IE20130362A1 - Extendable frame, kit and method of use - Google Patents

Abstract

An extendable frame of a kit comprising an extendable frame for use in covering a subject, such as a deceased person is described. The extendable frame may comprise a plurality of arms defining a first volume in an assembled conformation, wherein at least one of the arms is movable between a collapsed (minimum) length and an extended length, thereby to increase the volume of the frame in at least one dimension. <Figure 2>

Description

In a hospital, there are often many people, such as visitors, patients and staff in the corridors, wards and communal areas. This presents a problem when it is necessary to move a deceased person within the hospital, such as from a patient room to the mortuary. For the sake of both the deceased person and the people in the hospital, it is desirable that the deceased person be transported with discretion. The current practice when a person dies in a hospital varies, but some of the most common practices are described below. in the past, hospitals had more restricted visiting hours and the hospital staff would often screen off the bed of a deceased person until the hospital was iess busy and then transport the deceased person covered with a sheet. A disadvantage of this method is that present visiting hours are often long, so hospitals are generally busy throughout the day; and it is not practical or desirable to leave a deceased person in his/her bed until the end of the day. Furthermore, patient rooms and beds are often urgently required. It is therefore increasingly desirable to transport a deceased person from their room or ward without delay.

In some cases, corridors in hospitals may be closed temporarily to allow the transportation of a deceased person in privacy. Again, this can cause problems as the corridors are often busy with visitors and the corridors should ideally remain open to enable hospital staff to attend to patients easily. It is clearly inconvenient to shut down parts of a hospital when transporting a deceased person, especially when the distances ΙΕ< 3 6P involved, i.e. between the room or ward and the mortuary, are often large in terms of the hospital.

Another practice is io cover a deceased person with a sheet before transporting them. As discussed in US 2004/0187279, there are disadvantages to this practice, one being that, as the body dehydrates, the weight of the sheet can cause deformations to the face of the deceased person, if a sheet is wrapped too tightly around a deceased person, the disfiguration caused to the deceased person’s face can be permanent. Furthermore, the method of covering the deceased person with a sheet is not discreet, as the outline of the deceased person is visible. It is therefore desirable to provide a method of covering the deceased person wherein the whole weight of the sheet is not on the deceased person and also wherein the outline of the deceased person is not obviously visible. in some hospitals, an oxygen mask is put on the face of a deceased person and they are transported as if they were a live patient. This is clearly not appropriate in many cases and does not prevent the deceased person from being seen by other people in the hospital.

Some suppliers offer a fitted cover to go over patient beds, but such covers often dip in the middle and show the body shape as described above. In addition, these devices cover the entire bed, including the bed handles. Therefore, when hospital staff transport the deceased person in their patient bed, the hospital staff have to push on the fitted cover rather than on the hospital bed handles, making the patient bed more difficult to manoeuvre.

The disclosure in GB 2230947 suggests that it is normai practice to convey a deceased person using a conventional hospital transport troiley with a curved metal sheet cover over the platform surface. This method has the disadvantage of requiring a patient trolley with built-in functionality, so these types of trolleys may be expensive to produce and can be more bulky. Furthermore, the curved metal sheet may not be of an appropriate size for ali deceased persons.

GB 2230947 discloses a concealment trolley for the transportation of a deceased person. The trolley has an outward overall appearance resembling a piece of mobile hospital equipment, with an enclosure that may conceal a deceased person. This method of transporting a deceased person has disadvantages, one being that it requires the deceased person to be transferred from the hospital bed to the concealment trolley. Furthermore, concealment trolleys are often inflexible, and therefore have limited use in ίΕί 3o 3 62 terms of getting them into the deceased person's room, which can already be crowded.

In addition, this inflexibility does not allow for covering people of different sizes.

In view of the above, there is a need in the art for a better method of concealing and transporting a deceased person, The present invention seeks to overcome, or at least alleviate, some of the problems in the prior art.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In comparison with the current practices outlined above, the present invention offers many advantages. The extendable frame may be extended to define a wide range of volumes, and is therefore suitable for enveloping or concealing a wide range of subjects. As a result of this expansion functionality, the extendabie frame does not need to be stored at its maximum volume when not in use, which is advantageous. Another advantage may be that the frame can be fully or extensively collapsed for storage at a much smaller size and volume than when in use. its small collapsed size means that it can be conveniently stored when not in use, and transported, with discretion, to a location in which it is required.

Broadly, the present invention also provides a kit comprising an extendable frame formed from a plurality of arms and a cover for use in covering the extendabie frame (and a subject), in use. The extendable frame, together with the cover, may be used in conjunction with a hospital bed in order to conceal and transport a deceased person. Thus, the present invention allows a deceased person to be transported with discretion. The frame, being size adjustable, may also be adapted for use with different size bed units, or trolleys, as may be used in different hospitals, heaith centres and also in different countries. Methods of assembling and using the extendable frame are also provided in the present invention. in a first aspect, the present invention resides in an extendable frame for use in enveloping a subject, the extendable frame defining a first volume and being extendabie in at least one dimension to define a second, larger volume.

In one embodiment, the extendable frame may usefully be comprised of a plurality of arms, wherein at (east one of the arms is an extendable arm and is movabie between a IEi 3 0 3 62 collapsed state and an extended state, thereby to increase the volume of the frame in at least one dimension.

In another embodiment, the extendable frame is comprised of two sub-frames (which may be substantially rectangular) and af ieast two interconnecting arms for connecting between the sub-frames so as to define the volume. The sub-frames are suitably formed from arms (rails or frame members) connected at the apexes by jointing means so as to form open-sided sub-frames, The arms of the sub-frames may be extendable arms. In some embodiments, each of the sub-frames comprises four sub-frame arms and four corner joints for securing the sub-frame arms in a defined configuration, such as a rectangle or square, The joints may be connectable to the arms or other frame members in a releasable (reversible) manner, or by permanent I non-re I easable means.

Hence, the invention encompasses sub-frames that are pre-assembled, as well as subframes that may be assembled, as required, by the end user. It is beneficial if the subframes are pre-assembled, as this aids the person assembling the extendable frame, both in terms of speed and simplicity. In the case that the sub-frames are assembled as required, the sub-frames correspond to end or side panels / frames of the extendable frame which are formed as part of the full assembly process.

Similarly, the whole frame may be pre-assembled in order to aid the person using the frame. In this situation, the pre-assembied frame only needs to be put in position over the deceased person and expanded to the desired volume.

An extendable arm may be extended to one or more fixed I predetermined positions; alternatively an extendable arm may have a minimum (‘collapsed') and a maximum (‘extended1) lengthandmaybe extendable to any desired length between the minimum and maximum lengths, in some embodiments, the extendable frame may comprise a mixture of extendable arms, one or more being extendable to any desired length (between the minimum and maximum lengths), and one or more being extendable to at least one predefined length. Extendable arms beneficially comprise two or more (e.g. 3, or 5) arm sections, which may conveniently slide relative to one another to change the length of the arm; although other systems can be envisaged. A preferred extendable arm comprises a telescoping mechanism. The extendable arms may further comprise a securing means for releasably fixing the length of the extendable arm.

Desirably, an extendable arm includes a securing or locking mechanism for securing / fixing the extendable arm at the desired extended length. The securing means may be, for example, a screw-threaded key or a hole and pin mechanism that can be released when St is desired to change the length of the arm. A preferred mechanism may comprise a screw-turn ‘key’ adapted to be connectable to one section of the extendible arm, and to release and to grip a second section of the extendable arm. Other mechanisms known to the person of skill in the art, for example, a twisting locking mechanism, a lever locking mechanism or a socket locking mechanism may be used to allow the extendable arms of the present invention to be extended and secured at an extended length.

Where at least one extendable arm of the extendable frame is extendable, the extendable frame may be extended in at [east one dimension, which allows the frame to be used in combination with and to cover subjects of different sizes. Advantageously, the frame includes more than one extendable arm; and still more suitably, more than one extendable arm oriented in more than one direction to allow the extendable frame to be extended in more than one direction! dimension. For example, in some embodiments the extendable frame is extendable in two-dimensions, and in more preferred embodiments, in three-dimensions.

Suitably, ail of the arms of the sub-frames are extendable, allowing the extendable frame to be extended in at least two dimensions, This gives further versatility for covering subjects of different sizes.

Jnterconnecting arms may be used to join the two sub-frames together. It may be desirable to have three or even four interconnecting arms in certain embodiments, to enhance the stability of the extendable frame. Again, it should be appreciated that the invention is not limited to an extendable frame comprising pre-assembled sub-frames, and where the sub-frames are assembled as required they simply correspond to sides (e.g. end or side panels / frames) of the extendable frame.

The extendable frame of the invention may further comprise one or more support arms. Support arms may be used interspersed between frame members (i.e. sub-frame arms and/or interconnecting arms) so as to reduce the open span between adjacent sub-frame and/or interconnecting arms. Jn this way, the support arms can improve structural rigidity of the frame and/or help to support a cover, when used, especially when the frame is in an extended conformation. In some embodiments at least one of the support arms, and more suitably all of the support arms are extendable arms.

Thus, in one embodiment, the extendable frame may be comprised of two substantially rectangular sub-frames, at least two interconnecting arms and one or more support ΙΕί 3 0 3 62 arms. In one particularly preferred embodiment the extendable frame comprises three interconnecting arms and four support arms, in addition to the two sub-frames (or the components necessary to assemble the two sub-frames when not provided in preassembled form).

Conveniently, the support arms may be releasably attachable to the extendable frame. This may be achieved, for example, when the support arms are provided with connection means at each ends, the connection means being adapted to clip onto a respective arm of the extendable frame in a releasably attachable manner. The connection means may comprise a push-fit mechanism or friction-fit clips adapted to releasabiy grip or otherwise attach to the side and/or around a frame member / arm. The support arms may be connected to the extendable frame wherever is appropriate.

The arms of the (rectangular) sub-frames, the interconnecting arms and the support arms are ali optionally extendable arms. This allows the extendabie frame to be extended in three dimensions. As a result, the extendable frame can cater for different sized beds, trolleys and subjects / people. It is desirable that the assembled extendable frame has the general shape of a rectangular cuboid, as this shape fits easily over standard patient beds.

Advantageously, the extendable frame may, in an extended conformation extend to one or more (e.g. any) length between 695 and 2400 mm, and/or width between 850 and 1404 mm, and/or height between 490 and 766 mm.

In a second aspect, the invention provides a kit comprising an extendable frame for use in concealing / enveloping a subject, the extendable frame defining a first volume and being extendable in at least one dimension to define a second, larger volume. Suitably, the extendable frame of the kit of the invention comprises any or all features described in combination with respect to the first aspect of the invention.

In one embodiment, the kit may further comprise a cover, for example a sheet, for covering the frame when in an extended conformation. The kit may further comprise at least one securing means for securing the cover to the extendable frame and/or to a bed, in use. The securing means may comprise one or more attachment mechanisms or fastening means, as will be known to the skilled person. For example, a suitable fastening may be selected from one or more of loops, straps, ties and elasticated corners. The cover may therefore be used in conjunction with the extendable frame to cover a subject. Desirably, the cover is opaque in order to conceal the subject effectively.

IEf 3 Ο 3 62 The kit may further comprise a bag suitable for containing the extendable frame (when collapsed or disassembled) and optional cover. The bag may be of a design wherein it may be carried, for example using a shoulder strap attachable to the bag. Alternatively or in addition, the bag may have wheels attached to it so that it can be easily pulled along the ground.

The extendable frame and/or the kit ofthe invention is advantageously lightweight. Thus, in some embodiments the frame members or arms may be substantiaily comprised of fibreglass or another suitable lightweight’ materiai, such as a lightweight metal, for example aluminium or steel; or a polymeric/plastics materiai, such as carbon fibre or a composite material. The frame members are desirably manufactured to be relatively lightweight and to have a certain desirable strength or rigidity. Thus, the selection of material for the frame may be based on a combination or balance of these factors. The thickness or construction ofthe frame members may be determined by the material properties. Generally the frame members are of a hollow / tubular construction.

Desirably, the kit weighs less than approximately 20 kg, less than approximateiy 15 kg, and suitably less than approximately 10 kg. In this way it can be readily transported by a (single) person, in use, In one embodiment, the kit weighs between approximately 8 and 10 kg, e.g, about 9 kg. The frame would typically weigh slightly less than the corresponding 'kit’ Desirably, the extendable frame, including alt of its arms and joints weighs less than about 15 kg, less than about 10 kg, and still more suitable iess than about 5 kg. In one embodiment the frame weighs approximately 4.5 kg.

In a third aspect, the invention resides in a method of covering / enveloping a subject (such as for concealing a deceased person). The method comprises providing an extendable frame, and assembling and/or extending the extendable frame so as to envelop the subject. The extendable frame is thus extendable in at least one dimension from a first volume to define a second, larger volume. The extendable frame of this aspect of the invention may have any or all the features described in relation to the first and/or second aspects of the invention.

In one embodiment, the method further comprises the step of connecting a plurality of arms to assemble the extendable frame so as to define a volume within the frame members. At least one ofthe arms may be an extendable arm and movable between a collapsed state and an extended state. The extendable frame may be extended in at least one dimension, thereby to enlarge the extendable frame and envelop the subject, IE : 3 Ο 3 62 and advantageously the extendable frame can be extended in a second and a third dimension as desired.

In another embodiment, the method further comprises the steps of securing a cover around the extendable frame to obscure the volume defined by the extendable frame.

The cover may be secured to the extendable frame or to a bed, in use.

Advantageously, the present invention allows discreet transportation of a deceased person. The cover (or sheet) is advantageously secured around the extendable frame in order to conceal a deceased person / patient. The extendable frame avoids the possibility ofthe body / body shape being visible to another person. Moreover, when the covered frame is seen, in use, there is the further benefit that it is not immediately obvious what is below the frame / cover.

Furthermore, the extendable frame of the present invention is versatile, as it can be used with any standard hospital bed 1 trolley. In some embodiments, the extendable frame of the present invention may be adapted to be placed within the bed ends, so the hospital staff can still push the bed handles when transporting a deceased person. Therefore, the use of a mobile bed as a transportation device is not compromised. Advantageously, lower frame members at head and/or foot ends may be pushed down between the bed mattress and the bed frame, so as to loosefy secure the frame in the correct position with the lower portion of the frame below the upper surface of the mattress. Alternatively, the frame may be simply placed on a mattress or over bed covering.

In use, the extendable frame may then be secured / attached to the bed or other patient support along with its cover, using attachments means provided for the purpose.

Securing the frame (and cover) to the bed frame or equivalent is particularly usefui when the frame does not fit below the upper surface of the mattress, due to the shape of the bed frame, for example.

The optional support arms suitably have ends adapted to clip onto other arms / members of the extendable frame in a detachably attachable manner, such as by way of push-fit clips or friction-fit clips. The support arms are particularly useful as they can prevent a flexible cover from dipping or sagging and potentially showing the outline of the subject.

Desirably, the extendable frame is quick and simple to assemble. Advantageously, the assembly of the extendable frame can be performed by one person, therefore reducing staff requirements. The components may beneficially made of a lightweight material, so that the apparatus can be carried or transported by a single person. When the 111 3 9 3 62 components of the frame are included as part of a kit, they can be earned or wheeled in a bag easily by one person.

Beneficially, the frame members (arms) and joints are hollow, so as to minimise the weight of the components. In some embodiments, the arms and/or joints are provided with hofes for ease of washing and cleaning. The components of the frame and kit may also be formed of materials that enabie sterilisation.

It will be appreciated that any and al! features of the extendable frame of the invention may aiso be included in the kit of the invention; and the methods of the invention may involve any or ali of the features of the extendable frame and/or kit of the invention as described herein. Thus, the features described in relation to any one aspect of the invention are to be considered as disclosed in relation to any other aspect of the invention.

These and other aspects, objects and benefits of this invention will become still more clear and apparent on studying the d eta its of this invention as set out below, and in the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The invention wiil be further described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 shows an embodiment of the extendable frame of the invention, comprising two substantially rectangutar sub-frames and three interconnecting arms in an unassembled configuration.

Figure 2 shows an embodiment of the extendable frame of Figure 1 ir> an 25 assembled configuration, comprising two substantially rectangular sub-frames joined together by three interconnecting arms. Three arrows in this Figure show the three dimensions in which the extendable frame may be extended in some embodiments.

Figure 3 shews another embodiment of the extendable frame of the invention, co m prisi n g t wo su bsta nt ia 11 y re eta ng u la r s u b-f ra mes j o i ned together by th ree interconnecting arms and four support arms.

IEl 30 3 62 Figure 4 is a schematic representation of an interconnecting arm of the invention.

Figure 5a is a schematic representation of a securing mechanism in the form of a turn key, which may be used on any extendable arm for securing the arm at a desired length.

Figure 5b is an enlarged schematic representation of the key of a securing mechanism in accordance with orte embodiment of the apparatus shown isolated from an arm of the extendible frame.

Figure 6 is a schematic representation of a three-way joint of the extendable frame, which interconnects two arms of a sub-frame to an interconnecting arm.

Figure 7 is a schematic representation of a three-way joint, in use, interconnecting three arms of the extendable frame.

Figure 8 is a schematic representation of a two-way joint for interconnecting two arms of an extendable frame.

Figure 9 rs a schematic representation of an extendable frame according to an 15 embodiment of the invention in an extended conformation positioned on a bed, in use.

Figure 10a illustrates a bag with a shoulder strap for storing and transporting a kit in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. The extendable frame of the invention may be stored and carried in the bag in collapsed form.

Figure 10b is a schematic representation of a second embodiment of a bag for storing and transporting a kit in accordance with an aspect of the invention..

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OFTHE INVENTION In general the invention provides an extendable frame that can be transported to a site where it is needed, and extended at that location to an appropriate size and volume for use, e.g. to surround and conceal a deceased person. The extendibiiity of the frame allows the size I volume defined by the frame to be adjusted as required, to account for different situations. The frame may be extendable in one or more dimensions; and to one or more extended conformations in the one or more dimensions, as desired. Thus, one Ο 5 6 2 or more sides of the frame may be extendable, and an extendable side may be extended to one or more predefined fixed lengths, or to any length up to its maximum extension, depending on design and requirements. Suitable extension mechanisms include telescopic mechanisms, Conveniently, the frame can be disassembled, folded or collapsed when not in use, for ease of storage and/or transport. Therefore, it is beneficial for the frame to be lightweight; for example, a weight that can be carried by a single person. Typically, the frame is composed of arms, rails or the like, which may be hollow. The frame is typically opensided and, thus, is arranged to define an open volume.

Accordingly, in some embodiments the frame alone is not suitable for concealment, and therefore, in these aspects and embodiments there may be provided a cover adapted to be placed over / around ihe frame, in use. The extendable frame and cover may be provided in tbe form of a kit of the invention. The cover may be in the form of a sheet or the like, which can be positioned over and around the frame to conceal the inner volume, While any suitable covering means is envisaged, the cover is preferably opaque. The covering means is suitably a sheet material, such as a fabric or plastics material.

Any appropriate assembly, folding or collapsing mechanism may be used in accordance with the invention. Conveniently, the arms, rails or frame members may be connected or connectable at their apexes by means of permanent (ποη-releasable) joints and/or releasable joints. For example, a permanent joint may be one that is of a welded, bonded (e.g. glued) or riveted construction, in some such embodiments the arms or rails may, if convenient, be connected directly to each other. Alternatively (e.g. for ease of manufacture), they may be connected via a joint means.

In other embodiments, such as where the arms are releasably connectable, it may be Ξ5 most convenient to connect the arms using appropriate joint means. The joint means may be adapted to releasably grip an end of one or more arms. For example, an end of an arm may be a push-fit or a friction-fit within an opening (or aperture) provided in the joint. The joint may alternatively or additionally include a securing means, such as in the form of a pin, lug, indent, hook or the like, for cooperating with a compatible structure at or towards the end of a corresponding arm of the frame, in some embodiments the arm may be slid into the joint and secured in place. Another convenient form of attachment is a screw thread to engage between an arm and its corresponding joint.

IE: 3 ϋ 3 62 A joint may include π on-re I easable and releasable connections. Joints may be two-way or three-way. Two-way joints may be used for connecting two arms or rails and may be used to connect two arms in a linear (one-dimensional) or non-linear (two-dimensional) arrangement. A two-dimensional, two-way joint wili help to define a side ofthe frame.

Three-way joints are typicaily adapted for a three-dimensional arrangement of arms, as may be found at an apex of the frame in assembled form.

Jointing means or joints may be angularly fixed, i.e. adapted to define a specific, single arrangement of the arm orientations. Alternatively, a joint may be adjustable to enable the orientation of the arms, when connected to the joint, to be adjusted in a desirable manner. For example, an adjustable joint may allow for the folding or collapse of the frame, without requiring the removal (release) of the arms connected thereto. Thus, the joint may include pivoting means or the like to enable one or more connected arms to fold, pivot or otherwise move towards another connected to the same joint.

In some embodiments arms may be releasabty connectable directly to one another, for example, by a screw-thread, a push-fit or a friction-fit mechanism, as is well known to the skilied person. For example, the end of one arm may be dimensioned to be a push fit within an open end (or aperture) on an arm to which it is intended to connect. In one embodiment the female end of one arm may be provided with a radial hole and the male end of the other arm may be provided with a sprung button for locating in the hole and securing the reiative positions of the connected arms. In other embodiments, screw thread fittings or any other appropriate means may be used.

Where it is convenient or desirable for the connectable arms to be retained in an associated arrangement even when the frame Is in its collapsed state (e.g. for ease of storage and/or assembly), the adjacent arms may be associated with each other by means of a flexible connection, such as a cable, wire, or thread. The connection is conveniently flexible and/or eiasticated to allow one arm to be moved easily relative to the other.

The frame may have any suitable shape. The sides or ends of the frame ultimately determine the three-dimensional shape of the assembled frame. Side ί end frames or panels (e.g. sub-frames of the extendable frame of the invention) may be any appropriate shape, such as triangular, square or rectangular. Four sided sub-frames are preferred and, thus, the assembled frame is generally cuboid.

IE’ 3 Ο 3 62 The frame may comprise one or more fixed or pre-assembied side (sub-frames), which may be extendable, in combination with interconnecting and/or 'support1 arms/ members, which may also be extendable. By providing one or more pre-assembled sides, it may be easier and/or quicker to fully assemble the extendable frame for use. By way of exampie, two preassembled sides may be inter-connected using one or more cross-pieces / interconnecting arms to complete a basic frame. The number of interconnecting arms can be variabie and the frame may be provided with 'optional' cross-pieces to provide increased rigidity when desired.

Byway of explanation, depending on the requirement for the size and shape of an 10 assembled frame, one cross-piece may be adequate to support two end frames / sides in a fixed relationship and, optionally, to allow a cover to be supported over the frame.

Typically, however, the appropriate number of interconnecting arms depends on the size and shape of the frame. For example, a rectangutar frame may include three or four interconnecting arms. Optional further 'support' arms, rails or members may be provided to provide additional rigidity and/or to provide increased support for a cover member, when used. For example, when the frame is extended, if the cover is likely to sag between the basic frame members, support arms can be positioned between interconnecting arms to reduce the distance between arms and thereby reduce the amount of sagging of the cover.

By way of further explanation, interconnecting arms may connect between the ends of arms or frame members to define the outer boundaries of the frame, whereas support arms may be positioned between interconnecting arms or the arms of an assembled subframe, such that they connect between the sides or middle of opposing frame members, A type of coding may be used to differentiate the arms of the extendable frame. For example, colour-coding may be used to clearly distinguish between interconnecting arms that should ideally be used to construct the frame, and support arms that may be less important for structural rigidity and, therefore, optional in some embodiments.

Numbering or any other form of labelling may also / alternatively be used to distinguish the arms of the frame and to direct correct assembly.

In general, the frame may be made from any appropriate materials. Preferably, the materials are light-weight and strong. The sirength of the arms need only be sufficient such that the frame can support itself and any associated equipment (e.g. the cover) without substantially flexing (and without breaking under normal use) as a result of its weight (and that of the cover, when used), even when in its fully extended conformation.

IE 1 3 0 3 62 Any appropriate material may be used, and particularly suitable materials are polymeric, such as plastics; metals, such as aluminium; carbon fibre; fibreglass or a composite material.

As mentioned, in general the frame members, arms or rails are hollow where possible, in 5 order to reduce tbe weight of the frame. The arms may have any convenient crosssection, such as circular, oval, square or rectangular. Most conveniently, the arms are in the form of circular, hollow poles.

Joints may also be manufactured from any suitable materia!, such as plastics and/or metals. Conveniently, for ease of manufacture, the joints are made of a plastics material.

The frame members, including the joints, may be painted or otherwise coated. Frame members may also or alternatively be treated with antimicrobial / sterilising coatings to try to reduce or eliminate the transmission of infectious agents.

The frame may be extendable to any desired size. Suitably, the frame is extendable to at least the size and shape of a trolley or bed, preferably a trolley or bed as used in a hospital or other health centre. Most typically, the frame can have a width of at least a single bed or trolley, but in some cases the frame may be extendable to a size larger than that of a single bed or trolley.

The size of the collapsed, disassembled or folded frame is not critical, but in some embodiments the smaller the collapsed frame the better. The size of the collapsed frame may, in general, depend on the number of extendable frame members (or arms), and the degree or extension in the extendable arms. For example, an extendable arm may have two, three, four or even more extension sections. In general, the higher the number of extension sections, the shorter each section may be, and the smaller (in that dimension) the collapsed frame may be. in one embodiment, the extendable frame has a size of approximately 400 to 800 mm in length x approximately 300 to 900 mm in width x approximately 200 to 600 mm in height when in a collapsed conformation. More suitably, the collapsed dimensions may be approximately 500 to 700 mm in length x approximately 400 to S50 mm in width x approximately 300 to 500 mm in height. In some embodiments, the frame may beneficially be extended up to a size of approximately 1000 to 2500 mm in length x approximately 400 to 1500 mm in width x approximately 400 to 900 mm in height. Furthermore, in some embodiments the extendable frame may encompass sizes in one or more of the foflowing dimensions: length between approximately 500 and 2400 mm, IE 1 3 0 3 62 and/or width between approximately 400 and 1400 mm, and/or height between approximately 300 and 770 mm.

The cover, where used, may be formed of any convenient material or materials, such as a polymeric (plastic) sheet, or a woven or non-woven fabric of natural and/or synthetic fibres. Suitably, the material is washable in a conventional home or commercial washer and dryer. It is beneficial that the fabric is capable of withstanding repeated washing at high temperatures (e.g. between 60 and 100&C) in the presence of detergents and advantageously also disinfectants, such as bleach. Beneficially, the cover ofthe invention should also withstand the temperature of high temperature dryers that are ty p i ca I of ind u stria! I au nd ries, i n wh ich m ost he a It hcare m ateri als are cleaned. Synthetic materials for the cover may be selected from polyester, polyamide, acrylic and olefin, with polyester being particularly beneficial. In other embodiments, the cover may comprise cotton, polyester or a polyester-cotton biend.

Optionally, the cover may be coated or impregnated with one or more anti-pathogenic agent, such as an anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and/or anti-viral agent to provide an antimicrobial or sterilising function. The cover may be further treated to impart additional beneficial properties, for example, by applying anti-stain and/or anti-odour agents to improve appearance and/or lifespan. The cover may also be water-resistant and/or flame-retardant.

Suitably, the cover is a flexible material, and may optionally be elasticated or 'stretchy'. The cover may be manufactured in the form of a flat sheet or a fitted sheet, for example having elasticated corners, and optionally sides adapted to fit around the edges ofthe frame, in use. Conveniently, the cover is adjustable to fit or at least be securable to a range of extended frame sizes. The cover may aiso be made form a suitable material that can be sealed through means of welding and that does not require laundering.

The cover Is suitably of a size that can envelop the extendable frame at any of its range of sizes. For example, the cover may be of any size suitable for this purpose and is desirably suitable for standard hospital beds up to 100 cm wide. Covers of other sizes may be provided, for example up to 140 cm wide. This is useful to avoid the need for more than one cover. However, different covers may be desirable in some embodiments. The covers of different sizes may be of different colours to aid the person using them.

Optionally, a disposable cover may be used. Such a cover is intended to be used once and then discarded. Similarly to the covers described above, the disposable cover may IE 1 3 0 3 62 be formed of any convenient material or materials, such as a polymeric (plastic) sheet, or a woven or non-woven fabric of natural and/or synthetic fibres. it will be appreciated that the quality and weight of the fabric used to manufacture the cover is not critical to the performance ofthe invention, provided the strength and durability of the fabric is fit for its purpose Generally, the important requirements are that the cover is light-weight and durable. It may be any appropriate colour.

The cover may conveniently be provided with securing means for securing the cover to the frame and/or to the bed on which the frame is positioned in use. Any appropriate securing means may be used, the aim being that the cover does not come free from the frame in use, or move so as to reveal the inner volume of the frame. Suitable securing means include ties, belts, tags etc., which may be secured to a frame or bed member. Conveniently, the ties may be fabric and/or may include poppers, buttons, buckles or Velcro™ fastenings or the like. Securing means may be provided on the cover, on the frame members and/or on a compatible bed. When the securing means are provided on the cover they may be fixed to (e.g. bonded, sewed etc.) or attachable to the cover, e.g. via a loop, popper or other appropriate mechanism.

Specific embodiments ofthe invention are described in the accompanying drawings.

Figure 1 shows a first embodiment of the extendable frame 10O of the invention in an unassembled form 102. This embodiment comprises two free-standing substantiaily rectangular sub-frames 104 and three free-standing interconnecting arms 106 (or poles). In this arrangement, the sub-frames 104, or side panels, are comprised of four arms (frame members or rails}, two of which are depicted in a horizontal position 108, and two of which are depicted in a vertical orientation 109 and four corner joints (or brackets) 110; 111, which are adapted to orient each arm at 90° to each other arm attached to the same joint. As shown in Figure 1, the sub-frames 104 or side panels have open faces 112. In alternative embodiments, however, the side panels 104 could be solid (or otherwise opaque).

The ends of each of the four sub-frame arms 108; 109 are connected to corner joints 110; 111 that are arranged to define a rectangle. In this embodiment, three of the corner joints of each sub-frame are three-way, three-dimensional joints 110, and one of the corner joints 111 is a two-way, two-dimensional joint. In alternative embodiments there may be a different arrangement of two-way and/or three-way joints. The joints have shoulders 130 defining apertures 118 (only some of which are visible in Figure 1) for IEl 3 0 3 62 receiving the ends of the arms 108; 109; 106 to which they are connected. In this embodiment, the end portions of the arms 108; 109; 106 are a sliding, push / friction fit within the apertures 118, such that the arms 108; 109; 106 can be removed from the joints by pulling; however, other arrangements are possibie.

While in this embodiment the sub-frames 104 (or side panels) are pre-assembled, it will be appreciated that this need not be the case. Also, while in this embodiment it remains possible to disassemble each of the sub-frames 104 by removing the horizontal 108 and vertical 109 arms from at least one of the joints to which they are connected, in alternative embodiments the arms 108; 109 may be permanently connected, either directly to each other or via a corner joint.

As depicted in Figure 1, in this embodiment each of the arms 108; 109 forming each of the sub-frames 104 is extendable. In this embodiment, the extendable arms 108; 109 comprise two sections, a small diameter section 108a; 109a and a large diameter section 108b; 109b: the small diameter sections 108a; 109a being adapted to be a sliding fit within the large diameter sections 108b; d09b, respectively. Furthermore, in the embodiment depicted, the horizontally-arranged arms 108 of the sub-frames 104 are in general of larger diameter than the vertically-arranged extendable arms 109. In this embodiment, therefore, the apertures 118 in the corner joints 110; 111 for receiving the ends of the arms 108; 109 have different diameters according to which diameter arm portion they are intended to receive. By having different diameter arm sections, it can be easier to assemble the frame 100 and ensure that vertical 109 and horizontal 108 arms are correctly located. In some embodiments anns 108; 109 and/or joints 110; 111 may be colour-coded or numbered for ease of assembly. It can, in some embodiments, be convenient (e.g. for ease of manufacture) to have the ends of all arms the same diameter, such that the corner joints can all have the same size fixings to receive arms of the frame.

For security and for ease of assembly and disassembly, in this embodiment the interconnecting arms 106 are provided towards each end with engaging means in the form of a snap ί push-fit connector 126, 128 for releasably engaging a corresponding structure 132 in the three-way corner joints 110. However, it is not essential that the interconnecting arms 106 have separate engagement means 126, 128. Instead, the arms 106 may be a mating fit with the corner joints 110.

In the depicted embodiment, the snap / push-fit connector 126 cf the interconnecting arms 106 are each provided with a tab 128 in the form of a resilient rectangular flange. In IE: 3 Ο 3 62 use, to assemble the interconnecting arms 106 to the sub-frames 104 ofthe frame 100, each of the snap-fit connectors 126, 128 at one end of each interconnecting arm 106 is pushed into a corresponding aperture 118 in an appropriate shoulder 130 of a corner joint 110 in one of the sub-frames 104. In order to engage the snap-fit connectors 126, 123, the shoulder 130 of the comer joint 110 is further provided with a side aperture 132, which in this embodiment is generally in the form of a rectangle, through which the resilient rectangular flange 128 ofthe arm's snap-fit connector 126 protrudes when correctly assembled. The same procedure is then carried out to connect the free ends of the interconnecting arms 106 to the second sub-frame 104.

To disassemble the frame 100 and to remove the interconnecting arms 106 from the corner joints 110; in this embodiment, the rectangular flanges 128 ofthe snap-fit connector 126 are depressed through the rectangular aperture 132 and the arm 106 can then be removed (by pulling) from the shoulder 130 of the corner joint 110, it will be appreciated that other arrangements and engaging means for connecting interconnecting arms 106 to the sub-frames 104 are also possible. in the arrangement of Figure 1 it will be noted that the interconnecting arms 106 are ali extendable and are comprised of two sections 106a, 106b similar to that described in relation tc the arms 108; 109 of sub-frames 104. However, in alternative arrangements the interconnecting arms 106 may be of fixed length, or may have more than two extension sections.

In this embodiment, the arms 103; 109; 106 are made predominantly of fibreglass; although other materials may be used. The corner joints 110; 111 of this embodiment are made of a plastics material for ease of manufacture, but again, other materials may be used.

Although as shown in Figure 1 the sub-frames 104 are substantially rectangular, they could alternatively be of any suitable shape, but are generally a shape with four sides, for example a square, rhombus or trapezium amongst others. In certain embodiments, the four joints of each sub-frame 104 may ail be three-way joints 110, or there may be only one or two three-way joints 110, with the remainder being two-way joints 111. tn some embodiments the ends of the arms 108; 109 may be directly connected to one another, e.g. by a structural feature of the arms, or by bonding, welding or the like. While the arms 108 shown in Figure 1 are all extendable, alternative arrangements are equally possible. Although this extendible frame 100 of the invention has three interconnecting arms 106, alternative arrangements may have two or four interconnecting arms 106. in other IE i 3 0 3 62 embodiments, not depicted, the connectors 126, 126 on the interconnecting arms may be optional, and where present, may be of any appropriate type known to the skilled person.

Figure 2 shows an extendable frame 100 of the invention in assembled form 140. In this 5 e m b odi m ent, t he f ram e com prises two s u bsta nti al I y re ctang u la r su b-f ra mes 104 j oi ned together by three interconnecting arms 106 in the manner described in relation to the embodiment of Figure 1. In this embodiment, all of the arms are extendable and are depicted in their shortest / collapsed form. Accordingly, the assembled frame 140 depicted in Figure 2 is in its smallest assembled form and the three arrows 142a, 142b, 142c in the drawing show the three directions / dimensions in which this embodiment of the extendable frame 140 may be extended. In other arrangements only one or two sides of the frame 140 may comprise extendable arms, and in such embodiments the frame 140 may be extendable in only one or two directions accordingly, If will be seen how, in alternative arrangements, the two substantially rectangular sub15 frames 104 may be joined together by only two interconnecting arms 106; or by four or more arms, depending on requirements, in which case, a corresponding number of three-way joints 110 is provided on each sub-frame. More arms may be used to provide additional strength or stability. The frame may also comprise one or more, for example, three support arms 146a, 146b, 146c.

Figure 3 shows an alternative embodiment ofthe extendable frame 101 ofthe invention, in assembled form 141. The frame 101 of this embodiment is depicted in an extended conformation. The frame 101 comprises two substantially rectangular sub-frames 104 joined together by three interconnecting arms 106, and four support arms 146a, 146b, 146c. in use, whereas the interconnecting arms 106 are positioned at the apexes of the frame (e.g. at corner joints 110; 111) and serve to space apart the side or end frames 106; the support arms 146a, 146b, 146c are spaced from the comers or apexes of the assembled frame 141 and connect to the sides of the respective arms to which they are mounted. The support arms 146a, 146b, 146c are intended to provide additional rigidity to the frame 141 and, when used in conjunction with a cover (not shown in Figure 3), to help prevent, minimise or reduce any sagging in the cover in the region between the interconnecting arms 106 and sub-frame arms 108; 109. The support arms 146a, 146b, 146c are especially useful when the frame 141 is extended and, thus, when the distance I span between the arms (or frame members) is maximal. As depicted, it is beneficial to locate the support arms 146a, 146b, 146c substantialiy mid-way between ΪΕ 1 3 0 3 62 the respective ends of the arms to which they are connected; although it is may not be necessary that the support arms 146a, 146b, 146c are connected exactly at the midpoint of an arm.

For securely and releasably connecting to the sides of the frame arms 10S; 109; 106, the 5 support arms 146a, 146b, 146c are provided with connection members 150 at each end. in this embodiment the connection members 150 are in the form of resilient brackets having an elongate channel aligned perpendicularly to the long axis of the support arm, with an open, partially circular (i.e. arcuate) cross-section to substantialiy correspond to the outer circumference of the arm to which it is engaged in use.

To assemble the support arms 146a, 146b, 146c on the frame 141, the open portion of the resilient bracket 150 is placed against the side of the arm to which it is to be attached and the bracket is pushed over and around the arm until it snaps or clips into place. As the skilled person will appreciate, the width of the open portion of the channel in the bracket 150 is beneficially slightly less than the diameter of the arm portion / section to which it connects, so that it is a push fit over the arm (to clip into place), and can be releasably retained on the arm . The channel in the bracket 150, in this embodiment, has a cross-section or profile in the form of a partial circle slightly greater than a half-circle, and has a radius of curvature that is essentially the same as the outer surface of the arm to which it is adapted to connect.

Conveniently, the support arms 146a, 146b, 146c are assembled onto the frame 141 once the frame 101 has been extended to the desired size. The support arms 146a, 146b, 146c may also be extendable, in the depicted embodiment ali of the support arms 146a, 146b, 146c are extendable. Furthermore, in this embodiment the three support arms 146a, 146b comprise two sections, whereas the fourth support arm 146c comprises four sections, it will be appreciated that, in other embodiments the extendable support arms 146a, 146b, 146c can have any convenient number of extension sections. in the embodiment depicted in Figure 3 the extendable arms are provided with locking mechanisms 158 comprising 'keys’ 160 (as shown in more detail in Figures 4, 5a and 5b) to releasabiy lock or secure the arms in the desired extended conformation.

Figure 4 illustrates an interconnecting arm according to one embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, a snap I push-fit connector 126 is provided at each end of the arm, and the tab 128 of the snap i push-fit connector 126 is in the form of a resilient IE i 3 Ο 3 62 rectangular flange. A locking mechanism 158 with a 'key1 160 for releasably securing the length of an extendable arm is also shown.

Figures 5a and 5b illustrate a screw key 160 of a securing / iocking mechanism 158, which is located on an extendable arm (e.g, 106; 108; 109) in Figure 5a and separate from the arm in Figure 5b, This embodiment of a locking mechanism 153 comprises a tubular body 162 adapted to mount around a portion / section of an extendible arm (e.g. 106; 103; 109), having a bore 164 through the wali 166 of the body 162. The inner surface of the bore 164 is provided with a female screw-thread 170 (not shown).

The key 160 comprises a head portion 172 for ease of holding and manipulation, and a stem 174 (which is not clearly visible), that is dimensioned to correspond to the inner diameter of the bore 164, which is provided with a screw-thread 176 (not shown) around its outer surface along at least part of its length for cooperating with the screw-threaded bore 164, 170 of the body 162, As the key 160 is turned, the stem moves in or out of the bore 164, in use, to protrude into the tubular body 162 so as to engage an arm. in assembled form, the body 162 is mounted onto a larger diameter section of an extendable arm (e.g. 106b; 108b; 109b), such that the threaded bore 164 aligns with ars aperture 177 (not shown) through the larger diameter arm section. In this way, the smaller diameter arm portion (e.g. 106a; 108a; 109a), which is a sliding fit within the large diameter arm (e.g. 106b; 108b; 109b), can be exposed through the bore 164 of the housing 162 and through the aperture 177 of the larger diameter arm section. To fix the axial position of the small diameter arm section (e.g. 106a; 108a, 109a) relative to the large diameter arm section (e.g. 106b; 108b; 109b), the key 160 is turned (clockwise) in the bore 164 so that the end of the stem 174 passes through the aperture 177 (not shown) in the large diameter arm section (e.g. 106b; 108b; 109b) to first engage and then tighten against the side wall of the small diameter arm section (e.g. 106a; 103a; 109a) at the base of the aperture 177.

The key 160 may be turned in the reverse direction to withdraw it from the aperture 177 in the large diameter arm section (e.g. 106b; 108b; 109b), thereby to release the respective small diameter arm section (e,g. 106a; 10Ba; 109a) for sliding movement30 With this mechanism, the extendable arms (e.g, 106; 103; 109) may be extended to any desired length between the fully collapsed and fully extended conformations. Alternatively, the small diameter arm section (e.g. 106a; 108a; 109a) may also be provided with apertures of depressions (not shown) af predetermined axial positions along the length of the small arm section (e.g. 106a; 108a; 109a) such that the IE : 3 Ο 3 62 extendable arm (e.g. 106; 108; 109) may be conveniently secured at one of one or more predetermined lengths. By predetermining the extendable lengths of the extendable arms (rather than allowing any extended arm length to be selected), it can be easier to assembly and extend the frame, because it may be easier to extend opposing arms to exactly the same desired length. Other securing i locking mechanisms 158 may also or alternatively be used for the same purpose, for exampie a hole and (sprung) pin arrangement, a twisting locking mechanism or a lever locking mechanism.

Figure 6 shows in more detail one embodiment of a three-way, three-dimensional corner joint (or bracket) 210 in use for connecting three arms 203; 209; 206, each at any angle of approximately 90’ to the others. As depicted, the interconnecting arm 206 is not attached to the corner joint 210.

The corner joint 210 has three shoulders 230, each at 90’ to the others, and each shoulder 230 has an aperture (or bore) 218a, 218b, 218c (not clearly visible) for receiving an end of an arm; or an engaging means (at the end of an arm) in the form of a snap / push-fit connector 226. in this embodiment, the vertically 209 and horizontailyarranged arms 208 of a sub-frame 204 (not labelled), which may be preassembied, locate directly into the respective apertures 218a, 218b as a push-fit or friction-fit. A screw-thread attachment or the like might equally be employed.

In this embodiment, the interconnecting arm 206 is provided with an engaging means 226 (or connector) at its end for releasably engaging within its respective aperture 218c on a shoulder 230 of the corner joint 210. The connection mechanism in this embodiment may be similar to that described for the interconnecting arms 108 of Figures 1 and 2. The shoulder 230 of the joint is provided with a rectangular aperture 232 for receiving a corresponding rectangular flange 228 of the connector 226 that secures the arm 206 into position. To release the interconnecting arm 206, the rectangular flange 228 is depressed below the aperture 232 in the shoulder 230, allowing the end of the interconnecting arm 206 to be pulled from the aperture 218c, Figure 7 illustrates the embodiment of the three-way, three-dimensional corner joint (or bracket) 210 of Figure 6. in this Figure, the interconnecting arm 206 is attached to the comer joint 210.

For increased structural rigidity, the corner joint 210 may be provided with ribs or fins 240a, 240b between or along the shoulders 230.

IE 4 3 0 3 62 Figure 3 shows a two-way, two-dimensional joint 211 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, which is illustrated in use connecting two arms 208; 209, each at any angle of approximately 90° to the other. The joint 211 has two shoulders 230, each provided with an aperture 218a, 218b for receiving a respective end of an arm 208; 209 as a push-fit or friction-fit. It can be seen in Figure 8 that the sm ail ί narrow diameter end 208a ofthe arm 208 in this embodiment rs further provided with a concentric plastic fitting 288 (adapted to fit the aperture 21 Sa) in order that the end of the small / narrow section 208a of arm 208 is approximately the same as the outer diameter of the large / wide diameter section (208b, not shown) ofthe arm 208 and/or approximately the same diameter as the outer diameter of the large / wide diameter section 209b (not shown) of the arm 209. in this way, the corner bracket 211 can be provided with two shoulders 230 having the same sized aperture 218a, thus, for ease of manufacture and assembly.

The joints 210; 211 ofthe present invention may be colour coded to assist the person assembling the frame 100; 101.

Figure 9 shows an extendable frame 140; 141 according to an embodiment of the invention in use on a patient bed 173. To help in securing the frame 140; 141 over the bed 178, in use, a lower horizontal arm 180 of one end panet 181 is pushed down into the gap 182 between the mattress 184 and the bed frame 186. Suitably, as depicted, the frame 140; 141 is extended to a size slightly larger than the mattress 184 ofthe bed 178 so that it can be conveniently secured to the bed frame 185, if desired. Once the frame 140; 141 has been correctly positioned, a cover or sheet 147 (not shown) may be positioned over and around the frame 140; 141 to conceal the volume encompassed within the frame 140; 141. The caver can then be secured to the frame 140; 141 and/or to the bed 178 to prevent it from moving. Conveniently, the cover 147 may be loosely secured over the extendable frame 140; 141, for example, by way of elasticated corners 190, in similar fashion to a fitted bed sheet on a mattress. Advantageously, straps may also or alternatively be used to fasten the sides of the cover to each other, to the extendable frame 140; 141, or to the bed frame 178. In one embodiment the straps secure to an opposite side of the cover 147, passing underneath the bed frame 186. A fastening mechanism may be particularly useful to avoid the risk of exposing a deceased subject when the subject is being moved.

In this embodiment, the foot end 194 of the frame 140; 141 has an upper interconnecting arm 196 but not a lower interconnecting arm. The absence of a lower interconnecting arm (or frame member) can make it easier to position the frame 140; 141 in a non24 IE: 3 0 3 52 extended conformation onto the bed (starting at one end), and to then extend the side arms or panels until the frame 140; 141 reaches the full length of the bed 173, without the concern that a lower interconnecting arm 196 might interfere with a patient / deceased person on the bed 173.

Figure 10a shows a first embodiment of a carrying bag 198a that may form part of a kit 199 of the invention. Figure 10b shows a different embodiment of a bag 198b that may be carried or wheeled and that may form part of a kit 199 ofthe invention. The bag 198a; 193b is sized so that it can be used to contain and transport the frame 100; 101 when in a collapsed configuration 102, and optionally any cover and any securing / fastening means (e.g, straps) that may also form part of the kit 199 of the present invention. For convenience, as depicted, the bag 198a; 198b may include one or more carrying straps or handles 200. Furthermore, the bag (as depicted in Figure 10b) may include wheels £02 for ease of manoeuvrability.

The above embodiments of the invention are described for the purposes of illustrating the invention only and are not to be read as limiting the scope of the invention, which is defined by the appended ciaims.

Claims (26)

1. CLAIMS: I. An extendable frame for use in enveloping a subject, the extendable frame defining a first volume and being extendable in at least one dimension to define a second, larger volume. 5
2. 2. The extendable frame of claim 1 ; wherein the extendable frame comprises a plurality of arms, wherein at feast one of the arms is an extendable arm and is movable between a collapsed state and an extended state, thereby to increase the volume of the frame in at least one dimension.
3. 3. The extendable frame of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the extendable frame is 10 comprised of two rectangular sub-frames and at least two interconnecting arms for connecting between the sub-frames.
4. 4. The extendable frame of any previous claim, wherein at least two parallel arms of each of the rectangular sub-frames are extendable arms.
5. 5. The extendable frame of claim 3 or claim 4, wherein each ofthe sub-frames 15 comprises four sub-frame arms and four corner joints for releasably or non-releasably securing the sub-frame arms in a rectangular configuration.
6. 6. The extendable frame of any of claims 3 to 5, wherein the interconnecting arms are extendable arms.
7. 7. The extendable frame of any of claims 2 to 6, which further comprises one or 20 more support arms.
8. 8. The extendable frame of claim 7, wherein at least one of the support arms is an extendable arm.
9. 9. The extendable frame of claim 7 or claim 8, wherein the one or more support arms are releasably attachable to at least one arm of the frame. 25
10. 10. The extendable frame of any of claims 7 to 9, wherein the support arms are provided with connection means at each end, the connection means being adapted to releasably attach to a side of an arm,
11. II. The extendable frame of claim 10, wherein the connection means comprises a push-fit mechanism adapted to releasably grip the side of an arm. IEi 3 0 3 62
12. 12. The extendable frame of any of claims 2 to 11, wherein at least one extendable arm is extendable to any position between its collapsed (minimum) and fully extended (maximum) length.
13. 13. The extendable frame of any of claims 2 to 12, wherein at least one extendable 5 arm is telescopic.
14. 14. The extendable frame of any of claims 2 to 13, wherein at least one extendable arm is extendable to one or more predefined length.
15. 15. The extendable frame of any of claims 2 to 14, wherein an extendable arm comprises a securing means for releasably fixing the length of the extendable arm.
16. 10. 16. The extendable frame of claim 15, wherein the securing means comprises a screw-threaded key or a hoie and pin mechanism.
17. 17. The extendable frame of any previous claim, which is in the general shape of a rectangular cuboid.
18. 18. ' The extendable frame of any previous claim, which has a collapsed length of 15 between approximately 400 and 800 mm.
19. 19. The extendable frame of any previous claim, which has a collapsed width of between approximately 300 and 900 mm.
20. 20. The extendable frame of any previous claim, which has a collapsed height of between approximately 200 and 600 mm. 20
21. 21. The extendable frame of any previous claim, which has an extended length of between approximately 695 and 2400 mm,
22. 22. The extendable frame of any previous claim, which has an extended width of between approximately 850 and 1404 mm.
23. 23. The extendable frame of any previous claim, which has an extended height of 25 between approximately 490 and 766 mm,
24. 24. A kit comprising an extendable frame for use in enveloping a subject, the extendable frame defining a first volume and being extendable in at feast one dimension to define a second, larger volume, ΙΕ ί 3 0 3 62
25. 25. The kit of claim 24, wherein the extendable frame comprises a plurality of arms, wherein at least one of the arms is an extendable arm and is movable between a collapsed state and an extended state, thereby to increase the volume of the extendable Frame in at least one dimension, 5
26. 26. The kit of claim 24 or claim 25, wherein the kit further comprises a cover for covering at least one side of the frame in an extended conformation.

    27. The kit of any of claims 24 to 26, wherein the cover further comprises securing means for securing the cover to the extendable frame or to a bed, in use,

    28. The kit of claim 27, wherein the securing means comprises one or more 10 attachment mechanisms selected from loops, straps, ties, and elasticated corners.

    29. The kit of any of claims 24 to 28, which further comprises a bag suitable for containing the extendable frame in its unassembled form, and optionally for containing a cover for the extendable frame.

    30. The kit of any of claims 24 to 29, wherein the extendable frame is defined in 15 accordance with any of claims 1 to 23.

    31. The extendable frame of any of claims 1 to 23, or the kit of any of claims 24 to 30, wherein the arms are formed substantially of fibreglass,

    32. The extendable frame of any of claims 1 to 23 or 31, or the kit of any of claims 24 to 31, wherein the frame weighs: 20 (i) less than approximately 10 kg; (ii) iess than approximately 5 kg.

    33. A method of enveloping a subject, such as a deceased person, with an extendable frame, the method comprising assembling an extendable frame as defined in any of claims 1 to 23, 31 or 32, or a kit as defined in any of claims 24 to 32, and 25 extending the extendable frame in at least one dimension, thereby to enlarge the extendable frame and envelop the subject.

    34. The method of claim 33, further comprising securing a cover over the extendable frame to obscure the volume defined by the extendable frame.

    35. The method of claim 33 or claim 34, which comprises: ΙΕί 30 3 62 (i) providing an extendable frame as defined in any of claims 1 te 23, 31 or 32 or a kit as defined in any of claims 24 to 32, including first and second rectangular subframes, one or more interconnecting arm, optionally one or more support arms, and optionally a covering means; 5 (iii) arranging the first and second rectangular sub-frames in substantially parallel alignment by attaching the one or more interconnecting arms to each sub-frame such that the interconnecting arms are arranged substantiaily perpendicularly to the plane of the sub-frames; (iv) positioning the first rectangular sub-frame at or towards a first end of the bed 10 or other support surface on which the subject is positioned, with the plane of the subframe substantially perpendicular to the surface; (v) extending the vertically oriented arms of each sub-frame, if necessary, so that the height ofthe sub-frame is higher than the height of the subject to be enveloped; (vi) extending the interconnecting arms to a length greater than the length of the 15 subject so that the second sub-frame is located at or towards the second end of the bed or support surface; (vii) optionally connecting one or more support arms between one or more pairs of opposing frame arms; (viii) optionally covering the frame with a covering means such that all visible 20 sides of the frame are obscured; and (ix) optionally securing the covering means to the frame and/or bed or support surface.

    36. The method of claim 35 in which steps (iv) to (vii) are carried out in any suitable order. 25 37, The method of claim 35 or 36 wherein all optional steps are included.

    33. An extendable frame for use in enveloping a subject, the extendable frame being substantially as described herein with reference to and as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

    39. A kit substantially as described herein with reference to and as illustrated in the 30 accompanying drawings. IE ί 3 0 3 62 40, A method for enveloping a subject, the method being substantially as described herein with reference to and as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.