Safety mechanism, safety system, VAD system and method for separating two units connected by a

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a safety mechanism for locking and separating a first unit from a second unit, in particular for locking and separating a battery unit (1) of a VAD system from a control unit (2) of the VAD system. The safety mechanism comprises a clamping hook (21) with a clamping protrusion (22), a clamping opening (11) and a first operation piece (12). In the rest position, the catch (21) is inserted into the bayonet (11) in such a way that the catch (21) passes through the bayonet (11) and the latching projection (22) is at least partially latched behind the edge of the bayonet (11). In the pre-separation position, the catch (21) is at least partially inserted into the bayonet (11) in such a way that at least a part of the catch (21) passes through the bayonet and the latching projection (22) is separated from the edge of the bayonet (11). In the release position, the catch (21) is arranged outside the bayonet (11). The actuating element is designed in such a way that the actuation of the actuating element (12) moves the catch (21) and / or the bayonet (11) from the pre-release position into the release position.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a safety mechanism for locking and separating a first unit from a second unit, in particular for locking and separating a battery unit of a VAD system from a control unit of the VAD system. A VAD system is a cardiac assist system, wherein VAD stands for ventricular assist device. The present invention also relates to a safety system and a VAD system, both of which include a corresponding safety mechanism. The present invention also relates to a method for separating a corresponding safety mechanism.

[0002] A heart assist system is disclosed in the prior art. A ventricular assist system (VAD) is an electromechanical device for assisting cardiac circulation, which partially or completely replaces the function of a failed heart. A VAD system generally includes an implantable heart pump, a controller unit for controlling the heart pump, and a battery cell or storage battery cell for powering the controller unit and / or the heart pump. The control unit and the storage battery cell or storage battery cell are generally arranged outside the patient's body. In order to ensure a perfect VAD system function, a safe power supply must be guaranteed. The storage battery cell or storage battery cell must therefore be securely fixed to the control unit. In order to replace the battery or storage battery, the storage battery cell or storage battery cell must be separated from the control unit. In order not to endanger the power supply of the heart pump and / or the control unit, it must be ensured that the storage battery cell or storage battery cell and the control unit are not accidentally separated.

[0003] The object of the present invention is therefore to provide a safe and detachable connection between a battery or a battery cell, in particular for a VAD system, and a control unit.

[0004] This object is achieved by a safety device according to claim 1. Furthermore, this object is achieved by a safety system and / or a VAD system and / or a method according to the independent claims. Advantageous developments of the invention are indicated in the dependent claims.

[0005] The drawings and the associated descriptions of the drawings serve to illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present invention and are not to be understood as limiting. In particular, the features and feature combinations described herein are not necessarily combined together and are only combined by way of example.

[0006] The proposed safety mechanism is used to lock and separate the first unit and the second unit. The proposed safety mechanism is particularly used to detachably lock a battery unit of a VAD system and a control unit of the VAD system.

[0007] In this specification, the term "battery unit" is used, which, as the name implies, may include a battery. However, this concept should not be understood as being restrictive. Therefore, the battery unit may additionally or alternatively include a battery.

[0008] The safety mechanism comprises a hook with a locking protrusion, a bayonet and a first operating member. The hook can be switched between a static position, a pre-separation position and a release position. To this end, the hook can be actively moved from one position to another position by the hook movement. Alternatively or additionally, another component such as the bayonet can be moved so that the hook is switched between the static position, the pre-separation position and the release position.

[0009] In the rest position, the hook is inserted into the bayonet in such a way that the hook passes through the bayonet and the latching projection is at least partially latched behind the edge of the bayonet.

[0010] In the pre-detachment position, the latching hook is at least partially inserted into the latch opening in such a way that at least a portion of the latching hook passes through the latch opening and the latching projection is detached from the edge of the latch opening.

[0011] In the release position, the latching hook is arranged outside the latching opening.

[0012] The operating element is designed in such a way that an operation of the operating element causes the latching hook and / or the latching catch to move from the pre-separation position to the release position.

[0013] This may have the advantage that the latch hook can only be separated from the latch opening by an additional operation, so that an undesired separation of the latch hook from the latch opening can be avoided as much as possible.

[0014] In an advantageous embodiment, the hook and the latch can be designed such that in the rest position, the hook and the latch are locked together in a first direction and in a second direction and the hook can be moved in the direction of the pre-detachment position. The second direction can be particularly perpendicular to the first direction.

[0015] The second direction can in particular correspond to the operating direction of the operating member. For example, the pressing of a button can be prohibited. The direction for placing the pre-separation position can be perpendicular to the first direction and / or the second direction. In particular, the method for placing the pre-separation position can displace the hook along its longitudinal axis and / or displace the bayonet. In the static position, the hook can, for example, only move a predetermined distance along its longitudinal axis. For example, the hook can only move into the pre-separation position. In particular, the hook cannot be moved directly from the static position to the release position, that is, in particular if it has not been previously placed in the pre-separation position and the operating member has not been operated in the pre-separation position.

[0016] It can therefore be provided that the hook can be moved by the user into the pre-detaching position merely by a defined movement, in particular a movement of the first unit toward the second unit.

[0017] In the pre-detachment position, the latch hook can be arranged such that it is inserted into the latch opening such that the latch hook is locked with the latch opening in a first direction and is separated in a second direction. It can be provided that the latch hook cannot be separated from the latch opening in the first direction. However, the operating element can be released in the pre-detachment position so that it can be operated.

[0018] The operating member can be designed in such a way that the operating member is prohibited from being operated when the hook is in the static position. The operation of the operating member can be prohibited, for example, by the latching projection in the static position. Therefore, careless operation of the operating member can be avoided as much as possible.

[0019] The operating member can be designed as a pressing member, for example. It can be designed in particular so that the pressure applied to the operating member moves the hook and / or the bayonet, that is, the hook is placed from the pre-separation position to the release position. In the release position, the unit with the hook and the unit with the bayonet can be separated from each other. The safety of the safety mechanism can be improved by the above steps that must be performed to separate the unit with the hook and the unit with the bayonet from each other, that is, placing from the rest position to the pre-separation position and from there to the release position.

[0020] In a preferred embodiment, the operating member is fixedly connected to the bayonet. Operation of the operating member (which is especially possible only when the hook is in the pre-detachment position) can displace the bayonet in the second direction. Displacement of the bayonet can result in the hook being moved out of the bayonet. The hook can therefore be placed in the release position after the operating member is operated. Alternatively, provision can be made for the hook to be fixedly connected to the operating member. Operation of the operating member (which is especially possible only when the hook is in the pre-detachment position) can displace the hook in such a way that it can be moved away from the bayonet.

[0021] The hook and / or the bayonet can, for example, consist of and / or contain plastic. The hook and / or the bayonet can, in particular, consist of a material that is at least partially elastically bendable. Thus, the operation of the operating member can, for example, elastically bend the hook and / or the bayonet so that the hook moves away from the bayonet, or in other words, the bayonet moves out of the hook. If the operating member is no longer operated, the hook or the bayonet can elastically return to the initial position.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment, the hook and the bayonet can be separated as described below, wherein as an initial position, the hook is locked together with the bayonet in a static position. When the hook and the bayonet are engaged in the static position, the first and second units are generally locked to each other. The hook can be placed in a pre-separation position from the static position. In the pre-separation position, the operating member can be operated. When the operating member is further operated, the first unit can be separated from the second unit.

[0023] The operation of the operating part is prohibited in the rest position. The operation of the operating part can be prohibited by form fit. In order to prohibit, for example, the latching projection of the latch hook can be latched behind the edge of the bayonet.

[0024] In the static position, the hook and the bayonet can be moved to the pre-separation position. The bayonet can be designed, for example, as a long hole, in which the hook can move. Therefore, the cross section of a part of the hook passing through the bayonet can be smaller than that of the bayonet. Therefore, a gap can be set between the hook and the bayonet. The relative movement of the first unit and the second unit can cause the hook to be displaced in the bayonet. The shape and size of the bayonet can limit the movement of the hook in the bayonet. In order to move the hook in the bayonet, for example, the first unit can be moved toward the second unit and / or the second unit can be moved toward the first unit. In particular, the movement can be carried out along the longitudinal axis of the hook. In the static position, the hook can be arranged in a first position in the bayonet designed as a long hole, and in the pre-separation position, the hook can be arranged in a second position in the bayonet designed as a long hole. The long hole can be designed so that when the hook is in the static position, the hook can move at least 1 mm, preferably at least 2 mm, and particularly preferably at least 3 mm in the bayonet. The oblong hole can be designed in such a way that, when the hook is in the rest position, the hook can be displaced in the hook opening by at most 6 mm, preferably at most 5 mm, particularly preferably at most 4 mm.

[0025] In the pre-separation position, the operation of the operating member can be allowed. In particular, the bayonet and / or the hook and / or the locking projection can be designed so that in the pre-separation position, the locking projection will not be stuck behind the bayonet edge. In the pre-separation position, the hook can partially pass through the bayonet. The locking projection can be located below or above the bayonet at this time, but within the bayonet edge, so that the operation (for example, pressing) of the operating member is allowed. The operation of the operating member can, for example, move the bayonet so that the bayonet moves away from the hook so that the hook is in the release position. Or, the operation of the operating member can, for example, move the hook so that the hook moves away from the bayonet so that the hook is in the release position. A first elastic member (such as a spring) can be provided on the operating member, which presses the operating member to an initial position, in which the bayonet and the hook are locked together. Therefore, in order to operate the operating member, it can be provided that a force must be applied to the operating member, and the force is greater than the elastic force of the first elastic member that presses the operating member to the initial position. If the first elastic member is, for example, a spring, the force used to operate the operating member must be greater than the spring force. As an alternative or in addition to the first elastic member, the operating member itself can contain elastic material. The operation of the operating member can then, for example, bend the bayonet or an element contained in the bayonet so that the bayonet is bent away from the hook, so that the hook is in the release position. The operating member can be formed in particular in one piece with the bayonet for this purpose. Alternatively, the operation of the operating member can, for example, bend the hook or an element containing the hook so that the hook is bent away from the bayonet, so that the hook is in the release position. The operating member can be formed in particular in one piece with the hook for this purpose.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment, it is provided that in order to separate the first unit from the second unit, the first unit and the second unit are pulled apart when the hook is in the release position. In particular, it can be provided that the first unit and the second unit or the hook and the latch must be pulled apart in one direction along or parallel to the longitudinal axis of the hook. In this case, it can be provided in particular that the actuation element must also be maintained so that the hook remains in the release position.

[0027] In a preferred embodiment, the safety mechanism comprises a second elastic member designed and arranged in such a way that the hook is pressed from the pre-separation position to the static position. The second elastic member can be designed as a spring or contain a spring, for example. Alternatively or additionally, the elastic member can include or form an elastomer, for example in the form of a rubber seal. The rubber seal can be partially arranged on the first and / or second unit or formed in a surrounding manner. The rubber seal can be arranged in a surrounding manner on the contact surface between the first and second units in particular. The rubber seal can seal the first unit and the second unit. The rubber seal can have the following advantages, in addition to its elastic properties, it can also, for example, seal the housing cavity provided in the first and / or second unit in a watertight and / or airtight and / or dusttight manner, as long as the first and second units are connected. The rubber seal can also have substantially no sealing properties or have a weaker sealing property and is only used for the elastic connection between the first and second units.

[0028] In one embodiment, the safety mechanism includes a second hook, a second bayonet, and a second operating member. The second hook can be designed and / or arranged in a mirror-symmetrical manner relative to the first hook. The second bayonet can be designed and / or arranged in a mirror-symmetrical manner relative to the second bayonet. The second operating member can be designed and / or arranged in a mirror-symmetrical manner relative to the first operating member.

[0029] The features described above with respect to the first hook and / or the first latch opening and / or the first operating element may also be applied to the second hook and / or the second latch opening and / or the second operating element.

[0030] In a preferred design, the above-mentioned hook is arranged on the first side of the first unit and the hook of the same design is arranged on the second side of the first unit in a mirror-symmetrical manner. In this embodiment, the above-mentioned bayonet is arranged on the second unit on the first side of the first unit and the bayonet of the same design is arranged on the second side of the second unit in a mirror-symmetrical manner. This has the advantage that the separation of the first unit from the second unit requires the operation of the first and second operating members, in particular the simultaneous operation. This can make the safety mechanism safer, because unintended separation is less likely.

[0031] The first and second operating members can be arranged opposite each other. In particular, the first and second operating members can be arranged opposite each other in such a way that the simultaneous pressing of the operating members causes the first and second hooks to be in the release position. In particular, the first and second operating members can be arranged opposite each other in such a way that the distance between the operating members is at most 7 cm, preferably at most 6 cm, particularly preferably at most 4 cm. In particular, the first and second operating members can be arranged opposite each other in such a way that the distance between the operating members is at least 1 cm, preferably at least 2 cm, particularly preferably at least 3 cm. In particular, the first and second operating members can be arranged opposite each other in such a way that an adult user can operate the first and second operating members with one hand, i.e. with the right hand or the left hand, for example with the thumb and index finger. In particular, the distance can be selected in such a way that the hand size of 5% to 95% of the users to be used is sufficient to operate the first and second operating members simultaneously, in particular according to DIN 33402-2:2005-12.

[0032] In particular, the first and second operating elements may be arranged opposite each other in such a way that a 6-year-old child can operate the first and second operating elements with one hand, for example with thumb and index finger. In particular, the maximum distance may be greater than 2 cm, preferably greater than 3 cm, particularly preferably greater than 3.5 cm. In particular, the maximum distance may be less than 8 cm, preferably less than 6 cm, particularly preferably less than 5 cm. In particular, the first and second operating elements may be arranged opposite each other in such a way that a child of 3 years of age or younger cannot operate the first and second operating elements with one hand, for example with thumb and index finger.

[0033] In order to avoid accidentally separating the first unit from the second unit, another safety member may be provided. The safety member can be placed in the separation position from the safety position. In the safety position, the safety member may prohibit the operation of the operating member. In the separation position, the safety member may allow the operation of the operating member. In this embodiment, in order to separate the first unit from the second unit, the hook must first be placed in the pre-separation position from the static position (as in the above-mentioned embodiment). Subsequently, in the pre-separation position, the safety member must be placed in the separation position from the safety position so that the operating member can be operated. If the first and second operating members are to be provided, the safety member in the safety position can simultaneously block the first and second operating members. Placing the safety member in the separation position can release the first and second operating members simultaneously. Alternatively, a first safety member may be provided, which blocks the first operating member in the safety position, and a second safety member may be provided, which blocks the second operating member in the safety position. In order to operate the first and second operating members, the first safety member and the second safety member must then be placed in the separation position from the safety position. Subsequently, the (first and / or second) operating member may be operated in the separation position so that the first unit can be separated from the second unit.

[0034] The present invention also relates to a safety system, comprising a first unit and a second unit, wherein the first unit and the second unit are detachably connected by means of the above-mentioned safety mechanism. In particular, the hook is fixedly connected to the first unit and / or is part of the first unit. The bayonet is fixedly connected to the second unit and / or is part of the second unit. The hook can be integrally formed with the first unit and / or welded, clamped and / or screwed to the first unit. The bayonet can be integrally formed with the second unit and / or welded, clamped and / or screwed to the second unit.

[0035] The first unit and the second unit have in particular a detachable electrical connection. The electrical connection is in particular achieved when the first and second units are locked to one another. The electrical connection is in particular achieved when the first and second units or the hook and the latch are in a rest position and / or a pre-detachment position. The electrical connection can have a plug and a socket. In particular, the plug can be arranged on the first unit and the socket on the second unit, or vice versa. When the first and second units are a battery unit and a control unit and they are locked to one another, the control unit is in particular powered by a battery or a battery of the battery unit.

[0036] In an advantageous design, the first unit is a plastic injection molded part and the hook is formed integrally with the first unit. In an advantageous design, the second unit is a plastic injection molded part and the bayonet is formed integrally with the first unit. For example, the first unit and / or the second unit may contain one or more of the following materials or be made of one of the following materials: polypropylene (PP) and / or acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer (ABS) and / or polycarbonate (PC) and / or polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and / or aliphatic polyamide (PPA) and / or polyoxymethylene (POM) and / or polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) and / or polyetherimide (PEI) and / or polyethylene (PE).

[0037] In particular, the first unit and the second unit are locked to one another in the rest position and in the pre-separation position by the safety mechanism and are separated from one another in the release position.

[0038] The present invention also relates to a VAD system, which includes the above-mentioned safety system. The VAD system may also include a heart pump. The first unit may be a control unit. The second unit may be a battery unit or a storage battery unit. Alternatively, the first unit may be a battery unit or a storage battery unit and the second unit may be a control unit.

[0039] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for separating a first unit and a second unit of the above-mentioned system, in particular of the above-mentioned VAD system.

[0040] The method comprises the following steps:

[0041] I. Move the first unit toward the second unit,

[0042] II. Operation of the operating parts

[0043] III. Separate the first unit from the second unit,

[0044] Therein, step II follows step I and step III follows step II in order to separate the first unit from the second unit.

[0045] In a variant embodiment of the method, the safety element can be moved from the safety position to the separation position between step I and step II. The safety element can prohibit operation of the operating element in the safety position and permit operation of the operating element in the separation position.

[0046] Embodiments of the present invention are explained in detail in the following drawings, in which:

[0047] Figure 1a A perspective view of a control unit and a battery unit of a VAD system, wherein the control unit and the battery unit are locked to each other.

[0048] Figure 1b Shown in perspective Figure 1a A control unit and a battery unit, wherein the control unit and the battery unit are separated from each other,

[0049] Figure 1c Shown in a top view in a resting position Figure 1a and Figure 1b control unit and battery unit,

[0050] Figure 1d Along Figure 1c The cross-sectional view of section AA shown in the static position Figure 1c control unit and battery unit,

[0051] Figure 1e The pre-separation position is shown in a top view. Figure 1a to Figure 1d control unit and battery unit,

[0052] Figure 1f Along Figure 1e The cross-sectional view of section AA shown in the pre-separation position Figures 1a to 1e control unit and battery unit,

[0053] Figure 1g A detailed view of the operating member and the hook from the previous figure is shown in the released position,

[0054] Figure 1h Along Figure 1e The cross-sectional view of section AA shown in the released position Figure 1a to Figure 1g control unit and battery unit,

[0055] Figure 1i The VAD system is shown in a static position with Figures 1a to 1f The VAD system is correspondingly designed, wherein an elastic body is provided as an elastic element between the first and second units instead of a spring,

[0056] Figure 1j The VAD system is shown in a pre-separation position with Figures 1a to 1f The VAD system is correspondingly designed, wherein an elastic body is provided as an elastic element between the first and second units instead of a spring,

[0057] Figure 2a A perspective view of a VAD system, wherein the control unit and the battery unit are separated from one another.

[0058] Figure 2b Shown in a top view in a resting position Figure 2a The control unit and the battery unit are locked to each other in the static position.

[0059] Figure 2c Along Figure 2b The cross-sectional view of section BB shown shows the Figure 2b control unit and battery unit,

[0060] Figure 2d Along Figure 2c The cross-sectional view of section AA shown shows the Figure 2b and Figure 2c control unit and battery unit,

[0061] Figure 2e The pre-separation position is shown in a top view. Figure 2a to Figure 2d control unit and battery unit,

[0062] Figure 2f Along Figure 2e The cross-sectional view of section BB shown shows the Figure 2e control unit and battery unit,

[0063] Figure 2g Along Figure 2f The cross-sectional view of section AA shown in the pre-separation position Figure 2e and Figure 2f control unit and battery unit,

[0064] Figure 2h to Figure 2j A VAD system is shown, which is Figure 2a to Figure 2g The VAD system is correspondingly designed, wherein an elastic body is provided as an elastic element between the first and second units instead of a spring, wherein Figure 2h Shown is section AA, Figure 2i Shown is section BB, Figure 2j Showing a top view,

[0065] Figure 3a A perspective view of a VAD system, wherein the control unit and the battery unit are separated from one another.

[0066] Figure 3b Shown in a top view in a resting position Figure 3a The control unit and the battery unit are locked to each other in the static position.

[0067] Figure 3c Along Figure 3b The cross-sectional view of section AA shown in the static position Figure 3b control unit and battery unit,

[0068] Figure 3d Along Figure 3c The sectional view of the drawn section BB shows the control unit and the battery unit in the rest position,

[0069] Figure 3e Shown in a top view in the released position Figure 3a to Figure 3d control unit and battery unit,

[0070] Figure 3f Along Figure 3e The cross-sectional view of section AA shown in the released position Figure 3e control unit and battery unit,

[0071] Figure 3g Along Figure 3f The cross-sectional view of section AA shown in the released position Figure 3f control unit and battery unit,

[0072] Figure 3h to Figure 3j A VAD system is shown, which is Figure 3a to Figure 3g The VAD system is correspondingly designed, wherein an elastic body is provided as an elastic element between the first and second units instead of a spring, wherein Figure 3h Shown is section BB, Figure 3i Shown is section AA, Figure 3j A top view is shown.

[0073] Repeated features carry the same reference numerals in the Figures.

[0074] Figure 1aThe control unit 2 and the battery unit 1 of the VAD system are shown in a perspective view. The battery unit 1 comprises a battery for supplying power to the control unit 2. The control unit 2 comprises electronic equipment such as a controller unit. The controller unit is set up for controlling a heart pump. The heart pump (not shown) is connected to the controller unit wirelessly or via a cable. The control unit 2 comprises a display 201 for displaying various information, such as for displaying the battery charge of the battery unit 1 and / or for displaying the heart rate and / or for displaying heart pump data.

[0075] The battery unit 1 and the control unit 2 are detachably locked to each other via a safety mechanism. Figure 1a The VAD system is shown in a resting position. Figure 1b The battery unit 1 and the control unit 2 are shown in a mutually separated position. The safety mechanism for detachably locking the battery unit 1 and the control unit 2 comprises a hook 21, a bayonet 11 and a first operating member 12. The operating member 12 and the bayonet 11 are part of the battery unit 1. The hook 21 is part of the control unit 2.

[0076] Figure 1c The locked rechargeable battery unit 1 and the control unit 2 are shown in a top view in a resting position. Figure 1d Along Figure 1c The sectional view of the drawn section AA shows the locked battery unit 1 and control unit 2 in the rest position. The latching hook 21 is formed integrally with the housing of the control unit 2. The latching hook has a latching projection 22. The operating element 12 is formed integrally with the housing of the battery unit 1 and with the latch 11. Figure 1c and Figure 1d In the rest position shown, the hook 21 passes through the bayonet 11. The latching projection 22 is latched behind the edge of the bayonet 11, so that the operation of the operating member 12 in the direction II is prohibited.

[0077] Mirror-symmetrically about the axis a, the battery unit 1 has a second operating member 12' and a second latch 11', which are formed integrally with the housing of the battery unit 1. Also mirror-symmetrically about the axis a, the control unit 2 has a second latch hook 21' with a second latching protrusion 22'. The latch hook 21' is formed integrally with the housing of the control unit 2. Figure 1d In the rest position shown, the hook 21' passes through the bayonet 11'. The latching projection 22' is latched behind the edge of the bayonet 11', so that the operation of the operating member 12' in the direction II' is prohibited.

[0078] The spring 3 is arranged in the battery cell 1. In the rest position, the spring 3 presses the control unit 2 away from the battery cell 1 along the axis a. In the embodiment currently shown, the spring 3 is a coil spring. The battery cell comprises a pin 13 which is connected to the housing of the battery cell 1 in a translationally movable manner. The pin 13 is pressed by the spring 3 in the direction I along the axis a. The pin 13 may comprise an electrical connection between a battery or a cell provided in the battery cell 1 and the control unit 2. Alternatively, other forms of plugs and sockets may be provided for the electrical connection between the battery or a cell of the battery cell 1 and the control unit 2. The plug and socket may be designed such that the elastic member presses them apart. When the battery cell 1 and the control unit 2 are assembled, the pin 13 abuts against the control unit 2. In order to assemble the battery cell 1 and the control unit 2, the battery cell 1 and the control unit 2 are pressed together, wherein the pressure is greater than the spring force of the spring 3. In the rest position, i.e. in a state such as Figure 1c and Figure 1d In the state shown, the spring 3 exerts force on the control unit 2. The spring 3 is thus prestressed in the rest position. When no external pressure is applied to the battery unit 1 and / or the control unit 2, the spring 3 presses the battery unit 1 and the control unit 2 apart along the axis a. In this case, the hook is pressed into the slot 11 formed in the shape of an elongated hole. Figure 1d In the position shown. In the rest position, the latching projection 22 is latched behind the edge of the latch opening 11 and the latching projection 22 ′ is latched behind the edge of the latch opening 11 ′.

[0079] The operating part 12 has an elastic film 121, which is arranged on the operating surface of the operating part 12. The elastic film 121 serves as a seal and also improves the tactile feel of the operating part 12. The operating part 12' has an elastic film 121', which is arranged on the operating surface of the operating part 12'. The elastic film 121' serves as a seal and also improves the tactile feel of the operating part 12'. The internal space of the battery cell can be sealed watertight, airtight and / or dusttight.

[0080] Figure 1e Shown with Figure 1c The same view and Figure 1f Shown with Figure 1d Same view. But in Figure 1e and Figure 1f The control unit 2 and the battery unit 1 are in the pre-separation position as shown in the figure. Figure 1c and Figure 1d From the rest position shown, the battery unit 1 has been moved 3 mm along the axis a toward the control unit 2. In the pre-detachment position, the latch hook 21 passes through the latch opening 11 and the latch hook 21' also passes through the latch opening 11'. However, the latching projection 22 is no longer latched behind the edge of the latch opening 11 and the latching projection 22' is no longer latched behind the edge of the latch opening 11'. Figure 1d The rest position shown makes Figure 1fThe control unit in is moved by 3 mm along the axis a in the direction I toward the battery unit 1 . For this purpose, a force F acts on the control unit 2 , which is greater than the spring force of the spring 3 pressing the battery unit 1 and the control unit 2 apart.

[0081] Figure 1h The control unit 2 and the battery unit 1 from the previous figures are shown in section AA in the released position. Figure 1h The local C is marked in Figure 1g Shown enlarged. Figure 1g Therefore, the schematic diagram shows Figure 1a to Figure 1h The operating member 12, the bayonet 11 and the hook 22. Figure 1h and Figure 1g 1 shows the operating member 12, the bayonet 11 and the hook 22 in the release position. Here, a force F acts on the operating member 12, which deflects the operating member 12 and the bayonet 11 downward. At this time, the hook 21 is released. If the operating member 12' is also operated at the same time, the battery unit 1 can be separated from the control unit 2. In order to operate the operating members 12 and 12', the battery unit 1 and the control unit 2 must be placed in the pre-separation position (such as Figure 1e and Figure 1f As shown), because otherwise the latching projection 22 or 22' prevents the operating part 12 or 12' from deflecting. The operating part 12 and the bayonet 11 as well as the operating part 12' and the bayonet 11' are made of plastic, in particular PC and / or ABS and / or polyphthalamide (PPA). Figure 1g or Figure 1h The deformation of the operating member 12 (and the operating member 12') to the release position is elastic, so once the force F is no longer applied to the operating member 12 (or 12'), the operating member 12 (or the operating member 12') returns to the release position. Figure 1f Position shown.

[0082] Figure 1i and Figure 1j Corresponding to Figure 1a to Figure 1g The cross-sectional view AA of FIG. 1 shows a control unit 2 and a battery cell 1, wherein an elastic element 3' in the form of a circumferential elastic seal, such as a sponge rubber ring, is provided between the control unit 2 and the battery cell 1 instead of the spring 3. The features described above with respect to the previous figures therefore also apply to Figure 1i and Figure 1j The VAD system shown in FIG. Figure 1i The control unit 2 and the battery unit 1 are shown in a rest position in an assembled locked state. Figure 1j The control unit 2 and the battery unit 1 are shown in a pre-detachment position. In the pre-detachment position, the surrounding elastic seal is compressed by the force F acting on the battery unit. The latching projection 22 is Figure 1j The inner edge of the bracket 11 is not stuck behind the bracket 11.

[0083] Figures 2a to 2j A VAD system is shown having an alternative embodiment of a safety mechanism for detachably locking the battery unit 1 and the control unit 2 . Figure 2a The VAD system is shown in a perspective view, in which the battery cells 1 and the control unit 2 are separated from one another.

[0084] The battery unit 1 comprises a battery for supplying power to the control unit 2. The control unit 2 comprises electronic instruments such as a controller unit. The controller unit is set up to control a heart pump. The heart pump (not shown) is connected to the controller unit wirelessly or via a cable. The control unit 2 may comprise a display (not shown) for displaying various information, for example for displaying the battery charge of the battery unit 1 and / or for displaying the heart rate and / or displaying heart pump data.

[0085] The battery unit 1 and the control unit 2 are detachably locked to each other via a safety mechanism. Figure 2b to Figure 2d The VAD system is shown in a resting position. Figure 2e to Figure 2g The VAD system is shown in a pre-separation position. The safety mechanism for detachably locking the battery unit 1 and the control unit 2 comprises a hook 21, a bayonet 11 and an operating member 12. The operating member 12 and the bayonet 11 are part of the battery unit 1. The hook 21 is part of the control unit 2.

[0086] Figure 2b The battery unit 1 and the control unit 2 are shown in a top view in a locked resting position. Figure 2c The battery unit 1 is shown in FIG. Figure 2b A cross-sectional view of section BB is shown. Figure 2d Along Figure 2c The sectional view of the drawn section AA shows the locked rechargeable battery unit 1 and the control unit 2 in the rest position. Figure 2e to Figure 2g The top view shows the battery unit 1 and the control unit 2 in the pre-separation position. Figure 2f Middle Edge Figure 2e The section BB shown shows a cross section through the battery cell 1 . Figure 2g Along Figure 2f The sectional view of the drawn section AA shows the battery cell 1 and the control unit 2 in a pre-detachment position.

[0087] The hook 21 is formed integrally with the housing of the control unit 2. The hook has a latching projection 22. The operating element 12 is formed integrally with the housing of the battery unit 1 and with the latch 11. Figure 2b to Figure 2d In the rest position shown, the hook 21 passes through the bayonet 11. The latching projection 22 is latched behind the edge of the bayonet 11, so that the operation of the operating member 12 in the direction II is prohibited.

[0088] The battery unit 1 has a safety member 4. The safety member 4 can be placed from a safety position to a separation position. The safety member 4 prohibits the operation of the operating member 12 in the safety position and allows the operation of the operating member 12 in the separation position. The safety member 4 is designed as a button. Figure 2b to Figure 2d The safety member 4 is shown in the safety position. The journal 41 of the safety member 4 prohibits the operation of the operating member 12. The safety member has a spring 42, which presses the safety member into the safety position. In order to put the safety member into the separation position, the user must apply a force F to the safety member 4, which compresses the spring 42 (such as Figure 2f ). Figure 2e to Figure 2g The safety member 4 is shown in the separated position. The user applies a force F to the safety member, so that the journal 41 of the safety member 4 allows the operation of the operating member 12.

[0089] The spring 3 is arranged in the battery unit 1. In the rest position, the spring 3 presses the control unit 2 away from the battery unit 1 along the axis a. In the currently shown embodiment, the spring 3 is a helical spring. The battery unit comprises a pin 13 which is connected to the housing of the battery unit 1 so as to be translatably movable. The pin 13 is pressed by the spring 3 in the direction I along the axis a. When the battery unit 1 and the control unit 2 are assembled, the pin 13 abuts against the control unit 2. In order to assemble the battery unit 1 and the control unit 2, the battery unit 1 and the control unit 2 are pressed together, wherein the pressure is greater than the spring force of the spring 3. In the rest position, i.e. in the state as Figure 2b to Figure 2d and Figure 1d In the state shown, the spring 3 exerts force on the control unit 2. Therefore, the spring 3 is prestressed in the rest position. When no external force is applied to the battery unit 1 or the control unit 2, the spring 3 presses the battery unit 1 and the control unit 2 apart along the axis a. Here, the hook 21 is pressed into the slot 11 designed as a long hole. Figure 2d In the position shown. In the rest position, the latching projection 22 is latched behind the edge of the latch opening 11 .

[0090] from Figure 2b to Figure 2d From the rest position shown, the battery cell 1 and the control unit 2 are pressed along the axis a to place the battery cell 1 or the control unit 2 in the Figure 2e to Figure 2g In the pre-separation position shown. In addition, in the pre-separation position, the hook 21 passes through the bayonet 11. However, the locking protrusion 22 is no longer stuck behind the edge of the bayonet 11. Figure 2d The control unit is in the rest position shown. Figure 2e The control unit 2 is displaced by 3 mm along the axis a in the direction opposite to the direction I toward the battery cell 1. For this purpose, a force F acts on the control unit 2 which is greater than the spring force of the spring 3 which presses the battery cell 1 and the control unit 2 apart.

[0091] Therefore, in order to place the battery unit 1 and the control unit 2 in the release position, the battery unit 1 and the control unit 2 must first be pressed together so that they are in the pre-separation position. Then the safety member 4 is operated and maintained, thereby allowing the operating member 12 to be operated. Then the operating member 12 is operated, thereby bending the bayonet downward. At this time, the hook 21 is located outside the bayonet 11 (see Figure 1g ). At this time, the battery unit 1 and the control unit 2 can be separated from each other. The deformation of the operating member 12 to the release position is elastic, so that once the force F is no longer applied to the operating member 12, the operating member 12 returns to the Figure 2e to Figure 2g If no longer force is applied to the safety member, the spring 42 returns it to its initial position in which it prohibits the operation of the operating member 12.

[0092] Figure 2h Take the cross-sectional view AA, Figure 2i With cross-sectional view BB and Figure 2j The top view shows the Figure 2a to Figure 2g A control unit 2 and a battery unit 1, wherein an elastic member 3' in the form of a circumferential elastic seal such as a sponge rubber ring is provided between the control unit 2 and the battery unit 1 instead of the spring 3. The features described above with respect to the previous figures therefore also apply to Figure 2h to Figure 2j The VAD system shown in FIG. Figure 2h to Figure 2j The control unit 2 and the battery unit 1 are shown in a rest position in an assembled locked state.

[0093] In an alternative embodiment, the operating member 12 is not formed integrally with the housing of the battery unit 1, but is formed as a separate part such as a button 12". Such an embodiment of the operating member 12 can be implemented not only in the embodiment of FIG. 1, but also in the embodiment of FIG. 2. For example, Figures 3a to 3j Such an implementation is shown in FIG. Figures 3a to 3j Here, an embodiment is shown which has a safety element 4 ′ which is similar to the safety element 4 in FIG. 2 .

[0094] The safety mechanism for detachably locking the battery unit 1 and the control unit 2 together in FIG. 3 comprises a hook 21 , a latch 11 and an operating member 12 ″. The operating member 12 ″ and the latch 11 are parts of the battery unit 1 . The hook 21 is part of the control unit 2 . Figure 3b to Figure 3d The VAD system is shown in a resting position. Figure 3e to Figure 3g The VAD system is shown in a released position.

[0095] The hook 21 is formed integrally with the housing of the control unit 2. The hook has a latching projection 22. The operating element 12" is formed integrally with the bayonet 11. Figure 3b to Figure 3dIn the rest position shown, the hook 21 passes through the bayonet 11. The latching projection 22 is latched behind the edge of the bayonet 11, so that the operation of the operating member 12" in the direction II is prohibited. The operating member 12" has a spring 122, which presses the operating member into the Figure 3b to Figure 3d In order to operate the operating member 12", the spring 122 is compressed, as in Figure 3f As can be seen in .

[0096] The battery unit 1 has a safety member 4'. The safety member 4' can be moved from a safety position to a separation position. The safety member 4' prohibits the operation of the operating member 12" in the safety position and allows the operation of the operating member 12" in the separation position. The safety member 4' is designed as a button. Figure 3b to Figure 3d 4 shows the safety member 4 in the safety position. The sleeve 41' of the safety member 4' prohibits the operation of the operating member 12". The safety member 4' has a spring 42, which presses the safety member 4' into the safety position. In order to put the safety member 4' into the separation position, the user must apply a force F to the safety member 4', which compresses the spring 42 (such as Figure 3f ). Figure 2e to Figure 2g 4 is shown in the separated position. The user applies a force F to the safety member, so that the sleeve 41' is displaced so that the opening 411 in the sleeve 41' is coaxially arranged with respect to the pin 123 of the operating member 12". When the safety member 4' is operated so that the safety member 4' allows the operation of the operating member 12", the pin 123 of the operating member 12" can then be displaced into the opening of the safety member 4'.

[0097] from Figure 3b to Figure 3d Since the rest position shown, the battery unit 1 and the control unit 2 have been pressed along the axis a to place the battery unit 1 or the control unit 2 in the pre-separation position. In addition, the hook 21 passes through the bayonet 11 in the pre-separation position. However, the latching projection 22 is no longer caught behind the edge of the bayonet 11.

[0098] Therefore, in order to put the battery unit 1 and the control unit into the release position (such as Figure 3e to Figure 3g As shown in the figure, the battery unit 1 and the control unit 2 must first be pressed together so that they are in the pre-separation position. The safety member 4' is then operated to allow the operation of the operating member 12". The operating member 12" is then operated to bend the bayonet downward so that the hook 21 is located outside the bayonet 11 (see Figure 3e to Figure 3g ). At this time, the battery unit 1 and the control unit 2 can be separated from each other.

[0099] Figure 3h Taking the cross-sectional view BB, Figure 3i Take the cross-sectional view AA and Figure 3j The top view shows the Figure 3a to Figure 3gThe control unit 2 and the battery unit 1, wherein an elastic member 3' in the form of an elastic seal, such as a sponge rubber ring, is arranged between the control unit 2 and the battery unit 1 instead of the spring 3. The other features described above with respect to the previous figures therefore also apply to Figure 3h to Figure 3j The VAD system shown in FIG. Figure 3h to Figure 3j The control unit 2 and the battery unit 1 are shown in a rest position in an assembled locked state.

[0100] The features described in one embodiment can be implemented in other embodiments as a supplement or replacement of other features. The above embodiments are not restrictive. It is obvious to the technician that the features can be combined with each other in other ways.

Claims

1. A safety mechanism for locking and separating a first unit and a second unit, in particular for locking and separating a battery unit (1) of a VAD system and a control unit (2) of the VAD system, the safety mechanism comprising a hook (21) having a locking protrusion (22), a bayonet (11) and a first operating member (12), in, - in the rest position, the hook (21) is inserted into the bayonet (11) in such a way that the hook (21) passes through the bayonet (11) and the latching projection (22) at least partially latches behind the edge of the bayonet (11), - in the pre-separation position, the hook (21) is at least partially inserted into the bayonet (11) in such a way that at least a portion of the hook (21) passes through the bayonet and the latching projection (22) is separated from the edge of the bayonet (11), - in the release position, the hook (21) is arranged outside the bayonet (11), The operating member is designed in such a way that the operation of the operating member (12) causes the hook (21) and / or the bayonet (11) to move from the pre-separation position to the release position.

2. The safety mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that: The hook (21) and the bayonet (11) are designed such that, in the static position, the hook (21) is locked with the bayonet (11) in a first direction and in a second direction, in particular perpendicular to the first direction, and the hook (21) can be moved in a direction to be placed in the pre-separation position.

3. The safety mechanism according to claim 2, characterized in that: The hook (21) is inserted into the bayonet (11) in the pre-separation position in such a way that the hook (21) is locked with the bayonet (11) in the first direction and is separated in the second direction.

4. A safety mechanism according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that In the rest position, actuation of the actuating element (12) is prevented by the latching projection (22).

5. A safety mechanism according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that The operating part (12) is designed as a pressing part in such a way that the pressure applied to the operating part moves the hook (21) and / or the latch (11) in such a way that the hook (21) is moved from the pre-separation position to the release position.

6. A safety mechanism according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that The operating element is formed integrally with the hook (21) or formed integrally with the bayonet (11).

7. A safety mechanism according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that An elastic member (3) is provided which is designed and arranged in such a way that the elastic member (3) presses the hook (21) from the pre-separation position into the rest position.

8. A safety mechanism according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that A second hook (21'), a second bayonet (11') and a second operating element (12') are provided, which are arranged in a mirror-symmetrical manner with respect to the first hook (21), the first bayonet (11) and the first operating element (12).

9. The safety mechanism according to claim 8, characterized in that: The operating elements (12, 12') are particularly opposed in such a way that simultaneous pressing of the operating elements (12, 12') causes the hooks (21, 21') to be in the release position.

10. A safety mechanism according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that A safety element (4) is provided which can be moved from a safety position to a separation position, wherein the safety element (4) prohibits operation of the operating element (12, 12', 12") in the safety position and permits operation of the operating element (12, 12', 12") in the separation position.

11. A security system, comprising a first unit and a second unit, wherein: The first unit is detachably connected to the second unit via a safety mechanism according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the hook (21) is fixedly connected to the first unit and the bayonet (11) is fixedly connected to the second unit.

12. The safety system according to claim 11, characterized in that The first unit and the second unit are locked to each other in the rest position and in the pre-separation position by the safety mechanism and are separated from each other in the release position.

13. A VAD system, comprising the safety system according to any one of claims 11 to 12, wherein: The first unit is a control unit (2) and the second unit is a battery unit (1), or vice versa.

14. A method for separating a first unit from a second unit of a security system according to claim 11 or 12 or of a VAD system according to claim 13, the method comprising the following steps: I. moving the first unit toward the second unit, II. operating the operating member (12,12',12"), III. separating the first unit from the second unit, Wherein, step II follows step I and step III follows step II to separate the first unit from the second unit.

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein: Between step I and step II, the safety element (4, 4') is moved from a safety position to a separation position, wherein the safety element (4, 4') prohibits operation of the operating element (12, 12', 12") in the safety position and permits operation of the operating element (12, 12', 12") in the separation position.

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