IL314328B2 - A bodybag for providing thermal isolation and preventing liquid leakage - Google Patents

Description

314328/ תופוג יקש תוליזנ ענומו הרוטרפמט דדובמ A BODYBAG FOR PROVIDING THERMAL ISOLATION AND PREVENTING LIQUID LEAKAGE FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[001] The present invention is in the field of a body bag for storing, handling, and transporting a body, while providing thermal isolation and preventing liquid leakage thereof.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[002] The body bags used today are typically made of durable, non-porous materials such as heavy-duty plastics or reinforced nylon. They are used for securely containing and transporting deceased individuals, ensuring hygienic handling, and preventing the spread of contaminants. These bags are extensively used by medical, emergency response, and military personnel during mass casualty incidents, natural disasters, and in morgues and hospitals.

[003] However, the body bags used today have several disadvantages: (1) bulky and heavy which is sometimes challenging, (2) the body without cooling starts decomposing after a couple of hours to a few days depending on the environmental conditions, (3) although body bags are made from non-leakage materials, liquid leaks from the body bags, and (4) it is hard to know where the orientation of the body, where is its head.

[004] Therefore, there is eminent need for a body bag that can maintain the temperature of the body or thermally isolate the body from its surroundings to reduce the decomposition rate of the body. In addition, a body bag in which it is known where the body's head is replaced is crucial.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[005] It is hence an object of the invention to disclose a body bag ( 100 ) for storing, handling, transporting, and any combination thereof, of a cadaver or portion thereof comprising: at least one impermeable sheet configured to prevent liquid leakage through the sheet; at least one thermal barrier sheet, heat shield sheet, insulating sheet, and any combination thereof; and a liquid impermeable zipper ( 140 ) configured to prevent liquid leakage through the zipper ( 140 ); the body bag ( 100 ) has a linear distal end ( 130 ), and a proximal end ( 120 ); wherein the 314328/ body bag ( 100 ) is about at least 1.5-fold efficient at thermally isolating the cadaver or portion thereof, compared to traditional body bags; and the body bag ( 100 ) is characterized by a difference in shape between the proximal end ( 120 ) and the distal end ( 130 ) configured to orientate the cadaver or portion thereof position.

[006] It is also an object of the invention to disclose an impermeable thermal isolating film for preventing liquid penetration of the film, and thermal isolating any element covered by the film.

[007] It is also an object of the invention to disclose a method for manufacturing body bag 100 comprising (a) cutting the film of the invention into the required dimensions, thereby obtaining a top panel, bottom panel, and side panels (b) attaching a zipper ( 140 ) to the top panel, wherein attachment is by heat sealing or sewing, (c) sealing all of the panel together to obtain a body bag, and (d) adding handles 110 to the body bag configure to ease body transportation.

[008] It is also an object of the invention to disclose a system for storing, handling, transporting, and any combination thereof, of a cadaver or portion thereof comprising: (a) body bag ( 100 ) comprising at least one impermeable sheet configured to prevent liquid leakage through the sheet; at least one thermal barrier sheet, heat shield sheet, insulating sheet, and any combination thereof; and liquid impermeable zipper ( 140 ) configured to prevent liquid leakage through the zipper ( 140 ); the body bag ( 100 ) has a linear distal end ( 130 ), and a proximal end ( 120 ), and (b) vacuum pumping device configured to remove air from the body bag ( 100 ) upon accommodation of the cadaver or portion thereof within the body bag ( 100 ); wherein the body bag ( 100 ) is about at least 1.5-fold efficient at thermally isolating the cadaver or portion thereof, compared to traditional body bags, measured by internal standards; and is characterized by a difference in shape between the proximal end ( 120 ) and the distal end ( 130 ) configured to orientate the cadaver or portion thereof position.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[009] The presently disclosed subject matter may be more clearly understood upon reading in the following detailed description embodiments of non-limiting exemplary embodiments thereof, with reference to the drawings.

[010] Dimensions of components and features shown in the figures are chosen for convenience or clarity of presentation and are not necessarily shown to scale. Wherever possible, the same 314328/ reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings and the following description to refer to the same and like parts:

[011] Figures 1A-1B are an image and an illustration presenting ( 1A ) a closed body bag and ( 1B ) a partially open body bag according to some embodiments of the invention.

[012] Figure 2 is an image presenting a packed body bag according to some embodiments of the invention.

[013] Figure 3is a graph presenting ice weight over time placed in body bag 100 according to some embodiments of the invention and exposed to an environment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[014] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and/or scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of embodiments of the invention, exemplary methods and/or materials are described below. In case of conflict, the patent specification, including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and are not intended to be limiting.

[015] Further embodiments and the full scope of applicability of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description given hereinafter. However, it should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating preferred embodiments of the invention, are given by way of illustration only, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from this detailed description.

[016] How a body is stored and the duration for which it is not exposed to low temperatures significantly affect the rate of decomposition. These factors, in turn, impact the ability to identify the remains, conduct an autopsy, and perform other forensic investigations. Proper storage conditions are crucial for preserving the body's condition, aiding in accurate identification and examination.

[017] The present invention is based, at least in part, on the finding that better isolation of a cadaver or portion thereof for the environment reduces its decomposition rate. According to one aspect, 314328/ the body bag disclosed herein is for storing, handling, or transporting, including any combination thereof, of a cadaver or portion thereof.

[018] According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a film comprising at least one impermeable sheet configured to prevent liquid leakage through the sheet, and at least one thermal barrier sheet, heat shield sheet, or insulating sheet, including any combination thereof, configured for maintaining a consistent internal temperature. As used herein, the term " internal " refers to the side of the sheet which is exposed to the cadaver or portion thereof. As used herein, the term " impermeable " refers to a material having a value higher than 5000 mm in a water column test.

[019] In some embodiments, the at least one impermeable sheet is or comprises polymers. Non-limiting examples of polymer include but are not limited to polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, nylon, polyester, polystyrene, polyvinyl ether, polyvinyl ethyl ether-acetate, or poly(ethylene-co-vinyl chloride) including any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the at least one impermeable sheet is or comprises polyvinyl ethyl ether-acetate, or poly(ethylene-co-vinyl chloride), including any combination thereof.

[020] As used here the terms " thermal barrier sheet ", " heat shield sheet ", or " insulating sheet " are used in protecting against external factors such as moisture, heat retention or dissipation, or thermal insulation respectively. Each type of sheet is used in specific contexts based on its intended function needed.

[021] A person skilled in the art would appreciate that upon increasing the amount of thermal barrier layer, heat shield sheet, or isolating sheet including any combination thereof, within the body bag, the better the thermal isolation is.

[022] In some embodiments, the at least one thermal barrier sheet, heat shield sheet, or insulating sheet, is or comprises, fiberglass, ceramic fibers, aerogel, aluminum foil, silica fibers, mineral wool, or foam, including any combination thereof. In some embodiments, foam is selected from the group consisting of: polyamide film, polyurethane foam, urethane foam, polystyrene foam, phenolic foam, polyethylene foam, or polyisocyanurate foam, including any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the at least one thermal barrier sheet, heat shield sheet, or insulating sheet, is or comprises, foam, or aluminum foil, including any combination thereof.

[023] In some embodiments, the at least one thermal barrier sheet, heat shield sheet, insulating sheet, or any combination thereof is external, internal, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the at least one thermal barrier sheet, heat shield sheet, insulating sheet, or any 314328/ combination thereof is external, internal, or any combination thereof. As used herein, the term " external " refers to the side of the sheet which is exposed to the environment (external environment such as weather, temperature, humidity etc.,).

[024] In some embodiments, one side of the at least one thermal barrier sheet, heat shield sheet, or insulating sheet, including any combination thereof, is in contact with at least one impermeable sheet. In some embodiments, the at least one impermeable sheet covers the at least one thermal barrier sheet, heat shield sheet, or insulating sheet, including any combination thereof.

[025] In some embodiments, the film comprises one thermal barrier sheet, heat shield sheet, or insulating sheet, including any combination thereof, and one impermeable sheet. In some embodiments, the film is three-layered, comprising one thermal barrier sheet, heat shield sheet, or insulating sheet, including any combination thereof stacked in between two impermeable sheets. As used herein the term " layer " refers to a homogeneous thickness of a distinct material.

[026] In some embodiments, an isolating layer serves as a barrier to control the transfer of heat between the body bag and the external environment. As used herein, the terms " sheet " and " layer " are used interchangeably.

[027] In some embodiments, the film further comprises an additional layer configured to increase the body bag weight capacity. Non-limiting examples of the additional layer include but are not limited to, ceramic, metal, composites, or polymer, including any combination thereof.

[028] In some embodiments, the film further comprises a liquid absorption layer, configured to absorb and retain fluids. As used here in the term " liquid absorbing layer " refers to a layer configured to absorb liquid and prevent it from spreading or leaking.

[029] According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a method for manufacturing the body bag ( 100 ) of the invention comprising: (a) cutting the film of the invention into the required dimensions, thereby obtaining a top panel, bottom panel, and side panels (b) attaching a zipper ( 140 ) to the top panel, wherein attachment is by heat sealing or sewing, (c) sealing all of the panel together to obtain a body bag, and (d) adding handles 110 to the body bag configure to ease body transportation.

[030] A person skilled in the art would appreciate that the required body bag (100 ) dimensions depend on the usage of the body bag ( 100 ). Typical body bag dimensions range between about cm and 275 cm in length, between about 30 cm and 125 cm in width, and between about cm and 61 cm in height. As used herein, the term "about" when combined with a value refers 314328/ to plus or minus 10% of the reference value. For example, a length of about 275 centimeters (cm) refers to a length in a range of 275 cm ± 27.5 cm (247.5 cm to 302.5 cm).

[031] In some embodiments, handles 110 are sewn onto the sides or proximal end ( 120 ) and distal end ( 130 ) of the body bag ( 100 ) to enable transportation.

[032] As used herein the terms " body ", " cadaver " including any variation thereof, are used interchangeably. As used herein the term " body bag " refers to a bag, that helps prevent the spread of infectious disease by containing bodily fluids and other biological material, and decreases release of odor that may rise from cadaver decomposition. Thus, they are made of a variety of durable and impermeable materials to ensure they effectively contain the bodily fluids and other biological material of the cadaver or portion thereof. The body bags have to withstand the weight of at least 150 kg. In mass casualty events or natural disasters, body bags help manage the deceased efficiently and respectfully, reducing the risk of environmental contamination.

[033] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a body bag ( 100 ) for storing, handling, or transporting, including any combination thereof, comprising: (i) at least one impermeable sheet configured to prevent liquid leakage through the sheet, (ii) at least one thermal barrier sheet, heat shield sheet, insulating sheet, or any combination thereof, and a liquid impermeable zipper ( 140 ) configured to prevent liquid leakage through the zipper ( 140 ).

[034] In some embodiments, the body bag ( 100 ) of the invention comprises a distal end ( 130 ), configured to accommodate a cadaver's feet and a proximal end ( 120 ) configured to accommodate a cadaver head. In some embodiments, the distal end ( 130 ) and the proximal end ( 120 ) have distinctive features configured to differentiate between both ends. Non-limiting examples of distinctive features include but are not limited to shape, size, color, or tagging, including any combination thereof.

[035] In some embodiments, the proximal end ( 120 ) has a half-circle shape, a half-ellipse shape, an amorphous shape, or a triangular shape, including any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the proximal end ( 120 ) has a half-circle shape.

[036] A person skilled in the art would appreciate that a body positioned in body bag 100 is orientated so that a cadaver head is placed at the proximal end ( 120 ) and its toes are placed at the distal end ( 130 ).

[037] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a body bag ( 100 ) for storing, handling, or transporting, including any combination thereof, comprising: (i) at least 314328/ one impermeable sheet configured to prevent liquid leakage through the sheet, (ii) at least one thermal barrier sheet, heat shield sheet, insulating sheet, or any combination thereof, and a liquid impermeable zipper ( 140 ) configured to prevent liquid leakage through the zipper ( 140 ); and the body bag ( 100 ) comprises a distal end ( 130 ) and a proximal end ( 120 ); wherein the distal end ( 130 ) and proximal end ( 120 ) comprise different features to orientate the cadaver or portion thereof position.

[038] In some embodiments, the body bag ( 100 ) of the present invention is about at least 1.5-fold, about at least 1.75-fold, about at least 2-fold, about at least 2.25-fold, about at least 2.5-fold efficient at thermally isolating the cadaver or portion thereof, compared to traditional body bags, measured by internal standards. Each possibility represents a separate embodiment of the present invention. As used herein the term " thermally isolating " refers to the ability of a body bag to minimize or prevent the transfer of heat between the internal environment and the external surroundings. This means that the body bag acts as a barrier and minimizes or prevents the flow of heat from by either retaining heat within a certain area or preventing external heat from entering. In practical terms, a thermally isolating material helps maintain a more stable internal temperature, minimizing the influence of external temperature changes. In some embodiments, the external temperature refers to the environment the external portion feels, and the internal temperature refers to the temperature within the bag. A person skilled in the art would appreciate that minimizing the influence of external temperature changes reduces the effect the external temperature has on a cadaver or any portion thereof. In some embodiments, the body bag (100) of the present invention prevents or minimizes external heat from entering to the body bag. This property is crucial for decreasing the decomposition rate of a cadaver or portion thereof.

[039] As used herein, the term " measured by internal standards " refers to an internal test as exemplified in EXAMPLE 2 of the present invention.

[040] As used herein the term " traditional body bag " refers to a non-porous, zippered bag designed to transport and store deceased individuals. These bags are commonly used by medical examiners, coroners, funeral homes, hospitals, and disaster response teams. Body bags are typically made from materials such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene, nylon, vinyl-coated fabrics, or high-density plastic layers. They are characterized by their flexibility, waterproof properties, and resistance to tears or punctures. Designed for practicality, body bags often feature reinforced handles for easier transportation, a heavy-duty zipper for secure sealing, and a designated labeling area for attaching identification tags or labels of the deceased. 314328/

[041] In some embodiments, the body bag ( 100 ) further comprises a valve or a resealable material for removing air out of the body bag ( 100 ). A person skilled in the art would appreciate that by removing the air within the body bag the decomposition rate decreases. In some embodiments, the valve or the resealable material is configured to control passage of gas from the bag to the environment. Non-limiting examples for removing air include but are not limited to vacuum, pump system, or manual compressions, including any combination thereof. In some embodiments, air is removed using vacuum.

[042] In some embodiments, the at least one thermal barrier sheet, heat shield sheet, or insulating sheet, including any combination thereof has a width of between 0.1 mm and 2 mm, between 0.5 mm and 2 mm, between 0.5 and 1.5 mm, between 1.0 and 2, or between 1.3 and 1.7, including any value or range in between. Each possibility represents a separate embodiment of the invention.

[043] In some embodiments, the at least one impermeable sheet has a width of between 0.1 mm and mm, between 0.1 mm and 0.75 mm, between 0.1 and 0.5 mm, or between 0.2 and 0.7, including any value or range in between. Each possibility represents a separate embodiment of the invention.

[044] In some embodiments, a ratio of between about 1:10 and 10:1, between about 1:5 and 10:1, between about 1:5 and 5:1, between about 1:10 and 5:1, between about 1:1 and 10:1, or between about 1:10 and 1:1, by weight of the at least one liquid impermeable sheet and the at least one thermal barrier sheet, heat shield sheet, or insulating sheet, including any combination thereof, within the body bag ( 100 ).

[045] In some embodiments, the body bag ( 100 ) further comprises a liquid absorbing layer, located at internal side of the body bag ( 100 ). The liquid absorbing layer is placed facing the internal side of the body bag ( 100 ), the side facing the cadaver or any portion thereof, in order to absorb any liquid secreted from the cadaver or any portion thereof. Once the liquid is absorbed it is retained in the layer. The absorbing layer is capable of absorbing and retaining large amounts of liquid relative to its weight. Once absorbed, the liquid is held within the layer, preventing it from leaking or seeping out. In some embodiments, the liquid absorbing layer distributes the liquid evenly throughout the absorption layer. In some embodiments, the absorption layer prevents pooling.

[046] In some embodiments, the absorption layer is or comprises superabsorbent polymers, cellulose fibers, or non-woven fabrics, including any combination thereof. As used herein the 314328/ superabsorbent polymers refer to materials encompass the ability to absorb and retain extremely large amounts of liquid relative to their own mass.

[047] Non-limiting examples of superabsorbent polymers include but are not limited to sodium polyacrylate, polyacrylamide, polyethylene oxide, polyvinyl alcohol or modified starched, including any combination thereof.

[048] Non-limiting examples of non-woven fabrics include but are not limited to nylon, polyester, polyethylene, or polypropylene, including any combination thereof.

[049] In some embodiments, the body bag ( 100 ) weights between about 0.5 kg/m and 1.4 kg/m, between about 0.5 kg/m and 1.2 kg/m, between about 0.5 kg/m and 1.0 kg/m, between about 0.5 kg/m and 0.8 kg/m, between about 0.5 kg/m and 0.7 kg/m, or between about 0.55 kg/m and 0.65 kg/m, including any range or value in between. Each possibility represents a separate embodiment of the invention.

[050] In some embodiments, the body bag ( 100 ) is configured to hold a cadaver or portion thereof with a weight of at least 50 kg/m, at least 55 kg/m, at least 60 kg/m, at least 65 kg/m, or at least 70 kg/m, including any range or value in between. Each possibility represents a separate embodiment of the invention.

[051] In some embodiments, the body bag ( 100 ) is packed. Typically, body bags are folded in half or thirds depending on their size/dimensions to ensure their packaging. The folded body bag is then placed in a plastic bag configured to protect the body bag from dust and/or contaminations, and sealed to prevent dust and/or dirt from entering. In some embodiments, the body bags of the present invention are packed in a plastic bag. In some embodiments, the plastic bag is sealed under vacuum. In some embodiments, packing the body bag reduces at total body bag by at about at least 50%, about at least 555, about at least 60%, or about at least 65%, including any value or range in between. Each possibility represents a separate embodiment of the invention.

[052] Reference is now made to Figures 1A-1B illustrating (1A) a closed body bag and (1b) an open body bag according to some embodiments, of the present invention. Figure 1A present in a closed open body bag 100 consists of 6 handles 110 configured to enable easy transport of the cadaver or portion thereof. The proximal end 120 and distal end 130 are observed. Proximal end 120 has a half-circle shape, whereas distal end 130 is linear. Furthermore, the liquid impermeable zipper 140 is seen. Figure 1B presents an open body bag, in addition to the features demonstrated in Figure 1A the thermal heat reducing layer 150 is observed.

[053] 314328/

[054] Reference is now made to Figure 2 illustrates a packed body bag ( 200 ) according to some embodiments of the invention. Body bag 100 with a weight of 0.59 kg/m was placed in plastic back 210 , sealed, and the air was let out to obtain a packed body bag, 200 . One out of the six handles comprising body bag 100 is seen. In some embodiments, air is let out by vacuum.

[055] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a system for storing, handling, transporting, and any combination thereof, of a cadaver or portion thereof comprising: (a) body bag ( 100 ) comprising (i) at least one impermeable sheet configured to prevent liquid leakage through the sheet. (ii) at least one thermal barrier sheet, heat shield sheet, insulating sheet, and any combination thereof, and (iii) liquid impermeable zipper ( 140 ) configured to prevent liquid leakage through the zipper ( 140 ), the body bag linear distal end ( 130 ), and a proximal end ( 120 ), and (b) vacuum pumping device configured to remove air from the body bag( 100 ) upon accommodation of the cadaver or portion thereof within the body bag ( 100 ).

[056] In some embodiments, the body bag ( 100 ) further comprises a liquid absorption layer configured to absorb and retain liquid. In some embodiments, the liquid absorption layer is internal, thus facing the cadaver or any portion thereof.

[057] In some embodiments, the body bag of the present invention ( 100 ) is about at least 1.5-fold, about at least 1.75-fold, about at least 2-fold, about at least 2.25-fold, about at least 2.5-fold efficient at thermally isolating the cadaver or portion thereof, compared to traditional body bags. Each possibility represents a separate embodiment of the present invention.

[058] In some embodiments, the proximal end ( 120 ) has a half-circle shape, a half-ellipse shape, an amorphous shape, or a triangular shape, including any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the proximal end ( 120 ) has a half-circle shape.

[059] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a system for storing, handling, transporting, and any combination thereof, of a cadaver or portion thereof comprising: (a) a body bag ( 100 ) comprising (i) at least one impermeable sheet configured to prevent liquid leakage through the sheet. (ii) at least one thermal barrier sheet, heat shield sheet, insulating sheet, and any combination thereof, and (iii) liquid impermeable zipper ( 140 ) configured to prevent liquid leakage through the zipper ( 140 ), the body bag has a linear distal end ( 130 ), and a proximal end ( 120 ), and (b) a vacuum pumping device configured to remove air from the body bag ( 100 ) upon accommodation of the cadaver or portion thereof within the body bag ( 100 ). 314328/

[060] While the present invention has been particularly described, persons skilled in the art will appreciate that many variations and modifications can be made. Therefore, the invention is not to be construed as restricted to the particularly described embodiments, and the scope and concept of the invention will be more readily understood by reference to the claims which follow.

EXAMPLE

[061] Six different body bags ( 100 ) were prepared according to some embodiments of the invention. the thermal barrier sheet, heat shield sheet, or insulating sheet, including any combination thereof are referred to herein as " thermal isolating layer ". The body bag dimensions are 2cm X 100 cm (length X width).

[062] Body bag #1: has three layers, poly ethyl ether-acetate (PEVA) as the impermeable layer with a thickness of 0.3 mm as the internal layer, a thermal isolating layer made of aluminum film and foam with a thickness of 1.4 mm, as the middle layer, and a PEVA as the impermeable layer with a thickness of 0.3 mm as the external layer.

[063] Body bag #2: has three layers, poly ethyl ether-acetate (PEVA) as the impermeable layer with a thickness of 0.3 mm as the internal layer, a thermal isolating layer made of aluminum film with a thickness of 0.3 mm, as the middle layer, and a PEVA as the impermeable layer with a thickness of 0.1 mm as the external layer.

[064] Body bag #3: has three layers, poly ethyl ether-acetate (PEVA) as the impermeable layer with a thickness of 0.2 mm as the internal layer, a thermal isolating layer made of aluminum film and foam with a thickness of 1.0 mm, as the middle layer, and a PEVA as the impermeable layer with a thickness of 0.1 mm as the external layer.

[065] Body bag #4: has three layers, poly ethyl ether-acetate (PEVA) as the impermeable layer with a thickness of 0.2 mm as the internal layer, a thermal isolating layer made of aluminum film with a thickness of 0.2 mm as the middle layer, and a PEVA as the impermeable layer with a thickness of 0.1 mm as the external layer.

[066] Body bag #5: has two layers, poly ethyl ether-acetate (PEVA) as the impermeable layer with a thickness of 0.2 mm as the internal layer, a thermal isolating layer made of foam with a thickness of 1.0 mm, as the middle layer, and PVC 0.1 mm as the external layer.

[067] Body bag #6: has three layers, poly vinyl chloride (PVC) as the

[068] The versatility in the body bag is presented in table 1. 314328/ Table 1: summarizing the total weight of different manufactured body bags having dimensions of 220 cm X 100 cm (length X width) Body Bag Total weight (kg) Total weight normalized to the body bag dimension (kg/m) 1 3 1. 2 2.2 3 1.5 0. 4 1.3 0. 1.7 0. 6 1.6 0.

[069] The body bags 1 to 5 are black whereas body bag 6 is white. By changing the impermeable layer material, the color of the bag can be controlled.

EXAMPLE 2 – EXAMPLE OF AN INTERNAL STANDARD MEASUREMENT

[070] The ability of the body bag of the invention to efficiently isolate thermally a cadaver or portion thereof from the external environments and by that decrease the decomposition rate of the cadaver, or portion of thereof, was examined against a traditional body bag, by examining the ability of the body bag of the present invention to decrease the melting rate of the ice was compared to a traditional body bag comprising 0.2 mm of PVC.

[071] 1.8 kg of ice was placed in a traditional body bag (also referred to herein as T1) and in body bag 100 according to some embodiments of the invention, and placed under direct sun / exposed to the external environment. The ice weight was measured by removing the melted ice-water, and weighing the ice, every three hours. Results are summarized in table 2.

Table 2 presents the amount of ice weight over time External temperature Body bag T1 314328/ ICE 1 (kg) ICE 2 (kg) Average Ice weight (kg) ICE 2 (kg) ICE 2 (kg) Average Ice weight (kg) 26.8 1.803 1.801 1.802 1.8 1.801 1.80 26.9 1.563 1.614 1.5885 1.384 1.209 1.29 26.7 1.262 1.317 1.2895 0.995 0.857 0.9 26.4 1.014 1.072 1.043 0.669 0.555 0.6 26.3 0.773 0.836 0.8045 0.359 0.295 0.3

[072] Reference is now made to Figure 3, a graph summarizing the results presented in Table 2. It is seen that the body bag of the present invention decreases the melting rate of ice when the ice is present in the body bag of the invention compared to a traditional body bag. The tradelines of the samples were compared and the traditional body bag is characterized by a steeper negative slop indicating that the melting process is faster compared to the ice position in the body bag of the present invention.

[073] To examine if the decrease is significant a t-test was conducted and a p-value of 0.007 was obtained, demonstrating a significant difference between the body bag of the invention compared to T1.

[074] A person skilled in the art would appreciate that the melting rate observed in the above experiment corelates to the decay rate of a body s both involve time-dependent thermodynamic and physical transformations. The decay rate directly influences the speed of decomposition of a body by determining how quickly biological and chemical processes break down tissues over time. Faster melting or decay implies greater exposure to environmental influences such as heat, airflow, or microbial activity, which accelerate the breakdown of structure, whether in ice or organic matter. The slower melting rate in the body bag of the present invention compared to the traditional one suggests that the internal temperature of the body bag is lower. 314328/ ABSTRACT A body bag configured to effectively increase the thermal isolation of a cadaver or portion thereof accommodated within the body bag at least by 1.5-fold compared to traditional body bags. In addition, the body bag has a proximal and distal end having different shapes, which enables differentiating between the orientation of a cadaver or portion thereof.

Claims (26)

314328/ CLAIMS What we claimed is:

1. A body bag ( 100 ) for storing, handling, transporting, and any combination thereof, of a cadaver or portion thereof comprising: a. at least one impermeable sheet configured to prevent liquid leakage through said sheet; b. at least one thermal heat reducing layer ( 150 ) selected from the group consisting of thermal barrier sheet, heat shield sheet, insulating sheet, and any combination thereof; and c. liquid impermeable zipper ( 140 ) configured to prevent liquid leakage through said zipper ( 140 ); said body bag ( 100 ) has a linear distal end ( 130 ), and a proximal end ( 120 ); wherein said body bag ( 100 ) is about at least 1.5-fold efficient at thermally isolating said cadaver or portion thereof, compared to traditional body bags, measured by internal standards; said thermally isolating is an ability of a body bag to minimize or prevent heat transfer between an internal environment in said body bag and an external surroundings of said body bag; said body bag ( 100 ) is characterized by a difference in shape between said proximal end ( 120 ) and said distal end ( 130 ) configured to orientate said cadaver or portion thereof position; and said at least one thermal barrier sheet, heat shield sheet, or insulating sheet, comprises, fiberglass, ceramic fibers, aerogel, aluminum foil, mineral wool, or foam, including any combination thereof.

2. The body bag ( 100 ) of claim 1, wherein said proximal end ( 120 ) has a half-circle shape, a half-ellipse shape, an amorphous shape, and a triangular shape, including any combination thereof.

3. The body bag ( 100 ) of claim 1 or 2, wherein said body bag ( 100 ) further comprises a valve or a resealable material for removing air out of said body bag ( 100 ).

4. The body bag ( 100 ) of claim 3, wherein removal of air is by vacuum. 314328/

5. The body bag ( 100 ) of any one of claims 1-3, wherein said body bag ( 100 ) further comprises a liquid absorbing layer, located at internal side of said body bag ( 100 ).

6. The body bag ( 100 ) of any one of claims 1-5, wherein one side of said at least one thermal barrier sheet, heat shield sheet, insulating sheet, and any combination thereof, is in contact with at least one impermeable sheet.

7. The body bag ( 100 ) of any one of claims 1-6, wherein said at least one impermeable sheet covers said at least one thermal barrier sheet, heat shield sheet, insulating sheet, and any combination thereof.

8. The body bag ( 100 ) of any one of claims 1-7, wherein a width of said least one thermal barrier sheet, heat shield sheet, insulating sheet, and any combination thereof is between about 0.1 mm and 2 mm.

9. The body bag ( 100 ) of any one of claims 1-8, wherein a width of said at least one impermeable sheet is between about 0.1 mm and 1 mm.

10. The body bag ( 100 ) of any one of claims 1-9, wherein body bag 100 weighs between about 0.5 kg/m and 1.4 kg/m.

11. The body bag ( 100 ) of any one of claims 1-10, wherein said body bag ( 100 ) is configured to hold a cadaver or portion thereof with a weight of at least 70 kg/m.

12. The body bag ( 100 ) of any of claims 1-11, wherein a ratio of between about 1:10 and 10:1 by weight of said at least one liquid impermeable sheet and said at least one thermal barrier sheet, heat shield sheet, insulating sheet, or any combination thereof, within said body bag ( 100 ).

13. The body bag ( 100 ) of any one of claims 1-12, wherein said body bag ( 100 ) is compactly packed under vacuum which reduces its total volume by at about least 50%.

14. A system for storing, handling, transporting, and any combination thereof, of a cadaver or portion thereof comprising: a. body bag ( 100 ) comprising: i. at least one impermeable sheet configured to prevent liquid leakage through said sheet; ii. at least one thermal heat reducing layer ( 150 ) selected from the group consisting of thermal barrier sheet, heat shield sheet, insulating sheet, and any combination thereof; and 314328/ iii. liquid impermeable zipper ( 140 ) configured to prevent liquid leakage through said zipper ( 140 ); said body bag ( 100 ) has a linear distal end ( 130 ), and a proximal end ( 120 ); and b. vacuum pumping device configured to remove air from said body bag ( 100 ) upon accommodation of said cadaver or portion thereof within said body bag ( 100 ); wherein said body bag ( 100 ) is about at least 1.5-fold efficient at thermally isolating said cadaver or portion thereof, compared to traditional body bags, measured by internal standards; said thermally isolating is an ability of a body bag to minimize or prevent heat transfer between an internal environment in said body bag and an external surroundings of said body bag; said body bag ( 100 ) is characterized by a difference in shape between said proximal end ( 120 ) and said distal end ( 130 ) configured to orientate said cadaver or portion thereof position; and said at least one thermal barrier sheet, heat shield sheet, or insulating sheet, comprises, fiberglass, ceramic fibers, aerogel, aluminum foil, , mineral wool, or foam, including any combination thereof.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein said proximal end ( 120 ) has a half-circle shape, a half-ellipse shape, an amorphous shape, and a triangular shape, including any combination thereof.

16. The system of claim 14 or 15, wherein said body bag ( 100 ) further comprises a valve or a resealable material for removing air out of said body bag ( 100 ).

17. The system of any one of claims 14-16, wherein said body bag ( 100 ) further comprises a liquid absorbing layer, located at internal side of said body bag ( 100 ).

18. The system of any one of claims 11-17, wherein one side of said at least one thermal barrier sheet, heat shield sheet, insulating sheet, and any combination thereof, is in contact with at least one impermeable sheet.

19. The system of any one of claims 14-18, wherein said at least one impermeable sheet covers said at least one thermal barrier sheet, heat shield sheet, insulating sheet, and any combination thereof. 314328/

20. The system of any one of claims 14-19, wherein a width of said least one thermal barrier sheet, heat shield sheet, insulating sheet, and any combination thereof is between about 0.1 mm and 2 mm.

21. The system of any one of claims 14-20, wherein width of said at least one impermeable sheet is between about 0.1 mm and 1 mm.

22. The system of any one of claims 14-21, wherein body bag 100 weighs between about 0.kg/m and 1.4 kg/m.

23. The system of any one of claims 14-22, wherein said body bag ( 100 ) is configured to hold a cadaver or portion thereof with a weight of at least 70 kg/m.

24. The system of any one of claims 14-23, wherein a ratio of between about 1:10 and 10:by weight of said at least one liquid impermeable sheet and said at least one thermal barrier sheet, heat shield sheet, insulating sheet, or any combination thereof, within said body bag ( 100 ).

25. The system of any one of claims 14-24, wherein said body bag ( 100 ) is compactly packed under vacuum which reduces its total volume by at about least 50%.

26. The system of any one of claims 14-25, wherein said vacuuming said air from an accommodated body bag, reduces said cadavers or portion thereof, decomposition rate.