Respiratory Method Or Device Patents (Class 128/200.24)
Artificial gill, or means for separating entrained air from liquid stream (Class 128/200.25)
Means placed in body opening to facilitate insertion of breathing tube (Class 128/200.26)
Gas stream directed away from face mask to penetrate contaminated atmosphere (Class 128/200.27)
Body or head supported means, other than face mask or hood, with gas stream to screen face or penetrate contaminated atmosphere (Class 128/200.28)
Underwater exhalation dispersing means (Class 128/200.29)
Draw-type snorkel (Class 128/201.11)
Corrective or magnifying lens combined with face mask having eyepiece or transparent viewing portion (Class 128/201.12)
Inhaled gas heated or humidified by exhaled gas (Class 128/201.13)
Viewing strip slidable relative to mask (Class 128/201.14)
Means for keeping viewing member (e.g., eyeglass, transparent face shield, etc.) clear (Class 128/201.15)
Means for preventing nasal inhalation (Class 128/201.18)
Means for transmitting, or facilitating, voice communication from face mask, hood, or helmet (Class 128/201.19)
Using liquified oxygen (Class 128/201.21)
Including body or head supported means covering user's scalp (Class 128/201.22)
Hypobaric body chamber (Class 128/202.12)
Combined with or convertible to a nonrespiratory device, or having nonrespiratory function other than hyperbaric treatment (Class 128/202.13)
Smoking device simulator (Class 128/202.21)
Means for indicating improper condition of apparatus (Class 128/202.22)
Means for preventing electric shock or arcing (Class 128/202.23)
Means for protecting user from pressure wave or flame resulting from gas ignition (Class 128/202.24)
Ozone or ion generation (Class 128/202.25)
Gas produced by electrolysis or chemical reaction (Class 128/202.26)
Means for quickly connecting or disconnecting apparatus components (Class 128/202.27)
Means using rescuer's breath for supplying respiratory gas to another person (Class 128/202.28)
Means for mixing treating agent with respiratory gas (Class 128/203.12)
Means for cooling respiratory gas or respiration device (Class 128/204.15)
Means for heating respiratory gas or respiration device (Class 128/204.17)
Means for supplying respiratory gas under positive pressure (Class 128/204.18)
Means for removing substance from respiratory gas (Class 128/205.27)
Face mask covering a breathing passage (Class 128/206.21)
Respiratory gas supply means enters mouth or tracheotomy incision (Class 128/207.14)
Respiratory gas supply means enters nasal passage (Class 128/207.18)
  • Nasal devices with respiratory gas source
    Patent number: 8365736
    Abstract: Described here are devices for altering the flow of air in a respiratory cavity such as the mouth and nostrils of the nose. These methods and devices may be useful for affecting a physiologic benefit in patients suffering from a variety of medical diseases, particularly those that may benefit from “pursed-lip” breathing and non-invasive ventilation, such as COPD, heart failure, sleep apnea, and other medical disorders. The devices are typically removable devices that may be placed over or in a respiratory cavity to increase resistance to airflow within the respiratory cavity. Resistance to expiration may be selectively increased relative to inspiration. Removable oral and removable nasal devices are described. Oral and nasal devices that filter inhaled airflow of debris and allergens are also provided. A nasal device that increases patency of the nares is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Ventus Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Rajiv Doshi, Motohide Hatanaka, Robert A. Howard
  • Respiratory therapy system with electromechanical driver
    Patent number: 8365727
    Abstract: A respiratory therapy system includes a driver unit and a patient interface device. The driver unit is adapted to deliver pressurized gas flow from a source to the patient interface device. At least one electronic valve can be used to deliver a desired flow to the patient interface device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: CareFusion 2200, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas J Dunsmore, Geoffrey C. Wise
  • Method and system for classification of photo-plethysmographically detected respiratory effort
    Patent number: 8365730
    Abstract: Embodiments disclosed herein may include systems and methods for determining a patient's respiratory effort and blood oxygen saturation based on data acquired from a pulse oximetry sensor and analyzing the parameters in conjunction with each other. For example, the respiratory effort may be determined based on a photo-plethysmographic waveform generated from light attenuation detected by the sensor, and the blood oxygen saturation may be a pulse -based estimate of arterial blood oxygen saturation determined from the detected attenuation. Analysis of the parameters may enable detection and classification of apnea (e.g., obstructive or central) or another underlying cause for respiratory instability. Furthermore, the measured respiratory effort may be compared to respiratory effort supplied by a ventilator to ensure proper sensor placement before enabling automatic adjustment of ventilator settings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Clark R. Baker, Jr., Michael O'Neil, Shannon Campbell, Gilbert Hausmann
  • Vacuum-pressure swing absorption concentrator
    Patent number: 8361204
    Abstract: A vacuum-pressure swing absorption concentrator includes a motor driven compressor having pressure and vacuum heads that are connected to a pressure reservoir and a vacuum reservoir respectively. The pressure and vacuum reservoirs are selectively and alternately interconnected in sequence through a main valve to a pair of nitrogen filtering sieve beds. A controller operates the valve to alternately and cyclically interconnect the sieve beds to the pressure and vacuum reservoirs respectively. During each cycle, a respective bed is pressurized and enriched oxygen is produced and delivered to a tank for use by a patient. At the same time, the other bed is evacuated through the vacuum reservoir. A crossover valve delivers oxygen from a pressurized bed to an evacuated bed to facilitate purging of impurities previously collected in the evacuated bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: O2 Concepts, LLC
    Inventor: Stuart Bassine
  • ANESTHESIA MACHINE AND SYSTEM
    Publication number: 20130019867
    Abstract: An anesthesia machine is disclosed herein in accordance with an embodiment. The anesthesia machine may include a gas mixer, and an anesthesia machine connector pneumatically coupled with the gas mixer. The anesthesia machine connector may be adapted to selectively receive a pneumatic circuit. The anesthesia machine may be operable in a first mode when the pneumatic circuit is decoupled from the anesthesia machine connector. The first mode may comprise the transfer of a gas from the gas mixer to a first destination. The anesthesia machine may be automatically converted to a second mode when the pneumatic circuit is coupled with the anesthesia machine connector. The second mode may comprise the transfer of the gas from the gas mixer to a second destination.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2011
    Publication date: January 24, 2013
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventor: James Nyal Mashak
  • Chin pivot patient interface device
    Patent number: 8356592
    Abstract: A patient interface device that includes a body portion comprising a pair of arms and a chin support. A first end portion of each arm in the pair of arms is coupled to an opposite end of the chin support. The chin support is adapted to be disposed under the mandible responsive to the patient interface device being donned by a user. At least one headgear attachment element is provided on each arm in the pair of arms. A circuit portion is provided at a second end portion of each arm in the pair of arm. A patient interface portion is coupled to the circuit portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Assignee: Ric Investments, LLC
    Inventors: Jerome Matula, Jr., Derrick Blake Andrews, Eugene Nelson Scarberry, Charles Thomas, Erik Kurt Witt, Peter Chi Fai Ho
  • Device for supplying a respirator with breathing gas
    Patent number: 8356596
    Abstract: A device for supplying a respirator with breathing gas is designed in a modular design. To accomplish the object, a cover plate (9), a distributor plate (20) and a half shell body (11) are provided in a sandwich-like design, wherein said distributor plate (20) has walls (3, 5) projecting on both sides, which are connected to the cover plate (9) and to the half shell body (11) and define gas ducts (7) as well as a buffer volume (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Assignee: Dräger Medical GmbH
    Inventors: Andreas Brandt, Thorsten Haase, Ralf Heesch
  • Apparatus for deploying oxygen masks
    Patent number: 8356595
    Abstract: An apparatus for deploying oxygen masks that includes a pre-packaged modular system that does not require manual repacking of oxygen masks by aircraft technicians. The cartridge is for use with a manifold having a passageway in fluid communication with a source of breathable gas. The cartridge includes an end wall, a sidewall extending from the end wall and terminating at a distal end adjacent to an opening. A flexible member defines a chamber inside the cartridge. The chamber is in fluid communication with the passageway when the cartridge is coupled to the manifold. The flexible member has an outlet. A mask assembly is disposed inside the cartridge. The mask assembly has a hose coupled to the outlet of the flexible member. A cover is removably attached to the distal end of the at least one side wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Assignee: AVOX Systems Inc.
    Inventors: Robert L. Schaeffer, Jr., Duard Charles Bennett
  • Patient care unit with a reclining surface
    Patent number: 8353288
    Abstract: A patient care unit (1) with a reclining surface has one or more docking devices designed as inductive coupling sites (7) for medical technical devices (10, 11, 12), which consume electrical energy and can be connected to the patient care unit. The inductive coupling sites (7) also supply the patient care unit (1) with electrical energy by means of an external line connection, which is likewise coupled inductively with the patient care unit (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: Dräger Medical GmbH
    Inventors: Olaf Schermeier, Hans-Ulrich Hansmann, Henning Gerder
  • Systems and methods for compensating for pressure drop in a breathing assistance system
    Patent number: 8353291
    Abstract: A breathing assistance system configured to determine pressure drop may include a gas delivery system configured to deliver gas toward a patient, one or more sensors configured to measure one or more parameters of gas delivered by the gas delivery system, a calibration module, and a pressure drop calculation module. The calibration module may be configured to perform one or more pressure drop calibration tests, each pressure drop calibration test measuring a pressure drop in gas flowing through a breathing assistance system apparatus at a particular flow rate; and based at least on the results of the one or more pressure drop calibration tests, generating a non-linear equation relating (a) pressure drop in gas flowing through the breathing assistance system apparatus with (b) flow rate of gas flowing through the breathing assistance system apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Pascal Nicolazzi, Julien Gentner, Laurent Mougel, Veronique Grillier-Lanoir, Hossein Nadjafizadeh
  • Disposable drug solution cup for an ultrasonic nebulizer
    Patent number: 8353287
    Abstract: A nebulizer includes a piezoelectric transducer for aerosolizing a drug solution in a disposable cup module disposed above the transducer. Acoustic waves generated by the transducer propagate sequentially through transmitting medium, a first barrier, coupling medium, and a second barrier that forms part of the cup module, and into the interior of the cup module. The transducer at least partially comprises silver. The silver fluidly contacts the transmitting medium to discourage bacteria growth in the transmitting medium. The device includes electronics components that drive the transducer and measure an electrical characteristic associated with the transducer during operation. The electronics components measure changes in the electrical characteristic to determine when the drug solution level falls below a predetermined threshold, and deactivates the device accordingly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: RIC Investments, LLC
    Inventors: Dirk Von Hollen, Eric A. Lieberman
  • Using motor speed in a PAP device to estimate flow
    Patent number: 8353289
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for determining airflow through a PAP device while applying PAP therapy. The actual speed of a blower 6 is measured. The desired motor current IDES required for the actual speed to approach or maintain a desired speed is used, together with the actual speed RPM ACT, in a flow estimation algorithm to determine flow through the PAP device. The estimation algorithm consists of a two-dimensional look-up table, where the inputs are the desired motor current and actual motor speed, and the output is the flow through the PAP device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: ResMed Limited
    Inventors: Steven Paul Farrugia, Kristian Thomsen, Matthew Alder, Tracey Bullivant
  • Apparatus and method for delivery of an aerosol
    Patent number: 8353845
    Abstract: An apparatus for measuring lung ventilation, comprising: a pressure device to measure volume of air flow; an aerosol-generating device that provides aerosol particles to be released at a determined point in a breathing cycle; a mouthpiece with a detector that measures the concentration of aerosol particles for a given volume during the breathing cycle; and a computing device configured to provide lung ventilation data as a function of time constants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: Respiratory Management Technology
    Inventors: Michael McCawley, Gary Gasner, Ian Christie, Tal Gottesman, James Dalton
  • Compact continuous positive airway pressure apparatus and method
    Patent number: 8353290
    Abstract: A compact continuous positive airway pressure apparatus and method provide a flatter profile and more compact thickness, including a larger lateral dimension in order to be accommodated in conventional luggage designed to stow laptop computers having a smaller aspect ratio of thickness to length or thickness to width. Air tubing may be coiled within a case or coiled as about a spool-like configuration in the base unit of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Inventor: Phillip M. Adams
  • Pneumostoma management system with secretion management features for treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
    Patent number: 8347880
    Abstract: A flexible pneumostoma management device maintains the patency of a pneumostoma while controlling the flow of material through the pneumostoma. The pneumostoma management device includes a pneumostoma vent having a tube which enters the pneumostoma to allow gases to escape the lung, a flange and a filter/valve to control flow of materials through the tube. The flange is a thin flexible patch which conforms and attaches to the chest of the patient. The flange secures the tube in position in the pneumostoma. The device has features to control secretions from the pneumostoma. The secretion management features include, ridges, pores, absorbent materials, and combinations thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Potaero, Inc.
    Inventors: Don Tanaka, Joshua P. Wiesman, David C. Plough, Jeffrey C. Cerier, Richard A. Abraham, Gary L. Boseck
  • Pneumostoma management device with integrated patency sensor and method
    Patent number: 8347881
    Abstract: A flexible pneumostoma management device maintains the patency of a pneumostoma while controlling the flow of material through the pneumostoma. The pneumostoma management device includes a pneumostoma vent having a tube which enters the pneumostoma to allow gases to escape the lung, a flange and a filter/valve to control flow of materials through the tube. The flange is a thin flexible patch comprises of multiple thin layers of materials and which conforms and attaches to the chest of the patient. The flange includes a filter, a protective outer layer and an inner hydrocolloid layer. The flange secures the tube in position in the pneumostoma. An indicator responsive to gases exiting the pneumostoma is integrated into the device and provides and external indicia of the patency and efficacy of the pneumostoma.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Portaero, Inc.
    Inventors: Don Tanaka, Joshua P. Wiesman, David C. Plough
  • Inhaler for powdery substances, in particular medicinal substances
    Patent number: 8342175
    Abstract: An inhaler for powdery, in particular medicinal, substances includes a suction air channel, which leads to a mouthpiece. The inhaler also has a storage chamber for storing the substance and a linearly moving dosing chamber for apportioning and distributing a specified amount of substance from the storage chamber to a transfer point to the suction air flow. The novel inhaler represents a structurally simple solution that makes it possible to eliminate adding an external air flow. To this end, a component of the suction air flow, which is located in the direction of extension of the dosing chamber, empties said dosing chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Sanofi SA
    Inventor: Alfred von Schuckmann
  • Spill resistant humidifier for use in a breathing assistance system
    Patent number: 8342177
    Abstract: An apparatus for providing humidification in a breathing assistance system may include a first container at least partially defining a first volume for housing an absorbent material, a second container at least partially defining a second volume for holding a liquid, and one or more fluid passageways for communicating the liquid from the second volume to the absorbent material in the first volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: Charles E. Porges
  • Inhaler for powdery substances, in particular medicinal substances
    Patent number: 8342174
    Abstract: An inhaler for powdery, in particular medical, substances is formed with a suction air channel, which leads to a mouthpiece. The inhaler also has a storage chamber for storing the substance and a linearly moving dosing chamber for apportioning a specified amount of substance from the storage chamber to a transfer point to the suction air flow. The aim of the invention is to obtain a structurally simple solution that makes it possible to eliminate adding an external air flow. To this end, a component of the suction air flow, which is located in the direction of extension of the dosing chamber, empties said dosing chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Sanofi SA
    Inventor: Alfred von Schuckmann
  • Nasal dilator with cushion layer and variable spring rate
    Patent number: 8342173
    Abstract: A nasal dilator capable of introducing separating stresses in nasal outer wall tissues has a resilient member and a pair of spaced-apart end surfaces which can be forced toward one another from an initial flat position of the dilator to thereby substantially reduce the direct spacing therebetween by an external spacing reducing force. This results in restoring forces in the dilator tending to return it to the original direct spacing between the end surfaces. Resilient members, which can be asymmetrical with respect to a centerline of the dilator that is parallel to the long axis of the dilator, have a spring rate which continuously diminishes from the centerline to the end surfaces. The edges of the resilient members are contiguous to the edge of the cushion layer so that adhesive on the cushion layer is at the same level as the bottom surface of the resilient members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Silver Eagle Labs Inc.
    Inventor: Hanford N. Lockwood, Jr.
  • Pneumostoma management device and method for treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
    Patent number: 8336540
    Abstract: A pneumostoma management device for maintaining the patency of a pneumostoma while controlling the flow of gases and discharge through the pneumostoma. The pneumostoma management device includes a bulb connected to a tube which enters the pneumostoma. A flow control device regulates air flow in and out of the pneumostoma via the tube. A hydrophobic filter traps discharge in the bulb while allowing gases to escape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Portaero, Inc.
    Inventor: Don Tanaka
  • Breathing mask
    Patent number: 8336547
    Abstract: A breathing mask is disclosed, as well as a valve and a diverter that can be used within a breathing mask. The breathing mask can include a body, a respiratory interface, a balanced exhaust valve, and an inlet valve. The body can include an inlet and an exhaust. The respiratory interface can be configured to provide fluid communication between each of the inlet and the exhaust, and a user's respiratory system. The balanced exhaust valve can be configured to selectively flow fluid between the exhaust and the respiratory interface. The inlet valve can be configured to selectively flow fluid between the inlet and the respiratory interface. The valve can be a balanced exhaust valve with a fixed balance chamber. The diverter can include a tubular diverter body, a breathing port, an exhaust port, a demand port, and a diverter wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Amron International, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Craig Ritchie, Christopher Eames Woolley
  • Quiet blower apparatus and system and method for reducing blower noise
    Patent number: 8337145
    Abstract: A blower assembly including a motor (4), an impeller (6) and a volute (8) that is configured such that an inlet chamber (112) of the volute and an outlet chamber (114) of the volute are divided from one another by an airtight membrane (128a-b) and the membrane is configured to allow the transmission of pressure waves between the inlet and outlet chambers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: ResMed Limited
    Inventors: Robert H. Frater, Hamish A. Urquhart, Dmitri A. Doudkine, Barton J. Kenyon
  • Disposable anesthesia face mask
    Patent number: 8336549
    Abstract: A disposable anesthesia face mask comprising a shell member having an annular flange and a do-nut shaped pneumatic sealing cushion attached to the shell member annular flange. The shell member and its flange are “pear-shaped” defining a nasal portion of first transverse extent, a mouth portion of second transverse extent, and an under-the-chin engagement portion of third transverse extent where the second transverse extent is greater than the first transverse extent and the third transverse extent is greater than the second transverse extent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Inventor: Ramses Nashed
  • Respiratory device
    Patent number: 8336550
    Abstract: In an embodiment, a respiratory device is disclosed. The respiratory device may include a nasal device. The respiratory device may also include a conveyor device coupled with the nasal device. The respiratory device may further include an oral device, wherein the oral device may include an adjustment nut sized to couple with the conveyor device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Inventor: Joseph Goldstein
  • Medicine ejection apparatus and control method thereof
    Patent number: 8333188
    Abstract: A medicine ejection apparatus which ejects a medicine for medicating a user has a medicine ejecting unit, which has an element that generates energy for ejecting the medicine, a drive control unit which controls a drive start and a drive stop of the element, and an ejection amount determining unit, which determines a total amount of a medicine that is ejected from the medicine ejecting unit after the element performs a drive stop. The drive control unit enables the element to perform driving to eject an amount of medicine calculated from a difference between a set ejection amount and the total amount of medicine that has actually been ejected, when the total amount ejected, as determined by the ejection amount determining unit, is less than the set ejection amount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yohei Masada, Mitsuru Imai, Keisuke Kawahara, Masahiro Takei
  • Method and arrangement for detecting a leak in anesthesia system
    Patent number: 8333191
    Abstract: A method and arrangement for detecting a leak in an anesthesia system. The method includes controlling respiratory movements by means of ventilator gas flows and measuring the ventilator gas flow added for an inspiration and removed for an expiration. The method also includes supplying a fresh gas flow for a respiration and measuring the fresh gas flow added for the respiration. The method further includes receiving information indicative of the measured gas flows, determining based on said received information both the gas volume added and the gas volume removed and comparing these determined gas volumes to each other. The method also includes determining based on comparing the anesthesia system leakage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Erkki Paavo Heinonen, Tom Jakob Haggblom
  • High flow therapy artificial airway interfaces and related methods
    Patent number: 8333199
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a device, system and method for providing high flow therapy interfaces for use in the treatment of respiratory conditions and in assisted respirations. In an embodiment of the invention, a nasal cannula for delivery of respiratory gases can include at least one nasal insert and at least one flange coupled to the at least one nasal insert where the at least one flange is configured to partially impede the egress of respiratory gasses delivered to an upper airway of a patient is provided. In another embodiment, a flange has a shape selected from the group consisting of a slotted, vented or slitted design and configured to partially impede the egress of respiratory gasses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Assignee: Mergenet Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert M. Landis, Charles A. Lewis, Louis Javier Collazo
  • High flow therapy device utilizing a non-sealing respiratory interface and related methods
    Patent number: 8333194
    Abstract: A high flow therapy system including a microprocessor, a heating element a non-sealing respiratory interface and a sensor is disclosed. The heating element is disposed in electrical communication with the microprocessor and is capable of heating a liquid to create a gas. The non-sealing respiratory interface is configured to deliver the gas to a patient. The sensor is disposed in electrical communication with the microprocessor and is configured to measure pressure in an upper airway of the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Assignee: Mergenet Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles A. Lewis, Robert M. Landis
  • Liquid medicine reservoir and discharging device for liquid medicine to be inhaled
    Patent number: 8333189
    Abstract: A liquid medicine reservoir that supplies liquid medicine to a liquid-medicine discharging portion via a communicating portion includes a cylindrical body configured to hold the liquid medicine therein, a first sealing portion to which the communicating portion is connected, the first sealing portion sealing the cylindrical body, and a second sealing portion configured to seal an end of the cylindrical body opposite the first sealing portion. At least one of the first sealing portion and the second sealing portion move relative to each other in accordance with the amount of liquid medicine. A substance configured to inhibit discharging of the liquid medicine is stored in a space in the cylindrical body that is on an inner side of the second sealing portion and that is separate from the liquid medicine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Masaya Kobayashi, Nobuo Oshimoto, Masahiro Takei, Masaru Sugita
  • Breathing circuit
    Patent number: 8333198
    Abstract: A breathing circuit is described for the supplying of low pressure oxygen to a patient that is at risk of hypoxia. The breathing circuit includes a patent airway maintaining device, a first tube that includes a substantially rigid elbow and connectors and a flexible tubular extension. An inflatable bag is coupled to the first tube and has a pressure relief valve that exhausts into the atmosphere. A second tube has a first end that terminates in proximity to the patent airway maintaining device and a second opposed end that terminates external to the first tube. A third tube connects an external source of oxygen to the second tube. A method for an oxygen breathing circuit is also described that further includes the use of a carbon dioxide monitor and the inflatable bag for assisted breathing. The breathing circuit uses only non-metallic polymer or composite type materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Inventor: Shailendra K. Sinha
  • Oscillating positive expiratory pressure device
    Patent number: 8327849
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Trudell Medical International
    Inventors: Martin P. Foley, Jerry Grychowski
  • Method and device for determining the location of snoring
    Patent number: 8327841
    Abstract: The treatment of snoring related sleep disorders require the knowledge of the location of origin of snoring in a patient. A method and device are provided for the determination of a location of origin of a primary vibration signal generated by snoring in an upper airway of a patient. At least two sensors are used to respectively detect the primary vibration signal and to generate respective intermediate signals. The sensors are spaced apart in a longitudinal direction of the patient's neck. The respective intermediate signals are processed to generate an output signal. The output signal is indicative of the location of origin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: BRAEBON Medical Corporation
    Inventor: Donald Carmon Bradley
  • Pressure reducing valve
    Patent number: 8327848
    Abstract: A pressure reducing valve for use in a system adapted to deliver a breathing gas to a patient. The pressure reducing valve is structured to communicate a flow of breathing gas to such a patient's airway during an inspiratory phase. The pressure reducing valve is structured to isolate the flow of breathing gas from the patient's airway and to “dump” the flow of breathing gas and a flow of exhalation gas to atmosphere during the expiratory phase. The flow of breathing gas is dumped to atmosphere through a first number of ports; whereas a flow of exhalation gas is dumped to atmosphere through a second number of ports. Because the flow of breathing gas remains isolated from the flow of exhalation gas, less effort is required by a patient during the expiratory phase.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: RIC Investments, LLC
    Inventors: Peter Chi Fai Ho, Zachary D. Paul, Lance Busch, Richard Andrew Sofranko, Marcel D. Jaffre
  • Integrated ventilator with calibration
    Patent number: 8316849
    Abstract: An integrated respiratory ventilation system and method for its calibration is described. The system includes a ventilator having air conduits, transducers adapted to emit signals proportional to the level of air pressure or air flow within the air conduits, and inspiration, expiration and exhaust ports. A processor-controlled calibrator is in communication with one or more of the air conduits. A preferred calibrator includes a water-filled outer column and a vertically aligned inner column extending into the outer column, the inner column having an upper end in communication with at least one of the ports. A processor controls the opening and closing of the ports and the level of air pressure in, and air flow from, the inner column to measure the level of transducer signals at two known pressures and two known flows. The processor uses the measured transducer signals to calibrate the transducer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Buxco Electronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Lomask, Richard A. Larson
  • Anesthetic gas intermediate storage unit with adsorption characteristics which can be influenced electrically
    Patent number: 8316851
    Abstract: An anesthetic gas intermediate storage unit is provided having a first gas duct for passing through inspiration gas, a second gas duct for passing through expiration gas and an adsorption material (2), which can be influenced electrically, for an anesthetic, which is carried by a gas. The adsorption material is arranged in at least one gas duct for passing through breathing gas, and with a device for admitting expiration gas and inspiration gas alternatingly to the adsorption material (2), at least at an identical area for the intermediate storage of the anesthetic from the expiration gas to the inspiration gas. The device has openings, which divert the expiration gas and inspiration gas flowing in and out such that expiration gas and inspiration gas are admitted to the stationary adsorption material (2) alternatingly at an identical area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Dräger Medical GmbH
    Inventors: Norbert Wruck, Michael Riecke, Götz Kullik
  • Nasal assembly
    Patent number: 8312883
    Abstract: A nasal assembly for delivering breathable gas to a patient includes a frame having an integrally formed first connector portion. A nozzle assembly includes a gusset or base portion and a pair of nozzles. At least one inlet conduit is structured to deliver breathable gas into the frame and nozzle assembly for breathing by the patient. A pair of second connector portions are removably and rotatably connected to respective first connector portions of the frame and are in communication with respective inlet conduits, e.g., directly or via angle connectors. A headgear assembly is removably connected to the pair of second connector portions and/or the angle connectors so as to maintain the frame and the nozzle assembly in a desired adjusted position on the patient's face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2012
    Assignee: Resmed Limited
    Inventors: Michael K. Gunaratnam, Philip R. Kwok, Robin G. Hitchcock, Lee J. Veliss, Memduh Guney, Richard Sokolov, Perry D. Lithgow, Donald Darkin, Susan R. Lynch
  • Fastenable conduit for breathable gas delivery
    Patent number: 8312875
    Abstract: A fastenable air delivery conduit includes a body portion having a supply end and a delivery end and a fastener that substantially extends from the supply end to the delivery end. The fastener, when engaged, forms the body portion into a fastened configuration, and when disengaged, forms the body portion into an unfastened configuration. The body portion defines a longitudinal axis when in the fastened configuration, and the fastener extends from the source end to the delivery end of the body portion at an angle that is non-parallel with the longitudinal axis of the conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2012
    Assignee: ResMed Limited
    Inventor: Robert Henry Frater
  • Modular medical care system
    Patent number: 8312877
    Abstract: A modular medical care system, housing a plurality of different modules providing different functions used in delivering healthcare to a patient, includes a plurality of different modules including: (a) a patient monitoring module for acquiring and processing signals derived from sensors suitable for attachment to a patient; and (b) a patient treatment module for delivering treatment to the patient. A processor processes signals derived from the plurality of different modules. A communication interface provides bidirectional communication between the processor and the plurality of different modules via a network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2012
    Assignee: Draeger Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Elaz, Clifford Mark Kelly, Wolfgang Scholz, Samuel Cavallaro, Thomas Krüger, Martin Doering, Christoph Landowski
  • DEPLOYMENT CATHETER
    Publication number: 20120289772
    Abstract: A deployment catheter is described herein that preferably is configured to deliver a medical device such as a valve to a location in a patient such as a patient's airway. Preferably, such a deployment catheter is configured to be used in conjunction with a bronchoscope. In some embodiments, a locking lever is provided to reduce the likelihood of accidental deployment of the device, and which resets conveniently after use to as to permit multiple device deployments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2011
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Applicant: Spiration, Inc.
    Inventors: Desmond O'Connell, Erik Liljegren, David H. Dillard, Hugo X. Gonzalez
  • Method of performing a tracheostomy
    Patent number: 8307824
    Abstract: There is provided a method for performing a tracheotomy. In this method a tracheostomy dilator has a body and a tip which are detachably attached. The tip has a proximal inner portion which is within the body while the tip is attached to the body. The dilator is inserted into the trachea and used to dilate an opening. After the trachea has been dilated, the body may be detached and removed from the tip, the tip remaining partially in the trachea. A dilator loading catheter installed within a tracheostomy tube may be mated with the tip and the tip, loading catheter and tracheostomy tube moved into the trachea. After the tracheostomy tube is installed, the tip and loading catheter may be withdrawn through the tracheostomy tube and the tracheostomy tube placed in service.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian J. Cuevas, Michael Sleva, Joe Cesa, Marjory Greenhalgh
  • Automated inspiratory muscle training for patients receiving mechanical ventilation
    Patent number: 8307827
    Abstract: A system and method for automated inspiratory muscle strength exercise includes software for setting a mechanical ventilator for a pressure regulated breath with an initial pressure target that is at the highest pressure setting a patient can tolerate and increasing the pressure target as tolerated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: University of Florida Research Foundation, Inc.
    Inventors: Anatole D. Martin, Michael J. Banner, Andrea Gabrielli, Neil Russell Euliano, II
  • Breathing aid
    Patent number: 8307823
    Abstract: In accordance with the principles of the present invention, breathing aid is provided. The breathing aid includes a middle portion that defines a breathing aperture that provides air flow out of the mouth of the user. An incisor is defined on the top of the middle portion and sized to receive the upper incisors teeth of the user. The location of the incisor aperture along the middle portion providing proper placement of the breathing aid in the user's mouth. An inside end of the middle portion is provided at an angle. A pair of wing-like protrusions extend sideward from the middle portion, the protrusions sized to extend outwardly beyond the sides of a user's mouth in order to prevent the breathing aid from entering the mouth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Inventor: William Schmal
  • Respiratory access assembly with rotating lock and method
    Patent number: 8307829
    Abstract: A respiratory access assembly includes a movable manifold and a closed suction catheter assembly with a shuttle movable by actuator between the manifold and the closed suction catheter assembly. The assembly includes a flap positioned adjacent the shuttle and the closed suction catheter assembly which is moveable between an open position which permits passage of a suction catheter therethrough and a closed position, which prevents a passage of a suction catheter. The respiratory access assembly permits operable communication with the artificial airway to permit suctioning when in an un-locked position, and prevents the entrance of a suction catheter when in the locked position. A method for using a respiratory access assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: John Brewer, Cassandra E. Morris, Stephen Gianelis, Joe Gordon
  • Methods of treating a sleeping subject
    Patent number: 8302606
    Abstract: Described here are devices for altering the flow of air in a respiratory cavity such as the mouth and nostrils of the nose. These methods and devices may be useful for affecting a physiologic benefit in patients suffering from a variety of medical diseases, particularly those that may benefit from “pursed-lip” breathing and non-invasive ventilation, such as COPD, heart failure, sleep apnea, and other medical disorders. The devices are typically removable devices that may be placed over or in a respiratory cavity to increase resistance to airflow within the respiratory cavity. Resistance to expiration may be selectively increased relative to inspiration. Removable oral and removable nasal devices are described. Oral and nasal devices that filter inhaled airflow of debris and allergens are also provided. A nasal device that increases patency of the nares is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Ventus Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Rajiv Doshi, Motohide Hatanaka, Robert A. Howard
  • Respiratory masks with gusseted cushions
    Patent number: 8297283
    Abstract: Cushions for respiratory face masks have a frame-connecting portion, a face-contacting portion, and a gusset portion disposed between and joining the frame-connecting and face-contacting portions. The gusset portion preferably includes at least one perimetrical region which having a laterally projecting exterior gusset section and a laterally projecting interior gusset section. According to one aspect, the laterally projecting exterior and interior gusset sections are disposed about the entire perimeter to the gusset portion so as to establish a substantially constant widthwise dimension thereof about the gusset's entire perimeter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: ResMed Limited
    Inventors: Robin Garth Hitchcock, Aaron Samuel Davidson
  • Adjustable oral airway devices, and adjustable oral airway kits
    Patent number: 8297275
    Abstract: Some embodiments include adjustable oral airway devices. The devices may contain a bite block, a tongue deflector extending through the bite block, and at least one locking mechanism configured for releasably retaining the tongue deflector in one of two or more predetermined positions within the bite block. Some embodiments include adjustable oral airway kits. Such kits may contain a bite block, a tongue deflector configured to extend within an opening in the bite block, and at least one locking mechanism configured for releasably retaining the tongue deflector in one of two or more predetermined positions within the bite block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Inventors: Daniel Ogilvie, Beata Zawadzka
  • Hyperbaric exercise facility, hyperbaric dome, catastrophe or civil defense shelter
    Patent number: 8297282
    Abstract: A hyperbaric exercise facility is provided allowing a persons to perform exercises and other activities at increased pressures along with controlled levels of oxygen. Additionally, a catastrophe shelter is provided to protect its occupants from peril.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Inventors: Merrell T. Holley, James L. Schmidt
  • Portable ventilator system
    Patent number: 8297279
    Abstract: A portable ventilator uses a ROOTS-type blower as a compressor to reduce both the size and power consumption of the ventilator. Various functional aspects of the ventilator are delegated to multiple subassemblies having dedicated controllers and software that interact with a ventilator processor to provide user interface functions, exhalation control and flow control servos, and monitoring of patient status. The ventilator overcomes noise problems through the use of noise reducing pressure compensating orifices on the ROOTS-type blower housing and multiple baffling chambers. The ventilator is configured with a highly portable form factor, and may be used as a stand-alone device or as a docked device having a docking cradle with enhanced interface and monitoring capabilities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: CareFusion 203, Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas F. DeVries, David Boyle, Michael Holmes, Malcolm Williams
  • Inhaler
    Patent number: 8297280
    Abstract: An object of the present invention is to enhance the inhalation efficiency by causing liquid droplets to be borne on an air flow in an early stage of inhalation in an inhaler. According to one embodiment, from an operation in which the user lets out a breath before the start of inhalation (that is, from exhalation), a positive pressure B produced by the exhalation is detected by a pressure detecting unit, and is compared with a standard pattern stored in a storage unit, and in this way the exhalation profile of the user is prepared. A time difference t between the exhalation finish time and the start time of the next inhalation is estimated, followed by the determination of the ejection start time T1 based on these pieces of information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Shinji Watanabe