Flow-enhanced gas sensor module

Abstract

A gas sensor module (600) for a therapeutic gas delivery device is provided. The gas sensor module includes a sample inlet (119) and a sample chamber (140) which is fluidly connected to the sample inlet and forms a flow path (144) operable to receive a sample gas, the sample chamber including a plurality of sensor chambers (600, 602, 630) which communicate with one or more corresponding sensors (118, 122) operable to measure at least one characteristic of the sample gas. The flow path guides the flow of the sample gas through the gas sensor module and includes one or more deflectors (604, 606, 608, 610, 612) in front of each of the plurality of sensor chambers, each deflector having an angle operable to facilitate mixing of the sample gas and to facilitate diffusion of the sample gas to each of the plurality of sensors.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Claim of Priority This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 458,990, filed Apr. 13, 2023, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to a gas sensor module with enhanced flow. In one example, the present disclosure relates to a gas sensor module with enhanced flow for efficient gas flow through a sensor within a therapeutic gas delivery device.

Background Art

[0003] Current methods for sensing medical gases within a patent line involve taking a sample of a small amount of the gas mixture, teeing it off, and delivering it to a sensor cluster that communicates with the main device delivery management system. The most important requirement is that the gas is delivered in the most homogeneous state in a timely manner. The gas can change as it is transported through the system; for example, oxygen molecules can combine with nitric oxide to form nitrogen dioxide, so the timely delivery time to the sensor bank is an important requirement regarding the accuracy of the gas mixture being delivered to the patient. Also, it is desirable to limit the amount of gas in the sample line to ensure real-time monitoring of the therapeutic mixture being delivered directly to the patient.

Summary of the Invention

Means for Solving the Problems

[0004] In some embodiments, the Disclosure provides a gas sensor module for a therapeutic gas delivery device. The gas sensor module may include a sample inlet operable to receive a sample gas containing a mixture of a respiratory gas and a therapeutic gas from a sample line connected to the inhalation line of the therapeutic gas delivery device, and a sample chamber fluidly connected to the sample inlet and forming a flow path operable to receive the sample gas, the sample chamber including a plurality of sensor chambers operable to communicate with one or more corresponding sensors operable to measure at least one characteristic of the sample gas. The flow path may be operable to direct the flow of the sample gas from the sample inlet to the plurality of sensor chambers, between each of the plurality of sensor chambers, and from the plurality of sensor chambers to an outlet. The flow path may include one or more bends before each of the plurality of sensor chambers, each bend having an angle operable to facilitate mixing of the sample gas and to facilitate diffusion of the sample gas to each of the one or more corresponding sensors.

[0005] In one embodiment, the mixing of sample gases is such that the concentrations of the respiratory and therapeutic gases in the sample gas flowing through multiple sensor chambers are substantially the same as the concentrations of the respiratory and therapeutic gases in the inspiratory line.

[0006] In some embodiments, the flow path reduces or prevents rotational vortices and dead zones in the flow of sample gas through the sample chamber. In additional embodiments, the flow path creates a low back pressure or resistance for flow through the sample chamber. Mixing of the sample gas may provide turbulent delivery of the sample gas to the respective surfaces of one or more corresponding sensors. In some embodiments, the volume of sample gas in the sample chamber is smaller than the volume of sample gas required in the sample chamber without mixing.

[0007] In some embodiments, the angle of one or more direction changes is approximately 90 degrees. One or more direction changes are operable to alter the direction of the flow path within the sample chamber.

[0008] In some embodiments, the sample chamber includes an inner housing having an upper portion, a lower portion, a vertical axis, and a horizontal axis transverse to the vertical axis. At least one of one or more deflections is along the vertical axis and / or the horizontal axis. One or more deflections are about 90 degrees along the vertical axis and / or the horizontal axis of the sample chamber. In some embodiments, at least one of a plurality of sensor chambers is located in the lower portion of the sample chamber, and the sample inlet is located in the upper portion of the sample chamber.

[0009] The multiple sensor chambers may include a first sensor chamber having a first sensor in the lower portion of the sample chamber, and the flow path may include about 1 to about 4 directional changes between the sample inlet in the upper portion of the sample chamber and the inlet of the first sensor chamber, each having an angle of about 90 degrees. In some embodiments, the flow path between the sample inlet and the first sensor chamber may include a first vertical directional change along the vertical axis, a second vertical directional change along the horizontal axis, a first horizontal directional change along the horizontal axis following the second directional change, and a third vertical directional change along the vertical axis. In some embodiments, the first sensor chamber may be a nitrogen dioxide sensor chamber, and the first sensor may be a nitrogen dioxide sensor.

[0010] In some embodiments, the sensor chambers may include a second sensor chamber having a second sensor in the lower portion of the sample chamber, and the flow path may include about 1 to about 4 directional changes between the outlet of the first sensor chamber and the inlet of the second sensor chamber, each having an angle of about 90 degrees. The flow path between the outlet of the first sensor chamber and the inlet of the second sensor chamber may include a fourth vertical directional change along the horizontal axis, and a fifth vertical directional change along the vertical axis following the fourth vertical directional change. The second sensor chamber may be a nitric oxide sensor chamber, and the second sensor is a nitric oxide sensor.

[0011] In some embodiments, the multiple sensor chambers include a third sensor chamber having a third sensor in the upper portion of the sample chamber, and the flow path includes about 1 to about 4 directional changes between the outlet of the second sensor chamber and the opening of the third sensor chamber, each having an angle of about 90 degrees. The flow path between the outlet of the second sensor chamber and the opening of the third sensor chamber may include a sixth vertical directional change along the horizontal axis, a second horizontal directional change along the horizontal axis, and a seventh vertical directional change along the vertical axis following the second horizontal directional change. The third sensor chamber may be a humidity and / or temperature sensor chamber, and the third sensor may be a humidity and / or temperature sensor.

[0012] In some embodiments, the flow path directs the sample gas to the opening of the humidity and / or temperature sensor chamber so that the sample gas exits the humidity and / or temperature sensor chamber through the opening. The flow path directs the sample gas from the vertical portion along the vertical axis of the sample chamber into the opening.

[0013] The following describes an implementation of this technology, using the attached diagrams as a simple example. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0014] [Figure 1A] This is an exploded view of an example gas sensor module. [Figure 1B] This is an exploded view of an example gas sensor module. [Figure 1C] This is an isometric view of an exemplary sensor chamber with the cover removed. [Figure 2A] This is an isometric view of the back of an exemplary gas sensor module. [Figure 2B] This is a side view of an exemplary gas sensor module. [Figure 2C] This is a front isometric view of an exemplary gas sensor module with the cover removed. [Figure 2D] This is a top view of an exemplary gas sensor module with the cover removed. [Figure 3A] Shows a model of gas flow through an exemplary gas sensor module. Shows a top view of the gas flow through the exemplary gas sensor module. [Figure 3B] Shows a model of gas flow through an exemplary gas sensor module. Shows a side view of the gas flow through the exemplary gas sensor module. [Figure 3C] Shows a model of gas flow through an exemplary gas sensor module. Shows a side view of the gas flow through the outlet of the exemplary gas sensor module. [Figure 4A] Shows a model of gas flow through another exemplary gas sensor module. Shows an isometric view of the gas flow through the exemplary gas sensor module. [Figure 4B] Shows a model of gas flow through another exemplary gas sensor module. Shows a top view of the gas flow through the exemplary gas sensor module. [Figure 4C] Shows a model of gas flow through another exemplary gas sensor module. Shows a side view of the gas flow through the exemplary gas sensor module. [Figure 4D] Shows a model of gas flow through another exemplary gas sensor module. Shows an enlarged view of the gas flow through the exemplary gas sensor module. [Figure 5] Shows a model of the flow rate through an exemplary gas sensor module. [Figure 6A] Shows an isometric cutaway view of the flow path of an exemplary gas sensor module. [Figure 6B] Shows an isometric perspective view of the flow path of an exemplary gas sensor module. [Figure 7] Shows a gas sensor module attached to a therapeutic gas delivery device in one embodiment.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0015] For the sake of simplicity and clarity of the description, it will be understood that, where appropriate, reference numerals are repeated between different figures to indicate corresponding or similar elements. Additionally, many specific details are set forth in order to provide a complete understanding of the embodiments described herein. However, as will be understood by those skilled in the art, the embodiments described herein may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, methods, procedures, and components are not described in detail so as not to obscure the related features being described. Also, this specification should not be considered as limiting the scope of the embodiments described herein. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, and the ratios of certain portions may be exaggerated to better illustrate the details and features of the present disclosure.

[0016] A plurality of definitions applicable to the entire above disclosure are presented here. The term "coupled" is defined as being directly or indirectly connected through intervening components and is not necessarily limited to physical connections. The connection can be such that the objects are permanently connected or removably connected.

[0017] The term "substantially" is defined as essentially conforming to a particular dimension, shape, or other term that changes substantially, and the component need not be exact. For example, "substantially cylindrical" means that the object is similar to a cylinder but can have one or more deviations from a true cylinder. In another example, "substantially homogeneous" may mean being homogeneous over 75%, over 80%, or over 90%.

[0018] The terms "comprising," "including," and "having" are used interchangeably in the present disclosure. The terms "comprising," "including," and "having" mean including what is described, but are not necessarily limited thereto.

[0019] In general, the range provided means that it includes all specific ranges within a given range, and combinations of subranges between given ranges. Thus, the range 1–5 specifically includes 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, as well as subranges such as 2–5, 3–5, 2–3, 2–4, 1–4, etc. All ranges and values ​​disclosed herein are inclusive and combinable. For example, any value or point disclosed herein that falls within the range described herein can function as a minimum or maximum value for deriving a subrange, etc. Unless otherwise indicated in the example of operation or elsewhere, all numbers representing the amount of components and / or reaction conditions may in all cases be modified by the term “approximately,” where “approximately” means within + / - 5% of the indicated number.

[0020] Disclosed herein is a flow-enhanced gas sensor module comprising a sample line having a flow path within a sample chamber, the flow path having one or more deflections between a plurality of sensors for measuring at least one characteristic of a sample gas in a therapeutic gas delivery device. The sample gas may be a mixture of respiratory gas and therapeutic gas delivered to a patient through the inspiratory line of the therapeutic gas delivery device. The flow-enhanced gas sensor module improves upon previous known gas delivery systems by ensuring that the sample gas volume is minimized and the sample gas mixture is enhanced for accurate concentration measurement. For example, the flow-enhanced gas sensor module maximizes the gas flow across the sensor surface and promotes an enhanced flow to ensure that the sample gas mixture is uniform and prevents rotational vortices and dead zones in the gas flow. The flow-enhanced gas sensor module is designed to include several torsions and deflections as the sample gas flow passes through the sensor zone / chamber, eliminating the possibility of any proportion of the sample gas bypassing the sensor. For example, a flow-enhanced gas sensor module provides a sample gas mixture such that the sample gas mixture is homogeneous across one or more sensors within the flow-enhanced gas sensor module. In some examples, the sample gas mixture across one or more sensors within the flow-enhanced gas sensor module is substantially homogeneous. The sample gas is guided through the sensor unit through a passage designed to create low back pressure or resistance to flow while ensuring enhanced delivery to the sensor surface, thereby limiting the amount of gas in the sample line while delivering a sufficient amount of fresh sample gas to the sensor.

[0021] Traditionally, sensing medical gases such as nitric oxide in patient lines is performed by taking a small sample of the gas mixture from a sample tee and delivering it to a sensor cluster that communicates with the main unit delivery management system. The most important requirement is that the gas is delivered in the most homogeneous state and in a timely manner. Since gases can change as they are transported through the system, for example, oxygen molecules may combine with nitric oxide to form nitrogen dioxide, timely delivery to the sensor cluster is a critical requirement for the accuracy of the gas mixture being delivered to the patient. Therefore, sensing of a sample gas mixture in a therapeutic gas delivery device may not represent the mixture being delivered to the patient in a timely or accurate manner, which may hinder the effective treatment of the patient.

[0022] The flow-enhanced gas sensor module described herein overcomes the limitations of conventional gas sensors. The advantage of the flow-enhanced gas sensor module is that it delivers a constant amount of sample gas to multiple sensor chambers, ensuring that the sensor can accurately detect the concentration while minimizing the volume removed from the patient line. Limiting the amount of gas in the sample line is advantageous to ensure real-time monitoring of the therapeutic mixture being delivered directly to the patient. Delivering the gas at a concentration as close as possible to the same concentration of the mixture being delivered to the patient is also an advantage.

[0023] In some examples, the gas sensor module includes a flow path with one or more directional changes between multiple sensors for measuring at least one characteristic of a sample gas in a therapeutic gas delivery device. One or more directional changes may be operable to change the direction of the flow path within the sample chamber. The mixing of the sample gas may be such that the concentrations of the respiratory gas and therapeutic gas in the sample gas flowing through the multiple sensor chambers are substantially the same as the concentrations of the respiratory gas and therapeutic gas in the inspiratory line.

[0024] Each angle of one or more directional changes may be operable to facilitate mixing of the sample gas and to facilitate diffusion of the sample gas to each of the multiple sensors. In some embodiments, each angle of one or more directional changes may be between approximately 0 degrees and approximately 90 degrees. In some additional embodiments, the angles of one or more directional changes may be approximately 0 degrees, approximately 15 degrees, approximately 30 degrees, approximately 45 degrees, approximately 60 degrees, approximately 75 degrees, or approximately 90 degrees.

[0025] The flow path may reduce or prevent rotational vortices and dead zones in the flow of sample gas through the sample chamber. In some embodiments, the flow path may create low back pressure or resistance for flow through the sample chamber. Mixing of the sample gas may, due to the design of the flow path, provide turbulent delivery of the sample gas to each surface of one or more sensors. In some embodiments, the volume of sample gas in the sample chamber is smaller than the volume of sample gas that would otherwise be required in the sample chamber without the mixing caused by the flow path configuration and the turbulent conditions caused by the flow path. In some examples, the flow path can be a tubular flow path.

[0026] A flow-enhanced gas sensor module can be used in an exemplary gas sensor assembly, for example, as shown in Figures 1A and 1B, which show exploded views of an exemplary gas sensor assembly, and in Figure 1C, which shows an isometric rear view of an exemplary sensor chamber with the cover removed. The gas sensor assembly 10 includes a gas sensor module 100 and an assembly inner housing 200 that is operable to detachably receive the gas sensor module 100. The assembly inner housing 200 includes a module receiving portion 202 that forms a module receiving recess 204. The gas sensor module 100 is detachably received within the module receiving recess 204. Thus, the gas sensor module 100 is detachably coupled to the assembly inner housing 200. The gas sensor assembly 10 may also include a gas analyzer unit 300 having an assembly main housing 302 that is operable to receive the assembly inner housing 200. In some examples, the assembly inner housing 200 is detachably coupled to the assembly main housing 302. In other examples, the assembly inner housing 200 is fixedly coupled to the assembly main housing 302. The gas analyzer unit 300 is housed within the therapeutic gas delivery device 50. In at least one example, the main assembly housing 302 is coupled to the therapeutic gas delivery device 50 for fluid communication. In some examples, the gas sensor module 100 is nested within the inner assembly housing 200, which is then nested within the main assembly housing 302, so that the gas sensor module 100 is coupled to the therapeutic gas delivery device 50 for fluid communication. In other examples, the inner assembly housing 200 and the gas analyzer unit 300 can be integrated as a single unit operable to receive the gas sensor module 100. In additional examples, the therapeutic gas delivery device 50 is operable to receive the gas sensor module 100. Figure 7 shows the gas sensor module 100 mounted on the therapeutic gas delivery device 50.

[0027] The therapeutic gas delivery device 50 is operable to deliver therapeutic gas to a patient. For example, the therapeutic gas delivery device 50 can deliver therapeutic nitric oxide (NO) gas to a patient. The gas sensor module 100, the assembly inner housing 200, and the assembly main housing 302 are arranged so that the gas can flow from the breathing circuit of the therapeutic gas delivery device 50, through the sample tube, through the gas analyzer unit 300, through the assembly inner housing 200, and to the gas sensor module 100. In at least one example, the sample tube can be fluidly connected to the breathing circuit of the gas delivery device 50, and the gas sensor module 100 is operable to receive a sample gas from the sample tube. In at least one example, the breathing circuit of the therapeutic gas delivery device 50 includes a sample tee operable to receive a sample tube so that at least a portion of the gas in the breathing circuit flows through the sample tube. Additionally, in at least one example, the internal housing 200 of the assembly may include a port 206 that can be fluidly connected to a port 304 on the gas analyzer unit 300, and this can be fluidly connected to a sample tube. The port 206 can receive a sample gas from a therapeutic gas delivery device through port 304 of the gas analyzer unit 300 and provide the sample gas to the gas sensor module 100.

[0028] Figures 2A to 2D show the gas sensor module 100 from a rear isometric view (Figure 2A), a side view (Figure 2B), a front isometric view with the cover removed (Figure 2C), and a top view with the cover removed (Figure 2D). Figures 1A and 1B show exploded views of the gas sensor module 100. The gas sensor module 100 includes a sample chamber 101. The sample chamber 101 receives a sample gas from the therapeutic gas delivery device 50. The sample chamber 101 is fluidically connected to an inlet 119. The inlet 119 is fluidically connected to the therapeutic gas delivery device and is operable to receive a sample gas. In some examples, the inlet 119 is fluidically connected to a port 206 of the assembly inner housing 200, which is fluidically connected to a port 304 of the gas analyzer unit 300, which is fluidly connected to the sample tube of the therapeutic gas delivery device 50. In at least one example, the sample chamber 101 is operable to receive a sample gas from the therapeutic gas delivery device 50. The sample chamber 101 may include an inner housing 102. The inner housing 102 may include an outlet 103 through which the sample gas can be removed from the sample chamber 101. The outlet 103 may be, for example, an opening formed within the inner housing 102. In at least one example, the gas sensor module 100 includes an outer housing 104 that at least partially surrounds the inner housing 102. In some examples, the outer housing 104 may include at least one of a cam element 106, a cam spindle 108, a handle 110, a handle shaft 114, a vent cap 112, and / or a gasket 113. In at least some examples, the cam element 106, the cam spindle 108, the handle 110, and / or the handle shaft 114 can be used to facilitate user insertion / removal of the gas sensor module 100 via a lock / unlock action of the vent cap 112. In some examples, the handle 110 can be a flip-up pull tab, as shown in Figure 1B.The gasket 113 helps prevent leakage from the air circuit (e.g., a pressurized sample gas circuit / flow path) and can stop the sample gas from interacting with the electronic equipment. In at least one example, the gasket 113 can be made of silicone rubber. The gasket 113 can be made of other types of materials configured to prevent leakage.

[0029] In some embodiments, the inner housing 102 may include an upper portion, a lower portion, a vertical axis, and a horizontal axis transverse to the vertical axis. At least one of the one or more turns of the flow path 144 may be along the vertical axis and / or the horizontal axis. In some embodiments, one or more turns are about 90 degrees along the vertical axis and / or the horizontal axis of the sample chamber 101.

[0030] The gas sensor module 100 includes a plurality of sensors 118. The plurality of sensors 118 are operable to communicate with a plurality of corresponding sensor chambers 140, which are operable to receive a sample gas. Each sensor chamber 140 may include an inlet or opening to the sensor chamber and an outlet from the sensor chamber. The flow path 144 is operable to direct the flow of sample gas from the inlet 119 to the plurality of sensor chambers 140, between each of the plurality of sensor chambers 140, and from the plurality of sensor chambers to the outlet 103. In some embodiments, at least one of the plurality of sensor chambers 140 may be located in the lower portion of the sample chamber 101. In some additional embodiments, the inlet 119 may be located in the upper portion of the sample chamber 101. The sensors 118 are operable to measure at least one characteristic of the sample gas. For example, the sensors 118 may include two or more of a gas detection sensor, a humidity sensor, and / or a temperature sensor.

[0031] In at least one example, the gas sensor module 100 may include two or more gas detection sensors 122. In at least one example, the gas sensor module 100 may include two or more different sensors 118. As shown in Figures 1B and 1C, the gas sensor module 100 may include a humidity sensor (not shown) and two gas detection sensors 122. In other examples, the gas sensor module 100 may include one or more gas detection sensors 122 and a humidity sensor. The gas detection sensors 122 may include one or more NO sensors, NO2 sensors, O2 sensors, or a combination thereof. In at least one example, the gas detection sensors 122 may include an NO sensor and an NO2 sensor. Each gas detection sensor may be operable to communicate with a sensor chamber 140. The multiple sensor chambers 140 may include NO sensor chambers, NO2 sensor chambers, O2 sensor chambers, humidity sensor chambers, temperature sensor chambers, or a combination thereof. The sensor chamber may include one or more of the following sensors: NO sensor, NO2 sensor, O2 sensor, humidity sensor, temperature sensor, or a combination thereof. Figure 1B illustrates two gas detection sensors 122, but it may include one, three, or more gas detection sensors 122. The characteristics of the sample gas to be measured may be one or more of the following sensors: NO concentration, NO2 concentration, O2 concentration, humidity, temperature, or a combination thereof. As shown in Figure 1B, the gas sensor module 100 includes a sensor seal 116 coupled to at least one of the sensors 118. As shown in Figure 1B, the gas sensor module 100 may include a humidity sensor seal 130 that is operable to be coupled to a humidity sensor (not shown) which can be integrated with a sensing circuit 124. For example, the humidity sensor may be located near the outlet 103 of the sample chamber 101.

[0032] In some examples, humidity sensors and / or temperature sensors may be located along the flow path 144 in the upper portion of the gas sensor module 100 (for example, near the outlet 103 and / or inlet 119). In some examples, one or more gas detection sensors 122 may be located along the flow path 144 in the bottom portion of the gas sensor module 100.

[0033] In some examples, the gas sensor module 100 may have a height of less than approximately 5 inches. In some examples, the gas sensor module 100 may have a height of less than approximately 0.5 inches, approximately 0.5 inches to approximately 1 inch, approximately 1 inch to approximately 1.5 inches, approximately 1.5 inches to approximately 2 inches, approximately 2 inches to approximately 2.5 inches, approximately 2.5 inches to approximately 3 inches, approximately 3 inches to approximately 3.5 inches, approximately 3.5 inches to approximately 4 inches, approximately 4 inches to approximately 4.5 inches, approximately 4.5 inches to approximately 5 inches, or greater. In some examples, the gas sensor module 100 may have a length of less than approximately 5 inches (for example, from the inlet end 119 to the outlet end 103). In some examples, the gas sensor module 100 may have a length of less than approximately 0.5 inches, approximately 0.5 inches to approximately 1 inch, approximately 1 inch to approximately 1.5 inches, approximately 1.5 inches to approximately 2 inches, approximately 2 inches to approximately 2.5 inches, approximately 2.5 inches to approximately 3 inches, approximately 3 inches to approximately 3.5 inches, approximately 3.5 inches to approximately 4 inches, approximately 4 inches to approximately 4.5 inches, approximately 4.5 inches to approximately 5 inches, approximately 5 inches to approximately 5.5 inches, approximately 5.5 inches to approximately 6 inches, or longer. In some examples, the gas sensor module 100 may have a width of less than approximately 5 inches. In some examples, the gas sensor module 100 can have a width of approximately 0.5 inches to 1 inch, 1 inch to 1.5 inches, 1.5 inches to 2 inches, 2 inches to 2.5 inches, 2.5 inches to 3 inches, 3 inches to 3.5 inches, 3.5 inches to 4 inches, 4.5 inches to 5 inches, 5 inches to 5.5 inches, 5.5 inches to 6 inches, or more.

[0034] In an exemplary embodiment (see Figures 6A to 6B), the plurality of sensor chambers 140 include a first sensor chamber 600 in the lower portion of the sample chamber 101, which is equipped with first sensors 118 and 122, and the flow path 144 includes about 1 to about 4 turns between the inlet 119 in the upper portion of the sample chamber 101 and the inlet of the first sensor chamber 600, each having an angle of about 90 degrees. The flow path 144 between the inlet 119 and the first sensor chamber 600 includes a first vertical turn along the vertical axis, a second vertical turn along the horizontal axis, a first horizontal turn along the horizontal axis, and a third vertical turn along the vertical axis following the first horizontal turn. The first sensor chamber 600 may be a NO2 sensor chamber, and the first sensors 118 and 122 may be NO2 sensors. The multiple sensor chambers 140 may include a second sensor chamber 602 in the lower portion of the sample chamber 101, which contains second sensors 118 and 122. The flow path 144 may include about two direction changes between the outlet of the first sensor chamber and the inlet of the second sensor chamber, each having an angle of about 90 degrees. The flow path 144 between the outlet of the first sensor chamber 600 and the inlet of the second sensor chamber 602 may include a first vertical direction change along the vertical axis, and a second vertical direction change along the vertical axis following the first vertical direction change. The second sensor chamber 602 may be a NO sensor chamber, and the second sensors 118 and 122 may be NO sensors. The multiple sensor chambers 140 may include, for example, a third sensor chamber 630 and a third sensor (e.g., a humidity sensor and / or a temperature sensor) in the upper portion of the sample chamber 101, as shown in Figure 4A. The flow path 144 may include about 1 to about 4 directional changes between the outlet of the second sensor chamber 602 and the opening of the third sensor chamber 630, each having an angle of about 90 degrees. The flow path 144 between the outlet of the second sensor chamber 602 and the opening of the third sensor chamber 630 may include a first vertical directional change along the horizontal axis, a first horizontal directional change along the horizontal axis, and a second vertical directional change along the vertical axis following the first horizontal directional change.The third sensor chamber 630 may be a humidity and / or temperature sensor chamber, and the third sensor may be a humidity and / or temperature sensor. The flow path 144 may lead the sample gas directly to the opening of the humidity and / or temperature sensor chamber (e.g., the third sensor chamber 630), and the sample gas may exit the humidity and / or temperature sensor chamber through the same opening. The flow path 144 may lead the sample gas directly into the opening along the vertical axis of the sample chamber 101.

[0035] Returning to Figures 1A and 1B, the gas sensor module 100 includes a sensing circuit 124 that can be coupled with the sensor 118. The sensing circuit 124 is operable to detect and report the measured characteristics of the sample gas from the sensor 118. The sensing circuit 124 can be communicatively coupled with the gas delivery device 50. In one example, the sensing circuit 124 can be operable to report the measured characteristics of the sample gas to the gas analyzer controller 350 of the gas analyzer unit 300. In one example, the gas analyzer controller 350 can be operable to report the measured characteristics of the sample gas to the therapeutic gas delivery device 50. The sensing circuit 124 can be coupled with the gas analyzer controller 350 and / or the gas delivery device 50 by any suitable wired or wireless connection, such as Ethernet®, Bluetooth®, RFID, or fiber optic cable. In at least one example, the sensing circuit 124 and / or the gas analyzer controller 350 can be operable to store the measured characteristics of the sample gas. The gas sensor module 100 can be operated by a sensing circuit 124 to electronically retain the serial number, calibration data, and / or usage information of the gas sensor module 100. In another example, the gas analyzer controller 350 can be operated to electronically retain the serial number, calibration data, and / or usage information of the gas sensor module 100. This allows the components to be tracked and traced even when the gas sensor module 100 is disconnected from the gas delivery device 50. The sensing circuit 124 may include a connector 125 that can operate to connect the sensing circuit 124 of the gas sensor module 100 to the gas analyzer controller 350 and therefore to the gas delivery device 50. Thus, the gas sensor module 100 can be hot-swapped, and the connector 125 can be easily connected to the gas delivery device 50 without requiring additional expertise or tools.

[0036] The gas sensor module 100 additionally includes a cover 126 which can be coupled to the outer housing 104. In at least one example, the cover 126 can be removably coupled to the outer housing 104 by fasteners 128. The fasteners 128 can be at least one of, for example, screws, nails, nuts and bolts, hook fasteners, adhesives, and / or any other suitable fasteners.

[0037] The gas sensor module 100 is integrated into the therapeutic gas delivery device 50 and is swappable with another gas sensor module 100. The inclusion of all sensors and / or analytical elements for gas samples provides hot-swap capability in case of recalibration needs, component failures, and / or contamination. For example, the gas sensor module 100 can be replaced in case of failure of the gas sensor module 100, failure of the sample line filter, and / or when the service period for calibration of the gas sensor module 100 expires. Additionally, the modularization of the gas sensor module 100 simplifies future additions of sensors 118 for analytes such as O2 or volatile organic compounds (VOCs) without requiring modifications to the entire gas delivery device 50, instead of "upgrading" to a next-generation gas sensor module. A replacement gas sensor module 100 can be easily installed, and the gas delivery device 50 can then immediately resume service. The gas sensor module 100 can be quickly replaced by a person in charge with a pre-calibrated gas sensor module 100 without requiring any special tools or equipment. For example, replacing the gas sensor module 100 may result in downtime of less than 5 minutes in measuring at least one characteristic of the sample gas. In at least one example, replacing the gas sensor module 100 may result in downtime of less than 3 minutes in measuring at least one characteristic of the sample gas. In some examples, replacing the gas sensor module 100 may result in downtime of less than 1 minute in measuring at least one characteristic of the sample gas.

[0038] In another example, replacing the gas sensor module 100 may result in no downtime in the delivery of therapeutic gas from the therapeutic gas delivery device 50. In this example, since the gas sensor module 100 analyzes the sample gas separately from the therapeutic gas in the breathing circuit, the delivery of therapeutic gas to the patient is not interrupted by the replacement of the gas sensor module 100. In addition, because the gas sensor module 100 is built-in, it does not require shutting down the therapeutic gas delivery device 50 or any interruption of the flow of therapeutic gas to the patient. This allows the therapeutic gas delivery device 50 to continuously deliver therapeutic gas to the patient through the breathing circuit while the gas sensor module 100 is swapped with a new, pre-calibrated gas sensor module 100. In at least one example, the therapeutic gas delivery device 50 can be made continuously operational when the gas sensor module 100 is replaced. Furthermore, sample detection by the gas sensor module 100 can begin approximately 5 minutes after installation following the completion of the low-calibration protocol. In at least one example, the low-calibration protocol can be automatically initiated when a new gas sensor module 100 is installed. The hot-swappable capability of the gas sensor module 100 has a significant positive impact on user experience and equipment downtime. By pre-calibrating or calibrating the gas sensor module 100 before installation, the need for high-calibration in the field of NO sensors and / or other sensors is eliminated, allowing for quick and easy replacement of faulty or expired gas sensor modules, and enabling off-site recalibration and repair where applicable.

[0039] The gas sensor module 100 can be used or utilized for at least one month and can maintain calibration stability. In at least one example, the calibration stability period during use of the gas sensor module 100 can be extended from the conventional one month to about three months. In at least one example, the gas sensor module 100 may have a storage life calibration stability period of at least one month, alternatively at least three months, alternatively at least six months, or alternatively at least one year (e.g., stability when not installed in the gas delivery device 50). In some examples, the storage life of the gas sensor module 100 may be extended by including a battery 132, as shown in Figure 1C, or other voltage source that provides a potential across the ends of sensors 118, 122 during storage to maintain calibration. In at least one example, the gas sensor module 100 may include an expiration date. The user may be provided with a reminder / alarm for gas sensor module replacement, for example, via a graphical user interface and / or application and / or program associated with the therapeutic gas delivery device.

[0040] In at least one example, the gas sensor module 100 may include and / or be electrically connected to an instrument (not shown) which may include a voltage source used in conjunction with an ultra-low power consumption setting to ensure that the sensor 118 maintains calibration stability for a predetermined period, for example, up to six months. Multiple sensors 118 of the gas sensor module 100 can be pre-calibrated, and the instrument may be used to maintain the calibration of the sensor 118 by providing a potential across the ends of the sensor 118. For example, the voltage source may provide a potential across the ends of multiple sensors 118 of the gas sensor module 100 at predetermined intervals to maintain the calibration stability of the sensor 118 when the gas sensor module 100 is in an unmounted configuration. Thus, an end user may order multiple gas sensor modules 100 and store them until it becomes necessary to replace the gas sensor module 100 in use when it is due for recalibration and / or replacement. In at least one example, the voltage source may be a battery or a power transformer. In at least one example, as shown in Figure 1C, the voltage source can be a battery 132 inside the gas sensor module 100. In other examples, the voltage source can be outside the gas sensor module 100. The voltage source can cease providing potential across the sensor 118 when the gas sensor module 100 is installed in the therapeutic gas delivery device 50. In at least one example, the equipment and voltage source can be detachable from the gas sensor module before installation in the therapeutic gas delivery device 50. In another example, the voltage source can remain connected to the gas sensor module 100 after installation, but will no longer provide potential across the sensors 118, 122 of the gas sensor module 100. In at least one example, as shown in Figure 1C, the battery 132 can be directly connected to the sensing circuit 124 so that no separate equipment is required to connect the battery 132 to the gas sensor module 100.

[0041] Performing pre-calibration and / or out-of-field calibration provides accuracy to the calibration. For example, a single-point high-calibration protocol assumes a single linear function over the range of NO concentrations to be controlled. While a calibration accuracy of ±20% is sufficient to address current requirements, this can be significantly improved by using a multi-point calibration protocol, i.e., one that is incompatible with user-performed calibration but can be performed automatically in factory calibration scenarios. By such a method, calibration functions for multiple subranges of NO concentration may be generated and stored for implementation (e.g., in the form of a simple lookup table in the device's memory). The gas sensor module 100 can then determine the appropriate calibration function to use when measuring gas delivery based, for example, a set dose and the range it includes. This is particularly important in pediatric or other low-concentration applications for NO administration, where many calibration gases are supplied at set concentrations of 45 ppm, often more than twice the controlled NO concentration. This also addresses a problem experienced by certain users who are uneasy about concentration readings that may be up to 20% less / more than the set dose.

[0042] Furthermore, off-site calibration (e.g., at a factory) and / or pre-calibration can utilize a calibration manifold 356 (shown in Figure 1A) that can control at least one of temperature, relative humidity, and pressure, facilitating the generation of calibration functions that not only provide more accurate measurements of gases such as NO in a specific subrange but also allow for compensation of different temperature, pressure, and relative humidity values.

[0043] Additionally, on-site and / or pre-calibration can facilitate accurate measurement of gas concentrations, such as NO, used in the calibration gas mixture. Calibration gases can be more accurately quantified with respect to gas concentration than using calibrated gas cylinders prepared in batches for distribution to end users.

[0044] Figures 1A and 1B show detailed exploded views of the gas sensor assembly 10. As described herein, the gas sensor assembly 10 includes a gas sensor module 100 that is removably received in an inner housing 200 of the assembly. The gas sensor module 100 can be removably coupled to the inner housing 200 of the assembly by one or more fasteners, such as screws, clips, rotatable contact members, or any other suitable fasteners, so that the gas sensor module 100 can be removed from the inner housing 200 of the assembly without the need for special tools or expertise. The inner housing 200 of the assembly can be received in and / or coupled to a main housing 302 of the assembly, which is located within or in fluid communication with a therapeutic gas delivery device. In one example, the inner housing 200 of the assembly and the main housing 302 of the assembly remain fixed within the therapeutic gas delivery device, while the gas sensor module 100 is removably replaced as needed.

[0045] A sample gas is taken from the therapeutic gas delivery device and passed to the gas sensor module 100 through the gas sensor assembly 10 so that the gas sensor module 100 can detect the sample gas and report at least one of its characteristics. The sample gas can enter the assembly main housing through port 304. In one example, the Luer interface 306 of a two-stage filter can be connected to port 304, which is located outside the assembly main housing 302. Port 304 can be fluidly connected to a pump 308 within the assembly main housing 302. The pump 308 is operable to pump the sample gas through the gas sensor module 100. The pump 308 can take the sample gas from the gas delivery device, for example, through port 304 and a pump feeder tube 310. The pump feeder tube 310 can be connected to the pump 308 using fasteners 314 such as clips. The pump 308 includes a fan 316 that is operable to rotate to facilitate the flow of the sample gas. In at least one example, the sample gas can then be received in a restrictor supply tube 318, pass through a restrictor 320 received in a restrictor housing 322, and pass through a restrictor return tube 324. The restrictor 320 can be made operable to restrict gas flow by creating a pressure difference. In at least some examples, the restrictor 320 can be incorporated into a calibration manifold 356. In other examples, the gas analyzer unit 300 may not include a restrictor supply tube, restrictor, restrictor housing, or restrictor return tube. In this example, the calibration manifold 356 can incorporate the function of the restrictor 320 by including a restrictor opening to restrict the flow of sample gas and create a pressure difference.

[0046] The restrictor 320 and / or calibration manifold 356 can be used to control the rate and / or volume of the sample gas received by the gas sensor module 100. The sample gas can then pass through the pump 308 and exit the pump delivery tube 312.

[0047] The gas sensor assembly 10 may include a sample tube 352 fluidly connected to a gas delivery device 50 and a gas sensor module 100 operable to receive a sample gas. For example, the sample tube 352 may be fluidly connected to a pump delivery tube 312. In at least one example, at least a portion of the sample tube 352 may be a permeable tube made of a sulfonated tetrafluoroethylene-based fluoropolymer copolymer (e.g., Nafion® tubing). As shown in Figure 1A, the gas sensor assembly 10 may additionally include a humidity component 354 and a calibration manifold 356. The humidity component 354, the permeable tube portion of the sample tube 352, the calibration manifold 356, any other suitable components for controlling temperature and / or pressure, or any combination thereof, may control at least one of temperature, relative humidity, and pressure, facilitating the generation of a calibration function that not only provides more accurate measurements of gases such as NO in a specific subrange but also allows for compensation of different temperature, pressure, and / or relative humidity values. For example, the humidity component 354, the permeable tube portion of the sample tube 352, and / or the calibration manifold 356 can reduce the humidity of the gas sample and improve the calibration stability of the gas sensor module 100. A gas analyzer subframe 357 may be included to house at least a portion of the humidity component 354, the permeable tube portion of the sample tube 352, and / or the calibration manifold 356. One or more fasteners 358 can hold at least one of the humidity component 354, the permeable tube portion of the sample tube 352, and / or the calibration manifold 356 within the gas analyzer subframe 357. The fasteners 358 may be, for example, screws, adhesives, and / or nuts and bolts.

[0048] The gas sensor assembly 10 may additionally include a high differential link tube 360 ​​and a low differential link tube 362. In at least one example, the gas sensor assembly 10 may include an ambient air pressure link tube 364 which is fluidly connected to an external atmosphere or ambient air. To provide ambient air, the gas sensor assembly 10 may include an ambient air inlet tube 368 which is fluidly connected to the outside of the gas sensor assembly 10 to provide ambient air. A filter 372 is coupled to the end of the ambient air inlet tube 368 on the opposite end of the end that is connected to the outside of the gas sensor assembly 10. The filter 372 can filter the ambient air to prevent particles or other substances that may affect the gas sensor module 100 from determining accurate measurements of the sample gas. A connector tube 366 may be included to fluidly connect the permeable tube portion of the sample tube 352 to the calibration manifold 356. Additionally, in at least one example, a filter tube 370 may be fluidly connected to the filter 372 to provide a passage for ambient air to the permeable tube portion of the sample tube 352.

[0049] The sample gas is received through a port 206 in the inner housing 200 of the assembly. The port 206 is fluidly connected to the inlet 119 of the gas sensor module 100, and the sample gas is received into the sample chamber 101 of the gas sensor module 100.

[0050] This specification also provides a method for providing a gas sensor module for use in a therapeutic gas delivery device. In some examples, the method may include calibrating multiple sensors within the gas sensor module and maintaining the calibration of the multiple sensors by providing a potential across the multiple sensors. The calibration of the multiple sensors can be maintained for at least one month, at least three months, at least six months, or at least one year. The potential may be provided by an instrument having a voltage source such as a battery. In some examples, the method may further include removing the instrument / voltage source before or simultaneously with mounting the gas sensor module in the therapeutic gas delivery device. The gas sensor module can be mounted in the inner and outer housings of the assembly within the therapeutic gas delivery device. In some examples, mounting the gas sensor module results in less than five minutes of downtime in measuring at least one characteristic of the sample gas from the therapeutic gas delivery device. In other examples, mounting the gas sensor module results in no downtime in the delivery of the therapeutic gas to the patient.

[0051] Figures 3A–3C show a model of gas flow through an exemplary gas sensor module, where the color gradient represents the gas velocity through the flow path and sensor chamber. The sensor chamber 140 may include a first sensor chamber 600, a second sensor chamber 602, and a third sensor chamber 630. As can be seen in Figures 3A–3B, the gas flow velocity is highest at the inlet 119 to the sample chamber. As the gas enters the first sensor chamber 600, the gas velocity slows down. The velocity continues to decrease as the gas flows through the second sensor chamber 602, and is slowest at the outlet 103. Figure 3C shows that the gas may flow upward above the outlet into the third sensor chamber 630 before exiting the sample chamber through the outlet 103.

[0052] Figures 4A–4D show a model of gas flow through another exemplary gas sensor module. Here, as shown in Figures 3A–3C, the gas velocity is highest in the flow path 144 between the inlet 119 and the first sensor 122. The gas velocity is lowest in the sensor chamber 140 and at the outlet 103. As can be seen in Figure 4D, the gas may flow upward above the outlet 103 into a third sensor chamber, for example, a temperature / humidity sensor chamber.

[0053] As shown in Figures 4A to 4D, the channel 144 may include multiple directional and linear paths before, between, and after the first sensor chamber 600, the second sensor chamber 602, and the third sensor chamber 630. Directional and linear paths can increase and / or decrease the velocity of the sample gas (e.g., sample gas particles), thereby enabling homogeneous mixing (e.g., the concentrations of respiratory gas and therapeutic gas are mixed such that the concentration profile is substantially constant throughout the sensor chamber 140). For example, the channel 144 allows the sample gas to mix so that there are no pockets (e.g., spots in the channel 144) within the channel 144 where the concentration of the sample gas deviates substantially from the concentration of the sample gas in other areas of the channel 144. Directional and linear paths can also allow turbulence within the channel 144, thereby enabling homogeneous mixing of the sample gas. Turbulence can provide sufficient mixing of the sample gas so that the sample gas tested by the sensor is mixed in substantially the same proportion as the gas mixture delivered to the patient. Turbulence causes sample gas particles to move in different directions and at different velocities, thereby affecting the homogeneous mixing of the sample gas. While the flow through channel 144 may not reach turbulence, it is further intended that it can still provide sufficient mixing so that the sample gas is a homogeneous mixture.

[0054] In some examples, the channel 144 ensures that the sample gas is homogeneously mixed when it enters the first sensor chamber 600 (for example, if the same concentrations of respiratory and therapeutic gases enter the inlet 119, the concentration of the sample gas entering the first sensor chamber 600 will be substantially constant). In some examples, the channel 144 ensures that the sample gas is homogeneously mixed when it enters the second sensor chamber 602 (for example, the therapeutic and respiratory gases leaving the first sensor chamber 600 are mixed by the channel 144 between the first sensor chamber 600 and the second sensor chamber 602 so that the concentration of the sample gas entering the second sensor chamber 602 is substantially constant). In some examples, the channel 144 ensures that the sample gas is uniformly mixed when it enters the third sensor chamber 630 (for example, the therapeutic and respiratory gases leaving the second sensor chamber 602 are mixed by the channel 144 between the second sensor chamber 602 and the third sensor chamber 630 so that the concentration of the sample gas entering the third sensor chamber 630 is substantially constant).

[0055] The sample gas can enter the sample chamber 101 at the inlet 119. The sample gas can have a velocity of approximately 0.3 meters / second (m / s) to approximately 1 m / s at the inlet 119. In some examples, the sample gas can have a velocity of approximately 0.3 m / s to approximately 0.4 m / s, approximately 0.4 m / s to approximately 0.5 m / s, approximately 0.5 m / s to approximately 0.6 m / s, approximately 0.6 m / s to approximately 0.7 m / s, approximately 0.7 m / s to approximately 0.8 m / s, approximately 0.8 m / s to approximately 0.9 m / s, or approximately 0.9 m / s to approximately 1 m / s when the sample gas enters the inlet 119. The flow path 144 of the sample chamber 101 can be configured to allow mixing of the sample gas, thereby enabling a homogeneous mixture of the sample gas to be tested in the first sensor chamber 600, the second sensor chamber 602, and the third sensor chamber 630.

[0056] Once the sample gas enters the inlet 119, it can flow downward along the 90-degree deflection 400. The 90-degree deflection 400 can slow the velocity of the sample gas from approximately 0 m / s to approximately 0.3 m / s. The 90-degree deflection 400 allows for further mixing of the sample gas, thereby forming a homogeneous mixture of the respiratory gas and the therapeutic gas. The sample gas can then flow along the straight vertical path 402, as shown in Figures 4A to 4D. The velocity of the sample gas can be increased along the straight vertical path 402. In some examples, the velocity of the sample gas along the straight vertical path 402 can be approximately 0.1 m / s to 0.2 m / s, 0.2 m / s to 0.3 m / s, 0.3 m / s to 0.4 m / s, 0.4 m / s to 0.5 m / s, 0.5 m / s to 0.6 m / s, 0.6 m / s to 0.7 m / s, 0.7 m / s to 0.8 m / s, or any velocity or velocity range in between.

[0057] Next, the sample gas can flow up to a 90-degree turn 404 into a straight horizontal path 406, as shown in Figures 4A to 4D. The 90-degree turn 404 can slow down the velocity of the sample gas. For example, the 90-degree turn 404 can slow down the velocity of the sample gas from approximately 0 m / s to approximately 0.3 m / s. The sample gas can then flow along the straight horizontal path 406. The velocity of the sample gas can be increased along the straight horizontal path 406. In some examples, the velocity of the sample gas along the straight horizontal path 406 can be approximately 0.3 m / s to 0.4 m / s, 0.4 m / s to 0.5 m / s, 0.5 m / s to 0.6 m / s, 0.6 m / s to 0.7 m / s, 0.7 m / s to 0.8 m / s, 0.8 m / s to 0.9 m / s, 0.9 m / s to 1 m / s, 1 m / s to 1.1 m / s, 1.1 m / s to 1.2 m / s, or any velocity or velocity range in between.

[0058] Next, the sample gas can enter the vertical 90-degree deflector 408. As shown in Figures 4A to 4C, the vertical 90-degree deflector 408 can be operated to slow down the velocity of the sample gas. For example, the velocity of the sample gas when exiting the vertical 90-degree deflector 408 can be approximately 0 m / s to approximately 0.1 m / s, approximately 0.1 m / s to approximately 0.2 m / s, or any velocity or velocity range in between. After the vertical 90-degree deflector 408, the sample gas can flow along a short straight vertical path 410. The short straight vertical path 410 can be made sufficiently short so that the sample gas does not gain a significant velocity along the short straight vertical path 410. In this way, a homogeneous mixture of the sample gas can be ensured when tested in the first sensor chamber 600. In some examples, a short straight vertical path 410 may be about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more times shorter in length than other straight paths in the flow path 144 (e.g., straight vertical path 402 and / or straight horizontal path 406).

[0059] The sample gas can then flow from a short, straight, vertical path 410 to another 90-degree redirect 412. The 90-degree redirect 412 can be a horizontal redirect (for example, receiving a sample gas moving vertically and redirecting the sample gas to move horizontally). The 90-degree redirect 412 can be operated to provide the sample gas to the first sensor chamber 600 so that the sample gas can be detected and / or tested by sensors 118, 122. The 90-degree redirect 412 can further slow down the velocity of the sample gas. For example, the sample gas exiting the 90-degree redirect 412 can be at a velocity or velocity range between approximately 0 m / s and approximately 0.05 m / s, approximately 0.05 m / s and approximately 0.1 m / s, approximately 0.1 m / s and approximately 0.15 m / s, approximately 0.15 m / s and approximately 0.2 m / s, or any velocity or velocity range in between.

[0060] Next, the sample gas can flow through the first sensor chamber 600 and be detected and / or tested by one or more sensors 118, 122 within the first sensor chamber 600. The sample gas can flow through the first sensor chamber 600 along a straight horizontal path 414. The velocity of the sample gas can be kept low along the straight horizontal path so that the sample gas diffuses throughout one or more sensors 118, 122. For example, the velocity of the sample gas along the straight horizontal path 414 can be about 0 m / s to about 0.05 m / s, about 0.05 m / s to about 0.1 m / s, about 0.1 m / s to about 0.15 m / s, about 0.15 m / s to about 0.2 m / s, or any velocity or velocity range in between. After being detected and / or tested by sensors 118, 122 within the first sensor chamber 600, the sample gas can exit the first sensor chamber 600 with a 90-degree turn 416. The 90-degree turn 416 can be a vertical turn, for example, as shown in Figure 4C. After exiting the 90-degree turn 416 and moving along the vertical path, the sample gas can increase its velocity. For example, the velocity of the sample gas can be increased to approximately 0.3 m / s to 0.4 m / s, 0.4 m / s to 0.5 m / s, 0.5 m / s to 0.6 m / s, 0.6 m / s to 0.7 m / s, 0.7 m / s to 0.8 m / s, 0.8 m / s to 0.9 m / s, 0.9 m / s to 1.0 m / s, or any velocity or velocity range in between. In some examples, the sample gas can then pass through the 90-degree turn 418. The 90-degree turn 418 can be a 90-degree turn, or a turn with an angle less than 90 degrees. In some examples, the velocity of the sample gas increases further with a 90-degree direction change 418. The 90-degree direction change 418 can change the flow direction of the sample gas from a vertical flow path to a horizontal flow path along a straight horizontal path 420.In some examples, the velocity of the sample gas exiting the 90-degree direction change 418 can be approximately 0.4 m / s to 0.5 m / s, 0.5 m / s to 0.6 m / s, 0.6 m / s to 0.7 m / s, 0.7 m / s to 0.8 m / s, 0.8 m / s to 0.9 m / s, 0.9 m / s to 1.0 m / s, or any velocity or velocity range in between.

[0061] The sample gas can then flow along the straight horizontal path 420. In some examples, the sample gas can have a velocity of approximately 0.4 m / s to 0.5 m / s, 0.5 m / s to 0.6 m / s, 0.6 m / s to 0.7 m / s, 0.7 m / s to 0.8 m / s, 0.8 m / s to 0.9 m / s, 0.9 m / s to 1.0 m / s, 1.0 m / s to 1.1 m / s, 1.1 m / s to 1.2 m / s, 1.2 m / s to 1.3 m / s, 1.3 m / s to 1.4 m / s, or any velocity or velocity range in between. In some examples, increasing the velocity of the sample gas along the flow path 144 between 90-degree reversals 416 and 422 further promotes turbulence and mixing of the sample gas.

[0062] Next, the sample gas can flow through the 90-degree direction change 422. The 90-degree direction change 422 can guide the sample gas to flow vertically. The 90-degree direction change 422 can slow down the velocity of the sample gas. For example, the velocity of the sample gas exiting the 90-degree direction change 422 can be approximately 0 m / s to approximately 0.05 m / s, approximately 0.05 m / s to approximately 0.1 m / s, approximately 0.1 m / s to approximately 0.15 m / s, approximately 0.15 m / s to approximately 0.2 m / s, or any velocity or velocity range in between. Next, the sample gas can flow through the short vertical path 423. The length of the short vertical path 423 can be shorter than the length of the other straight flow paths in the flow path 144. For example, the short vertical path 423 can be about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 times, or more shorter than the lengths of the other straight paths (e.g., the straight vertical path 402, the straight horizontal path 406, and the straight horizontal path 420). The short vertical path 423 can be sufficiently short so as not to significantly increase the velocity of the sample gas. In this way, the homogeneously mixed sample gas is delivered to the second sensor chamber 602.

[0063] Next, the sample gas can enter the 90-degree redirect 424. The 90-degree redirect can redirect the gas flow from a vertical flow direction along a short vertical path 423 to a horizontal direction along a straight horizontal path 426. The sample gas exiting the 90-degree redirect 424 enters the second sensor chamber 602. For example, the 90-degree redirect 424 is the inlet to the second sensor chamber 602. The gas can be detected and / or tested in the second sensor chamber 602 by one or more sensors 118, 122. As shown in Figure 4C, the sample gas exiting the 90-degree redirect 424 can have a low velocity (for example, the 90-degree redirect 424 can slow down the velocity of the sample gas). For example, the sample gas exiting the 90-degree direction change 424 can have a velocity of approximately 0 m / s to approximately 0.05 m / s, approximately 0.05 m / s to approximately 0.1 m / s, approximately 0.1 m / s to approximately 0.15 m / s, approximately 0.15 m / s to approximately 0.2 m / s, or any velocity or velocity range in between. The gas can then flow through the second sensor chamber 602 along the straight horizontal path 426. The velocity of the sample gas along the straight horizontal path 426 can be approximately 0 m / s to approximately 0.05 m / s, approximately 0.05 m / s to approximately 0.1 m / s, approximately 0.1 m / s to approximately 0.15 m / s, approximately 0.15 m / s to approximately 0.2 m / s, or any velocity or velocity range in between. In some cases, the sample gas flowing along the straight horizontal path 426 maintains a low speed so that the sample gas diffuses along one or more sensors 118, 122.

[0064] The sample gas can exit the second sensor chamber 602 at the 90-degree reversal 428. The 90-degree reversal 428 can redirect the sample gas from a horizontal flow direction along the straight horizontal path 426 to a vertical flow direction (for example, along a short vertical path between the 90-degree reversal 428 and the 90-degree reversal 430). In some examples, the velocity of the sample gas may increase as the sample gas exits the 90-degree reversal 428. For example, the velocity of the sample gas may increase as it exits the 90-degree reversal 428 and enters a short vertical path between the 90-degree reversal 428 and the 90-degree reversal 430. In some examples, the velocity of the sample gas at the outlet of the 90-degree turnout 428, and the velocity of the sample gas in the short vertical path between the 90-degree turnout 428 and the 90-degree turnout 430, are approximately 0.3 m / s to 0.4 m / s, approximately 0.4 m / s to 0.5 m / s, approximately 0.5 m / s to 0.6 m / s, approximately 0.6 m / s to 0.7 m / s, approximately 0.7 m / s to 0.8 m / s, approximately 0.8 m / s to 0.9 m / s, approximately 0.9 m / s to 1.0 m / s, or any velocity or velocity range in between.

[0065] Next, the flow path 144 can change direction from a vertical flow path (for example, between 90-degree direction change 428 and 90-degree direction change 430) to a horizontal path. The 90-degree direction change 430 can change the direction of the sample gas flow from vertical to horizontal along a straight horizontal path 432. In some examples, the velocity of the sample gas can continue to increase along the straight horizontal path 432. In some examples, the velocity of the sample gas along the straight horizontal path 432 can be approximately 0.4 m / s to 0.5 m / s, 0.5 m / s to 0.6 m / s, 0.6 m / s to 0.7 m / s, 0.7 m / s to 0.8 m / s, 0.8 m / s to 0.9 m / s, 0.9 m / s to 1 m / s, 1 m / s to 1.1 m / s, 1.1 m / s to 1.2 m / s, 1.2 m / s to 1.3 m / s, 1.3 m / s to 1.4 m / s, or any velocity or velocity range in between. In some examples, the velocity is increased so that the sample gas moves more quickly through the sample chamber 101, thereby allowing additional samples of the sample gas to enter the sample chamber 101 and providing continuous monitoring of the characteristics (e.g., parameters) of the sample gas.

[0066] Next, the sample gas can be redirected by a 90-degree turn 434 along a straight vertical path 436. The velocity of the sample gas can be reduced at the 90-degree turn 434. In some examples, the velocity of the sample gas can be reduced, and the velocity of the sample gas exiting the 90-degree turn 434 is approximately 0 m / s to approximately 0.05 m / s, approximately 0.05 m / s to approximately 0.1 m / s, approximately 0.1 m / s to approximately 0.15 m / s, approximately 0.15 m / s to approximately 0.2 m / s, approximately 0.2 m / s to approximately 0.25 m / s, approximately 0.25 m / s to approximately 0.3 m / s, approximately 0.3 m / s to approximately 0.35 m / s, approximately 0.35 m / s to approximately 0.4 m / s, or any velocity or velocity range in between. The sample gas can then flow from the straight vertical path 436 to the 90-degree turn 438. In some examples, the 90-degree reversal 438 can be part of a T-path (for example, part of the sample gas can flow through outlet 103 and part of the sample gas can flow into a third sensor chamber 630). In some examples, the sample gas can flow to a third sensor chamber 630 where it is tested and / or detected by sensor 118 before flowing through outlet 103. In some examples, the 90-degree reversal 438 can slow down the velocity of the sample gas. For example, the velocity of the sample gas in the 90-degree reversal 438 (or T-path) can be about 0 m / s to about 0.05 m / s, about 0.05 m / s to about 0.1 m / s, about 0.1 m / s to about 0.15 m / s, about 0.15 m / s to about 0.2 m / s, or any velocity or velocity range in between. In some examples, the sensor 118 in the third sensor chamber 630 can be a humidity sensor and / or a temperature sensor.

[0067] Figure 5 shows a model of gas flow through another exemplary gas sensor module. Figure 5 shows the path of gas particles through the gas sensor module and their velocities. As can be seen in Figure 5, the gas velocity is highest at the inlet and lowest inside the sensor chamber. For example, the velocity of the sample gas can be approximately 0.4 m / s to approximately 1.6 m / s from the inlet 119 to the first sensor chamber 600. The velocity of the sample gas can be approximately 0 m / s to approximately 0.3 m / s inside the first sensor chamber 600. The velocity of the sample gas can be approximately 0.3 m / s to approximately 1.1 m / s between the first sensor chamber 600 and the second sensor chamber 602. The velocity of the sample gas inside the second sensor chamber 602 can be approximately 0 m / s to approximately 0.3 m / s. The velocity of the sample gas between the second sensor chamber 602 and the outlet 103 can be approximately 0.3 m / s to approximately 1.1 m / s.

[0068] With respect to Figures 4A-4C and Figure 5, it will be understood that the speeds described herein are for illustrative purposes only. Speeds may vary in different situations due to different gas mixtures, different pump speeds, different pressures, or other different parameters. However, the gas sensor module described herein can provide significant benefits regardless of the type of gas mixture, pump speed, pressure, and other parameters due to the flow path 144 which is operable to provide turbulent and homogeneous mixtures of the sample gas, thereby enabling accurate testing of a homogeneous mixture of the sample gas. In this way, the tested sample gas is substantially a sample as the gas mixture delivered to the patient, thereby enabling accurate determination of the characteristics of the gas mixture delivered to the patient.

[0069] Figures 6A and 6B show the flow path 144 through an exemplary gas sensor module. The flow path 144 begins at the inlet 119, followed by a first 90-degree turn 604 along the vertical axis, then a second 90-degree turn 606 along the horizontal axis, a third 90-degree turn 608 along the horizontal axis, a fourth 90-degree turn 610 along the vertical axis, a fifth 90-degree turn 611 along the horizontal axis, a sixth 90-degree turn 612 along the vertical axis, a seventh 90-degree turn 614 along the horizontal axis, an eighth 90-degree turn 616 along the vertical axis, a ninth 90-degree turn 618 along the horizontal axis, a tenth 90-degree turn 620 along the vertical axis, an eleventh 90-degree turn 622 along the horizontal axis, a twelfth 90-degree turn 624 along the horizontal axis, a thirteenth 90-degree turn 626 along the vertical axis, and a fourteenth 90-degree turn 628 along the horizontal axis, followed by the outlet 103. In some examples, the 90-degree turn 628 can be part of the T-path 632, as shown in Figure 6A. The T-path 632 can be operated to supply all or part of the sample gas to a third sensor chamber 630 as described herein, so that a sensor in the third sensor chamber can detect and / or test the sample gas before it exits outlet 103.

[0070] As described herein, a vertical turn is defined as a turn that changes the direction of flow to or from the vertical. For example, a vertical turn means that the flow path 144 changes direction up or down along the vertical axis, or changes direction from vertical to horizontal along the horizontal axis. A vertical turn can change the flow path of the flow path 144 from a vertical flow path to a horizontal flow path, and / or from a horizontal flow path to a vertical flow path. A vertical turn can change the direction of flow by changing the horizontal plane of the flow direction (for example, a vertical turn changes the horizontal plane on which the flow enters the vertical turn from the inlet to the outlet). For example, both 90-degree turn 604 and 90-degree turn 606 are defined as vertical turns as described herein. 90-degree turn 604 is a vertical turn that changes the direction of the flow path 144 along the vertical axis. 90-degree turn 606 is a vertical turn that changes the direction of the flow path 144 along the horizontal axis. A horizontal direction change is defined as a direction change that alters the direction of a flow path 144 within the same horizontal plane. As defined herein, a horizontal direction change alters only the direction of a flow path along a horizontal axis. For example, a horizontal direction change does not alter the vertical direction or path of the flow in any way. For example, 90-degree direction changes 608 and 90-degree direction changes 624 are horizontal direction changes as defined herein. It will be understood that a direction change can be both horizontal and vertical (for example, altering both the vertical and horizontal flow paths). For example, a direction change that is both horizontal and vertical can alter both the vertical (for example, along the vertical axis) flow path and the horizontal (for example, along the horizontal axis) flow path.

[0071] In some examples, the sixth 90-degree turn 611 and the seventh 90-degree turn 612 are caused not by a change in the direction of the tubular flow path, but rather by the upper ceiling or cover of the first sensor chamber 600. In some examples, the ninth 90-degree turn 618 and the tenth 90-degree turn 620 are caused not by a change in the direction of the tubular flow path, but rather by the upper ceiling or cover of the second sensor chamber 602. For example, when the sample gas enters the first sensor chamber 600 and the second sensor chamber 602, the sample gas can move freely through the first sensor chamber 600 and the second sensor chamber 602 without being constrained by the tubular flow path, thereby allowing uniform diffusion across the sensors 118 and 122 within the first sensor chamber 600 and the second sensor chamber 602. The sample gas may be pushed through the first sensor chamber 600 and the second sensor chamber 602 by the pressure supplied to the sample gas in the flow path 144. For example, a 90-degree turn 610 can form an inlet to the first sensor chamber 600, and a 90-degree turn 614 can form an outlet to the first sensor chamber 600. A 90-degree turn 616 can form an inlet to the second sensor chamber 602, and a 90-degree turn 622 can form an outlet to the second sensor chamber 602. In some examples, the upper outlet portion of the T-path 632 can form an inlet and an outlet to the third sensor chamber 630.

[0072] In some examples, if the fifth 90-degree turn 611, the sixth 90-degree turn 612, the ninth 90-degree turn 618, and the tenth 90-degree turn 620 are not part of the tubular flow path but rather caused by the ceiling or cover of the first sensor chamber 600 and the second sensor chamber 602, the flow path of the flow channel may be as follows: The sample gas can enter the inlet 119 horizontally, the first 90-degree direction change 604 can guide the sample gas vertically downward, the second 90-degree direction change 606 can guide the sample gas from vertical to horizontal, the third 90-degree direction change 608 can change the direction of the sample gas flow in a horizontal plane along the horizontal axis, the fourth 90-degree direction change 610 can guide the sample gas from horizontal to vertical and into the first sensor chamber 600, the seventh 90-degree direction change 614 can receive the sample gas vertically from the sensor chamber and guide the sample gas horizontally, and the eighth 90-degree Direction changer 616 can receive the sample gas horizontally and guide the gas vertically into the second sensor chamber 602; the eleventh 90-degree direction changer 622 can receive the sample gas vertically from the second sensor chamber and guide the gas horizontally; the twelfth 90-degree direction changer 624 can receive the sample gas horizontally and change the horizontal direction of the sample gas; the thirteenth 90-degree direction changer 626 can receive the sample gas horizontally and guide the sample gas vertically; and the fourteenth 90-degree direction changer 628 can receive the sample gas vertically and guide the sample gas horizontally to the outlet 103.

[0073] While a 90-degree reversal of the flow path 144 is described herein, it will be understood that other types of reversals can be used to increase and / or decrease the velocity of the sample gas particles to provide a homogeneous mixture of the sample gas to the sensor chamber 140. For example, the reversals can be approximately 5° to 10°, 10° to 15°, 15° to 20°, 20° to 25°, 25° to 30°, 30° to 35°, 35° to 40°, 40° to 45°, 45° to 50°, 50° to 55°, 55° to 60°, 60° to 65°, 65° to 70°, and 70° to 75°. The angles can be 5 degrees, approximately 75 to 80 degrees, approximately 80 to 85 degrees, approximately 85 to 90 degrees, approximately 90 to 95 degrees, approximately 95 to 100 degrees, approximately 100 to 105 degrees, approximately 105 to 110 degrees, approximately 110 to 115 degrees, approximately 115 to 120 degrees, approximately 120 to 125 degrees, approximately 125 to 130 degrees, or greater. In some examples, the angle of change of direction in the flow path 144 can be configured to increase and / or decrease the velocity of the sample gas so that sensors 118, 122 can detect and / or test a homogeneous gas mixture.

[0074] While a specific number of direction changes is indicated for the channel 144, it will be understood that different numbers of direction changes can be used to increase and / or decrease the velocity of the sample gas, thereby providing a homogeneous sample gas mixture to the sensor chamber 140. In some examples, the channel 144 may have more or fewer direction changes than those described herein.

[0075] In some examples, the channel 144 can have a diameter of less than approximately 0.5 inches. In some examples, the channel 144 can have a diameter of approximately 0.01 inches to approximately 0.02 inches, approximately 0.02 inches to approximately 0.03 inches, approximately 0.03 inches to approximately 0.04 inches, approximately 0.04 inches to approximately 0.05 inches, approximately 0.05 inches to approximately 0.06 inches, approximately 0.06 inches to approximately 0.07 inches, approximately 0.07 inches to approximately 0.08 inches, approximately 0.08 inches to approximately 0.09 inches, approximately 0.09 inches to approximately 0.1 inches, approximately 0.1 inches to approximately 0.11 inches, approximately 0.11 inches to approximately 0.12 inches, approximately 0.12 inches to approximately 0.13 inches, approximately 0.13 inches to The diameter can be approximately 0.14 inches, approximately 0.14 inches to approximately 0.15 inches, approximately 0.15 inches to approximately 0.16 inches, approximately 0.16 inches to approximately 0.17 inches, approximately 0.17 inches to approximately 0.18 inches, approximately 0.18 inches to approximately 0.19 inches, approximately 0.19 inches to approximately 0.2 inches, approximately 0.2 inches to approximately 0.25 inches, approximately 0.25 inches to approximately 0.3 inches, approximately 0.3 inches to approximately 0.35 inches, approximately 0.35 inches to approximately 0.4 inches, approximately 0.4 inches to approximately 0.45 inches, approximately 0.45 inches to approximately 0.5 inches, or larger. In some examples, the channel 144 can have a constant diameter from the inlet 119 to the first sensor chamber 600. In some examples, the channel 144 can have a constant diameter from the first sensor chamber 600 to the second sensor chamber 602. In some examples, the channel 144 may have a constant diameter from the second sensor chamber 602 to the third sensor chamber 630. In some examples, the channel 144 may have a constant diameter from the third sensor chamber 630 to the outlet 103. In some examples, the diameter of the channel 144 may vary throughout the entire channel 144. For example, the diameter may increase or decrease along a straight path and / or through a change of direction. In some examples, the channel 144 may have an increasing diameter along the portion of the channel 144 where the velocity of the sample gas should be decreased. In some examples, the channel may have a decreasing diameter along the portion of the channel 144 where the velocity of the sample gas should be increased.

[0076] In some examples, the channel 144 may have a total length of less than approximately 5 inches (for example, the length from the inlet 119 to the outlet 103, including the portion of the channel 144 that passes through the sensor chamber 140). In some examples, the channel 144 may have lengths of less than approximately 0.5 inches, approximately 0.5 inches to approximately 0.6 inches, approximately 0.6 inches to approximately 0.7 inches, approximately 0.7 inches to approximately 0.8 inches, approximately 0.8 inches to approximately 0.9 inches, approximately 0.9 inches to approximately 1 inch, approximately 1 inch to approximately 1.1 inches, approximately 1.1 inches to approximately 1.2 inches, approximately 1.2 inches to approximately 1.3 inches, approximately 1.3 inches to approximately 1.4 inches, approximately 1.4 inches to approximately 1.5 inches, and approximately 1.5 inches to approximately 1. 0.6 inches, approximately 1.6 inches to 1.7 inches, approximately 1.7 inches to 1.8 inches, approximately 1.8 inches to 1.9 inches, approximately 1.9 inches to 2.0 inches, approximately 2.0 inches to 2.1 inches, approximately 2.1 inches to 2.2 inches, approximately 2.2 inches to 2.3 inches, approximately 2.3 inches to 2.4 inches, approximately 2.4 inches to 2.5 inches, approximately 2.5 inches to 2.6 inches, approximately 2.6 inches to 2.7 inches, approximately 2.7 inches to 2. 8 inches, approximately 2.8 inches to 2.9 inches, approximately 2.9 inches to 3.0 inches, approximately 3.0 inches to 3.1 inches, approximately 3.1 inches to 3.2 inches, approximately 3.2 inches to 3.3 inches, approximately 3.3 inches to 3.4 inches, approximately 3.4 inches to 3.5 inches, approximately 3.5 inches to 3.6 inches, approximately 3.6 inches to 3.7 inches, approximately 3.7 inches to 3.8 inches, approximately 3.8 inches to 3.9 inches, approximately 3.9 inches to 4.0 inches They can have an overall length of 1 inch, approximately 4.0 inches to 4.1 inches, approximately 4.1 inches, approximately 4.1 inches to 4.2 inches, approximately 4.2 inches to 4.3 inches, approximately 4.3 inches to 4.4 inches, approximately 4.4 inches, approximately 4.5 inches, approximately 4.5 inches to 4.6 inches, approximately 4.6 inches to 4.7 inches, approximately 4.7 inches to 4.8 inches, approximately 4.8 inches to 4.9 inches, approximately 4.9 inches to 5.0 inches, or longer.

[0077] The above disclosure is merely an example. While many features and advantages of the present technology are described above, along with details of the structure and function of the disclosure, this disclosure is merely illustrative, and modifications may be made to the details, particularly to the shape, size, and arrangement of components within the principles of the disclosure, to the extent indicated by the broad general meaning of the terms used in the appended claims. Accordingly, it will be understood that the above-described embodiments may be modified within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A gas sensor module for a therapeutic gas delivery device, wherein the gas sensor module is A sample inlet that can operate to receive a sample gas containing a mixture of respiratory gas and therapeutic gas from a sample line connected to the inhalation line of the therapeutic gas delivery device, A sample chamber comprising: a sample chamber fluidly connected to the sample inlet and forming a flow path operable to receive the sample gas, wherein the sample chamber includes a plurality of sensor chambers operable to communicate with one or more corresponding sensors operable to measure at least one characteristic of the sample gas, The flow path is operable to direct the flow of the sample gas from the sample inlet to the plurality of sensor chambers, between each of the plurality of sensor chambers, and from the plurality of sensor chambers to the outlet. A gas sensor module in which the flow path includes one or more deflectors in front of each of the plurality of sensor chambers, each deflector having an angle that is operable to facilitate mixing of the sample gas and to facilitate diffusion of the sample gas to each of the one or more corresponding sensors.

2. The gas sensor module according to claim 1, wherein the mixing of the sample gas is such that the concentrations of the respiratory gas and the therapeutic gas in the sample gas flowing through the plurality of sensor chambers are substantially the same as the concentrations of the respiratory gas and the therapeutic gas in the inhalation line.

3. The gas sensor module according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the flow path reduces or prevents rotational vortices and dead zones in the flow of the sample gas through the sample chamber.

4. The gas sensor module according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the flow path creates a low back pressure or resistance for flow through the sample chamber.

5. The gas sensor module according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the mixing of the sample gas provides turbulent delivery of the sample gas to the surface of each of the one or more corresponding sensors.

6. The gas sensor module according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the volume of sample gas in the sample chamber is smaller than the volume of sample gas required in the sample chamber without mixing.

7. The gas sensor module according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the angle of the one or more changes in direction is approximately 90 degrees.

8. The gas sensor module according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein one or more of the direction changes are operable to change the direction of the flow path within the sample chamber.

9. The gas sensor module according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the sample chamber comprises an inner housing having an upper portion, a lower portion, a vertical axis, and a horizontal axis transverse to the vertical axis, and at least one of the one or more direction changes is along the vertical axis and / or the horizontal axis.

10. The gas sensor module according to claim 9, wherein the one or more of the direction changes are about 90 degrees along the vertical axis and / or the horizontal axis of the sample chamber.

11. The gas sensor module according to claim 9 or 10, wherein at least one of the plurality of sensor chambers is located in the lower portion of the sample chamber, and the sample inlet is located in the upper portion of the sample chamber.

12. The gas sensor module according to claim 11, wherein the plurality of sensor chambers include a first sensor chamber having a first sensor in the lower portion of the sample chamber, and the flow path includes about one to about four direction changes, each having an angle of about 90 degrees between the sample inlet of the upper portion of the sample chamber and the inlet of the first sensor chamber.

13. The gas sensor module according to claim 12, wherein the flow path between the sample inlet and the first sensor chamber includes a first vertical turn along the vertical axis, a second vertical turn along the horizontal axis, a first horizontal turn along the horizontal axis following the second vertical turn, and a third vertical turn along the vertical axis.

14. The gas sensor module according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the first sensor chamber is a nitrogen dioxide sensor chamber and the first sensor is a nitrogen dioxide sensor.

15. The gas sensor module according to any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the plurality of sensor chambers include a second sensor chamber having a second sensor in the lower portion of the sample chamber, and the flow path includes about one to about four direction changes, each having an angle of about 90 degrees between the outlet of the first sensor chamber and the inlet of the second sensor chamber.

16. The gas sensor module according to claim 15, wherein the flow path between the outlet of the first sensor chamber and the inlet of the second sensor chamber includes a fourth vertical deflection along the horizontal axis and a fifth vertical deflection along the vertical axis following the fourth vertical deflection.

17. The gas sensor module according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the second sensor chamber is a nitric oxide sensor chamber and the second sensor is a nitric oxide sensor.

18. The gas sensor module according to any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein the plurality of sensor chambers include a third sensor chamber having a third sensor in the upper portion of the sample chamber, and the flow path includes about one to about four direction changes, each having an angle of about 90 degrees between the outlet of the second sensor chamber and the opening of the third sensor chamber.

19. The gas sensor module according to claim 18, wherein the flow path between the outlet of the second sensor chamber and the opening of the third sensor chamber includes a sixth vertical deflection along the horizontal axis, a second horizontal deflection along the horizontal axis, and a seventh vertical deflection along the vertical axis following the second horizontal deflection.

20. The gas sensor module according to claim 18 or 19, wherein the third sensor chamber is a humidity and / or temperature sensor chamber, and the third sensor is a humidity and / or temperature sensor.

21. The gas sensor module according to claim 20, wherein the flow path directly guides the sample gas into the opening of the humidity and / or temperature sensor chamber so that the sample gas exits the humidity and / or temperature sensor chamber through the opening.

22. The gas sensor module according to claim 21, wherein the flow path directly guides the sample gas from the vertical portion along the vertical axis of the sample chamber into the opening.

Images