Abstract: A nebulizer device includes an air intake port positioned downstream of a nebulizer element, and a mouthpiece positioned upstream of the nebulizer element. A flow sensor is coupled to a controller. The controller is configured to integrate an inhaled air flow signal received from the flow sensor for determining an inhaled air volume. The controller is also configured to turn on the nebulizer element when the inhaled air volume reaches a first predetermined threshold, and turn off the nebulizer element when the inhaled air volume reaches a second predetermined threshold. A method for targeted delivery of aerosolized particles to the lungs is also disclosed.

Abstract: A system for monitoring inspirable gas for delivery to a patient includes a branched breathing circuit having a first branch conduit and a second branch conduit. The first branch conduit is fluidly connected to a first gas source and the second branch conduit is fluidly connected to a second gas source, and the first and second branch conduits merge into a patient delivery conduit. The system includes a first flow sensor in the first branch conduit, a second flow sensor in the second branch conduit, and a third flow sensor in the patient delivery conduit. A control unit is electrically coupled to the first, second and third flow sensors. The control unit is configured to determine a blend of gas in the patient delivery circuit based on a measured flow from the third flow sensor and a measured flow from at least one of the first and second flow sensors.

Abstract: A nebulizer device includes an air intake port positioned downstream of a nebulizer element, and a mouthpiece positioned upstream of the nebulizer element. A flow sensor is coupled to a controller. The controller is configured to integrate an inhaled air flow signal received from the flow sensor for determining an inhaled air volume. The controller is also configured to turn on the nebulizer element when the inhaled air volume reaches a first predetermined threshold, and turn off the nebulizer element when the inhaled air volume reaches a second predetermined threshold. A method for targeted delivery of aerosolized particles to the lungs is also disclosed.

Abstract: A system for monitoring an inspirable gas for delivery to a patient is disclosed that includes a branched breathing circuit having a first branch conduit and a second branch conduit. The first branch conduit is fluidly connected to a first gas source and the second branch conduit is fluidly connected to a second gas source, and the first and second branch conduits merge into a patient delivery conduit. The system includes a first flow sensor in the first branch conduit, a second flow sensor in the second branch conduit, and a third flow sensor in the patient delivery conduit. A control unit is electrically coupled to the first, second and third flow sensors. The control unit is configured to determine a blend of gas in the patient delivery circuit based on a measured flow from the third flow sensor and a measured flow from at least one of the first and second flow sensors. A method for monitoring an inspired gas concentration in a branched breathing circuit is also disclosed.