Entries |
Document | Title | Date |
20080214948 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MONITORING RESPIRATION - A device for monitoring respiration comprises a duct, a flow restricting element in the duct, and a pressure sensor arranged in the duct. The pressure sensor measures a pressure drop across the flow restricting element as a pressure difference between a pressure at a location in the duct on a first side of the flow restricting element and a substantially constant pressure on a second side of the flow restricting element opposite the first side. | 09-04-2008 |
20080228099 | ADAPTORS FOR INHALERS TO IMPROVE PERFORMANCE - A child-sized adaptor for a DPI or MDI is provided. Also provided is a patient feedback mechanism for signaling and/or teaching proper inhaler use. | 09-18-2008 |
20080234595 | METHOD FOR DETERMINING THE RESISTANCE OF THE RESPIRATORY SYSTEM OF A PATIENT - A method for automatically determining the resistance of the respiratory system of a spontaneously breathing intubated patient. The method includes measuring flow (V′) and airway pressure (P | 09-25-2008 |
20080243020 | Physiological Signal Collecting And Monitoring Device And System - A physiological signal collecting and monitoring system includes a physiological signal sensing device ( | 10-02-2008 |
20080281220 | Handheld Home Monitoring Sensors Network Device - Light weight personal handheld home monitoring and managing device, which includes a Sound Sensor network/array of Sound Sensor networks combined with an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) and a build in system and methods, making this device an intelligent and portable apparatus to address specific health issues. The combined apparatus is used for managing and/or guidance and/or diagnosing and/or controlling and managing purposes. This present version of the apparatus will address pulmonary disorders and diseases or similar ailments. | 11-13-2008 |
20080294060 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR DISEASE DETECTION, MONITORING AND/OR MANAGEMENT - Embodiments of the invention are related to methods and devices for respiratory or cardiac disease detection, monitoring, and/or management. In an embodiment, the invention includes a method of calculating a pulmonary function parameter of a subject. The method can include obtaining a first signal indicative of lung volume change during breathing from a first sensor, obtaining a second signal indicative of distending pressure from a second sensor, and calculating the pulmonary function parameter based on the first signal and the second signal. In an embodiment, the invention includes a method of monitoring pulmonary or cardiac disease status. In an embodiment, the invention includes an implantable medical device. The implantable medical device can include a first sensor configured to produce a first signal indicative of lung volume change during breathing, a second sensor configured to produce a second signal indicative of intrapleural pressure, and a processor configured to calculate lung compliance or pulmonary resistance based on the first signal and the second signal. Other aspects and embodiments are provided herein. | 11-27-2008 |
20080294061 | Health care gaming device and method using the same - A health care gaming device includes: a case, which can be placed on a platform or be handheld by an user; at least one communicating tube provided in the case; an inflow/outflow unit connected to the communicating tube, for the user to exhale and inhale gas; at least one sensor connected to the communicating tube, for sensing gas inflow and outflow and detecting gas flow; a processing unit connected to the sensor, for measuring pulmonary function and executing games; a display unit connected to the processing unit; and a keying unit connected to the processing unit, wherein the sensor generates a sensed deformation due to gas flowing in the communicating tube; the processing unit analyzes the sensed deformation and converts the analytical result to measurement data for pulmonary function or uses the analytical result as game data for proceeding games; and the display unit displays the measurement data and game pictures. The invention also discloses a method using such health care gaming device. | 11-27-2008 |
20090005697 | DETECTION OF CONGESTION FROM MONITORING PATIENT RESPONSE TO A RECUMBENT POSITION - Systems and methods obtain information that allows detection of whether a patient suffers from congestion by monitoring a response of the patient to a recumbent position of the patient's body. The patient may be monitored to determine a respiration pattern for a non-recumbent position such as standing and a respiration pattern for a recumbent position such as lying down. The two patterns may be compared, either by a processing device or a physician, to determine a difference in the two respiration patterns. Furthermore, the congestion may be inferred from detecting an amount of time that the patient spends in a recumbent position or from detecting the recumbent angle that the patient obtains, either of which is presumed to indicate whether a recumbent position presents discomfort to the patient due to the presence of congestion. | 01-01-2009 |
20090118634 | REGIONAL OXYGEN UPTAKE/PERFUSION MEASURING DEVICE AND METHOD - To assess regional oxygen uptake and/or perfusion in a patient, a volume of air inhaled by the patient is determined and, according to a method of electrical impedance tomography, a first regional lung volume is measured at a first time point of a breathold procedure. The first regional lung volume is compared to a second regional lung volume at a second time point of the breathold procedure. | 05-07-2009 |
20090131811 | Comprehensive integrated testing protocol for infant lung function - A Comprehensive Integrated Testing Protocol (CITP) incorporates precise measurements of the dynamic and the static lung volumes and capacities at V | 05-21-2009 |
20090137919 | LUNG VOLUME MONITORING METHOD AND DEVICE - A method for determining functional residual capacity (FRC) of a patient while ventilating the patient. The system may include a medical ventilator which provides inhalation and exhalation from the patient, a sensor which measures a fraction one or more gas components of the inhalation and a fraction of the same gas components of the exhalation. A step change of oxygen fraction is provided to the inhalation of the patient. Subsequent to the step change, The fractions of the gas components are measured in the inhalation and in the exhalation. The functional residual capacity of the lungs of the patient is measured based on the fraction of the gas components in the inhalation and in the exhalation. The step change is provided manually by a technician, or automatically by programming a programmable device to provide the step change automatically to the patient by the medical ventilator. The step change is either an increase or a decrease in of the oxygen fraction. | 05-28-2009 |
20090156952 | Apparatuses and Methods for Diagnosing and Treating Respiratory Conditions - In one embodiment, a respiratory condition device includes a tube that defines a flow path for medicine that is to be delivered to a user respiratory system, a pressure sensor configured to detect pressure changes within the tube, and a medicine delivery device configured to eject medicine into the tube when a pressure drop is detected by the pressure sensor. | 06-18-2009 |
20090156953 | Methods and devices for sensing respiration and providing ventilation therapy - Methods and systems are provided for intra-airway breath sensors where intra-airway breath sensors are not located within a ventilation gas delivery circuit, but are exposed to spontaneous respiration airflow from a patient. Furthermore, methods and systems of the present invention may be used to protect an intra-airway breath sensor from contacting tissue or accumulating debris that may impair abilities of the intra-airway breath sensors. | 06-18-2009 |
20090204014 | DOWN-SIZED SINGLE DIRECTIONAL RESPIRATORY AIR FLOW MEASURING TUBE - A down-sized single directional respiratory air flow measuring tube is provided that is suitable for an electronic respiratory air flow measuring device such that the patients perform a self-test. The measuring tube includes: a cylindrical pipe including an inlet making contact with a mouth of an examinee and an outlet facing the inlet, in which the cylindrical pipe includes disposable material; and a detection rod positioned near the outlet, expanding out of a lower portion of the cylindrical pipe while passing through the cylindrical pipe from an upper portion of the cylindrical pipe, and formed with a closed upper portion, in which the detection rod has a plurality of sampling holes to measure dynamic pressure of a respiratory air flow at the first side of the inlet of the cylindrical pipe such that air flow between the center portion and a wall surface of the cylindrical pipe is measured. | 08-13-2009 |
20090240161 | SYSTEM INCLUDING METHOD AND DEVICE FOR IDENTIFICATION AND MONITORING OF PULMONARY DATA - The invention relates to a method and device including a system for identification and monitoring of pulmonary data. The invention allows for the collection of pulmonary function test data as well as the ability to compare and correlate newly collected data with historic patient data. The invention also allows for the ability to identify individual patients based on the analysis of pulmonary characteristics unique to the individual, such as measures of lung function to ensure integrity of a patient's historical data. | 09-24-2009 |
20090253994 | SELF-ACTUATED CYLINDER AND OSCILLATION SPIROMETER - A self-actuated cylinder comprising a cylinder housing comprising electro-magnetic force generating means to generate electro-magnetic forces, and a piston within the cylinder housing, wherein the electro-magnetic forces act directly on the piston to displace the piston within the cylinder housing. The self-actuated cylinder can be used as an oscillation spirometer to determine air flow, an input impedance or Forced Oscillation pulmonary mechanics. | 10-08-2009 |
20090253995 | CLINICAL MONITORING IN OPEN RESPIRATORY AIRWAYS - A novel and non-obvious method, system and apparatus for determining respiratory volume flow rate of a subject and associated parameters such as tidal volume, minute volume, and respiratory rate. The method for determining respiratory volume flow rate of a subject can include selecting an airway cavity of the subject, measuring delivery volume flow rate of respiratory gas delivered to the airway cavity, measuring pressure within the airway cavity and calculating a respiratory volume flow rate of the subject using the measured delivery volume flow rate of respiratory gas delivered to the airway cavity and the measured pressure within the airway cavity. The method further can include generating a warning signal selected from the group consisting of an indicator that a respiratory volume flow value is outside of an expected value for the subject and an indicator that an airway cavity measurement value does not conform to an expected value. | 10-08-2009 |
20090270751 | Measuring System, Computer Program, Set of a Measuring Device and a Computer Program and Method for Operating the Measuring System - A measuring system for electronically measuring the volume flow expired and/or inspired by a user, comprises a measuring unit for continuously monitoring the volume flow of air when the user is expiring and/or inspiring, a first memory section for storing data of a reference expiration and/or inspiration volume flow profile and at least a second memory section for storing data of a measured expiration and/or inspiration volume flow profile. A representation of the reference flow profile and the measured flow profile is displayed, which allows a comparison of the profiles. | 10-29-2009 |
20090270752 | Devices for Measuring Inspiratory Airflow - New applications of unidirectional airflow sensing in devices which measure inspiratory airflow and bidirectional airflow are provided. Such devices can be used for administration of a medication via inhalation, in spirometers and in devices which measure and monitor respiratory ventilation. | 10-29-2009 |
20090281444 | DEVICE FOR SECRETION REMOVAL, MANUAL VENTILATION AND DETERMINATION OF IN VIVO LUNG MECHANICS WITHOUT CIRCUIT DISCONNECTION - An artificial airway obstruction and pulmonary mechanics measuring device comprising a rigid body chamber having a pressure measuring port and a medical ventilator port; a pressure measuring device coupled to the pressure measuring port; and a ventilator port occlusion device coupleable to the medical ventilator port. A method of manufacturing an artificial airway obstruction and pulmonary mechanics measuring device is included. | 11-12-2009 |
20090281445 | Oxygen concentrating apparatus and execution support method of home oxygen therapy using the same - In order to enable a medical worker to certainly and easily know whether a patient on a home oxygen therapy, who continues to inhale an oxygen-enriched gas at home, performs the inhalation as prescribed, a history of a supply condition of the oxygen-enriched gas supplied to the patient is recorded and held as supply history information, this supply history information is compared with a prescription of the oxygen therapy of the patient to generate patient's compliance information to indicate the degree to which the oxygen therapy is performed in accordance with the prescription, the oxygen concentrating apparatus is constructed to be portable, and a doctor can confirm the patient's compliance information at the time of going to a medical institution regularly. | 11-12-2009 |
20090306530 | DETECTION OF AIRWAY RESISTANCE - An airflow signal corresponding to the breathing of the patient is obtained. A section corresponding to inspiration, having a front portion and a middle portion, is found within the airflow signal. A peak value of the front portion is found, which is compared with a value representing the airflow of the middle portion. The presence of resisted breathing is determined based on the comparison between the peak value of the front portion with a value representing the airflow of the middle portion. A baseline value of the airflow signal is found by calculating the mode of values within an airflow signal representing the pressure within a patient's naris. The section corresponding to inspiration is determined by finding peak inspiration and baseline values within a breath and searching from the peak until the baseline is reached to find the section of inspiration. | 12-10-2009 |
20090312661 | DEVICE FOR DETERMINING A CONDITION OF FLOW IN A RESPIRATION SYSTEM - A device for detecting the condition of flow in a respiration system combines the function of a nonreturn valve with the function of flow measurement in a common device. The device includes a valve arrangement ( | 12-17-2009 |
20090326403 | DISTINGUISHING CLOSED AND OPEN RESPIRATORY AIRWAY APNEAS BY COMPLEX ADMITTANCE VALUES - Methods and apparatus are disclosed for determining the occurrence of a closed or open apnea. Respiratory air flow from a patient is measured to give an air flow signal. The determination of an apnea is performed by applying an oscillatory pressure waveform of known frequency to a patient's airway, calculating a complex quantity representing a patient admittance ( | 12-31-2009 |
20100010362 | REUSEABLE SNORE/AIR FLOW SENSOR - A sensor for use with a polysomnograph in a sleep lab setting is made reusable by laminating a PVDF film and associated lead contacts within a flexible, moisture-impervious plastic envelope that is hermetically sealed about its periphery. Lead terminals within the envelope are adhered to the metalized surfaces of the PVDP film using a conductive adhesive which inhibits dislodgement of the leads from the sensor even with rough handling and cleaning. | 01-14-2010 |
20100022905 | MOTIVATIONAL SPIROMETRY SYSTEM AND METHOD - A method is disclosed for motivating a user of a spirometry system having a display screen, an air-tube, a flow measurement sensor operatively associated with the air-tube, a display screen, and an associated processor. A motivational animation is displayed on the display screen having a first aspect that reflects a relative evaluation of a determined peak flow rate to a goal value therefor and having a second aspect that reflects a relative evaluation of a determined total flow volume to a goal value therefor. The processor repeatedly updates the motivational animation during the period of use of the spirometer to reflect the degree of achievement of both of the goal values by the user. | 01-28-2010 |
20100056942 | Activity detector for a closed loop neuromodulator - This document discusses, among other things, method and apparatus for detecting abnormal respiration activity. Clock pulses can be passed through a first gate when digital airflow information indicates a first respiration state, summed, and compared to a first count threshold, and a respiration activity output can be generated using the comparison. | 03-04-2010 |
20100069773 | WIRELESS PYRO/PIEZO SENSOR SYSTEM - This document discusses, among other things, a system and method for detecting biomedical data for diagnosing sleep disorders of a patient. Biomedical data of the patient can be detected using one or more wireless sensors. The biomedical data can be processed to separate various information including respiration temperature and pressure information. The various information can be wirelessly communicated to a base station coupled to a polysomnograph (PSG) machine configured to display the information for diagnosing sleep disorders. | 03-18-2010 |
20100069774 | Breath Biofeedback System and Method - A breath biofeedback method and system for encouraging a subject to modify respiration. The system includes a thoracic volume input module measuring thoracic volume data of the subject and a pattern module providing target breathing patterns in communication with a display generator. The display generator producing display information representing a displayable image including a first object having a first position determined as a function of the thoracic volume data and a second object having a second position determined as a function of the target breathing pattern and the thoracic volume data. The displayable image is designed such that when displayed on the display device the displayable image encourages the subject viewing the displayable image to modify respiration. | 03-18-2010 |
20100076332 | EXPIRATORY FLOW SENSOR SYSTEM AND METHOD - An expiratory flow sensor system is disclosed herein. The expiratory flow sensor includes an expiratory channel adapted to transfer an expiratory gas, a fresh gas channel adapted to transfer a fresh gas, and a sensing element disposed within the fresh gas channel so that the sensing element is never directly exposed to the expiratory gas. The sensing element is configured to measure a fresh gas flow rate. The fresh gas flow rate may be implemented to estimate an expiratory flow rate in a manner that minimizes imprecision attributable to sensing element contamination. | 03-25-2010 |
20100100000 | Minute Ventilation-Based Disordered Breathing Detection - A respiration pattern of a number of respiration cycles is detected and breath intervals (BI) and tidal volume (TVOL) measurements of each of the respiration cycles are respectively determined. An unevenly sampled instantaneous minute ventilation (iMV) signal is produced using the BI and TVOL measurements, and an evenly sampled iMV signal (resampled iMV signal) is produced using the unevenly sampled iMV signal. Disordered breathing is detected based on a comparison between a baseline threshold and the resampled iMV signal. | 04-22-2010 |
20100106040 | PORTABLE PRESSURE TRANSDUCER, PHEUMOTACH FOR USE THEREWITH, AND ASSOCIATED METHODS - A system for sensing respiratory pressure includes a portable pressure transducer configured to be carried by or proximate to a respiratory conduit, such as a breathing circuit or a nasal canula. The portable pressure transducer may removably couple with a pneumotach, in the form of an airway adapter, disposed along the respiratory conduit. The pneumotach may include two pressure ports positioned at opposite sides of an obstruction, which partially blocks flow through a primary conduit of the pneumotach. Corresponding sample conduits of the portable pressure transducer removably couple with the pressure ports. The pressure ports may have sealing elements which are configured to seal against piercing members of the sample conduits upon introduction of the piercing members therethrough. Upon removal of the piercing members, the sealing elements substantially reseal. Methods for using the system are also disclosed. | 04-29-2010 |
20100113956 | NASAL CANNULA FOR ACQUIRING BREATHING INFORMATION - A nasal cannula for monitoring symptoms of sleep apnea and hypopnea, including an elongated main body having a main body chamber and first and second nares to be received within first and second nasal passages of a patient's nose and at least one mouthpiece extending to a patient's mouth. The main body chamber communicates with first and second cannula inlet/outlets and each nare and the mouthpiece includes a gas flow passage extending from the nostril or mouth to the main body chamber. At least one nasal gas flow sensor is located in an gas flow passage of at least one of the nares and at least one oral gas flow sensor located in the mouthpiece gas flow passage, preferably in the regions of the gas flow passages adjacent the main body chamber. | 05-06-2010 |
20100113957 | SYSTEM, METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MONITORING A MEDICAL CONDITION - The present invention provides a device for use in monitoring a sleep apnoea condition, the device includes a cannula arranged to pass into a mask that is connectable to an airway pressure machine. The cannula may be utilised to administer the test while the mask is utilised to deliver airway pressure. | 05-06-2010 |
20100113958 | Active Implantable Medical Device Integrating Spirometric Means for Diagnosing Lung Diseases - An active implantable medical device, integrating a spirometric function for the diagnosis of lung diseases is disclosed. The active implantable medical device measures the respiratory activity of a patient to collect a transthoracic impedance signal according to changes in lung volume. The active implantable medical device comprises a spirometer function produces, from the transthoracic impedance signal collected over a respiratory cycle, a characteristic curve that couples of flow values (dV/dt) as a function of pulmonary volume (V) that represents a spirometric characteristic (S) of a patient. An spirometric analysis is performed to deduce from the spirometric characteristic (S) at least one parameter of the patient's pulmonary status and to produce a diagnostic indicator based on the comparison of the at least one parameter with a predetermined reference value. | 05-06-2010 |
20100121211 | INCENTIVE SPIROMETRY DEVICES BY THE EMPLOYMENT OF VERBAL SIMULATED HUMANLIKE VOICES AND USING A CAPACITIVE SENSING COMPONENT FOR DETERMINING PATIENT USE AND MEASUREMENT OBTAINED FROM SUCH USE - An apparatus used in the medical industry, in order to increase transpulmonary pressure and respiratory volumes, to improve inspiratory muscle performance and re-establish the normal pulmonary hyperinflation, through the employment of electronic technology, providing audible, simulated, verbal, human sounding words, that assist, guide and prompt, increasing patient usage. In one embodiment, the Incentive Spirometer uses a capacitive sensing circuit for sensing movement of the float within the tube wall and for obtaining a measurement or reading of the patient's performance with the Incentive Spirometer. | 05-13-2010 |
20100121212 | ADAPTER, APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR EXHALED BREATH MEASUREMENTS - An adapter ( | 05-13-2010 |
20100145211 | GAS FLOW SYSTEM, METER, AND METHOD - A system, flow meter, and method for measuring gas flow information, such as respiratory information. In an exemplary embodiment, the flow meter may include a cylindrical body that allows the respiratory gas to flow through and at least one hot wire disposed within the cylindrical body. Further, the flow meter may include a bridge circuit that includes the at least one hot wire as a resistive element and an extraction circuit that extracts a signal from the bridge circuit indicating the respiratory volume. A first filter and second filter may be disposed at an output side of the extraction circuit, and a detection circuit may be included that detects the respiratory flow rate from the output signal of the first filter and detects sound, such as snoring from the output signal of the second filter. | 06-10-2010 |
20100145212 | FLOW METER FOR PULMONARY FUNCTION TESTS - The present invention relates to a flow metering device ( | 06-10-2010 |
20100145213 | LUNG DIAGNOSIS APPARATUS WITH TWO ULTRASOUND MEASUREMENT ZONES - A lung diagnosis apparatus for measuring the flow rate and molar mass of the respiratory air of a living organism includes a respiration tube, through which respiratory air can flow. On the outer surface of the respiration tube there are mounted two tube nozzles for which the longitudinal axis, or nozzle axis, extends in an inclined manner relative to the longitudinal axis, or tube axis, of the respiration tube, and in which a first ultrasound transmitter or a first ultrasound receiver is fixed. An electronic module, which actuates the ultrasound transmitter and the ultrasound receiver also evaluates their ultra-sound signals. The nozzle axis for each tube nozzle pass through a reflection point on the inner surface of the respiration tube. A second ultrasound transmitter and a second ultra-sound receiver are on the outer surface of the respiration tube coaxially with one another and approximately orthogonal to the respiration tube axis with the sound radiated by the second ultrasound transmitter being oriented to the reflection point. | 06-10-2010 |
20100152601 | ASPIRATION STATE MONITORING DEVICE, ASPIRATION STATE MONITORING SYSTEM, BASE DEVICE, CONTROL SYSTEM, AND CONTROL SYSTEM USE METHOD - Disclosed is an aspiration state monitoring device including a rechargeable battery, a memory that stores aspiration data indicating aspiration state of a living body, and a monitoring side attachment unit detachably attached to a base device. The monitoring side attachment unit has a monitoring side charge conducting section that receives electric power from the base device and charges the rechargeable battery, and a monitoring side communication conducting section which transmits the aspiration data stored in the memory to the base device. | 06-17-2010 |
20100198097 | DETECTING WORSENING HEART FAILURE BASED ON FLUID ACCUMULATION WITH RESPIRATORY CONFIRMATION - A medical device monitors a level of fluid accumulation, e.g., pulmonary edema, and one or more respiratory parameters of the patient to detect worsening heart failure. The medical device may use intrathoracic impedance measurements to monitor both the fluid accumulation and the one or more respiratory parameters. Respiration rate and volume, also referred to as the tidal volume, are examples of respiratory parameters. The medical device examines the one or more respiratory parameters after determining that the fluid accumulation indicates worsening heart failure. In this manner, the medical device uses the one or more respiratory parameters to confirm a determination of worsening heart failure that was made based on the fluid accumulation. | 08-05-2010 |
20100204602 | NEBULIZER HAVING FLOW METER FUNCTION - In accordance with non-limiting examples, a nebulizer includes a main body comprising an air channel section and further comprising a mixing chamber and a venturi positioned to be placed within the patient's oral cavity and configured to receive medicine and air and mix the medicine and air within the mixing chamber and receive the air flow through the venturi and cause the medicine entering the mixing chamber to be atomized by the action of air flowing through the venturi. An air flow sensor is associated with the main body and configured to measure the air flow created by the patient's one of at least inhaling and exhaling air. | 08-12-2010 |
20100222693 | MANAGING FLOW/VOLUME LOOP INFORMATION - Embodiments of the present invention provide methods of extracting optimal information from a flow/volume loop concerning the patient's respiratory condition by examining the overall shape of the space under the flow/volume loop's expiration portion. In some embodiments, this is done with reference to the center of mass of that space. In some embodiments, this is done with reference to the area of that space. Some embodiments are significantly less affected by random/statistical variations and/or noise within the measurement system than existing methods. | 09-02-2010 |
20100249634 | Mouthpiece and Airway Congestion Monitoring System - A congestion monitoring system includes a generally cylindrical, hollow form to channel a patient's breath, a flow restriction within the hollow form, and a pair of air ports. One of the air ports is located on the hollow form at a first side of the flow restriction, and the other air port is located on the hollow form at a second side of the flow restriction. The system also includes a coupling for connecting the pair of air ports to a pair of air lines, a sensor in communication with the air ports via the pair of air lines, and a monitor device. The monitor device converts a pressure signal from the air ports into a signal representative of a flow rate of the patient's breath through the hollow form. | 09-30-2010 |
20100274151 | ASSISTING METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR RADIOTHERAPY - An assisting method for radiotherapy is provided. The method detects the inspiratory and expiratory lung volumes of a patient lying on a supporting means to calculate displacement of the tumor adjacent to the diaphragm of the patient, and then drives the supporting means on which the patient lean to move in a direction opposite to the direction of the displacement of the tumor and in a distance equal to the distance of the displacement of the tumor, whereby the radioactive ray can be more accurately focused on the cancerous region of the patient. An assisting apparatus for radiotherapy is also proposed for enhancing the effect of radiotherapy treating on a tumor adjacent to the diaphragm. | 10-28-2010 |
20100286548 | System and Methods for the Measurement of Lung Volumes - A method for determining a pulmonary volume change includes: receiving a respiration event from a subject in an airflow chamber; interrupting the respiration event by an occlusion of the airflow chamber initiated at a first time instant and terminated at a second time instant subsequent to the first time instant; taking a plurality of measurements of airflow rate through the airflow chamber between the second time instant and a third time instant subsequent to the second time instant; and determining a pulmonary volume change substantially equal to a reduction of a pulmonary air volume by a pulmonary response air volume and a normal air volume, wherein the pulmonary volume change is related to a change in density of air in the airflow chamber. | 11-11-2010 |
20100305465 | MULTI-DYNAMIC-RANGE SENSOR - A sensing system that produces a multi-dynamic range output is provided. In an illustrative embodiment, a first channel and a second channel receive an analog output signal from a sensing element. The first channel provides a first digital output signal that has a first dynamic range, and the second channel provides a second digital output signal that has a second narrower dynamic range. In some cases, the second narrower dynamic range falls within the first dynamic range, and the first digital output signal may provide a first resolution and the second digital output signal may provide a second greater resolution. The dynamic range and/or resolution of one or more of the first channel and second channel may be dynamically reconfigurable, if desired. | 12-02-2010 |
20100305466 | INCENTIVE SPIROMETRY AND NON-CONTACT PAIN REDUCTION SYSTEM - A non-contact mechanism for encouraging and facilitating incentive spirometry, ensuring that it is performed adequately, in a timely manner, and for a sufficient duration is discussed. The embodiments also quantitatively and qualitatively keep a record of the incentive spirometry activity, including recording the performance in an electronic medical record. A non-contact monitoring system is used to generate a breathing waveform for a subject that may be compared to target waveforms. Visual and non-visual cues may then be provided to the subject to help guide the subject towards the desired breathing pattern. | 12-02-2010 |
20100331716 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR MEASURING RESPIRATORY FUNCTION USING AN EFFORT SIGNAL - Breathing effort of a patient, as determined (for example) from a photoplethysmograph (“PPG”) signal from the patient, can be used in conjunction with signals from a spirometer being used by the patient to provide additional information about various characteristics of the patient's breathing. For example, such additional information may include the relationship between the patient's breathing effort and breath volume. As another example, the additional information may include the relationship between the patient's breathing effort and rate of breath flow. Still other such additional information may be derived from various combinations of spirometer and PPG output signals. | 12-30-2010 |
20110046500 | SENSOR - A sensor for measuring a respiration is disclosed herein. The sensor includes at least one housing ( | 02-24-2011 |
20110046501 | OPTIMIZATION OF A FLOW SENSOR - A sensor for a flow measuring apparatus for lung function diagnostics or performance diagnostics, which sensor has an inner chamber, in particular an inner chamber which is oblong in the direction of flow, and has a resistor for producing a differential pressure between an inner chamber section located upstream from the resistor and between an inner chamber section located downstream from the resistor, which resistor consists of a planar component permeated by openings, which resistor is arranged at an angle between 20° and less than 90° to the direction of flow or to the longitudinal extension of the inner chamber. | 02-24-2011 |
20110054341 | UNCONSTRAINED WEARABLE SPIROMETER APPARATUS, SYSTEM, AND MEASUREMENT METHOD USING THE SAME - Provided is an unconstrained wearable spirometer apparatus. The apparatus includes a variable resistor including a conductive yarn, the length of which changes according to a change in circumference of one's chest when breathing, and having a resistance which changes according to a change in length of the conductive yarn, a resistance-voltage converter converting the resistance of the variable resistor into a voltage, an analog-digital converter converting the voltage in an analog-digital manner, and digitizing the converted results, a cross-sectional capacity calculator calculating changes in cross-sectional capacity of one's chest according to the digitized voltage, an adder adding the calculated changes in cross-sectional capacity and calculating lung capacity, and a transmitter externally transmitting the calculated lung capacity information. Therefore, lung capacity can be measured by wearing such an apparatus in the form of clothing without the use of an external apparatus or device. | 03-03-2011 |
20110077545 | PORTABLE PNEUMOTACHOGRAPH FOR MEASURING COMPONENTS OF AN EXPIRATION VOLUME - A portable pneumotachograph for determining components in an exhalation volume. The problem of extreme sensitivity of sensors to the temperature and moisture content of the gases, and cross-sensitivities to other potential components of the exhalation gas, is solved by providing a climate control chamber wherein a defined gas atmosphere can be set such that by means of the climate control chamber the relative humidity and/or the temperature and/or the composition of a sample and/or calibration gas can be set to predefined parameters. | 03-31-2011 |
20110087123 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR AIRWAY COMPENSATION CONTROL - A method for controlling a mechanical ventilator that is supplying medical gas to a patient via an endotracheal tube. A pressure is measured from a patient end of an endotracheal tube. The pressure at the patient end of the endotracheal tube is used to create an improved endotracheal tube resistance model such that the medical gas supplied by the mechanical ventilator may be compensated for the resistance of the endotracheal tube thereby providing increased control over the medical gas that is delivered to the patient's lungs. Additionally, if an obstruction in the patient's airway is detected, the location of the obstruction may be targeted such that the proper remedial treatment or procedure is selected by a clinician. | 04-14-2011 |
20110087124 | Spirometer Toy - The invention provides a toy that functions to propel a projectile through a tube at someone or something by exerting sufficient air pressure from the user's lungs through the tube. This action has the effect of challenging and building the user's respiratory system, including the respiratory musculature and lung capacity, through the repeated use of the toy. | 04-14-2011 |
20110092840 | INTELLIGENT AIR FLOW SENSORS - A single sensor capable of detecting both airflow in spirometry and the full range of sound frequencies needed to track clinically relevant breath sounds is provided. The airflow sensor includes a movable flap with one or more integrated strain gauges for measuring displacement and vibration. The airflow sensor is inherently bidirectional. The sensor is an elastic flap airflow sensor that is capable of detecting data needed for both spirometry and auscultation measurements. The sensor is sterilizable and designed for the measurement of human respiratory airflow. The sterilizable sensor is also suitable for non-medical fluid flow metering applications. Additional devices such as sensors for the ambient level of various chemicals, sensors for temperature, sensors for humidity and microphones, may be affixed to the flap. When the strain gauge is placed in a conventional Wheatstone bridge configuration, the sensor can provide the airflow measurements needed for medical spirometry. | 04-21-2011 |
20110092841 | METHODS FOR PROVIDING EXPIRATORY PRESSURE RELIEF IN POSITIVE AIRWAY PRESSURE THERAPY - A method of operating a CPAP apparatus in which the interface pressure is controlled to rapidly drop at the start of expiration by an expiratory relief pressure (ERP) that is independent of instantaneous respiratory flow, following which the pressure rises to an inspiratory level at or shortly before the end of expiration, or at the onset of an expiratory pause, if any. The ERP is an increasing function of the inspiratory pressure. The expiratory pressure follows a template that is a function of the expected expiration time, the magnitude of the template being equal to the ERP. The current estimated proportion of expiration is determined by comparing the expiration time of the breath in progress to low-pass filtered expiratory durations measured for a number of the preceding breaths. | 04-21-2011 |
20110125045 | Spirometer with replaceable flow tube - The invention relates to a spirometer for measuring pulmonary respiration of a test subject, comprising a body and a sensor unit, wherein the sensor unit can be interchanged with further sensor units. In a corresponding method, such a spirometer is operated with a sensor unit and the sensor unit is subsequently interchangeably replaced by a further sensor unit. | 05-26-2011 |
20110144517 | Video Based Automated Detection of Respiratory Events - A computer implemented method for automated sleep monitoring, including recording live images of a subject sleeping, transmitting the recorded images to a computing device, receiving the transmitted images at the computing device, performing motion analysis of the subject based on the received images, computing an air flow signal that represents the amount of air flowing into the lungs of the subject over time from the results of said motion analysis, automatically detecting respiratory events based on said airflow signal, wherein a respiratory event is a breathing disturbance, and displaying the respiratory events experienced by the subject on a monitor. An apparatus is also described. | 06-16-2011 |
20110196251 | LEAK DETERMINATION IN A BREATHING ASSISTANCE SYSTEM - Systems and methods for estimating a leak flow in a breathing assistance system including a ventilation device connected to a patient are provided. Data of a flow waveform indicating the flow of gas between the ventilation device and the patient is accessed. A specific portion of the flow waveform is identified, and a linear regression of the identified portion of the flow waveform is performed to determine an estimated leak flow in the breathing assistance system. | 08-11-2011 |
20110196252 | METHOD FOR MEASURING DEAD LUNG SPACE - A method for determining anatomical dead space in a respiratory tract of a living organism, include the steps of continuously and simultaneously measuring flow (F) and respiratory air density (D) during exhalation (EX) over time (T). The time is measured from the start of exhalation, in which the flow is greater than zero, until the dead space point at which, after significant decreases following the start, the respiratory air density merges to an approximately constant value. The integral of the flow is formed from the start point until the dead space end point, the measurements of the respiratory air density and the flow from the start until the dead space end point and during the short time, as that time span in which the respiratory air density assumes an approximately constant value, taken place multiple times in each case. | 08-11-2011 |
20110201958 | SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR THE MEASUREMENT OF LUNG VOLUMES - A system and method for determining FRC, TGV, TLC and RV includes a hand-held unit with a shutter assembly designed to minimize measured air displacement due to shuttering. Measurements of flow and pressure are used to derive the lung parameters. | 08-18-2011 |
20110208082 | Method and apparatus for detecting the respiratory activity of a person - A method and a device are provided for detecting the respiratory activity of a person and for controlling the time progression of breathing gas pressure, especially in accordance with physical parameters and considering parameters indicating the momentary physiological condition of the breathing person. The device for detecting the respiratory activity of a person has at least one sensor that provides a first signal indicating the breathing gas flow, wherein at least one signal processing device is provided for processing the first signal. The signal processing device is configured in such a way that said device determines a reference-relation on the basis of the first signal detected during a first time interval. On the basis thereof, the device determines a correlation-relation between the reference-relation and the first signal. The device generates an output signal indicating the respiratory activity and/or the physiological condition of the breathing person by considering at least the correlation-relation. | 08-25-2011 |
20110230779 | BREATHING TRANSITION DETECTION - Detecting transitions in a breathing cycle which includes using a second derivative | 09-22-2011 |
20110230780 | WORK OF BREATHING DISPLAY FOR A VENTILATION SYSTEM - A breathing support system is provided. The system may include a breathing support device configured to deliver gas to a patient and a display device associated with the breathing support device. The display device may be configured to display a graphic indicating one or more measures regarding the patient's work of breathing. | 09-22-2011 |
20110257555 | BODY-WORN MONITOR FOR MEASURING RESPIRATORY RATE - The invention provides a system for measuring respiratory rate (RR) from a patient. The system includes an impedance pneumography (IP) sensor, connected to at least two electrodes, and a processing system that receives and processes signals from the electrodes to measure an IP signal. A motion sensor (e.g. an accelerometer) measures at least one motion signal (e.g. an ACC waveform) describing movement of a portion of the patient's body to which it is attached. The processing system receives the IP and motion signals, and processes them to determine, respectfully, frequency-domain IP and motion spectra. Both spectra are then collectively processed to remove motion components from the IP spectrum and determine RR. For example, during the processing, an algorithm determines motion frequency components from the frequency-domain motion spectrum, and then using a digital filter removes these, or parameters calculated therefrom, from the IP spectrum. | 10-20-2011 |
20110270116 | MINIMALLY INVASIVE DETERMINATION OF COLLATERAL VENTILATION IN LUNGS - Minimally invasive methods, systems and devices are provided for assessing collateral ventilation in the lungs. In particular, collateral ventilation of a target compartment within a lung of a patient is assessed by advancement of a catheter through the tracheobronchial tree to a feeding airway of the target compartment. The feeding airway is occluded by the catheter and the opening and closing of a one-way valve coupled with the catheter is observed. If the valve ceases opening and closing over time, this may indicate that significant collateral ventilation into the target compartment is absent. If the valve continues to open and close over time, significant collateral ventilation into the compartment may be present. Based on the collateral ventilation assessment, a treatment plan may be generated. | 11-03-2011 |
20110282229 | METHODS OF EVALUATING INDIVIDUALS HAVING REVERSIBLE OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE - This relates to treating an asthmatic lung and more particularly, relates to advancing a treatment device into the lung and treating the lung with the device. This also includes additional steps of treating the airway wall, applying energy or heat to the airway wall in an asthmatic lung. | 11-17-2011 |
20110301485 | Data binning method and system for estimating respiratory airflow from body sound signal - Data binning methods and systems for estimating a subject's respiratory airflow from a body sound signal detected by an acoustic sensor on the subject's body. The methods and systems operate in a configuration mode followed by a monitoring mode. In the configuration mode, a body sound signal and respiratory airflow are detected by an on-body acoustic sensor and a spirometer, respectively, over a common time period. Time-aligned body sound signal and respiratory airflow data points are then generated and assigned to bins each spanning a discrete signal range (e.g. discrete signal entropy range or signal amplitude range). Respiratory airflow estimation data (e.g. mean airflow and standard deviation) are then calculated for each bin and an entry for each bin associating the discrete range and the estimation data is stored in a lookup table. Then, in the monitoring mode, the lookup table is accessed using subsequent body sound signal readings (e.g. taken in the field or at home) to provide respiratory airflow estimates without further need for a spirometer. | 12-08-2011 |
20120010519 | System and Method for Diagnosis and Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea - A system for diagnosis and treatment of breathing disorders in a patient, comprises a flow generator supplying an air flow to an airway of a patient via a flow path, a venting arrangement moveable between (i) a closed position in which the flow path is substantially sealed between the flow generator and the patient's airway and (ii) an open position in which the flow path is open to an ambient atmosphere, a sensor detecting data corresponding to flow through the patient's airway, and a processing arrangement controlling operation of the venting arrangement and the flow generator, wherein, in a diagnostic mode, the processing arrangement maintains the venting arrangement in the open position and in a therapeutic mode, the processing arrangement maintains the venting arrangement in the closed position and controls the flow generator to supply to the patient's airway via the flow path a calculated therapeutic pressure. | 01-12-2012 |
20120010520 | Methods of Evaluating a Patient for PEEP Therapy - Methods of automatically evaluating a patient for positive and expiratory pressure (PEEP) therapy include providing respiratory assistance to the patient with a mechanical ventilator. The patient is provided PEEP therapy at a first PEEP. A first end expiratory lung volume (EELV) is measured from the patient. PEEP therapy is provided to the patient at a second PEEP. A second EELV is measured from the patient. A difference from the first EELV and the second EELV is calculated. A value indicative of the patient's response to PEEP therapy is calculated from the difference between the first EELV and the second EELV. | 01-12-2012 |
20120010521 | Scalable WLAN Gateway - A technique for combining transmission bandwidths of several mobile stations (MS | 01-12-2012 |
20120022390 | PROCESS FOR LEAK TESTING, DEVICE AND RESPIRATOR - A process is provided for leak testing in a respirator ( | 01-26-2012 |
20120029376 | Personal Spirometer - A portable hand-held spirometer is disclosed for use in taking respiratory tests and storing and displaying test results. The configuration of the spirometer includes handgrips that are positioned to ensure that the user is properly positioned to provide maximum breathing required for valid test results to be obtained. The spirometer also includes a progressively illuminated indicator that can be viewed by the user during a test to provide an indication in real-time to the user of the expected/desired duration of the exhalation or inhalation test. The indicator is completely illuminated only when the measured accumulated volume of air passing through the spirometer equals a predicted volume determined based on the age, gender, height, weight and ethnicity of the user stored in the spirometer. The structures and arrangement of a turbine assembly and sensors is also disclosed. Further, a method of receiving, storing and displaying information on the spirometer via a color touch screen display is also disclosed. | 02-02-2012 |
20120041329 | Device for manipulating respiratory air flow and use thereof - A device comprising a unit ( | 02-16-2012 |
20120089043 | INCENTIVE SPIROMETRY DEVICE HAVING AN EXTERNALLY DISPOSED CAPACITIVE SENSOR ASSEMBLY FOR PROMPTING PATIENT USE AND DETERMINING MEASUREMENTS OBTAINED FROM SUCH PATIENT USAGE - An apparatus used in the medical industry such as an Incentive Spirometer, in order to increase transpulmonary pressure and respiratory volumes, to improve inspiratory muscle performance and re-establish the normal pulmonary hyperinflation, through the employment of electronic technology, providing audible, simulated, verbal, human sounding words, that assist, guide and prompt, increasing patient usage. In one embodiment, the Incentive Spirometer uses a capacitive sensing circuit preferably mounted to the side of the apparatus's housing for sensing movement of the float within the tube wall and for obtaining a measurement or reading of the patient's performance with the Incentive Spirometer. | 04-12-2012 |
20120130265 | Portable Spirometer - Disclosed is a portable spirometer which comprises: a small breath tube for measuring a unidirectional flow, to which the breath flow of a patient is inputted; a breath signal processing unit which generates a breath signal from the breath flow, removes the noise contained in the breath signal and amplifies the signal level so as to generate a target signal of analysis; a breath signal analysis unit for analyzing the target signal of analysis to calculate diagnosis parameters; and a display unit for displaying the analysis result of the breath signal. | 05-24-2012 |
20120136271 | SPIROMETER APPARATUS AND METHODS USEFUL IN CONJUNCTION THEREWITH - Spirometer apparatus comprising main inhale-exhale tube having first end, main interior, and second open end, a plurality of smaller tubes intersecting said main-inhale exhale tube at first and second respective locations and having a plurality of smaller interiors respectively, the first location being closer to the first end than is the second location, wherein each of the smaller interiors are in fluid communication with the main interior solely via at least one aperture formed in each of the intersecting tubes at locations facing said second end, the intersecting tubes having first and second external cross-sections, the main tube having first and second internal cross-sections, wherein said first external cross-section is smaller than said first internal cross-section, said second external cross-section is smaller than said second internal cross-section, and wherein said second external cross-section is smaller than said first external cross-section, and a differential pressure sensor sensing the pressure drop. | 05-31-2012 |
20120143073 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF REMOTELY MONITORING AND/OR MANAGING THE TREATMENT OF A PLURALITY OF SUBJECTS WITH AEROSOLIZED MEDICAMENT - Therapy regimes of a plurality of subjects are remotely monitored and/or managed, wherein the therapy regimes include reception of aerosolized medicament. This enables users such as medical care providers, researchers, clinic administrators, and/or other users to monitor and/or manage the therapy regimes of the plurality of subjects through a centralized access point. This reduces physical requirements of proximity for the users and/or the subjects, alleviates the administrative the burden placed on the users to manage and/or monitor individual therapy regimes, and/or provides other enhancements over convention systems. | 06-07-2012 |
20120150057 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR ENDOBRONCHIAL DIAGNOSIS - A method of diagnosing an air leak in a lung compartment of a patient may include: advancing a diagnostic catheter into an airway leading to the lung compartment; inflating an occluding member on the catheter to form a seal with a wall of the airway and thus isolate the lung compartment; measuring air pressure within the lung compartment during multiple breaths, using the diagnostic catheter; displaying the measured air pressure as an air pressure value on a console coupled with the diagnostic catheter; and determining whether an air leak is present in the lung compartment based on the displayed air pressure value during the multiple breaths. | 06-14-2012 |
20120150058 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MONITORING A PATIENT FOR A RESPIRATORY ARREST/DEATH EVENT - A method for monitoring patients for a respiratory arrest/death event can include selecting a patient that is at risk of undergoing a respiratory arrest/death event, attaching a temperature sensor to the patient such that the temperature sensor is in fluid communication with air entering and exiting the patient, and processing data on a temperature of the air entering and exiting the patient collected from the temperature sensor over a continuous period of patient hospitalization. | 06-14-2012 |
20120179061 | DETECTION OF SLEEP CONDITION - Automated devices provide methodologies for determining sleep conditions, which may be in conjunction with treatment of sleep disordered breathing by a pressure treatment apparatus such as a continuous positive airway pressure device. Based on a measure of respiratory airflow, respiratory characteristics are extracted to detect arousal conditions, sleep stability, sleep states and/or perform sleep quality assessments. The methodologies may be implemented for data analysis by a specific purpose computer, a monitoring device that measures a respiratory airflow and/or a respiratory treatment apparatus that provides a respiratory treatment regime based on the detected conditions. | 07-12-2012 |
20120190999 | PEDIATRIC NEBULIZER - A nebulizer includes a body having an air channel section, medication reservoir and nebulizer outlet configured to be received within an oral cavity of a patient. A nebulizer suction member encloses the body and is configured as an infant pacifier. An air line extends through the air channel section and has a venturi nozzle and at its end configured to form a low pressure mixing chamber. A primary suction line extends from the medication reservoir to the low pressure mixing chamber through which medication is drawn upward and mixed with air passing through the venturi nozzle and nebulized for discharge through the nebulizer outlet. | 07-26-2012 |
20120215126 | DETERMINING DYNAMIC AIRWAY RESPONSE IN A SUBJECT - A method for assessing a broncho-dynamic response in a subject includes introducing a sound signal having known characteristics into the airway of a subject, detecting one or more responsive sound signals at one or more locations on the thorax, administering a broncho-effector to the subject, and determining the subject's response to the broncho-effector by monitoring the one or more responsive sound signals before and after administering the broncho-effector. Changes in the responsive sound signal characteristics indicate the subject's broncho-dynamic response to the broncho-effector. Apparatus for assessing broncho-dynamic response in a subject is also provided. | 08-23-2012 |
20120215127 | IN VIVO FLOW SENSOR - A flow sensor measures an amount of flow of a medium flowing inside a tubular organ of an organism by mounting a flexible substrate, upon which heaters are formed, inside a tube disposed in a manner so as to follow the tubular organ of the organism through which the medium is flowing, and by detecting a state of heat quantity generated from the heaters on the mounted flexible substrate being transmitted to the medium. In the flow sensor, at least the two heaters, formed upon the flexible substrate, respectively form symmetrical structures with identical heating capabilities under identical conditions, and the linear members, which supply power to the heaters from outside the organism, form symmetrical structures with identical heating capabilities under identical conditions, thereby allowing temperature distribution of the heaters and linear members inside the tube to he symmetrical. The plurality of linear members protrude in a manner so as to intersect from inside the tubular organ to outside the organism. | 08-23-2012 |
20120232420 | RESPIRATION MONITORING - (EN) Respiration of a patient can be monitored by means of a device (ASD) that has the following characteristics. An inlet (IL) receives a pressurized airflow of breathable air from an airflow source. An outlet (OL) applies the pressurized airflow to a mask worn by the patient. An airflow path (AFP) is arranged between the inlet (IL) and the outlet (OL). The airflow path (AFP) has an axis (AX) and exhibits a decrease (−ΔD) in diameter followed by an increase (+ΔD) in diameter in a direction from the inlet (IL) to the outlet (OL). The increase (+ΔD) in diameter comprises an initial portion (WI) in which the diameter increases according to a slope (ψ) of less than 10° with respect to the axis (AX). A pressure measurement arrangement (PS | 09-13-2012 |
20120253218 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR EUCAPNIC VOLUNTARY HYPERVENTILATION TESTING - A method and apparatus provide more efficient eucapnic voluntary hyperventilation (EVH) testing by using a low pressure demand valve that has low resistance during rapid breathing and by monitoring air flow to the subject from a pressurized tank using measurements of change in the tank's pressure. A second stage Scuba regulator is modified to provide a demand valve that has low resistance during rapid breathing. | 10-04-2012 |
20120277615 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR INTELLIGENT FLOW SENSORS - A single sensor capable of detecting both airflow in spirometry and the full range of sound frequencies needed to track clinically relevant breath sounds is provided. The airflow sensor includes a movable flap with one or more integrated strain gauges for measuring displacement and vibration. The airflow sensor is inherently bidirectional. The sensor is an elastic flap airflow sensor that is capable of detecting data needed for both spirometry and auscultation measurements. The sensor is sterilizable and designed for the measurement of human respiratory airflow. The sterilizable sensor is also suitable for non-medical fluid flow metering applications. Additional devices such as sensors for the ambient level of various chemicals, sensors for temperature, sensors for humidity and microphones, may be affixed to the flap. When the strain gauge is placed in a conventional Wheatstone bridge configuration, the sensor can provide the airflow measurements needed for medical spirometry. | 11-01-2012 |
20120277616 | WORK OF BREATHING DISPLAY FOR A VENTILATION SYSTEM - A breathing support system is provided. The system may include a breathing support device configured to deliver gas to a patient and a display device associated with the breathing support device. The display device may he configured to display a work of breathing graphic indicating one or more work of breathing measures regarding the patient's breathing. | 11-01-2012 |
20120289853 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETERMINING DEAD SPACE FRACTION IN AN ONGOING MANNER FROM INTERMITTENT BLOOD GAS SAMPLES - A system is configured to monitor the dead space fraction of a subject in a substantially ongoing manner, rather than only updating the dead space fraction of the subject if one or more blood gas parameters of the subject are measured. This may facilitate enhanced control over respiratory therapy being provided to the subject, may inform decisions about care of the subject, and/or may provide other enhancements. | 11-15-2012 |
20120302910 | WIRELESS VENTILATOR REPORTING - Systems and methods regarding ventilation of a patient, such as a victim at the scene of an emergency are described herein. | 11-29-2012 |
20130012828 | Method and System for Measuring Nasal Resistance to Airflow - Determining nasal resistance. At least some of the illustrative embodiments are methods including: applying negative pressure to a patient's mouth and thereby creating airflow that flows in a first nare and out the patient's mouth; measuring at least one property of the airflow during the causing; and determining an indicia of nasal resistance of the patient, the determining based on the at least one property. | 01-10-2013 |
20130066225 | MONITORING INCENTIVE SPIROMETRY - Systems and methods for monitoring incentive spirometry are disclosed. A patient measuring unit measures inhalation and/or exhalation flow and/or volume. The patient is instructed to follow a prescribed program of repeated inhalations and/or exhalations using the patient measuring unit. Feedback is provided to the patient to facilitate compliance with the prescribed program. All usage of the patient measuring unit is recorded and displays are provided for both the patient and an attending clinician. Prescribed performance targets are programmed, and alarms are set to indicate when prescribed targets are not met. Alarms can be set for minimum and maximum flow rates, minimum inhalation volume, minimum repeat count per set, maximum interval between sets, and maximum performance degradation compared to a recent average. | 03-14-2013 |
20130066226 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETECTING SLEEP ONSET IN A SUBJECT BASED ON RESPONSIVENESS TO BREATHING CUES - A wake-to-sleep transition for a subject is detected based on responsiveness to breathing cues provided to the subject. A pressurized flow of breathable gas to the airway of subject having one or more gas parameters that are adjusted to provide breathing cues to the subject. Based on a detected conformance of the respiration of the subject to the breathing cues, a determination is made as to whether the subject is awake or asleep. | 03-14-2013 |
20130096452 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ANALYZING A PATIENT'S RESPIRATORY ACTIVITY AND CORRESPONDING USES - This method for analyzing the respiratory activity of a patient comprises the steps ( | 04-18-2013 |
20130123655 | Peak Expiratory Flow Rate Measurement Apparatus - Herein disclosed is a peak expiratory flow rate measuring apparatus (PFM) having at least one measurement channel and at least one bypass flow channel comprising at least one entrance, at least one exit, at least an inner wall and an outer wall, and wherein at least a portion of said at least one bypass flow channel has a variable cross-sectional area. Further disclosed is a PFM having at least one measurement channel comprising at least one first flow entrance, at least one bypass flow channel comprising at least one second flow entrance, and at least one guide wall, having an axially forward portion adjacent to said second flow entrance and an axially aft portion adjacent to said first flow entrance. Still further disclosed is a PFM comprising at least one measurement channel having at least one first flow entrance, at least one bypass flow channel having at least one second flow entrance, wherein at least a portion of said at least one bypass flow channel comprises a variable cross-sectional area, and at least one guide wall, comprising an axially forward portion adjacent to said second flow entrance and an axially aft portion adjacent to said first flow entrance. | 05-16-2013 |
20130165811 | APPARATUS FOR AUTOMATICALLY DIAGNOSING EMPHYSEMA - The present invention relates generally to diagnosing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and estimating of the severity thereof, in particularly the occurrence of emphysema. More particularly the present invention relates to a system and method for computerized quantification of airway collapse during forced expiration or total exhalation. Such airway collapse is correlated with the presence of emphysema that has been verified on computer tomography (CT) scan and that is due to the loss of alveolar attachments in emphysema. Moreover the present invention provides a computerized apparatus for detection of emphysema, a computerized system for detection of emphysema or a method of computer-aided detection of emphysema. This can also be used for quantifying the severity of emphysema in patients with COPD by an automated analysis of measurement of the amount (volume) and/or speed (flow) of a total or forced exhalation or the processing of the graphics of a pneumotachograph of a total or forced exhalation. Such measurements are obtainable by a spirometer. The apparatus, system or method of present invention correlates airway collapse during forced expiration in COPD with presence and severity of emphysema It was demonstrated that airway collapse during forced expiration could be quantified by measuring the angle between the two best fitting regression lines describing the cloud of point measurements obtained from peakflow to the end of forced expiration. Such angle in COPD correlates with presence and severity of emphysema, as assessed by computer tomography scan. | 06-27-2013 |
20130172772 | MASK AND METHOD FOR USE IN RESPIRATORY MONITORING AND DIAGNOSTICS - Disclosed is a mask for use in respiratory monitoring and/or diagnostics. The mask comprises at least one transducer responsive to sound and/or airflow for generating a signal, and a support structure to rest on the subject's face. In one embodiment, the support structure comprises two or more limbs that provide a transducer support for supporting the transducer at a distance from a nose and mouth area, allowing monitoring via the transducer of sound and/or airflow produced by the subject. Also described is a mask comprising a transducer responsive to airflow for generating a signal and a support structure to rest on the subject's face and extend outwardly over a nose and mouth area to provide a transducer support supporting the transducer at a distance from a nose and mouth area of the subject's face and at a preset orientation, for monitoring via the transducer of airflow produced by the subject. | 07-04-2013 |
20130172773 | SPIROMETER BREATHING TUBE WITH COMPOUND MEMBRANE - A compound membrane breathing tube for use in spirometric applications is provided. The compound membrane comprises a first sheet and a second sheet of flexible sheeting connected together along the periphery thereof, and each of the sheets has an opening cut therethrough to create a flap. The flap of the first sheet overlaps the flap of the second sheet so as to present a higher relative resistance to airflow through the breathing tube at lower airflows. | 07-04-2013 |
20130190640 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR THE MEASUREMENT OF PULMONARY PARAMETERS - An apparatus includes a mouthpiece to communicate an airflow between a user and an airflow chamber in fluid communication with the mouthpiece; an interrupter in fluid communication with the airflow chamber and adapted to initiate an occlusion event by adjusting between an open state and a closed state, such that fluid communication is at least partially prevented between the airflow chamber and ambient air during the occlusion event initiated by the interrupter; a container in fluid communication with the airflow chamber; a flow rate sensor in fluid communication with the airflow chamber and adapted to measure an airflow exchange between the airflow chamber and the container during the occlusion event; and a controller adapted to determine an instantaneous lung volume based on the measured airflow exchange between the airflow chamber and the container. | 07-25-2013 |
20130190641 | MODULAR ACOUSTIC SPIROMETER - A system for measuring spirometric flow rate using a microphone and a mobile computer device connected to or integrated with the microphone. The mobile computer device may include a processor and storage. The storage may be operatively connectible, e.g over a network, to a computer system used by a practitioner. The system has a transducer adapted for converting spirometric flow rate into an audible signal with an audio frequency characteristic of the spirometric flow rate. The microphone is external to the transducer and may be adapted to detect the audible signal having an audio frequency and to convert the audible signal to a corresponding electrical signal having the audio frequency. The audio frequency may be characteristic of a peak expiratory flow rate and the output result is characteristic of the peak expiratory flow rate. | 07-25-2013 |
20130190642 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR DIAGNOSING OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA - There is provided an apparatus for use in diagnosing the presence of obstructive sleep apnea in a patient, the apparatus comprising a processor configured to receive signals representing measurements of a patient's breathing obtained during a plurality o breathing cycles by the patient while the patient is awake, convert the signals into the frequency domain and to determine a value for at least one parameter based on an analysis of the frequency-domain converted signals in one or more frequency bands covering frequencies below 100 Hz. | 07-25-2013 |
20130204151 | Augmented Incentive Spirometer - A novel augmented incentive spirometer that will deliver pressurized oxygen, or air when the patient inhales, therefore increasing the inspired volume over the amount of volume generated only by the patient's effort. | 08-08-2013 |
20130226022 | Measurement Device for Lung Function Measurement - The invention comprises a measurement device for lung function measurement comprising a flow tube forming an air-flow path, an actuator for closing and opening the flow tube and at least one sensor for measuring at least one lung function variable, wherein the actuator is arranged to force the flow tube to close the air-flow path by pressing the tube against a wall of the flow tube. | 08-29-2013 |
20130267864 | NEBULIZER WITH INTRA-ORAL VIBRATING MESH - A nebulizer includes a main body that has a nebulizer outlet and an air channel in communication with the nebulizer outlet. The main body supports a medicine reservoir and a mesh that engages the medicine reservoir and air channel and vibrates to atomize medicine from the medicine reservoir into the air channel for discharge through the nebulizer outlet. The nebulizer outlet and mesh are configured to be received within the oral cavity of the patient when the nebulizer is in use. | 10-10-2013 |
20130267865 | PATIENT MONITORING AND EXCEPTION NOTIFICATION - A monitoring system is used to measure various parameters of the sleep, respiration, and/or other bodily functions of a subject. One or more metrics are calculated that quantify deviation from the mean, trends, changes over time, and/or other changes in the parameters. The metrics are used to generate notifications of these changes that can be conveyed to caregivers and/or other users. | 10-10-2013 |
20130281876 | THERAPIES FOR IMPROVING PULMONARY FUNCTION - The disclosure relates to IL-13 antagonists, in particular anti-human-IL-13 antibodies and human-IL-13-binding fragments thereof, and their use for improvement, maintenance or reduction in the rate of decline of pulmonary function in a subject with impaired pulmonary function, which may be associated with uncontrolled moderate-to-asthma, COPD or IPF. | 10-24-2013 |
20130303930 | Game-based incentive spirometer and a method of quantifying and recording performance - An incentive spirometry device designed to assist patients with respiratory therapy by means of an electronic air flow sensor that provides patients with visual or other positive feedback when they inhale or exhale at a predetermined flow rate or volume and sustain the act for a predetermined minimum time period. The objectives are to increase transpulmonary pressure and inspiratory volumes, improve inspiratory muscle performance, and re-establish or simulate the normal pattern of pulmonary hyperinflation. When the procedure is repeated on a regular basis, airway patency may be maintained and lung atelectasis prevented and reversed. By means of a connection to a personal computer, a video game like therapy session could enable patients to have a more effective and enjoyable session. | 11-14-2013 |
20130303931 | RESPIRATION MEASUREMENTS AND DOSIMETRY CONTROL IN INHALATION TESTING SYSTEMS - Inhalation measurement systems and methods enable, during inhalant exposure, substantially real-time respiratory measurements of a test subject using techniques that obtain measurements of respiration directly from that test subject, instead of from inhalation chamber parameter measurements. Direct test subject respiratory measurements may be, by way of example only, impedance measurements. These respiratory measurements taken directly from the test subject may be transmitted, wirelessly for example, for processing during the course of the test to a processing system to determine a cumulative volume of inhalant inspired by the test subject. From that, a cumulative amount of inhalant (or dose) inspired by the test subject may be determined during the course of the inhalation compound test. In addition, a calibration procedure may be performed before the inhalant exposure to provide correlation needed to translate chest and/or abdominal wall expansion measurements, made during the test, into lung volume measurements. | 11-14-2013 |
20130303932 | AUTOMATED SPIROGRAM ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION - Automated analysis and interpretation of spirograms is provided to assess lung function of a subject. If the shape of a spirogram plot is deemed suitably reliable, the spirogram may be subsequently used for diagnostic purposes. Quality control of spirograms and/or interpretation of reliable spirograms may use shape templates corresponding to common test problems and/or typical lung diseases. | 11-14-2013 |
20130317379 | SPIROMETER SYSTEM AND METHODS OF DATA ANALYSIS - The present disclosure relates to an electronic spirometer that empowers users to quantitatively track and proactively manage respiratory diseases via simple integration with mobile devices, tablets, and computers. In one aspect, patients will be able to connect with their doctors to determine medication dosage and efficacy, avoid environmental triggers, and prevent attacks and exacerbations. | 11-28-2013 |
20130324876 | PROCESSING A VIDEO FOR TIDAL CHEST VOLUME ESTIMATION - What is disclosed is a system and method for estimating tidal chest volume using 3D surface reconstruction based on an analysis of captured reflections of structured illumination patterns from the subject with a video camera. The imaging system hereof captures the reflection of the light patterns from a target area of the subject's thoracic region. The captured information produces a depth map and a volume is estimated from the resulting 3D map. The teachings hereof provide a non-contact approach to patient respiration monitoring that is particularly useful for infant care in a neo-natal intensive care unit (NICU), and can aid in the early detection of sudden deterioration of physiological condition due to detectable changes in respiratory function. The systems and methods disclosed herein provide an effective tool for tidal chest volume study and respiratory function analysis. | 12-05-2013 |
20130324877 | APPARATUS FOR DETERMINING RESPIRATORY CONDITION - An apparatus for determining a respiratory condition, the apparatus includes: a signal acquirer which is configured to acquire a signal waveform corresponding to a respiratory flow of a subject; a differential calculator which is configured to acquire a differential waveform which is obtained by performing differentiation of the signal waveform; and a first determiner which is configured to determine that inspiratory flow to limitation occurs in the subject, when the differential waveform satisfies a predetermined condition in a portion of the signal waveform, which corresponds to inspiration of the subject. | 12-05-2013 |
20130331726 | APPARATUS FOR TRACKING COMPLIANCE WITH A TREATMENT FOR OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA - The invention relates to an apparatus ( | 12-12-2013 |
20130345589 | METHOD AND SYSTEM TO DIAGNOSE CENTRAL SLEEP APNEA - Methods and system to diagnose central sleep apnea of a patient employ a relatively short test, combining few breathing parameters. The test is short in comparison to commonly used time-consuming and complex multi-parameter sleep studies. The patient uses a positive airway pressure device, and follows breathing cues. The occurrence of a central apnea during the delivery of breathing cues may support a diagnosis of central sleep apnea. | 12-26-2013 |
20130345590 | APPARATUS FOR QUANTIFYING EXPIRATORY AND INSPIRATORY AIRFLOW - An apparatus for quantifying a user's expiratory and inspiratory airflow includes an air tube adapted to be sealed over at least one of the nose or mouth of a user, a pressure sensor configured to be selectively fluidly connected with one of the air tube or an ambient environment external to the air tube, a valve assembly arranged between the air tube and the pressure sensor to switch between a measuring configuration in which the pressure sensor is fluidly connected with the air tube while fluid connection with the ambient environment is excluded, and a reference configuration in which the pressure sensor is fluidly connected with the ambient environment while fluid connection with the air-tube is excluded, and a data processing unit arranged to communicate with the pressure sensor and the valve assembly. The data processing unit is configured to provide instructions to the valve assembly to switch between the measuring and the reference configurations. The data processing unit is further configured to determine an absolute zero of expiratory and inspiratory airflow based on signals from the pressure sensor obtained while the valve assembly is in the reference configuration and to measure at least one of expiratory and inspiratory airflow while the valve assembly is in the measuring configuration. The processing unit is further configured to determine at least one of expiratory airflow limitation or inspiratory airflow limitation relative to the absolute zero airflow. | 12-26-2013 |
20140005566 | Systems and Methods for Therapeutic Intrathoracic Pressure Regulation | 01-02-2014 |
20140018692 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PULMONARY VENTILATION IMAGING USING LOCAL VOLUME CHANGES - The invention provides a novel method of high-resolution quantifiable pulmonary regional ventilation imaging using a package of computer programs, including deformable image registration and local volume change calculation on 4-D or breath-hold CT images. High resolution 3D ventilation images have been generated using this technique with superior quality. The deformation matrices between different respiration phases are calculated using deformable image registration and applied to calculate local volume change ΔV between respiration phases. The invention provides less image-noise and mismatch sensitivity than other techniques based on CT images, and is less expensive than nuclear medicine imaging. Implemented clinically, the method can derive a patient's pulmonary ventilation information from the same set of 4-D CT images, providing a cheaper but more accurate method to generate clinical lung ventilation image. Such information can be utilized in treatment planning sparing functional lung volumes without additional procedure and cost for lung functional imaging. | 01-16-2014 |
20140081167 | PLETHYSMOGRAPH WITH ANIMAL RESTRAINT - A plethysmograph is described that includes a test chamber having an opening; a sealing member including an annular flexible seal to receive at least a part of the head of the test animal mounted across the opening whereby the animal breathes air outside the test chamber, while the animal's body is within the test chamber; and a restraining member attachable to the sealing member, the restraining member including a clamp positionable behind the test animal's head, to prevent the animal from withdrawing its head from the restraining member. The animal is positioned in the restraining member and the sealing member is attached to the restraining member before insertion of the animal and assembly into the test chamber, avoiding previous difficulties in simultaneously placing an animal into the chamber while inserting the animal's nose into the seal. The plethysmograph also eliminates the necessity for a plunger to prevent rearward movement of the animal. | 03-20-2014 |
20140100470 | DIGITAL INSPIROMETER SYSTEM - The present invention provides, in at least one embodiment, a system, device, and method for better instructions, feedback, and capture of inspirometer data. Inspirometers are typically not used correctly, so the device provides video, picture, and/or text instructions to users on how to use the inspirometer. Since many users do not inhale at the correct slow flow rate, the device has indicators telling the user whether his or her inhalation flow rate is too fast or too slow. Since many users do not use the inspirometer at all, the device captures electronic data including the total volume inhaled, flow rate data which indicates whether the user used the inspirometer correctly, and time stamps which indicate whether the users used the inspirometer regularly or at all. The device can also include spirometer features to capture exhaled breath data as well as inhaled breath data. | 04-10-2014 |
20140107518 | RESUSCITATION DEVICE - A resuscitation device comprising a main housing, and an expiratory relief valve. | 04-17-2014 |
20140128761 | PASSIVE NASAL PEEP DEVICES - Described herein are passive nasal respiratory devices, in particular, passive nasal respiratory devices configured to achieve positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) in a subject wearing the device. PEEP devices may have a threshold pressure for opening during expiration. These devices may include a flap valve that opens on inhalation nested with a spring valve that opens when exhalation pressure exceeds a predetermined threshold. The device may be configured to be comfortably worn by a sleeping subject. | 05-08-2014 |
20140142455 | MINIMALLY INVASIVE DETERMINATION OF COLLATERAL VENTILATION IN LUNGS - Minimally invasive methods, systems and devices are provided for assessing collateral ventilation in the lungs. In particular, collateral ventilation of a target compartment within a lung of a patient is assessed by advancement of a catheter through the tracheobronchial tree to a feeding airway of the target compartment. The feeding airway is occluded by the catheter and the opening and closing of a one-way valve coupled with the catheter is observed. If the valve ceases opening and closing over time, this may indicate that significant collateral ventilation into the target compartment is absent. If the valve continues to open and close over time, significant collateral ventilation into the compartment may be present. Based on the collateral ventilation assessment, a treatment plan may be generated. | 05-22-2014 |
20140142456 | ENVIRONMENTAL AND PATIENT MONITOR FOR PROVIDING ACTIVITY RECOMMENDATIONS - A patient manager provides activity recommendations to a patient based on monitored data. The patient manager monitors personal, environmental, and external data to identify baseline and personal best thresholds to determine appropriate activity recommendations for a patient that is trying to manage a disease such as asthma. A personal monitor measures a peak flow rate by having the patient blow through the personal monitor. An environmental monitor measures ambient conditions in a room and communicates the conditions with the patient manager. The patient manager also pulls in third-party regional weather information, and generates activity recommendations based on the personal, environmental, and regional information. | 05-22-2014 |
20140142457 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR IMPROVED FLOW LIMITATION DETECTION OF OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA - In a respiratory apparatus for treatment of sleep apnea and other disorders associated with an obstruction of a patient's airway and which uses an airflow signal, an obstruction index is generated which detects the flattening of the inspiratory portion of the airflow. The flattening index serves as an obstruction index used to differentiate normal and obstructed breathing. The obstruction index is based upon comparison of values of airflow in different sectors of the inspiratory peak of the wave function and is particularly suitable for distinguishing M shaped or square shaped respiratory patters indicative of partially obstructed airways. | 05-22-2014 |
20140148722 | NEBULIZER THAT IS ACTIVATED BY NEGATIVE INSPIRATORY PRESSURE - A nebulizer includes a body, an air channel section and medication reservoir. An air line extends through the air channel section. A venturi nozzle is configured to form at its end a low pressure mixing chamber. A primary suction line extends from the medication reservoir to the low pressure mixing chamber through which medication is drawn upward into the low pressure mixing chamber and mixed with air from the venturi nozzle and nebulized for discharge through a nebulizer outlet. The venturi nozzle, low pressure mixing chamber and air channel section are configured such that at standard temperature and pressure (STP) a differential pressure results in no medication that is drawn upward through the primary suction line for nebulization and discharged the through the nebulizer outlet until a negative inspiratory pressure is created from inhalation by a user. | 05-29-2014 |
20140194767 | NON-INVASIVE VENTILATION MEASUREMENT - Determining the lung compliance and lung resistance of a subject undergoing respiratory therapy using non-invasive ventilation requires taking the presence of leaks into account. In particular, variable and unintentional leaks at or near a subject interface appliance may be dynamically determined based on an average resistance of the leak orifice of the subject. | 07-10-2014 |
20140207016 | PULSED NEBULIZER - A nebulizer includes a nebulizer body having an air channel section, medication reservoir and nebulizer outlet. An air line has an inlet at one end and extends through the air channel section and has a venturi nozzle oriented horizontally when in use and an outlet and configured to form a low pressure mixing chamber. The air line provides a pulsed flow of gas between the inlet and outlet end. The venturi nozzle and medication reservoir are received within an oral cavity of a patient when in use. A primary suction line extends from the medication reservoir to the low pressure mixing chamber through which medication is drawn upward and mixed with gas passing through the venturi nozzle and nebulized for pulsed discharge through the nebulizer outlet during nebulization. | 07-24-2014 |
20140213925 | SYSTEMS, METHODS AND KITS FOR MEASURING RESPIRATORY RATE AND DYNAMICALLY PREDICTING RESPIRATORY EPISODES - This disclosure is directed to devices, systems, kits and methods for measuring peak expiratory or inspiratory flow-rate and dynamically predicting respiratory episodes. Additionally, systems for analyzing and processing the measurement in a communication networked environment are also provided. An aspect of the disclosure is directed to a respiratory device, In some configurations the respiratory device comprises a housing adaptable and configurable to communicate with an electronic device, a mouth piece having a proximal end and a distal end configurable to engage a mouth of a patient and transmit an air flow, one or more diaphragm sensors configured to detect a breath vibration from the air flow in the mouth piece, and a processor adaptable and configurable to analyze the breath vibration detected by the one or more diaphragm sensors. | 07-31-2014 |
20140276176 | MAINTAINING AN EXHALATION VALVE SENSOR ASSEMBLY - The disclosure describes an exhalation valve sensor assembly. The disclosure describes a novel exhalation valve sensor assembly that is configured for refurbishing. Accordingly, the disclosure further describes systems and methods for maintaining an exhalation valve assembly and describes a kit for refurbishing an exhalation valve sensor assembly. | 09-18-2014 |
20140350430 | APPARATUS FOR TESTING RESPIRATORY FUNCTION - A respiratory function testing apparatus capable of testing a respiratory function of a subject more accurately. In the apparatus, a respiratory state detection unit acquires a first signal representative of different inspiratory volumes corresponding to a plurality of breaths of the subject and a second signal representative of intrapleural pressures corresponding to the respective different inspiratory volumes, and detects a plurality of respiratory states corresponding to the different inspiratory volumes and their corresponding intrapleural pressures. A respiratory state determination unit captures a state of the respiratory function of the subject on the basis of the plurality of respiratory states corresponding to the different inspiratory volumes and their corresponding-respective intrapleural pressures. | 11-27-2014 |
20140378858 | Apparatus And Method For The Mobile Determination Of A Physiological Stress Threshold Value - An apparatus for the mobile determination of at least one physiological stress threshold value of an athlete. The apparatus includes a sensor for determining the respired air volume at each point in time of a plurality of points in time. A processing unit is configured to compute a sum value for each point in time of the plurality of points in time at least based on the respired air volume of a present point in time and a sum value of a previous point in time, to set the sum value to an initial value, if the previous point in time is not within the plurality of points in time, and to determine the physiological stress threshold value based on the computed sum values. | 12-25-2014 |
20150011906 | BREATHING BIOFEEDBACK DEVICE - Disclosed are biofeedback methods and devices suitable for providing biofeedback useful for helping a user control an own breathing, for example, to help in inducing deep breathing, and such biofeedback devices further comprising a dispenser for dispensing an inhalable substance. | 01-08-2015 |
20150038867 | DISCRIMINATION OF CHEYNE-STOKES BREATHING PATTERNS - A method of a processor for detecting a presence of Cheyne-Stokes respiration from a respiration signal includes accessing data representative of a respiration signal. Data is assessed to detect apnea and/or hypopnea events. A cycle length histogram is determined based on the events and an incident of Cheyne-Stokes respiration is detected based on the cycle length histogram. | 02-05-2015 |
20150038868 | METHODS FOR PROVIDING EXPIRATORY PRESSURE RELIEF IN POSITIVE AIRWAY PRESSURE THERAPY - A method of operating a CPAP apparatus in which the interface pressure is controlled to rapidly drop at the start of expiration by an expiratory relief pressure (ERP) that is independent of instantaneous respiratory flow, following which the pressure rises to an inspiratory level at or shortly before the end of expiration, or at the onset of an expiratory pause, if any. The ERP is an increasing function of the inspiratory pressure. The expiratory pressure follows a template that is a function of the expected expiration time, the magnitude of the template being equal to the ERP. The current estimated proportion of expiration is determined by comparing the expiration time of the breath in progress to low-pass filtered expiratory durations measured for a number of the preceding breaths. | 02-05-2015 |
20150073292 | FLOW SENSOR - A bi-directional flow sensor may be adapted for reducing pneumatic noise during pressure sensing with a flow passing through the flow sensor. The flow sensor may include a hollow, tubular member having a throat section disposed between a ventilator end and a patient end. A flow restrictor may be disposed in the throat section and may be adapted to measure differential pressure in the flow. A baffle may be mounted at the ventilator end and may be adapted to minimize non-axial flow at pressure taps located on opposing ends of the flow restrictor. The patient end may include a flow obstruction configured to promote uniform velocity across the flow at the pressure taps during exhalation flow from the patient end to the ventilator end. The flow sensor can minimize pneumatic noise to less than 0.1 LPM to allow accurate patient flow measurement and triggering of inhalation and exhalation phases at flow rates of 0.2 LPM. | 03-12-2015 |
20150094607 | PREFERENTIAL VOLUME REDUCTION OF DISEASED SEGMENTS OF A HETEROGENEOUS LOBE - Methods and apparatus for diagnosing and treating disorders of the lung are provided, which may include any number of features. In one embodiment, a method comprises obtaining diagnostic information relating to a patient's lungs, compiling a list of potential treatment plans for lung volume reduction in the first and second lungs, excluding treatment plans from the list of potential treatment plans that propose treatment of a lung segment that falls within a segment exclusion rule, and identifying at least one preferred treatment plan from the list of potential treatment plans that targets sufficiently diseased lung segments while also targeting a preferred combined volume of the first and second lungs. | 04-02-2015 |
20150126888 | SOUND-BASED SPIROMETRIC DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Devices, system, and methods generate expiratory flow-based pulmonary function data by processing a digital audio file of sound of a subject's forced expiratory maneuver. A mobile device configured to generate expiratory flow-based pulmonary function data includes a microphone, a processor, and a data storage device. The microphone is operable to convert sound of the subject's forced expiratory maneuver into a digital data file. The processor is operatively coupled with the microphone. The data storage device is operatively coupled with the processor and stores instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to process the digital data file to generate expiratory flow-based pulmonary function data for assessing pulmonary function of the subject. The sound of the subject's forced expiratory maneuver can be converted into the digital data file without contact between the subject's mouth and the mobile device. | 05-07-2015 |
20150126889 | SPIROMETER COMPRISING PIEZOELECTRIC SENSOR - The present invention is directed to a spirometer comprising a piezoelectric sensor and the use of the spirometer in measuring a user's lung performance and/or tracking a user's lung performance over a period of time. The spirometer is configured so that fluid flow through a housing produces oscillating stresses in a piezoelectric material. The oscillating stresses produce an electric signal. Characteristics of the electric signal, such as the magnitude of the signal at particular frequencies, can be measured and used to determine the rate of fluid flow through the housing during inhalation or exhalation. The fluid flow characteristics may then be displayed on a variety of devices, such as a smartphone, a personal computer, etc. | 05-07-2015 |
20150133810 | RESPIRATION ASSIST APPARATUS AND RESPIRATORY FUNCTION TEST SYSTEM - In an apparatus for assisting respirations of a subject in accordance with a predetermined reference respiration pattern defined as a sequence of reference respirations each having a reference respiratory volume for the subject, a respiration obtaining unit obtains, at a sampling time, an actual respiratory volume of the subject based on an actual respiration of the subject in accordance with the predetermined reference respiration pattern. A storing unit stores variation of the reference respiratory volumes for the subject. An assisting unit generates, based on the actual respiratory volume and the reference respiratory volumes, visual assist information indicative of a respiratory state of the subject relative to the predetermined reference respiration pattern, and provides the visual assist information to the subject. | 05-14-2015 |
20150320949 | RESPIRATORY MEASUREMENT APPARATUS HAVING INTEGRATED FILTER - An apparatus comprises a flow sensor configured to sense airflow between a respiration machine and a patient, a first connector configured to communicate air between the flow sensor and the patient, a second connector configured to communicate air between the flow sensor and the respiration machine, multiple pressure sensing ports configured for connection to pressure sensing tubes and configured to communicate gas pressure between the flow sensor and a pressure flowmeter, and a filter integrated with the flow sensor between the first connector and the pressure sensing ports and configured to communicate gas pressure therethrough while preventing contaminants from passing from the flow sensor to the pressure sensing tubes. | 11-12-2015 |
20160007882 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR LUNG MEASUREMENT | 01-14-2016 |
20160007913 | SYSTEM FOR MONITORING A STATE OF DISEASE | 01-14-2016 |
20160015324 | System, Method, and Apparatus for Measuring Pulmonary Data - A system for gathering pulmonary data includes a smartphone and a back cover for the smartphone. The smartphone has a processor, a display, and a pressure sensor. The pressure sensor is operatively coupled to the processor (e.g. electrically coupled) and the display is also operatively coupled to the processor. The back cover attaches to the back of the smartphone and has an interface for accepting a breath from a user and routing the breath through at least one channel such that the breath is fluidly interfaced between the interface for accepting the breath and the pressure sensor. The application gathers samples of the breath to calculate exhalation volume and pressures and, in some examples, generates and displays a spirogram from the data. | 01-21-2016 |
20160045161 | MASK AND METHOD FOR BREATHING DISORDER IDENTIFICATION, CHARACTERIZATION AND/OR DIAGNOSIS - Disclosed herein are breathing disorder identification, characterization and diagnosis methods, devices and systems. A mask is also disclosed for use in respiratory monitoring, characterization and/or diagnosis. In some embodiments, breath sound data are acquired concurrently with positional data to characterize a position dependence of a subject's breathing disorder. | 02-18-2016 |
20160066817 | SYSTEM AND DEVICE FOR MEASURING THE RATE OF FLOW OF AN EXHALED OR INHALED AIRFLOW - A system for measuring the flow rate of an airflow exhaled or inhaled by a person includes a measuring apparatus and a device. The device includes a tubular pipe for guiding the airflow and a structure with a plurality of ducts configured to separate the airflow. The device further includes a first groove opening into the outer face of the wall of the tubular pipe and a component for communicating fluidically with at least one peripheral duct in the structure. A second groove, distanced from the first groove, opens into the outer face of the wall of the tubular pipe and includes a component for communicating fluidically with the at least one peripheral duct. | 03-10-2016 |
20160081611 | SYSTEM AND METHOD TO MEASURE, ANALYZE, AND MODEL PULMONARY FUNCTION AND DISEASE UTILIZING TEMPORAL, SPATIAL, AND CONTEXTUAL DATA - An information processing system, computer readable storage medium, and methods for analyzing the airflow related health of a person. A method includes obtaining an audio sample of a person's verbal communication, obtaining geographic information of the person, querying a remote server based on the geographic information, and obtaining additional information from the remote server, the additional information being related to the geographic information, and extracting contours of amplitude change from the at least one audio sample over a period of time, the contours of amplitude change corresponding to changes in an airflow profile of the person. The method further includes correlating the contours of amplitude change with periodic episodes typical of airflow related health problems, and determining, based at least on the additional information, whether the contours of amplitude change result from at least one local environmental factor related to the geographic information. | 03-24-2016 |
20160081631 | RESPIRATORY WAVEFORM RECOGNITION METHOD AND SYSTEM - A respiratory waveform recognition method comprises: (a) detecting a respiratory airflow in a respiratory cycle; (b) measuring an amplitude of the respiratory airflow and a duration of the respiratory cycle; (c) using a plurality of sampling points to determine an inspiration waveform and an expiration waveform according to the amplitude and the duration; (d) normalizing the amplitude and the duration of one of the inspiration waveform and the expiration waveform, so as to establish a normalized waveform; and (e) accumulating the differences between the normalized waveform and a reference waveform to calculate a flow index useful for the identification of a normal respiration state and an abnormal respiration state. A curve, such as a weighted curve or a standard waveform, is used for fitting of the inspiration waveform or the expiration waveform to calculate the differences, and the differences are accumulated to identify the normal respiration state and the abnormal respiration state. Also provided is a respiratory waveform recognition system. | 03-24-2016 |
20160089058 | EXHALATION MEASUREMENT DEVICE AND CONTROL METHOD THEREFOR - Certain implementations relate to an exhalation measurement device that is used in checking pulmonary function, diagnosing asthma, and may perform zero point correction accurately even when there is disturbance. The exhalation measurement device may comprise a flow regulator. The flow regulator comprises a first offset adjuster that puts an exhalation inflow component and an exhalation outflow component in a separated state and performs first offset adjustment of an inflow pressure sensor and an outflow pressure sensor, a voltage difference detector that puts the exhalation inflow component and the exhalation outflow component in a linked state and detects an output voltage difference after the first offset adjustment of the inflow pressure sensor and the outflow pressure sensor, and a second offset adjuster that uses the output voltage difference to perform second offset adjustment of the inflow pressure sensor. | 03-31-2016 |
20160106341 | DETERMINING RESPIRATORY PARAMETERS - A pulmonary measurement system includes a pulmonary measurement device that includes a mouthpiece with an airflow path and a sensor positioned in the airflow path; and a controller communicably coupled to the sensor. The controller includes a processor and instructions stored in memory and is operable to execute the instructions with the processor to perform operations including identifying a measurement from the sensor; identifying a particular equation stored in the memory, the particular equation developed using data analytics and including an input parameter that is based on the identified measurement; and based on the identified measurement and the particular equation, determining a value of absolute lung volume. | 04-21-2016 |
20160106342 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MONITORING LUNG FUNCTION - A measurement assembly of a personal health monitoring system for measuring the lung capacity of a person. In an embodiment, the measurement assembly includes a sensor assembly includes a sensor that is configured to sense the force of a fluid exhaled by the person onto the sensor and output a force measurement. In addition, the measurement assembly includes a control assembly coupled to the force sensing assembly, the control assembly configured to receive the force measurement from the sensor. Further, the measurement assembly includes a housing configured to support each of the sensor assembly and the control assembly. The sensor is disposed on an external surface of the housing. | 04-21-2016 |
20160106375 | Means for Rendering Key Respiratory Measurements Accessible to Mobile Digital Devices - An acoustic means for rendering key respiratory measurements accessible to hand-held mobile digital devices with audio input capabilities (such as mobile phones, personal digital assistants, mobile gaming platforms, and tablets). One or more embodiments comprise: a compact and portable whistle ( | 04-21-2016 |
20160120441 | Portable Device for Direct Nasal Respiration Measurement - A portable and wireless connected device, comprising a breathing channel part, a sensor box, a nose piece and a cover, allows measuring air flow of respiration through each nostril. All components are in conjunction with other parts through quick assembly mechanisms. Multiple parameters including air flow speed, volume and respiration rate are determined by analyzing sensors data in real time, thereby allowing diagnosis, monitoring and interactive breathing training in patients with pulmonary diseases. | 05-05-2016 |
20160135714 | EXHALATION MEASUREMENT DEVICE, AND CONTROL METHOD - The exhalation measurement device of certain implementations comprise a chamber, a measurement component, a piezoelectric pump, a first learning controller, and a second learning controller. The chamber may temporarily hold exhalation. The measurement component may measure a specific component in the exhalation. The piezoelectric pump may supply the measurement component with the exhalation held in the chamber. The first learning controller may perform operational setting on the piezoelectric pump before the piezoelectric pump supplies the exhalation in the chamber to the measurement component. The second learning controller may perform operational setting on the piezoelectric pump after the piezoelectric pump has started supplying the exhalation in the chamber to the measurement component, but before the measurement component performs its measurement. | 05-19-2016 |
20160151014 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR HEART FAILURE TREATMENT | 06-02-2016 |
20160158469 | INHALATION MONITORING SYSTEM AND METHOD - An inhalation monitoring system includes an inhaler having a medicament delivery apparatus configured to deliver medicament to a user during an inhalation of the user; inhalation monitoring apparatus, configured to, during the inhalation, gather data for determining a measure of the user's lung function and/or lung health; and a processor configured to receive the data from the inhalation monitoring apparatus and, using the data, determine a measure of the user's lung function and/or lung health. | 06-09-2016 |
20160166176 | COMPUTER-BASED ANALYSIS OF OSCILLATORY VENTILATION | 06-16-2016 |
20160249851 | Digitally Coached Spirometry System and Method | 09-01-2016 |
20160375210 | RESUSCITATION DEVICE WITH ONBOARD PROCESSOR - A resuscitator has a patient airway interface device, a bag, a flow passage coupled between the bag and patient airway interface device, and a sensor assembly. The patient airway interface device may be a mask or an endotracheal tube. The sensor assembly has a display, at least one sensor coupled to the flow passage and configured to provide a measurement of at least one parameter, and a processor coupled to the display and the at least one sensor. The processor is configured to receive the measurement from the sensor and provide information on the display based on the received measurement. The information may include a current breath rate, a pressure-vs-time curve, and guidance to the user to assist in achieving a target breath rate. | 12-29-2016 |
20180021078 | PREFERENTIAL VOLUME REDUCTION OF DISEASED SEGMENTS OF A HETEROGENEOUS LOBE | 01-25-2018 |
20190142301 | DETERMINING AN AIRWAY FLOW LIMITATION VALUE | 05-16-2019 |
20190142302 | SENSOR DEVICES AND METHODS FOR CONTROLLING A SENSOR DEVICE | 05-16-2019 |
20190142625 | POSITIONAL OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA DETECTION SYSTEM | 05-16-2019 |