Portable liquid-cooled ice cap device for emergency care

Abstract

The utility model relates to a portable liquid cooling ice cap device for emergency and first aid, including ice cap, refrigeration host computer, inlet pipeline, outlet pipeline, temperature sensor and pipe network, the lower end of ice cap has two ports, is liquid inlet end and liquid outlet end respectively, one end of inlet pipeline is connected with the liquid inlet end of ice cap, the other end of inlet pipeline is connected with refrigeration host computer, one end of outlet pipeline is connected with the liquid outlet end of ice cap, the other end of outlet pipeline is connected with refrigeration host computer, temperature sensor is connected with refrigeration host computer, temperature sensor is pasted on skin surface, pipe network sets up in the inside of ice cap, and pipe network is connected with liquid inlet end and liquid outlet end. The portable liquid cooling ice cap device for emergency and first aid adopting the utility model has the advantages of small size, light weight, good refrigeration effect, and the ice blanket and ice cap are beautiful, practical, not easy to break, good wrapping property of the body and head, fast refrigeration, controllable temperature, controllable patient body temperature, simple operation and easy to manage.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of emergency medical care, and more particularly to the field of automatic temperature control, specifically referring to a portable liquid-cooled ice cap device for emergency medical care. Background Technology

[0002] Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a common traumatic condition in emergency and first-aid departments. Damage to the central nervous system can lead to a series of serious complications. Most patients develop severe TBI due to impacts from foreign objects or falls from heights. The condition progresses rapidly, with typical symptoms including coma and loss of consciousness, resulting in a high rate of disability. In severe cases, increased intracranial pressure can lead to death. Because brain injury can affect the thermoregulatory center, it can cause central hyperthermia, which not only exacerbates cerebral edema but also increases intracranial pressure. If the body temperature exceeds 40°C, the brain will cease metabolism, affecting neurological function to varying degrees and hindering patient recovery. The "Expert Consensus on Hypothermia Brain Protection (2020)" clearly states that hypothermia, as an effective brain protection method, has been applied in the treatment of severe TBI, cardiac surgery, and patients after cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Even after basic functional impairment in TBI patients, some incomplete neuronal structures remain. Early cooling and active intervention after TBI are crucial for improving neuronal function and enhancing patient prognosis. In addition, heatstroke caused by high temperature and seizures in adults and children caused by high fever are also common in emergency work. The early treatment measures are physical cooling, and cooling down as soon as possible is of great significance for the patient's later treatment and recovery.

[0003] In the past, clinical treatment often involved a combination of medication and physical cooling methods, including ice packs and ice cubes, which could achieve certain therapeutic effects. However, these methods had several drawbacks, such as easily damaged packaging, small cooling area that could not completely cover critical areas like the head, chest, and back, short cooling time and uncontrollable temperature, and inability to completely stabilize the patient's body temperature. Hypothermia treatment devices such as ice blankets / ice caps are important for hospital cooling, but they are bulky, have refrigeration compressors and water tanks, and require 220V AC power without batteries, making them unsuitable for use in emergency rooms and ambulances. Therefore, there is an urgent need for portable ice caps / ice blankets that can monitor changes in the patient's body temperature.

[0004] The hypothermia therapy devices currently used in hospitals are large and difficult to carry, making them unsuitable for use in ambulances and patient transport. Utility Model Content

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and provide a portable liquid-cooled ice cap device that is small in size, easy to carry, and has a wide range of applications for emergency medical care.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the portable liquid-cooled ice cap device for emergency medical care according to this invention is as follows:

[0007] This portable liquid-cooled ice cap device for emergency treatment is characterized by comprising an ice cap, a refrigeration unit, and a temperature sensor. The ice cap has two ports at its lower end: an inlet and an outlet. The refrigeration unit includes a replaceable ice box, a cooling water tank, a circulating capillary copper tube, a first outlet balancing chamber, a second outlet balancing chamber, and a peristaltic pump. The replaceable ice box is installed in the cooling water tank. The circulating capillary copper tube is fixed to the four walls of the cooling water tank, forming a loop, and is installed inside the refrigeration unit. The outlet is connected to the first outlet balancing chamber, which is connected to the inlet of the circulating capillary copper tube. The outlet of the circulating capillary copper tube is connected to the second outlet balancing chamber, which is connected to the peristaltic pump. The peristaltic pump is also connected to the inlet of the ice cap, forming a circulation loop containing refrigerant. The temperature sensor is connected to the refrigeration unit and is attached to the skin surface. The ice cap is wrapped around the patient's chest, back, or head.

[0008] Preferably, the circulating capillary copper tube comprises a single copper tube that is wound around the refrigeration water tank in multiple S-shaped spirals. The liquid inlet of the circulating capillary copper tube is located at the bottom left side of the refrigeration water tank, and the liquid outlet of the circulating capillary copper tube is located at the upper left side of the refrigeration water tank.

[0009] Preferably, the device further includes a temperature control board connected to the peristaltic pump.

[0010] Preferably, the refrigeration unit further includes a rechargeable battery pack, a temperature control switch, and a display. The display is mounted on the surface of the refrigeration unit, the temperature control switch is connected to a temperature sensor, and the rechargeable battery pack is connected to a peristaltic pump, a temperature sensor, a display, and a temperature control switch.

[0011] Preferably, the ice cap is internally provided with multiple diamond-shaped tubes, which are connected in series and respectively connected to the inlet and outlet of the ice cap.

[0012] Preferably, the ice cap is T-shaped, and the two ends of the ice cap are connected with Velcro.

[0013] This invention relates to a portable liquid-cooled ice cap device for emergency medical care. It is small, lightweight, and provides excellent cooling. Rechargeable and easy to transport, it is particularly suitable for use during patient transport in emergency rooms and ambulances. The ice blanket and ice cap are aesthetically pleasing, practical, durable, and provide excellent coverage for the body and head. Cooling is rapid and temperature is controllable, allowing for patient temperature management and minimizing the risk of localized frostbite or uneven cooling. Using a 40% ethylene glycol solution as the coolant, it can operate at temperatures as low as -25°C, making it suitable for use at night in northern winters. Furthermore, it is easy to operate and maintain, allowing for routine cleaning and disinfection. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the portable liquid-cooled ice cap device for emergency medical care according to this utility model.

[0015] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the refrigeration unit of the portable liquid-cooled ice cap device for emergency medical care according to this utility model.

[0016] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the circulating capillary copper tube of the portable liquid-cooled ice cap device for emergency medical care according to this utility model.

[0017] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the ice cap structure of the portable liquid-cooled ice cap device for emergency medical care according to this utility model.

[0018] Figure label:

[0019] 1. Ice Cap

[0020] 2. Refrigeration unit

[0021] 3. Liquid inlet end

[0022] 4. Liquid outlet end

[0023] 5. Cooling water tank

[0024] 6 Temperature Sensor

[0025] 7. Circulating capillary copper tube

[0026] 8 First liquid discharge balance chamber

[0027] 9 Second liquid discharge balance chamber

[0028] 10 Peristaltic pump

[0029] 11 Rechargeable battery pack

[0030] 12 Temperature control switch

[0031] 13 Monitors

[0032] 14 Replaceable ice packs

[0033] 15. Capillary copper tube inlet

[0034] 16 Capillary copper tube outlet

[0035] 17. Insulation layer

[0036] 18 Connect the silicone tubing

[0037] 19 Temperature control board

[0038] 20. Refrigeration unit liquid inlet

[0039] 21. Liquid outlet of the refrigeration unit Detailed Implementation

[0040] To more clearly describe the technical content of this utility model, the following description is provided in conjunction with specific embodiments.

[0041] This utility model discloses a portable liquid-cooled ice cap device for emergency treatment, comprising an ice cap, a refrigeration unit, and a temperature sensor. The ice cap has two ports at its lower end: an inlet and an outlet. The refrigeration unit includes a replaceable ice box, a cooling water tank, a circulating capillary copper tube, a first outlet balancing chamber, a second outlet balancing chamber, and a peristaltic pump. The replaceable ice box is installed in the cooling water tank. The circulating capillary copper tube is fixed to the four walls of the cooling water tank to form a loop and is installed inside the refrigeration unit, located within the cooling water tank. The outlet is connected to the first outlet balancing chamber, which is connected to the inlet of the circulating capillary copper tube. The outlet of the circulating capillary copper tube is connected to the second outlet balancing chamber, which is connected to the peristaltic pump. The peristaltic pump is also connected to the inlet of the ice cap, forming a circulation loop containing refrigerant. The temperature sensor is connected to the refrigeration unit and is attached to the skin surface. The ice cap is wrapped around the patient's chest, back, or head.

[0042] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the circulating capillary copper tube includes a copper tube, which is wound around the refrigeration water tank in multiple S-shaped spirals. The liquid inlet of the circulating capillary copper tube is located at the bottom left side of the refrigeration water tank, and the liquid outlet of the circulating capillary copper tube is located at the upper left side of the refrigeration water tank.

[0043] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the device further includes a temperature control plate, which is connected to the peristaltic pump.

[0044] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the refrigeration unit further includes a rechargeable battery pack, a temperature control switch, and a display. The display is mounted on the surface of the refrigeration unit, the temperature control switch is connected to a temperature sensor, and the rechargeable battery pack is connected to a peristaltic pump, a temperature sensor, a display, and a temperature control switch.

[0045] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the ice cap is provided with a plurality of diamond-shaped pipes inside, which are connected in series and respectively connected to the liquid inlet and liquid outlet of the ice cap.

[0046] In a preferred embodiment of this utility model, the ice cap is T-shaped, and the two ends of the ice cap are connected with Velcro.

[0047] The device includes an ice cap, a refrigeration unit, an inlet pipe, an outlet pipe, a temperature sensor, and a piping network. The ice cap has two ports at its lower end: an inlet and an outlet. One end of the inlet pipe is connected to the inlet of the ice cap, and the other end is connected to the refrigeration unit. One end of the outlet pipe is connected to the outlet of the ice cap, and the other end is connected to the refrigeration unit. The temperature sensor is connected to the refrigeration unit and is attached to the skin surface. The ice cap is wrapped around the patient's chest, back, or head. The piping network is located inside the ice cap and is connected to the inlet and outlet. The piping network, inlet pipe, outlet pipe, and refrigeration unit form a circulation loop.

[0048] In a preferred embodiment of this utility model, the refrigeration unit includes a replaceable ice box, a cooling water tank, a circulating capillary copper tube, and a peristaltic pump. The replaceable ice box is installed in the cooling water tank. The circulating capillary copper tube is installed inside the refrigeration unit and located in the cooling water tank. The circulating capillary copper tube is connected to an inlet pipe and an outlet pipe. The peristaltic pump is connected to the circulating capillary copper tube. The circulating capillary copper tube contains a coolant.

[0049] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the refrigeration unit further includes a rechargeable battery pack, a temperature control switch, and a display. The display is mounted on the surface of the refrigeration unit, the temperature control switch is connected to a temperature sensor, and the rechargeable battery pack is connected to a peristaltic pump, a temperature sensor, a display, and a temperature control switch.

[0050] In a preferred embodiment of this utility model, the ice cap's pipe network includes multiple pipes that form a dense and interconnected grid.

[0051] In a preferred embodiment of this utility model, the ice cap is T-shaped, and the two ends of the ice cap are connected with Velcro.

[0052] To address issues such as easily damaged packaging, poor head coverage, short cooling time, and uncontrollable patient body temperature, as well as to overcome the problems of large size, difficulty in transporting the refrigeration compressor, and the need for 220V AC power, we designed a portable liquid-cooled ice cap or ice blanket for emergency and first aid purposes.

[0053] In a specific embodiment of this utility model, it includes four parts: an ice blanket / ice cap, a connecting dual pipeline, an adhesive temperature sensor, and a refrigeration unit.

[0054] The ice blanket / ice cap is made of corrosion-resistant plastic. One end of the two connecting tubes at the bottom is the inlet and the other end is the outlet. The tubes run through the patient's contact surface to form a dense and interconnected grid, which facilitates the circulation of coolant and forms a loop. The ice blanket and ice cap are wrapped with insulation material to achieve the functions of being beautiful, easy to shape, and easy to clean. The ice blanket or ice cap can be switched according to the needs of clinical practice.

[0055] Both pipes connecting to the refrigeration unit are unidirectional pipes, filled with refrigerant (a softened aqueous solution containing 40% ethylene glycol, usable in environments as low as -25°C). The refrigerant circulates through the inlet pipe into the ice cap / ice blanket and then returns to the refrigeration unit.

[0056] The temperature sensor can be attached to the patient's skin to detect temperature changes, and the peristaltic pump in the main unit is controlled to start and stop by sensing the patient's temperature.

[0057] The main unit measures 350*250*200mm and weighs approximately 2000g. It comes with a carrying handle and a shoulder strap for easy transport. The main unit includes an LCD temperature display, a master switch, a temperature control switch, a peristaltic pump, and a cooling water tank (containing a circulating capillary copper tube, replaceable ice packs, a sealing lid, an insulation layer, and a 24V DC rechargeable battery pack).

[0058] The water system is divided into two parts: a refrigerant circuit and a cooling water tank. The refrigerant circuit is the main component for cooling the patient. It connects to the first outlet balance chamber from the outlet of the ice cap, and then to the inlet of the circulating capillary copper tube. In this part, the refrigerant exchanges heat with the cooling water tank, and then reaches the second outlet balance chamber from the outlet of the circulating capillary copper tube. The second outlet balance chamber is connected to a peristaltic pump, and the pump speed is controlled by a temperature control board according to the patient's body temperature, pumping the refrigerant into the inlet of the ice cap to form a circulation loop, thereby lowering the patient's temperature.

[0059] The circulating capillary copper tubes are fixed to the four walls of the cooling water tank to form a loop. After ice boxes are placed in the tank and purified water is added, the water level is submerged above the capillary tubes. The water does not directly contact the refrigerant but only exchanges heat. The ice in the ice boxes absorbs the surrounding temperature as it melts, thus cooling the cooling water tank.

[0060] The second fluid balance chamber is connected to a peristaltic pump. The pump speed is controlled by a temperature control board based on the patient's body temperature, pumping refrigerant into the ice cap. The ice cap is composed of multiple "diamond-shaped" pipes connected in series. When the refrigerant enters the pipes, it can increase the contact area with the patient, achieving a better cooling effect.

[0061] The circulating capillary copper tubes are fixed to the four walls of the cooling water tank, consisting of a single copper tube arranged in multiple "S" shapes, spiraling upwards. This creates cavities for ice packs and purified water. The liquid inlet is at the bottom left, and the liquid outlet is at the top left. After entering the capillary tube, the refrigerant gradually moves from the lower end to the higher end of the outlet. This design increases the contact area between the capillary tube and the cooling water tank, which helps improve the refrigerant's cooling efficiency.

[0062] To use, open the sealing cover of the refrigeration unit. Insert the replaceable ice box (frozen at -20℃ for more than 24 hours) into the refrigeration water tank and add sterilized water to the water level mark. Seal the water tank with the sealing cover and close the refrigeration unit. Turn on the main switch. Place the temperature sensor on the skin surface of the area requiring cooling to measure the initial temperature. Set the target temperature and peristaltic pump speed according to the patient's body temperature and treatment goals (the peristaltic pump starts when the measured temperature is higher than the target temperature and stops when it is lower than the target temperature). Wrap the ice blanket or ice cap around the patient's chest, back, or head where cooling is needed. As the temperature sensor activates, the peristaltic pump starts running, pumping the coolant in the tubing into the ice blanket / ice cap for circulation. The coolant fills the tubing in the ice blanket / ice cap, absorbing the heat dissipated by the patient through heat exchange. The circulated coolant then flows through capillary copper tubes, exchanging heat with the ice-water mixture in the water tank, carrying away heat. During this process, the coolant does not come into contact with the ice-water mixture. When the temperature reaches the set temperature, the peristaltic pump stops running. The device restarts when the temperature exceeds the set value.

[0063] This utility model uses a 24V DC rechargeable battery pack to power the peristaltic pump, temperature sensor, display, and temperature control switch. Therefore, the battery pack needs to be periodically charged and discharged. The piping is not completely sealed, and the circulating coolant may leak out over time. Furthermore, the piping contains metal materials such as copper pipes. To ensure normal operation, the coolant needs to be added or replaced periodically. Since the sterilized water in the water tank comes into contact with the replaceable ice packs, the sterilized water should be replaced regularly. After use, the ice packs should be removed and the sterilized water emptied promptly. The outer shell of the device is made of acrylic and can be disinfected with chlorine-based disinfectant or 75% ethanol after use. The surfaces of the ice blanket and ice cap should be cleaned with water after use, and disinfectant wipes can be used to disinfect the surfaces to ensure the cleanliness and hygiene of the ice blanket and ice cap.

[0064] The ice cap of this technical solution adopts a "T" shape design, and the back is made of Velcro, which can perfectly fit the head of adults and children according to the head size. It is suitable for all people and thus better reflects the characteristics of emergency rescue.

[0065] This technical solution uses silicone material for the cap, which fits the patient's head better, is more comfortable, and gentler. The mesh design allows the refrigerant to flow within, preventing localized frostbite. The cap, applied to the patient's skin, monitors the patient's body temperature to control treatment efficiency. This approach prioritizes patient needs and aims to meet the needs of all users in emergency care.

[0066] For the specific implementation scheme of this embodiment, please refer to the relevant descriptions in the above embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0067] It is understood that the same or similar parts in the above embodiments can be referred to each other, and the contents not described in detail in some embodiments can be referred to the same or similar contents in other embodiments.

[0068] It should be noted that in the description of this utility model, the terms "first," "second," etc., are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance. Furthermore, in the description of this utility model, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means at least two.

[0069] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0070] This invention relates to a portable liquid-cooled ice cap device for emergency medical care. It is small, lightweight, and provides excellent cooling. Rechargeable and easy to transport, it is particularly suitable for use during patient transport in emergency rooms and ambulances. The ice blanket and ice cap are aesthetically pleasing, practical, durable, and provide excellent coverage for the body and head. Cooling is rapid and temperature is controllable, allowing for patient temperature management and minimizing the risk of localized frostbite or uneven cooling. Using a 40% ethylene glycol solution as the coolant, it can operate at temperatures as low as -25°C, making it suitable for use at night in northern winters. Furthermore, it is easy to operate and maintain, allowing for routine cleaning and disinfection.

[0071] In this specification, the present invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments thereof. However, it will be apparent that various modifications and variations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, the specification and drawings should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive.

Claims

1. A portable liquid-cooled ice cap device for emergency medical care, characterized in that, The device includes an ice cap, a refrigeration unit, and a temperature sensor. The ice cap has two ports at its lower end: an inlet and an outlet. The refrigeration unit includes a replaceable ice box, a cooling water tank, a circulating capillary copper tube, a first outlet balancing chamber, a second outlet balancing chamber, and a peristaltic pump. The replaceable ice box is installed in the cooling water tank. The circulating capillary copper tube is fixed to the four walls of the cooling water tank to form a loop and is installed inside the refrigeration unit, located within the cooling water tank. The outlet is connected to the first outlet balancing chamber, which is connected to the inlet of the circulating capillary copper tube. The outlet of the circulating capillary copper tube is connected to the second outlet balancing chamber, which is connected to the peristaltic pump. The peristaltic pump is also connected to the inlet of the ice cap, forming a circulation loop containing refrigerant. The temperature sensor is connected to the refrigeration unit and is attached to the skin surface. The ice cap is wrapped around the patient's chest, back, or head.

2. The portable liquid-cooled ice cap device for emergency medical care according to claim 1, characterized in that, The circulating capillary copper tube includes a copper tube that is wound around the refrigeration water tank in multiple S-shaped spirals. The liquid inlet of the circulating capillary copper tube is located at the bottom left side of the refrigeration water tank, and the liquid outlet of the circulating capillary copper tube is located at the upper left side of the refrigeration water tank.

3. The portable liquid-cooled ice cap device for emergency medical care according to claim 1, characterized in that, The device also includes a temperature control board, which is connected to the peristaltic pump.

4. The portable liquid-cooled ice cap device for emergency medical care according to claim 1, characterized in that, The refrigeration unit also includes a rechargeable battery pack, a temperature control switch, and a display. The display is mounted on the surface of the refrigeration unit, the temperature control switch is connected to a temperature sensor, and the rechargeable battery pack is connected to a peristaltic pump, a temperature sensor, a display, and a temperature control switch.

5. The portable liquid-cooled ice cap device for emergency medical care according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ice cap has multiple diamond-shaped tubes inside, which are connected in series and connected to the inlet and outlet of the ice cap, respectively.

6. The portable liquid-cooled ice cap device for emergency medical care according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ice cap is T-shaped, and its two ends are connected by Velcro.

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