Collapsible inflatable hyperbaric chamber

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a high pressure chamber that can be folded and unfolded, thereby decreasing and increasing its internal volume, respectively. The internal volume is confined by a structure, and by an upper structure cover and a lower structure cover, optionally having a dome shape, that are coupled to the structure. The structure is a structure that extends along the longitudinal axis of the chamber and that gives the high pressure chamber most of its geometric stability when it is inflated with a pressurized gas. The structure is formed of two types of regions, a first opaque region and a second at least partially transparent region, both regions being reinforced to withstand a desired internal pressure, i.e., the pressure difference between the internal volume of the chamber and the ambient pressure.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The subject matter of the present disclosure relates to the field of hyperbaric chambers, and more particularly, to the field of collapsible inflatable hyperbaric chambers. [Background technology]

[0002] Hyperbaric oxygen therapy involves breathing nearly pure oxygen at elevated atmospheric pressure in a special room or chamber. This treatment is typically applied to treat carbon monoxide poisoning, gangrene, slow-healing wounds, and infections, among other conditions where tissues are starved for oxygen.

[0003] Medical facilities typically house conventional heavy and rigid hyperbaric chambers. Moving these chambers to remote locations can be cumbersome or even an impossible mission. To overcome this obstacle, collapsible hyperbaric chamber systems have been proposed as portable units. To provide comfort to the patient and to allow viewing of the patient during treatment, the chamber is required to have a transparent viewing window. Providing a window that does not deform or collapse under high pressure (e.g., 10 atmospheres) is one of the challenges in collapsible hyperbaric chambers.

[0004] Therefore, there is an increasing need to provide a new collapsible inflatable high pressure chamber.

[0005] References believed to be relevant as background to the subject matter of this disclosure are briefly described below: Acknowledgement of the references herein should not be inferred as meaning that they are in any way relevant to the patentability of the subject matter of this disclosure.

[0006] WO2020162839 is in the field of hyperbaric chambers for performing hyperbaric therapy and hyperbaric oxygen therapy for medical or non-medical purposes, more precisely in the field of construction of flexible inflatable hyperbaric chambers. The essence of the inflatable hyperbaric chamber with a multi-layer structure of the invention lies in a three-layer structure and in the separable connection of the individual layers and functional elements of said structure, which allows the chamber to operate at pressures of 130 kilopascals (1.3 bar) to 300 kilopascals (3.0 bar). The three-layer structure consists of an inner bag for sealing, an outer bag for protection and cushioning of the inner bag and maintaining the shape of the chamber, and a lattice for maintaining the structure and distributing forces evenly.

[0007] U.S. Patent No. 5,678,543 discloses a lightweight high pressure chamber capable of maintaining pressures up to 22 psi above ambient by using at least two zippers, at least one of which is a sealed zipper, preferably having a heavy woven fabric and a reinforcing outer layer.

[0008] US20080006272 discloses a high pressure chamber including a collapsible pressurized bladder and an inflatable support member that supports the bladder in a substantially uncollapsed configuration. The inflatable support member may be either on the interior or exterior of the bladder, and in embodiments is a rib having a curvature that generally corresponds to the uncollapsed shape of the bladder. Reinforcing staves may provide additional support. The bladder further includes an access to its interior and a substantially non-air permeable closure on the access. The closure includes a substantially air impermeable gasket sandwiched between a first zipper and a second zipper. The reinforcing zipper may provide additional strength to the closure. Similarly, a reinforcing harness that substantially surrounds the bladder may provide additional strength to the bladder. A compressed air source is in fluid communication with the interior of the bladder, and a cooling source may also be provided.

[0009] Chinese Utility Model No. 211912090U discloses a portable hyperbaric oxygen cabin device. The utility model adopts the installation of a cabin body made of polyurethane composite environmental protection material, which can be conveniently used by filling it with compressed air, and when not in use, the device can be conveniently folded up by installing an oxygen pipe plug and an air pipe plug, and the cabin body can be conveniently connected to an oxygen mask and an air supply system including a compressed air equipment and an oxygen generator, and the cabin internal pressure can be kept constant at 1.2-1.3 atmospheres by installing a constant voltage relief valve, which is applicable to hyperbaric oxygen therapy. The utility model discloses that the available synergistic effect of a pressure slightly higher than atmospheric pressure and high concentration of oxygen can improve the dissolved oxygen, improve the oxygen supply efficiency of organs, promote the metabolism of the human body, effectively lower the manufacturing cost of carrying out hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and is safe and reliable to use, easy to operate, convenient to carry, saves space, is not restricted by the place of use, is easy to generalize and can be widely used. Summary of the Invention

[0010] The present disclosure, in at least one of its aspects, provides a high pressure chamber that can be folded and unfolded, thereby decreasing and increasing its internal volume. The internal volume is confined by a structure and also by an upper dome and a lower dome, optionally coupled to the structure. The high pressure chamber includes a structure, i.e., a structure that extends along the longitudinal axis of the chamber and that gives the high pressure chamber most of its geometric stability when it is inflated with a pressurized gas. In a first configuration, the structure is formed from two types of regions, i.e., a first opaque region and a second at least partially transparent region. The first region comprises a first reinforcing flexible material coated on one or two of its sides / faces with a first polymeric material so as to be impermeable to fluids. The second region comprises an inner layer of a second at least partially transparent polymeric material (in the visible spectrum) and an outer layer of a mesh of a second reinforcing flexible material. The first and second layers of each second region are attached to a portion of the first region. The first layer is attached to the first region to form a continuous impermeable structure to fluids, and the second layer is attached to the first region to provide durability to the second region so that it can withstand high pressure differentials between the interior of the chamber and the ambient pressure. The attachment of the first region to the second region can be done by many means (such as welding) that will produce the desired results. It should be noted that there may be multiple first and second regions. Typically, there is a continuous first region and one or more second regions embedded within a portion of the first region.

[0011] In a second configuration of the structure, at least a portion of the structure comprises a reinforcing mesh embedded within a polymeric material. The reinforcing mesh defines equal or variably sized window-like portions filled with the polymeric material. Typically, the polymeric material is transparent or at least translucent to the visible spectrum to allow visualization in both directions into and out of the chamber. The structure is made of a material that (i) can withstand a pressure differential between the interior volume of the chamber and ambient pressure, and (ii) can be folded to reduce its size for efficient logistics and storage.

[0012] The hyperbaric chamber further includes a sealable opening for allowing a subject to enter and exit the interior volume of the chamber. When the opening is sealed, a pressure differential between the interior volume of the chamber and ambient pressure is maintained.

[0013] Thus, according to a first aspect of the subject matter of the present disclosure, there is provided a collapsible inflatable hyperbaric chamber comprising a structure including a polymeric material layer and a reinforcing mesh embedded within the polymeric material layer, the reinforcing mesh being formed by one or more connected strands of synthetic fiber defining a closely spaced frame, and a sealable opening for allowing a subject to enter and exit the interior volume of the hyperbaric chamber.

[0014] It should be noted that for any aspect of the present disclosure, any combination of the described embodiments (sometimes referred to as examples) is applicable, i.e., any aspect of the present disclosure can be defined by any combination of the described embodiments.

[0015] In some cases, the polymeric material is at least a translucent polymer that allows visualization therethrough.

[0016] The chamber may further comprise two hemispherical structural elements securely connected to opposite sides of the structure (eg, welded to the structure) at joints, the two hemispherical structural elements and the structure enclosing said interior volume.

[0017] The chamber may optionally further comprise one or more reinforcing rings that are threaded over at least a portion of the joint.

[0018] The chamber may optionally further comprise one or more of an air / oxygen flow valve, an overpressure relief valve, or a vent valve, thus allowing gas exchange between the interior volume of the chamber and either the surroundings or a gas source (e.g., an oxygen gas source).

[0019] In some examples, the structure further comprises one or more of an oxygen sensor, a temperature sensor, or a pressure sensor. The sensed parameters are monitored by a processor, and the processor is configured to control conditions within the internal volume to maintain each of the sensed parameters within a selected range. For example, the processor is configured to operate a pressure generator (e.g., a compressor) coupled to the internal volume to maintain a desired pressure range within the internal volume of the cell.

[0020] In some examples, the sealable opening further comprises a first zip fastener configured to prevent gas exchange between the interior volume and the surrounding environment.

[0021] In some examples, the sealable opening further comprises a second zip fastener that is exterior to the first zip fastener and configured to withstand stresses experienced by the chamber when inflated with a gas.

[0022] In some examples, the sealable opening is formed at least partially on the reinforcing mesh portion.

[0023] In some examples, the polymeric material is a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

[0024] In some instances, the reinforcing mesh is woven utilizing a leno weave technique.

[0025] In some instances, the synthetic fibers are aromatic polyamide fibers.

[0026] In some cases, the reinforcing mesh is embedded within the polymeric material by a calendaring process.

[0027] In some examples, the structure further comprises an adjustable chair configured to support the subject in two or more selectable seating configurations.

[0028] In some examples, the adjustable chair is fixed to at least one fixing point on the structure, and the chair includes at least one joint portion to allow its position or inclination to be adjusted.

[0029] In some examples, the structure is configured to withstand a pressure differential between the interior volume and ambient pressure of up to about 9 bar.

[0030] The chamber may further comprise an expandable skeleton that, upon expansion, unfolds the structure and defines its deployed shape, hi some examples, the expandable skeleton may be further configured to support the chamber in its deployed shape (e.g., before and / or after the chamber is expanded with pressurized gas).

[0031] In some examples, the expandable framework comprises an upper expandable toroid and a lower expandable toroid connected by two or more longitudinal tubes, the expandable toroid defining an interior volume radius of the chamber and the expandable tubes defining an interior volume longitudinal length, such that the toroids and tubes substantially circumferentially surround the interior volume of the high pressure chamber and extend substantially along the longitudinal length of the high pressure chamber.

[0032] In some examples, the toroid may be disposed within the interior volume of the chamber to support a structure therein.

[0033] In some examples, the one or more expandable tubes extend from the expandable toroid and are substantially perpendicular to the expandable toroid.

[0034] In some cases, the one or more expandable tubes extend, at least in part, outside the interior volume to provide external support to the structure.

[0035] According to a second aspect of the subject matter of the present disclosure, there is provided a collapsible inflatable hyperbaric chamber comprising a structure including at least a translucent polymeric material layer to allow visualization and a reinforcing mesh embedded within the polymeric material layer, the reinforcing mesh being formed by one or more connected strands of synthetic fiber defining a closely spaced frame, and a sealable opening to allow a subject to enter and exit the interior volume of the hyperbaric chamber.

[0036] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a tilt assembly for supporting a collapsible inflatable high pressure chamber, the tilt assembly comprising: an elongated support device extending between a first end and a second end and configured to couple with the collapsible inflatable high pressure chamber, the elongated support device comprising a rigid frame defining a frame housing sized to support the collapsible inflatable high pressure chamber; and a tilt mechanism enabling control of tilt of the elongated support device along a range of tilted positions.

[0037] In some examples, the elongated support device comprises one or more support sheets secured to a rigid frame so as to fit snugly within at least a portion of the frame housing.

[0038] In some examples, the first end is pivotally coupled to a first anchoring structure, for example by connecting two rigid frame members, and the tilt mechanism is pivotally coupled to a connection of the rigid frame other than the first end.

[0039] In some cases, the bond is defined between the first end and the second end, more proximal to the second end.

[0040] In some examples, the tilt mechanism is formed of two segments pivotally coupled to each other at a segment joint, the first segment being coupled to a joint other than the segment joint and the second segment being coupled to the second anchoring structure other than the segment joint. Thus, the tilt mechanism comprises three joints allowing rotation about three parallel axes. The first joint is at the joint, the second joint is at the segment joint and the third joint is at the joint between the second segment and the second anchoring structure.

[0041] In some examples, the tilt mechanism is switchable between two tilt positions, a first tilt position forming a selected angle between a frame plane defined by the rigid frame and a horizontal plane, and in a second tilt position, the frame plane is flush with the horizontal plane.

[0042] In some examples, the segment joint is configured to engage the ground in the second inclined position to provide additional support.

[0043] In some examples, the tilt assembly further comprises a container sized to accommodate the tilt assembly, the container comprising the first anchoring structure and the second anchoring structure.

[0044] In some examples, the rigid frame is formed from a number of rigid frame members that are coupled together.

[0045] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a collapsible inflatable hyperbaric chamber comprising a structure enclosing an internal volume formed at least in part by a collapsible flexible reinforcing mesh coated with a layer of polymeric material, the reinforcing mesh being formed by one or more connected strands of synthetic fibre defining adjacent frames, each frame containing a respective portion of polymeric material therein, thereby forming a viewport, and a sealable opening for allowing a subject to enter and exit said internal volume of the hyperbaric chamber.

[0046] Yet another aspect of the present disclosure provides a foldable inflatable hyperbaric chamber. The foldable chamber comprising a structure comprises at least one first opaque region and at least one at least partially transparent region. The first region comprises a first sheet of reinforced flexible material coated on one or two of its sides / faces with a first polymeric material to provide a fluid-impermeable and durable region. The second region comprises an inner layer, i.e., a second layer of polymeric material that faces the interior of the chamber and is at least partially transparent in the visible spectrum, and an outer layer of a reinforcing mesh of a second reinforcing flexible material formed by connected strands of fibers of the second reinforcing flexible material and defining a closely spaced frame, i.e., a window-like shaped frame. The first layer and the second layer of each second region are attached to a portion of the first region and together form a fluid-impermeable structure. The chamber further comprises a sealable opening for allowing a subject to enter and exit the interior volume of the hyperbaric chamber.

[0047] In some embodiments of the high pressure chamber, the first reinforcing material and the second reinforcing material are the same.

[0048] In some embodiments of the high pressure chamber, each of the first reinforcing material and the second reinforcing material is independently selected from Kevlar (aramid or para-aramid), nylon, polyester, and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE).

[0049] In some embodiments of the high pressure chamber, the first polymeric material and the second polymeric material are the same.

[0050] In some embodiments of the high pressure chamber, each of the first polymeric material and the second polymeric material is flexible and air impermeable.

[0051] In some embodiments of the high pressure chamber, each of the first polymeric material and the second polymeric material is independently selected from thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC), preferably TPU.

[0052] In some embodiments of the high pressure chamber, the structure is cylindrical, i.e. it forms the cylindrical part of the chamber and is open on both sides, requiring attachment of both its end / side covers to seal and enclose the internal volume.

[0053] In some embodiments, the high pressure chamber further comprises two structural covers attached to either side of the structure along their respective mounting portions, whereby the two structural covers and the structure enclose said interior volume.

[0054] In some embodiments of the high pressure chamber, the two structural covers have a hemispherical shape when the chamber is inflated.

[0055] In some embodiments, the high pressure chamber further comprises one or more stiffening rings that are threaded over at least a portion of the coupling.

[0056] In some embodiments of the hyperbaric chamber, the attachment comprises one or more first elastic bands that are threaded around one of the faces of the structure and one or more second elastic bands that are threaded around one of the faces of the structural cover. The attachment further comprises a plurality of stitching patterns, each stitching pattern stitching the first band to the second band through all faces of the structure and the respective structural cover. This type of attachment typically ensures that an initial failure of the chamber will occur at the attachment, resulting in a minor leak of air from the chamber rather than an explosion of the chamber, which renders the chamber safe.

[0057] In some embodiments of the high pressure chamber, the one or more first elastic bands are routed around an outer surface of the structure.

[0058] In some embodiments of the high pressure chamber, each stitching pattern is a closed shape, for example a circle or any closed polygon.

[0059] In some embodiments of the high pressure chamber, the first elastic band is a single band that is wrapped around the entire perimeter of the structure.

[0060] In some embodiments of the high pressure chamber, the second elastic band is a single band that is looped around the periphery of the structure.

[0061] In some embodiments of the hyperbaric chamber, the one or more second elastic bands that are threaded around one of the faces of the structural cover are multiple segments that form a non-continuous attachment pattern, i.e., multiple segments are threaded one after the other around the inner or outer periphery of the structural cover and / or structure.

[0062] In some embodiments, the hyperbaric chamber further comprises one or more of an air / oxygen flow valve, an overpressure relief valve, or a vent valve.

[0063] In some embodiments, the high pressure chamber further comprises one or more of an oxygen sensor, a temperature sensor, or a pressure sensor.

[0064] In some embodiments of the high pressure chamber, the sealable opening further comprises a first zip fastener configured to prevent the passage of gas between the structure and its surroundings.

[0065] In some embodiments of the high pressure chamber, the sealable opening further comprises a second zip fastener configured to withstand stresses experienced by the chamber when inflated with gas.

[0066] In some embodiments of the high pressure chamber, the sealable opening is located in the first region.

[0067] In some embodiments of the hyperbaric chamber, the reinforcing mesh is a woven mesh.

[0068] In some embodiments of the hyperbaric chamber, the reinforcing mesh is woven utilizing a leno weave technique.

[0069] In some embodiments of the high pressure chamber, the reinforcing mesh is at least coated with a third polymeric material to strengthen the mesh structure. Typically, the mesh is immersed in a hot liquified polymer, which is then allowed to solidify on and within the mesh, making the mesh structure stronger and maintaining its desired structure even after expansion of the chamber.

[0070] In some embodiments, the third polymeric material is the same as the first polymeric material or the second polymeric material.

[0071] In some embodiments, the third polymeric material is TPU.

[0072] In some embodiments of the high pressure chamber, the synthetic fibers are aromatic polyamide fibers.

[0073] In some embodiments of the high pressure chamber, the first region is created by a calendaring process.

[0074] In some embodiments, the hyperbaric chamber comprises an adjustable chair configured to support the subject.

[0075] In some embodiments of the hyperbaric chamber, an adjustable chair is fixed to at least one fixing point of the structure, the chair comprising at least one joint portion for allowing its position or inclination to be adjusted.

[0076] In some embodiments of the hyperbaric chamber, the adjustable chair is configured to be adjusted between a standby state in which at least a portion of the chair protrudes from the internal volume, thereby allowing a subject using the chamber to easily sit in the chair, and an operational state in which the chair is completely contained within the internal volume.

[0077] In some embodiments of the high pressure chamber, the structure is configured to withstand a relative air pressure of up to about 9 bar.

[0078] In some embodiments, the high pressure chamber further comprises an expandable framework, which upon expansion spreads the structure and defines its deployed shape.

[0079] In some embodiments of the high pressure chamber, the expandable framework comprises an upper expandable toroid and a lower expandable toroid connected by two or more longitudinal tubes, the expandable toroid defining an interior volume radius of the chamber and the expandable tubes defining an interior volume longitudinal length.

[0080] In some embodiments of the high pressure chamber, a toroid is disposed within the interior volume to support a structure therein.

[0081] In some embodiments of the high pressure chamber, one or more expandable tubes extend from and are substantially perpendicular to the expandable toroid.

[0082] In some embodiments of the high pressure chamber, the one or more inflatable tubes extend at least partially outside the interior volume to provide external support for the structure.

[0083] In some embodiments, the high pressure chamber comprises a lattice-like stiffening band surrounding a portion of the first and second regions and the structural cover.

[0084] Yet another aspect of the present disclosure provides a collapsible inflatable hyperbaric chamber. The chamber comprises (i) a structure, (ii) two structural covers attached to two opposing sides / ends of the structure along respective attachments, thereby integrally enclosing an interior volume with the structure, and (iii) a sealable opening for allowing a subject to enter and exit the interior volume of the hyperbaric chamber. The attachments comprise one or more first elastic bands that are threaded around one of the faces of the structure and one or more second elastic bands that are threaded around one of the faces of the structural covers. The attachments further comprise a plurality of stitching patterns, each stitching pattern stitching the first band to the second band through all faces of the structure and the respective structural covers.

[0085] In some embodiments of the high pressure chamber, the one or more first elastic bands are routed around an outer surface of the structure.

[0086] In some embodiments of the high pressure chamber, each stitching pattern is a closed shape, for example a circle or any closed polygon.

[0087] In some embodiments of the high pressure chamber, the first elastic band is a single band that is wrapped around the entire perimeter of the structure.

[0088] In some embodiments of the high pressure chamber, the second elastic band is a single band that is looped around the structural cover.

[0089] Yet another aspect of the present disclosure provides an assembly for supporting a collapsible inflatable high pressure chamber and enabling adjustment of the chamber's tilt. The assembly includes (i) a base and (ii) one or more arms coupled to the base and configured to be coupled to one or more coupling locations on an exterior surface of the high pressure chamber. Note that coupling via other coupling elements coupled to the exterior surface of the chamber is encompassed by this definition. The one or more arms are adjustable between various positions, and a combination of the different arm positions defines the chamber's tilt.

[0090] In some embodiments, the assembly includes one or more auxiliary arms connecting two or more of said coupling locations, thereby allowing for precise, and sometimes more limited, tilt adjustment.

[0091] In some embodiments of the assembly, the one or more arms comprise one or more pairs of arms, each arm of a pair attached to a respective attachment location opposite the attachment location of the other arm of the pair, each pair typically being adjusted in a similar manner to create a symmetric rotation of the chamber, thereby affecting its tilt.

[0092] In some embodiments of the assembly, said one or more arms are rotatably coupled to a base to enable said adjustability between various positions, i.e., the rotational position of the arm defines the tilt position of the chamber.

[0093] In some embodiments of the assembly, the one or more arms are rotatably coupled to a coupling position. Embodiment

[0094] The following are optional embodiments and combinations thereof according to aspects of the present disclosure. (1) A collapsible inflatable high pressure chamber, is a structure, a layer of polymeric material; and A reinforcing mesh formed by one or more connected strands of synthetic fiber embedded within layers of polymeric material and defining a proximate frame therebetween A structure comprising: a sealable opening for allowing a subject to enter and exit the interior volume of the hyperbaric chamber; A high pressure chamber comprising: (2) The high pressure chamber of claim 1, wherein the polymeric material is at least a translucent polymer that allows visualization therethrough. (3) A high pressure chamber as described in claim 1 or claim 2, further comprising two hemispherical structural elements firmly connected to either side of the structural joint, the two hemispherical structural elements and the structure surrounding the internal volume. (4) The high pressure chamber of claim 3, further comprising one or more reinforcing rings looped around at least a portion of the joint. (5) The high pressure chamber according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising one or more of an air / oxygen flow valve, an overpressure relief valve, or a vent valve. (6) The high pressure chamber according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the structure further comprises one or more of an oxygen sensor, a temperature sensor, or a pressure sensor. (7) A high-pressure chamber as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the sealable opening further comprises a first zip fastener configured to prevent the passage of gas between the structure and its surroundings. (8) A high pressure chamber as described in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the sealable opening further comprises a second zip fastener configured to withstand stresses experienced by the chamber when inflated with gas. (9) The high pressure chamber according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the sealable opening is at least partially located on the reinforcing mesh portion. (10) The high pressure chamber according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the polymer material is thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). (11) The high pressure chamber according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the reinforcing mesh is woven using a leno weaving technique. (12) The high pressure chamber according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the synthetic fiber is an aromatic polyamide fiber. (13) The high pressure chamber according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the reinforcing mesh is embedded within the polymer material by a calendaring process. (14) The hyperbaric chamber of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the structure further comprises an adjustable chair configured to support the subject. (15) The hyperbaric chamber of claim 14, wherein the adjustable chair is fixed to at least one fixing point of the structure, the chair having at least one joint portion for enabling its position or inclination to be adjusted. (16) A high pressure chamber as described in any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the structure is configured to withstand a relative air pressure of up to about 9 bar. (17) The high pressure chamber according to any one of claims 1 to 16, further comprising an expandable framework, which, upon expansion, spreads the structure and determines its deployed shape. (18) The high pressure chamber of claim 17, wherein the expandable framework comprises an upper expandable toroid and a lower expandable toroid connected by two or more longitudinal tubes, the expandable toroid defining an interior volume radius of the chamber and the expandable tubes defining an interior volume longitudinal length. (19) The high pressure chamber of claim 18, wherein the toroid is disposed within the interior volume to support a structure therein. (20) A high pressure chamber as described in any one of claims 18 to 19, wherein the one or more expandable tubes extend from the expandable toroid and are substantially perpendicular to the expandable toroid. (21) A high pressure chamber as described in any one of claims 18 to 20, wherein the one or more inflatable tubes extend at least partially outside the internal volume to support the structure from the outside. (22) A tilt assembly for supporting a collapsible inflatable high pressure chamber, comprising: an elongated support device extending between a first end and a second end and configured to couple with a collapsible inflatable high pressure chamber, the elongated support device comprising a rigid frame defining a frame housing sized to support the collapsible inflatable high pressure chamber; a tilt mechanism that allows for controlling the tilt of the elongated support device along a range of tilted positions; A tilt assembly comprising: (23) The tilt assembly of claim 22, wherein the elongated support device comprises one or more support sheets secured to the rigid frame so as to fit snugly within at least a portion of the frame housing. (24) A tilt assembly as described in claim 22 or claim 23, wherein the first end is pivotally connected to the first anchoring structure and the tilt mechanism is pivotally connected to a connection portion of the rigid frame other than the first end. (25) The tilt assembly of claim 24, wherein the joint is defined between the first end and the second end, more proximal to the second end. (26) A tilt assembly as described in claim 24 or claim 25, wherein the tilt mechanism is formed from two segments pivotally connected to each other at a segment joint, the first segment being connected to a joint other than the segment joint, and the second segment being connected to a second anchoring structure other than the segment joint. (27) The tilt assembly of claim 26, wherein the tilt mechanism is switchable between two tilt positions, a first tilt position forming a selected angle between a frame plane defined by the rigid frame and a horizontal plane, and in a second tilt position, the frame plane is coplanar with the horizontal plane. (28) The tilt assembly of claim 27, wherein the segment joint is configured to engage the ground in the second tilted position to provide additional support. (29) A tilt assembly as described in any one of claims 26 to 28, comprising a container sized to accommodate the tilt assembly, the container comprising the first fixing structure and the second fixing structure. (30) A tilt assembly according to any one of claims 22 to 29, wherein the rigid frame is formed from a plurality of rigid frame members joined together. (31) A collapsible inflatable high pressure chamber, a structure enclosing an interior volume formed at least in part by a collapsible, flexible reinforcing mesh covered with a layer of polymeric material, the reinforcing mesh being formed by one or more connected strands of synthetic fiber defining adjacent frames therebetween, each frame including a respective portion of the polymeric material therein, thereby forming a viewport; a sealable opening for allowing a subject to enter and exit the interior volume of the hyperbaric chamber; A high pressure chamber comprising: (32) A collapsible inflatable high pressure chamber, is a structure, an at least translucent polymeric material layer that allows visualization therethrough; and A reinforcing mesh formed by one or more connected strands of synthetic fiber embedded within layers of polymeric material and defining a proximate frame therebetween A structure comprising: a sealable opening for allowing a subject to enter and exit the interior volume of the hyperbaric chamber; A high pressure chamber comprising: (33) A collapsible inflatable high pressure chamber, a structure comprising at least one first opaque region and at least one second at least partially transparent region; the first region comprises a first reinforced flexible sheet of material coated on one or two of its sides / faces with a first polymeric material to provide a fluid impermeable region; the second region comprises a second inner layer of an at least partially transparent polymeric material and an outer layer of a reinforcing mesh of said second reinforcing flexible material formed by connected strands of fibers of said second reinforcing flexible material defining a proximate frame therebetween; a structure, the first layer and the second layer of each second region being attached to a portion of the first region and together forming a fluid impermeable structure; a sealable opening for allowing a subject to enter and exit the interior volume of the hyperbaric chamber; A high pressure chamber comprising: (34) The high pressure chamber of claim 33, wherein the first reinforcing material and the second reinforcing material are the same. (35) The high pressure chamber of claim 33 or claim 34, wherein each of the first reinforcing material and the second reinforcing material is independently selected from Kevlar (aramid or para-aramid), nylon, polyester, and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). (36) The high pressure chamber according to any one of claims 33 to 35, wherein the first polymer material and the second polymer material are the same. (37) The high pressure chamber according to any one of claims 33 to 36, wherein each of the first polymer material and the second polymer material is flexible and air-impermeable. (38) The high pressure chamber according to any one of claims 33 to 37, wherein each of the first polymer material and the second polymer material is independently selected from thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPUs). (39) A high-pressure chamber according to any one of claims 33 to 38, wherein the structure is cylindrical. (40) A high pressure chamber as described in any one of claims 33 to 39, comprising two structural covers attached to either side of the structure along their respective mounting portions, whereby the two structural covers and the structure enclose the internal volume. (41) The high pressure chamber of claim 40, wherein the two structural covers have a hemispherical shape when the chamber is expanded. (42) The high pressure chamber of claim 40 or claim 41, further comprising one or more reinforcing rings looped around at least a portion of the joint. (43) The mounting part is one or more first elastic bands that are routed around one of the faces of the structure; one or more second elastic bands that are looped around one of the faces of the structural cover; a plurality of stitching patterns, each stitching pattern stitching the first band to the second band through all sides of the structure and a respective structural cover; 42. A high pressure chamber as claimed in claim 40 or claim 41, comprising: (44) The high pressure chamber of claim 43, wherein the one or more first elastic bands are routed around an outer surface of the structure. (45) The high pressure chamber of claim 43 or claim 44, wherein each stitching pattern is a closed configuration. (46) A high-pressure chamber according to any one of claims 43 to 45, wherein the first elastic band is a single band that is wrapped around the entire periphery of the structure. (47) A high pressure chamber according to any one of claims 43 to 46, wherein the second elastic band is a single band that is looped around the structural cover. (48) The high pressure chamber of any one of claims 33 to 47, further comprising one or more of an air / oxygen flow valve, an overpressure relief valve, or a vent valve. (49) The high pressure chamber according to any one of claims 33 to 48, further comprising one or more of an oxygen sensor, a temperature sensor, or a pressure sensor. (50) A high pressure chamber as described in any one of claims 33 to 49, wherein the sealable opening further comprises a first zip fastener configured to prevent the passage of gas between the structure and its surroundings. (51) A high pressure chamber as described in any one of claims 33 to 50, wherein the sealable opening further comprises a second zip fastener configured to withstand stresses experienced by the chamber when inflated with gas. (52) The high pressure chamber according to any one of claims 33 to 51, wherein the sealable opening is located in the first region. (53) A high pressure chamber according to any one of claims 33 to 52, wherein the reinforcing mesh is a woven mesh. (54) The hyperbaric chamber of claim 53, wherein the reinforcing mesh is woven utilizing a leno weave technique. (55) A high pressure chamber as described in claim 53 or claim 54, wherein the reinforcing mesh is coated with a third polymeric material to strengthen the mesh structure. (56) The high pressure chamber according to any one of claims 33 to 55, wherein the synthetic fibers are aromatic polyamide fibers. (57) A high pressure chamber according to any one of claims 33 to 56, wherein the first region is produced by a calendaring process. (58) The hyperbaric chamber of any one of claims 33 to 57, further comprising an adjustable chair configured to support a subject. (59) The hyperbaric chamber of claim 58, wherein the adjustable chair is fixed to at least one fixing point of the structure, the chair having at least one joint portion for enabling its position or inclination to be adjusted. (60) A hyperbaric chamber as described in claim 58 or claim 59, wherein the adjustable chair is configured to be adjusted between a standby state in which at least a portion of the chair protrudes from the internal volume and an operational state in which the chair is fully contained within the internal volume. (61) A high pressure chamber as described in any one of claims 33 to 60, wherein the structure is configured to withstand a relative air pressure of up to about 9 bar. (62) The high pressure chamber according to any one of claims 33 to 61, further comprising an expandable framework, which, upon expansion, spreads the structure and determines its deployed shape. (63) The high pressure chamber of claim 62, wherein the expandable framework comprises an upper expandable toroid and a lower expandable toroid connected by two or more longitudinal tubes, the expandable toroid defining an interior volume radius of the chamber and the expandable tubes defining an interior volume longitudinal length. (64) The high pressure chamber of claim 63, wherein the toroid is disposed within the interior volume to support a structure therein. (65) A high pressure chamber as described in any one of claims 63 to 64, wherein the one or more expandable tubes extend from the expandable toroid and are substantially perpendicular to the expandable toroid. (66) A high pressure chamber as described in any one of claims 63 to 65, wherein one or more inflatable tubes extend at least partially outside the interior volume to support the structure from the outside. (67) A high-pressure chamber according to any one of claims 33 to 65, further comprising a lattice-shaped reinforcing band surrounding a portion of the first and second regions. (68) A collapsible inflatable high-pressure chamber, A structure, two structural covers attached to two opposite sides / ends of the structure along respective attachment portions, thereby becoming integral with the structure and enclosing an interior volume; a sealable opening for allowing a subject to enter and exit the interior volume of the hyperbaric chamber; A high pressure chamber comprising: The mounting part is one or more first elastic bands that are routed around one of the faces of the structure; one or more second elastic bands that are looped around one of the faces of the structural cover; a plurality of stitching patterns, each stitching pattern stitching the first band to the second band through all sides of the structure and a respective structural cover; A high pressure chamber comprising: (69) The high pressure chamber of claim 68, wherein the one or more first elastic bands are routed around an outer surface of the structure. (70) The high pressure chamber of claim 68 or claim 69, wherein each stitching pattern is a closed configuration. (71) The high pressure chamber according to any one of claims 68 to 70, wherein the first elastic band is a single band that is wrapped around the entire periphery of the structure. (72) A high pressure chamber according to any one of claims 68 to 71, wherein the second elastic band is a single band that is looped around the structural cover. (73) An assembly for supporting a collapsible inflatable high pressure chamber and allowing tilt adjustment of the chamber, A base and one or more arms coupled to the base and configured to be coupled to one or more attachment locations on an exterior surface of the high pressure chamber; An assembly comprising: The assembly, wherein the one or more arms are adjustable between various positions, and a combination of different arm positions defines a tilt of the chamber. (74) The assembly of claim 73, further comprising one or more auxiliary arms connecting two or more of said coupling locations.

[0095] For a better understanding of the subject matter disclosed herein, and to illustrate how it may be carried out in practice, embodiments will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0096] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of a collapsible inflatable high pressure chamber in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2 is a front view of the collapsible inflatable high pressure chamber shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2 is a rear view of the collapsible inflatable high pressure chamber shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 2C] 2 is a schematic diagram of the inflatable expansion structure of the foldable inflatable high-pressure chamber shown in FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 2D] 2 is a schematic top view of the inflatable expansion structure of the foldable inflatable high-pressure chamber shown in FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 3A] FIG. 2 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the collapsible inflatable high pressure chamber shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 3B] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of the foldable inflatable hyperbaric chamber adjustable chair shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 4A] 2 is an image of the reinforcing mesh of the collapsible inflatable hyperbaric chamber shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B is a schematic diagram of the reinforcing mesh of the collapsible inflatable high pressure chamber shown in FIGS. 1 and 4A. [Figure 4C] FIG. 2 is a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view of a reinforcing mesh when pressure is applied to a viewport defined within the reinforcing mesh. [Figure 5A]2 is a schematic diagram of a tilt assembly configured to support the collapsible inflatable high pressure chamber shown in FIG. 1 in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure. [Figure 5B] 5B is a schematic diagram of a container configured to house the collapsible inflatable high pressure chamber shown in FIG. 1 and / or the tilt assembly shown in FIG. 5A in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure. [Figure 5C] FIG. 5B is a side schematic diagram of the tilt assembly shown in FIG. 5A in a first exemplary tilted position in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure. [Figure 5D] FIG. 5B is a side schematic diagram of the tilt assembly shown in FIG. 5A in a second exemplary tilted position in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a high pressure chamber according to one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] 7A-7C are schematic diagrams illustrating how a subject enters a chamber using state transitions between deployed and stowed states of the chair. [Figure 8] 13A and 13B are diagrams illustrating an example of attachment of a structural cover to a structural body. [Figure 9] 9A and 9B are schematic diagrams of different views of an exemplary embodiment of an assembly for supporting a collapsible inflatable high pressure chamber and allowing tilt adjustment of the chamber, FIG. 9A being a side view and FIG. 9B being a front view. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0097] In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are described to enable a thorough understanding of the subject matter of the present disclosure. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the subject matter of the present disclosure may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, and components have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the subject matter of the present disclosure.

[0098] In the drawings and description set forth, like reference numbers designate components that are common to different embodiments or configurations. Moreover, it will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, elements shown in the figures have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some elements may be exaggerated relative to other elements for clarity.

[0099] As used herein, the phrases "for example," "such as," "for instance," and variations thereof describe non-limiting embodiments of the subject matter of the present disclosure. Reference herein to "one example," "some examples," "other examples," or variations thereof means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment or embodiments is included in at least one embodiment of the subject matter of the present disclosure. Thus, references to "one example," "some examples," "other examples," or variations thereof do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or embodiments.

[0100] It is understood that, unless otherwise stated, certain features of the presently disclosed subject matter that are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the presently disclosed subject matter that are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination.

[0101] According to certain embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided, among other things, a collapsible inflatable hyperbaric chamber for providing a hyperbaric oxygen environment therein for regenerative and therapeutic purposes.

[0102] With this in mind, reference is now made to FIG. 1, which is a schematic diagram of a collapsible inflatable high pressure chamber 100 in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure.

[0103] The collapsible inflatable high pressure chamber 100 (also referred to herein as the "chamber") includes a structure 102 having a sealable opening 302 (shown in FIG. 3A) formed thereon, two hemispherical structural elements 104, and an inflatable deployment structure 106, all integrated to form the chamber 100.

[0104] According to certain embodiments of the subject matter of the present disclosure, the structure 102 has a substantially cylindrical shape when inflated with gas. It may be formed by two segments of flexible material tightly joined (e.g., stitched, welded) at the edges to form a substantially cylindrical shape, as shown in FIG. 1. The first segment of flexible material may form the rear portion 204 of the chamber 100, and the second segment of flexible material may form the front portion 202 of the chamber 100. The front portion 202 and the rear portion 204 are shown in most detail in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B, respectively. As a non-limiting example, the flexible material of the first segment may be a woven Kevlar® fabric coated on both sides with thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). Such a configuration provides a lightweight segment with the high tensile strength required in a pressurized environment (e.g., a pressure environment of up to 10 atmospheres). High tensile strength may be, for example, one that can withstand a longitudinal stress of about 180 MPa and a hoop stress of about 360 MPa. In another example, only 5 cm of woven fabric can withstand a hoop force of about 1.8 tons and a longitudinal force of about 0.9 tons.

[0105] The second segment of flexible material that may form the front 202 of the chamber 100 may be made of a reinforcing mesh 108 (also referred to herein as "mesh") embedded within a polymeric material layer 109 (shown in most detail in FIG. 4). The mesh 108 is formed from one or more connected strands 110 of synthetic fibers that define a proximal frame 112 (shown in most detail in FIG. 4). The proximal frame 112 serves as a viewport for the chamber 100 that is used as a window to allow visualization therethrough (e.g., for an operator of the chamber 100 and / or medical personnel to see the patient inside the chamber, and vice versa). To this end, the polymeric material layer used to form the mesh may be at least a translucent (e.g., in terms of the visible spectrum) polymer that allows visualization therethrough. The polymer may be, for example, thermoplastic polyurethane (TU). FIG. 4 is an image of an exemplary reinforcing mesh 108 (portion thereof) as viewed by a subject positioned inside the chamber 100. 4, a layer of polymeric material formed in the spaces between the connecting strands 110 of the mesh 108 allows visualization therethrough. Such a configuration of the mesh 108 prevents potential failure of the viewport 112 under pressure. As a non-limiting example, the mesh 108 configuration may be formed from strands having a thickness greater than 1 mm and a viewport 112 measuring 15×15 mm in size.

[0106] The synthetic fibers forming the strands may be made from, by way of non-limiting example, an aromatic polyamide material (also known as aramid fibers (e.g., Kevlar® fibers, Nomex® fibers, etc.)). It should be noted that in other examples, other materials and / or combinations thereof may be used to make the synthetic fibers.

[0107] It should be noted that the chamber 100 is made of a lightweight, flexible material (e.g., as described herein) and can be folded into a small volume, as optionally described later in this specification with respect to FIG. 5B, which shows a container sized and shaped to accommodate the folded chamber.

[0108] In some examples, the mesh 108 may be woven utilizing leno weave techniques known to those skilled in the art, which allows for geometric stability of the reinforcing mesh 108 structure, i.e., the mesh will not substantially deform or collapse under high pressure (e.g., 10 atmospheres).

[0109] In some examples, the reinforcing mesh 108 may be embedded within the polymeric material by a calendaring process.

[0110] The chamber 100 includes two flexible hemispherical structural elements 104 that are securely connected (e.g., sewn, welded) to opposite sides of the structure 102 at their joints 114. The two hemispherical structural elements 104 and the structure 102 enclose an interior volume of the chamber 100. The interior volume can be accessed by a subject through a sealable opening 302. As a non-limiting example, the flexible hemispherical structural element 104 can be made of a flexible material such as a woven Kevlar® fabric coated on both sides with thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). In some examples, the sealable opening 302 can include a first zip fastener configured to prevent gas passage between the structure 102 (e.g., the interior volume) and its surroundings. In some other examples, the sealable opening 302 can include a second zip fastener configured to withstand the stress experienced by the chamber 100 when inflated by pressurized gas. It should be noted that the use of zip fasteners is in no way limiting and the teachings herein may be implemented, mutatis mutandis, using any other sealing and / or fastening techniques (e.g., buckle fasteners) and / or combinations thereof.

[0111] According to certain embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter, the sealable opening 302 may be located on a second segment of flexible material that may form the front 202 of the chamber 100. That is, the sealable opening 302 may be formed on the entire surface of the reinforcing mesh 108. Such a configuration allows for convenient ingress and egress of a subject to the interior volume. In some examples, at least a portion of the sealable opening 302 may be formed on the mesh 108. That is, the sealable opening 302 may extend from the mesh 108 portion to the rear of the structure 102.

[0112] In some examples, the chamber 100 may further include one or more reinforcing rings 118 that are threaded over at least a portion of the joint 114 of the chamber 100. The reinforcing rings 118 are configured to provide an additional circumferential sealing layer in the area where the hemispherical structural element 104 is connected to the structure 102. As a non-limiting example, the reinforcing rings 118 may be made from a woven Kevlar® fabric that is coated on both sides with thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

[0113] According to certain embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter, chamber 100 may operate at a maximum working gas pressure of about 10 atmospheres (i.e., chamber 100 may maintain an internal gas pressure of about 10 atmospheres). Accordingly, structure 102 is configured to withstand a relative air pressure (e.g., the relative pressure between the internal volume of chamber 100 and its ambient pressure (e.g., such as the pressure at sea level, which is typically about 1 atmosphere)) of up to about 9 bar.

[0114] In some examples, the chamber 100 may further include one or more of an air / oxygen flow valve, an overpressure relief valve, or a vent valve. For example, the vent valve may be configured to vent the gas inside the chamber 100 at a rate of 30 liters / minute. In some examples, the one or more valves may be located in a portion of the structure 102 of the chamber 100. Additionally, the chamber 100 may further include a control panel configured to, among other things, automatically control the operation (e.g., opening and closing) of the one or more valves and perform functions such as regulating the oxygen supply to a hood or mask (if applicable) that the subject may wear while inside the chamber 100.

[0115] In some examples, the chamber 100 may further include one or more sensors (e.g., but not limited to, oxygen sensors, temperature sensors, or pressure sensors) that may be located on the portion of the structure 102 of the chamber 100. The control panel may be configured to control the operation of one or more valves based on readings from the one or more sensors. In some examples, the one or more valves and / or sensors may be manually operated.

[0116] The expandable deployment structure 106 (also referred to herein as "skeleton") of the chamber 100 is shown separately in FIG. 2C. As shown in FIG. 2C, the skeleton 106 may be formed of two expandable toroids 206 (e.g., an upper expandable toroid and a lower expandable toroid) spaced apart by two expandable tubes 204 extending between and substantially perpendicular to them. The two expandable tubes 204 extend along a longitudinal axis, the lengths of which define the height of the skeleton 106, and the radii of the expandable toroids 206 define the radial dimensions of the skeleton 106. The skeleton 106 may expand to expand and support the chamber 100 to maintain its substantially cylindrical shape (i.e., the expandable skeleton may unfold the structure 102 and define its deployed shape upon its expansion). Additionally, the framework 106 allows for convenient access of the subject to the chamber 100 before initiating hyperbaric therapy and after completing therapy. The inflatable tubes 204 may be connected to the inflatable toroids 206 at any location along their circumference. For example, the inflatable tubes 204 may be connected to the inflatable toroids 206 at a location that defines a predetermined angle (e.g., but not limited to, 120 degrees). Such an exemplary configuration is shown in FIG. 2C and FIG. 2D. In this manner, the inflatable tubes 204 do not obstruct the subject's field of vision while the subject is located inside the chamber 100. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the toroids may be disposed within the interior volume of the chamber 100 to support the structure 102 internally. In some examples, the toroids may be disposed outside the chamber 100 to support the structure 102 externally. Additionally, one or more of the inflatable tubes 204 may extend, at least in part, outside the interior volume to support the structure 102 externally. In some examples, one or more expandable tubes 204 may extend internally along the interior volume to support the structure 102 therein.

[0117] 3A and 3B, the structure 102 may further include an adjustable chair 120 configured to support a subject during hyperbaric treatment inside the chamber 100. The chair 120 may include a backrest portion 304, a seat portion 306, and a footrest extension portion 308, all of which are integrated to form the adjustable chair 120. The backrest portion 304 may be pivotally connected to the seat portion 306 via a first joint portion 312, such that each may rotate about the first joint portion 312. Furthermore, the adjustable chair 120 may include a backrest support member 318 configured to allow angular adjustment of the backrest portion 304. To this end, the backrest support member 318 may be pivotally connected to the backrest portion 304 via a second joint portion 314, such that each may rotate about the second joint portion 314. The footrest extension 308 is pivotally connected to the seat 306 via a third joint portion 318 such that each can rotate about the third joint portion 318 .

[0118] Such a configuration of the adjustable chair 120 can provide the subject with freedom of movement between one or more relaxed reclining positions, which can be adjusted before and / or during hyperbaric treatment inside the chamber 100. This can be achieved by rotating one or more of the adjustable chair 120 portions (e.g., the back portion 304, the seat portion 306, the footrest extension portion 308, and / or the back support member 318) about their respective joint portions (e.g., the first joint portion 312, the second joint portion 314, and / or the third joint portion 318) such that the position or inclination of each adjustable chair portion can be adjusted.

[0119] In some examples, the adjustable chair 120 may be anchored to at least one anchor point on the structure 102, such as anchor point 316. This allows the chair 120 to be secured to the chamber 100 and prevented from moving (e.g., sliding, falling, etc.) when the chamber 100 is in a substantially vertical position and / or tilted relative to the ground (e.g., the substantially vertical positions shown in FIGS. 1, 2A, 2B, and 3A).

[0120] Each adjustable chair 120 portion (e.g., back portion 304, seat portion 306, footrest extension 308, and / or backrest support member 318) may be formed with a respective rolled pipe frame. For example, frames 320, 322 of back portion 304 and footrest extension 308 as shown in FIG. 3B. Some of the adjustable chair 120 portions (e.g., back portion 304, seat portion 306, and footrest extension 308) may further include a respective fabric sheet configured to fit snugly within at least a portion of the respective frame housing. For example, fabric sheets 324, 326 of back portion 304 and footrest extension 308 as shown in FIG. 3B. In some examples, the fabric sheet may be one continuous sheet that extends throughout the adjustable chair 120 and is bounded by the respective frame housing.

[0121] Such a configuration of the rolling pipe frame may be integrated with the substantially cylindrical shape of the structure 102 to form a continuous line of contact with the structure 102 that distributes pressure or tension applied to the structure 102.

[0122] According to certain embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter, upon completion of the hyperbaric treatment, the adjustable chair 120 can be manually removed from the structure 102 and quickly folded into a compact, portable configuration, or vice versa.

[0123] Referring to FIG. 5A, there is shown a schematic diagram of a tilt assembly 500 configured to support the collapsible inflatable high pressure chamber 100 shown in FIG. 1 in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure.

[0124] The tilt assembly 500 includes an elongated support device 502 and a tilt mechanism 506. The elongated support device 502 extends between a first end 508 and a second end 510 thereof and is configured to couple with a collapsible inflatable high pressure chamber 100 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 1). The support device 502 includes a rigid frame 504 defining a frame housing sized to support the chamber 100 while the chamber 100 is coupled thereto. In some examples, the support device 502 further includes one or more support sheets 512. The sheets 512 may be secured to the rigid frame 504 and configured to fit snugly within at least a portion of the frame housing. The support sheets 512 are configured to support the chamber 100, among other things, while varying the tilt angle of the chamber 100, as described in more detail herein. As a non-limiting example, the sheets 512 may be made of a flexible material such as a woven Kevlar® fabric coated on both sides thereof with thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). It should be noted that other woven and / or textile materials can be used to make the support sheet 512. In some examples, instead of the support sheet 512, the rigid frame 504 can include a rigid arc that can be secured to the rigid frame 504 and configured to fit snugly within the rigid frame 504 to support the chamber 100 while it is coupled to the rigid frame 504 (e.g., the chamber 100 can be secured to the rigid frame 504 and / or the arc). As a non-limiting example, the arc can be located on the rigid frame 504 such that it can be coupled to the anchor point 316 shown in FIG. 3A.

[0125] It should be noted that the use of support sheet 512 is in no way limiting, and the teachings herein may be practiced, mutatis mutandis, using any other support means and / or techniques.

[0126] In some examples, the rigid frame 504 can be formed from multiple rigid frame members 514 coupled together. That is, the rigid frame 504 can be assembled or disassembled by connecting multiple rigid frame members 514 together to form the frame 504. As a non-limiting example, the frame members 514 can be carbon rods configured to withstand the weight of the chamber 100 while the subject is within the chamber 100.

[0127] The tilt mechanism 506 allows for controlled tilting of the elongated support device 502, which in turn allows for controlled tilting of the chamber 100 along a range of tilt positions when the chamber 100 is coupled to the elongated support device 502. For example, FIG. 5C illustrates a first exemplary tilted position in which the elongated support device 502 forms a 70 degree angle with the ground surface. The first tilted position may be utilized, for example, when the adjustable chair 120 is configured in a seated position (e.g., as shown in FIG. 3A). FIG. 5D illustrates a second exemplary tilted position in which the elongated support device 502 forms a 0 degree angle with the ground surface. The second tilted position may be utilized, for example, when the adjustable chair 120 is configured in a reclined position (e.g., a position in which the back portion 304, the seat portion 306, the footrest extension 308, and the back support member 318 form a substantially uniform surface (not shown in the drawings)).

[0128] To allow for alteration of the tilted position of the elongated support device 502, its first end 508 may be pivotally coupled to the first anchoring structure 516 (e.g., by coupling two rigid frame members 514). Additionally, the tilt mechanism 506 may be pivotally coupled to a coupling of the rigid frame 504 other than the first end 508. To that end, a coupling may be defined between the first end 508 and the second end 510 of the rigid frame 504, and in some examples more proximal to the second end 510 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 5A, 5C, and 5D).

[0129] In some examples, the tilt mechanism 506 may be formed from two segments 518, 520 pivotally coupled to one another at a segment joint 522. The first segment 518 may be pivotally coupled to a joint of the rigid frame 504 other than the segment joint 522. The second segment 520 may be pivotally coupled to a second anchoring structure 524 other than the segment joint 522. Such a configuration allows for rotation of each of the segments 518, 520 about their respective joints, as described in further detail herein below with respect to Figures 5C-5D.

[0130] FIG. 5B illustrates an exemplary container 600 configured to house at least a collapsible inflatable hyperbaric chamber 100 or tilt assembly 500 according to the subject matter of the present disclosure. To that end, the container 600 is sized to house the chamber 100 or tilt assembly 500, or both. In some examples, two or more containers 600 may be utilized (e.g., one container may house the chamber 100 and a second container may house the tilt assembly 500). Thus, the tilt assembly 500 and the chamber 100 may be disassembled and / or foldable such that all of its parts may be placed inside one or more containers for transportation and / or compact storage. This facilitates portability of the chamber 100 to remote locations where hyperbaric treatment is required. In some examples, the container 600 may be sized to fit inside the trunk of a car. Furthermore, the tilt assembly 500 and the chamber 100 may be assembled and / or deployed when needed. Thus, the chamber 100 can be repeatedly assembled and disassembled, for example, tens, hundreds, or even thousands of times.

[0131] According to certain embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter, the container 600 can include a first anchoring structure 516 and a second anchoring structure 524 configured to enable the aforementioned coupling.

[0132] Reference is now made to FIGS. 5C and 5D, which are side views of a tilt assembly 500 in a first exemplary tilted position and a second exemplary tilted position in accordance with the subject matter of this disclosure.

[0133] In some examples, the tilt mechanism 506 may be switchable between two tilt positions. (a) In a first tilted position (e.g., as shown in FIG. 5C ), the elongated support device 502 can form a selected angle between a frame plane defined by the rigid frame 504 and a horizontal plane (e.g., the plane of the container 600). FIG. 5C illustrates the first exemplary tilted position in which a 70 degree angle is formed between the frame 504 and the horizontal plane. (b) In a second tilted position (e.g., as shown in FIG. 5D ), the elongated support apparatus 502 is flush with a horizontal plane. FIG. 5D illustrates a second exemplary tilted position in which a 0 degree angle is formed between the frame 504 and the horizontal plane. In some examples, the segment joints 522 may be configured to engage the ground in the second tilted position. Such a configuration provides additional support to the elongated support apparatus 502 in the second tilted position.

[0134] In some examples, the tilt mechanism 506 may be a pneumatic piston configured to carry out the teachings described herein.

[0135] Reference is now made to FIG. 6, which is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of a high pressure chamber according to one aspect of the disclosure. The chamber 650 comprises a structure 652 formed from two different region types. The first region 654 is non-transparent and comprises a first reinforcing flexible material 656 sheet and a first polymeric material 658 that is draped over two of the faces of the first reinforcing flexible material 656 to provide a fluid impermeable region suitable for withstanding high pressure. The second region 660 comprises an inner layer of a second polymeric material 662 and an outer layer of a reinforcing mesh 664 of said second reinforcing flexible material formed by connected strands of fibers of the second reinforcing flexible material, defining a proximate frame. The first region is welded to a portion of the first region. It can be seen that the second region is embedded within the cut portion of the first region.

[0136] A sealable opening 666 is formed in the structure 652 and is formed with at least one zipper 668 for allowing a subject to gain access to and exit from the interior volume of the hyperbaric chamber 650 .

[0137] The structure is cylindrical in the expanded state and has two opposing openings that are sealed by two opposing structural covers 670 sewn to the structure 652 .

[0138] A lattice-like stiffening band 672 surrounds the exterior surface and structural cover of the structure and provides additional durability to the chamber so that it can withstand very high pressure differentials between its interior and the ambient pressure.

[0139] Chair 674 is contained within an interior volume 676 of the chamber enclosed by structure 652 and structural cover 670. Chair 674 can be adjusted to assume a number of seating positions by adjusting the rotatable chair elements about their respective axes.

[0140] Reference is now made to Figures 7A-7C, which are schematic diagrams illustrating a subject entering a chamber. In Figure 7A, a chair 774 within the chamber is moved to a deployed position, with a portion of it outside the interior volume of the chamber. This allows for relatively easy seating in the chair for a subject who enters the chamber via a platform or without a platform, as shown in Figure 7C. Once the subject is seated in the chair, the chair may be moved to a stowed position, as illustrated by the arrow in Figure 7B. Once in the stowed position, the sealable opening of the chamber may be sealed and the chamber may be pressurized.

[0141] Reference is now made to FIG. 8, which illustrates the attachment of one of the structural covers to the structure. The structure 880 and the structural cover 882 are attached to one another via attachments 884 formed around the perimeter of the structure 880 and a portion of the perimeter of the structural cover 882. In this non-limiting example, a first elastic band 886 is threaded around the exterior of the structure 880, and multiple segments of one or more second elastic bands 888 are threaded around the exterior of the structural cover 882. The first and second elastic bands 886, 888 are sewn together by a stitching pattern 890 along the perimeter. In this non-limiting example, the structural cover 882 forms an inner layer and the structure 880 forms an outer layer. It should be noted that this attachment technique may be applied to any embodiment or aspect of the hyperbaric chamber and is not limited to any particular embodiment or aspect.

[0142] 9A-9B, which are schematic views from different angles of an exemplary embodiment of an assembly for supporting a collapsible inflatable high pressure chamber and allowing tilt adjustment of the chamber. The assembly 951 comprises a base 953 intended to be placed on the ground / floor. Two pairs of arms 955A, 955B connect the base to coupling points formed on the outer surface of the chamber 957. Each pair has an arm that couples to generally opposite sides of the structure 959 of the chamber 957. Each arm is rotatably coupled to the base 953 such that the rotational position of the arm defines the tilt state of the chamber 957, i.e. the angle α of the chamber with respect to the ground. The two arms on the same side of the chamber are connected by an auxiliary arm via the coupling points.

[0143] It should be understood that the subject matter of the present disclosure is not limited in its application to the details set forth in the description contained herein or shown in the drawings. The subject matter of the present disclosure is capable of other embodiments and can be practiced and carried out in various ways. It should therefore be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein are for descriptive purposes and should not be taken in a limiting sense. Thus, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the concepts of the present disclosure may be readily utilized as a basis for the designing of other structures, methods and systems for carrying out some of the purposes of the subject matter of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. 1. An assembly for supporting a collapsible inflatable high pressure chamber and allowing tilt adjustment of said chamber, comprising: A base and one or more arms coupled to the base and configured to couple to one or more coupling locations on an exterior surface of the high pressure chamber; An assembly comprising: The assembly, wherein the one or more arms are adjustable between various positions, and the combination of different arm positions defines the tilt of the chamber.

2. The assembly of claim 1 , comprising one or more auxiliary arms connecting two or more of the coupling locations.

3. 3. The assembly of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the one or more arms comprise one or more pairs of arms, each arm of the pair being attached at a respective attachment location opposite the attachment location of the other arm of the pair.

4. An assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the one or more arms are pivotally coupled to the base to allow adjustability between various positions.

5. 1. A tilt assembly for supporting a collapsible inflatable high pressure chamber, comprising: an elongated support device extending between a first end and a second end and configured to couple with the collapsible inflatable high pressure chamber, the elongated support device comprising a rigid frame defining a frame housing sized to support the collapsible inflatable high pressure chamber; a tilt mechanism that allows for controlling the tilt of the elongated support device along a range of tilted positions; A tilt assembly comprising:

6. An inclined assembly as described in claim 5, wherein the elongated support device comprises one or more support sheets fixed to the rigid frame so as to fit within at least a portion of the frame housing.

7. The first end is pivotally coupled to a first fixing structure; 7. The tilt assembly of claim 5 or claim 6, wherein the tilt mechanism is pivotally coupled to a joint of the rigid frame other than the first end.

8. An inclined assembly as described in claim 7, wherein the joint portion is defined between the first end and the second end and closer to the second end than the first end.

9. A tilt assembly as described in claim 7 or claim 8, wherein the tilt mechanism is formed from two segments pivotally connected to each other at a segment connection, the first segment being connected to a connection other than the segment connection, and the second segment being connected to a second fixing structure other than the segment connection.

10. The tilt mechanism is switchable between two tilt positions; the first tilted position forms a selected angle between a frame plane defined by the rigid frame and a horizontal plane; In the second tilted position, the frame surface is flush with the horizontal surface. The tilt assembly of claim 9.

11. A tilt assembly as described in claim 10, wherein the segment joint is configured to engage the ground in the second tilt position to provide further support.

12. A tilt assembly as described in any one of claims 9 to 11, further comprising a container sized to accommodate the tilt assembly, the container comprising the first fixing structure and the second fixing structure.

13. A tilt assembly as described in any one of claims 5 to 12, wherein the rigid frame is formed from a plurality of rigid frame members joined together.

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