Device for holding and moving a hammock in an incubator

Abstract

A device (11) for holding and moving a hammock (13) in an incubator (1) for a premature or newborn infant (3) comprises: fastening means (25) configured to attach the hammock to a fastening section (7) of the incubator, such that a lying surface (27) of the hammock extends into an incubator chamber (5) of the incubator; a movement arm (29) with a receptacle (31) for receiving a section of the hammock; a mechanism (33) configured to couple the movement arm to a coupling section (9) of the incubator, such that the movement arm can be moved back and forth relative to the coupling section, thereby causing the hammock attached to the fastening section and received by the receptacle to swing.

Description

Technical area

[0001] The invention relates to a device for holding and moving a hammock in an incubator for a premature or newborn baby. Furthermore, the invention relates to a hammock suitable for use with such a device and to an incubator for a premature or newborn baby. State of the art

[0002] An incubator for a premature or newborn baby may include an incubator chamber into which the premature or newborn baby can be placed to protect it from environmental influences. Such an incubator chamber is usually heated. The premature or newborn baby is usually placed on a flat surface within the incubator chamber. Alternatively, a hammock can be used. Such a hammock has the advantage over a flat surface in that it snugly encloses the premature or newborn baby, similar to the situation in the womb. This can have a positive effect on the premature or newborn baby. However, attaching the hammock in the incubator chamber can be somewhat difficult due to the limited space. Disclosure of the invention

[0003] One object of the invention can be seen in providing an improved device for holding and moving a hammock in an incubator for a premature or newborn baby. A further object of the invention can be seen in providing an improved hammock for use with such a device and an improved incubator for a premature or newborn baby.

[0004] These objects are achieved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are set forth in the dependent claims, the following description, and the accompanying figures.

[0005] A first aspect of the invention relates to a device for holding and moving a hammock in an incubator for a premature or newborn baby. The incubator comprises an incubator chamber for accommodating the premature or newborn baby, a fastening section, and a coupling section. The device comprises: fastening means configured to attach the hammock to the fastening section so that a lying surface of the hammock extends into the incubator chamber; a movement arm with a receptacle for receiving a section of the hammock; a mechanism configured to couple the movement arm to the coupling section so that the movement arm can be moved back and forth relative to the coupling section, whereby the hammock attached to the fastening section and received by the receptacle is set into a rocking motion.

[0006] Such a device has the advantage that the hammock can be moved back and forth in a controlled manner using the mechanism to create the rocking motion. This allows the hammock to be moved back and forth using a suitable drive even when the incubator chamber is closed. Furthermore, the device can be implemented with minimal construction effort. Another advantage is the device's small footprint, which can simplify access to the premature or newborn baby or other objects in the incubator chamber. The device also allows for simple operation and efficient cleaning.

[0007] A "rocking motion" can generally be understood as a cradling motion suitable for calming a premature or newborn baby lying in a hammock. Such a rocking motion can be induced, for example, by swinging the hammock sideways and / or by raising and lowering a first end of the hammock relative to a second end.

[0008] The section of the hammock captured by the shot may be a head end, a foot end, or a section of the hammock located between the head end and the foot end.

[0009] For example, the fastening means can be designed to attach the hammock to the fastening section at its head end and / or foot end. In particular, the fastening means can be designed to attach the hammock to opposite walls of the incubator chamber at its head and foot ends. Furthermore, the fastening means can be designed to attach the hammock in different vertical positions in the incubator chamber, i.e., to adjust the height of the hammock.

[0010] Such a height adjustment can be achieved, for example, using one or more (e.g., two) vertically adjustable crossbars, each of which holds the hammock. For this purpose, each crossbar can be guided along two vertical posts. The crossbar can be locked in a specific vertical position by clamping the crossbar between the two posts. For this purpose, the crossbar can be designed as a telescopic pole. For example, the telescopic pole can have a (central) handle and be designed so that it becomes longer when the handle is rotated in a specific direction, so that it is clamped between the two posts.

[0011] It's also possible to use a two-point hammock attachment at the head end combined with a one-point attachment at the foot end (or vice versa). For example, the two-point attachment can be achieved using a (cross)bar or other elongated element with similar stability, and / or the one-point attachment can be achieved using a cord.

[0012] The movement arm can be designed, for example, in the form of a post, a fork, or a bracket. It is also possible for the movement arm to have an opening designed to allow a hand to be inserted through the opening. This improves access to the interior of the incubator or incubator chamber.

[0013] Alternatively, the movement arm can be formed at least partially by at least one rope or at least one cable pull. In this case, the receptacle for the movement arm can be a first end of the rope attached to a section of the hammock. For example, a second end of the rope can be attached to a base plate of the mechanism (see below). The rope can, for example, be deflected once or multiple times in a suitable manner and / or its length can be adjustable. The movement arm can preferably be designed to set the hammock in a predominantly horizontal rocking motion when moving back and forth relative to the coupling section, for example by exerting a tensile force on the hammock by means of the rope or cable pull, the horizontal component of which is significantly greater than (e.g. at least twice or at least three times as large as) its vertical component.Alternatively, the tensile force can act exclusively in the horizontal direction.

[0014] The mount can be considered a section of the movement arm. In other words, the mount can move back and forth along with the movement arm when the movement arm is moved back and forth relative to the coupling section, i.e., when it is moved in opposite directions.

[0015] Alternatively, the mount can be mounted so that it can move relative to the movement arm. In this case, the movement arm and the mount can be mechanically coupled so that the movement of the movement arm in a specific direction is translated into a corresponding movement of the mount (and thus of the section of the hammock supported by the mount).

[0016] A second aspect of the invention relates to a hammock for use with a device as described above and below. The hammock comprises: a lying surface configured such that its shape can be (selectively) changed by gathering at least one section of the lying surface; a gathering device configured to gather the at least one section of the lying surface to varying degrees and to hold it gathered in a specific position.

[0017] Such a hammock can be easily and safely adjusted to suit a wide variety of needs and circumstances. Furthermore, the hammock is easy to assemble and disassemble. Another advantage is that the means for adjusting the shape of the hammock take up very little space in the incubator chamber.

[0018] The hammock can be designed such that it can be attached - for example with its head end and / or its foot end - to a fastening section of an incubator for a premature or newborn baby, for example the incubator described above and below, so that its lying surface extends into an incubator chamber of the incubator.

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

[0020] A third aspect of the invention relates to an incubator for a premature or newborn infant. The incubator comprises an incubator chamber for accommodating the premature or newborn infant. Furthermore, the incubator may comprise a fastening section, a coupling section, and a device as described above and below. Additionally or alternatively, the incubator may comprise a hammock as described above and below.

[0021] The incubator chamber can be heated and / or designed to maintain a certain level of humidity inside, for example, at least 70 percent.

[0022] The fastening section may differ from the coupling section. Alternatively, the fastening section may comprise at least part of the coupling section (or vice versa).

[0023] Various embodiments of the invention are described below. These embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0024] In general, the reciprocating movement of the movement arm relative to the coupling section may include a translation and / or a rotation of the movement arm.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the reciprocating movement of the movement arm relative to the coupling section can comprise: a translation of the movement arm in opposite translation directions, or a rotation of the movement arm in opposite rotation directions, or a combination of a translation of the movement arm in opposite translation directions with a rotation of the movement arm in opposite rotation directions. In other words, the mechanism can be configured to displaceably mount the movement arm on the coupling section along an at least partially rectilinear and / or at least partially curved path in opposite directions. Additionally or alternatively, the mechanism can be configured to rotatably mount the movement arm on the coupling section about a rotation axis in opposite directions.The axis of rotation can, for example, be aligned parallel or perpendicular to the hammock's longitudinal direction. It is also possible for the axis of rotation to lie on a central axis of the hammock.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the device can be designed such that—when the movement arm is moved back and forth relative to the coupling portion—the portion of the hammock received by the receptacle is moved back and forth relative to the receptacle, for example, along the receptacle. The portion of the hammock received by the receptacle can be displaceable and / or rotatable relative to the receptacle in opposite directions.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the device can be designed such that - when the movement arm is moved in a first direction relative to the coupling section - the section of the hammock received in the receptacle is moved in a second direction deviating from the first direction. This enables a particularly simple construction of the device, in particular compared to an embodiment in which the hammock is mounted (on both sides) for rotation about its central axis. The first and second directions can be different directions of rotation or different directions of translation. Alternatively, the first direction can be a translation direction and the second direction a rotation direction (or vice versa).

[0028] According to one embodiment, the receptacle can comprise an edge for contacting the hammock. The edge can be designed such that—when the movement arm is moved in the first direction—the hammock contacting the edge is moved along the edge in the second direction. The edge can form an inclined plane along which the hammock can slide when the movement arm is moved back and forth. In other words, "edge" can be understood as a slanted edge that, in the operational state of the device, runs obliquely to an (imaginary) horizontal or vertical line. The edge can be at least partially straight and / or at least partially curved when viewed in its longitudinal direction. For example, the edge can be designed such that the hammock contacting the edge does not significantly change its position relative to the first direction when moved along the edge in the second direction.In this way, an additional, under certain circumstances undesirable acceleration of the hammock in the first direction and / or in a direction opposite to the first direction during the swinging movement can be avoided.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the receptacle can comprise a slot for hanging the hammock. The edge can be formed by at least part of an outer contour of the slot. In other words, the edge can at least partially delimit the slot. The slot can be closed or open.

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

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

[0032] According to one embodiment, the device can be designed such that - when the movement arm is moved back in a third direction opposite to the first direction - the section of the hammock received by the receptacle is moved back in a fourth direction opposite to the second direction.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the mechanism can comprise a base plate and a pivoting device. The movement arm can be attached to the base plate at one of its ends and have the receptacle at its free end. The base plate can be pivotally attached to the coupling section via the pivoting device in opposite directions. A "pivoting device" can be understood, for example, as a joint, a lifting column, or a combination of at least two of these examples. For example, the base plate can form a rocker with the aid of the pivoting device. A "rocker" can generally be understood as an element that can be rotated back and forth about a rotational axis by a specific angle of less than 90 degrees, preferably by an angle between 0 and 45 degrees, particularly preferably by an angle between 0 and 20 degrees. The movement arm can be firmly connected to the rocker.In other words, the movement arm can be attached to the seesaw in such a way that it moves back and forth together with the seesaw when it is moved back and forth.

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

[0035] According to one embodiment, the mechanism can comprise an electric drive for the controlled reciprocating movement of the movement arm relative to the coupling section. The electric drive can comprise an electric motor and, in addition, a gear for converting a rotation of a drive shaft of the electric motor into a rotation and / or translation of the movement arm relative to the coupling section. This makes operation of the device more convenient. The electric drive can additionally comprise a timer designed to set the hammock in rocking movements for a predetermined time. Furthermore, the electric drive can be designed such that a maximum deflection of the rocking movement can be specified. This enables partially or fully automatic operation of the device. The electric drive can, for example, be designed to drive one or more lifting columns.A pneumatic drive is also possible for the controlled back and forth movement of the movement arm relative to the coupling section.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the fastening means can comprise the movement arm. In other words, the movement arm can be designed to attach the hammock, for example, its head or foot end, directly or indirectly to the fastening section. For example, the movement arm can be attached to the fastening section at one of its ends and have the receptacle at its free end.

[0037] According to one embodiment, the fastening means may comprise at least one of the following fastening means: a rope receptacle for non-slip clamping of at least one rope-shaped element attached to the hammock; a hook receptacle for suspending at least one hook-shaped element attached to the hammock; a loop receptacle for suspending at least one loop-shaped element attached to the hammock; a knot; a bead. A "rope-shaped element" may be understood as an elongated element for transmitting tensile forces, for example in the form of a rope, a cord, a string, a thread, a band, a wire, a chain, or a combination of at least two of these examples. A "rope receptacle" may be understood as, for example, a correspondingly shaped groove or a clamp (closeable by spring force).For example, the groove can have several rib-like elevations and depressions on its inner wall, particularly on its opposing inner walls, to increase the friction between the groove and the clamped rope. A "hook-shaped element" can be understood, for example, as a hook or a cuboid- or spherical element suitable for hooking into a corresponding hook receptacle. A "hook receptacle" can be understood, for example, as a loop- or eyelet-shaped receptacle. A "loop-shaped element" can be understood, for example, as a loop or an eyelet. A "loop receptacle" can be understood, for example, as a hook- or pin-shaped receptacle.

[0038] For example, the cable receptacle can have two inner walls that are aligned in a V-shape to form a funnel-shaped recess for clamping the cable-shaped element. Such a funnel-shaped recess has the advantage that cable-shaped elements of different diameters can be clamped in the cable receptacle without the need for corresponding adjustment of the cable receptacle. Each inner wall can have a corrugation consisting of several parallel grooves for contact with the cable-shaped element. Accordingly, the cable-shaped element can be clamped between the two corrugations.The grooves of the two corrugations can each be aligned obliquely to the longitudinal direction of the clamped rope-like element, in particular in such a way that the clamped rope-like element moves deeper into the funnel-shaped depression due to the grooves, the more strongly the clamped rope-like element is pulled in a certain pulling direction parallel to its longitudinal direction.

[0039] In other words, each groove, viewed in the direction of tension, can form a sloping inclined plane along which the rope-shaped element is guided toward the bottom of the funnel-shaped recess when pulled in the direction of tension. This self-reinforcing effect ensures a particularly secure attachment of the rope-shaped element.

[0040] The cable holder can be attached, for example, to a head or foot wall of the incubator chamber, for example, by screwing it to it. Alternatively, the cable holder can be connected to a counterpart attached to the head or foot wall to form a plug-in connection, for example, by sliding the cable holder onto the counterpart in a vertical and / or horizontal direction.

[0041] The plug connection can additionally be locked by means of a locking element. The locking element can be mounted on the incubator, for example, on the head or foot wall and / or the cable receptacle and / or the counterpart, so that it can move between a locking position and an unlocking position. The locking element can be designed to lock the plug connection in the locking position, preventing it from being released, and to unlock it in the unlocking position, allowing it to be released.

[0042] For example, the locking element can be designed as part of a flap for closing an access opening in the head or foot wall. It is possible for the flap to be mounted on the head or foot wall so that it can move between a closed position and an open position. The flap can be designed to close the access opening (airtight) in the closed position and to release it in the open position so that, for example, a hand can be guided through the access opening into the interior of the incubator chamber. It is possible for the closed position to correspond to the locked position and / or the open position to correspond to the unlocked position. In other words, the flap can be designed such that the plug-in connection can be locked by moving the flap into the closed position and / or unlocked by moving the flap into the open position.

[0043] The locking element can, for example, comprise a projection (e.g., in the form of a pin) protruding from the flap, which can be moved together with the flap. The projection can be moved into the locking position by moving the flap into the closed position, wherein the projection can positively engage the cable receptacle pushed onto the counterpart, for example, into a recess or a hole in the cable receptacle, so that the plug connection is locked. Conversely, the projection can be moved into the unlocking position by moving the flap into the open position, wherein the projection can release the cable receptacle, so that the plug connection is unlocked.

[0044] A variant is also conceivable in which the plug connection is designed in such a way that the locking element is moved into the locking position and / or held in the locking position due to a tensile force exerted by the hammock on the rope holder.

[0045] The above description may also apply to the loop holder and / or the hook holder.

[0046] It is also possible for the fastening means to comprise a crossbar at the head and / or foot end of the hammock and / or one or more fastening receptacles for attaching a crossbar to the fastening section. Each crossbar can, for example, be inserted into a corresponding tunnel or into one or more loops of the hammock. The longitudinal direction of the crossbar can run transversely to the longitudinal direction of the hammock. The fastening receptacle can, for example, have various fastening points for attaching, in particular hanging, the crossbar, or more precisely an exposed section of the crossbar. The various fastening points can differ from one another in their vertical and / or horizontal position. For example, the fastening points can be formed by grooves and / or hooks. This enables, among other things, easy adjustment of the height and / or length of the hammock.Instead of the crossbar, a string or other suitable elongated element can be used.

[0047] The crossbar can, for example, be designed to prevent, when inserted, an unwanted slipping of a section of the hammock that touches the crossbar, for example the tunnel or the loop(s) of the hammock, relative to the crossbar in its longitudinal direction.

[0048] For this purpose, the crossbar can, for example, have one or more thickened areas where the crossbar is significantly larger in its width direction (i.e., in a direction orthogonal to its length direction) compared to the rest of the crossbar. Such a thickened area can be achieved, for example, by a suitable (e.g., V-shaped) bend or kinking of the crossbar.

[0049] For example, such a thickened area can be positioned centrally between the two ends of the crossbar (which limit the length of the crossbar), whereby a corresponding recess for receiving the thickened area can be formed in the material of the hammock (e.g. as a hole in the tunnel or in the loop). The recess can be arranged centrally as viewed in the width direction of the hammock (i.e., viewed transversely to its lengthwise direction), so that the hammock - when the thickened area is accommodated by the recess (e.g., passed through the hole) - is centered relative to the crossbar and held in this centered position, even when the hammock is moved back and forth by means of the mechanism together with the premature or newborn baby inside.

[0050] Additionally or alternatively, such a thickened area can be positioned off-center, for example at each of the two ends of the crossbar, in order to prevent an edge section of the hammock touching the crossbar from accidentally slipping towards the center of the crossbar.

[0051] Furthermore, it is possible for the device to comprise a sensor for detecting a position of the crossbar relative to the fastening section and an evaluation unit for evaluating a sensor signal generated by the sensor. The sensor can preferably be designed as a reed switch that is opened or closed when the crossbar is correctly fastened. However, a simple mechanical switch or an optical sensor is also possible. The evaluation unit can be designed to determine, by evaluating the sensor signal, whether the crossbar is correctly fastened in the incubator and, depending on the result of this evaluation, to generate a control signal for controlling at least one functionality of the incubator, for example, for controlling a fan and / or a display.

[0052] According to one embodiment, the device, in particular the mechanism, can be designed to lock the movement arm in a specific position relative to the coupling section.

[0053] According to one embodiment, the device can further comprise at least one further movement arm with a further receptacle for receiving a further section of the hammock. In this case, the mechanism can be designed to couple the further movement arm to a further coupling section of the incubator, such that the further movement arm can be moved back and forth relative to the further coupling section, and the device can be designed such that the hammock attached to the fastening section and received by the receptacle and the further receptacle can be set into a rocking motion by moving the movement arm and the further movement arm back and forth. In other words, the hammock can be set into a suitable rocking motion using multiple movement arms attached to different locations on the hammock.This allows the rocking movement to be better controlled compared to an embodiment with only one movement arm. The section of the hammock held by the receptacle and the further section of the hammock held by the further receptacle can be one and the same section of the hammock or different sections of the hammock. The coupling section and the further coupling section can be one and the same section of the incubator or different sections of the incubator. The device can also comprise a plurality of such further movement arms, for example three or four. It is possible for the fastening means to further comprise the further movement arm or arms. For example, the hammock can be attached to the base plate via four (corner) posts as movement arms.

[0054] According to one embodiment, the lying surface can have a tunnel and be designed so that its shape can be changed by gathering the tunnel. The gathering device can comprise: an elongated tensioning element extending through the tunnel so that the tunnel can be gathered along the tensioning element; a holding element that can be attached to an end of the tensioning element protruding from the tunnel to keep the tunnel gathered in a specific position.

[0055] Alternatively or additionally, the gathering device can include a zipper for gathering the lying surface.

[0056] The tunnel can be connected to the lying surface in such a way that the lying surface changes in length and / or width and / or cross-sectional shape by gathering the tunnel. For example, by gathering the tunnel accordingly, you can adjust how tightly the premature baby or newborn lying in the hammock is enclosed by the lying surface. Gathering the tunnel shortens the tunnel. This also changes the shape of the lying surface. For example, the lying surface becomes more curved and / or shorter and / or narrower. Conversely, the lying surface becomes flatter and / or longer and / or wider if the tunnel is made longer by appropriately positioning the holding element or elements, i.e. is gathered less tightly. The length of the tunnel can, for example, be predetermined by a position of the holding element or elements in relation to a longitudinal direction of the tensioning element.

[0057] A "holding element" can be understood, for example, as a clip or a cord lock, also called a cord lock or a tanka, or any other clamping element. Such a holding element can be attached particularly easily and securely to the tensioning element in various longitudinal positions. Such a holding element is also particularly cost-effective. The holding element can, for example, comprise a spring for applying a suitable clamping force. The holding element can be designed so that it cannot slip into the tunnel or slip relative to the tensioning element during the hammock's intended use. For example, the largest outer diameter of the holding element can be larger than the largest inner diameter of an opening in the tunnel.

[0058] A "tensioning element" can generally be understood as an elongated element for transmitting tensile forces, for example in the form of a rod (e.g., a bar), a cord, a rope, a string, a thread, a band, a wire, a chain, or a combination of at least two of these examples. The tensioning element can also be designed, for example, to attach the hammock to the mounting section of the incubator.

[0059] The tunnel can be formed, for example, by a (folded over) hem, a loop, an eyelet, a recess in the material of the lying surface or a combination of at least two of these examples. In particular, the tunnel can be designed as a continuous or partially interrupted drawstring. Viewed in its longitudinal direction, the tunnel can extend in the direction of a length and / or width of the hammock. In other words, viewed in its longitudinal direction, the tunnel can extend at least in sections parallel, transversely or diagonally to the longitudinal direction of the hammock. Additionally or alternatively, at least one longitudinal section of the tunnel can form an outer edge of the lying surface, i.e. be part of an outer contour of the lying surface.

[0060] According to one embodiment, the tunnel may comprise a longitudinal section which forms at least part of an outer edge of the lying surface.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the tunnel may comprise a longitudinal section that runs transversely or obliquely to the longitudinal direction of the lying surface.

[0062] According to one embodiment, the tunnel may comprise a longitudinal section that runs parallel to the longitudinal direction of the lying surface.

[0063] According to one embodiment, the tunnel may comprise a longitudinal section that runs centrally between two opposite ends of the hammock and / or connects two opposite ends of the hammock.

[0064] The longitudinal direction of the lying surface can refer in particular to a state of the hammock in which the lying surface is ungathered and / or relaxed and / or spread out flat.

[0065] According to one embodiment, the hammock's lying surface can have a curved outer edge at its head and / or foot ends. This has the advantage over a design with a straight outer edge that the premature or newborn baby sinks deeper into the hammock.

[0066] According to one embodiment, the hammock may further comprise a second holding element that can be attached to a second end of the tensioning element protruding from the tunnel to keep the tunnel gathered between the two holding elements. In other words, the gathered tunnel may extend between the (first) holding element attached to the tensioning element and the second holding element attached to the tensioning element, with the two holding elements limiting the effective length of the tunnel.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the lying surface can have an additional tunnel and be designed such that its shape can be further changed by gathering the additional tunnel. In this case, the gathering device can further comprise: an additional elongated tensioning element that extends through the additional tunnel so that the additional tunnel can be gathered along the additional tensioning element; an additional holding element that can be attached to an end of the additional tensioning element protruding from the additional tunnel in order to keep the additional tunnel gathered in a specific position. The lying surface can also comprise several such additional tunnels. For example, the lying surface can be designed such that its width can be changed by gathering the tunnel and its length by gathering the additional tunnel. Thus, the shape of the lying surface can be adapted to different circumstances and needs in just a few simple steps.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the incubator can comprise a frame for supporting the incubator chamber. The fastening section can comprise a section of the frame. In other words, the fastening means of the device can be designed to attach the hammock to the frame. Additionally or alternatively, the coupling section can comprise a section of the frame. In other words, the mechanism of the device can be designed to movably couple the movement arm to the frame. The frame can, for example, have one or more rollers for moving the incubator and / or one or more lifting columns for vertically adjusting the incubator chamber.

[0069] According to one embodiment, the incubator chamber can be limited in height by a floor and a ceiling, and / or in length by a head wall and a foot wall, and / or in width by a front wall and a rear wall. The attachment section or the coupling section, or the attachment section and the coupling section, can comprise at least one of the following sections of the incubator chamber: the floor, the ceiling, the head wall, the foot wall, the front wall, and the rear wall. Short description of the drawings

[0070] Embodiments of the invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Neither the description nor the drawings are to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention. Fig. 1 shows an incubator according to an embodiment of the invention. Fig. 2 shows a section of a movement arm from Fig. 1 . Fig. 3shows a rocker-like device according to an embodiment of the invention. Fig. 4 shows a hammock according to an embodiment of the invention. Fig. 5 shows an outer contour of a hammock according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0071] The figures are purely schematic and not to scale. Where identical reference symbols are used in different drawings, these reference symbols indicate identical or equivalent features. Embodiments of the invention

[0072] Fig. 1 shows an incubator 1 for a premature or newborn baby 3. The incubator 1 comprises an incubator chamber 5 for accommodating the premature or newborn baby 3, a fastening section 7, a coupling section 9 and a device 11 for holding and moving a hammock 13 in the incubator chamber 5.

[0073] Additionally, the incubator 1 may include a frame 15 for supporting the incubator chamber 5. The frame 15 may have a plurality of rollers 16 for moving the incubator 1 and / or one or more lifting columns for vertically adjusting the incubator chamber 5.

[0074] In this example, the incubator chamber 5 is limited in height by a floor 17 and a ceiling 19, in length by a head wall 21 and a foot wall 23, and in width by a front wall and a rear wall (not shown).

[0075] For example, the fastening section 7 may comprise the head wall 21 and the foot wall 23, and / or the coupling section 9 may comprise the floor 17. The fastening section 7 or the coupling section 9 may additionally or alternatively comprise other sections of the incubator 1, for example, a section of the frame 15.

[0076] The incubator chamber 5 can be heated and / or designed to regulate the humidity in its interior.

[0077] The device 11 comprises fastening means 25 which are designed to fasten the hammock 13 to the fastening section 7, here to the head wall 21 and the foot wall 23, so that a lying surface 27 of the hammock 13 extends into the incubator chamber 5.

[0078] The device 11 further comprises a movement arm 29 with a receptacle 31 for receiving a section of the hammock 13 and a mechanism 33 designed to couple the movement arm 29 to the coupling section 9, here the floor 17, so that the movement arm 29 can be moved back and forth relative to the coupling section 9, whereby the hammock 13, which is attached to the fastening section 7 and received by the receptacle 31, is set into a rocking motion (indicated by a curved double-headed arrow). In this example, the movement arm 29 can be moved back and forth vertically (indicated by a straight double-headed arrow). Additionally or alternatively, a horizontal back-and-forth movement of the movement arm 29 or a rotational movement of the movement arm 29 in opposite directions is possible to generate the rocking motion. The device 11 can also comprise more than one movement arm (see Fig. 3 ).

[0079] The mechanism 33 may additionally comprise an electric drive for the controlled, in particular automatic, reciprocating movement of the movement arm 29.

[0080] As in Fig. 1 As shown, the hammock 13 can be fastened to the fastening section 7 by means of the fastening means 25 independently of the movement arm 29. However, it is also possible that the movement arm 29 functions as one of the fastening means 25 (see Fig. 3 ).

[0081] The fastening means 25 may, for example, comprise one or more of the following receptacles: a rope receptacle for non-slip clamping of at least one rope-shaped element fastened to the hammock 13; a hook receptacle for suspending at least one hook-shaped element fastened to the hammock 13; a loop receptacle for suspending at least one loop-shaped element fastened to the hammock 13.

[0082] In addition, the fastening means 25 can be designed to fasten the hammock 13 in different vertical positions in the incubator chamber 5, ie to adjust a height of the hammock 13.

[0083] In this example, the device 11 is designed such that - when the movement arm 29 is moved back and forth relative to the coupling section 9 - the section of the hammock 13 received by the receptacle 31 is moved back and forth relative to the receptacle 31. In addition, the device 11 is designed such that - when the movement arm 29 is moved in a first (here vertical) direction y relative to the coupling section 9 - the section of the hammock 13 received by the receptacle 31 is moved in a second direction x deviating from the first direction y (here horizontal) (see Fig. 2 ).

[0084] As in Fig. 2As shown, this relative movement can be achieved, for example, by means of an oblique edge of a slot 35 for hanging the hammock 13, for example an end section of the hammock 13 which is particularly narrow compared to the lying surface 27. Fig. 2 illustrates how the hammock 13 suspended in the slot 35 is moved back and forth horizontally by vertically moving the movement arm 29 to create the rocking movement.

[0085] The slot 35 can, for example, be designed as a recess in the material of the movement arm 29. Contrary to the illustration in Fig. 2 the slot may be open at one of its ends to allow easy hanging of the hammock 13.

[0086] The slot 35, viewed in its longitudinal direction, extends essentially straight and obliquely to the two directions x and y. Alternatively, the slot 35 can be at least partially curved, i.e., be more or less strongly bent.

[0087] In particular, the slot 35 can be configured such that the hammock 13 suspended in the slot 35 does not change, or hardly changes, in its position relative to the first direction y, here in its height, when it is moved along the slot 35 in the second direction x. In this way, an additional, under certain circumstances undesirable vertical acceleration of the hammock 13 during the swinging motion can be avoided.

[0088] As in Fig. 3 As shown, an embodiment of the device 11 is also possible in which the hammock 13 can be firmly connected to the receptacle 31, so that no relative movement takes place between the hammock 13 and the receptacle 31.

[0089] In this example, the mechanism 33 comprises a base plate 37, to which the movement arm 29 is attached at one of its ends, and a pivoting device in the form of a joint 39, via which the base plate 37 can be pivotally attached to the coupling section 9, here to the base 17, in opposite directions to form a rocker. The movement arm 29 has the receptacle 31 at its free end. Alternatively or additionally, the pivoting device can comprise, for example, one or more lifting columns to form the rocker.

[0090] In addition, the device 11 can comprise a further movement arm 41, which is fastened by one of its ends to the base plate 37 at a certain distance from the movement arm 29 and has a further receptacle 43 at its free end for receiving a further section of the hammock 13. The hammock 13 can be fastened with its head end to the further receptacle 43 and with its foot end to the receptacle 31 (or vice versa), so that the lying surface 27 extends between the two movement arms 29, 41. The two movement arms 29, 41, together with the two receptacles 31, 43, the base plate 37, and the joint 39, function as the fastening means 25, wherein the fastening section 7 is formed at least partially by the coupling section 9, here the floor 17.When the base plate 37 is pivoted, the two movement arms 29, 41 are moved along with it, so that the hammock 13 attached to the two movement arms 29, 41 is set into a corresponding rocking motion.

[0091] Optionally, the base plate 37 can form an additional, flat lying surface 45 for the premature or newborn baby 3. In the Fig. 3 In the example shown, the additional lying surface 45 is provided by a surface of the base plate 37 facing away from the floor 17. Alternatively, the additional lying surface 45 can be formed by a mattress arranged on the base plate 37.

[0092] The mechanism 33 may be configured to lock the base plate 37 in a specific position relative to the coupling portion 9, for example in a horizontal position or in a specific inclined position outside the horizontal position.

[0093] As in Fig. 4As shown, the lying surface 27 of the hammock 13 can have a tunnel 47 and be designed such that its shape can be changed by gathering the tunnel 47. For this purpose, the tunnel 47 can, for example, be firmly connected to a material of the lying surface 27, with the effect that the lying surface 27 can be changed in its length and / or width and / or cross-sectional shape by gathering the tunnel 47, i.e. by shortening the tunnel 47. An elongated tensioning element 49, here in the form of a cord, extends through the tunnel 47, so that the tunnel 47 can be gathered along the tensioning element 49, i.e. in its longitudinal direction (indicated by double arrows). In order to keep the tunnel 47 gathered in a certain position, the hammock 13 further comprises a holding element 51 which can be clamped to an end of the tensioning element 49 protruding from the tunnel 47.

[0094] The tunnel 47 can be formed, for example, by a (folded) hem, a loop, an eyelet, a recess in the material of the lying surface 27, or a combination of at least two of these examples. In particular, the tunnel 47 can be designed as a continuous or partially interrupted drawstring.

[0095] In this example, the hammock 13 comprises a plurality of tunnels 47, each having a tensioning element 49 and one or more holding elements 51 as described above. The various tunnels 47 can differ from one another, among other things, in their position and / or orientation with respect to the lying surface 27 and / or in their length. For example, at least one of the tunnels 47 can run transversely or obliquely to the longitudinal direction of the hammock 13, viewed in its longitudinal direction, and at least one other of the tunnels 47 can run parallel to the longitudinal direction of the hammock 13, viewed in its longitudinal direction. Additionally or alternatively, at least one of the tunnels 47 can form an outer edge of the lying surface 27 or run along an outer edge of the lying surface 27 and / or at least one other of the tunnels 47 can cross the lying surface 27.

[0096] Alternatively, the tensioning element 49 may be a rod (e.g., a bar), a rope, a cord, a thread, a band, a wire, a chain, or a combination of at least two of these examples.

[0097] The holding element 51 can, for example, be a clip or a so-called cord stopper, also called a cordlock or tanka. Such a holding element can be attached to the tensioning element 49 particularly easily and securely in various longitudinal positions. Such a holding element is also particularly cost-effective. The holding element 51 can be designed such that, during the intended use of the hammock 13, it can neither slip into the tunnel 47 nor slip relative to the cord 49. For example, the largest outer diameter of the holding element 51 can be larger than the largest inner diameter of an opening in the tunnel 47.

[0098] In this example, each tunnel 47 is held gathered between the (first) holding element 51 and a second holding element 53, which can be clamped to a second end of the tensioning element 49 protruding from the respective tunnel 47. Alternatively, the tensioning element 49 of at least one of the tunnels 47 can be attached to the hammock 13 by one of its ends in a suitable manner, for example, knotted or sewn thereto, so that a single holding element 51 is sufficient to keep the respective tunnel 47 gathered.

[0099] As in Fig. 5 As shown, the lying surface 27 of the hammock 13 can have an arcuate outer edge 55 at its head and foot ends. This has an advantage over the Fig. 4The embodiment shown with straight outer edges has the effect that the premature or newborn baby 3 sinks deeper into the hammock 13 with the structure of the hammock 13 otherwise unchanged, which can be advantageous under certain circumstances, for example if the premature or newborn baby 3 is particularly lively.

[0100] Finally, it should be noted that terms such as "comprise", "comprise", "include", "with", etc. do not exclude other elements or steps, and indefinite articles such as "a" or "an" do not exclude pluralities.

[0101] Furthermore, it is noted that features or steps described with reference to one of the above embodiments may also be used in combination with features or steps described with reference to other of the above embodiments.

[0102] Reference signs in the claims are not to be understood as limiting the scope of the subject matter defined by the claims. List of reference symbols

[0103] 1Incubator 3Premature or newborn baby 5Incubator chamber 7Attachment section 9Coupling section 11Device 13Hammock 15Frame 16Roller 17Floor 19Ceiling 21Head wall 23Foot wall 25Fastener 27Lying surface 29Movement arm 31Receptacle 33Mechanism 35Slot 37Base plate 39Joint 41Further movement arm 43Further receptacle 45Additional lying surface 47Tunnel 49Clamping element 51(First) holding element 53Second holding element 55Curved outer edge xSecond direction yFirst direction

Claims

1. A device (11) for holding and moving a hammock (13) in an incubator (1) for a premature or newborn baby (3), wherein the incubator (1) comprises an incubator chamber (5) for receiving the premature or newborn baby (3), a fastening section (7) and a coupling section (9), wherein the device (11) comprises: fastening means (25) designed to fasten the hammock (13) to the fastening section (7) so that a lying surface (27) of the hammock (13) extends in the incubator chamber (5); a movement arm (29) with a receptacle (31) for receiving a section of the hammock (13); a mechanism (33) designed to couple the movement arm (29) to the coupling section (9) so that the movement arm (29) can be moved back and forth relative to the coupling section (9), whereby the hammock (13) fastened to the fastening section (7) and received by the receptacle (31) is set into a rocking movement.

2. Device (11) according to claim 1, wherein the reciprocating movement of the movement arm (29) relative to the coupling section (9) comprises a translation of the movement arm (29) in opposite translation directions.

3. Device (11) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the device (11) is designed such that - when the movement arm (29) is moved back and forth relative to the coupling section (9) - the section of the hammock (13) received by the receptacle (31) is moved back and forth relative to the receptacle (31); and / or wherein the device (11) is designed such that - when the movement arm (29) is moved in a first direction (y) relative to the coupling section (9) - the section of the hammock (13) received by the receptacle (31) is moved in a second direction (x) deviating from the first direction (y).

4. Device (11) according to claim 3, wherein the receptacle (31) comprises an edge for contacting the hammock (13), the edge being designed such that - when the movement arm (29) is moved in the first direction (y) - the hammock (13) contacting the edge is moved along the edge in the second direction (x).

5. Device (11) according to claim 4, wherein the receptacle (31) comprises a slot (35) for hanging the hammock (13) and the edge is formed by at least part of an outer contour of the slot (35).

6. Device (11) according to one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the first direction (y) runs transversely or obliquely to the second direction (x); and / or wherein the first direction (y) is a vertical or horizontal direction.

7. Device (11) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the mechanism (33) comprises a base plate (37) and a pivoting device (39), wherein the movement arm (29) is fastened to the base plate (37) at one of its ends and has the receptacle (31) at its free end, wherein the base plate (37) can be pivotally attached to the coupling section (9) via the pivoting device (39).

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

9. Device (11) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the mechanism (33) comprises an electric drive for controlled reciprocating movement of the movement arm (29) relative to the coupling section (9).

10. Device (11) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the fastening means (25) comprise the movement arm (29); and / or wherein the fastening means (25) comprise at least one of the following fastening means: a rope receptacle for non-slip clamping of at least one rope-shaped element fastened to the hammock (13); a hook receptacle for suspending at least one hook-shaped element fastened to the hammock (13); a loop receptacle for suspending at least one loop-shaped element fastened to the hammock (13).

11. Device (11) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising: a further movement arm (41) with a further receptacle (43) for receiving a further section of the hammock (13); wherein the mechanism (33) is designed to couple the further movement arm (41) to a further coupling section (9) of the incubator (1) such that the further movement arm (41) can be moved back and forth relative to the further coupling section (9); wherein the device (11) is designed such that the hammock (13) fastened to the fastening section (7) and received by the receptacle (31) and the further receptacle (43) can be set into a rocking motion by moving the movement arm (29) and the further movement arm (41) back and forth.

12. A hammock (13) for use with a device (11) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the hammock (13) comprises: a lying surface (27) configured to be altered in shape by gathering at least one portion of the lying surface (27); a gathering device configured to gather the at least one portion of the lying surface (27) to varying degrees and to keep it gathered in a specific position.

13. Hammock (13) according to claim 12, wherein the lying surface (27) has a tunnel (47) and is designed such that its shape can be changed by gathering the tunnel (47); wherein the gathering device comprises: an elongated tensioning element (49) extending through the tunnel (47) so that the tunnel (47) can be gathered along the tensioning element (49); a holding element (51) which can be attached to an end of the tensioning element (49) projecting from the tunnel (47) in order to keep the tunnel (47) gathered in a specific position.

14. Hammock (13) according to claim 13, wherein the tunnel (47) comprises a longitudinal section that forms at least part of an outer edge of the lying surface (27); and / or wherein the tunnel (47) comprises a longitudinal section that runs transversely or obliquely to the longitudinal direction of the lying surface (27); and / or wherein the tunnel (47) comprises a longitudinal section that runs parallel to the longitudinal direction of the lying surface (27).

15. Hammock (13) according to one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the lying surface (27) has an arcuate outer edge (55) at its head end and / or its foot end.

16. An incubator (1) for a premature or newborn baby (3), comprising: an incubator chamber (5) for accommodating the premature or newborn baby (3); wherein the incubator (1) further comprises a fastening section (7), a coupling section (9), and a device (11) according to any one of claims 1 to 11; and / or wherein the incubator (1) further comprises a hammock (13) according to any one of claims 12 to 15.

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