Carrying device for a gas exchange device

Background of the invention

0001The invention relates to a carrying device and a carrying system.

0002Gas exchange devices are known, which are gassing devices in which one or more gases can pass from one medium to another medium, or devices that allow the exchange of one or more gases between two media. Such devices find application in chemistry, biotechnology and medicine. An important application in medicine is the enrichment of a biological fluid, in particular of blood, with oxygen and / or the removal, ie depletion, of carbon dioxide from the fluid, especially blood. Such measures are necessary, for example, in the treatment of various lung diseases. Such measures may continue eg also in acute lung injury, as well as to replace the lungs, while bypassing them with an extracorporeal circulation, varying degrees of mechanical cardiac assisting and enabling the immobilized heart to be operative.

0003Currently, it is the only long-term effective treatment option for patients with end-stage functional lung disease to undergo lung transplantation. However, another medical solution for permanently replacing the function of the lungs does not exist. In patients suffering from chronic lung diseases, such as COPD or Therefore, there is a need for artificial lung assist or pulmonary replacement procedures, AECOPD, who do not or are not directly eligible for lung transplantation.

0004To facilitate such a lung assist or lung replacement procedure, so-called prior art blood gas exchangers are known.

0005A blood gas exchanger, also referred to as an oxygenator or artificial lung, is used either for complete, short-term delivery of lung function during open heart surgery or as full or partial, long-term support to the lung in the ICU. The main function of a blood gas exchanger is the delivery of oxygen to the blood (oxygenation) and the uptake of carbon dioxide from the blood (decarboxylation).

0006In addition to an application for oxygenation and decarboxylation, in some therapeutic approaches it is already sufficient to carry out only a decarboxylation. This is a so-called extracorporeal reduction of CO₂ (ECCO₂R). For this purpose, blood is continuously withdrawn via a venous access of the patient, pumped extracorporeally through a blood gas exchanger, there by CO₂ cleaned and returned to the patient venously.

0007For the gas exchange in such blood gas exchangers usually oxygen is used, which is available in each hospital either directly via a wall connection or oxygen cylinders. The oxygen is then fed to the blood gas exchanger via an adjustable gas blender.

0008Pumping systems for ECCO₂R applications are generally operated on the stationary power grid. In the case of an emergency, such as a power failure, an emergency power supply can be maintained by battery operation. As hospitals usually have emergency generators, however, battery operation is limited in time and in the known gas exchange devices usually not designed for continuous operation or for mobile operation. However, a known blood gas exchange system that has a mobile power supply, however, entails carrying a rollable support means to carry the plurality of different, sometimes bulky, components of the blood gas exchanger and, in particular, gas cylinders.

0009Due to their size, weight and also because of the arrangement of connections, for example for blood-carrying hoses, the use of the known gas exchange devices has so far been limited essentially to stationary applications in which the patient - awake or sedated - lies in bed. Patients with chronic lung diseases who rely on one of these known gas exchange devices are thus severely restricted in their mobility. This not only significantly reduces the quality of life of the patients. Even modern therapeutic approaches that seek to mobilize patients are not feasible.

0010Gas exchange devices, which are basically suitable for mobile use, are the subject of the latest developments. In order to provide mobility for a patient who relies on such a gas exchange device, it is desirable that a safe transport of the gas exchange device can take place. However, when using conventional carrier devices, for example similar to a rollable IV pole, there is basically the risk that the carrier device is unpredictably separated from the patient, for example, when the patient falls or people or objects fall between the patient and the carrying system. In the worst case, this can lead to an extracorporeal blood circulation being interrupted or even destroyed. This can result in serious health consequences for the patient, including blood loss, oxygen deprivation or carbon dioxide poisoning with serious consequences.

0011Known gas exchange devices for supporting the lung function basically have the same disadvantages as are known from lung replacement devices. Here, too, a gas cylinder must be transported and various equipment must be distributed distributed on the body or transported separately.

0012Relevant prior art is disclosed in the following documents: <patcit id="pcit0001" dnum="DE102009050406A1"><text>DE102009050406 A1</text></patcit>, <patcit id="pcit0002" dnum="US2008014115A1"><text>US2008 / 014115 A1</text></patcit>, <patcit id="pcit0003" dnum="US7718144B2"><text>US7718144 B2</text></patcit> and <patcit id="pcit0004" dnum="WO2015100288A1"><text>WO2015 / 100288 A1</text></patcit>.

Brief description of the invention

0013The present invention has for its object to avoid at least one of the disadvantages of the prior art and to allow a safe transport of a portable gas exchange device. It is also an object to enable a patient to transport a gas exchange device to the patient's body over an extended period of time, preferably directly. In particular, a transport of a gas exchange device is to be made possible, which is designed for mobile, portable use on a patient's body, for example, by a special compact design, for use as a lung support system.

0014This object is achieved by a carrying device according to claim 1 and a carrying system according to claim 9. Advantageous developments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims.

0015A first aspect of the present invention relates to a carrying device for a portable gas exchange device, in particular a portable gas exchange device as a lung support system in the form of a gas supply. The carrying device has at least one first holding strap which is designed to be guided around a torso of a patient and thus makes it possible to support the carrying device on the patient. In addition, the carrying device has at least one fastening means which is designed for fastening a portable gas exchange device to the carrying device. A gas exchange device can thus be safely and comfortably worn by a patient. In the context of the present invention, the term "gas exchange device" includes in particular those devices which enable a gas supply with one or more predetermined gases, for example in the form of a supply air component. If the device according to the invention is used in particular merely to support and not to completely replace the lung function, then the need to remove additional gas bottles, in particular for oxygen supply, may be eliminated. As a result, the carrying device according to the invention can make it possible to carry a gas exchange device, preferably with all components necessary for lung support, directly to a patient's body. This can significantly increase patient mobility. In addition, at least one second retaining strap may be provided, which is designed to be guided around at least a first shoulder of a patient. In this way, a weight of the support device and attached components can be derived.

0016In the context of the present invention, "straps" are parts of the carrying device which are designed as separate units independently of one another. Alternatively, the belts may also be integrally formed with each other and / or with a wider support structure.

0017By providing at least two straps, a strap which can be passed around the torso of a patient and a strap which can be guided around at least one shoulder, a secure fastening of the carrying device to a patient's body can be made possible. Thus, for example, the second tether may be designed such that it can be guided diagonally across the torso and a first shoulder of a patient. The first tether may be configured to be guided in a substantially horizontal direction, for example, about a waist of a patient, so that attachment of the tether similar to a three-point harness may be made. The second holding strap is connected to the first holding strap or is guided, at least in sections, around the first holding strap.

0018A portable gas exchange device may be attached to the first tether by means of the fastener. In this way, a portable gas exchange device can be safely carried by a patient directly on the patient's body. This may increase patient mobility and thus promote recovery or therapy of a patient. In addition, a risk of damage to the portable gas exchange device or an extracorporeal blood circulation can be reduced. The fastening means for fastening the gas exchange device may be formed in a front region of the first Halteriemen. The fastening means may be formed integrally with one of the retaining straps, preferably the first strapping, or attached as a separate element to one of the straps.

0019According to some embodiments of the present invention, at least the first and / or second tether strap may include means for adjusting, for example, the length of the first and / or second tether strap. In this way, an adaptation of the carrying device to the individual physique of a patient can be carried out. This can increase wearing comfort. An adaptation of the length of a belt, for example of the second retaining strap, may be made possible, for example, by the belt having two legs or belt sections provided with a respective closure means section, wherein the closure means sections are complementary to one another and a connection, in particular a reversibly detachable and closable connection, can produce together. The closure means sections can be arranged and connected to each other in arbitrary or predetermined positions.

0020Also, the first strap may be formed in a similar manner by means of a closure means on each an open end portion of the Halteriemens in a length changeable. In this way, an adaptation of the length of the first Halteriemen to a body circumference of a patient can be better adapted. This can increase wearing comfort.

0021The carrying device can also have a third holding strap. In particular, the third holding strap may be identical and / or symmetrical to the second holding strap and designed to be guided around a second shoulder of a patient. This can improve a distribution of forces for supporting a portable gas exchange device by allowing uniform loading of both shoulders of a patient. This can also reduce unwanted slippage of the carrying device. It goes without saying that the third retaining strap may also have a means for adjusting its length.

0022The carrying device according to the invention may have at least one closure for opening and closing at least one of the holding straps. The closure for opening and closing the carrying device can also coincide with the means for adjusting a length of a retaining strap. In particular, a closure for opening and closing the first Halteriemen can be provided. In this way, the carrying device can be easily applied to a patient's body. This can be particularly advantageous when the patient is already connected via an extracorporeal blood circulation to a portable gas exchange device, so that the carrying device can be applied without affecting the extracorporeal blood circulation.

0023The at least one closure can be designed as an adhesive closure and / or a clamp closure and / or an engagement closure or comprise one of the closures listed. In this case, it is also possible, in particular, for the closure to be a planar closure, that is to say a plurality of closure elements which have a certain area, for example a width of the holding strap provided with the closure. Adhesive fasteners are to be understood as those types of fasteners which are based on an adhesion principle of two elements, for example the adhesion of one or more magnet pairs, or the accumulated adhesive action in a hook-and-loop fastener. As clamp closures such closures are referred to, which are based on the fact that two components are clamped together or into each other, as is the case for example with snaps or buckles. As engagement closures those closures are referred to, which are based on an engagement principle, for example when hooking two hooks and / or eyes. It is understood that combinations of such closures are conceivable, for example, complement each other or cumulatively, for example as a security measure are provided independently. Among the abovementioned types of closure, any type of belt fastener is intended to fall within the scope of the invention. It will be understood that other types of closure are possible which are suitable for fastening a tether strap to itself, to another tether strap or to a portion of the tethering device.

0024The carrying device according to the invention may be designed such that the at least one closure in a closed state, for example, connects the second and the third holding strap to the first holding strap. In particular, two of the straps may be integrally formed with each other, for example, the second strap and the third strap. In addition, all straps can be integrally formed with each other. In this way, the carrying device may be formed, for example, similar to a vest, with two shoulder straps which are interconnected along a vertical portion on a front and / or rear side. This, in turn, can simplify the handling of the patient support and the number of locks can be reduced.

0025According to further embodiments, the carrying device may further comprise a cable receptacle. The cable receptacle can in particular be provided on the first holding strap and is designed to hold and / or secure at least one cable, in particular to the first holding strap. This may allow the carrying device for a portable gas exchange device to be made safer for a patient since cables that may be provided on a gas exchange device can be securely held on the patient's body. The cable receptacle can represent a self-closing receptacle, for example a spring-closing receptacle. The cable receptacle can be dimensioned so that a cable is loosely guided by the cable receptacle or clamped in the cable receptacle. By clamping a cable, an inadvertent pull on the cable can be diverted through the cable receptacle without the cable being displaced or misplaced in the cable receptacle. In the event that a supply cable of the gas exchange device is received in the cable receptacle, this can avoid or at least reduce unintentional withdrawal of the cable from the gas exchange device or damage to components connected to the cable.

0026In alternative embodiments, the cable receptacle can also be guided within one of the holding straps, in particular within the first holding strap. "Inside" is intended to be a side of the retaining strap facing the patient's body in a state of the carrying device applied to a patient's body. It is understood that the cable receptacle can also have an elongated extent, so that the cable receptacle extends along the retaining strap, in particular of the first retaining strap. Thus, the cable receptacle can also form a tunnel section running inside or outside the retaining strap, in which a cable can be received and guided.

0027In this way, a secure cable management can be ensured, so that an impairment of a patient can be reduced.

0028Furthermore, in some embodiments of the present invention, it is conceivable that the carrying device has a hose receptacle for receiving one or more hoses. The Schlauchaufnehme may be formed in particular for receiving a tube of extracorporeal blood circulation. In this case, the hose receptacle can in particular be designed such that the one or more hoses to be accommodated therein are guided on an inner side of the carrying device, that is to say on a side facing a patient's body. In this way, a heat loss of a guided in the hoses or the fluid, in particular blood, can be reduced.

0029Preferably, the first holding strap of the carrying device is curved radially outward, at least in the closed state of the closure, wherein the radius of curvature is different in certain areas. As a result, the first retaining strap is optimally adapted to a positioning on the waist of a patient.

0030A second aspect of the present invention relates to a carrying system comprising a carrying device, in particular according to the first aspect of the present invention, and a portable gas exchange device. The gas exchange device in this case has a fastening means which is complementary to a fastening means of the carrying device, so that the gas exchange device, in particular reversible, can be fastened to the carrying device. Such a carrying system may allow a patient to move mobile, at least within a limited radius and independent of stationary systems.

0031The gas exchange device of the carrying system may have a control unit. The control unit may in turn have a fastening means which is designed to be fastened to the carrying device, in particular to one of the belts, for example the first holding strap of the carrying device, and / or to the gas exchange device. In this way, the control unit can be safely stored in the immediate vicinity of the gas exchange device and can provide a patient or a helper fast access to the control unit and the functions of the gas exchange device.

0032In some embodiments of the present invention, the control unit may also be formed directly integrated into the gas exchange device.

0033The gas exchange device may further comprise at least one cable for connection to the control unit, wherein the cable may be received in a cable receptacle formed on the support device. This can allow a secure stowage of the cable, and thus reduce an impairment of a patient. It is understood that the control unit and the portable gas exchange device can alternatively be connected to each other wirelessly. For example, a radio link, a Bluetooth connection, an infrared link, or other wireless transmission types and transmission protocols may be used to connect the control unit to the gas exchange device. This can circumvent the use of a cable and thus reduce the weight of the support system and increase the wearing comfort of the support system.

0034In principle, the cable receptacle of the carrying system can be formed, as already described for the carrying device, in particular also as an elongate receptacle, in order to guide a cable a predetermined length along a patient's body.

0035Furthermore, a means may be provided on the control unit, which allows attachment of the control unit to the portable gas exchange device and / or to the carrying device. A complementary means may be provided on the gas exchange device and / or on the carrying device, so that, for example, a fixing section of the control unit may engage with a mounting section of the gas exchange device and allow reliable attachment of the gas exchange device. For this purpose, in some embodiments, on one of the holding straps, in particular on the first holding strap, a tab may be formed, which is designed and dimensioned for receiving the attachment portion of the control unit.

0036The attachment of the control unit may be provided for example on the housing of the gas exchange device. Alternatively, an attachment of the control unit may also be provided on a support system of the gas exchange device. In addition, attachment of the control unit can also be made directly on the clothing of a patient. In addition, the fastening means of the control unit can also be provided to attach the control unit to a support structure, for example to a patient bed or a support system for medical devices in a hospital room.

0037In particular, the fastening means of the control unit may have a hook-shaped design, which allows a hooking of the fastening means on a complementary receiving portion or for example on a tubular element or an outer contour of the housing of the gas exchange device. In addition, an attachment to a flat structure, such as a wheelchair seat or the like is conceivable. For this purpose, the fastening means of the control unit may be formed, for example, with a standing under a spring bias spring arm, so that a clamping due to the spring bias of the fastening means provides a sufficient holding force for attachment of the control unit. Incidentally, the fastening means or an additional stand means may be formed and formed on the control unit, that the control unit on a base, such as a table or a roll container or the like, can be placed.

0038Incidentally, it is conceivable that the carrying device of the carrying system is formed with an integrated cable, which is designed to connect the control unit with the gas exchange device. In this case, the carrying device, for example on a holding strap, be formed with corresponding connections. A connection can for example also be formed integrally with a fastening means for fastening the gas exchange device to the carrying device or a fastening means for fastening the control unit to the carrying device or the gas exchange device. An "integral" training should also include those embodiments of the invention in which a fastening means and a connection, in particular an electrical connection, for connection to the control unit locally separated, but are coupled together. This applies in particular to those cases in which, by attaching the gas exchange device to the carrying device, a directly, in particular electrical, connection with the carrying device and / or with the control unit takes place.

0039The gas exchange device, which may in particular be a device for lung support, consists essentially of a housing, a pump system and a gas exchange medium. The gas exchange agent is preferably received together with the pump system in the housing of the gas exchange device. This makes it possible to provide a compact and easily wearable gas exchange device that can be easily, safely and reliably fastened by a patient or assistant close to a patient's body. This can increase the freedom of movement and comfort for a patient. Incidentally, such a gas exchange device can increase safety for a patient because the compact and integrated structure of the gas exchange device can reduce external access to the gas exchange device.

0040Incidentally, it is conceivable within the scope of the invention that the control unit is at least partially integrated in the carrying device. Thus, for example, a display unit for displaying relevant parameters of the gas exchange device may be formed on or on the carrying device. In addition, it is conceivable that the carrying device, the gas exchange device and / or the control unit have an alarm button and / or a mobile device, in particular for establishing a manual or automatic emergency call connection in the event of malfunction of the gas exchange device.

0041Incidentally, it should be noted that the various embodiments of the present invention particularly apply to a lung assist device, that is, a device that only partially fulfills lung function. In particular, by the fact that the lung function is supported, for example by reducing the CO₂Concentration in blood, but not completely replaced, a portable, compact and high-mobility gas exchange device can be provided because no heavy gas cylinders, such as oxygen cylinders, must be transported along.

0042Accordingly, some embodiments of the carrying system according to the invention have an ambient air intake section. The ambient air intake section may in particular be provided on the gas exchange device of the support system. This ambient air intake section may have one or more filters for filtering the ambient air. The sucked ambient air can then be passed, for example by means of a hose system, to a gas exchange section of the gas exchange device. Especially when used for lung support by CO₂ Reduction in the blood, it is sufficient ambient air, ie normal breathing air, the CO₂ Content of usually less than 0.05%, for the depletion of CO₂ to use from the blood. The CO₂ Reduction can take place independently of an oxygenation of the blood, as may be the case for example in the case of COPD. The entrainment of oxygen cylinders or other gas cylinders and the associated transport of heavy pressure vessels, is therefore not necessarily necessary. This makes it possible for a physically restricted patient to be able to carry the carrying system according to the invention independently, which is not possible when carrying heavy pressure containers.

0043Preferred embodiments of the invention therefore relate to a carrying system which does not have an external gas pressure element, as it is, for example, a gas-compression bottle such as an oxygen cylinder. According to the invention, the carrying system consisting of the carrying device and the gas exchange device without an external gas supply, only by means of a pump-driven ambient air intake section for lung support is suitable.

0044Advantageously, the gas exchange device has a housing which has a first strap facing the rear wall, which is curved inwardly towards the first strap, whereby the housing can be guided close to the strap so that the center of gravity of the gas exchange device in their use close to the body of a Lying patient, which increases the comfort and minimizes the burden on the patient due to a small lever.

0045In a favorable development, the curvature of the rear wall substantially corresponds to the curvature of the first retaining belt, so that the rear wall of the housing lies substantially flush against the first retaining belt curved radially outwards, whereby the wearing comfort is further optimized.

0046It is further advantageous if the housing has an average width, an average height perpendicular to this width and an average depth perpendicular to the width and height, the depth extending away from the back wall and the depth being a maximum size of 20%, preferably 15%, of the total summary length of width + height + depth. By this measure, the gas exchange device obtains a flat shape, which exerts only a very small lever on the patient in the application state, so that the gas exchange device can be worn for a long time without tiring the patient.

0047Incidentally, it is understood that the device according to the invention or the system according to the invention can be designed such that they meet the general guidelines for medical devices 93/42 / EEC or similar specifications.

0048The invention and advantageous developments thereof are explained below with reference to certain embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings, in which like features are provided with the same reference numerals. It shows:<dl id="dl0001"><dt>FIG. 1</dt><dd>shows a front view of a carrying device according to an embodiment of the present invention;</dd><dt>FIG. 2</dt><dd>shows the carrying device after <figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1</figref> with a portable gas exchange device;</dd><dt>FIG. 3</dt><dd>shows the carrying device after <figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1</figref> and <figref idref="f0002">2</figref> with a control unit;</dd><dt>FIG. 4</dt><dd>shows a carrying device according to another embodiment of the present invention;</dd><dt>FIG. 5</dt><dd>shows a carrying device according to another embodiment of the present invention;</dd><dt>Fig. 6</dt><dd>shows a carrying system including an only indicated carrying device and a gas exchange device of which only a housing is shown;</dd><dt>Fig. 7</dt><dd>shows a housing of the gas exchange device and a retaining strap of the carrying device of the carrying system <figref idref="f0006">Fig. 6</figref> in a section along the line VII-VII <figref idref="f0006">Fig. 6</figref>;</dd><dt>Fig. 8</dt><dd>shows a carrying device according to another embodiment of the present invention;</dd><dt>Fig. 9</dt><dd>shows a carrying device according to another embodiment of the present invention.</dd></dl>

0049<figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1</figref> shows a front perspective view of a carrying device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

0050Here and below, for the simplified description of the present invention, a directional statement shall apply, as would be used in the intended carrying of the carrying device 1 by a patient. Accordingly, the term "upper" refers to a portion which faces or is close to a head or a shoulder of a patient. Accordingly, a term "below" is used for portions or components of the carrying device 1 which are arranged or provided in a region of the carrying device 1 facing the feet of a patient. A direction from bottom to top, or vice versa, is referred to as a vertical direction. A vertical direction to the vertical direction, in particular a circumferential direction about a torso or Describing a hip or waist of a patient is also referred to as a horizontal direction or orientation. A "front" position analogously describes a position which describes a front side of a carrier of the carrying device 1. A "back" position accordingly describes a side that would correspond to a back or a side of the back of a wearer of the carrying device 1.

0051The carrying device 1 according to <figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1</figref> has a first retaining strap 20 according to the above definitions. The first tether 20 extends in a horizontal direction and is intended to be passed around a torso or a hip of a patient. The first retaining strap 20 essentially forms a ring, which is guided from a front side around a lateral portion over a back and a second lateral portion of a patient back to the front.

0052A second half-strap 10 and a third holding strap 10 'each have a first leg 11a and a second leg 11b. The second holding belt 10 and the third holding belt 10 'and the respective legs 11a and 11b have a substantially vertical course. The legs 11a and 11b are in the in<figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1</figref> embodiment shown integrally formed so that the straps 10, 10 'merge into one another at an upper portion and each form a loop. At least one of the legs 11a is fastened at one end to the first holding strap 20. From the point of attachment to the first strap 20, the leg 11a extends in a vertical direction and merges into the second leg 11b at an uppermost portion. The second leg 11b of the retaining strap 10 may also be fastened to the first retaining strap 20. In other embodiments of the present invention, a lower end of the second leg 11b of the second retaining strap 10 is connected to a lower end of a leg of the third retaining strap 10 '. The connection is made by means of a connecting web. At the connecting web, a closure means 12 is provided.

0053In the embodiment shown the <figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1</figref> the closure means 12 is a hook and loop fastener. A corresponding counterpart of the closure means 12 is according to<figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1</figref> provided on the second holding strap 20 such that the closing means 12 can be securely fixed to the second holding strap 20. In this way, a fastening of the second leg 11b of the first retaining strap 10 and of the third retaining strap 10 'on the first retaining strap 20 takes place.

0054The closure means 12 of the second retaining strap 10 and the third retaining strap 10 'has a corresponding counterpart of the closure means 12, which cooperates with the closure means 12. The counterpart of the closure means is formed on the rear portion of the first Halteriemen, so that a connection between the first strap 20 and the second strap 10 and the third strap 10 'can be made.

0055The second tether 10 and the third tether 10 'are shown in FIG <figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1</figref> illustrated embodiment thus basically a U-shape with a downward opening, which is limited in a closed state, ie a state in which the carrying device is correctly applied by the first holding strap 20. The loops formed by the holding straps 10, 10 'each represent an opening 13, 13' through which one arm of a patient can be guided.

0056The attachment of the first leg 11a of the second Halteriemen 10 or 10 'takes place in the embodiment shown according to <figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1</figref> at a lateral front portion of the first retaining strap 20. The corresponding second leg 11b of the second retaining strap 10 or 10 'is guided to a rear portion, ie a back region of a patient in the applied state.

0057The first retaining strap 20 also has a second closure 24. The second closure 24 may be formed in a similar manner as a hook and loop fastener, as the closure means 12. The second closure 24 is formed in a circumferential direction of the first Halteriemen 20. Thus, the second closure 24 allows application of the first retaining strap 20 about the body of a patient and adjusting a length of the first retaining strap 20. The second closure 24 is in the embodiment shown after <figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1</figref> also partially formed as part of a fastener 26. The attachment means 26 serves to receive a portable gas exchange device 30, as in FIG<figref idref="f0002">FIG. 2</figref> is shown. For this purpose, the fastening means 26 in the embodiment according to<figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1</figref> a receptacle for receiving a attached to the gas exchange device 30 projection or latching means.

0058When inserting the latching means of the gas exchange device 30 into the receptacle of the fastening means 26, a latching mechanism, which is designed, for example, spring-loaded in the receptacle of the fastening means 26, can be displaced, so that the latching means of the gas exchange apparatus 30 can penetrate deeper into the receptacle of the fastening means 26. By providing a notch or a barb on the latching means of the gas exchange device 30 can be engaged by the engagement means in the receptacle in the notch, and thus the latching means of the gas exchange device 30 due to the engaging by the spring tension engagement means on the appropriate insertion of the latching means in the receptacle of the fastener 26 Secure carrying device 1. On the fastening means 26 can also be connected to the engagement means associated release means, here a tab 27, which causes a release of the engagement of the engagement means with the projection of the gas exchange device 30. The triggering means may also be formed in other ways than by means of a tab.

0059The attachment means 26 of the carrying device 1, in the embodiment of the <figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1</figref> two such staggered in a vertical direction recordings. This may cause or reduce an improved grip as well as tilting or slipping of the portable gas exchange device 30. The tabs 27 for releasing the engaging means in the fastening means 26 are formed in opposite directions, in the upper receptacle upwards and in the lower receptacle downwards. This may allow for easier access when removing the gas exchange device 30 from the carrying device. The recordings can also be arranged horizontally or otherwise offset from each other.

0060In addition, a cable receptacle 22 is formed on the first holding strap 20. The fastening means 26 is formed on a front region, that is correspondingly on a front side of a patient. The cable receptacle 22 is formed offset in a lateral direction adjacent to the attachment means 26.

0061The cable receptacle 22 may be formed, for example, as a flexible or flexible element, which is self-closing due to an inherent spring bias, so similar to a clip on the tether 20 is applied with a leg. The cable receptacle 22 is drop-shaped in a cross-sectional shape, that is shaped to enclose a cavity. This cavity formed by the cable receptacle 22 is dimensioned so that at least one cable of a predetermined thickness can be received therein.

0062Incidentally, the first holding strap 20 according to the in <figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1</figref> illustrated embodiment in a laterally rear portion of the retaining strap 20, a loop 28. The loop 28 may in particular be formed by a fabric section fastened to the holding strap 20. The loop 28 is dimensioned such that a recording, for example, a clip portion, ie a flat strip is formed. In particular, like the<figref idref="f0003">FIG. 3</figref> it can be seen, the loop 28 may serve for receiving a holder clips a control unit 34.

0063<figref idref="f0002">FIG. 2</figref> shows the carrying device 1 according to <figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1</figref>, wherein on a front side of the carrying device 1, that is, on a front side of the first holding strap 20, a portable gas exchange device 30 is arranged. It is understood that the portable gas exchange device 30 is attached via at least one fastener counterpart to the attachment means 26 of the carrying device 1. Here, the fastener counterpart is in particular a projection or a latching means. Preferably, the gas exchange device 30 has two corresponding snap-in means corresponding to the attachment means 26 of the carrying device 1 for insertion into the receptacles of the attachment means 26.

0064In the figures, as in the following, a consistent designation of identical or equivalent components is used, the description of which is not repeated.

0065<figref idref="f0003">FIG. 3</figref> shows a carrying device 1 according to the <figref idref="f0001">FIGS. 1</figref> and <figref idref="f0002">2</figref>in which, in addition to the portable gas exchange device, a control unit 34 for controlling the portable gas exchange device 30 is shown. The control unit 34 has a fastening section 35. The attachment portion 35 in this case has a flat strip, in particular a metal strip, which is provided for receiving in the loop 28 of the second Halteriemen 20. The width of the surface portion of the holding portion 35 and the width or Dimensioning of the loop 28 are coordinated with each other, so that the control unit 34 can be securely held in the loop 28. The orientation of the loop 28 may, as shown, be provided in the vertical direction. Alternatively, the orientation of the loop 28, and correspondingly the orientation of the holding portion 35 of the control unit 34, in a horizontal orientation, ie in the circumferential direction, may be provided.

0066In addition shows <figref idref="f0003">FIG. 3</figref> a connection between the portable gas exchange device 30 and the control unit 34 by means of a cable 32. The cable 32 is guided out of the portable gas exchange device 30 through the cable receptacle 22 and then continues to the control unit 34. By providing the cable receptacle 22, the cable 32nd safely guided along the first Halteriemen 20. In particular, the cable receptacle 22 may be dimensioned such that the cable 32 is clamped in the cable receptacle 22. In this way, it can be made possible that the cable 32 or the cable connections in the portable gas exchange device 30 are not released from the gas exchange device 30 or the control unit 34 by inadvertent pulling.

0067<figref idref="f0004">FIG. 4</figref> shows a further embodiment of a carrying device 1 according to the present invention. The embodiment of the<figref idref="f0004">FIG. 4</figref> differs from the embodiment of the <figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1</figref> in that two separate, separate holding straps, namely the second holding strap 10 and the third holding strap 10 'are provided. The straps 10 and 10 'are similar to the respective first leg 11a similar to the embodiment according to<figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1</figref> attached to the first tether 20. However, the second leg 11b of the tether 10, 10 'is attached to the first leg 11a of the respective Halteriemen, so that the tether each having a ring or O-shape. In this case, an adjusting means 14a, 14b is provided on the retaining strap. The adjusting means 14a, 14b serves to change the length of the respective Halteriemens and thus allows an adaptation of the support device 1 to the physiology of a wearer.

0068For this purpose, in the embodiment shown, the first leg 11a of the retaining strap, described here by way of example on the second retaining strap 10, is provided with a first adjustment or closure means 14a at an open end section of the leg 11a. The adjustment or Closure means 14a is again formed in the embodiment shown as a part of a hook and loop fastener, which is formed flat along the end portion of the first leg 11a of the second Halteriemen 10. At an open end of the second leg 11b is at a free end portion to the first closure means 14a complementary Verstell- or Closing means 14b provided, which in turn is formed flat along the end portion 11b and forms a second part of a hook and loop fastener. In this way, a secure surface connection between the legs 11a and 11b of the second Halteriemen 10 is made possible. Analogously, such a closure is also formed on the third holding strap 10 '.

0069In the embodiment according to <figref idref="f0004">FIG. 4</figref> In addition, the closure 24 is provided in a rear region of the first retaining strap 20. In addition, the position of the loop 28 in the embodiment is after<figref idref="f0004">FIG. 4</figref> changed so that the loop 28 is formed in a laterally-front portion of the first Halteriemen 20.

0070It is understood that the position of the closures, the loop or other components is freely selectable and not limiting for the inventive concept to provide a support device for tragb a gas exchange device or a support system according to the invention.

0071According to shows <figref idref="f0005">FIG. 5</figref> another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the first tether 20, the second tether 10 and the third tether 10 'are formed integrally with each other. In this case, the carrying device 1 is designed such that it can be worn by a patient similar to a vest. In this case, the carrying device 1 is designed in such a way that a planar hold, in particular in a shoulder area and a back area as well as in a stomach area of ​​a patient, is made possible. The closure 24 is in the embodiment according to<figref idref="f0006">FIG. 6</figref> provided in a front region of the carrying device 1. Incidentally, the embodiment according to<figref idref="f0005">FIG. 5</figref> an additional belt means 31, which is additionally feasible around the torso, the waist or the waist of a wearer and is provided for attachment of the portable gas exchange device 30. The belt 31 may also be designed to receive the control unit 34 and / or the cable 32. The gas exchange device 30 may in this embodiment again with a in<figref idref="f0005">FIG. 5</figref> Fastening means 26, not shown, are fastened to the carrying device 1, wherein the fastening means can be held by means of the belt 31 or can be fastened to the belt 31.

0072Preferably, as not in <figref idref="f0005">FIG. 5</figref> can be seen, the carrying device 1 according to an embodiment after <figref idref="f0005">FIG. 5</figref> in a region in which the belt 31 is guided around the carrying device 1 or about a carrier, again a first part of a preferably flat closure means, such as a hook-and-loop fastener. Similarly, the belt 31 may have a corresponding complementary part of the closure means. Thus, a solid, preferably flat, connection between the belt 31 and the carrying device can be made possible. Instead of a closure means, a friction means, such as. A rubber coating or the like may be provided, which prevents slipping of the belt 31 in an applied state along the support device 1. Thus, by closing the belt 31, slipping of the gas exchange device 31 attachable to the belt 31 can be prevented or reduced easily, and the load through the gas exchange device can be absorbed by the shoulders of a patient and distributed to the entire body.

0073In the <figref idref="f0006">FIGS. 6</figref> and <figref idref="f0007">7</figref> a housing 2 of the gas exchange device 30 and the first holding strap 20 of the carrying device 1 of the carrying system is reproduced. In this case, the carrying system represents a portable, medical gas exchange system which unites the above-described carrying device 1 and also the above-described gas exchange device 30.

0074Like that <figref idref="f0006">Fig. 6</figref> and <figref idref="f0007">7</figref> 2, the housing 2 extends with an average width B, an average height H perpendicular to this width B, and an average depth T perpendicular to the width B and height H. In the present case, the average width, height and depth are used because the housing 2 has an "organic" shape, with rounded sides and substantially free of corners. The depth T extends away from a rear wall 3 of the housing 2. The depth T has a maximum size of 20%, preferably 15%, of the total summary length or the sum of width B + height H + depth T on. The gas exchange device thereby has a flat shape, which exerts only a very small lever on the patient in the application state, so that the gas exchange device can be worn for a long time without fatiguing the patient.

0075As in particular from <figref idref="f0007">Fig. 7</figref> can be seen, the first holding strap 20 facing the rear wall 3 of the housing 2 to the first holding strap 20 toward inwardly (concave) curved, while the first holding strap 20 at least in the closed state of the closure 24 radially outwardly (convex) is curved, said Radius of curvature r is partially different, as in particular from <figref idref="f0001 f0002 f0003 f0004 f0005">Fig. 1 to 5</figref> is apparent.

0076The curvature of the rear wall 3 substantially corresponds to the curvature of the first retaining strap 20, so that the rear wall 3 of the housing 2 is substantially flush against the radially outwardly curved first retaining strap 20, whereby the gas exchange device 30 of the carrying system or the portable, medical Gas exchange system is located close to the body of a patient, which increases the comfort and minimizes the burden on the patient due to a small lever.

0077In <figref idref="f0008">Fig. 8</figref> a further embodiment of a carrying device 1 according to the invention is shown, in which the first holding strap 20 is shown only schematically, as well as the gas exchange device 30. The in <figref idref="f0008">Fig. 8</figref> illustrated embodiment of a support device 1 for a gas exchange device 30 differs from the in <figref idref="f0001">Fig. 1</figref> illustrated embodiment in particular in that on a second strap 10, which may optionally be a left or a right tether 10, a guide tunnel 15 for tubes 40, in particular blood-carrying tubes 40, which extend from and to the gas exchanger 30 and in the application of the support device 1 and the gas exchange device 30 via a double cannula 41 are connected to the bloodstream of a patient. In the shoulder region of the retaining strap 10, which has the guide tunnel 15, a support or guide element 16 is further provided, over which a portion of the double cannula 41 is guided to come to lie in a defined position relative to a patient. In the present embodiment, the two tether straps 10, 10 'are interconnected in the rearward portion, resulting in a Y-shaped geometry.

0078In <figref idref="f0009">Fig. 9</figref> a further alternative embodiment of a carrying device 1 according to the invention is shown, which differs from the previous one in that the carrying device 1 has no rear portion, and that the two tethers 10, 10 'are connected behind a collar portion 16 of the carrying device 1, where they are guided in a loop around the collar portion 16. In one of the holding straps 10 ', in turn, there is a guide tunnel 15 for guiding, in particular blood-carrying, hoses 40 from the gas exchange device 30 to the patient. The blood-carrying tubes 40 terminate at the collar portion 16 again in a double cannula 41 which is guided on the collar portion 16 so that it is again positioned for optimal access to the bloodstream of a patient carrying the carrying device and the gas exchange device.

0079It is understood that in addition to the embodiments exemplified here, further alternative embodiments are conceivable within the scope of the present invention. It is further understood that the present invention is equally applicable to a variety of materials, such as natural or synthetic, elastic or non-elastic, breathable, tear resistant, water repellent, sterile or sterilizable and other fabrics. In addition, the fabrics may be intermeshable, sewable, fusible or otherwise connectable.

0080Incidentally, upholstery, upholstery or additional fabrics or agents may be provided on the support device, particularly at locations where intense contact with the body of a patient, such as on the shoulders or hip of a patient, prevails without departing from to remove the subject invention.

0081In some embodiments, where the gas exchange device includes an ambient air intake section, the intake of ambient air may occur directly at the gas exchange device. Alternatively, the ambient air intake portion may include a suction hose which is guided along the support device, for example, similar to a tube of the extracorporeal blood circulation or a cable of the control unit and suck in air at a predetermined location of the support device. In particular, such an air can be sucked into a head region of a patient, where there are possibly less airborne particles in the air. In addition, in this way it is possible to avoid covering the ambient air intake section, for example by clothing in front of the gas exchange device, and an associated reduction in the supply of air.