Portable case structure for medical examinations and / or treatments in the field of ophthalmology

Abstract

Portable case body (10) for medical examinations in the field of ophthalmology and / or treatments in the field of ophthalmology, comprising: - an energy supply system (16) for providing energy to components of the transportable box body (10), - a control unit (22) for controlling one or more components of the transportable box body (10) and the power supply system (16), - at least one separately accessible examination and treatment room (36, 40) which is at least partially surrounded by opaque soundproof walls and is equipped to examine and / or treat a patient, - wherein the examination and treatment room (36, 40) includes at least two medical devices (98) for the examination and / or treatment of the human eye, - a movement room (44) to which the examination and treatment room (36, 40) is adjacent and through which the examination and treatment room (36, 40) is accessible, - an air conditioning unit (18) for air conditioning a box body interior, comprising a heating system, an air conditioning system and sensors for monitoring the room climate, - a lift unit (20) with mechanical or electro-hydraulic supports (84) which are permanently connected to the transportable box body (10) and are designed to level the entire transportable box body (10), - a communication unit and - a system that reduces vibrations and oscillations.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a portable case structure for medical examinations and / or treatments in the field of ophthalmology.

[0002] Comprehensive and high-quality healthcare for the population is of central importance. However, it is evident that medical care in rural areas is declining, as more and more medical practices are forced to close due to a lack of profitability or a shortage of qualified personnel. This not only means that patients from the affected rural areas have to travel very long distances to access medical care, but also leads to an overload of medical facilities in cities and larger communities. This, in turn, results in patients often having to wait a very long time for appointments for medical examinations and / or treatments. Therefore, there is a regional shortage of medical care, or an impending shortage, in various medical specialties in rural areas, such as ophthalmology.The medical care needs in these specialist areas cannot currently be met.

[0003] Several approaches exist to solve this problem using current technology. One approach utilizes telemedicine to communicate with doctors located far away. Another is to bring medical examinations and / or treatments directly to patients. This saves patients long journeys, which are particularly difficult for elderly patients or those with mobility impairments.

[0004] A solution for using a car equipped with telemedicine equipment is known, for example, from German patent application DE 10 2019 498 A1. However, when relying solely on telemedicine, there is generally a lack of sufficient medical and medical-technical equipment to conduct an adequate examination and / or treatment for a more accurate diagnosis.

[0005] In contrast, complex box body solutions are known in which several box bodies the size of a doctor's office are connected together. However, this requires a lot of space and complex transport of the multiple box bodies with a long preparation time, as the necessary equipment and furniture must be transported separately from the box body.

[0006] One interim solution is, for example, a bus-based ambulance for ophthalmic examinations, as known from German patent application DE 35 23 631 A1. This bus-based ambulance serves as a platform for ophthalmic examinations, featuring a compartment for vision testing and an optical workshop for making eyeglasses. This is intended to help people in rural areas obtain correct vision correction. This patent application also identified the disadvantage that using a bus, which is known to be supported by pneumatic tires, results in strong vibrations that affect the examination results. The proposed solution is to place the ophthalmic examination units on a platform with extendable legs. When stationary, the legs can be extended through openings in the bus's floor to a solid surface.While this solution addresses the general problem of excessive vibrations in buses and cars, even when stationary, the inherent disadvantages of using buses and cars for mobile treatment remain. They are often not wheelchair accessible and lack spaces for patients and medical staff to retreat to, or do not allow for an upright posture, unlike the minivan described in JP 2025-1734 A. Furthermore, other stringent requirements for ophthalmic and optical equipment, such as those with sensitive lens systems, are not met.

[0007] Furthermore, mobile solutions are known for performing operations in rural areas, including the necessary preparation and follow-up. A transportable container solution with an operating room and recovery room is, for example, known from EP 1 748 126 A1. When stationary, the container can be enlarged by extending walls to provide additional space. However, a disadvantage of this solution is the considerable effort required to retract the walls for transport and to securely transport the equipment.

[0008] Furthermore, EP 4 159 953 A1 discloses a transportable medical unit for performing a medical procedure, which also includes a retractable wall. This medical unit also comprises rooms for preparing for and following up on the procedure. However, this medical unit is limited to performing a medical procedure and is not designed to carry out medical examinations and / or treatments with sensitive medical equipment that would replace a medical examination and / or treatment by a physician in private practice.

[0009] Therefore, in the current state of the art, there is a need for a solution that makes it possible to ensure medical care in specialist areas with high care needs in rural areas, and to carry out medical examinations and / or treatments, particularly in the field of ophthalmology, with the same precision as, for example, in ophthalmological practices.

[0010] This problem is solved according to the invention by a transportable case structure for medical examinations and / or treatments in the field of ophthalmology, as described herein and defined in the claims.

[0011] The transportable box body for medical examinations and / or treatments in the field of ophthalmology comprises a power supply system for providing energy to components of the transportable box body, a control unit for controlling one or more components of the transportable box body and the power supply system, at least one separately accessible examination and treatment room, which is at least partially enclosed by opaque soundproof walls and is equipped for examining and / or treating a patient, wherein the examination and treatment room includes at least two medical devices for examining and / or treating the human eye, a movement area adjacent to and through which the examination and treatment room is accessible, and an air conditioning unit for climate control of the interior of the box body.comprising a heating system, an air conditioning system and sensors for monitoring the room climate, a lift unit with mechanical or electro-hydraulic supports that are permanently attached to the transportable box body and are designed to level the entire transportable box body, a communication unit, and a vibration and shock reduction system.

[0012] A transportable box body is, for example, a box body that is designed to be transportable by means of a semi-trailer truck and to be able to stand independently of the semi-trailer truck.

[0013] The control unit can be located on a longitudinal wall, for example, a longitudinal wall at the rear in the direction of travel, of the box body. Access to the control unit from outside the box body may be provided. The control unit can include controls for the lift unit, the air conditioning unit, and / or the communication unit.

[0014] The portable mobile unit thus meets all the requirements for ophthalmological examinations and / or treatments in rural areas. This allows patients in rural regions to benefit from high-quality medical care. Furthermore, communication with local physicians is possible via the integrated communication unit, enabling the direct exchange of patient data with the treating physician. Consequently, it is not necessary for the treating physician to be physically present in the mobile unit.

[0015] In one embodiment, the vehicle body can comprise two separately accessible examination and treatment rooms, thereby increasing the throughput of patients. Each of the two examination and treatment rooms can be at least partially enclosed by opaque soundproof walls. Complete enclosure of the examination and treatment rooms can be achieved by means of the opaque soundproof walls, a door in each soundproof wall, and the floor and upper wall of the vehicle body. Both examination and treatment rooms can be equipped to examine and / or treat one patient each. Each examination and treatment room includes, for example, at least two medical devices for examining and / or treating the patient, in particular the patient's eye.Each of the examination and treatment rooms can adjoin the exercise room and be accessible via it.

[0016] The interior ceiling height of the box body should be at least 2.2 m, preferably at least 2.1 m, and even better at least 2 m. This height allows for an upright posture adapted to human anatomy.

[0017] Each of the examination and treatment rooms, for example, has a size of at least 7.5 m². 2 , preferably from at least 8 m 2 , even better, from at least 9 m 2 In a preferred embodiment, each of the examination and treatment rooms has a size of between 7.5 m². 2 and 8 m 2 on.

[0018] Furthermore, the patient movement pathways provided in the case structure can be designed to be barrier-free, with a path width of at least 85 cm, preferably at least 95 cm, and even better at least 1 m. The patient movement pathways allow at least one movement of the patient within the movement area, in each of the examination and treatment rooms, as well as in a darkroom (described later) and preferably in another room (described later).

[0019] The maneuvering space, for example, has a width of at least 1.2 m, preferably at least 1.3 m, and even better at least 1.4 m. The maneuvering space can also be used as a waiting area. Seats permanently attached to the body of the vehicle can be arranged in the maneuvering space. For example, space-saving wall-mounted folding seats can be used.

[0020] An entrance door and / or an exit door may be positioned within the movement area to ensure good patient flow. A handrail may be provided along the patient's movement path. The handrail is provided, for example, at least within the movement area. The patient's movement path may be illuminated, at least within the movement area, with the lighting activating as soon as the entrance door is opened.

[0021] The at least one examination and treatment room may include a seat for a patient. The at least one examination and treatment room may also include a table permanently attached to the case structure, with a movable tabletop on which one of the medical devices for examining and / or treating the patient, in particular the patient's eye, can be arranged or is arranged. The movable tabletop is movable in such a way that the medical device can be positioned within the line of sight of a patient seated on the tabletop. The tabletop may be attached to a table base that is permanently attached to the case structure. The table base may be attached to one end of the tabletop.

[0022] The at least one examination and treatment room may have a base permanently attached to the vehicle body, on which one of the medical devices for examining and / or treating a patient, in particular the patient's human eye, can be arranged or is arranged, wherein the seat for the patient can be positioned, for example by rotating it around its own axis, so that the patient sitting on the seat can be positioned facing the medical device that can be arranged or is arranged on the base. This enables ergonomic treatment of the patient, even if the patient's mobility is impaired.

[0023] The at least one examination and treatment room may also include a movement path for medical personnel which is at least 60 cm wide, better at least 65 cm wide, and even better at least 70 cm wide, and which allows the operation of the medical equipment on the tabletop and base without the patient having to change their position while seated.

[0024] The examination and treatment room can be entered and exited via a door. The door can allow for barrier-free access. The door can be a double door.

[0025] In one embodiment, both examination and treatment rooms have the aforementioned features, particularly with regard to the seating, the table with the movable tabletop, the base, the movement path for medical personnel, and / or the door for entering and exiting the examination and treatment room. For example, the two examination and treatment rooms are designed to be mirror images of each other.

[0026] The at least one examination and treatment room may also include a visual acuity monitor permanently attached to the case structure, wherein the patient sitting on the seat and the visual acuity monitor can be aligned with each other in such a way that the patient's line of sight and the visual acuity monitor are aligned with each other.

[0027] The at least one examination and treatment room may also include a screen that is set up for a video consultation, wherein the patient sitting on the seat and the screen can be aligned with each other in such a way that the patient's direction of view and the screen are aligned with each other.

[0028] The at least one examination and treatment room may also include a washbasin with running water and a drain, preferably with a hot water supply.

[0029] In one embodiment, both examination and treatment rooms have the aforementioned features, in particular with regard to the visual acuity monitor, the screen and the washbasin.

[0030] The movement path for medical personnel can allow medical personnel to operate the visual acuity monitor and screen, as well as to use the sink, without the patient sitting on the chair having to change their position.

[0031] The medical equipment is arranged in such a way that it remains stationary for examination and / or treatment. This arrangement can be maintained during transport.

[0032] For ophthalmic treatments or examinations, the medical equipment may include one or more of a fundus camera, an optical coherence tomograph (OCT), a slit lamp, an autorefractor, a non-contact tonometry system, and a mirror exophthalmometer.

[0033] The fundus camera and / or the optical coherence tomograph can be arranged on the base. Preferably, the fundus camera is arranged in one of the examination and treatment rooms, and the optical coherence tomograph is arranged in the other. The slit lamp and / or the autorefractor can be arranged on the movable table attachment. Each of the examination and treatment rooms can include a slit lamp and an autorefractor.

[0034] For example, the medical equipment remains securely attached to its respective base during transport of the mobile unit, just as it is positioned during examinations and / or treatments. This eliminates the need to move the often delicate medical equipment within the mobile unit.

[0035] The seating should preferably be rotatable, adjustable, and lockable for transporting the box body, e.g., using tension straps or hooks. Alternatively, a patient's wheelchair can serve as a seat.

[0036] Furthermore, the partition walls of at least one examination and treatment room, preferably of both examination and treatment rooms, can be permanently attached to the vehicle body and constructed in a sandwich-like manner, with each partition wall incorporating sound insulation. The partition wall can comprise an interior wall and / or an exterior wall of the vehicle body.

[0037] Soundproofing can include a sound-absorbing layer. Soundproofing can serve the patient's privacy and, for example, allows for the protection of sensitive patient data. Furthermore, the spatial layout within the mobile unit serves to safeguard the patients' personal rights. The two examination and treatment rooms, for example, are accessible through separate, lockable doors and each adjoins the exercise area. This also applies, for example, to the darkroom and the additional room described later. Both can be accessed through separate, lockable doors and each adjoins the exercise area.

[0038] The side walls and roof (full height) can be made of insulated sandwich panels.

[0039] All compartments within the box body can be connected via the movement area. All compartments can be separated from each other by means of internal walls within the box body, which also provide sound insulation.

[0040] Adapting the case design to the requirements of ophthalmic equipment allows for the use of familiar, high-quality medical devices already employed in private practices and hospitals. Consequently, it is unnecessary to develop and use less established devices specifically adapted for transport. This serves both to ensure the quality of examinations and / or treatments and to save on development costs associated with the complex development of highly specialized medical equipment.

[0041] In one embodiment, the power supply system can include a battery that provides energy to components of the transportable box body, enabling them to operate autonomously for a predefined period. This predefined period can be between 20 and 40 minutes, preferably between 25 and 35 minutes. In one embodiment, the predefined period is approximately 30 minutes. The autonomous operating time is chosen, for example, to provide the operator of the box body with sufficient time to connect an alternative power source and / or maintain operation during the autonomous period, such as during a power outage.

[0042] This also ensures that sensitive medical equipment is protected from large climatic fluctuations during transport, e.g., that condensation is avoided in the sensitive medical equipment.

[0043] A battery monitor can determine which components of the vehicle body require primary operation. The air conditioning unit and / or the climate monitoring system can be considered primary components. Emergency lighting can also be considered a primary component.

[0044] The power supply system may include an alarm unit that emits an alarm signal in the event of a power failure. The alarm system may be a primary user-operated component. The alarm signal may be an audible alarm and / or an alarm signal sent to a mobile device.

[0045] The battery can consist of two battery units. The battery can be a UPS battery.

[0046] For operation of the box body beyond the predefined period, it can be powered via an external 230 V and / or 400 V power supply with overvoltage and residual current protection, or alternatively via an external generator. This allows the box body to operate autonomously for the aforementioned period and, apart from the required power connection, can be operated independently.

[0047] For transporting the case body together with the medical equipment, a packaging box can be provided for each or selected pieces of medical equipment. At least one, preferably all, of the medical equipment can be protected from vibrations during transport of the case body by means of the packaging box, the packaging box enclosing the medical equipment in its assembled and / or functional state. The packaging box can interact with a reinforced equipment base plate on which the medical equipment is mounted. For example, a projection of the packaging box can engage in a groove of the equipment base plate on which the medical equipment can be mounted or is mounted.

[0048] The packaging box is, for example, multi-part, particularly two-part. The parts of the packaging box can be connected to each other using a box closure, such as a toggle latch. The reinforced base plate of the apparatus is, for example, at least 5 mm thick, preferably at least 7 mm, and even better at least 9 mm thick. The reinforced base plate of the apparatus can be permanently attached to the movable table attachment or the base. The table and / or the base can be permanently attached to the case. The packaging box can comprise a hard-shell case with a foam insert. The foam insert can be adapted to the geometry of the medical apparatus. The medical apparatus rests, for example, on the base plate due to gravity, but is not permanently attached to it.

[0049] The vibration and oscillation reduction system can comprise several struts that form the floor structure of the box body. Alternatively or additionally, the vibration and oscillation reduction system can comprise floor panels that are arranged on the floor structure of the transportable box body. These floor panels are, for example, suitable for supporting a surface load of at least 600 kg / m². 2 and to bear a point load of at least 150 kg. The floor is designed, for example, to be sound-absorbing. The aforementioned design of the floor construction and the floor slabs on it serve to reduce vibrations.

[0050] Furthermore, the case may also include a darkroom adjacent to and accessible from the movement area, in which light-sensitive medical equipment can be arranged or is already arranged. This light-sensitive medical equipment includes, for example, a visual field tester and / or a vertex distance meter. Arranging light-sensitive equipment in a separate room, such as the darkroom, prevents unwanted light exposure during patient examinations. This separate arrangement also allows for increased patient throughput, as examinations using light-sensitive equipment can take longer.

[0051] The width of the darkroom can extend across the entire width of the box body, preferably to approximately 2.5 m.

[0052] The case may further include a climate monitoring system comprising at least one sensor for determining temperature and humidity in at least those compartments where medical equipment is located, and which initiates an alarm signal if the current temperature and / or humidity deviates from a predefined range. The temperature and / or humidity in at least those compartments where medical equipment is located should be such that condensation on or within the medical equipment is prevented. In particular, fogging of sensitive lens systems of the medical equipment should be avoided at all times.

[0053] The climate monitoring system may also include a sensor for determining air pressure. Furthermore, it may use the measured data to determine the dew point. The climate monitoring system may also include sensors for determining wind speed, wind direction, precipitation, UV index, and / or light intensity.

[0054] Advantageously, the climate monitoring system and the air conditioning unit communicate with each other, so that the air conditioning unit processes the data recorded by the climate monitoring system and controls the heating system or air conditioning system in such a way that the current temperature and / or humidity is within the predefined range.

[0055] The air conditioning unit can be configured to achieve a room temperature between 15°C and 25°C, preferably at least 20°C, in at least those rooms where one of the medical devices is located, when the outside temperature is between -10°C (minus 10 degrees Celsius) and 40°C. Preferably, the room temperature is between 18°C ​​and 22°C. Preferably, a room temperature between 15°C and 25°C, preferably between 18°C ​​and 25°C, is also achieved in the exercise room and the darkroom and / or the additional room described later.

[0056] The air conditioning unit can use sensor data or data acquired from the climate monitoring system to regulate the temperature. For example, the air conditioning unit can be regulated so that the temperature remains above the dew point. This prevents condensation from forming on sensitive medical equipment. The air conditioning unit can be mounted on an end face of the vehicle body, for example, on a longitudinal wall of the body facing rearward in the direction of travel.

[0057] In some embodiments, the lift unit includes height-adjustable mechanical or electro-hydraulic supports that hold the box body. These supports allow, for example, the box body to be raised vertically. The supports can be electrically controlled. The height-adjustable supports ensure a vibration-free environment inside the box body. The box body is self-supporting thanks to the supports. The supports can be located in the rear area of ​​the box body, near the rear axle(s). Alternatively, the supports can be positioned at the front, within the approach or departure angle. The supports can be used to stabilize the vehicle, preventing the box body from rocking during patient entry and exit, as well as during treatment and / or examination. The supports can be retracted during transport of the box body.

[0058] The box body can be lifted off the ground using the supports to ensure a vertical alignment of the box body and the medical equipment housed within. The box body can include a hydraulic power unit for raising and lowering it using the supports. The hydraulic power unit can be mounted on an end wall of the box body, for example, on a longitudinal wall at the rear of the box body in the direction of travel. The power supply system can provide energy to the hydraulic power unit. The lifting unit allows the box body to remain level on uneven ground. In this way, the sensitive medical equipment is also level and its functionality is guaranteed.

[0059] The supports allow the container to be lowered so that it can be leveled to less than 40 cm, ideally less than 35 cm, and even better, to the same height or less than 30 cm above the ground on which the supports stand. Lowering the container body towards the ground using the supports, for example, makes it easy to enter. The container body can be lowered to ground level. Only a small ramp or step is needed for entry. The slight elevation also prevents water from entering the container body. Overall, this makes it easy for people with limited mobility to access the container body. Furthermore, the container body can be easily accessed by wheelchair, for example, via the small ramp.

[0060] The box body preferably has external dimensions that allow it to be transported on public roads using a standard articulated lorry. For example, the external length of the box body is between 11 m and 13 m, preferably between 11.5 m and 12.5 m, and even better approximately 12 m. The external width of the box body is, for example, between 2.4 m and 2.7 m.

[0061] In some embodiments, the box body can include an extension that forms an outer wall of the box body and in which at least one section of the movement area is arranged. The outer wall formed by the extension, for example, includes at least one or both of the entrance and exit doors. The extendable extension can also include at least one window, e.g., a shatterproof one. The extension can be powered externally. The extension can serve to increase the interior space of the box body, which can be used while the box body is stationary.

[0062] All interior walls of the box body, which, for example, define the examination and treatment rooms, the darkroom, or the rest of the space, can remain fixed in place while the box body extension moves from the extended to the retracted position or vice versa. During transport, the box body extension can be in the retracted position.

[0063] The extension of the case body can have a width between 90 cm and 110 cm, ideally between 95 cm and 115 cm, and even better between 100 cm and 105 cm. This provides sufficient space for movement. At the same time, the extension is not too large, ensuring the stability of the case body even when people are moving around in the space. This is necessary to guarantee the functionality of the medical equipment, especially vibration-sensitive medical devices used for examining the human eye.

[0064] For example, foldable seats are attached to the outer wall formed by the box body extension and / or to the inner wall of the examination and treatment room, which, when the box body extension is retracted, are arranged between the examination and treatment room and the outer wall of the box body formed by the box body extension.

[0065] One length of the box body extension corresponds, for example, to the length of two examination and treatment rooms. When retracted, one wall of the box body extension abuts an interior wall of the examination and treatment room, or the distance is less than, for example, 30 cm. Preferably, two walls of the box body extension abut respective interior wall sections of the examination and treatment rooms, or the distance between them is less than, for example, 30 cm.

[0066] The extension of the bodywork can encompass at least a section of the maneuvering space. The examination and treatment room(s) are located outside the extension of the bodywork. Therefore, to retract the extension, only equipment from the maneuvering space needs to be stowed in such a way that the outer wall of the extension can move freely towards the interior of the bodywork. For example, the folding chairs located in the maneuvering space must be folded up. In other words, the equipment of the examination and treatment room(s), such as the medical devices, the patient seating, the table, the stand, the visual acuity monitor, the screen, and / or the sink, remain in the same position during transport and while the bodywork is in place. The same applies to the equipment of the darkroom and / or the additional room described below.

[0067] During transport of the box body, all interior walls can remain fixed in place within the box body.

[0068] In some embodiments, the case structure can further comprise an additional compartment that adjoins the main compartment and is accessible through it. Advantageously, all compartments of the case structure are accessible via the main compartment. The additional compartment can adjoin one or more of the examination and treatment rooms and share at least one interior wall with the examination and treatment rooms.

[0069] The width of the additional space can extend across the entire width of the box body, preferably to approximately 2.5 m.

[0070] The additional space may include electrical appliances such as a microwave, refrigerator, kettle, and / or coffee maker. This additional space may also include one or more lockers, a table, chairs, a sink with a faucet, and / or a kitchen work surface with base and wall cabinets. Drawers and wall cabinets for storage may be provided in the vehicle body, for example, in one or both examination and treatment rooms. Windows may be installed in the vehicle body, for example, in the additional space and / or in the examination and treatment rooms.

[0071] All compartments of the vehicle body can be equipped with electrical outlets with additional USB ports.

[0072] In some embodiments, the communication unit may include an antenna system and / or a satellite system and be configured for data transmission to a remote facility. The remote facility may be a central medical point of contact, such as a doctor's office or a hospital.

[0073] The antenna system can be installed on the roof of the box body and include an integrated antenna mast. It can be a GPS antenna and / or a digital radio (DAB+) / GSM / GPS multifunction antenna. The communication unit, in particular the satellite system, can enable internet access via satellite. The satellite system can be installed on the roof of the box body. The box body can be equipped with radio interference suppression.

[0074] The communication unit is set up for video diagnosis and / or telemedicine. The screen in the examination and treatment room is also set up for video diagnosis and / or telemedicine. Data can be exchanged with the remote facility via the communication unit. This data may include personal information such as examination results, medical certificates, prescriptions, and / or patient history.

[0075] The communication unit can include an air-conditioned equipment cabinet permanently installed in the vehicle body. The communication unit can comprise one or more components, including a GSM gateway, a telephone, a fax machine, a dual SIM card, a VPN router, a radio, and PC equipment.

[0076] The communication unit can be permanently installed in the vehicle body. The communication unit can be configured for continuous online use. The communication unit can include an interface to the climate monitoring system.

[0077] In some embodiments, the box body further includes a permanently installed water tank. The water tank has a water capacity of at least 90 liters, preferably at least 100 liters, and even better at least 150 liters. In one embodiment, the water tank has a capacity of between 90 and 115 liters, preferably between 100 and 110 liters. The water tank may include a water level indicator and an external connection. The water tank may include a tank heater. The tank heater may serve as frost protection.

[0078] In some configurations, the box body can be designed for transport by articulated vehicle and positioned on the articulated vehicle using a lifting unit. For transport, a chassis can be attached to the articulated vehicle, on which the box body is positioned. The chassis can be a semi-trailer conforming to DIN EN 16973 (valid in March 2025) – Road vehicles for combined transport – Semi-trailer, or an equivalent design (e.g., a chassis with a swap body) and be transportable by a standard articulated vehicle. It is advantageous, for example, if the articulated vehicle, the chassis, and the box body comply with the relevant requirements of the German Road Traffic Licensing Regulations (StVZO).

[0079] Advantageously, no external lifting equipment is needed to position the box body on the semi-trailer truck. The lifting unit can, for example, raise the box body so that a semi-trailer of the articulated truck can be driven underneath it. The lifting unit can be electrically controlled.

[0080] A suitable articulated vehicle for transporting the box body is, for example, a two-axle vehicle with a trailing axle and a box body mounting point. The ground clearance of the box body mounting point, or of a semi-trailer without a box body, can be approximately 1.1 m. The overall vehicle height can be 3.8 m or less.

[0081] During transport of the case, the medical equipment can be located inside the case. During transport, the medical equipment is preferably in its assembled, i.e., functional, state. For example, the packaging box, in combination with the equipment base plate positioned beneath the medical equipment, enables the safe transport of the medical equipment.

[0082] The box body can be secured against unauthorized access by means of an alarm system. The alarm system can include an interface to the communication unit.

[0083] To ensure a smooth patient flow, the mobile unit can be connected to a patient terminal. A patient can register at the terminal for treatment and / or examination within the mobile unit. For even smoother patient flow, the mobile unit can also be connected to a call system. This connection can be wireless or wired. The call system can be located in a nearby building or mounted on the exterior of the mobile unit. The call system can include a loudspeaker.

[0084] They show: Fig. 1 a schematic representation of a transportable box body in the extended state in a top view with the upper wall hidden; Fig. 2 a schematic representation of a transportable box body in the retracted state in a top view with the upper wall hidden; Fig. 3 a perspective view of the transportable box body in the extended state; and Fig. 4a-c a schematic representation of a medical apparatus on an apparatus base plate in Fig. 4a, a schematic representation of a medical apparatus enclosed in a packaging box in Fig. 4b and a section of an interior view of the packaging box in Fig. 4c.

[0085] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a portable case setup 10 for ophthalmological examinations and / or treatments. The representation of Fig. Figure 1 shows a cross-section along a longitudinal extension of the transportable box body 10. On the outside of the box body 10, on the longitudinal walls 12, 14, a power supply system 16 for providing power to components of the transportable box body 10, an air conditioning unit 18, and a lift unit 20 are arranged. Furthermore, the box body 10 includes a control unit 22 for controlling one or more components of the transportable box body 10 and the power supply system 16, and a communication unit, which can be arranged arbitrarily in or on the transportable box body 10.

[0086] The box body 10 is shown in an extended state, in which a box body extension 24 projects from a first side wall 26 of the box body 10. The outer boundary of the box body 10 is thus formed by the two longitudinal walls 12, 14, the first side wall 26, a second side wall 28, the box body extension 24, a floor 30, and an upper wall 32. The part of the box body 10 formed by the box body extension 24 is hereinafter referred to as the movable box body extension. The part of the box body 10 that, in the extended state, is located within a space with a rectangular cross-section formed by the first and second side walls 26, 28 and the longitudinal walls 12, 14 is hereinafter referred to as the fixed box body section.

[0087] Inside the box body 10, an inner wall 34, fixedly connected to the box body 10, is arranged, completely enclosing an examination and treatment room 36 together with a section of the side wall 28. In the present embodiment, the box body 10 comprises two examination and treatment rooms 36, 40, which are separated from each other by a wall 42 fixedly connected to the box body 10. The inner walls 34, 42 delimit the two examination and treatment rooms 36, 40 and are designed as opaque soundproof walls 34, 42 to protect privacy and personal data. Furthermore, the two longitudinal walls 10, 12, the first side wall 26, the second side wall 28, and / or an outer wall 46 formed by the box body extension 24 can be designed as opaque soundproof walls. A window located in one of these walls 10, 12, 26, 28, 34, 36, 46 can be designed to be opaque.A lockable door 38, which can be accessed, for example, without barriers, for entering the examination and treatment room(s) 36, 40, can be arranged in the interior wall 34. The door 38 or doors 38 can be designed as double doors, which facilitates barrier-free access.

[0088] The box body 10 is internally symmetrical with respect to the box body extension 24, the inner wall 34 and the longitudinal walls 12, 14, with the wall 42 representing an axis of symmetry.

[0089] A movement space 44 adjoins the examination and treatment rooms 36 and 40 and is located between the inner wall 34 and the outer wall 46 formed by the extension of the box body 24. The extension of the box body 24 includes, for example, a lockable entrance door 48 and / or a lockable exit door 50. A patient can enter the box body 10 via the entrance door 48 and thus reach the movement space 44.

[0090] The box body 10 can further comprise a darkroom 52, which adjoins the movement area 44, for example, near the entrance door 48. A lockable door 54, for example, a barrier-free accessible door, is arranged between the movement area 44 and the darkroom 52. The darkroom 52 is completely bounded by one of the longitudinal walls 12, 14, sections of the first and second side walls 26, a section of the inner wall 34, the lockable door 54, a section of the floor 30, and a section of the upper wall 32. The darkroom 52 is therefore located entirely within the fixed box body section. The darkroom 52 extends completely over a width 56 of the box body 10.

[0091] In darkroom 52, a light-sensitive medical device 98, for example a visual field meter and / or a vertex meter, is arranged. The medical device 98 can be arranged on a table permanently connected to the case structure 10. The medical device 98 can remain in darkroom 52 during transport of the case structure 10, for example by means of a device described later and in Fig. The packaging box 96 shown in 4b must be secured during the transport of the case body 10.

[0092] A patient information and / or registration area may be provided to ensure a good patient flow in movement room 44 and / or darkroom 52.

[0093] The movement room 44 facilitates good patient flow. From movement room 44, the patient can access the examination and treatment rooms 36 and 40, the darkroom 52, and, if necessary, another room 58. Furthermore, seating 57, such as folding chairs 57, is arranged in movement room 44. Fig. Figure 1 shows the folding chair 57 in the folded 57a and unfolded 57b state.

[0094] The additional compartment 58 of the box body 10 adjoins the movement area 44, for example, near the exit door 50. A lockable door 60, preferably a barrier-free door 60, is arranged between the movement area 44 and the additional compartment 58. The additional compartment 58 is completely bounded by one of the longitudinal walls 12, 14, sections of the first and second side walls 26, 28, a section of the inner wall 34, the lockable door 60, a section of the floor 30, and a section of the upper wall 32. In a mirror-symmetrical arrangement with the inner wall 42 as the axis of symmetry, the additional compartment 58 is mirror-symmetrical to the darkroom 52. The additional compartment 58 is therefore arranged completely within the fixed box body section. The additional compartment 58 extends completely across the width 56 of the box body 10.

[0095] The foregoing descriptions show that, in the illustrated embodiment, apart from the movement space 44, all compartments 36, 40, 52, and 58 are arranged within the fixed box body section. This allows for the transport of equipment located in these compartments 36, 40, 52, and 58, whereby the equipment can remain in its respective storage location both when the box body is stationary and during transport. Equipment is defined as those items in compartments 36, 40, 52, and 58 that are permanently attached to the box body 10 during transport or can at least be permanently attached to the box body 10 for transport purposes.

[0096] The examination and treatment room 36 comprises a seat 62 for a patient, a table 64 fixedly connected to the case structure 10, and a movable table extension 66 on which at least one medical device 98, in particular for examining the human eye, can be arranged or is arranged. The movable table extension 66 can, for example, be moved such that the longitudinal extent of the table 64 is reduced, for example, by half. When a patient enters the examination and treatment room 36 via the door 38, the movable table extension 66 can be moved such that the longitudinal extent 64 of the table is reduced according to the Fig. The distance shown in the dashed line is reduced, for example, halved. This allows the patient unobstructed access to the seat 62. The movable table attachment 66 can then be positioned so that the medical apparatus 98 arranged on the movable table attachment 66 is aligned with the patient's line of sight while seated on the seat 62. The medical apparatus 98, which can be arranged or is already arranged on the movable table attachment, can be an ophthalmological examination unit.

[0097] Furthermore, in the examination and treatment room 36, a base 68, permanently connected to the case structure 10, is arranged on which a medical apparatus 98 for examining the human eye can be arranged or is arranged. The seat 62 is designed to rotate around its own axis so that the patient's gaze can be directed towards the base 68. The seat 62 can also be directed towards a visual acuity monitor 70 and / or a screen 72, which are, for example, attached to the inner wall 34. The medical apparatus 98, which can be arranged or is arranged on the base 68, can be an ophthalmological examination unit.

[0098] The seating 62 is arranged adjacent to a first side of the table 64 and a first side of the base 68. A movement path 74 for medical personnel is arranged adjacent to a second side of the table 64 and a second side of the base 68, with the first and second sides of the table 64 and the first and second sides of the base 68 oriented in opposite directions. A washbasin 76 with running water and a drain, as well as various storage devices 78 permanently attached to the case superstructure 10, are also arranged or can be arranged in the examination and treatment room 36 and are accessible via the movement path 74 for medical personnel.

[0099] The aforementioned arrangement of equipment 62, 64, 66, 68, 70, 72, 76, 78 in the examination and treatment room 36 allows, on the one hand, a comfortable examination and / or treatment of the patient, as the patient only needs to move around their own axis. This enables the treatment of physically impaired persons. For example, a patient's wheelchair can replace the seat 62. On the other hand, this arrangement allows free movement for medical personnel to operate the medical equipment 98.

[0100] In the illustrated embodiment, the examination and treatment room 40 is designed analogously, for example, mirror-symmetrically, to the examination and treatment room 36. Consequently, the preceding statements regarding the examination and treatment room 36 also apply to the mirror-symmetrical examination and treatment room 40.

[0101] Fig. Figure 2 shows the box body 10 in the retracted state, in which the box body 10 can be transported by means of a semi-trailer truck (not shown). The box body extension 24 is retracted. In the Fig. In the extended state shown in 1, the movement space 44 is accessible. In the Fig. In the retracted state shown in Figure 2, movement space 44 is not accessible.

[0102] Fig. 2 further indicates that the spaces 36, 40, 52, 58 of the fixed box body section remain unchanged in their shape, i.e. their dimensions, boundaries and equipment, in both the retracted and extended states.

[0103] Fig. Figure 3 shows a perspective exterior view of the box body 10 in its extended position. In this illustration, four height-adjustable supports 84 of the lift unit 20 are extended, and the box body 10 is supported exclusively by these four supports 84. The direction of travel of the box body when transported by a semi-trailer truck is shown in Figure 3. Fig. 3 is visible and marked with an arrow A. In the direction of travel A, the longitudinal wall 14 is at the front and the longitudinal wall 12 at the rear. The control unit 22 and / or the power supply system 16 can be arranged on the rear longitudinal wall 12 in the direction of travel A. The air conditioning unit 18 can be arranged on the front longitudinal wall 14 in the direction of travel A.

[0104] The box body extension 24 can be acoustically decoupled from the fixed box body section. The vibration and oscillation reduction system can further comprise floor plates arranged on a floor structure of the box body 10 and / or the box body extension 24. The floor 80 of the movement room 44, the floor 82 of the examination and treatment room 36, 40, a floor 92 of the darkroom 52 and / or a floor 94 of the further room 58 can, for example, comprise floor plates for reducing vibration and oscillation.

[0105] During transport of the box body 10 by means of the articulated vehicle, the medical devices 98 remain in the box body 10. For example, at least one medical device 98 remains on the table 64 in one or each of the examination and treatment rooms 36, 40, at least one medical device 98 remains on the stand 68, and at least one medical device 98 remains on the table in the darkroom 52. Fig. Figure 4a-c shows a transport solution in the form of a packaging box 96 for medical equipment 98 for ophthalmic examinations. The packaging box 96 enables conventional medical equipment 98, which meets high quality standards and is also used by private physicians or clinics, to be used in the transportable case structure 10.

[0106] Fig. Figure 4a schematically shows a medical apparatus 98 arranged on a reinforced apparatus base plate 100. The packaging box 96 can be multi-part, for example according to Fig. 4b be designed in two parts. The two parts of the packaging box 96 can be separated from each other and slid around the medical apparatus 98 and the apparatus base plate 100, so that the packaging box 96 completely encloses the medical apparatus 98 together with the apparatus base plate 100. The apparatus base plate 100 comprises a Fig. 4a shown groove 102, into which a Fig.Figure 4c shows the projection 104 of the packaging box 96 in the transport state. The packaging box 96 prevents movement of the medical device 98 during transport. Furthermore, the packaging box 96 can include a foam insert adapted to the outer shape of the medical device 98. In this way, safe transport of the medical device 98 within the case 10 is ensured.

[0107] The following describes an example of an examination and / or treatment of a patient in the transportable unit 10. The patient can register for an examination and / or treatment in the unit 10 at the patient terminal. Once registered, the call system can request the patient to enter the unit 10 via entrance door 48. The patient enters the unit 10 via entrance door 48 and stands in the movement room 44. The patient's arrival can be registered in movement room 44 or in the darkroom 52. The patient waits in movement room 44 or enters directly into the examination and / or treatment room 36, 40. If two examination and / or treatment rooms 36, 40 are available, the patient enters the assigned examination and / or treatment room 36, 40. The patient takes a seat on the seat 62 and is examined or treated.During the examination and / or treatment, medical equipment 98 is used. The patient can leave the examination and / or treatment room 36, 40 and enter the darkroom 52 via the movement room 44. The results of the examination and / or treatment can be sent to the remote facility via the communication unit. Using video analysis and / or telemedicine, the patient can communicate with a physician, particularly an ophthalmologist. The patient leaves the mobile unit 10 via the movement room 44 and the exit door 50. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] DE 10 2019 498 A1

[0004] DE 35 23 631 A1

[0006] JP 2025-1734 A

[0006] EP 1 748 126 A1

[0007] EP 4 159 953 A1

[0008] Cited non-patent literature

[0000] DIN EN 16973

[0078]

Claims

[1] Portable case body (10) for medical examinations in the field of ophthalmology and / or treatments in the field of ophthalmology, comprising: - an energy supply system (16) for providing energy to components of the transportable box body (10), - a control unit (22) for controlling one or more components of the transportable box body (10) and the power supply system (16), - at least one separately accessible examination and treatment room (36, 40) which is at least partially surrounded by opaque soundproof walls and is equipped to examine and / or treat a patient, - wherein the examination and treatment room (36, 40) includes at least two medical devices (98) for the examination and / or treatment of the human eye, - a movement room (44) to which the examination and treatment room (36, 40) is adjacent and through which the examination and treatment room (36, 40) is accessible, - an air conditioning unit (18) for air conditioning a box body interior, comprising a heating system, an air conditioning system and sensors for monitoring the room climate, - a lifting unit (20) with mechanical or electro-hydraulic supports (84) which are permanently connected to the transportable box body (10) and are designed to level the entire transportable box body (10), - a communication unit and - a system that reduces vibrations and oscillations. [2] Transportable case body (10) according to claim 1, wherein the case body (10) comprises two separately accessible examination and treatment rooms (36, 40), - wherein both examination and treatment rooms (36, 40) are at least partially surrounded by opaque soundproof walls (34, 42) and are equipped to examine and / or treat a patient in each of the examination and treatment rooms (36, 40), - wherein each of the examination and treatment rooms (36, 40) includes at least two medical devices (98) for the examination and / or treatment of a patient, in particular of the human eye of a patient, and - where each of the examination and treatment rooms (36, 40) adjoins and is accessible via the movement room (44). [3] Transportable box body (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein an internal ceiling height of the box body (10) is at least 2.2 m, better at least 2.1 m, even better at least 2 m. [4] Transportable box body (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the movement paths provided in the box body (10) are designed to be barrier-free for a patient with a path width of at least 85 cm, better at least 95 cm, even better at least 1 m. [5] Transportable case body (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one examination and treatment room (36, 40), preferably both examination and treatment rooms (36, 40), comprises: - a seat (62) for a patient, - a table (64) permanently connected to the case structure (10) with a movable table attachment (66) on which one of the medical devices (98) for the examination and / or treatment of a patient, in particular the human eye of a patient, can be arranged or is arranged, - wherein the movable table attachment (66) is movable in such a way that the medical apparatus (98) which can be arranged or is arranged on it can be positioned in the direction of view of a patient sitting on the seat (62), - a base (68) permanently connected to the case structure (10), on which one of the medical devices (98) for the examination and / or treatment of a patient, in particular of the human eye of a patient, can be arranged or is arranged, - wherein the seat (62) can be positioned for the patient by means of a rotation about its own axis such that the patient sitting on the seat (62) can be positioned in the direction of view of the medical apparatus (98) that can be arranged or is arranged on the base (68), and / or - a movement path (74) for medical personnel which is at least 60 cm wide, better at least 65 cm wide, even better at least 70 cm wide and which allows the operation of the medical equipment (98) on the table attachment (66) and the base (68) without the patient sitting on the seat (62) having to change his position. [6] Transportable case structure (10) according to claim 5, wherein the at least one examination and treatment room (36, 40), preferably both examination and treatment rooms (36, 40), further comprises: - a visual acuity monitor (70) permanently attached to the case body (10), - wherein the patient sitting on the seat (62) and the visual acuity monitor (70) can be aligned with each other in such a way that the patient's gaze direction and the visual acuity monitor (70) are aligned with each other, and / or - a screen (72) that is set up for a video consultation, - wherein the patient sitting on the seat (62) and the screen (72) can be aligned with each other in such a way that the patient's line of sight and the screen (72) are aligned with each other, and / or - a washbasin (76) with running water and a drain, preferably with hot water supply, [7] Portable case structure (10) according to claim 6, wherein the movement path (74) for medical personnel enables the operation of the visual acuity monitor (70) and the screen (72) and the use of the washbasin (76) by medical personnel without the patient sitting on the seat (62) having to change his position. [8] Portable case body (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the medical apparatus (98) comprise one or more consisting of a fundus camera, an optical coherence tomograph (OCT), a slit lamp, an autorefractometer, a non-contact tonometry system and a mirror exophthalmometer. [9] Transportable box body (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein boundary walls (34, 42) of the at least one examination and treatment room (36, 40), preferably of both examination and treatment rooms (36, 40), are firmly connected to the box body (10) and are constructed in a sandwich-like manner, wherein each boundary wall (34, 42) comprises sound insulation. [10] Transportable box body (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the energy supply system (16) comprises a battery which enables the provision of energy to components of the transportable box body (10) so that they can be operated autonomously for a predefined period of time. [11] Transportable case body (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one, preferably all, of the medical devices (98) are protected against vibrations during transport of the case body (10) by means of a packaging box (96), wherein the packaging box (96) encloses the medical apparatus (98) in its assembled and / or functional state, wherein in particular the packaging box (96) interacts with a reinforced apparatus base plate (100) on which the medical apparatus (98) is arranged, for example by engaging in a groove (102) which is formed in the apparatus base plate (100) of the medical apparatus (98). [12] Transportable case body (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the case body (10) further comprises a dark chamber (52) which adjoins the movement space (44) and is accessible via the movement space (44) and in which a light-sensitive medical apparatus (98) can be arranged or is arranged. [13] Transportable box body (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the box body (10) further comprises a climate monitoring system comprising at least one sensor for determining a temperature and a humidity in at least those rooms in which a medical apparatus (98) is arranged, and which initiates an alarm signal when the current temperature and / or current humidity is outside a predefined range. [14] Transportable box body (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the lift unit (20) comprises height-adjustable mechanical or electro-hydraulic supports (84) which support the box body (10). [15] Transportable box body (10) according to claim 14, wherein the supports (84) enable the box body (10) to be lowered so that it can be leveled to less than 40 cm, better less than 35 cm, even better equal to or less than 30 cm above the ground on which the supports (84) stand. [16] Transportable box body (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the box body (10) comprises a box body extension (24) which forms an outer wall (46) of the box body (10) and in which at least one section of the movement space (44) is arranged. [17] Transportable box body (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the box body (10) further comprises a further space (58) which adjoins the movement space (44) and is accessible through it. [18] Transportable case body (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the communication unit comprises an antenna system and / or a satellite system and is equipped for data transmission with a remote facility. [19] Transportable box body (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the box body further comprises a water tank permanently installed therein with an automatic pressure pump. [20] Transportable box body (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the box body (10) is designed to be transported by a semi-trailer truck and to be positioned on the semi-trailer truck by means of the lift unit (20).

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