Abstract: Medical techniques include systems and methods for administering a positive pressure ventilation, a positive end expiratory pressure, and a vacuum to a person. Approaches also include treating a person with an intrathoracic pressure regulator so as to modulate or upregulate the autonomic system of the person, and treating a person with a combination of an intrathoracic pressure regulation treatment and an intra-aortic balloon pump treatment.

Abstract: A nebulizer has a body, a fluid reservoir, and a flutter valve. The body has a first end that has a mouthpiece, a second end, an aerosol delivery channel extending though the body from the first end to the second end, and a fluid reservoir receiving compartment in communication with the aerosol delivery channel. The fluid reservoir is positioned in the fluid reservoir receiving compartment. The fluid reservoir contains a volume of fluid and has a vibrating mesh disc for delivering the fluid to the aerosol delivery channel in an aerosol form upon the vibrating mesh disc being energized. The flutter valve is positioned in the aerosol delivery channel of the body near the second end of the body. The flutter valve is moveable between a closed position and an open position when the expiratory pressure greater than a predetermined expiratory pressure is exerted on the flutter valve.

Abstract: A flow generator for generating a mixed oxygen air flow, the flow generator including a body having a first inlet, a second inlet, an outlet, and one or more inner surfaces that define a first inner chamber in fluid communication with the first inlet and the second inlet, a second inner chamber in fluid communication with the first inner chamber, and a third inner chamber in fluid communication with the second chamber and the outlet of the body. The flow generator includes a connector disposed in the first inlet and a nozzle disposed within at least a portion of the connector and extending into the first inner chamber. The flow generator further includes an adapter engaged to the nozzle to form a fluid tight path such that the adapter connects to an external oxygen source and transports oxygen into the nozzle.

Abstract: A radial fan (1) is provided with a motor (2) and a fan housing, an outer part (4) and an inner part (5) that form a spiral-like pressure chamber (D). A pressure connector (33) which forms an outlet (44) of the radial fan (1) is arranged on the outer part. The fan housing is equipped with a fan wheel (3) which is arranged on a shaft (7) connected to the motor (2), wherein an annular flow divider (8) which surrounds the fan wheel (3) is arranged adjacently to the fan wheel (3) in a radial direction. The flow divider together with the fan housing forming a diffuser (9), which transitions directly into the pressure chamber (D), about the fan wheel (3).

Abstract: A blower unit for use as part of an integrated blower/humidification system is described. The blower unit has an outer casing, which encloses and forms part of the blower unit, the casing including an air inlet vent. The blower unit further includes a humidifier compartment for receiving a humidifier unit with a separate gases inlet and outlet, the compartment having a heater base for heating the contents of the humidifier unit. The compartment also has a blower inlet port which aligns with the humidifier unit inlet in use, the blower providing a gases path through the casing between the inlet vent and the inlet port. The blower unit also includes a fan for providing a pressurised gases stream along the gases path, and a power supply unit for powering the fan. The gases path is routed over the power supply unit in order to provide a cooling air flow.

Abstract: A passive valve for use as a fixed leak valve. The valve includes a body having an internal chamber, first and second body ports in fluid communication with the chamber with the first port configured for fluid communication with a patient connection and the second body port configured for fluid communication with a ventilator, a body passageway in fluid communication with the chamber and with ambient air exterior of the body, and a check valve seal positioned to seal the body passageway to permit the flow of gas within the chamber through the body passageway to the exterior of the body and to prevent the flow of ambient air exterior of the body through the body passageway into the chamber. In alternative embodiments, the valve is incorporated into the patient connection or constructed as a separate part connectable to the patient connection.

Abstract: A passive valve for use as a fixed leak valve. The valve includes a body having an internal chamber, first and second body ports in fluid communication with the chamber with the first port configured for fluid communication with a patient connection and the second body port configured for fluid communication with a ventilator, a body passageway in fluid communication with the chamber and with ambient air exterior of the body, and a check valve seal positioned to seal the body passageway to permit the flow of gas within the chamber through the body passageway to the exterior of the body and to prevent the flow of ambient air exterior of the body through the body passageway into the chamber. In alternative embodiments, the valve is incorporated into the patient connection or constructed as a separate part connectable to the patient connection.

Abstract: An inflation control system includes a valve module and a controller. The valve module includes a first valve fluidly connected to a fluid source, a second valve fluidly connected to the first valve, and a pressure regulator fluidly connected to the second valve and an aspirator. The controller is in communication with the first valve.

Abstract: A remotely controlled air supply assembly for simulating emergency situations includes a self-contained breathing apparatus, such as used by firemen and scuba divers. At least one governor is configured to fluidically couple to and position in-line with tubing of the self-contained breathing apparatus. The at least one governor is configured to modify airflow through the tubing. The at least one governor is configured to communicate wirelessly. A controller is wirelessly coupled to the at least one governor. The controller is positioned to communicate at least one command to the at least one governor to compel the at least one governor to modify the airflow through the tubing to simulate an emergency situation.

Abstract: A pressure indicator for a respiratory treatment device, the pressure indicator including an instrument for measuring pressures, a conduit configured to transmit a pressure within the respiratory treatment device to the instrument, and a pressure stabilizer orifice positioned within the conduit.

Abstract: A pump unit includes a micro pump and an assist mechanism. The micro pump includes: a housing having an inflow port and an outflow port; and a pump device built in the housing, the pump device transporting a fluid from the inflow port to the outflow port. The assist mechanism includes a jet nozzle for jetting a fluid. A jet port is opened at a tip portion of the jet nozzle. The assist mechanism is disposed in such a manner that a gap through which a fluid outside can flow is formed between the tip portion and the housing. The jet port is located in proximity to the inflow port. The jet port directly faces the inflow port.

Abstract: In various embodiments, flow rate of fluids, such as oxygen, nitrous oxide, and air, may be electronically and/or mechanically controlled. An electronically controlled auxiliary common gas output (ACGO) valve may direct the gas mixture, including one or more gases and/or anesthetics, either to a primary breathing machine or to an ACGO of an anesthesia delivery machine. The ACGO valve may include a piloted shuttle valve comprising a valve body and a piston configured to translate within the valve body. The piston may divert the gas mixture to a primary breathing system outlet when translated to a first position and to an ACGO when translated to a second position. An electronically controlled drive gas may toggle the position of the piston. In some embodiments, the piloted shuttle valve may be spring loaded and default to directing the gas mixture to the primary breathing system.

Abstract: An air supply system for passengers includes an air supply line with a plurality of laterally situated air outlets, an individual air panel with at least one air nozzle and an air inlet opening. The individual air panel can be variably positioned along the air supply line in such a way that the air inlet opening faces one of the air outlets. A plurality of magnetic valves is arranged at the air outlets of the air supply line. One of the magnetic valves may be magnetically actuated by the individual air panel, when the air inlet opening of the individual air panel faces said one magnetic valve, so that air can flow out of the air supply line through the air outlet and the air inlet opening to the air nozzle.

Abstract: Apparatus includes a spindle having an outer surface configured with a surface finish that has openings/grooves, the outer surface also having an outer diameter; and also includes a switch target arrangement having a switch target in combination a target ring configured to be installed in the switch target so as to form the at least one switch target arrangement, and is also configured with an aperture having an inner diameter that is smaller than the outer diameter of the surface finish of the spindle, so that when the at least one switch target arrangement is installed over the spindle, interference causes at least a portion of the target ring to deflect into a groove/space of the surface finish of the spindle so as to energize the target ring to grip the surface finish of the spindle to secure the switch target when the spindle moves.

Abstract: Various methods for controlling a wastegate with an actuator having a temperature-dependent magnetic field are provided. In one example, the magnetic field is estimated based on operating conditions and other parameters, and used to apply a magnetic correction to a voltage supplied to the actuator. The methods may provide accurate wastegate control in the presence of varying magnetic fields, ensuring the proper supply of boost to an engine.

Abstract: Pulmonary ventilator methods and systems are provided winch include a housing having a user interface control panel; a pneumatic circuit for delivering a high frequency pressure wave from the housing to a patient lung; a variable volume disposed within the housing including a stationary plate secured to the housing and a reciprocating plate pivotably mounted with respect to the stationary plate; and a magnet assembly disposed within the housing and configured to pivot the reciprocating plate. The variable volume may also include a resiliently contractible section extending between and joining a portion of the stationary plate and a portion of the reciprocating plate, wherein the resiliently contractible section may be in the form of a bellows and/or a pleated material.

Abstract: An oscillating positive expiratory pressure apparatus having a housing defining a chamber, a chamber inlet, a chamber outlet, a deformable restrictor member positioned in an exhalation flow path between the chamber inlet and the chamber outlet, and an oscillation member disposed within the chamber. The deformable restrictor member and the oscillation member are moveable between an engaged position, where the oscillation member is in contact with the deformable restrictor member and an disengaged position, where the oscillation member is not in contact with the deformable restrictor member. The deformable restrictor member and the oscillation member move from the engaged position to the disengaged position in response to a first exhalation pressure at the chamber inlet, and move from the disengaged position to an engaged position in response to a second exhalation pressure at the chamber inlet.

Abstract: A circulation system for use in a rebreathe system includes a base and a fan assembly coupled to the base. The base includes a motor and a rotatable drive shaft coupled to the motor. The fan assembly includes a housing with an inlet and outlet. The fan assembly further includes a fan coupled to the drive shaft to rotate therewith and is fluidly isolated from the drive shaft.

Abstract: A blower includes a housing including an inlet and an outlet, a stationary component provided to the housing, an impeller positioned between the inlet of the housing and the stationary component, and a motor adapted to drive the impeller. The housing and the stationary component cooperate to define a volute that directs air towards the outlet. The housing includes a separating wall constructed and arranged to divide the volute into a high speed airpath region and a low speed airpath region.

Abstract: A respiratory treatment device having an inlet configured to receive exhaled air into the device and an outlet configured to permit exhaled air to exit the device. A blocking member is moveable between a closed position where the flow of air through the device is restricted, and an open position where the flow of air through the device is less restricted. A biasing member is configured to bias the blocking member toward the closed position, wherein a level of bias decreases as the blocking member moves from the closed position to the open position.

Abstract: Described herein is a modular ventilator. The ventilator has modular flow control devices, which are connected to fluid inlet adapters. The modular flow control devices have sensors for controlling fluid flow through the modular flow control devices. The fluid inlet adapters are removable, and can include magnetic indicators, and the ventilator can identify the fluid from the magnetic indicator. The ventilator can also contain or be connected to a device having a low-noise blower.

Abstract: Described herein is a flow control valve for a ventilator that controls gas flow through a patient line in response to a target pressure within the line. The valve controls gas flow by (i) providing both a high frequency signal and a low frequency signal through a coil positioned in a fixed magnetic field, (ii) determining a position of the coil by detecting the high frequency signal, and (iii) controlling a position of the coil by adjusting the low frequency signal based on the determined position and/or velocity of the coil.

Abstract: Described herein is an exhalation valve for a ventilator that controls gas flow through a patient exhalation line in response to a target pressure within the line. The valve controls gas flow by (i) providing both a high frequency signal and a low frequency signal through a coil positioned in a fixed magnetic field, (ii) determining a position of the coil by detecting the high frequency signal, and (iii) controlling a position of the coil by adjusting the low frequency signal.

Abstract: A breathing assistance apparatus includes an inner volumetric member pressurizable from a first pressure to a second pressure and an outer volumetric member surrounding at least a portion of the inner expandable volumetric member. The inner volumetric member pressurizes the outer volumetric member as the inner volumetric member is pressurized from the first pressure to the second pressure. In another embodiment, a breathing assistance apparatus includes exhalation and inhalation chambers with respective biasing members providing for the exhalation chamber to apply a pressure to the inhalation chamber and thereby provide assisted inhalation. Methods for assisting breathing are also provided.

Abstract: A control system (706) provides automated control of gas washout of a patient interface, such as a mask or nasal prongs. A gas washout vent assembly (60) of the system may include a variable exhaust area such as one defined by overlapping apertures of the assembly or a conduit having a variable gas passage channel. The vent assembly may be formed by nested structures, such as conic or cylindrical members, each having an opening of the overlapping apertures. The vent assembly may be attached substantially near or included with the patient interface. An actuator of the assembly, such as a solenoid or voice coil, manipulates an aperture of the vent assembly. The actuator may be configured for control by a controller to change the exhaust area of the vent assembly based on various methodologies including, for example, sleep detection, disordered breathing event detection, rebreathing volume calculation and/or leak detection.

Abstract: A device for treating a patient suffering from obstructive sleep apnea or snoring can include an expiratory valve connected to a manifold. The expiratory valve can include a body portion including a feedback port configured to be connected to an air flow generator. The expiratory valve can include a plunger at least partially disposed in the body portion. The expiratory valve can include a pressurizing chamber positioned between an end of the plunger and an end of the expiratory valve. The pressurizing chamber can be configured to receive air from the air flow generator through the feedback port.

Abstract: A device for treating a patient suffering from obstructive sleep apnea or snoring can include an expiratory valve connected to a manifold. The expiratory valve can include a body portion including a feedback port configured to be connected to an air flow generator. The expiratory valve can include a plunger at least partially disposed in the body portion. The expiratory valve can include a pressurizing chamber positioned between an end of the plunger and an end of the expiratory valve. The pressurizing chamber can be configured to receive air from the air flow generator through the feedback port.

Abstract: A cockpit oxygen mask includes a mask body, an oxygen inhalation valve, a mixed air inhalation valve, an exhalation valve as well as a control device. At least the oxygen inhalation valve is signal-connected to the control device. The oxygen inhalation valve is designed as an electromagnetically actuatable valve, and includes at least one throughflow path which may be closed by a magnetically movable valve body, wherein the throughflow path is limited by a magnetizable wall, and wherein the wall includes at least one discontinuous location which deforms a magnetic field produced in the wall.

Abstract: An oscillating positive expiratory pressure apparatus having a housing defining a chamber, a chamber inlet, a chamber outlet, a deformable restrictor member positioned in an exhalation flow path between the chamber inlet and the chamber outlet, and an oscillation member disposed within the chamber. The deformable restrictor member and the oscillation member are moveable between an engaged position, where the oscillation member is in contact with the deformable restrictor member and an disengaged position, where the oscillation member is not in contact with the deformable restrictor member. The deformable restrictor member and the oscillation member move from the engaged position to the disengaged position in response to a first exhalation pressure at the chamber inlet, and move from the disengaged position to an engaged position in response to a second exhalation pressure at the chamber inlet.

Abstract: A backspill prevention apparatus prevents water from a humidifier portion of a positive airway pressure (PAP) device from reaching a blower motor of a PAP device. The backspill prevention apparatus can include a variety of different devices, and is placed somewhere along an air passageway between a blower motor and a humidifier portion of a PAP device.

Abstract: A backspill prevention apparatus prevents water from a humidifier portion of a positive airway pressure (PAP) device from reaching a blower motor of a PAP device. The backspill prevention apparatus can include a variety of different devices, and is placed somewhere along an air passageway between a blower motor and a humidifier portion of a PAP device.

Abstract: A positive oscillatory expiratory air pressure respiratory therapy device which is adapted to receive a nebulizer for administering aerosolized medicant for selective administration during oscillatory positive expiratory pressure (PEP) therapy.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for operating an powered, air-purifying respirator. The apparatus includes an air mask, an air pump, a hose connecting the mask to the air pump, a magnetic actuator disposed on a portion of the hose that engages a housing of the air pump and a controller that provides a predetermined air flow from the pump to the mask based upon a magnetic flux from the actuator.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a negative-pressure oral apparatus capable of relieving discomfort of soft tissues in the oral cavity and improving fixation of the oral apparatus to prevent the oral apparatus from falling off due to mouth opening. The oral apparatus is compact and elastic so that it fits various shapes and sizes of the oral cavity and is easy to be put on and taken off to provide convenience and safety to the user. In another embodiment, a method for maintaining a negative oral pressure and collecting liquid by coupling the oral apparatus to a liquid collecting apparatus capable of effectively providing the oral cavity with a negative pressure to expel liquid in the oral apparatus and deliver the liquid to an absorbing element in the liquid collecting apparatus so as to prevent liquid leakage or contamination.

Abstract: A pressure/flow control valve that includes a first valve member and a second valve member moveable relative to one another and cooperating with one another so as to define a valve opening having a size that varies with a relative position between these members. The first magnet is operatively coupled to the first valve member and a second magnet is operatively coupled to the second valve member and magnetically coupled to the first magnet. The first and second magnets are disposed such that a repulsive force between them increases asymptotically as the magnets move together, thereby providing a dampening force between the first and second valve members that allows these valve members to be moved rapidly from one position to the next in a highly controlled fashion.

Abstract: A backspill prevention apparatus prevents water from a humidifier portion of a positive airway pressure (PAP) device from reaching a blower motor of a PAP device. The backspill prevention apparatus can include a variety of different devices, and is placed somewhere along an air passageway between a blower motor and a humidifier portion of a PAP device.

Abstract: An apparatus to deliver air to a patient through a mask, including an air blower (33) where the impeller (5) is rotated by an electromotor including a rotor (3) and a stator (8), the stator having at least three sectors (8a, 8b and 8c), the rotation of the rotor being enabled by changes of the polarity of the sectors, each sector's polarity configuration constituting one step of the rotor's rotation, the apparatus including a driving unit (36) changing the sectors' polarity when the rotor is at its optimal position, so that the efficiency of the electromotor enables the blower to have fast accelerations and decelerations within one patient's breath step, the breath step consisting of one inspiration and one expiration.

Abstract: An electronic oxygen conserving device for controlling a flow of oxygen from an oxygen storage container to a user. When a conserve setting is selected, a flow of oxygen travels through an oxygen regulating valve that has an open state and a closed state. A temporary electrical charge or current is provided to the oxygen regulating valve during the initial inhalation of oxygen by an individual, opening the regulating valve opens to delivery oxygen to the user. The oxygen regulating valve remains open even after termination of the electric current. After a predetermined timed delivery dose or upon exhalation by the individual, a subsequent temporary electric charge or current is provided to oxygen regulating valve, closing the regulating valve closes to prevent delivery of oxygen to the user, thus conserving oxygen. The oxygen regulating valve remains closed even after termination of the subsequent electric current.

Abstract: A high frequency pressure oscillation device that selective restricts the flow of breathing gas to or from a patient to produce pressure spikes in the patient's airway that facilitate clearing secretions from the patient's airway. The device includes a patient circuit that defines a closed path between a source of breathing gas and the patient's airway. A valve is disposed in the patient circuit such that in an open position the path between the source of breathing gas and the airway of the patient is substantially unobstructed. When the valve is in a closed position, the path between the source of breathing gas and the patient's airway is at least partially obstructed to create the pressure spikes. An actuating system associated with the valve alternatively places the valve in the open position and in the closed position at a predetermined oscillation rate that is independent of patient effort.

Abstract: A pressure support system having enhanced noise reduction and a valve assembly for use in pressure support system. The pressure support system includes a pressure generator having an inlet and an outlet. A first conduit defining a tortuous path is coupled between a gas source and the inlet of the pressure generator. A second conduit coupled to the outlet of the pressure generator delivers the flow of gas from the pressure generator to a patient. A valve assembly communicates gas from the second conduit to the first conduit to control the pressure or a rate of the flow of gas in the second conduit. By communicating gas from the second conduit to the first conduit, the noise associated with exhausting gas from the second conduit is muffled by the tortuous path of the first conduit.

Abstract: A multi-use, hand held, single patient oscillatory positive expiratory pressure respiratory therapy device which is easily assembled and disassembled for cleaning, and which is not position dependent during therapy, but operable through a wide range of device orientation.

Abstract: A pressure/flow control valve that includes a first valve member and a second valve member moveable relative to one another and cooperating with one another so as to define a valve opening having a size that varies with a relative position between these members. The first magnet is operatively coupled to the first valve member and a second magnet is operatively coupled to the second valve member and magnetically coupled to the first magnet. The first and second magnets are disposed such that a repulsive force between them increases asymptotically as the magnets move together, thereby providing a dampening force between the first and second valve members that allows these valve members to be moved rapidly from one position to the next in a highly controlled fashion.

Abstract: An oscillatory positive expiratory pressure respiratory therapy device which may be incorporated into the expiratory limb of a ventilator circuit. Accordingly, this device allows a patient on a ventilator to be subjected to positive expiratory pressure (PEP) therapy combined with airway oscillation and intermittent air flow acceleration while allowing the oscillatory PEP respiratory therapy treatment to be bypassed without interrupting the integrity of the ventilating circuit once the device has been installed in the ventilator circuit. In this manner, all expiratory air in the ventilator circuit is accounted for, the expiratory air volume may be accurately monitored and the ventilator circuit does not have to be broken for insertion or removal of the device.

Abstract: A respiration system is provided with an electrically driven rotary compressor as a gas delivery unit. The system makes a low-noise mounting of the gas delivery wheel possible. The gas delivery wheel can also be washed and sterilized and ensures a reliable separation of the breathing gas from the electric components. The respiration system rotary compressor is mounted magnetically axially and radially during operation.

Abstract: A patient ventilator system has a high-frequency oscillation ventilator connectable to a patient circuit and operable to induce oscillations within gas in the circuit at a predetermined high-frequency and a gas supply connectable to the patient circuit for supplying breathing gas thereto. A detection device is also included within the ventilator system and is adapted to monitor during the operation of the high-frequency oscillator ventilator, gas pressure and/or gas flow to detect a variation therein not derived from the induced high-frequency oscillations and to output a trigger signal dependent on the detected variation indicating a spontaneous breathing effort. The gas supply is operable on receipt of the trigger signal to supply breathing gas into the circuit at a level to assist the spontaneous breathing effort.

Abstract: A gas forwarding apparatus for respiration and narcosis devices including a radial compressor and a drive apparatus which produces a magnetic rotary field, with the radial compressor including a housing within which a compressor wheel and a rotor which is connected thereto are arranged, with the drive apparatus being arranged outside the housing and with the drive apparatus and the rotor being designed to be mutually matched and arranged in such a manner that the rotor can be driven by the drive apparatus.

Abstract: A pressure support system having enhanced noise reduction and a valve assembly for use in pressure support system. The pressure support system includes a pressure generator having an inlet and an outlet. A first conduit defining a tortuous path is coupled between a gas source and the inlet of the pressure generator. A second conduit coupled to the outlet of the pressure generator delivers the flow of gas from the pressure generator to a patient. A valve assembly communicates gas from the second conduit to the first conduit to control the pressure or a rate of the flow of gas in the second conduit. By communicating gas from the second conduit to the first conduit, the noise associated with exhausting gas from the second conduit is muffled by the tortuous path of the first conduit.

Abstract: An enhanced PEP therapy device which provides a variable frequency and variable magnitude positive expiratory pressure by utilizing a nonlinear orifice for adjusting and maintaining a desired positive expiratory pressure oscillation in accordance with a predetermined pressure range of a patient's expiratory air.

Abstract: A high frequency pressure oscillation device that selective restricts the flow of breathing gas to or from a patient to produce pressure spikes in the patient's airway that facilitate clearing secretions from the patient's airway. The device includes a patient circuit that defines a closed path between a source of breathing gas and the patient's airway. A valve is disposed in the patient circuit such that in an open position the path between the source of breathing gas and the airway of the patient is substantially unobstructed. When the valve is in a closed position, the path between the source of breathing gas and the patient's airway is at least partially obstructed to create the pressure spikes. An actuating system associated with the valve alternatively places the valve in the open position and in the closed position at a predetermined oscillation rate that is independent of patient effort.

Abstract: A tracheal stoma valve with a valve housing (2) has a pivotable valve flap (3), which is pivotable upon inhalation with an air stream of predeterminable strength into a position sealing off the open lumen (4) of the valve housing (2), and upon exhalation with an air stream of predeterminable strength is pivotable into a position at least partially clearing the open lumen (4) again. Moreover, a bypass valve (5) is provided, through which breathing air can be inhaled when the valve flap (3) is located in the closed position. The two mentioned switching points of the valve flap (3), between the sealing position and the position at least partially clearing the open lumen (4) of the valve housing (2), are pre-adjustable.