Artificial nose

Abstract

Conventional artificial noses have the problem that sputum and other substances mixed with the patient's exhaled breath can cause airway obstruction within the artificial nose housing. [Solution] In the artificial nose 10 of the present invention, a plurality of recesses 41 are formed around the opening 27B on the end face 27A of the housing portion 20, and a first wall portion 42 is formed that extends to the inside of the opening 27B. With this structure, even if sputum 61 mixed in the patient's exhaled breath enters the housing portion 20, the sputum is retained in the recesses 41, making it less likely for airway obstruction by sputum 61 to occur. As a result, the respiratory burden on the patient is reduced, and clogging of the first filter 33 due to the sputum 61 is prevented.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an artificial nose, and particularly to an artificial nose that reduces the risk of airway obstruction caused by a patient's sputum or the like and reduces the patient's breathing burden by providing a plurality of recesses on the end face of the housing portion.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a known gas treatment device. The gas treatment device is a so-called artificial nose, which is disposed in the breathing circuit of a ventilator or an anesthetic machine and is used for warming and humidifying the inhaled air supplied to a patient. A pair of ports are formed at both ends of the filter housing of the gas treatment device. And, for example, a medical filter and a heat and moisture exchanger (HME) are disposed in the filter housing.

[0003] Further, in the filter housing, an elongated support column and a deflecting plate supported by the support column are disposed at the boundary with the port on the patient side. The bottom surface portion of the filter housing has the shape of a shallow dome-shaped roof portion. And, the upper surface of the exchanger abuts against the lower surface of the support column, and a gap through which the gas exhaled by the patient, that is, the exhaled breath, flows is formed between the exchanger and the bottom surface portion.

[0004] With this structure, the gas flowing into the filter housing from the patient side through the port flows over the surface of the deflecting plate and then to the exchanger. At this time, due to the shape of the deflecting plate, the gas exhaled by the patient is deflected in the lateral direction in the longitudinal direction of the filter housing and is also supplied to a portion far from the port of the exchanger.

Prior Art Documents

[0006] In the gas processing apparatus described in Patent Document 1 above, a support column extending in the short direction of the filter housing and a deflection plate supported by that column are formed between the patient-side port and the filter housing.

[0007] Due to this structure, if sputum is mixed in the gas from the patient, the sputum may adhere to the lateral replacement element in the long direction of the filter housing in accordance with the gas flow, blocking the gas flow path. This can significantly reduce filter performance and potentially increase the respiratory burden on the patient.

[0008] Furthermore, sputum adhering to the above-mentioned replacement body may fall into the gap between the replacement body and the bottom surface of the filter housing and flow back into the patient's port, potentially causing airway obstruction within the tubing and preventing the patient from breathing. Alternatively, the patient may aspirate the refluxed sputum.

[0009] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and aims to provide an artificial nose that reduces the risk of airway obstruction due to sputum etc. in patients and reduces the respiratory burden on patients by providing a plurality of recesses on the end face of the housing portion. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] The present invention provides an artificial nose that is disposed in a breathing circuit between a patient and a patient assistive device used by the patient, and comprises a housing portion, a filter disposed within the internal space of the housing portion, and an opening formed in the bottom plate portion of the housing portion located on the patient side, wherein the end face of the bottom plate portion on the internal space side is formed with a plurality of recesses formed around the opening and a first wall portion extending toward the inside of the opening.

[0011] Furthermore, in the artificial nose of the present invention, the end face is a surface inclined toward the opening, a second wall portion is formed on the end face so as to surround the opening, and the recess and the opening are separated by the second wall portion.

[0012] Furthermore, in the artificial nose of the present invention, a plurality of third walls are formed on the end face, spaced apart from the first wall, and the first wall and the third walls support the filter within the internal space.

[0013] Furthermore, in the artificial nose of the present invention, the first wall portion has a plurality of wall portions extending from the center of the opening toward the side plate portion of the housing portion, and the wall portions are formed to curve in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction on the inside of the opening, and the wall portions are formed spaced apart from the side plate portion.

[0014] Furthermore, in the artificial nose of the present invention, the third wall portion is formed independently and extends in either the clockwise or counterclockwise direction. [Effects of the Invention]

[0015] In the artificial nose of the present invention, multiple recesses are formed around the opening on the end face of the housing, and a first wall portion is formed that extends to the inside of the opening. Due to this structure, even if sputum mixed in the patient's exhaled breath enters the housing, the sputum is retained in the recesses, making airway obstruction by sputum less likely. As a result, the respiratory burden on the patient is reduced.

[0016] Furthermore, in the artificial nose of the present invention, the end face of the housing is formed to be inclined toward the recess around the opening, and a second wall is formed around the opening. This structure allows sputum that falls from the filter to be retained in the recess, making it difficult for it to flow back into the respiratory circuit through the opening. Also, water that condenses inside the housing is less likely to flow back into the respiratory circuit through the opening. As a result, aspiration by the patient is prevented, and the respiratory burden on the patient is reduced.

[0017] In addition, in the artificial nose of the present invention, the filter is spaced apart from the end face of the housing portion and placed on the upper surfaces of the first and third wall portions. With this structure, exhaled air and inhaled air are likely to widely diffuse in the internal space of the housing portion, the filter performance is maintained, the flow path resistance is reduced, and the breathing burden on the patient is alleviated.

[0018] In addition, in the artificial nose of the present invention, the internal space of the housing portion is partitioned into a plurality of regions by the first wall portion, and the plurality of regions are in a communicating state. With this structure, even when a part of the internal space is blocked by sputum or the like, exhaled air and inhaled air bypass the blocked region and flow in the internal space, preventing clogging of the filter and reducing the replacement frequency of the entire artificial nose including the filter. And the cost burden on the side using the artificial nose such as medical institutions and patients is reduced.

[0019] In addition, in the artificial nose of the present invention, the third wall portions are formed independently of each other and arranged in one direction such as the clockwise direction. With this structure, inhaled air flows in a swirling manner and is rectified in the internal space, suppressing the retention of inhaled air and improving the ventilation efficiency of inhaled air.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0020] [Figure 1] It is a block diagram for explaining a breathing circuit in which the artificial nose according to an embodiment of the present invention is used. [Figure 2] It is a perspective view for explaining the artificial nose according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] It is an exploded perspective view for explaining the artificial nose according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] It is a plan view for explaining the artificial nose according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] It is a side view for explaining the artificial nose according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] It is a perspective view for explaining the artificial nose according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] It is a cross-sectional view for explaining the artificial nose according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8]It is a cross-sectional view for explaining an artificial nose according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9A] It is a plan view for explaining an artificial nose according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9B] It is a cross-sectional view for explaining an artificial nose according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10A] It is a plan view for explaining an artificial nose according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10B] It is a cross-sectional view for explaining an artificial nose according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] It is a plan view for explaining a modified example of an artificial nose according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0021] Hereinafter, the artificial nose 10 of the present embodiment will be described in detail based on the drawings. In the following description, the vertical direction indicates the height direction of the artificial nose 10, the horizontal direction indicates the width direction of the artificial nose 10, and the front-rear direction indicates the depth direction of the artificial nose 10. Also, in the description of the present embodiment, the same reference numerals are used for the same members in principle, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0022] FIG. 1 is a block diagram for explaining a breathing circuit 11 in which the artificial nose 10 of the present embodiment is used. FIG. 2 is a perspective view for explaining the artificial nose 10 of the present embodiment. FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view for explaining the artificial nose 10 of the present embodiment, and shows a partially cut-open state for convenience of explanation.

[0023] As shown in FIG. 1, the artificial respirator 13A is an example of a patient assistance device 13 that supports the breathing of a patient 12 who cannot breathe or cannot breathe sufficiently due to a pathological reason or the like, and is used in an intensive care unit of a hospital or at a home medical site. Also, for example, in the anesthesiology department of a hospital, the artificial respirator 13A may be used as an anesthetic device. In that case, the anesthetic device is used as an example of the patient assistance device 13. Hereinafter, the artificial respirator 13A will be used for explanation as an example of the patient assistance device 13.

[0024] Furthermore, the breathing circuit 11 in this embodiment is provided between the patient 12 and the ventilator 13A, and is a circuit for allowing exhaled air from the patient 12 and inhaled air supplied from the ventilator 13A to flow for the patient 12 to breathe. The breathing circuit 11 includes, for example, an artificial nose 10, a ventilator 13A, a respiratory face mask 14 worn on the patient 12, and a plurality of tubing 15, 16, 17. Depending on the patient 12's condition, the tubing 15 of the breathing circuit 11 may be directly inserted into the patient 12's trachea. In this case, the respiratory face mask 14 of the breathing circuit 11 is not necessary.

[0025] As illustrated, the exhaled air from patient 12 is sent to the ventilator 13A via the breathing circuit 11. Conversely, the inhaled air supplied from the ventilator 13A is sent to patient 12 via the breathing circuit 11.

[0026] The conduits 15, 16, and 17 are formed from, for example, flexible plastic tubing. Conduit 15 connects the artificial nose 10 to the respiratory face mask 14. Conduit 16 connects the artificial nose 10 to the ventilator 13A. Conduit 16 is connected to the exhalation valve of the ventilator 13A and allows exhaled air from the patient 12 to flow through it. On the other hand, conduit 17 connects the artificial nose 10 to the ventilator 13A. Conduit 17 is connected to the inhalation valve of the ventilator 13A and allows inhaled air from the ventilator 13A to flow through it. Note that the breathing circuit 11 is not limited to the case where the artificial nose 10 and the ventilator 13A form the double circuit described above, but may also form a single circuit.

[0027] The artificial nose 10 is a medical device used to adjust the humidity and temperature of the dry inhaled air supplied from the ventilator 13A when the ventilator 13A is in use. As will be described in detail later, the housing 20 of the artificial nose 10 is equipped with two types of filters: a first filter 33 (see Figure 3) and a second filter 32 (see Figure 3). In particular, the function of the first filter 33 humidifies and warms the inhaled air passing through the artificial nose 10 as appropriate.

[0028] As shown in Figure 2, the artificial nose 10 mainly comprises a housing 20 and two types of first filters 33 (see Figure 3) and second filters 32 (see Figure 3) disposed within the internal space 31 (see Figure 3) of the housing 20.

[0029] The housing portion 20 of the artificial nose 10 mainly comprises a first base portion 21 located on the patient 12 (see Figure 1) side, a second base portion 22 located on the ventilator 13A (see Figure 1) side, a first port 23 integrally formed on the first base portion 21, and a second port 24 integrally formed on the second base portion 22. The first port 23 is connected to the conduit 15, and the second port 24 is connected to a branch pipe (not shown) that connects to conduits 16 and 17. A sampling port 19 is formed in the second base portion 22. The sampling port 19 is used according to the procedure performed on the patient 12, for example, to measure the amount of carbon dioxide in the patient's exhaled breath. When the sampling port 19 is not in use, it is covered by a lid.

[0030] As shown in Figure 3, the artificial nose 10 comprises a second base 22 constituting the housing 20, a second filter 32 and a first filter 33 disposed within the internal space 31 of the housing 20, and a first base 21 constituting the housing 20, extending from the ventilator 13A (see Figure 1) side at the top of the paper to the patient 12 side at the bottom of the paper.

[0031] For example, a paper filter is used as the first filter 33. The first filter 33 is formed, for example, into a cylindrical shape by winding a strip of filter material. The first filter 33 has the function of capturing the heat and moisture contained in the patient's exhaled breath as it passes through the first filter 33. On the other hand, the first filter 33 has the function of adding the heat and moisture captured within the first filter 33 to the inhaled breath as it passes through the inhaled breath from the ventilator 13A.

[0032] As a result, even if patient 12 experiences impairment of the body's natural warming and humidifying functions due to, for example, a decrease in the cleansing action of mucociliary movement or drying of mucus, the inhaled air will be appropriately humidified and warmed thanks to the functions of the first filter 33. This reduces the likelihood of the patient's airway drying out, thereby lowering the risk of airway obstruction and cell damage.

[0033] As the second filter 32, for example, a non-woven fabric bacterial filter is used. When the patient's exhaled breath or the inhaled breath from the ventilator 13A passes through the second filter 32, the second filter 32 has the function of killing or reducing particulate matter and microorganisms mixed in the exhaled or inhaled breath.

[0034] As a result, the second filter 32 reduces the risk of infection for the patient 12 using the ventilator 13A and prevents contamination of the inside of the ventilator 13A due to exhalation backflow from the patient 12.

[0035] The second base portion 22 and the second port 24 are integrally formed by resin molding, for example, using polypropylene. The second base portion 22 has, for example, a flat plate-shaped bottom portion 25 and a joint portion 26 integrally formed at the outer peripheral end of the bottom plate portion 25. The end face 25A of the bottom plate portion 25 on the internal space 31 side is formed as a substantially circular flat surface when viewed from the internal space 31 side.

[0036] Furthermore, an opening 25B is formed in the center of the bottom plate portion 25 to allow the second port 24 to communicate with the internal space 31. The end face 25A of the bottom plate portion 25 is, for example, a funnel-shaped flat surface that is inclined toward the opening 25B in its center.

[0037] The joint portion 26 is formed in a ring shape along the outer peripheral edge of the base plate portion 25. The joint portion 26 has a first projection 26A, a second projection 26B, and a third projection 26C that extend substantially vertically from the base plate portion 25 toward the first base portion 21.

[0038] The first projection 26A is used as a projection for sandwiching the second filter 32 between itself and the flat surface 29A of the joint portion 29 of the first base portion 21. The second projection 26B and the third projection 26C form a joint space into which the projection 29B of the joint portion 29 of the first base portion 21 is inserted.

[0039] In this structure, the projection 29B of the first base 21 is in contact with the end face 25A between the second projection 26B and the third projection 26C of the second base 22, and the first base 21 and the second base 22 are fixed together by heat welding, for example, using ultrasonic welding. The housing portion 20 of the artificial nose 10 then has an internal space 31 (see Figure 3) in which the first and second filters 33 and 32 are arranged.

[0040] Furthermore, in the state in which the first base 21 and the second base 22 are fixed together, the peripheral region of the outer edge of the second filter 32 is supported by being sandwiched between the first projection 26A of the second base 22 and the flat surface 29A of the first base 21. Inside the housing 20, a substantially conical internal space 31 is formed between the second filter 32 and the end face 25A of the bottom plate 25, extending over substantially the entire surface of the second filter 32.

[0041] This structure allows inhaled air supplied from the second port 24 into the internal space 31 of the housing 20 to be supplied throughout almost the entire second filter 32. Similarly, exhaled air flowing through the second filter 32 to the second port 24 can also pass through almost the entire second filter 32. As a result, the entire second filter 32 can perform its function as a filter. Furthermore, a wide cross-sectional area for the exhaled and inhaled air flows is secured in the internal space 31 of the housing 20, reducing flow resistance, thereby reducing pressure loss during exhalation and inhalation, and easing the burden on the patient 12's breathing.

[0042] The first base portion 21 and the first port 23 are integrally formed by resin molding, for example, using polypropylene. The first base portion 21 includes, for example, a flat plate-shaped bottom plate portion 27, a side plate portion 28 integrally formed on the outer peripheral end of the bottom plate portion 27, and a joint portion 29 formed at the tip of the side plate portion 28. The end face 27A of the bottom plate portion 27 on the internal space 31 side is formed as a substantially circular flat surface when viewed from the internal space 31 side.

[0043] Furthermore, an opening 27B is formed in the center of the bottom plate portion 27 to allow the first port 23 to communicate with the internal space 31. The end face 27A of the bottom plate portion 27 is, for example, a funnel-shaped flat surface that slopes toward the opening 27B in its center. Multiple recesses 41 (see Figure 4) and first to third wall portions 42, 43, 44 (see Figure 4) are formed on the end face 27A of the first base portion 21, and their structure will be described later with reference to Figures 4 to 8.

[0044] The side plate portion 28 of the first base portion 21 is formed in an annular shape along the outer peripheral end of the bottom plate portion 27. The side plate portion 28 is formed, for example, in a cylindrical shape, and the first filter 33 is disposed in the internal space 31 inside the side plate portion 28. In other words, the inner surface 28A of the side plate portion 28 is in contact with the outermost outer surface of the first filter 33 and serves to hold the first filter 33 inside the housing portion 20.

[0045] The joint portion 29 of the first base portion 21 is the tip of the side plate portion 28 and is formed in an annular shape facing the joint portion 26 of the second base portion 22. The joint portion 29 has a flat surface 29A that holds the second filter 32 and a projection 29B that extends substantially perpendicularly from the flat surface 29A toward the second base portion 22.

[0046] As described above, the first filter 33 is held by the first base 21, and the second filter 32 is held by being sandwiched between the first base 21 and the second base 22. The second filter 32 is then stacked with the first filter 33 and housed in the internal space 31 of the housing 20, pressing down on the upper surface of the first filter 33.

[0047] In other words, the housing portion 20 of the artificial nose 10 is miniaturized to the extent that it can hold the first and second filters 33 and 32 within the internal space 31. Furthermore, the housing portion 20 is lightweight due to resin molding using the polypropylene described above. With this structure, the artificial nose 10 is connected to the tubes 15, 16, and 17 that constitute the breathing circuit 11, and because the artificial nose 10 is made small and lightweight, sagging or detachment of the tubes 15, 16, and 17 is prevented. In addition, the artificial nose 10 can be mass-produced by resin molding, resulting in lower costs.

[0048] Next, the first base 21 constituting the artificial nose 10 of this embodiment will be described using Figures 4 to 8.

[0049] Figure 4 is a plan view illustrating the first base 21 of the artificial nose 10 of this embodiment, showing the first base 21 as viewed from the internal space 31 side. Figure 5 is a side view illustrating the first base 21 of the artificial nose 10 of this embodiment. Figure 6 is a perspective view illustrating the first base 21 of the artificial nose 10 of this embodiment, cut along the AA line in Figure 5, showing the first base 21 as viewed from the internal space 31 side. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the first base 21 of the artificial nose 10 of this embodiment, showing an enlarged view of the cross-section in the BB line direction in Figure 4. Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the first base 21 of the artificial nose 10 of this embodiment, showing an enlarged view of the cross-section in the CC line direction in Figure 4. Note that in Figures 7 and 8, the first filter 33 is shown for illustrative purposes.

[0050] As shown in Figure 4, the bottom plate portion 27 of the first base portion 21 is formed with an opening 27B, six recesses 41 formed around the opening 27B, a first wall portion 42 extending from the center of the opening 27B toward the side plate portion 28, a second wall portion 43 formed in a ring shape along the outer peripheral end of the opening 27B, and a plurality of third wall portions 44 formed spaced apart from the first wall portion 42.

[0051] The recesses 41 are located around the opening 27B and are formed at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the opening 27B. In a plan view from the internal space 31 side, the recesses 41 are approximately elliptical in shape and are formed to be elongated vertically in the radial direction of the opening 27B. The tip of the recess on the opening 27B side extends to the second wall 43. In other words, the opening 27B and the recesses 41 are separated by the second wall 43.

[0052] Here, as shown in Figure 5, the recess 41 is formed to protrude toward the outer surface 27C of the bottom plate portion 27. As will be described in detail later, the recess 41 is formed by curving to widen the internal space 31 of the housing portion 20 outward, thereby ensuring a recess width W1 (see Figure 8) of the recess 41 from the end surface 27A of the bottom plate portion 27, for example, about 1 mm to 2 mm.

[0053] The first wall portion 42 functions as a guide member that guides the flow of exhaled and inhaled air and water. The height of the rib portion of the first wall portion 42 is formed in the range of, for example, 1 mm to 4 mm. As shown in Figure 4, the first wall portion 42 is formed from, for example, three wall portions 42A, 42B, and 42C. The wall portions 42A, 42B, and 42C extend in three directions from the center of the opening 27B, and the wall portions 42A, 42B, and 42C are formed spaced apart by, for example, 120 degrees in the circumferential direction.

[0054] Above the end face 27A surrounding the opening 27B, the wall portions 42A, 42B, and 42C are formed in a straight shape, while inside the opening 27B, the wall portions 42A, 42B, and 42C are formed in a curved shape. In this embodiment, inside the opening 27B, the curved shapes of the wall portions 42A, 42B, and 42C are formed to be convex in the clockwise direction of the paper. Note that the curved shapes of the wall portions 42A, 42B, and 42C only need to be convex in the same direction, or they may be convex in the counterclockwise direction of the paper. In this case, the arrangement of the third wall portion 44, which will be described later, will also be aligned in the counterclockwise direction of the paper.

[0055] Furthermore, the first wall portion 42 has the function of supporting the first filter 33 from below. As shown in Figure 6, the wall portions 42A, 42B, and 42C are formed extending from the center of the opening 27B to the periphery of the inner surface 28A of the side plate portion 28. Moreover, the tips of the wall portions 42A, 42B, and 42C are formed to be approximately the same height in the vertical direction of the internal space 31 on the plane of the paper. In other words, the heights of the wall portions 42A, 42B, and 42C are formed to gradually decrease from the center of the opening 27B toward the inner surface 28A of the side plate portion 28. As will be described in detail later, by having the heights of the first wall portions 42 be uniform, the first filter 33 is stably placed on the upper surface of the first wall portions 42.

[0056] The third wall portion 44 functions as a guide member that guides the flow of exhaled and inhaled air and moisture. Here, as shown in Figures 4 and 6, the end face 27A of the bottom plate portion 27 is divided into approximately three regions R1, R2, and R3 by the first wall portion 42. Region R1 is the region enclosed by the wall portions 42A, 42B and the inner surface 28A of the side plate portion 28. Region R2 is the region enclosed by the wall portions 42B, 42C and the inner surface 28A of the side plate portion 28. Region R3 is the region enclosed by the wall portions 42C, 42A and the inner surface 28A of the side plate portion 28. When the first wall portion 42 is disconnected from the inner surface 28A, in the configuration of the first filter 33, each region R1, R2, and R3 is in communication through the gap between the wall portions 42A, 42B, 42C and the inner surface 28A of the side plate portion 28.

[0057] The three third wall portions 44 are formed within their respective regions R1, R2, and R3, and are independently arranged on the inner surface 28A side of the side plate portion 28. As will be described in detail later, the three third wall portions 44 are formed to extend approximately in a clockwise direction with respect to the paper, so that the intake air flows in a vortex within the internal space 31 in a clockwise direction with respect to the paper and collides with the first wall portion 42. As mentioned above, if the curved shape of the wall portions 42A, 42B, and 42C is convex in a counterclockwise direction with respect to the paper, the three third wall portions 44 are formed to extend approximately in a counterclockwise direction with respect to the paper.

[0058] Furthermore, the third wall portion 44, together with the first wall portion 42, has the function of supporting the first filter 33 from below. The height of the rib portion of the third wall portion 44 is formed in the range of, for example, 1 mm to 4 mm. As shown in Figure 6, the tip of the third wall portion 44 is formed to be approximately the same height in the vertical direction of the internal space 31 on the plane of the paper. As described above, the height of the tip of the third wall portion 44 is approximately the same as the height of the tip of the first wall portion 42.

[0059] The tips of the first and third wall portions 42 and 44 are in contact with the bottom surface of the first filter 33, and the first filter 33 is supported by the first wall portion 42 and the third wall portion 44. Many of the third wall portions 44 are formed around the inner surface 28A of the side plate portion 28, which is a region not formed by the first wall portion 42. Around the inner surface 28A of the side plate portion 28, the first filter 33 is mainly supported by the third wall portions 44.

[0060] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 4 and 6, above the end face 27A around the opening 27B, the first wall portion 42 is formed along the outer peripheral edge of the recess 41. Also, the third wall portion 44 is formed along the outer peripheral edge of the recess 41. Alternatively, the third wall portion 44 is formed such that its tip overlaps with the outer peripheral edge of the recess 41. In other words, the first wall portion 42 and the third wall portion 44 are formed so as not to penetrate into the recess 41, and the recess 41 can maintain a predetermined volume. As will be described in detail later, sputum 61 (see Figure 9A) that has entered the artificial nose 10 is more likely to remain in the recess 41, and by retaining the sputum 61 in the recess 41, airway obstruction of the artificial nose 10 by sputum 61 is prevented.

[0061] As shown by the circle 50 in Figure 7, the second wall portion 43 is formed in an annular shape along the outer peripheral edge of the opening 27B of the bottom plate portion 27. As described above, the recess 41 is formed vertically elongated in the radial direction of the opening 27B, but the second wall portion 43 is formed to separate the opening 27B and the recess 41. In other words, at the end face 27A, the second wall portion 43 is formed to protrude toward the first filter 33 (see Figure 3) than the outer peripheral edge on the tip side of the recess 41. Furthermore, the second wall portion 43 is formed at a height that ensures sufficient space between it and the first filter 33, thereby preventing an increase in the flow resistance of exhaled and inhaled air and maintaining the performance of the first and second filters 33 and 32.

[0062] On the other hand, as will be described in detail later, the second wall portion 43 protrudes toward the first filter 33, thereby blocking the sputum 61 (see Figure 9A) and water 73 (see Figure 10A) present in the internal space 31 of the housing portion 20 of the artificial nose 10. This prevents the sputum 61 and water 73 from flowing back into the conduit 15 (see Figure 1), thereby preventing airway obstruction and aspiration in the patient 12.

[0063] As shown in Figures 7 and 8, the first filter 33 is spaced apart from the end face 27A and supported from below by the first wall portion 42 and the third wall portion 44. As shown in Figure 4, the first wall portion 42 and the third wall portion 44 are scattered across the entire end face 27A and are formed to extend radially across the opening 27B. With this structure, although the first filter 33 is formed into a cylindrical shape by winding a strip of filter material, the first filter 33 is supported from below at multiple points by the first wall portion 42 and the third wall portion 44, preventing it from falling off towards the end face 27A, for example, in a bamboo shoot shape.

[0064] In particular, as shown in Figure 7, the starting point of winding the first filter 33 is positioned on the upper surface of the first wall portion 42 in the center of the opening 27B, thereby preventing the first filter 33 from falling into the first port 23 and preventing airway obstruction of the artificial nose 10 on the patient 12 side.

[0065] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 8, the end face 27A around the opening 27B is mainly divided into a region R4 where the recess 41 is formed and a region R5 where the recess 41 is not formed. In this case, when the ventilator 13A is used, the dead space volume increases in the breathing circuit 11 including the artificial nose 10, which reduces the amount of air exchanged in the patient's 12 alveoli, decreases the amount of oxygen taken into the patient's 12 body, and increases the burden on the patient 12.

[0066] Therefore, in the artificial nose 10 of this embodiment, as described above, in region R4, the recess 41 protrudes toward the outer surface 27C of the base plate portion 27, and the end face 27A of the base plate portion 27 is formed to be away from the first filter 33. As will be described in detail later, the recess width W1 of the recess 41 is increased, and the volume of the recess 41 is increased, making it easier for sputum 61 (see Figure 9A) and water 73 (see Figure 10A) present in the internal space 31 of the housing portion 20 of the artificial nose 10 to remain in the recess 41.

[0067] On the other hand, in region R5, while considering the balance with the flow resistance of exhalation and inhalation, the end face 27A of the bottom plate portion 27 is formed to approach the first filter 33 side, thereby reducing the internal space 31 of the housing portion 20. In other words, the internal space 31 between the end face 27A and the first filter 33 is secured so that exhalation and inhalation can pass through the entirety of the first filter 33 and the second filter 32, but the amount of dead space that expanded in region R4 is narrowed in region R5, so that the amount of dead space does not increase throughout the housing portion 20 of the artificial nose 10.

[0068] Furthermore, the first filter 33 is spaced apart from the end face 27A and supported from below by the first wall portion 42 and the third wall portion 44. In other words, a flow path for exhaled and inhaled air is formed between the first filter 33 and the end face 27A. With this structure, exhaled air blown into the housing portion 20 from the first port 23 flows throughout almost the entire internal space 31. Similarly, inhaled air that has passed through the first filter 33 also flows throughout almost the entire internal space 31. This structure helps maintain the performance of the first and second filters 33 and 32.

[0069] Furthermore, the circle 45 in Figure 6 shows a partially enlarged cross-section of a portion of the first wall 42. The circle 45 in Figure 6 shows, for example, inhaled air flowing from the first filter 33 side to the patient 12 side. In this embodiment, the end face of the wall 42C of the first wall 42, which is located in the airflow path for exhalation and inhalation, is chamfered at the corners in the vertical direction of the paper, forming a smooth curved shape. With this structure, as indicated by arrow 46, the pressure loss of exhaled and inhaled air is reduced because the frictional resistance with the wall 42C is reduced. The end face of the tip of the first wall 42 is also chamfered in the same way as the circle 47 below.

[0070] Furthermore, the circle 47 in Figure 6 shows a partially enlarged cross-section of a portion of the third wall 44. The circle 47 in Figure 6 shows, for example, intake air flowing through the internal space 31 toward the first port 23. In this embodiment, the end face 44A of the third wall 44 is also chamfered to form a smooth curved shape. With this structure, as indicated by the arrow 46, the pressure loss of exhaled and inhaled air is reduced because the frictional resistance with the wall 42C is reduced. The end face of the third wall 44 in the vertical direction of the paper is also chamfered in the same way as the circle 45 above.

[0071] Furthermore, in the housing portion 20 of the artificial nose 10, the end surfaces of the second wall portion 43 that collide with exhaled and inhaled air are formed with the smooth curved shape described above. As a result, an increase in the airflow resistance of exhaled and inhaled air is prevented, and the burden on the patient's breathing is reduced.

[0072] Next, the effects of the structure of the first base 21 of the artificial nose 10 in this embodiment will be explained using Figures 9A to 10B.

[0073] Figure 9A is a plan view illustrating the first base 21 of the artificial nose 10 of this embodiment, showing the first base 21 as viewed from the internal space 31 side. Figure 9B is a cross-sectional view illustrating the first base 21 of the artificial nose 10 of this embodiment, showing the cross-section in the direction of line DD in Figure 9A. Figure 10A is a plan view illustrating the first base 21 of the artificial nose 10 of this embodiment, showing the first base 21 as viewed from the internal space 31 side. Figure 10B is a cross-sectional view illustrating the first base 21 of the artificial nose 10 of this embodiment, showing the cross-section in the direction of line EE in Figure 10A. Note that in Figures 9B and 10B, the first filter 33 is shown for illustrative purposes.

[0074] Figures 9A and 9B show the state in which sputum 61 enters the artificial nose 10 through the first port 23, mixed with the patient's exhaled breath. It is presumed that the sputum 61 adheres to the first filter 33 above the first port 23, and then spreads thinly toward the outer edge of the first filter 33 as the patient 12 repeatedly breathes using the ventilator 13A. Subsequently, it is presumed that the sputum 61 falls from the first filter 33 to the end face 27A of the bottom plate 27, and moves toward the opening 27B while being guided by the first wall 42 and the third wall 44.

[0075] Here, as described above, six recesses 41 are formed around the opening 27B. Furthermore, within the artificial nose 10, the shape and position of the first wall portion 42 and the third wall portion 44 are designed so that the inhaled air flows in a vortex in a clockwise direction relative to the paper. The first wall portion 42 or the third wall portion 44 is positioned on the clockwise side of the paper in the direction of extension of the recesses 41 (the radial direction of the opening 27B). In addition, a second wall portion 43 is positioned at the tip of the opening 27B of the recess 41.

[0076] This structure results in each recess 41 being surrounded by the first to third walls 42, 43, and 44 in a roughly L-shape. The recess 41 itself also has a recess width W1 (see Figure 8). As a result, the entire sputum 61, or most of the sputum 61, is blocked by the first to third walls 42, 43, and 44, making it easier for it to remain inside the recess 41. This prevents the sputum 61 from blocking the entire opening 27B, thus preventing airway obstruction within the artificial nose 10. Furthermore, the sputum 61 can flow back from the opening 27B into the first port 23 or into the tube 15 of the breathing circuit 11 (see Figure 1), preventing airway obstruction in the tube 15 and aspiration of sputum 61 by the patient 12.

[0077] Furthermore, arrows 62, 63, and 64 indicate the flow of intake air that has passed through the first filter 33. As shown by arrow 62, around the opening 27B, the shape and arrangement of the first and third walls 42 and 44 guide the intake air in the internal space 31 in a clockwise direction on the paper, making it easier for it to flow into the opening 27B as a vortex flow. Then, as shown by arrow 63, within the opening 27B, as the vortex intake air flows in, the curved shape of the first wall 42 straightens the intake air in a clockwise direction on the paper, making it difficult for turbulence to occur, suppressing stagnation of intake air, and improving the ventilation efficiency of the intake air.

[0078] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the third wall portion 44 is formed to be shorter than the first wall portion 42, and each of the third wall portions 44 is formed independently. As indicated by the arrow 64, the inhaled air avoids the recess 41 blocked by the sputum 61 and flows into the opening 27B via the surrounding recess 41 that is not obstructed. This structure narrows the area of ​​obstruction by the sputum 61 in the first and second filters 33 and 32, reduces flow resistance, and alleviates the burden on the patient 12 during breathing. In addition, airway obstruction within the artificial nose 10 by sputum 61 is prevented, and the first and second filters 33 and 32 are kept in use longer. As a result, the frequency of replacement of the entire artificial nose 10 containing the first and second filters 33 and 32 by nurses, etc. is reduced. Consequently, the number of artificial noses 10 used is reduced, and the cost burden on those using the artificial nose 10, such as medical institutions and patients, is reduced.

[0079] As shown in Figures 10A and 10B, the artificial nose 10 may be cooled by external environmental factors such as the air conditioning in the hospital room or the season, which can cause condensation to form inside the artificial nose 10. In particular, the internal space 31 on the first base 21 side has high humidity due to the inflow of exhaled air from the patient 12, making it prone to condensation. Figures 10A and 10B show the state in which condensed water 73 has accumulated in the internal space 31 of the first base 21 of the artificial nose 10.

[0080] As shown in Figure 10B, depending on the placement of the artificial nose 10 in the breathing circuit 11 (see Figure 1), the artificial nose 10 may be used in an obliquely tilted position. In this case, the water on the upper surface of the end face 27A of the bottom plate portion 27 flows downward into the internal space 31. Then, as indicated by arrow 71, the water flowing from above the opening 27B is guided downwards to the end face 27A by the second wall portion 43 around the opening 27B.

[0081] In other words, water flowing from above the opening 27B along the end face 27A is prevented from flowing into the opening 27B by the second wall 43, and instead flows around the opening 27B to the lower side of the end face 27A. This structure makes it difficult for water generated in the internal space 31 of the first base 21 to flow back into the conduit 15 through the opening 27B, thereby preventing the patient 12 from aspirating water.

[0082] Furthermore, as indicated by arrow 71, most of the water 73 generated in the internal space 31 of the first base 21 is guided to the first to third wall portions 42, 43, and 44, and accumulates below the internal space 31 of the first base 21. Alternatively, as indicated by arrow 72, some of the water 73 generated in the internal space 31 of the first base 21 accumulates between the third wall portion 44 and the inner surface 28A of the side plate portion 28.

[0083] The accumulated water 73 comes into contact with the first filter 33 and is drawn up into the first filter 33. As described above, the first filter 33 has the function of absorbing moisture and heat from the exhaled air as it passes through, but the first filter 33 can also directly draw up water from the internal space 31.

[0084] This structure allows the first filter 33 to adequately humidify the inhaled air passing through it, making it less likely for the patient's airway to dry out. This prevents a decrease in the cleansing action of the patient's mucociliary movement and also prevents the drying of the patient's mucus, thereby reducing the risk of airway obstruction and cell damage. Furthermore, because the patient's airway is less likely to dry out, the amount of sputum 61 produced by the patient is reduced, and the occurrence of clogging of the first filter 33 by sputum 61 is also reduced.

[0085] In this embodiment, the artificial nose 10 is described as having a first wall portion 42 formed from, for example, three wall portions 42A, 42B, and 42C, and the three wall portions 42A, 42B, and 42C are formed spaced, for example, 120 degrees apart in the circumferential direction. However, the embodiment is not limited to this case. For example, Figure 11 is a plan view illustrating a modified example of the artificial nose 10 of this embodiment, the first base portion 81, and shows the first base portion 81 as seen from the internal space 31 side. In the following description of the first base portion 81, the same reference numerals will be used in principle for the same components as the first base portion 21, and repeated explanations will be omitted. Also, the same components are used for the second base portion 22 and the first and second filters 33 and 32.

[0086] As illustrated, in the first base 81, the structure of the first wall portion 82 differs from that of the first base portion 21 described above, in that the first wall portion 82 is formed from, for example, two wall portions 83 and 84, while the structure of the other members is the same as that of the first base portion 21. In the first base portion 81, the two wall portions 83 and 84 are formed spaced, for example, 180 degrees apart in the circumferential direction.

[0087] Above the end face 27A surrounding the opening 27B, the wall portions 83 and 84 are formed in a straight line along the outer peripheral end of the recess 41, while inside the opening 27B, the wall portions 83 and 84 are formed in a curved shape. In this embodiment, inside the opening 27B, the curved shape of the wall portions 83 and 84 is formed to be convex in the clockwise direction of the paper. Note that the curved shape of the wall portions 83 and 84 only needs to be convex in the same direction, and may also be convex in the counterclockwise direction of the paper.

[0088] Furthermore, as indicated by arrows 85 and 86, in the first base 81, similar to the first base 21, the intake air is guided by the first wall 82 and the third wall 44, causing it to flow through the internal space 31 of the first base 81 in a swirling, clockwise direction. This suppresses stagnation of the intake air and improves the ventilation efficiency of the intake air. In addition, the same effects as those of the first base 21 can be obtained in the first base 81.

[0089] Finally, the embodiments disclosed herein should be considered in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is indicated by the claims rather than by the foregoing description, and all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims are intended to be included. Furthermore, configurations obtained by combining the configurations of the different embodiments described herein are also included in the scope of the invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0090] 10 Artificial nose 11 Breathing circuit 12 patients 13 Patient assistance equipment 13A respirator 14. Breathable face mask 15 Conduit 16 Conduit 17 Conduit 19 Sampling Ports 20. Enclosure 21 First base 22 Second base 23 First port 24 Second port 25 Bottom plate part 25A end face 25B opening 26 Joint 26A First projection 26B Second projection 26C Third projection 27 Bottom plate part 27A End face 27B opening 27C External surface 28 Side plate part 28A Inner surface 29 Joint 29A flat surface 29B Protrusion 31 Interior space 32. Second filter 33. First filter 41 Recess 42 First wall section 43 Second Wall Section 44 Third Wall 61 Sputum 73 water 81 First base 82 First wall section 83 Wall section 84 Wall

Claims

1. An artificial nose, which is installed in the breathing circuit between the patient and the patient assistance device used by the patient, The housing and, A filter disposed within the internal space of the aforementioned housing, It has an opening formed in the bottom plate portion of the housing portion located on the patient side, On the end face of the bottom plate portion on the side facing the internal space, Multiple recesses formed around the opening, An artificial nose characterized by having a first wall portion extending toward the inside of the opening.

2. The end face is a surface that is inclined toward the opening. A second wall portion is formed on the end face so as to surround the opening. The artificial nose according to claim 1, characterized in that the recess and the opening are separated by the second wall portion.

3. Multiple third wall portions are formed on the end face, spaced apart from the first wall portion. The artificial nose according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the first wall portion and the third wall portion support the filter within the internal space.

4. The first wall portion has a plurality of wall portions that extend from the center of the opening toward the side plate portion of the housing portion, The artificial nose according to claim 3, characterized in that the wall portion is formed to curve in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction on the inside of the opening, and the wall portion is formed to be spaced apart from the side plate portion.

5. The artificial nose according to claim 4, characterized in that the third wall portion is formed independently and extends in the clockwise or counterclockwise direction.

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