HOSPITAL VEHICLES FOR TRANSPORTING GAS CYLINDERS, ESPECIALLY MEDICAL EQUIPMENT

Abstract

The invention relates to a mobile trolley (1) comprising a base (2) for holding one or more gas cylinders (200), casters (30), a main column (3) projecting upwards from the base (2), a storage compartment (5) arranged along the main column (3), an anchoring structure (8) arranged at an upper end (3a) of the main column (3), a support mast (6) carried by the anchoring structure (8) and equipped with fastening means (9) for a gas delivery device (100), and a hand grip (10) enabling a user to operate the trolley (1). Use of such a mobile trolley (1) for transporting one or more gas cylinders (200), in particular a NO / N2 mixture and / or oxygen, and a gas delivery device (100).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a mobile hospital trolley allowing the simultaneous transport of one or more pressurized gas cylinder(s) and a gas supply device, in particular medical NO, in order to be able to supply the gas to a patient in need, in particular in a hospital setting, especially in intensive care units.

[0002] Nitric oxide, or NO, is a gaseous medication used to treat various medical conditions in a patient, such as Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension of the Newborn, or PPHN (for Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension of the Newborn ), Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome or ARDS observed mainly in adults or pulmonary hypertension or HP in cardiac surgery, as taught in particular by EP-A-560928, EP-A-1516639 or US-A-10,201,564.

[0003] Indeed, when inhaled by a patient in need, typically a patient suffering from NPH, ARDS or HP, gaseous NO dilates their pulmonary vessels and thus increases blood oxygenation by improving pulmonary gas exchange.

[0004] Gaseous NO is usually packaged in pressurized gas cylinders, diluted in nitrogen (N2), i.e., as NO / N2 mixtures. Typically, the volumetric concentration of NO in a NO / N2 mixture packaged in a pressurized gas cylinder is between 100 and 10,000 ppmv, generally between 200 and 1,000 ppmv, for example 800 ppmv. (i.e., ppmv = ppm by volume).

[0005] To enable the administration of NO, the NO / N2 mixture is added to a gas stream containing oxygen (O2) at a content of at least 21% by volume approximately, typically air or an N2 / O2 mixture, and the final stream thus obtained (i.e. NO / O2 / N2) is administered by inhalation to the patient, via a breathing interface, such as a breathing mask or a tracheal intubation tube.

[0006] The concentration of NO in the final stream inhaled by the patient corresponds to a dosage determined by a physician or similar professional. Generally, the concentration of NO in the gas inhaled by the patient ranges from 1 to 80 ppm by volume (ppmv), depending on the population being treated (i.e., newborns or adults) and the specific condition being treated.

[0007] The final mixture administered to the patient is generally obtained using a NO delivery device connected to a mechanical ventilator, as described in US-A-5,558,083. The NO delivery device injects the desired amount of NO / N₂ mixture into the airflow or NO / N₂ mixture from the mechanical ventilator, i.e., a respiratory support device or similar. The NO delivery device is supplied with the NO / N₂ mixture from the gas cylinder(s) containing the N₂ / NO mixture.

[0008] Generally, the NO delivery device supplies a NO / N2 mixture to an NO injection module placed in the inspiratory branch of the patient circuit, which is fluidly connected, on one side, to the mechanical ventilator and, on the other side, to the respiratory interface (e.g., probe, mask...) delivering the final gas mixture containing NO at the desired dosage.

[0009] In a hospital setting, it is necessary to be able to quickly bring to the patient not only the gas cylinder(s) containing the N2 / NO mixture but also the NO delivery device which is supplied with NO (i.e. NO / N2 mixture) by this or these gas cylinder(s).

[0010] Currently, the movement / transport of gas cylinders and / or medical devices within hospitals or similar facilities is done either by manual carrying by healthcare staff, or by means of a transport trolley.

[0011] Thus, EP2574361 teaches a medical trolley comprising a wheeled base surmounted by a wall defining a U-shaped compartment for a gas cylinder. Two support arms connect the wall of the U-shaped compartment to a platform on top of the trolley. Medical instruments can be placed on the platform.

[0012] EP1977712 also teaches a mobile cart in the form of a wheeled box with internal compartments. One compartment houses gas cylinders and another a vacuum pump. The top of the box forms a roof and a platform for medical instruments or devices. The gas cylinders and the vacuum pump are connected, via pipes arranged within the box, to gas or vacuum outlets located on a side wall of the box.

[0013] However, these types of trolleys are not designed to allow the transport of medical devices, whether heavy or bulky, under good safety conditions, i.e. without the risk of them falling from their platform.

[0014] Furthermore, EP3854368 and EP3854660 describe a mobile trolley in the form of a wheeled box with internal compartments. The upper wall of the box, which forms the roof, has an opening communicating with one of the internal compartments to allow the insertion of a flexible gas distribution hose connected to a gas distribution shaft located above the trolley and supplied with gas from a gas cylinder housed within the box. However, this trolley is not designed for transporting equipment.

[0015] Other, more rudimentary gas cylinder trolleys are taught by FR2926728 and FR2910362.

[0016] It is understood that these trolleys are not suitable and / or impractical for the implementation of treatment by administration by inhalation of gaseous NO, which notably requires the movement or transport of one or more pressurized gas cylinder(s), such as one or more NO cylinders (i.e. NO / N2 mixture), and a gas supply device, in particular an NO delivery device, within a hospital or similar building.

[0017] US2016 / 0310693 is also known, describing a mobile cart comprising a base with storage compartments for gas cylinders, including nitrous oxide (NO), and casters. A single column extends upwards from the base and is surmounted by a platform structure on which a mast supporting a gas delivery device is mounted. However, this cart is unsatisfactory. Specifically, it is not suitable for the simultaneous storage and transport of accessories, manuals, or other items necessary for patient treatment.Furthermore, since the single column must both hold the gas cylinders and support the platform structure, the mast, and the gas dispensing unit—that is, bear a weight of several kilograms, typically at least 5 to 10 kg—it must necessarily be robust and therefore have significant dimensions. This increases the overall weight and size of the cart, moves the cylinders further apart, thus requiring a larger base, and complicates handling of the cart by healthcare personnel. Finally, because the column is off-center and supports the entire weight of the platform structure, the mast, and the NO dispensing unit, there are safety risks due to the existing cantilever, particularly the risk of the platform structure breaking if a user were to lean on it, thereby increasing the weight that the single column must support.

[0018] Furthermore, US2009 / 0302178 proposes a more rudimentary trolley structure comprising a base, a single column projecting upwards from the base and surmounted by a platform structure. Storage compartments are arranged between the base and the anchoring structure. However, this trolley cannot transport gas cylinders and is therefore unsuitable for handling gases packaged in cylinders.

[0019] There is therefore a need for an improved mobile medical trolley capable of simultaneously transporting one or preferably several pressurized gas cylinders, in particular NO cylinders (i.e. NO / N2 mixture), and a gas supply device, in particular an NO delivery device, as well as accessories, technical or user manuals, devices used for patient care (e.g. insufflation bag or BVM, hose, sensor, user kit...) or other items, in order to be able to supply the gas (i.e. NO) to a patient in need of it as part of inhaled NO treatment, particularly in intensive care units.

[0020] In other words, the problem is to propose an improved mobile medical trolley, particularly in terms of ergonomics and safety, which is better suited to gas treatments, especially NO inhaled in or to intensive care units.

[0021] According to the invention, a mobile trolley is proposed, i.e., a transport unit designed to roll on the ground during its movements, comprising: a base or chassis comprising at least one storage space to house at least one gas cylinder, several casters for moving the trolley on the ground, a main column projecting upwards from the base, a storage box, an anchoring structure arranged at one upper end of the main column, also called a platform structure, a support mast carried by the anchoring structure and projecting upwards, said support mast carrying fastening means configured for attaching a gas delivery device, and at least one hand gripping handle enabling a user to manipulate the trolley, in particular to steer, pull or push it, when moving it on the ground.

[0022] According to the invention, the cart preferably also comprises the following characteristics: The storage unit is arranged along the main column, a secondary column projects upwards from the base and is attached to the anchoring structure, and the secondary column and the main column are arranged spaced apart from each other.

[0023] Depending on the embodiment considered, the cart of the invention may comprise one or more of the following features: The hand grip is attached to the anchoring structure. The hand grip includes an annular structure, preferably an open annular structure. The hand grip is sized to be grasped manually by a user. The hand grip has an elongated shape, preferably tubular, and a diameter between 2 and 6 cm. The box is flat, preferably its width L is equal to at least twice its thickness E (L ≥ 2E), preferably at least three times its thickness E (L ≥ 3E), in particular at least four times its thickness E (L ≥ 4E). The box has a general parallelepiped (approximately) rectangular shape. The box defines an internal volume. The box comprises a front wall or face and lateral edges arranged around the periphery of the front wall and projecting towards the main column; that is, it does not have a rear wall.In another embodiment, the box comprises a front wall or face and a rear wall or face defining an interior space between them, said front and rear walls being connected to each other by lateral edges arranged at the periphery of said front and rear walls. The anchoring structure comprises a platform or roof surmounting the main column, for example, a plate or the like. The anchoring structure has a generally triangular shape or another shape. The anchoring structure has an open annular shape that is attached to the hand grip via one or more connecting arms. The anchoring structure has a generally triangular shape and comprises connecting arms extending from its vertices and attached to the hand grip. The main column, projecting upwards from the base, is fixed to said base.The secondary column, projecting upwards from the base, is fixed to said base. The main column extends between the base and the anchoring structure. The secondary column extends between the base and the anchoring structure. The secondary column and the main column are arranged substantially parallel to each other, that is, parallel or approximately parallel. The secondary column is thinner than the main column; in particular, its cross-sectional area is less than that of the main column. The main column and the secondary column have circular, rectangular, square, or other cross-sections. The main column and the secondary column are profiles with circular, rectangular, square, or other cross-sections. The secondary column has a cross-section of approximately 3 to 8 cm², typically 3 to 6 cm², for example, a 4 x 4 cm square cross-section.The main column has a cross-section of approximately 3 to 25 cm², for example, a rectangular section of 4 x 16 cm. Both the main and secondary columns are elongated profiles. Both the main and secondary columns are made of aluminum alloy profiles. However, another material could potentially be suitable. The mounting means on the support mast include a perforated plate for screwing the gas delivery device. The support mast includes means for adjusting the height (axially) and locking the perforated plate in the desired position, allowing its height, and therefore that of the gas delivery device it supports, to be adjusted during use, for example, to adapt the height of the plate and / or the gas delivery device to the user's height.It comprises at least one gas cylinder housed in at least one location of the base, preferably a gas cylinder containing a NO / N₂ mixture. It comprises two NO / N₂ mixture cylinders housed in two locations of the base. The secondary column is arranged, i.e., located, between the two NO / N₂ mixture cylinders. Each NO / N₂ mixture cylinder is attached, directly or indirectly, to the main column and / or the secondary column, i.e., to one, the other, or both columns, preferably both columns. It further comprises an oxygen (O₂) cylinder in an additional location of the base. The oxygen (O₂) cylinder is attached, directly or indirectly, to the secondary column. The secondary column is housed in a defined space between the two NO / N₂ mixture cylinders and the oxygen (O₂) cylinder.It includes a gas delivery device fixed to the support mast's mounting means, in particular a device for delivering a NO / N₂ mixture. It includes at least three casters, preferably at least four casters, for example, four casters or eight casters arranged in pairs. The casters are fixed to extensions attached to the base and projecting away from the base. The extensions form legs. Each extension comprises at least one caster or a pair of casters. The casters or pairs of casters are arranged on feet fixed to the extensions forming the legs. The fixed feet are pivotally mounted on the extensions. The extensions and the base are formed in one piece, preferably of metal or a metal alloy, such as an aluminum alloy or similar. In another embodiment, they may be made by injection molding of plastic (i.e., polymer).Of course, the extensions can also be independent and attached to the base, for example by screwing or other means. The feet include a locking device, such as a brake or similar, for locking the (pairs of) casters to prevent their rotation, thus immobilizing the trolley and preventing any unintentional or unexpected movement of said trolley on the floor. The feet include a user-operated control pedal that works in conjunction with the locking device to activate or deactivate it when a user presses the control pedal. The trolley includes a vertical axis (AA) when it is in an upright position on the floor. The support mast is arranged or oriented (substantially) along the vertical axis (AA). The support mast is tubular, in particular cylindrical. The mounting means include a perforated mounting plate, for example of the VESA type, for attaching a device by screwing.The support mast is located at the top of the trolley, above the box. The box extends along the vertical axis (AA) along the main column. The box extends substantially between the base and the anchoring structure. The box is fixed to the main column, preferably by screwing or other means. The box is made of polymer. The box includes one or more internal storage compartments accessible from the outside via one or more openings in the front of the box, each fitted with a door. Each door is hinged, preferably around a horizontal axis (BB). The box has a height (H) of approximately 60 to 110 cm, a width (L) of 15 to 60 cm, and a thickness (E) of 5 to 18 cm. The gas cylinder(s) contains a NO / N₂ gas mixture containing 100 to 10,000 ppmv of NO and nitrogen for the remainder, preferably 100 to 2,000 ppmv of NO. The gas cylinder(s), i.e.Each NO / N₂ mixture cylinder contains a NO / N₂ gas mixture containing 100 to 1000 ppmv of NO and nitrogen for the remainder, preferably 200 to 1000 ppmv of NO. The gas cylinder(s) contain gas at a pressure between 5 bar and at least 200 bar absolute. The gas cylinder(s) is / are equipped with a gas dispensing valve, in particular a valve with an integrated regulator (RDI). The gas cylinder(s) is / are equipped with a protective cover protecting the gas dispensing valve. The gas cylinder(s) have an ogive shape, i.e., a cylindrical body surmounted by a constricted portion forming a neck with a gas inlet / outlet orifice communicating with the internal storage volume of the gas cylinder.The gas cylinder(s) is / are attached—directly or indirectly—to the trolley, typically to the main column and / or secondary column, preferably by means of connection, for example, one or more straps with connectors or the like. The mobile trolley is designed to be rolled on the floor when handled and moved, typically pushed or pulled, by a user, in particular healthcare personnel, for example, a doctor, nurse, or the like, within a hospital or similar building. The trolley's base is located at the bottom of the trolley, i.e., at its base, which is situated in close proximity to the floor. The trolley's base includes a platform where the storage compartments are arranged. The storage compartments are sized to each hold one gas cylinder in an upright position. The storage compartments are disc-shaped or the like. The trolley includes three storage compartments arranged in a triangle.In one embodiment, the support mast is housed within a tubular sleeve structure carried by the anchoring structure. The support mast is mounted to slide within the tubular sleeve structure to allow for height adjustment. In another embodiment, the support mast is mounted on the anchoring structure so as to be axially fixed but rotationally mobile about the vertical axis (AA). The support mast is mounted in its central region of the anchoring structure. The base further includes a footrest enabling the user to facilitate the start of the cart when it is stopped on the ground by applying a pushing force with their foot. The cart comprises a front and a rear side. The rear side is the side facing the user when they push the cart to move it by rolling it on the ground. The footrest is located on the rear side of the cart.The gas cylinders are located at the front of the trolley. The storage compartment is located at the rear of the trolley. The gas cylinder dispensing valves are fluidly connected to the gas delivery unit by flexible hoses in order to supply the gas delivery unit with a NO / N2 mixture and oxygen.

[0024] The invention also relates to the use of a mobile trolley according to the invention for transporting one or more cylinder(s) of pressurized gas, such as a NO / N2 mixture and / or oxygen, and a gas supply device, typically NO intended to be administered to an adult, child or neonatal patient suffering from NPH, ARDS, HP or another pathology, via a breathing circuit supplied with a gas containing at least 21% vol, of oxygen, such as air or an N2 / O2 mixture, from a medical ventilator.

[0025] The invention will now be better understood through the following detailed description, given by way of illustration but not limitation, with reference to the attached figures, among which: Fig. 1 diagram illustrates an embodiment of a mobile trolley according to the invention, without equipment, shown in a ¾ rear view, Fig. 2 represents the chariot of the Fig. 1 seen from the side, Fig. 3 represents the chariot of the Fig. 1 View from above Fig. 4 represents the chariot of the Fig. 1 , according to a 3 / 4 front view, Fig. 5 represents the chariot of the Fig. 1 seen from the front, Fig. 6 represents the chariot of the Fig. 1 , according to a 3 / 4 front view, equipped with gas cylinders and a gas delivery device, and Fig. 7 represents the chariot of the Fig. 6 , according to a 3 / 4 rear view.

[0026] Fig. 1 à Fig. 7 illustrate an embodiment of a mobile trolley 1 according to the invention, intended for use in a hospital or similar environment, which is designed to be easily moved on the floor when handled, typically pushed or pulled, by healthcare personnel, for example a doctor, nurse or similar, within a hospital or similar building.

[0027] On the Fig. 1 à Fig. 5 , the carriage 1 is bare, that is to say unequipped, whereas on Fig. 6 et Fig. 7 It is equipped with its equipment, namely here 3 x 200 gas bottles and a 100 gas delivery device, as explained below.

[0028] The mobile trolley 1 of the invention comprises, in its lower part, a base 2 or chassis including several casters 30, namely pairs of casters 30, used to move the trolley 1 by rolling on the ground. The (pairs of) casters 30, i.e., small wheels, are arranged on feet 32 ​​pivotally fixed to extensions 31 of the base 2 or legs.

[0029] Advantageously, the expansions 31 or legs are formed as a single piece with the rest of the base 2, for example by injection molding or other means. The base 2, including the expansions 31, can be made of polymer.

[0030] Preferably, the feet 32 ​​include a locking device, such as a brake or similar mechanism, for locking the casters 30 to prevent their rotation, thus immobilizing the trolley on the ground and preventing any unintentional or unexpected movement. The locking device for the casters 30 is activated or deactivated by means of a control pedal 33, which can be operated by the user, particularly by pressing it with their foot.

[0031] As illustrated in Fig. 2 à Fig. 4 , the feet 32 ​​also carry shock-absorbing devices 34, arranged between the feet 32 ​​and the expansions 31 used to absorb shocks that may occur during the movement of the trolley 1, when it collides with other objects such as another trolley, a bed, a piece of furniture, a door etc.

[0032] Furthermore, the trolley 1 comprises a front side and a rear side, the rear side being the one facing the user when they push the trolley 1 to move it by rolling it on the ground. Thus, the front side of the trolley 1 is the one located on the right. Fig. 2 , while the rear side is the one located on the right on Fig. 2 .

[0033] Furthermore, the base 2 also includes several storage locations 4 for housing pressurized gas containers, namely three gas cylinders 200 comprising two cylinders 200a containing a NO / N2 mixture, for example a NO / N2 mixture containing 100 to 1000 ppmv of NO and nitrogen for the remainder, and one cylinder 200b containing oxygen, as illustrated in Fig. 7 .

[0034] Storage locations 4 for gas cylinders 200; 200a, 200b are provided on the front side of trolley 1.

[0035] Gas cylinders 200 have a cylindrical body and are generally ogive-shaped. They are made, for example, of aluminum alloy, composite materials, or steel. Each cylinder 200 is equipped with a gas dispensing valve 201 (partially visible), for example, an RDI, arranged at its neck. This valve includes an orifice that communicates fluidly with the internal volume of the cylinder, and preferably a protective cover 202 to protect the gas dispensing valve 201 against impacts, among other things. The gas dispensing valves 201 of gas cylinders 200, 200a, and 200b are fluidly connected to the gas dispensing unit 100 by flexible hoses in order to supply the gas dispensing unit 100 with a NO / N₂ mixture and oxygen.

[0036] The 4 storage locations are formed in the base 2. They each include a small platform, preferably disc-shaped, clearly visible on Fig. 3 , on which each 200 gas cylinder rests, in an upright position. Preferably, the storage locations 4 are in a lowered position, i.e. in the immediate vicinity of the ground, in order to facilitate the changing of 200 cylinders, i.e. loading / unloading, by avoiding the user having to lift the 200 cylinders a lot, especially when they are full and heavy, in order to position them on said storage locations 4.

[0037] Advantageously, storage locations 4 do not include an external rim in order, again, to facilitate bottle changing operations.

[0038] The 200 gas cylinders are secured to the trolley 1 by means of fastening devices 14, here straps 14a with connectors 14b, as explained below; however, other fastening devices may be suitable. Securing the 200 gas cylinders prevents them from falling, particularly when the trolley 1 is being moved.

[0039] The carriage 1 further includes a main column 3 projecting upwards from the base 2, i.e. vertically along the vertical axis (AA) of the carriage 1. The main column 3 is secured to the base 2 at its lower end 3b, for example it is fixed there by screwing or the like.

[0040] An anchoring structure 8, also called a platform structure, is arranged at the free upper end 3a of the main column 3. Here, the anchoring structure 8 forms a horizontal platform or roof surmounting the main column 3 and a secondary column, as explained below. For example, the anchoring structure 8 is a plate or similar, here generally triangular in shape (cf. Fig. 3 ) including connecting arms 8a at its three vertices which connect to a hand gripping handle 10, as detailed below; of course, another shape could be suitable.

[0041] A storage box 5 is positioned along the main column 3. It is fixed there by screwing, for example. The storage box 5 extends between the base 2 and the anchoring structure 8. In other words, the box 5 projects upwards from the base 2 along the vertical axis (AA) of the carriage 1.

[0042] The 5th cabinet has an advantageously flattened shape to limit the overall size. For example, as illustrated in Fig. 4 It can have a height (H) between 60 cm and 110 cm, a width (L) between 15 cm and 60 cm, and a thickness (E) between 5 cm and 18 cm. In all cases, its width (L) is equal to at least 2 times its thickness (E), i.e. L ≥ 2E.

[0043] In addition, the casing 5 can be made of polymer or another material, for example composite material.

[0044] Here, the box 5 comprises a main wall 5a, also called the front face 5a, bordered on its periphery by side walls 5c projecting towards the main column 3 so as to delimit an internal space or volume which, in the proposed embodiment, is open towards the rear 5b, that is to say on the side of the main column 3 and the bottles 200. On Fig. 1 , the internal storage compartments 15a can be distinguished through the rear opening(s).

[0045] According to another embodiment (not shown), the compartment 5 may include, in addition to the front face or wall 5a, an additional rear wall that closes the rear opening(s) so as to close the compartment 5. In this case, the front face or wall 5a and the additional rear wall face each other and are connected by the peripheral edges 5c, spaced apart to define the internal space between them, which includes the internal storage compartments 15a. The rear face 5b then faces the main column 3 and is preferably fixed to it, i.e., also on the side of the bottles 200.

[0046] As illustrated in Fig. 5 The front face 5a of the enclosure 5 here includes two doors 15, for example pivoting or tilting, for example around hinges located at the bottom of the doors 15 and horizontal axes (BB) perpendicular to the vertical axis (AA). Of course, the enclosure 5 could include more or fewer doors 15. The doors 15 therefore open on the side of the front face 5a of the enclosure 5, that is to say, on the rear side of the carriage 1.

[0047] The doors 15 close openings 16 (not visible) fitted in the front face 5a of the box 5 and giving access to the internal storage compartments 15a used to store medical equipment, such as accessories or other items, for example gas administration kits, breathing mask, tracheal tube, tubes, instruction manual, connectors etc... These assemblies form built-in storage bins.

[0048] Furthermore, the carriage 1 also includes a support mast 6 carried by the anchoring structure 8, specifically fixed to the anchoring structure 8 in the region of its distal end 6b. The support mast 6 projects upwards, that is, along the vertical axis (AA). It has a cylindrical shape, and the distal end 6b of the support mast 6 passes through the anchoring structure 8.

[0049] According to one embodiment, as seen on Fig. 5 à Fig. 7 The distal end 6b of the support mast 6 is housed in a tubular structure 18 forming a sleeve carried by the anchoring structure 8, preferably in its central region. Thus, the support mast 6 can slide within the tubular structure forming the sleeve 18, allowing for height adjustment of said support mast 6 so that it can be extended or retracted to varying degrees along the vertical axis AA; that is, it is telescopic. Preferably, a locking device can be provided to hold the support mast 6 in the desired position along the mast 6, such as a rotary knob 17, actuated by the user, arranged on the structure forming the sleeve 18.

[0050] In another embodiment, the support mast 6 is fixed to the anchoring structure 8, preferably in its central region, so that it is only movable in rotation about its axis (AA), i.e., it cannot translate axially about the axis (AA) but is movable only about said axis (AA). Preferably, here again, a locking device can be provided to hold the support mast 6 in the desired position around the mast 6.

[0051] According to yet another embodiment, the support mast 6 is fixed in a non-movable manner to the anchoring structure 8, for example by screwing, welding or the like.

[0052] Furthermore, the support mast 6 may include means for adjusting the height (along the axis (AA), and / or angle, and / or orientation of a support plate 19 carrying a gas delivery device, as explained below, and means for locking it in the desired position, i.e., at the desired height, angle, and / or orientation, such as a rotary element, like a rotary knob, actuated by the user, cooperating with the mast 6, and preferably associated with a locking pin to secure it in position. Of course, other adjustment / locking systems are also possible.

[0053] Being able to adjust the height of the support plate 19 along the support mast 6, i.e., along the axis (AA), is advantageous because it makes it easier for the user to read the screen 102 located on the front face 101a of the gas delivery device 100 carried by the support plate 19, as illustrated in Fig. 6 Indeed, the support mast 6, in particular the support plate 19, is designed to receive and support a gas delivery device 100, specifically one delivering a NO / N2 mixture. To this end, in order to allow the gas delivery device 100 to be fixed to it, as illustrated in Fig. 6 et Fig. 7 , means for fixing the device 9, namely here a support plate 19, are provided on the support mast 6, preferably in the region of its free end 6a.

[0054] The gas delivery unit 100 is designed to be fluidly connected to the patient circuit that fluidly links a medical ventilator to a respiratory interface, such as a mask or tracheal tube, delivering gas, for example, a gas mixture based on NO, oxygen, and nitrogen, to the airway of the patient being treated. The gas delivery unit 100 is supplied with gas, specifically NO / N2, from one or more gas cylinders 200 via one or more flexible gas supply hoses connected to the outlet fitting of the gas distribution valve(s) 201.

[0055] Advantageously, as already mentioned, the fixing means 9 include a support plate 19 comprising holes or perforations 19a for fixing by screwing, for example of the VESA type ( Video Standards Electronics Association or video electronic standards association). For example, the mounting plate 19 has a rectangular shape and includes several through perforations 19a intended to receive fixing screws that screw into screw holes provided on the device 100, for example, in the rear face 101b of the casing 101 of the device 100, as illustrated in Fig. 7 .

[0056] The support mast 6 may also include, in the region of its free end 6a, attachment means 20, i.e., fixing means, such as a tubular or similar area, as illustrated in Fig. 4 et Fig. 5 , intended to cooperate with a lashing, i.e. hooking system, provided on certain devices 100, used to and / or enabling them to be hooked, for example suspended, on tubular structures of bed rail type or similar.

[0057] Furthermore, in order to enable a user, such as a healthcare worker, to easily steer the trolley 1 when moving around on the floor of a hospital building for example, a manual gripping handle 10 is provided which the user can grasp with their hands to then manipulate the trolley 1, typically pushing or pulling it.

[0058] Here, the manual gripping handle 10 is attached to the anchoring structure 8 via the connecting arms 8a. It has a generally annular shape. It is arranged around the support mast 6 and the anchoring structure 8. The gripping handle 10 includes one or more openings 10a allowing the passage of cables and / or flexible hoses or similar materials so that they can be bundled together within the space inside the ring formed by the manual gripping handle 10.

[0059] In other words, the gripping handle 10 has an open ring shape which is sized to allow manual gripping by the user, for example its diameter is on the order of approximately 2 to 5 cm. As can be seen, the handle 10 has an overall annular shape, i.e. an open ring shape, and is arranged all around the anchoring structure 8, which is advantageous because this configuration allows a user to grip the trolley 1 from all sides, i.e. indifferently to its position relative to the trolley 1, for example to reorient or reposition it in an operating or treatment room, for example, in a hospital or similar setting.

[0060] As already mentioned, to reinforce the structure, the carriage 1 also includes a secondary column 13 projecting upwards from the base 2, i.e., along the vertical axis (AA), and secured to the base 2 at its lower end 13b, for example by screwing or similar means. Here again, the secondary column 13 is secured to the anchoring structure 8, i.e., the platform structure, at its upper end 13a.

[0061] In other words, the main column 3 and the secondary column 13 are arranged (approximately) parallel and offset from each other, i.e. spaced apart, and fixed, on the one hand, to the base 2 and, on the other hand, to the anchoring structure 8, for example by screwing through the plate forming the anchoring structure 8.

[0062] Preferably, the distance between the main column 3 and the secondary column 13 is several centimeters, typically between about 10 and 30 cm, typically between about 15 and 25 cm.

[0063] The main column 3 and the secondary column 13 have an elongated shape, typically a tubular structure with a square, rectangular, circular, or other cross-section. They are approximately 50 to 120 cm long. They are made of one (or more) resistant material(s), for example, polymer or metal.

[0064] Preferably, secondary column 13 is thinner than main column 3, for example secondary column 13 has a square section of the order of 4 x 4 cm, while main column 3 has a rectangular section of the order of 4 x 16 cm.

[0065] Using two parallel columns 3, 13 to support the anchoring structure 8 is advantageous compared to a single column according to the prior art because it increases the strength and robustness of the whole, by distributing between these columns 3, 13 the weight exerted on them, i.e. the weight of the mast 6, the anchoring structure 8, the plate 19, the gripping handle 10 and the device 100.

[0066] In other words, using two parallel columns 3, 13 allows the mass (i.e. weight) of the mast 6, the anchoring structure 8, the plate 19, the gripping handle 10 and the device 100 to be offset, i.e. centered, towards the center of the trolley 1, which eliminates any overhang that may exist with single-column trolleys of the prior art.

[0067] Furthermore, using two columns 3, 13 also allows the two 200a bottles to be brought closer together and thus reduce the dimensions of the base 2 by reducing its footprint, therefore also the overall size and total weight of the trolley 1.

[0068] Advantageously, fastening devices 14, such as straps 14a with connectors 14b or any other suitable fastening device, are carried by the main column 3 and the secondary column 13. Preferably, their vertical positioning on the columns 3, 13 can be adjusted axially in order to be able to fix firmly and efficiently bottles 200 of different sizes.

[0069] To ensure safe operation, the 200a NO / N 2 cylinders are fixed by fastening devices 14 to the main column 3 and / or to the secondary column 13, preferably to both columns 3, 13. On the other hand, it is sufficient to fix the 220b oxygen cylinder only to the secondary column 13.

[0070] Furthermore, we can also see on Fig. 4 The base 2 also includes a footrest 21, which the user uses to start the trolley 1, i.e., to facilitate its departure from a standstill, by applying a pushing force with their foot. The footrest 21 is located on the rear side of the trolley 1, i.e., opposite the gas cylinders.

[0071] The trolley 1 may also include a pipe draining system, such as a cylindrical nipple on which the user presses the free end of the flexible gas pipe in order to activate the non-return valve fitted thereto, so as to cause a purge or draining of the residual gas in the pipe, which can then be evacuated to the ambient atmosphere.

[0072] In general, trolley 1 is particularly well suited for use in a hospital setting, especially in the context of implementing therapeutic treatment for an adult, adolescent, child or newborn patient suffering from a pulmonary condition, such as NPH, ARDS or HP in cardiac surgery, with administration by inhalation of gaseous NO to the patient in need, in order to dilate their pulmonary vessels and thus increase blood oxygenation by improving pulmonary gas exchange.

Claims

1. Mobile trolley (1) comprising: - a base (2) including at least one storage compartment (4) for housing at least one gas cylinder (200), - several casters (30) for moving the trolley (1) on the ground, - a main column (3) projecting upwards from the base (2), - a storage box (5), - an anchoring structure (8) arranged at an upper end (3a) of the main column (3), - a support mast (6) carried by the anchoring structure (8) and projecting upwards, said support mast (6) carrying fastening means (9) configured for attaching a gas delivery device (100), and - at least one hand grip (10) enabling a user to handle the trolley (1), characterized in that- the storage box (5) is arranged along the main column (3), - a secondary column (13) projects upwards from the base (2) and is attached to the anchoring structure (8) and - the secondary column (13) and the main column (3) are arranged spaced apart from each other.

2. Trolley according to claim 1, characterized in that the manual gripping handle (10) is fixed to the anchoring structure (8).

3. Trolley according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the manual gripping handle (10) includes an annular structure (11).

4. Trolley according to claim 1, characterized in that the box (5) is flat and fixed to the main column (3).

5. Trolley according to claim 1, characterized in that the anchoring structure (8) includes a platform surmounting the main column (3).

6. Trolley according to claim 1, characterized in thatthe fixing means (9) carried by the support mast (6) include a perforated support plate (19, 19a) allowing fixing by screwing of the gas delivery device (100).

7. Trolley according to claim 1, characterized in that the base (2) further includes a footrest (21) enabling the user to facilitate the departure of the trolley (1) when it is stopped on the ground, by exerting a pushing force with a foot.

8. Trolley according to claim 1 or 4, characterized in that the storage box (5) extends substantially between the base (2) and the anchoring structure (8).

9. Trolley according to any one of claims 1, 4 or 8, characterized in that the box (5) includes one or more internal storage compartments (15a) accessible from the outside, via one or more openings (16) provided in the front face (5a) of the box (5) and fitted with doors (15).

10. Trolley according to claim 1, characterized in thatThe secondary column (13) and the main column (3) are arranged spaced apart from each other by a distance of between 15 and 25 cm.

11. Trolley according to any one of claims 1 or 2 and 3, characterized in that the anchoring structure (8) has an open annular shape (11) (11a) which is attached to the manual gripping handle (10), via one or more connecting arms (8a).

12. Trolley according to any one of claims 1, 4, 8 or 9, characterized in that box 5 has a flattened shape comprising a width (L) and a thickness (E) such that: L ≥ 2.E.

13. Trolley according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that that it includes at least one gas cylinder (200; 200a, 200b) housed in said at least one location (4) of the base (2), and / or a gas delivery device (100) attached to the fixing means (9) of the support mast (6).

14. Trolley according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in thatIt comprises two bottles (200a) containing a NO / N2 mixture and an oxygen bottle (200b) arranged on the base (2) so that the secondary column (13) is housed in a space located between said bottles (200a; 200b).

15. Use of a mobile trolley (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, for transporting one or more gas cylinders (200), in particular a mixture of NO / N2 and / or oxygen, and a gas supply device (100).