WO2021018361A1

WO2021018361A1 - Infant support device

Info

Publication number: WO2021018361A1
Application number: PCT/DK2020/050218
Authority: WO
Inventors: Carinn Alluna
Original assignee: Nmd Care Aps
Priority date: 2019-07-26
Filing date: 2020-07-20
Publication date: 2021-02-04
Also published as: DK201970482A1

Abstract

Infant support device (1, 1') for supporting an infant (84'), the device comprises base (2; 2') with at least one first container (14, 14'; 14'') that is filled with a first liquid (15, 15'; 15'') and has an exposed first wall (59; 59') for supporting an infant (84') in a use state of the device, a frame (3; 3') with at least one second container (40; 40') that is filled with a second liquid (41; 41') and has an exposed second wall (60; 60'), the frame (3; 3') extends upwards from the level of the exposed first wall (59; 59') and is attached to the base (2; 2') in a manner where the frame (3; 3') and the exposed second wall (60; 60') at least partly surround the exposed first wall (59; 59'), and the exposed first (59; 59') and second wall (60; 60') are flexible walls.

Description

Infant support device

The present invention relates to an infant support device for supporting an infant, especially a premature infant. The device is particularly suitable for use inside a closed or open incubator, but can e.g. also be used in a cradle .

A premature infant may weigh a little as 200 g. An infant born extremely preterm (less than 28 weeks of gestation) , very preterm (28 to 32 weeks) or moderate to late preterm (32 to 37 weeks) is not sufficiently developed and needs special care to survive and/or to facilitate its physical and psychological development . The initial development of the muscles of an infant starts when the fetus is inside the uterus, and is partly due to moro reflexes, which e.g. can be initiated by a loud sound or a movement, in response to which the fetus first extract one or more of its limbs and then retract the one or more limb . If the extraction causes a limb to touch the uterine wall, this touch stimulates the retraction. A uterus is a perfect environment for the limbs to extract and retract in a manner that causes the fetus to quickly calm down again, as the uterine wall and the amniotic fluid provide an appropriate resistance for such limb movements.

In especially the first weeks after birth, the maturity of a premature infant is more or less as it would have been if the infant still were inside the uterus, which means that any sense perceived by the infant, which is different than what would have been sensed inside the uterus, will be stressful for the infant. A premature infant typically needs to be inside an incubator for days, weeks or months, as the incubator e.g. regulates the body temperature and protects against infections and excessive noise. When an infant lies inside an incubator and experiences moro reflexes, the extraction and retraction of its limbs are going to be sensed differently compared to what would have been sensed if the infant still were inside the uterus, which means that such movements overstimulates the premature infant both physical and psychological.

The known types of support on which an infant lies inside an incubator are often a mattress filled with e.g. foam rubber or polyurethane. EP1474019 describes a standalone "side frame that partly consists of a water chamber and is intended to be positioned on a known support in a manner where a premature infant lying on the support is partly surrounded by the "side frame " so that the limbs when extracted may encounter resistance from the water chamber, which provides tactile stimulation of the infant through the general contact between the infant and the ' 'side frame ' ' . The invention in EP1474019 is however not concerned with the support below the infant.

Hence, there is a need for a support device that resembles the uterus to a higher extent than the known support devices in order to reduce the extent of overstimulation of a premature infant .

In a first aspect of the present invention is provided a support device capable of supporting an infant while reducing the number of moro reflexes and reducing the time it takes for the infant to come to rest after a moro reflex.

In a second aspect of the present invention is provided a support device with a detachable upwards extending frame.

The novel and unique way whereby this is achieved according to the present invention is that the device of the present invention comprises:

- a base with at least one first container that is filled with a first liquid and has an exposed first wall for supporting an infant in a use state of the device, a frame with at least one second container that is filled with a second liquid and has an exposed second wall ,

the frame extends upwards from the level of the exposed first wall and is attached to the base in a manner where the frame and the exposed second wall at least partly surround the exposed first wall, and

the exposed first wall and the exposed second wall are flexible walls .

In the context of the present invention, the term "use state " means the state of the support device where the base is positioned on a horizontal surface. Unless stated otherwise, the device of the present invention is described in its use state .

In the context of the present invention, the term "container " means a member capable of containing a liquid in a liquid-tight manner .

In the context of the present invention, the term "exposed " used in connection with a wall of a container means that the wall, in the use state of the device, is exposed to being touched by an infant lying on the device.

As the exposed first and second wall are flexible, they are able to change shape in response to movements of the infant or in response to displacement of the first and/or second liquid. When a limb of the infant hits the exposed first and/or second wall, the first/second liquid absorbs the force of the impact in a way that resembles how the uterine wall absorbs the force of a limb of a fetus hitting the uterine wall .

In the use state, the infant rests on the at least one liquid filled first container, and as the exposed first wall of the first container is flexible, the exposed first wall accommodates the contours of the body of the infant and thus reduces the load on the skeleton and joints of the infant. The infant is furthermore at least partly surrounded by the at least one liquid filled second container and thus also the exposed second wall of the second container . The frame and the second container are preferably adapted so that the exposed second wall extends upwards from the (horizontal) level of the exposed first wall to an appropriate height above the level of the exposed first wall . The natural movements of an infant includes stretching/ retraction of its limbs, as well as movements due to e.g. hiccups and breathing. Such movements will, as the infant lies on the first container, initiate displacement of the first liquid inside the first container. If the infant touches the exposed second wall, such movements of the infant will in addition to the initiated displacement of the first liquid, also initiate displacement of the second liquid inside the second container. In the context of the present invention, the term

"displacement" of liquid means that the liquid shifts around (typically in a wave-like manner) inside the container in a way that causes the exposed wall of the container to move (typically in a wave-like manner) during the displacement.

The degree of displacement of the liquid inside the first and/or second container depends on factors such as the type of movement, the force of the movement, where the moved body part (s) touches the exposed first and/or second wall, and the size/dimensions of the first and/or second container.

When a fetus stretches a limb to such an extent that the limb hits the uterine wall, the combination of (1) the resistance from the uterine wall, (2) the fact that the uterine wall bounces back, and (3) the wave-like manner in which the uterine wall bounces back, stimulates the fetus to retract its limbs towards the fetus position, which promotes e.g. muscular development of the fetus. It also promotes proprioceptive, tactile and vestibular stimulations. An infant born at the full term of gestation or later, has been inside the uterus for sufficient time and has thus sufficiently developed its muscles, whereas a premature infant has not obtained such sufficient muscular development at birth.

The device of the present invention resembles the environment sensed by a fetus inside the uterus, because the exposed first wall of the first container and the exposed second wall of the second container in combination embrace the infant in a way similar to the way in which the uterine wall surrounds a fetus, and because the first and second wall are flexible and feels soft in a manner similar to the manner in which the uterine wall is flexible and soft, which means that the resistance of a limb hitting or touching the exposed first and/or second wall resembles the resistance sensed by a fetus hitting or touching the uterine wall . The exposed first and second wall provide a sense of softness because the first and second containers are filled with liquid.

The device of the present invention resembles the comforting environment inside the uterus, because displacement of the first and/or second liquid in response to a limb movement causes the exposed first and/or second wall to bounce back towards the limb in a similar way as the uterine wall bounces back toward the limb of a fetus hitting the uterine wall . The first and second wall bounce back due to the influence of gravitation on the first and second liquid, and because the first and second wall are flexible walls .

The device of the present invention resembles the environment of a fetus inside the uterus, because the movements of the infant initiate displacement of the first and/or second liquid, which means that the infant is subjected to rocking movements due to its contact with the exposed first and/or second wall, where the movements of the first and/or second wall resemble the rocking comforting movements of the uterine wall, which helps in calming down the infant, and thereby reduces the number of moro reflexes and the time it takes for the infant to come to rest after a moro reflex. The infant is subjected to rocking movements from the at least one first container as the infant lies on one or more of the at least one exposed first wall . If the infant lies against the exposed second wall of one or more of the at least one second container, the infant is also subjected to rocking movements from the second container (s) .

If the first and second container instead of being filled with liquid were filled with gas, foam rubber, polyurethane or another non-liquid material, the displacement of such a non liquid material inside the containers due to the movements of the infant would be different than when filled with a liquid, and would resemble the environment inside a uterus to a lesser degree than when filled with a liquid. Foam rubber and polyurethane are passive materials in the sense that if the first and/or second container were filled with such a material, the material would not move around inside the container (at least not as much as a liquid would) and would thus be less comforting for the infant than when the first and/or second container are filled with liquid. If the viscosity of the first, second and/or third liquid is too high, the degree of displacement of the liquid when e.g. a limb of the infant hits the container would be too low to obtain a sufficient stimulation of the infant to retract its limbs. The first, second and/or third liquid of the present invention are preferably water or another liquid with a similar viscosity as water, such as about 0.5 50 mPa· s, more preferably about 0.5 - 10 mPa· s, or most preferably about 0.5 - 5 mPa · s . The at least one first container and the at least one second container are advantageously arranged, in the use state, so that the exposed first wall and the exposed second wall are in contact with each other so that displacement of the first liquid causes displacement of the second liquid, and vice versa. If a limb touches the exposed first wall in connection with being stretched or retracted, displacement of the first liquid inside the first container is initiated and subsequently transmitted into a displacement of the second liquid inside the at least one second container . In the same way, if a limb touches the exposed second wall in connection with being stretched or retracted, displacement of the second liquid inside the second container is initiated and transmitted into a displacement of the first liquid inside the first container .

When the exposed first and second wall are in physical contact with each other, initiated displacement of the first liquid causes displacement of the second liquid, and vice versa, because the first and second container are filled with liquid and because the exposed first and second wall are flexible .

Thus, when the infant is in contact with the first and maybe also the second wall while the liquid inside the first and second container moves around in a wave-like manner (similar to a water bed) , the wave-like sensation experienced by the infant due to the movements of the first and maybe also second wall (if the infant is in contact therewith) resembles the wave-like sensation experienced by a fetus due to the movements of the uterine wall . The degree by which initiated displacement of the first liquid is transmitted into displacement of the second liquid, and vice versa, depends on e.g. the size of the contact area between the first container and the second container, and the mutual position of the first and second container .

The frame is advantageously detachable attached to the base, so that the frame e.g. can be temporarily detached from the base to provide free access to the infant from a horizontal direction while e.g. a nurse or doctor provides care for the infant, or to provide room for connecting e.g. larger types of medical equipment to the infant. Some types of care require or is facilitated by such free horizontal access. For embodiments with a detachable frame, it is preferred that the base comprises first securing means, the frame comprises second securing means, and the first and second securing means are adapted for engaging each other in an interlocking manner to detachable attach the frame on the base in the use state of the device .

Another advantage of having a detachable frame, is that the detached frame by itself can be positioned on any surface, such as a changing table, where it can be used for surrounding (or at least partly surrounding) the infant, and thereby help in preventing the infant from e.g. rolling away from the intended position on the e.g. changing table. When used by itself on such a surface, the second container will (at least partly) embrace the infant and thus provide an environment that partly resembles the environment sensed by a fetus inside the uterus.

In the use state, the position of the frame (whether attached to or detachable attached to the base) in relation to the base is preferably fixed, which on one hand helps in preventing the infant from e.g. rolling away from the intended position on the at least one first container; and on the other hand ensures that when a limb of the infant hits the exposed second wall, substantially all of the force of the impact is turned into displacement of the first and second liquid so that the degree to which the exposed first and second wall bounce back is high.

The first and/or second liquid are advantageously under vacuum inside the first and second container, respectively, because the liquids then displace to a high extent in response to movements of the infant. The extent of displacement is higher than if the containers are filled with liquid not being under vacuum, as the amount of gas (such as atmospheric air) inside the containers is smaller . The reason being that liquids are denser than gasses. In the context of the present invention, the term "vacuum " means a space in which the pressure is lower than atmospheric pressure, and preferably as low as possible under the given circumstances.

The base and first container (or containers) are preferably shaped or otherwise adapted so that horizontal movement of the first container (or first containers) in relation to the base is prevented in the use state.

The at least one first container can be attached to the frame in different ways. In a preferred embodiment, the base comprises at least one first cavity with a first opening facing upwards, and the at least one first container is preferably adapted so that it when filled with liquid fits inside (or at least partly inside) the at least one first cavity . The first container is preferably adapted to be attached to the surface of the first cavity in a way where the part of the wall of the first container that extends across the first opening (and thus is unattached to the base) constitutes the exposed first wall . The support device is preferably configured so that the exposed first wall is at level with the first opening.

The first container can be fixed to (e.g. by an appropriate adhesive) or detachable attached to (e.g. by an adhesive with an appropriate low adhesive strength and/or Velcro; or simply due to the influence of gravitation; or a combination thereof) the first cavity .

The first container may comprises a first inlet for filling the first liquid into the first container (and optionally for removing air from the first container to obtain vacuum) , where after the first inlet is sealed. Vacuum can be obtained after the first liquid has been filled into the first container, by orientating the first container so that the first inlet is topmost and then remove air through the first inlet. The preferred way of obtaining vacuum is to initially remove air from the first container via the first inlet, and keeping the first inlet air-tight while filling the first liquid into the first container via the first inlet.

In the context of the present invention, the terms "seal " and

"sealing " means closing off in a liquid-tight manner (or in a fluid-tight manner in case vacuum has been applied) e.g. by a plug or by an appropriate sealing technique such as heat sealing in case the inlet is made of plastic foil .

The at least one first container and/or second container and/or third container (see below) are preferably a closed bag made of a flexible material, such as plastic foil, rubber or a similar material that ensures a reliable containment of liquid, The wall of the at least one closed bag is preferably thin in the sense that the wall thickness is low to reduce material costs but high enough to ensure that the bag is fluid-tight (such as a thickness of about 1.5 2 mm if the material is plastic foil) . When the first container is a flexible first bag, it is preferred to attach it to the base while being empty and subsequently filled it with the first liquid.

In a preferred embodiment, the at least one first bag is not attached directly to the at least one first cavity, as the support device comprises at least one first attachment shell, which has a second opening, and is rigid or semi-rigid for facilitating the attachment of the first bag to the first cavity . The first bag is preferably attached to the inner surface of the first shell, and may fit inside or at least partly inside the first shell. The first shell is attached to the first cavity in a way where the second opening faces in the same or substantially the same direction as the first opening . The part of the wall of the first bag (filled with liquid) that spans across the second opening and thus is not in contact with the first shell, constitutes the exposed first wall . The first shell preferably fits inside the first cavity, and preferably so that the circumferential edge of the second opening is at or substantially at the circumferential edge of the first opening, in which case the first bag preferably is adapted so that the exposed first wall of the first bag (filled with liquid) is at level with or substantially at level with the first opening.

The first shell may comprise a second inlet, in which case the first and second inlet are aligned when the first bag is attached to the first shell, so that the first bag, first shell, and base conveniently can be assembled by firstly attaching the first bag, while being empty, to the first shell; secondly filling liquid inside the first bag (and optionally removing air from the first bag to obtain vacuum) using the two aligned inlets; thirdly sealing the first inlet; and fourthly attaching the first shell (with the liquid filled first bag inside) to the first cavity .

The first inlet is a potential weak part of the first container with respect to ensuring that the first liquid is contained inside the first container, but the first attachment shell makes it possible to prevent the infant, nurses and doctors from being able to come into contact with the first inlet during use of the device, which is achieve by positioning the first and second inlet so that they during use are facing in the direction towards the first cavity .

The first bag is preferably fixed to the inner surface of the first shell (e.g. by an appropriate adhesive) . The first shell can be fixed to (e.g. by an appropriate adhesive) or detachable attached to the first cavity, where the vertical part of the first cavity constitutes a first rim that prevents horizontal movement of the first shell (with the first bag inside) in relation to the base. The outer surface of the first shell preferably matches the surface of the first cavity in order to increase the contact area there between . The first shell can be detachable attached to the base by means of gravitation, static friction between the first shell and the first cavity, an adhesive with an appropriate low adhesive strength and/or Velcro, or a combination thereof.

For embodiments comprising the first bag and the first attachment shell, it is preferred that the support device comprises a first covering made of a flexible material (e.g. plastic foil) , where the first covering spans over the second opening of the first shell (with the filled first bag inside) and is attached to the outer surface of the first shell in a fluid-tight way, e.g. along the periphery of the second opening, and where the space between the exposed first wall and the first covering is under vacuum so that the first covering is in contact with the exposed first wall, where such vacuum can be obtained by providing the first covering with a first outlet for removing air from the space, where after the first outlet is sealed. In an even more preferred embodiment, the first covering surrounds the entire first shell (with the filled first bag inside) in a fluid-tight way under vacuum, and thus constitutes an outer flexible bag, where such vacuum can be obtained by providing the first covering with a first outlet for removing air from inside the "outer bag" , where after the first outlet is sealed.

The material and thickness of the first covering and of the exposed first wall are adapted so that movements of the infant are able to initiate displacement of the first liquid. The first covering inhibit the first liquid from coming into contact with the infant . If e.g. wear and tear damages the first covering of the first container, air will enter the space between the first covering and the exposed first wall . If e.g. wear and tear damages the exposed first wall, the first liquid will enter the space between the exposed first wall and the first covering. In both situations, the first liquid will not leak from the support device.

The support device may be adapted so that the exposed first wall forms a support surface for the infant with a mainly longitudinal shape (e.g. oval or rectangular) that matches the size and the "longitudinal " shape of an infant that is lying down, such as in the fetal position.

In a preferred embodiment, the inner surface of the frame extends upwards from the base substantially at the outer periphery of the exposed first wall, in which case the at least one second container preferably bulges out (protrudes) from the frame towards the center of the base so that the at least one second container is in contact with and partly rests on the peripheral part of the at least one first container.

The support device may be adapted so that the frame in the use state forms a closed frame with an inner surface encircling the exposed first wall and an outer surface facing away from the exposed first wall, in which case the second container may extend continuously along about 50% to about 80% of the horizontal length of the frame, so that the infant advantageously can be positioned with its head at the remaining about 50% 20% of the frame where there is no second container .

A closed frame is advantageous, as it prevents the infant from rolling away from the exposed first wall . Whether a closed frame or not, the second container may extend along the entire horizontal length of the frame, so that the exposed second wall extend along the entire horizontal length of the inner surface of the frame.

The height of the part of the frame that extends upwards from the level of the exposed first wall in the use state is preferably at least 5 cm, about 5 17 cm, or about 11 cm, so that the infant is prevented from rolling over the frame. The appropriate height depends on the size of the infant.

The device is preferably adapted so that the second container, and thus also the exposed second wall, in the use state extends upwards from substantially the level of the exposed first wall to substantially the top of the frame, or at least to an appropriate height (e.g. about 5 17 cm) above the level of the first wall . An appropriate height is a height that ensures that any limb movements towards the frame hits the exposed second wall . The at least one second container can be attached to the frame in different ways. In a preferred embodiment, the frame comprises at least one second cavity with a third opening facing in a substantially horizontal direction substantially towards the exposed first wall, and the at least one second container is preferably adapted so that it when filled with the second liquid fits inside (or at least partly inside) the at least one second cavity. The second container is preferably adapted to be attached to the surface of the second cavity in a way where the part of the wall of the second container that extends across the third opening (and thus is unattached to the frame) constitutes the exposed second wall . The exposed second wall extends in a mainly vertical direction, as it extends downwards from an appropriate level (such as the top of the frame) above the level of the exposed first wall to substantially the level of the exposed first wall, where the lower portion of the second container hangs out of the second cavity (due to the influence of gravitation on the second liquid) and preferably rests on a portion of the adjacent first container along the periphery of the exposed first wall.

The second container can be fixed to (e.g. by an appropriate adhesive) or detachable attached to (e.g. by an adhesive with an appropriate low adhesive strength and/or Velcro) the frame, such as to the surface of the second cavity .

The second cavity and second container may extend along the entire horizontal length of the frame. If the frame is a closed frame, the second cavity and second container preferably extend continuously along about 50% to about 80% of the horizontal length of the frame, so that the infant advantageously can be positioned with its head at the remaining about 50% 20% of the frame where there is no second container.

The second container may comprises a third inlet for filling the second liquid into the second container (and optionally for subsequently removing air from the second container to obtain vacuum) , where after the third inlet is sealed.

When the second container is a flexible second bag, it is difficult to attached it to the frame (such as to the second cavity) while it is filled with liquid, and it is thus preferred that the second bag is capable of being attached to the frame while being empty and subsequently filled with the second liquid. In a preferred embodiment, the at least one second bag is not attached directly to the second cavity, as the support device comprises a second attachment shell, which has a fourth opening, and is rigid or semi-rigid for facilitating the attachment of the second bag to the second cavity . The second bag is preferably attached to the inner surface of the second shell, and may fit inside or at least partly inside the second shell . The second shell is attached to the second cavity in a way where the fourth opening faces in the same or substantially the same direction as the third opening . The part of the wall of the liquid filled second bag that spans across the fourth opening and thus is unattached to the second shell constitutes the exposed second wall . The second shell preferably fits inside the second cavity, and preferably so that the edge of the fourth opening is at or substantially at the edge of the third opening, so that the exposed second wall of the liquid filled second bag is at level with or substantially at level with the third opening .

It is preferred that the second shell comprises a fourth inlet, and that the third and fourth inlet are aligned when the second shell is attached to the second cavity, so that the second bag, second shell, and frame conveniently can be assembled by firstly attaching the second bag, while being empty, to the second shell; secondly filling liquid inside the second bag (and optionally removing air from the second bag to obtain vacuum) using the two aligned inlets; thirdly sealing the third inlet; and fourthly attaching the second shell (with the second bag inside) to the second cavity .

The third and fourth inlet are preferably facing in the direction towards the second cavity during use so that the infant, nurses and doctors are prevented from being able to come into contact with the third inlet.

The second bag is preferably fixed to the inner surface of the second shell (e.g. by an appropriate adhesive) . The second shell can be fixed to (e.g. by an appropriate adhesive) or detachable attached to the second cavity .

Gravitation as well as static friction between the second shell and the second cavity may help in fixing or detachable attaching the second shell to the frame. The outer surface of the second shell preferably matches the surface of the second cavity in order to increase the contact area there between.

For embodiments comprising the second bag and the second attachment shell, it is preferred that the support device comprises a second covering made of a flexible material (e.g. plastic foil) , where the second covering functions in the same manner as the first covering, and may thus span over the fourth opening of the second shell (with the second bag inside) while being attached to the outer surface of the second shell in a fluid-tight way (e.g. along the periphery of the fourth opening) , or may in an even more preferred embodiment surround the entire second shell (with the filled second bag inside) in a fluid-tight way under vacuum and thereby constituting an outer flexible bag . The second covering may comprise a second outlet (for obtaining vacuum) that functions in the same way as the first outlet of the first covering .

The material and the thickness of the second covering and of the exposed second wall are adapted so that movements of the infant are able to initiate displacement of the second liquid. Vacuum is preferably applied to the space between the second covering and the second container, e.g. by providing the second covering with a second outlet for removing air from the space, where after the second outlet is sealed.

Just as the first covering inhibits the first liquid from coming onto contact with the infant, the second covering inhibits the second liquid from coming into contact with the infant.

An advantage of being able to detach and preferably also re attach the first bag (either directly or together with the first shell) and/or second bag (either directly or together with the second shell) to the base and frame, respectively, is that the first and/or second bag can be replaced when worn or damaged, or temporarily removed for e.g. cleaning purposes.

The first covering and/or second covering are preferably attached to the outer surface of the first and second shell, respectively, by an appropriate attachment technique, such as heat sealing or ultrasonic welding .

The frame and/or the base may be formed so that the support device, in the use state, comprises at least one passage extending under or through the frame, where each passage extends from a passage inlet located outside the frame to a passage outlet located inside the frame. Each passage is adapted so that medical equipment, such as tubes, cables, catheters, and similar can be fed through the passage from a location outside the frame to the infant resting on the exposed first wall . As an example, an electric cable used to monitor the heart rate can be guided from a heart monitoring device through such a passage to the infant.

The at least one passage for such medical equipment can be obtained by providing the bottom surface of the frame with an indentation extending along its bottom surface from the outer surface of the frame to the inner surface of the frame. Alternatively, the passage can be formed by providing the upper surface of the base with an indentation, which in the use state extends below the frame from the outer surface of the frame to the inner surface of the frame. The passage may be formed by a combination of such an indentation in the frame and such an indentation in the base, where the two indentations are aligned above each other in the use state.

The passage outlet is preferably located at the periphery of the exposed first wall, and/or preferably at or just above the level of the exposed first wall, so that tubes, catheters and similar medical equipment may extend from such a passage outlet along the surface of the exposed first wall to the infant, in which case it is less likely that the infant, a nurse or a doctor touches or get tangled into such medical equipment. It is preferred that the at least one passage extends under the frame so that the frame can be detached from the base without having to remove the medical equipment.

Preferably, the first securing means comprises at least one slot formed in the base, and the second securing means comprises at least one projection extending from the frame, where the projection fits inside the slot so that the frame can be attached to the base by simply lowering it down on the frame and detached by simply lifting it up from the base. The base and the frame are preferably configured so that the slot and projection are hidden when the frame is attached to the base.

The part of the base that supports the frame constitutes a frame support face, which preferably has a shape (e.g. flat, concave or convex) that matches the shape of lower surface of the frame. It is preferred that the upper surface of the base comprises a face extending upwards (e.g. vertically upwards) from the outer edge of the frame support face, where this upwards extending face constitutes a second rim against which an outer surface of the frame abuts in the use state in order to facilitate that the frame is positioned in the intended position on the base and to inhibit the frame from moving in a horizontal direction away from the exposed first wall .

The base is preferably shaped so that the frame support face slopes downwards (such as with an angle of 2° to 5°) in the direction from the first end of the base towards the opposite second end of the base, so that the frame is pushed against the second rim at the second end of the base due to gravitation, which counteracts horizontal movement of the frame away from its intended position. The frame can be held in place on the base by the sloping frame support face alone, although it is preferred that the sloping frame support face are used in combination with the first/second securing means to hold the frame in place on the base. The support device may advantageously comprise a cushion for transforming the support device into an examination state by positioning the cushion on the base instead of the frame, where the cushion is adapted so that it in the examination state covers the exposed first wall, rests on the frame support face and abuts against the second rim. The upper surface of the cushion and the peripheral upper surface of the base are preferably at substantially the same horizontal level in the examination state so that they in combination form a substantially flat examination surface on which the infant temporary can be positioned for being examined by e.g. a doctor or nurse. Alternatively, the upper surface of the cushion and/or the peripheral upper surface of the base may slope slightly downwards (e.g. by 1° to 5°) towards the center of the cushion, as such a slightly sloping examination surface facilitates that the infant remains on the cushion.

The bottom of the cushion may be rigid, in which case it only needs to be supported at its periphery by the frame support face of the base. If the bottom of the cushion (or the entire cushion) is soft, it is preferred that the frame support face is at the same level as the exposed first wall, so that the cushion can be supported by both the frame support face and the first container. In a preferred embodiment, the exposed first wall of the at least one first container protrudes upwards from the horizontal level of the surrounding frame support face of the base (the highest height difference can e.g. be 1 - 3 cm) when the infant is not positioned on the at least one first container, in which case the bottom of the cushion preferably is provided with a cavity with a shape that is complementary to the shape of the protruding part of the at least one first container, so that the cushion fits on the base in a way where the cushion rests on and is supported by both the frame support face and the at least one first container .

The embodiment with the cushion is especially advantageous when the support device is used inside an incubator, as it is possible to examine the infant without being hindered by the upwards extending frame and on a substantially flat (or slightly sloping) examination surface without having to remove the infant from the protective environment of the incubator. An infant that initially lies on the support device in the use state, can thus be lifted up inside the incubator by a nurse/doctor while the device is transformed into the examination state by means of the cushion, where after the infant is lowered down onto the examination surface for being examined. After the infant has been examined, the support device can be transformed back into the use state by lifting the infant, removing the cushion and re-attaching the frame.

The frame may be a single one-piece frame, but it is preferred that the frame is made of at least two separate frame sections that independently of each other can be detachable attached to the base and are adapted for being positioned next to each on the base so that they in combination form a continuous frame, which in the use state at least partly surrounds the exposed first wall . The frame sections can be provided with each their own second securing means to be independently detachable attached to the base.

The frame may comprises a body frame section and a head frame section that together form a closed frame, where the infant can be positioned with its head at the head frame section, so that the head frame section can be temporarily removed for easy access to the head while the body frame section remains in the secured position on the base. The body frame section may constitute about 60% to about 80% of the horizontal length of the frame while the head frame section constitutes the remaining horizontal length of the frame.

It is most preferred that the frame comprises a body frame section and two head frame sub-sections that together form a closed frame in the use state, so that it e.g. is possible to only detach one head frame sub-section from the base if only easy access to one side of the head of the infant is necessary.

Partly removal of the frame is advantageous, as it subjects the infant to less visual disturbance (and thus less stress) compared to complete removal of the frame, and it can e.g. be used for temporarily guiding a large piece of medical equipment (e.g. an endotracheal tube from a mechanical ventilator) to the infant. The at least one second container may extend along the horizontal length of both the body frame section and the head frame section, or only along the length of the body frame section .

One or more of the at least one first container may comprise at least one first partition wall for dividing the container into two or more first sub-containers, which are located next to each other horizontally. In the same way, one or more of the at least one second container may comprise at least one second partition wall for dividing the container into two or more second sub-containers located next to each other horizontally.

The at least one first and/or second partition wall are flexible to such an extent that displacement of the liquid in a sub-container transmits into displacement of the liquid in the neighboring sub-container (s) . The at least one first and/or second partition wall are preferably impermeable to liquid so that the liquid inside a container with such a partition wall is distributed over the container in the sense that the liquid inside each sub-container is confined to that sub-container. The at least one partition wall helps in keeping the first and/or second liquid distributed across the respective first and/or second container in the use state, and is preferably located so that the first and/or second sub-containers are evenly distributed over the respective first and/or second container .

In a preferred embodiment, the at least one first container consists of two or more closed bags, which are made of a flexible material (such as plastic foil with a thickness of e.g. 1.5 - 2 mm) and are positioned next to each other in a horizontally plane in the use state, where they together supports the infant, and where neighboring bags are interconnected by at least one connection member to ensure that they abut each other in the use state . Using such interconnected closed bags helps in keeping the first liquid distributed below the infant in the use state. The at least one connection member may extend between the bottom part of neighboring bags, so that the infant is unable to sense the connection member in the use state resulting in increased comfort for the infant. It is preferred to use a single connection member in the form of a plastic foil sheet extending between the bottom part of two neighboring bags. Similarly, the at least one second container may consist of two or more closed bags, which are made of a flexible material (such as plastic foil with a thickness of e.g. 1.5 - 2 mm) and are positioned next to each other vertically along the frame, where neighboring bags are interconnected by at least one connection member (e.g. extending between the part of the of neighboring bags that faces towards the frame, and preferably in the form of a plastic foil sheet) to ensure that they abut each other in the use state .

For embodiments with two or more first containers that are arranged next to each other, the first containers are preferably in contact with each other so that the upper wall of the individual first containers in combination constitute the exposed first wall, and the contacting part of the neighboring first containers are preferably flexible so that initiated displacement of the liquid in a first container transmits into displacement of the liquid in the other first container (s) .

For embodiments with two or more second containers that are arranged next to each other, the second containers are preferably in contact with each other so that the exposed wall of the individual second containers in combination constitute the exposed second wall of the support device, and the contacting part of the neighboring second containers are preferably flexible so that initiated displacement of the liquid in a second container transmits into displacement of the liquid in the other second container (s) .

The support device may comprise a third container made of a flexible material, filled with a third liquid (preferably under vacuum), and adapted (e.g. by having an elongated shape, preferably cylindrical shape) for being wrapped around, partly wrapped around, or positioned next to the infant in order to inhibit the infant from moving too much . Appropriate positioning of the third container depends e.g. on the type of medical equipment that is connected to the infant, as it is preferred that nurses/doctors have access to such equipment without having to move the third container, i.e. without changing the comforting effect the third container has on the infant .

It is preferred that the third container has a substantially elongated shape, such as with a length of about 20 50 cm

(most preferably about 20 40 cm, or about 35 - 40 cm) , a width of about 7 13 cm (most preferably about 9 - 11 cm) and/or a height of about 1 4 cm (most preferably about 2 2.5 cm), as an elongated shape is especially suitable for reducing the amount of movements of the infant, such as by positioning the third container crosswise over the stomach of the infant while the ends of the elongated third container rests on the support device on one or both sides of the infant, or by positioning the infant with one side against the second container and folding the third container in half and fitting it in between the opposite side of the infant and the frame.

It is preferred that the third container is a closed bag made of plastic foil (e.g. TPU) , in which case it can be made from a single plastic foil sheet, such as by folding the sheet into an elongated "tube " and welding the two lengthwise edges together resulting in a lengthwise weld, where after each of the two opposite ends of the "tube" is closed off by welding resulting in two opposite end welds, where each of the end welds is convex, and where the ends of the lengthwise weld meet the two end welds, respectively, at positions away from the ends of the two end welds, i.e. where the ends of the longitudinal weld and the ends of each of the two end welds do not meet as this provides a closed bag with a smoother surface than if the ends of the welds meet (a smooth surface is more comfortable for the infant) .

The third container can be made of one or more plastic foil sheets being welded together into a closed bag, in which case the one or more welds advantageously are adapted so that the ends of the welds do not meet.

When the third container is a closed plastic foil bag, a needle can be used for filling the third liquid into the container (and optionally for removing air from the container to obtain vacuum), where after the small needle hole is sealed (e.g. by welding) . The third container inhibits infant movements to a greater extends than e.g. a standard sleeping pillow would, as liquid is heavier than pillow stuffing .

The third container may comprise a fifth inlet for filling the third container with the third liquid (and optionally for subsequently applying vacuum inside the third container) , where after the fifth inlet is sealed.

In the use state, the third container is in contact with the first and/or second container, which means that initiated displacement of the first, second or third liquid is transmitted into displacement of at least one of the other two liquids (or both of the other two liquids provided that the first and second exposed wall are in contact with each other) .

The support device may comprise means for adjusting the temperature of the first, second and/or third liquid in order to regulate/stabilize the body temperature of the infant.

The base and/or frame are preferably made of a material (such as low density polyurethane, and more preferably Polyurethane integral foam with a density of 200 300 g/L (ISO 845) and a hardness of 25 45 Shore A (DIN53505) , and most preferred a density of 250 g/L (ISO 845) and a hardness of 40 Shore A (DIN53505) ) that is sufficient firm for the base and/or frame to maintain their shape during use (such as when the first and second liquid shift around inside the first and second container) , and at the same time sufficient soft to be comfortable for the infant if the infant comes in contact with or hits the base or frame. The frame must be sufficient firm to be able to support the liquid filled second container, such as if the second container is fixed to a substantially vertical inner side of the frame while the exposed second wall extends in a mainly vertical direction . The base, frame, and/or cushion are preferably made of a soft material, such as polyurethane (PUR) e.g. as a foam, as a soft material reduces noises during use, so that it e.g. is possible for a nurse to touch (e.g. by accident or when cleaning) the base, frame or cushion without making sounds that overstimulates the infant. PUR is an effective insulating material that helps in keeping the infant warm. The base, frame, and/or cushion are preferably formed with a smooth surface in order to facilitate cleaning of their surfaces.

The exposed first wall (or the entire first container) , second wall (or the entire second container) , first covering, second covering and/or the third container are preferably made of a flexible material with an appropriate thickness that provides the flexibility, such as plastic foil, e.g. made of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) , because it is flexible, robust, resistance to e.g. oil and grease, and abrasion resistant. Rubber may be used instead of plastic foil.

The first and/or second attachment shell are preferably made of rigid or semi-rigid plastic, and preferably has a thickness of about 1 - 3 mm (most preferably about 3 mm) .

The first, second and/or third liquid are preferably water, because it has a viscosity that provides an appropriate displacement of liquid inside the first, second and/or third container, respectively, and because water is cheap, readily available, and safe for the infant if it by accident comes in contact with the infant.

The shape and dimensions of the base and frame are preferably adapted so that the infant can be supported on the at least one first container in a way where there is sufficient free space between the infant and the frame (with the at least one second container) on at least one side of the infant, as such free space on one hand provides room for the infant to be able to move its limbs and on the other hand provides room for medical equipment, e.g. next to the infant, without the medical equipment being squeezed between the infant and the frame. The free space is especially important if medical equipment close to the infant has a considerable size and/or is of a kind that affects the infant negatively if pressed against the infant and/or is of a kind that might not function properly or get damaged if squeezed. Sufficient free space between the infant and the frame also allows nurses/doctors to inspect the infant and/or to operate the medical equipment with a minimum of disturbance of the infant that might be sleeping.

The exposed first wall may have a substantial rectangular shape with a length of about 30 40 cm and a width of about 15 25 cm, as such dimensions allow most preterm infants to be supported while having sufficient free space between the infant and the frame.

Infants at the same number of weeks of gestation do not have the same physical size, but their size do not vary much. According to Journal of Medical Genetics 1986, 23, 338-340;

Paul Merlob et al; ' ' Ratio of crown-rump distance to total length in preterm and term infants" , the crown-rump distance of an infant at 32 and 37 weeks of gestation is about 28 ± 2 cm and about 32 ± 2 cm, respectively .

A skilled nurse/doctor knows from experience how to use the support device of the present invention in a way where an infant and medical equipment are positioned with an appropriate amount of free space between the infant and the frame on at least one side of the infant.

The first, second, third, fourth and/or fifth inlet, as well as the first and/or second outlet are preferably made of the same material as the container/shell/covering they are provided on, such as e.g. plastic foil (in which case the inlet (s) and/or outlet (s) can be sealed by e.g. heat sealing or ultrasonic sealing) , and preferably formed as the inlet of a child balloon (such as shown in fig . 14) .

In a preferred embodiment, the base has a single first cavity with a single first bag fixed or detachable attached thereto by means of a first shell, and the frame consists of a body frame section and two head frame sub-sections, where the body frame section preferably has a single second cavity with a single second bag fixed or detachable attached thereto by means of a second shell, and where the first and/or second bag preferably are divided into separate sub-sections by one or more partition walls .

The invention is explained in greater detail below, describing exemplary embodiment of the support device according to the invention with reference to the drawings, in which

Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of a first embodiment of the support device according to the present invention seen in the use state, where one of the two head frame sub-sections has been removed for illustrative purposes .

Fig . 2 shows a perspective view of the device of fig . 1, where both head frame sub-sections are shown, and where the first and second bag are not shown,

Fig . 3 shows an exploded view of the device of fig . 2,

Fig . 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line IV-IV in fig . 2,

Fig . 5a shows a cross-sectional view of the second bag of the first embodiment, Fig. 5b shows a perspective view of the second shell of the first embodiment, where the second shell has been cut in half for illustrative purposes,

Fig. 5c shows a perspective view of the body frame section of fig. 2, where the body frame section has been cut in half for illustrative purposes,

Figs 6a - 6c illustrate how the second bag can be fixed to the second shell,

Fig . 7 shows a cushion according to the present invention,

Fig . 8 shows the device of fig. 1 transformed into the examination state,

Fig . 9 shows a base (cut in half for illustrative purposes) of a second embodiment of the device of the present invention,

Fig . 10 shows the same but with a first bag,

Fig . 11 shows the first bag of fig. 10,

Fig . 12 shows a perspective view of the frame of the second embodiment, where the frame has been cut in half for illustrative purposes,

Fig . 13 shows the frame of fig. 12 attached to the base of fig.

9,

Fig . 14 shows the same but with a first and second bag,

Figs. 15a - 15c illustrate how a second bag can be fixed to a second shell,

Fig . 16 shows a top view of the device partly shown in fig . 14, Figs . 17 and 18 show different ways in which a cushion according to the present invention can be positioned in relation to an infant, and

Fig . 19 is a cross-sectional illustrative view of a first container attached to a first attachment shell according to another embodiment .

The invention is described in the drawings under the assumption that, seen in relation to a horizontal surface on which the support device is placed in the use state, the base has a horizontal disposition, and the frame extends upwards from the base in a substantially vertical direction .

Figs. 1 8 show a first embodiment. Fig. 1 shows the support device 1, where the base 2 has a horizontal disposition, and the frame 3 is secured on the top of the base extending upwards from the base in a vertical direction . The peripheral upper surface 4 of the base is flat and extends horizontally . The frame 3 has a body frame section 5, and a head frame section 6 consisting of two head frame sub-sections 7,8 (only one is shown in fig . 1) .

As seen in fig . 3, the base 2 has a first cavity 9, which has a substantially rectangular shape, extends in a longitudinal direction L from a first end 10 to a second end 11 of the base 2, and extends in a transverse direction W from a first side 12 to a second side 13 of the base 2.

The device 1 has a single first container in the form of a first bag 14, which contains a first liquid (not shown) and is secured inside the first cavity 9 by means of a first attachment shell 16. The first cavity 9 has a first opening 17 through which the first shell 16 can enter and exit the first cavity 9. The first shell 16 fits inside the first cavity 9, where the bottom 18 of the first shell rests on the bottom 19 of the first cavity, and the vertical wall of the first cavity constitutes a first rim 20 against which the outer vertical wall 21 of the first shell makes contact so that horizontal movement of the first shell (with the first container inside) is prevented. The first rim 20 has the same height as the outer vertical wall 21 of the first shell.

The first shell 16 has a second opening 22 through which the first bag 14 enters the first shell before it is fixed to the first shell 16 by means of e.g. glue. The first bag 14 is made of a flexible materiel (e.g. plastic foil) and the first shell 16 is made of a rigid or semi-rigid material (e.g. plastic) .

The base 2 has a frame support face 23, which extends from the upper circumferential edge 24 of the first cavity 9 in a horizontal direction away from the first cavity 9 and has a width W 1 · The bottom of the head frame sub-sections 7, 8 as well as the bottom of the two end walls 25, 26 of the body frame section 5 have the same width W₁ as the width W₁ of the frame support face . The shape of the end walls 25, 26 of the body frame section 5 and the end walls 27 30 of the head frame sub-sections 7, 8 match each other pairwise to increase static friction between the frame sections in the use state. The bottom of the main part of the body frame section 5 has a width W₂ that is slightly smaller than W₁, which as shown in fig . 2 means that a small part 31 of the frame support face 23 is not in contact with the body frame section 5.

The vertical wall of the base 2 that extends from the outer edge of the frame support face 23 up to the peripheral upper surface 4 of the base constitutes a second rim 32 against which the lower part 33 of the outer surface of the frame 3 makes contact in the use state. The frame support face 23 is provided with first securing means in the form of four slots 34a 34d, and the bottom of each of the two head frame sub-sections 7, 8 is provided with second securing means in the form of two downwards extending projections 35 (one is shown in fig . 4) that fit into the corresponding slots 34a - 34d in an interlocking manner in the use state.

As illustrated in fig. 4, the frame support face 23 decline slightly in the direction from the first end 10 to the second end 11 of the base 2, so that the body frame section 5, due to gravitation, is held against the second rim 32 at the second end 11 of the base 2, and so that the two head frame sections 7, 8, due to gravitation, are held against the respective end walls 25, 26 of the body frame section 5. The frame 3 is secured and maintained in the intended position on the base 2 by the slots 34a 34d and projections 35 in combination with the declining frame support face 23.

The body frame section 5 has a second cavity 36 with a third opening 37 facing substantially towards the center of the base in the use state, where the second cavity 36 is delimited by the two end walls 25, 26, the bottom wall 38 and the top wall 39. The second cavity 36 and the third opening 37 extend horizontally along the entire horizontal length of the body frame section 5 and vertically along the entire height of the body frame section 5.

The device 1 has a single second container in the form of a second bag 40 (shown in fig . 1 and 5a) , which contains a second liquid 41 and is secured inside the second cavity 36 of the body frame section 5 by means of a second attachment shell 42, as indicated by the arrows between figs. 5a 5c. The second bag 40 is divided into three sub-sections/sub-containers 43 by two partition walls 44, and is made of a flexible material (e.g. plastic foil) so that it fits inside the second shell 42 in a manner where the inner surface 45 of the second shell 42 is in contact with the outer surface 46 of the second container 40. The second shell 42 is made of a rigid material (e.g. plastic) and the shape/size of its outer surface 47 matches the shape/size of the surface 48 of the second cavity 36 of the body frame section 5, so that the second shell 42 fits inside the second cavity 36. The second shell 42 has a small wall thickness (e.g. 1 3 mm) , which means that the fourth opening 49 of the second shell 42 is only slightly smaller than the third opening 37 of the second cavity 36.

The first bag 14 is covered by a first covering 51, and the peripheral part thereof is fixed to the outer vertical wall 21 of the first shell 16. The first bag 14 is preferably mounted inside the first shell 16 using the same mounting method as illustrated in figs. 6a 6c in connection with the mounting of the second bag 40. A first inlet (not shown) of the first bag 14 is aligned with a second inlet (not shown) of the first shell 16, where the aligned inlets are used for removing air from the first bag 14, where after the first inlet is sealed by a first plug (not shown) . The first covering 51 has a first outlet (not shown) , which is used for removing air from the space between the first bag and first covering, where after the first outlet is sealed by a second plug (not shown) .

The second bag 40 is covered by a second covering 52, and the peripheral part thereof is fixed to the outer surface 47 of the second shell 42 (see fig . 6c) . Each of the three sub-sections 43 has a third inlet 53, and the second shell 42 has three corresponding fourth inlets 54. The second covering 52 has a second outlet 56 provided in the part of the second covering 52 that extends along the outer surface 47 of the second shell 42.

Fig. 6a 6c illustrate a preferred method of mounting the second bag 40 inside the second shell 42. Firstly (fig. 6a and 6b), the second bag 40, while being empty, is attached (e.g. glued) to the inner surface 45 of the second shell 42 in manner where the third inlets 53 and fourth inlets 54 pairwise are aligned (only one pair is shown) . Secondly (fig. 6c) , the second covering 52 is fixed (e.g. glued) to the outer surface 47 of the second shell 42 along the periphery of the fourth opening 49 in a manner where the second covering 52 spans over the fourth opening 49 (and thus over the part of the second bag 40 that is unattached to the second shell 42) . Thirdly, the pairwise third/fourth inlets 53, 54 are used for filling each of the sub-sections 43 with the second liquid 41 and subsequently for removing excess air from the sub-sections 43, where after each of the third inlets 53 is sealed by a third plug 57. Fourthly, air is removed from the space between the second shell 42 and the second covering 52 through the second outlet 56, which afterwards is sealed by a fourth plug (not shown) .

Once the second bag 40 has been mounted inside the second shell 42, the second shell 42 is ready for being attached (e.g. glued) inside the second cavity 36 of the body frame section 5.

As the second bag 40 and the second covering 52 are made of a flexible material, the lower part 58 of the second bag 40 bulges out (protrudes) from the second cavity 36 towards the center of the base due to the influence of gravitation on the second liquid 41, so that the second bag 40 partly rests on (and thus is in contact with) the peripheral part of the first bag 14 (as shown in fig . 1, and indicated in figs. 6b and 6c), so that initiated displacement of the first liquid transmits into displacement of the second liquid 41, and vice versa.

The extent of contact between the first 14 and second 40 bag is not constant during use of the device 1 as the infant moves around. The part of the first covering 51 that spans over the first bag 14 constitutes the exposed first wall 59, and the part of the second covering 52 that spans over the second bag 40 constitutes the exposed second wall 60, as the infant can get into contact with this part of the first covering 51 and second covering 52, respectively .

In the use state, the support device 1 has two passages 61, 62 for medical equipment. The passages 61, 62 run under the frame 3 and are formed by providing the bottom of the body frame section 5 with two indentations 63, 64 and the upper surface 4 of the base 2 with two corresponding indentations 65, 66, where the indentations 63 66 pairwise are aligned as shown in figs.

1 and 2.

Fig. 7 shows a cushion 67 that can be used for transforming the support device 1 into the examination state shown in fig . 8, where the frame 3 is not attached to the base 2, and where the cushion 67 rests on and is supported by the frame support face 23 and the first bag 14. The height of the side wall 68 of the cushion 67 matches the height of the second rim 32 of the base

2, so that the upper surface 4 of the base 2 and the upper surface 69 of the cushion 67 are at level with each other in the examination state.

Figs. 9 - 18 show a second embodiment, where the base 2 ' of the support device 1 ' has a first cavity 9' that supports the first container in the form of a first bag 14 ' and is partly surrounded by a frame support face 23' . The vertical sides of the first cavity 9' constitutes a first rim 20' . The bottom 19' of the first cavity 9' and the frame support face 23' incline downwards in the direction from the first end 10' towards the second end 11' of the base 2 ' . The vertical distance between the frame support face 23' and the peripheral upper surface 4 ' of the base 2 ' decreases to zero at the first end 10' .

The first bag 14' is divided into two sub-sections/sub- containers 70a', 70b' by a partition wall 71'. Each sub-section has a first inlet 72a' , 72b' in the form of a conduit (formed as the inlet of a child balloon) for filling it with a first liquid 15' (and optionally for subsequently applying vacuum to the sub-sections) , where after the inlets are sealed. The first bag 14' as well as the inlets 72', 72b' are made of a flexible material, such as plastic foil. The first bag 14' can be fixed or detachable attached directly to the first cavity 9' , but the device 1' could be modified by fixing the first container 14' to a first shell that is detachable attached to the base 2 ' . The base has a groove 73' extending along and downwards from the outer edge of the frame support face 23' . The depth of the groove 73' in relation to the horizontal level of the frame support face 23' decreases to zero in the direction from second end 11' towards the first end 10' of the base. The vertical wall 32' extending from the bottom of the groove 73' up to the peripheral surface 4 ' of the base 2 ' constitutes a second rim 32' . The frame 3' has a projection 74' that extends downwards from its bottom wall 38' and fits inside the groove 73' . The groove 73' , the second supporting face 23' and the second rim 32' in combination constitute the first securing means; and the projection 74' and the bottom wall 38' in combination constitute the second securing means for detachable securing the frame 3' on the base 2 ' in the use state as shown in figs. 13 and 14.

The frame 3' has a second cavity 36' that is delimited by two end walls (not shown, but corresponding to the end walls 25, 26 of the device 1) , the bottom wall 38' and the top wall 39' . The second bag 40' is detachable attached to the frame 3' by means of a second shell 42', which fits inside the second cavity 36'. A lower flap 75' and an upper flap 76' extend along the length of the second bag 40' and are fixed (e.g. using an appropriate welding technique) to the inner surface of the bottom wall 77' and top wall 78' of the second shell, respectively, where the flaps 75', 76' in their fixed positions are bent in relation to the second bag 40' as indicated by the arrows in fig. 15a and as shown in fig . 15b.

Partition walls 44' divide the second bag 40' into a number of sub-sections/sub-containers 43' that each via an inlet (not shown) is filled with a second liquid 41' under vacuum.

Just as the support device 1, the support device 1' has a first covering 51' and second covering 52' for reinforcing the first 14' and second bag 40', respectively. The coverings 51', 52' are fixed to the outer surface of the first and second shell 42' , respectively, and vacuum is applied to the space between the pairwise container 14', 40' and covering 51', 52'.

The bags 14', 40' and coverings 51', 52' are made of a flexible material, so that the lower part 58' of the second bag 40' partly hangs out of the second cavity 36' and thus partly rests on the peripheral part of the first bag 12' in the use state as best shown in fig . 14.

As illustrated in fig . 16, the frame 3' has a rigid first section 79' (e.g. made of PUR) and a flexible second section

80', where the part of the frame 3' shown in figs. 12-14 is a portion of the rigid first section 79', and where the second bag 40' only extends along the first section 79' . In the use state, the frame 3' is positioned on the base 2 ' as shown in figs. 17 and 18, i.e. where the free ends 81', 82' of the second section 80' are joined in an interlocking manner so that the exposed first wall 59' of the first bag 14' is surrounded by the frame 3'. The free ends 81', 82, ' are each provided with a magnet (not shown) so that they can be joined together by magnetic attraction.

Figs. 17 and 18 show a third container 83', and illustrate how it can be positioned next to or over an infant 84', respectively . In figs . 17 and 18, the infant 84' is in contact with both the exposed first 59' and second wall 60' .

Fig. 19 illustrates a first container in the form of two closed bags 14 " made of a flexible material and filled with a first liquid 15 ", where the two bags 14 " are attached to a first attachment shell 16 " and are positioned next to each other in a horizontally plane, where the top of each of the two bags 14'' are at level with the second opening 22 " of the shell, and thus in combination constitute the exposed first wall 59 " of the first container . The bottom part 85 " of the neighboring bags are interconnected by a connection member 86 " (e . g . a plastic foil sheet) extending between their bottom parts in a way where the bags abut each other in the use state. For illustrative reasons there is a small gap between the bags, and also between each bag and the shell.

Claims

1. Infant support device (1, 1') for supporting an infant

(84'), the device comprising:

- a base (2; 2') with at least one first container (14;

14'; 14'') that is filled with a first liquid (15, 15'; 15'') and has an exposed first wall (59; 59'; 59'') for supporting an infant (84') in a use state of the device, a frame (3; 3') with at least one second container (40;

40') that is filled with a second liquid (41; 41') and has an exposed second wall (60; 60'),

- the frame (3; 3') extends upwards from the level of the exposed first wall (59; 59'; 59'') and is attached to the base (2; 2') in a manner where the frame (3; 3') and the exposed second wall (60; 60') at least partly surround the exposed first wall (59; 59'; 59''), and the exposed first (59; 59'; 59'') and second wall (60;

60') are flexible walls .

2. The device (1; 1 ' ) according to claim 1, wherein the at least one first container (14; 14 ' ; 14 ' ' ) and at least one second container (40; 40' ) are arranged so that the exposed first (59; 59'; 59'') and second wall (60; 60') are in contact with each other to such an extent that displacement of the first liquid (15; 15'; 15'') causes displacement of the second liquid (41; 41'), and vice versa.

3. The device (1; 1 ' ) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one first container (14; 14 ' ; 14 " ) is attached to the base (2; 2 ' ) and/or the at least one second container (40; 40 ' ) is attached to the frame (3; 3' ) .

4. Device (1; 1 ' ) according to any of claims 1 3, wherein the position of the frame (3; 3' ) in relation to the base

(2; 2 ' ) is fixed.

5. The device (1; 1 ' ) according to any of claims 1 4, wherein the frame (3; 3' ) is detachable attached to the base (2 ; 2 ' ) .

6. The device (1; 1 ' ) according to any of claims 1 5, wherein the base (2; 2') comprises first securing means

(34a 34c; 73'), the frame (3; 3' ) comprises second securing means (35; 74' ) , and the first and second securing means are adapted to engage each other in an interlocking manner to detachable attach the frame (3; 3') to the base

(2; 2' ) .

7. The device (1; 1') according to claim 6, wherein the first securing means comprises at least one slot (34a - 34d; 73' ) formed in the base (2; 2'), and the second securing means comprises at least one projection (35, 74') that extends from the frame (3; 3') and fits inside the at least one slot .

8. The device (1; 1') according to any of claims 1 7, wherein the exposed first wall (59; 59'; 59'') may have a substantially rectangular shape with a length of about 30 - 40 cm and width of about 15 25 cm.

9. The device (1; 1') according to any of claims 1 8, wherein the frame (3; 3') is a closed frame (3; 3') that surrounds the exposed first wall (59; 59'; 59'').

10 The device (1; 1') according to any of claims 1 9, where the second container (40; 40') extends along the entire horizontal length of the frame (3; 3') .

11. The device (1; 1') according to any of claims 1 10, wherein the base (2; 2') and frame (3; 3') are made of a material that is sufficient firm for the base and frame to maintain their shape during use, and at the same time sufficient soft to be comfortable for the infant if the infant comes in contact with or hits the base or frame.

12. The device (1, 1 ' ) according to any of claims 1 11, wherein the shape and dimensions of the base (2; 2') and frame (3; 3' ) are adapted so that the infant can be supported on the at least one first container (14; 14 ' ;

14 ' ' ) in a way where there is sufficient free space between the infant and the frame on at least one side of the infant, where said free space provides room for the infant to move its limbs and room for medical equipment.

13. The device (1; 1 ' ) according to any of claims 1 12, wherein the height of the part of the frame (3; 3' ) that extends upwards from the level of the exposed first wall

(59; 59'; 59 ' ' ) in the use state is at least 5 cm, about 5

17 cm, or about 11 cm.

14. The device (1) according to any of claims 1 13, wherein the device comprises at least one passage (61, 62) for medical equipment, where the passage (61, 62) extends under or through the frame (3) .

15. The device (1) according to claim 14, wherein each passage

(61, 62) extends from a passage inlet located outside the frame (3; 3') to a passage outlet located inside the frame.

16. The device (1; 1 ' ) according to any of claims 1 15, wherein the base (2; 2' ) comprises a frame support face

(23; 23' ) for supporting the frame (3; 3') .

17. The device (1; 1') according to claim 16, wherein the base comprises a second rim (32; 32') extending upwards from the outer edge of the frame support face (23; 23'), and a part (33) of the outer surface of the frame (3; 3') is in contact with the second rim (32; 32') in the use state.

18. The device (1; 1 ' ) according to claim 16 or 17, wherein the frame support face (23; 23' ) extends from the upper circumferential edge (24) of the first cavity (9) in a horizontal direction away from the first cavity (9) .

19. The device (1) according to any of claims 16 - 18, wherein the device further comprises a cushion (67) for transforming the device into an examination state by positioning the cushion on the base (2) instead of the frame (3) , and the cushion is adapted to rest on the frame support face (23) in a way where the upper surface (69) of the cushion and the peripheral upper surface (4) of the base (2) are at substantially the same horizontal level.

20. The device (1) according to claim 19, wherein the exposed first wall (59) of the at least one first container protrudes upwards from the horizontal level of the frame support face (23) of the base, when the infant is not positioned on the at least one first container; and the bottom of the cushion (69) is provided with a cavity with a shape that is complementary to the shape of the protruding part at least one first container.

21. The device (1; 1') according to any of claims 16 20, wherein the frame support face (23; 23') inclines downwards in a direction from a first end (10; 10') of the base (2;

2') towards a second end (11; 11') of the base (2; 2'), such as with an angle of 2° to 5°.

22. The device (1; 1') according to any of claims 1 21, wherein the frame (3; 3') is made of at least two separate frame sections (5, 7, 8) that independently of each other can be detachable attached to the base and are adapted for being positioned next to each on the base so that they in combination form a continuous frame; and each frame section has its own second securing means (35) to be independently detachable attached to the base.

23. The device (1) according to any of claims 1 22, wherein the frame (3) comprises a body frame section (5) and two head frame sub-sections (7, 8) that together form a closed frame, where the three frame sections (5, 7, 8) are detachable secured to the base (2) independently of each other .

24. The device (1; 1 ' ) according to any of claims 1 23, wherein one or more of the at least one first and/or second container comprises at least one partition wall (44; 44 ' , 71' ) for dividing the container into two or more sub containers (43; 43', 70a' , 70b') located next to each other horizontally, where the at least one partition wall is impermeable to liquid and/or is flexible to such an extent that displacement of the liquid in a sub-container transmits into displacement of the liquid in the neighboring sub-container.

25. The device (1; 1') according to any of claims 1 24, wherein the at least one first container consists of two or more closed bags (14''), which are made of a flexible material and are positioned next to each other in a horizontally plane in the use state, and where neighboring bags (14'') are interconnected by at least one connection member (86'') extending between the bottom part (85'') of neighboring bags to ensure that the bags (14'') abut each other in the use state.

26. The device (1; 1') according to any of claims 1 25, wherein the base (2; 2') comprises at least one first cavity (9; 9'), the at least one first container (14; 14'; 14'') is attached to and fits inside the at least one first cavity (9; 9') in a manner where the unattached part of the first container (14; 14 ' ; 14 ' ' ) constitutes the exposed first wall (59; 59' ; 59''); and/or the frame (3; 3') comprise at least one second cavity (36; 36'), the at least one second container (40; 40') is attached to and fits inside the at least one second cavity (36; 36') in a manner where the unattached part of the at least one second container (40; 40') constitutes the exposed second wall

(60; 60' ) .

27. The device (1; 1') according to any of claims 1 26, wherein the device (1') further comprises a third container (83') made of a flexible material and filled with a third liquid, where the third container (83') is adapted for being wrapped around, partly wrapped around, or positioned next to the infant (84') while being in contact with the exposed first (59') and/or second wall (60').

28. The device (1; 1') according to claim 27, wherein the third container (83') has a substantially elongated shape, such as with a length of about 20 50 cm, a width of about 7 - 13 cm and a height of about 1 - 4 cm.

29. The device (1; 1') according to claim 27 or 28, wherein the third container (83') is made of one or more plastic foil sheets welded together into an elongated closed bag, where the one or more welds are adapted so that the ends of the welds do not meet.

30. The device (1; 1') according to any of claims 1 29, wherein the first (15; 15'; 15''), second (40; 40'), and/or third liquid are under vacuum.

31. The device (1; 1') according to any of claims 1 - 30, where the viscosity of the first, second and/or third liquid is about 0.5 50 mPa*s, more preferably about 0.5 - 10 mPa*s, or most preferably about 0.5 - 5 mPa*s.

32. The device (1; 1 ' ) according to any of claims 1 31, wherein the first (15; 15' ; 15''), second (40; 40'), and/or third liquid is water.

33. The device (1; 1') according to any of claims 1 32, wherein the at least one first container (14; 14'; 14'') is at least one closed first bag (14; 14'; 14'') made of a flexible material.

34. The device (1) according to claim 33, wherein the base (2) comprises at least one first cavity (9) with a first opening (17) ; the support device comprises at least one first attachment shell (16; 16''), which has a second opening (22; 22'') and is rigid or semi-rigid; the at least one first bag (14; 14'') is attached to the inner surface of the at least one first shell; the at least one first shell is attached to the first cavity in a way where the second opening faces in the same or substantially the same direction as the first opening; and the part of the wall of the first bag that spans across the second opening, and thus is unattached to the first shell, constitutes the exposed first wall (59; 59'; 59'').

35. The device (1) according to claim 34, wherein the device comprises a first covering (51) , which is made of a flexible material, spans over the second opening (22) , and is attached to the outer surface (47) of the first shell (16) in a fluid-tight way; where the space between the exposed first wall (59) and the first covering (51) is under vacuum so that the first covering is in contact with the exposed first wall; and the material and thickness of the first covering and of the exposed first wall are adapted so that movements of the infant during use of the device are able to initiate displacement of the first liquid.

36. The device (1) according to claim 34 or 35, wherein the first shell (16) is detachable attached to the base.

37. The device (1; 1') according to any of claims 1 36, wherein the at least one second container (14; 14'; 14'') is at least one closed second bag (14; 14'; 14'') made of a flexible material.

38. The device (1; 1') according to claim 37, wherein the frame (3; 3' ) comprises at least one second cavity (36; 36' ) with a third opening (37) facing in a substantially horizontal direction substantially towards the exposed first wall (59;

59' ) ; the support device comprises a second attachment shell (42; 42'), which has a fourth opening (49), and is rigid or semi-rigid; the at least one second bag (14; 14') is attached to the inner surface of the second shell; the at least one second shell is attached to the second cavity in a way where the fourth opening faces in the same or substantially the same direction as the third opening; and the part of wall of the second bag that spans across the fourth opening, and thus is unattached to the second shell, constitutes the exposed second wall (60; 60').

39. The device (1; 1') according to claim 38, wherein the support device comprises a second covering (52; 52'), which is made of a flexible material, spans over the fourth opening (49) of the second shell (42; 42'), and is attached to the outer surface (47) of the second shell in a fluid- tight way, where the space between the exposed second wall and the second covering is under vacuum so that the second covering is in contact with the exposed second wall; and the material and thickness of the second covering and of the exposed second wall are adapted so that movements of the infant during use of the device are able to initiate displacement of the second liquid.

40. The device (1; 1') according to claim 38 or 39, wherein the second shell (42; 42 ' ) is detachable attached to the frame

(3; 3' ) .

41. Use of the device (1; 1 ' ) according to any of claims 1 - 40 for supporting a premature infant ( 84 ' ) .

42. Use according to claim 41 for stimulating the physical and psychological development of the infant ( 84 ' ) .