I know that things may have moved on a bit since the days of the Vickers Model 77, but at least it was what could be called a coherent design.

As I have mentioned a few times before, many transport incubator "systems" I have encountered have been little more than "lash-ups", so I can well understand why any "inspector" may not be overly impressed! whistle

As mentioned in posts above, perhaps the way forward here is for specialists such as yourself to lay down the specs (the requirements) and either build the system(s) yourself, or have a third party put it together on your behalf, and service it (as a system) as well.

Any "issues" about CE marking, the removal of the "Made in China" stickers, the colour of the cables, the phase of the moon (and any other as yet unforeseen objection by Mr.Jobsworth) ... could (I am assuming - or rather, hoping) be overcome by folk such as yourselves (ie, government agencies) underwriting the whole exercise, and taking full responsibility.

OK, Ian ... start designing. I know "third party" people who would be happy to collaborate. smile
__________

PS: although it is appreciated that your requirements may be special in some regards, why not develop your "spec" right here on the forum? It could be our New Years Challenge! That is, to lay down a generic spec (and then progress to specifics of manufacturers and models for each component equipment) for a decent transport incubator system. Here's a start:-

1) Basic system to comprise:-
- folding trolley (lightweight - aluminium? lifting handles, straps) ... use big wheels!
- neonatal incubator (small size, transport type, removable, portable) - basically DC operated? If mains, system will need an inverter
- ventilator (limited, but adequate for purpose ... select with care! detachable, but can also move with incubator when that is detached)
- humidifier (again, suitable for the rigours of transportation ... DC operated?)
- monitor ... many to choose from (which parameters?)
... ECG
... oxygen
... SpO2
... temp
- suction (small DC pump ... but nice to have one powered by oxygen/air cylinder as well)
- storage space (drawers, boxes, tray(s), baskets - swing out?) for supplies, accessories and consumables (plus adaptor cables etc.)
2) Must be compatible with front line ambulance vehicles (voltage?) - are these standardised yet? (oh, I thought not!)
3) Must be compatible with air ambulances (voltage?) ... standardised? (I guess I already know the answer)
4) Must be able to perform for [ ] hours without power from the vehicle or mains electricity (that is, must have its own battery backup for):-
- complete system?
- heater and ventilator (plus humidifier) only? ... etc., etc.
5) Must carry own oxygen and air cylinders. Size? Duration? Also adaptable to ambulance (and hospital) PMG as well
6) Must work from mains power (of course) ... will a limited UPS be needed?
7) Power supply "box" to allow easy adaption (that is, possibility to operate from a variety of power sources ... such as, in a limited way, from an ordinary vehicle's "cigar lighter" socket, vehicle battery - 12 and 24 VDC - etc.). Also needs auxiliary outlets (for monitors, syringe pump ... laptop PC? ... and all the rest)

... etc., etc.

We have a lot of clued up and experienced folk who get on the forum, so why not kick it off?

See also earlier threads:-

One
Two
Three
Four
Five
Six
Seven
Eight
Nine


If you don't inspect ... don't expect.