System and method for response damping to pressure

Abstract

Systems and methods for responsive damping of pressure pulsations are provided. Generally, the responsive damping system may include one or more responsive dampers. The responsive damper may include a device that dampens pressure pulsations through a pressure varistor.

Description

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 378,757, filed on October 7, 2022, by Vu et al. and titled "Systems and Methods for Active Damping of Pressure", the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to responsive damping of pressure, and more particularly to systems and methods for responsive damping of pressure for use in a blood pressure monitoring system. Background Art

[0004] Continuous non - invasive blood pressure monitors are capable of measuring blood pressure waves and derived hemodynamic parameters in real time. A variety of techniques can be employed, including the volume clamp method.

[0005] The volume clamp method utilizes an inflatable cuff, a light source (e.g., a light - emitting diode (LED)), and a light sensor to measure arterial blood pressure at a limb (e.g., a finger). The pressure in the cuff is adjusted to keep the diameter of the artery constant (unloaded state), where the diameter is determined by the light source and the light sensor. The pressure within the inflatable cuff represents the arterial pressure of the finger artery. A pressure pump supplies pressure to the inflatable cuff. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Systems and methods for responsive damping of pressure pulsations employ a responsive damping system that includes a set of one or more responsive dampers. Each responsive damper can include a mechanism for providing resistance that responds to fluctuations in a supply pressure. The damped pressure can be used in various medical devices, such as a blood pressure monitoring system.

[0007] In some embodiments, a responsive damping system for damping pressure pulsations from a pressure supply source. The responsive damping system includes an inlet, an outlet, and a set of one or more responsive dampers fluidly connected.

[0008] In some embodiments, each responsive damper includes a poppet valve core connected to a resistor.

[0009] In some embodiments, the poppet valve core includes a head that contacts a valve seat.

[0010] In some embodiments, the poppet valve core can move bidirectionally between a front end and a rear end of each responsive damper.

[0011] In some embodiments, the bi-directional movement of the lift valve core is based on the amount of pressure flow present and the amount of resistance provided by the rheostat.

[0012] In some embodiments, each response damper includes a bellows connected to a rheostat.

[0013] In some embodiments, the rheostat contacts a disc member.

[0014] In some embodiments, the bellows, the disc member, and the rheostat are configured such that when the flow pressure increases, the amount of resistance provided by the bellows and the rheostat increases.

[0015] In some embodiments, each response damper includes a bellows connected to an electromagnet configured to provide resistance.

[0016] In some embodiments, the electromagnet contacts the disc member.

[0017] In some embodiments, the end is opposite the inlet, where the electromagnet contacts the disc member, and where the bellows, the disc member, and the electromagnet are configured such that when the flow pressure increases, the resistance provided by the bellows and the electromagnet increases.

[0018] In some embodiments, the electromagnet is in communication with a pressure pump and is configured such that the resistance provided by the electromagnet is adjusted according to the pressure generated by the pressure pump.

[0019] In some embodiments, at a point where the generated pressure is higher than the average pressure to be generated, an increased current is supplied to the electromagnet to increase the resistance provided by the electromagnet.

[0020] In some embodiments, at a point where the generated pressure is lower than the average pressure to be generated, a decreased current is supplied to the electromagnet to decrease the resistance provided by the electromagnet.

[0021] In some embodiments, the bellows is configured to receive pressurized air from the inlet.

[0022] In some embodiments, the bellows includes a disc member at the end opposite the inlet.

[0023] In some embodiments, the response damping system includes a passage connecting the bellows to the outlet.

[0024] In some embodiments, the cross-sectional area of the passage is at least 2 times smaller than the cross-sectional area of the bellows.

[0025] In some embodiments, each damper is held in an airtight housing.

[0026] In some embodiments, the one or more response dampers of the group include a response damper that utilizes a spring as the rheostat.

[0027] In some embodiments, the one or more response dampers of the group include a response damper that utilizes a polymer gel as the rheostat.

[0028] In some embodiments, the one or more response dampers of the group include a response damper that utilizes a set of magnets as the rheostat.

[0029] In some embodiments, the one or more response dampers of the group include at least two response dampers, wherein the at least two response dampers utilize a spring as the rheostat.

[0030] In some embodiments, the one or more response dampers of the group include at least two response dampers, wherein the at least two response dampers utilize a polymer gel as the rheostat.

[0031] In some embodiments, the one or more response dampers of the group include at least two response dampers, wherein the at least two response dampers utilize a set of magnets as the rheostat.

[0032] In some embodiments, the one or more response dampers of the group include at least two response dampers, wherein a first response damper of the at least two response dampers utilizes a spring as the rheostat, and a second response damper of the at least two response dampers utilizes a polymer gel as the rheostat.

[0033] In some embodiments, the one or more response dampers of the group include at least two response dampers, wherein a first response damper of the at least two response dampers utilizes a spring as the rheostat, and a second response damper of the at least two response dampers utilizes a set of magnets as the rheostat.

[0034] In some embodiments, the one or more response dampers of the group include at least two response dampers, wherein a first response damper of the at least two response dampers utilizes a polymer gel as the rheostat, and a second response damper of the at least two response dampers utilizes a set of magnets as the rheostat.

[0035] In some embodiments, the one or more response dampers of the group include at least three response dampers, wherein a first response damper of the at least three response dampers utilizes a spring as the rheostat, wherein a second response damper of the at least three response dampers utilizes a polymer gel as the rheostat, and a third response damper of the at least three response dampers utilizes a set of magnets as the rheostat.

[0036] In some embodiments, the response damping system further includes a pressure pump fluidly connected to the one or more response dampers of the group, wherein the pressure pump is the pressure supply source.

[0037] In some embodiments, the pressure pump is a positive displacement pump, a centrifugal pump, or an axial flow pump.

[0038] In some embodiments, the pressure pump is a rotary pump, a reciprocating pump, a linear pump, or a pneumatic pump.

[0039] In some embodiments, the response damping system is used in a pressure system for use in combination with a medical device.

[0040] In some embodiments, the response damping system further includes a blood pressure monitoring system. The blood pressure monitoring system includes a blood pressure cuff fluidly connected to the one or more response dampers of the group.

[0041] In some embodiments, the blood pressure monitoring system further includes a pressure control system that senses a pressure quantity and can adjust the supply pressure.

[0042] In some embodiments, the blood pressure cuff is configured to surround a patient's arm or finger.

[0043] In some embodiments, a method for damping pressure pulsations from a pressure supply source by a response damping system used in conjunction with a blood pressure monitoring system. The method provides pressure from the pressure supply source. The method transmits the provided pressure through the response damping system. The response damping system includes an inlet, an outlet, and a group of one or more response dampers fluidly connected. Each response damper includes a rheostat. The method transmits the damped pressure to the blood pressure cuff.

[0044] In some embodiments, the method further transmits the damped pressure through a pressure sensor to measure the pressure level of the damped pressure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0045] Referring to the following drawings and data graphs, the specification and claims will be more fully understood. These drawings and data graphs are given as examples of the present disclosure and should not be construed as a complete recitation of the scope of the present disclosure.

[0046] Figure 1 Imitation examples of pressure data graphs showing pressure fluctuations generated by a pressure source are provided.

[0047] Figure 2 An exemplary blood pressure monitoring system incorporating a response damping system is provided.

[0048] Figure 3A and Figure 3B Examples of response dampers utilizing a poppet valve and a spring are provided. Figure 3A Perspective views are provided, Figure 3B Cross-sectional views are provided.

[0049] Figure 3C and Figure 3D Examples of response dampers utilizing a poppet valve and a polymer gel are provided. Figure 3C Perspective views are provided, Figure 3D Cross-sectional views are provided.

[0050] Figure 3E and Figure 3F Examples of response dampers utilizing a poppet valve and a set of magnets are provided. Figure 3E Perspective views are provided, Figure 3F Cross-sectional views are provided.

[0051] Figure 4A and Figure 4B Examples of response dampers utilizing a bellows and a spring are provided. Figure 4A Exploded views are provided, Figure 4B Cross-sectional views are provided.

[0052] Figure 5A and Figure 5B Examples of response dampers utilizing a bellows and an electromagnet are provided. Figure 5A Exploded views are provided, Figure 5B Cross-sectional views are provided.

[0053] Figures 6A to 6D Examples of response damping systems are provided. Figure 6A Perspective views are provided, Figure 6B Front views are provided, Figure 6C Exploded views are provided, Figure 6D Cross-sectional views are provided. Detailed Description

[0054] This disclosure details systems and methods for responsively damping pressure (also known as active damping) in a blood pressure monitoring system or other medical devices utilizing a pressure source. Pressure pumps and other pressure sources generally provide fluctuating pressure, which, although small, can cause inaccuracies in sensitive measurements and treatments. Figure 1 An analog example of a pressure measurement data graph is provided, which is typical of a pressure source that provides a constant pressure. Although the average pressure 101 provided is constant, the actual pressure 103 provided fluctuates up and down, creating a pulsation effect on the average provided pressure. The pulsation effect is caused by the operation of the pump when it inhales air. For example, in a pneumatic pump, the amount of pressure provided fluctuates depending on the back-and-forth movement of the piston / plunger.

[0055] An object of the present application is to reduce the pulsation effect provided by a pressure source through a responsive damping system. The responsive damping system can include devices that are used to responsively damp the pressure fluctuations into a smoother provided pressure with less pulsation. When used in a blood pressure monitoring system or other medical devices that benefit from less pressure pulsation, a smooth pressure can result in higher accuracy.

[0056] Figure 2 A longitudinal system diagram of a pressure system used in a blood pressure monitoring system is provided. The pressure system includes a pressure supply 201 and a responsive damping system 203. The pressure supply 201 can be any source capable of providing pressure, such as a pressure pump. The pressure pump can be a positive displacement pump, a centrifugal pump, an axial flow pump, or any other pump capable of generating pressure. In some cases, the pressure pump is a positive displacement pump. Types of positive displacement pumps that can be used include (but are not limited to) rotary pumps, reciprocating pumps, linear pumps, and pneumatic pumps. Each of these various pumps will provide a relative amount of pressure fluctuation when the pump mechanics facilitate the movement of fluid (liquid or gas).

[0057] The pressure provided by the pressure supply 201 is transmitted through the responsive damping system 203 to reduce the amount of pressure pulsation provided by the supply. The responsive damping system 203 can include a set of one or more responsive dampers that provide means for damping pressure fluctuations. Generally, each responsive damper provides a resistance to the pressure, and the resistance can be adjusted based on the instantaneous pressure level passing through the damper.

[0058] In some cases, the responsive damper includes a poppet valve with a rheostat that allows the poppet valve to provide greater resistance when the pressure and / or flow rate increases. The rheostat can be any structure or material that is capable of increasing the resistance when the poppet valve experiences greater pressure and / or flow rate. Examples of rheostats include (but are not limited to) springs, a set of two or more magnets, polymer gels, and electromagnets.

[0059] In some cases, the response damper includes an electromagnet connected to a rheostat that can provide a resistance level based on the amount of current. The electromagnet can be in communication with a pump source such that the electromagnet can respond when the pump operates to provide pressure. When greater pressure is anticipated, a greater current is generated to provide greater magnetic resistance.

[0060] The response damping system can be combined with one or more passive damping systems, which can be provided before, after, or integrated within the response damping system. Generally, passive damping systems utilize expansion chambers and / or change the flow direction to damp pressure fluctuations. In some cases, the response damper is provided within an expansion chamber. In some cases, the response damper is provided within a bellows chamber that can expand and contract when pressurized air passes through. Filters can also be provided before, after, or integrated within the response damping system.

[0061] When the response damping system 203 is used in a blood pressure monitoring system, the pressure outflow from the response damping system is used for blood pressure monitoring 205. Generally, the damped pressure outflow travels through a pressure control system that includes a pressure sensor that senses the amount of pressure and can adjust the supply pressure as needed. The pressure is then transmitted to a blood pressure cuff, which can be a cuff around any limb (such as (e.g.) the arm or finger) of the patient. In some cases, the blood pressure monitoring system employs a volume clamp method for continuous blood pressure monitoring and thus adjusts the pressure based on the amount of pressure to keep the arterial diameter of the patient constant through the pressure cuff. When the volume clamp method is employed, the supply pressure to the cuff for keeping the arterial diameter constant is the blood pressure within that artery.

[0062] The response damper includes means for resisting pressure pulsations. In many cases, the pressure pulsations are damped in response by a poppet valve in combination with a spring, a set of two or more magnets, and a polymer gel. Figures 3A to 3F Examples of response dampers that can be used in a response damping system are provided.

[0063] Figure 3A and Figure 3BAn example of a response damper that uses a spring 301 to provide resistance to smooth pressurized air is provided. A poppet valve 303 is provided at the front end 305 and includes a head 307 and a stem 309, and the stem 309 allows the poppet valve to move bidirectionally between the front end 305 and the rear end 311. The spring 301 can surround the stem 309 and contact the head 307 and the base wall 313. When there is no pressure flow, the poppet valve head 307 contacts the valve seat 315, causing the poppet valve to close. When pressure flows through the front end 305, the pressure flow pushes the poppet valve head 307 towards the rear end 311, and the spring 301 provides resistance to the poppet valve head 307 and the pressure flow such that as the flow pressure increases, the resistance provided by the spring increases. The resistance provided by the spring 301 dampens the pressure pulsations provided by the pressure source accordingly. The smoothed pressurized air can travel through the poppet valve and continue to travel towards the rear end 311. The response damper can be held in an airtight housing such that it can convey pressurized air through it.

[0064] Figure 3C and Figure 3D An example of a response damper that uses a polymer gel 317 to provide resistance to smooth pressurized air is provided. Except that the polymer gel 317 replaces the spring 301, the response damper using the polymer gel 317 can have a poppet valve 303 that is substantially the same as that described in Figure 3A and Figure 3B The polymer gel 317 can partially or completely surround the stem 309 and contact the head 307 and the base wall 313. The polymer gel 317 has a compressive strength to provide resistance when pressure flows through the front end 305 and pushes the poppet valve head 307 towards the rear end 311 such that as the flow pressure increases, the resistance provided by the polymer gel increases. The resistance provided by the polymer gel 317 dampens the pressure fluctuations provided by the pressure source accordingly. The smoothed pressurized air can travel through the poppet valve and travel towards the rear end 311. The response damper can be held in an airtight housing such that it can convey pressurized air through it.

[0065] Figure 3E and Figure 3F An example of a response damper that uses a set of magnets 319 to provide resistance to smooth pressurized air is provided. Except that the set of magnets 319 replaces the spring 301, the response damper using the set of magnets 319 can have a poppet valve that is substantially the same as that described in Figure 3A and Figure 3BThe substantially same poppet valve core 303 described in. A set of magnets 319 may partially or completely surround the rod 309, and the first magnet 319a contacts the head 307 and the second magnet 319b contacts the base wall 313 such that the adjacent faces of the magnet 319a and the magnet 319b have opposite magnetic poles. When pressure flows through the front end 305 and pushes the poppet valve core head 307 towards the rear end 311, the force of the opposite magnetic poles of the adjacent faces of the magnet 319a and the magnet 319b provides resistance such that when the flow pressure increases, the resistance provided by the magnet increases. The resistance provided by the set of magnets 319 dampens the pressure pulsations provided by the pressure source accordingly. The pressurized air after being smoothed can travel through the poppet valve core and towards the rear end 311. The response damper can be held in an airtight housing such that it can transmit the pressurized air through it.

[0066] Figure 4A and Figure 4B An example of a response damper using a bellows and a spring is provided. When pressure passes through, the response damper can respond to the pressure. The bellows 401 can work with the spring 403 to provide resistance to smooth the pressurized air. The response damper includes an inlet 405 to allow the pressurized air to enter the bellows chamber 407 and expand with the bellows chamber 407. The pressurized air contacts the disk-shaped member 409 which is the rear end of the bellows chamber 407 and further contacts the spring 403. The disk-shaped member 409, the bellows 401, and the spring 403 are configured such that when the flow pressure increases, the resistance provided by the bellows and the spring increases. The resistance provided by the set of bellows 401 and the spring 403 dampens the pressure pulsations provided by the pressure source accordingly. The disk-shaped member 409 may include a channel 411 to allow the smoothed pressurized air to be transmitted through it and leave the outlet 413. The cross-sectional area of the channel 411 may be smaller than the cross-sectional area of the bellows chamber 407 (e.g., at least 2 times smaller). The response damper can be held in an airtight housing such that it can transmit the pressurized air through it. Although the spring is described as a device for providing resistance, any rheostat can be used, including (but not limited to) polymer gels and a set of magnets.

[0067] Figure 5A and Figure 5B An example of a response damper using a bellows and an electromagnet is provided. When pressure passes through, the response damper can respond to the pressure. The bellows 501 can work with the electromagnet 503 to provide resistance to smooth the pressurized air. The response damper includes an inlet 505 to allow the pressurized air to enter the bellows chamber 507 and expand with the bellows chamber 507. The pressurized air contacts the disk-shaped member 509 which is the rear end of the bellows chamber 507 and further contacts the electromagnet 503. The electromagnet 503 can increase and decrease its magnetic force with the supplied current. The electromagnet 503 may have a power source that provides a current consistent with the mechanics of the pressure supply source. As referenced Figure 2As discussed, the pressure pump generates a fluctuating pressure relative to the average pressure generated. At points where the generated pressure is higher than the average pressure to be generated, the current supplied to the electromagnet 503 is increased to increase the magnetic force, thereby increasing the resistance. At points where the generated pressure is lower than the average pressure to be supplied, the current supplied to the electromagnet 503 is decreased to decrease the magnetic force, thereby decreasing the resistance. Thus, when the pressurized air contacts the disk-shaped member 509, the resistance provided by the electromagnet 503 has been adjusted accordingly to smooth the pressure pulsation. The disk-shaped member 509 may include channels 511 to allow the smoothed pressurized air to pass therethrough and exit through the outlet 513. The cross-sectional area of the channels 511 may be smaller than the cross-sectional area of the bellows chamber 507 (e.g., at least 2 times smaller). The response damper may be held in an airtight housing such that it can transmit the pressurized air therethrough.

[0068] The response damping system includes a set of one or more response dampers. The response damping system includes an inlet and an outlet and the set of one or more response dampers is provided therebetween such that the pressure flow can be transmitted through the set of response dampers. In some cases, the response dampers are provided in series such that the pressure flow passes through each response damper successively. The response damping system may include one or more types of response dampers, where the type of response damper is determined by the structure or material that provides the resistance (e.g., spring, polymer gel, set of magnets, electromagnet, etc.). In some cases, a set of two or more response dampers employs two or more types of response dampers. In some cases, a set of two or more response dampers employs the same type of response damper repeated successively.

[0069] Figures 6A to 6D An example of a response damping system 601 for damping pressure fluctuations from a pressure source is provided. The response damping system 601 includes a set of three fluid-connected response dampers provided in series. The system includes a response damper that uses a spring 301 to provide resistance, a response damper that uses a polymer gel 317 to provide resistance, and a response damper that uses a set of magnets 319 to provide resistance. Although the response damping system 601 uses these types of response dampers in a specific order in series, it should be understood that the illustrated response damping system is an example, and the response damping system may use any combination of response dampers, which can be provided in any order. Additionally, it should be understood that in addition to or instead of the depicted dampers, the dampers described Figures 4A to 5B in may be used.

[0070] In some embodiments, the response damping system includes a set of one or more dampers, where the set of one or more dampers includes a damper that provides resistance using a spring. In some embodiments, the response damping system includes a set of one or more dampers, where the set of one or more dampers includes a damper that provides resistance using a polymer gel. In some embodiments, the response damping system includes a set of one or more dampers, where the set of one or more dampers includes a damper that provides resistance using a set of magnets. In some embodiments, the response damping system includes a set of one or more dampers, where the set of one or more dampers includes a damper that provides resistance using an electromagnet.

[0071] The response damping system 601 includes an inlet 603 and an outlet 605 for receiving and releasing a pressure flow, respectively. As shown, the inlet 603 is in fluid connection with a response damper using a set of magnets 319, which is in turn in fluid connection with a response damper using a polymer gel 317, which is in turn in fluid connection with a response damper using a spring 301, which is in turn in fluid connection with the outlet 605. Thus, the pressure flow can pass through the inlet 603, then through the set of response dampers to damp the pressure pulsation, and then through the outlet 605. The outflow pressure is damped and can be used for a medical device or other device that benefits from a smoothed pressure.

[0072] The response damping system 601 can be combined with one or more passive damping systems, which can be provided before, after, or integrated within the response damping system. Additionally, the outflow pressure of the response damping system 601 can also be used in a blood pressure monitoring system and can thus be supplied to a pressure cuff to measure blood pressure.

[0073] Although the exemplary response damping system has been described above with reference to Figures 6A to 6D it should be readily understood that the response damping system can be implemented in any of a variety of embodiments, including various combinations of the types of response dampers and the sequential order of the response dampers. For example, Figures 4A to 5B the response dampers shown and described can be combined with and / or replaced by any other response dampers. Additionally, the housing for the response dampers can take any form that allows for fluid connection from the inlet to the set of response dampers to the outlet. Thus, the response damping system should be understood as not being limited to the specific response dampers shown, the sequential order of the response dampers, the number of response dampers, or the specific housing structure of the response dampers. Instead, the response damping system can be implemented in a variety of ways as long as it includes means for providing response damping.

[0074] Examples

[0075] Example 1. A response damping system for damping pressure pulsations from a pressure supply source, the response damping system comprising:

[0076] An inlet, an outlet, and a set of one or more response dampers fluidly connected, wherein each response damper includes a poppet valve core connected to a rheostat.

[0077] Example 2. The response damping system according to Example 1, wherein the poppet valve core includes a head that contacts a valve seat; wherein the poppet valve core is movable bidirectionally between a front end and a rear end of each response damper; and wherein the bidirectional movement of the poppet valve core is based on the amount of pressure flow present and the amount of resistance provided by the rheostat.

[0078] Example 3. The response damping system according to Example 1 or 2, wherein the set of one or more response dampers includes a response damper that utilizes a spring as the rheostat.

[0079] Example 4. The response damping system according to Example 1, 2, or 3, wherein the set of one or more response dampers includes a response damper that utilizes a polymer gel as the rheostat.

[0080] Example 5. The response damping system according to any one of Examples 1-4, wherein the set of one or more response dampers includes a response damper that utilizes a set of magnets as the rheostat.

[0081] Example 6. The response damping system according to any one of Examples 1-5, wherein the set of one or more response dampers includes at least two response dampers, and wherein the at least two response dampers utilize a spring as the rheostat.

[0082] Example 7. The response damping system according to any one of Examples 1-6, wherein the set of one or more response dampers includes at least two response dampers, and wherein the at least two response dampers utilize a polymer gel as the rheostat.

[0083] Example 8. The response damping system according to any one of Examples 1-7, wherein the set of one or more response dampers includes at least two response dampers, and wherein the at least two response dampers utilize a set of magnets as the rheostat.

[0084] Example 9. The response damping system according to any one of Examples 1-8, wherein the set of one or more response dampers includes at least two response dampers, and wherein a first response damper of the at least two response dampers utilizes a spring as the rheostat, and a second response damper of the at least two response dampers utilizes a polymer gel as the rheostat.

[0085] Example 10. The response damping system according to any one of Examples 1-9, wherein the set of one or more response dampers includes at least two response dampers, wherein a first response damper of the at least two response dampers utilizes a spring as the rheostat, and a second response damper of the at least two response dampers utilizes a set of magnets as the rheostat.

[0086] Example 11. The response damping system according to any one of Examples 1-10, wherein the set of one or more response dampers includes at least two response dampers, wherein a first response damper of the at least two response dampers utilizes a polymer gel as the rheostat, and a second response damper of the at least two response dampers utilizes a set of magnets as the rheostat.

[0087] Example 12. The response damping system according to any one of Examples 1-11, wherein the set of one or more response dampers includes at least three response dampers, wherein a first response damper of the at least three response dampers utilizes a spring as the rheostat, wherein a second response damper of the at least three response dampers utilizes a polymer gel as the rheostat, and a third response damper of the at least three response dampers utilizes a set of magnets as the rheostat.

[0088] Example 13. The response damping system according to any one of Examples 1-12, further comprising a pressure pump fluidly connected to the set of one or more response dampers, wherein the pressure pump is the pressure supply source.

[0089] Example 14. The response damping system according to Example 13, wherein the pressure pump is a positive displacement pump, a centrifugal pump, or an axial flow pump.

[0090] Example 15. The response damping system according to Example 13, wherein the pressure pump is a rotary pump, a reciprocating pump, a linear pump, or a pneumatic pump.

[0091] Example 16. The response damping system according to any one of Examples 1-15, wherein the response damping system is used in a pressure system for use in combination with a medical device.

[0092] Example 17. The response damping system according to any one of Examples 1-16, further comprising a blood pressure monitoring system, wherein the blood pressure monitoring system includes a blood pressure cuff fluidly connected to the set of one or more response dampers.

[0093] Example 18. The response damping system according to Example 17, wherein the blood pressure monitoring system further includes a pressure control system that senses a pressure quantity and can adjust the supply pressure.

[0094] Example 19. The response damping system of Example 17, wherein the blood pressure cuff is configured to surround a patient's arm or finger.

[0095] Example 20. The response damping system of any one of Examples 1-19, wherein each damper is held in an airtight housing.

[0096] Example 21. A method of damping pressure pulsations from a pressure source using a response damping system used in conjunction with a blood pressure monitoring system, the method comprising:

[0097] Providing pressure from the pressure source;

[0098] Transmitting the provided pressure through the response damping system, wherein the response damping system includes an inlet, an outlet, and a set of one or more response dampers fluidly connected, wherein each response damper includes a rheostat; and

[0099] Transmitting the damped pressure to a blood pressure cuff.

[0100] Example 22. The method of Example 21, further comprising:

[0101] Transmitting the damped pressure through a pressure sensor to measure the pressure level of the damped pressure.

[0102] Example 23. The method of Example 21 or 22, wherein each response damper includes a poppet valve connected to the rheostat; wherein the poppet valve includes a head that contacts a valve seat; wherein the poppet valve is movable bidirectionally between a front end and a rear end of each response damper; wherein the bidirectional movement of the poppet valve is based on the amount of pressure flow present and the amount of resistance provided by the rheostat.

[0103] Example 24. The method of Example 21, 22, or 23, wherein each response damper includes a bellows connected to a rheostat, wherein the bellows is configured to receive pressurized air from an inlet, wherein the bellows includes a disk-shaped member at an end opposite the inlet, wherein the electromagnet contacts the disk-shaped member, wherein the bellows, the disk-shaped member, and the electromagnet are configured such that when the flow pressure increases, the amount of resistance provided by the bellows and the electromagnet increases.

[0104] Example 25. The method of any one of Examples 21-24, wherein the set of one or more response dampers includes response dampers utilizing one of the following: a spring as the rheostat; a polymer gel as the rheostat; a set of magnets as the rheostat; or an electromagnet.

[0105] Example 26. A response damping system for damping pressure pulsations from a pressure source, comprising:

[0106] A set of one or more response dampers for an inlet, an outlet, and a fluid connection, wherein each response damper includes a bellows connected to a rheostat.

[0107] Example 27. The response damping system of Example 26, wherein the bellows is configured to receive pressurized air from the inlet, wherein the bellows includes a disk-shaped member at an end opposite the inlet, wherein the electromagnet contacts the disk-shaped member, and wherein the bellows, the disk-shaped member, and the rheostat are configured such that when the flow pressure increases, the amount of resistance provided by the bellows and the rheostat increases.

[0108] Example 28. The damping system of Example 26 or 27, wherein the rheostat is a spring.

[0109] Example 29. The damping system of Example 26, 27, or 28, wherein the rheostat is a polymer gel.

[0110] Example 30. The damping system of any one of Examples 26-29, wherein the rheostat is a set of magnets.

[0111] Example 31. The damping system of any one of Examples 26-30, wherein the rheostat is an electromagnet.

[0112] Example 32. The damping system of any one of Examples 26-31, further comprising a channel connecting the bellows to the outlet.

[0113] Example 33. The damping system of Example 32, wherein the cross-sectional area of the channel is at least 2 times smaller than the cross-sectional area of the bellows.

[0114] Example 34. The response damping system of any one of Examples 26-33, further comprising a pressure pump fluidly connected to the set of one or more response dampers, wherein the pressure pump is the pressure supply source.

[0115] Example 35. The response damping system of Example 34, wherein the pressure pump is a positive displacement pump, a centrifugal pump, an axial flow pump, a rotary pump, a reciprocating pump, a linear pump, or a pneumatic pump.

[0116] Example 36. The response damping system of any one of Examples 26-35, wherein the response damping system is used in a pressure system for use in combination with a medical device.

[0117] Example 37. The response damping system of any one of Examples 26-36, further comprising a blood pressure monitoring system, wherein the blood pressure monitoring system includes a blood pressure cuff fluidly connected to the set of one or more response dampers.

[0118] Example 38. The response damping system according to Example 37, wherein the blood pressure monitoring system further comprises a pressure control system that senses a pressure quantity and can adjust the supply pressure.

[0119] Example 39. The response damping system according to Example 37, wherein the blood pressure cuff is configured to surround a patient's arm or finger.

[0120] Example 40. The response damping system according to any one of Examples 26 - 39, wherein each damper is held in a hermetically sealed housing.

[0121] Example 41. A response damping system for damping pressure pulsations from a pressure supply source, comprising:

[0122] An inlet, an outlet, and a set of one or more response dampers fluidly connected, wherein each response damper comprises a bellows connected to an electromagnet configured to provide resistance.

[0123] Example 42. The response damping system according to Example 41, wherein the bellows is configured to receive pressurized air from the inlet, wherein the bellows comprises a disk-shaped member at an end opposite the inlet, wherein the electromagnet contacts the disk-shaped member, and wherein the bellows, the disk-shaped member, and the electromagnet are configured such that when the flow pressure increases, the resistance provided by the bellows and the electromagnet increases.

[0124] Example 43. The damping system according to Example 41 or 42, further comprising a pressure pump fluidly connected to the set of one or more response dampers, wherein the pressure pump is the pressure supply source.

[0125] Example 44. The damping system according to Example 43, wherein the electromagnet is in communication with the pressure pump and is configured such that the resistance provided by the electromagnet is adjusted according to the pressure generated by the pressure pump.

[0126] Example 45. The damping system according to Example 44, wherein at a point where the generated pressure is higher than the average pressure to be generated, an increased current is supplied to the electromagnet to increase the resistance provided by the electromagnet.

[0127] Example 46. The damping system according to Example 44, wherein at a point where the generated pressure is lower than the average pressure to be generated, a decreased current is supplied to the electromagnet to decrease the resistance provided by the electromagnet.

[0128] Example 47. The response damping system according to any one of Examples 43 - 46, wherein the pressure pump is a positive displacement pump, a centrifugal pump, or an axial flow pump.

[0129] Example 48. The response damping system according to any one of Examples 43-46, wherein the pressure pump is a rotary pump, a reciprocating pump, a linear pump, or a pneumatic pump.

[0130] Example 49. The response damping system according to any one of Examples 41-48, wherein the response damping system is used in a pressure system for use in combination with a medical device.

[0131] Example 50. The response damping system according to any one of Examples 41-49, further comprising a blood pressure monitoring system, wherein the blood pressure monitoring system includes a blood pressure cuff fluidly connected to the one or more response dampers of the group.

[0132] Example 51. The response damping system according to Example 50, wherein the blood pressure monitoring system further comprises a pressure control system that senses a pressure quantity and adjusts the supply pressure.

[0133] Example 52. The response damping system according to Example 50, wherein the blood pressure cuff is configured to surround a patient's arm or finger.

[0134] Example 53. The response damping system according to any one of Examples 41-52, wherein each damper is held in a hermetic enclosure.

[0135] Example 54. The damping system according to any one of Examples 41-53, further comprising a passage connecting the bellows to the outlet.

[0136] Example 55. The damping system according to Example 54, wherein the cross-sectional area of the passage is at least 2 times smaller than the cross-sectional area of the bellows.

[0137] ​

Claims

1. A response damping system for damping pressure pulsations from a pressure supply source, the response damping system comprising: An inlet, an outlet, and a fluid-connected set of one or more response dampers, wherein each response damper includes a bellows connected to an electromagnet configured to provide resistance.

2. The response damping system according to claim 1, wherein the bellows is configured to receive pressurized air from the inlet, wherein the bellows includes a disk-shaped member at an end opposite the inlet, wherein the electromagnet contacts the disk-shaped member, and wherein the bellows, the disk-shaped member, and the electromagnet are configured such that when the flow pressure increases, the resistance provided by the bellows and the electromagnet increases.

3. The damping system according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a pressure pump fluid-connected to the set of one or more response dampers, wherein the pressure pump is the pressure supply source.

4. The damping system according to claim 3, wherein the electromagnet is in communication with the pressure pump and is configured such that the resistance provided by the electromagnet is adjusted according to the pressure generated by the pressure pump.

5. The damping system according to claim 4, wherein at a point where the generated pressure is higher than the average pressure to be generated, the amount of current supplied to the electromagnet increases the resistance provided by the electromagnet.

6. The damping system according to claim 4, wherein at a point where the generated pressure is lower than the average pressure to be generated, the amount of current supplied to the electromagnet decreases the resistance provided by the electromagnet.

7. The response damping system according to any one of claims 3-6, wherein the pressure pump is a positive displacement pump, a centrifugal pump, or an axial flow pump.

8. The response damping system according to any one of claims 3-6, wherein the pressure pump is a rotary pump, a reciprocating pump, a linear pump, or a pneumatic pump.

9. The response damping system according to any one of claims 1-8, wherein the response damping system is used in a pressure system for use in combination with a medical device.

10. The response damping system according to any one of claims 1-9, further comprising a blood pressure monitoring system, wherein the blood pressure monitoring system includes a blood pressure cuff fluid-connected to the set of one or more response dampers.

11. The response damping system according to claim 10, wherein the blood pressure monitoring system further includes a pressure control system that senses the amount of pressure and is capable of adjusting the supply pressure.

12. The response damping system according to claim 10, wherein the blood pressure cuff is configured to wrap around a patient's arm or finger.

13. The response damping system according to any one of claims 1-12, wherein each damper is held in an airtight housing.

14. The damping system according to any one of claims 1-13, further comprising a channel connecting the bellows to the outlet.

15. The damping system according to claim 14, wherein the cross-sectional area of the channel is at least 2 times smaller than the cross-sectional area of the bellows.

16. A method of damping pressure pulsations from a pressure supply source by means of a response damping system for use with a blood pressure monitoring system, the method comprising: Providing pressure from the pressure supply source; Transmitting the provided pressure through the response damping system, wherein the response damping system includes an inlet, an outlet, and a set of one or more response dampers fluidly connected, wherein each response damper includes a variable resistor; and Transmitting the damped pressure to a blood pressure cuff.

17. The method according to claim 16, further comprising: Transmitting the damped pressure through a pressure sensor to measure the pressure level of the damped pressure.

18. The method according to claim 16 or 17, wherein at least one response damper includes a bellows connected to a variable resistor, wherein the bellows is configured to receive pressurized air from the inlet, wherein the bellows includes a disc-shaped member at an end opposite the inlet, wherein the variable resistor contacts the disc-shaped member, and wherein the bellows, the disc-shaped member, and the variable resistor are configured such that when the flow pressure increases, the amount of resistance provided by the bellows and the electromagnet increases.

19. The method according to claim 18, wherein the variable resistor is an electromagnet and the pressure supply source is a pressure pump fluidly connected to the set of one or more response dampers; wherein the electromagnet is in communication with the pressure pump and is configured such that the resistance provided by the electromagnet is adjusted according to the pressure generated by the pressure pump.

20. The method according to claim 19, further comprising: Determining whether the generated pressure is higher or lower than the average pressure to be generated; And Based on whether the generated pressure is relative to the average pressure to be generated, supplying current to the electromagnet to adjust the provided resistance.

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