 李泓胜 一种急诊用骨折病人防止二次伤害装置
CN104274279B (zh) * 2014-10-03 2017-01-18 辽宁工业大学 一种急诊用骨折病人防止二次伤害装置
WO2016074860A1 (fr) * 2014-11-10 2016-05-19 Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems Gmbh Brancard de sauvetage

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
AU3389897A (en) 1998-01-07

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