Breathing exerciser apparatus for strengthening lung muscles along with assessment of lung health via spirometry

Abstract

The present invention relates to a respiration rehabilitation apparatus designed to improve lung capacity and strengthen respiratory muscles through targeted breathing exercises. It includes a mouthpiece connected to an airflow unit with a rotor vane positioned between helical deflectors, enabling precise airflow measurement. A processor with infrared sensors independently tracks inhalation and exhalation rates. The apparatus features a resistance unit with adjustable airflow resistances for customized training. Additionally, a software application provides real-time data analysis and personalized feedback. This system is ideal for pulmonary rehabilitation and spirometry-based assessments in both clinical and home settings.

Description

Breathing Exerciser Apparatus for strengthening Lung muscles along with Assessment of Lung health via SpirometryFIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to devices and methods for strengthening lung muscles. More specifically, the invention pertains to an apparatus and system for measuring lung capacity, volume, flow rate and guiding users in breathing exercises.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Breathing exercisers are specifically designed to aid individuals suffering from breathing conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or those recovering from surgeries that impair spontaneous deep breathing and also to improve endurance for sports, athletes, swimmers, singers etc. Available in various models, these devices offer either inhalation or exhalation resistance. Crucially, the resistance can be adjusted to accommodate the evolving physical abilities of the user, thus facilitating both recovery and continuous lung health management.

[0003] Utilizing these devices to increase inhalation and exhalation resistance strengthens and increases the endurance of the breathing muscles. This training targets the inspiratory muscles, mainly the diaphragm, during inhalation, and the expiratory muscles, including the abdominal and intercostal muscles, during exhalation. The advantages of such training are manifold: it enhances bronchial gymnastics, boosts blood circulation, improves gas exchange at the alveolar level by strengthening lung muscles.

[0004] Manual techniques to increase breathing tract resistance are often incorporated in breathing exercises, such as the Strelnikova and Buteyko methods or various combat system gymnastics. These techniques include actions like pinching the nostrils to increase inhalation resistance and exhaling through clenched teeth to make a "tssss" sound, thereby increasing exhalation resistance.

[0005] Despite the widespread adoption and inherent advantages of current breathing training and monitoring devices, there are notable limitations, as illustrated by the invention in US Patent No. 11617920B2. This patent discloses a breathing exerciser that includes a breathing unit, adjustable resistance dials, and a detachable electronic sensor unit. The breathing exerciser does not give a real picture in terms of medical feedback on actual lung capacity as these exercisers are not meant for or designed to conduct Spirometry or Peak Flow Meter tests as per American Thoracic Society or European Respiratory Society standards and hence the device has limitations to offer Spirometer or Peak Flow Meter measurements according to US FDA guidelines. The prior art is only limited to a breathing exerciser.

[0006] These systems don’t provide the accuracy and adaptability in connection to measurement of Spirometer and Peak Flow Meter. To overcome these deficiencies, there is a need for an innovative system that incorporates a more precise and accurate measurement unit with a detachable resistance unit comprising independently adjustable and detachable air resistance controls for both inhalation and exhalation. This advanced configuration significantly achieves dual functionality of Breathing Exerciser along with US FDA 510k Cleared Spirometer and Peak Flow Meter.

[0007] The advantage of a detachable & changeable resistance dials is to cater for patients with weaker lungs, people with medium lungs who wants to get to next level and professionals with stronger lungs and wants further more endurance.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The primary objective of the invention outlined in this patent is to provide a versatile and effective breathing rehabilitation apparatus that strengthens lung muscles and improves overall pulmonary function. The apparatus is configured for both inhalation and exhalation exercises, enabling tailored breathing training and accurate monitoring of Spirometry parameters. This is achieved through a turbine-based measurement unit (with a rotor vane and helical deflectors), advanced sensor technologies for detecting airflow direction and speed, and a sophisticated software application capable of real-time data processing and analytics.

[0009] Another objective of the invention is to offer a user-friendly, portable device suitable for home, clinical, or mobile use. The modular design, comprising a detachable mouthpiece, airflow unit, processor unit, and a resistance unit, allows for a compact form factor without sacrificing functionality. Personalized settings accommodate a wide range of breathing health needs and training intensities through removable and / or adjustable airflow resistances for both inhalation and exhalation.

[0010] A further objective is to improve the accuracy and reliability of pulmonary function testing and breathing monitoring. By employing transparent or translucent materials for the airflow conduit, along with infrared sensors to track vane rotation, the apparatus ensures precise measurements of airflow velocity, volume, and direction — data critical for diagnosing, treating, and managing breathing conditions.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus features distinct and independently operable inhalation and exhalation ports, each equipped with separately adjustable and / or detachable resistance controls. This allows the user to customize the airflow resistance for inhalation and exhalation independently. The processor unit, which can include Infrared sensors, measures the airflow in real time and wirelessly transmits this data for immediate display and analysis.

[0012] One innovative aspect is the detachable nature of the resistance controls.Rather than being permanently fixed, the inhalation and exhalation resistance dials can be switched or adjusted, enabling a broader range of airflow resistances to address diverse training needs. This design overcomes mechanical and manufacturing constraints often associated with permanently attached dials, enhancing the device’s adaptability.

[0013] The core components of the invention include a mouthpiece with a first (user) end and a second end connecting to the airflow unit, a rotor vane located within a conduit flanked by opposing helical deflectors, a processor unit enclosing advanced sensors, communication modules and a resistance unit. These components are engineered from lightweight materials — such as plastics, metals, or composites — suitable for personal use in both home and clinical settings.

[0014] The airflow unit’s rotor vane rotates proportionally to the volume and velocity of the inhaled or exhaled air, while the helical deflectors guide air onto the vane. The conduit is made up of transparent or translucent materials to ensure reliable sensor readings and to allow users or healthcare providers to observe the vane’s motion. The rotation data is collected by light sensors housed in the processor unit, which translates the rotational speed into airflow metrics essential for breathing assessments.

[0015] A robust communication module within the processor unit enables real-time data transmission to external devices (e.g., smartphones or tablets). Through this wireless link, users and healthcare professionals can track, analyze, and adjust breathing training parameters instantly. Settings data (device ID, user profiles, and resistance levels), measured data (flow and volume), and calculated data (inhaled / exhaled volumes, muscle strength indices) are exchanged seamlessly for comprehensive breathing management.

[0016] Supporting this hardware is a software application that processes the incoming data to provide detailed analytics on breathing parameters. Users can view flow rates, volume, and muscle strength metrics in real time, compare current performance against predefined exercise routines, and receive on-the-fly feedback or recommendations for adjustments in resistance or technique.

[0017] A significant advantage of the apparatus is its dual functionality as both a spirometer and a breathing exerciser. The resistance unit, when attached, allows users to perform resistance-based lung training, while detaching it or modifying its settings enables standard pulmonary function tests. The ability to measure these parameters during exercise sessions offers immediate, clinically relevant feedback.

[0018] Moreover, the resistance unit easily converts a standard spirometry module into a full-fledged breathing training system. This versatility is key for tailoring exercise intensities and rehabilitation protocols to each user’s specific needs or performance goals — benefitting patients with chronic breathing conditions as well as athletes seeking to enhance pulmonary endurance.

[0019] The apparatus adheres to recognized medical standards, including those of the American Thoracic Society (ATS) and the European Breathing Society (ERS),ensuring that pulmonary function measurements and exercise data are both precise and reliable in clinical or therapeutic applications.

[0020] Beyond clinical accuracy, the device offers scalability and adjustability to support an array of user needs, from individuals with diminished pulmonary capacity to athletes aiming for increased lung performance.

[0021] Thus, the invention presents a significant advancement over existing breathing devices. Its lightweight modular construction supports versatile use as either a diagnostic spirometer or a peak flow meter or a breathing exerciser. By unifying Spirometry capabilities with adjustable resistance controls and real-time data analytics, the invention fulfills crucial therapeutic and performance-oriented objectives in breathing care.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURE

[0022] Fig .1 illustrates respiration rehabilitation apparatus.

[0023] Fig. 2 illustrates cross section view of the respiration rehabilitation apparatus.

[0024] Fig. 3 illustrates the communication system of the sensor assembly of respiration rehabilitation apparatus.

[0025] Fig. 4 illustrates exploded view of the respiration rehabilitation apparatus.

[0026] Fig. 5 illustrates perspective view of the resistance unit.

[0027] Fig. 6 illustrates zoomed in view of the resistance unit with sensor assembly.

[0028] Fig. 7 illustrates the process of inhalation of the respiration rehabilitation apparatus.

[0029] Fig. 8 illustrates the process of exhalation of the respiration rehabilitation apparatus.

[0030] Fig. 9 illustrates the process of communication of the apparatus with network and mobile device.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0031] Referring now to fig. 1 and fig. 2, the invention encompasses a respiration rehabilitation apparatus 10 to strengthen the lung muscles and diaphragm of a user by improving lung capacity using inhalation and exhalation techniques. This apparatus 10 includes a mouthpiece 12, an airflow unit 14, a processor unit 16, and a resistance unit 20. The apparatus 10 can be made, for instance, of plastic, metal, composite material, or the like. Of course, other shapes and materials. The illustrated embodiment is designed such that it is portable, lightweight and compact and provides a hand-held device suitable for home or personal use, although not limited to such use. The overall size of the apparatus 10 is such that it can be readily stored in a handbag, drawer or the like and / or can be carried and taken with the patient as needed.

[0032] Referring to fig. 2, the mouthpiece 12 can be connected to additional equipment, and it may be applied to the nose and / or mouth. The mouthpiece 12 comprises a first end 121 and a second end 122. The first end 121 is used as inhaling or exhaling port for the user through which the user inhales and / or exhales the air for measurement and excersing. The second end 122 is detachably connected to the airflow unit 14. The mouthpiece 12 comprises an axis A, along which the airflow unit 14, the processor unit 16 and the resistance unit 20 are assembled as shown in fig. 4.

[0033] As seen in fig. 1 and fig. 2 the airflow unit 14 comprises a conduit 141, plurality of helical deflectors 142, 143 provide on the both ends of the conduit 141and a rotor vane 144 provided in between the helical deflectors 142 and 143. First helical deflector 142 and second helical deflectors 143 are arranged in such a way that the blades of each are opposite to each other. The vane 144 is mounted for rotating in the conduit 141 along the axis A. The vane 144 is caused to rotate by air flow through the conduit 141, and a speed of rotation of the vane corresponds to a speed of air flow through the conduit 141 at any instance in time.

[0034] The airflow unit 14 can be manufactured from transparent or light permeable material. The material can be a clear transparent plastic.

[0035] In another embodiment, the helical deflectors 142 and 143 can be different bodies that are installed within the conduit 141.

[0036] As shown in fig. 2, the conduit 141 comprises a step 141a for receiving the second end 122 of the mouthpiece 12. The outer diameter of second end 122 of the mouthpiece 12 is provided such that it creates a tight fit with the step 141a and can only be separated with the application of human force.

[0037] Referring again to fig. 2 & 3, the processor unit 16 is housed around the conduit 141 of the air flow unit 14. The processor unit 16 comprises sensors 161, 162 for measuring the rotation of vane 144, a communication module 163, a power source 164 for powering the various components of the processor unit 16, a controller 165.

[0038] The movement of vane 144 is tracked by infrared sensors 161 and 162, which are positioned on opposite sides of conduit 141. The processor unit 16 may comprise a transmitter 161 that emits a beam of light — either visible or invisible, along with a receiver 162 that identifies whether the beam is present or absent at the receiving point. For instance, the processor unit 16 may include an infrared-emitting diode and a phototransistor that detects the presence or absence of the infrared beam.

[0039] Sensors 161, 162 are installed on opposing sides around conduit 141 positioned near the vane 144. Here, a beam of infrared light is transmitted across the conduit at the location of vane 144. The rotation of vane 144 either interrupts the beam, or allows it to pass, depending on the vane's angular position at any given moment.

[0040] Fig.4 illustrate exploded view of the apparatus 10.

[0041] Referring now to fig. 5, the resistance unit 20 is shown in greater details. In the current embodiment, the resistance unit 20 is detachably connected to the processor unit 16.

[0042] The resistance unit 20 is designed to aid in measuring individual flow rates during inhalation and exhalation and resistance training for lung muscles. The resistance is provided below the processor unit 16 and is always placed below the second helical deflector 143. The resistance unit 20 includes a housing 22 with separate inhalation port 24 and exhalation port 26, which are located on opposite sides of the housing 22. The housing 22 serves as an air chamber. The inhalation port 22 and exhalation port 24 comprises detachable and adjustable resistance dials 241 and 261, allowing for independent control of airflow resistance. The inhalation port 24 and exhalation port 26, both includes individual one-way valve 242 and 262 (not shown), respectively, to allow the flow of air through one of the valve at one time. The detachable and adjustable resistance dials 241 and 261 is provides a plurality of airflow resistance values, for instances, a first set of adjustable resistance dials provides a resistance 0-5, a second set of adjustable resistance dials 5-10, and so on, which are helpful in measuring individual flow rates during inhalation and exhalation and resistance training for lung muscles.

[0043] Further, as shown in fig. 5, the housing 22 includes an aperture 28 in fluid communication with the processor unit 16 and airflow unit 14, such that there is no air leakage during the breathing process. The independent resistance dials 241 and 261 enable separate control of inhalation and exhalation resistances, providing separate airflow path for inhalation and exhalation which is crucial in various training or treatment settings where optimizing either the inhalation or exhalation resistance is necessary.

[0044] Referring now to fig. 6, the resistance unit 20 can be fixedly connected to the processor unit 16 through the coupling mechanism 18. In the current embodiment, the coupling mechanism includes magnets 30 provided on the outer surfaces of the detachable resistance unit 20 and the processor unit 16 (shown in fig.). These magnets are strategically placed on the external surfaces of both the resistance unit and the sensor unit. This magnetic system 30 is designed to enable quick and effortless attachment or detachment, enhancing the usability of the device. The magnetic connection ensures that the assembly remains securely in place under normal operating conditions but can be easily removed without the need for tools or excessive force. This feature is particularly beneficial in scenarios where quick adjustments or routine maintenance are required.

[0045] In another embodiment, the coupling mechanism 18 included projections, tubes, conduits, threads and other known methods to join the processor unit 16 and the resistance unit 20 in position mechanical fastening methods, such as threads, projections, and other commonly used techniques, to secure the resistance unit to the sensor unit. Unlike the magnetic method, mechanical fastenings provide a more permanent solution and are capable of withstanding greater physical stresses. For example, threaded connections involve screwing the components together, offering adurable bond that is less prone to accidental detachment. Alternatively, projections may include tabs or pins that slot into corresponding openings on the sensor unit, creating a physical lock that secures the components together firmly.

[0046] Each of these coupling mechanism is chosen based on the specific requirements and conditions under which the device will operate. Magnetic mounts are favoured for their convenience and ease of use, particularly suitable for environments where components need to be frequently swapped or adjusted.Mechanical connections, on the other hand, are selected for their strength and reliability in situations where the device may experience heavy use or exposure to rigorous activities. Both methods provide the flexibility needed for the resistance unit 20 to be detachable, accommodating a range of operational needs and user preferences.

[0047] The coupling mechanism 18 further enhances the device's versatility and user- friendliness. It enables quick and secure attachment or detachment of the resistance unit 20 to or from the processor unit. This feature allows for swift transitions between different modes of operation — shifting from a diagnostic tool to a training device — without the need for complex procedures or tools. The coupling mechanism 18 enables any type spirometer to be converted into a breathing exerciser.

[0048] The advantage of providing a detachable resistance unit 20 is that the apparatus 10 can also be used as a Spirometer or Peak Flow Meter to measure the lung functions when separated and also as breathing exerciser when attached with the processor unit 16.

[0049] In another embodiment of the current invention, the processor unit 16 and the resistance unit 20 can be provided as a single body or can be permanently attached together. The resistance unit 20 in this embodiment comprises an aperture 32 (notshown) and a lid 34 (not shown) on the bottom surface of the housing 22. The lid 34 can be opened when the apparatus 10 is to be used as a spirometer to measure pulmonary functions. When the aperture 32 is closed with the lid 34, the apparatus 10 can be used for measuring individual inhalation and exhalation measuring device and also as an exercising apparatus.

[0050] Referring now to fig. 7, the process of inhalation and measurement of airflow is shown. When a user inhales the air from the first end 121 of the mouthpiece 12, the one-way valve 242 opens and allows the air to enter the inhalation port through inhalation resistance dial 241 and simultaneously the one-way valve 262 closes, allowing the air only to enter through the inhalation port 24. The user has the option to control the volume of air entering detachable resistance unit 20 with the inhalation resistance dial 241. When the air enters the detachable resistance unit and passes through the detection assembly 14, the vane 144 rotates due to air directed on the vane from the deflectors 142, 143 and through the airflow tube enter the user lungs. The rotation of the vane 144 is detected by the sensors 161, 162 in the processor unit 16. The controller 164 receives the reading signals from the sensors 161,162 and calculate the inhalation air flow for the user and communicate with the mobile device 30.

[0051] Referring now to fig. 8, the process of exhalation and measurement of airflow is shown. When a user exhales the air from the first end 121 of the mouthpiece 12, the one-way valve 262 opens and allows the air to exit the inhalation port 26 through exhalation resistance dial 261 and simultaneously the one-way valve 242 closes, allowing the air only to exit through the exhalation port 26. The user has the option to control the volume of air leaving detachable resistance unit 20 with the exhalation resistance dial 26. When the user exhales the air, the air from the mouthpiece 12, air enters passes through the detection assembly 14, the vane 144 rotates due to airdirected on the vane from the deflectors 142, 143 and through detachable resistance unit 20 exits through the exhalation port 26. The rotation of the vane 144 is detected by the sensors 161, 162 in the processor unit 16 . The controller 164 receives the reading signals from the sensors 161,162 and calculate the inhalation air flow for the user and communicate with the mobile device 30.

[0052] By incorporating a resistance unit 20 that can interface with a spirometer device, the apparatus 10 serves dual purposes. It not only acts as a breathing exerciser to improve lung capacity and endurance but also functions as a Spirometer or a Peak Flow Meter. This capability allows for the immediate assessment of lung function during exercise, providing crucial real-time data for medical analysis.

[0053] This innovative design allows it to easily convert standard Spirometers into comprehensive breathing training exerciser. By attaching the resistance unit 20, users can adjust the difficulty of their breathing exercises, thereby tailoring the intensity to their specific rehabilitation needs or performance goals.

[0054] The integration of breathing exerciser along with Asthma and COPD diagnostic functionalities in a single device offers a significant advantage. This apparatus has been designed to meet the guidelines and standards required for medical use, making it a trusted tool in both therapeutic and clinical settings. Its accuracy and reliability in measuring pulmonary function are in compliance with recognized standards like ATS (American Thoracic Society) and ERS (European Breathing Society), ensuring it meets the rigorous demands of healthcare professionals.

[0055] Referring now to fig. 9, The apparatus 10 includes a communication module 163, equipped with a wireless transmitter, preferably utilizing Bluetooth or WiFi technology, provided in the processor unit 16. The communication module 163 allows for the continuous, real-time transmission of air flow and volume data from theapparatus 10 to other platforms. Located within the processor unit 16, the communication module 163 plays a critical role in the seamless exchange of data across commonly used device platforms through established communication protocols.

[0056] The communication module 163 facilitates the transmission of various types of data, including settings data, which may consist of device identification and air flow resistance settings tailored to the user's needs. Additionally, it handles measured data, capturing details such as the air pressures and duration of each exercise session. Furthermore, it processes calculated data, which encompasses metrics like air flow rate, volumes of the breathing tract during inhalation and exhalation, and the strength and explosive strength of the breathing muscles.

[0057] Accompanying this hardware is a robust software application, designed to operate on remote devices such as smartphones or tablets 36. This application is adept at continuously receiving air pressure data transmitted from the breathing device. It processes this data to provide detailed and real-time breathing analytics, including inhaled and exhaled air pressure, flow rates, breathing tract volumes, and metrics related to the strength and explosive strength of breathing muscles during breathing cycles.

[0058] The application also displays this comprehensive breathing data on the remote device’s screen, offering users real-time insights into their breathing health.Additionally, it includes functionality to compare current breathing data against a predefined personal breathing routine, allowing users to track their progress and make adjustments as needed.

[0059] Moreover, the software is engineered to provide several functional capabilities when executed: It acts as a calculation unit that processes inputs from the electronicsensor unit, an analysing unit that interprets the data, and a recommendation unit that suggests adjustments or improvements. The software also serves as a repository and provider of user profiles and historical breathing data, enabling long-term tracking and analysis of breathing health. This holistic approach ensures that users have access to both immediate feedback and long-term insights into their breathing patterns and health status.

[0060] Whether for patients with compromised lung function or athletes looking to boost pulmonary endurance, the apparatus can be adjusted to suit a wide range of users. This scalability is made possible by the adjustable resistance dials, which can modify the airflow resistance to match the user's current capability and desired intensity level.

[0061] By combining the functionality of a spirometer with the physical training capabilities of a breathing exerciser, this respiration rehabilitation apparatus offers a comprehensive solution for enhancing pulmonary health. Its adaptability, precision, and approval for medical use make it an invaluable tool for both ongoing breathing care and acute rehabilitation settings.

[0062] The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and / or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodimentsherein can be practiced with modification within the spirit and scope of the embodiments as described herein.

[0063] The foregoing description and accompanying figures illustrate the principles, embodiments and modes of operation of the invention. However, the invention should not be construed as being limited to the particular embodiments discussed above. Additional variations of the embodiments discussed above will be appreciated by those skilled in the art.

[0064] Therefore, the above-described embodiments should be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive. Accordingly, it should be appreciated that variations to those embodiments can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the following claims.

[0065] The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, “includes”, “including”, “having” and their conjugates mean “including but not limited to” and indicate that the components listed are included, but not generally to the exclusion of other components. Such terms encompass the terms “consisting of’ and “consisting essentially of’.

[0066] The phrase “consisting essentially of’ means that the composition or method may include additional ingredients and / or steps, but only if the additional ingredients and / or steps do not materially alter the basic and novel characteristics of the composition or method.

[0067] As used herein, the singular form “a”, “an” and “the” may include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, the term “a compound” or “at least one compound” may include a plurality of compounds, including mixtures thereof.

[0068] The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance or illustration”. Any embodiment described as “exemplary” is not necessarilyto be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments or to exclude the incorporation of features from other embodiments.

[0069] The word “optionally” is used herein to mean “is provided in some embodiments and not provided in other embodiments”. Any particular embodiment of the disclosure may include a plurality of “optional” features unless such features conflict.

[0070] It is appreciated that certain features of the disclosure, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the disclosure, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the disclosure. Certain features described in the context of various embodiments are not to be considered essential features of those embodiments, unless the embodiment is inoperative without those elements.

[0071] Although the disclosure has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the disclosure.

[0072] All publications, patents and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated in their entirety by reference into the specification, to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated herein by reference. In addition, citation or identification of any reference in this application shall not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art tothe present disclosure. To the extent that section headings are used, they should not be construed as necessarily limiting.

Claims

Breathing Exerciser Apparatus for strengthening Lung muscles along with Assessment of Lung health via SpirometryClaims1. A breathing exerciser apparatus for strengthening lung muscles and diaphragm of a user by improving lung capacity using inhalation and exhalation techniques, the apparatus comprising:a mouthpiece having a first end and a second end;an airflow unit connected to the second end of the mouthpiece, the airflow unit comprising:a conduit,at least one pair of helical deflectors disposed in the conduit, and a rotor vane disposed between the pair of helical deflectors, wherein the rotor vane is configured to rotate when air flows through the conduit;a processor unit configured to measure airflow passing through the conduit and to determine its direction; anda resistance unit connected to the processor unit, the resistance unit comprising:an inhalation port having an adjustable and / or detachable airflow resistance, andan exhalation port having an adjustable and / or detachable airflow resistance.

2. The breathing exerciser apparatus of claim 1, wherein the conduit of the airflow unit has two ends, one end connected to the mouthpiece and the other end connected to the processor unit.

3. The breathing exerciser apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one pair of helical deflectors comprises a first helical deflector facing the mouthpiece and a second helical deflector facing the processor unit.

4. The breathing exerciser apparatus of claim 3, wherein blades of the first helical deflector and the second helical deflector are oriented in opposite directions.

5. The breathing exerciser apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the airflow unit is detachably connected to the processor unit.

6. The breathing exerciser apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the resistance unit is positioned after the second helical deflector.

7. The breathing exerciser apparatus of claim 1, wherein the resistance unit is permanently connected to the processor unit.

8. The breathing exerciser apparatus of claim 1, wherein the resistance unit is detachably connected to the processor unit.

9. The breathing exerciser apparatus of claim 1 and 8, wherein the resistance unit the resistance unit is detachably connected to the processor unit through a coupling mechanism.

10. The breathing exerciser apparatus of claim 1, 8 and 9, wherein the coupling mechanism helps in converting any Spirometer or peak flow meter into a breathing exerciser.

11. The breathing exerciser apparatus of claim 1, wherein there is a separate path for inhalation and a separate path for exhalation.

12. The breathing exerciser apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processor unit comprises one or more sensors configured to measure the direction of airflow.

13. The breathing exerciser apparatus of claim 12, wherein the one or more sensors comprise Infrared sensors.

14. The breathing exerciser apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processor unit is configured to measure inhalation flow rates and exhalation flow rates independently.

15. The breathing exerciser apparatus of claim 1, wherein the airflow unit is formed of a transparent, translucent, or light-permeable plastic material.

16. The breathing exerciser apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processor unit further comprises:a plurality of sensors configured to detect and generate readings based on rotation of the rotor vane disposed in the airflow unit, anda controller configured to calculate airflow based on the readings generated by the plurality of sensors.

17. The breathing exerciser apparatus of claim 1, wherein the resistance unit comprises individual one-way valves for the inhalation port and the exhalation port.

18. The breathing exerciser apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus is configured to generate spirometry results for pulmonary function testing.

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