Breath Indicator With Color-Changing CO2 Detection for Infant Breathing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing breathing assistance apparatuses for infants lack a reliable and efficient method to visually indicate inhalation and exhalation phases, particularly for detecting end-tidal CO2 levels during resuscitation or assisted respiration.
Innovation Solution
A breath indicator comprising an elongate body with a gas sampling end and a sensor that changes visual states based on CO2 concentration, allowing for real-time detection of inhalation and exhalation phases, integrated with a breathing assistance apparatus to provide visual feedback on CO2 levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If CO2 detectors are used with adult ventilation systems, then circulatory status can be detected, but the apparatus is not suitable for infant resuscitation and assisted respiration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the CO2 detection function from complex adult ventilation systems and implements it as a simple, dedicated indicator specifically designed for infant breathing assistance. The indicator is a standalone component that can be attached to existing infant breathing apparatus, separating the detection function from the main ventilation system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a visual indicator as an intermediary between the CO2 detection process and the user. Instead of requiring direct interpretation of CO2 levels, the indicator provides an intuitive visual signal that bridges the gap between the technical measurement and user understanding, making the system accessible to non-experts.
2Measurement precision
If visual indicators are added to breathing assistance apparatus, then real-time breathing phase detection is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs color-changing indicator material that visually distinguishes between inhalation and exhalation phases. The indicator material changes color or visual appearance in response to CO2 concentration variations, providing precise breathing phase detection through simple visual cues without requiring complex electronic displays or sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
The indicator is designed to function autonomously without requiring external power sources, complex electronics, or additional components. The indicator material itself performs the detection and visualization function, making the system self-sufficient and minimizing added complexity to the breathing assistance apparatus.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables real-time visual indication of inhalation and exhalation phases, facilitating accurate monitoring of CO2 levels, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of resuscitation and assisted respiration processes.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor comprising a detector material changeable between a first visual indicator state relating to an inhalation phase of the patient, and a second visual indicator state relating to an exhalation phase of the patient
Data Source
AI summary
This invention relates to a breath indicator that is receivable by a part of a breathing assistance apparatus that supplies gas to a patient. The indicator comprises an elongate body having a gas sampling end and an attachment end. The attachment end is adapted to attach to a part of a breathing assistance apparatus and for locating the gas sampling end. The gas sampling end is to be located in a region where gas from the patient is to be exhaled. The gas sampling end being in communication with a sensor comprising a detector material changeable between a first visual indicator state relating to an inhalation phase of the patient, and a second visual indicator state relating to an exhalation phase of the patient. The detector material is capable of changing between the visual indicator states at a sufficient rate to substantially correspond with the inhalation and exhalation phases of the patient.