Systems and methods for responsive damping of pressure

Abstract

Systems and methods are provided for responsively damping pressure pulsations. Generally, the responsive damping system can include one or more responsive dampers. The responsive dampers can include means for damping pressure pulsations via a pressure resistor.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 378,757 to Vu et al., entitled "Systems and Methods for Active Damping of Pressure," filed October 7, 2022. The disclosure of this provisional application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] The present disclosure is directed generally to systems and methods for pressure responsive damping, and more particularly to systems and methods for pressure responsive damping used in blood pressure monitoring systems. [Background technology]

[0003] Continuous non-invasive blood pressure monitors allow real-time measurement of blood pressure pulse waves and derived hemodynamic parameters. Several techniques are available, including volume clamping.

[0004] The volume clamp method utilizes an inflatable cuff, a light source (e.g., a light-emitting diode (LED)), and a light sensor to measure arterial pressure in a limb (e.g., a finger). The pressure in the cuff is adjusted to maintain a constant arterial diameter (unloaded condition), which is determined via the light source and light sensor. The pressure in the inflatable cuff represents the arterial pressure in the finger artery. A pressure pump supplies pressure to the inflatable cuff. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A system and method for responsive damping of pressure pulsations utilizes a responsive damping system including a set of one or more responsive dampeners. Each responsive dampener can include a mechanism for applying a resistive force responsive to applied pressure pulses. The dampened pressure can be utilized in a variety of medical devices, such as blood pressure monitoring systems.

[0006] In some implementations, a responsive damping system for damping pressure pulsations from a pressure source includes an inlet, an outlet, and a set of one or more responsive dampers fluidly connected to the inlet.

[0007] In some implementations, each responsive dampener comprises a poppet valve connected to a resistor.

[0008] In some implementations, the poppet valve includes a head that contacts the valve seat.

[0009] In some implementations, the poppet valve is capable of moving bidirectionally between the front and rear ends of each responsive dampener.

[0010] In some implementations, the bidirectional movement of the poppet valve is based on the amount of pressure flow present and the amount of resistive force exerted by the resistor.

[0011] In some implementations, each responsive dampener comprises a bellows connected to a resistor.

[0012] In some implementations, the resistor contacts the disk.

[0013] In some implementations, the bellows, disc, and resistor are configured such that as the fluid pressure increases, the amount of resistive force exerted by the bellows and resistor increases.

[0014] In some implementations, each responsive dampener comprises a bellows connected to an electromagnet configured to apply a resistive force.

[0015] In some implementations, the electromagnet is in contact with the disk.

[0016] In some implementations, at the end opposite the inlet where the electromagnet contacts the disk, the bellows, disk, and electromagnet are configured so that as the fluid pressure increases, the resistive force exerted by the bellows and electromagnet increases.

[0017] In some implementations, the electromagnet is in communication with a pressure pump and is configured such that the resistive force exerted by the electromagnet is adjusted in response to the pressure generated by the pressure pump.

[0018] In some implementations, at the point where a higher pressure is generated compared to the average pressure generated, an increased current is supplied to the electromagnet, increasing the resistive force exerted by the electromagnet.

[0019] In some implementations, at the point where a lower pressure is generated compared to the average pressure generated, a reduced current is supplied to the electromagnet, reducing the resistive force exerted by the electromagnet.

[0020] In some implementations, the bellows is configured to receive pressurized air from the inlet.

[0021] In some implementations, the bellows includes a disk at the end opposite the inlet.

[0022] In some implementations, the responsive damping system includes a channel connecting the bellows to the outlet.

[0023] In some implementations, the channel has a cross-sectional area that is at least half the cross-sectional area of ​​the bellows.

[0024] In some implementations, each dampener is maintained within an airtight housing.

[0025] In some implementations, the set of one or more responsive dampeners comprises a responsive dampener that utilizes a spring as a resistor.

[0026] In some implementations, the set of one or more responsive dampeners comprises a responsive dampener that utilizes a polymer gel as a resistor.

[0027] In some implementations, the set of one or more responsive dampeners comprises a responsive dampener that utilizes a set of magnets as a resistor.

[0028] In some implementations, the set of one or more responsive dampeners comprises at least two responsive dampeners, and the at least two responsive dampeners utilize springs as resistors.

[0029] In some implementations, the set of one or more responsive dampeners comprises at least two responsive dampeners, and the at least two responsive dampeners utilize a polymer gel as a resistor.

[0030] In some implementations, the set of one or more responsive dampeners comprises at least two responsive dampeners, the at least two responsive dampeners utilizing a set of magnets as resistors.

[0031] In some implementations, the set of one or more responsive dampeners comprises at least two responsive dampeners, wherein a first responsive dampener of the at least two responsive dampeners utilizes a spring as a resistor and a second responsive dampener of the at least two responsive dampeners utilizes a polymer gel as a resistor.

[0032] In some implementations, the set of one or more responsive dampeners comprises at least two responsive dampeners, a first of the at least two responsive dampeners utilizing a spring as a resistor, and a second of the at least two responsive dampeners utilizing a set of magnets as a resistor.

[0033] In some implementations, the set of one or more responsive dampeners comprises at least two responsive dampeners, wherein a first of the at least two responsive dampeners utilizes a polymer gel as a resistor, and a second of the at least two responsive dampeners utilizes a set of magnets as a resistor.

[0034] In some implementations, the set of one or more responsive dampeners comprises at least three responsive dampeners, wherein a first responsive dampener of the at least three responsive dampeners utilizes a spring as a resistor, a second responsive dampener of the at least three responsive dampeners utilizes a polymer gel as a resistor, and a third responsive dampener of the at least three responsive dampeners utilizes a set of magnets as a resistor.

[0035] In some implementations, the responsive damping system further comprises a pressure pump fluidly connected to the set of one or more responsive dampers, the pressure pump being the pressure source.

[0036] In some implementations, the pressure pump is a positive displacement pump, a centrifugal pump, or an axial pump.

[0037] In some implementations, the pressure pump is a rotary pump, a reciprocating pump, a linear pump, or an air pump.

[0038] In some implementations, the responsive damping system is utilized within a pressure system utilized in conjunction with a medical device.

[0039] In some implementations, the responsive dampening system further comprises a blood pressure monitoring system, the blood pressure monitoring system comprising a blood pressure cuff fluidly connected to the set of one or more responsive dampeners.

[0040] In some implementations, the blood pressure monitoring system further comprises a pressure control system capable of sensing the amount of pressure and adjusting the delivered pressure.

[0041] In some implementations, the blood pressure cuff is configured to encircle the patient's arm or finger.

[0042] In some implementations, a method is for damping pressure waves from a pressure source through a responsive damping system for use with a blood pressure monitoring system. The method supplies pressure from a pressure supply source. The method passes the supplied pressure through the responsive damping system. The responsive damping system includes an inlet, an outlet, and a set of one or more fluidly connected responsive dampeners. Each responsive dampener includes a resistor. The method transmits the damped pressure to a blood pressure cuff.

[0043] In some implementations, the method further includes passing the attenuated pressure through a pressure sensor to measure a pressure level of the attenuated pressure.

[0044] The description and claims will be more fully understood by reference to the following figures and data graphs, which are presented as examples of the disclosure and should not be construed as a complete description of the scope of the disclosure. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0045] [Figure 1] FIG. 10 provides a simulated example of a pressure data graph showing pressure waves generated by a pressure source. [Figure 2] 1A and 1B present an exemplary blood pressure monitoring system incorporating a responsive damping system. [Figure 3A]FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an example of a responsive dampener utilizing a poppet valve and a spring. [Figure 3B] 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of a responsive dampener utilizing a poppet valve and a spring. [Figure 3C] 1 is a perspective view illustrating an example of a responsive dampener utilizing a poppet valve and polymer gel. FIG. [Figure 3D] 1A-1C are cross-sectional views illustrating examples of responsive dampeners utilizing poppet valves and polymer gels. [Figure 3E] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an example of a responsive dampener utilizing a poppet valve and a set of magnets. [Figure 3F] 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of a responsive dampener utilizing a poppet valve and a set of magnets. [Figure 4A] FIG. 1 is an exploded view illustrating an example of a responsive dampener utilizing a bellows and a spring. [Figure 4B] 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of a responsive dampener utilizing a bellows and a spring. [Figure 5A] FIG. 1 is an exploded view illustrating an example of a responsive dampener utilizing a bellows and an electromagnet. [Figure 5B] 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of a responsive dampener utilizing a bellows and an electromagnet. [Figure 6A] 1 is a perspective view illustrating an example of a responsive damping system. [Figure 6B] FIG. 1 is a front view illustrating an example of a responsive damping system. [Figure 6C] FIG. 1 is an exploded view illustrating an example of a responsive damping system. [Figure 6D] 1A-1C are cross-sectional views illustrating examples of responsive damping systems. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0046] This disclosure details systems and methods for responsively damping (also known as actively damping) pressure in blood pressure monitoring systems or other medical devices that utilize a pressure source. Pressure pumps and other pressure sources typically deliver pulsating pressure, and while the fluctuations are minor, they can lead to inaccuracies in sensitive measurements and treatments. FIG. 1 presents a simulated example data graph of pressure measurements typical of a pressure source that delivers a constant pressure. While the average pressure delivered 101 is constant, the actual delivered pressure 103 fluctuates up and down, resulting in a pulsating effect on the average delivered pressure. The pulsating effect is due to the pump's operation as it draws in air. For example, in an air pump, the amount of pressure delivered fluctuates in a pulsating manner as the piston / plunger reciprocates.

[0047] The goal of this application is to reduce the pulsating effects caused by a pressure source via a responsive damping system. The responsive damping system can include means for responsively damping pressure pulses as a smoother supply pressure, reducing pulsations. The smoothed pressure can provide better accuracy when used in blood pressure monitoring systems or other medical devices where reducing pressure pulsations is beneficial.

[0048] FIG. 2 provides a schematic system diagram of a pressure system utilized within a blood pressure monitoring system. The pressure system includes a pressure source 201 and a responsive damping system 203. The pressure source 201 can be any source capable of providing pressure, such as a pressure pump. The pressure pump can be a positive displacement pump, a centrifugal pump, an axial pump, or any other pump capable of generating pressure. In some examples, the pressure pump is a positive displacement pump. Types of positive displacement pumps that can be utilized include (but are not limited to): rotary pumps, reciprocating pumps, linear pumps, and air pumps. Various pumps each produce a relative amount of pressure pulse as the pumping mechanism facilitates the movement of fluid (liquid or gas).

[0049] The pressure supplied by pressure source 201 is transmitted through responsive damping system 203 to reduce the amount of pulsation in the pressure supplied by the source. Responsive damping system 203 may comprise a set of one or more responsive dampeners that provide a means for damping the pressure pulses. Generally, each responsive dampener applies a resistance to the pressure that is adjustable based on the instantaneous pressure level traveling through the dampener.

[0050] In some examples, the responsive dampener comprises a poppet valve having a resistor that allows the poppet valve to apply higher resistance when pressure and / or flow rate increases. The resistor can be any structure or material that can increase resistance when the poppet valve experiences higher pressure and / or flow rate. Examples of resistors include (but are not limited to) a spring, a set of two or more magnets, a polymer gel, and an electromagnet.

[0051] In some examples, the responsive dampener comprises an electromagnet connected to a resistor that can apply a resistance level based on the amount of current. The electromagnet can be in communication with the pump source such that the electromagnet can respond when the pump is activated to provide pressure. At moments when higher pressure is expected, a higher current is generated, applying a higher reluctance.

[0052] The responsive damping system can be combined with one or more passive damping systems, and the passive damping systems can be located before, after, or integrated within the responsive damping system. Typically, passive damping systems utilize an expansion chamber and / or redirect flow to dampen pressure waves. In some examples, the responsive damper is located within the expansion chamber. In some examples, the responsive damper is located within a bellows chamber that can expand and contract as pressurized air passes through it. A filter can be located before, after, or integrated within the responsive damping system.

[0053] When a responsive damping system 203 is utilized in a blood pressure monitoring system, the pressure output from the responsive damping system is utilized for blood pressure monitoring 205. Typically, the damped output pressure is routed through a pressure control system, which includes a pressure sensor for sensing the amount of pressure and can adjust the supply pressure as needed. The pressure is then transmitted into a blood pressure cuff, which can be a cuff that encircles any limb of the patient, such as an arm or finger (for example). In some examples, the blood pressure monitoring system utilizes a volume clamp method for continuously monitoring blood pressure, and thus, the pressure is adjusted via the pressure cuff based on the amount of pressure to maintain a constant diameter of the patient's artery. When a volume clamp method is utilized, the pressure supplied to the cuff that maintains a constant arterial diameter is the blood pressure within that artery.

[0054] The responsive dampener comprises a means for resisting pressure pulsations. In many instances, the pressure pulsations are responsively damped via a poppet valve combined with a spring, a set of two or more magnets, and a polymer gel. Figures 3A-3F provide examples of responsive dampeners that may be utilized within the responsive damping system.

[0055] 3A and 3B provide an example of a responsive dampener that uses a spring 301 to apply a resistive force to smooth pressurized air. A poppet 303 is provided at a front end 305. The poppet 303 includes a head 307 and a rod 309 that allows the poppet to move bidirectionally between the front end 305 and the rear end 311. The spring 301 can surround the rod 309 and is in contact with the head 307 and a base wall 313. In the absence of pressure flow, the poppet head 307 contacts a valve seat 315, closing the poppet. When pressure flows through the front end 305, the pressure flow pushes the poppet head 307 toward the rear end 311, and the spring 301 applies resistance to the poppet head 307 and the pressure flow, such that as the flow pressure increases, the resistive force applied by the spring increases. The resistance applied by spring 301 responsively damps pressure pulsations provided by the pressure source. Smoothed pressurized air can flow past the poppet valve toward rear end 311. The responsive dampener can be maintained within an airtight housing, thereby allowing the pressurized air to pass through the responsive dampener itself.

[0056] 3C and 3D provide an example of a responsive dampener that uses a polymer gel 317 to apply a resistive force to smooth the pressurized air. A responsive dampener using a polymer gel 317 can have a poppet 303 essentially the same as the poppet 303 described in FIGS. 3A and 3B , except that the polymer gel 317 replaces the spring 301. The polymer gel 317 can partially or completely surround the rod 309 and contact the head 307 and base wall 313. The polymer gel 317 has compressive strength to apply a resistive force as pressure flows through the front end 305, pushing the poppet head 307 toward the rear end 311, such that as the flow pressure increases, the resistive force applied by the polymer gel increases. The resistance applied by the polymer gel 317 responsively attenuates pressure waves provided by a pressure source. Smoothed pressurized air can flow past the poppet toward the rear end 311. The response dampener may be maintained in an airtight housing, thereby allowing pressurized air to pass through the response dampener itself.

[0057] 3E and 3F provide an example of a responsive dampener that uses a set of magnets 319 to apply a resistive force to smooth the pressurized air. A responsive dampener using a set of magnets 319 can have a poppet valve 303 that is essentially the same as the poppet valve 303 described in FIGS. 3A and 3B, except that the set of magnets 319 replaces the spring 301. The set of magnets 319 can partially or completely surround the rod 309, with a first magnet 319a contacting the head 307 and a second magnet 319b contacting the base wall 313, such that adjacent faces of magnets 319a and 319b have opposite polarities. The opposite polarities of the adjacent faces of magnets 319a and 319b apply a resistive force as pressure flows through the front end 305 and pushes the poppet valve head 307 toward the rear end 311, such that the resistive force applied by the magnets increases as the fluid pressure increases. The resistance applied by magnet set 319 responsively damps pressure pulsations supplied by the pressure source. Smoothed pressurized air can flow past the poppet valve toward rear end 311. The responsive dampener can be maintained within an airtight housing, thereby allowing the pressurized air to pass through the responsive dampener itself.

[0058] 4A and 4B present an example of a responsive dampener using a bellows and spring that can respond to pressure as pressure passes through it. Bellows 401 can cooperate with spring 403 to apply a resistive force to smooth the pressurized air. The responsive dampener includes an inlet 405 for allowing pressurized air to enter bellows chamber 407 and expand it. The pressurized air contacts disk 409, which is the rear end of bellows chamber 407 and is further in contact with spring 403. Disk 409, bellows 401, and spring 403 are configured such that as fluid pressure increases, the resistive force applied by the bellows and spring increases. The resistance applied by the set of bellows 401 and spring 403 responsively damps pressure pulsations provided by a pressure source. Disk 409 can include a channel 411 for allowing the smoothed pressurized air to pass through channel 411 itself and exit through outlet 413. The channel 411 can have a cross-sectional area smaller than (e.g., at least half the cross-sectional area of) the bellows chamber 407. The responsive dampener can be maintained in an airtight housing, thereby allowing pressurized air to pass through the responsive dampener itself. While a spring is shown as a means for applying a resistive force, any resistive body can be utilized, including (but not limited to) a polymer gel and a set of magnets.

[0059] 5A and 5B provide an example of a responsive dampener using a bellows and electromagnet that can respond to pressure as it passes through. Bellows 501 can cooperate with electromagnet 503 to apply a resistive force to smooth the pressurized air. The responsive dampener includes an inlet 505 for allowing pressurized air to enter bellows chamber 507 and expand it. The pressurized air contacts disk 509, which is at the rear end of bellows chamber 507 and further contacts electromagnet 503. Electromagnet 503 can increase or decrease its magnetic force depending on the current supplied to it. Electromagnet 503 can have a power supply that supplies the current, and the power supply is aligned with the pressure source mechanism. As described with reference to FIG. 2, a pressure pump generates a wave pressure relative to the generated average pressure. At the point where a higher pressure is generated compared to the generated average pressure, the current supplied to electromagnet 503 is increased, increasing the magnetic force and therefore the resistive force. At the point where a lower pressure is generated compared to the average pressure being supplied, the current supplied to the electromagnet 503 is reduced, resulting in a lower magnetic force and therefore a lower resistance force. Thus, when the pressurized air contacts the disk 509, the resistance force exerted by the electromagnet 503 is adjusted accordingly, smoothing out the pressure pulsations. The disk 509 may include a channel 511 for allowing the smoothed pressurized air to pass through the channel 511 itself and out of an outlet 513. The channel 511 may have a cross-sectional area smaller than (e.g., at least half the cross-sectional area of) the cross-sectional area of ​​the bellows chamber 507. The responsive dampener may be maintained within an airtight housing, thereby allowing the pressurized air to pass through the responsive dampener itself.

[0060] The responsive damping system includes one or more sets of responsive dampers. The responsive damping system includes an inlet and an outlet, with one or more sets of responsive dampers disposed between the inlet and outlet, thereby allowing pressure flow to pass through the set of responsive dampers. In some examples, the responsive dampers are disposed in series, thereby allowing pressure flow to pass through each of the responsive dampers in sequence. The responsive damping system can include one or more types of responsive dampers, with the type of responsive damper being determined by the structure or material that applies the resistive force (e.g., springs, polymer gels, sets of magnets, electromagnets, etc.). In some examples, the two or more sets of responsive dampers utilize two or more types of responsive dampers. In some examples, the two or more sets of responsive dampers utilize the same type of responsive dampers in a sequential, repeated manner.

[0061] 6A-6D present an example of a responsive damping system 601 for damping pressure waves from a pressure source. The responsive damping system 601 includes a set of three responsive dampers arranged in series and fluidly connected. The system includes a responsive damper that utilizes a spring 301 to apply a resistive force, a responsive damper that utilizes a polymer gel 317 to apply a resistive force, and a responsive damper that utilizes a set of magnets 319 to apply a resistive force. While the responsive damping system 601 utilizes these types of responsive dampers arranged in a particular series order, it should be understood that the illustrated responsive damping system is an example and that a responsive damping system may utilize any combination of responsive dampers, which may be arranged in any order. Furthermore, it should be understood that the dampers described in FIGS. 4A-5B may be utilized in addition to or instead of the dampers illustrated.

[0062] In some implementations, the responsive damping system includes one or more sets of dampeners, where the one or more sets of dampeners include dampeners that utilize springs to apply a resistive force. In some implementations, the responsive damping system includes one or more sets of dampeners, where the one or more sets of dampeners include dampeners that utilize polymer gel to apply a resistive force. In some implementations, the responsive damping system includes one or more sets of dampeners, where the one or more sets of dampeners include dampeners that utilize magnets to apply a resistive force. In some implementations, the responsive damping system includes one or more sets of dampeners, where the one or more sets of dampeners include dampeners that utilize electromagnets to apply a resistive force.

[0063] Responsive damping system 601 includes an inlet 603 and an outlet 605 for receiving and releasing pressure flow, respectively. As shown, inlet 603 is fluidly connected to a responsive dampener utilizing a set of magnets 319, which is fluidly connected to a responsive dampener utilizing a polymer gel 317, which is fluidly connected to a responsive dampener utilizing a spring 301, which is fluidly connected to outlet 605. Thus, pressure flow can pass through inlet 603, then through the set of responsive dampeners to dampen pressure pulsations, and then through outlet 605. The outlet pressure is damped and can be utilized in a medical machine or other device where smoothed pressure would be beneficial.

[0064] The responsive damping system 601 can be combined with one or more passive damping systems, which can precede, follow, or be integrated within the responsive damping system. Additionally, the outlet pressure from the responsive damping system 601 can be utilized in a blood pressure monitoring system and thus supplied to a blood pressure cuff to measure blood pressure.

[0065] While an exemplary responsive damping system has been described above with reference to FIGS. 6A-6D , it will be readily appreciated that the responsive damping system can be implemented in any of a variety of implementations, including various combinations of responsive damper types and sequences or various combinations of responsive dampers. For example, the responsive dampers shown and described in FIGS. 4A-5B can be combined and / or substituted with any other responsive dampers. Furthermore, the housing for the responsive dampers can take any form that allows fluid connection from an inlet to the set of responsive dampers and to an outlet. Thus, it should be understood that the responsive damping system is not limited to the specific responsive dampers shown, the sequence of the responsive dampers, the number of responsive dampers, or the specific housing configuration for the responsive dampers. Instead, the responsive damping system can be implemented in a variety of ways, so long as it includes means for providing responsive damping.

[0066] (Example) Example 1 1. A responsive damping system for damping pressure pulsations from a pressure source, comprising: A responsive damping system comprising an inlet, an outlet, and a set of one or more fluidly connected responsive dampeners, each responsive dampener comprising a poppet valve connected to a resistor.

[0067] Example 2 10. A responsive damping system as described in example 1, wherein the poppet valve has a head in contact with the valve seat, the poppet valve is movable bidirectionally between a front end and a rear end of each responsive damper, and the bidirectional movement of the poppet valve is based on the amount of pressure flow present and the amount of resistance force exerted by the resistor.

[0068] Example 3 3. The responsive damping system of any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the set of one or more responsive dampers includes a responsive damper that utilizes a spring as a resistor.

[0069] Example 4 4. The responsive damping system of any one of Examples 1, 2, or 3, wherein the set of one or more responsive dampeners includes a responsive dampener that utilizes a polymer gel as a resistor.

[0070] Example 5 5. The responsive damping system of any one of Examples 1 to 4, wherein the set of one or more responsive dampeners includes a responsive dampener that utilizes a set of magnets as a resistor.

[0071] Example 6 A responsive damping system described in any one of Examples 1 to 5, wherein the set of one or more responsive dampers includes at least two responsive dampers, and at least two responsive dampers utilize springs as resistors.

[0072] Example 7 A responsive damping system described in any one of Examples 1 to 6, wherein the set of one or more responsive dampeners includes at least two responsive dampeners, and at least two responsive dampeners utilize a polymer gel as a resistor.

[0073] Example 8 A responsive damping system described in any one of Examples 1 to 7, wherein the set of one or more responsive dampers includes at least two responsive dampers, and at least two responsive dampers utilize a set of magnets as resistors.

[0074] Example 9 A responsive damping system described in any one of Examples 1 to 8, wherein the set of one or more responsive dampers includes at least two responsive dampers, a first responsive damper of the at least two responsive dampers utilizing a spring as a resistor, and a second responsive damper of the at least two responsive dampers utilizing a polymer gel as a resistor.

[0075] Example 10 A responsive damping system described in any one of Examples 1 to 9, wherein the set of one or more responsive dampers includes at least two responsive dampers, a first of the at least two responsive dampers utilizing a spring as a resistor, and a second of the at least two responsive dampers utilizing a set of magnets as a resistor.

[0076] Example 11 A responsive damping system described in any one of Examples 1 to 10, wherein the set of one or more responsive dampeners includes at least two responsive dampeners, a first of the at least two responsive dampeners utilizing a polymer gel as a resistor, and a second of the at least two responsive dampeners utilizing a set of magnets as a resistor.

[0077] Example 12 A responsive damping system described in any one of Examples 1 to 11, wherein the set of one or more responsive dampeners includes at least three responsive dampeners, a first responsive dampener of the at least three responsive dampeners utilizing a spring as a resistor, a second responsive dampener of the at least three responsive dampeners utilizing a polymer gel as a resistor, and a third responsive dampener of the at least three responsive dampeners utilizing a set of magnets as a resistor.

[0078] Example 13 13. The responsive damping system of any one of Examples 1 to 12, further comprising a pressure pump fluidly connected to the set of one or more responsive dampeners, the pressure pump being the pressure source.

[0079] Example 14 14. The responsive damping system of example 13, wherein the pressure pump is a positive displacement pump, a centrifugal pump, or an axial pump.

[0080] Example 15 14. The responsive damping system of example 13, wherein the pressure pump is a rotary pump, a reciprocating pump, a linear pump, or an air pump.

[0081] Example 16 16. The responsive damping system of any one of Examples 1 to 15, wherein the responsive damping system is utilized within a pressure system utilized in conjunction with a medical device.

[0082] Example 17 A responsive damping system as described in any one of Examples 1 to 16, further comprising a blood pressure monitoring system, the blood pressure monitoring system comprising a blood pressure cuff fluidly connected to a set of one or more responsive dampeners.

[0083] Example 18 18. The responsive attenuation system of example 17, wherein the blood pressure monitoring system further comprises a pressure control system capable of sensing the amount of pressure and adjusting the delivered pressure.

[0084] Example 19 18. The responsive attenuation system of Example 17, wherein the blood pressure cuff is configured to encircle the patient's arm or finger.

[0085] Example 20 20. The responsive damping system of any one of Examples 1 to 19, wherein each dampener is maintained within an airtight housing.

[0086] Example 21 1. A method of damping pressure pulsations from a pressure source via a responsive damping system for use with a blood pressure monitoring system, comprising: providing pressure from a pressure source; passing the supply pressure through a responsive damping system, the responsive damping system including an inlet, an outlet, and a set of one or more fluidly connected responsive dampers, each responsive damper including a resistor; passing the attenuated pressure through a blood pressure cuff; A method comprising:

[0087] Example 22 22. The method of example 21, further comprising passing the attenuated pressure through a pressure sensor to measure a pressure level of the attenuated pressure.

[0088] Example 23 23. The method of claim 21 or 22, wherein each responsive dampener comprises a poppet valve connected to a resistor, the poppet valve having a head in contact with a valve seat, the poppet valve being movable bidirectionally between a front end and a rear end of each responsive dampener, the bidirectional movement of the poppet valve being based on the amount of pressure flow present and the amount of resistive force exerted by the resistor.

[0089] Example 24 The method of any one of Examples 21, 22, or 23, wherein each responsive dampener comprises a bellows connected to a resistor, the bellows configured to receive pressurized air from an inlet, the bellows having a disk at an end opposite the inlet, the resistor contacting the disk, and the bellows, disk, and resistor configured such that an amount of resistive force exerted by the bellows and resistor increases as the fluid pressure increases.

[0090] Example 25 The method of any one of Examples 21 to 24, wherein the set of one or more responsive dampeners includes a responsive dampener utilizing one of a spring as a resistor, a polymer gel as a resistor, a set of magnets as a resistor, or an electromagnet.

[0091] Example 26 1. A responsive damping system for damping pressure pulsations from a pressure source, comprising: A responsive damping system comprising an inlet, an outlet, and a set of one or more fluidly connected responsive dampeners, each responsive dampener comprising a bellows connected to a resistor.

[0092] Example 27 27. A responsive damping system as described in Example 26, wherein the bellows is configured to receive pressurized air from the inlet, the bellows having a disk at an end opposite the inlet, the resistor contacting the disk, and the bellows, disk, and resistor are configured such that as the fluid pressure increases, the amount of resistive force exerted by the bellows and resistor increases.

[0093] Example 28 28. The damping system of example 26 or 27, wherein the resistor is a spring.

[0094] Example 29 29. The damping system of any one of Examples 26, 27, or 28, wherein the resistor is a polymer gel.

[0095] Example 30 30. The damping system of any one of Examples 26 to 29, wherein the resistor is a set of magnets.

[0096] Example 31 The damping system of any one of Examples 26 to 30, wherein the resistor is an electromagnet.

[0097] Example 32 32. The damping system of any one of Examples 26 to 31, further comprising a channel connecting the bellows to the outlet.

[0098] Example 33 33. The damping system of embodiment 32, wherein the channel has a cross-sectional area that is at least half the cross-sectional area of ​​the bellows.

[0099] Example 34 A responsive damping system as described in any one of Examples 26 to 33, further comprising a pressure pump fluidly connected to the set of one or more responsive dampeners, the pressure pump being a pressure source.

[0100] Example 35 35. The responsive damping system of example 34, wherein the pressure pump is a positive displacement pump, a centrifugal pump, an axial pump, a rotary pump, a reciprocating pump, a linear pump, or an air pump.

[0101] Example 36 A responsive damping system according to any one of Examples 26 to 35, wherein the responsive damping system is utilized within a pressure system utilized in conjunction with a medical device.

[0102] Example 37 A responsive damping system described in any one of Examples 26 to 36, further comprising a blood pressure monitoring system, the blood pressure monitoring system comprising a blood pressure cuff fluidly connected to a set of one or more responsive dampeners.

[0103] Example 38 38. The responsive attenuation system of Example 37, wherein the blood pressure monitoring system further comprises a pressure control system capable of sensing the amount of pressure and adjusting the delivered pressure.

[0104] Example 39 38. The responsive attenuation system of Example 37, wherein the blood pressure cuff is configured to encircle the patient's arm or finger.

[0105] Example 40 40. A responsive damping system according to any one of Examples 26 to 39, wherein each dampener is maintained within an airtight housing.

[0106] Example 41 1. A responsive damping system for damping pressure pulsations from a pressure source, comprising: A responsive damping system comprising an inlet, an outlet, and a set of one or more fluidly connected responsive dampers, each responsive damper comprising a bellows connected to an electromagnet configured to apply a resistive force.

[0107] Example 42 42. A responsive damping system as described in Example 41, wherein the bellows is configured to receive pressurized air from an inlet, the bellows has a disk at an end opposite the inlet, the electromagnet is in contact with the disk, and the bellows, disk, and electromagnet are configured such that the resistive force exerted by the bellows and electromagnet increases as the fluid pressure increases.

[0108] Example 43 43. The damping system of claim 41 or 42, further comprising a pressure pump fluidly connected to the set of one or more responsive dampeners, the pressure pump being the pressure source.

[0109] Example 44 44. The damping system of claim 43, wherein the electromagnet is in communication with the pressure pump and the resistive force exerted by the electromagnet is configured to be adjusted in response to the pressure generated by the pressure pump.

[0110] Example 45 45. The damping system of example 44, wherein at a point where a higher pressure is generated compared to the average pressure generated, an increased current is supplied to the electromagnet, increasing the resistive force exerted by the electromagnet.

[0111] Example 46 45. The damping system of example 44, wherein at a point where a lower pressure is generated compared to the average pressure generated, a reduced current is supplied to the electromagnet, reducing the resistive force exerted by the electromagnet.

[0112] Example 47 47. The responsive damping system of any one of Examples 43 to 46, wherein the pressure pump is a positive displacement pump, a centrifugal pump, or an axial pump.

[0113] Example 48 47. The responsive damping system of any one of Examples 43 to 46, wherein the pressure pump is a rotary pump, a reciprocating pump, a linear pump, or an air pump.

[0114] Example 49 A responsive damping system as described in any one of Examples 41 to 48, wherein the responsive damping system is utilized within a pressure system utilized in conjunction with a medical device.

[0115] Example 50 A responsive damping system described in any one of Examples 41 to 49, further comprising a blood pressure monitoring system, the blood pressure monitoring system comprising a blood pressure cuff fluidly connected to a set of one or more responsive dampeners.

[0116] Example 51 A responsive damping system as described in Example 50, wherein the blood pressure monitoring system further comprises a pressure control system capable of sensing the amount of pressure and adjusting the supplied pressure.

[0117] Example 52 A responsive attenuation system as described in Example 50, wherein the blood pressure cuff is configured to encircle the patient's arm or finger.

[0118] Example 53 53. A responsive damping system according to any one of Examples 41 to 52, wherein each dampener is maintained within an airtight housing.

[0119] Example 54 54. The damping system of any one of Examples 41 to 53, further comprising a channel connecting the bellows to the outlet.

[0120] Example 55 55. The damping system of embodiment 54, wherein the channel has a cross-sectional area that is at least half the cross-sectional area of ​​the bellows. [Explanation of symbols]

[0121] 101 Mean Pressure 103 Supply pressure 201 Pressure supply source 203 Responsive Damping System 205 Blood Pressure Monitoring 301 Spring 303 Poppet valve 305 Front end 307 Head 309 Rod 311 Rear end 313 Base Wall 315 Valve seat 317 Polymer Gel 319 Magnet Set 319a First Magnet 319b Second Magnet 401 Bellows 403 Spring 405 Entrance 407 Bellows Chamber 409 Disk 411 Channel 413 Exit 501 Bellows 503 Electromagnet 505 Entrance 507 Bellows Chamber 509 Disk 511 Channel 513 Exit 601 Responsive Damping System 603 Entrance 605 Exit

Claims

1. 1. A responsive damping system for damping pressure pulsations from a pressure source, comprising: A responsive damping system comprising an inlet, an outlet, and a set of one or more fluidly connected responsive dampers, each responsive damper comprising a bellows connected to an electromagnet configured to apply a resistive force.

2. 2. The responsive damping system of claim 1, wherein the bellows is configured to receive pressurized air from an inlet, the bellows having a disk at an end opposite the inlet, the electromagnet contacting the disk, and the bellows, disk, and electromagnet are configured such that the resistive force exerted by the bellows and electromagnet increases as fluid pressure increases.

3. The damping system of claim 1 or 2, further comprising a pressure pump fluidly connected to the set of one or more responsive dampers, the pressure pump being the pressure source.

4. 4. The damping system of claim 3, wherein the electromagnet is in communication with the pressure pump, and the resistive force exerted by the electromagnet is configured to adjust in response to the pressure generated by the pressure pump.

5. 5. The damping system of claim 4, wherein the amount of current supplied to the electromagnet increases the resistive force exerted by the electromagnet to a point where a higher pressure is generated compared to the average pressure generated.

6. 5. The damping system of claim 4, wherein the amount of current supplied to the electromagnet reduces the resistive force exerted by the electromagnet to a point where a lower pressure is generated compared to the average pressure generated.

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

8. 7. The responsive damping system of claim 3, wherein the pressure pump is a rotary pump, a reciprocating pump, a linear pump, or an air pump.

9. The responsive damping system of claim 1 , wherein the responsive damping system is utilized within a pressure system utilized in conjunction with a medical device.

10. 10. The responsive damping system of claim 1, further comprising a blood pressure monitoring system, the blood pressure monitoring system comprising a blood pressure cuff fluidly connected to the set of one or more responsive dampeners.

11. The responsive damping system of claim 10 , wherein the blood pressure monitoring system further comprises a pressure control system capable of sensing the amount of pressure volume and adjusting the supplied pressure.

12. The responsive attenuation system of claim 10 , wherein the blood pressure cuff is configured to encircle a patient's arm or finger.

13. A responsive damping system according to any preceding claim, wherein each dampener is maintained within an airtight housing.

14. The damping system of claim 1 , further comprising a channel connecting the bellows to an outlet.

15. The damping system of claim 14 , wherein the channel has a cross-sectional area that is at least half the cross-sectional area of ​​the bellows.

16. 1. A method of damping pressure pulsations from a pressure source via a responsive damping system for use with a blood pressure monitoring system, comprising: providing pressure from a pressure source; passing the supply pressure through the responsive damping system, the responsive damping system comprising an inlet, an outlet, and a set of one or more fluidly connected responsive dampers, each responsive damper comprising a resistor; passing the attenuated pressure through a blood pressure cuff; A method comprising:

17. 17. The method of claim 16, further comprising passing the attenuated pressure through a pressure sensor to measure a pressure level of the attenuated pressure.

18. 18. The method of claim 16 or 17, wherein at least one responsive dampener comprises a bellows connected to a resistor, the bellows configured to receive pressurized air from an inlet, the bellows having a disk at an end opposite the inlet, the resistor contacting the disk, and the bellows, disk, and resistor configured such that an amount of resistive force exerted by the bellows and resistor increases as fluid pressure increases.

19. 20. The method of claim 18, wherein the resistor is an electromagnet, the pressure source is a pressure pump fluidly connected to the set of one or more responsive dampeners, the electromagnet in communication with the pressure pump, and the resistive force applied by the electromagnet configured to be adjusted in response to the pressure generated by the pressure pump.

20. determining whether the generated pressure is higher or lower than the generated average pressure; supplying current to an electromagnet to adjust the applied resistive force based on whether the generated pressure is relative to the average generated pressure; 20. The method of claim 19, further comprising:

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