Ventilator Systems and Methods

Abstract

The present invention is entitled "Ventilator System and Method". The present invention discloses a portable ventilator including a gas exchange actuator configured to drive gas exchange from a gas source to a patient, wherein the portable ventilator is configured to be removably connected to a host such that when the portable ventilator is connected to the host, the gas exchange actuator drives gas exchange from a host gas source to the patient, and when the portable ventilator is not connected to the host, the gas exchange actuator drives gas exchange from a portable gas source to the patient.

Description

Background Technology

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of patient ventilation, including mechanical ventilation, and more specifically to portable ventilation actuators and adaptive ventilation systems to facilitate ventilation in patients in a variety of different settings requiring mechanical ventilation or other respiratory support.

[0002] During medical treatment, patients may require some form of respiratory support provided by a ventilator, or multiple different types of respiratory support, typically provided by different types of ventilation devices in different settings. Respiratory support can include assisted ventilation, where the ventilator detects breathing attempts and provides supplemental pressure and gas flow to the patient for a complete and effective respiratory cycle. Other forms of respiratory support include mechanical ventilation, where the ventilator also initiates the respiratory phase of each respiratory cycle.

[0003] Different types of mechanical ventilators can be used, each providing mechanical ventilation for a specific setting. Examples include intensive care unit ventilators configured to provide mechanical respiratory support for extended durations, and operating room ventilators configured to deliver anesthetic gases and provide respiratory support while the patient is under general anesthesia. During treatment, patients receiving respiratory support may need to be transferred between ventilator systems. One example of such a transfer is when a patient switches from receiving anesthetic ventilator support during surgery to respiratory support from an intensive care unit (ICU) ventilator that the patient may be connected to before and / or after surgery. This transfer necessarily requires disconnecting the patient from one ventilator before connecting to another, leaving the patient disconnected from respiratory support from either ventilator for a period of time. This connection and disconnection of the patient also exposes the patient's airway to pathogens and can potentially lead to nosocomial infections. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This summary is provided to introduce a series of concepts that will be further described in the detailed embodiments below. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to help limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0005] In one embodiment, a portable ventilator includes a gas exchange driver configured to drive gas exchange from a gas source to a patient, wherein the portable ventilator is configured to be removably connected to a host such that when the portable ventilator is connected to the host, the gas exchange driver drives gas exchange from a host gas source to the patient, and when the portable ventilator is not connected to the host, the gas exchange driver drives gas exchange from a portable gas source to the patient.

[0006] One embodiment of a patient ventilation system includes a first host connected to a first host gas source, a portable ventilator configured to be removably connected to the first host, and a portable gas source configured to be connected to the portable ventilator. The portable ventilator includes a ventilation actuator configured to drive ventilation gas from the first host gas source to the patient when the portable ventilator is connected to the first host, and to drive ventilation gas from the portable gas source to the patient when the portable ventilator is not connected to the first host.

[0007] In some examples, the inspiratory gas from the portable gas source is at a first pressure, and the inspiratory gas from the anesthetic gas source is at a second pressure, wherein the second pressure is greater than the first pressure. In some embodiments, the portable ventilator may further include a portable gas source inlet valve configured to automatically open when the portable ventilator is not connected to the main gas source to allow ventilation gas to flow from the portable gas source. For example, the portable gas source inlet valve may be configured to open when the delivery pressure of the ventilation gas from the main gas source is lower than the delivery pressure of the ventilation gas from the portable gas source.

[0008] In some implementations, a portable ventilator may include a ventilation driver section and a patient interface section. In some examples, the ventilation driver section and the patient interface section may be configured to be removably connected together and may be detachable for cleaning and / or retention.

[0009] One embodiment of a method for operating a ventilator includes operating a gas exchange actuator of a portable ventilator to drive gas exchange from a portable gas source through a patient interface to the patient, wherein the gas exchange from the portable gas source is at a first pressure. When the portable ventilator is connected to a main unit, the gas exchange actuator is operated to drive gas exchange from a main unit gas source through the patient interface to the patient, wherein the gas exchange from the main unit gas source is at a second pressure, wherein the second pressure is greater than the first pressure. In some examples, if the second pressure of the main unit gas source becomes less than the first pressure of the main unit gas source, the gas exchange actuator may automatically revert to driving gas exchange from the portable gas source through the patient interface to the patient.

[0010] One embodiment of the ventilator includes a gas exchange driver and a patient interface portion. The gas exchange driver is configured to drive exhaled gas from a gas source to a patient. The patient interface portion is configured to direct inspiratory gas from the gas exchange driver to a patient connector, receive expiratory gas from the patient connector, and expel expiratory gas from the ventilator. The gas exchange driver and patient interface portion are configured to be removably connected to at least one host unit including a gas exchange path portion, such that when connected to the host unit, inspiratory gas is diverted through the gas exchange path portion of the host unit.

[0011] In one implementation, the host may be an anesthesia host including a circulatory breathing system, and the gas exchange driver is configured to be removably connected to the anesthesia host and the circulatory breathing system. In some examples, the gas exchange driver may be configured to drive inspiratory gas from a host gas source (such as an anesthetic gas source) to the patient through the patient interface portion when connected to the host, and to drive inspiratory gas from a portable gas source to the patient through the patient interface portion when the ventilator is not connected to the host.

[0012] One embodiment of an anesthesia ventilator system includes a portable ventilator comprising a gas exchange actuator and a patient interface portion. The gas exchange actuator is configured to drive inspiratory gas from a gas source to the patient. The patient interface portion is configured to direct inspiratory gas from the gas exchange actuator to a patient connector, receive expiratory gas from the patient connector, and expel expiratory gas from the portable ventilator. The anesthesia ventilator system further includes a recirculatory system, a scavenging system, and a main gas source. The portable ventilator is configured to be removably connected to the recirculatory system, the scavenging system, and the main gas source, wherein the gas exchange actuator is configured to drive inspiratory gas from the main gas source to the patient through the patient interface portion when connected, and to drive inspiratory gas from the portable gas source to the patient through the patient interface portion when disconnected.

[0013] One embodiment of the method of operating a ventilator includes operating a gas exchange actuator to drive inspiratory gas through a patient interface portion to the patient. When the gas exchange actuator and the patient interface portion are connected to a host unit including a gas exchange path portion, the gas exchange actuator is operated to drive inspiratory gas from an anesthetic gas source through the gas exchange path portion and the patient interface portion to the patient.

[0014] In some embodiments, when the ventilation actuator and / or patient interface portion is connected to the main unit, the main unit source connection valve is opened to facilitate the flow of inspiratory gas from the main unit gas source to the ventilation actuator, and the portable gas source inlet valve is closed to stop the flow of inspiratory gas from the portable gas source to the ventilation actuator. In other embodiments, when the ventilation actuator and / or patient interface portion is connected to the main unit, at least one inspiratory diversion valve in the patient interface portion is opened, wherein the inspiratory diversion valve is configured to divert inspiratory gas from the patient interface portion through the recirculatory system.

[0015] In one embodiment, the ventilator system includes a ventilator and a main unit. The ventilator includes a gas exchange driver and a patient interface portion. The gas exchange driver is configured to drive exhaled gas from a gas source to a patient. The patient interface portion is configured to guide inspiratory gas from the gas exchange driver to a patient connector along an inspiratory path and to guide expiratory gas from the patient connector out of the ventilator along an expiratory path. The patient interface portion is configured to be releasably connected to the gas exchange driver. The ventilator is configured to be removably connected to the main unit such that when the ventilator is removably connected to the main unit, at least one of the inspiratory and expiratory paths is diverted through the main unit. In some embodiments, the expiratory path does not enter the gas exchange driver, such that the gas exchange driver does not receive any patient expiratory gas. In other embodiments, the patient interface portion is detachably removable from the ventilator system when the gas exchange driver is connected to the main unit and is a cleanable and sterilizable unit.

[0016] One embodiment of the ventilator includes a gas exchange driver and a patient interface portion. The gas exchange driver is configured to drive inspiratory gas from a gas source to a patient. The patient interface portion is configured to guide inspiratory gas from the gas exchange driver to a patient connector along an inspiratory path and to guide expiratory gas from the patient connector out of the ventilator along an expiratory path. The patient interface portion is configured to be releasably connected to the gas exchange driver. The gas exchange driver is configured to be removably connected to a main unit such that when the gas exchange driver is connected to the main unit, the gas exchange driver is configured to drive inspiratory gas from a main unit gas source through the patient interface portion to the patient, and when the gas exchange driver is not connected to the main unit, the gas exchange driver is configured to drive inspiratory gas from a portable gas source through the patient interface portion to the patient.

[0017] Various other features, objects, and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0018] This disclosure is described with reference to the following figures.

[0019] Figure 1 This is a system diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a ventilator system according to the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 2A and Figure 2B An exemplary embodiment of a portable ventilator according to the present disclosure is depicted, wherein the portable ventilator is removably connected to a host.

[0021] Figure 3 An exemplary implementation of a portable ventilator used on a patient during transport is described.

[0022] Figure 4A and Figure 4B Depicting the combination of Figure 2 to Figure 3 An exemplary implementation of a portable ventilator system.

[0023] Figure 5 This is a system diagram depicting one embodiment of the pneumatic device for a ventilator according to the present disclosure.

[0024] Figures 6 to 8 It demonstrates collaboration with various hosts. Figure 5 A system diagram of a ventilator implementation plan.

[0025] Figure 9A An exemplary embodiment of a set of diverting valves in a first position is depicted in a ventilator, wherein the portable ventilator is not connected to a host unit.

[0026] Figure 9B Depicting Figure 9A The group of directional valves is in the second position, where the ventilator is connected to the main unit.

[0027] Figure 9C Another implementation of a set of diverting valves in a second position is depicted, wherein the ventilator is connected to the main unit.

[0028] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating one embodiment of a method for operating a portable ventilator according to the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0029] The inventors have discovered several challenges in providing continuous respiratory support to patients, particularly when intubated patients must be transferred between ventilators. One major issue is the continuous maintenance of positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP), and another is infection prevention as described above. Furthermore, the inventors have recognized that optimal patient monitoring can be provided when a consistent and continuous ventilation connection is maintained, including a constant connection from the patient connection device to the ventilator and the use of consistent ventilation parameters without interruption of continuity.

[0030] Maintaining PEEP is a crucial aspect of continuous mechanical ventilation, especially when patients are receiving lung volume recruitment therapy. Certain medical conditions, including but not limited to atelectasis, can cause collapsed alveoli. Collapsed alveoli can lead to significant lung volume loss and impair the efficiency of gas exchange. Normally, gas exchange removes carbon dioxide from a patient's blood while introducing oxygen. Specialized forms of respiratory support, known as recruitment steps, have been developed to gradually open or "re-expand" collapsed alveoli. Re-expansion steps may use specialized medical gases (such as helium) to reduce airway resistance, in addition to other medical gases such as oxygen, nitrogen, and air, or other additives (such as surfactants). Nevertheless, recruitment steps typically involve a prescribed series of ventilation pressures, including but not limited to inspiratory and expiratory pressures. PEEP is a common component of a prescribed recruitment step. At the end of the expiratory phase of the respiratory cycle, PEEP applies positive pressure to the patient's airway to "keep open" the opened alveoli, which would normally collapse under ambient pressure. Therefore, PEEP therapy preserves the re-expanded lung volume and maintains the lung volume gain achieved through the re-expansion step.

[0031] Re-expansion procedures are typically performed over a prescribed period of time, which can be hours or days. Re-expansion procedures must be performed over a period of time because patients requiring lung re-expansion often also have low lung strain and expect increased re-expansion volume through alveolar opening rather than lung expansion. Therefore, as more alveoli re-expand and lung volume increases, the re-expansion procedure slowly increases the pressure applied to the lungs over time.

[0032] However, as mentioned above, when a patient is typically transferred between ventilators at some point during the transition, the patient must be disconnected from one ventilator and reconnected to another. Even if this transition period is short (e.g., within seconds), the loss of PEEP maintained in the system can lead to collapse of re-expanded alveoli, thus forfeiting any physiological gains already achieved through previous re-expansion steps and other respiratory support. One or more new re-expansion steps must be performed over the aforementioned hours or days to re-expand the lost lung volume. Therefore, the implementation of the portable ventilator 2 disclosed herein maintains the patient's numerical status, thereby preserving the re-expanded lung volume and performing constant ventilation.

[0033] The inventors have recognized the benefit of maintaining full ventilatory functionality for patients at all times, including oxygen supply and continuous and consistent ventilatory pressure and parameters. Based on the problems and challenges in the related fields of patient ventilation described above, the inventors have developed the solutions of this disclosure. In the systems and methods of this disclosure, a ventilation driver and a patient connector connected to the ventilation driver are continuously maintained, so that the patient is continuously ventilated and the connection must be maintained at all times. The portable ventilator 2 and ventilation system 1 described herein allow for the continuous use of the same ventilation driver 4 and patient interface portion 6, which are connected and disconnected from various host devices.

[0034] The portable ventilator 2 can also operate autonomously to provide comprehensive ventilation support to the patient, including comprehensive mechanical ventilation, assisted ventilation support, PEEP, etc. The portable ventilator 2 can be attached to any of a variety of portable ventilation gas sources (such as oxygen cylinders or wall gas) and can be moved with the patient (e.g., when transporting between surgical wards and ICUs). The portable ventilator 2 can also be connected to a main unit that provides a high-pressure gas source (such as large oxygen cylinders or wall gas) to provide extended duration ventilation. The portable ventilator 2 can be configured to automatically utilize the main unit gas source 12 when connected to the main unit 10, as long as the main unit gas source 12 is available and functioning properly. The portable ventilator 2 can be configured to automatically revert to independent function and / or maintain ventilation from the portable gas source 8 whenever the portable ventilator 2 is disconnected from the main unit and / or the main unit gas source 12 is unavailable (e.g., empty or malfunctioning).

[0035] The portable ventilator 2 connects to any one of multiple host units 10 (alternatingly, one at a time) to provide additional ventilation capabilities for specific situations, such as extended ICU ventilation, specialized ventilation manipulation or testing, or anesthesia-related ventilation during surgery or other procedures. Therefore, the portable ventilator is configured to connect to multiple different host unit types with varying ventilation capabilities as needed for patient monitoring. The portable ventilator can be correspondingly designed to have various host unit types so that it can connect and disconnect from each of the various host units, one at a time.

[0036] exist Figure 1In one embodiment, the ventilation system 1 includes a portable ventilator 2 removably connectable to one or more host units 10, alternating between them at a time. A portable gas source 8 is connected to the portable ventilator 2, and a host gas source 12 is connected to the host unit 10. The portable ventilator 2 is configured to deliver ventilation gas to a patient 16 from either the portable gas source 8 or the host gas source 12. For example, the portable ventilator 2 may be configured to deliver gas from the host gas source 12 whenever the portable ventilator 2 is connected to the host unit 10, and to deliver ventilation gas from the portable gas source 8 to the patient 16 whenever the portable ventilator 2 is not connected to any host unit. In some embodiments, the host gas source 12 may be regulated to deliver ventilation gas at a higher delivery pressure than the portable gas source 8, and the portable ventilator 2 may be configured to drive ventilation gas from whichever gas source is available and has the highest output pressure to the patient.

[0037] The portable ventilator 2 may include a gas exchange actuator 4 and a patient interface portion 6. The gas exchange actuator 4 is configured to directly drive gas exchange gas from gas sources 8, 12 to the portable ventilator 2, which may be a portable gas source 8 or a host gas source 12 connected to a host unit 10 to which the portable ventilator 2 is connected. The gas exchange actuator 4 drives the gas exchange gas to a patient 16 via the patient interface portion 6. The patient interface portion 6 is configured to deliver inspiratory gas from the gas exchange actuator 4 to the patient 16 and to receive expiratory gas exhaled by the patient 16. The patient interface portion 6 is further configured to expel expiratory gas from the portable ventilator 2; this expiratory gas may be expelled to the atmosphere, or in some embodiments, delivered to a scavenging system or to the host unit 10 for further processing and / or recirculation to the patient (e.g., scavenging and / or CO2 scrubbing and recirculation to the patient). The patient interface portion 6 includes an inspiratory path 60 that provides the gas exchange gas (inspiratory gas) to be inhaled by the patient from the actuator 4 to the patient 16. The patient interface portion 6 further includes and defines an expiratory pathway 70 that receives expiratory gas exhaled from the patient 16 and discharges the expiratory gas from the portable ventilator 2.

[0038] Also refer to Figure 2A and Figure 5The patient interface portion 6 has an inspiratory connection port 64 that connects to the inspiratory portion of the patient connector 14 to deliver inspiratory gas to the patient's lungs. An expiratory connection port 74 connects between the expiratory portion of the patient 16 and the patient interface portion 6 to deliver exhaled gas from the patient to the expiratory path 70. In embodiments, the patient connector 14 may include, for example, an endotracheal (ET) tube. In these embodiments, the patient connector is a patient connector that forms a pneumatic seal with the patient's airway. This pneumatic seal allows for control and delivery of the flow and prescribed pressure of medical gases into the patient's respiratory system. In other embodiments, the patient connector 14 may include any patient-end connector configured to deliver appropriate ventilation or respiratory support to the patient, such as an oxygen mask, nasal cannula, etc.

[0039] As will be described in further detail herein, various pressures within the patient's airway, including but not limited to inspiratory and expiratory pressures, can be controlled during ventilation. During the inspiratory phase of a ventilation cycle, medical gases and / or other ventilation gases are supplied to the patient 16 via inspiratory path 60 through patient connector 14, and during the expiratory phase of a ventilation cycle, exhaled gases are guided from the patient 16 via expiratory path 70 through patient connector 14. The actuator 4 may include ventilation actuators, such as a blower 56 configured to drive inspiratory gases to the patient 16. The blower 56 or other actuators may be controlled based on measured pressures and / or flow rates within the ventilator 2.

[0040] In one embodiment, the patient interface portion 6 is the only part of the portable ventilator 2 that comes into contact with the patient's expiratory gas. That is, in some embodiments, the expiratory path 70 does not enter the ventilation actuator 4, and therefore contaminants from the expiratory path 70 do not enter or otherwise reach the actuator 4. However, in some embodiments, sensors, actuators, and / or other electronics that can sense the flow within the expiratory path may be located within the actuator 4 portion of the portable ventilator 2. For example, one or more pressure sensors 57, 58 configured to sense pressure within the inspiratory or expiratory paths 60, 70 may be located within the actuator 4 portion. For example, an inspiratory pressure sensor 57 may be located within the actuator 4 and configured to sense pressure within the expiratory path 60 in the patient interface portion 6, such as near port 64 connected to the patient connector 14. Similarly, an expiratory pressure sensor 58 may be located within the actuator 4 and configured to sense pressure within the expiratory path 70, such as near port 74.

[0041] One or more valve actuators for the valves in actuation paths 60 and 70 may also be located in the actuator section. In some embodiments, the patient interface section 6 is removable from the actuator section 4 and can be a cleanable and sterilizable module because it is in contact with the patient's exhaled gas. The actuator 4 can be cleanable because the housing and connection points or interfaces connected to the patient interface section 6 are cleanable, and particularly the actuator connected to or otherwise potentially contaminated by exhaled gas in the exhalation path 70. However, in some embodiments, the actuator 4 is not sterilizable and / or autoclaved, and therefore does not include a pathway for receiving contaminated gases, such as those from the patient's exhaled gas.

[0042] Refer again Figure 1 and Figure 2 to Figure 4B Various host units 10 can be integrated within the ventilation system 1. The portable ventilator 2 can be configured to connect to any of the various types of host units 10 providing different functions, including but not limited to high-volume and high-pressure gas sources for maintaining long-term ICU ventilation, and for anesthesia delivery during mechanical ventilation to maintain the patient under general anesthesia. The portable ventilator 2 is configured to connect to each of these multiple types of host units 10 to act as a ventilation driver for that host device, thereby delivering ventilation gas from the host gas source 12 to the patient 16. In some embodiments, the portable ventilator 2 is further configured to provide an inspiratory path that engages with the ventilation path portion 100 of the host unit 10. Alternatively or additionally, the portable ventilator 2 can be provided and connected to the host unit 10 such that expiratory gas from the patient is diverted to the ventilation path portion 100 of the host unit 10. For example, in some embodiments, the host unit 10 may include a circulatory system for anesthesia delivery, wherein inspiratory and expiratory paths flow through the host unit 10 and connect to a path in the patient interface portion 6. For example, the ventilation path section 100 may be connected only to the intake passage and may be provided with an on / off valve such as the P01 valve, as shown and described herein.

[0043] At least one host unit 10 includes a ventilator connector 50 configured to removably receive a ventilator 2 and connect a gas exchange driver 4 and a patient interface portion 6 to a gas exchange path portion 100 in the host unit 10, such that the gas exchange driver 4 receives gas from the host unit, and the patient interface portion 6 interfaces with the gas exchange path portion of the host unit as needed. The pneumatic diagram of the portable ventilator 2 and the pneumatic connections to various host unit embodiments are described in... Figures 5 to 8 As shown in the image.

[0044] In addition, the host unit can be configured to supply power and / or transmit sensor and control information to and from the portable ventilator 2. For example, the ventilator 2 may include a respiratory controller 20 that communicates with or is associated with a user interface 21 on or with the portable ventilator 2. For example, the user interface 21 may include devices through which clinicians can control ventilation parameters such as pressure, respiratory rate, pathway flow, peak flow, etc. These input devices may include dials, buttons, or touchscreens configured to receive such input values ​​from clinicians. The user interface 21 may also include a display configured to display ventilation information, including various ventilation control settings and patient information, such as certain patient monitoring information.

[0045] Figure 2A An exemplary embodiment of a portable ventilator 2 disconnected from the host 10 is shown. The portable ventilator 2 has a housing 222 that encloses the ventilator 2 and provides various connections and interfaces. The housing 222 includes a user interface portion 21' that provides various user interface devices and systems through which a user can interact with the components of the ventilator 2 and view different patient parameters. The user interface 21 includes a ventilator control input 21a that includes buttons, dials, knobs, etc., that allow a clinician to manually control the functions of the ventilator 2. The user interface 21 further includes a digital display area 21b that provides an alphanumeric display of values, such as ventilator control values ​​and parameters. The digital display area 21b may include, for example, a digital LED display. Alternatively or additionally, the user interface 21 on the ventilator 2 may further include a display 21c that is configured to display patient monitoring parameters of the patient 16, as well as ventilation parameters of the ventilator 2 and / or the connected host 10, and any other relevant control or functional information.

[0046] In some embodiments, the controller 20 of the portable ventilator 2 may be configured to communicate with the controller 22 of the host 10. The host 10 may further include a user interface 23, which may also be configured to allow clinicians to set ventilation parameters, including ventilation parameters that can be set at the ventilator user interface 21, as well as additional parameters specific to the functionality of the host 10. The controller 22 may receive ventilator settings and other input from the clinician via the user interface 23 on the host 10. In some embodiments, when the portable ventilator 2 is connected to the host, parameters set at the user interface 21 or 23 may be received at the controller 20 or 22. In various embodiments, communication between the controllers 20 and 22 may be via a physical communication connection or via any wireless protocol, such as Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy (ELE), ANT, Near Field Communication (NFC), or any other wireless communication protocol.

[0047] The portable ventilator includes at least one battery 43 or other power storage device configured to store and supply power to the ventilator 2. Therefore, the ventilator 2 is portable and does not need to be constantly connected to an external power source. For example, the battery 43 may be rechargeable, such as when the ventilator 2 is connected to the host 10. In some embodiments, the battery may be removable and configured to be removed and recharged on a separate charging system. Figure 2A As shown, the housing 222 of the ventilator 2 can be configured to facilitate the removal and replacement of one or more batteries 43.

[0048] In some embodiments, the host unit 10 may receive power from and / or supply power to the ventilator 2 and / or may charge the battery 43. In some embodiments, the host unit may be connected to a power source 18, such as a wall outlet. In these embodiments, the host unit 10 may include a power connector 68 configured to supply power to the ventilator 2 when connected to the host unit 10. In some embodiments, the host unit may further include a power controller, which may be integrated, for example, into the host controller 22 and positioned to control the power supplied to the power connector 68. The power controller may distribute power throughout the host unit and the portable ventilator 2 via the power connector 68.

[0049] The ventilator controller 20 is configured to control various aspects of the portable ventilator 2. In some embodiments, when the portable ventilator 2 is connected to the host unit 10, the controller 22 can participate in and / or take over the control functions of the portable ventilator 2, including controlling various aspects of the gas exchange actuator 4 and / or the patient interface portion 6. (See reference) Figure 5 The controllers 20 and 22 can control various aspects of the ventilation actuator 4, including the pressure regulator, flow controller device, valve actuator, and blower module 26. Furthermore, one or more of the controllers 20 and 22 can receive information from sensors within the actuator 4, such as O2 sensors, pressure sensors, flow sensors, valve position sensors, etc. In addition, the ventilation controllers 20 and 22 can be configured to control the user interfaces 21 and 23 on the ventilator 2 and / or the host unit 10, respectively.

[0050] Figure 2A and Figure 2B An embodiment of a portable ventilator 2 detached from the main unit 10 is shown. The main unit includes a ventilator connection portion 50 providing various ports and connectors, including a power connector 68 and a pneumatic connection portion. Specifically, the ventilator connection portion 50 includes a source connection port 87 configured to connect to a ventilator gas port 287 on the ventilator 2 (see [link to ventilator 2]). Figure 2BThe main unit 10 includes a ventilation path section 100, which provides four ports (201-204) for use as inlet and / or outlet for inhaled and / or expired gases to enter the ventilation path section 100 of the main unit 10.

[0051] In the depicted example, the ventilation path portion 100 is configured to engage with the inspiratory and expiratory paths of the patient interface portion 6. Further exemplary ventilation path portions 100 are provided herein, including inspiratory path portions 113b, 113c and expiratory path portion 115c, including... Figure 7 and Figure 8 Ports 101 and 102 are configured to connect to inspiratory ports 201 and 202, respectively, to connect inspiratory path portions 113b and 113c in the main unit 10 to inspiratory path 60 in patient interface portion 6. Ports 103 and 104 on the main unit 10 are connected to expiratory ports 203 and 204 on the ventilator to connect expiratory path portion 115c of the main unit 10 within patient interface portion 6 to the expiratory path within expiratory path portion 100 of the main unit 10.

[0052] Depending on the host type, various configurations of the ventilator connection portion 50 can be provided, such as a connection portion 50 that connects only one of the inspiratory or expiratory paths between the patient interface portion 6 and the ventilation path portion 100 of the host 10. In other embodiments, there is no inspiratory or expiratory path connection between the ventilator 2 and the host 10, and therefore the host 10 only provides a ventilation gas source connection between port 87 on the host and port 287 on the ventilator 2.

[0053] In the depicted embodiment, the ventilator connection portion 50 provides a horizontal surface on which the ventilator 2 is located. The bottom side 222' of the ventilator housing 222 contacts the top side 48' of the main unit housing 48. In other embodiments, the connection portion 50 may be oriented differently on the ventilator housing 222 and the main unit housing 48. For example, the ventilator connection portion 50 may be a vertical surface configured to connect to a vertical surface on the ventilator housing 222. In other embodiments, multiple connection portions and / or connection locations may be provided, and the housings 222 and 48 are correspondingly designed such that multiple connectors align when the ventilator 2 is connected to the main unit 10. Various ports are provided on the housings 222 and 48 and are positioned such that when the ventilator 2 is lowered vertically onto the ventilator connection portion 50, the ports on the ventilator 2 connect with corresponding ports on the main unit 10.

[0054] The ventilator housing 222 includes a ventilation driver housing 44 and an interface housing 46. The ventilation driver housing 44 has a connection side 244 that provides a ventilation gas port 287 for connection to a source connection port 87 on the main unit 10. The interface portion 6 includes an interface housing with a connection end 246 that provides ports 201 to 204 for connection to the inspiratory and expiratory pathways of the main unit 10.

[0055] In some embodiments, a connection device may be disposed on the ventilator housing 222 and the main unit housing 48 to secure the ventilator 2 to the main unit 10. This can be important, especially for portable main units that may move, be subjected to vibration and shock during transport. Figure 2A and Figure 2B In one embodiment, each of the ventilator housing 222 and the main unit housing 48 has a corresponding housing connector, which are configured to engage together to secure the ventilator 2 to the main unit 10.

[0056] like Figure 2B As shown, the ventilator housing 222 may have a first exhaust housing connector 502 and a second exhaust housing connector 503. Each of the exhaust housing connectors 502 and 503 is configured and positioned to connect to a corresponding main housing connector 512 and 513, respectively. Specifically, the first exhaust housing connector 502 is connected to the first main housing connector 512, and the second exhaust housing connector 503 is connected to the second main housing connector 513. In various embodiments, housing connectors 502, 503, 512, and 513 may be any type of connector or connection formation that releasably connects housings 222 and 48. In some examples, housing connectors 502, 503, 512, and 513 may be, for example, latches, hooks, or wing screws.

[0057] A release mechanism is also provided to release exhaust housing connectors 502 and 503 from the main housing connectors 512 and 513. In the depicted example, one or more release levers 501 may be positioned on the ventilator housing 222 and / or the main housing 48 and are operatively connected and configured to release the connection upon user operation. Thus, removing the ventilator 2 from the main unit 10 may include operating the release lever 501, such as by rotating or pulling the lever 501 upward. The release lever 501 has an internal connection or linkage within the housing 222 to operate or move the exhaust housing connectors 502 and 503 to a disconnected position, disengaged from the main housing connectors 512 and 513. In other embodiments, other release mechanisms or devices, such as buttons, screws, etc., may be provided. In still other embodiments, the housing connectors may be configured to provide a frictional engagement without requiring a release mechanism, and release of the ventilator 2 from the main unit 10 is achieved by pulling the ventilator housing 222 with sufficient force to overcome the frictional forces provided by the housing connectors 502, 503 and 512, 513. In various embodiments, different numbers and / or locations of the housing connectors may be provided. As will be understood by those skilled in the art based on this disclosure, the locations and numbers of connectors 502, 503, 512, and 513 are merely exemplary, and other locations and numbers of connectors may be provided, and these embodiments are within the scope of this disclosure. In some embodiments, the handle 224 may be attached to the housing 222 and configured to allow clinicians to easily lift and carry the ventilator 2. This facilitates the movement and transport of the ventilator 2, as well as connection and disconnection with the host 10.

[0058] The ventilator housing 222 can be composed of two parts: a driver housing 44 and an interface housing 46. The driver housing 44 houses the ventilation driver 4, including the blower module 26 and other components, such as those shown below relative to... Figure 5The aforementioned components. The patient interface portion housing 46 includes an inspiratory path 60 and an expiratory path 70 configured to guide inspiratory and expiratory gases into and out of the patient 16. The interface housing 46 and the actuator housing 44 are configured to be releasably connected together, such that the patient interface portion 6 can be removed from the actuator 4. For example, the patient interface portion 6 and housing 46 may be cleanable, sterilizable, and / or autoclaved. For example, the patient interface portion may be composed of polyphenylsulfone (PPSU) or other autoclaved plastic materials configured to withstand temperatures of 130°C or higher for an extended period sufficient to provide sterilization. For example, the patient interface portion 6 may be an injection-molded part, such as a single continuous piece having a smooth internal cavity to form the inspiratory path cavity and the expiratory path cavity. In other embodiments, the patient interface portion 6 may be formed of a machined metal, such as machined stainless steel. In still other embodiments, the patient interface portion 6 may be a disposable unit intended for use by a single patient. In this implementation, the patient interface portion 6 can be made of a less expensive polymer material, such as a polymer material that does not need to be autoclaved or otherwise sterilizable.

[0059] In some embodiments, driver housing 44 may include a driver housing connector 505 configured together with an interface housing connector 506 on interface housing 46. Driver housing connector 505 and interface housing connector 506 are configured to releasably engage to releasably connect the respective housings 46 and 44. Housing connectors 505 and 506 may be any of the connector types listed above.

[0060] In some embodiments, the expiratory pathway does not enter the ventilation actuator housing 44, such that the ventilation actuator 4 is not exposed to any patient's exhaled gases in any significant way, except for any external connector that may be located on the actuator housing 44. Therefore, the ventilation actuator 4 and the interior of the actuator housing 44 are not exposed to contaminants in the exhaled gases and can be cleaned, for example, by wiping the exterior of the housing 44, particularly at the connection interface with the interface housing 46.

[0061] The ventilator 2 is configured to connect to one or more gas sources, including one or more portable gas sources 8. In some embodiments, the portable ventilator 2 may also be configured to connect directly to a wall gas source via one or more wall gas lines 158, and / or other gas sources including gas cylinders. In one embodiment, the portable ventilator 2 may include multiple gas source connections 29a and 29b, such as... Figure 2AAs shown, it can be connected to different types of gas sources. For example, the portable ventilator 2 can be configured to connect to an oxygen tank, as well as a wall gas source, such as a low-pressure wall gas source. In the depicted example, the wall gas line 158 is connected to a source connection 29a to provide a low-pressure gas source. For example, the wall gas line 158 can be connected to a pressure regulator that provides low-pressure oxygen at a pressure of 100 kPa or less from the wall gas source. Such low-pressure oxygen arrangements are well known in the art.

[0062] The ventilator 2 can also be configured to connect to a higher pressure gas source at connection 29b. The portable gas source 8 can be, for example, an oxygen cylinder, such as one with a pressure of 242 kPa to 648 kPa (35 psig to 94 psig). Figure 3 One such embodiment is shown, in which the portable gas source 8b is an oxygen cylinder connected to and transported with the portable ventilator 2. This configuration demonstrates the portable ventilator 2 for self-use during patient transport (such as when a patient is transported from the OR to the ICU or vice versa). The portable ventilator 2 can be used for extended periods of patient ventilation simply by replacing the battery 43 or other power source, utilizing a wall power source, and adequately replacing or substituting the portable gas source 8b. Therefore, the use of the portable ventilator 2 is not limited to patient transport or short periods of use, as the ventilator 2 provides full ventilation support for normal continuous ventilation.

[0063] In the depicted example, patient 16 is intubated, and patient connector 14' is an endotracheal tube. Endotracheal tube patient connector 14' connects to inspiratory connection port 64 and expiratory connection port 74 on ventilator 2, and specifically to interface housing 46 on patient interface portion 6. Patient monitor 420 is also operatively connected to patient 16 to provide patient monitoring data to ventilator 2. In the depicted example, SpO2 patient monitor 420a and ECG patient monitor 420b, along with their respective sensors, are thus each connected to their respective patient monitoring ports 42 on ventilator housing 222. Patient physiological data is thus provided to ventilator 2, which can be used by controller 20 to control ventilation for the patient and for general patient monitoring and alarms. Patient physiological information based on the monitoring data can be displayed on user interface portion 21b, such as on display 21c.

[0064] In some embodiments, the portable ventilator 2 may be configured to hook or attach to the side of a patient's bed 460. For example, the ventilator housing 222 may include hooks 226 or other attachment means for attaching the portable ventilator 2 to the side rails 462 of the patient's bed 460. Those skilled in the art will understand from this disclosure that other mounting means and locations are also within the scope of this disclosure.

[0065] The portable ventilator 2 is configured to connect to multiple different host machines 10 at once. Figure 4A and Figure 4B Figure 2 and 10 depict connections to different hosts 10 Figure 3 2. Portable ventilator. Figure 4A A portable ventilator 2 is shown connected to an ICU host 10b, which provides an on / off valve, as described below relative to... Figure 7 The P01 valve is described above. The ICU main unit 10b includes a main gas source 12b, such as an oxygen cylinder, which in some embodiments may be a larger oxygen cylinder than the portable gas source 8b. In other embodiments, the ICU main unit 10b may be connected to a wall-mounted gas source to serve as the main gas source 12b.

[0066] When ventilator 2 is connected to host 10b, patient 16 remains connected to connection ports 64 and 74. Disconnection of the patient is not required during transfer, and ventilator 2 is configured to seamlessly switch from providing inspiratory gas from portable gas source 8b to providing inspiratory gas from host gas source 12b to the patient. Similarly, patient monitor 420 remains connected to patient monitoring port 42, and therefore no changes or interruptions to patient monitoring are required to connect to host 10b.

[0067] In some embodiments, the ICU host 10b may include a host display 210b. In some embodiments, the ICU host display 210b may be configured to repeatedly display information on the ventilator display 21c. In other embodiments, the host display 210b may display different or additional parameters or information. The display 210b may serve as a user interface 23 of the host 10b, thereby providing control parameters for controlling the ventilation pathway section 100 and / or other functions of the ICU host 10b.

[0068] Figure 4B A configuration of the ventilation system 1 is depicted, in which a portable ventilator 2 is connected to an anesthesia host 10c. Again, the patient 16 remains connected to the ventilator 2 and continuously ventilated and monitored via the ventilator, including continuous connection to connection ports 64 and 74 and patient monitoring port 42. The anesthesia host 10c provides a host gas source 12c, which is typically a wall-mounted gas source but may include gas cylinders or other gas containers, and may further include an anesthetic gas source 12c'. The anesthesia host 10c includes a ventilation path portion 100, which includes a recirculatory ventilation system 105. Figure 8 As illustrated in the embodiments, the circulatory respiratory system 105 includes a circulatory actuator 114 (such as an inflation chamber) and is configured to connect to both the inspiratory and expiratory pathways to provide anesthetic ventilation to the patient. Various circulatory system configurations are known to those skilled in the art and are within the scope of this disclosure.

[0069] In some embodiments, the recirculatory breathing system 105 is housed in a removable recirculatory portion housing 107 from the anesthesia unit 10c. For example, the recirculatory portion housing 107 can be releasably connected to the housing of the main unit's gas delivery portion 95. In some embodiments, the interface housing 46 and the recirculatory portion housing 107 are releasably connected. Figure 4B As shown, the recirculation housing 107 is adjacent to and aligned with the interface housing 46. The exhaust housing connector on the interface housing 46 is configured to be releasably connected to the host housing connector on the host unit, which, in some embodiments, may preferably be located on the recirculation housing 107. In the depicted example, the ventilation housing connector 503 is configured to connect to the host housing connector 513.

[0070] In some embodiments, the interface housing 46 can be released and disconnected from the driver housing 44 simultaneously with the release and disconnection of the circulation housing 107 from the main unit 10C, such that they are removed together as a connection unit. Both housings 46 and 107 can then be cleaned, disinfected, and sterilized, which can be done on the connection unit, or housings 46 and 107 can be disconnected before cleaning and / or sterilization. For example, the interface housing 46 and the circulation housing 107 can be configured to be assembled together as a clamshell and released from each other for cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization once removed from the ventilator 2 and the main unit 10c. In some embodiments, the circulation housing 107 can be an injection-molded or machined part, such as manufactured in the same manner as the interface housing 46, examples of which are described above.

[0071] In some implementations, one or more valves may be configured to control the flow of ventilated gas within and / or to and from the main unit 10. Figure 5 In the example, the portable ventilator 2 includes two sets of diverting valves 61-62 and 71-72, which control the connection of the inspiratory and expiratory pathways so that they remain only within the portable ventilator, or are diverted to the inspiratory pathway portion, expiratory pathway portion, or both of the main unit. Figure 5 This is a pneumatic diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a portable ventilator 2, including an exhaust driver 4 connected to a host gas delivery section 95 to receive inspiratory gas from a host gas source 12. The ventilator 2 includes a patient interface section 6 connected to various host types that provide different ventilation pathway sections 100 and dedicated ventilation functions.

[0072] The set of diverting valves includes a set of inspiratory diverting valves 61 and 62 configured to control inspiratory path 60, and a set of expiratory diverting valves 71 and 72 configured to control expiratory path 70. Each set of valves 61 and 62, 71 and 72, can be configured to open or close simultaneously and together. For example, inspiratory diverting valves 61 and 62 can be configured to both be open or both be closed. Similarly, expiratory diverting valves 71 and 72 can be actuated together and configured to both open and close simultaneously.

[0073] In some embodiments, each of the inspiratory diverting valves 61, 62, 71, and 72 may be a two-position three-way valve and may be a normally closed valve configured to close in a static, unacted, and unpowered state and open when the portable ventilator is connected to the main unit 10. Thus, when the inspiratory diverting valves 61 and 62 are closed, the inspiratory passage 60 remains within the portable ventilator 2. Therefore, the inspiratory path flows along path portion 60a between valves 61 and 62. When the inspiratory diverting valves 61 and 62 are open, the inspiratory passage diverts along path portion 60b into the main unit 10 (traveling back from the main unit's ascending path portion 60c). Similarly, when the expiratory diverting valves 71 and 72 are not actuated and are therefore closed, the expiratory passage 70 remains within the portable ventilator 2, flowing between the valves along path portion 70a. When the expiratory diverting valves 71 and 72 are forced to open upon connection to some type of main unit, the expiratory gas diverts along path portion 70b into the main unit 10 (and returns along path portion 70c). The directional valves 61, 62, 71, and 72 can be mechanically actuated valves (such as those actuated by mechanical force connecting the portable ventilator 2 to the main unit 10) or electrically actuated valves, such as solenoids electrically configured to actuate the valve when the portable ventilator 2 is connected to the main unit 10.

[0074] The portable ventilator 2 may further include one or more main source connection valves 28 configured to control the connection between the main gas source 12 and the ventilation actuator 4, so that ventilation gas can be supplied from there. The main source connection valve 28 may be, for example, a two-way valve. It may be a normally closed valve and may be mechanically or electromechanically actuated. When the main source connection valve 28 is in its default closed position, such as when the portable ventilator 2 is not connected to the main unit 10, gas flow is supplied from the main gas source 12. Conversely, when the main source connection valve 28 is open, such as when electrically or mechanically actuated, gas is allowed to flow from the main gas source 12 into the exhaust actuator 4. Similarly, if the main gas source 12 is depleted or malfunctions, the portable gas source 8b is automatically used. Thus, the input gas can be driven to the patient by the ventilation actuator 4 from the portable gas source 8 directly connected to the ventilation actuator 4 or from the main gas source 12 connected to the ventilation actuator 4 via the main unit 10.

[0075] In the depicted embodiment, the portable ventilator 2 is configured to receive ventilated gas from either of two gas sources 8, including a low-pressure oxygen source 8a and a high-pressure portable oxygen source 8b. For example, the low-pressure oxygen source 8a may be a low-pressure regulated wall-mounted gas source, such as one configured to provide pressures of 15 lpm and 100 kPa or less. Alternatively, the low-pressure gas source may be a small O2 cylinder. High-pressure oxygen is a gas source with a higher pressure than the low-pressure source, such as in the range of 242 kPa to 648 kPa (35 psi to 94 psi). When the high-pressure oxygen source 8b is connected, the portable gas source inlet valve 34a (such as a check valve) receives the higher pressure downstream and prevents flow from the low-pressure gas source 8a. However, if the high-pressure oxygen source 8b is not connected or the higher-pressure source is depleted, gas can be automatically supplied from the low-pressure oxygen source 8a, and the gas source inlet valve 34a is forced to open.

[0076] If gas is supplied from a high-pressure portable gas source 8B, which is connected to portable source connection 29b and supplies gas to input gas path 30b, the input gas is filtered at filter 32b. The input pressure is measured by pressure sensor 33, and the input gas passes through portable gas source input valve 34b and is supplied to pressure regulator 36. Pressure regulator 36 is configured to regulate the delivery pressure of the venting gas from portable gas source 8B. For example, pressure regulator 36 may be configured to provide a delivery pressure of 172 kPa (25 psi) of venting gas from portable gas source. The pressure-regulated gas is then supplied to flow controller 40, such as a flow control valve. Pressure sensor 39 is configured to measure the delivery pressure of gas to flow controller. A test port with a plug and check valve may be provided along input gas path 30bc that delivers gas to flow controller 40.

[0077] In some implementations, the host gas is delivered at a higher pressure than the gas from the portable gas source, and the gas exchange drive 4 is configured to supply only the gas from the highest pressure source. Figure 5This embodiment illustrates a method in which, when the portable ventilator 2 is not connected to any host unit 10, portable gas source inlet valves 34a and 34b in the inlet gas paths 30a and 30b supply gas from one of gas sources 8a and 8b. When the portable ventilator 2 is connected to the host unit 10 and thus to the host gas source 12, the portable gas source inlet valves 34a and 34b approach to prevent any backflow and otherwise disconnect the lines connected to gas sources 8a and 8b. For example, the portable gas source inlet valves 34a and 34b may each be a check valve. When the host gas source connection valve 28 is closed and thus the portable ventilator 2 is disconnected from the host unit, the portable gas source inlet valves 34a and 34b at the highest pressure between gas paths 30a and 30b will open. Therefore, the gas source is supplied only by one of the gas sources 8a and 8b, or alternatively by the host source 12, which is the gas source providing the highest pressure.

[0078] Flow sensor 41 senses the flow rate output by flow controller 40, such as by a flow control valve or other means for controlling gas flow, along the gas flow path 45 provided to blower module 26. Blower module 26 is controllable to provide cyclic inspiratory and expiratory pressures as needed by the patient. Blower 56 is controlled, for example by controller 20, to provide an inspiratory gas flow at an appropriate inspiratory gas flow rate and to significantly reduce the airflow during the expiratory portion of the patient's ventilation cycle. Similarly, flow controller 40 is configured to control the flow of ventilation gas to provide an inspiratory flow and to significantly reduce or shut off the ventilation gas flow during the expiratory phase. Blower 56 can be configured to draw in air from the atmosphere through inlet port 9 along input path 30d. Atmospheric air is filtered by inlet filter 47. Thus, blower 56 can circulate ventilation gas supplied by low-pressure gas source 8a or low-pressure oxygen source, high-pressure oxygen source 8b, and / or from the atmosphere into patient interface portion 6. The output flow rate from the blower is sensed by a flow sensor 47, which senses the total output flow rate from all gas sources supplied by the blower 56. An O2 sensor 49 can be configured to sense the oxygen present in the output flow rate, which is provided to the patient interface portion 6 in the inhalation path 60'.

[0079] A check valve 54 may be provided at the interface between the actuator 4 and the patient interface portion 6. The check valve 54 prevents gas from flowing back into the actuator 4. Inspiratory gas is supplied to the patient in the inspiratory path 60. As described above, depending on the positions of the inspiratory diverting valves 61 and 62, the inspiratory path may travel directly from the actuator connection to the patient connection 14, or it may be diverted to the gas path portion in the main unit 10.

[0080] For expiratory gas circulation, expiratory gas travels from the patient, through the patient connector 14 to the expiratory connection port 74, and into the patient interface portion 6. The expiratory gas follows the expiratory path 70 through the patient interface portion 6, where it is expelled from the portable ventilator 2. If the expiratory diverting valves 71 and 72 are closed, the gas travels along path 70a between the diverting valves and continues along the expiratory path 70 within the patient interface portion 6. If the expiratory diverting valves are open, the gas is diverted to the main unit 10. This example utilizes normally closed valves, but in other examples, normally open valves may be used and the configuration may be adjusted accordingly, as will be understood by those skilled in the art based on this disclosure. When the expiratory diverting valves 71 and 72 are positioned to divert the airflow into the main unit 10, the expiratory gas travels down path 70b into the main unit. In cases where the main unit provides a circulation system, such as... Figure 8 As illustrated, gas can return from the host unit to the patient interface section 6 at path 70c to continue along the expiratory path 70. Expiratory gas flow passes through an expiratory valve 76, which is actuated by actuator 76a. During the expiratory portion of the ventilation cycle, the expiratory valve 76 is positioned to open the flow path to the expiratory port 78. An expiratory flow sensor 77 can be positioned and configured to measure the flow rate of expiratory gas leaving the expiratory port 78. When the portable ventilator 2 is not connected to any host unit, the expiratory port 78 vents expiratory gas to the atmosphere. In some embodiments, a filter, washer, sterilizer, scavenging system, or some other gas handling system may be positioned at the output port 78 to filter or sterilize the expiratory gas. In some embodiments, a valve (such as a check valve) may be positioned at the exhalation port 78 to allow only the output flow and prevent any inhalation at the expiratory port.

[0081] Safety valve 66 and a corresponding valve control actuator 66a further facilitate actuation and control of the state of valve 66. Valve 66 may include a flexible diaphragm whose movement is controlled by the gas exchange actuator using actuator 66a. If the airway pressure becomes too high, safety valve 66 acts as a relief valve, thereby preventing excessively high lung pressure in the patient. In various embodiments, safety valve 66 may be configured to vent gas to the atmosphere or to a purging system. In some embodiments, valve 66 may vent gas to the atmosphere when not connected to any host and / or not connected to a host providing a purging system.

[0082] Figures 6 to 8 Various main units and their connections with the portable ventilator 2 are depicted. Figure 6A host gas source 12a is depicted, which may be a larger oxygen cylinder or other oxygen reserve, or it may be a wall-mounted gas source. For example, the host gas source can store and supply gas at 242 kPa to 648 kPa (35 psig to 94 psig). In this example, the host 10a supplies gas only to the ventilation driver 4 and is not connected to the patient interface portion 6. For example, the host module 10a, coupled with a portable ventilator 2, can provide a simple ICU ventilator, where the host module 10a provides a host gas source larger than the portable gas source 8. The host gas source 12a is connected to the host module 10a at port 79a and is filtered at filter 82a. The ventilation gas from the host gas source 12a then travels through a check valve 83a and is supplied to a pressure regulator 86a. A pressure sensor 85a measures the input pressure of the pressure regulator. The gas then flows along the host input path 80a to the ventilation driver 4.

[0083] Pressure regulator 86a can be configured to provide a higher delivery pressure than regulator 36 in the ventilation driver 4. Thus, when the portable ventilator 2 is connected to the main unit, ventilation gas from the higher-pressure main unit will be delivered to the patient by the ventilation driver. For example, the main unit pressure regulator 86a can be configured to provide 28 psi, which is greater than the exemplary 25 psi of the pressure regulator along the portable gas inlet path 30b. The ventilator connection valve 88a can be configured to open when the portable ventilator 2 is connected to the main unit 10a. For example, the ventilator source connection valve 88a can be configured to interact with and / or cooperate with the main unit source connection valve 28 such that both valves open via mechanical or electrical actuation when the portable ventilator 2 is properly connected to the main unit 10a.

[0084] Figure 7 Another host type is illustrated, in the depicted example being an ICU host 10b, which allows for additional functionality to turn inspiratory flow on and off, thereby enabling manipulation to measure patient inspiratory drive. In this example, host 10b provides a host gas source 12b, which provides a higher pressure gas as described above relative to host 10a. In the depicted exemplary embodiment, port 79b, filter 82b, check valve 83b, pressure sensor 85b, pressure regulator 86b, and ventilator source connection valve 88b are all connected to... Figure 6The relevant features operate similarly, and thus provide exhaust gas from the host gas source 12b to the ventilation driver along path 80b. Furthermore, the host module 10b includes a ventilation path section 100 connected downstream of the inspiratory path. In the depicted embodiment, the ventilation path section 100 includes at least one on / off valve 94 configured to enable "P01" actuation to measure the patient's inspiratory drive, thereby performing a negative inspiratory force measurement from the patient. The host module 10b is connected to the inspiratory path 60 at path sections 60b and 60c via connection ports 101b and 102b.

[0085] In some embodiments, connection port 101b can be configured to mechanically actuate diverter valve 61, and connection port 102b can be configured to mechanically actuate diverter valve 62 in the portable ventilator 2. Also refer to Figure 2A In the embodiments depicted herein, each connection port 101 and 102 may include actuators 141 and 142 on the host housing 48, which are configured to mechanically actuate valves 61 and 62, thereby moving their valve discs 161, 162 (see also...). Figure 9C ).exist Figure 2A In the example shown, actuators 141 and 142 are upward-facing protrusions, adjacent to or otherwise associated with each connection port 101 and 102, and configured to extend into ports 201 and 202 on the exhaust housing 222 to actuate and open valves 61 and 62. Thus, the mechanical connection of the portable ventilator 2 to the main unit 10b mechanically actuates the opening of valves 61 and 62, allowing inspiratory gas to flow to the inspiratory path portion 113b of the main unit 10b. In other embodiments, such actuation may be electric, and valves 61 and 62 may be electromechanical valves.

[0086] Pressure regulator 89 is positioned on flow path 90. For example, the pressure regulator can be configured to provide a pressure of 350 mbar. Flow path 90 proceeds to inspiratory on / off valve 94 or P.O1 valve. When inspiratory on / off valve 94 or P.O1 valve is open, gas travels along passage 60b of patient interface portion 6 through valve 94 to connector 102b, and further into channel 60c of patient interface portion 6. Valve 94 can be a pneumatically actuated valve comprising a flexible diaphragm that separates the inspiratory gas path between ports 101b and 102b from the pneumatically actuated pressure passage 113b. This valve closes the inspiratory passage between ports 101b and 102b upon actuation. Actuation occurs via electrical activation of solenoid valves 91 and 92, which allows the regulator 89 outlet pressure to act as a pilot drive on valve 94. When P0.1 measurement 94 passes, valves 91 and 92 are deactivated, which allows the pilot drive pressure from valve 94 to be released into the atmosphere, thereby allowing P0.1 valve 94 to open the path between ports 101b and 102b. This opening can occur due to the elasticity of the flexible diaphragm or by means of a biased diaphragm and a spring to keep the intake gas path open.

[0087] Figure 8 Another type of host is depicted, which in the illustrated example is an anesthesia host 10c. Anesthesia host 10c includes a gas source section 95 and a recirculatory system 105. The gas source section 95 is connected to a host gas source 12c, which provides higher pressure gas as described above relative to host 10a. Port 79c, filter 82c, check valve 83c, pressure sensor 85c, pressure regulator 86c, and ventilator source connection valve 88c can all be described above relative to... Figure 6 The aforementioned related features operate similarly, and thus provide ventilating gas from the anesthesia source 12c' to the ventilation driver along path 80c. Furthermore, the anesthesia unit 10c is connected downstream of the inspiratory path 60 to provide a circulatory system for delivering anesthetic and corresponding ventilation to support anesthesia delivery to the patient. In conjunction with the circulatory ventilation system, the gas source section 95 of the anesthesia unit 10c may include additional elements to deliver gas to the bag 108 via a bag open / close valve 96a and a bag switch 96b. Thus, the bag 108 can be used to drive gas in and out of the patient interface section 6, including through the circulatory ventilation system 105. Additionally, some embodiments of the gas source section 95 may include a test port open / close valve 97a and a test port switch 97b controlling the gas flow to the test port 110.

[0088] The recirculatory system 105 of the anesthesia host 10c is connected to the inspiratory path at path sections 60b and 60c. Inspiratory gas is received from path section 60b by the host and is delivered to and circulated through the recirculatory system. Anesthesia breathing gas is provided back to the patient interface section 6 via path section 60c for delivery to the patient. The anesthesia host 10c includes connection ports 101c and 102c that facilitate connection of inspiratory path sections 60b and 60c to inspiratory path section 113c of the host 10c. Inspiratory path section 113c is the gas path between connection ports 101c and 102c and includes a recirculatory driver 114 and a CO2 absorber 118.

[0089] In some embodiments, connection ports 101c and 102c can be configured to mechanically actuate the corresponding steering valves 61 and 62, as described above. In other embodiments, steering valves 61 and 62 can be electromechanical valves that are electrically actuated when the portable ventilator 2 is connected to the anesthesia host 10 and once the correct connection is verified. For example, such electrical actuation can be based on pressure and / or electrical connection sensing to verify that the pneumatic and electrical connections are correct.

[0090] In the inspiratory cycle, gas flows from the exhaust actuator 4 to port 101c of the flow selector 112 and into the recirculation drive unit 114. The recirculation drive unit 114 may be, for example, an inflation chamber as shown in the embodiment. In another example, the recirculation drive unit may involve a bellows configured to drive gas through the recirculation breathing system 105. Gas is driven by the recirculation drive unit 114 through a set of valves 116, which redirects the gas along a path through the CO2 absorber 118 to the inspiratory valve 120. In the depicted example, the inspiratory valve 120 is a check valve. Gas passing through the inspiratory valve 120 is combined with gas from the anesthetic gas source 12c', which includes fresh gas and anesthetic agents, such as vaporized anesthetic drugs and other anesthetic gases. The mixture of anesthetic gas and fresh gas is delivered along the gas flow path 122, combined with the inspiratory gas delivered through the inspiratory valve 120, and then exits the recirculatory system 105 of the host 10c at the connection port 102c, where the mixture of anesthetic gas and fresh gas is delivered to the inspiratory path section 60c and finally delivered to the patient.

[0091] In the expiratory cycle, gas is delivered from the expiratory flow path 70b to the recirculatory system via connection port 103c. Similar to connection ports 101c and 102c, connection ports 103c and 104c connect to the gas flow path of the portable ventilator 2 and can facilitate the actuation of electrical and / or mechanical valves, thereby facilitating gas flow between the flow path within the patient interface portion 6 and the recirculatory system 105. Connection port 103c connects to the expiratory path portion 70b after the diverting valve 71 and is configured to facilitate the input of expiratory gas from the patient interface portion 6 to the recirculatory system in the main unit 10c. Connection port 104c connects to the expiratory flow path portion 70c, which delivers gas to the diverting valve 72 and through the expiratory path 70. The expiratory flow entering through connection port 103c passes through the expiratory valve 126, which can act as a check valve, reaches the drive unit 114 and the flow selector valve 112, and finally reaches port 104c connected to the expiratory path portion 70c in the patient interface portion 6. Connection port 106 can be configured to connect to the exhalation port 78 of the portable ventilator 2 to supply expiratory gas to the clearance system 128. The recirculating breathing system 105 may also include a bag 108 and a corresponding valve 109 to allow gas to be driven through the recirculating breathing system via a manually compressible bag, as is well known in the art. A bag flow sensor 111 can be positioned along the flow path driven by the bag 108 to sense the flow rate of the driving gas through the bag valve 109.

[0092] When the ventilator 2 is connected to a host unit (such as an anesthesia host 10c) that interfaces with the expiratory pathway, the diversion valves 71 and 72 can be mechanically or electrically actuated. In some embodiments, connection ports 103 and 104 may have associated actuators 143 and 144 configured to mechanically actuate or open valves 71 and 72. As described above, in one example, relative to the inspiratory diversion valves 71 and 72, actuators 143 and 144 may be configured to actuate and open valve discs 171 and 172 when the ventilator is positioned on the host unit 10c.

[0093] Figure 9A and Figure 9B An exemplary steering valve arrangement is depicted, illustrating one embodiment of a potential steering valve assembly 61 and 62 or 71 and 72, which in the depicted example is an electromechanical arrangement. For example, each steering valve 61, 62, 71, 72 may be a two-position three-way valve. Figure 9A The valve assembly is depicted in the closed position, in which the gas flow is maintained within the portable ventilator 2. Figure 9BA valve assembly in the open position is depicted, in which gas flow is diverted to the host 10, whether it is an anesthesia host 10c including a circulatory system, an ICU host 10B including additional ventilation control elements, or any other type of host in which gas flow is exchanged from the portable ventilator 2 to the ventilation path section 100 of the host 10.

[0094] exist Figure 9A In this configuration, the gas flow path (whether inhalation gas flow path 60 or exhalation gas flow path 70) passes through inlet 130, which is open due to the closed position of diverting valves 61 and 71. Gas flowing through inlet 130 travels through passages 60a and 70a to outlet 132, which is opened due to the closed position of diverting valves 62 and 72, thereby closing the passage to any connected host unit. In some embodiments, valves 61, 71 and 62, 72 are normally closed valves, remaining closed when not powered or otherwise actuated. Figure 9A and Figure 9B An electrically actuated electromechanical valve is shown, wherein each valve is associated with an actuator 134, which is actuated when electrically supplied, and thus opens a normally closed valve. In other embodiments, each group of valves 61 and 62, 71 and 72 may have an associated actuator that actuates two valves in the group simultaneously.

[0095] In the electro-actuated implementation scheme, each valve 61, 62, 71, 72 can be a normally closed solenoid valve that opens when energized. Figure 9A The actuator 134 is shown in its unactivated state, and therefore valves 161, 171, 162, 172 are in the first position, i.e., maintaining the flow path within the ventilator 2 through the closed position of path portions 60a, 60a in the patient interface portion 6. When the actuator 134 is activated, as... Figure 9B As shown, valve discs 161, 171, 162, and 172 then move to the second position, which allows the ventilation gas to flow to the open position of the main unit 10. Figure 9B Electromechanical valves 61, 71 and 62, 72 are depicted in either the open or actuated position, wherein gas flow enters through inlet 131 into flow path portions 60b, 70b leading to the main unit 10. In the open position, as mentioned herein, bypass paths 60a, 70a between valves 61, 71 and 61, 72 are closed, preventing ventilation gas from flowing between valves 61, 71 and 61, 72 and thus into the main unit 10. Gas flow passes through the pneumatic portion of the main unit and returns to the ventilator 2 through outlet 133 to continue flowing along inspiratory path 60 or expiratory path 70, regardless of the condition.

[0096] As described above, valves 61, 62, 71, and 72 can be mechanically actuated valves, wherein when the ventilator 2 is connected to the main unit 10, valves 61, 71 and 62, 72 are mechanically moved to the open position. Figure 9C One embodiment is shown in which valve discs 161, 171, 162, 172 are mechanically moved upward, such as by the aforementioned actuator protrusions 141-144 on the main unit housing 48. When the ventilator 2 is placed on the main unit 10, the actuator protrusions 141-144 are inserted into ports 201-204 in the ventilator housing 222, thereby forcing the valves to open and allowing gas flow into the ventilation path section 100 of the main unit.

[0097] Figure 10 An embodiment of a method 600 for operating a ventilator is described, wherein the portable ventilator first operates autonomously to deliver expiratory gas from a portable gas source, and then delivers expiratory gas from a host gas source upon connection to the host unit. At step 602, the ventilator 2 is operated to drive gas from the portable gas source (e.g., 8b) to the patient. At step 604, the pressure of the expiratory gas from the portable gas source is monitored, such as by measuring it via a pressure sensor 33 within the exhaust actuator 4. Upon connection of the ventilator 2, various valves open and close, and step 606 is performed to appropriately facilitate pneumatic connection to the host gas source 12 and / or connection to the inspiratory and expiratory pathways in the host unit 10, depending on the host unit type. For example, connection to the host unit is facilitated by opening connection valves 28 and 88b and automatically closing the portable gas source input valves 34a and / or 34b as needed. As described above, in one embodiment, input valves 34a and / or 34b are each check valves. In embodiments where the host includes a ventilation path portion 100, the connection of the inspiratory and / or expiratory pathways to the host can also be facilitated by opening the inspiratory diverting valves (e.g., 61 and 62) and the expiratory diverting valves (e.g., 71 and 72).

[0098] Then, at step 608, the pressure from the main gas source is monitored, such as at pressure sensor 85 in the main gas delivery section 95. During this connection between the ventilator and the main unit and / or when the pressure of the main gas source 12 becomes less than the pressure of the portable gas source 8, the ventilator 2 switches back to the portable gas source 8 to provide inspiratory gas to be delivered to the patient. As described above, in some embodiments, the ventilator 2 can be configured to provide inspiratory gas from a connected gas source having the maximum gas delivery pressure for gas exchange, and this switching occurs automatically via the opening of check valve 34b and the closing of check valve 83b. Therefore, if the main gas source is depleted or the ventilator 2 is disconnected from the main unit 10, the pressure of the main gas source drops below the pressure of the portable gas source, causing the ventilator 2 to flip back to the portable gas source 8 for gas exchange for the patient. When this occurs, the main gas source connection valve 28 of the ventilator 2 can remain open to support the P0.1 valve 94 or the supply of fresh gas O2, while one or more of the portable gas source inlet valves 34a or 34b are open. In addition, if the ventilator 2 is disconnected from the main unit 10 and the main unit provides a ventilation path section 100 connected to the inspiratory or expiratory path, the corresponding directional valves 61, 62, 71, and 72 will close.

[0099] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also enables those skilled in the art to perform and use the invention. Certain terms are used for the purpose of brevity, clarity, and ease of understanding. Unnecessary limitations should not be inferred from this description beyond the requirements of the prior art, as such terms are used for descriptive purposes only and are intended to be understood broadly. The patent scope of this invention is defined by the claims and may include other examples that would occur to those skilled in the art. These other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have features or structural elements that are not different from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent features or structural elements that are not substantially different from the literal language of the claims.

Claims

1. A portable ventilator, the portable ventilator comprising: A ventilation actuator configured to drive ventilation gas from a gas source to the patient; and The portable ventilator is configured to be removably connected to the host, such that when the portable ventilator is connected to the host, the gas exchange driver drives gas exchange from the host gas source to the patient, and when the portable ventilator is not connected to the host, the gas exchange driver drives gas exchange from the portable gas source to the patient.

2. The portable ventilator of claim 1, further comprising a portable gas source inlet valve configured to automatically open when the portable ventilator is not connected to the main gas source, to allow the ventilation gas to flow from the portable gas source.

3. The portable ventilator of claim 2, wherein the portable gas source inlet valve is further configured to open when the delivery pressure of the ventilating gas from the main gas source is lower than the delivery pressure of the ventilating gas from the portable gas source.

4. The portable ventilator of claim 1, further comprising a host source connection valve in the gas exchange actuator, the host source connection valve being configured to open when the portable ventilator is connected to the host to facilitate the flow of gas exchange from the host to the gas exchange actuator.

5. The portable ventilator of claim 4, wherein the main unit source connection valve is a normally closed valve configured to open when the portable ventilator is connected to the main unit.

6. The portable ventilator of claim 1, further comprising a flow controller configured to control the flow rate of the ventilation gas arriving at the patient from both the host gas source and the portable gas source.

7. The portable ventilator of claim 6, further comprising a pressure regulator in the gas exchange actuator, the pressure regulator regulating the delivery pressure of the gas exchange from the portable gas source to the flow controller, wherein the delivery pressure from the portable gas source to the flow controller is less than the delivery pressure from the main gas source to the flow controller.

8. The portable ventilator of claim 1, further comprising a patient interface portion connected to the ventilation driver and configured to direct the ventilation gas from the ventilation driver to a patient connector, receive expiratory gas from the patient connector, and expel the expiratory gas from the portable ventilator; and The ventilation actuator is configured to drive ventilation gas from either the host gas source or the portable gas source to the patient through the patient interface portion.

9. A patient ventilation system, the patient ventilation system comprising: A first host, the first host being connected to a first host gas source; A portable ventilator configured to be removably connected to the first host; A portable gas source, the portable gas source being connected to the portable ventilator; The portable ventilator includes: A gas exchange actuator configured to drive gas exchange from a gas source of the first host to the patient when the portable ventilator is connected to the first host, and to drive gas exchange from a portable gas source to the patient when the portable ventilator is not connected to the first host.

Images