ventilators and systems for establishing wireless connections

Abstract

The present invention relates to a medical device having a breathing gas source (2) and a control system (3, 4, 5), and a housing (1) having a receiving part (7) and an interface (6) on the bottom (8) of a recess (9) for receiving different data transmission rods (19) and data storage rods (20).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an interface for medical devices, such as ventilators and anesthesia machines for patient respiration or anesthesia, and combinations thereof. In this invention, "interface" is understood as a data transmission point that enables medical professionals to not only receive patient data but also control and monitor the active and partially automated basic functions of the medical device remotely from the patient. Background Technology

[0002] Below, "artificial ventilator" can be understood as any device that supports a user or patient during natural breathing, performs artificial respiration for a user or patient, and / or is used for respiratory therapy and / or otherwise affects the breathing of a user or patient. Examples (but not limited to) CPAP devices and BiPAP devices, anesthesia or paralysis devices, respiratory therapy machines, (clinical, external clinical, or emergency) artificial ventilators, high-flow therapy machines, and cough suppressants.

[0003] In currently known ventilators, data transmission utilizes either a modem implemented within the device or a Wi-Fi / WLAN module fixedly mounted on an electronic board. The drawbacks of this solution are the difficulty in replacing the modem if it fails and the varying technical standards reflected in the ventilator's purchase date. Furthermore, different network standards and licensing standards are promoted in different countries, requiring fixed-installation modems or modules to be adapted accordingly. Additionally, ventilators are almost always fully configured, meaning all provided functions are integrated into the medical device. This applies not only to software applications at the factory level but also to hardware components, and therefore to the aforementioned modems. Because ventilators involve investments used over extended periods, it is essential to create the possibility of keeping data exchange as close as possible to existing technology. This applies not only to device software updates but also, in most cases, to modems purchased from suppliers. A one-time installation means the modem remains installed in the ventilator for the entire duration of use. Replacing the current modem version is time-consuming and expensive, and therefore rarely occurs. However, it is even possible that the modem may age to the point of being completely unusable and thus no longer provides this functionality on the ventilator. However, if this capability is required, the troublesome part is to first verify whether a ventilator equipped with this capability is available. In the worst-case scenario, it may be necessary to switch during ongoing artificial respiration to ensure that medical professionals have the possibility of accessing the appropriately equipped device if needed.

[0004] The modem is used for: operating the patient remotely, when necessary or recommended. Here, "remotely" specifically refers to operating the ventilator at a greater distance, and in the case of the ventilator, it is not necessarily required that a medical professional be nearby.

[0005] Therefore, the use of a data transfer interface has the following advantages: the data transfer interface can be equipped with readily available data transfer sticks only when needed, and data transfer is always performed according to the latest existing technology. Therefore, the use of data transfer sticks also helps to save resources. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Therefore, the objective of this invention is to provide a standardized interface for a data transfer stick that is easily accessible from the outside.

[0007] A ventilator is proposed, comprising a housing, at least one breathing gas source, at least one control system, and at least one interface, wherein the housing has a receiving portion for the interface, and the receiving portion having the interface is arranged in a recess of the housing. The recess is configured as a well, and the well has an opening, wherein at least two peripheral walls extend from the opening toward the interior space of the ventilator to a bottom, wherein the receiving portion having the interface is arranged at the bottom of the recess or in a region of the peripheral walls. Here, generally speaking, a well is considered to be a space that extends from the opening to a side that is at least partially surrounded by at least two walls and has a bottom opposite the opening. Such a well can, for example, have only one open side, but can also have, for example, three or more open sides.

[0008] In some embodiments of the ventilator, at least one peripheral wall has a guide device to guide and / or support the data transfer rod and / or data storage rod in the assembled state.

[0009] In some embodiments of a ventilator, the recess is covered.

[0010] In some embodiments of a ventilator, the recess is closed by a cover that closes substantially flush with the outer surface of the housing. Unless otherwise explicitly stated, "flat closure" essentially means that there is no shoulder / height difference or a large shoulder / height difference between the outer surface constituting the device and the outer surface formed by the cover. A shoulder / height difference that is still considered flush can be, for example, within the range of 2 mm. Exceptions include possible structuring of the cover surface (e.g., facilitating opening of the cover) and structuring of the outer surface of the housing (e.g., caused by some degree of roughness). A flush closure of the cover can also be understood as the edge of the closed cover being located near the edge of the housing. For example, there is a maximum gap of 2 mm between the edge of the cover and the edge of the housing. For example, this gap can also be represented in the form of a groove.

[0011] In some implementations of a ventilator, the cover is movably arranged relative to and secured to the housing.

[0012] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the cover has at least one fitting or surface-structured portion to simplify opening the cover. The fitting can be, for example, a narrow lift that can be operated with a finger. The surface-structured portion can be implemented, for example, by a rough surface that creates sliding resistance between the finger and the cover surface. Such a surface-structured portion can also be, for example, grooves applied to the surface of the cover.

[0013] In some embodiments of a ventilator, a mechanism is incorporated into the housing and / or peripheral walls that at least partially opens the cover when pressure is applied and returns it to its initial position when pressure is reapplied. Thus, for example, a cover can be installed that closes flush with the housing surface and functions properly without additional fittings or similar features, yet can still be easily opened. For instance, a type of spring-loaded pressure element is used that, when pressed to open the cover, moves a pin via a spring, which in turn lifts the cover at least slightly, allowing it to grip. When closing the cover, pressing returns the pin and spring to their initial positions.

[0014] In some implementations of ventilators, a surrounding seal is provided.

[0015] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the interface has spray protection and contact protection. Spray protection and contact protection prevent water and foreign objects from unintentionally entering the interior of the ventilator. This also prevents objects from being inserted into the ventilator via the interface. In some embodiments, spray protection and contact protection can also be achieved by correspondingly constructed recesses and / or covers (e.g., with sealing portions). Corresponding sealing portions at the interface or in the area of ​​the receiving portion can also serve as spray protection and contact protection. In other embodiments, contact protection can achieve an IP1X rating or higher and / or spray protection can achieve an IPX1 rating or higher.

[0016] In some embodiments of a ventilator, a receiving section with an interface and a recess are sealed relative to the internal space of the ventilator.

[0017] In some embodiments of a ventilator, the cover can be closed with a tool. For example, the cover can be closed with a screw, which is screwed into the housing through the cover in a position accordingly set for this purpose.

[0018] In some implementations of ventilators, the cover can be closed by a lock.

[0019] In some implementations of ventilators, the cover is constructed as a sliding plate.

[0020] In some embodiments of a ventilator, the cover, in the closed state, engages with corresponding devices in the peripheral wall and / or the edge of the housing and / or in / on the housing.

[0021] In some implementations of ventilators, the cover is connected to the housing via a hinge.

[0022] In some embodiments of a ventilator, recesses on the outside of the housing are arranged spaced apart from the housing edges. Thus, for example, the manifold is surrounded by peripheral walls on all four sides and is open only in the area of ​​the opening. That is, for example, a data transfer rod or data storage rod can only be inserted or removed through the opening.

[0023] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the recess is part of the shell edge. That is, for example, as long as there is no cover, the recess is open on at least two sides (the opening and the portion that is part of the shell edge).

[0024] In some embodiments of a ventilator, the recess extends at least partially along two longitudinal sides of the housing edge. This is, for example, when the recess is located at a corner of the housing and there are no two of the peripheral walls present at that location.

[0025] In some implementations of ventilators, the interface enables communication with contacts of a large number of different data transfer rods.

[0026] In some implementations of ventilators, the interface enables communication with contacts of a large number of different data storage sticks (e.g., USB sticks).

[0027] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the receiver is recessed within the housing such that the data transfer rod inserted in the receiver and the interface is fully positioned within the recess and closed flush with the housing surface to the maximum extent possible, but not extending beyond the housing surface.

[0028] In some implementations of ventilators, the interface has a working area for fingers and / or thumbs, allowing for easy pull-out of the data transfer stick and / or data storage stick.

[0029] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the interface and / or receiver and / or recess have a retrieval device with a return function.

[0030] In some embodiments of a ventilator, the data transfer rod is guided to a position by manipulation of the removal device in which the data transfer rod is no longer closed flush with the housing surface or disposed inside the housing, but extends at least partially beyond the housing.

[0031] In some implementations of ventilators, the interface enables the data transfer rod to be connected mechanically and electrically.

[0032] In some implementations of a ventilator, the interface enables the data transfer rod to be connected electrically and optionally mechanically to an electronic circuit board present in the ventilator, either directly or via a cable.

[0033] In some embodiments of a ventilator, the interface has a continuous current contact and / or an automatic current contact, wherein the automatic current contact is equipped with a sensor configured to detect mechanical occupancy of the interface.

[0034] In some implementations of a ventilator, the interface is electrically in contact with the control unit of the ventilator and is configured for communication of data signals with the ventilator.

[0035] In some implementations of ventilators, the data transfer rod is implemented as an import module that can be inserted into the receiving section and plugged into the interface.

[0036] In some implementations of ventilators, the interface forms a transmitting / receiving device via a data transfer rod connection, which can be connected to Ethernet and / or radio networks and / or GSM networks and / or UMTS networks and / or 4G and / or 5G networks.

[0037] In some implementations of ventilators, access to data on the data transfer rod located in the interface is protected by password and / or hardware encryption.

[0038] In some implementations of ventilators, the interface can be used not only for the data transfer bar but also for the data storage, where patient data can be temporarily stored for further distribution to other channels.

[0039] In some embodiments of a ventilator, the interface and / or receiver and / or bottom and / or recess and / or well and / or at least one peripheral wall have devices (Mittel) and / or are provided for protection against electric fields and high-frequency waves.

[0040] In some embodiments of a ventilator, the interface and / or receiver and / or bottom and / or recess and / or well and / or at least one peripheral wall structure are designed to generate an electric field or wave only in the direction of the opening.

[0041] In some implementations of ventilators, the interface can also be used to transfer device software from one device to another via a memory stick.

[0042] In some implementations of ventilators, the cover can be locked electronically.

[0043] In some implementations of ventilators, the electronic locking of the cover can be unlocked via authentication.

[0044] In some implementations of the ventilator, the electronic locking of the cover is activated only when the data transfer rod and / or data storage rod are connected to the interface.

[0045] In some embodiments of a ventilator, the receiver is arranged in a cover, wherein the cover is connected to the housing.

[0046] In some embodiments of a ventilator, the cover extends at least on two longitudinal sides of the shell edge.

[0047] In some embodiments of a ventilator, the receiver is movably arranged in a recess.

[0048] In some embodiments of a ventilator, the receiver moves toward the surface of the housing when the cover is opened.

[0049] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the receiver is arranged on a cable electrically connected to the ventilator or a corresponding control unit and is at least partially arranged in a recess, so that the receiver can be at least partially pulled out of the recess.

[0050] In some embodiments of the ventilator, in addition to the interface, at least one other component and / or another connector is arranged in the recess.

[0051] In some embodiments of a ventilator, the area of ​​the interface in the recess is spatially separated from other components and / or connectors by at least partially constructed intermediate walls.

[0052] In some implementations of ventilators, the recess is partially covered by the surface of the housing.

[0053] In some embodiments of the ventilator, the receiver with the interface is arranged in or on one of the peripheral walls, wherein the area recessed in the peripheral wall (in which the receiver with the interface is arranged) is covered by the housing surface.

[0054] In some embodiments, at least one foam material element is arranged in the recess and / or on the cover. Such a foam material element can, for example, be used to retain the data transfer rod or data storage rod inserted into the interface, or to secure it relative to movement that could cause unintentional loosening of the connection between the data transfer rod and the data storage rod.

[0055] In some embodiments of the ventilator, at least one spring element for securing the data transfer rod or data storage rod is installed on the cover and / or in the recess.

[0056] The present invention also includes a system for establishing a wireless connection, comprising at least one ventilator, at least one interface, at least one data transfer rod, and at least one cover, wherein the interface is disposed in a recess, and the data transfer rod is removably connected to the interface in the recess, wherein the recess can be closed by the cover.

[0057] That is, the subject of this invention is an interface on a ventilator that can receive and transmit data due to its shape and form of appearance, and the possibility of utilizing a large number of different data transmission rods corresponding to common standards. Good accessibility is particularly important when selecting the precise location on the ventilator.

[0058] Therefore, a modem that cannot be accessed from the outside can be eliminated.

[0059] Because ventilators equipped with the interface according to the invention operate in various situations in emergency medical settings and home care environments, it is essential to minimize operational errors and interferences associated with the use of the interface. In this context, operational errors refer to interferences caused by errors in the operation of medical professionals. Interference essentially refers to all other errors that are not attributable to operational errors and arise from external influences.

[0060] Therefore, the interface should be designed to meet the increased safety requirements in the construction of medical devices, without compromising operational comfort and functionality.

[0061] Therefore, the interface should be positioned within the ventilator in a location easily accessible to the operator or technician and provide easy insertion capability. Thus, in one embodiment, the interface can be confined not only by four peripheral walls within the housing surface but also by only three peripheral walls in the region forming the edge of the housing surface. Similarly, it is conceivable to place the interface in a corner region of the housing. Therefore, here, only two peripheral walls would constitute the lateral boundary.

[0062] Regardless of its exact form (i.e., the length, width, height, and size of the data transfer stick), mechanical access to the data transfer stick should be achieved without issue in terms of permissions. Furthermore, the data transfer stick is inserted into the housing such that it advantageously does not protrude beyond the edge of the housing to prevent accidental damage or removal by mechanical force. Additionally, in another advantageous embodiment, the stick can be protected against unauthorized removal and external manipulation.

[0063] In principle, the removal of the data transfer stick should be regularly possible with respect to permissions, without the need for tools. However, in some implementations, it may only be possible to remove it using tools.

[0064] In this scenario, it's conceivable that, as long as the selector lever is not in park mode, the blocking / prevention of the data transfer stick functions similarly to the function of a key preventing unlocking in an autonomous vehicle. Therefore, it would be possible to unlock the data transfer stick or data storage stick for retrieval only when a medical professional is authenticated and thus authorized to remove the stick from the interface.

[0065] However, in addition to the electromechanical protection mentioned above, purely mechanical protection, such as sealing the wellbore with a cover in different implementations, is also feasible.

[0066] To protect the wellbore and, in particular, the contact points from moisture, the cover is equipped with a surrounding rubber seal. However, this surrounding rubber seal lip does not necessarily have to be installed on the side of the cover.

[0067] This is achieved through the recessed interface in different forms and extensions.

[0068] The goal of all the preceding processing methods is to ensure safety when using the data transfer stick without unnecessarily creating difficulties for manual operation.

[0069] This is further achieved by a cover that is not loosely connected to the housing of the medical device and provides protection against water or moisture ingress through a surrounding sealing lip integrated into the cover or the housing. Attached Figure Description

[0070] The interface presented in a ventilator is explained in detail below, exemplarily, with reference to different, partially simplified accompanying drawings. These drawings are shown here:

[0071] Figure 1 An exemplary embodiment of the claimed ventilator in a simplified perspective view has a housing 1 and a recess 9 implemented as a well 10.

[0072] Figure 2 From Figure 1 A top view of a ventilator, which has an interface 6 in the receiving section 7.

[0073] Figure 3 From Figure 2 The cross-section AA of the shell 1.

[0074] Figure 4 A top view of an exemplary embodiment of a ventilator, which has a data transfer rod 19 or a data storage rod 20.

[0075] Figure 5 From Figure 4 The shell 1 has a cross-section AA, and the shell has a cover 16.

[0076] Figure 6 From Figure 4 The housing 1 has a cross-section AA, which has a cover 16 and a surrounding sealing portion 17.

[0077] Figure 7 A top view of an exemplary embodiment of a ventilator, the ventilator having a recess 9 as part of the outer surface 30 in the housing edge 18 of the housing 1.

[0078] Figure 8 From Figure 7 The housing 1 has a cross-section AA, and the housing has a data transmission rod 19 or a data storage rod 20.

[0079] Figure 9 A top view of an exemplary embodiment of a ventilator, the ventilator having a recess 9 as part of two outer surfaces 30 in the housing edge 18.

[0080] Figure 10 From Figure 9 The cross-section AA of the shell 1.

[0081] Figure 11 A perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a ventilator having a recess 9 as part of the two outer surfaces 30 of a housing edge 18.

[0082] Figure 12 A cross-section of an exemplary embodiment of a ventilator, the ventilator having a housing 1 and an action area 22 in a recess 9.

[0083] Figure 13 A cross-section of an exemplary embodiment of a ventilator, the ventilator having a receiver 7 disposed in a cover 16, the receiver having an interface 6.

[0084] Figure 14 A cross-section of an exemplary embodiment of a ventilator, the ventilator having a receiver 7 disposed on a cable 25, the receiver having an interface 6.

[0085] Figure 15 A plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a ventilator, the ventilator having a cover 16 configured as a sliding plate.

[0086] Figure 16 From Figure 15 The housing has a cross-section AA, and the housing has a cover 16 configured as a sliding plate, which is partially closed.

[0087] Figure 17 A cross-section of an exemplary embodiment of a ventilator, the ventilator having a recess 9 as part of the outer surface 30 in the housing edge 18 and a cover 16 configured as a sliding plate.

[0088] Figure 18 A cross-section of an exemplary embodiment having an interface 6 in one of the peripheral walls.

[0089] Figure 19 A plan view of an exemplary embodiment having an additional connector 34 in the recess 9. Detailed Implementation

[0090] Figure 1This is a strongly simplified schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a ventilator or housing 1 in a three-dimensional view. Here, a recess 9, for example, implemented as a channel 10, is arranged in a side of the housing 1, referred to as housing surface 31, and an interface 6 is disposed in said recess. A housing edge 18 extends abutting the housing surface 31, and the housing edge also forms an outer surface 30. The arrangement of the recess 9 on the upper side of the housing, referred to as housing surface 31, is only illustrative. Similarly, the recess 9 can also be arranged on one of the outer sides or on the lower side of the housing 1. Facing the housing surface 31, the recess has an opening 11 through which a data transfer stick 19 or a data storage stick 20 can be introduced into the recess. Here, the data transfer stick 19 can be, for example, a WLAN stick enabling a connection to a wireless network or a so-called surf stick enabling a connection to, for example, a 4G / 5G network. Other embodiments of the data transfer stick 19, such as those for Bluetooth, LPWAN, or other wireless connections, are conceivable and feasible. For this purpose, the recess 9 has, for example, a guide that guides, for example, the data transfer rod 19 into the receiving section 7 or the interface 6. The guide can also be configured to support or hold the data transfer rod 19 or the data storage rod 20 in the assembled state, or to support it while holding it. For example, the recess 9 or opening 11 with the interface 6 should also be arranged in a manner that allows for relatively easy access during ventilator operation. The exemplary housing 1 is shown as a strongly simplified cuboid for illustrative purposes only and does not exclude other possible forms. Furthermore, the housing 1 can also have every other conceivable form.

[0091] exist Figure 2The diagram shows a top view of an exemplary housing 1. A recess 9, implemented as a well 10, is arranged spaced apart from the housing edge 18 and is laterally defined by peripheral walls 12, 13, 14, and 15 extending from the opening 11 toward the interior space of the ventilator to the bottom 8. A receiver 7, for example, having an interface 6, is arranged in the region of the bottom 8. The interface 6 is configured, for example, to allow connection to a variety of possible data transfer rods 19 and data storage rods 20. For example, the interface here has a USB connector and / or a Lightning connector. The interface 6 enables, for example, communication of data signals between the ventilator and the data transfer rods 19 or data storage rods 20. In addition to electrical connections, the interface 6 also additionally enables the feasibility of mechanical connections with the data transfer rods 19 or data storage rods 20. Here, the receiver 7 can be implemented in various variations. However, other implementations are not excluded, for example, involving a notch in the bottom 8 toward the interior space of the ventilator, which surrounds the interface 6. A sealing portion can also be installed between the receiving part 7 and the original interface 6, thereby ensuring contact protection and water spray protection. In addition to the notch in the bottom 8, the receiving part 7, together with the interface 6, can protrude slightly beyond the bottom 8 and extend into the space defined by the recess 9. Furthermore, the receiving part 7 can also be configured to additionally support or completely hold the inserted data transfer rod 19 or data storage rod 20. The recess 9 is exemplarily shown with a rectangular cross-sectional profile. However, the cross-sectional profile can also be elliptical or circular, or it can have a multifaceted shape or a free shape. The cross-sectional profile can also vary from the opening 11 towards the bottom 8. For example, the cross-sectional area can be larger in the region of the opening 11 and decrease towards the bottom 8. This is, for example, when the recess has an additional functional area 22.

[0092] exist Figure 3 From which can be seen Figure 2 Cross-section AA of an exemplary embodiment of the housing 1. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the receiving part 7 with interface 6 is configured such that the receiving part extends slightly into the recessed space and is arranged on the bottom 8. The upper edge of one of the peripheral walls 12 or 14 is indicated by a dashed line at the opening 11. The cross-sectional profile along the direction from the opening 11 to the bottom 8 (y direction) is, for example, rectangular. However, other cross-sectional profiles of the recess are also conceivable. Additional guide devices can also be mounted on the peripheral walls 12, 13, 14, 15, for example, which guide the data transfer rod 19 or data storage rod 20 during insertion and support it in the assembled state (i.e., when inserted into the interface 6).

[0093] When using interface 6, connect data transfer rod 19 or data storage rod 20 to interface 6, such as in Figure 4 This is illustrated exemplarily. The connection between the data transfer stick 19 and the interface 6 constitutes, for example, a transmitting / receiving device capable of connecting to, for example, Ethernet and / or radio networks and / or GSM networks and / or UMTS networks and / or 4G networks and / or 5G networks. Here, the recess 9 is sized such that the data transfer stick 19 or the data storage stick 20 can be completely received by the recess. In some embodiments, the recess 9 may also be sized such that the data transfer stick 19 or the data storage stick 20 partially protrudes through the opening 11 beyond the surface 31 of the housing.

[0094] exist Figure 5 The text shows information from... Figure 4 The exemplary housing 1 has a cross-section AA. Exemplarily, the data transfer rod 19 or data storage rod 20 is connected to a receiving portion 7 having an interface 6. The recess 9 is, for example, sized such that the inserted data transfer rod 19 or data storage rod 20 does not protrude beyond the surface 31 of the housing 1. For example, the recess 9 is closed in the area of ​​the opening 11 with a cover 16. In some embodiments, the cover 16 can also be closed flush with the surface of the housing 1. The cover 16 cannot be lost from the housing 1. Such a connection can be achieved, for example, by a hinge 26. A non-loose connection can be achieved by a simple connection of a type of strap between the housing 1 and the cover 16. In some exemplary embodiments, the cover 16 can be securely closed onto the recess 9. For example, a lock can be arranged on the cover 16 or the housing 1, which can close the cover 16 by means of a key. Such a closing device constitutes an exemplary measure to protect the data transfer rod 19 or data storage rod 20 from unauthorized removal. Alternatively, the cover 16 can also be closed using other tools, for example. For example, screws screwed into the corresponding devices in the cover 16 and the housing 1 can securely close the cover 16 onto the recess 9.

[0095] The cover 16 can also be coupled to the receiver 7 and the interface 6, such that when the cover 16 is opened, the receiver, together with the interface 6, moves toward the opening 11. For example, this would cause the data transfer rod 19 or the data storage rod 20 inserted into the interface 6 to extend at least partially beyond the housing surface 31 when the cover 16 is fully open.

[0096] exist Figure 6An exemplary embodiment of the housing 1 with a cover 16 is also shown. Here, the cover 16 is exemplaryly equipped with a surrounding sealing portion 17. The sealing portion 17 enables, for example, water spray protection and contact protection of the interface 6. Here, the sealing portion 17 is exemplarily shown as part of the cover 16, but it can also be arranged as part of the opening 11 or generally as part of the recess 9. For example, the cover 16 and the recess 9 are coordinated such that the sealing portion 17 arranged on the cover 16 or on the recess 9 helps to seal the recess 9 and, therefore, the interface 6, relative to the outside of the ventilator. Figure 6In this embodiment, the sealing portion 17 is exemplarily arranged between the peripheral walls 12, 13, 14, 15 and the cover 16. However, it is also conceivable that the sealing portion 17 is arranged, for example, along the edge or kergn of the peripheral wall, and is fixedly fitted onto or into said edge or kergn. Here, when the cover 16 is closed, the cover rests flat on or is pressed against the surrounding sealing portion 17. In another exemplary embodiment, a shoulder of a certain degree can also be arranged on the underside of the cover 16, around which the sealing portion 17 extends. When the cover 16 is closed, the sealing portion is pressed against, for example, the peripheral wall of the recess 9 or pressed against a possible edge or kergn arranged around the peripheral wall. Alternatively, the cover 16 itself can also be implemented as the sealing portion 17. For this purpose, the cover is made of, for example, a soft plastic (e.g., silicone) and can be pressed into the recessed opening 11 in a sealing manner. In an exemplary embodiment where the cover 16 closes flush with the surface, a fitting 23, configured as a tongue, can be mounted on the cover 16 to allow it to be pulled out of the opening 11. The recess 9 is sized, for example, to allow the data transfer rod 19 or data storage rod 20 to be inserted spaced apart from the cover 16. This spacing between the data transfer rod 19 or data storage rod 20 and the cover 16 should be at least large enough that the cover 16 does not apply mechanical loads to the data transfer rod 19 or data storage rod 20. Alternatively, there may be no visually perceptible spacing between the cover 16 and the data transfer rod 19 or data storage rod 20. In some embodiments, the cover 16 is slightly pressed against the data transfer rod 19 or data storage rod 20, thereby supporting the cover within the housing. For example, a retaining element is mounted on the cover and / or in the wellbore, into which the data transfer rod 19 is inserted, thereby clamping or pressing the data transfer rod in. For example, the retaining element can be an elastic foam material element, which is mounted, for example, on the inside of the cover 16 and / or in the manhole 10. If the interface 6 is arranged, for example, on the bottom 8 of the manhole 10, then a foam material element can be mounted, for example, on the inside of the cover 16. The foam material element is implemented such that when the cover 16 is closed with the data transfer rod 19 or data storage rod 20 inserted, the cover 16 or the foam material element presses against the data transfer rod 19 or data storage rod 20. Here, the exemplary foam material element is modified such that it substantially conforms to the data transfer rod 19 or data storage rod 20, thus also contributing to fixation on the other hand. Instead of a foam material element, a spring element, for example, can also be mounted on the inside of the cover 16, which can also exert a lighter pressure on the inserted data transfer rod 19 or data storage rod 20 for fixation.

[0097] In some exemplary embodiments, the recess 9 is at least partially disposed in the outer surface 30 of the housing edge 18. Such exemplary embodiments... Figure 7 The top view is shown in the middle, while Figure 8 China and Israel Figure 7 The cross-section AA is shown. Due to its location within the housing edge 18, the recess 9 opens beside the opening 11 toward the surface 31 of the housing 1 and also toward the outside 30 within the housing edge 18. If (as in Figure 8 The data transfer rod 19 or data storage rod 20 is shown as being inserted into the interface 6, and the data transfer rod or data storage rod can be reached from two sides.

[0098] In the housing 1 Figure 9 In the exemplary embodiments shown in 10 and 11, the recess 9 is arranged in the corner of the housing 1 and is thus part of the two outer surfaces 31 of the housing edge 18. Figure 9 This is a top view of housing 1, and the cross-section AA of the housing is shown in... Figure 10 The diagram is shown schematically. To illustrate the location of the recess 9 in the corner of the housing 1, the housing 1 is shown in... Figure 11 The image is presented in a strongly simplified perspective view. Figures 9 to 11 In the illustrated embodiment, the receiving portion 7 with interface 6 is arranged in the peripheral wall 12. Similarly, the receiving portion 7 with interface 6 can also be arranged in other peripheral walls or the bottom 8. To establish water spray protection and / or contact protection, for example, a cover 16 can also be mounted on the recess 9, thereby closing all three open sides. Here, the cover 16 can be movably connected to the housing 1 in a non-detachable manner or can also be completely removed. For example, the cover 16 can be completely removed and, when the recess 9 is closed, can be detachably connected to corresponding devices in the housing 1 and on the cover 16, for example, by snap-fit ​​or other means and approaches. In another exemplary embodiment, the cover 16 can also be connected to the housing 1 on one side via a hinge 26. In another embodiment, the non-detachable connection between the housing 1 and the cover 16 is achieved by a type of strap.

[0099] With the receiving part 7 having interface 6 in one of the peripheral walls 12, 13, 14, 15 of the recess 9, one or more spring elements can be installed on the opposite side (in the cover 16 or the opposite peripheral wall) to support the retention of the data transfer rod 19 or data storage rod 20 in the interface 6. When inserting, for example, the data transfer rod 19, the spring elements are initially pressed together by the data transfer rod 19, thereby enabling the insertion of the data transfer rod 19 into the interface 6. When the data transfer rod 19 is inserted into the interface 6, the spring elements here partially extend again, but do not reach their initial extension. As the spring elements continue to strive to have the initial extension, the data transfer rod 19 is additionally pressed into the interface 6 and thus retained. Here, similarly, combinations of different retention and fixing methods of the data transfer rod 19 or data storage rod 20 in the interface 6 or the recess 9 can be envisioned. Therefore, the spring element, for example, described herein, can be arranged in one of the peripheral walls 12, 13, 14, 15 opposite to the interface 6, and additionally, one or more foam material elements can also be mounted on the inside of the cover 16.

[0100] exist Figure 12 The diagram schematically illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the housing 1 of a ventilator, wherein a recess 9 has an operating region 22. The operating region 22 is achieved, for example, by widening the recess 9 in the region of the opening 11. Thus, the region of the opening 11 is partially expanded relative to the implementation of the recess 9 as a well 10, allowing one or more fingers and / or thumbs to surround the data transfer rod 19 or the data storage rod 20. For example, the operating region 22 is sized such that, for example, the data transfer rod 19 partially extends beyond the edge between the peripheral walls 12, 13, 14, 15 of the recess 9 and the operating region 22. The operating region 22 is also associated, for example, with other functions (e.g., means for closing the cover 16).

[0101] Besides the arrangement of the receiving portion 7 with interface 6 in the bottom 8 of the recess 9 or in one of the peripheral walls 12, 13, 14, 15, it is also possible, for example, that the receiving portion 7 with interface 6 is arranged in the cover 16. Such exemplary embodiments are... Figure 13As shown in the diagram. Here, the cover 16 is connected to the housing 1, for example, via a hinge 26. A receiving part 7 with an interface 6 is mounted on one side of the cover 16. For example, a data transfer rod 19 or a data storage rod 20 can be inserted into the open cover 16 and guided into the recess 9 by closing the cover 16. For example, the cover 16 (more precisely, the interface 6 arranged in the cover 16) is connected not only mechanically but also electrically to the housing 1 or the ventilator. Therefore, if the electrical connection between the cover 16 or the interface 6 and the ventilator is missing, the interface 6 will be unfunctional because data cannot be exchanged between the data transfer rod 19 or the data storage rod 20 and the ventilator. For example, the cover 16 cannot be lost or is permanently but movably connected to the housing 1. In an exemplary embodiment in which the cover 16 is connected to the housing by a type of strap, the strap can also simultaneously function as a cable for the electrical connection between the cover 16 and the ventilator. The cover 16 can also be implemented independently (i.e., not in a way that prevents it from being lost and connected to the housing 1). If the receiving part 7 with interface 6 is located, for example, in / on the cover 16, then the cover 16 and the housing 1 or the ventilator must have some means that an electrical connection can be established between the cover 16 and the ventilator when the cover 16 is installed or closed.

[0102] For example, the cover 16 also has a fitting 23. This fitting 23 can be mounted on the outside of the cover 16, for example, in the form of a connecting piece or a thin protrusion, that is, on the side not located in the recess 9 when the cover 16 is closed. Such a fitting can be used, for example, to be gripped to open the cover 16.

[0103] exist Figure 14 The diagram schematically illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a ventilator in which a receiver 7 having an interface 6 is arranged on a cable 25 within a recess 9. The cable 25 is configured such that the receiver 7 with interface 6 can be pulled out of the recess 9, at least partially through an opening 11, to connect or disconnect a data transfer rod 19 or a data storage rod 20 from the interface 6. For example, the recess 9 additionally includes a device that holds the data transfer rod 19 or data storage rod 20 connected to the interface 6 within the recess 9. This, for example, prevents unintentional movement of the data transfer rod 19 or data storage rod 20, which could also lead to unintentional separation from the interface. For example, the cable 25 is guided through a bottom 8 into the internal space of the ventilator, such that the bottom is sealed around the cable 25, thus providing water spray protection and contact protection for the cable 25 transitioning into the internal space of the ventilator.

[0104] In an alternative or supplementary embodiment, the guide portion 35 may also be constructed in the bottom 8 of the recess 9, through which the wires of the data transmission rod 19 are guided and connected to the interface 6 or directly to the plug-in connection portion 36 on the electronic circuit board 37 of the ventilator.

[0105] Cover 16 can also be implemented as a sliding plate, for example, in Figure 15 The exemplary embodiment is shown in the figure. In the illustrated embodiment, the opening 11 extends only within the surface 31 of the housing 1. The cover 16, implemented as a sliding plate, is guided on at least one guide rail 28, which is mounted on at least one peripheral wall 12, 13, 14, 15 in the region of the opening 11. For example, the cover 16 is equipped with a closing device 27, with a mating member (not shown and described in more detail) mounted in the housing 1 relative to the closing device. Here, the closing device 27 causes the cover 16 to be fixedly positioned over the opening 11 in a closed state. The closing device 27 can be configured, for example, such that electronic locking is initiated when the data transfer rod 19 or data storage rod 19 is inserted into the interface 6 and the cover 16 is closed. If the cover 16 is configured, for example, to close flush with the housing surface 31, wherein the recess 9 is arranged spaced apart from the housing edge 18, then, for example, a shoulder 32 is constructed relative to one of the housing edges 18, which is recessed relative to the housing surface 31. The shoulder 32 is recessed so that the cover 16 can be moved onto the guide rail 28 above the opening 11 and closed flush with the surface of the housing.

[0106] In one exemplary embodiment, a surface-structured portion 25 is applied to the cover 16. This surface-structured portion, for example, is implemented to increase the sliding resistance between, for example, a finger and the cover 16.

[0107] exist Figure 16 The cross-section AA of an exemplary embodiment of the housing 1 is visible, the housing having a cover 16 implemented as a sliding plate. For example, guide rails 28 are mounted on the peripheral walls 13 and 15. To position the cover 16, a sliding element 29 is mounted on the cover 16 in conjunction with the guide rails 28. For example, when the recess 9 is mounted on the underside of the ventilator and the cover 16 is to be protected from falling off, the sliding element 29 can also additionally provide a function of retaining the cover.

[0108] Figure 17An exemplary embodiment of the housing 1 and cover 16 is shown, wherein the recess 9 is part of one of the housing edges 18 within the housing 1 and extends partially on the outer surface 30. Guide rails 28 are mounted on two opposing peripheral walls, by means of which the cover 16 can be guided above the sliding element 29. For this purpose, a closure device 27 is mounted on the cover 16 and, for example, on the bottom 8 of the recess 9, which together achieve, for example, locking of the cover 16 to the housing 1. Locking can be automatically triggered, for example, when the cover 16 is closed and the data transfer rod 19 or data storage rod 20 is connected to the interface 6, exemplarily arranged on the bottom 8. For this purpose, unlocking can be achieved, for example, through authentication on a ventilator. For example, it is conceivable that the closure device 27 of the housing 16 simply snaps into place (or exactly the opposite). Here, for example, the cover 16 can also be removed without authentication, for example, on a ventilator. In other exemplary embodiments, the closure device 27 is configured such that the cover 16 can be closed or locked, for example, by means of a key.

[0109] For example, authentication is required for the use of the data transfer stick 19 after it is connected to interface 6. If the data transfer stick 19 is connected to interface 6, the stick 19 can initiate the data transfer only, for example, when the data transfer is released or authenticated on the ventilator. In some embodiments, it is sufficient to release the data transfer stick 19 once after it is connected to interface 6.

[0110] If the receiving part 7 with interface 6 is arranged, for example, in one of the peripheral walls 12, 13, 14, 15 (as in... Figure 18 (Exemplary illustration) then a portion of the recess 9 can be covered by the housing surface 31. For example, the following area of ​​the recess 9 can be covered by the housing surface 31: the receiving portion 7 with interface 6 is arranged in one of the peripheral walls in this area.

[0111] Figure 19 An exemplary embodiment of the housing 1 is shown, in which, for example, an additional connector 34 is arranged in the recess 9 next to the receiving portion 7 having the interface 6. The receiving portion 7 having the interface 6 is... Figure 19In the illustrated embodiment, the connector 34 is exemplarily arranged on peripheral wall 12, but it can also be arranged in one of the other peripheral walls 13, 14, 15, bottom 8, or cover 16 (not shown here). Similarly, additional connectors 34 or more additional connectors or components can be installed in bottom 8 or at least one of the peripheral walls 12, 13, 14, 15 or cover 16. Connector 34 can be configured, for example, to allow connection to an O2 measuring unit. Other functions of connector 34 (e.g., for connecting to a battery or other analytical or medical device) are possible. The number and function of additional connectors 34 or other components not described in more detail are not limited by the embodiments mentioned. It can be understood that, in addition to the illustrated interface 6, additional components and connectors can be arranged in recess 9 in an unlimited number and function. For example, the area of ​​interface 6 is at least partially spatially separated from the area with additional connectors 34 by intermediate wall 33. For example, intermediate wall 33 can have a height such that intermediate wall 33 closes flush with housing surface 31. In some embodiments, the height of the intermediate wall 33 is selected such that the intermediate wall 33 does not close flush with the housing surface 31. For example, the intermediate wall 33 has devices or structures for protection against high-frequency waves and electric fields. For example, the intermediate wall 33 may also have devices or structures to enable electric fields and sources to be applied only in preferred directions. In cases where multiple connectors 34 and / or components are arranged alongside the interface 6, additional intermediate walls 33 can also at least partially spatially separate the corresponding areas.

[0112] Instead of the receiving part 7 with interface 6 directly in the recess 9, in Figure 19 An exemplary alternative embodiment of the shown implementation includes a through-hole 35 for a wire (e.g., cable) from the data transfer rod 19 to a connector 36 on an interface 6 on an electronic circuit board 37 (not shown) of the ventilator. The through-hole 35 is arranged and configured, for example, such that the connector 36 is accessible through the through-hole 35, the data transfer rod 19 can be placed in a recess 9, and the data transfer rod 19 can be connected to the connector 36 of the interface 6 via a wire. In some embodiments, the wire can also be connected to the connector 36 of the interface 6, such that the wire constitutes an extension of the interface 6, as exemplarily provided by... Figure 14 Cable 25 is shown in the diagram.

[0113] List of reference numerals

[0114] 1. Shell

[0115] 2. Breathing gas sources

[0116] 3 Control System

[0117] 4 Control System

[0118] 5 Control System

[0119] 6 Interfaces

[0120] 7 Receiving Section

[0121] 8 Bottom

[0122] 9. Depression

[0123] 10 shafts

[0124] 11 Opening

[0125] 12 Surrounding walls

[0126] 13 Surrounding walls

[0127] 14 Surrounding walls

[0128] 15. Surrounding walls

[0129] 16 covers

[0130] 17. Surrounding sealing section

[0131] 18. Shell edge

[0132] 19 Data Transfer Rod

[0133] 20 Data Storage Sticks

[0134] 21 Removal device

[0135] 22 Area of ​​Scope

[0136] 23 accessories

[0137] 24 Surface-structured section

[0138] 25 Cables

[0139] 26 Hinges

[0140] 27. Enclosure device

[0141] 28 guide rails

[0142] 29 Sliding element

[0143] 30 Outer surface

[0144] 31. Shell surface

[0145] 32 shoulder

[0146] 33 Intermediate wall

[0147] 34 connectors

[0148] 35. Piercing section

[0149] 36 Sockets

[0150] 37 Circuit Board

[0151] aa Continuous current contact

[0152] bb Automatic Current Contact

[0153] CC sensor

Claims

1. An artificial respirator having a housing (1), at least one breathing gas source (2), at least one control system (3, 4 or 5), at least one interface (6) for connecting with a data transfer stick (19) and / or a data memory stick (20), wherein, The housing (1) has a receptacle (7) for the interface (6), and the receptacle (7) with the interface (6) is arranged in a recess (9) of the housing (1), wherein the recess (9) is configured as a shaft (10) and has an opening (11), wherein at least two peripheral walls (12, 13, 14, 15) extend from the opening (11) in the direction of the interior space of the artificial respirator to a bottom (8), wherein the receptacle (7) with the interface (6) is arranged in the region of the bottom (8) or of the peripheral walls (12, 13, 14, 15) of the recess (9), wherein at least one peripheral wall (12, 13, 14, 15) has guide means for guiding and supporting a data transfer stick (19) and / or a data memory stick (20) in the assembled state, and the recess (9) is closed by a cover (16), and the interface (6) has a water jet protection and a contact protection.

2. The artificial respirator according to claim 1, characterized in that The recess (9) is closed by a cover (16) which is essentially flush with the housing (1).

3. Artificial respirator according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The cover (16) is arranged in a manner movable relative to the housing (1) and is fastened on the housing.

4. The artificial respirator according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by The cover (16) has at least one fitting (23) or surface structuring (24) to simplify opening of the cover (16).

5. The artificial respirator according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by In the housing (1) and / or the peripheral walls (12, 13, 14, 15) a mechanism is incorporated which at least partially opens the cover (16) upon application of pressure and returns again into the initial position upon renewed application of pressure.

6. The artificial respirator according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by The receptacle (7) with the interface (6) and the recess (9) are sealed relative to the interior space of the artificial respirator.

7. The artificial respirator according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by The cover (16) can be closed with a tool.

8. The artificial respirator according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by The cover (16) is configured as a sliding plate.

9. The artificial respirator according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by The cover (16) in the closed state snaps into the corresponding means in the peripheral walls (12, 13, 14, 15) and / or housing edges (18) and / or in / on the housing (1).

10. The artificial respirator according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by The recess (9) is arranged spaced apart from the housing edges (18) in the outer face (30) of the housing (1).

11. The artificial respirator according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by The interface (6) enables contact-making with a large number of different data transfer sticks (19) and / or a large number of different data memory sticks (20).

12. The artificial respirator according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by The receptacle (7) with the interface (6) is arranged sunken in the housing, so that a data transfer stick (19) inserted in the receptacle and in the interface (6) is arranged completely in the recess (9) and closed maximally flush with the housing surface (31) of the housing (1), but does not protrude beyond the housing surface (31).

13. The artificial respirator according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by The recess (9) has an action area (22) for the fingers and / or the thumb for simple pulling out of the data transfer stick (19) and / or data memory stick (20) from the interface (6).

14. The artificial respirator according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by The interface (6) and / or the receptacle (7) and / or the recess (9) have a removal device (21) with a return function, and by manipulation of the removal device (21) the data transfer rod (19) or data memory rod (20) is guided into a position in which the data transfer rod or data memory rod is no longer flush closed with the housing (1) or arranged inside the housing (1), but at least partially protrudes beyond the housing (1).

15. The artificial respirator according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by The interface (6) connects the data transfer rod (19) electrically, directly or via a cable connection, electrically and optionally mechanically, with an electronic circuit board (37) present in the artificial respirator, wherein the interface (6) is in electric contact with the control unit of the artificial respirator and is configured for communication of data signals with the artificial respirator.

16. The artificial respirator according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by The interface (6) has a permanent current contact (aa) and / or an automatic current contact (bb), wherein the automatic current contact (bb) is equipped with a sensor (cc) configured to detect mechanical occupation of the interface.

17. The artificial respirator according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by The data transfer rod (19) is embodied as an introduction module which can be introduced into the receptacle (7) and plugged into the interface (6), wherein the interface (6) constitutes a transmission / reception device by connection of the data transfer rod (19) and is configured for establishing a wireless connection.

18. The artificial respirator according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by Access to data of the data transfer rod (19) located in the interface (6) is protected by password and / or hardware encryption.

19. The artificial respirator according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by The interface (6) and / or the receptacle (7) and / or the bottom (8) and / or the recess (9) and / or the shaft (10) and / or at least one peripheral wall (12, 13, 14, 15) have means and / or are configured to prevent or attenuate an electric field and high-frequency waves in at least one prohibited direction.

20. The artificial respirator according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by The cover (16) can be electronically locked, wherein the electronic locking of the cover (16) can be released by authentication.

21. The artificial respirator according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by The receptacle (7) with the interface (6) is movably arranged in the recess (9).

22. The artificial respirator according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by In addition to the interface (6), at least one further component and / or further connection (34) is arranged in the recess (9), wherein the area of the interface (6) in the recess (9) is at least partially spatially separated from the further component and / or connection (34) by at least partially configured intermediate walls (33).

23. A system for establishing a wireless connection comprising at least one artificial respirator, at least one interface (6), at least one data transfer stick (19) and at least one cover (16), characterized in that, The interface (6) is arranged in a recess (9) and the data transfer rod (19) is removably connected to the interface (6) in the recess (9), wherein the recess (9) can be closed with the cover (16), wherein at least one peripheral wall (12, 13, 14, 15) of the recess (9) has guiding means to guide the data transfer rod (19) and to support it in the assembled state, and the recess (9) is closed by the cover (16) and the interface (6) has water jet protection and contact protection.

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