WO2006053395A1

WO2006053395A1 - Multifunctional transportable modules

Info

Publication number: WO2006053395A1
Application number: PCT/AU2005/001761
Authority: WO
Inventors: Brian Pelerman
Original assignee: Mobile Operating Theatres Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2004-11-22
Filing date: 2005-11-22
Publication date: 2006-05-26

Abstract

A portable self contained field unit (1) capable of moving between a first compact state in which the unit may be transported and a second state in which the unit is expanded to form a room to accommodate a predetermined use; the unit comprising at least; a base (43), side walls (44, 45) and a roof (48). At least the side walls(44, 45) are adjustable to increase the volume of an internal space in the unit defined by said walls (44, 45), roof (48) and base (43) to form said room.

Description

MULTIFUNCTIONAL TRANSPQRTABLE MODULES

BACKGROUND

This invention relates to a multi functional mobile unit for use in field applications such as but not limited to temporary accommodation, medical treatment including surgery, mobile offices and field laboratories.

More particularly the present invention relates to a self contained mobile modular portable station with constructional characteristics which make it suitable for transportation and which may be assembled in remote locations allowing activities to be performed using the station such as medical and surgical treatment of patients in locations in which traditional operating theatres are not available.

Each portable unit comprises a station including the necessary medical and/or surgical equipment and fittings for performing a wide variety of procedures and particularly though not exclusively trauma surgery.

The present invention also relates to a portable modular unit which is capable of loading onto vehicles, trailers, aircraft, ambulances and the like enabling medical personnel to operate on patients on the ground in remote locations and where required, in the air.

The present invention is particularly advantageous where no hospital or medical facilities are available or where makeshift treatment centres and /or operating theatres or rooms are required such as in areas of natural disasters including earthquakes, injury on the battlefield, road trauma. The station may also be useful in circumstances where an emergency surgical procedure is required before an Ambulance can get a patient to hospital.

Although the invention will be predominantly described with reference to its application in field surgery either as an annex to a hospital to supplement existing facilities or in remote locations such as in disaster zones, it will be recognised by persons skilled in the art that the invention has a wide variety of field applications in work or leisure. PRIOR ART

Traditional known facilities used in the emergency treatment of patients do not allow convenient and effective on site treatment beyond the basic facilities available in road and air ambulances and the like. Transportation of patients and the time taken to transport the injured to the nearest hospital where the necessary operations and treatments are to be carried out, create serious treatment limitations. Although field hospitals have been used to enable operations to be carried out at the scene of trauma such as in war zones, natural disasters and accidents causing cases of serious injury this may lead to unnecessary death of a patient due to the time taken in an emergency to set up the facility.

Ambulance and ambulance aircraft are well known and are permanently fitted with medical and surgical equipment to enable the injured to be directly treated at the scene of the incident, so avoiding subjecting them to the risks incurred in emergency transportation before the urgent operation.

ΪΆ addition, in order to effectively cover the vast range of emergency operations on persons suffering as a result of war, fire, epidemics, traffic accidents, and natural events such as earthquakes, avalanches, floods, etc., there is a long felt want to provide a solution to the problem of lack of convenient emergency treatment facilities and more particularly lack of high level field treatment services such as surgery.

There are a wide variety of applications in the leisure, industrial, construction and medical industries which demand field activity might otherwise be conducted in a permanent building. There are also a wide number of activities which can only be performed in the field such as emergency surgery in war zones, natural disasters and the like and geological surveys and investigations.

The prior art teaches use of mobile laboratories and other facilities such as those set up in large vehicles, but it does not teach use of self contained transportable modules which are capable of assembly from a folded configuration to a working configuration. Also, the prior art does not teach the use of such modules in co operation with other like modules of which may be spawned from a mother module. INVENTION

The present invention according to one embodiment seeks to provide a mobile self contained modular unit having characteristics which render the unit suitable for field activities such as medical treatment, temporary accommodation, field survey stations for prospectors, geologists and the like and as a station for performing operations.

The present invention according to one embodiment seeks to provide a mobile modular medical treatment unit having a primary module and at least one other supplementary module expandable into a walled space and which may be annexed to the first said module.

The present invention according to an alternative embodiment, further provides a portable operating station complex with constructional characteristics which make it suitable for transportation and set up at remote locations and which allows medical and surgical treatment of patients in locations in which traditional operating theatres may not available.

Preferably, each portable treatment unit is constituted by the necessary medical and/or surgical equipment and fittings for performing a wide variety of procedures and particularly though not exclusively trauma surgery.

The present invention further relates to a mobile modular assembly;

the assembly comprising, a first module having walls defining an internal space, a second module proportioned to fit within the internal space,

a carriage having a wheel assembly and capable of receiving and retaining thereon each said modules, the first of said modules including means to allow discharge of a second modules;

the second of said modules including means to allow the module to move between a folded non working state and an unfolded working state in which the second module provides a closed work environment. The first or mother module includes an opening through which passes the second module.

The second module includes means to convert walls into a floor and further comprises an expansible envelope which when expended defines an internal space.

Eti another broad form the present invention comprises:

a mobile module capable of use with a mobile carriage assembly;

the assembly comprising, a parent module having walls defining an internal space capable of receiving and retaining therein the mobile module,

a carriage having a wheel assembly and capable of receiving and retaining thereon each said modules, the parent modules including means to allow discharge of the mobile module;

the mobile module including means to allow the module to move between a folded non working state and an unfolded working state in which the mobile module provides a closed work room.

Preferably, the mobile module expands by rotation of side walls onto rotatable side arms which form a foundation on which a floor surface formed by the walls bears. The module further comprises a frame which support a roof . Attached to the roof is an inflatable envelope which expands to provide a sealed environment suitable for such field operations as surgical treatment.

IQ another form the present invention comprises:

an operating table assembly for supporting a body of a patient for medical treatment and the like, the table comprising;

a ground engaging support member having a first ground engaging end and a second end which engages an underside of the table;

the table comprising a plurality of discrete elements which co operate and may be mutually disposed so as to allow an upper surface of the table to assume a plurality of configurations . The configurations including seated, prostrate, single or double arched, rotation about a longitudinal axis and elemental rotation about transverse axes which separate the elements. According to one embodiment, the ground engaging support member has means to allow the table to move relative to the support, the support having at least one degree of freedom. Preferably, the ground engaging support member is capable of movement through said at least one degree of freedom. According to one embodiment the at least one degree of freedom, is axial, torsional rotational and bending movement.

Preferably the operating table is adapted to the second module and is foldable within that module.

The present invention is particularly advantageous where no hospital or medical facilities are available or where makeshift treatment centres are required such as in areas of natural disasters including earthquakes, injury on the battlefield, road trauma.

fii another broad form the present invention comprises: a mobile module capable of use in the performance of surgical and medical procedures on a patient;

the module comprising a housing defining at least one internal space or compartment;

a platform capable of holding a body of a patient and which forms a treatment station,

equipment means associated with, in or on the cart for administration of treatment to a patient,

the housing comprising a mainframe having connected thereto at least one movable panel which is capable of movement between a first state in which the at least one panel encloses said at least one internal space or compartment and a second state in which said at least one panel allow access to said at least one internal space or compartment;

an expansible envelope associated with said module to define when inflated a sealed internal space usable for human endeavour. According to a preferred embodiment the module is adapted to be used in conjunction with and fit inside via an undercarriage a parent module having a wheel base carriage which allows transportation of the assembly so formed by said modules.

Preferably, said assembly is usable in remote locations for the purposes of such emergency treatments as surgery and also as an annex to supplement existing facilities.

The parent module is arranged as a trailer for towing behind a vehicle, self propulsion or loading onto a transport craft such as a heavy vehicle or aircraft. The trailer has ground engaging wheels which allow ground relocation and location adjustment.

In another broad form, the present invention comprises:

a mobile operating theatre including an operating room capable of use in the perfoϊmance of surgical and medical procedures on a patient and a recovery room;

the theatre formed from a parent module having walls defining an internal space capable of receiving and retaining therein a secondary mobile module,

a carriage having a wheel assembly and capable of receiving and retaining thereon each said parent and secondary modules, the parent module including means to allow discharge of the secondary mobile module; wherein the parent module provides an internal space which receives and retains therein the secondary module and which provides a recovery room;

the second mobile module including means to allow the module to move between a folded non working state and an unfolded working state in which the mobile module provides a sterile operating room.

Preferably, the recovery room and operating room are linked to form a closed system via a concertina envelope which expands and contracts between the modules to provide walkway access therebetween. The second module is defined by a housing comprising a mainframe having connected thereto movable panels which are capable of movement between a first state in which the panels enclose the at least one internal space or compartment and a second state in which said panels are rotated away to allow access to the internal space or compartment; the mobile operating room further including an envelope which co operates with said mainframe to define an internal sterile space in which operations may be performed.

According to one embodiment the envelope is integrally attached to the mainframe and is expanded under positive pressure to form walls defining an internal space of predetermined maximum volume.

In another broad form the present invention comprises:

a mobile cart capable of use as an operating or treatment station; the cart including undercarriage means which allows the cart to be moved, reoriented at one location or transported to another location.

Ih another broad form the present invention comprises :

a self contained mobile operating theatre assembly including a parent module capable of mutual engagement with a like secondary module wherein each module is capable of transportation to remote locations and each include carriage means enabling the modules to be re oriented on site or relocated by operation of the carriage means.

Preferably the secondary module fits inside the parent module and may be released therefrom for mutual co operation to form one unified work or accommodation space.

Bi an alternative embodiment, multiple primary ( patent) modules or multiple secondary modules may be used.

In its broadest form the present invention comprises:

a portable self contained field unit capable of moving between a first compact state in which the unit may be transported and a second state in which the unit is expanded to form a room to accommodate a predetermined use; the unit comprising at least;

a base, side walls and a roof;

wherein at least the side walls are adjustable to increase the volume of an internal space in the unit defined by said, walls, roof and base to form said room.

Preferably the walls expand laterally and the roof extends to increase the height of said internal space. The base includes means to accommodate said increase in volume of the internal space. Preferably, there are two side walls each having an edge pivotally attached to said base wherein the walls are rotatable from a vertical to a horizontal position so that an internal surface of each said walls provides at least part of an internal floor of said room.

The portable self contained unit provides a use selected from one or more of the following; an operating theatre, treatment room, field hospital, emergency and trauma centre, field laboratory, office, workroom, temporary accommodation, storage, shelter field survey stations for prospectors, refuge.

3h another broad form the present invention comprises.

a portable self contained module capable of receiving and retaining therewithin at least one portable unit, the at least one unit each comprising;

a base, side walls and a roof; wherein at least the side walls of the at least one portable unit are adjustable to increase the volume of an internal space in the unit defined by said, walls, roof and base;

the module comprising ;

an undercarriage, walls, a roof and a base defining an internal space; access means to the internal space.

In a further broad form the present invention comprises:

a transportable modular temporary accommodation assembly comprising;

a module including an undercarriage, walls, a roof and a base together defining an internal space, at least one said walls having access means to the internal space; the module capable of receiving and retaining at least one portable unit, the at least one unit each comprising;

the assembly further comprising means to connect said at least one unit with said module to allow passage therebetween.

In another broad form the present invention comprises:

a portable self contained module capable of engagement with at least one portable unit, the at least one unit each comprising;

the module comprising ;

an undercarriage, walls, a roof and a base defining an internal space; access means to the internal space;

wherein the internal space receives therewithin said unit.

Ih a further broad form the present invention comprises:

a transportable modular temporary accommodation assembly comprising;

a service module including an undercarriage, walls, a roof and a base together defining an internal space, at least one said walls having access means to the internal space; the undercarriage allowing transportation of said service module;

the module capable of receiving and retaining in said internal space at least one portable unit, the at least one unit each comprising; a base, side walls and a roof; wherein at least the side walls of the at least one portable unit are adjustable to increase the volume of an internal space in the unit defined by said, walls, roof and base;

a flexible envelope which surrounds the internal space forming a utility space within the unit and seals said unit;

the assembly further comprising an extendible covered way connecting said at least one unit with said module to allow passage therebetween.

In another broad form the present invention comprises:

a portable operating theatre comprising a transportable module, the module including a transport carriage;

a unit releasable from said module and capable of movement between a compact non working state and an expended working state, both the module and unit including walls a roof and a floor defining an internal space;

Bi a further broad form the present invention comprises:

a mobile assembly capable of use in the performance of surgical and medical procedures on a patient;

the assembly comprising a module comprising a housing defining at least one internal space or compartment;

equipment means associated with, in or on the module for administration of treatment to a patient,

an expandable unit capable of movement between a folded non working state and an unfolded working state, the unit comprising a mainframe having connected thereto at least one movable panel which is capable of movement between a first state in which the at least one panel encloses said at least one internal space or compartment and a second state in which said at least one panel allow access to said at least one internal space or compartment; an expansible envelope associated with said unit to define when inflated a sealed internal space usable for human activity. .

Ih a further broad form the present invention comprises:

a mobile operating theatre including an operating room capable of use in the performance of surgical and medical procedures on a patient and a recovery room;

the theatre formed from a module having walls defining an internal space capable of receiving and retaining therein a secondary unit,

a carriage having a wheel assembly and capable of receiving and retaining thereon said module and said unit, the module including means to allow discharge of the unit; wherein the module provides an internal space which receives and retains therein the unit, the unit providing an operating room and the module providing a recovery room;

the unit including means to allow the unit to move between a folded non working state and an unfolded working state in which the unit provides a sterile operating room.

Ih a farther broad form the present invention comprises

a self contained mobile operating theatre assembly including at least one parent module capable of mutual engagement with a secondary unit wherein each module is capable of transportation to remote locations and each include carriage means enabling the modules to be re oriented on site or relocated by operation of the carriage means.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF DRAWINGS

Figure 1 shows a side perspective elevation view of a mobile transportable carriage including a module.

Figure 2 shows a front elevation exploded view of the module of figure 1. Figure 3 shows a side perspective elevation view of the mobile carriage of figure 3. Figure 4 shows a rear perspective elevation view of the mobile carriage including the module of figure 3.

Figure 5 shows a portable unit separated from the mobile carriage module of figure 3. Figure 6 shows a front perspective elevation view of the unit shown in figure 3. Figure 7 shows the unit size relative to a human according to one embodiment. Figure 8 shows the unit in an early stage of expansion into a work station.

Figure 9 shows the unit module in an advanced stage of expansion into a work station. Figure 10 shows a perspective view of the module and unit joined by an expansible corridor.

Figuϊe 11 shows a cutaway view of the secondary module with equipment stations for use in an operating theatre.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION Although the present invention will be described with reference to its application in remote field medical treatments it will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the assembly to be described below is suitable for remote operations such as but not limited to temporary accommodation , field laboratories, offices and the like. The embodiment to be described below is one example of an assembly in which a unit and associated module combine to form a portable work station. Preferably the workstation comprises at least a first and second rooms respectively formed by the withdrawal from the module of the unit and together forming a sealed sterile environment to allow performance of activities such as but not limited to surgery.

Referring to figure 1 there is shown a perspective elevation view of a mobile carriage assembly 1 including a trailer base 2 which has an undercarriage 3. Trailer base 2 comprises a module body 4 having a base 5, side walls 6, 7 and end walls 8 and 9. Figure 2 shows a side elevation of module 4 of figure 1 in expanded configuration according to a preferred embodiment. According to the arrangement shown in figure 2, module 4 is in an expanded working configuration. The trailer carriage 2 of figure 1 is preferably proportioned to accommodate whatever size module 4 might take. It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the module 4 can be constructed in a variety of configurations for a variety of field uses such as but not limited to, a field hospital, medical treatment station, operating theatre, temporary accommodation office or laboratory. The description below is merely one possible configuration of and set up for the portable module.

Module 4 is shown in figure 2 in an expanded configuration and established as an operating station for treating a patient. The portable module 4 comprises a mainframe 10. Module 4 is substantially divided into an upper compartment 11 and a lower compartment 12. Upper compartment 11 includes a treatment station 13 capable of supporting a patient 14.

Upper compartment 11 is adapted with end covers 15 and 16. End cover 15 is pivotally attached to mainframe 10 via sub frame 17 and end cover 16 is pivotally attached to mainframe 10 via sub frame 18. Upper compartment 11 is closed by means of opposing wing covers 19 and 20 ( obscured) which are shown in the open configuration. In use, a patient will lie as shown for treatment on table 21. According to one embodiment, lower compartment 12 includes a sink 22, fridge 23 and a set of drawers 24.

Lower compartment 12 may be configured in any one of a variety of services configurations other than that shown. Upper compartment 11 further comprises lights 25 and 26 and electronic monitor 27. These may be configured according to requirements and to this end may be position adjustable by means of slides or runners. Lower compartment 12 includes panel 28 which may be rotated between a closed position in which sink 22, fridge 23 and set of drawers 24 are concealed from view and an open position in which a sink 22, fridge 23 and a set of drawers 24 are available to an operator. Panel 28 when in the fully open position may double as an operator platform 29. Mainframe 10 further comprises wheel assemblies 30 and 31 which enables selective rotational lateral and forward and reverse movement of module 4. The aforesaid constructional characteristics make module 4 suitable for transportation and establishment at remote locations and which potentially allows medical and surgical treatment of patients in locations in which traditional operating theatres are not readily available.

In use, upper compartment 11 is opened by rotation of end covers 15 and 16 away from mainframe 10. End covers 15 and 16 include respective inside surfaces 32 and 33 which provide in conjunction with table 34, an operating station. Covers 15 and /or 16 may be angle adjusted to function as head rests or as foot or leg elevators. Opposing gull wing covers 19 and 20 are rotated away from mainframe 10 thereby allowing free operator access to the operating station. In use, panel 28 is rotated away from mainframe 10 to expose service facilities such as but not limited to sink 22 and associated water supply, fridge 23 and a set of drawers 24. The operator may then stand on platform surface 29 to perform treatment tasks on a patient. The normal sterility requirements are satisfied to the extent that they can be accommodated in a field hospital environment.

Equipment for operating and treatment may be mounted to the mainframe 10 as required. Module 4 is capable of assembly and use in remote locations for the purposes of such emergency treatments as surgery. In the figures 1 and 2 embodiment, a primary module 4 is mounted for transportation on a carriage and which incudes an internal space which is capable of expansion into an enlarged structure for use as a work station which may comprise an operating room, office laboratory accommodation or the like. The enlarged structure may be used alone or in conjunction with an associated unit ( see figure 5 below ) to form a work station

Referring to figure 3 there is shown a mobile module 40 mounted on a trailer carriage assembly 41 according to an alternative embodiment According to the embodiment shown in figure 3, the carriage assembly 41 includes wheel base 42 supporting a trailer base 43 providing means to transport and support module 40. Module 40 which defines an internal space which is capable of retaining therewithin a unit 50 (see figure 5) which co operates with module 40 to provide a field work station as will be described in more detail below. Figure 3 shows the assembly 40/41 in its compact or folded state for transportation either as a trailer attached to a transport vehicle or for loading onto a larger transport vehicle such as a plane, truck or ship for transport to remote locations. Trailer base 43 preferably has a chassis which is of robust construction to accommodate loadings induced by one or more units 50 held within the module 40. The arrangement shown in figure 3 contemplates according to one embodiment, the use of a primary module 40 mounted on a carriage for transportation and which incudes an internal space which is capable of receiving and retaining therein at least one unit 50 which may be separated from the module and itself expanded into an enlarged structure for use alone or in conjunction with module 40 to form a work station comprising one or more work or accommodation rooms. Module 40 further comprises side walls 44 and 45, end walls 46 and 47 and roof 48.

Figure 4 shows a rear perspective elevation view of the module 4 of carriage assembly 1 of figure 3. Module 40 is shown in a fully folded and closed state enabling mounting on trailer carriage 41. Thus, it will be seen that module 40 can be transported by towing and the proportions adjusted to facilitate particular types of transportation by land, sea or air.

Although a trailer carriage is a convenient means of transportation of module 40 this is not to be construed as limiting of the adaption of the module to alternative forms of transportation not requiring an undercarriage.

Module 40 may be fully equipped as a mobile operating station which is closed for transportation and may be opened for uses. Preferably, each module 40 is constituted by the necessary medical and/or surgical equipment and fittings for performing a wide variety of procedures and particularly though not exclusively trauma surgery. Transportation of module 40 includes hitching to road vehicles such as cars and trucks, loading onto aircraft, ambulances and the like enabling medical personnel to operate on patients on the ground in potentially remote locations and if necessary, during air transit. The present invention is particularly advantageous where no hospital or medical facilities are available or where makeshift accommodations and treatment centres are required such as in areas of natural disasters including earthquakes, injury on the battlefield, road trauma.

Figure 5 shows a perspective view of the module 40 of figures 1 and 2 with corresponding numbering and a secondary portable unit 50 separated from module 40. Module 40 is preferably proportioned to accommodate wholly within secondary portable unit 50 which includes a base 51 having an under carriage 52 such as wheels or rollers, allowing complete separation of unit 50 from module 40. Thus figure 5 shows the portable unit 50 in the first stage of separation from the module 40 and before expansion into a work station. Unit 50 comprises side walls 55 and 56 and end walls 57 and 58. Module 40 and unit 50 may be used separately or in combination each potentially providing a closed work ( and if required, sterile) environment. Module 40 further comprises a ramp 53 which allows access to an internal space 54. Figure 5 shows a relative size between a person 59 and the overall sizes of the module 40 and unit 50, from which it may be seen that the module and unit may easily accommodate multiple personnel and the unit 50 may be accommodated in module 40. Unit 50 is shown in its closed or folded state ready for transportation.

Figure 6 shows an enlarged front perspective elevation view of the unit 50 of figure 5 with corresponding numbering. Figure 7 shows an enlarged side elevation view of the unit 50 of figure 5 relative to a person 59.

The following description shows how unit 50 may be expanded into a work theatre and if required joined to module 40.

Referring to figure 8 there is shown a perspective view of unit 50 of figures 5, 6 and 7

Base 51 of unit 50 includes retractable folding extension members 60, 61, 62 and 63 ( obscured). Each of the extension members are rotatable into respective accommodating recesses 64, 65, 66 ( hidden) and 67 (hidden), Each extension member is preferably cantilevered and terminates in a free end having a ground engaging stabilising foot. Extension members 60, 61, 62 and 63 are therefore adapted with respective stabilising feet 68, 69, 70 ( obscured) 71. These provide lateral stability for unit 50 and a foundation on which a floor may be formed by development of module as will be described below. The arrangement described above provides enhanced stability and increases the ground foot print from a narrow foot print provided by base 51 to an enlarged foot print when unit 50 is in use. Figure 9 shows the unit 50 in an advanced exposed stage of expansion into a work station. Walls 55 and 56 fold away from frames 72 and 73 to expose inner wall surfaces 74 and 75 which function as floor surfaces. End panel 76 also rotates away from frame 72 to form a ramped surface 78 and end panel 77 is rotatable away from frame 73 although as shown end panel 77 is in its folded state nested against frame 73. This exposes opening 79 which when the unit 50 is engaged with primary module 40 provides an access to module 40 from unit 50 . Located centrally in unit 50 is an operating table assembly 80 including a ground engaging pedestal 81 and table 82 which is capable of supporting thereon a patient. Floor surfaces 74 and 75 combine with intermediate floor section 83 to form a floor platform for an operator. Once unit 50 is folly developed, the internal structure of unit 50 shown in figure 9 is then enclosed to form a self contained room. According to one embodiment, frames 72 and 73 are extendable vertically to accommodate different room heights. The next step in assembly of the work room is that an envelope envelops the unit 50 and provides walls and a roof thereby creating an enclosed and if required, hermetically sealed environment therewithin. According to one embodiment, roof 84 houses a flexible material acting as an expanding envelope 85 ( see figure 10) which expands to fully envelop unit 50 defining a room space area defined by floor regions 74, 75 and 83. In this embodiment, envelop 85 emerges from roof 84 in the directions of arrows 86 and 87.

Figure 10 shows a perspective view of the primary module 40 and secondary unit 50 joined by an expansible corridor 89. From this view it may be seen that unit 50 is adapted with expansible envelope 85 which is connected to corridor 89. Envelope 85 provides a sealed environment inside unit 50 which is essential when the assembly is used in surgical applications. As previously indicated, module 40 and unit 50 may be adapted for independent and separate uses. Envelop 85 may be manufactured from a durable but flexible material allowing for stowage in roof 84 or in an alternative location in unit 50. The envelop may be one piece or made up of sections which are assembled on site. Corridor 89 is also according to one embodiment, formed by an expandable or concertina membrane which may be advanced from the module 40 along a support bridge 90 to unit 50 or alternatively advanced from unit 50 towards module 40. Ramp 76 as shown in figure 9 preferably provides part or all of bridge 90 which supports the membrane forming corridor 89. Once assembled, module 40 and unit 50 joined by corridor 89 provide a self contained work space . In one example unit 50 may provide an operating room and module 40 a recovery room. The assembly may be disassembled by the following steps: retracting corridor back into a housing or receptacle in either module 40 or unit 50, retracting envelope 85 back into roof 84, lowering frames 72 and 73, folding walls 55 and 56 up and towards frames 72 and 73, rotating ramp 76 back to frame 72. Unit 50 may then be wheeled or driven back inside module 40. Module 40 can then be hitched to a vehicle or placed on another form of sea or air transport for relocation to another site.

Figure 11 shows according to one embodiment, a cutaway view of the unit 50 as it would appear in its compacted or folded state with various equipment stations when used as an operating theatre. The cut away view of unit 50 shows a compact fit of equipment which might be used in a theatre environment. According to one embodiment, unit 50 includes an inflatable envelope 85 which expands as previously described and shown in figure 10. Unit 50 also includes in compartment 91 comprises a mayo table , drip holders and patient warmer. Compartment 92 provides for example a cardio and X ray machine. Compartments 93 and 94 provide disposal bins. There is further provided an operating table assembly 95 incorporating a ground engaging pedestal 96 which supports table 97. Table 97 is made from elements which co operate to form a wide number of possible configurations depending upon the use to which the table is put and more particularly the attitude or angle of repose of the patient required. .

Unit 50 further comprises a compartment 45 for a storage trolley which may be folded under the table 97. Compartment 98 may be taken by a diathermy knife and compartment 99 by an anaesthetics machine. Unit 50 may further comprise light units 100 and 101 and an air conditioning system 102 integrated into a roof section S4.

The compact constructional characteristics make unit 50 suitable for transportation and set up at remote locations and which allows medical and surgical treatment of patients in locations in which traditional operating theatres are not available. The The assemblies described could also be attached to existing operating facilities as an overflow annex. Unit 50 may be fully equipped as a mobile operating theatre which is closed for transportation and may be opened for treatments. Preferably, each portable station is constituted by the necessary medical and/or surgical equipment and fittings for performing a wide variety of procedures and particularly though not exclusively trauma surgery. Wheel assemblies ( not shown) are capable of transportation of unit 50 onto mobile module 40. Alternatively module 40 may be transported onto and by vehicles, aircraft, ambulances and the like enabling medical personnel to operate on patients on the ground in potentially remote locations and if necessary, in the air. The present invention is particularly advantageous where no hospital or medical facilities are available or where makeshift treatment centres are required such as in areas of natural disasters including earthquakes, injury on the battlefield, road trauma.

According to the method aspect the mobile assembly may be set up and prepared for use as an operating complex including a recovery room formed by primary module 40 and operating theatre formed by unit 50 according to the following steps.

First, carriage 41 is wheeled into position on wheel assemblies 42. End 47 of module 40 is opened to allow removal of unit 50. Unit 50 forms an operating theatre by rotation of walls 55 and 56 as shown in figure 9. The open space so formed is enclosed by a sealing envelope 85 to provide a sterile area. The normal sterility requirements are satisfied to the extent that they can be accommodated in a field hospital environment. Equipment for operating and treatment may be mounted to the unit as described or incorporated into the module in advance such as shown in figure 11. The unit 50 preferably has ground engaging feet which allow ground relocation and height adjustment. The present invention provides a treatment station as described herein wherein various emergency procedures may be conducted in the field and in remote inaccessible locations where there are large distances to public hospitals, ambulance, aircraft or emergency treatment centres. The embodiment previously described is one example only and it will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the configuration may be adjusted to accommodate size, weight and portability constraints such as its own transportation in land, sea and air vehicles. The present invention obviates the disadvantages of the prior art and provides other advantages which are apparent from the description herein.

For installation in a standard transport vehicle, aircraft or the like it is constituted by an integrated assembly of medical equipment and fittings, and general services area so enabling it to be conveniently loaded or unloaded at its place of destination. Thus mobile operating theatre / treatment module dimensions are defined according to flie particular application or applications and according to the activities carried out, the number of persons, medical personnel and patients which the module would be employed for. For instance the operating table length may be adjusted according to the size of the patients to be treated or procedure performed. Also, additional facilities connected to or held in the mobile theatre may be selected according to the particular procedure to be carried out in the theatre such as surgery or anaesthetics. Ideally the module 40 will be long and narrow but of sufficient width and length to accommodate an average size patient. In certain cases the dimensions may be adjusted to accommodate that requirement as well as fitting into a transport vehicle so the module 40 may be moved conveniently from location to location.

According to one embodiment, the module 40 may have an assembly which allows limited increase and decrease in dimensions of certain members to on one hand accommodate a patient and on the other hand allow the module to fit into a confined space in a transport vehicle. Module 40 is equipped with various medical facilities for a wide variety of treatment circumstances such as but not limited to cardio¬ respiratory monitoring, intensive care devices, refrigerated blood bank, sterilisation equipment surgical instruments, a lung monitoring and ventilation system, current, pressure and vacuum sockets ( not shown) and an energy supply.

In an another embodiment, a mobile treatment centre may be established using separate modules which may assembled or disassembled by joining end to end or otherwise so as to increase the treatment area and configuration.

Typically a module might have a length in the order of 2200mm, width in the order of 750mm, height in the order of 2000 mm in a closed configuration and 3820 mm in length, 2270 mm in width and 2250 mm in height in an open configuration. These dimensions are non limiting but have been found to be a practical size. A generator may be mounted on the trailer carriage 41 for use as its remote power supply. The unit housing preferably comprises a mainframe having connected thereto at least one movable panel which is capable of movement between a first state in which the at least one panel encloses said at least one internal space or compartment and a second state in which the at least one panel allow access to the at least one internal space or compartment. Preferably the mobile operating room includes an envelope which co operates with said operating unit to define an internal space in which operations may be performed. The envelope may be integrally attached to the unit adapted to co operate therewith. The integral attachment may be with covers on the unit, a working platform or with a main frame part of the unit. Alternatively, the envelope may be a separate structure which is either connected to the unit before or after inflation of the envelope. The envelope according to one embodiment functions to provide a safe operating field and may be rendered sterile to a standard which might be required in a conventional operating room. A slight positive pressure applied to the inside of the envelop causes the envelope which is preferably pliable to inflate to its predetermined size. For this purpose a suitable air pump may be required.

In a typical hospital operating theatre there is usually a centrally located operating table surrounded by equipment and facilities on trolleys. The present invention provides a unit which has the capacity to hold a patient under treatment or surgery along with treatment facilities in a compact confined space so that the whole unit can be transported as a fully self contained mobile theatre which may be used in remote locations including disaster and war zones.

The present invention obviates the disadvantages of the prior art and provides other advantages which are apparent from the description herein.

It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the mobile treatment/ operating station may be configured to accommodate particular needs such as its own transportation in land, sea and air vehicles. The embodiment previously described is one example only and it will be appreciated that the configuration may be adjusted to accommodate size, weight and portability constraints. For installation in a standard transport vehicle, aircraft or the like it is constituted by an integrated assembly of medical equipment and fittings, and general services area so enabling it to be conveniently loaded or unloaded at its place of destination.

Thus mobile modules are defined according to the particular application or applications and activities to be carried out, the number of persons, personnel etc. required to fit inside the modules. Unit 50 is capable of morphing into a fully self contained mobile operating room capable of use in the performance of surgical and medical procedures on a patient,

In one example the equipment combination contained in a typical unit set up for medical and surgical procedures includes:

1 a unit (electronically demountable Sc stored within an operating table)

2 Wash-up facilities (electronically demountable & stored within the unit - then deployed to wash-up location where it automatically connects to water, waste and power).

3 Refrigeration unit (electronically demountable & stored within the unit).

4 Instrument module (electronically demountable & stored within the unit).

5 Sealed waste containers for: Sharps and Non-sharps .

6 Satellite communications hardware and software.

7 Envelope container (electronically controlled for deployment & retraction & mounted on the operating table), When inflated and extended, the envelope encapsulates an area 6 metres square and extends a corridor to the trailer. The corridor preferably has an access door from outside and a second access door from which a corridor extension can connect the unit or associated module to a building such as but not limited to a hospital.

8 Anaesthetic machine (electronically controlled & mounted on the operating table),

9 A general trolley (mounted on the table). U2005/001761

10 Instalment trolley (mounted inside the 'general trolley', on the table)

11 Sundry trolley (mounted inside the 'instrument trolley', on the table).

12 X-ray module (electronically controlled & mounted on the table).

13 Equipment including defibrillator, monitors, lights, diathermy etc.

Ih an example of a set up for a typical module, the module may include:

1 Roof mounted solar panels for continuous battery charging

2 Accommodation for at least one unit (module 1)

3 Accommodation for second Module (module 2)

4 Storage for sundry equipment on front 'V section (module 3)

5 Remote control for loading and unloading from undercarriage transporter

6 Tandem wheels with foam filled tyres (puncture free)

7 Two spare wheels with foam filled tyres

8 Automatically loading and unloading from transporter and unit from module.

Additional facilities which may be mounted on a trailer carriage for a module: Pumps (for oxygen, suction etc)

Autoclave

Piped oxygen & suction Drug cupboard Bottled water Retractable leads for: o Gases o Electricity o Waste o Water o Air

Other facilities which may be located on the trailer carriage include:

-Electrically powered, track driven transporter with floor access to: -UPS batteries and,

-Gas cylinders -Gases in modular containers under the transporter and on the outer side of each track

-UPS batteries located under the transporter between the transporter's tracks; -Two fold-up beds used for preparation and recovery with access to piped bases & suction.

-Emergency medical equipment including defibrillator, piped oxygen, -fiistruments commonly used in pre operation and recovery environments

Additional hardware which may be hitched to the trailer carriage of the module.

-Primary generator -Secondary generator

-Desalinisation system

-Water container

-Waste water container

-Generator fuel and oil tanks -'Bathroom module' containing a portable toilet & wash-up capable of being moved by module carriage transporter

-High pressure cleaning equipment

The module and trailer carriage may further comprise:

-Self-propelled, remotely steerable tracks -Self jacking mechanism for changing tracks and/or batteries in the field

-Battery power (may be same as rechargeable batteries used as UPS for MOT) that are recharged by solar panels and/or mains and/or generations.

-Guiding slots (grooves) for MOT wheels

-Primary self-levelling mechanism. -Conveyor mechanism for loading/unloading Operations Module'

-Leads for charging batteries when out of MOT trailer (away from home)

-Modules for holding and transporting gas cylinders (underside of transporter

& outside of each track)

-UPS Batteries located under transporter and between tracks -Inbuilt stretchers for transporting patients.

Other features include :

Deployed satellite and other antennae Primary computer start-up. Automated system check, then computer initiates and controls the following functions:

Air filtration monitoring Gases checked and ready Communications module primed and tested Temperature checks

Air conditioning checks

Front-end system setup and primary operating table display activated Wash and sterilise environment Trailer functions as MOT preparation and recovery area Between corridor and MOT, separated area in cocoon serves on one said as wash-up area and the other side change and bathroom 61

Other features of the mobile unit may include:

-Gullwing panel doors of aluminium such as that shown in the embodiment of figure 2

-Integrated gas lines, down lights and drip holders

-Electronically controlled table extensions that close, open or lower as required. -Arm supports at both ends on each side. -Electronically controlled self-levelling legs. -Base set of drawer modules.

-Static free integrated fold-up flooring that closes over gullwing doors. -Compressor -Refrigerator

-Energy Management Unit -Plumbing

-Water filtration -Waste collection -Double stainless steel sinks -Static free table surface -Removable handles designed to assist mobility and single-handed operation 316 grade stainless steel construction -custom-made, electrically controlled tilt-trailer with accommodation for:

Anaesthetic machine

Gas cylinders Generator

Backup batteries

Autoclave

Front Line Mobile Operating Theatre System

It will be recognised by persons skilled in the art that numerous variations and modifications may be made to the invention described herein without departing from the overall spirit and scope of the invention .

Claims

THE CLAIMS DEFINING THE INVENTION ARE AS FOLLOWS:

1 A portable self contained field unit capable of moving between a first compact state in which the unit may be transported and a second state in which the unit is expanded to form a room to accommodate a predetermined use; the unit comprising at least;

abase,

side walls and a roof;

2 A portable self contained unit according to claim 1 wherein, the walls expand laterally .

3 A portable self contained unit according to claim 2 wherein the roof extends to increase the height of said internal space.

4 A portable self contained unit according to claim 3 wherein the base includes means to accommodate said increase in volume of the internal space.

5 A portable self contained unit according to claim 4 wherein there are two side walls each having an edge pivotally attached to said base.

6 A portable self contained unit according to claim 5 wherein the walls are rotatable from a vertical to a horizontal position so that an internal surface of each said walls provides at least part of an internal floor of said room.

7 A portable self contained unit according to claim 6 further comprising extension members which extend from said base to provide support for said walls.

8 A portable self contained unit according to claim 7 wherein the extension members extend from respective recesses in said base. 9 A portable self contained unit according to claim 8 wherein, the extension members are rotatable to increase a footprint of the unit and to allow support for the internal floor .

10 A portable self contained unit according to claim 9 further comprising end walls pivotally attached to the base, at least one of said end walls capable of rotation from a vertical position to a horizontal position, to form a walkway. .

11 A portable self contained unit according to claim 10 further comprising an adjustable support frame which receives and supports said roof.

12 A portable self contained unit according to claim 11, comprising a flexible envelope which defines an internal space which forms said room.

13 A portable self contained unit according to claim 12 wherein the support frame which supports the roof also functions as a door frame.

14 A portable self contained unit according to claim 13 wherein the base includes at least a pair of wheels.

15 A portable self contained unit according to claim 14 wherein, the unit further comprises a walkway connected thereto which joins the unit to an associated module.

16 A portable self contained unit according to claim 15 wherein the base further comprises ground engaging support member.

17 A portable self contained unit according to claim 16 wherein, the ground engaging support members are pins extending from the extension members.

18 A portable self contained unit according to claim 17 wherein an expandable walkway engages the unit and extends from the doorway to an adjacent module.

19 A portable self contained unit according to claim 18 wherein the unit is in its compact state can be accommodated by the adjacent module.

20 A portable self contained unit according to claim 19 wherein the unit fits inside the adjacent module and is transportable with the module. 01761

21 A portable self contained unit according to claim 21 wherein the module comprises at least walls, a base and a roof providing an internal room large enough to accommodate people.

22 A portable self contained unit according to claim 21 wherein the walkway allows free passage between the module and the unit.

23 A portable self contained unit according to claim 22 wherein the module and unit are sealable to create an internal closed environment.

24 A portable self contained unit according to claim 23 wherein the module and unit are air conditioned,

25 A portable self contained unit according to claim 24 wherein the module has a wheel mounted carriage

26 A portable self contained unit according to any of the forgoing claims wherein the room formed by expansion of the unit provides a use selected from one or more of the following; an operating theatre, treatment room, field hospital, emergency and trauma centre, field laboratory, office, workroom, temporary accommodation, storage, shelter field survey stations for prospectors, refuge.

27 A portable self contained module capable of receiving and retaining therewithin at least one portable unit, the at least one unit each comprising;

the module comprising ;

28 A portable self contained module according to claim 27 wherein, at least one wall includes said access means. 29 A portable self contained module according to claim 28 wherein, there are two side walls and two end walls, wherein one said end wall provides said access means.

30 A portable self contained module according to claim 29 wherein extension members extend from a recess in said base.

31 A portable self contained module according to claim 30 wherein the extension members which extend from said base provide stability to said module.

32 A portable self contained module according to claim 31 further comprising a support frame which receives and supports said roof.

33 A portable self contained module according to claim 32, wherein, the undercarriage includes at least a pair of wheels.

34 A portable self contained module according to claim 33 wherein, the module engages via said access means a walkway which joins with said at least one unit.

35 A portable self contained unit according to claim 34 wherein the walkway comprises an expandable envelope and extends from a doorway in the module to an adjacent unit

36 A portable self contained module according to claim 35 wherein when the at least one unit is in a compact folded state it/ they can be accommodated inside the module.

37 A portable self contained module according to claim 36 further comprising means to allow engagement with a transport vehicle.

38 A portable self contained module according to claim 21 wherein the module is large enough to accommodate people.

39 A portable self contained module according to claim 38 wherein, the walkway allows passage between the module and the unit.

40 A portable self contained module according to claim 39 wherein the module and unit are sealable to create an internal closed environment. 41 A portable self contained module according to claim 40 wherein the module and unit are air conditioned.

42 A portable self contained module according to any of the forgoing claims wherein the module functions as , an operating theatre, treatment room, field hospital, emergency and trauma centre, field laboratory, office, or workroom.

43 A portable self contained module according to claim 42 wherein when the at least one unit is released from and connected to said module to form an operating theatre or field hospital.

44 A transportable modular temporary accommodation assembly comprising;

a module including an undercarriage, walls, a roof and a base together defining an internal space, at least one said walls having access means to the internal space;

the module capable of receiving and retaining at least one portable unit, the at least one unit each comprising;

45 A portable self contained module capable of engagement with at least one portable unit, the at least one unit each comprising;

the module comprising ;

an undercarriage, walls, a roof and abase defining an internal space; access means to the internal space; wherein the internal space receives therewithin said unit.

46 A transportable modular temporary accommodation assembly comprising;

the module capable of receiving and retaining in said internal space at least one portable unit, the at least one unit each comprising;

abase, side walls and a roof; wherein at least the side walls of the at least one portable unit are adjustable to increase the volume of an internal space in the unit defined by said, walls, roof and base;

47 A portable self contained assembly according to claim 47 wherein the covered way includes a walkway and comprises a concertina expandable envelope extendable from a doorway in the unit to an adjacent module..

48 A portable self contained assembly according to claim 46 further comprising means to allow engagement with a transport vehicle for transportation of said module and said unit,

49 A portable self contained assembly according to claim 48 wherein the module is large enough to accommodate people.

50 A portable self contained assembly according to claim 38 wherein the walkway allows passage between the module and the unit.

51 A portable self contained assembly according to claim 50 wherein the module and unit are sealable to create an internal closed environment. 52 A portable self contained assembly according to claim 51, wherein, the undercarriage includes at a set of wheels.

53 A portable self contained assembly according to claims 46 or 52 wherein, the module and unit together function as, one or more of an operating theatre, treatment room, field emergency and trauma centre, field laboratory, office, workroom, temporary accommodation, storage, shelter field survey stations for prospectors, refuge.

54 A portable self contained assembly according to claim 53 wherein when the at least one unit is in its compact state it/ they can be accommodated inside the module.

55 A portable self contained assembly according to claim 54 wherein the module and unit are capable of sealing to create an internal closed environment

56 A portable operating theatre comprising a transportable module, the module including a transport carriage;

57 A portable theatre according to claim 56 wherein the module and unit are connected by an extendable passageway allowing passage from the module to the unit or form the unit to the module.

58 A portable theatre according to claim 57 wherein the extendible passageway is defined by a flexible envelope.

59 A portable theatre according to claim 58 wherein the walls and roof of said unit is formed by a flexible envelope.

60 A portable theatre according to claim 59 wherein the internal space in said module and in said unit are pressurised.

61 A portable theatre according to claim 60 further comprising medical and/or surgical equipment and fittings for performing medical and surgical procedures. U2005/001761

62 A mobile assembly capable of use in the performance of surgical and medical procedures on a patient;

an expandable unit capable of movement between a folded non working state and an unfolded working state, the unit comprising a mainframe having connected thereto at least one movable panel which is capable of movement between a first state in which the at least one panel encloses said at least one internal space or compartment and a second state in which said at least one panel allow access to said at least one internal space or compartment;

an expansible envelope associated with said unit to define when inflated a sealed internal space usable for human activity. .

63 A mobile assembly according to claim 62 wherien the module further comprises an undercarriage having a wheel base carriage which allows transportation of the assembly so formed by said module and said unit.

64 A mobile operating theatre including an operating room capable of use in the performance of surgical and medical procedures on a patient and a recovery room;

the unit including means to allow the unit to move between a folded non working state and an unfolded working state in which the unit provides a sterile operating room. 65 A mobile operating theatre according to claim 64 wherein, the recovery room and operating room are linked to form a closed system via a concertina envelope which expands and contracts between the module and unit and which provides walkway access therebetween.

66 A mobile operating theatre according to claim 65 wherein the unit is defined by a housing comprising a mainframe having connected thereto movable panels which are capable of movement between a first state in which the panels enclose the at least one internal space or compartment and a second state in which said panels are rotated away to allow access to the internal space or compartment; the mobile operating room further including an envelope which co operates with said mainframe to define an internal sterile space in which operations may be performed.

67 A mobile operating theatre according to claim 66 wherein the envelope is integrally attached to the mainframe and is expanded under positive pressure to form walls defining an internal space of predetermined maximum volume.

68 A mobile module capable of use as an operating or treatment station; the cart including undercarriage means which allows the cart to be moved, reoriented at one location or transported to another location.

69 A self contained mobile operating theatre assembly including at least one parent module capable of mutual engagement with a secondary unit wherein each module is capable of transportation to remote locations and each include carriage means enabling the modules to be re oriented on site or relocated by operation of the carriage means.

70 A mobile operating theatre according to claim 69 wherein said secondary unit fits inside the module and may be released therefrom for mutual co operation with the module to form one unified work or accommodation space.

71 A mobile operating theatre according to claim 70 wherein each module and each unit are fitted to at least one other module or unit.