Gas sensor module

Abstract

A removable gas sensor module for a therapeutic gas delivery device is provided. The gas sensor module includes a sample chamber that receives a sample gas from the therapeutic gas delivery device. A gas detection unit includes a plurality of sensors operable to measure at least one characteristic of the sample gas. The sensors include two or more of a gas detection sensor, a humidity sensor, a temperature sensor, or a combination thereof. The gas sensor module is self-contained within the therapeutic gas delivery device and is interchangeable with another gas sensor module.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to gas sensor modules. In one example, the present disclosure relates to a gas sensor module for a therapeutic gas delivery device. Background Art

[0002] Traditionally, gas detection systems require users to calibrate them at intervals detailed in their user manuals. For example, a high-level calibration of a gas sampling system may be performed monthly and may require the calibration gas supply to be available at the facility and changes to the sample line connections. During high-level calibration of the gas sampling system and changes to the sample line connections, the gas detection system is unable to sample gas. Additionally, improper connection of the calibration tubing set may produce incorrect readings or cause damage to the equipment. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0003] Embodiments of the present technology will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0004] Figure 1A is an exploded view of an exemplary gas sensor assembly according to the present disclosure;

[0005] Figure 1B yes Figure 1A An assembly drawing of a gas sensor assembly;

[0006] Figure 2A is an exploded view of an exemplary gas sensor module;

[0007] Figure 2B is an exploded view of an exemplary gas sensor module;

[0008] Figure 2C The outer shell and inner shell are removed Figure 2B Assembly diagram of the gas sensor module;

[0009] Figure 3A is a detailed exploded view of an exemplary gas sensor assembly;

[0010] Figure 3B is a detailed exploded view of an exemplary gas sensor assembly; and

[0011] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of an apparatus including a voltage source electrically coupled to a gas sensor module to maintain calibration stability of the gas sensor module. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0012] It will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, where appropriate, reference numerals have been repeated between different figures to indicate corresponding or similar elements. In addition, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the examples described herein. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the examples described herein can be practiced without these specific details. In other cases, methods, processes, and components are not described in detail to avoid confusion regarding the related features described. Furthermore, the description should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments described herein. The accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, and the proportions of certain parts may be exaggerated to better illustrate the details and features of the present disclosure.

[0013] Several definitions used throughout the above disclosure will now be presented. The term "coupled" is defined as connected, whether directly or indirectly through an intermediate component, and is not necessarily limited to a physical connection. The connection can be such that the objects are permanently connected or releasably connected. The term "substantially" is defined as substantially conforming to a specific size, shape, or other term with substantial modifications, such that the components do not need to be exact. For example, "substantially cylindrical" means that the object resembles a cylinder, but may have one or more deviations from a true cylinder. The terms "include," "include," and "have" are used interchangeably in this disclosure. The terms "include," "include," and "have" are meant to include, but are not necessarily limited to, the items so described. The terms "heat exchange," "heat-exchangeable," or "heat-exchangeable" are defined to mean that a sensor can be removed and replaced with a new, calibrated sensor, such that the downtime of the therapeutic gas delivery device for sensor replacement is less than approximately 5 minutes. For example, a gas sensor module can be heat exchanged with a calibrated gas sensor module, and the downtime of the therapeutic gas delivery device is approximately 3 minutes. As used herein, "exchange" may include "heat exchange" or any corresponding variation.

[0014] Disclosed herein is a removable gas sensor module having a plurality of sensors for measuring at least one characteristic of a sample gas in a therapeutic gas delivery device. The sample gas can be a sample of a therapeutic gas delivered to a patient via the therapeutic gas delivery device. The gas sensor module is self-contained within the therapeutic gas delivery device, thereby facilitating field replacement in a manner that can be considered "plug and play" and / or hot-swappable. In some instances, the gas sensor module is self-contained within a gas sensor assembly, which is further contained within the therapeutic gas delivery device. The gas sensor module can be pre-calibrated such that the gas sensor module is ready for use after installation in the gas sensor assembly / therapeutic gas delivery device without requiring further calibration. The gas sensor module can be factory calibrated and, in at least one instance, can maintain calibration stability when stored for a substantial period of time (e.g., over a 6-month period).

[0015] Conventionally, if a sensor fails any calibration test, the sensor is replaced by a trained supervisor or service technician. For example, sensor replacement can be performed by opening a panel on the back of the device housing, removing the malfunctioning sensor, and fitting a replacement sensor. After replacing the sensor, because the new sensor must be adjusted in the gas flow, the sample detection circuit is inoperative for a certain period of time, for example, the period of time that the sensor changes for oxygen (O2) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) can be approximately 40 minutes, while a nitric oxide (NO) sensor may require approximately 5 hours to adjust. After the new sensor has been adjusted, a low calibration is performed and then a high calibration is performed before gas sample detection can continue. Therefore, replacing conventional gas sensors in therapeutic gas delivery devices is time-consuming and causes an interruption in gas sensor detection / analysis and therapeutic gas delivery to the patient, which interruption may interfere with the effective treatment of the patient.

[0016] The conventional solution to sensor drift is to perform periodic low-level and high-level calibration of the sensor. While low-level calibration can be automatically managed and controlled by the device, high-level calibration of the sensor requires the user to disconnect the sampling line from the patient circuit and then attach a calibration gas supply of the appropriate gas before initiating the high-level calibration protocol. Similarly, performing high-level calibration is time-consuming and causes interruptions in gas sensor detection / analysis, potentially interfering with the patient's effective treatment.

[0017] The gas sensor module described herein overcomes the limitations of conventional gas sensors. The gas sensor module is pre-calibrated, independent and hot-swappable, so that it can be replaced in the therapeutic gas delivery device without causing an interruption in the therapeutic gas delivered to the patient, and with minimal downtime only during gas sensor detection / analysis. This provides continuous and effective treatment for the patient. In addition, the hot-swappable feature of the independent gas sensor module provides a gas sensor module that can be replaced by the user without significant training. Instead of requiring the user to perform monthly high calibration of the NO and NO2 sensors, the gas sensor module can be simply removed and replaced by a separate pre-calibrated gas sensor module. The first gas sensor module can then be returned to the central facility for recalibration and / or discarded. The gas sensor module has been pre-calibrated for high calibration so that only low calibration needs to be performed, which in at least one instance can occur automatically after the gas sensor module is inserted.

[0018] The gas sensor module can be used, for example, in Figure 1A and 1B. The gas sensor assembly 10 includes a gas sensor module 100 and an assembly inner housing 200 that can be used to removably receive the gas sensor module 100. The assembly inner housing 200 includes a module receiving portion 202 that forms a module receiving recess 204. The gas sensor module 100 is removably received in the module receiving recess 204. Therefore, the gas sensor module 100 is removably coupled to the assembly inner housing 200. The gas sensor assembly 10 may also include a gas analyzer unit 300, which has an assembly main housing 302 that can be used to receive the assembly inner housing 200. In some examples, the assembly inner housing 200 is removably coupled to the assembly main housing 302. In other examples, the assembly inner housing 200 is fixedly coupled to the assembly main housing 302. The gas analyzer unit 300 is contained within the therapeutic gas delivery device 50. In at least one example, the assembly main housing 302 is coupled to and in fluid communication with the therapeutic gas delivery device 50. In some examples, the gas sensor module 100 is nested within the assembly inner housing 200, which is nested within the assembly main housing 302, such that the gas sensor module 100 is coupled to and in fluid communication with the therapeutic gas delivery device 50. In other examples, the assembly inner housing 200 and the gas analyzer unit 300 can be integrated into a single unit that can be used to receive the gas sensor module 100. In additional examples, the therapeutic gas delivery device 50 can be used to receive the gas sensor module 100.

[0019] The therapeutic gas delivery device 50 can be used to deliver a therapeutic gas to a patient. For example, the therapeutic gas delivery device 50 can deliver therapeutic nitric oxide (NO) gas to the patient. The gas sensor module 100, the assembly inner housing 200, and the assembly main housing 302 are positioned so that gas can flow from the breathing circuit of the therapeutic gas delivery device 50 through a sample tube, through the gas analyzer unit 300, through the assembly inner housing 200, and to the gas sensor module 100. In at least one example, the sample tube can be fluidically connected to the breathing circuit of the gas delivery device 50, and the gas sensor module 100 can be used to receive the sample gas from the sample tube. In at least one example, the breathing circuit of the therapeutic gas delivery device 50 includes a sample tee that can be used to receive the sample tube so that at least a portion of the gas in the breathing circuit flows through the sample tube. Additionally, in at least one example, the assembly inner housing 200 can include a port 206 that can be fluidically connected to a port 306 on the gas analyzer unit 300, which can be fluidically connected to the sample tube. Port 206 may receive sample gas from therapeutic gas delivery device 50 through port 304 of gas analyzer unit 300 and provide the sample gas to gas sensor module 100 .

[0020] Figure 2A and 2BAn exploded view of a gas sensor module 100 is illustrated. The gas sensor module 100 includes a sample chamber 101. The sample chamber 101 receives sample gas from a therapeutic gas delivery device 50. The sample chamber 101 is fluidly connected to a sample inlet 119. The sample inlet 119 is fluidly connected to the therapeutic gas delivery device and can be used to receive the sample gas. In some examples, the sample inlet 119 is fluidly connected to a port 206 of the assembly inner housing 200, which is fluidly connected to a port 304 of the gas analyzer unit 300, which is fluidly connected to a sample tube in the therapeutic gas delivery device 50. In at least one example, the sample chamber 101 can be used to receive the sample gas from the therapeutic gas delivery device 50. The sample chamber 101 can include an inner housing 102. The inner housing 102 can include a vent 103 through which the sample gas can be removed from the sample chamber 101. For example, the vent 103 can be an opening formed in the inner housing 102. In at least one example, the gas sensor module 100 includes an outer housing 104 that at least partially surrounds the inner housing 102. In some examples, the outer housing 104 can include at least one of the following: a cam element 106, a cam spindle 108, a handle 110, a handle axle 114, a vent cap 112, and / or a gasket 113. In at least some examples, the cam element 106, the cam spindle 108, the handle 110, and / or the handle axle 114 can be used to facilitate a user to easily insert / remove the gas sensor module 100 via the locking / unlocking action of the vent cap 112. In some examples, the handle 110 can be, for example, Figure 2B The flip-up tab is shown in FIG. Gasket 113 can help prevent leakage from the pneumatic circuit, thereby preventing the sample gas from interacting with the electronic device. In at least one embodiment, gasket 113 can be made of silicone rubber.

[0021] The gas sensor module 100 includes a gas detection unit 121, which includes a plurality of sensors 118. The sensors 118 can be used to measure at least one characteristic of the sample gas. For example, the sensors 118 can include two or more of a gas detection sensor, a humidity sensor, and / or a temperature sensor.

[0022] In at least one embodiment, the gas detection unit 121 can include two or more gas detection sensors 122. In at least one embodiment, the gas detection unit 121 can include two or more different sensors 118. Figure 2A and 2BAs described in , the gas detection unit 121 may include a humidity sensor 120 and two gas detection sensors 122. In other examples, the gas detection unit 121 may include one or more gas detection sensors 122 and a humidity sensor 120. The gas detection sensor 122 may include one or more of a NO sensor, a NO2 sensor, an O2 sensor, or a combination thereof. In at least one example, the gas detection sensor 122 may include a NO sensor and a NO2 sensor. Although Figure 2A and 2B Two gas detection sensors 122 are illustrated, but one, three, or more gas detection sensors 122 may be included. The characteristics of the sample gas measured may be one or more of the following: NO concentration, NO2 concentration, O2 concentration, humidity, temperature, or a combination thereof. Figure 2A and 2B As illustrated in FIG, the gas sensor module 100 includes a sensor seal 116 coupled to at least one of the sensors 118. Figure 2B As illustrated in , the gas sensor module 100 may include a humidity sensor seal 130 that may be used to couple with a humidity sensor 120 (not shown), which may be integrated with a sensing circuit 124 .

[0023] The gas sensor module 100 includes a sensing circuit 124 coupled to the sensor 118. The sensing circuit 124 can be configured to detect and report a measured property of the sample gas from the sensor 118. The sensing circuit 124 can be communicatively coupled to the gas delivery device 50. In one example, the sensing circuit 124 can be configured to report the measured property of the sample gas to the gas analyzer controller 350 in the gas analyzer unit 300. In one example, the gas analyzer controller 350 can be configured to report the measured property of the sample gas to the therapeutic gas delivery device 50. The sensing circuit 124 can be coupled to the gas analyzer controller 350 and / or the gas delivery device 50 via any suitable wired or wireless connection, such as Ethernet, Bluetooth, RFID, or fiber optic cable. In at least one example, the sensing circuit 124 and / or the gas analyzer controller 350 can be configured to store the measured property of the sample gas. The gas detection unit 121, via the sensing circuit 124, can be configured to electronically store the serial number, calibration data, and / or usage information of the gas sensor module 100. In another example, the gas analyzer controller 350 can be used to electronically save the serial number, calibration data, and / or usage information of the gas sensor module 100. Thus, even when the gas sensor module 100 is disconnected from the gas delivery device 50, the assembly can continue to be tracked and traced. The sensing circuit 124 can include a connector 125 that can be used to connect the sensing circuit 124 of the gas sensor module 100 with the gas analyzer controller 350 and, therefore, with the gas delivery device 50. Thus, the gas sensor module 100 can be hot-swapped, and the connector 125 easily connected to the gas delivery device 50 without requiring additional expertise or tools.

[0024] The gas sensor module 100 further includes a cover 126 that can be coupled to the outer housing 104. In at least one embodiment, the cover 126 can be removably coupled to the outer housing 104 via fasteners 128. For example, the fasteners 128 can be at least one of the following: screws, nails, nuts and bolts, hook and loop fasteners, adhesives, and / or any other suitable fasteners.

[0025] The gas sensor module 100 is self-contained within the therapeutic gas delivery device 50 and interchangeable with another gas sensor module 100. Containing all sensors and / or analytical elements of the gas sample provides the ability to be swapped in the event of recalibration, component failure, and / or contamination. For example, the gas sensor module 100 can be replaced in the event of a gas sensor module 100 failure, a sample line filter failure, and / or when the calibration service period of the gas sensor module 100 expires. Furthermore, the modularity of the gas sensor module 100 simplifies the addition of further sensors 118 for analytes such as O2 or volatile organic compounds (VOCs) without requiring modification of the entire gas delivery device 50, but rather an "upgrade" to a next-generation gas sensor module. A replacement gas sensor module 100 can be easily installed, and the gas delivery device 50 can then be immediately put back into service. Responsible personnel can replace the gas sensor module 100 with a pre-calibrated gas sensor module 100 in a matter of minutes without requiring special tools or equipment. For example, replacing the gas sensor module 100 results in less than five minutes of downtime while measuring at least one characteristic of the sample gas. In at least one example, replacing the gas sensor module 100 results in less than three minutes of downtime while measuring at least one characteristic of the sample gas.

[0026] In another example, replacing the gas sensor module 100 does not cause downtime in the delivery of therapeutic gas from the therapeutic gas delivery device 50. In this example, therapeutic gas delivery to the patient is not interrupted by replacing the gas sensor module 100 because the gas sensor module 100 analyzes sample gas separate from the therapeutic gas in the breathing circuit. Furthermore, because the gas sensor module 100 is self-contained, there is no need to shut down the therapeutic gas delivery device 50 or stop the flow of therapeutic gas to the patient. This allows the therapeutic gas delivery device 50 to continue delivering therapeutic gas to the patient through the breathing circuit while the gas sensor module 100 is replaced with a new, pre-calibrated gas sensor module 100. In at least one example, the therapeutic gas delivery device 100 can continue to operate while the gas sensor module 100 is replaced. Furthermore, after completing the low-calibration protocol, sample testing by the gas sensor module 100 can begin approximately five minutes after installation. In at least one example, the low-calibration protocol can be automatically initiated upon installation of the new gas sensor module 100. The hot-swappable capability of the gas sensor module 100 has a significant positive impact on user experience and device downtime. The gas sensor module 100 is pre-calibrated or calibrated prior to installation, which eliminates the need for on-site calibration of the NOx sensor and enables quick and easy replacement of a failed or expired gas sensor module, allowing off-site recalibration and repair (if applicable).

[0027] The gas sensor module 100 can be used or in use and maintain calibration stability for at least one month. In at least one example, the in-use calibration stability period of the gas sensor module 100 can be extended from a conventional one month to approximately three months. In at least one example, the gas sensor module 100 can have a shelf-life calibration stability period (e.g., stability when not installed in the gas delivery device 50) of at least one month, alternatively at least three months, alternatively at least six months, or alternatively at least one year. In some examples, the shelf life of the gas sensor module 100 can be extended by including a battery 132 or other voltage source to provide a potential across the sensor to maintain calibration during storage. In at least one example, the gas sensor module 100 can include an expiration date. A gas sensor module replacement reminder / alert can be provided to the user via, for example, a graphical user interface and / or an application and / or a program associated with the therapeutic gas delivery device.

[0028] In at least one instance, Figure 4 As illustrated in , the gas sensor module 100 may include and / or be electrically connected to a device 400 that includes a voltage source 402 that may be used in conjunction with an ultra-low power consumption setting to ensure that the sensors 118 maintain calibration stability over a predetermined period of time, such as up to 6 months. The plurality of sensors 118 in the gas sensor module 100 may be pre-calibrated, and a potential may be provided across the sensors 118 by the device 400 to maintain calibration of the sensors 118. For example, the voltage source 402 may provide a potential across the plurality of sensors 118 of the gas sensor module 100 at predetermined times to maintain calibration stability of the sensors 118 when the gas sensor module 100 is in an uninstalled configuration. Thus, an end user may order a plurality of gas sensor modules 100 that are stored until they are needed to replace the gas sensor module 100 in use when recalibration and / or replacement is due. In at least one instance, the voltage source 402 may be a battery or a power transformer. In at least one instance, the voltage source 402 may be internal to the gas sensor module 100, such as in Figure 2C . In other examples, the voltage source 402 can be external to the gas sensor module 100. When the gas sensor module 100 is installed within the therapeutic gas delivery device 50, the voltage source 402 can cease providing a potential across the sensor 118. In at least one example, the device 400 and the voltage source 402 can be removed from the gas sensor module prior to installation in the therapeutic gas delivery device 50. In another example, the voltage source 402 can remain connected to the gas sensor module 100 after installation but no longer provide a potential across the sensors 118, 122 of the gas sensor module 100. In at least one example, as Figure 2CAs illustrated in FIG. 1 , the battery 132 may be directly connected to the sensing circuit 124 , so a separate device 400 is not required to connect the battery 132 to the gas sensor module 100 .

[0029] The implementation of pre-calibration and / or off-site calibration provides calibration accuracy. For example, conventional single-point high-precision calibration protocols assume a single linear function across the range of administered NO concentrations. While sufficient to address the current demand for + / - 20% calibration accuracy, this can be significantly improved by adopting a multi-point calibration protocol that is incompatible with user calibration but can be automatically implemented in the factory calibration scenario. Through this approach, calibration functions for multiple sub-ranges of NO concentration can be generated and stored for implementation (e.g., in the form of a simple lookup table in the device memory). The gas sensor module 100 can then determine the appropriate calibration function to use when measuring gas delivery based on, for example, the set dose and the range in which it is located. This is particularly important in pediatric or other low-concentration applications for NO administration, where multiple calibration gases are supplied at a set concentration of 45 ppm, typically more than twice the administered NO concentration. This will also address issues experienced by some users who are uncomfortable with displaying concentrations that may be up to 20% less / more than the set dose.

[0030] Additionally, off-site (e.g., factory) calibration and / or pre-calibration can utilize the calibration manifold 356 ( Figure 3A and 3B ), the calibration manifold can control at least one of temperature, relative humidity, and pressure, thereby facilitating the generation of a calibration function that not only provides a more accurate measurement of a gas (e.g., NO) in a specific sub-range, but also compensates for different temperature, pressure, and relative humidity values.

[0031] Additionally, off-site calibration and / or pre-calibration can help accurately measure the concentration of gases (e.g., NO) used in calibration gas mixtures. Rather than using calibration gas cylinders that have been prepared in bulk for distribution to end users, the calibration gas can be accurately quantified with respect to gas concentration.

[0032] Figure 3A and 3BA detailed exploded view of the gas sensor assembly 10 is illustrated. As discussed above, the gas sensor assembly 10 includes a gas sensor module 100 removably received in an assembly inner housing 200. The gas sensor module 100 can be removably coupled to the assembly inner housing 200 via one or more fasteners, such as screws, clips, rotatable mounts, or any other suitable fasteners, such that the gas sensor module 100 can be removed from the assembly inner housing 200 without special tools or expertise. The assembly inner housing 200 can be received in and / or coupled to an assembly main housing 302, which is within or in fluid communication with a therapeutic gas delivery device. In an example, the assembly inner housing 200 and the assembly main housing 302 remain secured within the therapeutic gas delivery device while the gas sensor module 100 can be removably replaced as needed.

[0033] The sample gas is obtained from the therapeutic gas delivery device and passed to the gas sensor module 100 through the gas sensor assembly 10, so that the gas sensor module 100 can detect and report at least one characteristic of the sample gas. The sample gas can enter the assembly main housing through port 304. In an example, a two-stage filter luer interface 306 can be connected to port 304 on the outside of the assembly main housing 302. Port 304 can be fluidically connected to a pump 308 inside the assembly main housing 302. The pump 308 can be used to pump the sample gas through the gas sensor module 100. The pump 308 can retrieve the sample gas from the gas delivery device, for example, through port 304 and a pump feeder tube 310. The pump feeder tube 310 can be coupled to the pump 308 using a fastener 314, such as a clamp. The pump 308 includes a fan 316, which can be used to rotate to promote the flow of the sample gas. In at least one example, the sample gas can then be received in the restrictor feed tube 318, pass through the restrictor 320 received in the restrictor housing 322, and pass through the restrictor return tube 324. The restrictor 320 can be used to restrict the gas flow by creating a pressure differential. In at least some examples, the restrictor 320 can be incorporated into the calibration manifold 356. In other examples, such as Figure 3B As seen in FIG. 3 , the gas analyzer unit 300 may not include a restrictor feed tube, a restrictor, a restrictor housing, or a restrictor return tube. In this example, the calibration manifold 356 may incorporate the functionality of the restrictor 230 by including a restrictor orifice to restrict the sample gas flow to create a pressure differential, such as Figure 3B As seen in.

[0034] The flow restrictor 320 and / or the calibration manifold 356 may be used to control the rate and / or amount of sample gas received by the gas sensor module 100. The sample gas may then pass through the pump 308 and exit the pump delivery tube 312.

[0035] The gas sensor assembly 10 can include a sample tube 352 that is fluidly connected to the gas delivery device 50 and the gas sensor module 100 for receiving the sample gas. For example, the sample tube 352 can be fluidly connected to the pump delivery tube 312. In at least one example, at least a portion of the sample tube 352 can be Nafion tubing. Figure 3A and 3B As illustrated in FIG, the gas sensor assembly 10 may further include a humidity assembly 354 and a calibration manifold 356. The humidity assembly 352, the Nafion portion of the sample tube 352, the calibration manifold 356, any other suitable component for controlling temperature and / or pressure, or any combination thereof, can control at least one of temperature, relative humidity, and pressure, thereby facilitating the generation of a calibration function that not only provides more accurate measurements of a gas (e.g., NO) within a specific sub-range but also compensates for varying temperature, pressure, and / or relative humidity values. For example, the humidity assembly 352, the Nafion portion of the sample tube 352, and / or the calibration manifold 356 can reduce the humidity of a gas sample to improve calibration stability of the gas sensor module 100. A gas analyzer subframe 357 can be included to house the humidity assembly 352, the Nafion portion of the sample tube 352, and / or at least a portion of the calibration manifold 356. One or more fasteners 358 may retain at least one of the humidity assembly 352, the Nafion portion of the sample tube 352, and / or the calibration manifold 356 within the gas analyzer subframe 357. The fasteners 358 may be, for example, screws, adhesives, and / or nuts and bolts.

[0036] The gas sensor assembly 10 may also include a high differential connection tube 360 ​​and a low differential connection tube 362. In at least one example, the gas sensor assembly 10 may include an ambient air pressure connection tube 364, which is fluidically connected to the external atmosphere or ambient air. To provide ambient air, the gas sensor assembly 10 may include an ambient air inlet tube 368, which is fluidically connected to the exterior of the gas sensor assembly 10 to provide ambient air. A filter 372 is coupled to an end of the ambient air inlet tube 368, opposite the end connected to the exterior of the gas sensor assembly 10. The filter 372 can filter the ambient air to prevent particles or other matter that could affect the gas sensor module 100's ability to accurately measure the sample gas. A connector tube 366 can be included to fluidically connect the naffion portion of the sample tube 352 to the calibration manifold 356. Furthermore, in at least one example, a filter tube 370 can be fluidically connected to the filter 372 to provide a passage of ambient air to the naffion portion of the sample tube 352.

[0037] The sample gas is received through the port 206 of the assembly inner housing 200. The port 206 is fluidly connected to the sample inlet 119 of the gas sensor module 100, and the sample gas is received within the sample chamber 101 of the gas sensor module 100.

[0038] Also provided herein is a method for providing a gas sensor module for use in a therapeutic gas delivery device. In some instances, the method may include calibrating multiple sensors in the gas sensor module and providing an electrical potential across the multiple sensors to maintain the calibration of the multiple sensors. The calibration of the multiple sensors may be maintained for at least 1 month, at least 3 months, at least 6 months, or at least 1 year. The electrical potential may be provided by a device having a voltage source, such as a battery. In some instances, the method may further include removing the device / voltage source before or simultaneously with installing the gas sensor module in the therapeutic gas delivery device. The gas sensor module may be installed within an assembly inner housing and an assembly outer housing in the therapeutic gas delivery device. In some instances, installing the gas sensor module results in less than 5 minutes of downtime when measuring at least one characteristic of a sample gas from the therapeutic gas delivery device. In other instances, installing the gas sensor module does not result in downtime when delivering the therapeutic gas to the patient.

[0039] The disclosure shown and described above is merely an example. While the numerous features and advantages of the present technology have been set forth in the foregoing description, along with details of the structure and function of the present disclosure, the present disclosure is illustrative only and changes may be made to the details, particularly the shape, size, and arrangement of parts within the principles of the present disclosure, to the full extent indicated by the broad, ordinary meanings of the terms used in the appended claims. Therefore, it will be understood that the examples described above may be modified within the scope of the appended claims.

[0040] Many examples are provided herein to enhance understanding of the present disclosure. A specific set of statements is provided below.

[0041] Statement 1: A removable gas sensor module for a therapeutic gas delivery device, the gas sensor module comprising: a sample chamber, the sample chamber being operable to receive a sample gas from the therapeutic gas delivery device; and a gas detection unit, the gas detection unit comprising a plurality of sensors operable to measure at least one characteristic of the sample gas, wherein the plurality of sensors comprises two or more of a gas detection sensor, a humidity sensor, a temperature sensor, or a combination thereof, wherein the gas sensor module is independent within the therapeutic gas delivery device and is interchangeable with another gas sensor module.

[0042] Statement 2: The gas sensor module of statement 1, wherein replacing said gas sensor module results in less than 5 minutes of downtime while said measuring at least one characteristic of said sample gas.

[0043] Statement 3: The gas sensor module of statement 1, wherein replacement of the gas sensor module does not result in downtime in the delivery of therapeutic gas from the therapeutic gas delivery device.

[0044] Statement 4: The gas sensor module of statement 1, wherein the gas detection sensor is one or more of a NO sensor, a NO2 sensor, an O2 sensor, or a combination thereof.

[0045] Statement 5: The gas sensor module of statement 1, wherein the gas detection unit comprises at least two gas detection sensors.

[0046] Statement 6: The gas sensor module of statement 4, wherein the gas detection unit comprises a NO sensor and a NO2 sensor.

[0047] Statement 7: The gas sensor module of statement 1, wherein the gas detection unit comprises two or more different sensors.

[0048] Statement 8: The gas sensor module of statement 6, wherein the gas detection unit comprises one or more gas detection sensors and a humidity sensor.

[0049] Statement 9: The gas sensor module of statement 1, wherein the at least one characteristic of the sample gas is one or more of NO concentration, NO2 concentration, O2 concentration, humidity, temperature, or a combination thereof.

[0050] Statement 10: The gas sensor module of statement 1, further comprising sensing circuitry operable to detect and report the at least one characteristic of the sample gas to a gas analyzer controller in the therapeutic gas delivery device.

[0051] Statement 11: The gas sensor module of statement 1, wherein the therapeutic gas delivery device is capable of continuous operation while the gas sensor module is replaced.

[0052] Statement 12: The gas sensor module of statement 1 wherein the sample chamber comprises an inner housing and an outer housing.

[0053] Statement 13: A gas sensor module according to statement 1, wherein the gas detection unit is operable to electronically store a serial number, calibration data and / or usage information of the gas sensor module or transmit the serial number, calibration data and / or usage information to the therapeutic gas delivery device.

[0054] Statement 14: The gas sensor module of statement 1 wherein the gas sensor module is pre-calibrated and the calibration stability is maintained for at least 1 month.

[0055] Statement 15: The gas sensor module of statement 13, wherein the calibration stability of the gas sensor module is maintained for at least 3 months.

[0056] Statement 16: A gas sensor assembly comprising: a gas sensor module according to any one of statements 1 to 15; an assembly inner housing, the assembly inner housing being operable to removably receive the gas sensor module; and a gas analyzer unit, the gas analyzer unit comprising: a sample tube, the sample tube being fluidly connected to the gas delivery device and the gas sensor module being operable to receive the sample gas; and a pump, the pump being connected to the gas sensor module via the sample tube, wherein the pump is operable to pump the sample gas through the gas sensor module.

[0057] Statement 17: The gas sensor assembly of statement 16, wherein the gas analyzer unit further comprises a gas analyzer controller.

[0058] Statement 18: The gas sensor assembly of statement 16, wherein the gas analyzer unit further comprises an assembly main housing operable to receive the assembly inner housing, wherein the assembly main housing is within the therapeutic gas delivery device.

[0059] Statement 19: The gas sensor assembly of statement 16, wherein at least a portion of the sample tube is a Nafion tube.

[0060] Statement 20: An apparatus comprising: a voltage source; and a gas sensor module according to any one of statements 1 to 15, wherein the voltage source provides a potential across a plurality of sensors in a gas detection unit to maintain calibration of the plurality of sensors when the gas sensor module is in an uninstalled configuration.

[0061] Statement 21: The apparatus of statement 20 wherein the voltage source is a battery or a power transformer.

[0062] Statement 22: The apparatus of statement 20, wherein the voltage source ceases to provide a potential across the plurality of sensors when the gas sensor module is installed within the therapeutic gas delivery device.

[0063] Statement 23: The apparatus of statement 20 wherein the current source is internal to the gas sensor module.

[0064] Statement 24: A method for providing a gas sensor module, comprising: calibrating a plurality of sensors in the gas sensor module of any one of statements 1 to 15; and providing a potential across the plurality of sensors to maintain the calibration of the plurality of sensors.

Claims

1. A removable gas sensor module for a therapeutic gas delivery device, the gas sensor module comprising: voltage source; a sample chamber operable to receive a sample gas from the therapeutic gas delivery device; as well as a gas detection unit comprising a plurality of sensors operable to measure at least one characteristic of the sample gas, wherein the plurality of sensors comprises two or more of a gas detection sensor, a humidity sensor, a temperature sensor, or a combination thereof; wherein the gas sensor module is self-contained within the therapeutic gas delivery device and is interchangeable with another gas sensor module, wherein the plurality of sensors are pre-calibrated and maintain calibration stability for at least 1 month in an unmounted configuration, wherein the plurality of sensors include a NO sensor and a NO2 sensor, wherein the plurality of sensors are operable to receive an electrical potential from the voltage source when the gas sensor module is not installed in the therapeutic gas delivery device, and Wherein the electrical potential maintains a pre-calibration of the plurality of sensors when the gas sensor module is not installed in the therapeutic gas delivery device. 2 . The gas sensor module of claim 1 , wherein replacing the gas sensor module results in less than 5 minutes of downtime while measuring the at least one characteristic of the sample gas.

3. The gas sensor module of claim 1, wherein replacing the gas sensor module does not result in downtime in delivering therapeutic gas from the therapeutic gas delivery device. 4 . The gas sensor module according to claim 1 , wherein the gas detection unit comprises one or more gas detection sensors and a humidity sensor. 5 . The gas sensor module of claim 1 , wherein the at least one characteristic of the sample gas is one or more of NO concentration, NO 2 concentration, O 2 concentration, humidity, temperature, or a combination thereof.

6. The gas sensor module of claim 1, further comprising sensing circuitry operable to detect and report the at least one characteristic of the sample gas to a gas analyzer controller in the therapeutic gas delivery device.

7. The gas sensor module of claim 1, wherein the therapeutic gas delivery device is capable of continuous operation when the gas sensor module is replaced. The gas sensor module of claim 1 , wherein the sample chamber comprises an inner housing and an outer housing.

9. The gas sensor module of claim 1 , wherein the gas detection unit is operable to electronically store a serial number, calibration data, and / or usage information of the gas sensor module or to transmit the serial number, calibration data, and / or usage information to the therapeutic gas delivery device. 10 . The gas sensor module of claim 1 , wherein calibration stability of the gas sensor module is maintained for at least 3 months.

11. A gas sensor assembly comprising: The gas sensor module according to any one of claims 1 to 10; an assembly inner housing adapted to removably receive the gas sensor module; as well as A gas analyzer unit comprising: a sample tube fluidly connected to the gas delivery device and the gas sensor module operable to receive the sample gas; as well as A pump is connected to the gas sensor module through the sample tube, wherein the pump is operable to pump the sample gas through the gas sensor module.

12. The gas sensor assembly of claim 11, wherein the gas analyzer unit further comprises a gas analyzer controller.

13. The gas sensor assembly of claim 11, wherein the gas analyzer unit further comprises an assembly main housing operable to receive the assembly inner housing, wherein the assembly main housing is within the therapeutic gas delivery device. The gas sensor assembly of claim 11 , wherein at least a portion of the sample tube is a Nafion tube.

15. A device for a gas sensor module, comprising: voltage source; as well as A gas sensor module, comprising: a sample chamber operable to receive a sample gas from a therapeutic gas delivery device; as well as a gas detection unit comprising a plurality of sensors operable to measure at least one characteristic of the sample gas, wherein the plurality of sensors comprises two or more of a gas detection sensor, a humidity sensor, a temperature sensor, or a combination thereof; wherein the gas sensor module is self-contained within the therapeutic gas delivery device and is interchangeable with another gas sensor module, wherein the plurality of sensors are pre-calibrated and maintain calibration stability for at least 1 month in an unmounted configuration, wherein the plurality of sensors include a NO sensor and a NO2 sensor, wherein the voltage source provides a potential across the plurality of sensors in the gas detection unit to maintain a pre-calibration of the plurality of sensors when the gas sensor module is in an uninstalled configuration.

16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the voltage source is a battery or a power transformer.

17. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the voltage source ceases to provide a potential across the plurality of sensors when the gas sensor module is installed within the therapeutic gas delivery device.

18. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the voltage source is internal to the gas sensor module.

19. A method for providing a gas sensor module, comprising: calibrating the plurality of sensors in the gas sensor module according to any one of claims 1 to 10; as well as An electrical potential is provided across the plurality of sensors to maintain the calibration of the plurality of sensors.

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