Oxygen supply system and method

Abstract

The invention relates to a transportable oxygen supply system (100) comprising an oxygen gas generation device (1, 1', 1''). The oxygen gas generation device (1, 1', 1'') comprises at least one air compressor (12, 12') for compressing ambient air (L), as well as at least one adsorber unit (10, 10', 10'') which is designed to generate an oxygen gas (S) with an increased oxygen content from ambient air (L) compressed by the at least one air compressor (12, 12') and by means of pressure swing adsorption. The oxygen gas generation device (1, 1', 1'') also comprises at least one gas compressor (13, 13') for compressing the generated gas (S), at least one store (14, 14') for receiving the gas compressed by the at least one gas compressor, and one or more outlets (15, 15') for discharging the generated gas from the at least one store (14, 14'). The invention also relates to a method for providing an oxygen gas (S), wherein the method comprises the operation of an oxygen supply system (100).

Description

[0001] Oxygen delivery system and method

[0002] Description

[0003] The present invention relates to an oxygen supply system comprising a portable oxygen gas generating device, with which an oxygen gas, i.e., a gas with a higher oxygen content than ambient air, can be supplied, particularly for medical use. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for supplying oxygen gas.

[0004] For the mobile supply of oxygen gas, conventional oxygen cylinders can be used. In the field of medical oxygen treatment, portable devices for individual patient care are also known, which generate the oxygen gas using pressure swing adsorption. Such devices are specifically designed to increase or improve the freedom of movement of individual patients.

[0005] DE 36 27 203 CI discloses a device comprising an oxygen enrichment and distribution system with a pressure swing adsorber for supplying a group of people in a shelter.

[0006] The object of the present invention is to provide a technology that facilitates the mobile provision of high oxygen-content gas in a particularly reliable manner even under difficult conditions, such as those that may arise due to a lack of infrastructure in remote areas (e.g. in Africa or Australia (Outback)) or in the case of destroyed or severely damaged infrastructure following natural disasters or other accidents.

[0007] The object is achieved by an oxygen supply system according to claim 1 and by a method according to claim 15. Advantageous embodiments are disclosed in the subclaims, the description and in the figures.

[0008] An oxygen supply system according to the invention is portable, i.e., designed for repeated transport and use at changing locations. The oxygen supply system comprises an oxygen gas generating device with at least one compressor configured to compress ambient air, particularly preferably to a pressure that is at least 1 bar, at least 1.5 bar, or at least 2.4 bar above the prevailing ambient pressure.

[0009] The oxygen gas generation device further comprises at least one adsorber device. This adsorber device is configured to generate a gas from the ambient air compressed by the compressor using pressure swing adsorption, which gas has a higher oxygen content than the ambient air; hereinafter, such a gas is also referred to as "oxygen gas." In particular, the at least one adsorber device is therefore an oxygen concentrator. In the case of multiple adsorber devices, these can be operated individually (sequentially) and / or synchronously (i.e., in parallel), preferably at the user's discretion.

[0010] In particular, the at least one adsorber device can preferably be configured to generate oxygen gas which consists of at least 75 vol.%, at least 80 vol.% or even at least 90 vol.% oxygen.

[0011] The oxygen supply system according to the present invention further comprises at least one compressor for compressing the generated (oxygen) gas and at least one storage device configured to receive the compressed, generated oxygen gas. The generated gas can be discharged from the at least one storage device via at least one outlet of the oxygen gas generation device. Preferably, the oxygen gas generation device is configured to discharge the generated gas at the outlet or at least one of the multiple outlets, while simultaneously (by the at least one adsorber device) pressure swing adsorption and thus gas generation continues.

[0012] The oxygen supply system according to the invention thus represents a unit with which oxygen gas can be generated and supplied from ambient air, particularly for medical but also for industrial use. It is preferably electrically operated. With a suitable power supply (such as a power generator or a battery), which can be part of the oxygen supply system, it forms a self-sufficient oxygen supply device that can thus be used advantageously, particularly in emergencies under the extreme conditions mentioned above.In particular, the oxygen supply system according to the invention provides a mobile technology that reliably enables high-quality medical emergency oxygen supply to patients even in inaccessible areas and in cases where the respective infrastructure makes it difficult or even impossible to transport liquid oxygen in O2 cylinders, as is conventionally provided for emergencies.

[0013] By compressing the ambient air supplied to the at least one adsorber device by means of the compressor, a particularly high efficiency of the adsorber device and thus a high performance of the oxygen gas generation device can be achieved. The at least one storage device enables buffering of potential power fluctuations or even power outages. The upstream compression of the generated oxygen gas allows, on the one hand, a volume-saving design of the at least one storage device, which facilitates the transport of the oxygen supply system. On the other hand, it can ensure the release of the generated oxygen gas from the outlet or from at least one of the outlets at a pressure higher than the ambient pressure.

[0014] According to advantageous embodiments, the at least one compressor is configured to compress the generated gas to a pressure of at least 1.5 bar, at least 2 bar, at least 2.5 bar, at least 5 bar, at least 5.5 bar, at least 6 bar or even at least 6.5 bar.

[0015] In particular, the oxygen gas generating device is preferably designed to deliver the generated gas at the outlet or at least at one of the (possibly present) several outlets at a constant pressure, in particular at a (device-determined) maximum pressure.

[0016] The maximum pressure can preferably be at least 1.5 bar, at least 2 bar, at least 2.5 bar, at least 5 bar, at least 5.5 bar, at least 6 bar, or even at least 6.5 bar. This allows a correspondingly high demand for oxygen gas to be met, particularly in medical emergencies, for example, when a large number of patients can be cared for simultaneously.

[0017] According to advantageous embodiments, the outlet / at least one of the outlets comprises a pressure regulator for adjusting a respective delivery pressure of the generated gas (up to the maximum pressure). This allows a user of the oxygen supply system to adapt the respective pressure to a current situation, in the case of medical applications, for example, to a number of patients to be treated. The outlet / at least one of the outlets of the oxygen gas generating device of an oxygen supply system according to the invention can preferably be connected via a respective screw, snap and / or medical standard connection to at least one medical device, such as in particular a life-saving / life-sustaining anesthesia device or one or more (identical or different) medical devices for supporting or non-life-sustaining patient supply with oxygen (e.g.Ventilation mask(s) must be connectable, in particular to several identical or different medical devices at the same time.

[0018] Alternatively or additionally, the oxygen gas generation device can include a filling system for oxygen cylinders and / or be connectable to such a filling system via a screw, snap, and / or standard medical connector. Thus, the oxygen supply system can also be used for oxygen storage, at the user's discretion, and / or make it possible to bridge larger spatial distances.

[0019] According to advantageous embodiments of an oxygen supply system according to the invention, the at least one adsorber device—relative to an orientation intended for use of the oxygen gas generating device—has at least one exhaust air outlet on its upper side; such an exhaust air outlet can, for example, comprise in particular a (respective) molecular sieve.

[0020] In such embodiments, the adsorber device is preferably connected in an airtight (preferably detachable) manner to a cap that couples over the at least one exhaust air outlet. The cap can, for example, be positively and / or non-positively connected to the top of the adsorber device, in particular screwed on. A radial seal can be included between the adsorber device and the cap to provide airtightness.

[0021] The cap thus encloses, with at least part of its upper side, a space into which exhaust air can flow from the at least one exhaust air outlet. The cap has an opening with a moisture barrier through which the exhaust air can escape from the space, but which prevents the penetration of moisture (in particular humid ambient air from above the adsorber device). This makes it possible to achieve particularly reliable operation and a long service life and functionality of the adsorber device. The moisture barrier can, for example, comprise a moisture sieve and / or a backflow preventer, in particular a check valve. The opening in the cap is preferably arranged on the front side, in particular (with respect to the stated orientation of use) above the at least one exhaust air outlet.In this way, a particularly advantageous exhaust air duct can be realized, which can be used in particular for cooling, for example to a device electronics arranged above the adsorber device as described below.

[0022] According to advantageous embodiments of the present invention, the at least one adsorber device of the oxygen gas generation device is designed as a multi-chamber adsorber device, i.e., it has a plurality of adsorber chambers, each containing at least one adsorbent (in particular at least one zeolite). The adsorber chambers can be cylindrical or prism-shaped, for example. The plurality can be at least 12 or at least 18, for example.

[0023] The number, size and / or shape of the adsorber chambers and / or the adsorbent contained in each is / are preferably selected such that at a temperature of 25 °C, a relative humidity of 60% and an ambient pressure of 1.013 bar, at least 1 liter of gas can be generated from at least 12 liters of sucked-in air using the oxygen gas generation device.

[0024] Preferably, the multi-chamber adsorber device(s) comprises / comprising a closing device configured to successively open respective inlets of the plurality of adsorber chambers for pressurizing / filling with compressed ambient air, as well as to open or close respective outlets of the adsorber chambers depending on the respective adsorbent saturation. In particular, such a closing device may comprise a stepper motor.

[0025] For example, in such embodiments, the closing device can be configured to open a respective outlet for the oxygen gas (as light gas) for two (alternating) thirds of the adsorber chambers, while at the same time an outlet for the residual gas (as heavy gas or exhaust air) is opened for the respective third third of the adsorber chambers.

[0026] In the embodiments described above, in which the at least one adsorber device is connected to a cap, this can preferably also couple over the closing device.

[0027] It preferably has at least one airtight passage for a power supply line, via which the closing device is to be operated. Alternatively or additionally, the connection between the cap and the at least one adsorber device can be formed with such an airtight passage.

[0028] According to advantageous embodiments of the present invention, the oxygen gas generation device has an exhaust air duct for the exhaust air generated during pressure swing adsorption. The exhaust air duct directs the exhaust air into an interior of the oxygen gas generation device and / or to at least one device electronics unit of the oxygen gas generation device. In particular, it can be designed such that such device electronics are at least partially surrounded by the exhaust air. In this way, the exhaust air can be used for cooling, so that additional cooling devices are unnecessary or can be reduced in size.The exhaust air duct can in particular comprise a pipeline at least in part and / or be formed at least in part by at least one intermediate space in the oxygen gas generating device, for example between at least one housing section of the oxygen gas generating device and at least one component (such as in particular the at least one adsorber device or at least one compressor of the oxygen gas generating device).

[0029] In the intended orientation of the oxygen gas generation device, the device electronics can, for example, be arranged above the at least one adsorber device, in particular in a (preferably hinged) housing cover of the oxygen gas generation device. An exhaust air duct can be implemented that directs exhaust air exiting from a top outlet of the at least one adsorber device directly to the device electronics.

[0030] The device electronics can, for example, form at least part of a computer unit (in particular the computer unit described below), for example for controlling, regulating and / or monitoring the at least one adsorber device and / or the compressor and / or an input and / or output device possibly included in the oxygen gas generation device.

[0031] The exhaust air duct may include at least one fan for discharging the exhaust air from the interior of the device to an area surrounding the oxygen gas generation device. This allows the exhaust air flow to be extended or accelerated, resulting in particularly efficient cooling.

[0032] According to advantageous embodiments, the at least one storage device comprises a coiled tube for receiving the generated gas. The coiled tube can, in particular, comprise a single-plane turn and / or at least one three-dimensional winding (e.g., along a helix). This allows for a compact storage device while simultaneously maintaining a relatively high gas absorption volume. The coiled tube can be made at least partially of copper.

[0033] Preferably, the coil is arranged within the insulation of the storage tank. This prevents or at least reduces condensate formation, which is problematic with regard to the dew point, especially given the cooling of the ambient air that accompanies compression.

[0034] According to advantageous embodiments, at least one inlet of the oxygen gas generation device comprises an intake port. This allows a particularly advantageous air flow to be generated to the at least one adsorber device or—in corresponding embodiments—to the at least one compressor. Alternatively or additionally, the at least one inlet for the ambient air can comprise at least one HEPA filter and / or at least one ABC filter. This can prevent the generated gas from containing toxic substances in particularly problematic environments.

[0035] The oxygen gas generating device can preferably have a housing, which can in particular include a hinged housing cover (as mentioned above). This allows the various components of the oxygen gas generating device to be protected while remaining accessible, for example, for repairs. The housing can preferably be made partially or entirely of a light metal such as aluminum and / or one or more light metal alloys such as aluminum alloys.

[0036] According to advantageous embodiments, the oxygen gas generation device has at least one input and / or output means for displaying and / or adjusting at least one operating parameter and / or a function of the oxygen gas generation device, such as at least one rotary knob, at least one switch, and / or at least one—preferably touch-sensitive—display panel (in particular a screen). Such a display panel can, in particular, be dimmable such that night vision equipment is required to recognize the displayed information. For example, when used in a military context, this can prevent the oxygen supply system, and thus its user, from being undesirably noticed. The oxygen gas generation device preferably comprises at least one computer unit.

[0037] In the above-mentioned embodiments with input and / or output means, these can be connected in particular to such a computer unit and thus serve as an interface for communication with a user. Alternatively or additionally, the computer unit can comprise a wireless and / or wired connection for one-way or two-way communication with an external computer unit (which then preferably has corresponding input and / or output means). In particular, this enables a user to control the oxygen gas generation device or adapt its operation to their respective requirements.

[0038] Alternatively or additionally, the computer unit can, for example, serve to control, regulate and / or monitor at least one component of the oxygen gas generation device, for example the at least one adsorber device and / or the compressor.

[0039] The oxygen gas generating device preferably comprises at least one control unit for monitoring at least one function of the oxygen gas generating device and / or for measuring an oxygen content and / or CO measurement in the generated gas during its continued generation (or increase) and / or during its release. Such a control unit can, in particular, comprise at least one sensor. The sensor(s) can be connected to a computer unit (in particular the aforementioned computer unit), which can be configured to evaluate and / or output the recorded parameters and / or transmit them to an external unit.

[0040] According to advantageous embodiments, the oxygen gas generation device has a designated footprint with dimensions of at most 1000 mm x 700 mm, more preferably at most 900 mm x 600 mm. Alternatively or additionally, the height of the oxygen gas generation device (in its intended orientation and in a state intended for use, in the above-mentioned embodiments with a hinged lid, particularly in the closed state) can preferably be at most 900 mm, more preferably at most 800 mm. Such design variants form particularly compact oxygen gas generation devices, which are thus easy to transport even with simple means and can also be used in confined spaces.According to advantageous embodiments of the present invention, the oxygen supply system further comprises a reserve supply unit with a separate, in particular dedicated, housing from the oxygen gas generating device and a gas inlet that is or can be detachably connected (via a gas line) to the at least one outlet of the oxygen gas generating device. In this connected state, the reserve supply unit can thus receive oxygen gas generated by the oxygen gas generating device via its gas inlet.

[0041] Furthermore, the backup supply unit has at least one gas outlet to which at least one dispensing device can be connected. In particular, the backup supply unit can preferably comprise at least one such gas outlet standardized according to DIN and / or at least one according to NIST.

[0042] The oxygen gas supply system is designed to, on the one hand, output oxygen gas at at least the gas outlet of the reserve supply unit (in a first operating mode), which oxygen gas was taken up by the reserve supply unit via the gas inlet, i.e. was generated by the oxygen gas generating device, and, on the other hand (alternatively or additionally, in particular simultaneously or thereafter, or in a second operating mode of the reserve supply unit), output oxygen gas which originates from at least one oxygen cylinder arranged or to be arranged in or on the housing of the reserve supply unit.

[0043] In particular, the oxygen gas generating device may have only one outlet for discharging the oxygen gas (from the at least one storage device), which outlet is configured to be connected to the reserve supply unit.

[0044] The separate design of the oxygen gas generation device on the one hand and the backup supply unit on the other hand allows for the arrangement of these two devices in different rooms. For example, the low-noise backup supply unit can be located in one patient room, while the louder oxygen gas generation device that at least partially supplies it is housed in another room. This way, low noise pollution can be achieved. The at least one oxygen cylinder serves in particular as a fail-safe for the oxygen gas generation device.

[0045] According to advantageous embodiments, even several (preferably two) oxygen cylinders are arranged or to be arranged on or in the housing of the reserve supply unit and the oxygen gas supply system is also designed to dispense oxygen gas from the several oxygen cylinders one after the other or simultaneously at at least one gas outlet of the reserve supply unit.

[0046] In particular, the oxygen gas supply system can preferably be configured to automatically switch from the first operating mode of the reserve supply unit, in which oxygen gas taken in via the gas inlet and generated by the oxygen gas generating device is output at at least one gas outlet, to the second operating mode, in which (as a substitute or supplement) oxygen gas from the at least one oxygen cylinder is output at at least one gas outlet.

[0047] In the mentioned variants with several oxygen cylinders, the oxygen gas supply system can preferably be configured in the second operating mode of the reserve supply unit to dispense oxygen gas from a first of the oxygen cylinders and to automatically switch to a third operating mode in which (as a substitute or supplement) oxygen gas is dispensed from a second of the oxygen cylinders, different from the first.

[0048] In particular, the oxygen supply system can be configured to perform the switching based on the supply capacity of oxygen gas by the oxygen gas generating device or (in the case of multiple oxygen cylinders) by the first of the oxygen cylinders, in particular by means of a control unit that can be included in the reserve supply unit. The reserve supply unit can, for example, comprise at least one flow sensor and / or a pressure gauge for detecting a volume flow or a pressure of the oxygen gas taken in by the oxygen gas generating device via the gas inlet, and the switching can then be based on the respective detected, current values.

[0049] Alternatively or additionally, the oxygen gas generation device can be configured to transmit data on the current volume flow or pressure occurring at the outlet of the oxygen gas generation device to the backup supply unit, for example, via an establishable (wireless or wired) data connection. The aforementioned switching can then be performed based on the respective values.

[0050] The switching can be performed by a control unit, which can be included in the backup supply unit. Alternatively or additionally, the switching can be performed by a computer unit, if included, of the oxygen gas generation device, for example, a computer unit as described above. The backup supply unit is then preferably connected or to be connected to the oxygen gas generation device or its computer unit via a (wireless or wired) control line.

[0051] The backup supply unit is preferably portable, i.e., designed for transport and use at different locations. In particular, it is preferably transportable separately from the oxygen gas generation device.

[0052] In the orientation intended for its use, its housing preferably has a base area that fits within a rectangle of at most 50cm x 50cm or even at most 35cm x 45cm. The height of the housing in said orientation is preferably at most 50cm or at most 40cm.

[0053] The backup supply unit preferably has a power connection for connection to the oxygen gas generation device. In particular, it is preferably suitable for operation with electrical energy supplied via such a power connection.

[0054] According to advantageous embodiments, the backup supply unit comprises an alarm monitor. Such an alarm monitor can preferably be optionally mountable or removable. The backup supply unit is preferably configured to be operated optionally with or without the alarm monitor.

[0055] The alarm monitor can preferably be used to display at least one functional parameter of the oxygen gas generation device, at least one operating parameter of the backup supply unit, at least one alarm condition, a gas flow through the gas inlet and / or through the at least one gas outlet, and / or at least one property of the generated or output oxygen gas (for example, a current pressure and / or a current oxygen content) and / or to issue a visual and / or acoustic alarm if predefined limits for the aforementioned values ​​are exceeded or undershot. The alarm monitor is preferably connected to at least one corresponding sensor.

[0056] The alarm monitor thus serves to reliably and automatically monitor the reserve supply unit and thus the supply of oxygen gas by the oxygen supply system as a whole. In corresponding embodiments, the reserve supply unit preferably has at least one connection point as a gas outlet, which is designed to be connected to a life-saving / life-sustaining medical device, for example in the form of an anesthesia machine or an active ventilation device (which can each be included in the oxygen supply system).

[0057] Alternatively or additionally, the reserve supply unit can comprise at least one outlet as a gas outlet for connecting one or more assistive ventilation devices, each of which can be composed of several components such as a flowmeter with a connected ventilation mask and / or nasal cannula (and / or each of which can be included in the oxygen supply system). Such an outlet can be designed, for example, as a plug arrangement, in particular a plug strip, which comprises several sockets (preferably each standardized according to DIN or NIST) for connecting a respective assistive ventilation device. In particular, in the case of medical use of the oxygen supply system, several patients can be supported in their breathing simultaneously.Between the at least one extraction point and the respective ventilator, the flowmeter, in appropriate designs, serves as an external flow regulator. This allows for individual dosing of the oxygen gas for each patient supplied with the oxygen supply system.

[0058] At least one filter module for filtering out contaminants (such as particles, moisture, viruses, bacteria, fungal spores, and / or oil residues) from the oxygen gas to be delivered can preferably be arranged at at least one outlet of the oxygen gas generation device and / or - in embodiments with a reserve supply unit - at its at least one gas outlet. In particular, no functional component of the oxygen supply system is preferably interposed between the filter mode and the respective outlet or gas outlet (following an intended flow direction of the oxygen gas). In this way, biocompatibility of the gas paths (i.e., the entire pneumatic circuit in the system), as required by standards and the pharmacopoeia, can be ensured while avoiding the need to monitor individual components.The at least one filter module can, for example, be designed as a single filter or as a filter battery with a plurality of filters, of which at least two can then differ with regard to the contaminant(s) they are each designed to filter out. In advantageous variants, an oxygen supply system according to the invention comprises a transport box in which the oxygen gas generating device is or can be arranged, which thus forms in particular a receiving space for at least part of the oxygen gas generating device. When the oxygen gas generating device is arranged in the receiving space, the oxygen gas generating device preferably rests on opposite sides against a respective wall of the transport box. This can reduce the risk of the oxygen gas generating device slipping within the receiving space and thus of damage to the oxygen gas generating device during transport.

[0059] The transport box can, in particular, comprise a lower part and a removable and / or hinged lid. When the transport box is closed, the lid can then preferably be fixed to the lower part.

[0060] In particular, the transport box is preferably airtight and / or sandtight and / or splash-proof or even watertight. An oxygen gas generating device located in the transport box can thus be particularly well protected, thus facilitating its transport. In particular, the transport box can be designed to float in water along with the oxygen gas generating device located therein.

[0061] According to advantageous embodiments, the transport crate is made entirely or partially of plastic, in particular polyester fiber. This allows for particularly good durability and, at the same time, a relatively low mass of the transport crate. The (empty) transport crate preferably has a maximum mass of 35 kg, more preferably a maximum of 30 kg.

[0062] The transport crate can, in particular, be designed according to military standards, for example, be certified according to 15MIL-Spec and / or MIL-STD 810. It is preferably at least partially lined with an elastic material for shock absorption; this ensures particularly good protection of the oxygen gas generation system during transport. Alternatively or additionally, the transport crate can be at least partially lined on the inside with a material for sound insulation or dampening. This allows noise emissions from the oxygen gas generation device to be kept particularly low when it is operated in the (possibly open) transport crate (or in its lower section). According to advantageous embodiments, the transport crate has a cuboidal basic shape. This makes it easy to stack and stow and can, in particular, be arranged together with other transport crates to save space, for example for transport.

[0063] The transport crate preferably has at least two handles. In corresponding embodiments, the handles can be arranged on the lid and / or the base. Particularly advantageous are embodiments in which the handles have a movable suspension, in particular are pivotable (relative to the lid and / or base). Thus, when used to lift or carry the transport crate (possibly with an oxygen gas generation device arranged therein), they can be folded down from one wall of the transport crate for improved grip and, on the other hand, can be placed against the wall if the oxygen supply system is to be stored particularly compactly.

[0064] According to advantageous embodiments, an oxygen supply system according to the invention comprises at least one roller, by means of which the oxygen gas generation device can be moved and thus repositioned. The at least one roller can be configured to enable the movement (repositioning) in an unraised state of the oxygen gas generation device and / or in a partially raised state, for example, in a one-sidedly raised state.

[0065] At least one such roller can be arranged on the oxygen gas generation device, in particular on a housing thereof. This allows for simplified repositioning of the oxygen gas generation device. If the oxygen supply system has a transport box as described above, at least one roller can be arranged on the transport box (alternatively or additionally). This can facilitate repositioning of the transport box with the oxygen gas generation device arranged therein.

[0066] The at least one roller can have an adjustable, in particular foldable, suspension, for example, an axle that can be pivoted relative to the oxygen gas generation device or the transport box. This allows the oxygen supply system to be formed into a particularly compact shape for storage.

[0067] A method according to the invention serves to provide an oxygen gas that has a higher oxygen content than ambient air, for example, consisting of at least 75 vol.%, at least 80 vol.%, or even at least 90 vol.% oxygen. The method comprises operating an oxygen supply system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] In particular, the method may comprise ventilating a plurality of patients (e.g., each using a breathing mask or nasal cannula) connected to the oxygen gas generating device or—in corresponding embodiments—to the backup supply unit of the oxygen supply system. In the latter case, the backup supply unit can preferably be arranged in a different room than the oxygen gas generating device during ventilation. The plurality may, for example, each comprise five or more patients.

[0069] Preferred embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to drawings. It is understood that individual elements and components can also be combined differently than shown.

[0070] They show:

[0071] Fig. 1: a schematic representation of an oxygen gas generating device of a first exemplary embodiment of an oxygen supply system according to the invention;

[0072] Fig. 2: a schematic representation of an oxygen gas generating device of a second exemplary embodiment of an oxygen supply system according to the invention;

[0073] Fig. 3: a part of an adsorber device of an embodiment of an oxygen supply system according to the invention;

[0074] Fig. 4: a schematic representation of a third exemplary embodiment of an oxygen supply system according to the invention; and

[0075] Fig. 5: a transport box of an exemplary embodiment of an inventive

[0076] oxygen delivery system.

[0077] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of a first embodiment of a mobile

[0078] Oxygen gas generation device 1 of an oxygen supply system according to the invention and thus illustrates the sequence of an exemplary embodiment of a method according to the invention. The oxygen gas generation device 1 preferably has a mass of at most 90 kg or at most 80 kg.

[0079] The oxygen gas generating device 1 comprises a housing 17 with an inlet 11 for ambient air L. From the inlet 11, the incoming ambient air L is guided to a compressor 12, which preferably compresses it to a pressure that is at least 1 bar, at least 1.5 bar or at least 2.4 bar above a prevailing ambient pressure.

[0080] The air compressed in this way is then fed to a (in this case, single) adsorber device 10, which uses pressure swing adsorption to produce a gas S consisting of at least 90 vol.% oxygen. The adsorber device 10 is preferably designed as a multi-chamber adsorber device with a plurality of adsorber chambers, each containing at least one adsorbent (in particular at least one zeolite); in particular, it can have a closing device, as described above.

[0081] The generated (oxygen) gas S is compressed in a compressor 13, preferably to a pressure of at least 1.5 bar, at least 2 bar, at least 2.5 bar, at least 5 bar, at least 5.5 bar, at least 6 bar, or at least 6.5 bar. The compressed generated gas is then stored in (in this case a single) reservoir, which preferably comprises at least one pipe coil for receiving the generated gas S and from which it can be discharged via (in this case two) outlets 15. One of the outlets 15 in this case has a pressure regulator 16, which is designed to set a desired discharge pressure for the generated oxygen gas S.

[0082] In particular, at least one of the outlets 15 can preferably be connected to a filling system for oxygen cylinders and / or to a medical device (such as, in particular, an anesthesia machine and / or a ventilation mask) (not shown). Control by the pressure regulator 16 can then be performed (automatically or set by a user) depending on the number and / or type of connected devices.

[0083] The housing of the oxygen gas generation device 1 shown schematically in Figure 1 surrounds the compressor 12, the adsorber device 10, the compressor 13 and the storage device 14 as well as device electronics 18 of the oxygen gas generation device 1 arranged in the device interior I. Such device electronics 18 can (if necessary together with at least one further electronic component) in particular form at least part of a computer unit which can be used, for example, to control, regulate and / or monitor the adsorber device 10, the compressor 12, the compressor 13, the storage device 14 and / or the pressure regulator 16 and / or to communicate with a user via an input and / or output unit (not shown).

[0084] As can be seen from the diagram in Figure 1, exhaust air A generated during pressure swing adsorption in the adsorber device 11 is guided into the device interior I, in particular to the device electronics 18, which in this case is surrounded by the exhaust air A and thus cooled. The exhaust air A is then discharged through an outlet of the housing 17 into the environment of the oxygen gas generation device 1, conveyed by at least one fan 19.

[0085] Figure 2 schematically shows a structural diagram of a second exemplary embodiment of an oxygen gas generation device 1' of an oxygen supply system according to the invention. The oxygen gas generation device 1' has two adsorber devices 10', which are preferably configured to operate individually (sequentially) or synchronously. Preferably, at least one of the adsorber devices 10' is designed as a multi-chamber adsorber device with a plurality of adsorber chambers, each containing at least one adsorbent (in particular at least one zeolite); in particular, it can have a closing device, as described above.

[0086] The adsorber devices 10' are each supplied with ambient air which has entered a respective compressor 12' through a respective inlet 11' and which has then been compressed by the compressor 12' preferably to a pressure which is at least 1 bar, at least 1.5 bar or at least 2.4 bar above a respective prevailing ambient pressure.

[0087] The (oxygen) gas S produced by the adsorber devices 12' is supplied to a common compressor 14', which compresses it according to the above, preferably to a pressure of at least 1.5 bar, at least 2 bar, at least 2.5 bar, at least 5 bar, at least 5.5 bar, at least 6 bar, or at least 6.5 bar, before storing it in the storage device 14'. The produced gas can be discharged according to the above via (in this case two) outlets 15', one of which has a pressure regulator 16' for establishing a desired discharge pressure for the produced oxygen gas S. A housing 17' surrounds the compressors 12', the adsorber devices 10', the compressor 13', and the storage device 14'.

[0088] Exhaust air A discharged from each of the adsorber devices 10' is guided into the interior space 1' of the oxygen gas generation device 1' and discharged through an outlet in the housing 17' by means of at least one fan 19'. Preferably, the resulting exhaust air flow of the exhaust air A passes the device electronics, thus cooling them; for reasons of clarity, the device electronics are not shown in Figure 2.

[0089] Figure 3 schematically shows an adsorber device 10" of an oxygen gas generating device of an oxygen supply system according to the invention in an orientation intended for use; the adsorber device 10" can in particular correspond to the adsorber device 10 shown in Figure 1 and / or to the adsorber device 10' shown in Figure 2.

[0090] The adsorber device 10" is presently designed as a multi-chamber adsorber device having a plurality of exhaust air outlets 10ia, 10ib and a closing device 102 on its upper side. The closing device 102 can in particular comprise a stepper motor. It is configured to open or close respective outlets of the adsorber chambers and in particular the exhaust air outlets 10ia, 10ib depending on a respective adsorbent saturation.

[0091] The adsorber device 10" is here connected hermetically to a cap IO3 at its top side, including a radial seal IO4, whereby a space P is enclosed by the top side and the cap IO3. The cap IO3 couples both the exhaust air outlets 10ia, 10ib and the closing device 102.

[0092] The cap IO3 has an opening Ö in which a moisture barrier 10s is arranged. As schematically illustrated in Figure 3, this moisture barrier 10s allows exhaust air A to escape from the room P, but prevents moisture F from penetrating the room P from outside. This protects the adsorber device 10" and extends the duration and reliability of its functionality, particularly during idle times or storage of the device.

[0093] Figure 4 schematically shows an embodiment of a transportable oxygen supply system 100 according to the invention with an oxygen gas generating device 1" and a reserve supply unit 2; the oxygen gas generating device 1" has an inlet 11" and an outlet 15" and can otherwise be designed like the oxygen gas generating device 1 of Figure 1 or the oxygen gas generating device 1' of Figure 2; details of the oxygen gas generating device 1" are therefore not shown again in Figure 4.

[0094] The oxygen gas generating device 1" and the reserve supply unit 2 have separate housings 17" and 20, respectively, and are detachably connected in the illustrated state by a gas line 21i, a control line 22i, and a power line 23. In particular, the gas line 21i connects an outlet 15" of the oxygen gas generating device 1" to a gas inlet 24 of the reserve supply unit 2.

[0095] In a separated state (not shown), the oxygen gas generating device 1" and the reserve supply unit 2 can be transported separately from one another. The reserve supply unit 2 is supplied with power via the power line 23 by or through the oxygen gas generating device 1", for example by means of a power generator included in or connected to the oxygen gas generating device 1" and / or by means of a battery included in or connected to the oxygen gas generating device 1", as mentioned above.

[0096] The gas line 21i opens at the gas inlet 24 of the reserve supply unit 2 into a gas line system 21, which in this case comprises three check valves 212a, 212b, 212C and leads in particular from the gas inlet 24 to gas outlets 26a, 26b. An anesthesia device 4 is connected to the gas outlet 26a; alternatively, an active ventilator 5 can also be connected here.

[0097] In the illustrated embodiment, the gas outlet 26b is designed as a withdrawal point for connecting several supporting ventilators; in the illustrated embodiment, two output devices in the form of nasal cannulas 6 and ventilation masks 7 are connected to the gas outlet 26, each including an associated flow regulator 8.

[0098] Additionally, respective filter modules 27a, 27b are arranged at the gas outlets 26a, 26b. These modules ensure the required biocompatibility of the oxygen gas supplied to the patient throughout the entire gas path in the oxygen supply system, avoiding complex testing and verification for individual components. A control line system 22 of the reserve supply unit 2 (shown by dashed lines in Figure 4), into which the control line 22i opens, can be used, in particular, to control the release of oxygen gas at the gas outlets 26a, 26b.

[0099] The reserve supply unit 2 further comprises two oxygen cylinders 25a, 25b, which are connected to the gas line system 21 and which can also be controlled via the control line system 22 of the reserve supply unit 2.

[0100] The oxygen gas supply system 100 is configured to automatically switch from a first operating mode of the reserve supply unit 2, in which the gas outlets 26a, 26b are supplied exclusively with oxygen gas generated by the oxygen gas generating device 1" and taken in via the gas line 21i, to a second operating mode of the reserve supply unit 2, in which the gas outlets 26a, 26b are at least partially supplied with oxygen gas originating from a first of the oxygen cylinders 25a. The switching can occur in particular based on a supply capacity of oxygen gas by the oxygen gas generating device; the supply capacity can be determined, for example, by measuring a volume flow or pressure at the outlet of the oxygen gas generating device and / or in the gas line system 21.

[0101] In this way, if the oxygen gas generation device does not provide sufficient oxygen gas, as may occur, for example, as a result of a malfunction, oxygen gas from the first oxygen cylinder 25a can be temporarily used.

[0102] In this case, the oxygen gas supply system 100 is further configured to automatically switch from the second operating mode of the reserve supply unit 2 to a third operating mode, in which the oxygen cylinder 25b is also used to supply oxygen gas, alternatively or in addition to the first oxygen cylinder 25a. The switching can occur, for example, based on a volume flow or pressure in the gas line system 21 and / or based on a (calculated or measured) fill level of the first oxygen cylinder 25a.

[0103] In this way, a period of reduced performance or even a failure of the oxygen gas generating device can be bridged, for example, to rectify a malfunction (e.g., in the form of a kinked hose) or to replace the oxygen gas generating device 1" with another one. The reserve supply unit 2 of the oxygen supply system 100 shown in Figure 4 also has an alarm monitor 28. At least one functional parameter of the oxygen gas generating device 1", at least one operating parameter of the reserve supply unit 2, a gas flow through the gas inlet 24 and / or through the at least one gas outlet 26a, 26b, and / or at least one property of the generated or output oxygen gas (e.g., a current pressure and / or a current oxygen concentration) can be displayed on it.Alternatively or additionally, a visual and / or acoustic alarm can be issued by means of the alarm monitor 28.

[0104] Preferably, the alarm monitor 28 is arranged removably on the outside of the housing 20, wherein oxygen can be discharged via the at least one gas outlet 26a, 26b even when the alarm monitor 28 is removed.

[0105] Figure 5 shows a transport box 3 of an oxygen supply system according to the invention according to one exemplary embodiment. The transport box 3 has a cuboid-like basic shape and comprises a lower part 30 and a lid 31 that is completely removable therefrom. By means of clamps 32a and associated clamping engagements 32b (of which only two are provided with reference numerals in Figure 5 for reasons of clarity), the lid 31 can be fixed to the lower part 30 when placed thereon. The transport box 3 thus closed is preferably airtight and / or sandtight and / or splashproof (or even waterproof).

[0106] The transport box 3 forms a receiving space R for an oxygen gas generating device of the oxygen supply system (not shown in Figure 5). When the oxygen gas generating device is arranged in the receiving space R, the oxygen gas generating device preferably rests on at least two opposite sides against a respective wall of the transport box 3, which in this case is lined with an elastic material 33 for shock absorption. Preferably, the elastic material 33 also serves as sound insulation or soundproofing.

[0107] The transport crate 3 also has four casters 34, of which only two are visible in Figure 5 due to the perspective. The casters preferably have an adjustable suspension, so that they can be recessed into a transport crate wall for stowing the transport crate or the oxygen supply system and can be fully or partially moved out of their recess for use. This recessing can prevent unwanted rolling and also enables particularly space-saving stowage of the oxygen supply system.

[0108] The transport box can be movable on all four castors and / or (when raised on one side) on only two of the castors.

[0109] In the illustrated embodiment, pivotable handles 35 are arranged on both the lower part 30 and the lid 31, by which the transport crate, with an oxygen gas generating device to be arranged therein, can preferably be lifted and carried and / or pulled while rolling. In their pivoted-in state, as shown in Figure 5, the handles 35 are recessed into a respective outer wall of the lower part 30 or lid 31, so that they do not protrude and thus do not hinder the stowage of the transport crate.

[0110] Disclosed is a transportable oxygen supply system 100 comprising an oxygen gas generating device 1, 1', 1". The oxygen gas generating device 1, 1', 1" comprises at least one compressor 12, 12' for compressing ambient air L and at least one adsorber device 10, 10', 10", which is configured to generate an oxygen gas S with an increased oxygen content from ambient air L compressed by at least one compressor 12, 12' by means of pressure swing adsorption. Furthermore, the oxygen gas generating device 1, 1', 1" comprises at least one compressor 13, 13' for compressing the generated gas S, at least one storage device 14, 14' for receiving the gas compressed by the at least one compressor, and one or more outlets 15, 15' for discharging the generated gas from the at least one storage device 14, 14'.

[0111] Also disclosed is a method for providing an oxygen gas S, the method comprising operating an oxygen supply system 100. Reference numeral

[0112] I, 1', 1" oxygen gas generating device

[0113] 10, 10', 10" adsorber device

[0114] 10ia, 10ib exhaust air outlet

[0115] 102 locking device

[0116] 103 Cap

[0117] 104 Radial seal

[0118] 10s moisture barrier

[0119] 10s feedthrough for a power supply for the locking device

[0120] II, 11', 11" inlet

[0121] 12, 12' compressor

[0122] 13, 13' compressor

[0123] 14, 14' storage

[0124] 15, 15', 15" outlet

[0125] 16, 16' pressure regulator

[0126] 17, 17' case

[0127] 18 Device electronics

[0128] 19, 19' fan

[0129] 20 Housing of the reserve supply unit 2

[0130] 21 Gas pipeline system

[0131] 211 gas pipeline

[0132] 212a, 212b, 212C check valve

[0133] 22 Control line system

[0134] 221 control line

[0135] 23 power line

[0136] 24 Gas inlet

[0137] 25a, 25b oxygen cylinder

[0138] 26a, 26b Gas outlet

[0139] 27a, 27b filter module

[0140] 28 Alarm Monitor

[0141] 3 transport box 30 lower part

[0142] 31 lids

[0143] 32a terminal

[0144] 32b clamping engagement

[0145] 33 elastic material

[0146] 34 roll

[0147] 35 handle

[0148] 4 Anesthesia machine

[0149] 5 active ventilator

[0150] 6 nasal cannula

[0151] 7 Ventilation mask

[0152] 8 flow regulators

[0153] A exhaust air

[0154] I Interior

[0155] L Ambient air

[0156] P space enclosed by cap and adsorber device

[0157] R Recording room

[0158] S produced oxygen gas

Claims

Patent claims Portable oxygen supply system (100) with an oxygen gas generating device (1, 1', 1"), comprising: - at least one compressor (12, 12') for compressing ambient air (L); - at least one adsorber device (10, 10', 10") which is designed to produce an oxygen gas (S) with an increased oxygen content from ambient air (L) compressed by at least one compressor by means of pressure swing adsorption; - at least one compressor (13, 13') for compressing the oxygen gas (S) produced, - at least one storage device (14, 14') for receiving the oxygen gas compressed by at least one compressor and - at least one outlet (15, 15') for discharging the generated oxygen gas from the at least one reservoir (14, 14'). Oxygen supply system according to claim 1, further comprising a reserve supply unit (2) which - a housing (20) separate from the oxygen gas generating device (1, 1', 1"); - a gas inlet (24) detachably connectable to the at least one outlet (15, 15') of the oxygen gas generating device; and - at least one gas outlet (26a, 26b) for connecting at least one dispensing device (4, 5, 6, 7), wherein the oxygen supply system is configured to dispense, via the at least one gas outlet (26a, 26b), generated oxygen gas received from the reserve supply unit (2) via the gas inlet (24), as well as additionally or alternatively, oxygen gas originating from at least one oxygen cylinder (25a, 25b) arranged or to be arranged in or on the housing (20). The oxygen supply system according to claim 2, wherein the oxygen supply system is configured to automatically switch from dispensing generated oxygen gas received from the reserve supply unit (2) via the gas inlet (24) to additionally or exclusively dispensing oxygen gas originating from the at least one oxygen cylinder (25a, 25b). Oxygen supply system according to one of claims 2 or 3, wherein the reserve supply unit (2) further comprises an alarm monitor (28) for displaying - at least one functional parameter of the oxygen gas generating device (1, 1', 1"), - at least one operating parameter of the reserve supply unit (2), - at least one alarm condition, - a gas flow through the gas inlet (24) and / or through the at least one gas outlet (26a, 26b) of the reserve supply unit (2) and / or - has at least one property of the generated oxygen gas. The oxygen supply system according to one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the reserve supply unit (2) comprises, as a gas outlet (26a, 26b), at least one connection point configured to be connected to an anesthesia device (4) and / or to an active ventilation device (5) and / or a withdrawal point for connecting one or more supporting ventilation devices (6, 7). The oxygen supply system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one filter module (27a, 27b) for filtering out impurities in the oxygen gas is arranged at at least one outlet (15) of the oxygen gas generating device (1, 1', 1") and / or - in an oxygen supply system with the features of claim 2 - at at least one gas outlet (26a, 26b) of the reserve supply unit (2).The oxygen supply system according to claim 1, wherein the at least one storage device (14, 14') comprises at least one pipe coil for receiving the generated gas (S). The oxygen supply system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one adsorber device (10, 10', 10"), in an intended orientation of use of the oxygen gas generating device (1, 1', 1"), has at least one exhaust air outlet (10ia, 10ib) on its upper side and is hermetically connected to a cap (103) which couples over the at least one exhaust air outlet (10ia, 10ib) and has an opening (Ö) with a moisture barrier (105) which prevents the penetration of moisture. REVISED SHEET (RULE 91) ISA / EP Prevents moisture (F) from entering a space (P) enclosed by the cap and the top, and allows exhaust air (A) to escape from the space (P). Oxygen supply system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the oxygen gas generating device (1, 1', 1") comprises at least one or at least two multi-chamber adsorber devices (10"), each comprising: - a plurality of adsorber chambers, each containing an adsorbent; and - a closing device (IO2) configured to successively open respective inlets of the plurality of adsorber chambers of the respective adsorber device for pressurizing / filling with compressed ambient air, as well as to open or close respective outlets of the adsorber chambers depending on a respective adsorbent saturation. The oxygen supply system according to claim 9 with the additional features of claim 8, wherein the cap (IO3) also couples over the closing device (IO2), and wherein the cap and / or the connection between the cap and the adsorber device (10") comprises at least one airtight feedthrough (106) for a power supply line for the closing device (102).Oxygen supply system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the oxygen gas generation device has an exhaust air duct for exhaust air (A) generated during pressure swing adsorption, such that the exhaust air is directed into a device interior of the oxygen gas generation device and / or to at least one device electronics unit (18) for cooling. Oxygen supply system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at the outlet or at least one of the plurality of outlets (15, 15') of the oxygen gas generation device. - an output pressure of the gas to be delivered is adjustable and / or - at least one medical device can be connected via a respective screw, snap and / or medical standard connection, in particular to several identical or different medical devices simultaneously. Oxygen supply system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the oxygen gas generating device comprises a filling system for oxygen cylinders and / or REVISED SHEET (RULE 91) ISA / EP a respective screw, snap and / or medical standard connection is to be connected to such a filling system. Oxygen supply system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the oxygen gas generating device comprises a computer unit which is connected to at least one input means for setting and / or to an output means for displaying at least one operating parameter and / or a function of the oxygen gas generating device and / or which has a wireless and / or wired connection for one-sided or two-sided communication with an external computer unit. Oxygen supply system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the oxygen gas generating device comprises a control unit for monitoring at least one function of the oxygen gas generating device and / or for measuring an oxygen content and / or CO measurement in the generated gas during its continued generation (orPropagation) and / or during its release. A method for providing an oxygen gas (S), the method comprising operating an oxygen supply system according to one of the preceding claims. REVISED SHEET (RULE 91) ISA / EP

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