Device for holding and moving hammock in incubator, hammock and incubator

Abstract

The invention relates to a device (11) for holding and moving a hammock (13) in an incubator (1) for premature infants or neonates (3), a hammock for use with the device and an incubator for premature infants or neonates. The device (11) comprises: a fastening device (25) configured for fastening the hammock (13) on the fastening portion (7) such that the lying surface (27) of the hammock (13) extends in the incubator chamber (5) of the incubator; a moving arm (29) having a receiving portion (31) for receiving a portion of the hammock (13); and a mechanical device (33) configured for coupling the moving arm (29) with the coupling part (9) such that the moving arm (29) can be moved back and forth relative to the coupling part (9) in order to cause a rocking movement of the hammock (13) fastened to the fastening part (7) and received by the receiving part (31).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a device for holding and moving a hammock in an incubator for premature babies or newborns. In addition, the present invention also relates to a hammock suitable for such a device and an incubator for premature babies or newborns. Background Art

[0002] An incubator for a premature infant or a newborn may include an incubator chamber, in which the premature infant or the newborn may be placed to protect it from the environment. Such an incubator chamber is usually heated. The premature infant or the newborn is usually placed on a flat lying surface in the incubator chamber. Alternatively, a hammock may be used. Compared to a flat lying surface, a hammock has the advantage that it can surround the premature infant or the newborn tightly as if in the womb. This has a positive effect on the premature infant or the newborn. However, due to limited space, it is somewhat difficult to fix a hammock in an incubator. Summary of the invention

[0003] One object of the present invention is to provide an improved device for holding and moving a hammock in an incubator for premature infants or newborns. Other objects of the present invention are to provide an improved hammock for use with such a device and to provide an improved incubator for premature infants or newborns.

[0004] The above-mentioned object is solved by the subject matter of each preferred technical solution of the present invention. Advantageous embodiments of the present invention are given in the optional technical solution, the following description and the drawings.

[0005] A first aspect of the present invention relates to a device for holding and moving a hammock in an incubator for premature infants or newborns. The incubator comprises an incubator chamber for receiving premature infants or newborns, a fastening portion and a coupling portion. The device comprises: a fastening device configured to fasten the hammock to the fastening portion so that the lying surface of the hammock extends in the incubator chamber; a moving arm having a receiving portion for receiving a portion of the hammock; a mechanical device configured to couple the moving arm with the coupling portion so that the moving arm can reciprocate relative to the coupling portion, thereby causing the hammock fastened to the fastening portion and received by the receiving portion to perform a swinging motion.

[0006] The advantage of this device is that the hammock can be moved back and forth in a controlled manner by means of the mechanical device to produce a rocking motion. In this way, the hammock can be moved back and forth by means of a corresponding drive device even when the incubator chamber is closed. In addition, the device can be realized with little design effort. Other advantages of the device are that it takes up little space, which facilitates access to premature babies or newborns or other objects in the incubator chamber. The device also allows for simple operation and efficient cleaning.

[0007] The "rocking motion" may generally be understood as a seesaw motion suitable for soothing a premature infant or newborn lying in a hammock. For example, the rocking motion may be achieved by rotating the hammock left to right and / or by raising and lowering a first end of the hammock relative to a second end of the hammock.

[0008] The portion of the hammock received by the receiving part may be the head end, the foot end, or a portion of the hammock located between the head end and the foot end.

[0009] For example, the fastening device can be configured to fasten the head end and / or foot end of the hammock to the fastening portion. In particular, the fastening device can be configured to fasten the head end and foot end of the hammock to mutually opposite walls of the incubator chamber. In addition, the fastening device can also be configured to fix the hammock in different vertical positions of the incubator chamber, i.e. to adjust the height of the hammock.

[0010] For example, the height adjustment can be performed by means of one or more (e.g. two) vertically adjustable crossbars, to each of which the hammock is fastened. For this purpose, each crossbar can be adjusted along two vertical struts. By clamping the crossbar between two uprights, the crossbar can be locked in a specific vertical position. For this purpose, the crossbar can be designed as a telescopic rod. For example, the telescopic rod can have a (middle) clamping region and be configured such that it is lengthened by rotating the clamping region in a certain rotational direction, so that it is fixedly clamped between two uprights.

[0011] It is also possible to combine a two-point fixation at the head end of the hammock with a one-point fixation at the foot end (or vice versa). For example, the two-point fixation can be achieved by means of a (cross) bar or other elongated member with similar stability, and / or the one-point fixation can be achieved by means of a rope.

[0012] The moving arm can be in the form of a column, a fork or a bow, for example. It is also possible that the moving arm has an opening configured so that a hand can pass through the opening. This allows better access to the incubator or the interior of the incubator chamber.

[0013] Alternatively, the movement arm can be at least partially composed of at least one rope or at least one rope system. In this case, the receiving part of the movement arm can be a first end of the rope fixed to the hammock part. For example, the second end of the rope can be fixed to the base plate of the mechanical device (see below). For example, the rope can be appropriately deflected and / or adjusted in length once or multiple times. The movement arm is preferably configured to cause the hammock to perform a mainly horizontal swinging movement when it reciprocates relative to the coupling part, for example in that a tension is applied to the hammock by means of the rope or rope system, the horizontal component of which is significantly greater than its vertical component (for example at least twice or at least three times its vertical component). Alternatively, the tension can also act only in the horizontal direction.

[0014] The receiving portion can be understood as a part of the moving arm. In other words, when the moving arm reciprocates relative to the coupling portion, the receiving portion can reciprocate together with the moving arm, that is, move in opposite directions to each other.

[0015] Alternatively, the receiving part can be movably supported relative to the movement arm. In this case, the movement arm and the receiving part can be mechanically coupled to each other, thereby converting the movement of the movement arm in a specific direction into a corresponding movement of the receiving part (and the hammock part received by the receiving part).

[0016] A second aspect of the invention relates to a hammock for use with the device described above and below. The hammock comprises: a lying surface, which is configured to change its shape (targetedly) by folding at least a portion of the lying surface; and a folding device, which is configured to fold at least a portion of the lying surface to different degrees and to keep it folded in a specific position.

[0017] The shape of the hammock can be easily and reliably adapted to various needs and conditions. Furthermore, the hammock is easy to assemble and disassemble. A further advantage is that the device for adjusting the shape of the hammock takes up very little space in the incubator.

[0018] The hammock can be configured so that it can be secured (e.g., at its head and / or foot ends) to a fixed portion of an incubator for premature babies or newborns (e.g., as described above and below) so that its lying surface extends within the incubator chamber of the incubator.

[0019] A "lying surface" can generally be understood as a kind of mat or net. For example, the lying surface can be made of a (woven) textile material and / or a synthetic material (or plastic). For reasons of hygiene, the lying surface or the (entire) hammock can be configured such that it can be washed and / or autoclaved at a temperature of at least 60° C., in particular at a temperature of at least 90° C. Depending on the selected longitudinal position of the holding element, the lying surface can be at least partially flat and / or at least partially curved. For example, the at least partially curved lying surface can at least partially surround a premature baby or a newborn lying thereon like a tube or a bathtub.

[0020] A third aspect of the invention relates to an incubator for a premature infant or a newborn. The incubator comprises an incubator chamber for receiving the premature infant or the newborn. In addition, the incubator may further comprise a fixing portion, a coupling portion and a device as described above and below. Additionally or alternatively, the incubator may further comprise a hammock as described above and below.

[0021] The incubator chamber may be heated and / or configured to maintain a certain humidity level inside the incubator, such as at least 70%.

[0022] The fixing portion may be distinct from the coupling portion. Alternatively, the fixing portion may comprise at least a portion of the coupling portion (or vice versa).

[0023] Various embodiments of the present invention are described below. These embodiments should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention.

[0024] Generally speaking, the reciprocating movement of the moving arm relative to the coupling portion may include translation and / or rotation of the moving arm.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the reciprocating movement of the moving arm relative to the coupling part may include: a translation of the moving arm in mutually opposite translational directions, or a rotation of the moving arm in mutually opposite rotational directions, or a combination of a translation of the moving arm in mutually opposite translational directions and a rotation of the moving arm in mutually opposite rotational directions. In other words, the mechanical device may be configured so that the moving arm is movably supported on the coupling part along an at least partially straight and / or at least partially curved path in mutually opposite directions. Additionally or alternatively, the mechanical device may also be configured so that the moving arm is rotatably supported on the coupling part in mutually opposite directions around an axis of rotation. For example, the line of rotation may be parallel or transverse to the longitudinal direction of the hammock. It is also possible that the axis of rotation may be located on the central axis of the hammock.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the device may be configured such that when the moving arm reciprocates relative to the coupling portion, the portion of the hammock received by the receiving portion reciprocates relative to the receiving portion, for example, along the receiving portion. In this case, the portion of the hammock received by the receiving portion may move and / or rotate relative to the receiving portion in opposite directions to each other.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the device can be configured such that when the movement arm moves relative to the coupling part in a first direction, the part of the hammock received by the receiving part moves in a second direction deviating from the first direction. This makes the structure of the device particularly simple, especially compared to embodiments in which the hammock is rotatably supported (on both sides) about its central axis. The first and second directions can be rotational directions that are different from each other, or translational directions that are different from each other. Alternatively, the first direction can be a translational direction and the second direction can be a rotational direction (or vice versa).

[0028] According to one embodiment, the receiving portion may include an edge for contacting the hammock. The edge may be configured so that when the moving arm moves in the first direction, the hammock in contact with the edge moves along the edge in the second direction. The edge may form an inclined plane, along which the hammock may slide when the moving arm reciprocates. In other words, an "edge" may be understood as an inclined edge that is at an angle to a (imaginary) horizontal or vertical line when the device is in an operational state. The edge may be at least partially straight and / or at least partially curved, viewed in the longitudinal direction of the edge. For example, the edge may be configured so that when the hammock moves along the edge in the second direction, the position of the hammock in contact with the edge relative to the first direction does not change significantly. This may avoid the hammock generating additional accelerations in the first direction and / or in a direction opposite to the first direction during the swinging process, which may be undesirable in some cases.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the receiving portion may include a groove for hanging the hammock. Here, the edge may be formed by at least part of the outer contour of the groove. In other words, the edge may at least partially define the groove. The groove may be closed or open.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the first direction may extend transversely or obliquely to the second direction. In other words, the first and second directions may be mutually orthogonal directions. However, the first and second directions may also form an angle deviating from 90 degrees, i.e., they may extend obliquely to each other. Alternatively, the first and second directions may also be mutually opposite directions.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the first direction may be a vertical or horizontal direction.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the device may be configured such that when the moving arm moves backward in a third direction opposite to the first direction, the portion of the hammock received by the receiving portion moves backward in a fourth direction opposite to the second direction.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the mechanical device may include a base plate and a pivot device. In this case, the moving arm may be fixed at one end thereof to the base plate and have a receiving portion at its free end. The base plate may be pivotally mounted on the coupling portion in opposite directions to each other by means of the pivot device. A "pivoting device" may be understood as, for example, a hinge, a lifting column, or a combination of at least two of these examples. For example, the base plate may form a seesaw by means of the pivot device. In general, a "seesaw" may be understood as an element that can reciprocate around an axis of rotation at a specific angle of less than 90 degrees, preferably an angle between 0 and 45 degrees, and particularly preferably an angle between 0 and 20 degrees. The moving arm may be firmly connected to the seesaw. In other words, the moving arm is fixed to the seesaw in such a way that, when the seesaw reciprocates, the moving arm reciprocates together with the seesaw.

[0034] According to one embodiment, the device further comprises an additional lying surface for a premature baby or a newborn baby (different from the lying surface of the hammock). The additional lying surface can be formed by a part of the base plate and / or a part of a mattress arranged on the base plate. In other words, the base plate or at least a part thereof can form a flat lying surface for a premature baby or a newborn baby. Therefore, the premature baby or the newborn baby can be placed on the flat lying surface or the additional lying surface of the hammock as needed. For example, if the premature baby or the newborn baby is to be placed on the additional lying surface, the hammock can be pushed aside or removed.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the mechanical device may include an electric drive for reciprocating the moving arm relative to the coupling part in a controlled manner. The electric drive may include a motor and (additionally) a transmission device for converting a rotation of the motor drive shaft into a rotation and / or translation of the moving arm relative to the coupling part. This makes the operation of the device more comfortable. Additionally, the electric drive may also include a timer, which is configured to put the hammock in a swinging state within a predetermined time. In addition, the electric drive may also be configured to predetermine a maximum deflection of the swinging movement. This allows the device to be operated partially or fully automatically. For example, the electric drive may be configured to drive one or more lifting columns. It is also possible to use a pneumatic drive to reciprocate the moving arm relative to the coupling part in a controlled manner.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the fastening means may comprise the movement arm. In other words, the movement arm may be configured for fastening the hammock, for example its head end or foot end, directly or indirectly to the fastening portion. For example, the movement arm may be fastened to the fastening portion at one end thereof and have a receiving portion at its free end.

[0037] According to one embodiment, the fastening device may include at least one of the following fastening devices: a rope receiving part for non-slip clamping of at least one rope-like element fastened to the hammock; a hook receiving part for hanging at least one hook-like element fastened to the hammock; a loop receiving part for hanging at least one loop element fastened to the hammock; a knot; a bead. "Rope-like element" can be understood as an elongated element for transmitting tension, such as a rope, a cable, a string, a line, a belt, a wire, a chain or a combination of at least two thereof. For example, a "rope receiving part" can be understood as a groove of corresponding shape or a clamp (closable by spring force). For example, the groove can have a plurality of rib-like protrusions and depressions on its inner wall, in particular on its inner wall opposite to each other, to increase the friction between the groove and the clamped rope. A "hook-shaped element" can be understood as, for example, a hook or a cuboid or spherical element, which is suitable for hooking into a corresponding hook receiving part. A "hook receiving part" can be understood as a receiving part in the shape of a ring or an eyelet, for example. A "loop element" can be understood as, for example, a ring or an eyelet. A “loop receiving portion” may be understood to mean, for example, a hook-shaped or needle-shaped receiving portion.

[0038] For example, the cord receiving part can have two inner walls which are arranged in a V-shaped manner so as to form a funnel-shaped depression for clamping the cord-like element. Such a funnel-shaped depression has the advantage that cord-like elements of different diameters can be clamped in the cord receiving part without the cord receiving part having to be adjusted accordingly. In this case, each inner wall can have a pattern consisting of a plurality of mutually parallel grooves for contacting the cord-like element. Thus, the cord-like element can be clamped between the two patterns. The grooves of the two patterns can each be inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction of the clamped cord-like element, in particular so that the clamped cord-like element can penetrate deeper into the funnel-shaped depression due to the grooves, the greater the tension to which the clamped cord-like element is subjected in a specific tensile force direction parallel to its longitudinal direction. In other words, each groove can form an inclined plane, seen in the tensile force direction, along which the cord-like element is guided towards the bottom of the funnel-shaped depression when the cord-like element is pulled in the tensile force direction. Due to this self-reinforcing effect, a particularly reliable fixing of the cord-like element can be ensured.

[0039] For example, the cord receiving part can be fixed to the head wall or foot wall of the incubator chamber, for example, by screwing it. Alternatively, the cord receiving part can also be connected to a corresponding part fixed to the head wall or foot wall to form a plug-in connection, for example, by sliding the cord receiving part onto the corresponding part in the vertical and / or horizontal direction.

[0040] The plug connection can also be additionally locked by means of a locking element. The locking element can be mounted movably on the incubator, for example on the head wall or foot wall and / or the cord receiving part and / or a corresponding component, between a locking position and an unlocking position. The locking element can be configured to lock the plug connection in the locking position so that the plug connection cannot be released, and to unlock in the unlocking position so that the plug connection can be released.

[0041] For example, the locking element can be configured as part of a baffle for closing an access opening in the head wall or foot wall. The baffle can be supported on the head wall or foot wall so as to be able to move between a closed position and an open position. The baffle can be configured to close the access opening (airtightly) in the closed position and to release the access opening in the open position so that, for example, a hand can enter the interior of the incubator chamber through the access opening. The closed position can correspond to a locked position and / or the open position can correspond to an unlocked position. In other words, the baffle can be configured to lock the plug-in connection by moving the baffle to the locked position and / or to unlock the plug-in connection by moving the baffle to the open position.

[0042] For example, the locking element can include a projection (e.g. in the form of a pin) extending from the flap, which projection can be moved together with the flap. By moving the flap into the closed position, the projection can be moved into the locked position, wherein the projection can fit in a cord receiving part pushed onto the counterpart component, for example in a recess or a hole in the cord receiving part, thereby locking the plug connection. Conversely, the projection can also be moved into the unlocked position by moving the flap into the open position, wherein the projection can release the cord receiving part, thereby unlocking the plug connection.

[0043] A variant is also conceivable in which the plug-in connection is configured such that the locking element is moved into the locking position and / or is held in the locking position due to a pulling force exerted by the hammock on the rope receiving element.

[0044] The above description applies equally to the loop receiving portion and / or the hook receiving portion.

[0045] It is also possible that the fastening device can also include a crossbar at the head end and / or foot end of the hammock and / or one or more fastening containers for fastening the crossbar to the fastening part. For example, each crossbar can be inserted into a corresponding tunnel or one or more rings of the hammock. Here, the longitudinal direction of the crossbar can extend transversely to the longitudinal direction of the hammock. For example, the fastening receiving portion can have a plurality of fastening points for fastening, in particular hanging the crossbar, more precisely the exposed part of the crossbar. The vertical and / or horizontal position of each fixing point can be different. For example, the fixing point can be composed of a groove and / or a hook. One of the benefits of this is that it is easy to adjust the height and / or length of the hammock. It is also possible to use a rope or other suitable elongated parts instead of the crossbar.

[0046] For example, the crossbar may be configured to prevent portions of the hammock that contact the crossbar, such as tunnels or loops of the hammock, from inadvertently sliding longitudinally relative to the crossbar in the inserted state.

[0047] For this purpose, the crossbar may have one or more thickened points, at which the width of the crossbar (i.e., the direction perpendicular to its longitudinal direction) is significantly increased compared to the rest of the crossbar. For example, such thickened points can be achieved by appropriate (e.g., V-shaped) kinks or bends on the crossbar.

[0048] For example, the thickening point may be arranged in a central position between the two ends of the crossbar (limiting the crossbar length), wherein a corresponding recess (e.g. a hole in a tunnel or in a ring) may be formed in the material of the hammock to receive the thickening point. The recess may be arranged in a central position when viewed in the width direction of the hammock (i.e. transversely to its longitudinal direction), so that when the thickening point is received by the recess (e.g. passing through the hole), the hammock is centered relative to the crossbar and remains in this centered position even when the hammock is reciprocated by mechanical means with the premature or newborn child located therein.

[0049] Additionally or alternatively, such thickened points may be arranged at off-center locations, such as at the ends of the crossbar, to prevent the edge portions of the hammock in contact with the crossbar from accidentally sliding toward the center of the crossbar.

[0050] Furthermore, the device may further comprise a sensor for detecting the position of the crossbar relative to the fastening portion and an evaluation unit for evaluating a sensor signal generated by the sensor. The sensor is preferably configured as a reed switch, which is opened or closed when the crossbar is correctly fastened. However, a simple mechanical switch or an optical sensor may also be used. The evaluation unit may be configured to determine whether the crossbar is correctly fastened in the incubator by evaluating the sensor signal and to generate a control signal for controlling at least one function of the incubator, for example for controlling a fan and / or a display, based on the evaluation result.

[0051] According to one embodiment, the means, in particular the mechanical means, may be configured to lock the moving arm in a certain position relative to the coupling part.

[0052] According to one embodiment, the device may further include at least one other moving arm with another receiving portion for receiving other parts of the hammock. In this case, the mechanical device may be configured to couple the other moving arm with other coupling portions of the incubator so that the other moving arm can reciprocate relative to the other coupling portions, and the device may be configured to cause the hammock connected to the coupling portion and received by the receiving portion and the other receiving portion to enter a swinging motion through the reciprocating motion of the moving arm and the other moving arm. In other words, with the help of multiple moving arms connected to different positions of the hammock, the hammock can perform a proper swinging motion. Therefore, the swinging motion can be better controlled compared to a device with only one moving arm. The hammock portion received by the receiving portion and the hammock portion received by the other receiving portion can be the same part of the hammock or different parts of the hammock. The coupling portion and the other coupling portion can be the same part of the incubator or different parts of the incubator. The device may also include a plurality of such other moving arms, for example three or four. In addition, the fastening device may also include one or more other moving arms. For example, the hammock can be fixed to a base plate by means of four (corner) struts as kinematic arms.

[0053] According to one embodiment, the lying surface can have a tunnel and be configured to change its shape by folding the tunnel. Here, the folding device can include: an elongated tensioning element extending through the tunnel, so that the tunnel can be folded along the tensioning element; and a retaining element that can be fastened to an end of the tensioning element protruding from the tunnel in order to hold the tunnel folded in a certain position.

[0054] Alternatively or additionally, the folding device may also include a zipper for folding the lying surface.

[0055] The tunnel is connected to the lying surface in such a way that the lying surface can change its length and / or width and / or cross-sectional shape by closing the tunnel. For example, by closing the tunnel accordingly, the tightness with which a premature baby or a newborn lying in the hammock is surrounded by the lying surface can be adjusted. By closing the tunnel, the tunnel is shortened. This also changes the shape of the lying surface. For example, the lying surface can become more curved and / or shorter and / or narrower. Conversely, if the tunnel is lengthened by correspondingly positioning one or more retaining elements, i.e. the degree of closing is reduced, the lying surface can become flatter and / or longer and / or wider. For example, the length of the tunnel can be determined by the longitudinal position of one or more retaining elements relative to the tensioning element.

[0056] By "holding element" is understood, for example, a clip or a so-called rope stopper (also called rope lock or rope clamp) or another clamping element. Such a holding element can be fastened particularly simply and reliably in different longitudinal positions on the tensioning element. Furthermore, such a holding element is also particularly economical and practical. For example, the holding element can comprise a spring for applying an appropriate clamping force. The holding element can be configured such that it neither slides into the tunnel nor slides relative to the tensioning element when the hammock is used as intended. For example, the maximum outer diameter of the holding element can be greater than the maximum inner diameter of the tunnel opening.

[0057] A "tensioning element" is generally understood to be an elongated element for transmitting a tensile force, for example, in the form of a rod (such as a bar), a rope, a cable, a line, a belt, a wire, a chain or a combination of at least two thereof. For example, the tensioning element can also be configured to fix the hammock to a fastening portion of the incubator.

[0058] For example, the tunnel can be formed by a (folded) hem, a loop, an eyelet, a groove or a combination of at least two of these examples in the material of the lying surface. In particular, the tunnel can be configured as a continuous or partially interrupted tunnel system. From a longitudinal point of view, the tunnel can extend along the length and / or width direction of the hammock. In other words, from a longitudinal point of view, the tunnel can extend at least parallel, transversely or obliquely to the longitudinal direction of the hammock. Additionally or alternatively, at least one longitudinal portion of the tunnel can form the outer edge of the lying surface, i.e. become part of the outer contour of the lying surface.

[0059] According to one embodiment, the tunnel may comprise a longitudinal portion constituting at least a part of the outer edge of the lying surface.

[0060] According to one embodiment, the tunnel may comprise a longitudinal portion extending transversely or obliquely to the longitudinal direction of the lying surface.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the tunnel may comprise a longitudinal portion parallel to the longitudinal direction of the lying surface.

[0062] According to one embodiment, the tunnel may comprise a longitudinal portion extending at a central position between two opposite ends of the hammock and / or connecting two opposite ends of the hammock to each other.

[0063] In particular, the longitudinal direction of the lying surface may refer to a state in which the lying surface of the hammock is not folded up and / or relaxed and / or laid flat.

[0064] According to one embodiment, the lying surface of the hammock may have an arcuate outer edge at its head end and / or foot end. Compared with an embodiment with a straight outer edge, the advantage of doing so is that a premature baby or a newborn can sink deeper into the hammock.

[0065] According to one embodiment, the hammock may further include a second retaining element that may be connected to the second end of the tensioning element extending from the tunnel to keep the tunnel folded between the two fixing elements. In other words, the tunnel held in a folded manner may extend between the (first) retaining element fastened to the tensioning element and the second retaining element fastened to the tensioning element, wherein the two retaining elements limit the effective length of the tunnel.

[0066] According to one embodiment, the reclining surface may have further tunnels and be configured such that it can change its shape by tucking in the further tunnels. In this case, the tucking device may further comprise: a further elongated tensioning element extending through the further tunnel so that the further tunnel can be curled along the further tensioning element; a further retaining element, which can be fastened to an end of the further tensioning element extending from the further tunnel so as to hold the further tunnel in a certain position in a tucking manner. The lying surface may also consist of a plurality of such further tunnels. For example, the lying surface may be configured such that the width can be changed by tucking in the tunnels and the length can be changed by tucking in the further tunnels. Thus, with just a few simple steps, the shape of the lying surface can be adjusted to different conditions and needs.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the incubator may include a bracket for supporting the incubator chamber. The fastening portion may include a portion of the bracket. In other words, the fastening device of the device may be configured to fasten the hammock to the bracket. Additionally or alternatively, the coupling portion may also include a portion of the bracket. In other words, the mechanical device of the device may be configured to movably couple the moving arm to the bracket. For example, the bracket may include one or more rollers for moving the incubator and / or one or more lifting columns for vertically adjusting the incubator chamber.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the height of the incubator chamber may be limited by the bottom and the ceiling, and / or the length may be limited by the head wall and the foot wall, and / or the width may be limited by the front wall and the rear wall. Here, the fastening part or the coupling part or the fastening part and the coupling part may include at least one of the following parts of the incubator chamber: the bottom, the ceiling, the head wall, the foot wall, the front wall, the rear wall. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0069] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Neither the description nor the drawings should be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention.

[0070] Figure 1 An incubator according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0071] Figure 2 Show Figure 1 Part of the middle moving arm.

[0072] Figure 3 A seesaw-like arrangement according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0073] Figure 4 A hammock according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0074] Figure 5 The outer profile of a hammock according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0075] The figures are purely schematic and not drawn to scale. If the same reference numerals are used in different figures, these reference numerals denote the same features or features having the same effect. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0076] Figure 1 An incubator 1 is shown. The incubator 1 comprises an incubator chamber 5 for accommodating a premature infant or a newborn 3, a fastening portion 7, a coupling portion 9 and a device 11 for holding and moving a hammock 13 in the incubator chamber 5.

[0077] In addition, the incubator 1 further comprises a support 15 for carrying the incubator chamber 5. The support 15 may have a plurality of rollers 16 for moving the incubator 1 and / or one or more lifting columns for vertically adjusting the incubator chamber 5.

[0078] In this example, the height of the incubator chamber 5 is defined by the bottom 17 and the ceiling 19 , the length is defined by the head wall 21 and the foot wall 23 , and the width is defined by the front wall and the rear wall (not shown).

[0079] For example, the fastening part 7 may include the head wall 21 and the foot wall 23, and / or the coupling part 9 may include the bottom 17. The fastening part 7 or the coupling part 9 may also additionally or alternatively include other parts of the incubator 1, such as a part of the bracket 15.

[0080] The incubator chamber 5 may be heated and / or configured to control the humidity of the air therein.

[0081] The device 11 comprises fastening means 25 configured for fastening the hammock 13 to the fastening part 7 , here the head wall 21 and the foot wall 23 , so that the lying surface 27 of the hammock 13 extends in the incubator chamber 5 .

[0082] The device 11 also includes a moving arm 29 having a receiving portion 31 for receiving a portion of the hammock 13 and a mechanical device 33, which is configured to couple the moving arm 29 to the coupling portion 9 (here, the bottom 17), so that the moving arm 29 can reciprocate relative to the coupling portion 9, thereby causing the hammock 13 fastened to the fastening portion 7 and received by the receiving portion 31 to perform a swinging motion (indicated by a curved double arrow). In this example, the moving arm 29 can reciprocate vertically (indicated by a straight double arrow). Alternatively or additionally, the moving arm 29 can also reciprocate horizontally or can rotate in opposite directions to produce a swinging motion. The device 11 can also include more than one moving arm (see Figure 3 ).

[0083] Additionally, the mechanical device 33 may also include an electric drive for causing the moving arm 29 to reciprocate in a controlled manner, in particular automatically.

[0084] like Figure 1 As shown, the hammock 13 can be fastened to the fastening part 7 by the fastening device 25 independently of the moving arm 29. However, the moving arm 29 can also be a part of the fastening device 25 (see Figure 3 ).

[0085] For example, the fastening device 25 may include one or more of the following receiving parts: a rope receiving part for anti-slip clamping of at least one rope-like element fastened to the hammock 13; a hook receiving part for hanging at least one hook-like element fastened to the hammock 13; a loop receiving part for hanging at least one loop-like element fastened to the hammock 13.

[0086] Furthermore, the fastening device 25 may be configured to fasten the hammock 13 in different vertical positions of the incubator chamber 5 , ie to adjust the height of the hammock 13 .

[0087] In this example, the device 11 is configured such that when the moving arm 29 reciprocates relative to the coupling portion 9, the portion of the hammock 13 received by the receiving portion 31 reciprocates relative to the receiving portion 31. In addition, the device 11 is further configured such that when the moving arm 29 moves relative to the coupling portion 9 in a first (here vertical) direction y, the portion of the hammock 13 received by the receiving portion 31 moves in a second (here horizontal) direction x deviating from the first direction y (see Figure 2 ).

[0088] like Figure 2 As shown, such a relative movement can be achieved, for example, by means of an inclined edge of a slot 35 for hanging the hammock 13 , for example, if the end section of the hammock 13 is particularly narrow compared to the lying surface 27 . Figure 2It is shown how the hammock 13 suspended in the slot 35 can be reciprocated horizontally by the vertical reciprocating motion of the moving arm 29 to produce a rocking motion.

[0089] For example, the groove 35 can be implemented as a recess in the material of the moving arm 29. Figure 2 Contrary to the illustration in FIG. , one end of the slot may be open to facilitate hanging of the hammock 13 .

[0090] The slot 35 is substantially straight when viewed longitudinally and forms a certain angle with the x and y directions. Alternatively, the slot 35 may be at least partially curved, i.e. more or less arc-shaped.

[0091] In particular, the groove 35 can be configured so that the hammock 13 suspended in the groove 35 will not or almost not change its position relative to the first direction y, i.e., height, when moving along the groove 35 in the second direction x. In this way, it is possible to avoid the hammock 13 from generating additional, in some cases undesirable, vertical acceleration during the swinging process.

[0092] like Figure 3 As shown, another embodiment of the device 11 may be to firmly connect the hammock 13 to the receiving part 31 so that no relative movement occurs between the hammock 13 and the receiving part 31 .

[0093] In this example, the mechanical device 33 comprises a base plate 37 to which one end of the moving arm 29 is fastened and a pivoting device in the form of a hinge 39, by means of which the base plate 37 can be pivotally mounted in mutually opposite directions on the coupling part 9, in this example on the base plate 17, to form a seesaw. The free end of the moving arm 29 is provided with a receiving portion 31. Alternatively or additionally, the pivoting device can also comprise, for example, one or more lifting columns to form a seesaw.

[0094] Furthermore, the device 11 can also include a further movement arm 41, which is fastened at one end to the base plate 37 at a distance from the movement arm 29 and has a further receptacle 43 at its free end for receiving the other part of the hammock 13. Here, the head end of the hammock 13 can be fastened to the further receptacle 43 and the foot end can be fastened to the receptacle 31 (or vice versa), so that the lying surface 27 extends between the two movement arms 29 and 41. Here, the two movement arms 29, 41 together with the two receptacles 31, 43, the base plate 37 and the hinge 39 act as a fastening device 25, wherein the fastening part 7 is at least partially formed by the coupling part 9 (here the base 17). When the base plate 37 is pivoted, the two movement arms 29, 41 also move therewith, so that the hammock 13 fastened to the two movement arms 29, 41 performs a corresponding swinging movement.

[0095] Optionally, the base plate 37 can also form a flat additional lying surface 45 for a premature infant or a newborn 3. Figure 3 In the example shown, the additional lying surface 45 is provided by the surface of the base plate 37 facing away from the base 17. Alternatively, the additional lying surface 45 can also be formed by a mattress arranged on the base plate 37.

[0096] The mechanical device 33 may be configured to lock the base plate 37 in a certain position relative to the coupling portion 9, such as a horizontal position or a tilted position other than the horizontal position.

[0097] like Figure 4 As shown, the lying surface 27 of the hammock 13 can have a tunnel 47 and can be configured to change its shape by folding the tunnel 47. For this purpose, for example, the tunnel 47 can be firmly connected to the material of the lying surface 27, so that the length and / or width and / or the cross-sectional shape of the lying surface 27 can be changed by folding the tunnel 47, i.e. by shortening the tunnel 47. An elongated tensioning element 49 (here in the form of a rope) passes through the tunnel 47, so that the tunnel 47 can be folded along the tensioning element 49 (indicated by the double arrow), i.e. in its longitudinal direction. In order to keep the tunnel 47 folded in a certain position, the hammock 13 also includes a retaining element 51, which can be clamped at the end of the tensioning element 49 protruding from the tunnel 47.

[0098] For example, the tunnel 47 may be formed by (folded) hems, loops, eyelets, grooves or a combination of at least two of the above examples in the material of the lying surface 27. In particular, the tunnel 47 may be configured as a continuous or partially interrupted tunnel system.

[0099] In the present example, the hammock 13 comprises a plurality of tunnels 47, each of which has a tensioning element 49 and one or more retaining elements 51 (as described above). The tunnels 47 may differ in position and / or orientation and / or length relative to the lying surface 27. For example, at least one of the tunnels 47 may extend transversely or obliquely to the longitudinal direction of the hammock 13, while at least another of the tunnels 47 may extend parallel to the longitudinal direction of the hammock 13, as viewed in its longitudinal direction. Additionally or alternatively, at least one of the tunnels 47 may form an outer edge of the lying surface 27 or extend along an outer edge of the lying surface 27, and / or at least another of the tunnels 47 may intersect the lying surface 27.

[0100] Alternatively, the tensioning element 49 may be a rod (eg, a bar), a cable, a rope, a line, a belt, a wire, a chain, or a combination of at least two thereof.

[0101] For example, the retaining element 51 can be a clip or a so-called cord stopper, also called a cord lock or cord clamp. Such a retaining element can be fastened particularly simply and reliably at different longitudinal positions of the tensioning element 49. Such a retaining element is also particularly economical and practical. The retaining element 51 can be configured such that it neither slides into the tunnel 47 nor slides relative to the cord 49 when the hammock 13 is used as intended. For example, the maximum outer diameter of the retaining element 51 can be greater than the maximum inner diameter of the opening of the tunnel 47.

[0102] In this example, each tunnel 47 is held in a closed position between a (first) holding element 51 and a second holding element 53, which can be clamped on the second end of the tensioning element 49 that protrudes from the respective tunnel 47. Alternatively, the tensioning element 49 of at least one tunnel 47 can be fastened by one end thereof to the hammock 13 in a suitable manner, for example tied or sewn, so that one holding element 51 is sufficient to hold the respective tunnel 47 in a closed position.

[0103] like Figure 5 As shown, the head end and the foot end of the lying surface 27 of the hammock 13 can have curved outer edges 55. Figure 4 The effect of this is that the premature or newborn baby 3 will sink deeper into the hammock 13, compared to the straight outer edge embodiment shown, while the structure of the hammock 13 remains unchanged, which may be advantageous in certain circumstances, for example when the premature or newborn baby 3 is particularly active.

[0104] Finally, it should be pointed out that the terms “having”, “comprising”, “including”, “having” etc. do not exclude other elements or steps and the indefinite article “a” or “an” etc. does not exclude a plurality.

[0105] In addition, it should be further pointed out that the features or steps described with reference to one of the previous embodiments may also be used in combination with the features or steps described with reference to other embodiments of the previous embodiments.

[0106] Reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope of subject matter defined by the claims.

[0107] List of reference numerals:

[0108] 1 Incubator

[0109] 3 Premature infants or newborns

[0110] 5 Incubator Chambers

[0111] 7 Fastening part

[0112] 9 Coupling part

[0113] 11 Installation

[0114] 13. Hammock

[0115] 15 Bracket

[0116] 16 Roller

[0117] 17 Bottom

[0118] 19 Ceiling

[0119] 21 Head Wall

[0120] 23 Foot Wall

[0121] 25 Fastening device

[0122] 27 Lying side

[0123] 29 Sports Arm

[0124] 31 Receiving Department

[0125] 33 Mechanical Devices

[0126] 35 slots

[0127] 37 substrate

[0128] 39 Hinge

[0129] 41 Other sports arms

[0130] 43 Other receiving departments

[0131] 45 Additional lying surface

[0132] 47 Tunnel

[0133] 49 tensioning element

[0134] 51 (first) holding element

[0135] 53 Second holding element

[0136] 55 Curved outer edge

[0137] x Second direction

[0138] y first direction.

Claims

1. A device (11) for holding and moving a hammock (13) in an incubator (1) for premature babies or newborns (3), wherein: The incubator (1) comprises an incubator chamber (5) for receiving a premature infant or a newborn (3), a fastening portion (7) and a coupling portion (9), wherein the device (11) comprises: a fastening device (25) configured to fasten a hammock (13) to the fastening portion (7) so that a lying surface (27) of the hammock (13) extends in the incubator chamber (5); a moving arm (29) having a receiving portion (31) for receiving a portion of the hammock (13); A mechanical device (33) is configured to couple the moving arm (29) to the coupling portion (9), so that the moving arm (29) can reciprocate relative to the coupling portion (9), thereby causing the hammock (13) fastened to the fastening portion (7) and received by the receiving portion (31) to swing.

2. The device (11) according to claim 1, in, The reciprocating movement of the moving arm (29) relative to the coupling portion (9) includes translation of the moving arm (29) in translation directions opposite to each other.

3. The device (11) according to one of the preceding claims, in, The device (11) is configured such that when the moving arm (29) reciprocates relative to the coupling portion (9), the portion of the hammock (13) received by the receiving portion (31) reciprocates relative to the receiving portion (31); and / or The device (11) is configured such that when the moving arm (29) moves in a first direction (y) relative to the coupling portion (9), the portion of the hammock (13) received by the receiving portion (31) moves in a second direction (x) deviating from the first direction (y).

4. The device (11) according to claim 3, in, The receiving portion (31) includes an edge for contacting a hammock (13), wherein the edge is configured such that when the moving arm (29) moves in a first direction (y), the hammock (13) in contact with the edge moves along the edge in a second direction (x).

5. The device (11) according to claim 4, in, The receiving portion (31) comprises a groove (35) for hanging the hammock (13) and the edge is formed by at least a part of the outer contour of the groove (35).

6. The device (11) according to any one of claims 3 to 5, in, The first direction (y) extends transversely or obliquely to the second direction (x); and / or Wherein, the first direction (y) is a vertical or horizontal direction.

7. The device (11) according to one of the preceding claims, in, The mechanical device (33) comprises a base plate (37) and a pivot device (39), wherein the moving arm (29) is fastened to the base plate (37) at one end thereof and has a receiving portion (31) at its free end, wherein the base plate (37) can be pivotally arranged on the coupling part (9) by means of the pivot device (39).

8. The device (11) according to claim 7, further comprising: An additional lying surface (45) for a premature baby or a newborn baby (3), wherein the additional lying surface (45) is formed by a part of the base plate (37) and / or a part of a mattress arranged on the base plate (37).

9. The device (11) according to one of the preceding claims, in, The mechanical device (33) comprises an electric drive for reciprocating the moving arm (29) relative to the coupling part (9) in a controlled manner.

10. The device (11) according to one of the preceding claims, in, The fastening device (25) comprises the moving arm (29); and / or The fastening device (25) comprises at least one of the following fastening devices: a rope receiving portion for non-slip clamping of at least one rope-shaped element fastened to the hammock (13); a hook receiving portion for hanging at least one hook-shaped element fastened to the hammock (13); and a ring receiving portion for hanging at least one ring-shaped element fastened to the hammock (13).

11. The device (11) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising: A further moving arm (41) having a further receiving portion (43) for receiving a further part of the hammock (13); The mechanical device (33) is configured to couple the other moving arm (41) with the other coupling part (9) of the incubator (1), so that the other moving arm (41) can reciprocate relative to the other coupling part (9); The device (11) is configured so that the hammock (13) fastened to the fastening portion (7) and received by the receiving portion (31) and the other receiving portion (43) can perform a swinging motion through the reciprocating motion of the moving arm (29) and the other moving arm (41).

12. A hammock (13) for use with a device (11) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The hammock (13) comprises: A lying surface (27) configured so that its shape can be changed by folding at least a portion of the lying surface (27); A folding device is provided, which is configured to fold the at least one portion of the lying surface (27) to different degrees and hold it folded in a defined position.

13. The hammock (13) according to claim 12, in, The lying surface (27) comprises a tunnel (47) and is configured such that its shape can be changed by folding the tunnel (47); Wherein, the folding device comprises: an elongated tensioning element (49) extending through the tunnel (47) so that the tunnel (47) can be collapsed along the tensioning element (49); A holding element (51) can be fastened to the end of the tensioning element (49) protruding from the tunnel (47) in order to hold the tunnel (47) in a closed position.

14. The hammock (13) according to claim 13, in, The tunnel (47) comprises a longitudinal portion forming at least a part of the outer edge of the lying surface (27); and / or wherein the tunnel (47) comprises a longitudinal portion extending transversely or obliquely to the longitudinal direction of the lying surface (27); and / or Therein, the tunnel (47) comprises a longitudinal portion extending parallel to the longitudinal direction of the lying surface (27).

15. A hammock (13) according to any one of claims 12 to 14, in, The lying surface (27) comprises a curved outer edge (55) at its head end and / or foot end.

16. An incubator (1) for a premature infant or a newborn (3), comprising: an incubator chamber (5) for receiving a premature infant or a newborn (3); The thermal insulation box (1) further comprises a fastening portion (7), a coupling portion (9) and a device (11) according to any one of claims 1 to 11; and / or Wherein, the thermal insulation box (1) further comprises a hammock (13) according to any one of claims 12 to 15.

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