Oxygen concentrator

Abstract

An oxygen concentration device (M1, M2) supplies air to an adsorbent that selectively adsorbs nitrogen and supplies generated high-concentration oxygen to a user. It includes: an inhalation section (3) that draws out gas of a user into the device; and an exhalation gas detection section (4) that detects component information of the drawn-out gas of the user.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an oxygen concentration apparatus. More specifically, it relates to an oxygen concentration apparatus that generates high-concentration oxygen containing a higher concentration of oxygen than that in air and supplies it to a user. Background Technology

[0002] An oxygen concentrator is known to generate a high concentration of oxygen containing a higher concentration of oxygen than that in air, store it in an oxygen container, and supply the high-concentration oxygen from the oxygen container to a user (e.g., see Patent Document 1). The aforementioned oxygen concentrator is used, for example, in home oxygen therapy, a treatment for patients (users) with lung diseases that impair lung function.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-54954. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The technical problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] In existing oxygen concentrators, only a high concentration of oxygen is supplied to the patient, and the device itself cannot monitor the patient's condition. In other words, as a result of administering a high concentration of oxygen, the device cannot know whether the patient's symptoms have improved, remained the same, or worsened. Therefore, even if hypoxia or carbon dioxide accumulation in the body causes insufficient ventilation, a high concentration of oxygen can only be continuously supplied at the same flow rate.

[0008] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide an oxygen concentration device that can monitor a user's condition by observing the user's exhaled breath.

[0009] Technical solutions adopted to solve technical problems

[0010] In the oxygen concentration apparatus disclosed herein,

[0011] (1) The oxygen concentration device supplies air to an adsorbent that selectively adsorbs nitrogen and supplies the generated high-concentration oxygen to the user, wherein the oxygen concentration device comprises:

[0012] An inhalation section that draws the user's exhaled air into the device; and

[0013] The exhaled gas detection unit detects the composition of the user's exhaled gas.

[0014] In the oxygen concentration device disclosed herein, the composition information of the user's exhaled gas drawn into the device is detected by an exhaled gas detection unit. Based on the detected exhaled gas composition information, for example, the user's condition can be determined, including whether the user is in a state of hypoxia or insufficient ventilation. Furthermore, measures such as changing the flow rate of high-concentration oxygen supplied to the user can be taken based on the determined user condition. Additionally, "high-concentration oxygen" in this specification refers to a gas with an oxygen concentration higher than the oxygen concentration in air (approximately 21% by volume), and for example, a gas with an oxygen concentration of approximately 40% to 95%.

[0015] (2) Based on the oxygen concentration device described in (1), it is ideal to supply high-concentration oxygen during inhalation and draw out exhaled gas during exhalation in sync with the user's breathing. By supplying high-concentration oxygen and drawing out exhaled gas in sync with the user's breathing, the supply and drawing out can be performed efficiently.

[0016] (3) Ideally, based on the oxygen concentrator described in (1) or (2), the air compressor that generates the air also serves as the suction unit. Since the air compressor used to generate pressurized air in the oxygen concentrator also serves as the suction unit that draws in the user's exhaled air, the number of components can be reduced, and the device can be miniaturized.

[0017] (4) Based on the oxygen concentrators described in (1) to (3), it is ideal to provide a filter in the exhaled gas flow path upstream of the inhalation section. By placing the filter in the exhaled gas flow path, the area exposed to the patient's exhaled gas within the device can be limited. This reduces the number of parts that need cleaning or replacement to prevent infection when another user uses the oxygen concentrator, and also shortens the flow path that needs cleaning or replacement. Furthermore, by using the filter to capture the components contained in the user's exhaled gas over a long period, the user's illness can be detected at an early stage.

[0018] (5) Based on the oxygen concentration devices described in (1) to (4), it is more ideal to provide a check valve in the flow path of the exhaled gas on the upstream side of the exhaled gas detection unit. The check valve can prevent the user's exhaled gas flowing to the exhaled gas detection unit from flowing back to the upstream side of the exhaled gas detection unit.

[0019] (6) Based on the oxygen concentration devices described in (1) to (5), it is ideal to provide a vacuum container in the flow path between the inhalation section and the exhaled gas detection section. By providing a vacuum container, the load on the inhalation section can be balanced, thereby improving energy efficiency.

[0020] (7) Based on the oxygen concentration devices described in (1) to (6), the exhaled gas detection unit can be configured as a CO2 sensor to measure the CO2 concentration of the user's exhaled gas. The CO2 sensor can be used to measure the CO2 concentration contained in the user's exhaled gas.

[0021] (8) Based on the oxygen concentration devices described in (1) to (6), the exhaled gas detection unit can be configured as an oxygen sensor to measure the oxygen concentration of the user's exhaled gas. The oxygen sensor can be used to measure the oxygen concentration contained in the user's exhaled gas.

[0022] (9) Based on the oxygen concentration devices described in (1) to (6), the exhaled gas detection unit can be configured as a hydrogen sensor to measure the hydrogen concentration in the user's exhaled gas. The hydrogen sensor can then be used to measure the hydrogen concentration in the user's exhaled gas.

[0023] (10) Based on the oxygen concentration devices described in (1) to (9), it is ideal to adjust the flow rate of high-concentration oxygen supplied to the user based on the composition information detected by the exhaled gas detection unit. By adjusting the flow rate of high-concentration oxygen supplied to the user based on the composition information of the user's exhaled gas, oxygen supply corresponding to the user's condition can be provided. For example, for a user who is considered to be hypoxic, the flow rate of high-concentration oxygen can be increased.

[0024] (11) Based on the oxygen concentration devices described in (1) to (10), it is ideal to further include an alarm unit.

[0025] The control unit triggers the alarm unit to issue an alarm based on the composition information detected by the exhaled gas detection unit. By issuing the alarm, the user is informed that the current state is not normal and can take measures such as changing the flow rate of high-concentration oxygen.

[0026] (12) Ideally, based on the oxygen concentrators described in (1) to (11), it should also have a communication function, enabling the exhaled gas detection unit to transmit the component information detected by the exhaled gas detection unit to doctors or other personnel via a communication device. This allows doctors or other personnel to monitor the status of users of the oxygen concentrator and provide instructions such as gas flow rate changes as needed.

[0027] (13) Based on the oxygen concentration devices described in (1) to (12), it is ideal to have separate flow paths for supplying high-concentration oxygen to the user and for drawing the user's exhaled gas. By making the flow paths for high-concentration oxygen and exhaled gas independent of each other, it is possible to suppress contamination (mixing or mixing) between high-concentration oxygen and exhaled gas.

[0028] (14) Based on the oxygen concentrator described in (13), it is ideal that the high-concentration oxygen supply port and the exhaled gas acquisition port located on the outer casing of the oxygen concentrator have different shapes. By making the high-concentration oxygen supply port and the exhaled gas acquisition port have different shapes, it is possible to prevent the gas flow path made of pipes or the like from being connected to the wrong part. Attached Figure Description

[0029] Figure 1 This is an explanatory diagram of one embodiment of the oxygen concentration apparatus disclosed herein.

[0030] Figure 2 It is used to illustrate the oxygen concentration process. Figure 1 The diagram shows a block diagram of an oxygen concentration unit.

[0031] Figure 3 This diagram illustrates the pressure changes during one cycle of the adsorption cylinder and the switching status of the solenoid valve in the oxygen concentration unit.

[0032] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 The diagram shows a block diagram of an oxygen concentration unit.

[0033] Figure 5 An example of a user's respiratory flow and Figure 1 The diagram illustrates the switching states of the solenoid valves in the oxygen concentration unit.

[0034] Figure 6 This is an explanatory diagram of another embodiment of the oxygen concentration apparatus disclosed herein.

[0035] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 The diagram shows a block diagram of an oxygen concentration unit.

[0036] Figure 8 An example of a user's respiratory flow and Figure 6 The diagram illustrates the switching states of the solenoid valves in the oxygen concentration unit.

[0037] Figure 9 yes Figure 6 An explanatory diagram of a modified example of the oxygen concentration apparatus shown. Detailed Implementation

[0038] The oxygen concentration apparatus of this disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, this disclosure is not limited to these illustrations, but is intended to include all modifications expressed in and equivalent to those in the claims.

[0039] [First Implementation Method]

[0040] Figure 1This is an explanatory diagram of the oxygen concentration apparatus M1 according to one embodiment (first embodiment) of this disclosure. Figure 2 It is used to illustrate the oxygen concentration process. Figure 1 The diagram shows a block diagram of the oxygen concentration unit M1. Additionally, in... Figure 2 And as will be discussed later Figure 4 For ease of understanding, the following is provided: Figure 1 The diagrams shown may be simplified or omitted, representing parts of the structure and elements.

[0041] [Overall structure of the device]

[0042] First, the overall structure of the oxygen concentration unit M1 will be explained.

[0043] The oxygen concentrator M1 is a device that generates high-concentration oxygen, which is higher than the oxygen concentration in the air, and supplies it to the user. The oxygen concentrator M1 is used, for example, in home oxygen therapy, where a high concentration of oxygen is provided to the user, such as a patient with a respiratory illness.

[0044] The oxygen concentration device M1 includes a first adsorption cylinder 1 and a second adsorption cylinder 2, an air compressor 3 that supplies pressurized air to the first adsorption cylinder 1 and the second adsorption cylinder 2, and an exhaled gas detection unit 4 that detects the composition information of the patient's exhaled gas. In this embodiment, the air compressor 3 is a pressurization and vacuum type air compressor capable of pressurizing and drawing in gases such as air. The air compressor 3 supplies pressurized air to the first adsorption cylinder 1 and the second adsorption cylinder 2 and desorbs and discharges the originally adsorbed nitrogen-rich gas by reducing pressure. It also functions as an intake unit that draws the patient's exhaled gas into the device. By using the aforementioned pressurization and vacuum type air compressor 3, compared to the case where the intake unit, i.e., the vacuum pump, is located inside the device separately from the air compressor supplying pressurized air (described later in the second embodiment), the number of components can be reduced, thereby enabling device miniaturization.

[0045] The oxygen concentrator M1 also includes an oxygen container 5 for storing high-concentration oxygen, a humidifier 6 for humidifying high-concentration oxygen, a respiratory detection unit 7 for detecting the patient's exhalation and inhalation, a vacuum container 8, and an alarm unit 42. The operation of the air compressor 3 and various solenoid valves (described later) is controlled by a control unit 40 located within the device. The control unit 40 includes a storage unit 40a and a calculation unit 40b. The storage unit 40a stores a program for operating the oxygen concentrator M1, and the calculation unit 40b sends operating signals to the solenoid valves, etc. The alarm unit 42 issues an alarm based on the composition information of the patient's exhaled gas detected by the exhaled gas detection unit 4 and based on instructions from the calculation unit 40b. An alarm can be triggered by displaying an abnormal patient status on the operation panel (not shown) used to operate the oxygen concentrator M1, emitting a sound, or flashing a light. Upon receiving the alarm, the patient can take measures such as changing the flow rate of the high-concentration oxygen under the guidance of a doctor. Furthermore, the composition information can be provided to doctors and other personnel using additional communication functions. Doctors and other personnel who receive the information can issue instructions to users, such as changing the flow rate of high-concentration oxygen, as needed.

[0046] The air compressor 3 is housed within a compressor housing 10, which is located within the outer casing 9 of the oxygen concentration unit M1. The compressor housing 10 contains a control valve 11, a pair of cooling fans 12a and 12b, an intake silencer 13, and an exhaust silencer 14. The control valve 11 controls the flow of pressurized air from the air compressor 3 to the first adsorption cylinder 1 and the second adsorption cylinder 2, and the flow of exhaust gas from the first adsorption cylinder 1 and the second adsorption cylinder 2 to the air compressor 3. The pair of cooling fans 12a and 12b are used to cool the air compressor 3. In this embodiment, the control valve 11 consists of a three-port valve, namely solenoid valve A, and another three-port valve, solenoid valve B. Furthermore, in… Figure 1 , 2 In numbers 1, 4, 6, 7, and 9, the numbers "1", "2", or "3" near the valve marking indicate the port number of the valve. Three-port valves are marked with numbers 1 to 3, while two-port valves are marked with numbers 1 and 2.

[0047] A dust filter 15 is provided at the air inlet (not shown) of the housing 9. The dust filter 15 is used to capture dust and other contaminants contained in the external air introduced into the device. The external air introduced into the housing 9 through the dust filter 15 is drawn into the air compressor 3 through the intake filter 16 provided at the opening (not shown) of the compressor housing 10. The intake silencer box 13 is provided in the air flow path from the intake filter 16 to the air compressor 3 to reduce the noise caused by the air supply and compression of the air compressor 3.

[0048] The compressed and pressurized air (pressurized air) is supplied to the first adsorption cylinder 1 and the second adsorption cylinder 2 via control valve A and control valve B. In addition, the exhaust gas from the first adsorption cylinder 1 and the second adsorption cylinder 2 is depressurized and drawn in by the air compressor 3 via control valve A and control valve B, and then discharged to the outside via the exhaust muffler 14.

[0049] The heat generated by the operation of the air compressor 3 is drawn into the compressor housing 10 through the air inlet of the housing 9 and the opening 17 of the compressor housing 10 by the cooling fans 12a and 12b, and is then blown to the air compressor 3 to cool it.

[0050] An adsorbent is contained inside the first adsorption cylinder 1 and the second adsorption cylinder 2. This adsorbent selectively or preferentially adsorbs nitrogen gas from the pressurized air supplied from the air compressor 3. Zeolite, for example, can be used as the adsorbent. Details of the oxygen concentration process using the first adsorption cylinder 1 and the second adsorption cylinder 2 are described later.

[0051] The flow path on the downstream side of the first adsorption cylinder 1 and the second adsorption cylinder 2 (the flow path on the outlet side of high-concentration oxygen). Figure 1 The flow path from the lower part of the first adsorption cylinder 1 and the second adsorption cylinder 2 to the oxygen outlet 41 is equipped with various valves for controlling the flow rate or flow of fluids such as high-concentration oxygen. These include a vent valve 18, check valves 19 and 20, a pressure reducing valve 21, a three-port valve (solenoid valve C1), and a two-port valve (solenoid valve C2). A flow regulating unit 22 for adjusting the flow rate of high-concentration oxygen is provided downstream of the pressure reducing valve 21. As the flow regulating unit 22, a flow proportional valve capable of adjusting the gas flow rate can be used. The oxygen container 5 is located upstream of the pressure reducing valve 21 and downstream of the check valves 19 and 20. Furthermore, a pressure sensor 23 for detecting pressure abnormalities is provided in the gas flow path between the check valves 19 and 20 and the oxygen container 5.

[0052] The oxygen concentrator M1 in this embodiment is a VPSA (Vacuum Pressure Swing Adsorption System) type oxygen concentrator. While one adsorption cylinder is supplied with air compressed by the air compressor 3, the air compressor 3 draws air from the other adsorption cylinder, thus reducing its pressure. However, the oxygen concentrator disclosed herein is not limited to this; it can also be a PSA (Pressure Swing Adsorption System) type oxygen concentrator, where one adsorption cylinder is supplied with air compressed by the air compressor, while the other adsorption cylinder is opened to the atmosphere and its pressure is reduced.

[0053] Both solenoid valves A and B are three-port valves that switch between pressurization and depressurization states. In pressurization state, pressurized air from air compressor 3 is supplied to the first adsorption cylinder 1 (second adsorption cylinder 2). In depressurization state, the waste gas inside the first adsorption cylinder 1 (second adsorption cylinder 2) is discharged to the outside by suction. When one adsorption cylinder is in pressurization state, the other adsorption cylinder is in depressurization state.

[0054] Check valve 19 is disposed in the gas flow path downstream of the first adsorption cylinder 1, and check valve 20 is disposed in the gas flow path downstream of the second adsorption cylinder 2. The two check valves 19 and 20 are configured to ensure that the high-concentration oxygen discharged from the first adsorption cylinder 1 and the second adsorption cylinder 2 flows only downstream. Vent valve 18 is disposed in the gas flow path connecting the gas flow path between the first adsorption cylinder 1 and check valve 19 to the gas flow path between the second adsorption cylinder 2 and check valve 20.

[0055] High-concentration oxygen from check valve 19 and high-concentration oxygen from check valve 20 are alternately supplied to oxygen container 5 and stored therein. A pressure reducing valve 21 and a flow regulating unit 22 are provided downstream of oxygen container 5. The pressure reducing valve 21 reduces the pressure of the high-concentration oxygen from oxygen container 5, and the flow regulating unit 22 regulates the flow rate of the high-concentration oxygen. The high-concentration oxygen, after flow regulation by the flow regulating unit 22, is supplied to humidifier 6 via an oxygen sensor 24 for detecting abnormal oxygen concentration and a bacterial filter 25 for removing foreign matter from the high-concentration oxygen.

[0056] High-concentration oxygen, humidified by humidifier 6, is supplied to the patient via a three-port valve (solenoid valve C1) and a two-port valve (solenoid valve C2) and through a tube (not shown) connected to the high-concentration oxygen supply port 26 of the oxygen outlet 41 fixed to the outer casing 9. This is achieved through the patient-worn cannula C (see reference). Figure 2 The device supplies the patient with a high concentration of oxygen, and the patient's exhaled air is drawn into the device through the cannula C.

[0057] A respiratory detection unit 7 is provided in the gas flow path between the solenoid valve C2 and the high-concentration oxygen supply port 26. Based on the patient's exhalation and inhalation detected by the respiratory detection unit 7, the timing of supplying high-concentration oxygen to the patient and the timing of drawing the patient's exhaled air into the device are controlled. The respiratory detection unit 7 can be a pressure sensor that detects pressure changes caused by the patient's exhalation or inhalation.

[0058] In this embodiment, the high-concentration oxygen supply port 26, which supplies high-concentration oxygen to the patient, also functions as an exhaled gas acquisition port for drawing the patient's exhaled gas into the device. As described later, the supply of high-concentration oxygen and the drawing (acquisition) of exhaled gas are performed at different times.

[0059] The patient's exhaled gas, drawn into the device, is introduced into the exhaled gas detection unit 4 via solenoid valves C2 and C1 and check valve 27. The exhaled gas detection unit 4 detects the composition of the patient's exhaled gas. For example, the exhaled gas detection unit 4 can use a CO2 sensor to measure the CO2 concentration of the patient's exhaled gas, an oxygen sensor to measure the oxygen concentration, a hydrogen sensor to measure the hydrogen concentration, an ammonia sensor to measure the ammonia concentration, or a nitric oxide sensor to measure the nitric oxide concentration. The exhaled gas detection unit 4 can use one type of sensor or two or more types of sensors. By providing check valve 27 upstream of the exhaled gas detection unit 4, the backflow of the patient's exhaled gas flowing into the exhaled gas detection unit 4 can be prevented from flowing back upstream of the exhaled gas detection unit 4.

[0060] The exhaled gas emitted from the exhaled gas detection unit 4, whose composition information is detected, is drawn to the air compressor 3 through the solenoid valve E, filter 28, vacuum container 8, and solenoid valve D. Under the action of the air compressor 3, it is discharged to the outside through the exhaust muffler 14. By placing the filter 28 in the flow path of the exhaled gas, the range of contact between the patient's exhaled gas and the device can be limited. As a result, when another user, i.e., the patient, uses the oxygen concentrator M1, the number of parts that need to be cleaned or replaced to prevent infection can be reduced, and the gas flow path that needs to be cleaned or replaced can be shortened. In addition, by using the filter 28 to capture the components contained in the patient's exhaled gas for a long time, exhaled gas components that are normally undetectable due to their very small size can be found. Furthermore, by setting up the vacuum container 8, the load on the air compressor 3 can be balanced, thereby improving energy efficiency.

[0061] In this embodiment, the exhaled gas detection unit 4, composed of various sensors such as the CO2 sensor, obtains the composition information of the patient's exhaled gas acquired within the device. Based on the composition information of the patient's exhaled gas obtained by the exhaled gas detection unit 4, the patient's condition, and more specifically, their health status, can be assessed. For example, by measuring the CO2 concentration in the patient's exhaled gas, it can be determined whether the CO2 produced in the patient's body during the process of consuming oxygen to generate energy is being normally expelled from the body through respiration. Furthermore, by measuring the oxygen concentration in the exhaled gas using an oxygen sensor, information on lung function and metabolic circulation, including whether the high concentration of oxygen supplied along with inhalation is being effectively absorbed by the body, can be confirmed.

[0062] Furthermore, measuring the concentration of nitric oxide (NO) in exhaled breath using a nitric oxide sensor can help detect respiratory inflammation (asthma) at an early stage. Similarly, measuring the concentration of ammonia in exhaled breath using an ammonia sensor can help detect the early state of liver and kidney function, and signs of stomach cancer. Additionally, measuring the concentration of hydrogen in exhaled breath using a hydrogen sensor can be used for evaluating the intestinal environment, conducting medical examinations of the digestive system, and obtaining measurements for health diagnosis.

[0063] In addition to the concentration of specific gases in exhaled gas, the composition information also includes the gas pressure (partial pressure). For example, by measuring the partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PEtCO2: end-tidal carbon dioxide partial pressure, etc.) in exhaled gas using infrared absorbance, a photosensitive device as the exhaled gas detection unit can measure the partial pressure of carbon dioxide in exhaled gas, enabling early detection of conditions such as impaired or low ventilation in patients. Through the measurement of exhaled gas composition, it can achieve the same function as a non-intubated carbon dioxide concentration monitor.

[0064] [Oxygen Concentration Process]

[0065] Next, the process of generating high-concentration oxygen using the oxygen concentration device M1 will be described.

[0066] Figure 2 It is used to illustrate the oxygen concentration process. Figure 1 The diagram shown is a block diagram of the oxygen concentration unit M1. Figure 3 This diagram illustrates the pressure changes during one cycle of the adsorption cylinder and the switching status of the solenoid valve in the oxygen concentration unit M1. Figure 3 The upper diagram shows the opening and closing states of solenoid valves A, B, vent valve 18, and D related to the oxygen concentration process at each step. The lower diagram shows the pressure changes inside the first adsorption cylinder 1 and the second adsorption cylinder 2. In the lower diagram, the thick solid line represents the pressure change inside the first adsorption cylinder 1, and the thin solid line represents the pressure change inside the second adsorption cylinder 2. Figures 2-3 In the example shown, the pressurization process inside the adsorption cylinders is performed in the order of the first adsorption cylinder 1 and the second adsorption cylinder 2. Furthermore, in Figure 3 In this process, the first adsorption cylinder 1 undergoes one cycle of treatment during the period indicated by "T". The aforementioned one cycle of treatment includes the six steps "T1" to "T6" shown in the upper figure.

[0067] Figure 2In the diagram, the numbers labeled in the boxes representing solenoid valves A, B, vent valve 18, and D indicate the port numbers of each valve, as described above. Since solenoid valves A and B are three-port valves, they are labeled with numbers 1 to 3. Since vent valve 18 and solenoid valve D are two-port valves, they are labeled with numbers 1 to 2. Figure 3 In the diagram above, for example, "1→2" for solenoid valve A is "open," meaning that port "1" in solenoid valve A is connected to port "2." At this time, port "2" in solenoid valve A is disconnected from port "3."

[0068] exist Figure 3 In the lower part of the graph, the horizontal axis represents the passage of time, and in this graph, time passes from left to right.

[0069] In step T1, the venting valve 18 and solenoid valve D are in the "open" state, supplying high-concentration oxygen from the second adsorption cylinder 2 to the first adsorption cylinder 1, and the vacuum container 8 is evacuated by the air compressor 3. In step T1, since ports "2" to "3" of solenoid valves A and B are all in the "closed" state, they will not be drawn into the first adsorption cylinder 1 and the second adsorption cylinder 2. The adsorption of the first adsorption cylinder 1, the second adsorption cylinder 2, and the vacuum container 8 is achieved by controlling the opening and closing of the valves in a staggered manner.

[0070] Next, in step T2, ports "1" to "2" of solenoid valve A and ports "2" to "3" of solenoid valve B are in the "open" state, and the air compressor 3 pressurizes the first adsorption cylinder 1 and depressurizes the second adsorption cylinder 2. In step T2, the vent valve 18 and solenoid valve D, which were originally in the "open" state in step T1, are in the "closed" state. In the first adsorption cylinder 1, which is pressurized by pressurized air, the nitrogen contained in the pressurized air is adsorbed by the adsorbent contained in the first adsorption cylinder 1. As a result, the gas in the first adsorption cylinder 1 becomes high-concentration oxygen with a higher oxygen concentration than that in conventional air.

[0071] Next, in step T3, the vent valve 18 is in the "open" state, and the high concentration of oxygen in the first adsorption cylinder 1 is supplied to the second adsorption cylinder 2 through the vent valve 18.

[0072] Next, in step T4, ports "2" to "3" of solenoid valve A and ports "2" to "3" of solenoid valve B are in the "closed" state, while solenoid valve D is in the "open" state. In step T4, the supply of high-concentration oxygen from the first adsorption cylinder 1 to the second adsorption cylinder 2, as in step T3, continues, and the vacuum container 8 is evacuated by the air compressor 3.

[0073] Next, in step T5, ports "2" to "3" of solenoid valve A and ports "1" to "2" of solenoid valve B are in the "open" state, and the air compressor 3 pressurizes the second adsorption cylinder 2 and depressurizes the first adsorption cylinder 1. In step T4, the vent valve 18 and solenoid valve D, which were originally in the "open" state in step T3, are in the "closed" state. In the second adsorption cylinder 2, which is pressurized by pressurized air, the nitrogen contained in the pressurized air is adsorbed by the adsorbent contained in the second adsorption cylinder 2. As a result, the gas in the second adsorption cylinder 2 becomes high-concentration oxygen with a higher oxygen concentration than that in conventional air.

[0074] Next, in step T6, the vent valve 18 is in the "open" state, and the high-concentration oxygen in the second adsorption cylinder 2 is supplied to the first adsorption cylinder 1 through the vent valve 18. Then, steps T1 to T6 are repeated. By repeating the above steps T1 to T6, high-concentration oxygen is generated and supplied to the oxygen container 5.

[0075] [Acquisition of exhaled breath]

[0076] Next, the acquisition of the patient's exhaled gas using the oxygen concentration device M1 will be described.

[0077] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 The diagram shown is a block diagram of an oxygen concentration unit. Figure 5 An example of a patient's respiratory flow and Figure 1 The diagram illustrates the switching states of the solenoid valves in the oxygen concentration unit. Figure 5 The upper diagram illustrates the opening and closing states of solenoid valves C1, C2, and E at each step, related to supplying the patient with high-concentration oxygen and obtaining the patient's exhaled gas (drawing it into the device). The lower diagram shows an example of the patient's respiratory flow. Figure 5 In the lower part of the graph, the horizontal axis represents the passage of time, which moves from left to right. Additionally, in... Figure 4 In this process, solenoid valves A, B, and D are operated independently of the various operations related to the supply of high-concentration oxygen and the acquisition of exhaled gas based on the patient's respiratory detection, and are not involved in the oxygen concentration process.

[0078] First, in step T11, the patient is waiting for inhalation. The three-port valve, i.e., solenoid valve C1, has ports "2" to "3" in a "closed" state, and solenoid valve C2 is also in a "closed" state.

[0079] When the patient's inhalation is detected by the respiratory detection unit 7, a detection signal is sent to the calculation unit 40b. Upon receiving the detection signal, the calculation unit 40b sends an operation signal to the solenoid valve C2. According to the operation signal, the solenoid valve C2 changes from a "closed" state to an "open" state, and high-concentration oxygen is supplied to the patient (step T12).

[0080] The supply of high-concentration oxygen to the patient is not performed throughout the patient's entire inhalation time. In the human respiratory pathway from the nose or mouth to the lungs, there exists a portion called "dead space" that does not contribute to actual respiration. Even if high-concentration oxygen is supplied to this dead space, it will not be used for human respiration. Furthermore, the gas accumulated (residual) in this dead space is not the gas produced after human respiration and therefore cannot be called exhaled gas. Therefore, in this embodiment, high-concentration oxygen is supplied only during a portion of the patient's inhalation time, and as described later, exhaled gas is obtained only during a portion of the patient's exhalation time.

[0081] Generally, in human respiration, the ratio of inhalation time to exhalation time is 1:2. The duration of one breath is calculated based on the patient's respiratory rate, and the inhalation and exhalation times can be estimated from this time. Then, the opening and closing of a solenoid valve or similar device can be controlled in a manner that supplies high-concentration oxygen only during a portion of the estimated inhalation time and obtains exhaled gas only during a portion of the estimated exhalation time. For example, in the case of a patient who breathes twenty times in one minute, the inhalation and exhalation times during one breath can be estimated to be 1 second and 2 seconds, respectively. Next, for example, 60% of the 1-second inhalation time, i.e., 0.6 seconds, can be set as the high-concentration oxygen supply time. Similarly, for example, 30% of the 2-second exhalation time, i.e., 0.6 seconds, can be set as the exhaled gas acquisition time. These proportions of 60% and 30% can be appropriately selected based on data and empirical values. In this embodiment, the time for step T12 can be set to, for example, 0.6 seconds. In addition, the exhalation acquisition time in step T16 described later can be set to 0.6 seconds.

[0082] Next, step T13 is the waiting time, which can be set taking into account the time required to expel the high concentration of oxygen in the tube (described later). In step T13, ports "2" to "3" of solenoid valve C1 are in the "open" state, and solenoid valve C2 is in the "closed" state.

[0083] Next, in step T14, the high concentration of oxygen remaining in the gas flow path or tube from solenoid valve C1 to the patient's cannula C is expelled. In step T14, ports "2" to "3" of solenoid valve C1 are in the "open" state, and solenoid valve C2 is also in the "open" state. Furthermore, ports "3" to "2" of solenoid valve E, located downstream of exhaled gas detection unit 4, are in the "open" state. Therefore, the high concentration of oxygen remaining in the gas flow path or tube from solenoid valve C1 to the patient's cannula C is drawn into the vacuum container 8 through the vacuum container 8, bypassing the exhaled gas detection unit 4, and via solenoid valve E and filter 28.

[0084] Next, in step T15, the patient is waiting to exhale. Ports "2" to "3" of the three-port valve, i.e., solenoid valve C1, are in the "open" state, while solenoid valve C2, which was originally in the "open" state in step T14, is in the "closed" state. In addition, ports "1" to "2" of solenoid valve E are in the "open" state.

[0085] When the patient's exhalation is detected by the respiratory detection unit 7, a detection signal is sent to the calculation unit 40b. Upon receiving the detection signal, the calculation unit 40b sends an operation signal to the solenoid valve C2. According to the operation signal, the solenoid valve C2 changes from a "closed" state to an "open" state, and the patient's exhaled gas is drawn (acquired) into the device (step T16). As mentioned above, the acquisition of the exhaled gas does not occur during the entire exhalation time of the patient.

[0086] In this embodiment, the respiratory detection unit 7 detects the patient's inhalation and exhalation, and supplies high-concentration oxygen and draws in (acquires) exhaled gas in sync with the patient's breathing. By supplying high-concentration oxygen and drawing in exhaled gas in sync with the patient's breathing, the supply and drawing in can be performed efficiently.

[0087] The exhaled gas of a patient introduced into the exhaled gas detection unit 4 is used to measure the concentrations of CO2, oxygen, hydrogen, ammonia, nitric oxide, etc., by the sensors included in the exhaled gas detection unit 4. Then, based on the measured values, the patient's condition (such as hypoventilation) can be determined as described above. In this embodiment, the flow rate of high-concentration oxygen supplied to the patient can be changed based on the component information detected by the exhaled gas detection unit 4. Therefore, oxygen supply corresponding to the patient's condition can be performed; for example, for patients diagnosed with hypoxia, the flow rate of high-concentration oxygen can be increased within the doctor's prescription range.

[0088] Next, step T17 is the waiting time, which can be set considering the filling time for filling the tube with high-concentration oxygen as described later. In step T17, ports "1" to "2" of solenoid valve C1 are in the "open" state, and solenoid valve C2 is in the "closed" state.

[0089] Next, in step T18, high-concentration oxygen is filled into the gas flow path or tube from solenoid valve C1 to the patient's cannula, thereby expelling the patient's exhaled gas remaining in the gas flow path or tube. In step T18, ports "1" to "2" of solenoid valve C1 are in the "open" state, and solenoid valve C2 is also in the "open" state. Furthermore, ports "3" to "2" of solenoid valve E, located downstream of exhaled gas detection unit 4, are in the "open" state. Therefore, the patient's exhaled gas remaining in the gas flow path or tube from solenoid valve C1 to the patient's cannula C is pushed to the patient's cannula C side by the high-concentration oxygen supplied through flow regulating unit 22, and is discharged to the outside from the cannula C.

[0090] [Second Implementation]

[0091] Next, the second embodiment of this disclosure will be described. Figure 6 This is an explanatory diagram of an oxygen concentration apparatus M2 according to another embodiment (second embodiment) of this disclosure.

[0092] The difference between the oxygen concentrator M2 of the second embodiment and the oxygen concentrator M1 of the first embodiment is that an air compressor 30 that only performs pressurization is used instead of an air compressor 3 that combines pressurization and vacuum. Furthermore, a vacuum pump 31 is used as the inhalation section to draw the patient's exhaled gas into the device. Therefore, for structures or elements in the oxygen concentrator M2 that are common to those in the oxygen concentrator M1, the same reference numerals are used as in the drawings, and for simplicity, descriptions of these structures or elements are omitted.

[0093] In the oxygen concentration unit M2, a single solenoid valve C replaces the two solenoid valves C1 and C2 located upstream of the exhaled gas detection unit 4 in the oxygen concentration unit M1. Solenoid valve C is a three-port valve with three ports. Furthermore, the check valve 27 located in the gas flow path between the exhaled gas detection unit 4 and solenoid valve C1, the solenoid valve E located downstream of the exhaled gas detection unit 4, the filter 28, and the vacuum container 8 used in the oxygen concentration unit M1 are omitted. Therefore, the required functions are maintained in the oxygen concentration unit M2, while the number of components is reduced.

[0094] In the oxygen concentrator M1, which uses a pressurized and vacuum-operated air compressor 3, the operation of the air compressor 3 is controlled to pressurize and depressurize the first adsorption cylinder 1, the second adsorption cylinder 2, and to evacuate the vacuum container 8 used to draw the patient's exhaled gas into the device. Conversely, in the oxygen concentrator M2, the operation of the air compressor 30 is controlled to pressurize and depressurize the first adsorption cylinder 1 and the second adsorption cylinder 2, and the operation of the vacuum pump 31 is controlled to draw the patient's exhaled gas into the device.

[0095] [Acquisition of exhaled breath]

[0096] Next, the acquisition of the patient's exhaled gas using the oxygen concentration device M2 will be described.

[0097] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 The diagram shown is a block diagram of the oxygen concentration unit M2. Figure 8 An example of a patient's respiratory flow and Figure 7 The diagram illustrates the switching state of the solenoid valve of the oxygen concentration unit M2.

[0098] In addition, Figure 7 For ease of understanding, the following is provided: Figure 6 The representation of a part of the structure or element shown is simplified or the illustration is omitted.

[0099] exist Figure 8 The upper diagram illustrates the opening and closing states of solenoid valves C and D at various stages, related to supplying the patient with high-concentration oxygen and obtaining the patient's exhaled gas (drawing it into the device). The lower diagram shows an example of the patient's respiratory flow. Additionally, in Figure 7 In this process, solenoid valves A and B are not involved in the supply of high-concentration oxygen and the acquisition of exhaled gas based on the patient's respiratory detection, but are operated during the oxygen concentration process of the oxygen concentration device M2.

[0100] First, in step T21, the patient is waiting to inhale. The three-port valve, i.e., solenoid valve C, has ports "1" to "2" in a "closed" state, and the two-port valve, i.e., solenoid valve, is also in a "closed" state.

[0101] When the patient's inhalation is detected by the respiratory detection unit, a detection signal is sent to the processing unit. Upon receiving the detection signal, the processing unit sends an operation signal to the solenoid valve C. According to the operation signal, ports "1" to "2" of the solenoid valve C change from a "closed" state to an "open" state, and high-concentration oxygen is supplied to the patient (step T22).

[0102] Similar to the first embodiment, the high-concentration oxygen is not supplied to the patient during the entire inhalation time. In this embodiment, the high-concentration oxygen is also supplied only during a portion of the patient's inhalation time. Furthermore, as described later, exhaled gas is only obtained during a portion of the patient's exhalation time.

[0103] Next, step T23 is the waiting time, which can be set taking into account the time required to expel the high concentration of oxygen from the tube (described later). In step T23, ports "2" to "3" of solenoid valve C are in the "open" state, and solenoid valve D is in the "closed" state.

[0104] Next, in step T24, the high concentration of oxygen remaining in the gas flow path or tube from solenoid valve C to the patient's cannula C is discharged. In step T24, ports "2" to "3" of solenoid valve C are in the "open" state, and solenoid valve D is also in the "open" state. Therefore, the high concentration of oxygen remaining in the gas flow path or tube from solenoid valve C to the patient's cannula C is drawn out by the operation of vacuum pump 31 and discharged to the outside.

[0105] Next, in step T25, the patient is waiting to exhale. Ports "2" to "3" of the three-port valve, i.e., solenoid valve C1, are in the "open" state, while solenoid valve D, which was originally in the "open" state in step T24, is in the "closed" state.

[0106] When the patient's exhalation is detected by the respiratory detection unit 7, a detection signal is sent to the processing unit. Upon receiving the detection signal, the processing unit sends an operation signal to the solenoid valve D. According to the operation signal, the solenoid valve D changes from a "closed" state to an "open" state, and the patient's exhaled gas is drawn (acquired) into the device by the operation of the vacuum pump 31 (step T26). As mentioned above, the acquisition of the exhaled gas does not occur during the entire exhalation time of the patient.

[0107] For the patient's exhaled gas introduced into the exhaled gas detection unit 4, similar to the oxygen concentration device M1 in the first embodiment, the concentrations of CO2, oxygen, hydrogen, ammonia, etc. are measured by the sensors included in the exhaled gas detection unit 4.

[0108] Next, step T27 is the waiting time, which can be set considering the filling time for filling the tube with high-concentration oxygen as described later. In step T27, ports "2" to "3" of solenoid valve C are in the "open" state, and solenoid valve D is in the "closed" state.

[0109] Next, in step T28, high-concentration oxygen is filled into the gas flow path or tube from the solenoid valve C to the patient's cannula C, thereby expelling the patient's exhaled gas remaining in the gas flow path or tube. In step T28, ports "1" to "2" of the solenoid valve C are in the "open" state, and the solenoid valve D is in the "closed" state. Therefore, the patient's exhaled gas remaining in the gas flow path or tube from the solenoid valve C to the patient's cannula C is pushed to the patient's cannula side by the high-concentration oxygen supplied through the flow regulating unit 22 and is discharged to the outside from the cannula C.

[0110] [Other variations]

[0111] This disclosure is not limited to the foregoing embodiments, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the claims.

[0112] For example, in the aforementioned embodiment, a pressure sensor that detects both the patient's exhalation and inhalation is used as the respiratory detection unit. However, it is also possible to use a pressure sensor that detects only the patient's exhalation or inhalation. In this case, for example, the inhalation and expiration times of a single breath of the patient can be calculated based on the patient's past average respiratory time data and empirical values, and high-concentration oxygen can be supplied only for, for example, 60% of the calculated inhalation time. Furthermore, the patient's exhaled gas can be acquired (drawn) only for a portion of the calculated expiration time. By using a pressure sensor that detects only the patient's exhalation or inhalation, the respiratory detection unit can be simplified. However, from the perspective of more accurately synchronizing the supply of high-concentration oxygen and the acquisition of exhaled gas with the patient's breathing, it is more ideal to use a pressure sensor that detects both the patient's exhalation and inhalation.

[0113] Furthermore, in the aforementioned embodiments, high-concentration oxygen is supplied to the patient through a cannula, and the patient's exhaled gas is also obtained. However, as an alternative to the cannula, for example, high-concentration oxygen can also be supplied and exhaled gas can be obtained through a mask worn by the patient.

[0114] Furthermore, in the aforementioned embodiments, the gas flow path from the oxygen concentrator to the patient is a single path, and the flow path for supplying the patient with high-concentration oxygen and for obtaining the patient's exhaled gas are shared. However, for example, it could also be as follows: Figure 9 As shown, separate flow paths are set up to supply high-concentration oxygen to the patient and to obtain the patient's exhaled gas. Figure 9 yes Figure 6In the modified example of the oxygen concentration device shown, an oxygen outlet 41 and an exhaled gas acquisition port 43 are provided. Tubes connected to the oxygen outlet and the exhaled gas acquisition port are inserted into the patient's nostrils. In this case, since the high-concentration oxygen supply path and the exhaled gas acquisition path constitute separate paths, the operations of venting high-concentration oxygen from the path and filling the path with high-concentration oxygen (venting exhaled gas from the tube) as described in the previous embodiment are unnecessary.

[0115] As mentioned above, in the modified example where the oxygen outlet 41 and the exhaled gas acquisition port 43 are separately provided, it is ideal to pre-determine that the high-concentration oxygen supply port 26 of the oxygen outlet 41 and the exhaled gas acquisition port 44 of the exhaled gas acquisition port 43 of the oxygen concentrator 9 are of different shapes. This prevents the tube from being connected to the wrong part. Furthermore, as an alternative to shape, the wrong connection can also be prevented by changing their colors.

[0116] Furthermore, in the aforementioned embodiments, the oxygen concentration device is an oxygen concentration device that supplies pressurized air, which is pressurized by a compressor, to the adsorption cylinder and then depressurizes the adsorption cylinder in the pressurized state to discharge nitrogen-rich air. However, this disclosure is not limited to this, and this disclosure can also be applied to VSA type oxygen concentration devices and membrane type oxygen concentration devices that supply air to the adsorption cylinder and only repeat atmospheric pressure and depressurization.

[0117] Symbol Explanation

[0118] 1: First adsorption cylinder;

[0119] 2: Second adsorption cylinder;

[0120] 3: Air compressor;

[0121] 4: Exhaled gas detection unit;

[0122] 5: Oxygen container;

[0123] 6: Humidifier;

[0124] 7: Respiratory Testing Department;

[0125] 8: Vacuum container;

[0126] 9: Outer shell;

[0127] 10: Compressor housing;

[0128] 11: Control valve;

[0129] 12a: Cooling fan;

[0130] 12b: Cooling fan;

[0131] 13: Air intake silencer box;

[0132] 14: Exhaust muffler;

[0133] 15: Dust filter;

[0134] 16: Intake filter;

[0135] 17: Open;

[0136] 18: Vent valve;

[0137] 19: Check valve;

[0138] 20: Check valve;

[0139] 21: Pressure reducing valve;

[0140] 22: Flow regulation section;

[0141] 23: Pressure sensor;

[0142] 24: Oxygen sensor;

[0143] 25: Bacterial filter;

[0144] 26: High-concentration oxygen supply port;

[0145] 27: Check valve;

[0146] 28: Filter;

[0147] 30: Air compressor;

[0148] 31: Vacuum pump;

[0149] 40: Control Department;

[0150] 40a: Storage section;

[0151] 40b: Arithmetic unit;

[0152] 41: Oxygen outlet;

[0153] 42: Alarm Department;

[0154] 43: Exhaled gas intake port;

[0155] 44: Exhaled gas acquisition port;

[0156] C: Sleeve;

[0157] M1: Oxygen concentration unit;

[0158] M2: Oxygen concentration unit.

Claims

1. An oxygen concentrator (Ml, M2) that supplies air to a first adsorption cylinder (1) and a second adsorption cylinder (2) that house an adsorbent that selectively adsorbs nitrogen, pressurizes the second adsorption cylinder (2) during a period when the first adsorption cylinder (1) is in a depressurized state, depressurizes the first adsorption cylinder (1) during a period when the second adsorption cylinder (2) is in a depressurized state, and supplies generated high concentration oxygen to a user, characterized by, Comprise: an inhalation section (3) that draws out gas of a user into the device; and an exhalation gas detection section (4) that detects component information of the drawn out gas of the user, According to the timing of the user's breathing, high concentration oxygen is supplied during a part of the user's inhalation time, and the exhaled gas is drawn during a part of the user's exhalation time.

2. The oxygen concentration device (M1, M2) according to claim 1, characterized in that The air compressor (3) that generates the air doubles as the inhalation section.

3. The oxygen concentration device (M1, M2) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that A filter (28) is provided in the path of the exhalation gas on the upstream side of the inhalation section (3).

4. The oxygen concentration device (M1, M2) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that A check valve (27) is provided in the path of the exhalation gas on the upstream side of the exhalation gas detection section (4).

5. The oxygen concentration device (M1, M2) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that A vacuum container (8) is provided in the path between the inhalation section (3) and the exhalation gas detection section (4).

6. The oxygen concentration device (M1, M2) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The exhalation gas detection section (4) is a CO2 sensor that measures the CO2 concentration of the exhalation gas of the user.

7. The oxygen concentration device (M1, M2) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The exhalation gas detection section (4) is an oxygen sensor that measures the oxygen concentration of the exhalation gas of the user.

8. The oxygen concentration device (M1, M2) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The exhalation gas detection section (4) is a hydrogen sensor that measures the hydrogen concentration of the exhalation gas of the user.

9. The oxygen concentration device (M1, M2) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The flow rate of the high concentration oxygen supplied to the user is changed according to the component information detected by the exhalation gas detection section (4).

10. The oxygen concentration device (M1, M2) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that Further comprising an alarm section that issues an alarm according to the component information detected by the exhalation gas detection section (4).

11. The oxygen concentration device (M1, M2) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that Has a communication function that enables the component information detected by the exhalation gas detection section (4) to be provided to a doctor via a communication device.

12. The oxygen concentration device (M1, M2) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The path that supplies high concentration oxygen to the user and the path that draws the exhalation gas of the user are provided separately and independently.

13. The oxygen concentration device (M2) according to claim 12, characterized in that The high concentration oxygen supply port and the exhalation gas acquisition port provided in the housing (9) of the oxygen concentration device (M2) have different shapes from each other.

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