Integrated multipurpose pump system

Abstract

An integrated multipurpose pump system includes at least one pump and a flow path. The flow path flows air to a first subsystem that requires a first flow rate and a first pressure, and to a second subsystem that requires a second flow rate different from the first flow rate and a second pressure different from the first pressure.

Description

Background Art

[0001] Different fluid pump systems require different flow rates at different pressures. For example, non-invasive blood pressure requires air to be pushed at a high flow rate (0.6 L / min) and high pressure (300 mmHg), while carbon dioxide monitoring requires air to be aspirated at a lower flow rate (60 mL / min) at ambient pressure. Carbon dioxide monitoring involves measuring the partial pressure of CO2 in the airway. Different fluid pump systems are designed separately, which results in limitations in space volume and an increase in power consumption. Summary of the Invention

[0002] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, an integrated multi-purpose pump system includes at least one pump and a flow path. The flow path allows air to flow to a first subsystem that requires a first flow rate and a first pressure, and to a second subsystem that requires a second flow rate different from the first flow rate and a second pressure different from the first pressure.

[0003] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method of operating an integrated multi-purpose pump system includes: receiving and filtering exhaled air; gradually reducing the flow rate of the exhaled air; mixing the exhaled air with ambient air to obtain an air mixture; filtering the air mixture; passing the air mixture through a check valve; inputting the air mixture into a pump; and using the air mixture to apply pressure to a pressure volume.

[0004] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, an integrated multi-purpose pump system includes at least one pump and a conduit. The conduit has a diameter that varies along the flow path so as to provide a first flow rate and a first pressure for the flow path, allowing air to flow to a first subsystem on a first side of the conduit in the flow path, and so as to provide a second flow rate and a second pressure for the flow path, allowing air to flow to a second subsystem on a second side of the conduit in the flow path, the second side being opposite the first side of the conduit in the flow path. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0005] Example embodiments are best understood from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It should be emphasized that the various features are not necessarily drawn to scale. In fact, for the sake of clarity of discussion, the dimensions may be increased or decreased arbitrarily. Where applicable and practical, like reference numerals refer to like elements.

[0006] Figure 1 An integrated multi-purpose pump system according to a representative embodiment is shown.

[0007] Figure 2 Another integrated multi-purpose pump system according to a representative embodiment is shown.

[0008] Figure 3 Another integrated multi-purpose pump system according to a representative embodiment is shown.

[0009] Figure 4 A method of operating an integrated multi-purpose pump system according to another representative embodiment is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0010] In the following detailed description, for purposes of explanation and not limitation, representative embodiments that disclose specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments according to the present teachings. However, other embodiments that depart from the specific details disclosed herein and are consistent with the present disclosure are still within the scope of the claims. Descriptions of known systems, devices, materials, operating methods, and manufacturing methods may be omitted to avoid obscuring the description of the representative embodiments. Nevertheless, systems, devices, materials, and methods within the knowledge of those of ordinary skill in the art are within the scope of the present teachings and may be used in accordance with the representative embodiments. It should be understood that the terms used herein are for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and are not intended to be limiting. The definitions and explanations of terms herein supplement the technical and scientific meanings of terms commonly understood and accepted in the technical field of the present teachings.

[0011] It should be understood that although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements or components, these elements or components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element or component from another. Thus, a first element or component discussed below may be referred to as a second element or component without departing from the teachings of the inventive concept.

[0012] As used in the specification and claims, the singular forms of the terms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the singular and plural forms as well, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Additionally, when used in this specification, the terms "comprises" and / or "comprising" and / or similar terms specify the presence of the stated features, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0013] Unless otherwise specified, when an element or component is referred to as "connected to", "coupled to", or "adjacent to" another element or component, it should be understood that the element or component can be directly connected or coupled to the other element or component, or there can be intermediate elements or components. That is, these terms and similar terms encompass situations where one or more intermediate elements or components can be employed to connect two elements or components. However, when an element or component is referred to as "directly connected" to another element or component, this only encompasses the situation where the two elements or components are connected to each other without any intermediate or intervening element or component.

[0014] Accordingly, through one or more of the various aspects, embodiments, and / or specific features or sub-components of the present disclosure, the present disclosure aims to provide one or more advantages as specifically pointed out below.

[0015] As described herein, two or more subsystems with different requirements for pressure and flow rate can be integrated in a system with central pumping while still being able to operate independently. The integration of two or more different fluid systems with a single pump drive system may result in space limitations and a reduction in the power consumption of components such as pumps and drive circuits. As a result, the same pump drive system can be used to integrate multiple subsystems, such as non-invasive blood pressure (NBP) pushing air and CO2 pulling air, using various flow reduction methods throughout the system and using the same air flow path to reduce the total power consumption and save space within the system.

[0016] Figure 1 An integrated multi-purpose pump system according to a representative embodiment is shown.

[0017] System 100 includes an input filter 102, a CO2 module / sensor 104, a funnel 110, a three-way valve 115, a Y-fitting 120, an input filter 122, a check valve 125, a pump 130, a manifold valve system 140, and a blood pressure subsystem 144.

[0018] Figure 1 System 100 in is simplified and includes a CO2 module / sensor 104 as a carbon dioxide monitoring module that requires the air exhaled by the patient to be aspirated through a chamber for CO2 measurement. This air is aspirated through the CO2 module / sensor 104 via a pump 130 on the distal side of system 100. At the same time, the blood pressure subsystem 144 can include a non-invasive blood pressure cuff that requires air to be pushed into a volume to inflate the blood pressure cuff. The pump 130 is used to push air to the blood pressure subsystem 144 and aspirate air for the CO2 module / sensor 104.

[0019] System 100 includes an input filter 102 located between the patient and the CO2 module / sensor 104 for filtering the air exhaled by the patient. The input filter 102 may include a first input filter. The input filter 102 conveys the filtered air to the CO2 module / sensor 104. The CO2 module / sensor 104 is an example of a first subsystem and specifically includes a carbon dioxide monitoring subsystem in an embodiment based on Figure 1 The CO2 module / sensor 104 may require a low flow rate of 60 mL / min and ambient pressure.

[0020] The CO2 module / sensor 104 outputs air through a funnel 110. The funnel 110 is an example of a gradually decreasing flow rate. In Figure 1 the flow rate output of the air from the CO2 module / sensor 104 gradually increases from the left side to the right side of the funnel 110. In Figure 1 the diameter of the funnel 110 gradually decreases from left to right through the funnel 110. In other words, the flow rate decreases from right to left in Figure 1 while the diameter of the funnel 110 gradually decreases from left to right in Figure 1 The funnel 110 has two ends, including a larger end with a larger cross-section on the left side and a smaller end with a smaller cross-section on the right side. The wider end of the funnel 110 is located at the input end for receiving the air output from the CO2 module / sensor 104. The funnel 110 may provide a continuous decrease in diameter or a series of steps to gradually reduce the diameter, thereby generating a higher pressure at the smaller end and a lower pressure at the larger end. For the low flow rate required by the CO2 module / sensor 104, the funnel 110 provides a flow rate reduction in the flow rate output between the CO2 module / sensor 104 and the pump 130.

[0021] The teachings herein are not limited to air as the flowing gas or liquid as air is used as a representative example. The teachings herein are also not limited to the combination of the CO2 module / sensor 104 and the blood pressure subsystem 144 as these types of devices are used as representative examples. The teachings herein are also not limited to gradually increasing or decreasing to the left side of the pump 130 as a stepping mechanism such as Figure 1 the funnel 110 in can apply one or more differentials in the flow path on either side of the pump 130. Additionally, while typical values are attributed to the requirements of the CO2 module / sensor 104 and the blood pressure subsystem 144, the flow rate may vary, for example, based on differences between different blood pressure cuffs and when the subject removes the blood pressure cuff.

[0022] The funnel 110 has a diameter that varies along the flow path to provide a first flow rate and a first pressure for the flow path to direct air to the CO2 module / sensor 104 on the first side of the funnel 110; and to provide a second flow rate and a second pressure for the flow path to direct air to the blood pressure subsystem 144 on the second side of the funnel 110 in the flow path, the second side being opposite the first side of the funnel 110 in the flow path. The first side of the funnel 110 may be on the left along the Figure 1 in the flow path, while the second side of the funnel 110 may be on the right along the Figure 1 in the flow path.

[0023] The air output from the narrower end of the funnel 110 is conveyed to the three-way valve 115. The three-way valve 115 outputs the CO2 exhaust to the exterior of the system 100 and conveys the filtered air from the funnel 110 to the Y-shaped fitting 120. The Y-shaped fitting 120 allows ambient air flow to enter from the exterior to obtain a higher flow rate required for the blood pressure subsystem 144. The Y-shaped fitting 120 mixes the filtered air from the three-way valve and the ambient air from the exterior and conveys the mixed air to the input filter 122. The input filter 122 may include a second input filter. The input filter 122 filters the mixed air and conveys the filtered air to the check valve 125. The check valve 125 is a one-way mechanism to convey air from the input filter 122 to the pump 130 without allowing any backflow from the pump 130.

[0024] The pump 130 pumps air into the manifold valve system 140. The manifold valve system 140 outputs the residual air and pressurizes the blood pressure subsystem 144. The manifold valve system 140 may include a plurality of pipes with different diameters to raise or lower the pressure of the blood pressure subsystem 144. The manifold valve system 140 may include a solid component having an internal chamber and channels for air to enter and be transferred to different locations, such as the blood pressure subsystem 144, a release valve, a pressure sensor, or other valves / sensors (if needed). The manifold valve system 140 may alternatively include a set of one or more hoses and one or more Y-shaped fittings for air to enter and be transferred to different locations.

[0025] The blood pressure subsystem 144 is an example of a second subsystem and may include an inflatable and deflatable blood pressure cuff. The blood pressure cuff may be inflated based on the pressure provided by the pump 130 through the manifold valve system 140. The blood pressure subsystem 144 may require a high flow rate of 0.6 L / min and a high pressure of 300 mmHg. The blood pressure subsystem 144 may require a pressure approximately 4 times higher than that of the CO2 module / sensor 104.

[0026] As Figure 1As shown, the system includes a pump 130 and a flow path that flows to the CO2 module / sensor 104 and to the blood pressure subsystem 144. The CO2 module / sensor 104 is a first subsystem that requires a first flow rate and a first pressure, while the blood pressure subsystem 144 is a second subsystem that requires a second flow rate different from the first flow rate and a second pressure different from the first pressure. The system 100 can be disposed in a room or cubicle in the intensive care unit (ICU) or emergency room (E / R) of a hospital. For example, when in a room or cubicle, the carbon dioxide of an object can be continuously monitored through the input of an input filter 102 at or around the nose or mouth. In addition to providing filtered air as an output to the funnel 110, the CO2 module / sensor 104 can be connected to a patient monitor (not shown) and provide readings thereto. When in a room or cubicle, the blood pressure readings of an object can also be periodically monitored through the blood pressure subsystem 144 at or around the arm. The blood pressure subsystem 144 can also be connected to a patient monitor (not shown) and provide readings thereto. The pump 130 and some other components can be disposed under the bed or on the wall behind the bed in the room or cubicle. In some embodiments, the pump 130 and other components can be disposed in a rolling cart monitoring system or can be mounted on a wall. In some embodiments, the system 100 can be provided as a transportable and compact handheld system.

[0027] Figure 2 Another integrated multi-purpose pump system according to a representative embodiment is shown.

[0028] The system 200 includes an input filter 202, a CO2 module / sensor 204, a nozzle 210, a three-way valve 215, a Y-fitting 220, an input filter 222, a check valve 225, a pump 230, a manifold valve system 240, and a blood pressure subsystem 244.

[0029] Figure 2 The system 200 in is simplified and includes a CO2 module / sensor 204 as a carbon dioxide monitoring subsystem that requires the air exhaled by a patient to be suctioned through a chamber for CO2 measurement. This air is suctioned through the CO2 module / sensor 204 via a pump 230 on the distal side of the system 200. At the same time, the blood pressure subsystem 244 can include a non-invasive blood pressure cuff that requires air to be pushed into a volume to inflate the blood pressure cuff. The pump 230 is used to push air to the blood pressure subsystem 244 and suction air for the CO2 module / sensor 204.

[0030] System 200 includes an input filter 202 located between the patient and the CO2 module / sensor 204 for filtering the air exhaled by the patient. The input filter 202 may include a first input filter. The input filter 202 conveys the filtered air to the CO2 module / sensor 204. The CO2 module / sensor 204 is an example of a first subsystem and specifically includes a carbon dioxide monitoring subsystem in embodiments based on Figure 2 and may require a low flow rate of 60 mL / min and ambient pressure.

[0031] The CO2 module / sensor 204 outputs air through a nozzle 210. The nozzle 210 is an example of a gradually decreasing flow rate. In Figure 2 , the flow rate output of the air from the CO2 module / sensor 204 gradually increases from the left side to the right side of the nozzle 210. In Figure 2 , the diameter of the nozzle 210 gradually decreases from left to right through the nozzle 210. In other words, the flow rate decreases from right to left in Figure 2 , while the diameter of the nozzle 210 gradually decreases from left to right in Figure 2 . The nozzle 210 has two ends, including a larger end with a larger cross-section and a smaller end with a smaller cross-section. The wider end of the nozzle 210 is located at the input end for receiving the air output from the CO2 module / sensor 204. The nozzle 210 can provide a continuous decrease in diameter or a series of steps to gradually decrease the diameter, thereby generating a higher pressure at the smaller end and a lower pressure at the larger end. For the lower flow rate required by the CO2 module / sensor 204, the nozzle 210 provides a decrease in the flow rate output between the CO2 module / sensor 204 and the pump 230.

[0032] The teachings herein are not limited to systems that move air, are not limited to using the nozzle 210 as a flow rate gradually decreasing mechanism, or are not limited to Figure 2 the number and type of subsystems shown. The teachings herein are also not limited to gradually increasing or decreasing to the left or right side of the pump 230, as a stepping mechanism such as Figure 2 the nozzle 210 in

[0033] can be used to impose one or more differentials in the flow path on either side of the pump 230. Additionally, while typical values are attributed to the requirements of the CO2 module / sensor 204 and the blood pressure subsystem 244, the local flow rate may vary, for example, based on differences between different blood pressure cuffs and when the subject removes the blood pressure cuff.The nozzle 210 has a diameter that varies along the flow path to provide a first flow rate and a first pressure for the flow path to direct air to the CO2 module / sensor 104 on the first side of the nozzle 210; and to provide a second flow rate and a second pressure for the flow path to direct air to the blood pressure subsystem 144 on the second side of the nozzle 210 in the flow path, the second side being opposite the first side of the nozzle 210 in the flow path. The first side of the nozzle 210 can be on the left along the Figure 2 flow path in, while the second side of the nozzle 210 can be on the right along the Figure 2 flow path in.

[0034] The air output from the narrower end of the nozzle 210 is conveyed to a three-way valve 215. The three-way valve 215 outputs the CO2 exhaust to the exterior of the system 200 and conveys the filtered air from the nozzle 210 to a Y-shaped fitting 220. The Y-shaped fitting 220 permits ambient air to flow from the exterior to obtain a higher flow rate required for the blood pressure subsystem 244. The Y-shaped fitting 220 mixes the filtered air from the three-way valve and the ambient air from the exterior and conveys the mixed air to an input filter 222. The input filter 222 can include a second input filter. The input filter 222 filters the mixed air and conveys the filtered air to a check valve 125. The check valve 225 is a one-way mechanism to convey air from the input filter 222 to the pump 230 without allowing any backflow from the pump 230.

[0035] The pump 230 pumps air into a manifold valve system 240. The manifold valve system outputs residual air and pressurizes the blood pressure subsystem 244. The manifold valve system 240 can include a plurality of pipes having different diameters to raise or lower the pressure of the blood pressure subsystem 144. The manifold valve system 240 can include a solid component having an internal chamber and channels for air to enter and be diverted to different locations, such as the blood pressure subsystem 244, a release valve, a pressure sensor, or other valves / sensors (if needed). The manifold valve system 240 can alternatively include a set of one or more hoses and one or more Y-shaped fittings for air to enter and be diverted to different locations.

[0036] The blood pressure subsystem 244 is an example of a second subsystem and can include an inflatable and deflatable blood pressure cuff. The blood pressure cuff can be inflated based on the pressure provided by the pump 230 through the manifold valve system 240. The blood pressure subsystem 244 may require a high flow rate of 0.6 L / min and a high pressure of 300 mmHg. The blood pressure subsystem 244 may require a pressure that is 4 times or 10 times greater than the pressure of the CO2 module / sensor 204.

[0037] As Figure 2As shown, the system includes a pump 230 and a flow path that flows to a CO2 module / sensor 104 and to a blood pressure subsystem 144. The CO2 module / sensor 104 is a first subsystem that requires a first flow rate and a first pressure, while the blood pressure subsystem 144 is a second subsystem that requires a second flow rate different from the first flow rate and a second pressure different from the first pressure. The system 200 can be disposed in a room or cubicle of a hospital's intensive care unit (ICU) or emergency room (E / R). For example, when in a room or cubicle, the carbon dioxide of an object can be continuously monitored through an input to an input filter 102 at or around the nose or mouth. In addition to providing filtered air output to a nozzle 210, the CO2 module / sensor 204 can be connected to a patient monitor (not shown) and provide readings thereto. When in a room or cubicle, the blood pressure readings of an object can also be periodically monitored through a blood pressure subsystem 244 at or around the arm. The blood pressure subsystem 244 can also be connected to a patient monitor (not shown) and provide readings thereto. The pump 230 and some other components can be disposed under a bed or on a wall behind the bed in a room or cubicle. In some embodiments, the system 200 can be provided as a transportable compact handheld system.

[0038] In Figure 2 an embodiment, the nozzle 210 replaces the Figure 1 funnel 110 of an embodiment. It should be clear that Figure 1 the features shown in the components of the system 100 in Figure 2 and the system 200 in

[0039] represent aspects taught herein. However, the integrated multi-purpose pump system is not limited to the components shown or the medical environment, let alone being used only with two subsystems such as a carbon dioxide monitoring subsystem and a blood pressure subsystem.

[0040] For at least two subsystems that require various different flow rates and pressures, the pump 230 causes air to flow through the flow path in the system 200 in both a push and a pull manner.

[0041] Figure 3 Another integrated multi-purpose pump system according to a representative embodiment is shown.

[0042] The system 300 includes an input filter 302, a CO2 module / sensor 304, a flow rate reducer 310, a three-way valve 315, a Y-shaped fitting 320, an input filter 322, a check valve 325, a pump 330, a manifold valve system 340, a blood pressure subsystem 344, a pump 350, an input filter 352, and a valve 360.

[0043] Figure 3 The system 300 in [description] is simplified and includes a CO2 module / sensor 304 as a carbon dioxide monitoring subsystem, which requires the air exhaled by the patient to be aspirated through a chamber for CO2 measurement. This air is aspirated through the CO2 module / sensor 304 via pumps 330 and 350 on the distal side of the system 300. At the same time, the blood pressure subsystem 344 may include a non-invasive blood pressure cuff, which requires air to be pushed into a volume to inflate the blood pressure cuff. Pumps 330 and 350 are used to push air to the blood pressure subsystem 344 and aspirate air for the CO2 module / sensor 304.

[0044] The system 300 includes an input filter 302 located between the patient and the CO2 module / sensor 304 for filtering the air exhaled by the patient. The input filter 302 may include a first input filter. The input filter 302 filters the air exhaled from the patient. The input filter 302 conveys the filtered air to the CO2 module / sensor 304. The CO2 module / sensor 304 is an example of a first subsystem and specifically includes a carbon dioxide monitoring subsystem in an embodiment based on Figure 3 The CO2 module / sensor 304 may require a low flow rate of 60 mL / min and ambient pressure.

[0045] The CO2 module / sensor 304 outputs air through a flow rate step-down device 310. The flow rate output of the air from the CO2 module / sensor 304 gradually increases from the left side to the right side of the flow rate step-down device 310. The diameter of the flow rate step-down device gradually decreases from left to right in Figure 3 In other words, the flow rate decreases from right to left in Figure 3 while the diameter of the funnel-shaped flow rate step-down device 310 gradually decreases from left to right in Figure 3 The flow rate step-down device 310 has two ends, including a smaller end with a smaller cross-section and a larger end with a larger cross-section. The wider end of the flow rate step-down device 310 is located at the input end for receiving the air output from the CO2 module / sensor 304. The flow rate step-down device 310 can provide a continuous decrease in diameter or a series of steps to gradually reduce the diameter, thereby generating a higher pressure at the smaller end and a lower pressure at the larger end. For the lower flow rate required by the CO2 module / sensor 304, the flow rate step-down device 310 provides a flow rate reduction between the CO2 module / sensor 304 and the pumps 330 and 350.

[0046] The flow rate step-down device 310 has a diameter that varies along the flow path to provide a first flow rate and a first pressure for the flow path to allow air to flow to the CO2 module / sensor 104 on the first side of the flow rate step-down device 310; and to provide a second flow rate and a second pressure for the flow path to allow air to flow to the blood pressure subsystem 144 on the second side of the flow rate step-down device 310 in the flow path, the second side being opposite the first side of the flow rate step-down device 310 in the flow path. The first side of the flow rate step-down device 310 can be on the left along the Figure 3 in the flow path, while the second side of the flow rate step-down device 310 can be on the right along the Figure 3 in the flow path.

[0047] The air output from the narrower end of the flow rate step-down device 310 is transmitted to the three-way valve 315. The Y-shaped fitting 320 allows ambient air to flow to obtain a higher flow rate required for the blood pressure subsystem 344. The three-way valve 315 outputs the CO2 exhaust to the outside of the system 300 and transmits the filtered air from the flow rate step-down device 310 to the Y-shaped fitting 320. The Y-shaped fitting 320 also receives ambient air from the outside. The Y-shaped fitting 320 mixes the filtered air from the three-way valve and the ambient air from the outside and transmits the mixed air to the input filter 322. The input filter 322 can include a second input filter. The input filter 322 filters the mixed air and transmits the filtered air to the check valve 325. The check valve 325 is a one-way mechanism to transmit air from the input filter 322 to the pump 330 without allowing any backflow from the pump 330.

[0048] The pump 330 pumps air into the manifold valve system 340. The manifold valve system 340 can include a solid component having an internal chamber and channels for allowing air to enter and be transferred to different locations, such as the blood pressure subsystem 344, a release valve, a pressure sensor, or other valves / sensors (if needed). The manifold valve system 340 can alternatively include a set of one or more hoses and one or more Y-shaped fittings for air to enter and be transferred to different locations. The manifold valve system 340 can include a plurality of pipes with different diameters to increase or decrease the pressure of the blood pressure subsystem 144.

[0049] The pump 350 also pumps air into the manifold valve system 340. The input filter 352 filters the ambient air input to the pump 350, and the valve 360 serves as an outlet for the air from the manifold valve system 340. The manifold valve system outputs the residual air and pressurizes the blood pressure subsystem 344. The blood pressure subsystem 344 is an example of a second subsystem and can include an inflatable and deflatable blood pressure cuff. The blood pressure cuff can be inflated based on the pressure provided by the pump 330 through the manifold valve system 340.

[0050] AsFigure 3 As shown, the system includes a pump 330 and a flow path that flows to a CO2 module / sensor 104 and to a blood pressure subsystem 144. The CO2 module / sensor 104 is a first subsystem that requires a first flow rate and a first pressure, while the blood pressure subsystem 144 is a second subsystem that requires a second flow rate different from the first flow rate and a second pressure different from the first pressure. System 300 can be disposed in a room or cubicle in a hospital's intensive care unit (ICU) or emergency room (E / R). For example, when in a room or cubicle, the carbon dioxide of an object can be continuously monitored through the input at or around the nose or mouth by the input filter 102. In addition to providing filtered air with a gradually decreasing flow rate to the flow rate reducer 310, the CO2 module / sensor 304 can be connected to a patient monitor (not shown) and provide readings thereto. When in a room or cubicle, the blood pressure readings of an object can also be periodically monitored through the blood pressure subsystem 344 at or around the arm. The blood pressure subsystem 344 can also be connected to a patient monitor (not shown) and provide readings thereto. The pump 330 and some other components can be disposed under the bed or on the wall behind the bed in the room or cubicle. In some embodiments, the pump 330, the pump 350, and other components can be disposed in a rolling cart monitoring system or can be mounted on the wall. In some embodiments, system 300 can be provided as a transportable compact handheld system.

[0051] In Figure 3 the embodiment, the flow rate reducer 310 replaces the funnel 110 and Figure 1 the nozzle 210 of the embodiment of Figure 2 and serves as a damper system. Additionally, the pump 350 is a second pump for providing pressure to the blood pressure subsystem 344 through the manifold valve system 340. The input filter 352 filters the ambient air provided to the pump 350. The valve 360 outputs the air from the manifold valve system 340. It should be clear that Figure 1 the features shown in the components of system 100 in Figure 2 the features shown in the components of system 200 in Figure 3 and the features shown in the components of system 300 in

[0052] represent aspects taught herein. However, the integrated multi-purpose pump system is not limited to the components shown or to the medical environment, let alone being used only with two systems such as a carbon dioxide monitoring subsystem and a blood pressure system.

[0053] Although only one pump is shown in the systems of Figure 1 and Figure 2 , and two pumps are shown in the system of Figure 3 , the number of pumps that can be used in an integrated pumping system for multiple application subsystems is not limited to one or two, but can be more than two. Additionally, although two subsystems are shown in the systems of Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 , the number of subsystems with different pressure and flow rate requirements is not limited to two, but can be more than two.

[0054] Figure 4 FIG. shows an operating method of an integrated multi-purpose pump system according to another representative embodiment.

[0055] At S410, exhaled air is received. The exhaled air can be received from the patient through a mouthpiece for a carbon dioxide monitor.

[0056] At S420, the exhaled air is filtered. The filtering can be performed by input filter 102, input filter 202, or input filter 302.

[0057] After filtering at S420, at S425, the filtered air is tested by sensing in a chamber (e.g., by CO2 module / sensor 104, CO2 module / sensor 204, or CO2 module / sensor 304).

[0058] At S430, the flow rate of the filtered exhaled air is gradually decreased. The flow rate output from the CO2 module / sensor of the filtered air can be gradually decreased by funnel 110, nozzle 210, or flow rate gradual reducer 310. That is, the flow rate can be decreased by passing the filtered exhaled air along the length of a flow path through ducts with different diameters. The diameter can be larger on the first side of the duct and smaller on the second side of the duct opposite the first side.

[0059] At S440, CO2 is discharged from the air with a gradually decreased flow rate. The CO2 can be discharged from three-way valve 115, three-way valve 215, or three-way valve 315.

[0060] At S450, the air with a gradually decreased flow rate is mixed with ambient air. The mixing can be performed at Y-shaped fitting 120, Y-shaped fitting 220, or Y-shaped fitting 320.

[0061] At S460, the mixed air is filtered. The filtering can be performed by input filter 122, input filter 222, or input filter 322.

[0062] At S470, the filtered mixed air passes through a check valve. The check valve can be implemented by check valve 125, check valve 225, or check valve 325. The check valve ensures air flow in one direction, i.e., from Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 the CO2 module sensors in each of them to the pump.

[0063] At S480, the air passing through the check valve is input into the pump. The air can be input into pump 130, pump 230, or pump 330.

[0064] At S490, pump pressure is provided to the pressure volume and residual air is output. The pump pressure can be provided to blood pressure subsystem 144 via manifold valve system 140, to blood pressure subsystem 244 via manifold valve system 240, or to blood pressure subsystem 344 via manifold valve system 340.

[0065] Additionally, in embodiments such as embodiments based on Figure 3 , one or more additional pumps (such as pump 350) can be used to provide pressure to a second subsystem (such as blood pressure subsystem 344) via manifold valve system 340. There can be more than 2 pumps in an integrated multi-purpose pump system. For example, 4 pumps can be used together, separately, or in subgroups greater than 1 and less than 4 to provide pressure to the second subsystem.

[0066] Although the teachings herein mainly use examples of non-invasive blood pressure subsystems and carbon dioxide monitoring subsystems, the integrated multi-purpose pump system is not limited to these example subsystems. For example, the integrated multi-purpose pump system can be used for non-invasive blood pressure subsystems and anesthesia subsystems as long as appropriate filtration is performed. Additionally, although systems 100, 200, and 300 are described in the context of suggesting simultaneous use of a first subsystem and a second subsystem, the first subsystem and the second subsystem are used independently and can be used at different times. In some embodiments, the first subsystem (such as CO2 module / sensor 104) can be continuously used for anesthetized patients, while the second subsystem (such as blood pressure subsystem 144) can be intermittently used for the same anesthetized patients.

[0067] Furthermore, there is no specific requirement that only one object uses different subsystems of a single integrated multi-purpose pump system. For example, as long as appropriate filtration is provided, multiple different objects can use the same pump or a set of pumps for different subsystems, such as blood pressure measurement and CO2 monitoring, even in a medical context. However, as should be clear in the context described herein, the same pump or a set of pumps is used to suck air on one side and push air on the other side.

[0068] Accordingly, the integrated multi-purpose pump system teachings provided herein enable the integration of a multi-purpose pump system including one or more pumps and flow paths. The flow paths direct air to a first subsystem that requires a first flow rate and a first pressure, and to a second subsystem that requires a second flow rate different from the first flow rate and a second pressure different from the first pressure.

[0069] Although the integrated multi-purpose pump system has been described with reference to several exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that the words used are descriptive and illustrative words, rather than restrictive words. Changes may be made within the scope of the claims, as presently set forth and modified, without departing from the scope and spirit of the aspects of the integrated multi-purpose pump system. Although the integrated multi-purpose pump system has been described with reference to specific devices, materials, and embodiments, the integrated multi-purpose pump system is not intended to be limited to the disclosed details; rather, the integrated multi-purpose pump system extends to all functionally equivalent structures, methods, and uses, such as within the scope of the claims.

[0070] The illustrations of the embodiments described herein are intended to provide a general understanding of the structures of the various embodiments. These illustrations are not intended to be a complete description of all elements and features of the present disclosure described herein. After reading this disclosure, many other embodiments may be apparent to those skilled in the art. Other embodiments may be utilized and derived from this disclosure such that structural and logical substitutions and changes may be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Additionally, the illustrations are merely representative and may not be drawn to scale. Some of the ratios within the illustrations may be exaggerated while others may be minimized. Accordingly, this disclosure and the drawings are considered to be illustrative rather than restrictive.

[0071] One or more embodiments of the present disclosure may be referred to herein individually and / or collectively as the "invention" merely for convenience and are not intended to voluntarily limit the scope of this application to any particular invention or inventive concept. Further, although specific embodiments have been shown and described herein, it should be understood that any subsequent arrangement designed to achieve the same or similar purpose may replace the specific embodiments shown. The present disclosure is intended to cover any and all subsequent adaptations or variations of the various embodiments. After reading the specification, combinations of the above embodiments and other embodiments not specifically described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0072] The abstract of the present disclosure is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. § 1.72(b) and is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Additionally, in the foregoing detailed description, for the purpose of simplifying the present disclosure, various features may be grouped together or described in a single embodiment. The present disclosure should not be construed as reflecting an intention that the claimed embodiments require more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as reflected in the following claims, the inventive subject matter may involve less than all of the features of any of the disclosed embodiments. Accordingly, the following claims are incorporated into the detailed description, where each claim independently defines a separately claimed subject matter.

[0073] The foregoing description of the disclosed embodiments is provided to enable a person skilled in the art to practice the concepts described in the present disclosure. Accordingly, the subject matter disclosed above will be considered illustrative and not restrictive, and the claims are intended to cover all such modifications, enhancements, and other embodiments that fall within the true spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, to the maximum extent permitted by law, the scope of the present disclosure will be determined by the broadest permissible interpretation of the claims and their equivalents and should not be limited or constrained by the foregoing detailed description.

Claims

1. An integrated multi-purpose pump system, comprising: At least one pump; And A flow path that allows air to flow to a first subsystem that requires a first flow rate and a first pressure, and to a second subsystem that requires a second flow rate different from the first flow rate and a second pressure different from the first pressure.

2. The integrated multi-purpose pump system according to claim 1, Among them, Wherein the at least one pump is centralized, and the integrated multi-purpose pump system is configured to operate the first subsystem and the second subsystem simultaneously.

3. The integrated multi-purpose pump system according to claim 1, further comprising: The first subsystem, wherein the first subsystem includes a carbon dioxide monitoring subsystem, The second subsystem, wherein the second subsystem includes a blood pressure subsystem.

4. The integrated multi-purpose pump system according to claim 1, Among them, Wherein the flow path is configured to push air to the first subsystem and suck air from the second subsystem.

5. The integrated multi-purpose pump system according to claim 1, wherein, The flow path is configured to modify the flow rate output from the first subsystem at the first flow rate to the second flow rate.

6. The integrated multi-purpose pump system according to claim 5, wherein, The flow path includes at least one funnel to reduce the flow rate output from the pump.

7. The integrated multi-purpose pump system according to claim 5, wherein, The flow path includes at least one nozzle to reduce the flow rate output from the pump.

8. The integrated multi-use pump system according to claim 3, wherein, The carbon dioxide monitoring subsystem sucks the air exhaled by the patient through a chamber for CO2 measurement, and the blood pressure subsystem inflates the cuff.

9. The integrated multi-purpose pump system according to claim 8, further comprising: A first filter located between the pump and the carbon dioxide monitoring subsystem to filter the air exhaled by the patient; And A fitting for supplementing the air exhaled by the patient with ambient air.

10. The integrated multi-purpose pump system according to claim 9, further comprising: A check valve configured to restrict the air flow from the pump to the fitting.

11. The integrated multi-purpose pump system according to claim 10, further comprising: A manifold valve system located between the pump and the blood pressure subsystem.

12. The integrated multi-purpose pump system according to claim 8, further comprising: A damper system configured to reduce the flow rate output from the carbon dioxide monitoring subsystem to the pump.

13. The integrated multi-purpose pump system according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one pump includes a plurality of pumps.

14. A method of operating an integrated multi-purpose pump system, comprising: Receiving and filtering the exhaled air; Gradually reducing the flow rate of the exhaled air; Mixing the exhaled air with ambient air to obtain an air mixture; Filtering the air mixture; Passing the air mixture through a check valve; Inputting the air mixture into a pump; And Using the air mixture to apply pressure to a pressure volume.

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein, The exhaled air is received in a flow path that allows air to flow to a first subsystem that requires a first flow rate and a first pressure, and the pressure volume is pressurized to a second pressure different from the first pressure.

16. An integrated multi-purpose pump system, comprising: At least one pump; And A duct having a diameter that varies along a flow path so as to provide a first flow rate and a first pressure for the flow path to direct air to a first subsystem on a first side of the duct in the flow path and so as to provide a second flow rate and a second pressure for the flow path to direct air to a second subsystem on a second side of the duct in the flow path, the second side being opposite the first side of the duct in the flow path.

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