Oxygen therapy devices
The oxygen therapy device addresses the challenge of providing high-flow oxygen during exercise by using a concentrator and fixed-volume reservoir with a one-way valve, ensuring continuous oxygen supply and synergistic benefits with hydrogen, enhancing exercise performance and health.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- TEBEAU JASON
- Filing Date
- 2025-12-13
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-18
AI Technical Summary
Existing oxygen therapy devices struggle to provide supplemental oxygen at high flow rates during physical exercise, as they are typically designed for low flow rates and are bulky, making it difficult to meet the increased oxygen demand of subjects engaged in vigorous activity.
An oxygen therapy device comprising an oxygen concentrator connected to a fixed-volume reservoir with a one-way inlet valve that allows room air to enter when pressure differences exceed a cracking pressure, ensuring a continuous supply of oxygen-enriched air at high flow rates, up to 200 L/min, and optionally incorporating a hydrogen source for synergistic health benefits.
The device provides sufficient oxygen supply during exercise, enhancing oxygen delivery to tissues, reducing oxidative stress, and promoting recovery by combining high-flow oxygen therapy with hydrogen, thereby improving exercise performance and overall health.
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Figure US2025059553_18062026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] Thorpe North & Western, LLP
[0002] 4880-009.PCT
[0003] OXYGEN THERAPY DEVICES
[0004] CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0005] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 733,918, filed December 13, 2024, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 750,575, filed January 28, 2025. which are both hereby incorporated herein by reference.
[0006] TECHNOLOGY FIELD
[0007] The present disclosure relates to enhancing overall well-being of subject using oxygen therapy, which may be combined with other therapies such as exercise and light therapy. Accordingly, this disclosure involves the fields of biology, chemistry, and physics.
[0008] BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0009] The health and wellness industry is growing into a trillion-dollar industry fueled by individuals and business organizations increasingly making healthy living a priority. The health and wellness industry' spans across multiple sectors including but not limited to holistic, medicinal, chiropractic, pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, weight loss, anti-aging, fitness, nutrition, mindfulness, and sleep. As one example, oxygen therapy has been promoted to boost energy levels, relieve stress, and to provide other health benefits. As consumer awareness and demand continues to increase so does the desire for additional health and wellness systems and devices.
[0010] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] For a fuller understanding of the nature and advantage of the present disclosure, reference is being made to the following detailed description of preferred embodiments and in connection with the accompany ing drawings, in which:
[0012] FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of an example oxygen therapy device in accordance with an example of the present disclosure;
[0013] FIGs. 2A-2E are schematic representations of an example oxygen therapy system in accordance with an example of the present disclosure;
[0014] FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example exercise with oxygen therapy (EWOT) method in accordance with an example of the present disclosure; Thorpe North & Western, LLP 4880-009.PCT
[0015] FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example method of providing oxygen therapy to a subject with an activity-induced oxygen demand in accordance with an example of the present disclosure;
[0016] FIG. 5 is a schematic representation of an example integrated oxygen and light therapy device in accordance with an example of the present disclosure;
[0017] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example method of providing oxygen therapy and light therapy to a subject in accordance with an example of the present disclosure;
[0018] FIGs. 7A-7F are schematic representations of an example oxygen therapy device in accordance with an example of the present disclosure;
[0019] FIG. 8 is a schematic representation of an example exercise with oxygen therapy (EWOT) system in accordance with an example of the present disclosure; and
[0020] FIG. 9 is a schematic representation of another example exercise with oxygen therapy (EWOT) system in accordance with an example of the present disclosure.
[0021] FIG. 10A is a schematic representation of a reservoir inlet valve being removed from a reservoir in accordance with an example of the present disclosure.
[0022] FIG. 10B is a schematic representation of a respiratory trainer being adjusted in accordance with an example of the present disclosure.
[0023] FIG. IOC is a schematic representation of the respiratory trainer being connected to the reservoir in accordance with an example of the present disclosure.
[0024] DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0025] Before disclosure embodiments are described herein, it is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the particular structures, process steps, or materials disclosed herein, but is extended to equivalents thereof as w ould be recognized by those ordinarily skilled in the relevant arts. It should also be understood that terminology employed herein is used for the purpose of describing particular examples or embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. The same reference numerals in different drawings represent the same element. Numbers provided in flow charts and processes are provided for clarity in illustrating steps and operations and do not necessarily indicate a particular order or sequence.
[0026] Furthermore, the described features, structures, or characteristics can be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. In the following description, numerous specific details are provided, such as explanation of an electromagnetic field to Thorpe North & Western, LLP
[0027] 4880-009.PCT provide a thorough understanding of various disclosure embodiments. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize, however, that such detailed embodiments do not limit the overall inventive concepts articulated herein.
[0028] It should be noted that, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and, “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a light” includes reference to one or more lights and reference to “a gas therapy generator” includes reference to one or more of gas therapy generators.
[0029] As used herein, the term "‘about” is used to provide flexibility to a numerical range endpoint by providing that a given value may be “a little above” or “a little below” the endpoint. Unless otherwise stated, use of the term “about” in accordance with a specific number or numerical range should also be understood to provide support for such numerical terms or range without the term “about.” For example, for the sake of convenience and brevity, a numerical range of “about 50 angstroms to about 80 angstroms” should also be understood to provide support for the range of “50 angstroms to 80 angstroms.” Furthermore, it is to be understood that in this specification support for actual numerical values is provided even when the term “about” is used therewith. For example, the recitation of “about” 30 should be construed as not only providing support for values a little above and a little below 30, but also for the actual numerical value of 30 as well. Additionally, it is to be understood that in this written description, occurrences of the word "about” in connection with an element to which the term is applied also provide express support for the item itself as though the term “about” were not used. For example, the phrase “about 85%” includes express support for “85%” or “exactly 85%” (e.g. 85% per se).
[0030] In this disclosure, “comprises,” "comprising,” “containing” and “having” and the like can have the meaning ascribed to them in U.S. Patent law and can mean “includes,” “including,” and the like, and are generally interpreted to be open ended terms. The terms “consisting of' or “consists of’ are closed terms, and include only the components, structures, steps, or the like specifically listed in conjunction with such terms, as well as that which is in accordance with U.S. Patent law. “Consisting essentially of’ or “consists essentially of’ have the meaning generally ascribed to them by U.S. Patent law. In particular, such terms are generally closed terms, with the exception of allow ing inclusion of additional items, materials, components, steps, or elements, that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristics or function of the item(s) used in connection therewith. For example, trace elements present in a composition, but not affecting the Thorpe North & Western, LLP
[0031] 4880-009.PCT compositions nature or characteristics would be permissible if present under the “consisting essentially of’ language, even though not expressly recited in a list of items following such terminology. When using an open-ended term, like “comprising” or “including,” in the written description it is understood that direct support should be afforded also to “consisting essentially of’ language as well as “consisting of’ language as if stated explicitly and vice versa.
[0032] The terms “coupled” and “connected” can be used interchangeably. These terms refer to a relationship between items or structures that are either directly coupled to one another or indirectly coupled to one another with an intervening member therebetween. In some examples, the coupling can be in a chemical, mechanical, electrical, or nonelectrical manner. “Directly coupled” or “directly connected” objects or elements are in physical contact with one another. In this written description, recitation of “coupled” or “connected” provides express support for “directly coupled” or “directly connected,” as well as, providing support for “indirectly coupled” or “indirectly connected.” Objects described herein as being “adjacent to” each other may be in physical contact with each other, in close proximity to each other, or in the same general region or area as each other, as appropriate for the context in which the phrase is used.
[0033] Occurrences of the phrase “in one embodiment,” “in one example, or “in one aspect,” herein do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment, example, or aspect.
[0034] The terms “first,” “second,” “third,” "fourth,” and the like in the description and in the claims, if any, are used for distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily for describing a particular sequential or chronological order. It is to be understood that any terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances such that the embodiments described herein are. for example, capable of operation in sequences other than those illustrated or otherwise described herein. Similarly, if a method is described herein as comprising a series of steps, the order of such steps as presented herein is not necessarily the only order in which such steps may be performed, and certain of the stated steps may possibly be omitted and / or certain other steps not described herein may possibly be added to the method.
[0035] As used herein, comparative terms such as “increased,” “decreased,” “better,” “worse,” “higher,” “lower,” “enhanced,” “maximized,” “minimized,” and the like refer to a property' of a sy stem, device, component, methods, or activity that is measurably different from other systems, devices, components, methods, or activities in a surrounding or adjacent area, in a single device or in multiple comparable devices, in a group or class. Thorpe North & Western, LLP
[0036] 4880-009.PCT in multiple groups or classes, or as compared to the known state of the art. For example, an "‘increased'’ healing response can refer to a degree or timing of healing that surpasses or exceeds healing achieved to a comparable injury or condition without treatment or without a similar or like treatment. Likewise, an “increased” recovery' can refer to a degree or timing of recovery that surpasses or exceeds a recovery achieved in the absence of treatment, or a similar or like treatment.
[0037] As used herein, “effective” or “therapeutically effective” when used in connection with a treatment, such as an electromagnetic energy source, light therapy treatment, gas therapy, and the like refer to an amount and / or ty pe of treatment components that is determined to be sufficient to achieve therapeutic results in treating a subj ect for a given condition. It is understood that various biological factors may affect the ability of a treatment or therapy to perform its intended task. Therefore, an “effective amount” or a “therapeutically effective amount” may be dependent in some instances on such biological factors. Further, while the achievement of therapeutic effects may be measured by a physician or other qualified medical personnel using evaluations known in the art. it is recognized that individual variation and response to treatments may make the achievement of therapeutic effects a somewhat subjective decision. The determination of an effective amount is well w ithin the ordinary' skill in the art of medical sciences.
[0038] As used herein, a "therapeutically effective combination" refers to any combination of an electromagnetic energy source, light therapy treatment, gas therapy, and / or the like that are applied in an amount (e g., intensity or duration or both) that is sufficient to provide a beneficial effect to a subject.
[0039] The terms "patient," "subject," and "individual" are interchangeably used to mean a warm-blooded animal, such as a mammal. It is understood that humans and animals are included within the scope of the terms "patient," "subject," or "individual." In some embodiments the mammal can include homo sapiens, feline, canine, equine, and bovine species. In some examples, the subject is human. The systems, devices, and methods herein can be used by humans in a medicinal, nutraceutical, cosmetic, or recreational fashion. In yet other examples, the devices and systems herein can be used in a veterinary capacity on domesticated pets and / or farm animals.
[0040] As used herein, the term “substantially” refers to the complete or nearly complete extent or degree of an action, characteristic, property', state, structure, item, or result. For example, an object that is “substantially” enclosed would mean that the object is either completely enclosed or nearly completely enclosed. The exact allowable degree of Thorpe North & Western, LLP
[0041] 4880-009.PCT deviation from absolute completeness may in some cases depend on the specific context. However, generally speaking the nearness of completion will be so as to have the same overall result as if absolute and total completion were obtained. The use of '‘substantially” is equally applicable when used in a negative connotation to refer to the complete or near complete lack of an action, characteristic, property, state, structure, item, or result. For example, a composition that is “substantially free of’ particles would either completely lack particles, or so nearly completely lack particles that the effect would be the same as if it completely lacked particles. In other words, a composition that is “substantially free of’ an ingredient or element may still actually contain such item as long as there is no measurable effect thereof. It is to be understood that in this written description, occurrences of the word “substantially” in connection with an element to which the term is applied also provide express support for the item itself as though the term “substantially” were not used. For example, the phrase “substantially catalyzed” includes express support for “catalyzed” per se as though catalyzation were 100% complete.
[0042] As used herein, a plurality of items, structural elements, compositional elements, and / or materials may be presented in a common list for convenience. However, these lists should be construed as though each member of the list is individually identified as a separate and unique member. Thus, no individual member of such list should be construed as a de facto equivalent of any other member of the same list solely based on their presentation in a common group without indications to the contrary.
[0043] Concentrations, amounts, levels, and other numerical data may be expressed or presented herein in a range format. It is to be understood that such a range format is used merely for convenience and brevity and thus should be interpreted flexibly to include not only the numerical values explicitly recited as the limits of the range, but also to include all the individual numerical values or sub-ranges or decimal units encompassed within that range as if each numerical value and sub-range is explicitly recited. As an illustration, a numerical range of “about 1 to about 5” should be interpreted to include not only the explicitly recited values of about 1 to about 5, but also include individual values and subranges within the indicated range. Thus, included in this numerical range are individual values such as 2, 3, and 4 and sub-ranges such as from 1-3, from 2-4, and from 3-5, etc., as well as 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, individually. This same principle applies to ranges reciting only one numerical value as a minimum or a maximum. Furthermore, such an interpretation should apply regardless of the breadth of the range, or the characteristics being described. Thorpe North & Western, LLP
[0044] 4880-009.PCT
[0045] As used herein, gas concentrations described as percentages refer to volume percent unless otherwise indicated.
[0046] Reference throughout this specification to '‘an example” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the example is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in an example” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.
[0047] Reference will now be made in detail to preferred embodiments of the disclosure. While the disclosure will be described in conjunction with the preferred examples and embodiments, it will be understood that it is not intended to limit the disclosure to those preferred embodiments. To the contrary, it is intended to cover alternatives, variants, modifications, and equivalents as may be included within the spirit and scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
[0048] Oxygen therapy can be provided to a subject to increase the amount of oxygen available to the subject. In particular, oxygen therapy can involve providing supplemental or extra oxygen to the subject, over and above the oxygen that is naturally present in ambient air. Providing this supplemental oxygen can increase the amount of oxygen readily available to be adhered to hemoglobin in red blood cells and to be transported to cells, tissues, and organs throughout the body. In some cases, distal tissues may not receive as much oxygen as possible due to lack of circulation of highly oxygenated blood to those tissues. Oxygen therapy can be used to provide additional oxygen to such hypoxic tissues. Increasing oxygen levels can stimulate brain activity, increase memory capacity, increase concentration, increase energy' levels, improve strength, reduce stress and anxiety, alleviate headaches, improve sleep patterns, prevent lactic acid build up thereby relieving muscle soreness, and can strengthen the immune system.
[0049] Providing supplemental oxygen to a subject while the subject is performing physical exercise and also be beneficial. Exercise can accelerate the subject’s heart rate, which increases blood circulation. This can increase the amount of oxygen carried by the blood to cells, organs, and tissues. The accelerated heart rate can also allow waste released from cells due to an increase in cellular respiration to be carried more quickly from the body. An accelerated heart rate can also increase inter-arterial pressure. An increase in inter-arterial pressure in a subject’s lungs can assist in oxygen loading into the blood. The combined effects of an accelerated heart rate with supplemental oxygen can make oxygen more readily available to super-saturate red blood cells with oxygen while Thorpe North & Western, LLP
[0050] 4880-009.PCT increasing the circulation of oxygen-saturated blood to tissues where the oxygen can be used. The combination of oxygen therapy with physical exercise can have far-reaching effects on overall health, such as improvements in tissue recovery’, cardiovascular health, cellular respiration, micro-circulation, neurological conditions, skeletal system conditions, skin conditions, and more.
[0051] However, it can be difficult to provide oxygen therapy to a subject while the subject has an accelerated heart rate due to physical exercise or any other cause. This is because the subject’s oxygen demand can be much higher than normal when the heat rate is elevated. For example, an adult at rest can have a normal breathing rate from about 8 to about 20 breaths per minute. During exercise, the breathing rate can increase to 40 to 60 breaths per minute or more. Additionally, the breaths taken during exercise can often be deeper than the shallow breaths taken when at rest. Thus, the volume of air breathed can increase dramatically during exercise. In terms of volume, a subject may breath air at a rate from 5 L / min to 12 L / min while resting. However, this rate can increase to over 150 L / min for many healthy adults, and even over 200 L / min for some elite athletes. If oxygen therapy is used to provide the subject with oxygen or oxy gen-enriched air to breathe in place of normal air, it can be difficult to generate oxygen quickly enough to meet this demand.
[0052] Some previous oxygen therapy devices have included oxygen concentrators or pressurized oxygen tanks. Such devices are usually designed to be used by subjects with a medical need for supplemental oxygen. These devices are also usually designed to provide supplemental oxygen at a low flow rate, such as around 3 L / min. The subjects using these devices would be likely to use them during rest, and not during vigorous exercise. These types of devices cannot provided oxygen at a sufficient flow rate to meet the increased oxygen demand during exercise.
[0053] One solution to providing oxygen during exercise involves filling a storage device, such as a large inflatable bag, with oxygen or oxy gen-enriched air. Such a storage device can be pre-filled using an oxygen generator with a low flow rate prior to use by a subject during exercise. The inflatable bag can then be connected to a breathing mask worn by the subject during exercise. These storage systems can be very large, because the volume of oxygen needed for an exercise session can be up to a thousand liters depending on the length of the exercise session. Therefore, these systems can be bulky and the storage bags can take a long time to inflate prior to the exercise session. Thorpe North & Western, LLP
[0054] 4880-009.PCT
[0055] The present disclosure describes oxygen therapy devices and systems that provide supplemental oxygen at high flow rates for extended periods of time without a large, bulky storage bag. The devices and systems can be useful for any type of oxygen therapy, including oxygen therapy to be administered together with exercise or while the subject is at rest. When the devices and systems are used by a subject having increased oxygen demand (i.e., while exercising) the subject can be provided with a supply of oxygen that meets the increased breathing rate of the subject, while also ensuring that the concentration of oxygen breathed by the subject is sufficient to provide a beneficial physiologic effect.
[0056] In one example, an oxygen therapy device can include an oxygen concentrator configured to generate oxy gen-enriched air. A reservoir can be connected to the oxygen concentrator to receive the oxygen-enriched air from the concentrator. The reservoir can have a fixed volume. The reservoir can also include a one-way reservoir inlet valve configured to allow room air into the reservoir when a pressure difference between the room air and the oxygen-enriched air inside the reservoir exceeds a cracking pressure of the reservoir inlet valve.
[0057] FIG. 1 shows a schematic view of one example oxygen therapy device 100. This device includes an oxygen concentrator 110 that can generate oxygen-enriched air. The device also includes a reservoir 120 connected to the oxygen concentrator by an oxygen line 1 12. The oxygen-enriched air generated by the oxygen concentrator flows through the oxygen line into the reservoir. The reservoir can have a fixed volume, as opposed to an inflatable bag that would have a varying volume. The reservoir includes a one-way reservoir inlet valve 122. This valve is configured to let room air into the reservoir if a pressure difference between the room air and the oxygen-enriched air inside the reservoir exceeds the cracking pressure of the reservoir inlet valve. For example, if a subject breathes the oxy gen-enriched air from the reservoir at a rate faster than it is replenished by the oxygen concentrator, then the pressure inside the reservoir may decrease. If the pressure inside the reservoir decreases enough, then the reservoir inlet valve can open to allow room air to enter the reservoir, raising the pressure in the reservoir. The reservoir also includes an outlet 124. The outlet can be connected to a hose to deliver oxy gen- enriched air to the subject.
[0058] As used herein, “oxy gen-enriched air’" refers to a gas prepared by concentrating oxygen in air to a concentration greater than the normal concentration of oxygen in air. or about 21%. The oxy gen-enriched air generated by the oxygen concentrator can have Thorpe North & Western, LLP
[0059] 4880-009.PCT vary ing concentrations of oxygen depending on the specific oxygen concentrator used. In some examples, the oxygen concentrator can generate oxygen-enriched air with an oxygen concentration of 40% or greater, or 70% or greater, or 90% or greater, or 92% or greater, or 95% or greater. In further examples, the oxy gen-enriched air can have an oxygen concentration from about 40% to about 99%, or from about 70% to about 99%, or from about 90% to about 99%. or from about 92% to about 99%, or from about 95% to about 99%, or from about 92% to about 95%, or from about 90% to about 92%. Substantially pure oxygen (i.e., 100% oxygen) can also be referred to as ‘'oxy gen- enriched air” herein. It is noted these oxygen concentrations can be found in the oxygen- enriched air as generated by the oxygen concentrator. In some examples, this oxygen- enriched air can be delivered to a subject at the initial oxygen concentration. However, in other examples, additional air can be mixed with the oxy gen-enriched air in the reservoir when air enters the reservoir through the one-way reservoir inlet valve. Therefore, the oxygen-enriched air that is finally delivered to the subject may have a lower oxygen concentration than the initial concentration if additional air has been added in the reservoir.
[0060] The oxygen concentrator can be any ty pe of concentrator that is operable to increase the concentration of oxygen in air. In some examples, the oxygen concentrator can utilize pressure swing adsorption. These oxygen concentrator can include a bed of molecular sieve material, such as a zeolite. When air passes through the molecular sieve material, nitrogen can be adsorbed by the material, which increases the oxygen concentration of the air at the outlet of the bed. These concentrators often include two beds of molecular sieve material. While one bed is being used to adsorb nitrogen, the other bed is releasing nitrogen that has been previously adsorbed. A portion of the oxygen generated can be used to desorb nitrogen from the other bed. A continuous flow of oxygen-enriched air can be produced by alternating between adsorbing and desorbing nitrogen in the two beds.
[0061] In certain examples, the oxygen concentrator used in the devices and systems herein can include two or more beds of molecular sieve material. The use of more than two beds can help to increase the rate at which oxygen-enriched air can be generated. In certain examples, the oxygen concentrator can include 4 beds, 6 beds, 8 beds, or 10 beds of molecular sieve material.
[0062] Another type of oxygen concentrator can utilize membrane-based oxygen separation. These concentrators can include a membrane that allows the oxygen to pass Thorpe North & Western, LLP
[0063] 4880-009.PCT through the membrane more quickly than nitrogen. When pressurized air is provided on one side of the membrane, the gas that passes through the membrane can have a higher concentration of oxygen. In certain examples, the oxygen concentrator used in the devices and systems described herein can utilize membrane-based oxygen separation.
[0064] The oxygen concentrator can also be operable to generate oxygen-enriched air at a high flow rate. As mentioned above, many commercially available oxygen generators used for medical purposes cannot provide a sufficient flow of oxygen-enriched air to meet the demand of a subject that has increased oxygen demand due to physical exercise. The oxygen concentrator used in the devices and systems described herein can be operable to provide a higher flow rate than many previously available oxygen concentrators. In some examples, the oxygen concentrator can provide oxy gen-enriched air at a flow rate from about 20 L / min to about 200 L / min, or from about 20 L / min to about 100 L / min, or from about 80 L / min to about 200 L / min, or from about 20 L / min to about 70 L / min, or from about 70 L / min to about 80 L / min, or from about 70 L / min to about 90 L / min. In a particular example, the oxygen concentrator can provide oxygen-enriched air at a flow rate from about 60 L / min to about 80 L / min.
[0065] In some examples, the oxygen concentrator can generate oxygen-enriched air at one of the flow rates listed above continuously as long as the oxygen concentrator is operating. The oxygen concentrator can be configured to supply oxygen-enriched air at a single, constant flow rate while the oxygen concentrator is operating. In other examples, the oxygen concentrator can be configured to generate oxygen-enriched air at a variable flow rate within any of the ranges listed above. In certain examples, the oxygen concentrator can include an oxygen outlet valve configured to allow the flow rate of oxy gen-enriched air to be adjusted. This can be used to adjust the flow rate of oxy gen- enriched air from the oxygen concentrator to the reservoir.
[0066] In further examples, the oxygen concentrator can also include an air stream that can be connected to the reservoir to provide normal air to the reservoir. The relative flow rates of oxygen-enriched air and normal air to the reservoir can be adjusted to change the concentration of oxygen in the reservoir. For example, if a lower oxygen concentration is desired than in the oxygen-enriched air initially generated by the oxygen concentrator, then air can be added to the reservoir to reduce the oxygen concentration. In certain examples, the oxygen concentrator can be connected to the reservoir by two tubes. One tube can carry the stream of oxy gen-enriched air, and the other tube can cany’ normal air. One or both of the tubes can be connected to a valve that allows control over the flow rate Thorpe North & Western, LLP
[0067] 4880-009.PCT through the tube. This can allow control over the relative amounts of oxy gen-enriched air and normal air flowing to the reservoir.
[0068] The oxygen concentrator can provide a stream of normal air with a flow rate that may vary from 0 L / min (if no dilution of the oxygen-enriched air is desired) to about 200 L / min in some examples. In further examples, the flow rate of air in the air stream can be from about 0 L / min to about 100 L / min, or from about 0 L / min to about 50 L / min, or from about 0 L / min to about 20 L / min.
[0069] The oxygen concentrator can also include a controller configured to control the flow rates of oxy gen-enriched air and normal air from the oxygen concentrator to the reservoir. In certain examples, the controller can be operable to turn on or turn off the flow of oxygen-enriched air and / or the flow of normal air. In further examples, the controller can be operable to adjust a concentration of oxygen in the reservoir by adjusting a ratio of air and oxy gen-enriched air flowing from the oxygen generator to the reservoir. This can be accomplished by connecting the controller to a control valve or multiple control valves to adjust the flow rates of air and oxygen-enriched air. In certain examples, the controller can allow a subject to select betw een a set of pre-set oxygen concentration levels, such as a high oxygen concentration level and a low- oxygen concentration level. In other examples, the controller can allow the subject to select any desired oxygen concentration within a pre-set range. For example, the subject can select any desired oxygen concentration between 21% and 100% in some cases. The controller can also include a hand-held remote control that the subject can use to turn the oxygen concentrator on or off, and also to select the desired oxygen concentration.
[0070] In some examples, the controller can include a timer. The subject can select a running time for the oxygen concentrator, and the controller can be configured to automatically shut off the oxygen concentrator after the running time has expired. In certain examples, the controller can allows the subject to select a running time by selecting a desired number of time increments, such as a desired number of five- minute increments, for the running time. This function can also be included in a hand-held remote control.
[0071] The oxygen concentrator can also include a hydrogen source in some examples. Alternatively, a separate hydrogen supply can be used in conjunction with the oxygen concentrator. Hydrogen gas is another gas that can be beneficial to the overall health and wellness of the subject. Molecular hydrogen can penetrate bio-membranes and reach cell nuclei. Molecular hydrogen can selectively scavenge free radicals such as hydroxy ions, peroxy -nitrite ions, and the like. Hydrogen can also downregulate pro-inflammatory and Thorpe North & Western, LLP
[0072] 4880-009.PCT inflammatory cytokines and pro-apoptotic factors. Hydrogen can also increase expression of apoptotic factors. Accordingly, administering hydrogen can decrease the presence of free radicals, reduce inflammation, reduce cell death, and alter gene expression.
[0073] Providing hydrogen in conjunction with oxygen and exercise can have particularly useful and synergistic effects. Exercise can increase the presence of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the body because of heightened metabolic activity and oxygen consumption. Excessive ROS levels can lead to oxidative stress that can damage cells and impair recovery. Hydrogen can act as a selective antioxidant, which can reduce harmful ROS without interfering with beneficial signaling molecules like hydrogen peroxide. These effects of hydrogen gas with oxygen and exercise can help increase exercise performance by reducing muscle fatigue, accelerate recovery by minimizing oxidative damage to tissues, and support mitochondrial efficiency by preserving cellular integrity. It is also noted that delivering oxy gen-enriched air with a high concentration of oxygen to a subject can have beneficial effects such as increasing oxygen delivery to tissues and enhancing aerobic metabolism and ATP production. However, the same elevated levels of oxygen can result in increased oxidative damage. When hydrogen is delivered to the subject at the same time, the hydrogen can help counteract this oxidative damage, which can preserve cellular function and can promote recovery. The hydrogen can achieve these results without interfering with oxygen transport. Thus, the combination of hydrogen, oxygen, and exercise can have synergistic effects of increasing oxygen uptake during exercise to improve energy metabolism, while also providing the antioxidant properties of hydrogen to protect tissues from oxygen-induced oxidative stress. Additionally, hydrogen can modulate inflammatory' responses, supporting vascular health and improving exercise tolerance.
[0074] The hydrogen source can be a tank of stored hydrogen, a chemical reaction forming molecular hydrogen, a hydrogen generator, or another hydrogen source. In some examples, the hydrogen source can be integrated in the oxygen concentrator as a single unit. In other examples, a separate hydrogen source can be used. The hydrogen source can be connected to the reservoir so that molecular hydrogen is supplied to the reservoir to mix with the oxygen-enriched air in the reservoir. In other examples, the hydrogen source can be connected directly to a face mask to deliver hydrogen into the face mask. The face mask can also be connected to the oxygen concentrator so that oxygen mixes with hydrogen in the face mask, and the mixture is then inhaled by the user. In further examples, the hydrogen supply and the oxygen concentrator can be connected to an Thorpe North & Western, LLP
[0075] 4880-009.PCT adapter, such as T-adapter that can connected to a hose leading to the oxygen concentrator and another hose leading to the hydrogen supply. The adapter can attach directly to the face mask or to a third hose that leads to the face mask. In this example, the oxygen and hydrogen can mix in the tube at the adapter.
[0076] In other examples, hydrogen and oxygen can be supplied to a subject during exercise using any suitable t pe of oxygen supply and hydrogen supply. In certain examples, the oxygen supply can include a bag or tank that contains a volume of oxygen or oxy gen-enriched air, such as 100 L or more. This can be used without an oxygen concentrator to continuously generate oxygen. The oxygen supply and hydrogen supply can be connected to a face mask or an adapter in any of the ways described above.
[0077] The hydrogen can be effective to reduce free radicals in the oxy gen-enriched air or in the subject. In some examples, the hydrogen source can provide hydrogen gas at a flow rate from about 0.01 L / min to about 10 L / min, or from about 0.1 L / min to about 10 L / min, or from about 1 L / min to about 10 L / min, or from about 0.01 L / min to about 1 L / min. The reservoir can contain oxy gen-enriched air that optionally includes hydrogen at a concentration from about 0.01% to about 10%, or from about 0.01% to about 1%, or from about 0.1% to about 1%, or from about 0.1% to about 10%. The flow rate of hydrogen can be sufficient to cause a hydrogen saturation level in the blood of the subject from about 5 pM to about 40 pM, from about 5 pM to about 25 pM, from about 10 pM to about 30 pM, or from about 20 pM to about 40 pM.
[0078] It is noted that FIG. 1 illustrates an oxygen therapy device 100 in which the various components are connected together to form a single device. In particular, the oxygen concentrator 110 is connected to the reser oir 120. However, the components can also be arranged as a system, where the components may not be integrated into a single device. For example, a system can include an oxygen concentrator and a reserv oir that may be connected to or connectable to the oxygen concentrator. Throughout the present disclosure, any devices that have components connected or integrated together can also be arranged as systems in which the components are connectable or usable together, but which may not be connected or integrated at all times.
[0079] The reservoir can be connected to or connectable to the oxygen concentrator through an oxygen line and optionally an air line and hydrogen line as explained above. The reservoir can be operable to hold a volume of oxygen-enriched air and to supply the oxy gen-enriched air to a subject. In some examples, the reservoir can have a volume from about 2 L to about 10 L, or from about 2 L to about 8 L, or from about 2 L to about 4 L, Thorpe North & Western, LLP
[0080] 4880-009.PCT or from about 4 L to 10 L, or from about 4 L to about 8 L, or from about 8 L to about 10 L. In further examples, the reservoir can hold a sufficient volume of oxy gen-enriched air for at least 2 breath volumes of the subject, or at least 3, or least 4, or at least 6, or at least 8, or at least 10 breath volumes of the subject. In still further examples, the reservoir can have a volume that is less than a volume of the oxygen concentrator. Therefore, the reservoir can have a smaller size than the oxygen concentrator. In some examples, the oxygen concentrator can have a volume from about 10 L to about 100 L. In certain examples, the reservoir can be integrated inside the housing of the oxygen concentrator. In other examples, the reservoir can be a smaller unit that is connected to the oxygen concentrator and can rest on top of or beside the oxygen concentrator.
[0081] The volume of the reservoir can be fixed. In some examples, the reservoir can be made from rigid materials that do not flex when pressure inside the reservoir changes. This is different from flexible bags that have been used previously to hold oxygen- enriched air. The reservoirs described herein can be rigid tanks in some examples. Thus, the pressure inside the reservoir may change depending on how much oxy gen-enriched air and other gases are being input into the reservoir by the oxygen concentrator, and how much oxy gen-enriched air is being used by the subject.
[0082] The volume of oxy gen-enriched air inside the reservoir can help to provide a sufficient supply of oxy gen-enriched air to a subject while the subject is inhaling. In some case, the subject can inhale oxy gen-enriched air at a rate faster than the oxygen-enriched air is produced by the oxygen concentrator. The reservoir can hold sufficient air to allow the subject to inhale without running out of oxy gen-enriched air in the reservoir. Then, while the subject exhales, the reservoirs can be refilled with oxy gen-enriched air from the oxygen concentrator.
[0083] In some cases the subject may breath the oxy gen-enriched air at an average rate that is faster than the oxygen concentrator generates oxy gen-enriched air. In such cases, the time during exhalation of the subject is not sufficient to replenish the oxy gen-enriched air in the reservoir. Over time, the pressure inside the reservoir can drop because of this imbalance. However, the reservoir can also include a one-way reservoir inlet valve that can allow room air to enter the reservoir when the pressure inside the reservoir drops below a certain threshold. In particular, the reservoir inlet valve can have a cracking pressure at which the valve will open when a pressure difference between the room air and the oxygen-enriched air inside the reservoir is equal to a greater than the cracking pressure. As used herein, “room air” refers to the air outside the reservoir, which may be Thorpe North & Western, LLP
[0084] 4880-009.PCT within an enclosed room or outdoors if the oxygen therapy device is used outdoors. The reservoir inlet valve can allow the subject to breathe an unlimited volume of air regardless of the flow rate of oxy gen-enriched air produced by the oxygen concentrator.
[0085] The cracking pressure of the reservoir inlet valve can be from about 1 cm H2O to about 100 cm H2O in some examples. In further examples, the cracking pressure can be from about 10 cm H2O to about 100 cm H2O or from about 50 cm H2O to about 100 cm H2O or from about 1 cm H2O to about 10 cm H2O or from about 1 cm H2O to about 4 cm H2O. In a particular example, the cracking pressure of the reservoir inlet valve can be up to about 4 cm H2O. Thus, if the pressure difference between the ambient room air and the pressure inside the reservoir exceeds one of these cracking pressures, then the valve can open to let room air into the reservoir. This can maintain the pressure inside the reservoir within a certain range of the ambient pressure. In some examples, the pressure inside the reservoir can be within about 100 cm H2O of the ambient pressure, or within about 50 cm H2O or about 10 cm H2O of the ambient pressure, or within about 4 cm H2O of the ambient pressure.
[0086] The one-way reservoir inlet valve can be a type of check valve, which allows flow of gas in only one direction. Some example types of check valves include ball check valves, diaphragm check valves, swing check valves, and duckbill check valves. Any of these can be used as the reservoir inlet valve. These types of valves can also be used as one-way valves in other components of the devices and systems described herein.
[0087] In certain examples, the reservoir inlet valve can have an adjustable cracking pressure. The cracking pressure can be adjustable from a lower limit to an upper limit. In some examples, the lower limit can be from 1 cm H2O to 100 cm H2O and the upper limit can be from 10 cm H2O to 200 cm kbO. In further examples, the lower limit can be from
[0088] 1 cm H2O to 4 cm H2O, and the upper limit can be from 10 cm H2O to 20 cm H2O. In a particular example, the reservoir inlet valve can be adjustable from a lower limit of about
[0089] 2 cm H2O to an upper limit of about 15 cm H2O. The adjustable reservoir inlet valve can be set to the lower limit cracking pressure, the upper limit cracking pressure, or any pressure therebetween. In alternative examples, the reservoir can include two or more different one-way inlet valves with different cracking pressures, and the subject can select which valve to use. This can allow the subject to increase or decrease the cracking pressure of the valve that allows room air into the reservoir. In some examples, this can be useful to provide breath resistance training for the subject. Breath resistance training refers to training the subject to breathe while resistance to the airflow is provided. In this Thorpe North & Western, LLP 4880-009.PCT case, the reservoir inlet valve having a higher cracking pressure can provide resistance to inhalation when the subject inhales and the reservoir inlet valve is open. The devices and systems described herein can be used to provide breath resistance training with or without concurrent oxygen therapy.
[0090] The oxy gen-enriched air can be delivered from the reservoir to a subject through a face mask. The face mask can be attached to the reservoir by a hose. The face mask can also include a one-way mask inlet valve configured to allow the oxygen enriched air to be fed to the subject while preventing exhaled breath from flowing back to the reservoir.
[0091] FIG. 2A shows an example system 200 that includes an oxygen concentrator 210. Oxygen-enriched air flows out of the oxygen concentrator through an oxygen valve 214 and an oxygen line 212. The oxygen concentrator also includes an air valve 216 and an air line 218 through which air can flow. The oxygen line and the air line can be connected to the reservoir 220. The reservoir also includes a one-way reservoir inlet valve 222 to allow room air into the reservoir. The reservoir is connected to a face mask 230 by a hose 240. The face mask includes a one-way mask inlet valve 232 and a one-way mask outlet valve 234. The mask inlet valve can allow oxy gen-enriched air to flow into the mask from the hose, while preventing exhaled breath from flowing back into the reservoir. The mask outlet valve can allow exhaled breath to flow out of the mask, while preventing additional room air from flowing into the mask while the subject is inhaling.
[0092] In some examples, the oxygen concentrator can run continuously and provide a continuous flow of oxy gen-enriched air into the reservoir. The reservoir inlet valve and the mask inlet valve and mask outlet valve can open and close depending on instantaneous pressure differences between the pressures inside the reservoir, mask, and the ambient pressure. FIG. 2B shows the system 200 in a state where the reservoir 220 inlet valve 222 is closed, meaning that no additional room air is flowing into the reservoir. The mask inlet valve 232 is open, and a flow 250 of oxy gen-enriched air flows from the reservoir into the mask and is inhaled by a subject wearing the mask. The mask outlet valve 234 is closed, preventing any additional room air from being inhaled. This arrangement of open and closed valves can be present when the subject is actively inhaling, but is not inhaling fast enough to reduce the pressure in the reservoir to the point that the reservoir inlet valve opens.
[0093] FIG. 2C shows the sy stem 200 in another state, where the reservoir inlet valve 222 is open. The mask inlet valve 232 is also open, and the mask outlet valve 234 is closed. In this state, a flow 250 can include room air flowing into the reservoir through the reservoir Thorpe North & Western, LLP
[0094] 4880-009.PCT inlet valve to mix with the oxy gen-enriched air in the reservoir. The oxygen-enriched air then flows through the hose into the mask 230 and then is inhaled by the subject. This arrangement can be present when the subject inhales fast enough to reduce the pressure in the reservoir to the point that the cracking pressure of the reservoir inlet valve is overcome.
[0095] FIG. 2D shows the system 200 in another state, in which the flow 250 of oxy gen- enriched air flows from the reservoir, into the mask 230 through the open mask inlet valve 232 and out of the mask through the open mask outlet valve 234. This arrangement can occur when the subject is not inhaling or exhaling, or is inhaling or exhaling a slower rate compared to the rate at which the oxygen concentrator is generating oxygen-enriched air.
[0096] FIG. 2E shows the system 200 in another state, in which a flow 250 of exhaled breath flows from the subject to the mask 230, and out of the mask through the open mask outlet valve 234. In this state, the mask inlet valve 232 is closed to prevent the exhaled breath from flowing back to the reservoir 220. The reservoir inlet valve 222 is also closed in this state. The various states of the valves described above can depend on the relative pressures in the reservoir, in the mask, and the ambient pressure. Each of the valves can have a cracking pressure, where the valve will open when a pressure difference across the valve exceeds the cracking pressure.
[0097] In some examples, the mask inlet valve and the mask outlet valve can independently have a cracking pressure from about 1 cm FEO to about 100 cm FEO. In further examples, the cracking pressure can be from about 10 cm FEO to about 100 cm FEO or from about 50 cm FEO to about 100 cm FEO or from about 1 cm FEO to about 10 cm FEO. In certain examples, the cracking pressure of the mask inlet valve, the mask outlet valve, or both, can be equal to the cracking pressure of the reservoir inlet valve, or greater than the cracking pressure of the reservoir inlet valve, or less than the cracking pressure of the reservoir inlet valve. Additionally, the mask inlet valve can have a cracking pressure that is equal to, or greater than, or less than the cracking pressure of the mask outlet valve. In some examples, the mask inlet valve, the mask outlet valve, and the reservoir inlet valve can have cracking pressures that are all within about 100 cm FEO of each other, or within about 50 cm FEO of each other, or within about 10 cm FEO of each other.
[0098] In some examples, the face mask can have an internal volume from about 10 cm3to about 1,000 cm3, or from about 10 cm3to about 100 cm3. The internal volume can refer Thorpe North & Western, LLP
[0099] 4880-009.PCT to the empty space between the mask and the face of a subject when the mask is worn by the subject. The internal space of the mask can extend to the mask inlet valve and the mask outlet valve.
[0100] As explained above, the devices and systems described herein can be used to provide oxygen therapy to a subject that has increased oxygen demand while performing physical exercise. This can be referred to as exercise with oxygen therapy (EWOT). In some examples, an EWOT system can include an oxygen concentrator, a reservoir, and a face mask as described above. These can be configured to supply oxygen-enriched air to a subject during an exercise session and / or when the subject has an increased oxygen demand. EWOT systems can include exercise equipment or be used together with exercise equipment of various types, such as a treadmill, exercise cycle, elliptical trainer, weight machine, free weights, resistance bands, a rower, etc.
[0101] The present disclosure also extends to methods, including EWOT methods. FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example exercise with oxygen therapy (EWOT) method 300. This method includes: continuously generating oxy gen-enriched air at a first flow rate using an oxygen concentrator 310; storing a volume of the oxy gen-enriched air in a reservoir connected to the oxygen concentrator, wherein the reservoir has a fixed volume, wherein the reservoir comprises a one-way valve configured to allow room air into the reserv oir when a pressure difference between the room air and the oxygen-enriched air inside the reservoir exceeds a cracking pressure of the one-way valve 320; and supplying oxy gen-enriched air from the reservoir to a subject during an exercise session, wherein the subject inhales the oxy gen-enriched air at a rate that exceeds the first flow rate during at least a portion of the exercise session, causing the room air to flow to flow into the reservoir through the one-way valve 330.
[0102] Exercising can increase the breathing rate of the subject. In some examples, the subject can have a breathing rate from about 20 L / min to about 130 L / min during at least a portion of the exercise session. In further examples, the breathing rate can be from about 20 L / min to about 80 L / min. or from about 20 L / min to about 60 L / min, or from about 60 L / min to about 100 L / min, or from about 80 L / min to about 130 L / min, for at least a portion of the exercise session. The oxygen concentrator can be configured to generate oxygen-enriched air at a rate that may be greater than or less than the breathing rate of the subject. If the breathing rate of the subject is greater than the rate of generation of oxy gen-enriched air then the reservoir inlet valve can allow additional room air into the reservoir to make up the difference. In certain examples, the flow rate of oxy gen-enriched Thorpe North & Western, LLP
[0103] 4880-009.PCT air generated by the oxygen concentrator can be from about 20 L / min to about 80 L / min. In further examples, the oxy gen-enriched air generated by the oxygen concentrator can have an oxygen concentration of at least 90%. The oxygen concentrator can be designed to generate oxygen-enriched air at a flow rate and at an oxygen concentration so that the system can deliver oxygen-enriched air to the subject at or above a desired minimum oxygen concentration. As explained above, the subject can have a high breathing rate during exercise. If the breathing rate of the subject is higher than the flow rate of oxy gen- enriched air for an extended period of time, then some room air will be allowed to enter the reservoir to make up for the difference in flow rates. This can reduce the concentration of oxygen in air delivered to the subject. However, exercise with oxygen therapy has been shown to have beneficial effects with a variety of oxygen concentrations, including concentrations of 90% or greater, and concentrations of 70% or greater, and even concentrations of 40% or greater. Therefore, the system can provide beneficial exercise with oxygen therapy even if the oxygen concentration drops to 40%. In some examples, the subject can have a high breathing rate, such as up to 130 L / min. This can cause the oxygen concentration in air delivered to the subject to drop because more room air is mixed with the oxy gen-enriched air in the reservoir. At high breathing rates, the oxygen concentration in the air delivered to the subject can drop as low as 40%, or as low as 50%, or as low as 60% in some examples. At lower breathing rates, such as about 60 L / min or less, the oxygen concentration in the air delivered to the subject can be higher. In some examples, the oxygen concentration can be up to about 92%, or up to about 90%, or up to about 85%. In a particular example, the system can deliver air with an oxygen concentration of about 60% at a rate of about 126 L / min, or at an oxygen concentration of about 92% at a rate of about 60 L / min, or at other rates and oxygen concentrations in a range between these values. In further examples, the oxygen concentrator itself can be configured to produce oxygen enriched air at a rate and with an oxygen concentration within any of these ranges. The oxygen concentration and flow rate can then be further modified using the reservoir as described herein.
[0104] The subject can also have an increased heart rate while exercising. In some examples, the subject can have a heart rate above about 120 bpm during at least a portion of the exercise session. In further examples, the subject can have a heart rate from about 120 bpm to about 200 bpm, or from about 120 bpm to about 160 bpm, or from about 120 bpm to about 140 bpm, or from about 120 bpm to about 130 bpm. Thorpe North & Western, LLP
[0105] 4880-009.PCT
[0106] FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example method 400 of providing oxygen therapy to a subject with an activity-induced oxygen demand. This method includes: continuously generating oxygen-enriched air at an oxygen concentration of at least 90% at a first flow rate of at least 20 L / min using an oxygen concentrator 410; storing a volume of the oxygen-enriched air in a reservoir connected to the oxygen concentrator, wherein the reservoir has a fixed volume, wherein the reservoir comprises a one-way valve configured to allow room air into the reservoir when a pressure difference between the room air and the pressure inside the reservoir exceeds a cracking pressure of the oneway valve 420; and supplying oxy gen-enriched air from the reservoir to the subject during an activity-induced oxygen demand period, wherein the subject optionally inhales the oxy gen-enriched air at a rate that exceeds the first flow rate during at least a portion of the activity-induced oxygen demand period, and wherein the oxygen concentration of the inhaled oxy gen-enriched air does not drop below 40% throughout the activity -induced oxygen demand period 430.
[0107] In further examples, it can also be useful to provide oxygen therapy combined with light therapy. Light therapy, such as photo biomodulation ‘ PBM” therapy, can have a variety of effects depending on the wavelength applied, application ty pe, and application time period. Without being bound to a specific mechanism, in some cases light therapy can have a beneficial protective effect on red blood cells. This can provide a synergistic effect with the exercise with oxygen therapy described herein. The beneficial effects of light therapy on the red blood cells can work together with the increased oxygen concentration inhaled by the subject and the increased arterial pressure and circulation rate due to exercise. When all of these factors occur simultaneously, the result is a greater amount of oxygen entering the blood stream and being circulated to more tissue than would be possible with any of these factors on its own. Additionally, red light and near-infrared light can be absorbed by the mitochondria protein Cytochrome c Oxidase (CcO), mitochondrial NO can dissociate from CcO and enhance oxygen transport, thereby increasing free nitric oxide levels. CcO is one of the final enzymes in the respiratory electron transport chain and increased functioning of CcO can increase ATP production. Free nitric oxide can assist physiological processes including angiogenesis, wound healing, bone healing, thromboresistance, smooth muscle relaxation, and inflammation. In addition, there can be a subsequent decrease in reactive oxygen species which can decrease inflammation, cell death, and the like. Light therapy can also be useful for the treatment of pain (e.g., muscle pain or joint pain), stiffness, Thorpe North & Western, LLP
[0108] 4880-009.PCT inflammation, arthritis, obesity, or combinations thereof in a subject. Light therapy can further treat skin conditions such as reducing stretch marks, wrinkles, psoriasis, scars, and acne, build collagen; stimulate blood circulation; lactic acid clearance; tissue regeneration; treat muscle or joint mobility including carpal tunnel and neuropathic pain; stimulate muscle regeneration; stimulate weight loss; treat an infection caused by a microorganism or pathogen; or any combination thereof. In some examples, the light therapy can include pulsing light at a rate of from about 10 Hz to about 5 kHz.
[0109] A device or system for oxygen and light therapy can include a light source for light therapy. The light source can be configured to expose the body or a portion of a body of the subject to certain light wavelengths. In some examples, the wavelengths can be effective to stimulate healing and reduce inflammation and pain and / or to induce other physiologic events or processes. The light source can include a light type selected from a light-emitting diode (LED), a laser, arc / flash lamp, a fluorescent lamp, a halogen lamp, a sodium lamp, a gas discharge lamp, a metal vapor lamp, or combinations thereof. In some examples, the light source can include an LED light source. The LED can include an array of LED bulbs, which can be operable to emit a variety of wavelengths. In another example, the light source can include a laser. In yet other examples, a combination of light types can be included in the system. A combination of light types can be used with a particular power and wavelength can provide a synergistic effect in enhancing well-being and healing when treating a range of subjects.
[0110] A light source can be operable to emit a wavelength ranging from about 380 nm to about 1,050 nm. In an example, the light source can be operable to emit a wavelength ranging from about 380 nm to about 700 nm, from about 380 nm to about 550 nm, from about 550 nm to about 650 nm, from about 500 nm to about 750 nm, from about 600 nm to about 850 nm, from about 750 nm to about 1,050 nm, or from about 800 nm to about 1,000 nm. Wavelengths ranging from about 380 nm to about 650 nm can be used to treat skin and other directly accessible or surface tissues. These wavelengths can be absorbed by blood and scattered in tissue components in or near a skin surface. Wavelengths ranging from about 650 nm to 1,050 nm can be used to penetrate tissues beneath the skin to promote healing and regeneration. Accordingly, a wavelength of light emitted from the light source can be determined based on a desired treatment and desired depth of penetration necessary to achieve said treatment. In some examples, the light source can include a variety of lights operable to emit a different range of wavelengths and the wavelengths emitted can be controlled by a controller. Thorpe North & Western, LLP
[0111] 4880-009.PCT
[0112] A power density of the light source can also vary. In some examples, a light source can be configured to radiate at a power density ranging from about 50 mW / cm2to about 300 mW / cm2In yet other examples, a light source can radiate at a power density ranging from about 50 mW / cm2to about 100 mW / cm2, from about 100 mW / cm2to about 300 mW / cm2, from about 150 mW / cm2to about 250 mW / cm2, or from about 150 mW / cm2to about 300 mW / cm2. A power density can be adjusted to adjust a penetration depth of the light wave into a subject. The higher the power density, the deeper the cellular penetration. For example, power densities from about 50 mW / cm2to about 100 mW / cm2can be used for treatment closer to a skin surface, such as for anti-aging or topical purposes. Power densities from about 100 mW / cm2to about 300 mW / cm2can be used for treatments below the skin surface, such as for fat loss, deep tissue healing, and the like.
[0113] A light source can be configured to generate a continuous light wave, or a pulsed light wave. In one example, the light source can be configured to have a pulse at a rate that can range from between about 10 hertz (Hz) to about 5 kilohertz (kHz). In yet other examples, the light source can have a pulse rate that can range from about 10 Hz to about 1,000 Hz, from about 1 kHz to about 5 kHz, from about 500 Hz to about 1 kHz, from about 500 Hz to about 2.5 kHz, from about 1kHz to about 3 kHz, or from about 3 kHz to about 5 kHz. In another example, the combination of light sources can be configured to pulse using a duty cycle limited to between about 75% to about 100%.
[0114] A physical configuration of the light source can vary based on type of light, an application ty pe, and application purpose. In some examples, a light source can have a flat configuration, a pinpoint configuration, an arcuate configuration, a 180-degree arc configuration, a 360-degree arc configuration, or a combination thereof. In another example, a housing of the light source can comprise one or more of a wand(s), a wraparound band, a bed, a booth, a panel, or a tube. In yet other examples, the light source can be positioned at select locations of a housing for a device. For example, the light source may run along a length of a bed, along an arc of top for a whole-body device, or a combination thereof. In some examples, the light source can be concentrated for a specific purpose, such as concentrating the light source in a facial region to improve cosmetic applications.
[0115] FIG. 5 is a schematic view of an example integrated oxygen and light therapy device 500. This device includes a housing 502 that has the form of a bed having a cover 504 that can close over a subject 506. A light source 560 is coupled to the housing. In this Thorpe North & Western, LLP
[0116] 4880-009.PCT particular example, the light source includes LEDs configured to emit light at a wavelength from about 380 nm to about 1,050 nm. The LEDs are positioned on interior surfaces of the bed facing toward a subject when the subject lays in the bed. This device also includes an oxygen concentrator 510 and a resen- oir 520 for delivering oxy gen- enriched air to the subject as described above. The oxygen-enriched air can be supplied to the subject concurrently with light therapy from the LEDs.
[0117] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example method 600 of providing oxygen therapy and light therapy to a subject. This method includes: administering light having a wavelength from about 380 nm to about 1,050 nm to the subject 610; elevating a heart rate of the subject by exercise concurrently with administering the light 620; and continuously supplying oxy gen-enriched air to the subject at a flow rate of at least 20 L / min concurrently with administrating the light, wherein the oxygen-enriched air is generated by an oxygen concentrator concurrently with supplying the oxygen-enriched air to the subject, wherein an oxygen concentration of the oxy gen-enriched air does not drop below 40% throughout the exercise 630. In some examples, the oxygen therapy and light therapy can also be applied while the subject has an elevated heart rate and / or breathing rate. For example, the subject can have a heart rate above about 120 bpm when the oxygen therapy and the light therapy are applied.
[0118] Another specific example oxygen therapy device is shown in FIGs. 7A-7F. In this example, the oxygen therapy device 700 includes an oxygen concentrator 710 with a wheeled housing. An air line 718 and an oxygen line 712 connect the oxygen concentrator to a reservoir 720. The reservoir includes a one-way reservoir inlet valve 722 that can allow room air into the reservoir when the pressure difference between the room air and the pressure inside the reservoir exceeds a cracking pressure of the reservoir inlet valve. A hose 740 connects the reservoir to a face mask 730. The face mask includes a one-way mask inlet valve 732 and a one-way mask outlet valve 734. FIG. 7A shows a front perspective view of the device. FIG. 7B shows a back perspective view of the device. FIG. 7C shows a top view of the device. FIG. 7D shows a front view of the device. FIG. 7E shows a side view of the device. FIG. 7F shows a back view of the device.
[0119] FIG. 8 shows an example exercise with oxygen therapy (EWOT) system 800. This system includes an oxygen supply 810 configured to provide pure oxygen or oxy gen- enriched air. In this particular example, the oxygen supply is a bag that can be preinflated with a volume of oxygen or oxygen-enriched air before use in an exercise Thorpe North & Western, LLP
[0120] 4880-009.PCT session. The system also includes a hydrogen supply 820 configured to provide pure hydrogen or hydrogen-enriched air. The oxygen supply and the hydrogen supply are connected to a face mask 830 through an adapter 840. More specifically, an oxygen hose 812 leads from the oxygen supply to the adapter, a hydrogen hose 822 leads from the hydrogen supply to the adapter, and a face mask hose 832 leads from the adapter to the face mask.
[0121] FIG. 9 shows another example exercise with oxygen therapy (EWOT) system 900. This system includes an oxygen concentrator 910 with an air line 918 and an oxygen line 912 connecting the oxygen concentrator to a reservoir 920. The reservoir includes a oneway reservoir inlet valve 922 and a hydrogen inlet 924. A hydrogen supply 902 is connected to the reservoir through a hydrogen line 926 that is connected to the hydrogen inlet of the reservoir. Thus, hydrogen can flow into the reservoir and mix with the oxy gen-enriched air in the reservoir. A hose 940 connects the reserv oir to a face mask 930. The face mask includes a one-way mask inlet valve 932 and a one-way mask outlet valve 934. The mixture of oxy gen-enriched air and hydrogen can be delivered to a subject through the face mask.
[0122] In certain examples, a removable respirator}7trainer can be used with the system. The removable respiratory trainer can regulate airflow when the subject is inhaling to provide respiratory resistance training. Respiratory resistance training can allow the subject to increase inhalation strength and endurance. The subject encounters resistance from the respiratory trainer when inhaling, which engages the diaphragm and other muscles responsible for breathing. This type of training can improve respiratory strength, lung capacity, and overall endurance. The respiratory trainer can be attached to the reservoir inlet. In some cases, the reservoir inlet valve can be removed and replaced with the respiratory trainer. In other cases, the respirator}7trainer can be attached to the reservoir inlet valve and used together with the reservoir inlet valve.
[0123] In some examples, the respirator}7trainer can include an adjustable one-way valve with an adjustable cracking pressure. For example, the cracking pressure can be adjustable over a range between a lower limit and an upper limit. The lower limit can be from 1 cm H2O to 100 cm H2O and the upper limit can be from 10 cm H2O to 200 cm H2O. In further examples, the lower limit can be from 1 cm H2O to 10 cm H2O, and the upper limit can be from 10 cm H2O to 50 cm H2O. In a particular example, the lower limit can be about 8 cm H2O and the upper limit can be about 38 cm H2O. The respiratory trainer can include an adjustment control such as a screw, knob, dial, slide, plunger. Thorpe North & Western, LLP
[0124] 4880-009.PCT switch, or other control to allow the subject to adjust the cracking pressure. In certain examples, the adjustment control can be configured to be turned using a screwdriver to adjust the cracking pressure. The respirator) trainer can also include a visual indicator that can display the cracking pressure to which the one-way valve is set. The visual indicator can be a mechanical gauge in some examples. In various examples, the respiratory trainer can be used while the oxygen concentrator is turned off to provide resistance training with ambient air, or the respiratory trainer can be used together with the oxygen concentrator while the oxygen concentrator is running. The respiratory trainer can also be referred to as a reservoir inlet valve. Any of the features and characteristics of the respiratory trainer described herein can be used in the reservoir inlet valve of any of the example devices and systems described herein.
[0125] FIGs. 10A-10C show a schematic representation of a process for installing a respiratoiy trainer 1050 in a reservoir 1020 of an EWOT system. FIG. 10A shows a reservoir inlet valve 1022 being removed from the reservoir. In this example, the reservoir inlet valve attaches to the reservoir through an inlet opening 1023. Thus, before installing the respiratory trainer, the reservoir inlet valve is removed from the inlet opening. FIG. 10B shows a close up view of the respiratory trainer. In this example, the respiratory trainer includes an adjustment knob 1052 that can be turned using a screwdriver 1060 to adjust the cracking pressure of the one-way valve in the respiratory trainer. The respiratory trainer also includes a visual indicator 1054 that is a gauge that displays the cracking pressure to which the one-way valve is set. After adjusting the cracking pressure, the respirator)' trainer can be connected to the reservoir inlet opening as shown in FIG. 10C. After the respiratory trainer is connected, air can flow from the room into the reservoir through the respiratory trainer if the pressure inside reservoir drops below the cracking pressure of the respiratory trainer. This can cause a subject breathing through the reservoir to use more diaphragm strength to inhale in order to cause the one-way valve in the respiratory trainer to open. In alternative examples, the respiratory trainer can be a permanent component of the reservoir. In other alternative examples, the respirator}' trainer can be connected to the reservoir inlet valve without removing the reservoir inlet valve.
[0126] It is understood that the above-described various types of systems, devices, and methods for providing oxygen therapy are only illustrative of preferred embodiments of the present disclosure. Numerous modifications and alternative arrangements may be devised by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the Thorpe North & Western, LLP 4880-009.PCT present disclosure and the appended claims are intended to cover such modifications and arrangements. Thus, while the present disclosure has been described above with particularity and detail in connection with what is presently deemed to be the most practical and preferred embodiments of the disclosure, it will be apparent to those of ordinary7skill in the art that variations including, but not limited to, variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use may be made without departing from the principles and concepts set forth herein.
[0127] EXAMPLES
[0128] The following examples illustrate the embodiments of the disclosure that are presently known. However, it is to be understood that the following are only exemplary or illustrative of the application of the principles of the present disclosure. Numerous modifications and alternative compositions, methods, and systems may be devised by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. The appended claims are intended to cover such modifications and arrangements. Thus, while the present disclosure has been described above with particularity, the following examples provide further detail in connection with what are presently deemed to be the most practical embodiments of the disclosure.
[0129] The technology described herein can include the following enumerated examples.
[0130] Example 1: An oxygen therapy device, comprising: an oxygen concentrator configured to generate oxy gen-enriched air; and a reservoir connected to the oxygen concentrator to receive the oxy gen-enriched air, wherein the reservoir has a fixed volume, wherein the reservoir comprises a one-way reservoir inlet valve configured to allow room air into the reservoir when a pressure difference between the room air and the oxygen-enriched air inside the reserv oir exceeds a cracking pressure of the reservoir inlet valve.
[0131] Example 2: The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33, 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47- 55, wherein the oxygen concentrator is configured to generate the oxygen-enriched air by pressure swing adsorption or by membrane-based oxygen separation. Thorpe North & Western, LLP 4880-009.PCT
[0132] Example 3: The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33, 38-42, 45-46. or 56-62. or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47- 55, wherein the oxygen concentrator is configured to generate the oxy gen-enriched air at an oxygen concentration of at least 70%.
[0133] Example 4: The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44. or the method of any of examples 29-33, 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47- 55, wherein the oxygen concentrator is configured to generate the oxy gen-enriched air at an oxygen concentration of at least 90%.
[0134] Example 5: The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37. or 43-44. or the method of any of examples 29-33, 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47- 55, wherein the oxygen concentrator is configured to generate the oxygen-enriched air at a flow rate from about 20 L / min to about 200 L / min.
[0135] Example 6: The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33, 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47- 55, wherein the oxygen concentrator further comprises an air valve connected to the reservoir configured to allow a controlled amount of air to flow into the reservoir.
[0136] Example 7: The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33, 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47- 55, wherein the oxygen concentrator further comprises a controller operable to adjust a concentration of oxygen in the reservoir by adjusting a ratio of air and oxy gen-enriched air flowing from the oxygen concentrator to the reservoir.
[0137] Example 8: The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33, 38-42, 45-46. or 56-62. or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47- 55, wherein the controller comprises a remote control.
[0138] Example 9: The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33, 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62. or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47- 55, wherein the oxygen concentrator comprises a timer configured to shut off the oxygen concentrator after a selected run time. Thorpe North & Western, LLP
[0139] 4880-009.PCT
[0140] Example 10: The device of any of examples 1-27. 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33, 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, wherein the fixed volume of the reservoir is from about 2 L to about 10 L.
[0141] Example 11 : The device of any of examples 1-27. 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33, 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, wherein the fixed volume of the reservoir contains sufficient oxy gen-enriched air for at least 2 breath volumes of a subject.
[0142] Example 12: The device of any of examples 1-27. 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33, 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, wherein the reservoir has a volume that is smaller than a volume of the oxygen concentrator.
[0143] Example 13: The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33, 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, wherein the reservoir is separate from the oxygen concentrator and connected to the oxygen concentrator by an oxygen line.
[0144] Example 14: The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33, 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, wherein the oxygen concentrator comprises a housing and wherein the reservoir is integrated within the housing of the oxygen concentrator.
[0145] Example 15: The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33, 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, wherein the cracking pressure of the reservoir inlet valve is from about 1 cm H2O to about 100 cm H2O.
[0146] Example 16: The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33. 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, wherein the cracking pressure of the reservoir inlet valve is adjustable from a Thorpe North & Western, LLP 4880-009.PCT lower limit that is from 1 cm H2O to 100 cm H2O, to an upper limit that is from 10 cm H2O to 200 cm H2O.
[0147] Example 17: The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33, 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, wherein the reservoir has an internal pressure within about 50 cm H2O of an ambient pressure.
[0148] Example 18: The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33. 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, further comprising a face mask connected to the reservoir to receive the oxygen- enriched air from the reservoir and supply the oxygen-enriched air to a subject, wherein the face mask comprises a one-way mask inlet valve configured to allow the oxygen- enriched air to be fed to the subject while preventing exhaled breath from the subject from flowing back to the reservoir.
[0149] Example 19: The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33, 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, wherein the mask inlet valve has a cracking pressure from about 1 cm H2O to about 100 cm H2O.
[0150] Example 20: The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33. 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, wherein the cracking pressure of the reservoir inlet valve is equal to or less than the cracking pressure of the mask inlet valve.
[0151] Example 21 : The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33. 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, wherein the cracking pressure of the reservoir inlet valve is greater than the cracking pressure of the mask inlet valve.
[0152] Example 22: The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33. 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or Thorpe North & Western, LLP 4880-009.PCT
[0153] 47-55, wherein the face mask further comprises a one-way mask outlet valve configured to allow exhaled breath from the subject to flow out of the face mask.
[0154] Example 23: The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33, 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, wherein the mask outlet valve has a cracking pressure from about 1 cm H2O to about 100 cm H2O.
[0155] Example 24: The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33. 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, wherein the cracking pressure of the mask outlet valve is equal to or less than the cracking pressure of the mask inlet valve.
[0156] Example 25: The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33. 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, wherein the cracking pressure of the mask outlet valve is greater than the cracking pressure of the mask inlet valve.
[0157] Example 26: The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33. 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, wherein the cracking pressure of the mask outlet valve, the cracking pressure of the mask inlet valve, and the cracking pressure of the reservoir inlet valve are all within about 50 cm H2O of each other.
[0158] Example 27: The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33, 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, further comprising a hydrogen source connected to the reservoir configured to supply hydrogen gas to the reservoir, wherein the hydrogen is effective to reduce free radicals in the oxy gen-enriched air or in the subject.
[0159] Example 28: An exercise with oxygen therapy (EWOT) system, comprising: an oxygen concentrator configured to generate oxygen-enriched air; a reservoir connected or connectable to the oxygen concentrator to receive the oxygen-enriched air, wherein the reservoir has a fixed volume, wherein the reservoir Thorpe North & Western, LLP 4880-009.PCT comprises a first one-way valve configured to allow room air into the reservoir when a pressure difference between the room air and the oxygen-enriched air inside the reservoir exceeds a cracking pressure of the first one-way valve: and a face mask connected or connectable to the reservoir to receive the oxy gen- enriched air from the reservoir and supply the oxygen-enriched air to a subject, wherein the face mask comprises a second one-way valve configured to allow the oxygen- enriched air to be fed to the subject while preventing exhaled breath from the subject from flowing back to the reservoir.
[0160] Example 29: An exercise with oxygen therapy (EWOT) method, comprising: continuously generating oxy gen-enriched air at a first flow rate using an oxygen concentrator; storing a volume of the oxygen-enriched air in a reservoir connected to the oxygen concentrator, wherein the reservoir has a fixed volume, wherein the reservoir comprises a one-way valve configured to allow room air into the reservoir when a pressure difference between the room air and the oxy gen-enriched air inside the reservoir exceeds a cracking pressure of the one-way valve; and supplying oxy gen-enriched air from the reservoir to a subject during an exercise session, wherein the subject inhales the oxy gen-enriched air at a rate that exceeds the first flow rate during at least a portion of the exercise session, causing the room air to flow to flow into the reservoir through the one-way valve.
[0161] Example 30: The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33. 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, wherein the subject has a breathing rate from about 20 L / min to about 130 L / min during at least a portion of the exercise session.
[0162] Example 31 : The device of any of examples 1 -27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33, 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, wherein a heart rate of the subject is above about 120 bpm during at least a portion of the exercise session. Thorpe North & Western, LLP
[0163] 4880-009.PCT
[0164] Example 32: The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33. 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, wherein the first flow rate is from about 20 L / min to about 80 L / min.
[0165] Example 33: The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33. 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, wherein the oxygen-enriched air generated by the oxygen concentrator has an oxygen concentration of at least 90%.
[0166] Example 34: An oxygen therapy breathing resistance training system, comprising: an oxygen concentrator configured to generate oxy gen-enriched air; a reservoir connected or connectable to the oxygen concentrator to receive the oxy gen-enriched air, wherein the reservoir has a fixed volume, wherein the reservoir comprises an adjustable one-way valve configured to allow room air into the reservoir when a pressure difference between the room air and a pressure inside the reservoir exceeds an adjustable cracking pressure of the adjustable one-way valve; and a face mask connected or connectable to the reservoir to receive the oxy gen- enriched air from the reservoir and supply the oxygen-enriched air to a subject, wherein the adjustable cracking pressure of the adjustable one-way valve controls an inhalation resistance of the subject.
[0167] Example 35: An oxygen therapy device, comprising: an oxygen concentrator capable of generating oxy gen-enriched air at an oxygen concentration of at least 90% at a flow rate of at least 20 L / min: and a reservoir connected to the oxygen concentrator to receive the oxy gen-enriched air, wherein the reservoir has a fixed volume, wherein the reservoir comprises a one-way valve configured to allow room air into the reservoir when a subject inhales oxy gen- enriched air from the reservoir at a rate that exceeds the flow rate of oxy gen-enriched air from the oxygen concentrator, and wherein the oxygen concentrator and the reservoir are capable of continuously supplying oxy gen-enriched air to the subject with an oxygen concentration of at least 40%.
[0168] Example 36: The device of any of examples 1-27. 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33, 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or Thorpe North & Western, LLP 4880-009.PCT
[0169] 47-55, wherein the oxygen concentrator and the reservoir are capable of continuously supplying oxy gen-enriched air to the subject with an oxygen concentration of at least 70%.
[0170] Example 37: The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33. 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, wherein the subject has a breathing rate from about 20 L / min to about 130 L / min.
[0171] Example 38: A method of providing oxygen therapy to a subject with an activity -induced oxygen demand, comprising: continuously generating oxy gen-enriched air at an oxygen concentration of at least 90% at a first flow rate of at least 20 L / min using an oxygen concentrator; storing a volume of the oxygen-enriched air in a reservoir connected to the oxygen concentrator, wherein the reservoir has a fixed volume, wherein the reservoir comprises a one-way valve configured to allow room air into the reservoir when a pressure difference between the room air and the pressure inside the reservoir exceeds a cracking pressure of the one-way valve; and supplying oxygen-enriched air from the reservoir to the subject during an activity- induced oxygen demand period, wherein the subject optionally inhales the oxy gen- enriched air at a rate that exceeds the first flow rate during at least a portion of the activity-induced oxygen demand period, and wherein the oxygen concentration of the inhaled oxygen-enriched air does not drop below 40% throughout the activity -induced oxygen demand period.
[0172] Example 39: The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33, 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, wherein the subject has a breathing rate from about 20 L / min to about 130 L / min during at least a portion of the activity -induced oxygen demand period.
[0173] Example 40: The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33, 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, wherein a heart rate of the subject is above about 120 bpm during at least a portion of the activity -induced oxygen demand period. Thorpe North & Western, LLP 4880-009.PCT
[0174] Example 41 : The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33. 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, wherein the oxygen concentration of the inhaled oxygen-enriched air does not drop below 70% throughout the exercise session.
[0175] Example 42: The device of any of examples 1-27. 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33, 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, wherein the oxygen concentration of the inhaled oxygen-enriched air drops below 90% during at least a portion of the activity -induced oxygen demand period.
[0176] Example 43: An integrated oxygen and light therapy device, comprising: a housing operable to accept at least a portion of a subject: a light source coupled to the housing, said light source configured to emit and apply light having a wavelength ranging from about 380 nm to about 1,050 nm to at least a portion of the subject; an oxygen concentrator coupled to the housing, said oxygen concentrator configured to generate oxygen-enriched air; and a reservoir coupled to the oxygen concentrator to receive the oxy gen-enriched air, wherein the reservoir has a fixed volume, and wherein the reservoir is operable to supply the oxy gen-enriched air to the subject concurrently with the light source emitting and applying the light to the subject.
[0177] Example 44: The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33. 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, wherein the reservoir comprises a one-way valve configured to allow room air into the reservoir when a pressure difference between the room air and the pressure inside the reserv oir exceeds a cracking pressure of the one-way valve.
[0178] Example 45: A method of providing oxygen therapy and light therapy to a subject, comprising: administering light having a wavelength from about 380 nm to about 1,050 nm to the subject: elevating a heart rate of the subject by exercise concurrently with administering the light; Thorpe North & Western, LLP 4880-009.PCT continuously supplying oxy gen-enriched air to the subject at a flow rate of at least 20 L / min concurrently with administrating the light, wherein the oxy gen-enriched air is generated by an oxygen concentrator concurrently with supplying the oxygen-enriched air to the subject, wherein an oxygen concentration of the oxy gen-enriched air does not drop below 40% throughout the exercise.
[0179] Example 46: The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33, 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, wherein the heart rate of the subject is elevated above about 120 bpm.
[0180] Example 47: An exercise with oxygen therapy (EWOT) system, comprising: an oxygen supply configured to provide pure oxygen or oxygen-enriched air; a hydrogen supply configured to provide pure hydrogen or hydrogen-enriched air; a face mask connected or connectable to the oxygen supply and the hydrogen supply simultaneously, configured to supply the oxygen or oxygen-enriched air and the hydrogen or hydrogen-enriched air simultaneously to a subject.
[0181] Example 48: The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33. 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, wherein the face mask comprises a one-way valve configured to allow7the oxygen or oxy gen-enriched air and hydrogen or hydrogen-enriched air to be fed to the subject while preventing exhaled breath from flowing back to the oxygen supply or to the hydrogen supply.
[0182] Example 49: The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33, 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, wherein the oxygen supply comprises a bag or tank holding at least 100 L of oxygen or oxy gen-enriched air.
[0183] Example 50: The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33, 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, wherein the oxygen supply comprises an oxygen concentrator configured to generate oxy gen-enriched air, and a reservoir connected to the oxygen concentrator to receive the oxygen-enriched air, wherein the reservoir has a fixed volume, wherein the Thorpe North & Western, LLP 4880-009.PCT reservoir comprises a one-way reservoir inlet valve configured to allow room air into the reservoir when a pressure difference between the room air and the oxygen-enriched air inside the reservoir exceeds a cracking pressure of the reservoir inlet valve, wherein the face mask is connected or connectable to the reservoir to receive the oxy gen-enriched air from the reservoir.
[0184] Example 51 : The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33, 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, wherein the face mask is connected or connectable to the hydrogen supply through the reservoir, wherein the hydrogen supply is connected to the reservoir to feed hydrogen into the reservoir such that the hydrogen mixes with the oxygen in the reservoir.
[0185] Example 52: The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33, 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, wherein the face mask is connected or connectable to the oxygen supply through an oxygen hose, and wherein the face mask is connected or connectable to the hydrogen supply through a hydrogen hose.
[0186] Example 53: The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33. 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, wherein the oxygen hose and the hydrogen hose are directly connected or connectable to the face mask such that the oxygen and hydrogen mix in the face mask.
[0187] Example 54: The device of any of examples 1-27. 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33, 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, further comprising an adapter configured to connect to the oxygen hose and to the hydrogen hose and to the face mask, such that the oxygen and hydrogen mix at the adapter and the mixed oxygen and hydrogen flow from the adapter into the face mask.
[0188] Example 55: The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33, 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, wherein the hydrogen supply comprises a tank of stored hydrogen, a chemical reaction forming molecular hydrogen, a hydrogen generator, or a combination thereof. Thorpe North & Western, LLP
[0189] 4880-009.PCT
[0190] Example 56: An exercise with oxygen therapy (EWOT) method, comprising: mixing oxygen or oxygen-enriched air with hydrogen or hydrogen-enriched air to form an oxygen-hydrogen mixture; and supplying the oxygen-hydrogen mixture to a subject during an exercise session.
[0191] Example 57: The device of any of examples 1-27. 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33, 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, wherein the oxygen-hydrogen mixture is supplied to the subject through a face mask.
[0192] Example 58: The device of any of examples 1-27. 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33, 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, wherein the oxygen or oxy gen-enriched air is mixed with the hydrogen or hydrogen-enriched air in the face mask.
[0193] Example 59: The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33, 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, wherein the oxygen or oxygen-enriched air flows through an oxygen hose, wherein the hydrogen or hydrogen-enriched air flows through a hydrogen hose, wherein the oxygen hose and the hydrogen hose are connected to an adapter such that the oxygen or oxygen-enriched air mixes with the hydrogen or hydrogen-enriched air at the adapter, and wherein the adapter is also connected to the face mask to deliver the oxygen-hydrogen mixture to the face mask.
[0194] Example 60: The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33, 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, wherein the oxygen or oxygen-enriched air is provided by an oxygen supply comprising a bag or tank holding at least 100 L of oxygen or oxy gen-enriched air.
[0195] Example 61 : The device of any of examples 1 -27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33, 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, wherein the oxygen or oxygen-enriched air is provided by an oxygen supply comprising an oxygen concentrator configured to generate oxygen-enriched air, and a reservoir connected to the oxygen concentrator to receive the oxygen-enriched air, Thorpe North & Western, LLP
[0196] 4880-009.PCT wherein the reservoir has a fixed volume, wherein the reservoir comprises a one-way reservoir inlet valve configured to allow room air into the reservoir when a pressure difference between the room air and the oxygen-enriched air inside the reservoir exceeds a cracking pressure of the reservoir inlet valve, wherein the oxygen-enriched air is supplied from the reservoir to the subject.
[0197] Example 62: The device of any of examples 1-27, 35-37, or 43-44, or the method of any of examples 29-33, 38-42, 45-46, or 56-62, or the system of any of examples 28, 34, or 47-55, wherein the hydrogen or hydrogen-enriched air is provided by a hydrogen supply comprising a tank of stored hydrogen, a chemical reaction forming molecular hydrogen, a hydrogen generator, or a combination thereof.
[0198] Reference was made to the examples illustrated in the drawings and specific language was used herein to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the technology is thereby intended. Alterations and further modifications of the features illustrated herein and additional applications of the examples as illustrated herein are to be considered within the scope of the description.
[0199] Furthermore, the described features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more examples. In the preceding description, numerous specific details were provided, such as examples of various configurations to provide a thorough understanding of examples of the described technology. It will be recognized, however, that the technology may be practiced without one or more of the specific details, or with other methods, components, devices, etc. In other instances, well- known structures or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of the technology’.
Claims
Thorpe North & Western, LLP4880-009.PCTCLAIMSWhat is claimed is:
1. An oxygen therapy device, comprising: an oxygen concentrator configured to generate oxy gen-enriched air; and a reservoir connected to the oxygen concentrator to receive the oxy gen-enriched air, wherein the reservoir has a fixed volume, wherein the reservoir comprises a one-way reservoir inlet valve configured to allow room air into the reservoir when a pressure difference between the room air and the oxy gen-enriched air inside the reservoir exceeds a cracking pressure of the reservoir inlet valve.
2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the oxygen concentrator is configured to generate the oxy gen-enriched air by pressure swing adsorption or by membrane-based oxygen separation.
3. The device of claim 1, wherein the oxygen concentrator is configured to generate the oxy gen-enriched air at an oxygen concentration of at least 70%.
4. The device of claim 1. wherein the oxygen concentrator is configured to generate the oxygen-enriched air at an oxygen concentration of at least 90%.
5. The device of claim 1, wherein the oxygen concentrator is configured to generate the oxygen-enriched air at a flow rate from about 20 L / min to about 200 L / min.
6. The device of claim 1, wherein the oxygen concentrator further comprises an air valve connected to the reservoir configured to allow a controlled amount of air to flow into the reservoir.
7. The device of claim 6, wherein the oxygen concentrator further comprises a controller operable to adjust a concentration of oxygen in the reservoir by adjusting a ratio of air and oxy gen-enriched air flowing from the oxygen concentrator to the reservoir.Thorpe North & Western, LLP4880-009.PCT8. The device of claim 7. wherein the controller comprises a remote control.
9. The device of claim 1, wherein the oxygen concentrator comprises a timer configured to shut off the oxygen concentrator after a selected run time.
10. The device of claim 1, wherein the fixed volume of the reservoir is from about 2 L to about 10 L.
11. The device of claim 1, wherein the fixed volume of the reservoir contains sufficient oxy gen-enriched air for at least 2 breath volumes of a subject.
12. The device of claim 1, wherein the reservoir has a volume that is smaller than a volume of the oxygen concentrator.
13. The device of claim 1, wherein the reservoir is separate from the oxygen concentrator and connected to the oxygen concentrator by an oxygen line.
14. The device of claim 1, wherein the oxygen concentrator comprises a housing and wherein the reservoir is integrated within the housing of the oxygen concentrator.
15. The device of claim 1, wherein the cracking pressure of the reservoir inlet valve is from about 1 cm H2O to about 100 cm H2O.
16. The device of claim 1, wherein the cracking pressure of the reserv oir inlet valve is adjustable from a lower limit that is from 1 cm H2O to 100 cm H2O, to an upper limit that is from 10 cm H2O to 200 cm H2O.
17. The device of claim 1, wherein the reservoir has an internal pressure within about 50 cm H2O of an ambient pressure.
18. The dev ice of claim 1, further comprising a face mask connected to the reserv oir to receive the oxygen-enriched air from the reservoir and supply the oxygen-enriched air to a subject, wherein the face mask comprises a one-way mask inlet valve configured toThorpe North & Western, LLP4880-009.PCT allow the oxy gen-enriched air to be fed to the subject while preventing exhaled breath from the subject from flowing back to the reservoir.
19. The device of claim 18, wherein the mask inlet valve has a cracking pressure from about 1 cm H2O to about 100 cm H2O.
20. The device of claim 18, wherein the cracking pressure of the reservoir inlet valve is equal to or less than the cracking pressure of the mask inlet valve.
21. The device of claim 18, wherein the cracking pressure of the reservoir inlet valve is greater than the cracking pressure of the mask inlet valve.
22. The device of claim 18, wherein the face mask further comprises a one-way mask outlet valve configured to allow exhaled breath from the subject to flow out of the face mask.
23. The device of claim 22, wherein the mask outlet valve has a cracking pressure from about 1 cm H2O to about 100 cm H2O.
24. The device of claim 22, wherein the cracking pressure of the mask outlet valve is equal to or less than the cracking pressure of the mask inlet valve.
25. The device of claim 22, wherein the cracking pressure of the mask outlet valve is greater than the cracking pressure of the mask inlet valve.
26. The device of claim 22, wherein the cracking pressure of the mask outlet valve, the cracking pressure of the mask inlet valve, and the cracking pressure of the reser oir inlet valve are all within about 50 cm H2O of each other.
27. The device of claim 1, further comprising a hydrogen source connected to the reserv oir configured to supply hydrogen gas to the reservoir, wherein the hydrogen is effective to reduce free radicals in the oxy gen-enriched air or in the subject.Thorpe North & Western, LLP4880-009.PCT28. An exercise with oxygen therapy (EWOT) system, comprising: an oxygen concentrator configured to generate oxy gen-enriched air; a reservoir connected or connectable to the oxygen concentrator to receive the oxy gen-enriched air, wherein the reservoir has a fixed volume, wherein the reservoir comprises a first one-way valve configured to allow room air into the reservoir when a pressure difference between the room air and the oxygen-enriched air inside the reservoir exceeds a cracking pressure of the first one-way valve; and a face mask connected or connectable to the reservoir to receive the oxy gen- enriched air from the reservoir and supply the oxy gen-enriched air to a subject, wherein the face mask comprises a second one-way valve configured to allow the oxygen- enriched air to be fed to the subject while preventing exhaled breath from the subject from flowing back to the reservoir.
29. An exercise with oxygen therapy (EWOT) method, comprising: continuously generating oxy gen-enriched air at a first flow rate using an oxygen concentrator; storing a volume of the oxy gen-enriched air in a reservoir connected to the oxygen concentrator, wherein the reservoir has a fixed volume, wherein the reservoir comprises a one-way valve configured to allow room air into the reservoir when a pressure difference between the room air and the oxygen-ennched air inside the reservoir exceeds a cracking pressure of the one-way valve; and supplying oxy gen-enriched air from the reservoir to a subject during an exercise session, wherein the subject inhales the oxy gen-enriched air at a rate that exceeds the first flow rate during at least a portion of the exercise session, causing the room air to flow to flow into the reservoir through the one-way valve.
30. The method of claim 29, wherein the subject has a breathing rate from about 20 L / min to about 130 L / min during at least a portion of the exercise session.
31. The method of claim 29, wherein a heart rate of the subject is above about 120 bpm during at least a portion of the exercise session.
32. The method of claim 29. wherein the first flow rate is from about 20 L / min to about 80 L / min.Thorpe North & Western, LLP4880-009.PCT33. The method of claim 29, wherein the oxy gen-enriched air generated by the oxygen concentrator has an oxygen concentration of at least 90%.
34. An oxygen therapy breathing resistance training system, comprising: an oxygen concentrator configured to generate oxygen-enriched air; a reservoir connected or connectable to the oxygen concentrator to receive the oxy gen-enriched air, wherein the reservoir has a fixed volume, wherein the reservoir comprises an adjustable one-way valve configured to allow room air into the reservoir when a pressure difference between the room air and a pressure inside the reservoir exceeds an adjustable cracking pressure of the adjustable one-way valve; and a face mask connected or connectable to the reservoir to receive the oxy gen- enriched air from the reservoir and supply the oxygen-enriched air to a subject, wherein the adjustable cracking pressure of the adjustable one-way valve controls an inhalation resistance of the subject.
35. An oxygen therapy device, comprising: an oxygen concentrator capable of generating oxygen-enriched air at an oxygen concentration of at least 90% at a flow rate of at least 20 L / min; and a reservoir connected to the oxygen concentrator to receive the oxy gen-enriched air, wherein the reservoir has a fixed volume, wherein the reservoir comprises a one-way valve configured to allow room air into the reservoir when a subject inhales oxy gen- enriched air from the reservoir at a rate that exceeds the flow rate of oxygen-enriched air from the oxygen concentrator, and wherein the oxygen concentrator and the reservoir are capable of continuously supplying oxy gen-enriched air to the subject with an oxygen concentration of at least 40%.
36. The device of claim 35, wherein the oxygen concentrator and the reservoir are capable of continuously supplying oxy gen-enriched air to the subject with an oxygen concentration of at least 70%.
37. The device of claim 36, wherein the subject has a breathing rate from about 20 L / min to about 130 L / min.Thorpe North & Western, LLP4880-009.PCT38. A method of providing oxygen therapy to a subject with an activity -induced oxygen demand, comprising: continuously generating oxygen-enriched air at an oxygen concentration of at least 90% at a first flow rate of at least 20 L / min using an oxygen concentrator; storing a volume of the oxygen-enriched air in a reservoir connected to the oxygen concentrator, wherein the reservoir has a fixed volume, wherein the reservoir comprises a one-way valve configured to allow room air into the reservoir when a pressure difference between the room air and the pressure inside the reservoir exceeds a cracking pressure of the one-way valve; and supplying oxygen-enriched air from the reservoir to the subject during an activity- induced oxygen demand period, wherein the subject optionally inhales the oxy gen- enriched air at a rate that exceeds the first flow rate during at least a portion of the activity-induced oxygen demand period, and wherein the oxygen concentration of the inhaled oxygen-enriched air does not drop below 40% throughout the activity -induced oxygen demand period.
39. The method of claim 38, wherein the subject has a breathing rate from about 20 L / min to about 130 L / min during at least a portion of the activity-induced oxygen demand period.
40. The method of claim 38, wherein a heart rate of the subject is above about 120 bpm during at least a portion of the activity -induced oxygen demand period.
41. The method of claim 38, wherein the oxygen concentration of the inhaled oxygen- enriched air does not drop below 70% throughout the exercise session.
42. The method of claim 38, wherein the oxygen concentration of the inhaled oxygen- enriched air drops below 90% during at least a portion of the activity -induced oxygen demand period.
43. An integrated oxygen and light therapy device, comprising: a housing operable to accept at least a portion of a subject;Thorpe North & Western, LLP4880-009.PCT a light source coupled to the housing, said light source configured to emit and apply light having a wavelength ranging from about 380 nm to about 1.050 nm to at least a portion of the subject; an oxygen concentrator coupled to the housing, said oxygen concentrator configured to generate oxy gen-enriched air; and a reservoir coupled to the oxygen concentrator to receive the oxy gen-enriched air, wherein the reservoir has a fixed volume, and wherein the reservoir is operable to supply the oxygen-enriched air to the subject concurrently with the light source emitting and applying the light to the subject.
44. The device of claim 43, wherein the reservoir comprises a one-way valve configured to allow room air into the reservoir when a pressure difference between the room air and the pressure inside the reservoir exceeds a cracking pressure of the one-way valve.
45. A method of providing oxygen therapy and light therapy to a subject, comprising: administering light having a wavelength from about 380 nm to about 1,050 nm to the subject; elevating a heart rate of the subject by exercise concurrently with administering the light; continuously supplying oxy gen-enriched air to the subject at a flow rate of at least 20 L / min concurrently with administrating the light, wherein the oxy gen-enriched air is generated by an oxygen concentrator concurrently with supplying the oxygen-enriched air to the subject, wherein an oxygen concentration of the oxy gen-enriched air does not drop below 40% throughout the exercise.
46. The method of claim 45, wherein the heart rate of the subject is elevated above about 120 bpm.
47. An exercise with oxygen therapy (EWOT) system, comprising: an oxygen supply configured to provide pure oxygen or oxygen-enriched air; a hydrogen supply configured to provide pure hydrogen or hydrogen-enriched air; a face mask connected or connectable to the oxygen supply and the hydrogen supply simultaneously, configured to supply the oxygen or oxygen-enriched air and the hydrogen or hydrogen-enriched air simultaneously to a subject.Thorpe North & Western, LLP4880-009.PCT48. The system of claim 47, wherein the face mask comprises a one-way valve configured to allow the oxygen or oxygen-enriched air and hydrogen or hydrogen-enriched air to be fed to the subject while preventing exhaled breath from flowing back to the oxygen supply or to the hydrogen supply .
49. The system of claim 47, wherein the oxygen supply comprises a bag or tank holding at least 100 L of oxygen or oxy gen-enriched air.
50. The system of claim 47, wherein the oxy gen supply comprises an oxygen concentrator configured to generate oxy gen-enriched air, and a reservoir connected to the oxygen concentrator to receive the oxy gen-enriched air, wherein the reservoir has a fixed volume, wherein the reservoir comprises a one-way reservoir inlet valve configured to allow room air into the reservoir when a pressure difference between the room air and the oxy gen-enriched air inside the reservoir exceeds a cracking pressure of the reservoir inlet valve, wherein the face mask is connected or connectable to the reservoir to receive the oxy gen-enriched air from the reservoir.
51. The system of claim 50, wherein the face mask is connected or connectable to the hydrogen supply through the reservoir, wherein the hydrogen supply is connected to the reservoir to feed hydrogen into the reservoir such that the hydrogen mixes with the oxygen in the reservoir.
52. The system of claim 47, wherein the face mask is connected or connectable to the oxygen supply through an oxygen hose, and wherein the face mask is connected or connectable to the hydrogen supply through a hydrogen hose.
53. The system of claim 52, wherein the oxygen hose and the hydrogen hose are directly connected or connectable to the face mask such that the oxygen and hydrogen mix in the face mask.
54. The system of claim 53, further comprising an adapter configured to connect to the oxygen hose and to the hydrogen hose and to the face mask, such that the oxygen andThorpe North & Western, LLP4880-009.PCT hydrogen mix at the adapter and the mixed oxygen and hydrogen flow from the adapter into the face mask.
55. The system of claim 47, wherein the hydrogen supply comprises a tank of stored hydrogen, a chemical reaction forming molecular hydrogen, a hydrogen generator, or a combination thereof.
56. An exercise with oxygen therapy (EWOT) method, comprising: mixing oxygen or oxy gen-enriched air with hydrogen or hydrogen-enriched air to form an oxygen-hydrogen mixture; and supplying the oxygen-hydrogen mixture to a subject during an exercise session.
57. The method of claim 56, wherein the oxygen-hydrogen mixture is supplied to the subject through a face mask.
58. The method of claim 57, wherein the oxygen or oxygen-enriched air is mixed with the hydrogen or hydrogen-enriched air in the face mask.
59. The method of claim 57, wherein the oxygen or oxy gen-enriched air flows through an oxygen hose, wherein the hydrogen or hydrogen-enriched air flows through a hydrogen hose, wherein the oxygen hose and the hydrogen hose are connected to an adapter such that the oxygen or oxygen-enriched air mixes with the hydrogen or hydrogen-enriched air at the adapter, and wherein the adapter is also connected to the face mask to deliver the oxygen-hydrogen mixture to the face mask.
60. The method of claim 56, wherein the oxygen or oxygen-enriched air is provided by an oxygen supply comprising a bag or tank holding at least 100 L of oxygen or oxy gen- enriched air.
61. The method of claim 56, wherein the oxygen or oxygen-enriched air is provided by an oxygen supply comprising an oxygen concentrator configured to generate oxy gen- enriched air, and a reservoir connected to the oxygen concentrator to receive the oxygen- enriched air, wherein the reservoir has a fixed volume, wherein the reservoir comprises a one-way reservoir inlet valve configured to allow room air into the reservoir when aThorpe North & Western, LLP 4880-009.PCT pressure difference between the room air and the oxygen-enriched air inside the reservoir exceeds a cracking pressure of the reservoir inlet valve, wherein the oxy gen-enriched air is supplied from the reservoir to the subject.
62. The method of claim 56, wherein the hydrogen or hydrogen-enriched air is provided by a hydrogen supply comprising a tank of stored hydrogen, a chemical reaction forming molecular hydrogen, a hydrogen generator, or a combination thereof.