Medical devices and programs

Abstract

Determine whether or not the flow path is blocked. [Solution] The CPAP device (medical device) 1 comprises a gas inlet 120, a blower (dispensing device) 200 that delivers the gas flowing in from the gas inlet 120 to the mask, a sensor 600 that detects the output of the gas delivered by the blower 200, and a control device 800 that determines whether the flow path 110 between the gas inlet 120 and the mask 500 is blocked based on the gas output.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to medical devices and programs.

Background Art

[0002] There is a disease called sleep apnea syndrome (SAS) in which the state of breathing cessation repeatedly occurs during a patient's sleep. Among sleep apnea syndromes, there is one called obstructive sleep apnea syndrome in which the upper airway of a patient becomes narrow or completely closes during sleep.

[0003] Patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome may be treated with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses treating using a CPAP device that supplies positive pressure to the upper airway of a patient to expand the narrowed part of the upper airway. For example, the CPAP device described in Patent Document 1 includes a blower that pumps air, a tube that sends the air pumped from the blower to a mask, and a mask that is attached to the nose or mouth of the patient.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] By the way, in a respiratory assistance device such as a CPAP device, when an obstruction occurs in the air flow path from the device body to the mask, there is a problem that the therapeutic effect cannot be appropriately obtained due to insufficient pressure. Therefore, it is important to determine the presence or absence of an obstruction in the flow path.

[0006] Therefore, this disclosure aims to determine whether or not a flow path is blocked. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] To solve the above problems, according to this disclosure, Gas inlet and A dispensing device that delivers the gas flowing in from the aforementioned gas inlet to the mask, A sensor for detecting the output of the gas discharged by the discharge device, A control device that determines blockage of the flow path between the gas inlet and the mask based on the output of the gas, A heating device for heating the gas flowing through the second flow path between the delivery device and the mask, A humidifier for humidifying the gas flowing through the second channel, A water tank used for humidification, Equipped with 、 The output of the gas includes the flow rate of the gas delivered by the delivery device. The control device is Based on the flow rate of the gas, it is determined whether or not the second flow path is blocked. If at least one of the heating device and the humidifying device is stopped, the stop is released based on at least one of the following: the elapsed time since the determination of whether or not the second flow path is blocked, the temperature of at least a part of the second flow path, and the temperature of the water tank. , Medical equipment will be provided. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] This disclosure allows for the determination of whether or not a flow path is blocked. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a CPAP device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the control device according to this embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional unit of the control device according to this embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the first determination process according to this embodiment. [Figure 5]FIG. 5 is a graph showing changes in pressure values and rotational speed values when the upstream channel according to the present embodiment is blocked. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the second determination process according to the present embodiment.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Specific dimensions, materials, numerical values, etc. shown in such embodiments are merely examples for facilitating understanding of the invention, and do not limit the present disclosure unless otherwise specified. In the present specification and drawings, elements having substantially the same functions and configurations are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations are omitted, and elements not directly related to the present disclosure are not shown.

[0011] [Configuration] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a CPAP device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure (hereinafter referred to as "the present embodiment"). In FIG. 1, the Z direction indicates the vertical direction, the X direction indicates a predetermined direction in the horizontal plane, and the Y direction indicates a direction orthogonal to the X direction in the horizontal plane.

[0012] The CPAP device 1 is an example of a respiratory assist device that assists a patient's breathing. Specifically, the CPAP device 1 is a medical device used in CPAP therapy, and is a device that supplies positive pressure to a patient's upper airway to expand a narrowed portion of the upper airway. The CPAP device 1 is an example of the "medical device" of the present disclosure. In the present embodiment, the CPAP device 1 will be described in detail as an example of the "medical device" of the present disclosure, but the medical device of the present disclosure is not limited to the example of the CPAP device 1. The medical device of the present disclosure may be a device that assists or treats a patient's breathing, for example, a treatment device for treating other diseases other than sleep apnea syndrome, or an artificial respirator that assists a patient's breathing. Specifically, the artificial respirator may be an ASV (Adaptive Servo Ventilation) that synchronizes the supply air pressure in accordance with changes in the patient's breathing state and air flow.

[0013] As shown in FIG. 1, the CPAP device 1 includes a main body 100, a blower 200, a water tank 300, a heating tube 400, a mask 500, a sensor 600, an alarming device 700, and a control device 800. In FIG. 1, for convenience of explanation, the alarming device 700 and the control device 800 are shown outside the main body 100. However, in reality, the alarming device 700 and the control device 800 are provided inside the main body 100. However, it is not limited thereto, and the alarming device 700 and the control device 800 may be provided outside the main body 100, for example.

[0014] The main body 100 is a housing that houses various devices including the blower 200. A part of a flow path 110 for circulating gas is formed inside the main body 100. In the present embodiment, the gas supplied from the CPAP device 1 to the patient is, for example, air. However, the gas is not limited to air as long as it is a gas supplied to the patient, and may be, for example, oxygen, a mixed gas of air and oxygen, or a mixed gas of air and other gases.

[0015] In the example shown in FIG. 1, a gas inlet 120 is provided on the outer surface of the main body 100. The gas inlet 120 is an opening at the upstream end of the flow path 110. The gas inlet 120 functions as an air inlet for taking air into the CPAP device 1. The flow path 110 guides gas from the gas inlet 120 to the mask 500. The end of the flow path 110 on the gas inlet 120 side is the upstream end, and the end of the flow path 110 on the mask 500 side is the downstream end.

[0016] The gas inlet 120 is an inlet for introducing the air outside the CPAP device 1 into the flow path 110. However, it is not limited thereto, and the gas inlet 120 may be, for example, an inlet for introducing oxygen supplied from an oxygen cylinder into the flow path 110. In the following description, an example in which the CPAP device 1 supplies air as the gas supplied to the patient will be described.

[0017] As shown in Figure 1, the flow path 110 includes an upstream flow path 130 (first flow path) upstream of the blower 200 and a downstream flow path 140 (second flow path) downstream of the blower 200. The upstream flow path 130 is an example of the "first flow path" of this disclosure. The downstream flow path 140 is an example of the "second flow path" of this disclosure. The upstream flow path 130 is the flow path between the gas inlet 120 and the blower 200, and the downstream flow path 140 is the flow path between the blower 200 and the mask 500. The upstream end of the upstream flow path 130 is the gas inlet 120, and the downstream end of the upstream flow path 130 is the connection end with the upstream end of the flow path of the blower 200. The upstream end of the downstream flow path 140 is the connection end with the downstream end of the flow path of the blower 200, and the downstream end of the downstream flow path 140 is the connection end with the mask 500.

[0018] The downstream flow path 140 includes a first downstream flow path 142, a second downstream flow path 144, and a third downstream flow path 146. The first downstream flow path 142 is a flow path formed inside the main body 100 downstream of the blower 200. The second downstream flow path 144 is a flow path formed inside the water tank 300. The third downstream flow path 146 is a flow path formed inside the heating tube 400.

[0019] The upstream end of the first downstream flow path 142 is connected to the downstream end (exhaust port) of the flow path of the blower 200. The downstream end of the first downstream flow path 142 is connected to the upstream end of the second downstream flow path 144. The downstream end of the second downstream flow path 144 is connected to the upstream end of the third downstream flow path 146. The downstream end of the third downstream flow path 146 is connected to the mask 500. In this way, the first downstream flow path 142, the second downstream flow path 144, and the third downstream flow path 146 are in communication with each other.

[0020] The blower 200 is a device that delivers gas (e.g., air) flowing in from the gas inlet 120 to the mask 500. The blower 200 is an example of a “delivery device” in this disclosure. The blower 200 is located inside the main body 100 and communicates with the flow path 110. That is, the flow path inside the blower 200 constitutes a part of the flow path 110. The intake port of the blower 200 is connected to the upstream flow path 130 (first flow path). The exhaust port of the blower 200 is connected to the downstream flow path 140 (second flow path). The blower 200 consists of a rotatably supported fan (not shown) and a motor 210 (see Figure 2) that drives the fan. The blower 200 generates an airflow from the gas inlet 120 toward the mask 500 by the rotation of the fan. The blower 200 pressurizes and delivers air to be supplied to the patient. Specifically, the blower 200 compresses atmospheric air flowing in from the gas inlet 120 and delivers air at a therapeutic pressure higher than the patient's respiratory pressure to the downstream flow path 140. This generates an airflow that supplies therapeutic pressure to the upper airway of a patient with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.

[0021] Here, therapeutic pressure refers to the pressure at the connection ends between the mask 500 and the patient's nose and mouth. In other words, therapeutic pressure is the pressure that actually contributes to the patient's treatment. This therapeutic pressure is set based on the prescribed pressure prescribed by a medical professional such as a doctor. The prescribed pressure is the pressure set by a medical professional such as a doctor according to the patient's symptoms (condition). This prescribed pressure is set in the CPAP device 1 for each patient, and is set within a pressure range, for example, as the maximum and minimum values ​​of the therapeutic pressure. In other words, the prescribed pressure is the pressure that is set by direct input to the CPAP device 1 or indirect input via a communication system. Note that the prescribed pressure may only set the maximum value of the therapeutic pressure. For example, only the maximum value of the therapeutic pressure may be set in the CPAP device 1 as the prescribed pressure, and the minimum value of the therapeutic pressure may be set in advance as a fixed value in the CPAP device 1. When a patient uses the CPAP device 1 with this prescribed pressure set, the CPAP device 1 automatically sets the therapeutic pressure within the range of the prescribed pressure mentioned above. This therapeutic pressure is automatically set according to the patient's sleep state, etc. For example, the CPAP device 1 sets the therapeutic pressure to a minimum value when the patient starts to sleep, and performs control (automatic setting) to increase the therapeutic pressure by a predetermined value each time apnea or hypopnea is detected. At this time, the CPAP device 1 determines a control pressure (set pressure) to control the blower 200 so that the predetermined therapeutic pressure is achieved at the connection end between the mask 500 and the patient's nose and mouth. Here, in the flow path 110 downstream of the pressure sensor 620 (described later), pressure loss occurs in the water tank 300 or heating tube 400, etc. Therefore, the control device 800 of the CPAP device 1 (described later) performs control to determine the control pressure as the therapeutic pressure plus the pressure loss so that the predetermined therapeutic pressure is achieved at the connection end between the mask 500 and the patient's nose and mouth. In other words, the relationship between therapeutic pressure and control pressure is "therapeutic pressure = control pressure - pressure loss". The control pressure is the output pressure of the blower 200, which is proportional to the blower rotation speed.

[0022] The water tank 300 is a container for storing water W. One end of the water tank 300 is connected to the main body 100. The other end of the water tank 300 is connected to the heating tube 400. A humidifier 310 (see Figure 2) is attached to the water tank 300. For example, the humidifier 310 is attached to the bottom of the water tank 300 on the -Z side.

[0023] The humidifier 310 is a device that humidifies the air flowing through the flow path 110. The humidifier 310 includes, for example, a heater that heats and vaporizes the water W stored in the water tank 300. As a result, a portion of the water W stored in the water tank 300 turns into water vapor.

[0024] A second downstream channel 144 filled with water vapor is provided inside the water tank 300. Air sent into the water tank 300 from the first downstream channel 142 is humidified as it passes through the second downstream channel 144 filled with water vapor. The second downstream channel 144 may be, for example, a channel partitioned by a gas-liquid selective permeable membrane installed inside the water tank 300. Here, the gas-liquid selective permeable membrane is a membrane that allows gas to pass through but not liquid.

[0025] In this case, some of the water vapor in the water tank 300 permeates from the outside to the inside of the gas-liquid selective permeable membrane. This permeated water vapor humidifies the air passing through the second downstream channel 144 formed inside the gas-liquid selective permeable membrane.

[0026] The heating tube 400 is an example of a tube that connects the main body of the CPAP device 1 (medical device) to the mask 500. In this embodiment, a heating tube 400 with a heating function is used, but a tube without a heating function may also be used. The heating tube 400 is supplied by the blower 200 and guides the air that has passed through the water tank 300 to the mask 500. One end of the heating tube 400 is connected to the water tank 300, and the other end of the heating tube 400 is connected to the mask 500. A third downstream flow path 146 is formed inside the heating tube 400. Therefore, the heating tube 400 guides the air humidified in the water tank 300 to the mask 500.

[0027] The heating device 410 is a device that heats the air flowing through the flow path 110. Specifically, the heating device 410 is, for example, a heater that heats the air flowing through the third downstream flow path 146 inside the heating tube 400.

[0028] The mask 500 is removably attached to the patient's face so as to cover the patient's respiratory system (e.g., mouth and nose). The mask 500 delivers (supplies) air that has passed through the heating tube 400 to the patient's upper airway through the nasal cavity or oral cavity. The mask 500 delivers therapeutically pressurized air, humidified and heated by the main body 100 (specifically, for example, the water tank 300) and the heating tube 400, to the patient's nasal cavity or oral cavity.

[0029] Sensor 600 detects the output of air delivered by the blower 200 and the operating status of the blower 200. Sensor 600 includes a differential pressure sensor 610 and a pressure sensor 620. Sensor 600 also includes a rotation speed sensor 220, a water temperature sensor 630, and a temperature sensor 640, as shown in Figure 2. The water temperature sensor 630 detects the temperature of the water W in the water tank 300. The temperature sensor 640 detects the temperature of the heating tube 400.

[0030] The differential pressure sensor 610 detects the differential pressure between the air pressure in the flow path outside the blower 200 and the air pressure in the flow path inside the blower 200 in order to determine the flow rate of air delivered by the blower 200. For example, one end of the differential pressure sensor 610 is placed in the upstream flow path 130, which is the flow path outside the blower 200, and the other end of the differential pressure sensor 610 is placed in the flow path inside the blower 200. As a result, the differential pressure sensor 610 detects the differential pressure, which is the difference between the air pressure in the upstream flow path 130 and the air pressure in the flow path inside the blower 200. The detected value indicating the differential pressure detected by the differential pressure sensor 610 is transmitted to the control device 800. Based on the detected value (differential pressure value) transmitted from the differential pressure sensor 610, the control device 800 determines the flow rate Q of air delivered by the blower 200. For example, the control device 800 determines the air flow rate Q by referring to a map that associates differential pressure (differential pressure value) and flow rate (flow rate value). Since the flow rate Q of the air delivered by the blower 200 can be determined from the value detected by the differential pressure sensor 610, it can be said that the differential pressure sensor 610 detects a parameter corresponding to the flow rate Q of the air delivered by the blower 200. Therefore, in the following description, the differential pressure sensor 610 will be described as detecting the flow rate Q of the air delivered by the blower 200. The flow rate Q of the air delivered by the blower 200 according to this embodiment is an example of the "output of gas delivered by the delivery device" in this disclosure.

[0031] The pressure sensor 620 detects the pressure of the air delivered by the blower 200. The pressure of the air delivered by the blower 200 according to this embodiment is an example of the "output of gas delivered by the delivery device" in this disclosure. The pressure sensor 620 is provided near the downstream end of the flow path within the blower 200. In other words, the pressure sensor 620 is provided near the exhaust port of the flow path of the blower 200. In the example shown in Figure 1, the pressure sensor 620 is provided in the first downstream flow path 142 downstream of the exhaust port of the flow path of the blower 200. However, it is not limited to this, and the pressure sensor 620 may be provided in the flow path within the blower 200 upstream of the exhaust port of the flow path of the blower 200. In this embodiment, the pressure sensor 620 is one of the components of the blower 200. The detected value indicating the air pressure detected by the pressure sensor 620 is transmitted to the control device 800. In the following, the detected value indicating the air pressure detected by the pressure sensor 620 may be referred to as "output pressure P".

[0032] The rotation speed sensor 220 detects the rotation speed of the motor 210 of the blower 200. The rotation speed sensor 220 is installed, for example, on the motor 210. The detected value indicating the rotation speed detected by the rotation speed sensor 220 is transmitted to the control device 800. Hereinafter, the detected value indicating the rotation speed detected by the rotation speed sensor 220 may be referred to as "rotation speed R".

[0033] The water temperature sensor 630 is installed in the water tank 300 and detects the temperature of the water W stored inside the water tank 300. The detected value indicating the water temperature detected by the water temperature sensor 630 is transmitted to the control device 800. Hereinafter, the detected value indicating the water temperature detected by the water temperature sensor 630 may be referred to as "water temperature WT".

[0034] The temperature sensor 640 is installed in the heating tube 400 and detects the temperature of the air flowing through the third downstream channel 146 inside the heating tube 400. The detected value indicating the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 640 is transmitted to the control device 800. Hereinafter, the detected value indicating the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 640 may be referred to as "temperature T".

[0035] The notification device 700 is a device that notifies users, such as patients, who use the CPAP device 1. For example, the notification device 700 may include a display device that shows characters, figures, images, videos, etc., such as a display, and notify information by display. However, it is not limited to this, and the notification device 700 may include, for example, an audio output device that generates sound, such as a speaker, and notify information by voice. Furthermore, the notification device 700 may include both the above-mentioned display device and audio output device. The notification device 700 displays characters, figures, images, videos, etc., that indicate the information to be notified, or generates sound indicating the information to be notified, in accordance with control commands output from the control device 800.

[0036] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the control device 800 according to this embodiment. The control device 800 is an example of the “computer” of this disclosure and controls the operation of the medical device. The control device 800 according to this embodiment controls the entire CPAP device 1. In this embodiment, the control device 800 mainly controls the motor 210 of the blower 200, the humidifier 310, and the heating device 410.

[0037] As shown in Figure 2, the control device 800 includes an I / F 810, a storage device 820, a system bus 830, one or more processors 840, and one or more memories 850. The I / F 810 is an interface for acquiring information output from the differential pressure sensor 610, pressure sensor 620, water temperature sensor 630, temperature sensor 640, and rotation speed sensor 220. The I / F 810 is also an interface for outputting control commands to the motor 210, humidifier 310, heating device 410, and notification device 700.

[0038] The storage device 820 consists of RAM, flash memory, HDD, etc., and holds various information necessary for the processing of the processor 840 as described below. For example, the storage device 820 has a map pre-stored that associates differential pressure (differential pressure value) and flow rate (flow rate value). The system bus 830 is a transmission path that electrically connects the I / F 810, storage device 820, processor 840, and memory 850, and transmits data between them.

[0039] The processor 840 is the central part of the computer that performs calculations and control necessary for the operation of the CPAP device 1. The processor 840 includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The memory 850 includes, for example, ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random Access Memory). ROM is a memory element that stores programs and calculation parameters used by the CPU. RAM is a memory element that temporarily stores data such as variables and parameters used in processing executed by the CPU.

[0040] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional components of the control device 800 according to this embodiment. For example, as shown in Figure 3, the control device 800 includes an acquisition unit 800a and a control unit 800b.

[0041] The processor 840 works in cooperation with the program contained in the memory 850 and executes the program contained in the memory 850 to realize various processes, including the processes described below, which are performed by the acquisition unit 800a and the control unit 800b.

[0042] The acquisition unit 800a acquires the detected values ​​from the differential pressure sensor 610, pressure sensor 620, water temperature sensor 630, temperature sensor 640, and rotation speed sensor 220.

[0043] The control unit 800b executes control processing to control the motor 210, humidifier 310, and heating device 410 based on the detected values ​​acquired by the acquisition unit 800a. The control unit 800b also executes a determination process to determine whether the flow path 110 between the gas inlet 120 and the mask 500 is blocked, based on the detected values ​​acquired by the acquisition unit 800a. This determination process includes a first determination process to determine whether the upstream flow path 130 between the gas inlet 120 and the blower 200 is blocked, and a second determination process to determine whether the downstream flow path 140 between the blower 200 and the mask 500 is blocked. The details of the determination processes executed by the control unit 800b will be described below. First, the first determination process will be described in detail, and then the second determination process will be described in detail.

[0044] [Blockage detection process] Next, the process for determining blockage of the flow path by the CPAP device 1 according to this embodiment will be described. Figure 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the first determination process according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 4, the acquisition unit 800a of the control device 800 acquires the detected values ​​detected by the differential pressure sensor 610, pressure sensor 620, water temperature sensor 630, temperature sensor 640, and rotation speed sensor 220 (step S100).

[0045] The control unit 800b provides feedback control to the blower 200 so that the output pressure P detected by the pressure sensor 620 becomes the control pressure Pc (step S102). This control pressure Pc is the set pressure of the air pressure delivered by the blower 200. The control pressure Pc is set so that the pressure of the air supplied to the patient's upper airway remains constant. In other words, the control pressure Pc is a variable value that fluctuates according to the patient's breathing. For example, when the patient inhales, the air pressure in the patient's upper airway decreases. Accordingly, the control unit 800b increases the rotation speed of the motor 210 of the blower 200, increasing the airflow rate supplied to the mask 500. On the other hand, when the patient exhales, the air pressure in the patient's upper airway increases. Accordingly, the control unit 800b decreases the rotation speed of the motor 210 of the blower 200, decreasing the airflow rate supplied to the mask 500. The control pressure Pc is set to a variable value in response to increases or decreases in the airflow rate supplied to the mask 500 (i.e., in response to the patient's breathing). Specifically, the smaller the airflow rate supplied to the mask 500, the smaller the control pressure Pc is set to. Conversely, the larger the airflow rate supplied to the mask 500, the larger the control pressure Pc is set to.

[0046] If the output pressure P detected by the pressure sensor 620 is less than the control pressure Pc, the control unit 800b controls the rotation speed of the motor 210 of the blower 200 to increase the output pressure P to the control pressure Pc. Conversely, if the output pressure P detected by the pressure sensor 620 exceeds the control pressure Pc, the control unit 800b controls the rotation speed of the motor 210 of the blower 200 to decrease the output pressure P to the control pressure Pc. In this way, the control unit 800b provides feedback control of the output of the blower 200 based on the output pressure P.

[0047] The control unit 800b performs feedback control so that the water temperature WT detected by the water temperature sensor 630 becomes the set water temperature WTs (step S104). Specifically, if the water temperature WT is less than the set water temperature WTs, the control unit 800b controls the output of the humidifier (heater) 310 to raise the water temperature WT to the set water temperature WTs. Also, if the water temperature WT exceeds the set water temperature WTs, the control unit 800b controls the output of the humidifier (heater) 310 to lower the water temperature WT to the set water temperature WTs.

[0048] The control unit 800b performs feedback control so that the temperature T detected by the temperature sensor 640 becomes the set temperature Ts (step S106). Specifically, if the temperature T is less than the set temperature Ts, the control unit 800b controls the output of the heating device 410 to raise the temperature T to the set temperature Ts. Also, if the temperature T exceeds the set temperature Ts, the control unit 800b controls the output of the heating device 410 to lower the temperature T to the set temperature Ts. These control pressure Pc, set water temperature WTs, and set temperature Ts are set to appropriate values ​​according to the patient's condition. For example, the control pressure Pc, set water temperature WTs, and set temperature Ts may be values ​​that have been set in advance by experimentation or the like for each patient's condition, or they may be stored in advance in the storage device 820 for each patient's condition.

[0049] When supplying air to the patient, the control unit 800b determines whether the output pressure P detected by the pressure sensor 620 is equal to or greater than the control pressure Pc (step S108). Here, there may be variations in the output pressure P detected by the pressure sensor 620. Therefore, in step S108, a margin may be given to the control pressure Pc to take into account the variations in output pressure P. Specifically, the control pressure Pc may be the value obtained by subtracting a predetermined pressure (for example, 0.5 [hPa]) from the control pressure Pc.

[0050] If the output pressure P is equal to or greater than the control pressure Pc (YES in step S108), the control unit 800b sets or updates the rotational speed R detected by the rotational speed sensor 220 as a new "reference value" (step S110), and proceeds to the process in step S100. In step S110, instead of the rotational speed R of the motor 210 of the blower 200, the duty cycle of the blower 200 may be set or updated as the "reference value". Here, the duty cycle of the blower 200 is the ratio of the operating time of the blower 200 in a predetermined time. The duty cycle of the blower 200 can be determined from the control command (control value) that controls the motor 210 of the blower 200. The rotational speed R of the motor 210 of the blower 200 and the duty cycle of the blower 200 are examples of the "operating state" of the blower 200. Below, an example in which the rotational speed R of the motor 210 of the blower 200 is used as this "reference value" will be described.

[0051] Thus, as long as the output pressure P is equal to or greater than the control pressure Pc, the processes of step S100, step S102, step S104, step S106, and step S110 are repeatedly executed.

[0052] Incidentally, if a blockage occurs in the upstream flow path 130, the amount of air supplied to the blower 200 decreases, causing the output pressure P detected by the pressure sensor 620 to decrease. At this time, in the feedback control of step S102, control is performed to increase the rotational speed R of the blower 200's motor 210 so that the output pressure P rises to the control pressure Pc.

[0053] However, if the upstream flow path 130 is blocked, even if the rotational speed R of the blower 200's motor 210 is increased, the output pressure P will not rise to the control pressure Pc.

[0054] Figure 5 is a graph showing the changes in output pressure P and rotational speed R when the upstream flow path 130 is blocked according to this embodiment. In Figure 5, the vertical axis represents the magnitude of rotational speed R and output pressure P, and the horizontal axis represents time. In the example shown in Figure 5, a blockage occurs in the upstream flow path 130 at time t1, and immediately after time t1, the output pressure P becomes smaller than the control pressure Pc. Also, at time t2, which is after time t1, the rotational speed R increases due to the feedback control of air pressure in step S102. Thus, when a blockage occurs in the upstream flow path 130, the rotational speed R of the blower 200's motor 210 increases while the output pressure P remains below the control pressure Pc.

[0055] Therefore, if the output pressure P is less than the control pressure Pc (NO in step S108), the control unit 800b determines whether the rotational speed R is equal to or greater than the judgment criterion value (step S112). The judgment criterion value is the value obtained by adding a predetermined value α to the criterion value set or updated in step S110. The predetermined value α is a unique value obtained in advance through experiments or the like. However, it is not limited to this, and the predetermined value α may be dynamically set according to the atmospheric pressure value detected by an atmospheric pressure sensor (not shown) installed in the main body 100. For example, the lower the atmospheric pressure value, the larger the predetermined value α is set to. If the rotational speed R is less than the judgment criterion value (NO in step S112), the control unit 800b determines that no blockage has occurred in the upstream flow path 130 and proceeds to the processing in step S100.

[0056] On the other hand, if the rotational speed R is equal to or greater than the judgment criterion value (YES in step S112), the control unit 800b determines that the upstream flow path 130 is blocked (step S114).

[0057] The control unit 800b refers to the map stored in the storage device 820 and determines the flow rate Q of the air delivered by the blower 200 from the differential pressure value detected by the differential pressure sensor 610. Then, based on the flow rate Q of the air delivered by the blower 200, the control unit 800b determines the degree of blockage of the upstream flow path 130.

[0058] Specifically, the control unit 800b determines whether the flow rate Q is less than or equal to a first threshold Th1 in order to determine the degree of blockage of the upstream flow path 130 (step S116). Here, the first threshold Th1 is, for example, 0 [L / min]. However, it is not limited to this, and the first threshold Th1 may be a value slightly greater than 0 [L / min] (for example, 5 [L / min]). Note that the first threshold Th1 may be a variable value that changes according to the control pressure Pc. For example, the larger the control pressure Pc, the higher the first threshold Th1 may be set.

[0059] If the flow rate Q is less than or equal to the first threshold Th1 (YES in step S116), the control unit 800b determines that the degree of blockage in the upstream channel 130 is the first degree of blockage (step S118). The first degree of blockage is the degree of blockage in the upstream channel 130 that is greatest. Therefore, if the control unit 800b determines that the degree of blockage in the upstream channel 130 is the first degree of blockage, it determines that the upstream channel 130 is completely blocked.

[0060] If the control unit 800b determines that the degree of blockage in the upstream flow path 130 is at the first degree of blockage, it performs drive stop control to stop the driving of the blower 200 motor 210, the humidifier 310, and the heating device 410 (step S120). In other words, if the control unit 800b determines that the upstream flow path 130 is completely blocked, it performs a process to stop the treatment of the patient by the CPAP device 1.

[0061] Then, the control unit 800b performs notification control to notify the notification device 700 that the upstream flow path 130 has been blocked (step S122), and terminates the first determination process. For example, the control unit 800b may display information on the display, such as checking the gas inlet 120 or disassembling the main body 100 to check the flow path 110, or it may make an audio notification via the speaker. In addition, the control unit 800b may also have the notification device 700 notify information indicating the degree of blockage of the upstream flow path 130.

[0062] On the other hand, if the flow rate Q is greater than the first threshold Th1 (NO in step S116), the control unit 800b determines that the degree of blockage in the upstream channel 130 is the second degree of blockage (step S124). The second degree of blockage is a degree in which the degree of blockage in the upstream channel 130 is less than the first degree of blockage. Therefore, if the control unit 800b determines that the degree of blockage in the upstream channel 130 is the second degree of blockage, it determines that the upstream channel 130 is in a state of partial blockage.

[0063] If the control unit 800b determines that the degree of blockage in the upstream channel 130 is the second degree of blockage, it proceeds to the process in step S122. However, it is not limited to this, and if the control unit 800b determines that the degree of blockage in the upstream channel 130 is the second degree of blockage, it may proceed to the process in step S120. In other words, the control unit 800b may perform the drive stop control process regardless of the degree of blockage in the upstream channel 130.

[0064] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the second determination process according to this embodiment. The processes from step S100 to step S106 shown in Figure 6 are the same as the processes from step S100 to step S106 described in Figure 4. Therefore, a detailed explanation of the processes from step S100 to step S106 is omitted in Figure 6.

[0065] The control unit 800b refers to a map stored in the storage device 820 and determines the flow rate Q of the air delivered by the blower 200 from the differential pressure value detected by the differential pressure sensor 610. Then, based on the flow rate Q of the air delivered by the blower 200, the control unit 800b determines the degree of blockage of the downstream flow path 140.

[0066] Specifically, the control unit 800b determines whether the flow rate Q is less than or equal to a first threshold Th1 in order to determine the degree of blockage of the downstream flow path 140 (step S200). Here, the first threshold Th1 is, for example, 0 [L / min]. However, it is not limited to this, and the first threshold Th1 may be a value slightly greater than 0 [L / min] (for example, 5 [L / min]). Note that the first threshold Th1 may be a variable value that changes according to the control pressure Pc. For example, the larger the control pressure Pc, the higher the first threshold Th1 may be set.

[0067] If the flow rate Q is less than or equal to the first threshold Th1 (YES in step S200), the control unit 800b determines whether the duration for which the flow rate Q is less than or equal to the first threshold Th1 is 1 hour or longer (step S202). The 1 hour is, for example, 30 seconds. If the duration for which the flow rate Q is less than or equal to the first threshold Th1 is less than 1 hour (NO in step S202), the control unit 800b determines that no blockage has occurred in the downstream flow path 140 and proceeds to the process in step S100.

[0068] On the other hand, if the duration for which the flow rate Q is less than or equal to the first threshold Th1 is 1 hour or longer (YES in step S202), the control unit 800b determines that an obstruction has occurred in the downstream flow path 140 and that the degree of obstruction in the downstream flow path 140 is the first degree of obstruction (step S204). The first degree of obstruction is the degree of obstruction in the downstream flow path 140 that is greatest. Therefore, if the control unit 800b determines that the degree of obstruction in the downstream flow path 140 is the first degree of obstruction, it determines that the downstream flow path 140 is in a state of complete obstruction. Thus, in this embodiment, the control unit 800b determines the degree of obstruction in the downstream flow path 140 based on the level of the air flow rate Q and the duration for which the flow rate Q maintains that level. Specifically, the control unit 800b determines whether the downstream flow path 140 is completely obstructed based on a first level of flow rate Q corresponding to complete obstruction (0 to 5 [L / min]) and the duration for which the flow rate Q maintains that first level.

[0069] Furthermore, if the flow rate Q is greater than the first threshold Th1 (NO in step S200), the control unit 800b determines whether the flow rate Q is less than or equal to the second threshold Th2 (step S206). The second threshold Th2 is a value greater than the first threshold Th1. The second threshold Th2 is a variable value that fluctuates according to the control pressure Pc, which is the set pressure of the air pressure delivered by the blower 200. Specifically, the larger the control pressure Pc, the larger the value of the second threshold Th2 is set to. If the flow rate Q is greater than the second threshold Th2 (NO in step S206), the control unit 800b determines that no blockage has occurred in the downstream flow path 140 and proceeds to the process in step S100.

[0070] If the flow rate Q is less than or equal to the second threshold Th2 (YES in step S206), the control unit 800b determines whether or not the flow rate Q has changed (step S208). In step S208, since the flow rate Q of the air delivered by the blower 200 changes in accordance with the patient's breathing, the control unit 800b uses the flow rate Q to determine whether or not the patient is breathing. If the amount of change in flow rate Q is less than a predetermined amount, the control unit 800b determines that the flow rate Q has not changed and the patient is not breathing. On the other hand, if the amount of change in flow rate Q is greater than or equal to a predetermined amount, the control unit 800b determines that the flow rate Q has changed and the patient is breathing. If the flow rate Q has changed (NO in step S208), the control unit 800b determines that there is no blockage in the downstream flow path 140 and proceeds to the process in step S100.

[0071] On the other hand, if the flow rate Q has not changed (YES in step S208), it is determined whether the duration for which the flow rate Q remains unchanged and is below the second threshold Th2 is 2 hours or longer (step S210). The second hour is longer than the first hour, for example, 3 minutes. If the flow rate Q remains unchanged and the duration for which the flow rate Q remains below the second threshold Th2 is less than 2 hours (NO in step S210), the control unit 800b determines that no blockage has occurred in the downstream flow path 140 and proceeds to the process in step S100.

[0072] On the other hand, if there is no change in the flow rate Q and the duration for which the flow rate Q is less than or equal to the second threshold Th2 is 2 hours or longer (YES in step S210), the control unit 800b determines that the degree of occlusion of the downstream flow path 140 is the second degree of occlusion (step S212). The second degree of occlusion is a degree in which the degree of occlusion of the downstream flow path 140 is less than the first degree of occlusion. Therefore, if the control unit 800b determines that the degree of occlusion of the downstream flow path 140 is the second degree of occlusion, it determines that the downstream flow path 140 is in a state of partial occlusion. Thus, in this embodiment, the control unit 800b determines the degree of occlusion of the downstream flow path 140 based on the level of the air flow rate Q, the duration for which the flow rate Q maintains that level, and the change in the air flow rate Q due to the patient's breathing. Specifically, the control unit 800b determines whether the downstream flow path 140 is partially blocked based on a second level of flow rate Q corresponding to partial blockage (a variable value [L / min] that varies according to the control pressure Pc, ranging from 5 to 1 / 2), the duration for which the flow rate Q maintains this second level, and whether or not there is a change in the flow rate Q.

[0073] If it is determined in step S204 that the first degree of blockage is present, or if it is determined in step S212 that the second degree of blockage is present, the control unit 800b performs drive stop control to stop the driving of the humidifier 310 and the heating device 410 (step S214).

[0074] In step S214, the control unit 800b may perform drive stop control to stop the motor 210 of the blower 200 depending on the degree of blockage of the downstream flow path 140. For example, if the degree of blockage of the downstream flow path 140 is the first degree of blockage, the control unit 800b will perform control to stop the motor 210 of the blower 200. On the other hand, if the degree of blockage of the downstream flow path 140 is the second degree of blockage, the control unit 800b will perform control to maintain the motor 210 of the blower 200 without stopping its operation.

[0075] In other words, if the control unit 800b determines that the downstream flow path 140 is completely blocked, it executes a process to stop the patient's treatment by the CPAP device 1. However, it is not limited to this, and if the degree of blockage of the downstream flow path 140 is the first degree of blockage, the control unit 800b may perform control to maintain the operation of the motor 210 of the blower 200 without stopping the operation of the motor 210. In other words, the control unit 800b may continue the patient's treatment by the CPAP device 1 even if the downstream flow path 140 is completely blocked.

[0076] Then, the control unit 800b performs notification control to notify the notification device 700 that the downstream flow path 140 has become blocked (step S216). For example, the control unit 800b may display information on the display, such as checking the gas inlet 120 or disassembling the main body 100 to check the flow path 110, or it may make an audio notification via the speaker. In addition, the control unit 800b may also have the notification device 700 notify information indicating the degree of blockage of the downstream flow path 140.

[0077] After step S216, the control unit 800b determines whether the blockage of the downstream channel 140 has been released (step S218). This determination is made based on the determinations in steps S200, S202, S206, S208, and S210. For example, if the answer to step S200 is YES and step S202 is NO, the control unit 800b determines that the blockage of the downstream channel 140 has been released. Also, for example, if the answer to step S200 is NO and step S206 is NO, the control unit 800b determines that the blockage of the downstream channel 140 has been released. Also, for example, if the answer to step S200 is NO, step S206 is YES, and step S208 is NO, the control unit 800b determines that the blockage of the downstream channel 140 has been released. Furthermore, for example, if the answer to step S200 is NO, step S206 is YES, step S208 is YES, and step S210 is NO, the control unit 800b determines that the blockage of the downstream flow path 140 has been released.

[0078] If the answer to step S218 is NO, the control unit 800b determines whether the elapsed time since the determination of the first degree of blockage in step S204 or the determination of the second degree of blockage in step S212 is three hours or longer (step S220). The third hour is, for example, 10 minutes. If the elapsed time is less than three hours (NO in step S220), the control unit 800b repeatedly executes the process in step S218.

[0079] On the other hand, if the elapsed time is three hours or longer (YES in step S220), or if the answer in step S218 is YES, the control unit 800b executes a drive start control to start the humidifier 310 and the heater 410 that were stopped in step S214 (step S222), and terminates the second determination process. After the drive stop control is executed in step S214, the patient is supplied with unheated and unhumidified air. Therefore, in step S222, the control unit 800b restarts the humidifier 310 and the heater 410 in order to supply heated and humidified air to the patient. If the motor 210 of the blower 200 was stopped in step S214, the control unit 800b executes a drive start control in step S222 to start the motor 210 of the blower 200. In this embodiment, in step S220, the control unit 800b determines whether or not to execute the drive start control based on the elapsed time. However, instead, the control unit 800b may determine whether or not to execute the drive start control based on the temperature of the heating tube 400 or the water temperature in the water tank 300. For example, if the temperature of the heating tube 400 is below a threshold, the control unit 800b may execute the drive start control, but may not execute the drive start control if the temperature of the heating tube 400 is above the threshold. Also, if the water temperature in the water tank 300 is below a threshold, the control unit 800b may execute the drive start control, but may not execute the drive start control if the water temperature in the water tank 300 is above the threshold. After the drive start control is executed, the control unit 800b repeatedly executes the processes from step S100 to step S106.

[0080] As described above, according to this embodiment, the CPAP device 1 comprises a gas inlet 120, a blower 200 that delivers air flowing in from the gas inlet 120 to the mask 500, a sensor 600 that detects the output of the air delivered by the blower 200, and a control device 800 that determines whether the flow path 110 between the gas inlet 120 and the mask 500 is blocked based on the air output. This makes it possible to determine whether or not the flow path 110 is blocked. Therefore, if a blockage occurs in the flow path 110, the user, such as a patient using the CPAP device 1, can quickly take action against the blockage. As a result, it is possible to prevent the inability to supply appropriate positive pressure to the patient's upper airway and to perform CPAP therapy properly.

[0081] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the air output includes the pressure and flow rate of the air delivered by the blower 200. The control device 800 also identifies the blockage location in the flow path 110 based on the air pressure and flow rate and the operating state of the blower 200. This makes it easy to identify the blockage location and cause in the flow path 110, and as a result, the blockage can be easily resolved.

[0082] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the flow path 110 includes an upstream flow path 130 between the gas inlet 120 and the blower 200. The air output includes the pressure of the air delivered by the blower 200. The control device 800 determines whether or not the upstream flow path 130 is blocked based on the operating state of the blower 200 and the air pressure. This makes it possible to quickly determine whether or not the upstream flow path 130, which is upstream of the blower 200, is blocked.

[0083] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the operating state of the blower 200 includes the rotational speed of the motor 210 of the blower 200, or the duty cycle of the blower 200. The air output includes the pressure of the air delivered by the blower 200. The control device 800 determines that the upstream flow path 130 is blocked if the air pressure is less than the control pressure Pc and the rotational speed or duty cycle is equal to or greater than the judgment criterion value. This makes it possible to quickly determine if the upstream flow path 130 on the upstream side of the blower 200 is blocked.

[0084] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, if the control device 800 determines that the upstream flow path 130 is blocked, it stops the blower 200. This prevents the motor 210 of the blower 200 from increasing its rotational speed excessively and causing a malfunction.

[0085] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the flow path 110 includes a downstream flow path 140 between the blower 200 and the mask 500. The air output includes the flow rate of air delivered by the blower 200. The control device 800 determines whether or not the downstream flow path 140 is blocked based on the air flow rate. This allows for rapid determination of blockage in the downstream flow path 140, which is downstream of the blower 200.

[0086] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the control device 800 determines the degree of occlusion of the downstream flow path 140 based on the level of airflow and the duration for which the flow rate maintains that level. This allows the user of the CPAP device 1, such as a patient, to be notified whether the degree of occlusion of the downstream flow path 140 is significant (i.e., completely occluded).

[0087] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the control device 800 determines the degree of occlusion of the downstream flow path 140 based on the level of airflow, the duration for which the flow rate maintains that level, and changes in airflow due to the patient's breathing. This allows the control device 800 to inform the user of the CPAP device 1, such as the patient, whether the degree of occlusion of the downstream flow path 140 is small (i.e., partial occlusion).

[0088] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, a heating device 410 is provided to heat the air flowing through the downstream flow path 140, and the control device 800 stops the heating device 410 when it determines that the downstream flow path 140 is blocked. This reduces the flow rate of air flowing through the heated tube 400, thereby preventing the heated tube 400 from being heated more than necessary by the heating device 410.

[0089] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, a humidifier 310 is provided to humidify the air flowing through the downstream flow path 140, and the control device 800 stops the humidifier 310 when it determines that the downstream flow path 140 is blocked. This reduces the flow rate of air flowing through the water tank 300, thereby preventing the water W stored in the water tank 300 from being heated more than necessary by the humidifier 310.

[0090] According to this disclosure, the following configuration can be provided.

[0091] (1) Gas inlet and A dispensing device that delivers the gas flowing in from the aforementioned gas inlet to the mask, A sensor for detecting the output of the gas discharged by the discharge device, A control device that determines blockage of the flow path between the gas inlet and the mask based on the output of the gas, Equipped with, Medical devices.

[0092] (2) The output of the gas includes the pressure and flow rate of the gas delivered by the delivery device. The control device identifies the blockage position in the flow path based on the pressure and flow rate of the gas and the operating state of the delivery device. (1) The medical device described above.

[0093] (3) The flow path includes a first flow path between the gas inlet and the discharge device, The output of the gas includes the pressure of the gas delivered by the delivery device. The control device is Based on the operating state of the delivery device and the pressure of the gas, it is determined whether or not the first flow path is blocked. (1) or (2) above refers to a medical device.

[0094] (4) The operating state of the aforementioned dispensing device includes the rotational speed of the motor of the dispensing device, or the duty cycle of the dispensing device. The output of the gas includes the pressure of the gas delivered by the delivery device. The control device is If the pressure of the gas is less than the control pressure, and the rotational speed or the duty cycle is equal to or greater than the judgment criterion value, it is determined that the first flow path is blocked. (3) Medical devices as described above.

[0095] (5) The control device is If it is determined that the first flow path is blocked, the dispensing device is stopped. (3) or (4) The medical device described above.

[0096] (6) The aforementioned flow path includes a second flow path between the dispensing device and the mask, The output of the gas includes the flow rate of the gas delivered by the delivery device. The control device is Based on the flow rate of the gas, it is determined whether or not the second flow path is blocked. A medical device as described in any one of items (1) to (5).

[0097] (7) The control device is The degree of blockage of the second flow path is determined based on the flow rate level of the gas and the duration for which the flow rate maintains that level. (6) Medical devices as described above.

[0098] (8) The control device is The degree of obstruction of the second channel is determined based on the level of the gas flow rate, the duration for which the flow rate maintains that level, and the change in the gas flow rate due to the patient's breathing. (6) or (7) The medical device described above.

[0099] (9) A heating device for heating the gas flowing through the second channel. Furthermore, The control device is If it is determined that the second flow path is blocked, the heating device is stopped. A medical device as described in any one of items (6) to (8).

[0100] (10) Humidifier for humidifying the gas flowing through the second channel Furthermore, The control device is If it is determined that the second channel is blocked, the humidifier is stopped. A medical device as described in any one of items (6) to (9).

[0101] (11) The output of the gas delivered by the delivery device that delivers the gas flowing in from the gas inlet to the mask is detected by a sensor, Based on the output of the gas, it is determined that the flow path between the gas inlet and the mask is blocked. Make the computer execute it. program.

[0102] While embodiments of this disclosure have been described above with reference to the attached drawings, it goes without saying that this disclosure is not limited to such embodiments. It will be obvious to those skilled in the art that various modifications or alterations can be conceived within the scope of the claims, and these will naturally also fall within the technical scope of this disclosure.

[0103] The program that implements the processing of the embodiment is transferred, for example, stored in a non-temporary computer-readable storage medium within the device. However, the device may be transferred without the program stored in it. The program may also be transferred separately and written to the device. This transfer of the program can be achieved, for example, by recording it on a removable, non-temporary computer-readable storage medium, or by downloading it via a network such as the Internet or a LAN. [Explanation of symbols]

[0104] 1. CPAP device (medical device) 110 flow path 120 Gas Inlet 130 Upstream channel (first channel) 140 Downstream channel (second channel) 200 Blower (dispensing device) 210 Motor 310 Humidifier 410 Heating device 600 sensors 800 Control device

Claims

1. Gas inlet and A dispensing device that delivers the gas flowing in from the aforementioned gas inlet to the mask, A sensor for detecting the output of the gas discharged by the discharge device, A control device that determines blockage of the flow path between the gas inlet and the mask based on the output of the gas, A heating device for heating the gas flowing through the second flow path between the delivery device and the mask, A humidifier for humidifying the gas flowing through the second channel, A water tank used for humidification, Equipped with, The output of the gas includes the flow rate of the gas delivered by the delivery device. The control device is Based on the flow rate of the gas, it is determined whether or not the second flow path is blocked. If at least one of the heating device and the humidifying device is stopped, the stop is released based on at least one of the following: the elapsed time since the determination of whether or not the second flow path is blocked, the temperature of at least a part of the second flow path, and the temperature of the water tank. Medical devices.

2. The control device identifies the blockage position in the flow path based on the output of the gas. The medical device according to claim 1.

3. The flow path includes a first flow path between the gas inlet and the discharge device, The output of the gas includes the pressure of the gas delivered by the delivery device. The control device is Based on the operating state of the delivery device and the pressure of the gas, it is determined whether or not the first flow path is blocked. The medical device according to claim 2.

4. The operating state of the aforementioned dispensing device includes the rotational speed of the motor of the dispensing device, or the duty cycle of the dispensing device. The output of the gas includes the pressure of the gas delivered by the delivery device. The control device is If the pressure of the gas is less than the control pressure, and the rotational speed or the duty cycle is equal to or greater than the judgment criterion value, it is determined that the first flow path is blocked. The medical device according to claim 3.

5. It is further equipped with a pressure sensor that detects atmospheric pressure, The aforementioned judgment criterion value is set based on the pressure value detected by the pressure sensor. The medical device according to claim 4.

6. The output of the gas includes the flow rate of the gas delivered by the delivery device. The control device determines the degree of blockage of the first flow path based on the flow rate of the gas. The medical device according to claim 4.

7. The control device is If it is determined that the first flow path is blocked, the dispensing device is stopped. The medical device according to claim 3.

8. The control device is The degree of blockage of the second flow path is determined based on the flow rate level of the gas and the duration for which the flow rate maintains that level. The medical device according to claim 1.

9. The control device is The degree of obstruction of the second channel is determined based on the level of the gas flow rate, the duration for which the flow rate maintains that level, and the change in the gas flow rate due to the patient's breathing. The medical device according to claim 8.

10. The control device is If it is determined that the second flow path is blocked, the heating device is stopped. A medical device according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. The control device is If it is determined that the second flow path is blocked, the humidifier is stopped. A medical device according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

12. The output of the gas delivered by the delivery device that delivers the gas flowing in from the gas inlet to the mask is detected by a sensor, Based on the output of the gas, it is determined that the flow path between the gas inlet and the mask is blocked. The gas flowing through the second channel between the delivery device and the mask is heated by a heating device. The gas flowing through the second channel is humidified using a water tank and humidifier, Have the computer run it, The output of the gas includes the flow rate of the gas delivered by the delivery device. Determining the blockage of the aforementioned flow path is: Based on the flow rate of the gas, it is determined whether or not the second flow path is blocked. If at least one of the heating device and the humidifying device is stopped, the stop will be released based on at least one of the following: the elapsed time since the determination of whether or not the second flow path is blocked, the temperature of at least a part of the second flow path, and the temperature of the water tank. including, program.

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