Hypoxic devices for conducting hypoxic training

Abstract

The present invention relates to a hypoxic device for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training, the device comprising a gas reservoir, a gas distribution device, a supply line suitable for and intended to deliver a gas mixture from the gas reservoir to the gas distribution device and / or a discharge line suitable for and intended to deliver a gas mixture from the gas distribution device to the gas reservoir, and a valve and / or sensor, the valve and / or sensor being located within the supply line, the gas reservoir, and / or the gas distribution device, and an automatic shut-off device. The present invention further relates to a method for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training, the method comprising the steps of supplying and / or discharging a gas mixture from the gas reservoir to the gas distribution device via a supply line and / or discharge line, and a CO2 absorber located within the supply line and / or discharge line, monitoring the use of the CO2 absorber, and controlling an automatic shut-off device in accordance with the use of the CO2 absorber.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a hypoxia device for performing hypoxia treatment and / or hypoxia training. The device has a gas reservoir, a gas distribution device, a supply line suitable for guiding a gas mixture from the gas reservoir to the gas distribution device and intended therefor and / or a discharge line suitable for guiding the gas mixture from the gas distribution device to the gas reservoir and intended therefor, and has valves and / or sensors, where the valves and / or sensors are arranged in the supply line, the gas reservoir, and / or the gas distribution device, and has an automatic shut-off device. The present invention further relates to a method for performing hypoxia treatment and / or hypoxia training, the method including supplying and / or discharging a gas mixture from a gas reservoir to a gas distribution device via a supply line and / or a discharge line and a CO2 absorption device arranged in the supply line and / or the discharge line, monitoring the use of the CO2 absorption device, and controlling the automatic shut-off device according to the use of the CO2 absorption device.

Background Art

[0002] The hypoxic state causes a reaction in all somatic cells and enables an enhancement of energy metabolism. It can contribute to the activation of various genes. Athletes, healthy people, and patients can benefit from hypoxia.

[0003] The beneficial effects of high-altitude training have long been known. However, how a slight oxygen deficiency leads to improved physical performance was not adequately explained until a few years ago. The observed increase in red blood cells was not sufficient to explain the changes in the body. The breakthrough came with the discovery of hypoxia-inducible factor HIF-1α. HIF-1α became the basis for explaining the comprehensive effects of high-altitude training. The abbreviation HIF stands for hypoxia-inducible factor. The reason for this technical term is that it is an oxygen sensor that is activated when oxygen is deficient in somatic cells. The oxygen sensor controls one of the most important processes in the body for survival: the adaptation of cells, tissues, and organs to oxygen deficiency. At the same time, it is also a signal that promotes self-repair in the body.

[0004] The most well-known beneficial effect of HIF is erythropoietin synthesis (EPO) in the kidneys and liver. This synthesis played a role in explaining changes in the cardiovascular, respiratory, and hematological systems prior to the discovery of HIF. Now, it is clear that the performance improvements are more comprehensive. Endothelial cells of the intima respond to the effects of hypoxia by increasing nitric oxide (NO) synthesis. This gas has a decisive effect on vasodilation. NO leaves the endothelium and exerts a relaxing effect on smooth muscle cells in the surrounding tissue. In the intima-media itself, NO prevents platelet adhesion and aggregation. In this context, it is also interesting that endothelial cells form the angiogenic factor VEGF under the influence of hypoxia. As a result of its formation, new capillaries occur in association with hypoxic therapy. Very often, these additional blood vessels are present in damaged tissue or tissue sections with insufficient perfusion.

[0005] The heart rate increases, and the breathing rate rises. The body tries to absorb as much oxygen as possible from the air it breathes. For humans, this is neither unpleasant nor dangerous. Blood vessels dilate, allowing blood to flow faster. The number of red blood cells increases, enabling the body to absorb even more oxygen molecules. The supply to all organs improves. Furthermore, the body initiates an adjustment program. Influenced by the hypoxic factor HIF-1α, the body takes all possible precautions to cope with less oxygen.

[0006] Mitochondria become denser and rejuvenated. Energy production is optimized, improving physical and mental performance in daily life. In people with disabilities, symptoms become less severe. In the brain, the transmission of nerve impulses improves. New nerve cells are generated in some areas. As a result, mental strength increases, and the risk of dementia and Parkinson's disease decreases. The vascular network becomes denser. The inner walls of blood vessels become smoother and more flexible. This reduces the likelihood of dangerous blood clots forming, and also reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke.

[0007] On the other hand, oxygen deficiency can lead to decreased concentration, fatigue, and ultimately, loss of consciousness and serious injury. Therefore, an optimal training program must take into account the individual limits of each person being trained, ensuring safety for the subject, while also being within a range where the body can respond optimally and training is effective.

[0008] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a method for performing hypoxic training using a hypoxic device, thereby enabling safe and efficient hypoxic training. A further object of the present invention is to provide a hypoxic device for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training, which enables safe and efficient hypoxic training.

[0009] The above-mentioned objective is achieved by means of a hypoxic device for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training as described in claim 1. Further advantageous configurations of the present invention are described in the dependent claims.

[0010] The device for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training according to the present invention comprises a gas reservoir and a gas distribution device. The gas reservoir is an air reservoir containing a gas mixture for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training. The gas distribution device is typically configured as a breathing mask that the user wears over their breathing openings (mouth and nose) for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training.

[0011] Furthermore, the low-oxygen device has a supply line suitable and intended for leading the gas mixture from the gas reservoir to the gas distribution device, and / or a discharge line suitable and intended for leading the gas mixture from the gas distribution device to the gas reservoir. The supply line and / or discharge line are typically configured as flexible hoses and provide an airtight connection between the gas distribution device and the gas reservoir.

[0012] Furthermore, the hypoxic device is equipped with an automatic shut-off device. The automatic shut-off device can automatically shut off hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training, for example, if the CO2 content of the breathing gas in the gas reservoir becomes high enough to pose a health risk to the user. Therefore, the hypoxic device according to the present invention enables effective hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training. All adaptive processes are induced within the user's body, but no physical harm occurs due to intentionally induced oxygen deficiency.

[0013] In a further advantageous development of the present invention, the gas supply to the gas distribution device can be shut off by an automatic shut-off device. In particular, the gas flow can be automatically shut off before the user suffers damage due to oxygen deficiency or increased CO2 concentration.

[0014] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, a hypoxic device for performing hypoxic therapy comprises a CO2 absorber. The CO2 absorber is preferably located in the breathing circuit within the supply line or exhaust line. The CO2 absorber is typically a mixture of solid calcium hydroxide and sodium hydroxide (so-called soda lime). During the performance of hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training, air flows through the soda lime, where carbon dioxide first combines with sodium hydroxide and is then regenerated by the calcium hydroxide contained therein.

[0015] In a further embodiment of the present invention, the CO2 absorber is replaceable. In a further embodiment of the present invention, the CO2 absorber is located in a flow-through container. Since the CO2 absorber is consumed during hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training, it is usually necessary to replace it before or after each hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training, or after the CO2 absorber has been consumed. For this purpose, the hypoxic device according to the present invention comprises a flow-through container such that the CO2 absorber is replaceable. The flow-through container is located in a supply line or discharge line, and a gas mixture flows through it to carry out hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training.

[0016] In a further embodiment of the present invention, the flow container has an inlet and / or outlet, where the flow container can be closed to block the flow of gas through the flow container. The inlet and outlet ensure that a gas mixture for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training flows through the flow container. In yet another further development of the present invention, the flow container has an inlet and / or outlet, where the inlet and / or outlet can be closed to block the flow of gas through the flow container. In a further embodiment of the present invention, a supply line and / or discharge line can be closed to block the flow of gas through the flow container. By closing the flow container, the flow of the gas mixture through the flow container can be blocked. Furthermore, the flow container is designed to be openable so that the flow of the gas mixture can be restarted.

[0017] In a further embodiment of the present invention, the automatic shut-off device is coupled to a controller, and the automatic shut-off device can be controlled by the controller. The controller includes a programmable microprocessor and a storage device with appropriate software programs. The controller sends a control signal to the automatic shut-off device, for example, if the CO2 content of the breathing gas in the gas reservoir is high enough to pose a health risk to the user.

[0018] In a further embodiment of the present invention, the use of a CO2 absorber is monitored by a controller. The CO2 absorber is typically a mixture of solid calcium hydroxide and sodium hydroxide (so-called soda lime). During hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training, air flows through the soda lime, where carbon dioxide first combines with sodium hydroxide and is then regenerated by the calcium hydroxide, also known as slaked lime, contained within. The CO2 absorber is consumed by use during hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training. The use of the CO2 absorber can be determined, for example, by the duration of hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training, or by detecting the CO2 concentration in the breathing gas.

[0019] In a further embodiment of the present invention, the use of a CO2 absorption device can be monitored by counting the number of times hypoxic therapy is administered. In a further embodiment of the present invention, the use of a CO2 absorption device can be monitored by determining the duration of use of the CO2 absorption device. The use of a CO2 absorption device can be monitored by the duration of hypoxic therapy and the number of usage cycles.

[0020] In a further embodiment of the present invention, the hypoxic device is equipped with a flow sensor, and the use of the CO2 absorber can be monitored by determining the gas flow passing through the CO2 absorber using the flow sensor. The volume of breathing gas flowing through the CO2 absorber serves as an indicator of the CO2 absorber's ability to absorb carbon dioxide.

[0021] In a further embodiment of the present invention, a hypoxic device for performing hypoxic therapy includes a CO2 sensor, which can monitor the use of a CO2 absorption device. The CO2 sensor determines the carbon dioxide concentration in the breathing gas. Preferably, the CO2 content of the air inhaled and exhaled by the user through a gas distribution device can be continuously detected.

[0022] In a further embodiment of the present invention, the automatic shut-off device comprises a valve that can shut off the gas flow from the gas reservoir to the gas distribution device. When the determined CO2 concentration exceeds a threshold, the shut-off device shuts off the gas supply to the gas distribution device, preventing the user from continuing hypoxic training and requiring the gas distribution device to be removed from the breathing port. In a further embodiment of the present invention, the shut-off device comprises a shut-off valve located, for example, in the supply line and / or discharge line. In a further development of the present invention, the automatic shut-off device comprises a shut-off element that can shut off the gas flow from the gas reservoir to the gas distribution device by rendering the CO2 absorption device unusable.

[0023] The above-mentioned objectives are also achieved by a method for performing hypoxic training according to the present invention. Further advantageous embodiments of the present invention are also described in the dependent claims.

[0024] The method for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training according to the present invention comprises the following three steps: The first step relates to supplying and / or discharging a gas mixture from a gas reservoir to a gas distribution device via a supply line and / or discharge line, and a CO2 absorber located in the supply line and / or discharge line. The gas mixture has a particularly low oxygen content compared to conventional breathing air. The second step relates to monitoring the use of the CO2 absorber. The use of the CO2 absorber, for example, the duration of use of the CO2 absorber, serves as an indicator of its carbon dioxide absorption capacity.

[0025] In the third step, the automatic shut-off device is controlled according to the use of the CO2 absorption device. The automatic shut-off device preferably operates when the detected use exceeds a limit value. The automatic shut-off device is automated in such a way that the shut-off device is activated without user involvement. In the simplest case, the user can no longer continue with low-oxygen therapy and / or low-oxygen training because the automatic shut-off device cuts off the gas supply to the gas distribution device. Alternatively or additionally, the automatic shut-off device is controlled to generate optical and / or acoustic warning signals.

[0026] In a further embodiment of the invention, monitoring the use of the CO2 absorption device includes monitoring the consumption of the CO2 absorption device. When the CO2 absorption device is exhausted, it can no longer absorb carbon dioxide from the gas mixture. Therefore, it is necessary to monitor the consumption of the CO2 absorption device in order to achieve safe low-oxygen therapy and / or low-oxygen training for the user.

[0027] In a further embodiment of the invention, controlling the automatic shut-off device includes controlling a shut-off element. When the determined use of the CO2 absorption device exceeds a limit value, the automatic shut-off device cuts off and / or reduces the gas supply to the gas distribution device, whereby the user can no longer continue with low-oxygen training and needs to remove the gas distribution device from the breathing port. For this purpose, a shut-off valve is actuated and the shut-off element changes the gas supply to the gas distribution device.

[0028] In a further design of the invention, the shut-off element includes a controllable valve and / or a sealable flow-through container. The gas supply to the gas distribution device can be cut off and / or reduced by the controllable valve. The sealable flow-through container is equipped with a device for cutting off the gas supply to the gas distribution device.

[0029] In a further development of the present invention, the shut-off element is controlled to shut off and / or modify the gas flow through the hypoxia device in order to carry out hypoxia treatment and / or hypoxia training. During hypoxia treatment and / or hypoxia training, carbon dioxide in exhaled air accumulates in the gas mixture of the respiratory circuit. If the carbon dioxide concentration in the inhaled air becomes too high, there are also physiological risks. When the CO2 absorption device is exhausted, it becomes impossible to absorb carbon dioxide from the gas mixture. Therefore, in order to realize safe hypoxia treatment and / or hypoxia training for the user, it is necessary to control the shut-off element to shut off and / or modify the gas flow.

[0030] In a further embodiment of the present invention, by controlling the shut-off element, ambient air is supplied into the hypoxia device for carrying out hypoxia treatment and / or hypoxia training. By supplying ambient air into the hypoxia device, the CO2 concentration in the hypoxia device is reduced to such an extent that the risk to the user is reduced.

[0031] In a further design of the present invention, the CO2 absorption device is arranged in a flow-through container. Since the CO2 absorption device is consumed during hypoxia treatment and / or hypoxia training, it usually needs to be replaced before or after each hypoxia treatment and / or hypoxia training, or after consumption. The flow-through container houses the CO2 absorption device and is arranged in the respiratory circuit of the hypoxia device according to the present invention. The flow-through container holds the CO2 absorption device, and the flow-through container is configured as a cartridge that can be replaced with an unused cartridge before or after hypoxia treatment and / or hypoxia training.

[0032] In a further embodiment of the present invention, a CO2 absorption device is placed in a flow-through container, which has an inlet and / or outlet, and the flow-through container can be closed to block the flow of gas through the container. A gas mixture for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training is guided to pass through the flow-through container. Thus, the container is placed in a supply line and / or discharge line, and the CO2 absorption device placed in the container absorbs only carbon dioxide from the user's breathing air and is not contaminated by carbon dioxide from the ambient air. This ensures that the CO2 absorption device placed in the container removes carbon dioxide from the gas mixture. In a further development of the present invention, the inlet and / or outlet can be closed. The inlet and / or outlet can be closed by an automatic shut-off device, which can shut off the gas supply to the gas distribution device. This prevents the user from continuing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training and requires the gas distribution device to be removed from the breathing port.

[0033] In a further embodiment of the present invention, the gas flow through the flow-through container is blocked by a gas-impermeable material. For this purpose, the flow-through container is preferably equipped with an openable and closable valve.

[0034] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the effectiveness of the CO2 absorption device is monitored by measuring the concentration of CO2 in a hypoxic device for performing hypoxic therapy. For this purpose, the hypoxic device according to the present invention has a CO2 sensor located in the supply line or exhaust line of the breathing circuit. The CO2 content of the breathing air can preferably be measured continuously using the CO2 sensor. For example, the CO2 sensor may be equipped with an optical and / or acoustic display and / or connected to an optical and / or acoustic display that emits a warning signal when the CO2 content of the breathing air in the breathing circuit, as detected by the CO2 sensor, reaches a value dangerous to the user.

[0035] In a more advantageous design of the present invention, the use of the CO2 absorption device is monitored by recording measurements using a CO2 sensor. Preferably, the CO2 content of the breathing air inhaled and exhaled by the user through the gas distribution device is continuously monitored by detecting measurements taken at approximately equal time intervals.

[0036] In a further development of the present invention, the CO2 sensor is placed in a gas reservoir, gas distribution device, supply line, and / or discharge line. The CO2 sensor is placed in the breathing circuit of a hypoxic device to detect the CO2 concentration in the hypoxic gas mixture during hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training.

[0037] In a further embodiment of the present invention, a measurement determined by a CO2 sensor is compared to a predetermined threshold. The controller of the hypoxic device has a threshold for the gas CO2 concentration supplied through the gas distribution device. If the CO2 content determined by the CO2 sensor exceeds the threshold, a corresponding signal is output and / or the gas supply through the gas distribution device is stopped.

[0038] In a further development of the present invention, a first threshold is fixed and / or a second threshold is set to be movable. The first threshold is preferably adjustable so that when the CO2 concentration determined by the CO2 sensor exceeds this threshold, the automatic shut-off device shuts off the gas supply to the gas distribution device. The second threshold is adjustable so that an audible and / or visual warning is issued to the user, but the user can continue hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training. Thus, the first threshold is set to a CO2 concentration higher than the second threshold.

[0039] In a further embodiment of the present invention, a warning is output when a threshold is reached and / or exceeded. The warning is output audibly and / or visually.

[0040] In a further development of the present invention, a warning is issued before a shutoff element is controlled to shut off and / or modify the gas flow within a hypoxic device for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training. The warning is issued when the measured CO2 concentration exceeds a second threshold. The gas flow is shut off when the determined CO2 concentration exceeds a first threshold, where the first threshold is set to a CO2 concentration in the gas mixture that is higher than the second threshold. Typically, the second threshold is exceeded before the first threshold; that is, a warning is issued before the gas flow is shut off.

[0041] Exemplary embodiments of the hypoxic device for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training according to the present invention, and the method for performing hypoxic training according to the present invention, are schematically shown in a simplified form in the drawings and will be described in more detail in the following detailed description. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0042] [Figure 1] The present invention illustrates a hypoxic device, supply line, and discharge line for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training. [Figure 2a] The present invention illustrates a hypoxic device for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training, individual supply lines and discharge lines, and an automatic shut-off device located within the supply line. [Figure 2b] The present invention illustrates a hypoxic device for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training, individual supply lines and discharge lines, and an automatic shut-off device located within the discharge line. [Figure 3a] The present invention illustrates a hypoxic device for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training, individual supply lines and discharge lines, and an automatic shut-off device located within the discharge line. [Figure 3b] The present invention illustrates a hypoxic device for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training, individual supply lines and discharge lines, and an automatic shut-off device located within the supply lines and discharge lines. [Figure 4a] The present invention illustrates a hypoxic device for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training, individual supply lines and discharge lines, an automatic shut-off device located within the supply lines and discharge lines, and a sensor located within the discharge line. [Figure 4b] The present invention illustrates a hypoxic device for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training, individual supply lines and discharge lines, an automatic shut-off device located within the supply line and discharge line, and a sensor located in the supply line. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0043] Figure 1 shows a typical embodiment of a hypoxic device 1 for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training according to the present invention. The hypoxic device 1 comprises a gas distribution device 20 configured as a breathing mask and worn by a user P covering the breathing opening (mouth and nose) during hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training. The hypoxic device 1 also comprises a gas reservoir 10. The gas reservoir 10 and the gas distribution device 20 are airtightly connected to each other via a flexible gas line 30. The gas line 30 comprises an automatic shut-off device AV for changing the breathing gas flow between the gas reservoir 10 and the gas distribution device 20. The automatic shut-off device AV is located in a flow-through container within the gas line 30 and is configured to guide the gas mixture of breathing gases through the flow-through container and the shut-off device AV during hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training.

[0044] Figure 2 shows a further embodiment of the hypoxic device 1 for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training according to the present invention. The hypoxic device 1 also comprises a gas distribution device 20. The gas distribution device 20 is connected to a gas reservoir 10 via a flexible supply line 40 and a similarly flexible discharge line 50. The supply line 40 and the discharge line 50 each include an airtight one-way valve V. The one-way valve V ensures that the user P inhales only air from the supply line 40, thereby preventing the user P from inhaling CO2-containing air from the discharge line 50 during inhalation. However, the CO2 sensor S may also be located in the gas reservoir 10 or in the gas distribution device 20. An automatic shut-off device AV is located in a flow-through container in the supply line 40 (Figure 2a). The automatic shut-off device AV includes a sensor S that continuously detects the CO2 concentration in the breathing gas in the supply line 40 during the performance of hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training.

[0045] The CO2 sensor is coupled to a one-way valve V in the supply line 40. When the CO2 concentration of the breathing gas exceeds an adjustable threshold, the CO2 sensor sends a signal to the one-way valve V in the supply line 40. In all embodiments, the threshold for the CO2 concentration of the breathing gas is 3% of the breathing gas. The signal includes a command to close the one-way valve in the supply line 40, thereby blocking the flow of breathing gas through the flow-through container.

[0046] In another embodiment, the automatic shut-off device AV is located in a flow-through container within the discharge line 50 (Figure 2b), and the CO2 sensor S is coupled to a one-way valve V in the discharge line 50. When the CO2 concentration of the breathing gas exceeds an adjustable threshold, the CO2 sensor transmits a signal to the one-way valve V in the discharge line 50. The signal includes a command to close the one-way valve in the discharge line 50, thereby blocking the flow of breathing gas through the flow-through container.

[0047] Alternatively, the flow-through container may have a closable inlet and / or a similarly closable outlet, where the flow of gas through the flow-through container can be blocked by closing the container with a one-way valve in the inlet and / or outlet.

[0048] In a further embodiment, the sensor S is a flow sensor that detects the volume of breathing gas flowing through the supply line 40 or the discharge line 50 and transmits a corresponding measurement signal to the controller S. If the volume of breathing gas exceeds an adjustable threshold, the sensor S transmits a signal that includes a command to close a one-way valve V in the supply line 40 and / or the discharge line 50.

[0049] Figure 3 shows a further typical embodiment of the hypoxia device 1 according to the present invention. The hypoxia device 1 also has independent supply lines 40 and discharge lines 50, each equipped with a one-way valve V. The hypoxia device 1 includes an automatic shut-off device AV in which a controller C and a CO2 absorber A are located. The CO2 absorber is located in a flow-through container between a first region 51 and a second region 52 of the discharge line 50 and is designed to be replaceable. In all typical embodiments shown herein, the CO2 absorber is a mixture of calcium hydroxide Ca(OH)2 and sodium hydroxide NaOH, so-called soda lime. Because the CO2 absorber has a limited capacity to absorb carbon dioxide, it is consumed when exposed to exhaled carbon dioxide during hypoxia treatment and / or hypoxia training. The controller C is connected to the CO2 absorber A and the valve V in the discharge line 50 (Figure 3a). In a modified example, the controller C is connected to the CO2 absorber A, the one-way valve V in the discharge line 50, and the one-way valve V in the supply line 40 (Figure 3b).

[0050] To perform hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training, user P attaches the gas distribution device 20 to their breathing port and repeatedly inhales and exhales the same breathing gas. CO2 absorber A first binds carbon dioxide to sodium hydroxide to prevent suffocation, and then the sodium hydroxide is regenerated by the calcium hydroxide it contains. Controller C monitors the usage of CO2 absorber A by detecting its usage time. Usage time is an indicator of the amount of carbon dioxide the CO2 absorber has been exposed to. Controller C compares the determined usage time of CO2 absorber A with the value of CO2 absorber A usage time stored in the controller C's memory unit. If the determined usage time of CO2 absorber A reaches or exceeds the stored value of CO2 absorber usage time, controller C sends a control signal to the one-way valve V in the discharge line 50 (Figure 3a) or to the one-way bubbles V in both the discharge line 50 and the supply line 40 (Figure 3b), causing the one-way bubbles V (or multiple one-way bubbles V) to shut off the gas supply to the gas distribution device 20. For this purpose, one or more one-way valves V are closed.

[0051] Figure 4 shows a preferred typical embodiment of the hypoxia device 1 according to the present invention. The hypoxia device 1 also comprises a gas distribution device 20. The gas distribution device 20 is connected to the gas reservoir 10 via a flexible supply line 40 and a similarly flexible discharge line 50. The supply line 40 and the discharge line 50 each include a one-way valve V. The hypoxia device 1 also comprises an automatic shut-off device AV in which a controller C, a sensor S, and a CO2 absorber A are located. The CO2 absorber is located in a flow-through container within the supply line 40 and is designed to be replaceable. The sensor S is located between a first region 51 and a second region 52 of the discharge line 50 (Figure 4a). The controller C is connected to the two one-way valves V, the CO2 absorber, and the sensor S. In an alternative modification of this embodiment, the sensor S is located within the supply line 40 (see Figure 4b) and connected to the controller C. The supply line 40 does not have a one-way valve V, while the discharge line 50 has a one-way valve V and a sensor S. Controller C is connected to a one-way valve V, a CO2 absorption device, and a sensor S. In this embodiment, sensor S is a CO2 sensor that continuously detects the CO2 concentration of the respiratory gas during hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training.

[0052] To perform hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training, user P attaches the gas distribution device 20 to their breathing port and repeatedly inhales and exhales the same breathing gas. CO2 absorber A prevents user P from suffocating. A sensor monitors the usage of CO2 absorber A by continuously detecting measured values ​​of the CO2 concentration of the breathing gas. The measured values ​​are transmitted from sensor S to controller C, where they are compared to a first threshold for the CO2 concentration of the breathing gas. The first threshold is stored and fixed in the controller's memory unit. If the measured CO2 concentration of the breathing gas reaches or exceeds the first threshold, controller C outputs an audible warning. For this purpose, controller C is equipped with or connected to a suitable speaker. The threshold for the CO2 concentration of the breathing gas is 3% of the breathing gas.

[0053] A second threshold, which can be variably set by user P or a physician, is stored in the memory unit of controller C. The second threshold for the CO2 concentration of the breathing gas is 5% of the breathing gas. When the measured CO2 concentration of the breathing gas reaches or exceeds the second threshold, the controller sends a control command to the one-way valve V in the supply line 40, which closes (Figure 4a), thereby interrupting the flow of breathing gas in the supply line 40 and suspending the administration of hypoxia therapy and / or hypoxia training. Therefore, the audible warning when the measured CO2 concentration of the breathing gas reaches and / or exceeds the first threshold occurs before the one-way valve V in the supply line 40 is controlled and the gas flow in the hypoxia device 1 is interrupted when the measured CO2 concentration of the breathing gas reaches and / or exceeds the second threshold.

[0054] In a modified version of this embodiment (see Figure 4b), when the measured CO2 concentration of the breathing gas reaches and / or exceeds a second threshold, both one-way valves V of the supply line 40 and the discharge line 50 are closed. [Explanation of symbols]

[0055] 1. Hypoxic devices for administering hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training. 10 Gas Reservoir 20 Gas distribution devices / breathing masks 30 Gas lines 40 supply lines 50 Discharge lines 51 First area of ​​the discharge line 52 Second area of ​​the discharge line A CO2 absorption device AV automatic shutoff device C Controller P User S sensor V-type unidirectional valve

Claims

1. A hypoxic device (1) for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training, Gas reservoir (10), Gas distribution device (20), A supply line (40) suitable for and intended to guide the gas mixture from the gas reservoir (10) to the gas distribution device (20), and / or a discharge line (50) suitable for and intended to guide the gas mixture from the gas distribution device (20) to the gas reservoir (10), The hypoxic device having an automatic shut-off device (AV).

2. The gas supply from the gas reservoir (10) to the gas distribution device (20) can be shut off by the automatic shut-off device (AV), characterized in that A hypoxic device (1) for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training as described in claim 1.

3. The hypoxic device (1) for performing hypoxic therapy is CO ２ A hypoxic device (1) for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by comprising an absorption device (A).

4. The aforementioned CO ２ A hypoxic device (1) for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training according to claim 3, characterized in that the absorption device (A) is replaceable.

5. The aforementioned CO ２ A hypoxic device (1) for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the absorption device (A) is arranged in a flow-through container.

6. The aforementioned flow-type container has an inlet and / or outlet, A hypoxic device (1) for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training according to claim 5, characterized in that the flow-through container can be closed so as to block the flow of gas through the flow-through container.

7. The aforementioned flow-type container has an inlet and / or outlet, Hereinafter, the inlet and / or outlet can be closed so as to block the flow of the gas through the flow-through container, characterized in that a hypoxic device (1) for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training according to claim 6.

8. A hypoxic device (1) for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training according to one or more prior claims, characterized in that the supply line and / or the discharge line can be closed so as to prevent the flow of the gas through the flow-through container.

9. The automatic shutoff device (AV) is connected to the controller (C), Hereinafter, the automatic shut-off device (AV) can be controlled by the controller (C), characterized in that a hypoxic device (1) for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training according to one or more prior claims.

10. The aforementioned CO ２ A hypoxic device (1) for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training according to claim 9, characterized in that the use of the absorption device (A) can be monitored by the controller (C).

11. The aforementioned CO ２ A hypoxic device (1) for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training according to claim 10, characterized in that the use of the absorption device (A) can be monitored by counting the number of hypoxic therapy sessions.

12. The aforementioned CO ２ The aforementioned use of the absorption device (A) ２ A hypoxic device (1) for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that the usage time of the absorption device (A) can be monitored by determining the usage time.

13. The hypoxic device (1) for performing hypoxic therapy is equipped with a flow sensor (S), Here, the CO ２ use of the CO absorption device (A) can be monitored by determining the gas flow through the CO absorption device (A) using the flow sensor (S). ２ A hypoxia device (1) for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training according to one or more of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that the use of the CO absorption device (A) can be monitored by determining the gas flow through the CO absorption device (A) using the flow sensor (S).

14. The hypoxic device (1) for performing hypoxic therapy is CO ２ Equipped with a sensor (S), Here, the CO ２ The monitoring of the use of the absorption device (A) is that the CO ２ A hypoxic device (1) for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training according to one or more of claims 10 to 13, characterized in that it can be performed by a sensor (S).

15. A hypoxic device (1) for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training according to one or more of claims 9 to 14, characterized in that the automatic shut-off device (AV) includes a valve (V) that can shut off the gas supply from the gas reservoir (10) to the gas distribution device (20).

16. The automatic shutoff device (AV) is the CO ２ A hypoxic device (1) for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training according to one or more of claims 9 to 15, characterized in that it includes a blocking element that can block the gas flow from the gas reservoir (10) to the gas distribution device (20) by disabling the absorption device (A).

17. A method for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training, From the gas reservoir (10), the supply line (40) and / or discharge line (50), and the CO2 placed in the supply line (40) and / or discharge line (50) ２ A step of supplying and / or discharging a gas mixture to a gas distribution device (20) via an absorption device (A), The aforementioned CO ２ A process of monitoring the use of the absorption device (A), The aforementioned CO ２ The method comprising the step of controlling an automatic shutoff device (AV) in accordance with the use of an absorption device (A).

18. The aforementioned CO ２ Monitoring the use of the absorption device (A) is necessary to control the CO ２ A method for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training according to claim 17, characterized by including monitoring the consumption of an absorption device (A).

19. A method for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training according to claim 17 or 18, characterized in that controlling the automatic shut-off device (AV) includes controlling the shut-off element.

20. A method for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training according to claim 19, characterized in that the blocking element includes a controllable valve and / or a sealable flow-through container.

21. The method for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training according to claim 19 or 20, characterized in that the blocking element is controlled to block and / or alter the gas flow through a hypoxic device (1) for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training.

22. A method for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training according to one or more of claims 19 to 21, characterized in that ambient air is supplied into the hypoxic device (1) for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training by controlling the blocking element.

23. The aforementioned CO ２ A method for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training according to one or more of claims 17 to 22, characterized in that the absorption device (A) is arranged in a flow-type container.

24. The aforementioned CO ２ The absorption device (A) is placed inside a flow-through container. Here, the flow-type container has an inlet and / or outlet, A method for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training according to one or more of claims 17 to 23, characterized in that the flow-through container can be closed in such a way that the flow of gas through the flow-through container is blocked.

25. A method for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training according to claim 24, characterized in that the inlet and / or outlet can be closed.

26. A method for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training according to claim 24 or 25, characterized in that the gas flow through the flow-through container is blocked by a gas-impermeable substance.

27. The aforementioned CO ２ Monitoring the use of the absorption device (A) is necessary for performing hypoxic therapy, specifically for the CO2 in the hypoxic device (1). ２ A method for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training according to one or more of claims 17 to 26, characterized in that it is performed by measuring the concentration.

28. The aforementioned CO ２ Monitoring the use of the absorption device (A) is necessary to control CO ２ A method for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training according to claim 27, characterized in that it is performed by recording measured values ​​using a sensor (S).

29. The aforementioned CO ２ A method for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training according to claim 27 or 28, characterized in that the sensor (S) is located within the gas reservoir (10), the gas distribution device (20), the supply line (40), and / or the discharge line (50).

30. The aforementioned CO ２ A method for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training according to one or more of claims 27 to 29, characterized by comparing a measurement value determined by a sensor (S) with a predefined threshold.

31. A method for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training according to claim 30, characterized in that a first threshold is fixed and / or a second threshold is set to be variable.

32. A method for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training according to claim 30 or 31, characterized in that a warning is output when the threshold is reached and / or when the threshold is exceeded.

33. The method for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training according to claim 32, characterized in that the warning is output before the blocking element is controlled to block and / or alter the gas flow in the hypoxic device (1) for performing hypoxic therapy and / or hypoxic training.

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