U.S. patent application number 17/401253 was filed with the patent office on 2021-12-02 for portable and modular transportation unit with improved transport capabilities.
This patent application is currently assigned to Maquet Cardiovascular LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is Maquet Cardiovascular LLC. Invention is credited to Robert HAMILTON, Yefim KAUSHANSKY, Edmund PACENKA.
Application Number | 20210370995 17/401253 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005771352 |
Filed Date | 2021-12-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20210370995 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
KAUSHANSKY; Yefim ; et
al. |
December 2, 2021 |
PORTABLE AND MODULAR TRANSPORTATION UNIT WITH IMPROVED TRANSPORT
CAPABILITIES
Abstract
A medical device, such as an intra-aortic balloon pump or
carrier with an extendable wheel track and handle configured to be
removably carried and integrated with a cart. The wheel track is
configured to extend upon extension of the handle and to return to
its original position upon retraction of the handle.
Inventors: |
KAUSHANSKY; Yefim; (North
Haledon, NJ) ; PACENKA; Edmund; (Westwood, NJ)
; HAMILTON; Robert; (Bergenfield, NJ) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Maquet Cardiovascular LLC |
Wayne |
NJ |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Maquet Cardiovascular LLC
Wayne
NJ
|
Family ID: |
1000005771352 |
Appl. No.: |
17/401253 |
Filed: |
August 12, 2021 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
16037787 |
Jul 17, 2018 |
|
|
|
17401253 |
|
|
|
|
13470205 |
May 11, 2012 |
10207728 |
|
|
16037787 |
|
|
|
|
61486227 |
May 13, 2011 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B62B 2206/02 20130101;
B62B 2202/90 20130101; A61M 2209/084 20130101; A61M 60/274
20210101; B62B 5/067 20130101; A61M 60/17 20210101; B62B 2202/56
20130101; B62B 2205/145 20130101; A61M 60/40 20210101; B62B 3/02
20130101; A61M 60/135 20210101 |
International
Class: |
B62B 3/02 20060101
B62B003/02 |
Claims
1.-80. (canceled)
81. A modular portable intra-aortic balloon pump, comprising: a
wheeled cart comprising at least one caster for rolling on a ground
surface; a display device; and a pump unit comprising a frame; a
pump disposed within the frame; a control unit configured to
control the pump; a wheel assembly connected to the frame and
comprising a first wheel and a second wheel rotatable about a wheel
assembly axis; and a retractable handle assembly; wherein the
display device is in electronic communication with the pump unit,
wherein the wheeled cart is configured to removably support and
transport the pump unit so that the wheel assembly of the pump unit
is elevated relative to the at least one caster of the wheeled
cart, and wherein, when the pump unit is supported by the wheeled
cart, the wheel assembly axis extends parallel to a rear face of
the wheeled cart.
82. The modular portable intra-aortic balloon pump of claim 81,
wherein the retractable handle assembly includes one or more
telescoping members.
83. The modular portable intra-aortic balloon pump of claim 81,
wherein the retractable handle assembly is retractable toward the
wheel assembly axis and extendable away from the wheel assembly
axis.
84. The modular portable intra-aortic balloon pump of claim 81,
wherein the pump unit is transportable independently of the wheeled
cart in a tilted orientation via the first and second wheels when
the pump unit is removed from the wheeled cart.
85. The modular portable intra-aortic balloon pump of claim 81,
wherein the wheeled cart defines a cavity configured to receive the
pump unit.
86. The modular portable intra-aortic balloon pump of claim 81,
wherein the wheeled cart comprises a bottom surface on which the
wheel assembly of the pump unit rests.
87. The modular portable intra-aortic balloon pump of claim 81,
further comprising a first power source and a second power source
each configured to power the pump unit when the pump unit is
removed from the wheeled cart.
88. The modular portable intra-aortic balloon pump of claim 87,
wherein the first power source comprises a first battery and the
second power source comprises a second battery.
89. The modular portable intra-aortic balloon pump of claim 87,
wherein the first power source comprises a battery and wherein the
second power source comprises an AC to DC converter.
90. The modular portable intra-aortic balloon pump of claim 87,
wherein the pump unit comprises the first power source and the
second power source.
91. A modular portable intra-aortic balloon pump, comprising: a
wheeled cart comprising at least one caster for rolling on a ground
surface; a display device; and a pump unit comprising a frame; a
pump disposed within the frame; a control unit configured to
control the pump; a disc-shaped adapter extending from a top
surface of the frame and configured for removable connection to the
display device; a wheel assembly connected to the frame and
comprising a first wheel and a second wheel; and. a retractable
handle assembly; wherein the display device is removably
connectable to a portion of the wheeled cart and removably
connectable to the disc-shaped adapter of the pump unit; wherein
the wheeled cart is configured to removably support and transport
the pump unit so that the wheel assembly of the pump unit is
elevated relative to the at least one caster of the wheeled
cart.
92. The modular intra-aortic balloon pump of claim 91, wherein the
disc-shaped adapter has a round configuration.
93. The modular intra-aortic balloon pump of claim 91, where the
wheeled cart comprises a disc-shaped adapter extending from the
portion of the wheeled cart, the disc-shaped adapter removably
connectable to the display device.
94. A modular portable intra-aortic balloon pump, comprising: a
wheeled cart comprising at least one caster for rolling on a ground
surface; a display device; and a pump unit comprising a frame; a
pump disposed within the frame; a control unit configured to
control the pump; a wheel assembly connected to the frame and
comprising a first wheel and a second wheel rotatable about a wheel
axis; and a first power source and a second power source each
configured to power the pump unit; wherein the display device is in
electronic communication with the pump unit, wherein the wheeled
cart is configured to removably support and transport the pump unit
so that the wheel assembly of the pump unit is elevated relative to
the at least one caster of the wheeled cart, and wherein at least
one of the first power source and the second power source comprises
a user-removable module.
95. The modular intra-aortic balloon pump of claim 94, wherein the
display device is removably connectable to a portion of the wheeled
cart and removably connectable to a portion of the pump unit.
96. The modular portable intra-aortic balloon pump of claim 94,
wherein the first power source comprises a first battery and the
second power source comprises a second battery or an AC to DC
converter.
97. The modular portable intra-aortic balloon pump of claim 94,
wherein the user-removable module is insertable into the pump unit
in a direction perpendicular to the wheel assembly axis.
98. The modular portable intra-aortic balloon pump of claim 94,
wherein the first power source and the second power source are
configured for powering the pump unit when the pump unit is removed
from the wheeled cart.
99. The modular portable intra-aortic balloon pump of claim 94,
wherein the user-removable module comprises a cartridge or
cassette.
100. The modular portable intra-aortic balloon pump of claim 94,
wherein the pump unit further comprises a spring-based element to
eject the user-removable module.
101. The modular intra-aortic balloon pump of claim 94, wherein the
first wheel and the second wheel are moveable between a retracted
position defining a first wheel track and an extended position
defining a second wheel track, wherein the first wheel and the
second wheel are spaced apart by a first distance in the extended
position and by a second distance in the retracted position,
wherein the first distance is greater than the second distance.
Description
[0001] This application claims benefit of priority to U.S.
Provisional Patent Application No. 61/486,227, filed May 13, 2011,
the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference
in its entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention generally relates to a modular and
portable carrier unit adaptable to a plurality of usage
environments. An example embodiment of the present invention
relates to a portable medical device, such as an intra-aortic
balloon pump with an extendable wheel system.
Description of Related Art
[0003] Intra-aortic balloon pumps (IABPs) are used to provide
pneumatic assistance to a failing or weakened heart. This therapy
is provided in different medical facilities, environments, and
situations specific to the location, access, and condition of a
patient. IABPs are often needed to transition patients between such
different environments or facilities, and therefore are desired to
be selectively adaptable to each and transportable. Current IABPs
are typically wheeled and include a handle for moving the IABP
together with the patient within hospital or trauma environments. A
need exists for an IABP system specifically adapted to facilitate
transport while a maintaining high level of functionality and
usability in all of the different environments or facilities IABS
are used.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] A carrier according to an example embodiment of the present
invention comprises a body, a wheel assembly connected to the body,
a handle assembly connected to the body. The handle assembly
comprising a handle movable between a first position and a second
position. The wheel assembly comprising a first and second wheel,
each movable between: (i) a retracted position defining a first
wheel track in which the wheels are spaced apart a predetermined
distance, and (ii) an extended position defining a second wheel
track larger than the first in which the wheels are spaced apart a
distance greater than the predetermined distance. Movement of the
handle from the first position to the second position causes
movement of wheels from the retracted position to the extended
position.
[0005] According to an example embodiment, movement of the handle
from the second position to the first position causes relative
movement of the first wheel towards the second wheel.
[0006] According to an example embodiment, movement of the handle
is in a direction perpendicular to an axis through the first wheel
and second wheel.
[0007] According to an example embodiment, movement of the wheels
between the extended position and the retracted position is along a
common axis.
[0008] According to an example embodiment, the first and second
wheels are capable of providing wheeled support to the body in both
the extended and retracted positions when the body is in a tilted
orientation.
[0009] According to an example embodiment, the handle assembly
includes a plurality of telescoping members.
[0010] According to an example embodiment, the first wheel and
second wheel when in the retracted position are disposed at least
partially within recesses in the body, and in the extended position
the first wheel and second wheel are disposed outside the
recesses.
[0011] According to an example embodiment, each of the first wheel
and second wheel is connected to a separate axle.
[0012] According to an example embodiment, the axles are
constrained to linear movement.
[0013] According to an example embodiment, the handle assembly
includes a plurality of telescoping members. Each of the axles is
connected to one of the telescoping members through a linkage. The
first wheel and second wheel are each configured to rotate about a
common axis in both the retracted and extended positions.
[0014] According to an example embodiment, the carrier is
configured such that a downward or upward movement of the
telescoping members cause the axles to shift laterally along the
common axis in a direction perpendicular to the downward or upward
movement of the handle. The axles move towards each other along the
common axis when the telescoping members are moved downward and
move away from each other when the telescoping members are moved
upward.
[0015] According to an example embodiment, the body of the carrier
is integral to an intra-aortic balloon pump.
[0016] According to an example embodiment, the intra-aortic balloon
pump comprises a pump, a frame enclosing the pump, a monitor, and
at least two power supplies. Each of the at least two power
supplies configured to independently power the intra-aortic balloon
pump.
[0017] According to an example embodiment, the body comprises a
front, a back, a top, a bottom, and two sides. Within a horizontal
plane, the sides are longer than the back. The common axis of the
wheel assembly is located towards or at the bottom of the body and
either adjacent to or in the proximity of the back.
[0018] According to an example embodiment, the carrier is
configured to stand vertically on a flat surface without the wheels
engaging the surface in both the retracted and extended
positions.
[0019] An intra-aortic balloon pump according to an example
embodiment of the present invention includes a frame, a pump
disposed within the frame, a display device, a control unit
configured to control the pump, and a wheel assembly connected to
the frame. The wheel assembly comprises a first and second wheel,
each movable between: (i) a retracted position defining a first
wheel track in which the wheels are spaced apart a predetermined
distance, and (ii) an extended position defining a second wheel
track larger than the first in which the wheels are spaced apart a
distance greater than the predetermined distance.
[0020] According to an example embodiment, the intra-aortic balloon
pump comprises a handle assembly connected to the frame. The
movement of the wheels from the retracted position to the extended
position is triggered by movement of at least a portion of the
handle assembly from a first position to a second position.
[0021] According to an example embodiment, the handle assembly
includes a plurality of telescoping members.
[0022] According to an example embodiment, the first wheel and
second wheel when in the retracted position are disposed at least
partially within recesses in the frame, and in the extended
position are disposed outside the recesses.
[0023] According to an example embodiment, each of the first wheel
and second wheel is connected to a separate axle.
[0024] According to an example embodiment, the intra-aortic balloon
pump comprises a handle assembly connected to the frame. The handle
assembly includes a plurality of telescoping members. Each of the
axles is connected to one of the telescoping members through a
linkage. The first wheel and second wheel are each configured to
rotate about a common axis in both the retracted and extended
positions.
[0025] According to an example embodiment, a downward or upward
movement of the telescoping members cause the axles to shift
laterally along the common axis in a direction perpendicular to the
downward or upward movement of the telescoping members. Further,
the axles move towards each other along the common axis when the
telescoping members are moved downward and move away from each
other when the telescoping members are moved upward.
[0026] According to an example embodiment, the intra-aortic balloon
pump comprises at least two power supplies. Each of the at least
two power supplies is configured to independently power the
intra-aortic balloon pump.
[0027] An example method of the present invention for enhancing the
stability of an intra-aortic balloon pump during transport,
comprises the steps of moving the first wheel and the second wheel
of the intra-aortic balloon pump wheel assembly from (i) a
retracted position defining a first wheel track in which the wheels
are spaced apart a predetermined distance, to (ii) an extended
position defining a second wheel track larger than the first in
which the wheels are spaced apart a distance greater than the
predetermined distance.
[0028] An example method according to the present invention may
further include the step of moving at least a portion of the handle
assembly of the intra-aortic balloon pump from a first position to
a second position so as to trigger the movement of the wheels from
the retracted position to the extended position.
[0029] According to an example embodiment, in the retracted
position the first wheel at least partially resides in a first
recess in the frame and the second wheel at least partially resides
in a second recess in the frame. Further, in the extended position
the first wheel resides outside the first recess and the second
wheel resides outside the second recess.
[0030] A modular portable intra-aortic balloon pump according to an
example embodiment of the present invention comprises a wheeled
cart with at least one caster, and a pump unit. The pump unit
includes a frame, a pump disposed within the frame, a display
device in electronic communication with the pump unit, a control
unit configured to control the pump, and a wheel assembly connected
to the frame. The wheel assembly includes a first and second wheel,
each movable between: (i) a retracted position defining a first
wheel track in which the wheels are spaced apart a predetermined
distance, and (ii) an extended position defining a second wheel
track larger than the first in which the wheels are spaced apart a
distance greater than the predetermined distance. The wheeled cart
is configured to removably and securely house and transport the
pump unit using the at least one caster but without use of the
first and second wheels. The pump unit is also transportable
independently when removed from the wheeled cart via the first and
second wheels.
[0031] According to an example embodiment, the cart has a cavity
with a cavity entrance, and the pump unit is configured to be
removably received into the cavity through the cavity entrance.
[0032] According to an example embodiment, the pump unit cannot fit
through the cavity entrance when the first and second wheels are
each in the extended position.
[0033] According to an example embodiment, the cavity entrance is
horizontal to the cavity. Further, a release mechanism having a
release actuator on at least one of the cart or pump unit is
configured to establish releasable securement of the pump unit with
respect to the cavity.
[0034] According to an example embodiment, the display device is a
monitor comprising a mounting interface. The cart has a first
monitor mount and the pump unit has a second monitor mount. The
mounting interface on the monitor configured to reversibly engage
and secure to both the first mount and the second mount one at a
time.
[0035] According to an example embodiment, the pump unit includes a
recess and the second monitor mount is configured to move within
the recess between a retracted position and an extended position.
When in the extended position, the second monitor mount projects
from an external surface of the pump unit more so than when in the
retracted position.
[0036] According to an example embodiment, the second monitor mount
is confined to the retracted position when the pump unit is fully
disposed within the housing cavity.
[0037] According to an example embodiment, the pump unit comprises
a body with one or more recesses. The first and second wheels at
least partially disposed within the one or more recesses when in
their retracted position and lie outside the one or more recesses
when in their extended position.
[0038] According to an example embodiment, the modular portable
intra-aortic balloon pump further comprises a handle assembly
connected to the pump unit and configured to telescopically move
between a first handle position to a second handle position.
[0039] According to an example embodiment, movement of the handle
assembly from the first position towards the second position causes
relative movement of the first wheel towards and second wheel.
[0040] According to an example embodiment, the modular portable
intra-aortic balloon pump further comprises a first power supply on
the cart and a second power supply on the pump unit. When the pump
unit is disposed within the cavity the first power supply is used
to deliver power to the pump unit, and when the pump unit is
removed from the cavity the second power supply is used to power
the pump unit.
[0041] According to an example embodiment, the modular portable
intra-aortic balloon pump further comprises a third power supply on
the pump unit, and both the second power supply and the third power
supply are configured to independently power the pump unit.
[0042] A modular portable intra-aortic balloon pump according to an
example embodiment of the present invention comprises a wheeled
cart and a wheeled pump unit removably mounted on or in the cart.
The pump unit includes a frame, a pump disposed within the frame, a
control unit configured to control the pump, a display device in
electronic communication with the pump unit, and a wheel assembly
connected to the frame. The cart includes a first power source used
to power the pump unit when the pump unit is mounted on or in the
cart. The pump unit comprises a second power source used to power
the pump unit when the pump unit is removed from the cart or when
the pump unit is on or in the cart but the first power source is
not functional.
[0043] According to an example embodiment, the pump comprises a
first and second wheel, each movable between: (i) a retracted
position defining a first wheel track in which the wheels are
spaced apart a predetermined distance, and (ii) an extended
position defining a second wheel track larger than the first in
which the wheels are spaced apart a distance greater than the
predetermined distance. The cart is configured to removably and
securely house and transport the pump unit using at least one
caster connected to the cart but without use of the first and
second wheels. The pump unit is also transportable independent and
removed from the cart via the first and second wheels.
[0044] According to an example embodiment, the portable
intra-aortic balloon pump further comprises a third power source on
the pump unit. Both the second power source and the third power
source are capable of powering the pump unit independently when the
pump unit is removed from the cart.
[0045] According to an example embodiment, the display device is
configured to display information and also to serve as an input
device.
[0046] According to an example embodiment, the portable
intra-aortic balloon pump further comprises a first gas reservoir
connected to the cart and a second gas reservoir connected to the
pump unit. The second gas reservoir is configured and used to
provide gas to the pump unit during operation of the pump unit. The
first gas reservoir is configured and used to refresh gas in the
second gas reservoir.
[0047] According to an example embodiment, the pump unit is
configured to connect to a third gas reservoir to refill the second
gas reservoir when the pump unit is removed from the cart.
[0048] A modular portable intra-aortic balloon pump according to an
example embodiment of the present invention comprises a wheeled
cart, and a wheeled pump unit removably mounted on or in the cart.
The pump unit includes a frame, a pump disposed within the frame, a
control unit configured to control the pump, a display device in
electronic communication with the pump unit, and a wheel assembly
connected to the frame. A first gas reservoir is connected to the
cart and a second gas reservoir is connected to the pump unit. The
second gas reservoir is configured and used to provide gas to the
pump unit during operation of the pump unit. The first gas
reservoir is configured and used to refresh gas in the second gas
reservoir.
[0049] According to an example embodiment, the pump unit is
configured to connect to a third gas reservoir to refill the second
gas reservoir when the pump unit is removed from the cart.
[0050] A modular portable intra-aortic balloon pump according to an
example embodiment of the present invention comprises a wheeled
cart and a wheeled pump unit removably mounted on or in the cart.
The pump unit is configured to connect to a catheter based device.
The pump unit includes a frame, a pump disposed within the frame,
and a first processor configured to control the pump and to collect
patient data from the catheter based device. The pump unit is
directly connected to a display device via a cable. The display
device includes one or more second processors configured to process
the patient data and display the patient data on the display
device. The cable being of sufficient length to span a first
distance between the pump unit and the display device when the
display device is mounted on the pump unit and also to span a
second distance larger distance between the pump unit and the
display device when the display device is mounted on the cart.
[0051] An example method for operating a modular medical system
including a pump unit connected to a cart comprises the step of
removing the wheeled pump unit from a housing cavity in the cart
while each of first and second extendable wheels on the pump are in
a retracted position.
[0052] According to an example method, prior to or during the step
of removing, the method comprises releasing a reversible latching
mechanism between the cart and the pump unit.
[0053] According to an example method, after removing the pump
unit, a pump unit monitor support is extended from the pump unit
and a monitor is removed from a cart-based monitor support and
connected to the pump unit monitor support.
[0054] According to an example method, the first and second
extendable wheels are extended to change a wheel track between the
first and second extendable wheels. This extension may be achieved
remotely from the first and second extendable wheels.
[0055] A portable intra-aortic balloon pump according to one
example embodiment of the invention includes a compressor, a
pneumatic isolator and a fill system. The pneumatic isolator is
operatively associated with the compressor and includes a membrane
that separates the pneumatic isolator into a drive side and a
patient side. Movement of the membrane provides for inflation and
deflation of an intra-aortic balloon when an intra-aortic balloon
is in fluid communication with the intra-aortic balloon pump. The
fill system supplies pressurized gas to the patient side and
includes a fill manifold. The fill manifold includes an internal
reservoir, one or more valves for controlling gas supply to the
patient side, a pressurized gas source, and one or more valves for
allowing fluid communication between the internal reservoir and the
pressurized gas source to fill the internal reservoir.
[0056] According to an example embodiment, the pressurized gas
source is external to the intra-aortic balloon pump.
[0057] According to an example embodiment, the internal reservoir
has an internal volume of about 50 cubic centimeters to about 400
cubic centimeters.
[0058] According to an example embodiment, the internal reservoir
is internally mounted in the intra-aortic balloon pump.
[0059] According to an example embodiment, the internal reservoir
is a permanently integrated component of the intra-aortic balloon
pump.
[0060] According to an example embodiment, the internal reservoir
is free of a valve integral thereto.
[0061] According to an example embodiment, the internal reservoir
is a tank.
[0062] According to an example embodiment, the gas is helium and
the pressurized gas source is a replaceable helium tank including a
valve integral thereto.
[0063] According to an example embodiment, a connector is
positioned on an exterior surface of the intra-aortic balloon pump
for connecting to the pressurized gas source.
[0064] According to an example embodiment, the pressurized gas
source is a helium tank mounted to a cart, the intra-aortic balloon
pump is configured to reversibly dock to the cart, pneumatic
connectors are located on both the cart and intra-aortic balloon
pump to establish a pneumatic coupling therebetween and to further
allow for the helium tank mounted to the cart to refill the
internal reservoir with helium.
[0065] According to an example embodiment, the invention further
includes a tank frame for protecting and supporting a portable
tank, wherein the gas is helium and the secondary pressurized gas
source is the replaceable tank mounted to the tank frame.
[0066] A portable intra-aortic balloon pump system according to one
example embodiment of the invention includes an intra-aortic
balloon pump for inflating and deflating an intra-aortic balloon
catheter when connected to the intra-aortic balloon pump; a first
tank connected to the intra-aortic balloon pump for supplying gas
to the intra-aortic balloon pump to enable inflation and deflation
of the intra-aortic balloon catheter; and a recharge tank
connectable to the first tank to fill the first tank.
[0067] According to an example embodiment, the first tank is
integral with the intra-aortic balloon pump.
[0068] According to an example embodiment, the system comprises a
wheeled cart. The intra-aortic balloon pump and the first tank are
mounted on the wheeled cart.
[0069] According to an example embodiment, the recharge tank is
pneumatically connectable to the first tank.
[0070] According to an example embodiment, the wheeled cart
includes a pneumatic fitting engaging the intra-aortic balloon pump
to allow for recharging of the first tank.
[0071] According to an example embodiment, the recharge tank is
mounted on the wheeled cart or a portable holder of the system.
[0072] According to an example embodiment, the recharge tank is
mounted on the portable holder, wherein the portable holder
includes a base connected to a frame for securing the recharge
tank.
[0073] According to an example embodiment, the portable holder
further includes a strap for supporting the recharge tank.
[0074] According to an example embodiment, the first tank is
connected to a patient side of an intra-aortic balloon pump.
[0075] According to an example embodiment, the first tank is
smaller than the recharge tank.
[0076] According to an example embodiment, the system includes a
fill manifold capable of connecting the recharge tank to the first
tank.
[0077] According to an example embodiment, the recharge tank has an
integral valve.
[0078] According to an example embodiment, the wheeled cart
includes a cord that draws power from a first power source external
to the system to supply power to the intra-aortic balloon pump.
[0079] According to an example embodiment, the cord is retractable
relative to the wheeled cart.
[0080] According to an example embodiment, the intra-aortic balloon
pump is removably mounted to the wheeled cart and includes a first
power source and second power source to supply power to the
intra-aortic balloon pump.
[0081] According to an example embodiment, the first and second
power sources are selected from the group consisting of a battery
and an AC to DC converter.
[0082] According to an example embodiment, the first power source
is a battery and wherein the second power source is an AC to DC
converter.
[0083] A method for maintaining a volume of gas in an intra-aortic
balloon pump system according to one example embodiment of the
invention includes an intra-aortic balloon pump system that
includes an intra-aortic balloon pump for inflating and deflating
an intra-aortic balloon catheter when connected to the intra-aortic
balloon pump; a first tank connected to the intra-aortic balloon
pump for supplying gas to the intra-aortic balloon pump to enable
inflation and deflation of the intra-aortic balloon catheter; and a
recharge tank connectable to the to the first tank. The method
involves the step of supplying gas from the recharge tank to the
first tank.
[0084] According to an example method, the gas is supplied to the
first tank to recharge the first tank after gas is leaked from the
first tank.
[0085] According to an example method, the method further involves
sensing when gas falls below a predetermined threshold in at least
one of the intra-aortic balloon catheter and the first tank and
using the recharge tank to replenish the gas in at least one of the
intra-aortic balloon catheter and the first tank.
[0086] Reference throughout this specification to "an embodiment"
or "an exemplary embodiment" or the like means that a particular
feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with
the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the
present invention. Thus, the appearances of these phrases in
various places throughout this specification are not necessarily
all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular
features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any
suitable manner in one or more embodiments
[0087] Reference throughout this specification to a "carrier" means
any body, object, device, assembly, etc. that can he integral to or
supported by a wheeled device or system. A carrier may also be a
wheeled and portable medical system, such as an intra-aortic
balloon pump.
[0088] Reference throughout this specification to a "pump unit"
refers to a medical system comprising a pump. An example of a "pump
unit" is an intra-aortic balloon pump.
[0089] Reference throughout this specification to "wheel track"
means the side-to-side horizontal distance spanning two wheels or
wheel groupings. The "wheel track" of an object is generally
perpendicular to the direction the object's normal travel path.
"Wheel base" means generally the front-to-back horizontal distance
of a front and rear set of wheels, wheel pairs, or wheel groupings.
As for a wheel grouping or wheel pair, the wheel base shall be
considered the distance between the mid-point of the wheel pairs or
groupings, wherein each wheel, wheel pair, or wheel grouping is
capable of supporting a load.
[0090] Additionally, for purposes of the description hereinafter,
the words "upper," "lower," "right," "left," "vertical,"
"horizontal," "top," "bottom," "lateral," "longitudinal," "axial,"
and like terms, if used, shall relate to the invention, as it is
oriented in the Figures. It is to be understood that the invention
may assume many alternative variations and embodiments except where
expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood
that the specific devices and embodiments illustrated in the
accompanying drawings and described herein are simply example
embodiments of the invention.
[0091] Additionally, the word "processor" can be used
interchangeably with "controller" and CPU and control unit.
[0092] Example embodiments of the present invention are described
in more detail below with reference to the Figures. The foregoing
description and examples have been set forth as mere illustrations
and are not intended to be limiting. Each of the disclosed aspects
and embodiments may be considered individually or in combination
with other aspects, embodiments, and variations thereof. The steps
of the methods described herein are not confined to any particular
order of performance.
BRIEF DESCRIPTON OF THE DRAWINGS
[0093] FIG. 1 is a rear perspective view of an IABP in a cart-based
configuration according to an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention.
[0094] FIGS. 2A and 2B are side elevation views of the IABP of FIG.
1 shown without the intra-aortic balloon catheter and with a
monitor attached in FIG. 2A and detached in FIG. 2B.
[0095] FIG. 3 is a magnified partial view of the monitor support
structure in FIG. 2B.
[0096] FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of the IABP of FIG. 4
shown without the intra-aortic balloon catheter.
[0097] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the IABP of FIG. 4 with the
pump unit partially removed from the cart.
[0098] FIG. 6 is a rear perspective view of the IABP of FIG. 4 with
the pump unit fully removed from the cart.
[0099] FIG. 7 is a side elevation view of the IABP of FIG. 5.
[0100] FIG. 8 is a side elevation view of the IABP of FIG. 5 with
the pump unit fully removed from the cart and placed on a ground
surface.
[0101] FIG. 9 is a side elevation view of the pump unit in a
stand-alone configuration.
[0102] FIG. 10A is a magnified partial view taken about dashed
border 160 in FIG. 8.
[0103] FIG. 10B is a magnified partial view taken about dashed
border 160' in FIG. 9.
[0104] FIG. 11 is tilted elevation view of the pump unit in tow by
an operator.
[0105] FIG. 12A is a perspective view of a pump unit according to
an example embodiment of the present invention.
[0106] FIG. 12B is a perspective view of the pump unit of FIG. 12A
with a monitor adapter protruding from atop surfaced, wheels
expanded, and handle extended.
[0107] FIG. 13A is a rear perspective view of the pump unit of FIG.
12A.
[0108] FIG. 13B is a rear perspective view of the pump unit of FIG.
12B.
[0109] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the pump unit of FIG. 11
with the monitor removed.
[0110] FIG. 15 is a rear view of a carrier portion of an exemplary
embodiment of the present invention with both the wheels and handle
in a closed or contracted arrangement.
[0111] FIG. 16 is a rear view of a carrier portion of an exemplary
embodiment of the present invention with both the wheels and handle
in an extended or expanded arrangement.
[0112] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the carrier of FIG. 16.
[0113] FIG. 18 is a magnified sectional partial view of FIG. 15
taken about border 182.
[0114] FIG. 19 is a magnified partial view of FIG. 15 taken about
border 182.
[0115] FIG. 20 is a magnified partial view of FIG. 16 taken about
border 184.
[0116] FIG. 21 is perspective view of a carrier according to an
example embodiment of the present invention with the handle and
wheel assemblies retracted.
[0117] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the carrier of FIG. 21 with
the handle and wheel assemblies extended.
[0118] FIG. 23A is a side view of a reversible latching mechanism
shown in a locked state.
[0119] FIG. 23B is a side view of a reversible latching mechanism
shown in an unlocked state.
[0120] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of an example embodiment of a
medical pump system according to the present invention.
[0121] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of an example embodiment of a
medical pump system according to the present invention.
[0122] FIG. 26 is a schematic diagram of an IABP pneumatic system
of an embodiment of a medical system.
[0123] FIG. 27 is an additional schematic diagram of a fill
manifold of FIG. 26.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
[0124] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a multi-format
modular medical system 4 configured, for example, to monitor and/or
provide therapy to patients. As illustrated in FIG. 1, modular
medical system 4 is a multi-format intra-aortic balloon pump
("IABP") with a transportable pump unit 10 removably docked to a
cart 9 and communicating with a monitor 64. However, the pump unit
10 can be replaced with another type of medical device requiring,
for example, a transport mode with access to a monitor, such as an
ultra-sound machine or a circulatory support device.
[0125] The cart 9 has a front side 108, a rear side 106, and a
wheel arrangement 79. The medical system 4 may be used, e.g.,
patient bedside in a hospital, with the pump unit 10 docked as
shown in FIG. 1. The pump unit 10 may also be removed from the cart
9 for transport and used to deliver therapy alongside of and/or
independent of the cart 9, as illustrated in FIGS. 6, 9, and 11. As
detailed below, and illustrated in FIGS. 13A, 13B, and 14, a wheel
assembly 14 of the pump unit 10 may be expanded prior to transport
to improve tracking and stability for the pump unit 10.
[0126] As recognized by one skilled in the art, IABPs are used to
inflate and deflate an intra-aortic balloon 60 on a distal end of a
balloon catheter 62. The balloon catheter 62 is inserted into a
blood vessel of a patient and used to support the patient's heart.
As detailed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,241,706, herein incorporated by
reference in its entirety, the pump unit 10 includes multiple
components (not all shown), such as a pump 290 (as shown in FIG.
24) (also referred to as a compressor), a control unit (250,252), a
monitor 64 with an operator input interface 66 and display 68, a
patient connection interface panel 140, and a power supply 240. The
monitor 64 and the pump unit 10 communicate through an electronic
interface such as a wire 70. The modular medical system 4 also
includes a drip bag holder 85 supported by a shaft 87 and
configured to hold an infusion bag (not shown). The interface panel
140 may be used to connect to patient electrocardiogram (ECG)
leads, while the display 68 on monitor 64 is intended for relaying
patient information to the IABP operator. Operators may control and
calibrate the pump unit 10 through input interface 66. The display
68 may optionally be a fixed unit or a collapsible assembly capable
of folding along the path of arc 67.
[0127] Because medical system 4 is commonly used in a hospital
setting, it includes cart 9 configured for movement on generally
flat floors. An operator may move or reposition the modular medical
system 4 within a hospital, for example, by using handle 82 located
on the rear side 106, or handle 86 located on the front side
108.
[0128] Swivel or universal wheel arrangement 79 attached to the
bottom or base of the cart 9 facilitates movement of cart 9. Wheel
arrangement 79 comprises a plurality of swivel wheels (72, 74, 76,
and 78) (also referred to as wheel sets or casters) located at the
corners of the base of the modular medical system 4. The wheel sets
(72, 74, 76, and 78) are configured to lock through a lock release
arm 75 to prevent unintended rolling. Wheel arrangement 79 includes
a wheelbase 110 between front and rear wheel sets 74 and 76, while
a front wheel track 112 and rear wheel track 114 spans the
distances between the midpoints of wheel sets 74, 78 and 76, 72
respectively.
[0129] The medical system 4 is modular and configurable for use in
non-hospital settings or in transfers to or between hospitals. For
example, the pump unit 10 may be removed from cart 9 and used as a
portable stand-alone IABP device independent of the larger cart 9.
The smaller footprint, lighter weight, and greater portability of
the pump unit 10, as compared to the medical system 4 as a whole,
add convenience for ambulatory helicopter crews and healthcare
practitioners when transporting patients and their medical
equipment, for example, between a hospital and non-hospital
setting.
[0130] As illustrated in FIGS. 2A, 2B and 3, monitor 64 is
reversibly attached to a monitor adapter 99, which may be integral
with a cart-based monitor support 100 configured for complete or
partial rotation about an axis 136. FIG. 2B shows monitor 64
removed and detached from the monitor adapter 99, the details of
which are more specifically detailed in partial view FIG. 3. As
illustrated in FIG. 3, the monitor adapter 99 extends upwards from
a monitor support surface 102 on the monitor support 100. The
monitor support 100 optionally may have a mechanical boss 104 or
protrusion that prevents monitor 64 from rotating about the axis
138 of monitor adapter 99. As illustrated in FIG. 2A, monitor
support 100 including monitor 64 is rotatable about axis 136. The
monitor adapter 99 removably snaps into a recess (not shown) on a
bottom surface of the monitor 64.
[0131] FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of the medical system 4
with the pump unit 10 stored in cavity 11 (shown in FIG. 6) within
the cart 9. The cart 9 has an aspect ratio similar to that of pump
unit 10 so that the pump unit 10 blends into the cart 9 when inside
cavity 11. Pump unit 10 has a smaller size and slimmer aspect ratio
than cart 9 so that pump unit 10 may slide horizontally into and
out of a cavity 11 of cart 9. The pump unit 10 has a handle 82 used
to assist with insertion and removal from cart 9.
[0132] As can be seen in FIG. 6, cavity 11 has a width 116
sufficient to accommodate a minor width 118 of pump unit 10. Cavity
11 further includes a bottom surface 126, an inner sidewall 124,
and an upper inner surface or sidewall 129. Cavity 11 is sized and
dimensioned to accommodate with minimal clearance pump unit 10,
such that a side wall 122 of pump unit 10 may be slidingly engaged
with cavity 11 to help resist side-to-side movement and stability.
Handle 82 is attached to the, pump unit 10, extends outward, and is
slidingly received into handle pockets 125 within the cavity 11,
thereby providing additional stability and support to the pump unit
10. The outer surface of the handle 82 is contiguous with the outer
surfaces 84 of the cart 9 when the pump unit 10 is housed in cavity
11, as shown in FIG. 4.
[0133] FIGS. 5 and 6 depict removal of the pump unit 10 from the
cart 9. In FIG. 5, the pump unit 10 is partially slid out of cavity
11 in cart 9. In FIG. 6, the pump unit 10 is completely removed
from the cart 9 but is still tethered to the monitor 64 connected
to the cart 9. While pump unit 10 is partially extended from the
cavity 11 of cart 9, as shown in FIG. 5, access is provided to a
top portion of die pump unit 10 allowing, for example, monitor 64
to be mounted to extendable monitor mount 130. Wire 70 may be moved
through a slot 81 of support surfaces 73a, 73b, which also function
to provide for an additional handle. Therefore, the pump unit 10
can be removed from the cart 9 without requiring the wire 70 to be
disconnected from either of the pump unit 10 or monitor 64. As
shown in FIG. 6, monitor 64 remains mounted to the monitor support
100 of cart 9, but can be moved to the selectively extendable
monitor mount 130 upon activation of a release mechanism 132 that
can extend the monitor mount 130.
[0134] Pump unit 10 is reversibly secured into cart 9 as follows. A
reversible latching mechanism positioned on the underside of the
cart 9, accessible from the rear side 106 (the same side of the
cart 9 in which pump unit 10 may be removed from the cavity 11) of
cart 9, locks into the cavity-facing side of pump unit 10. An
exemplary schematic representation of the latching mechanism is
shown in FIGS. 23A and 23B.
[0135] The latching mechanism comprises a latch 206 associated with
cart 9 through the back side 197 of cavity 11. The latch 206 is
connected to a handle 202 through a tether 208. The handle 202 is
located on the bottom of cart 9 and is preferably spring biased to
a locked position wherein latch engages back plate 18 of pump unit
10 through a latch receiving recess 214, as shown in FIG. 23A. FIG.
23B shows latch 206 downwardly shifted in recess 214 as a result of
a force applied in the direction shown by arrow 218 to the handle
202 and against the bias of the spring 216. When latch 206 is
disengaged from the pump unit 10, pump unit 10 may be moved from a
first state (secured in cart 9) as shown in FIG. 4 to a second
transition state (partially removed from cart 9) as shown in FIG.
5, to a final or third state fully removed from cart 9 shown in
FIG. 6. The horizontal or lateral movement can be accomplished by
an operator applied force to handle 82 in a direction depicted by
arrow 128 in FIGS. 4 and 7.
[0136] FIGS. 7 through 11 are side views of the medical system 4
illustrating removal of the pump unit 10 from cart 9 starting with
a cart-based configuration and transitioning to a final stand-alone
configuration. Similar to FIG. 5, FIG. 7 illustrates pump unit 10
as partially removed from cart 9 through the application of a force
applied to the handle 82 in the direction 128. Third handle 83
(shown lying flat and recessed in FIG. 7, and upright and extended
in FIG. 8) is located on the top of pump unit 10 and enables an
operator to lower the pump unit 10 to the ground or floor surface
S. This is especially beneficial given that IABPs may weight more
than 70 or 80 lbs (32-36 kg), and may not be easily movable,
especially for petite health care providers.
[0137] Additionally shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 are features of the pump
unit 10 that benefit usage for the stand-alone configuration. These
features are neither accessible nor capable of being actuated while
the pump unit 10 is fully docked in the cavity 11 of cart 9. Such
elements include (i) an extendable monitor adapter 99, (ii) a
retractable handle assembly 13, and (iii) an integral wheel
assembly 14 that provides for an adjustable wheel track.
[0138] As shown in FIG. 9, monitor 64 may be attached to monitor
adapter 130, best shown in FIG. 5-6, located on pump unit 10 after
the monitor 64 has been removed from monitor adapter 99 of cart 9
(see FIG. 2B). FIGS. 10A and 10B are views taken about border 160
and 160' in FIGS. 8 and 9, respectively, and further illustrate
monitor adapter 130 in both a recessed position below surface 166
(FIG. 10A) and an extended position above surface 166 (FIG. 101B).
Monitor adapter 130 is disc-shaped (but can take on other shapes),
and adapts to a conforming size and shaped structure on the bottom
of monitor 64 designed specifically to removably accommodate the
adapter 130. Additionally depicted in FIG. 1.0B is a monitor
support surface 102 that provides support to the bottom of monitor
64 when positioned about the monitor adapter 130. Support surface
102 and monitor adapter 99 both are connected to a spring-loaded
post assembly 172 that is configured to reversibly extend a top
portion of support surface 102 to a distance 168 (greater than one
inch) above surface 166 upon activation of a release mechanism 132.
When moved to its recessed condition, a latch (not shown) retains
the support surface 102 in it the recessed condition until
actuated. In its recessed position, support surface 102 does not
impede positioning of pump unit 10 into or out of cavity 11 of cart
9.
[0139] The pump unit 10, when separated from the cart 9, is
designed to be operable as a standalone unit. As apparent from
FIGS. 5 through 9, the pump unit 10 has a slim profile which is
beneficial for docking to the cart 9. When ECG leads and catheters
are connected between the patient and pump unit's panel, the slim
profile enables the interface panel 140 to be placed proximate to a
patient in a minimally intrusive manner. Additionally, having the
interface panel 140 extending from a short or narrow side of the
pump unit 10 is beneficial for the cart-based format of the IABP.
However, when the pump unit 10 is transported in a tilted
dolly-like manner as shown in FIG. 11, it is beneficial that the
cables and catheter tubing (not shown) extending from the interface
panel 140 are on a side of the pump unit 10 opposite the wheels.
This prevents the cables and catheter tubing from dragging along
the ground or becoming caught in the wheels of the pump unit 10 or
the patient's stretcher or wheelchair. It also helps the operator
avoid tripping over the lead and catheter cables and tubing.
[0140] The pump unit 10, when separated from the cart 9, is
designed to operate as a standalone transportable unit using
carrier 12. However, to place a wheel assembly on side of the pump
unit opposite to the location of the interface panel 140 provides a
challenge because the slim shape of pump unit 10 would require a
small wheel track due to the need to fit within the cavity 11 of
the cart 9. To improve stability during transporting of the pump
unit 10 when in a stand-alone format, a carrier 12 comprising an
extendable and integral wheel assembly 14 has been discovered and
adaptable for usage in a manner consistent with the embodiments
disclosed herein. Located on the pump unit 10 towards the side
opposite the interface panel 140 is a carrier 12 with an integral
wheel assembly 14 for selective transport of the pump unit 10 when
in a stand-alone configuration. The carrier 12 is connected or
integral to a frame 17 or chassis of the pump unit 10, e.g., along
its back side 21, and includes a retractable handle assembly 13 and
integral wheel assembly 14. The handle assembly 13 can he used to
tow pump unit 10 in a stand-alone configuration, similar to a
transport dolly or upright wheeled luggage. In other embodiments,
the wheel assembly may be non-integral or reversibly connected to
the frame 17 or chassis.
[0141] To facilitate transport, the pump unit 10 and carrier 12
have an axially extending wheel assembly 14 that can be extended
remotely through the use of a handle or an actuator. FIGS. 12A-12B
and 13A-13B further illustrate the pump unit 10 with a carrier 12
and an integral wheel assembly 14 capable of establishing a first
and second stand-alone configuration. In FIGS. 12A, 15 and 18,
wheels 22 and 24 are shown in the first stand-alone configuration
retracted towards and flush with sidewall 122. When the wheel
assembly 14 expands, wheel track and thus stability of the pump
unit 10 during transport is increased from a first dimension WT1
shown in FIGS. 18 and 19 to a second dimension WT2 shown in FIG.
20. During tilted wheel transport, both wheels 22, 24 provide
wheeled support for carrier 12 in the expanded or retracted
positions.
[0142] Similar to FIG. 11, FIG. 14 shows the pump unit 10 in a
tilted position and in the expanded configuration (with monitor 64
not shown), consistent with how carrier 12 may be used during
transport and in the stand-alone modular configuration. FIG. 14
further shows wheel assembly 14 in an expanded arrangement with a
larger dimension wheel track WT2, larger than the first dimensioned
wheel track WT1 shown in FIG. 13A.
[0143] Wheel assembly 14 can be extended or retracted remotely
through the use of a handle or an actuator. For the purposes of
this disclosure, "remote" may relate to locations beyond a local
proximity, such as beyond the wheel area or local proximity of
wheel assembly 14 as demarcated by reference border 199 in FIG. 11.
The use of handle grip 16 of handle assembly 13 to expand the wheel
track of wheels 22, 24 allows safe and uninterrupted portability of
the pump unit 10 during tilted wheeled transport without requiring
the user to pause, stoop down, or otherwise interrupt the delivery
of patient care and monitoring.
[0144] In FIGS. 12A and 13A, handle grip 16 of retractable handle
assembly 13 is shown to be retracted or otherwise moved to a first
position, i.e., towards axis A in the direction 188. In a second
stand-alone configuration shown in FIGS. 12B and 15B, wheels 22, 24
are extended away from each other and side wall 122 caused in part
by movement of handle grip 16 remotely from wheel assembly 14 to a
second position. Remote movement of handle grip 16 preferably
involves the extension of the handle in a direction 186 away from
axis A, although other embodiments and arrangements are
possible.
[0145] As can be seen in FIGS. 12B and 15B, when the handle
assembly 13 is extended to the second position (e.g., away from
axis A), wheels 22, 24 of wheel assembly 14 are configured to
extend or expand outwards from each other, preferably in an
automatic arrangement, manually controlled remotely from the wheel
locations. As an alternative to such manual control, motors or
non-manual sources of energy may be used to control the wheel
movement towards and away from each other.
[0146] The mechanisms for controlling the wheel assembly 14 with
the handle assembly 13 will be explained in greater detail. FIGS.
15 and 16 show the carrier 12 attached to a rear portion of pump
unit 10 in both extended and retracted positions, respectively. In
FIG. 15, the wheel assembly 14 and handle assembly 13 are retracted
and are nearly flush with side wall 122 (FIG. 13B) and top surface
166 of pump unit 10, respectively. In FIG. 16, the wheel assembly
14 and handle assembly 13 are extended.
[0147] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the carrier 12 shown in
FIG. 16. With the rest of pump unit 10 removed, the mechanism used
to expand and retract the wheel assembly 14 is exposed. The handle
assembly 13 of FIG. 17 includes a handle grip 16 and multiple
generally parallel and telescoping tube-like posts 16a, 16b, 16c,
16d, 16e, and 16f. Alternatively, one telescoping tube-like post
may be employed. More or less posts may be used depending on the
desired length and intended compactness of the extended handle
assembly 13. Also, although shown having a U-shape, the handle
assembly 13 may have different shapes and configurations. For
example, the handle assembly 13 may comprise a single line of one
or more telescoping posts.
[0148] Referring to FIG. 17, posts 16c and 16f are connected to a
back plate 18, which closes a back end of the pump unit 10 when
connected to the pump unit connector plate 20. The handle assembly
13 may include a mechanism for reversibly locking handle grip 16 in
the extended and/or retracted positions with respect to all or a
portion of posts 16a-16f. Such mechanisms are well known in the
art, including, for example, a depressible button 19. Depressible
button 19 may control the engagement of posts 16d and/or 16a to one
or more of posts 16b, 16c, 16e, and 16f, and thus the handle 16 can
be used to selectively engage and disengage the locking mechanism.
Button 19 thereby allows for handle 16 to be positioned with
respect to one or more positions to all or a portion of posts
16a-16f. Posts 16a-16f may also include spring biased buttons or
detents on their ends which interlock the posts in the extended
position until the buttons are depressed and/or the posts are
forced back into each.
[0149] Wheel assembly 14 includes two wheels 22, 24 mounted on half
axles 26, 28. The half axles 26, 28 rotate about their longitudinal
axis, and optionally may share a common axis A within retainer (or
guide) 30 as the pump unit 10 is wheeled about. The half axles 26,
28 slide along axis A within retainer 30 as the wheel assembly 14
is expanded and retracted thereby adjusting the wheel track.
Preferably, the half axles do not rotate, but the wheels 22, 24 are
configured to rotate with respect to axles 26, 28. A cut-out 32 in
retainer 30 exposes the innermost end of each half axle 26, 28.
[0150] Half axle 26 is pivotally connected to linkage 34 and half
axle 28 is pivotally connected to linkage 36, both of which are
pivotally connected to a guide plate 38. Guide plate 38 is fixedly
connected to posts 16c and 16f. Guide plate 38 is slidingly
connected to back plate 18 via guides 40, 42 which slide in slots
44, 46 of guide plate 38. Linkages 34, 36 connect to innermost
portions of half axles 26, 28 and extend through an elongate
opening 41 on the top of retainer 30.
[0151] When handle grip 16 of handle assembly 13 is fully
retracted, or directly or indirectly interlocked with posts 16c and
16f and compressed towards axis A along direction 188, half axles
26, 28 are forced towards each other moving wheels 22, 24 laterally
towards sidewall 122, preferably fully or partially into recesses
48, 50. Similarly, when handle grip 16 of handle assembly 13 is
extended, or directly or indirectly interlocked with posts 16c and
16f and extended away from axis A along direction 186, half axles
26, 28 are forced away from each other moving wheels 22, 24
laterally outwards of recesses 48, 50 and away from sidewall 122 on
both sides of the pump unit 10. This provides for expansion of the
footprint and wheel track for increased stability of the pump unit
10 during tilted wheeled transport.
[0152] FIG. 18 is a supplemental view illustrating a partial cross
section of carrier 12 taken about border 182 of FIG. 17, sectioned
through axis A. As shown in FIG. 18, half-axles 26, 28 are
preferably solid in cross section to provide for strength and
resistance to bending when cantilevered beyond the left and right
contacting surface of retainer 30.
[0153] FIGS. 19 and 20 illustrate partial views of FIGS. 15 and 16
taken about borders 182 and 184 respectively. Both FIGS. 19 and 20
show a bottom surface 190 of pump unit 10, or carrier 12. In the
embodiments shown in FIGS. 19 and 20, when the bottom surface 190
rests on the flat surface S, the pump unit 10 and/or carrier 12 is
allowed to rest with a clearance H established beneath the bottom
of wheels 22, 24. This static clearance provides for a operator to
remotely adjust wheels 22, 24 of wheel assembly 14 from a first
wheel track dimension WT1 to a second wheel track dimension WT2 in
an unencumbered manner (i.e., absent friction caused by surface S).
Furthermore, wheels 22 and 24 remain parallel to their first
retracted configuration when moved to their second expanded
configuration. Alternatively, only one of wheels 22 and 24 may be
configured to move from the first to the second position, and still
achieve the improved and expanded wheel track as illustrated
herein.
[0154] FIG. 21 illustrates an alternative carrier 52 consistent
with embodiments of the present disclosure. The alternative carrier
may be used with all embodiments of the pump unit 10 and cart 9, as
demonstrated in the Figures. Unlike carrier 12 illustrated for
example in FIGS. 14 through 17, which uses linkages directly
connected to a guide plate, carrier 52 uses linkages 34, 36
connected directly to post 16b and 16e, whose lower ends have a
tube-like shape. FIG. 22 shows the carrier 52 with the handle
assembly 13 and wheel assembly 14 extended. With the handle
assembly 13 fully extended, linkages 34, 36 butt up against stops
54, 56.
[0155] In an alternative embodiment capable of being utilized with
either carrier 12 or carrier 52, the wheels 22, 24 may be decoupled
from the handle assembly 13. In other words, extending and
retracting the handle assembly 13 will not cause the wheels 22, 24
move in and out of recesses 48, 50. Rather, a servo or motor (e.g.,
placed between the half axles 26, 28) may be used to laterally
shift half axles 26, 28 back and forth along axis A. The servo or
motor may be manually triggered or remotely triggered. For example,
a button or switch located anywhere on the pump unit 10, including
handles connected thereto, may be used to manually trigger the
servo or motor. Alternatively, extension of the handle assembly 13
may trigger the switch and cause the motor or servo to shift the
wheels 22, 24 apart. In an alternative embodiment, a remote control
may be used to trigger the servo or motor. Optionally, an automated
switch configured to detect a parameter of the cart 9 (such as when
the carrier is in proximity to the cart) can perform the
triggering.
[0156] In yet another embodiment, the pump unit 10 may have one or
more sensors capable of interpreting a vertical orientation of the
pump unit 10, as well as whether or not the pump unit 10 is inside
cavity 11 of cart 9. The sensor may be triggered when the pump unit
10 is tilted (as in FIGS. 13 and 16) to an acute angle 103,
preferably in a range of less than eighty-five degrees, more
preferably less than seventy-five degrees. Upon triggering of the
sensor, a controller will activate the motor or servo to expand the
wheel assembly. This can occur during to or prior to actual
movement of pump unit 10 in the stand-alone configuration.
[0157] A feature that further modularizes medical system 4 is the
utilization of a dedicated reservoir or tank to supply a shuttle
gas to a patient side of a pneumatic isolator. In use, the
intra-aortic balloon pump inflates and deflates an intra-aortic
balloon through the use of the pneumatic isolator and compressor.
Helium is the gas of choice for the patient side due to its low
density and viscosity. Gradual helium loss occurs when the balloon
pump is used continuously and requires replenishing on an as-needed
basis. In an example embodiment of the present invention, pump unit
10 may be configured to have its own dedicated helium reservoir or
tank 286, as shown through cutaway 232 in FIG. 24 that functions as
a first pressurized gas source for supplying gas to the patient
side 326 of the pneumatic isolator 320. The dedicated tank may be
sized smaller than typical tanks currently utilized in intra-aortic
balloon pumps for periodic exchange or replacement. Additionally,
the dedicated tank may be simplified to be directly connected to a
fill manifold, thereby reducing components that would otherwise add
mass to the intra-aortic balloon pump, potentially rendering a pump
unit less suitable for ambulatory helicopter transport than
otherwise desirable. Further in one embodiment, the dedicated tank
may be a permanently integrated component of the pump unit 10
wherein the dedicated tank is irremovable or removable with
difficulty so as to require partial or complete disassembly of the
pump unit 10.
[0158] To be usable both inside and outside a hospital setting, a
fill system 338 within the pump unit 10 may be relatively small to
accommodate short-term ambulatory helicopter use as well as
longer-term hospital use. In an exemplary arrangement, in addition
to a dedicated tank 286 that provides a sufficient amount of helium
for limited short-term use (e.g., three days of normal balloon
pumping therapy), the fill system 338 may further include one or
more recharge tanks that functions as a second pressurized gas
source which can be removably coupled to the dedicated tank 286 to
replenish dedicated tank 286 as needed. In one embodiment, the
recharge tank may be supported on the wheeled cart or a portable
tank holder, as illustrated in FIGS. 24-25.
[0159] In an example embodiment, refilling of the dedicated tank
286 may be carried out with the assistance of a recharge tank
located remote from the pump unit 10. Preferably, the recharge tank
may optionally have an integral valve, and be sized larger than the
dedicated tank 286 used in the pump unit, e.g., sized larger than
about a half liter of internal volume. In one embodiment, the
recharge tank may have a volume of about 0.5 to about 1.5 liters.
Exemplary recharge tanks include part numbers 0075-00-0024-03,
0075-00-0034-03, 0075-02-0001-03, 0075-02-0002-03, and 0202-00-0104
offered by Maquet Cardiovascular LLC, Wayne, N.J., 07470.
[0160] FIG. 24 shows by example a cart based recharge tank 288
(seen through cutaway 230). The recharge tank 288 may be stored
internal to the cart, or attachable to an external portion thereof.
In one embodiment, the recharge tank is located at or near the base
of cart 9 (as shown in cutaway 230 of FIG. 24) and supported on a
slidable surface of cart 9, such as a slidable tray (not shown). In
a first position, the tray is stowed within an internal cavity the
cart 9, as shown in FIG. 24. When the tray is extended to a second
position protruding out from an exterior surface of the cart 9, a
user is able to manipulate or replace recharge tank 288 as
necessary. The tank 288 may also be readily and reversible
connectable to pneumatic tubing or fittings within the cart 9
through a connector integral to the recharge tank 288.
[0161] In an alternative embodiment, the recharge tank 288 may be
separate from the, pump unit 10 or cart 9. For example, as shown in
FIG. 25, a stand-alone tank holder 200 is enclosed in a frame 201
resting on a base 206, both of which serve to protect tank a
recharge tank 210 from damage. Preferably a handle 207 is integral
to the frame 201 to facilitate manual transport of the tank holder
200. The tank holder 200 also includes a strap 208 to further
secure the tank 210 inside the holder 200.
[0162] The recharge tanks are useful for readily connecting to the,
pump unit 10 with ease, quickness, and minimal user intervention.
More specifically, helium in tank 286 may be replenished using
helium in tank 288 when the pump unit 10 is docked to cart 9.
Alternatively, the helium in tank 286 may be replenished using
helium in the stand-alone portable tank 210 when the pump unit 10
is taken out of cart 9.
[0163] For example, as shown in FIG. 25 stand-alone tank 210 has
near the top region of the tank holder 200 a tubing connector 222,
a valve 202 and regulator 203. Tubing 212 extends from the tubing
connector 222 and is configured to connect tank 210 to dedicated
tank 286 of the pump unit 10 through a pneumatic interface 221 on
the pump unit 10. After the dedicated tank 286 is sufficiently
re-charged with helium, the tubing 222 may be disconnected from the
pump unit 10 and the pump unit 10 can be safely used for a period
of time before requiring an additional helium recharge.
[0164] Alternatively, the stand-alone portable tank 210 or recharge
tank 288 may also be connectable to the pump unit 10 through a
carefully constructed pneumatic interface on both the cart 9 and
the pump unit 10. Pneumatic fittings on pump unit 10 and cart 9 can
be configured to reversibly engage one another and establish fluid
communication when the pump unit 10 is docked to the cart 9.
Preferably, the pump unit 10 should be fully docked in the cart's
cavity 11 when fluid communication is established. When docked, a
pneumatic fitting 220 internal to the cart 9 engages the helium
interface connector 221 on the back side of pump unit 10 to provide
a pneumatic connection and allow for recharging of tank 286.
[0165] Example balloon pump pneumatics are shown in U.S. Pat. No.
8,133,184, herein incorporated by reference in its entirely. A
variation of the pneumatics useful for carrying out the recharging
of the internal tank 286 is described herein. FIG. 26 shows a
schematic representation of a pneumatic system 300 for intra-aortic
balloon pump 10 when connected to an intra-aortic balloon 60 and
balloon catheter 62 through a fill/purge line 330. The IABP
pneumatic system 300 comprises a pneumatic isolator 320 having a
membrane 322 for isolating a patient side 324 from a drive side
326. A drive side pressurized gas source 304 and vacuum source 306
are fluidically connectable to the drive side 326 through pressure
source valve system 314 and vacuum source valve system 316,
respectively. Pressure within the drive side pressurized gas source
304 and vacuum source 306 is controlled by a plurality of valves
(not shown) and one or more compressors 290 (see FIG. 24).
Optionally, a vent 308 may be fluidically connectable to the drive
side 326 of membrane 322 along with a vent valve system 318
positioned between the vent 308 and the pneumatic isolator 320.
[0166] A pneumatic manifold 301 is designed to encompass and manage
the delivery of helium to and from the balloon 60. The pneumatic
manifold 301 comprises a shuttle gas transducer 328 as well as an
isolator valve 332 for controllably isolating a fill manifold 302
from the pneumatic manifold 301. Optionally, the pneumatic manifold
301 may have a dryer (not shown) for removing water vapour from the
gases used on the patient side of the membrane after hours of
continuous use. The fill manifold 302 may be fluidically coupled to
the pneumatic manifold 301 directly (see path 334b) or indirectly
through the patient side 324 of isolator 320 (see path 334a). Valve
332 functions to isolate the pneumatic manifold 301 IABP circuit
with helium from the fill manifold 302.
[0167] In FIG. 27, which shows a fill system 338, includes a fill
manifold 302 has a reservoir or tank 286 (e.g., a helium
reservoir), a first valve arrangement 342, and a second valve
arrangement 344. The first valve arrangement 342 may include one or
more valves located in parallel or series. The second valve
arrangement 344 may comprise a single one-way valve enabling gas
flow towards tank 286. The recharge tank 228 can be fluidically
coupled to the first valve arrangement 342 by the valve coupling
340 e.g. previously described as helium interface connector 221. A
pressure transducer 346 may be employed to ascertain the pressure
in the tank 286 to help monitor when the tank is in need of
refilling. The volume of tank 286 may be chosen based on the amount
of time the pump unit will be used without requiring a refill. The
volume may range, for example, from about 50 cubic centimeters to
about 400 cubic centimeters. A more preferable range is about 100
to about 200 cubic centimeters. A most preferred volume is about
150 cubic centimeters.
[0168] A pressure regulator 343 is located between reservoir tank
286 and the first valve arrangement 342 to limit the pressure
available to the pneumatic manifold 301. The second valve
arrangement 344 allows for recharging the fill volume and pressure
of gases in the reservoir tank 286 when connected to a recharge
tank. One or more connectors or fittings 340 may be utilized in
order to connect the IABP pneumatic system 300 to one or more
previously described recharge configurations. As shown in FIGS. 26
and 27, the cart-based recharge tank and stand-alone recharge tank
configurations are represented as 350 and 360 respectively.
[0169] Another feature that further modularizes medical system 4 is
the utilization of dual power supplies. As with the dual helium
tanks, medical system 4 may be used with our without this feature.
Dual power supplies enable the medical system 4 to be operated as a
cart-based system or as a standalone system. Cart 9 has a power
supply 240 that can be used to power medical system 4 when the pump
unit 10 is integrated with cart 9. Power supply 240 draws current
through an external power supply (e.g., an A/C power supply, wall
outlet), and may convert the voltage from 110 V A/C or 220 V A/C to
a fixed DC voltage (e.g., 15V DC) and provides power to the
components of pump unit 10 and monitor 64. When pump unit 10 is
removed, it can be operated as a standalone system using one or
both of power supplies 248 and 246. Power supply 248 can be a
battery, e.g., a DC lithium-ion battery, or optionally may be an AC
to DC converter capable of outputting DC current from an external
AC power source. Battery-based sources of power facilitate
transportability of pump unit 10 while externally sources of power
provide convenience when the pump unit 10 is near a power outlet.
The dual power supply system is described in detail in U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 13/089,128 entitled "Multi Power Source Power
Supply," which is wholly incorporated by reference herein.
[0170] In an exemplary embodiment, modularity is further enhanced
by shifting data processing, e.g., graphics generation, from one or
more processors in the pump unit 10 to one or more processors in
monitor 64. In prior art IABPs, the video capability was a
640.times.480 monochrome out. Outputting such video graphics
through a long wire was feasible. However, in an exemplary
embodiment, monitor 64 outputs 1024.times.768 full color video
graphics and aliases at 18 bits per pixel. To output such data over
wire 70 of the length existing between the pump unit 10 and cart 9
when separated or integrated, the wire would need to be
prohibitively thick, add weight, and not provide for the
bendability needed to frequently transfer the pump unit 10 from a
stand-alone configuration to a cart-based configuration. To
overcome such issues, a first CPU 252 is included in the pump unit
10 to collect data and communicate with a separate second CPU 250
in the monitor 64 through wire 70. Wire 70 is a cord, e.g., coiled,
including four pairs of power cables and 2 pairs of Ethernet
cables. The CPU 250 in monitor 64 then outputs display lists to a
graphics chip 254 in the monitor 64, which processes and translates
data into viewable graphics displayable on the monitor 64.
[0171] For example, patient data measured using an intra-aortic
balloon catheter 60 (see FIG. 1) is collected by the first CPU in
the pump unit 10 and then transferred to the second CPU 250 in the
monitor 64 via wire 70. This transferred data is then processed by
the second CPU 250 for display of relevant patient information on
the, patient monitor 64, such as an ECG wave or pressure wave. An
example CPU is the Motorola PowerPC CPU, which can be used in both
pump unit 10 and monitor 64. An example graphics chip is an AMD
brand ATI M54 chip. Alternatively, an FPGA (field programmable gate
array) can be used as a single chip solution in monitor 64.
Additionally, the second CPU 250 is used to process user input data
and to execute the pump display interface 68, e.g., touch screen
interface.
[0172] Those skilled in the art can appreciate from the foregoing
description that the present invention can be implemented in a
variety of forms and is not limited to intra-aortic balloon pumps.
The carrier of the present invention can be used and/or connected
to other devices requiring stable transport. Further, the inventive
modularity aspects of the present invention can be applied to other
devices, e.g., medical devices, that would benefit from multiple
configurations suited for different operating conditions and
environments. Therefore, while the embodiments of this invention
have been described in connection with particular examples thereof,
the true scope of the embodiments of the invention should not be so
limited since other modifications and variations will become
apparent to the skilled practitioner upon a study of the drawings
and specification. Such modifications and variations are considered
to be within the purview and scope of the appended claims and their
equivalents.
* * * * *