Respiratory apparatus and method for controlling an air flow unit of a

Abstract

A breathing apparatus includes an airflow unit configured to provide a breathing airflow; a respiratory interface fluidly coupled to the airflow unit; at least one pressure sensor configured to generate at least one signal; and a controller communicably coupled to the airflow unit and the at least one pressure sensor. The respiratory interface is configured to supply the respiratory airflow to a user. The respiratory interface includes a respiratory inlet configured to receive the respiratory airflow from the airflow unit. The at least one pressure sensor is disposed at the breathing inlet. The controller is configured to: determine a breathing inlet pressure based on the at least one signal; determining a target airflow rate based at least on the breathing inlet pressure; and controlling the airflow unit based on the target airflow rate such that the airflow unit provides the breathing airflow at the target airflow rate.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a breathing apparatus including an airflow unit and a method for controlling the airflow unit of the breathing apparatus. Background Art

[0002] Breathing apparatuses are typically used to supply breathing air to workers in dirty or contaminated work environments where there is a known or present risk of dust, fumes or gases that are potentially dangerous or harmful to the health of the workers. The breathing air is supplied to the breathing zone of the worker (the area around the nose and mouth, referred to as the oro-nasal region) via a breathing interface. The breathing air is provided by an air unit. The flow rate of the breathable air supplied at the breathing interface is based on the breathing air provided by the air unit.

[0003] Generally speaking, the air unit is controlled by a control unit that uses complex methods and algorithms to maintain a positive pressure at the breathing interface relative to the ambient pressure. In some applications, the air unit must rapidly increase the flow rate of the breathable air to maintain a positive pressure at the breathing interface relative to the ambient pressure. In some cases, a non-braking fan / drive electronics and / or an auxiliary airway (bladder) with a valve are used to rapidly increase the flow rate of the breathable air to improve the response time of the air unit. However, the auxiliary airway may further increase the size and complexity of the breathing apparatus. Moreover, the rapid ramp-up of the drive electronics may involve / perturb the end user (such as a worker). For example, pulsed sounds and pressure waves may cause interference to the end user. In addition, only certain types of breathing interfaces (e.g., a tight-fitting breathing interface) are compatible with such breathing apparatuses to provide a relative pressure change corresponding to the rapid change in the flow rate of the breathable air. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In a first aspect, the present disclosure provides a breathing device. The breathing device includes an airflow unit configured to provide a breathing airflow. The breathing device further includes a breathing interface fluidly coupled to the airflow unit and configured to supply the breathing airflow to a user of the breathing device. The breathing interface includes a breathing inlet configured to receive the breathing airflow from the airflow unit. The breathing device further includes at least one pressure sensor configured to generate at least one signal. The at least one pressure sensor is disposed at the breathing inlet. The breathing device further includes a controller communicatively coupled to each of the airflow unit and the at least one pressure sensor. The controller is configured to receive the at least one signal from the at least one pressure sensor. The controller is further configured to determine a breathing inlet pressure based on the at least one signal received from the at least one pressure sensor. The controller is further configured to determine a target airflow rate based at least on the breathing inlet pressure. The controller is further configured to control the airflow unit based on the target airflow rate such that the airflow unit provides the breathing airflow at the target airflow rate.

[0005] In a second aspect, the present disclosure provides a breathing device. The breathing device includes an airflow unit configured to provide a breathing airflow. The breathing device further includes a breathing interface fluidly coupled to the airflow unit and configured to supply the breathing airflow to a user of the breathing device. The breathing device further includes a controller communicatively coupled to the airflow unit. The controller is configured to receive at least one sensor signal including at least one sensor parameter. The controller is further configured to determine a target airflow rate based at least on the at least one sensor parameter. The controller is further configured to control the airflow unit based on the target airflow rate such that the airflow unit provides the breathing airflow at the target airflow rate.

[0006] In a third aspect, the present disclosure provides a method for controlling an airflow unit of a breathing device. The method includes receiving at least one signal from at least one pressure sensor disposed at a breathing inlet. The method further includes determining a breathing inlet pressure based on the at least one signal received from the at least one pressure sensor. The method further includes determining a target airflow rate based at least on the breathing inlet pressure. The method further includes controlling the airflow unit based on the target airflow rate such that the airflow unit provides a breathing airflow at the target airflow rate.

[0007] Details of one or more examples of the present disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, objects, and advantages of the present disclosure will be apparent from the description, drawings, and claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] The exemplary embodiments disclosed herein can be more fully understood in view of the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The drawings are not necessarily to scale. Like numerals in the figures refer to like components. However, it should be understood that the use of numerals to refer to components in a given figure is not intended to limit the components labeled with the same numeral in another figure.

[0009] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a breathing device and a user of the breathing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0010] Figure 2 is a schematic block diagram of a breathing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0011] Figure 3A is a schematic block diagram of an air flow unit of a breathing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0012] Figure 3B is a schematic block diagram showing an air flow unit of a breathing device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0013] Figures 4A to 4B is a detailed schematic block diagram of a breathing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0014] Figures 5A to 5B is a schematic block diagram of a controller of a breathing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0015] Figure 5C is an exemplary graph depicting the relationship between the pressure and time of a breathing device;

[0016] Figure 6A is an exemplary graph depicting the relationship between the air flow rate of an air flow unit and the static pressure of a breathing interface;

[0017] Figure 6B is a detailed schematic block diagram of a breathing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0018] Figure 7 is a detailed schematic block diagram of a breathing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0019] Figure 8 is a detailed schematic block diagram of a breathing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0020] Figure 9 is an exemplary graph depicting the relationship between at least one battery parameter of a battery pack of a breathing device and time;

[0021] Figure 10 is a detailed schematic block diagram of a breathing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0022] Figure 11 is an exemplary graph depicting the relationship between at least one filter parameter of a breathing device and time;

[0023] Figure 12 is a detailed schematic block diagram of a breathing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0024] Figure 13 is a detailed schematic block diagram of a breathing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0025] Figure 14 is a schematic block diagram of a breathing device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0026] Figures 15A to 15B is a detailed schematic block diagram of a breathing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0027] Figure 16 is a detailed schematic block diagram of a breathing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0028] Figure 17 is a detailed schematic block diagram of a breathing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0029] Figure 18 is a detailed schematic block diagram of a breathing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0030] Figure 19 is a detailed schematic block diagram of a breathing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0031] Figure 20 is a flowchart of a method for controlling an airflow unit of a breathing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] In the following description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which various embodiments are shown by way of illustration. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be envisioned and made without departing from the scope or essence of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the following detailed description should not be taken in a limiting sense.

[0033] In the following disclosure, the following definitions are employed.

[0034] As used herein, all numbers should be considered to be modified by the term "about". As used herein, "a", "an", "the", "at least one", and "one or more" may be used interchangeably.

[0035] As used herein, as a modifier of a characteristic or property, unless specifically defined otherwise, the term "substantially" means that the characteristic or property will be readily recognizable to a person of ordinary skill in the art without the need for absolute precision or perfect matching (e.g., for a quantifiable characteristic, within + / - 20%).

[0036] Unless specifically defined otherwise, the term "essentially" means a high degree of approximation (e.g., for a quantifiable characteristic, within + / - 10%), but again does not require absolute precision or perfect matching.

[0037] Unless specifically defined otherwise, the term "about" means a high degree of approximation (e.g., for a quantifiable characteristic, within + / - 5%), but again does not require absolute precision or perfect matching.

[0038] As used herein, the terms "first" and "second" are used as identifiers. Accordingly, such terms should not be construed as limiting the present disclosure. Throughout the embodiments of the present disclosure, the terms "first" and "second" may be interchanged when used in conjunction with a feature or element.

[0039] Terms such as same, equal, uniform, constant, exact, etc. should be understood to be within ordinary tolerances, or within the measurement error applicable to a particular situation, rather than requiring absolute precision or perfect matching.

[0040] As used herein, "at least one of A and B" should be understood to mean "only A, only B, or both A and B".

[0041] As used herein, a numerical range expressed by endpoints includes all the values and the endpoint values included within that range (e.g., 1 to 5 includes 1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.80, 4, 5, etc.).

[0042] As used herein, the term "communicatively coupled to" refers to a direct connection between components and / or an indirect connection between components via one or more intermediate components. Such components and intermediate components may include, but are not limited to, connectors, communication paths, components, circuit elements, circuits, functional blocks, and / or devices. As an example of an indirect connection, a signal transmitted from a first component to a second component may be modified by one or more intermediate components by modifying the form, nature, or format of the information in the signal, while one or more elements of the information in the signal are still transmitted in a manner recognizable by the second component.

[0043] As used herein, the term "signal" includes, but is not limited to, one or more electrical signals, optical signals, electromagnetic signals, analog and / or digital signals, one or more computer instructions, bits, and / or bitstreams, etc.

[0044] As used herein, the term "microphone" refers to a transducer or sensor that converts sound into an electrical audio signal.

[0045] As used herein, the term "hazardous or potentially hazardous environment" can refer to an environment that includes hazardous or potentially hazardous environmental conditions. Hazardous or potentially hazardous environments can include, for example, fire, chemical environments, biological environments, nuclear environments, industrial sites, construction sites, agricultural sites, mining sites, or manufacturing sites.

[0046] As used herein, the term "airflow rate" can refer to the volume or mass of breathable gas passing through a device over a given period of time.

[0047] As used herein, the term "responder" or "emergency responder" refers to any one or more persons responsible for resolving an emergency, such as firefighters, first responders, healthcare professionals, paramedics, hazmat workers, security personnel, law enforcement officers, or any other person working in a hazardous environment.

[0048] Users entering a hazardous environment with harmful conditions (e.g., air contaminated with harmful substances such as airborne particles, toxic fumes, smoke, vapors, etc.) can use various breathing devices. The breathing device can provide clean and breathable air to the user. In some cases, the breathing device can provide forced-flow breathable air to the user via a blower. In some cases, the breathing device can provide clean and breathable air to the user from another source, such as an air tank. Examples of breathing devices include powered air-purifying respirators (PAPRs) and supplied-air respirators, such as self-contained breathing apparatuses (SCBAs), or airline and pressure regulators and demand valves.

[0049] Breathable air is provided to the user's breathing zone (the area around the nose and mouth, referred to as the oronasal region) via a breathing interface. The breathable air is provided by an air unit (e.g., a blower or an air tank). The flow rate of the breathable air supplied at the breathing interface is based on the breathable air provided by the air unit. Generally, the air unit is controlled by a controller that uses complex methods and algorithms to maintain a positive pressure at the breathing interface relative to the ambient pressure. In some applications, the air unit must rapidly increase the flow rate of the breathable air to maintain a positive pressure at the breathing interface relative to the ambient pressure. In some cases, a non-braking fan / drive electronics and / or an auxiliary airway (bladder) with a valve are used to rapidly increase the flow rate of the breathable air to improve the response time of the air unit. However, the auxiliary airway may further increase the size and complexity of the breathing device. Additionally, the rapid ramp-up of the drive electronics may be involved / troublesome to the end user (such as the user). Furthermore, only certain types of breathing interfaces (e.g., tight-fitting breathing interfaces) are compatible with such breathing devices to provide a relative pressure change corresponding to the rapid change in the flow rate of the breathable air.

[0050] In accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, a respiratory device and a method for controlling an airflow unit of the respiratory device are disclosed.

[0051] The respiratory device includes the airflow unit configured to provide a respiratory airflow. The respiratory device further includes a respiratory interface fluidly coupled to the airflow unit and configured to supply the respiratory airflow to a user of the respiratory device. The respiratory interface includes a respiratory inlet configured to receive the respiratory airflow from the airflow unit. The respiratory device further includes at least one pressure sensor configured to generate at least one signal. The at least one pressure sensor is disposed at the respiratory inlet. The respiratory device further includes a controller communicatively coupled to each of the airflow unit and the at least one pressure sensor. The controller is configured to receive the at least one signal from the at least one pressure sensor. The controller is further configured to determine a respiratory inlet pressure based on the at least one signal received from the at least one pressure sensor. The controller is further configured to determine a target airflow rate based at least on the respiratory inlet pressure. The controller is further configured to control the airflow unit based on the target airflow rate such that the airflow unit provides the respiratory airflow at the target airflow rate.

[0052] Since the controller is configured to determine the target airflow rate based at least on the respiratory inlet pressure and to control the airflow unit based on the target airflow rate such that the airflow unit provides the respiratory airflow at the target airflow rate, it may not be necessary to rapidly increase the respiratory airflow to maintain the positive pressure relative to the ambient pressure. Instead, the airflow unit may provide the respiratory airflow based at least on the respiratory inlet pressure, which may or may not be the positive pressure relative to the ambient pressure. This may minimize and / or optimize the respiratory airflow and may thus eliminate the need to rapidly increase the respiratory airflow. Accordingly, complex airways, valves, and / or drive mechanisms may not be necessary, which may otherwise further increase the size and / or cost of the respiratory device. Additionally, any type of suitable (e.g., tight-fitting, loose-fitting, full-face, and / or half-face) respiratory inlet may be used with the respiratory device according to the present disclosure.

[0053] The controller may determine the target airflow rate based on a predetermined relationship between the target airflow rate and a sensed parameter (e.g., the respiratory inlet pressure). The predetermined relationship may include, for example but not limited to, a look-up table, a mathematical equation (e.g., a multivariate polynomial regression model), a physics-based model, a neural network model, or any other model or algorithm known in the art.

[0054] Figure 1Schematic diagram illustrating a breathing device 100 and a user 101 of the breathing device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the user 101 may be an emergency responder. The user 101 may use the breathing device 100 in a dangerous or potentially dangerous environment.

[0055] In Figure 1 the illustrated embodiment, the breathing device 100 is a powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR). However, in some other embodiments, the breathing device 100 may include a supplied-air respirator, such as, for example, a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).

[0056] Figure 2 Schematic block diagram illustrating a breathing device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0057] Referring Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the breathing device 100 includes an airflow unit 110 configured to provide a breathing airflow 111. In some embodiments, the airflow unit 110 is configured to provide the breathing airflow 111 through an outlet 124 of the airflow unit 110.

[0058] The breathing device 100 further includes a breathing interface 120 fluidly coupled to the airflow unit 110 and configured to supply the breathing airflow 111 to a user 101 of the breathing device 100. Specifically, the breathing interface 120 is configured to supply the breathing airflow 111 to a breathing zone 102 of the user 101 (the area around the nose and mouth, referred to as the oro-nasal area). The breathing interface 120 is typically worn on the head / face of the user 101 and at least partially surrounds the head / face to form the breathing zone 102 such that the breathing airflow 111 is directed to the breathing zone 102. In some embodiments, the breathing interface 120 includes a headpiece or a facepiece. In some embodiments, the breathing interface 120 includes a tightly fitting or loosely fitting headpiece / facepiece. In some embodiments, the breathing interface 120 includes a half-mask or a full-face mask. In Figure 1 the illustrated embodiment, the breathing interface 120 includes a mask.

[0059] The breathing interface 120 includes a breathing inlet 122 configured to receive the breathing airflow 111 from the airflow unit 110. In some embodiments, the airflow unit 110 supplies the breathing airflow 111 to the breathing interface 120 through a tube 103 connected between the breathing inlet 122 of the breathing interface 120 and the outlet 124 of the airflow unit 110.

[0060] The breathing device 100 further includes at least one pressure sensor 130 configured to generate at least one signal 132. The at least one pressure sensor 130 is disposed at the breathing inlet 122. Accordingly, the at least one pressure sensor 130 is configured to generate at least one signal 132 indicative of the pressure at the breathing inlet 122.

[0061] The breathing device 100 further includes a controller 140. In some embodiments, the controller 140 may be disposed inside the airflow unit 110. In some other embodiments, the controller 140 may be disposed outside the airflow unit 110.

[0062] In some embodiments, the controller 140 may include any suitable type of processing circuitry, such as one or more general-purpose controllers or microcontrollers or processors (e.g., ARM-based processors, neural network (NN) processors, etc.), digital signal processors (DSPs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), etc.

[0063] In some embodiments, the controller 140 includes a memory 140A. The memory 140A may include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory ROM, electrically programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), other optical disc memories, magnetic disk memories, other magnetic storage devices, flash memory, or any other medium that can be used to store a computer program in the form of instructions or data structures accessible by the controller 140.

[0064] The memory 140A may store a computer program executed by the controller 140. The memory 140A may also store information that can be used by the controller 140 during the operation of the breathing device 100. In some embodiments, the controller 140 may further include a transceiver 140B.

[0065] The controller 140 is communicatively coupled to each of the airflow unit 110 and the at least one pressure sensor 130. The controller 140 is configured to receive at least one signal 132 from the at least one pressure sensor 130. In some embodiments, the controller 140 is configured to receive at least one signal 132 from the at least one pressure sensor 130 via the transceiver 140B.

[0066] In some embodiments, the breathing device 100 further includes at least one filter 180 that is mounted to the airflow unit 110 and configured to filter the breathing airflow 111. In some embodiments, the at least one filter 180 can be at least one particulate filter. In some embodiments, the at least one filter 180 can be at least one gas / vapor filter. In some embodiments, the at least one filter 180 can include a plurality of filters. In some embodiments, some of the plurality of filters can be particulate filters and other filters can be gas / vapor filters.

[0067] In some embodiments, the breathing device 100 further includes at least one microphone 190 configured to generate a voice signal 194. In some embodiments, the at least one microphone 190 is mounted near the breathing interface 120. In some embodiments, the at least one microphone 190 can be mounted inside the breathing interface 120. In some other embodiments, the at least one microphone 190 can be mounted outside the breathing interface 120. In some embodiments, the at least one microphone 190 can include a plurality of microphones. In some embodiments, some of the plurality of microphones can be mounted inside the breathing interface 120 and other microphones can be mounted outside the breathing interface 120.

[0068] The at least one microphone 190 can receive mechanical vibrations from the voice of the user 101 and convert the mechanical vibrations into an electrical audio signal (i.e., the voice signal 194). In some examples, the voice signal 194 corresponds to the voice of the user 101 and the noise signal 191 indicates other sounds (such as noise inside or outside the breathing interface 120). In some embodiments, the noise is caused by the airflow unit 110.

[0069] In some embodiments, the battery pack 170 is electrically coupled to at least the airflow unit 110 and configured to provide power 171 to at least the airflow unit 110. In some embodiments, the battery pack 170 is electrically coupled to the breathing device 100 and configured to provide power 171 to at least the airflow unit 110. In some embodiments, the battery pack 170 can be configured to provide power 171 to other components of the breathing device 100 (e.g., at least one pressure sensor 130 and / or the controller 140). In some embodiments, the breathing device 100 includes the battery pack 170.

[0070] The battery pack 170 includes one or more primary batteries and / or one or more secondary batteries. In some embodiments, the one or more secondary batteries include rechargeable batteries (such as nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries or lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries), which are suitable for powering at least the airflow unit 110 and may have sufficient power capacity to also supply power 171 to at least one pressure sensor 130 and / or the controller 140. In some embodiments, the one or more primary batteries include disposable dry batteries that can be replaced when their charge is depleted.

[0071] In some embodiments, the breathing device 100 includes one or more input devices 107 communicatively coupled to the controller 140. The one or more input devices 107 are configured to receive user input 108 from the user 101. In some examples, the one or more input devices 107 include a mouse, a keyboard, a touch-sensitive screen, a voice response system, a camera, a button, a control panel, a microphone, or any other type of input device for detecting user input 108 from the user 101.

[0072] Figure 3A Illustrated is a Figure 2 schematic block diagram of the airflow unit 110 of the breathing device 100 shown in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the airflow unit 110 includes a motor 112 and a blower 114. The blower 114 is fluidly coupled to the breathing interface 120. In some embodiments, the blower 114 is a PAPR blower. The motor 112 is mechanically coupled to the blower 114 and provides mechanical power 112A to the blower 114. The motor 112 drives the blower 114, which generates the breathing airflow 111 provided by the airflow unit 110.

[0073] Figure 3B Illustrated is a Figure 2 schematic block diagram of the airflow unit 110 of the breathing device 100 shown in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the airflow unit 110 includes a gas source 116 and a valve 118. The gas source 116 is fluidly coupled to the valve 118. Moreover, the valve 118 is fluidly coupled to the breathing interface 120. In some embodiments, the valve 118 is a supply respirator valve. The valve 118 controls the flow of pressurized air 116A from the gas source 116, which generates the breathing airflow 111 provided by the airflow unit 110.

[0074] Figure 4A and Figure 4B Illustrated is a detailed schematic block diagram of the breathing device 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0075] Refer to Figure 4A, the controller 140 is configured to determine the respiratory inlet pressure 134 based on at least one signal 132 received from at least one pressure sensor 130. The controller 140 is further configured to determine a target airflow rate 142 based at least on the respiratory inlet pressure 134. The controller 140 may determine the target airflow rate 142 based on a predetermined relationship between the target airflow rate 142 and the respiratory inlet pressure 134. The predetermined relationship may include, for example but not limited to, a look-up table, a mathematical equation (e.g., a multivariate polynomial regression model), a physics-based model, a neural network model, or any other model or algorithm known in the art.

[0076] The controller 140 is further configured to control the airflow unit 110 based on the target airflow rate 142 such that the airflow unit 110 provides a respiratory airflow 111 at the target airflow rate 142. Refer Figure 3A and Figure 4A , in some embodiments, the controller 140 is further configured to control at least one of the motor parameter 113 of the motor 112 and the blower parameter 115 of the blower 114 to achieve the target airflow rate 142. In some embodiments, the motor parameter 113 includes current and / or voltage. The current and / or voltage may further control the mechanical work rate 112A provided to the blower 114. In some embodiments, the blower parameter 115 may include the speed of the fan of the blower 114.

[0077] Refer Figure 3B and Figure 4A , in some embodiments, the controller 140 is further configured to control the valve parameter 119 of the valve 118 to achieve the target airflow rate 142. In some embodiments, the valve parameter 119 may include the size of the opening of the valve 118.

[0078] Refer again Figure 4A and Figure 4B , in some embodiments, the controller 140 is further configured to determine a pressure parameter 144 within a predetermined time period based on at least one signal 132. In some embodiments, the controller 140 is further configured to determine the respiratory inlet pressure 134 based on the pressure parameter 144. In some embodiments, the pressure parameter 144 includes one of an average pressure, a minimum peak pressure, and a maximum peak pressure. Thus, the pressure parameter 144 may further reduce the requirement for rapidly increasing or decreasing the target airflow rate 142, which may optimize the operation of the airflow unit 110.

[0079] In some embodiments, the controller 140 is further configured to determine the user 101 based on the pressure parameter 144 ( Figure 1The respiratory rate 146 (as shown in). In some embodiments, the controller 140 is further configured to activate the airflow unit 110 when determining that the respiratory rate 146 indicates the respiration of the user 101. In some embodiments, the controller 140 may be configured to generate one or more signals 147A when determining that the respiratory rate 146 indicates the respiration of the user 101. The controller 140 may also send one or more signals 147A to the airflow unit 110 to activate the airflow unit 110.

[0080] In some embodiments, the controller 140 is further configured to deactivate the airflow unit 110 when determining that the respiratory rate 146 does not indicate the respiration of the user 101. In some embodiments, the controller 140 may be configured to generate one or more signals 147B when determining that the respiratory rate 146 does not indicate the respiration of the user 101. The controller 140 may also send one or more signals 147B to the airflow unit 110 to deactivate the airflow unit 110.

[0081] In some other embodiments, the user 101 may activate or deactivate the airflow unit 110 via one or more input devices 107 ( Figure 2 as shown in).

[0082] Reference Figure 4B , in some embodiments, the controller 140 is further configured to control the airflow unit 110 to provide a predetermined airflow rate 156 if the controller 140 does not receive at least one signal 132 from at least one pressure sensor 130. In some embodiments, the predetermined airflow rate 156 may be based on presets and / or user settings stored in the memory 140A ( Figure 2 as shown in). In some embodiments, the predetermined airflow rate 156 may be based on the maximum airflow rate of the airflow unit 110. In some embodiments, if the controller 140 does not receive at least one signal 132 from at least one pressure sensor 130, the controller 140 may generate an alarm signal.

[0083] Figure 5A and Figure 5B illustrate a schematic block diagram of the controller 140 of the respiratory device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 as shown in.

[0084] Reference Figure 4A and Figure 5A , in some embodiments, the controller 140 is configured to determine a first pressure difference 136 that is the difference between the respiratory inlet pressure 134 and the ambient pressure level 131. In some embodiments, the ambient pressure level 131 may be based on presets stored in the memory 104A ( Figure 2the preset and / or user settings shown in). In some embodiments, user 101 ( Figure 1 shown in) may select an ambient pressure level 131 via one or more input devices 107 ( Figure 2 shown in). In some embodiments, the ambient pressure level 131 may be greater than the ambient pressure. In some embodiments, the ambient pressure level 131 may be less than the ambient pressure. In some embodiments, the ambient pressure level 131 may be equal to the ambient pressure.

[0085] In Figure 4A the illustrated embodiment, the ambient pressure level 131 may be selected from among a first ambient pressure level 131A, a second ambient pressure level 131B, and a third ambient pressure level 131C stored in the memory 104A. However, the memory 104A may store any number of ambient pressure levels based on desired application attributes.

[0086] Referring Figure 4A and Figure 5B , in some embodiments, the controller 140 is further configured to determine a second pressure difference 138 that is the difference between a first pressure difference 136 and a target pressure 133. Moreover, in some embodiments, the controller 140 is further configured to determine a target airflow rate 142 based at least on the second pressure difference 138 such that the second pressure difference 138 is reduced. The controller 140 may determine the target airflow rate 142 based on a predetermined relationship between the target airflow rate 142 and the second pressure difference 138. The predetermined relationship may include, for example but not limited to, a look-up table, a mathematical equation (e.g., a multivariate polynomial regression model), a physics-based model, a neural network model, or any other model or algorithm known in the art.

[0087] In some embodiments, the target pressure 133 may be based on the preset and / or user settings stored in the memory 104A ( Figure 2 shown in). In some embodiments, the target pressure 133 may be adjusted in discrete increments or continuous increments between a predetermined minimum target pressure 152 and a predetermined maximum target pressure 154. In some embodiments, user 101 ( Figure 1 shown in) may select the target pressure 133 via one or more input devices 107 ( Figure 2 shown in).

[0088] In some embodiments, the controller 140 is further configured to set the target airflow rate 142 based on the second pressure difference 138 if the second pressure difference 138 is greater than or equal to a predetermined minimum target pressure 152 and less than or equal to a predetermined maximum target pressure 154. In other words, the controller 140 is further configured to set the target airflow rate 142 based on the second pressure difference 138 if the second pressure difference 138 is within a range between the predetermined minimum target pressure 152 and the predetermined maximum target pressure 154.

[0089] In some embodiments, the controller 140 is further configured to set the target airflow rate 142 based on the predetermined maximum target pressure 154 if the second pressure difference 138 is less than the minimum target pressure 152 or greater than the maximum target pressure 154. In other words, the controller 140 is further configured to set the target airflow rate 142 based on the predetermined maximum target pressure 154 if the second pressure difference 138 is not within a range between the predetermined minimum target pressure 152 and the predetermined maximum target pressure 154. This ensures that the breathing airflow 111 based on the target airflow rate 142 is sufficient for the user 101 ( Figure 1 as shown).

[0090] In some embodiments, the controller 140 may generate an alarm signal if the second pressure difference 138 is not within an acceptable limit after a threshold duration.

[0091] Figure 5C Illustrates a Figure 2 exemplary graph 139 depicting the relationship between pressure and time of the breathing device 100 as shown. Specifically, the graph 139 illustrates the relationship between the breathing inlet pressure 134 of the breathing device 100 and time.

[0092] The graph 139 includes pressure regions 139A to 139G corresponding to Figure 1 different working rates of the user 101 as shown. As used herein, the term "working rate" refers to the demand of the user 101 for the breathing airflow 111 per unit time due to the workload.

[0093] The graph 139 also includes a line 139H depicting the ambient pressure level 131 ( Figure 4A as shown). The region below the line 139H depicts negative pressure relative to the ambient pressure level 131, and the region above the line 139H depicts positive pressure relative to the ambient pressure level 131. The line 139H corresponds to the ambient pressure level 131 or zero pressure relative to the ambient pressure level 131.

[0094] Refer to Figure 4A and Figures 5A to 5Cand as is apparent from pressure zone 139B, the work rate of user 101 increases. The controller 140 controls the airflow unit 110 based on the target airflow rate 142 such that the airflow unit 110 provides the breathing airflow 111 at the target airflow rate 142. Moreover, the target airflow rate 142 is based at least on the second pressure difference 138 such that the second pressure difference 138 decreases. The target airflow rate 142 increases correspondingly based on the work rate in pressure zone 139B. As is apparent from pressure zone 139C, the breathing inlet pressure 134 is higher than the ambient pressure level 131.

[0095] Moreover, as is apparent from pressure zone 139D, the work rate of user 101 decreases. The controller 140 controls the airflow unit 110 based on the target airflow rate 142 such that the airflow unit 110 provides the breathing airflow 111 at the target airflow rate 142. Moreover, the target airflow rate 142 is based at least on the second pressure difference 138 such that the second pressure difference 138 decreases. The target airflow rate 142 decreases correspondingly based on the work rate in pressure zone 139D. As is apparent from pressure zone 139E, the breathing inlet pressure 134 is closer to the ambient pressure level 131.

[0096] Similarly, as is apparent from pressure zone 139F, the work rate of user 101 further decreases. The controller 140 controls the airflow unit 110 based on the target airflow rate 142 such that the airflow unit 110 provides the breathing airflow 111 at the target airflow rate 142. Moreover, the target airflow rate 142 is based at least on the second pressure difference 138 such that the second pressure difference 138 decreases. The target airflow rate 142 decreases correspondingly based on the work rate in pressure zone 139F. As is apparent from pressure zone 139G, the breathing inlet pressure 134 is closer to the ambient pressure level 131.

[0097] As is apparent from graph 139, the controller 140 can minimize the demand for the breathing airflow 111 to maintain a positive pressure in the breathing inlet 122 relative to the ambient pressure level 131. Moreover, it may not be necessary to rapidly increase or decrease the breathing airflow 111 to maintain the positive pressure.

[0098] Figure 6A An exemplary graph 150 is illustrated that depicts Figure 1 the relationship 149 between the airflow rate 141 of the airflow unit 110 (shown in Figure 6B ) and the static pressure 148 of the breathing interface 120 (shown in Figure 1 ), as shown in Figure 6B . The airflow rate 141 is represented on the abscissa. The static pressure 148 is represented on the ordinate. Figure 6BIllustrates a detailed schematic block diagram of a breathing device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0099] Referring Figure 6A and Figure 6B In some embodiments, the controller 140 is further configured to determine a static pressure 148 based on a pressure parameter 144 when the user 101 is prompted to hold their breath for a predetermined duration. Thus, the user 101 can refrain from inhaling or exhaling for the predetermined duration when prompted. In some embodiments, the controller 140 can generate an alarm 104 to prompt the user 101. In some embodiments, the alarm 104 can be a visual alarm, an auditory alarm, and / or a tactile alarm.

[0100] In some embodiments, the controller 140 is further configured to determine a relationship 149 between an airflow rate 141 of the airflow unit 110 and the static pressure 148. In some embodiments, the airflow rate 141 of the airflow unit 110 can be a predetermined airflow rate 156, a minimum flow rate of the airflow unit 110, a maximum flow rate of the airflow unit 110, or a target airflow rate 142. In some embodiments, the airflow rate 141 of the airflow unit 110 can be based on a predetermined minimum target pressure 152 or a predetermined maximum target pressure 154.

[0101] In some embodiments, the controller 140 is further configured to adjust the target pressure 133 based on the relationship 149 between the airflow rate 141 and the static pressure 148. Thus, for a user 101 with a specific head volume, different sizes of the breathing inlet 122 may result in different static pressures 148, which may in turn affect the target airflow rate 142. Therefore, the static pressure 148 can be used to adjust the target pressure 133 to reduce the impact of the static pressure 148 on the target airflow rate 142 based on the target pressure 133.

[0102] Figure 7 Illustrates a detailed schematic block diagram of a breathing device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0103] In some embodiments, the controller 140 is further configured to receive at least one environmental parameter 160. In some embodiments, the controller 140 is configured to receive at least one environmental parameter 160 in a comfort mode. In some embodiments, the comfort mode can be activated based on a preset level of at least one environmental parameter 160. In some embodiments, it can be based on user input 108 provided by the user 101 ( Figure 1 as shown) via one or more input devices 107 ( Figure 2 as shown) ( Figure 2as shown) to activate the comfort mode. In some embodiments, if the controller 140 does not receive at least one environmental parameter 160 when the comfort mode is activated, the controller 140 may generate an alarm signal.

[0104] At least one environmental parameter 160 indicates at least one of temperature, wind conditions, and humidity. Thus, at least one environmental parameter 160 may include a humidity parameter 160A, a wind parameter, and / or a temperature parameter 160B. In some embodiments, the temperature may be the ambient temperature. In some embodiments, the temperature may be the air temperature of the breathing gas flow 111. In some embodiments, the temperature may be the temperature inside the breathing inlet 122. Similarly, in some embodiments, the humidity may be the ambient relative humidity. In some embodiments, the humidity may be the relative humidity of the breathing gas flow 111. In some embodiments, the humidity may be the relative humidity inside the breathing inlet 122. In some embodiments, the wind conditions may be the ambient wind conditions. In some embodiments, the wind conditions may be the wind conditions inside the breathing inlet 122. In some embodiments, the wind conditions may be determined by one or more sensors (not shown) disposed on the breathing device 100. In some embodiments, the humidity parameter 160A, the wind parameter, and / or the temperature parameter 160B may be based on weather data / forecast.

[0105] In some embodiments, at least one environmental parameter 160 may include a combined environmental parameter 160C based on a combination of the humidity parameter 160A, the wind condition parameter, and the temperature parameter 160B. In some embodiments, the combined environmental parameter 160C is a heat index. As used herein, the term "heat index" refers to the sensation of temperature by the user 101 when humidity is combined with temperature ( Figure 1 as shown).

[0106] In such embodiments, the controller 140 is further configured to further adjust the target gas flow rate 142 based on at least one environmental parameter 160. Thus, the target gas flow rate 142 can be adjusted to provide comfort to the user 101. In some embodiments, at least one environmental parameter 160 can be monitored to determine whether an increase or decrease in the target gas flow rate 142 increases or decreases the temperature and / or humidity, and the target gas flow rate 142 can be adjusted accordingly. In some embodiments, the target pressure 133 can be adjusted in discrete increments or continuous increments between a pre-determined minimum target pressure 152 and a pre-determined maximum target pressure 154 further based on at least one environmental parameter 160.

[0107] In some embodiments, if at least one environmental parameter 160 is not within an acceptable limit after a threshold duration, the controller 140 may generate an alarm signal.

[0108] Figure 8Exemplary detailed schematic block diagram of a breathing device 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0109] In some embodiments, the controller 140 is further configured to receive Figure 2 at least one battery parameter 172 of the battery pack 170 as shown in Figure 1 . In some embodiments, the controller 140 is configured to receive at least one battery parameter 172 of the battery pack 170 in a power saving mode. In some embodiments, the power saving mode may be activated based on a preset level of at least one battery parameter 172. In some embodiments, the power saving mode may be activated based on user input 108( Figure 2 as shown in Figure 2 ) provided by the user 101(

[0110] ) via one or more input devices 107(

[0111] as shown in

[0112] ). In some embodiments, if the controller 140 does not receive at least one battery parameter 172 when the power saving mode is activated, the controller 140 may generate an alarm signal.

[0113] In some embodiments, the controller 140 is further configured to adjust the target airflow rate 142 further based on at least one battery parameter 172. In some embodiments, at least one battery parameter 172 indicates at least one of the remaining battery energy of the battery pack 170, the remaining battery time of the battery pack 170, the battery consumption rate of the battery pack 170, the temperature of the battery pack 170, and the life of the battery pack 170.

[0114] Similarly, in some embodiments, the target airflow rate 142 may be set with a reduced interval that is proportional to the temperature of the battery pack 170 and / or the life of the battery pack 170.

[0115] In some embodiments, if at least one battery parameter 172 is not within acceptable limits after a threshold duration, the controller 140 may generate an alarm signal.

[0116] Figure 9 An exemplary graph depicting the relationship of at least one battery parameter 172 of the battery pack 170 of the breathing device 100 with time is illustrated. In Figure 9 the illustrated embodiment, at least one battery parameter 172 is the remaining battery energy of the battery pack 170. However, in some other embodiments, at least one battery parameter 172 may include any other battery parameter or a combination thereof. Time is represented in hours on the abscissa. The remaining battery energy is represented as a percentage (%) on the ordinate.

[0117] Reference Figure 8 and Figure 9 , in some embodiments, the controller 140 is further configured to set the target airflow rate 142 based on a predetermined minimum target pressure 152 if at least one battery parameter 172 exceeds a predetermined battery threshold 174 or a user-defined battery threshold. In some embodiments, the predetermined battery threshold 174 or the user-defined battery threshold may be a critical level of at least one battery parameter 172. Thus, the critical level may be preset or defined by the user 101 as shown in Figure 1 .

[0118] Figure 10 A detailed schematic block diagram of the breathing device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0119] In some embodiments, the controller 140 is further configured to receive Figure 2 at least one filter parameter 182 of at least one filter 180 as shown in Figure 1 . In some embodiments, the controller 140 is configured to receive at least one filter parameter 182 of at least one filter 180 in a filter protection mode. In some embodiments, the filter protection mode may be activated based on a preset level of at least one filter parameter 182. In some embodiments, it may be based on user input 108 provided by the user 101 (as shown in Figure 2 ) via one or more input devices 107 (as shown in Figure 2The filter protection mode is activated as shown in

[0120] In some embodiments, the controller 140 is further configured to adjust the target airflow rate 142 further based on at least one filter parameter 182. Accordingly, the target airflow rate 142 can be adjusted to minimize or optimize the filter consumption of at least one filter 180.

[0121] In some embodiments, at least one filter parameter 182 indicates at least one of a remaining filter capacity 182A of at least one filter 180, a remaining filter usage time 182B of at least one filter 180, a target remaining filter usage time 182C of at least one filter 180, and a filter consumption rate 182D of at least one filter 180.

[0122] In some embodiments, the target airflow rate 142 can be decreased in a set interval proportional to the remaining filter capacity 182A of at least one filter 180. As used herein, the term "remaining filter capacity" refers to the percentage of the remaining pressure of the particulate filter available in at least one filter 180 estimated based on past usage and sensor readings or the remaining service life of the gas / vapor filter.

[0123] In some embodiments, the target airflow rate 142 can be decreased in a set interval proportional to the remaining filter usage time 182B of at least one filter 180. As used herein, the term "remaining filter usage time" refers to the estimated time remaining until a critical level of the remaining filter capacity 182A of at least one filter 180 exists.

[0124] In some embodiments, the target airflow rate 142 can be adjusted in a set interval proportional to the target remaining filter usage time 182C of at least one filter 180. As used herein, the term "target remaining filter usage time" refers to the estimated time difference from the target remaining filter life of at least one filter 180. In other words, the target airflow rate 142 can be adjusted in a set interval proportional to the target remaining filter usage time of at least one filter 180 such that the target filter life can be achieved.

[0125] If an increased target airflow rate 142 achieves the target filter usage time, the increased target airflow rate 142 is allowed. If a decreased target airflow rate 142 achieves the target filter usage time, the target airflow rate 142 is decreased. The target filter usage time can be preset or defined by the user 101.

[0126] In some embodiments, the target airflow rate 142 may be set with a reduced interval proportional to the filter consumption rate 182D of at least one filter 180. As used herein, the term "filter consumption rate" refers to the rate of change of the remaining filter capacity 182A or the remaining filter usage time 182B of at least one filter 180.

[0127] In some embodiments, at least one filter parameter 182 may be determined based on the pressure differential 181A and the ambient pressure 181C. The pressure differential 181A is the difference between the breathing inlet pressure 134 and the outlet pressure at the outlet 124 of the airflow unit 110 ( Figure 1 as shown). In some embodiments, an outlet pressure sensor 135 ( Figure 13 as shown) may be used to determine the outlet pressure.

[0128] The pressure differential 181A may indicate the clean pressure drop and the clogging pressure drop. In some embodiments, at least one filter parameter 182 may be determined based on the filter identification (ID) 181B of at least one filter 180. The filter ID 181B is unique for each filter and may be used to at least determine the service life, filter capacity, and / or past usage of at least one filter 180, as well as sensor readings. The ambient pressure 181C, the pressure differential 181A, and / or the filter ID 181B may enable tracking and estimation of the usage of at least one filter 180.

[0129] In some embodiments, if at least one filter parameter 182 is not within an acceptable limit after a threshold duration, the controller 140 may generate an alarm signal.

[0130] Figure 11 is an exemplary graph depicting the relationship between at least one filter parameter 182 of at least one filter 180 of the breathing device 100 and time. In Figure 11 the illustrated embodiment, at least one filter parameter 182 is the remaining filter capacity of at least one filter 180. However, in some other embodiments, at least one filter parameter 182 may include any other filter parameter or a combination thereof. Time is represented in days on the abscissa. The remaining filter capacity is represented as a percentage (%) on the ordinate.

[0131] Reference Figure 10 and Figure 11, in some embodiments, the controller 140 is further configured to set the target airflow rate 142 based on a predetermined minimum target pressure 152 if at least one filter parameter 182 exceeds a predetermined filter threshold 184 or a user-defined filter threshold. In some embodiments, the predetermined filter threshold 184 or the user-defined filter threshold may be a critical level of at least one filter parameter 182. Thus, the critical level can be preset or defined by the Figure 1 user 101 shown in

[0132] Figure 12 FIG. illustrates a detailed schematic block diagram of a breathing device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0133] In some embodiments, the controller 140 is further configured to receive a noise parameter 192. The noise parameter 192 indicates the noise caused by the airflow unit 110. In some embodiments, the sound pressure level can be used to determine the noise parameter 192. In some embodiments, the controller 140 is configured to receive the noise parameter 192 in a quiet mode. In some embodiments, the quiet mode can be activated based on a preset level of the noise parameter 192. In some embodiments, the quiet mode can be activated based on user input 108 ( Figure 1 shown in Figure 2 ) provided by the user 101 via one or more input devices 107 ( Figure 2 shown in

[0134] In some embodiments, if the controller 140 does not receive the noise parameter 192 when the quiet mode is activated, the controller 140 can generate an alarm signal.

[0135] In some embodiments, the controller 140 is further configured to further adjust the target airflow rate 142 based on the noise parameter 192. Thus, the target airflow rate 142 can be adjusted to minimize or optimize the noise caused by the airflow unit 110. In some embodiments, the target airflow rate 142 can be adjusted at intervals proportional to the noise parameter 192 of at least one filter 180. In some embodiments, the target airflow rate 142 can be adjusted at intervals proportional to the noise parameter 192.

[0135] In some embodiments, the controller 140 is further configured to receive Figure 2 the voice signal 194 shown in Figure 2 . Specifically, the controller 140 is further configured to receive the voice signal 194 generated by at least one microphone 190 (

[0136] In some embodiments, it may be desirable to increase the target airflow rate 142 upon detection of the voice of user 101, as the breathing rate 146 of user 101 may increase. In such embodiments, upon receipt of the voice signal 194, the controller 140 may increase the target airflow rate 142 based on the noise parameter 192. In some embodiments, the target airflow rate 142 may be increased in a set interval proportional to the noise parameter 192.

[0137] In some embodiments, it may be desirable to decrease the target airflow rate 142 upon detection of the voice of user 101 to reduce the noise caused by the airflow unit 110. In such embodiments, upon receipt of the voice signal 194, the controller 140 may decrease the target airflow rate 142 based on the noise parameter 192. In some embodiments, the target airflow rate 142 may be decreased in a set interval proportional to the noise parameter 192.

[0138] In some embodiments, if the noise parameter 192 is not within an acceptable limit after a threshold duration, the controller 140 may generate an alarm signal.

[0139] Figure 13 A detailed schematic block diagram of the breathing device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0140] In some embodiments, the breathing device 100 includes a breathing inlet sensor set 105 disposed at the breathing inlet 122. The breathing inlet sensor set 105 includes at least one pressure sensor 130. Moreover, the breathing inlet sensor set 105 further includes at least one humidity sensor 162, at least one temperature sensor 164, and at least one microphone 166 (e.g., at least one microphone 190). Signals generated by the at least one pressure sensor 130 (i.e., at least one signal 132), signals generated by the at least one humidity sensor 162, signals generated by the at least one temperature sensor 164, and signals generated by the at least one microphone 166 (e.g., voice signal 194) can be provided to the data filtering unit 106. The data filtering unit 106 can process signals from the at least one pressure sensor 130, the at least one humidity sensor 162, the at least one temperature sensor 164, and the at least one microphone 166 to generate corresponding processed signals. In some embodiments, the data filtering unit 106 can process the signals by using an averaging technique, an outlier exclusion technique, a peak identification technique, a burst filtering technique, and / or any other data filtering technique. In some embodiments, one or more of the signals and / or processed signals of the breathing inlet sensor set 105 can be used to determine a pressure parameter 144, a breathing rate 146, and at least one environmental parameter 160. In some embodiments, one or more of the signals and / or processed signals of the breathing inlet sensor set 105 can be further used to determine a noise parameter 192.

[0141] In some embodiments, the breathing device 100 further includes an environmental sensor set 105A disposed outside and / or distal to the breathing inlet 122. In some embodiments, the environmental sensor set 105A includes at least one environmental pressure sensor 130A. Moreover, the breathing inlet sensor set 105 further includes at least one environmental humidity sensor 162A, at least one environmental temperature sensor 164A, and at least one environmental microphone 166A. In some embodiments, signals generated by the at least one environmental pressure sensor 130A, the at least one environmental humidity sensor 162A, the at least one environmental temperature sensor 164A, and the at least one environmental microphone 166A can also be provided to the data filtering unit 106. In some embodiments, one or more of the processed signals of the environmental sensor set 105A can be provided to the controller 140. In some embodiments, one or more of the signals and / or processed signals of the environmental sensor set 105A can be used to determine a predetermined minimum target pressure 152 and a predetermined maximum target pressure 154.

[0142] Figure 14 A schematic block diagram of a breathing device 200 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. The breathing device 200 is substantially similar toFigure 2 The respiratory device 100 shown, where common components are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0143] The respiratory device 200 includes an air flow unit 110, a breathing interface 120, and a controller 140 communicatively coupled to the air flow unit 110. However, the respiratory device 200 does not include at least one pressure sensor 130 disposed at the breathing inlet 122 ( Figure 2 as shown). Thus, in Figure 14 the illustrated embodiment, the controller 140 is configured to receive at least one sensor signal 202 including at least one sensor parameter 204. In some embodiments, the controller 140 is configured to receive at least one sensor signal 202 via a transceiver 140B. In some embodiments, the at least one sensor signal 202 may be generated by one or more sensors.

[0144] In some embodiments, the respiratory device 200 includes one or more sensors, and the one or more sensors may be disposed at the breathing inlet 122, the air flow unit 110, the battery pack 170, at least one filter 180, and / or any other suitable location on or near the respiratory device 200.

[0145] In some embodiments, the controller 140 is configured to receive at least one sensor signal 202 from one or more external devices or remote servers (not shown) including one or more sensors via the transceiver 140B. In some embodiments, the one or more external devices may be located on Figure 1 the user 101 shown. For example, the one or more external devices may include a wearable device that includes one or more sensors. In some examples, the one or more sensors may be located on the wrist or chest of the user 101.

[0146] Figure 15A and Figure 15B illustrates a detailed schematic block diagram of a respiratory device 200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0147] Reference Figure 15A, the controller 140 is configured to determine a target airflow rate 142 based at least on at least one sensor parameter 204. As discussed above, the controller 140 is further configured to control the airflow unit 110 based on the target airflow rate 142 such that the airflow unit 110 provides a breathing airflow 111 at the target airflow rate 142. In some embodiments, the target airflow rate 142 may be adjusted in discrete increments or continuous increments between a pre-determined minimum airflow rate 252 and a pre-determined maximum airflow rate 254. In some embodiments, the target airflow rate 142 may be pre-set for different increments. In some embodiments, the user 101 ( Figure 1 as shown) may select the target airflow rate 142 via one or more input devices 107 ( Figure 2 as shown).

[0148] In some embodiments, at least one sensor parameter 204 includes at least one work rate parameter 210 indicative of the work rate of the user 101 Figure 1 as shown. In some embodiments, at least one sensor parameter 204 includes at least one physiological parameter of the user 101. In some embodiments, at least one physiological parameter may include heart rate, body temperature, blood oxygen concentration, chemical components in the blood, and / or any other physiological parameter. In some embodiments, at least one work rate parameter 210 may include at least one activity-based parameter indicative of the movement of the user 101.

[0149] Referring Figure 15B , in some embodiments, the controller 140 is further configured to control the airflow unit 110 to provide a pre-determined airflow rate 156 if the controller 140 does not receive at least one sensor signal 202. In some embodiments, if the controller 140 does not receive at least one sensor signal 202, the controller 140 may generate an alarm signal.

[0150] Figure 16 illustrates a detailed schematic block diagram of a breathing device 200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, at least one sensor parameter 204 includes at least one environmental parameter 160 indicative of at least one of temperature, wind conditions, and humidity. Thus, at least one environmental parameter 160 may include a humidity parameter 160A, a wind condition parameter, and / or a temperature parameter 160B. In some embodiments, at least one environmental parameter 160 may further include a combined environmental parameter 160C. In some embodiments, the controller 140 is configured to further adjust the target airflow rate 142 based on at least one environmental parameter 160.

[0151] Figure 17Illustrates a detailed schematic block diagram of a breathing device 200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, at least one sensor parameter 204 includes Figure 14 at least one battery parameter 172 of the battery pack 170 shown in Figure 9 . In some embodiments, the controller 140 is configured to further adjust the target airflow rate 142 based on at least one battery parameter 172. In some embodiments, the controller 140 is configured to control the airflow unit 110 to provide a minimum airflow rate 252 if at least one battery parameter 172 exceeds a pre-determined battery threshold 174 (

[0152] Figure 18 Illustrates a detailed schematic block diagram of a breathing device 200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, at least one sensor parameter 204 includes Figure 14 at least one filter parameter 182 of at least one filter 180 shown in

[0153] Figure 19 Illustrates a detailed schematic block diagram of a breathing device 200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, at least one sensor parameter 204 includes a noise parameter 192. As discussed above, the controller 140 is configured to determine the target airflow rate 142 based at least on the noise parameter 192.

[0154] Figure 20 Illustrates according to an embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 1 a flowchart of a method 300 for controlling the airflow unit 110 of a breathing device 100 shown in Figures 1 to 13 . The method 300 will be described with reference to

[0155] At step 302, the method 300 includes receiving at least one signal 132 from at least one pressure sensor 130 disposed at the breathing inlet 122.

[0156] At step 304, the method 300 includes determining a breathing inlet pressure 134 based on at least one signal 132 received from at least one pressure sensor 130.

[0157] In some embodiments, determining the respiratory inlet pressure 134 further includes determining a pressure parameter 144 over a predetermined time period based on at least one signal 132. In some embodiments, determining the respiratory inlet pressure 134 further includes determining the respiratory inlet pressure 134 based on the pressure parameter 144. As discussed above, in some embodiments, the pressure parameter 144 includes one of an average pressure, a minimum peak pressure, and a maximum peak pressure.

[0158] At step 306, method 300 includes determining a target airflow rate 142 based at least on the respiratory inlet pressure 134.

[0159] In some embodiments, determining the target airflow rate 142 further includes determining a first pressure difference 136 that is the difference between the respiratory inlet pressure 134 and the ambient pressure level 131. In some embodiments, determining the target airflow rate 142 further includes determining a second pressure difference 138 that is the difference between the first pressure difference 136 and the target pressure 133. In some embodiments, determining the target airflow rate 142 further includes determining the target airflow rate 142 based at least on the second pressure difference 138 such that the second pressure difference 138 decreases.

[0160] In some embodiments, determining the target airflow rate 142 further includes setting the target airflow rate 142 based on the second pressure difference 138 if the second pressure difference 138 is greater than or equal to a predetermined minimum target pressure 152 and less than or equal to a predetermined maximum target pressure 154. In some embodiments, determining the target airflow rate 142 further includes setting the target airflow rate 142 based on the predetermined maximum target pressure 154 if the second pressure difference 138 is less than the minimum target pressure 152 or greater than the maximum target pressure 154.

[0161] In some embodiments, determining the target airflow rate 142 further includes prompting a user 101 of the breathing device 100 to hold their breath for a predetermined duration. In some embodiments, determining the target airflow rate 142 further includes determining a static pressure 148 based on the pressure parameter 144 when the user 101 of the breathing device 100 is prompted to hold their breath for a predetermined duration. In some embodiments, determining the target airflow rate 142 further includes determining a relationship 149 between the airflow rate 141 of the airflow unit 110 and the static pressure 148. In some embodiments, determining the target airflow rate 142 further includes adjusting the target pressure 133 based on the relationship 149 between the airflow rate 141 and the static pressure 148.

[0162] In some embodiments, determining the target airflow rate 142 further includes receiving at least one environmental parameter 160. In some embodiments, determining the target airflow rate 142 further includes adjusting the target airflow rate 142 further based on at least one environmental parameter 160.

[0163] In some embodiments, determining the target airflow rate 142 further includes receiving at least one battery parameter 172 of the battery pack 170. In some embodiments, determining the target airflow rate 142 further includes adjusting the target airflow rate 142 further based on at least one battery parameter 172. In some embodiments, determining the target airflow rate 142 further includes setting the target airflow rate 142 based on a predetermined minimum target pressure 152 if at least one battery parameter 172 exceeds a predetermined battery threshold 174 or a user-defined battery threshold.

[0164] In some embodiments, determining the target airflow rate 142 further includes receiving at least one filter parameter 182 of at least one filter 180 that is mounted to the airflow unit 110 and configured to filter the breathing airflow 111. In some embodiments, determining the target airflow rate 142 further includes adjusting the target airflow rate 142 further based on at least one filter parameter 182. In some embodiments, determining the target airflow rate 142 further includes setting the target airflow rate 142 based on a predetermined minimum target pressure 152 if at least one filter parameter 182 exceeds a predetermined filter threshold 184 or a user-defined filter threshold.

[0165] In some embodiments, determining the target airflow rate 142 further includes receiving a noise parameter 192. In some embodiments, determining the target airflow rate 142 further includes adjusting the target airflow rate 142 further based on the noise parameter 192.

[0166] In some embodiments, determining the target airflow rate 142 further includes receiving a voice signal 194 from at least one microphone 190. In some embodiments, determining the target airflow rate 142 further includes adjusting the target airflow rate 142 based on the noise parameter 192 when the voice signal 194 is received.

[0167] At step 308, the method 300 includes controlling the airflow unit 110 based on the target airflow rate 142 such that the airflow unit 110 provides the breathing airflow 111 at the target airflow rate 142. In some embodiments, controlling the airflow unit 110 further includes providing a predetermined airflow rate 156 if at least one signal 132 is not received from at least one pressure sensor 130.

[0168] In some embodiments, controlling the airflow unit 110 based on the target airflow rate 142 further includes controlling at least one of the motor parameter 113 of the motor 112 and the blower parameter 115 of the blower 114 to achieve the target airflow rate 142.

[0169] In some embodiments, controlling the airflow unit 110 based on the target airflow rate 142 further includes controlling the valve parameter 119 of the control valve 118 to achieve the target airflow rate 142.

[0170] In some embodiments, method 300 further includes determining a respiration rate 146 of a user 101 of the breathing device 100 based on a pressure parameter 144. In some embodiments, method 300 further includes activating the airflow unit 110 when the determined respiration rate 146 indicates respiration of the user 101. In some embodiments, method 300 further includes deactivating the airflow unit 110 when the determined respiration rate 146 does not indicate respiration of the user 101.

[0171] In the detailed description of the preferred embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which illustrate specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. The illustrative embodiments are not intended to be an exhaustive listing of all embodiments in accordance with the invention. It should be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural or logical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the following detailed description is not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims.

[0172] Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing feature sizes, amounts, and physical properties used in this specification and the claims are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term "about". Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in the foregoing specification and attached claims are approximations that may vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by those skilled in the art utilizing the teachings disclosed herein.

[0173] Unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, as used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" encompass embodiments having plural referents. Unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, as used in the specification and the appended claims, the term "or" is generally employed in its sense including "and / or".

[0174] The techniques of the present disclosure may be implemented in a variety of devices or apparatuses including wireless handsets, integrated circuits (ICs), or a set of ICs (e.g., a chipset). Various components, modules, or units are described in the present disclosure to emphasize functional aspects of the devices configured to perform the disclosed techniques, but need not necessarily be implemented by distinct hardware units. Instead, as described above, various unit combinations may be combined in hardware units or provided by a collection of interoperating hardware units including one or more processors as described above, in conjunction with suitable software and / or firmware.

[0175] Various examples have been described. These examples, as well as other examples, are within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. A breathing device, the breathing device comprising: An airflow unit configured to provide a breathing airflow; A breathing interface fluidly coupled to the airflow unit and configured to supply the breathing airflow to a user of the breathing device, wherein the breathing interface includes a breathing inlet configured to receive the breathing airflow from the airflow unit; And At least one pressure sensor configured to generate at least one signal, wherein the at least one pressure sensor is disposed at the breathing inlet; And A controller communicatively coupled to each of the airflow unit and the at least one pressure sensor, the controller being configured to: Receive the at least one signal from the at least one pressure sensor; Determine a breathing inlet pressure based on the at least one signal received from the at least one pressure sensor; Determine a target airflow rate based at least on the breathing inlet pressure; and Control the airflow unit based on the target airflow rate such that the airflow unit provides the breathing airflow at the target airflow rate.

2. The breathing device according to claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to: Determine a first pressure difference that is a difference between the breathing inlet pressure and an ambient pressure level; Determine a second pressure difference that is a difference between the first pressure difference and a target pressure; and Determine the target airflow rate based at least on the second pressure difference such that the second pressure difference is reduced.

3. The breathing device according to claim 2, wherein the controller is further configured to: Determine a pressure parameter within a predetermined time period based on the at least one signal; and Determine the breathing inlet pressure based on the pressure parameter.

4. The breathing device according to claim 3, wherein the pressure parameter includes one of an average pressure, a minimum peak pressure, and a maximum peak pressure.

5. The breathing device according to claim 3, wherein the controller is further configured to: Determine a breathing rate of the user based on the pressure parameter; Activate the airflow unit when determining that the breathing rate indicates breathing of the user; and Deactivate the airflow unit when determining that the breathing rate does not indicate breathing of the user.

6. The breathing device according to claim 3, wherein the controller is further configured to: Determine a static pressure based on the pressure parameter when the user is prompted to hold their breath for a predetermined duration; Determine a relationship between an airflow rate of the airflow unit and the static pressure; and Adjust the target pressure based on the relationship between the airflow rate and the static pressure.

7. The breathing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, The controller is further configured to set the target airflow rate based on the second pressure difference if the second pressure difference is greater than or equal to a predetermined minimum target pressure and less than or equal to a predetermined maximum target pressure; and wherein, the controller is further configured to set the target airflow rate based on the predetermined maximum target pressure if the second pressure difference is less than the minimum target pressure or greater than the maximum target pressure.

8. The breathing device according to claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to: Receive at least one environmental parameter, wherein the at least one environmental parameter indicates at least one of temperature, wind conditions, and humidity; and Further adjust the target airflow rate based on the at least one environmental parameter.

9. The breathing device according to claim 7, wherein the controller is further configured to: Receive at least one battery parameter of a battery pack configured to supply power to at least the airflow unit, wherein the at least one battery parameter indicates at least one of the remaining battery energy of the battery pack, the remaining battery time of the battery pack, the battery consumption rate of the battery pack, the temperature of the battery pack, and the lifespan of the battery pack; and If the at least one battery parameter exceeds a predetermined battery threshold or a user-defined battery threshold, set the target airflow rate based on the predetermined minimum target pressure.

10. The breathing device according to claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to: Receive at least one battery parameter of a battery pack configured to supply power to at least the airflow unit, wherein the at least one battery parameter indicates at least one of the remaining battery energy of the battery pack, the remaining battery time of the battery pack, the battery consumption rate of the battery pack, the temperature of the battery pack, and the lifespan of the battery pack; and Further adjust the target airflow rate based on the at least one battery parameter.

11. The breathing device according to claim 7, the breathing device further includes at least one filter, the at least one filter is installed to the airflow unit and is configured to filter the breathing airflow, wherein the controller is further configured to: Receive at least one filter parameter, wherein the at least one filter parameter indicates at least one of the remaining filter capacity of the at least one filter, the remaining filter usage time of the at least one filter, the target remaining filter usage time of the at least one filter, and the filter consumption rate of the at least one filter; and If the at least one filter parameter exceeds a predetermined filter threshold or a user-defined filter threshold, set the target airflow rate based on the predetermined minimum target pressure.

12. The breathing device according to claim 1, the breathing device further includes at least one filter, the at least one filter is installed to the airflow unit, wherein the controller is further configured to: Receive at least one filter parameter, where the at least one filter parameter indicates at least one of a remaining filter capacity of the at least one filter, a remaining filter usage time of the at least one filter, a target remaining filter usage time of the at least one filter, and a filter consumption rate of the at least one filter; and Further adjust the target airflow rate based on the at least one filter parameter.

13. The breathing device according to claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to:[[]] Receive a noise parameter, where the noise parameter indicates noise caused by the airflow unit; and Further adjust the target airflow rate based on the noise parameter.

14. The breathing device according to claim 1, the breathing device further comprising at least one microphone configured to generate a voice signal, wherein the controller is further configured to:[[]] Receive the voice signal; Receive a noise parameter, where the noise parameter indicates noise caused by the airflow unit; and When the voice signal is received, adjust the target airflow rate based on the noise parameter.

15. The breathing device according to claim 1, wherein, The controller is further configured to control the airflow unit to provide a predetermined airflow rate if the controller does not receive the at least one signal from the at least one pressure sensor.

16. The breathing device according to claim 1, wherein the airflow unit includes a motor and a blower, wherein the blower is fluidly coupled to the breathing interface, and wherein the controller is further configured to control at least one of a motor parameter of the motor and a blower parameter of the blower to achieve the target airflow rate.

17. The breathing device according to claim 1, wherein the airflow unit includes a gas source and a valve, wherein the valve is fluidly coupled to the breathing interface, and wherein the controller is further configured to control a valve parameter of the valve to achieve the target airflow rate.

18. A breathing device, the breathing device comprising:[[]] An airflow unit configured to provide a breathing airflow; A breathing interface fluidly coupled to the airflow unit and configured to supply the breathing airflow to a user of the breathing device; And A controller communicatively coupled to the airflow unit, the controller being configured to:[[]] Receive at least one sensor signal including at least one sensor parameter; Determine a target airflow rate based at least on the at least one sensor parameter; and Control the airflow unit based on the target airflow rate such that the airflow unit provides the breathing airflow at the target airflow rate.

19. The breathing apparatus according to claim 18, wherein, The controller is further configured to control the airflow unit to provide a predetermined airflow rate if the controller does not receive the at least one sensor signal.

20. The breathing device according to claim 18, wherein the at least one sensor parameter includes at least one work rate parameter indicating a work rate of the user.

21. The breathing device according to claim 18, wherein the at least one sensor parameter includes at least one physiological parameter of the user.

22. The breathing device according to claim 18, wherein the at least one sensor parameter includes at least one environmental parameter indicating at least one of temperature, wind conditions, and humidity.

23. The breathing device according to claim 18, wherein the at least one sensor parameter includes at least one battery parameter of a battery pack configured to supply power to at least the airflow unit, and wherein the at least one battery parameter indicates at least one of remaining battery energy of the battery pack, remaining battery time of the battery pack, battery consumption rate of the battery pack, temperature of the battery pack, and lifespan of the battery pack.

24. The breathing device according to claim 23, wherein, The controller is configured to control the airflow unit to provide a minimum airflow rate if the at least one battery parameter exceeds a pre-determined battery threshold or a user-defined battery threshold.

25. The breathing device according to claim 18, the breathing device further comprising at least one filter mounted to the airflow unit, wherein the at least one sensor parameter includes at least one filter parameter, and wherein the at least one filter parameter indicates at least one of remaining filter capacity of the at least one filter, remaining filter usage time of the at least one filter, target remaining filter usage time of the at least one filter, and filter consumption rate of the at least one filter.

26. The breathing apparatus according to claim 25, and wherein, The controller is configured to control the airflow unit to provide a minimum airflow rate if the at least one filter parameter exceeds a pre-determined filter threshold or a user-defined filter threshold.

27. The breathing device according to claim 18, wherein the at least one sensor parameter includes a noise parameter, and wherein the noise parameter indicates noise caused by the airflow unit.

28. The breathing device according to claim 18, wherein the airflow unit includes a motor and a blower, wherein the blower is fluidly coupled to the breathing interface, and wherein the controller is further configured to control at least one of a motor parameter of the motor and a blower parameter of the blower to achieve the target airflow rate.

29. The breathing device according to claim 18, wherein the airflow unit includes a gas source and a valve, wherein the valve is fluidly coupled to the breathing interface, and wherein the controller is further configured to control a valve parameter of the valve to achieve the target airflow rate.

30. A method for controlling an airflow unit of a breathing device, the method comprising: receiving at least one signal from at least one pressure sensor disposed at a breathing inlet; determining a breathing inlet pressure based on the at least one signal received from the at least one pressure sensor; determining a target airflow rate based at least on the breathing inlet pressure; and controlling the airflow unit based on the target airflow rate such that the airflow unit provides a breathing airflow at the target airflow rate.

31. The method according to claim 30, wherein determining the target airflow rate further comprises: determining a first pressure difference that is the difference between the breathing inlet pressure and the ambient pressure level; determining a second pressure difference that is the difference between the first pressure difference and the target pressure; and determining the target airflow rate at least based on the second pressure difference such that the second pressure difference is reduced.

32. The method according to claim 31, wherein determining the breathing inlet pressure further comprises: determining a pressure parameter within a predetermined time period based on the at least one signal; and determining the breathing inlet pressure based on the pressure parameter.

33. The method according to claim 32, wherein the pressure parameter comprises one of an average pressure, a minimum peak pressure, and a maximum peak pressure.

34. The method according to claim 32, the method further comprising: determining a breathing rate of a user of the breathing device based on the pressure parameter; activating the airflow unit when determining that the breathing rate indicates that the user is breathing; and deactivating the airflow unit when determining that the breathing rate does not indicate that the user is breathing.

35. The method according to claim 32, wherein determining the target airflow rate further comprises: prompting a user of the breathing device to hold their breath for a predetermined duration; when the user of the breathing device is prompted to hold their breath for the predetermined duration, determining a static pressure based on the pressure parameter; determining a relationship between an airflow rate of the airflow unit and the static pressure; and adjusting the target pressure based on the relationship between the airflow rate and the static pressure.

36. The method according to claim 31, wherein determining the target airflow rate further comprises: if the second pressure difference is greater than or equal to a predetermined minimum target pressure and less than or equal to a predetermined maximum target pressure, setting the target airflow rate based on the second pressure difference; and if the second pressure difference is less than the minimum target pressure or greater than the maximum target pressure, setting the target airflow rate based on the predetermined maximum target pressure.

37. The method according to claim 30, wherein determining the target airflow rate further comprises: receiving at least one environmental parameter, wherein the at least one environmental parameter indicates at least one of temperature, wind conditions, and humidity; and further adjusting the target airflow rate based on the at least one environmental parameter.

38. The method according to claim 36, wherein determining the target airflow rate further comprises: receiving at least one battery parameter of a battery pack configured to supply power to at least the airflow unit, wherein the at least one battery parameter indicates at least one of remaining battery energy of the battery pack, remaining battery time of the battery pack, battery consumption rate of the battery pack, temperature of the battery pack, and lifespan of the battery pack; and If the at least one battery parameter exceeds a predetermined battery threshold or a user-defined battery threshold, set the target airflow rate based on the predetermined minimum target pressure.

39. The method according to claim 30, wherein determining the target airflow rate further comprises: Receiving at least one battery parameter of a battery pack configured to supply power to at least the airflow unit, wherein the at least one battery parameter indicates at least one of remaining battery energy of the battery pack, remaining battery time of the battery pack, battery consumption rate of the battery pack, temperature of the battery pack, and lifespan of the battery pack; And Further adjusting the target airflow rate based on the at least one battery parameter.

40. The method according to claim 36, wherein determining the target airflow rate further comprises: Receiving at least one filter parameter of at least one filter installed to the airflow unit and configured to filter the breathing airflow, wherein the at least one filter parameter indicates at least one of remaining filter capacity of the at least one filter, remaining filter usage time of the at least one filter, target remaining filter usage time of the at least one filter, and filter consumption rate of the at least one filter; And If the at least one filter parameter exceeds a predetermined filter threshold or a user-defined filter threshold, set the target airflow rate based on the predetermined minimum target pressure.

41. The method according to claim 30, wherein determining the target airflow rate further comprises: Receiving at least one filter parameter of at least one filter installed to the airflow unit and configured to filter the breathing airflow, wherein the at least one filter parameter indicates at least one of remaining filter capacity of the at least one filter, remaining filter usage time of the at least one filter, target remaining filter usage time of the at least one filter, and filter consumption rate of the at least one filter; And Further adjusting the target airflow rate based on the at least one filter parameter.

42. The method according to claim 30, wherein determining the target airflow rate further comprises: Receiving a noise parameter, wherein the noise parameter indicates noise caused by the airflow unit; And Further adjusting the target airflow rate based on the noise parameter.

43. The method according to claim 30, wherein determining the target airflow rate further comprises: Receiving a voice signal from at least one microphone; Receiving a noise parameter, wherein the noise parameter indicates noise caused by the airflow unit; And When the voice signal is received, adjusting the target airflow rate based on the noise parameter.

44. The method according to claim 30, wherein controlling the airflow unit based on the target airflow rate further comprises providing a predetermined airflow rate if the at least one signal is not received from the at least one pressure sensor.

45. The method according to claim 30, wherein controlling the air flow unit based on the target air flow rate further comprises controlling at least one of a motor parameter of a motor and a blower parameter of a blower to achieve the target air flow rate.

46. The method according to claim 30, wherein controlling the air flow unit based on the target air flow rate further comprises controlling a valve parameter of a control valve to achieve the target air flow rate.

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