Flow management method, flow management system and pod

Abstract

A flow management method includes controlling a flow management device to deliver a gas according to a flow rate range selected from a plurality of different flow rate ranges, displaying the selected flow rate range as a first incremental scale on a graphical user interface of the flow management device, and in response to a selection of a new flow rate, displaying the selected flow rate range as a second incremental scale. Controlling the flow management device to deliver the gas according to a new flow rate range selected from the plurality of flow rate ranges, and changing the graphical user interface to display the new flow rate range as different incremental scales; the invention further provides a flow management system and a pod.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The following relates to multiple embodiments for controlling airflow of a patient-worn device according to a customizable flow rate range, and more specifically to embodiments of a pod, a flow management system, and a flow management method thereof. Background Art

[0002] Conventional suction and oxygen therapy (SOT) in medical facilities includes a flow regulator mounted on a wall for delivering medical gas to a patient via a connection to a medical device worn by the patient. Each flow regulator has a specific flow rate range that can be regulated by the flow regulator. If a specific flow rate range is required and the flow regulator attached to the wall cannot achieve it, the flow regulator must be removed from the wall and replaced with a different flow regulator. Summary of the invention

[0003] One aspect relates to a method that includes controlling a flow management device to deliver gas according to a flow rate range selected from a plurality of different flow rate ranges, displaying the selected flow rate range as a first incremental scale on a graphical user interface (GUI) of the flow management device, in response to selection of a new flow rate, controlling the flow management device to deliver gas according to a new flow rate range selected from the plurality of flow rate ranges, and changing the graphical user interface to display the new flow rate range as a second incremental scale different from the first incremental scale.

[0004] A traffic management method, comprising: controlling the flow management device to deliver the gas at a flow rate according to a first flow rate range selected from a plurality of different flow rate ranges; displaying the first flow rate range with a first incremental scale on a graphical user interface of the flow management device; In response to selecting a second flow rate range selected from the plurality of different flow rate ranges, controlling the flow management device to deliver gas according to a flow rate in the second flow rate range; and The graphical user interface is changed to display a second incremental scale different from the first incremental scale as the second flow rate range. The second flow rate range is a new flow rate range different from the first flow rate range.

[0005] In an exemplary embodiment, the second incremental scale includes smaller increments than the first incremental scale to allow for precise control when increasing or decreasing flow rate within the second flow rate range.

[0006] In an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of different flow rate ranges include a low flow rate, a standard flow rate, and a high flow rate.

[0007] In an exemplary embodiment, the second incremental scale includes smaller increments than the first incremental scale to allow for precise control when increasing or decreasing flow rate within a new flow rate range.Alternatively, the second incremental scale includes larger increments than the first incremental scale.

[0008] Another aspect relates to a method that includes receiving, via a control interface of a pod, a first user-selected flow rate range customized for a first patient type, displaying, via the control interface, the first user-selected flow rate range on a graphical user interface of the pod with a first incremental scale, controlling, via the control interface, a flow management device of the pod to deliver airflow in accordance with the first user-selected flow rate range, receiving, via the control interface, a second user-selected flow rate range customized for a second patient type different from the first patient type, increasing, via the control interface, the graphical user interface to display the second user-selected flow rate range with a second incremental scale different from the first incremental scale, and controlling, via the control interface, the flow management device to deliver airflow in accordance with the second user-selected flow range.

[0009] In an exemplary embodiment, at least one interactive element is arranged on the graphical user interface, which allows the user to gradually adjust the flow rate within a flow rate range selected by a first user. In response to the user's interaction with the at least one interactive element, the flow rate is adjusted through the control interface. Similarly, at least one interactive element is arranged on the graphical user interface, which allows the user to gradually adjust the flow rate within a flow rate range selected by a second user. In response to the user's interaction with the at least one interactive element, the flow rate is adjusted through the control interface.

[0010] In an exemplary embodiment, the second user-selected flow rate range is smaller than the first user-selected flow rate range, and the second incremental scale has smaller increments than the first incremental scale, thereby allowing more precise control of airflow to a patient requiring the second user-selected flow rate range.

[0011] In an exemplary embodiment, the first user selected flow rate range is 0-30 L / min, the first incremental scale increments are 1 L / min, and the second user selected flow rate range is 0-2 L / min, the second incremental scale increments are 0.1 L / min. The range and increment changes can vary depending on the desired operation.

[0012] Another aspect relates to a system comprising: a pod including a flow management device disposed within a housing of the pod, at least one fluid coupler within the housing fluidically connected to the flow management device, a control interface electrically coupled to the flow management device and configured to change an incremental scale of a flow rate range displayed on a graphical user interface of the pod based on a patient type and to control the flow management device to deliver a flow of gas to the patient at a flow rate selected within the flow rate range, and a removable accessory for use with the pod, the removable accessory comprising a body portion, at least one fluid coupler, and an outlet, the body portion having a first side and a second side, the fluid coupler disposed on the body portion and fluidically connected to the at least one fluid coupler within the housing of the pod by being inserted into the pod via the removable accessory.

[0013] Another aspect relates to a pod comprising: a flow management device disposed within a pod housing, at least one fluid coupler within the housing fluidically connected to the flow management device and configured to be fluidically connected to a removable accessory insertable into the pod housing, and a control interface electrically coupled to the flow management device, the control interface configured to: change an incremental scale of a flow rate range displayed on a graphical user interface of the pod based on a patient type, and control the flow management device to deliver a flow of gas to the patient according to a flow rate selected within the flow rate range.

[0014] The above and other features of structure and operation will be more readily understood and fully appreciated from the following detailed disclosure taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] Some embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer to like components, and wherein: Figure 1 A flow chart showing a method for controlling the flow of gas in a plurality of different flow rate ranges according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 2A An embodiment of a flow management device according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, which displays a plurality of selectable flow rate ranges on a graphical user interface; Figure 2B An embodiment of a flow management device according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, which displays a selected flow rate range on a graphical user interface; Figure 2C An embodiment of a flow management device according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, which displays a newly selected flow rate range on a graphical user interface; Figure 2DAn embodiment of a flow management device according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown displaying a newly selected flow rate range on a graphical user interface, which has modified the scale from a previously displayed incremental scale; Figure 3 A flow chart of a method according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a rough-in assembly with connections to multiple sources according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 5 The embodiment of the present invention can be inserted into Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a pod in a rough assembly; Figure 6 A schematic diagram showing a pod inserted into a rough-in assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 7 A schematic diagram showing a pod with accessories inserted therein according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 8 A schematic diagram of a pod with an accessory inserted therein and a cover covering the accessory is shown according to an embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 9 A pod system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown; Fig.10 Another embodiment of a pod system according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] Detailed descriptions of the embodiments of the disclosed apparatus and methods described below are presented herein by way of example, but are not limited to the accompanying drawings. Although certain embodiments are shown and described in detail, it should be understood that various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the appended claims. The scope of the present disclosure is in no way limited to the number of constituent parts, the materials of the constituent parts, the shapes of the constituent parts, the relative arrangement of the constituent parts, etc., but is disclosed only as an example of the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0017] As a preface to the detailed description, it should be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0018] In short, the SOT solution includes a medical gas flow controller that is attached to an existing medical gas outlet on the wall of a hospital room. Conventional SOT devices are generally available in three different types: a low flow controller, a standard flow controller, and a high flow controller. The flow type of the controller to be used is determined by the patient's indicators / parameters. In the case where the flow controller attached to the wall is a high flow controller and the patient type requires a low flow controller, the clinician must remove the high flow controller from the wall and attach a low flow controller. In addition to the extra time required for clinicians to replace the existing flow controller on the wall with a new flow controller, medical institutions must store all different types of flow controllers in each room, or at least in an area that is easily accessible to clinicians to locate the new flow controller. In addition, swapping flow controllers during the process of attaching and removing flow controllers can cause accidental damage to the flow controller and require clinicians to properly store the recently replaced flow controller.

[0019] Embodiments of the present invention utilize a flow management device that can deliver gas according to a fixed flow rate range selected from a plurality of different flow rate ranges without physically replacing the SOT device on the wall. The clinician can select the desired flow range (e.g., high flow) by interacting with the graphical user interface of the flow management device, which is then displayed by the graphical user interface as an incremental scale corresponding to the selected flow range. The flow management device will then deliver gas to the patient at the desired flow rate within the selected flow rate range. The clinician can gradually increase or decrease the flow rate according to the incremental scale by interacting with the graphical user interface. If the flow management device will later be used with a new patient who is considered by the medical professional to be a different patient type, the clinician can interact with the graphical user interface to change the flow rate range to a different flow rate range (e.g., standard flow) without replacing the physical device attached to (or located on) the wall. Therefore, embodiments of the present invention combine multiple different types of flow controllers (e.g., high flow, standard flow, low flow) into a single flow management device.

[0020] Now referring to the accompanying drawings, Figure 1A flow chart of a method for controlling the flow of gas at multiple different flow rate ranges according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Method 1000 can be implemented with a conventional SOT device or with a pod system described below. Step 1001 controls the flow management device 10 to deliver gas according to a fixed flow rate range selected from multiple different flow rate ranges. The gas flow to the patient via a device worn by the patient (e.g., a mask or a respirator) is typically established by a conduit connected to the outlet of the SOT device and the device worn by the patient. A mass flow controller coupled to the control interface of the flow management device controls one or more valves and / or orifices to open or close to allow more or less gas to flow to the device worn by the patient at a very precise flow rate within the selected flow rate range.

[0021] Figure 2A An embodiment of a flow management device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, which displays multiple selectable flow rate ranges on a graphical user interface 15. The flow management device 10 is a flow meter, a flow regulator, a flow controller, a flow manager, etc. The flow management device 10 includes a control interface for controlling at least one function of the flow management device 10. For example, the control interface includes a controller and a display for displaying the graphical user interface 15, and various input methods can be used, such as a touch screen, a button interface and / or a rotary dial, which allows a clinician to input commands to the flow management device 10 via touch or button pressing. The control interface sends instructions / commands to perform at least one function, such as maintaining a certain flow rate, increasing the flow rate, decreasing the flow rate, opening a valve, closing a valve, etc. In this way, the clinician can conveniently control the flow management device 10 via the graphical user interface 15 via input of the control interface, such as changing between fixed flow rate ranges. The control interface can generally include a processor, an input device coupled to the processor, an output device coupled to the processor, and a plurality of storage devices each coupled to the processor. The input device, the output device, and the storage device can each be coupled to the processor via a bus. The processor can perform calculations and control the functions of the pod system, including executing instructions included in computer code for tools and programs for enabling methods of automatically controlling a flow management device to deliver an airflow according to a selected flow rate range, wherein the instructions of the computer code can be executed by the processor via a storage device. The computer code can include software program instructions that can implement one or more algorithms for implementing the methods and functions of the pod system, as described in detail above. The processor executes the computer code. The processor can include a single processing unit that resides locally within the pod housing, or it can also be distributed on one or more processing units in one or more locations (e.g., on a client and a server).

[0022] The storage device of the control interface may contain input data, including any input required by the computer code. The output device displays the output of the computer code. The storage device can be used as a computer-usable storage medium (or program storage device) having a computer-readable program embodied therein and / or having other data stored therein, wherein the computer-readable program includes computer code. In general, a computer program product (or, alternatively, an article of manufacture) of a computer system may include the computer-usable storage medium (or the program storage device). The storage device of the control interface includes any known computer-readable storage medium. In one embodiment, the cache memory element of the storage device may provide temporary storage of at least some program code in order to reduce the number of times the code must be retrieved from a large capacity memory when executing the instructions of the computer code. In addition, similar to the processor, the storage device may be located in a single physical location, including one or more types of data storage, or may be distributed in various forms on multiple physical systems. In addition, the storage device may include data distributed on, for example, a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN). In addition, the storage device may include an operating system.

[0023] Returning to the graphical user interface 15 of the flow management device 10, a plurality of flow rate ranges are selectable as graphical icons displayed on the graphical user interface 15. Each of the selectable flow rate ranges corresponds to a flow rate range type. For example, selectable flow range 1 corresponds to a standard flow rate, which can be a flow rate range of 0-10 L in increments of 1 L / min, selectable flow range 2 corresponds to a low flow rate, which can be a flow rate range of 0-1 L in increments of 0.1 L / min, and selectable flow range 3 corresponds to a high flow rate, which can be a flow rate range of 0-30 L in increments of 3 L / min. The number of selectable flow rate ranges and their associated ranges and increments can vary and can be programmed according to the desired operation.

[0024] The graphical user interface 15 of the flow management device 10 includes one or more interactive elements 14a, 14b, 14c, 14d, 14e for adjusting the flow rate within a flow rate range displayed on the graphical user interface 15. Interactive element 14a is a "start" option that starts the flow of gas. Interactive element 14b "+" allows the clinician to gradually increase the flow rate. Interactive element 14c "-" allows the clinician to gradually decrease the flow rate. Interactive element 14d is a "stop sign" that allows the clinician to stop the flow of gas. Interactive element 14e is a "home" or "back" button that allows the clinician to return to a screen for selecting a different flow rate range from a plurality of flow rate ranges. Interactive elements 14a, 14b, 14c, 14d are touch screen buttons, graphic icons, etc. that, when pressed by the clinician, send a signal to the control interface of the flow management device 10.

[0025] Once a flow rate is selected, Figure 1 Step 1002 of the illustrated method 1000 displays the selected flow rate range as a first incremental scale on the graphical user interface 15 of the flow management device 10 . Figure 2B One embodiment of a flow management device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, which displays a selected flow rate range on a graphical user interface 15. In the illustrated embodiment, "flow rate range 1" is selected, and therefore the flow management device 10 displays an incremental scale 12 with specific increments 13 associated with "flow rate range 1". The scale 12 is between 0L and 10L, and the increments 13 are 1L per minute. If the clinician interacts with the "+" icon, the flow rate will increase by 1L / minute and can be increased to 10L / minute. Similarly, if the clinician interacts with the "-" icon, the flow rate will decrease by 1L / minute and can be decreased to 0L / minute. The starting flow rate can be programmed to start at 0L / minute on the scale 12; however, the starting flow rate can also be any flow rate within the selected flow rate range.

[0026] In response to a change in the selectable flow rates (e.g., prompted by a change in patient type), step 1003 controls the flow management device 10 to now deliver gas according to a newly selected flow rate range selected from the plurality of flow rate ranges. Step 1004 changes the graphical user interface 15 to display the new flow rate range with a different increment scale 12' having different value increments 13'. Figure 2C An embodiment of a flow management device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, which displays a newly selected flow rate range on a graphical user interface 15. In the illustrated embodiment, "flow rate range 3" is selected, and therefore the flow management device 10 displays an incremental scale 12' with a specific increment 13' associated with "flow rate range 3". Increment 13 is greater than increment 13'. Scale 12' is between 0L and 1L, and increment 13' is 0.1L per minute. If the clinician interacts with the "+" icon, the flow rate will increase by 0.1L / minute and can be increased to 1L / minute. Similarly, if the clinician interacts with the "-" icon, the flow rate will decrease by 0.1L / minute and can be decreased to 0L / minute. The starting flow rate can be programmed to start at 0L / minute on scale 12'; however, the starting flow rate can also be any flow rate within the selected flow rate range.

[0027] By interacting with the graphical user interface 15 of the flow management device 10, the flow rate range can be changed to accommodate a variety of different patient types without having to replace the flow controller mounted on or in the wall of the patient room. In addition, as the flow rate range is changed, the incremental scale is also changed, such as the increment becomes smaller to allow for more precise control when increasing or decreasing the flow rate within the new flow rate range. The incremental scale displayed on the graphical user interface 15 can change appearance in addition to changing the flow rate range information. For example, the displayed incremental scale can include more or less scale on the incremental scale. Figure 2D One embodiment of a flow management device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown displaying a newly selected flow rate range on a graphical user interface 15, which has modified the scale from the previously displayed incremental scale. In the illustrated embodiment, "flow rate range 3" has been selected, and therefore the flow management device 10 displays an incremental scale 12" with specific increments 13" associated with "flow rate range 3". Increment 13 is larger than increment 13", and increment 13" includes more scales, making the appearance of scale 12" significantly different from the previous scale 12. Scale 12" is between 0L and 1L, and increment 13" is 0.05L per minute. If the clinician interacts with the "+" icon, the flow rate will increase by 0.05L / minute and can be increased to 1L / minute. Similarly, if the clinician interacts with the "-" icon, the flow rate will decrease by 0.05L / minute and can be decreased to 0L / minute. The starting flow rate can be programmed to start at 0L / minute on scale 12"; however, the starting flow rate can also be any flow rate within the selected flow rate range.

[0028] Reference first Figure 3 , Figure 3 A flow chart of a method 1010 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. In step 1011, the control interface of the flow management device 10 receives a first user-selected flow rate range customized for a first patient type. For example, a clinician (i.e., a user) interacts with the graphical user interface 15 of the flow management device 10 to select a flow rate range that is considered optimal for the patient. In step 1012, the control interface displays the first user-selected flow rate range with a first incremental scale on the graphical user interface 15 of the flow management device 10. In addition to displaying the first incremental scale, the control interface also arranges at least one interactive element on the graphical user interface 15 that allows the user to gradually adjust the flow rate within the first user-selected flow rate range. If the user interacts with the interactive element, the control interface gradually adjusts the flow rate in response to the user's interaction with the interactive element. In step 1013, the control interface controls the flow management device 10 to deliver airflow according to the first user-selected flow rate range. Control of the flow rate can start automatically, or wait until the clinician presses a "start" button on the graphical user interface 15.

[0029] If the flow rate range needs to be changed, as determined by the medical professional, then in step 1014, the control interface receives a second user-selected flow rate range customized for a second patient type different from the first patient type. In step 1015, the control interface of the flow management device 10 increases the graphical user interface 15 to display the second user-selected flow rate range having a second incremental scale different from the first incremental scale. In addition to increasing the graphical interface 15 to display the new scale, the control interface also arranges at least one interactive element on the graphical user interface 15 that allows the user to gradually adjust the flow rate within the second user-selected flow rate range. If the user interacts with the interactive element, the control interface gradually adjusts the flow rate in response to the user's interaction with the interactive element. In step 1016, the control interface controls the flow management device 10 to deliver airflow according to the second user-selected flow rate range.

[0030] Methods 1000 and 1010 can be implemented using the above-mentioned traffic management device 10, which can be any traffic controller equipped with one or more processors and at least one display. In addition, methods 1000 and 1010 can be implemented using the pod system described below, which includes one or more pods, each pod having a traffic management device capable of implementing methods 1000 and 1010.

[0031] The pod system includes one or more pods, each pod having a flow management device capable of implementing methods 1000 and 1010, and also capable of receiving removable pod accessories. In an exemplary embodiment, each pod of the pod system has a flow management device (e.g., oxygen, medical air, vacuum, etc.) mounted in a rough box behind a wall. The connection is made in a recess in the wall. The pod has a built-in flow management device (e.g., an electronic solenoid valve, a mass flow controller, etc.) for regulating the flow of gas in both directions from the source through the pod. Each pod is recessed in the wall and includes a control unit with a touch screen that allows the clinician to use the touch screen to adjust the flow / suction and the cycle between different flow rate ranges. The pod also includes a portion that allows mechanical connection to the pod frame, which has a port that allows tubing accessories to be connected from the pod to the patient. Various accessories can be removably connected to the pod to establish fluid communication with a remotely located fluid source. For example, the housing of the pod includes a structure that facilitates the attachment of accessories to the pod, and the accessories can slide into the pod housing and lock in place. Accessories include canisters capable of containing a medium such as water or other liquids, which are used to humidify medical gases prior to delivery to a patient, or to store liquids during aspiration operations.

[0032] Figure 4A schematic diagram of a rough-in assembly 7 having connections to a plurality of sources 1, 2, 3 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. The rough-in assembly 7 is located behind a finished surface, such as a wall of a hospital room, and is configured to be attached to one or more structures, such as metal or wood wall structural elements, located behind the finished surface. The rough-in assembly 7 is a safety socket for in-wall or overlay applications having an open face to accommodate one or more pods of a pod system, as described in more detail below. The size and dimensions of the rough-in assembly 7 are set to allow the pod to fit therein. In an exemplary embodiment, the depth of the rough-in assembly 7 can be large enough so that the pod fits completely within the rough-in assembly 7 so that the front surface of the pod can be flush or recessed with the finished surface. In another embodiment, the depth of the rough-in assembly 7 can be reduced so that only a portion of the pod fits within the rough-in assembly 7 so that the front surface of the pod protrudes slightly from the finished surface.

[0033] The rough-in assembly 7 accommodates connections to sources 1, 2, 3 that are remote from the rough-in assembly 7. For example, the rough-in assembly 7 safely and securely accommodates the fluid couplers 1b, 2b, 3b of the sources 1, 2, 3 within the rough-in assembly 7. In the illustrated embodiment, the supply lines 1a, 2a, 3a associated with the first source 1, the second source 2, and the third source 3 enter the rough-in assembly 7 through the back wall of the rough-in assembly 7, respectively; however, the supply lines 1a, 2a, 3a can be guided through any surface of the rough-in assembly 7. The supply lines 1a, 2a, 3a pass through openings that are preformed or formed on site, such as by removing knockouts on the rough-in assembly 7. The fluid couplers 1b, 2b, 3b are devices configured to couple or connect two fluid channels together. The type and / or size of the fluid couplers 1b, 2b, 3b depends on the sources 1, 2, 3. Examples of fluid couplers 1b, 2b, 3b include fittings, connectors, adapters, check valves, hose barbs, elbows, quick connections, etc. After installing the rough-in assembly 7 and installing the fluid couplers 1b, 2b, 3b within the rough-in assembly 7, any of the sources 1, 2, 3 may be accessed, depending on the type of pod inserted in the rough-in assembly 7, as described in more detail below.

[0034] Although Figure 4Three sources are shown, there may be less than three or more than three sources installed in the rough assembly 7. Sources 1, 2, 3 can be boxes, reservoirs, containers, containers, etc. for storing gases, fluids or gas mixtures, with mechanisms for delivering gases, fluids, or mixtures from their remote locations via supply lines 1a, 2a, 3a. A non-exhaustive list of types of sources 1, 2, 3 includes medical air (Med air), carbon dioxide (CO2), helium (He), nitrogen (N2), nitrous oxide (N2O), oxygen (O2), oxygen / carbon dioxide mixtures (O2 / CO2 n%, n is % of CO2), medical surgical vacuum (Med Vac), waste anesthetic gas treatment (WAGD), non-medical air (3-stage gas power unit), laboratory air, laboratory vacuum, instrument air, and other mixtures with a ratio of gas A / gas B in percentage. In addition, the term reference SOT is intended to include gases containing oxygen but not necessarily oxygen.

[0035] exist Figure 4 In the embodiment of the present invention, the first source 1 is an oxygen source, the second source 2 is a medical air source, and the third source 3 is a vacuum source. The first source 1 can be accessed via a fluid coupler 1b in the rough-in assembly 7 via a supply line 1a, which is connected to the first source 1 at one end and to the fluid coupler 1b at the other end. Similarly, the second source 2 can be accessed via a fluid coupler 2b in the rough-in assembly 7 via a supply line 2a, which is connected to the second source 2 at one end and to the fluid coupler 2b at the other end, and the third source 3 can be accessed via a fluid coupler 3b in the rough-in assembly 7 via a supply line 3a, which is connected to the third source 3 at one end and to the fluid coupler 3b at the other end. The supply lines 1a, 2a, 3a are located behind the finishing surface and can have various lengths and intermediate fittings to accommodate the laying from the source to the rough-in assembly 7. The supply lines 1a, 2a, 3a terminate at the fluid couplers 1b, 2b, 3b inside the rough-in assembly 7. It is located at least partially within the outer shell of the pod 100. Alternatively, the supply lines 1a, 2a, 3a terminate outside the rough-in assembly 7, behind the finished surface, with an intermediate connection line completing the connection from the end of the supply lines 1a, 2a, 3a to the fluid couplers 1b, 2b, 3b inside the rough-in assembly 7; the intermediate connection line can be a flexible tube that provides flexibility in certain construction environments to connect the source to the rough-in assembly 7, where the existing pipeline from the source is connected to the newly installed rough-in assembly 7.

[0036] Because rough-in assembly 7 accommodates fluidic connections to multiple sources 1, 2, 3, any of the sources 1, 2 can be accessed at the location of rough-in assembly 7. The fluid couplers 1b, 2b, 3b within rough-in assembly 7 are discrete and separate from each other, allowing connection to only one fluid coupler and not to the others; therefore, only the gas from the source associated with the fluid coupler with the tight-fitting connection flows through the pod system, while the other fluid couplers without tight-fitting connections prevent gas from flowing from the source into the room environment. Which source 1, 2, 3 is accessed depends on which pod is inserted into rough-in assembly 7.

[0037] Figure 5 The embodiment of the present invention can be inserted into Figure 4 Schematic diagram of pods in rough-in assembly 7 of FIG. Each pod is specific to a gas type associated with source 1, 2, 3. For example, pod 100a is specifically designed to manage gas flow associated with source 1, pod 100b is specifically designed to manage gas flow associated with source 2, and pod 100c is specifically designed to manage gas flow associated with source 3. If access to source 1 (e.g., oxygen) is required, pod 100a can be inserted into rough-in assembly 7. If access to source 2 (e.g., medical air) is required, pod 100b can be inserted into rough-in assembly 7. If access to source 3 (e.g., vacuum) is required, pod 100c can be inserted into rough-in assembly 7. Each pod 100a, 100b, 100c is removably inserted into rough-in assembly 7 so that pod 100a can be removed and exchanged with a different pod 100b or 100c at the same location within a room environment. For example, because the pods can be swapped out, clinicians can access different types of gases at the same location on the wall, making hospital rooms more flexible to meet the varying needs of a healthcare facility.

[0038] Figure 6A schematic diagram of a pod 100 inserted into a rough-mount assembly 7 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. As shown, the pod 100 is assembled inside the rough-mount assembly 7; the pod 100 can be a pod 100a connected to a source 1, a 100b connected to a source 2, or a 100c connected to a source 3, or any pod with a specific type of flow management for a specific source. As a function of inserting the pod 100 into the rough-mount assembly 7, one or more fluid couplers on the back of the pod 100 are tightly matched with one of the fluid couplers 1b, 2b, or 3b corresponding to the fluid couplers on the pod 100. The tight-fitting connection between the one or more fluid couplers on the back of the pod 100 and the fluid couplers 1b, 2b, 3b of the pod allows gas to flow to the flow management device 20 of the pod 100, which is located within the housing 8 of the pod 100. The flow management device 20 is configured to manage, regulate, or otherwise control the flow of gas from one of the multiple sources 1, 2, 3 through the pod 100. An example of a flow management device 20 is a flow meter or flow regulator that includes at least one electronic valve for managing the flow of gas through the pod 100. The specific design and construction of the flow management device 20 depends on which type of gas the pod is designed to regulate. For example, the pod may include a flow management device for managing the flow of oxygen, and will also include a fluid coupler on the back of the pod for mating with a fluid coupler 1b associated with a first source 1. The pod may include a flow management device for managing the flow of medical air, and will also include a fluid coupler on the back of the pod for mating with a fluid coupler 2b associated with a second source 2. The pod may include a flow management device for managing the vacuum drawn through the pod, and will also include a fluid coupler on the back of the pod for mating with a fluid coupler 3b associated with a third source 3. Examples of flow management devices include electronic needle valves and controllers, and integrated mass flow control valves.

[0039] A control interface 25, such as that described above, is electrically coupled to the flow management device 20 for controlling at least one function of the flow management device 20. For example, the control interface 25 includes a controller and one or more displays, and may utilize various input methods, such as a touch screen, a button interface, and / or a rotary dial, which allows a clinician to input commands to the flow management device 20 via touch or button presses. The control interface 25 sends instructions / commands to the flow management device 20 to perform at least one function, such as displaying an incremental scale associated with a specific flow rate range customized for a patient type, maintaining a certain flow rate, increasing a flow rate, decreasing a flow rate, opening a valve, closing a valve, etc. In this manner, a clinician can conveniently control the flow management device 20 via the control interface 25 to change between various flow rate scales for treating different types of SOT patients as needed.

[0040] The gas whose flow is managed or regulated flows between the control device 20 and at least one fluid coupler 30 located at least partially within the housing 8 of the pod 100. The fluid coupler 30 is fluidically connected to the flow management device 20 and, when the pod 100 is inserted into the rough-in assembly 7, is also fluidically connected to a supply line and source dedicated to the pod 100. Through the operation of the flow management device 20, the gas flows from the source to the coupler 30 through the supply line and through the flow management device 20 in a controlled manner. The at least one fluid coupler 30 is a fitting, connector, adapter, check valve, hose barb, elbow, quick connect, etc., which is configured to mate with a fluid coupler, which is a fitting that can be inserted into the pod 100. The fitting that can be inserted into the pod includes an outlet through which the regulated gas can flow into or out of the fitting and flow to the patient via a conduit connected to the outlet.

[0041] Also refer to Figure 6 , accessories can be insertable into the pod 100. Accessories are configured to be fluidically and mechanically connected to a fluid coupler 30 built into the pod 100 so that gas flows through the accessory and out to the patient. One accessory can be inserted into the pod 100 at a given time, but there are many different accessories that can be used with the pod 100. Accessories are located within the pod housing 8 when inserted or otherwise attached to the pod 100, and can be removed from the pod 100 so that new accessories can be inserted into the pod 100. Figure 6 Three different removable accessories 5, 6, 7 are shown, each of which can be inserted into the pod 100, but many different accessories can be designed to fit in the pod 100. Each accessory 5, 6, 7 includes at least one fluid coupler 5a, 6a, 7a configured to mate with the fluid coupler 30 of the pod 100, and a pressure sensor configured to mate with the socket 38 of the pod 100, but each accessory has different functions and / or features that provide flexibility to the clinician.

[0042] Figure 7 FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of a pod 100 with an accessory 70 inserted therein according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 As shown in FIG. 1 , the pod 100 includes a pod housing 8 that defines an interior area 14 of the pod 100. The housing 8 includes two side walls and a rear surface ( Figure 78 ), and an open face that allows for the insertion of accessories 70 and the installation of a flow management device. The flow management device is located behind the control interface 25 so that the clinician interacts with the flow management device disposed within the pod 100 using the UI of the control interface 25. The control interface 25 is shown as having a plurality of graphical icons and / or buttons for the clinician to interact with the pod 100, such as changing between flow rate ranges based on patient type. The fluid coupler 30 is disposed within the interior region 14 and is accessible through the open front of the housing 8 for inserting and removing accessories. In addition, the pod 100 includes an accessory receiving mechanism 50 disposed within the housing 8 of the pod 100. The accessory receiving mechanism 50 facilitates the insertion and fluid coupling of accessories within the pod housing 8. The accessory receiving mechanism 50 is placed within the pod 100 at a height within the housing 8 to align a fluid coupler, such as the fluid couplers 5a, 6a, 7a of accessories 5, 6, 7, within the fluid coupler 30 disposed in the pod housing 8. Thus, the location of the accessory receiving mechanism 50 within the pod 100 can vary between different pod designs and sizes.

[0043] The accessory 70 may be the accessory 5, the accessory 6, the accessory 7, or any accessory having a specific function or structure, and includes a pod engagement mechanism 76 that universally cooperates with the accessory receiving mechanism 50 of the pod 100. The removable accessory 70 includes a body portion 75 having a first side 70a and a second side 70b. The body portion 75 may be a cover or a lid that is a solid material that can be machined or manufactured to include a coupler 71 and an outlet 73. The accessory 70 includes a pod engagement mechanism 76 disposed on the body portion 75. The pod engagement mechanism 76 has a first engagement structure at a first position of the body portion 75 and a second engagement structure at a second position of the body portion 75 opposite to the first position. The first engagement structure and the second engagement structure of the pod engagement mechanism 76 are protrusions or other lips or extensions of the body portion 75 that are configured to cooperate with the accessory receiving mechanism 50 of the pod 100.

[0044] In addition, the accessory 70 includes a tank 74 operably attached to the main body 75. The tank 74 can be removably attached to the main body 75, so that the tank 74 of the accessory 70 is further customizable. For example, the tank 74 can be threadedly attached to the main body 75, so that the tank 74 is easily removed and replaced with a tank 74 of different size or function. The tank 74 can be removably attached to the lower side of the main body 75, and can be screwed on or off to replace the tank with a new tank of the same or different shape / type. The tank 74 is a container or storage device with an internal space that allows gas to flow between the fluid coupler 71 that is tightly matched with the fluid coupler 30 of the pod 100 and the outlet 73. The internal space of the main body 74 can store a fluid such as water for humidifying the gas flowing through the accessory. The internal space of the main body 74 can also store waste liquid / material that is sucked into the outlet 73 of the accessory 70.

[0045] like Figure 7 , when the accessory 70 is inserted into the pod 100, the accessory 70 is located within the interior region 14 of the housing 8, and the pod engagement mechanism 76 of the accessory 70 engages the accessory receiving mechanism 50 of the pod 100 to removably secure the accessory 70 within the pod 100. The fluid coupler of the accessory 70 is fluidly coupled / closely mated with the fluid coupler 30 in this position, so that the managed airflow from the flow management device of the pod 100 can flow through the accessory 70 and out of the outlet 73, or the airflow can flow through the accessory 70 and the flow management device of the pod 100 into the outlet 73 to the source (e.g., suction operation). The conduit is configured to be connected to the outlet 73 for delivery to the device worn by the patient. Figure 8 A schematic diagram of a pod 100 having an accessory inserted therein and a cover 60 covering the accessory 70 is shown according to an embodiment of the present invention. In the illustrated embodiment, the pod 100 includes a cover 60 configured to cover at least a portion of the inserted accessory 70. The cover 60 is optionally used to prevent accidental contact with the accessory 70, to prevent non-clinical practitioners from removing the accessory 70, to hide the contents of the accessory 70, etc. The cover 60 has a central opening for quick visual inspection of whether the accessory is inserted into the pod 100. The cover 60 can be permanently attached to the housing 8, such as via a hinge connection; or the cover 60 can be non-permanently attached to the housing 8, such as being configured to snap into place and be detachable from the housing 8.

[0046] Fig. 9 A pod system 900 is shown according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 9The pod system 900 shown in the embodiment includes a rough-mounted component cover 7' designed with an opening to accommodate three pods 100a, 100b, 100c, each with its own touch screen display, and an additional display 69 for displaying the selected flow rate range and the associated incremental scale for the specific pod in use. The display 69 can share the same functionality as the graphical user interface 15 described above. The display 69 optionally also displays various patient-related information, room information, pod and pod system information, location information, etc. The display 69 is also used to gradually increase or decrease the flow rate for the selected pod in use according to the selected flow rate range. The rough-mounted component cover 7' is mounted on the finished surface 64 and is mated / attached to the rough-mounted component 7 mounted behind the finished surface 64, and the finished surface 64 supports the fluid connections to the source. The rough-in assembly cover 7' may be attached to the rough-in assembly 7 behind the wall before or after the pods 100a, 100b, 100c are removably inserted into the rough-in assembly. As described above, each pod is dedicated to a type of gas associated with a source. For example, pod 100a is specifically designed to manage the flow of gas associated with a first source, pod 100b is specifically designed to manage the flow of gas associated with a second source, and pod 100c is specifically designed to manage the flow of gas associated with a third source. Each pod 100a, 100b, 100c is removably inserted so that each pod 100a, 100b, 100c is substantially recessed within or otherwise located behind the finished surface 64. The flow management devices of the pods 100a, 100b, 100c and the accessories installed in the pods 100a, 100b, 100c are located behind the finished surface 64.

[0047] Fig.10 Another embodiment of a pod system 900 is shown. Fig.10 The pod system 900 shown in FIG. 1 includes a rough-in assembly cover 7″ designed with openings to accommodate three pods 100a, 100b, 100c, and Fig. 9 Unlike the embodiment shown in , there is no additional display 69; each pod has its own display 69a, 69b, 69c arranged on the front side of the pod 100a, 100b, 100c, for displaying the selected flow rate range and the associated incremental scale for the respective pod. The rough-in assembly cover 7" is mounted on the finished surface 64 and cooperates with / is attached to the rough-in assembly 7 mounted behind the finished surface 64, and the finished surface 64 supports fluidic connections to the source. The rough-in assembly cover 7" can be attached to the rough-in assembly 7 behind the wall before or after the pod 100a, 100b, 100c is removably inserted into the rough-in assembly 7.

[0048] The clinician can interact with the display 69, 69a, 69b, 69c to select a different flow rate range from a plurality of different flow rate ranges based on the desired flow rate range that is optimal for the patient. The pods 100a, 100b, 100c are located behind a finished wall and are capable of operating at different flow rate ranges so that the clinician does not need to physically replace the flow controller on the wall to accommodate multiple patient types as is done with conventional SOT device setups. The control interface 25 of the pods 100a, 100b, 100c controls the flow management device 20 to adjust the flow rate in different increments based on the selected scale to allow for precise control of smaller increments when increasing or decreasing the flow rate of the flow management device. For example, the same flow management device 20 can be controlled by the control interface 25 to allow for 0.1 L / minute increments on a 0-1 L scale for a first patient, and in response to the clinician's input, can be controlled to allow 1 L / minute increments on a 0-10 L scale. The selected scale is displayed to the clinician and can be changed through further interaction with the graphical user interface of the pod. In response to the clinician's input, the control interface 25 enlarges the graphical user interface to display the newly selected scale, while also configuring the flow management device 25 to open or close the valve, or enlarge or reduce the orifice that allows gas to flow through the pod and to the patient. Thus, the pod system can be customized for the patient type with respect to the range of flow rates and the degree to which the flow rate changes each time the clinician presses a button (e.g., presses "+" or "-" on the GUI) without physically exchanging the flow management device.

[0049] Although the present disclosure has been described in conjunction with the above-mentioned specific embodiments, it is apparent that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure as described above are intended to be illustrative, rather than restrictive. Various changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention as required by the following claims. The claims provide the coverage of the present invention and should not be limited to the specific examples provided herein.

Claims

1. A traffic management method, characterized in that: The traffic management method comprises: controlling the flow management device to deliver gas according to a first flow rate range selected from a plurality of different flow rate ranges; displaying the first flow rate range with a first incremental scale on a graphical user interface of the flow management device; In response to selection of a second flow rate range, controlling the flow management device to deliver gas according to the second flow rate range selected from the plurality of flow rate ranges; and The graphical user interface is changed to display a second incremental scale different from the first incremental scale for the second flow rate range.

2. The flow management method according to claim 1, characterized in that: The plurality of different flow rate ranges include a low flow rate, a standard flow rate, and a high flow rate.

3. The flow management method according to claim 1, characterized in that: The second incremental scale includes smaller increments than the first incremental scale to allow for precise control when increasing or decreasing flow rate within the second flow rate range.

4. The flow management method according to claim 1, characterized in that: The second incremental scale includes larger increments than the first incremental scale.

5. A traffic management method, characterized in that: The traffic management method comprises: receiving, via the control interface of the pod, a first user-selected flow rate range customized for a first patient type; displaying, via the control interface, the first user-selected flow rate range having a first incremental scale on a graphical user interface of the pod; controlling, via the control interface, a flow management device of the pod to deliver airflow according to a flow rate range selected by the first user; receiving, via the control interface, a second user-selected flow rate range customized for a second patient type different from the first patient type; increasing, via the control interface, the graphical user interface to display the second user-selected flow rate range having a second incremental scale different from the first incremental scale; and The flow management device is controlled via the control interface to deliver airflow according to the second user-selected flow rate range.

6. The flow management method according to claim 5, characterized in that: The traffic management method further includes: At least one interactive element is arranged on the graphical user interface via the control interface, the interactive element allowing a user to gradually adjust the flow rate within the first user-selected flow rate range.

7. The flow management method according to claim 6, characterized in that: The flow management method adjusts the flow rate through the control interface in response to user interaction with the at least one interactive element.

8. The flow management method according to claim 5, characterized in that: The traffic management method further includes: At least one interactive element is arranged on the graphical user interface via the control interface, the interactive element allowing a user to gradually adjust the flow rate within the second user-selected flow rate range.

9. The flow management method according to claim 8, characterized in that: The flow management method adjusts the flow rate through the control interface in response to user interaction with the at least one interactive element.

10. The traffic management method according to claim 5, characterized in that: The second user selected flow rate range is smaller than the first user selected flow rate range, and the second incremental scale has smaller increments than the first incremental scale, thereby allowing more precise control of air flow to a patient requiring the second user selected flow rate range.

11. The traffic management method according to claim 5, characterized in that: The flow rate range selected by the first user is 0-30 L / min; the first incremental scale having increments of 1 L / minute; The second user selected flow rate range is 0-2 L / min; and The second incremental scale has increments of 0.1 L / minute.

12. A traffic management system, characterized in that: The traffic management system comprises: a pod including a flow management device disposed within a pod housing, at least one fluid coupler within the housing fluidly connected to the flow management device; A control interface electrically coupled to the flow management device, configured to: changing the incremental scale of the flow rate range displayed on a graphical user interface of the pod based on patient type, and controlling the flow management device to deliver a flow of gas to the patient according to a flow rate selected within the flow rate range; and A removable accessory for use with the pod, the removable accessory comprising: a body portion having a first side and a second side, at least one fluid coupler disposed on the body portion that is fluidly connected to the at least one fluid coupler within the housing of the pod upon insertion of the removable accessory into the pod, and an outlet.

13. A pod, characterized in that: The pod comprises: a flow management device disposed within the pod housing; at least one fluid coupler within the housing that is fluidly connected to the flow management device, the at least one fluid coupler being configured to fluidly connect to a removable fitting that is insertable into the pod housing; and A control interface electrically coupled to the flow management device, configured to: changing the incremental scale of the flow rate range displayed on a graphical user interface of the pod based on patient type, and The flow management device is controlled to deliver a flow of gas to the patient according to a flow rate selected within the flow rate range.

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