Dryer unit, breath detection system and exhaled nitric oxide detection system

Abstract

The application relates to a drying unit, an exhalation detection system and an exhaled breath nitric oxide detection system, and relates to the field of detection systems. The drying unit comprises a drying pipe, a sleeve pipe and two mounting assemblies; the drying pipe is arranged as a water vapor permeation membrane pipe; the sleeve pipe is sleeved on the drying pipe, and a sweeping channel is formed between the inner wall of the sleeve pipe and the outer wall of the drying pipe, the sweeping channel being used for inputting flowing sweeping gas; the two mounting assemblies are respectively mounted at the two ends of the drying pipe and are respectively connected with the two ends of the sleeve pipe; the mounting assembly is provided with a first channel and a second channel, the first channel being in communication with the inside of the drying pipe, and the second channel being in communication with the sweeping channel. The drying unit provided by the application solves the technical problems of poor drying effect of an exhaled breath analyzer, frequent replacement of a drying agent or introduction of additional impurities in the prior art.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of detection systems, and more specifically, to a drying unit, an exhaled breath detection system, and an exhaled nitric oxide detection system. Background Technology

[0002] A breath analyzer collects a user's exhaled breath and detects the content of one or more specific components in the breath, thereby obtaining some clinically significant values.

[0003] Users' exhaled breath usually has high humidity, so current breath analyzers generally encounter problems such as high humidity in the sampling path and the gas being tested dissolving in water vapor. For most gas component detection units, humidity and water vapor will have an adverse effect on the detection results and the effective life of the detection unit.

[0004] Current technologies often address these issues by using a desiccant, such as silica gel or potassium permanganate, pre-drying the gas before sampling. However, desiccants are consumables, and factors like the frequency of use and ambient humidity accelerate their consumption. This necessitates frequent observation of the desiccant's color change to determine its lifespan and replacement, leading to operational inconvenience. Some desiccants, while removing moisture, also adsorb components from exhaled gas, affecting test results. Furthermore, the drying effect is influenced by the dosage and contact time between the gas and desiccant, and breath analyzers typically cannot accommodate sufficient space for desiccants, resulting in poor drying. Additionally, common desiccants are granular, containing powder, or generated by vibration during use. A filter is usually installed at the end of the desiccant to prevent powder from entering the analyzer. However, this filter may fail over time, allowing powder to enter the downstream gas path, negatively impacting detection accuracy and potentially clogging the gas path, causing equipment damage. Utility Model Content

[0005] The purpose of this application is to provide a drying unit, a breath detection system, and an exhaled nitric oxide detection system to alleviate the technical problems of poor drying effect, frequent desiccant replacement, or introduction of additional impurities in the prior art of breath analyzers.

[0006] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the technical solution provided by this utility model is as follows:

[0007] Firstly, the drying unit provided by this utility model includes a drying tube, a sleeve, and two mounting components;

[0008] The drying tube is configured as a water vapor permeation membrane tube, the sleeve is sleeved on the drying tube, and a purge channel is formed between the inner wall of the sleeve and the outer wall of the drying tube, the purge channel being used to input flowing purge gas;

[0009] The two mounting components are respectively mounted on both ends of the drying tube and respectively connected to both ends of the sleeve;

[0010] The mounting assembly has a first channel and a second channel, the first channel being in communication with the interior of the drying tube, and the second channel being in communication with the purging channel.

[0011] Furthermore, the flow direction of the purging gas in the purging channel is opposite to the flow direction of the gas in the drying tube.

[0012] Furthermore, the mounting assembly includes a connecting pipe, a sealing end cap, and a tee connector;

[0013] The first end of the tee is fitted onto the drying tube, the sleeve is fitted onto the first end of the tee, and the side wall of the tee is provided with the second channel.

[0014] The connecting pipe is located inside the tee joint, and the first end of the connecting pipe is fitted with the drying pipe. The sealing end cap is connected to the second end of the tee joint and inserted into the second end of the connecting pipe. The sealing end cap is provided with the first channel.

[0015] Secondly, the exhalation detection system provided by this utility model includes an air intake passage, a detection unit, an air outlet passage, a drive component, and a drying unit;

[0016] The air intake passage, the detection unit, and the air outlet passage are connected in sequence;

[0017] The drive assembly includes a first drive element, which is installed in the air outlet passage.

[0018] The drying unit includes a drying tube and a sleeve. The drying tube is installed in the air inlet passage. The sleeve is fitted onto the drying tube, and a purge channel is formed between the sleeve and the drying tube. The purge channel is used to input flowing purge gas. The drying tube is configured as a water vapor permeation membrane tube.

[0019] Furthermore, the flow direction of the purging gas in the purging channel is opposite to the flow direction of the gas in the intake passage.

[0020] Furthermore, one end of the purging channel is a purging gas inlet, and the other end is a purging gas outlet; the purging gas inlet is connected to the external environment, and the purging gas outlet is connected to the gas outlet passage.

[0021] The drive assembly includes a second drive member, which is connected downstream of the purge gas outlet; or, the downstream of the purge gas outlet is connected to the first drive member.

[0022] Furthermore, the upstream of the purge gas inlet is connected to a flow-limiting device.

[0023] Thirdly, the exhaled nitric oxide detection system provided by this utility model includes an ozone path, an inlet path, an outlet path, a sampling path, a detection unit, and a drying unit;

[0024] The ozone path, the air inlet path, and the air outlet path are all connected to the detection unit, and the sampling path is connected to the air inlet path; the air outlet path is equipped with a drive component.

[0025] The air intake passage and the ozone passage are both equipped with the drying unit;

[0026] The drying unit includes a drying tube and a sleeve. The drying tube is installed in the air inlet passage or the ozone passage. The sleeve is fitted onto the drying tube, and a purge channel is formed between the sleeve and the drying tube. The purge channel is used to input flowing purge gas. The drying tube is configured as a water vapor permeation membrane tube.

[0027] Furthermore, the drive assembly includes a first drive member, which is mounted on the air outlet passage;

[0028] The purge air outlet in the purge channel of the air intake passage is connected to the air outlet passage and to the first driving component.

[0029] Alternatively, the drive assembly may further include a second drive member, wherein the downstream of the purge gas outlet in the purge channel of the air intake passage is connected to the second drive member.

[0030] Furthermore, the exhaled nitric oxide detection system includes a branch gas path, one end of which is connected to the ozone gas path, and the other end is connected to the purge gas inlet in the purge channel installed in the ozone gas path, and the purge gas outlet in the purge channel installed in the ozone gas path is in fluid communication with the exhaust passage.

[0031] The purge gas inlet of the purge channel in the air intake passage is connected to the external environment; or, the purge gas inlet of the purge channel in the air intake passage is connected to the purge gas outlet of the purge channel in the drying unit of the ozone gas path.

[0032] Furthermore, the sampling pathway includes a breathing sub-path, an inspiratory sub-path, and an expiratory auxiliary pathway, wherein one end of the breathing sub-path is used to communicate with the human airway, and the other end is connected to the inhalation pathway;

[0033] One end of the inspiratory sub-path is connected to the respiratory sub-path, and the other end is connected to the external environment;

[0034] The expiratory support pathway includes a solenoid valve, a flow controller, a flow restrictor, and an electronic lock connected in parallel. One end of each of the solenoid valve, the flow controller, the flow restrictor, and the electronic lock is connected to the external environment, and the other end is connected in parallel to the respiratory sub-pathway.

[0035] Based on the above technical solutions, the technical effects achievable by this utility model can be analyzed as follows:

[0036] The drying unit provided by this utility model includes a drying tube, a sleeve, and two mounting components. The drying tube is configured as a water vapor permeation membrane tube, and the sleeve is fitted onto the drying tube, with a purge channel formed between the inner wall of the sleeve and the outer wall of the drying tube. The purge channel is used to input flowing purge gas. The two mounting components are respectively installed at both ends of the drying tube and connected to both ends of the sleeve. Each mounting component has a first channel and a second channel. The first channel communicates with the interior of the drying tube, and the second channel communicates with the purge channel. This drying unit can be connected to a pipeline that requires drying of internal gas. The two mounting components are respectively connected to the pipeline, allowing the gas in the pipeline to flow sequentially through the first channel of one mounting component, the interior of the drying tube, and the first channel of the other mounting component. The sleeve is fitted onto the outer wall of the drying tube, with a gap between the inner wall of the sleeve and the outer wall of the drying tube, forming a purge channel; purge gas flows within the purge channel. The drying tube is a water vapor permeation membrane tube, which selectively allows water vapor in the gas to permeate through its wall to the outside while effectively blocking other components in the gas, such as oxygen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, and target analytes. The mounting assembly allows the drying tube to be located within a sleeve, and enables the drying unit to be connected to other pipelines. When gas in a pipeline with the drying unit installed passes through the drying tube, the water vapor in the gas is transferred from inside the drying tube to the outer wall and carried away by the purge gas flowing in the purge channel. This achieves the drying of the gas in the pipeline. Compared to traditional desiccants, this drying unit does not contain consumable materials, does not require frequent replacement, and will not react with certain components of the gas in the pipeline, thus not affecting the detection results. It also provides better drying performance and does not produce powder that could affect the lifespan of the system with the drying unit installed. Attached Figure Description

[0037] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments of this application will be briefly introduced below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of this application and should not be regarded as a limitation of the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0038] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the drying unit provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0039] Figure 2 An exploded view of the drying unit provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0040] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the breath detection system provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0041] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of the exhaled nitric oxide detection system provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 1 ;

[0042] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the structure of the exhaled nitric oxide detection system provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 2 .

[0043] icon:

[0044] 1-Drying tube; 11-First pagoda head;

[0045] 2-Casing; 21-Purge passage;

[0046] 3-Installation component; 31-First channel; 32-Second channel; 33-Connecting pipe; 34-Sealing end cap; 341-Third pagoda head; 342-Second limiting protrusion; 343-Through hole; 35-Tee connector; 351-Second pagoda head; 352-First limiting protrusion; 353-Threaded hole; 354-Connecting post; 36-Sealing ring; 37-Screw;

[0047] 4-Current limiting components;

[0048] 51-Intake passage; 52-Detection unit; 53-Outtake passage; 531-First driving component;

[0049] 61-Ozone gas path; 611-Ozone preparation device; 612-Air filter; 62-Sampling path; 63-Branch gas path; 621-Respiratory sub-path; 622-Inspiratory sub-path; 623-Exhalation auxiliary path; 624-Solenoid valve; 625-Flow controller; 626-Flow limiter; 627-Electronic lock. Detailed Implementation

[0050] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. The components of the embodiments of this application described and shown in the accompanying drawings can generally be arranged and designed in various different configurations.

[0051] In the description of this application, it should be noted that the terms "inner" and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, or the orientation or positional relationship commonly used when the product is in use. They are used only for the convenience of describing this application and for simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," etc., are used only to distinguish descriptions and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0052] In the description of this application, it should also be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "setup" and "connection" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0053] Example 1

[0054] See Figure 1 and Figure 2 The drying unit provided in this embodiment of the utility model includes a drying tube 1, a sleeve 2, and two mounting components 3. The drying tube 1 is configured as a water vapor permeation membrane tube, and the sleeve 2 is sleeved on the drying tube 1. A purge channel 21 is formed between the inner wall of the sleeve 2 and the outer wall of the drying tube 1. The purge channel 21 is used to input flowing purge gas. The two mounting components 3 are respectively installed at both ends of the drying tube 1 and respectively connected to both ends of the sleeve 2. The mounting components 3 have a first channel 31 and a second channel 32. The first channel 31 communicates with the interior of the drying tube 1, and the second channel 32 communicates with the purge channel 21.

[0055] Specifically, the water vapor permeation membrane tube is preferably a Nafion™ drying tube 1. It should be noted that the function of this water vapor permeation membrane tube is not limited to a specific material, brand, or model; any tubular or hollow fiber membrane structure capable of achieving the aforementioned selective water vapor permeation function is applicable to this application. For example, the water vapor permeation membrane tube can be selected from, but is not limited to, the following material types: membrane tubes made of other perfluorosulfonic acid or perfluorocarboxylic acid ionomers (such as Aquivion™, Flemion™, Aciplex™, etc.); membrane tubes made of partially fluorinated or non-fluorosulfonated ionomers (such as sulfonated polyether ether ketone (SPEEK), sulfonated polysulfone (SPSU), sulfonated polyether sulfone (SPES), etc.); and membrane tubes made of nonionic polymer materials (such as polyether-polyamide block copolymers (Pebax®), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), hydrophilic polyimide, or hydrophilic modified polysulfone / polyether sulfone, etc.). Hydrophilic permeable membrane tubes; composite permeable membrane tubes made of microporous substrates with dense hydrophilic coatings (such as hydrophilic-coated modified polypropylene (PP), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) microporous tubes / hollow fibers); membrane tubes made of polyelectrolyte multilayer membranes (PEM) or organic-inorganic hybrid membranes (such as polymer matrix membranes containing hydrophilic nano-silica (SiO2), titanium dioxide (TiO2), or metal-organic framework (MOF) particles); membrane tubes made of elastomer materials such as silicone rubber with special hydrophilic modification; or other existing or future-developed tubular structures of membrane materials with selective water vapor permeation function. Furthermore, the axis of the sleeve 2 is collinear with the axis of the drying tube 1, making the purging channel 21 uniform.

[0056] The drying unit can be connected to a pipeline that requires drying of the internal gas. Two mounting components 3 are respectively connected to the pipeline, allowing the gas in the pipeline to flow sequentially through the first channel 31 of one mounting component 3, the interior of the drying tube 1, and the first channel 31 of the other mounting component 3. A sleeve 2 is fitted onto the outer wall of the drying tube 1, with a gap between the inner wall of the sleeve 2 and the outer wall of the drying tube 1, forming a purge channel 21; purge gas flows within the purge channel 21. The drying tube 1 is a water vapor permeation membrane tube, which selectively allows water vapor in the gas to permeate through its tube wall to the outside, while effectively blocking other components in the gas, such as oxygen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, and target analytes. The mounting components 3 ensure that the drying tube 1 is located inside the sleeve 2 and that the drying unit can be connected to other pipelines. When gas in a pipeline equipped with a drying unit passes through the drying tube 1, the water vapor in the gas is transferred from inside the drying tube 1 to the outer wall of the drying tube 1 and carried away by the purge gas flowing in the purge channel 21. This achieves the drying of the gas in the pipeline. Compared with the traditional desiccant method, this drying unit does not contain consumable materials, does not require frequent replacement, and will not react with certain components of the gas in the pipeline, thus not affecting the detection effect. At the same time, it has a better drying effect and will not produce powder that affects the lifespan of the system equipped with the drying unit.

[0057] The structure of the drying unit is described in detail below:

[0058] In the optional embodiment of this utility model, the flow direction of the purging gas in the purging channel 21 is opposite to the flow direction of the gas in the drying tube 1.

[0059] Specifically, the sleeve 2 is made of silicone material; purge gas is introduced into the purge gas inlet of the purge channel 21; or, purge gas is drawn out from the purge gas outlet of the purge channel 21 to achieve purge gas flow in the purge channel 21, and the flow direction of the purge gas in the purge channel 21 is opposite to the flow direction of the gas in the drying tube 1 by controlling the purge gas inlet to be opposite to the output outlet of the drying tube 1.

[0060] Compared to co-current airflow, reverse airflow is more effective at drying. Reverse purging maintains a high-efficiency humidity gradient along the entire pipe length, increasing the rate and time of moisture exchange, thus resulting in better drying.

[0061] In the optional solution provided by this utility model embodiment, one end of the drying tube 1 is an input port and the other end is an output port; the second channel 32 of the mounting component 3 installed at the input port of the drying tube 1 is connected to a driving component downstream.

[0062] Specifically, in this text, "upstream" refers to the position where the fluid flows through the corresponding channel before the downstream; conversely, "downstream" refers to the position where the fluid flows through the corresponding channel after the upstream. For example, the downstream connection of the second channel 32 of the mounting component 3 installed at the inlet of the drying tube 1 to the driving component means that the purge gas flows through the second channel 32 before flowing through the driving component. In this embodiment, the purge gas inlet of the purge channel 21 is connected to the external environment, and the purge gas outlet is connected to the driving component; the driving component includes a vacuum pump. As one implementation, the drying unit has a separate vacuum pump connected to the purge channel 21, facilitating individual control of the purge gas flow rate, etc. As another implementation, the drying unit is applied to a breathalyzer system. The drying unit and the outlet channel of the breathalyzer system share a single vacuum pump, enabling the same vacuum pump to perform multiple functions, thereby achieving functional integration and reducing the system design complexity of the breathalyzer system.

[0063] A vacuum pump is used to create a negative pressure in the purge channel 21, thereby allowing the purge gas to flow and carry away the water vapor on the outside of the drying tube 1.

[0064] In the optional solution provided by this utility model embodiment, the second channel 32 of the mounting assembly 3 installed at the output port of the drying tube 1 is connected upstream to the flow limiting component 4.

[0065] Specifically, the flow restrictor 4 includes an air resistance, which is used to limit the flow rate of the purge air entering the purge channel 21.

[0066] This drying unit is used in an exhaled breath detection system. The driving force for the transfer of moisture in the drying tube 1 is the humidity difference between its inner and outer sides. The purge channel 21 is located outside the drying tube 1. The gas in the purge channel 21 comes from the ambient air, and the humidity of the ambient air is lower than that of the exhaled breath. Therefore, a humidity difference is formed between the inner and outer sides of the drying tube 1, causing moisture in the exhaled breath inside the drying tube 1 to be continuously transferred to the purge channel 21. At the same time, with the cooperation of the upstream flow restrictor 4 and the downstream vacuum pump, a negative pressure and continuous airflow are formed in the purge channel 21, which carries away the moisture on the outside of the drying tube 1, thus enhancing the drying effect.

[0067] In the optional solutions provided by the embodiments of this utility model, see Figure 1 and Figure 2 The installation assembly 3 includes a connecting pipe 33, a sealing end cap 34, and a tee connector 35; the first end of the tee connector 35 is fitted onto the drying pipe 1, the sleeve 2 is fitted onto the first end of the tee connector 35, and the side wall of the tee connector 35 is provided with a second channel 32; the connecting pipe 33 is located inside the tee connector 35, and the first end of the connecting pipe 33 is fitted onto the drying pipe 1; the sealing end cap 34 is connected to the second end of the tee connector 35 and inserted into the second end of the connecting pipe 33; the sealing end cap 34 is provided with a first channel 31.

[0068] Specifically, both ends of the drying tube 1 are provided with a first pagoda head 11; the first end of the tee connector 35 is provided with a second pagoda head 351, and the outer wall is provided with an outwardly protruding first limiting protrusion 352 and a connecting post 354, the connecting post 354 being located between the first limiting protrusion 352 and the second pagoda head 351; the connecting post 354 forms a second channel 32 for connecting with the drive assembly or the current limiting component 4; the sealing end cap 34 is provided with a third pagoda head 341 at the end opposite to the connecting tube 33, and the outer wall is provided with an outwardly protruding second limiting protrusion 342. The connecting tube 33 is made of silicone. The drying tube 1 is placed inside the silicone sleeve 2, with a pre-existing gap between the inner diameter of the sleeve 2 and the outer diameter of the drying tube 1 to form a purge channel 21. Both ends of the sleeve 2 are connected to the second pagoda head 351 of the tee connector 35. The first pagoda heads 11 at both ends of the drying tube 1 are connected to two connecting tubes 33 respectively. One end of the sealing end cap 34 is connected to the end of the connecting tube 33 away from the drying tube 1. The third pagoda head 341 of the sealing end cap 34 is used to connect to the air intake passage 51 in the breath detection system, so that the drying unit is connected in series in the air intake passage 51. The second limiting protrusion 342 of the sealing end cap 34 fits against the first limiting protrusion 352 of the tee connector 35, and the second limiting protrusion 342 is provided with a through hole 343. The first limiting protrusion 352 is provided with a threaded hole 353. The screw 37 passes through the through hole 343 and is threaded into the threaded hole 353. Furthermore, a sealing ring 36 is sandwiched between the second end of the tee connector 35 and the sealing end cap 34. The sealing end cap 34 is connected to the tee connector 35 to press the sealing ring 36, thereby sealing the circuit. Preferably, the second end of the tee connector 35 is provided with a groove, and the sealing ring 36 is embedded in the groove.

[0069] Mounting component 3 connects drying tube 1 to sleeve 2 and allows drying tube 1 to be connected to other pipelines; sealing ring 36 seals the inside of mounting component 3 to prevent gas leakage.

[0070] Example 2

[0071] See Figure 3 The exhalation detection system provided in this embodiment includes an air inlet passage 51, a detection unit 52, an air outlet passage 53, a drive assembly, and a drying unit; the air inlet passage 51, the detection unit 52, and the air outlet passage 53 are connected in sequence; the drive assembly includes a first drive member 531, which is installed in the air outlet passage 53; the drying unit includes a drying tube 1 and a sleeve 2, with the drying tube 1 installed in the air inlet passage 51; the sleeve 2 is sleeved on the drying tube 1, and a purge channel 21 is formed between the sleeve 2 and the drying tube 1, which is used to input flowing purge gas; the drying tube 1 is configured as a water vapor permeation membrane tube.

[0072] Specifically, the air intake passage 51 is used to introduce the gas to be detected, such as exhaled gas. The detection unit 52 is connected downstream of the air intake passage 51 and is used to detect the analyte in the exhaled gas. The air outlet passage 53 is connected downstream of the detection unit 52 and is used to discharge the detected gas. The driving assembly includes a first driving element 531, which is configured as a vacuum pump to drive the flow of gas in the exhaled gas detection system. The drying unit is arranged in the air intake passage 51 and is used to dry the exhaled gas passing through the air intake passage 51. The drying unit includes a drying tube 1 and a sleeve 2. Both ends of the drying tube 1 enter the air intake passage 51, that is, the exhaled gas entering the air intake passage 51 will flow through the drying tube 1; the sleeve 2 is sleeved on the outer wall of the drying tube 1, and a gap is left between the inner wall of the sleeve 2 and the outer wall of the drying tube 1 to form a purge channel 21. The drying tube 1 is a water vapor permeation membrane tube. The core function of the water vapor permeation membrane tube is to selectively allow water vapor in the gas to permeate through its wall to the external environment, while effectively blocking other components in the gas, such as oxygen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, and target analytes. In this embodiment, the drying tube 1 is connected to the sleeve 2 via the mounting assembly 3 described in Embodiment 1, and can also be connected in series in the air inlet passage 51. The specific structure of the mounting assembly 3 will not be described in detail here. The material of the water vapor permeation membrane tube is the same as that described in Embodiment 1, and will not be described in detail here.

[0073] When the exhaled gas in the intake passage 51 passes through the drying tube 1, the water vapor in the exhaled gas is transferred from inside the drying tube 1 to the outer wall of the drying tube 1 and carried away by the flowing gas in the purge passage 21. This achieves the drying of the exhaled gas in the intake passage. Compared with the traditional desiccant method, the solution of this application does not contain consumable substances, does not require frequent replacement, and will not react with the gas components in the exhaled gas, thus not affecting the detection effect. At the same time, it has a better drying effect and will not produce powder that affects the system life.

[0074] In the optional solution provided by this utility model embodiment, the flow direction of the purging gas in the purging channel 21 is opposite to the gas flow direction in the air inlet passage 51.

[0075] Specifically, the gas flow direction in the intake passage 51 is the same as the gas flow direction in the drying tube 1; one end of the drying tube 1 is the input port, and the other end is the output port; one end of the purge channel 21 is the purge gas input port, and the other end is the purge gas output port; the purge gas input port is located at one end of the output port of the drying tube 1, and the purge gas output port is located at one end of the input port of the drying tube 1, so that the purge gas flow direction in the purge channel 21 is opposite to the gas flow direction in the drying tube 1. In a first embodiment, a pump is installed at the purge gas output port of the purge channel 21 to evacuate the purge channel 21, creating a negative pressure within the purge channel 21, thus ensuring that purge gas flows within the purge channel 21. In a second embodiment, a pump is installed at the purge gas input port of the purge channel 21 to blow air into the purge channel 21, thus ensuring that purge gas flows within the purge channel 21. This embodiment uses the first embodiment to ensure that purge gas flows within the purge channel 21.

[0076] Compared to co-current airflow, reverse airflow is more effective at drying. Reverse purging maintains a high-efficiency humidity gradient along the entire pipe length, increasing the rate and time of moisture exchange, thus resulting in better drying performance.

[0077] In the optional solution provided by this utility model embodiment, one end of the purge channel 21 is a purge gas inlet and the other end is a purge gas outlet; the purge gas inlet is connected to the external environment and the purge gas outlet is connected to the gas outlet passage 53; the driving component includes a second driving member, which is connected downstream of the purge gas outlet.

[0078] Specifically, both the first driving component 531 and the second driving component are configured as vacuum pumps; the second driving component is used to create a negative pressure in the purge channel 21, so that the gas in the external environment continuously flows into the purge channel 21 to form flowing purge gas.

[0079] The second driving member is connected to the purge channel 21 and is used to form a flow of purge gas in the purge channel 21.

[0080] In another implementation, one end of the purge channel 21 is a purge gas inlet and the other end is a purge gas outlet; the purge gas inlet is connected to the external environment, and the purge gas outlet is connected to the exhaust passage 53; the downstream of the purge gas outlet is connected to the first drive member 531.

[0081] Specifically, the drying unit shares the first drive component 531 with the entire exhalation detection system. The first drive component 531 is located on the air outlet passage 53. The purge gas outlet of the purge channel 21 is connected downstream to the first drive component 531, and the purge gas inlet of the purge channel 21 is connected to the external environment.

[0082] This implementation allows the same first driving component 531 to have multiple functions, achieving functional integration and reducing system design complexity.

[0083] Based on the above two arrangements of the purge gas outlet of the purge channel 21, the upstream of the purge gas inlet is connected to the flow-limiting component 4.

[0084] Specifically, a flow restrictor 4 is arranged upstream of the purge gas inlet of the purge channel 21 to limit the flow rate of gas from the external environment entering the purge channel 21. The flow restrictor 4 includes an air resistance.

[0085] The driving force for transferring moisture in the drying tube 1 is the humidity difference between its inner and outer sides. The purge channel 21 is located outside the drying tube 1. The purge air in the purge channel 21 comes from the ambient air, and the humidity of the ambient air is lower than that of the exhaled air. Therefore, a humidity difference is formed between the inner and outer sides of the drying tube 1, causing moisture in the exhaled air inside the drying tube 1 to be continuously transferred to the purge channel 21. At the same time, with the cooperation of the upstream flow restrictor 4 and the downstream drive assembly, a negative pressure and continuous airflow are formed in the purge channel 21, which carries away the moisture on the outside of the drying tube 1, thus enhancing the drying effect.

[0086] Example 3

[0087] The exhaled nitric oxide detection system provided in this embodiment includes an ozone gas path 61, an air inlet path 51, an air outlet path 53, a sampling path 62, a detection unit 52, and a drying unit. The ozone gas path 61, air inlet path 51, and air outlet path 53 are all connected to the detection unit 52, and the sampling path 62 is connected to the air inlet path 51. A drive assembly is installed in the air outlet path 53. Drying units are installed in both the air inlet path 51 and the ozone gas path 61. The drying unit includes a drying tube 1 and a sleeve 2. The drying tube 1 is installed in the air inlet path 51 or the ozone gas path 61. The sleeve 2 is sleeved on the drying tube 1, and a purge channel 21 is formed between the sleeve 2 and the drying tube 1. The purge channel 21 is used to input flowing purge gas. The drying tube 1 is configured as a water vapor permeation membrane tube.

[0088] Specifically, the detection unit 52 includes a reaction end and a photomultiplier tube. The reaction end undergoes a chemiluminescence reaction, and the photomultiplier tube is used to capture the photons generated by the reaction. An ozone gas path 61 is used to supply gas containing at least ozone to the reaction end of the detection unit 52; an air inlet path 51 is used to supply gas containing at least human exhaled air to the reaction end of the detection unit 52; an air outlet path 53 is used to discharge waste gas; and a sampling path 62 is used to collect human exhaled air and is connected to the air inlet path 51. Both the air inlet path 51 and the ozone gas path 61 are equipped with the drying unit described in Example 1.

[0089] For breath detection systems based on chemiluminescence, the moisture in the high-humidity gas collected by sampling passage 62 reacts with nitrogen oxides generated in the ozone generator to produce nitric acid, which corrodes the coating inside the reaction chamber. With use, this also generates white deposits that adhere to the glass lens inside the reaction chamber, affecting detection accuracy and reducing the machine's lifespan. This embodiment reduces the moisture content of the exhaled gas entering the machine through a drying unit at the air intake passage 51, thereby improving detection accuracy and extending the machine's effective lifespan.

[0090] In the optional solutions provided by the embodiments of this utility model, see Figure 4 and Figure 5 The ozone circuit 61 is equipped with an ozone generating device 611 and an air filter 612. The air filter 612 is located upstream of the drying unit. The drying unit is located upstream of the ozone generating device 611.

[0091] Specifically, after passing through the drying unit, the air enters the ozone preparation device 611, where the O2 in the air is converted into O3, and then introduced into the reaction end through the ozone inlet of the reaction end of the detection unit 52.

[0092] Air filter 612 is used to filter particulate matter in the intake air to avoid affecting the service life and effectiveness of the structures in the subsequent passage.

[0093] In the optional solution provided by this utility model embodiment, the exhaled nitric oxide detection system includes a branch gas path 63. One end of the branch gas path 63 is connected to the ozone gas path 61, and the other end is connected to the purge gas inlet in the purge channel 21 installed in the ozone gas path 61. The purge gas outlet in the purge channel 21 installed in the ozone gas path 61 is in fluid communication with the exhaust passage 53.

[0094] Specifically, the inlet of branch gas path 63 is located on ozone gas path 61 between the drying unit and the ozone preparation device 611, and the outlet of branch gas path 63 is connected to the purge gas inlet of the drying unit; the purge gas outlet of the drying unit is fluidly connected to the outlet passage 53. Through this connection method, a pressure difference exists between the drying tube 1 and the purge channel 21 of the drying unit, which meets the operating conditions of the drying unit.

[0095] The branch gas path 63 can improve the ozone production effect of the ozone preparation device 611, ensure the concentration of ozone produced, and also effectively reduce the moisture in the ozone-containing gas entering the reaction end, avoiding the influence on the chemiluminescence reaction and improving the detection accuracy.

[0096] In the optional solution provided by this utility model embodiment, a flow limiting component 4 is installed on the branch gas path 63.

[0097] The flow restrictor 4 on the branch gas passage 63 is used to limit the gas flow rate through the branch gas passage 63.

[0098] See Figure 4 In the optional solution provided by this utility model embodiment, the purge gas inlet in the purge channel 21 of the air intake passage 51 is connected to the external environment.

[0099] Specifically, the purging gas inlet in the purging passage of the air intake passage 51 is connected to the external environment, so that gas from the external environment can enter the purging passage for purging.

[0100] Furthermore, the upstream of the purge gas outlet of the intake passage 51 is connected to the flow limiting component 4.

[0101] Specifically, the flow restrictor 4 is configured as an air resistance. The flow restrictor 4 is arranged upstream of the purge channel 21 in the drying unit installed on the air intake passage 51 and is directly connected to the external environment, resulting in a simple structure.

[0102] See Figure 5 In another embodiment, the purge gas inlet of the purge channel 21 of the air intake passage 51 is connected to the purge gas outlet of the purge channel 21 of the drying unit of the ozone gas passage 61.

[0103] Specifically, the purge channel 21 of the air intake passage 51 is connected to the purge channel 21 of the ozone gas passage 61, so as to use the purge gas output by the drying unit on the ozone gas passage 61 for purging, rather than directly connecting to the environment.

[0104] The purge gas inlet in the purge channel 21 of the air intake passage 51 is connected to the purge gas outlet in the purge channel 21 of the drying unit of the ozone gas circuit 61, which improves the drying effect. The gas output from the purge gas outlet of the drying unit of the ozone gas circuit 61 is already dried, which further increases the humidity difference between the inside and outside of the drying tube 1 in the drying unit of the air intake passage 51, thus enhancing the drying effect. At the same time, an air resistance and a dust removal device have already been installed at the drying unit of the ozone gas circuit 61, so there is no need to install additional air resistance and dust removal components, reducing the cost of parts.

[0105] In the optional solution provided by this utility model embodiment, the driving component includes a first driving member 531, which is installed in the air outlet passage 53; the purge air output port in the purge channel 21 of the air inlet passage 51 is connected to the air outlet passage 53 and to the first driving member 531.

[0106] The drying unit on the air intake passage 51 uses the first driving component 531 on the air outlet passage 53 to draw negative pressure, thereby achieving functional integration and simplifying the structure of the entire exhalation detection system.

[0107] In another embodiment, the drive assembly also includes a second drive member, which is connected downstream of the purge gas outlet in the purge channel 21 of the intake passage 51.

[0108] In the optional solution provided by this utility model embodiment, the sampling passage 62 includes a breathing sub-passage 621, an inhalation sub-passage 622, and an expiratory auxiliary passage 623. One end of the breathing sub-passage 621 is used to connect with the human airway, and the other end is connected to the air intake passage 51. One end of the inhalation sub-passage 622 is connected to the breathing sub-passage 621, and the other end is connected to the external environment. The expiratory auxiliary passage 623 includes a solenoid valve 624, a flow controller 625, a flow limiter 626, and an electronic lock 627 connected in parallel. One end of each of the solenoid valve 624, the flow controller 625, the flow limiter 626, and the electronic lock 627 is connected to the external environment, and the other ends are connected in parallel to the breathing sub-passage 621.

[0109] Specifically, in clinical testing, the exhaled air flow rate needs to be strictly controlled to obtain a meaningful exhaled NO index. The ATS / ERS (American Thoracic Society / European Respiratory Society) guidelines have strict technical specifications for exhaled NO testing in various modes, as shown in Table 1:

[0110] Table 1 Technical Specifications of ATS / ERS Guidelines

[0111]

[0112] The ATS / ERS guidelines specify flow rate requirements for various modes of exhaled nitric oxide testing, as shown in Table 1 above. The measured flow rate range is 20-400 mL / s (1.2-24.0 L / min). Achieving flow rate control within this range presents certain challenges. If the exhaled flow rate does not meet the requirements, exhalation is considered a failure, the test result is inaccurate, and a repeat test is required. Low exhalation success rate and high exhalation difficulty are among the problems with existing equipment. Current equipment typically detects the exhaled flow rate in the respiratory sub-pathway 621, displays it on the device screen, and issues an alarm, allowing the patient to control the flow rate independently. However, this method has a high failure rate.

[0113] In this embodiment, the expiratory assist pathway 623 uses a solenoid valve 624, a flow controller 625, a flow limiter 626, and an electronic lock 627 in combination. During a single expiratory test, when the patient's expiratory flow is high, the expiratory resistance is increased; when the patient's expiratory flow is low, the expiratory resistance is reduced. This is combined with the display interface of traditional devices to provide alarm prompts (when the expiratory flow is high, the increased resistance will be felt; with the device interface prompts, the patient will adjust the expiratory flow more promptly. At the same time, the increased expiratory resistance helps to quickly stabilize the expiratory flow, and the same applies when the expiratory flow is low), achieving flow control of 20-800 mL / s (1.2-48.0 L / min). Its flow control logic is shown in Table 2. Through different combinations of the four devices, it can achieve flow control of 20-800 mL / s (1.2-48.0 L / min) and realize online testing of FeNO50, FeNO200, CaNO, and tidal FeNO. This enables it to effectively adapt to the flow control requirements of FeNO50, FeNO200, CaNO, and tidal FeNO modes, and achieve precise flow control under different needs; thus helping patients complete exhalation with a high success rate.

[0114] Table 2 Flow control logic table for 623 expiratory assist pathway

[0115]

[0116] This exhaled nitric oxide detection system, after testing, demonstrates that adding a drying unit and applying vacuum drive to the air intake passage 51 effectively and for a longer period compared to existing technologies. Applied to chemiluminescence-based exhaled nitric oxide detection systems, it effectively removes white deposits from the glass lenses in the reaction chamber, ensuring a constant number of photons generated by the reaction of nitric oxide and ozone over a longer period, thus improving the accuracy and sensitivity of gas detection. Furthermore, it reduces nitric acid generation, preventing corrosion of the reaction chamber and extending its service life. It also prevents gas blockage: in existing technologies, if the filter in the consumable desiccant fails, high-humidity gas mixed with airborne dust will generate adhering impurities that attach to the surface of the flow-limiting gas resistor in the system and block the pores, reducing the flow rate of the sampling gas path and causing machine malfunctions. Actual measurements show that the return gas outside the drying tube 1 of the sampling path is already dried, reducing the relative humidity of saturated water vapor gas to the 20%-30% range.

[0117] It should be noted that, where there is no conflict, the features in the embodiments of this application can be combined with each other.

[0118] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A drying unit, characterized by include: Drying tube (1), sleeve (2) and two mounting components (3); The drying tube (1) is configured as a water vapor permeation membrane tube, the sleeve (2) is sleeved on the drying tube (1), and a purge channel (21) is formed between the inner wall of the sleeve (2) and the outer wall of the drying tube (1), the purge channel (21) is used to input flowing purge gas; The two mounting components (3) are respectively mounted on both ends of the drying tube (1) and respectively connected to both ends of the sleeve (2); The mounting assembly (3) has a first channel (31) and a second channel (32), the first channel (31) being in communication with the interior of the drying tube (1), and the second channel (32) being in communication with the purging channel (21).

2. The drying unit according to claim 1, characterized in that The flow direction of the purging gas in the purging channel (21) is opposite to the flow direction of the gas in the drying tube (1).

3. The drying unit according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The installation assembly (3) includes a connecting pipe (33), a sealing end cap (34), and a tee connector (35); The first end of the three-way connector (35) is sleeved on the drying tube (1), the sleeve (2) is sleeved on the first end of the three-way connector (35), and the side wall of the three-way connector (35) is provided with the second channel (32). The connecting pipe (33) is located inside the tee joint (35), and the first end of the connecting pipe (33) is fitted with the drying pipe (1). The sealing end cap (34) is connected to the second end of the tee joint (35) and inserted into the second end of the connecting pipe (33). The sealing end cap (34) is provided with the first channel (31).

4. A breath detection system, characterized in that include: Intake passage (51), detection unit (52), exhaust passage (53), drive assembly and drying unit; The air intake passage (51), the detection unit (52), and the air outlet passage (53) are connected in sequence; The drive assembly includes a first drive element (531), which is installed in the air outlet passage (53). The drying unit includes a drying tube (1) and a sleeve (2). The drying tube (1) is installed in the air inlet passage (51). The sleeve (2) is sleeved on the drying tube (1). A purge channel (21) is formed between the sleeve (2) and the drying tube (1). The purge channel (21) is used to input flowing purge gas. The drying tube (1) is configured as a water vapor permeation membrane tube.

5. The breath test system of claim 4, wherein, The direction of the purging gas flow in the purging channel (21) is opposite to the direction of the gas flow in the inlet passage (51).

6. The exhalation detection system according to claim 5, characterized in that, One end of the purging channel (21) is a purging gas inlet, and the other end is a purging gas outlet; the purging gas inlet is connected to the external environment, and the purging gas outlet is connected to the gas outlet passage (53); The drive assembly includes a second drive member, which is connected downstream of the purge gas outlet; or, the downstream of the purge gas outlet is connected to the first drive member (531).

7. The breath test system of claim 6, wherein, The upstream connection of the purge gas inlet is a flow-limiting component (4).

8. A breath exhaled nitric oxide detection system, comprising: include: Ozone gas path (61), air inlet path (51), air outlet path (53), sampling path (62), detection unit (52) and drying unit; The ozone path (61), the air inlet path (51), and the air outlet path (53) are all connected to the detection unit (52), and the sampling path (62) is connected to the air inlet path (51); the air outlet path (53) is equipped with a drive component. The air intake passage (51) and the ozone passage (61) are both equipped with the drying unit; The drying unit includes a drying tube (1) and a sleeve (2). The drying tube (1) is installed in the air inlet passage (51) or the ozone passage (61). The sleeve (2) is sleeved on the drying tube (1), and a purge channel (21) is formed between the sleeve (2) and the drying tube (1). The purge channel (21) is used to input flowing purge gas. The drying tube (1) is configured as a water vapor permeation membrane tube.

9. The exhaled nitric oxide detection system of claim 8, wherein, The drive assembly includes a first drive element (531), which is installed in the air outlet passage (53). The purge gas outlet in the purge channel (21) of the air intake passage (51) is connected to the air outlet passage (53) and is also connected to the first drive member (531). Alternatively, the drive assembly may further include a second drive member, wherein the purge gas outlet in the purge channel (21) of the air intake passage (51) is connected to the second drive member downstream.

10. The exhaled nitric oxide detection system of claim 8, wherein, The exhaled nitric oxide detection system includes a branch gas path (63), one end of which is connected to the ozone gas path (61), and the other end is connected to the purge gas inlet in the purge channel (21) installed in the ozone gas path (61). The purge gas outlet in the purge channel (21) installed in the ozone gas path (61) is in fluid communication with the outlet gas path (53). The purge gas inlet of the purge channel (21) of the air intake passage (51) is connected to the external environment; or, the purge gas inlet of the purge channel (21) of the air intake passage (51) is connected to the purge gas outlet of the purge channel (21) in the drying unit of the ozone gas passage (61).

11. The exhaled nitric oxide detection system of claim 8, wherein, The sampling pathway (62) includes a breathing sub-path (621), an inhalation sub-path (622), and an expiratory auxiliary pathway (623). One end of the breathing sub-path (621) is used to connect with the human airway, and the other end is connected to the intake pathway (51). One end of the inspiratory sub-pathway (622) is connected to the respiratory sub-pathway (621), and the other end is connected to the external environment; The expiratory assist pathway (623) includes a solenoid valve (624), a flow controller (625), a flow restrictor (626), and an electronic lock (627) connected in parallel. One end of each of the solenoid valve (624), the flow controller (625), the flow restrictor (626), and the electronic lock (627) is connected to the external environment, and the other end is connected in parallel to the respiratory sub-pathway (621).

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