JP5209282B2 - Oxygen concentrator - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an oxygen concentrator, and more particularly to a small and portable oxygen concentrator for medical use by a pressure swing adsorption method.

  An oxygen concentrator using a pressure swing adsorption method in which oxygen is generated by using, as an adsorbent, a zeolite that permeates oxygen in the air and selectively adsorbs nitrogen has been put into practical use for medical purposes.

  According to this type of oxygen concentrator, the raw material air taken in from the air intake port is compressed by a compressor as a compression means to generate compressed air, and the compressed air whose temperature has increased during this compression is cooled by a heat exchanger. . The heat exchanger is cooled by the cooling means that blows outside air together with the above-described compression means, and oxygen is generated by supplying compressed air to the adsorption cylinder containing the adsorbent. It is configured so that oxygen can be inhaled to the patient via a nasal cannula or the like by storing the oxygen in a predetermined flow rate from the tank via a pressure reducing valve or a flow rate setting device.

  If the oxygen concentrator configured in this way is installed in a place equipped with, for example, an AC power supply (commercial power supply), for example, home oxygen therapy patients with reduced lung function can safely absorb oxygen even while sleeping. Will be able to sleep well. In particular, when used even while sleeping, it is preferable that the oxygen concentrator generates very little noise. If possible, it is desirable that the noise level is less than the level generated by the indoor air conditioning equipment.

  On the other hand, an oxygen concentrator used for long-term oxygen inhalation therapy that is effective as a treatment method for patients with respiratory diseases such as chronic bronchitis is generally not portable. That is, it is not configured so that the patient can be taken out. Therefore, when the patient is forced to go out, concentrated oxygen is sucked from the oxygen cylinder while pushing the cart equipped with the oxygen cylinder. Oxygen supply to the oxygen cylinder had to be performed by a dedicated facility, and the patient's QOL (Quality of Life) was considerably impaired.

  Therefore, portable and mobile oxygen concentrators using battery-driven compressors have been proposed (Patent Documents 1 and 2).

  In addition, when a compressor having a compression means for generating compressed air and a pressure reduction means for generating negative pressure is employed, vibration of the integrated compressor, and vibration generated during the pressure equalization process in the oxygen concentration process, in particular. For reducing the pressure, a negative pressure release valve communicating with the outside air is provided between the flow path between the pressure reducing means and the switching valve, and the negative pressure release valve is opened in synchronization with the pressure equalizing step. There has been proposed a technique for preventing vibration of the compressor and reducing power consumption by allowing outside air to enter the flow path between the pressure reducing means and the switching valve. (Patent Document 3).

In addition, a compressor having compression means for generating compressed air and a pressure reduction means for generating negative pressure, and connecting the compressor to the inlet side thereof, the compressed air is introduced into the cylinder and filled into the cylinder. The adsorbent adsorbs nitrogen to separate and produce oxygen, supplies oxygen from the outlet side, introduces negative pressure when the adsorbent is saturated with nitrogen, and discharges nitrogen to the outside of the adsorption cylinder 2 sets of 3 to be switched alternately between a compressed air flow path, a negative pressure flow path, and a closed flow path by being connected between the two adsorption cylinders to be made and the inlet side of the two adsorption cylinders and the compressor A directional switching valve, a pressure sensor for detecting that one of the two adsorption cylinders has reached the maximum internal pressure value, and a branch pipe between the outlet sides of the two adsorption cylinders and the highest pressure sensor When the internal pressure value is detected, the pressure is equalized between the two adsorption cylinders. An equal pressure valve that is opened so as to perform, and is connected between the negative pressure generating section and the negative pressure flow path of the three-way switching valve and is opened when performing equal pressure, and thus in the flow path There has been proposed a technique for reducing noise using a negative pressure release valve that includes a negative pressure release valve that controls the pressure of the exhaust gas and exhausts through the silencer by exhausting through the silencer.
JP 2002-121010 A JP 2000-79165 A JP 2005-1111016 A

  According to the oxygen concentrator configured as described above, when the inhalation state is detected, the opening valve is opened for a predetermined time in proportion to the oxygen supply amount set by the oxygen flow rate setting means. It is configured to perform inhalation. For this reason, there was a time difference in oxygen inhalation. For this reason, oxygen inhalation in real time may not be possible. The time ratio of the inspiratory phase / expiratory phase of a general patient is set to 1: 1.5 to 2, and the time of the inspiratory phase is about 0.3 to 1 second, and the proportional opening When performing control to supply oxygen in synchronization with the inspiratory phase using a valve, it is difficult to accurately control the flow rate and supply it to the patient within the slight inspiratory phase time.

  On the other hand, in order to make the oxygen inhalation device portable, a rechargeable battery is built in. However, if the compressor driving is not optimized, battery consumption increases, and the device cannot be used in a short time.

  Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and is a small portable oxygen that can achieve increased accuracy and can last a rechargeable battery when performing oxygen inhalation by breathing synchronization. Its purpose is to provide a concentrator.

In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, the oxygen concentrator of the present invention allows compressed air to permeate through a zeolite adsorbent accommodated in a cylinder and selectively adsorbs nitrogen with the adsorbent. A pair of adsorption cylinders for generating oxygen, filter means for filtering the raw air to be compressed air, compressor means motor-driven to obtain the compressed air from the air filtered by the filter means, A rechargeable battery that supplies power including motor drive, a switching valve that is switched to alternately supply compressed air to the pair of adsorption cylinders, a container that stores the generated oxygen, and an oxygen supply amount An oxygen inhalation device comprising: an oxygen flow rate setting means for setting, wherein the oxygen flow rate setting means is in contact with a prediction means for predicting an oxygen supply amount cycle to be supplied based on an oxygen suction frequency. Are, with the oxygen flow rate setting means oxygen supply amount set by, from the measured the oxygen supply period by the prediction means, a calculating means for calculating a required amount of oxygen supplied per hour, the necessary oxygen supply A control means for reading out a control pattern of power consumption and motor rotation speed stored in advance in a table, and performing respiratory synchronization control for supplying oxygen generated during expiration to the ratio of inspiration to expiration The control means performs increase / decrease control of the motor rotation speed based on any of the control patterns .

  According to the present invention, in a small and portable oxygen concentrator, the consumption of a rechargeable battery can be reduced by changing the motor rotation speed of the compressor according to the oxygen supply amount cycle amount predicted by the prediction means. Can do. In addition, power consumption can be reduced.

  Hereinafter, a portable oxygen concentrator will be described as an example of a preferred embodiment of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings. Here, the present invention is susceptible to various modifications and changes, of which specific examples are illustrated in the drawings and will be described in detail below. However, it is needless to say that the present invention is not limited to these, and various configurations are possible within the scope defined in the claims. Fig. 1 (a) is a piping diagram for explaining the principle of oxygen generation, and Fig. 1 (b) shows pressure fluctuations in a positive pressure fluctuation adsorption method (PSA) using positive pressure and a positive / negative pressure fluctuation adsorption method (VPSA) using positive pressure and negative pressure. The chart illustrated with the passage of time, (c) is a chart illustrating the nitrogen adsorption amount in the pressure fluctuation adsorption method (PSA) and the positive / negative pressure fluctuation adsorption method (VPSA) together with the pressure.

  In FIG. 1, a positive pressure fluctuation adsorption method (PSA) using positive pressure raw material air and a positive / negative pressure fluctuation adsorption method (VPSA) using positive pressure and negative pressure raw material air will be briefly described. In FIG. 1 (a), the raw air compressed by the compressor C by introducing external air is introduced into the first adsorption cylinder 108a through one of the three-way switching valves 109a. The first adsorption cylinder 108a contains a catalyst zeolite, and nitrogen is adsorbed by the zeolite to separate and produce oxygen. The oxygen separated and generated in this way flows through a check valve (not shown) and flows into the product tank. When the internal pressure of the first adsorption cylinder 108a increases, the three-way switching valve 109a is switched to the exhaust side to perform exhaust. Before and after this, the equal pressure valve 107 is opened, and the process proceeds to a pressure equalization process for cleaning the second adsorption cylinder 108b using a part of oxygen concentrated in the first adsorption cylinder 108a.

  Next, the three-way switching valve 109b is opened to perform the desorption process (discharge of nitrogen and moisture) of the first adsorption cylinder 108a and intake of compressed air into the second adsorption cylinder 108b, and the second adsorption cylinder Oxygen separated and generated by the compressed air flowing into the body 108b flows into the product tank through a check valve (not shown). Thereafter, when it is detected by a pressure sensor (not shown) that the predetermined pressure has been reached, the equal pressure valve 107 is opened for a predetermined time, and then the second adsorption cylinder 108a is cleaned and pressure equalized. Further, by opening the equal pressure valve 107, oxygen separated and generated by the second adsorption cylinder 108b is sent to the outlet of the first adsorption cylinder 108a, and the built-in zeolite is cleaned. By repeating the above steps at a predetermined timing, continuous stable supply of oxygen is performed.

  As described above, when the compressed air is supplied to each of the two adsorption cylinders by switching the two three-way switching valves, the positive pressure is changed so that the pressure change shown by the solid line in FIG. A method in which pressurized compressed air is sent into the adsorption cylinder to adsorb nitrogen and the desorption operation is performed at substantially atmospheric pressure is called the positive pressure fluctuation adsorption method (PSA), and the desorption operation illustrated by the broken line in FIG. A method in which the built-in zeolite is more actively washed by reducing the pressure to a vacuum is called a positive / negative pressure fluctuation adsorption method (VPSA). This method is called the positive pressure fluctuation adsorption method (PSA). By sending positive pressure compressed air and depressurized negative pressure air, the pressure change shown in the broken line in FIG. A method of cleaning the built-in zeolite is called a positive / negative pressure fluctuation adsorption method (VPSA).

  As shown in FIG. 1 (c), the amount of nitrogen adsorbed by the positive pressure fluctuation adsorption method (PSA) is smaller than that of the positive and negative pressure fluctuation adsorption method (VPSA). It is desirable to carry out based on the adsorption method. However, in this case, a compressor capable of supplying both positive-pressure compressed air and decompressed negative-pressure air is required. Since such a compressor is usually increased in size, it is difficult to incorporate it into a portable small oxygen concentrator, for example.

  On the other hand, in the positive pressure fluctuation adsorption method, a compressor capable of supplying only positive-pressure compressed air may be used, so that it can be incorporated into, for example, a portable small oxygen concentrator. Hereinafter, a portable small-sized oxygen concentrator constructed based on the above-described positive pressure fluctuation adsorption method will be described in detail as an example.

<Description of Overall Configuration of Oxygen Concentrator 1>
FIG. 2A is an external perspective view illustrating a small oxygen concentrator 1 (hereinafter also referred to as “device 1”) according to an embodiment of the present invention as seen from the upper left side of the front side together with the nasal cannula 14. FIG. 2B is an external perspective view of the portable bag 4 prepared exclusively for accommodating the small oxygen shrinkage-containment apparatus 1.

  As shown in FIG. 2 (a), the small oxygen concentrator 1 has a vertically elongated external shape that is approximately 2 to 4 kg in total weight and is substantially close to a 2 liter PET bottle. By adopting such a vertically long configuration, it becomes possible to insert downward from the opening 4a of the portable bag 4 illustrated in FIG. 2B, and the lid 4b provided with a hook covers the operation panel 5 after insertion. By being fixed in this manner, it is prevented from falling off, and the hanging belt 4d fixed to the portable bag 4 is hung from the shoulder so that, for example, it is portable so as not to get in the way when going out. Yes. Further, a shoulder pad is fixed to the hanging belt 4d as shown in the figure so as not to be a burden on the shoulder, and a pouch 4c for storing a nasal cannula 14 to which a tube 15 is connected is provided in front of the portable bag 4. Is provided. In addition, the portable bag 4 can be made of synthetic leather or urethane-coated cloth, and an opening is formed so as not to block an air inlet described later.

  As described above, the small oxygen concentrator 1 has a vertically long outer shape that is substantially similar to that of a plastic bottle. In particular, in the unused state in which the nasal cannula 14 and the bent tube 15 are housed in the pouch 4c of the portable bag 4. Consideration is given so that the small oxygen concentrator 1 cannot be easily known by a glance at another person.

  In addition, while pursuing weight saving and energy saving, the electricity bill is further reduced, while the attached external battery which can be attached and detached and can be repeatedly charged and the built-in rechargeable battery 228 which can be repeatedly charged and the home commercial (AC ) It can be used with three power supply systems. In particular, the built-in battery 228 and the external battery can be used with confidence because they can be used as a backup power source in the event of a power failure. Furthermore, it has a function that can be switched to a “tuning mode” in which oxygen is sent in synchronism with intake air in order to save battery power.

  Further, the main casing 2 constituting the hermetic cover having the above-mentioned vertically long external shape is made of, for example, an ABS resin which is a thermoplastic resin having impact resistance which is an injection-molded resin part. Secured. Further, other components including two adsorption cylinders filled with an adsorbent are reduced in weight as much as possible. For the heaviest compressor 10, only compressed air is generated by the positive pressure fluctuation adsorption method (PSA). By adopting the type, the weight has been reduced by about 2kg. In addition, the soundproofing chamber 3 indicated by a two-dot chain line in the drawing can also be made of an impact-resistant thermoplastic resin, for example, ABS resin for weight reduction.

  In FIG. 1A, the operation panel 5 is formed obliquely at an angle of about 10 degrees, for example, and the power switch 6 and the 7-segment numbers on the LED or the liquid crystal display are sequentially arranged on the operation panel 5 from the left. An oxygen flow rate and other display unit 204 for performing the above, an oxygen outlet 7 for resin parts, and two upper and lower oxygen flow setting buttons 8 with or without a resin cover are arranged. Above the oxygen outlet 7, a resin coupler 13 is provided which is engaged with a stepped portion formed in the oxygen outlet 7 in an airtight manner and is detachably provided. The coupler 13 is set so that an opening of a flexible tube 15 such as a nasal cannula 14 communicates therewith.

  When loaded in the above portable bag 4, the patient should be outside the body at a height approximately corresponding to the waist where a Japanese standard height (160-170 cm) patient stands and both hands are lowered. Since the operation panel 5 is formed obliquely, for example, the operation of the small oxygen concentrator 1 can be performed without difficulty while standing. Furthermore, since the dials are arranged at symmetrical positions with the oxygen outlet 7 at the center, even a left-handed person can operate without any discomfort.

  The total length of the tube 15 connected to the nasal cannula 14 is, for example, within 60 cm so as not to be particularly disturbed when being carried. However, the total length substantially corresponds to the range of movement in the same room where the patient lives. If a thing is prepared separately, the use in the state which fixed the small oxygen concentrator 1 to the indoor corner is possible. In addition, four rubber feet (not shown) may be fixed to the four corners of the bottom surface to prevent a side slip when used on the floor surface and not to easily fall down.

  Next, FIG. 3 is a front view in which the main part is cut away to illustrate the internal configuration of the small oxygen concentrator 1 shown in FIG. In this figure, the same reference numerals are given to the components or parts that have already been described, and the description is omitted. In order to introduce outside air into the upper side of the back side of the main housing 2, it is horizontally long as shown in the figure. The formed inlet 2a is formed. Further, an exhaust port 2b opened to the outside is formed on the right side surface of the main housing 2 so as to exhaust the air after generating oxygen.

The soundproofing chamber 3 as a sub-housing is formed from a wall member 9 that is integrally formed with the main housing 2 or provided as a separate member, and is provided with a soundproofing material 11 that is laid on the inner wall surface of the soundproofing chamber 3. Thus, the operation sound generated from the compressor 10 is effectively absorbed.
As shown in the figure, the soundproofing material 11 is provided so as to cover the inner wall surface of the main housing 2 and various electromagnetic valves 109, 115, 117 described later, so that the operation sound at the time of on / off can be effectively absorbed. I have to.

  The soundproofing material 11 includes a polyolefin fiber (preferably polypropylene fiber) having a fiber diameter of 1 to 4 microns, and a polyolefin fiber (preferably polypropylene fiber) having a fiber diameter of 20 to 30 microns. The nonwoven fabric which consists of can be used. It was confirmed that such a nonwoven fabric can be used to make it lightweight and the soundproof and sound absorbing effect can be dramatically improved.

  The compressor 10 is fixed to a mounting plate 20 obtained by bending, for example, an aluminum plate member having a thickness of 0.5 to 2 mm into a U-shape, and then a soundproof chamber through a vibration-proof rubber 21 including a rubber bush. 3 is fixed as shown in the figure.

  A flexible pipe 24 for introducing the raw material air from the intake port 2a to the filter assembly 22 provided integrally with the compressor 10 passes through a through hole formed in the soundproof chamber 3. It is provided as follows.

  Further, a heat radiating pipe 25 for cooling the compressed air whose temperature has been increased by being compressed by the compressor 10 is connected via a pipe 24. The heat radiating tube 25 is configured such that a long tube made of, for example, copper or aluminum is wound in a coil shape as shown in the figure to increase the surface area. In the process of passing through the interior, the air is cooled by blowing air from the heat dissipating fan 30 including the axial fan disposed in the vicinity.

  Moreover, the ventilation of the heat radiating fan 30 is exhausted toward the exhaust port 2b. On the other hand, since air from the heat radiating fan 30 is also actively exhausted from the silencer 31 described later, outside air is introduced into the soundproof room 3 through another through hole (not shown), and the above heat radiation and It is configured to exhaust.

  On the other hand, the external battery connector 131 and the AC adapter connectors 130 and 133 are provided on the left side surface of the main housing 2, and the connector at the end of the AC cable of the illustrated AC adapter is inserted into the AC adapter connector 130 to concentrate small oxygen. Power is supplied to the device 1 from an AC adapter (AC 100V).

  In addition, by setting the external battery connector that can be repeatedly charged to the external battery connector 131, the battery can be driven for up to about 2 hours when going out or moving indoors (indoors).

  Further, the rechargeable built-in battery 228 is disposed at the lowest position as shown in the figure, and the center of gravity of the entire apparatus is lowered. As described above, the AC power supply (commercial power supply), external battery, and built-in battery have three power sources, and the priority of the power source to be used is automatically switched to the AC power supply, external battery, and built-in battery. The battery 228 can be preserved.

  On the other hand, a pair of adsorption cylinders 108a and 108b for allowing compressed air to permeate through the adsorbent of zeolite contained therein and selectively adsorbing nitrogen with the adsorbent to generate oxygen are provided in the soundproof chamber 3 as shown in the figure. And the main housing 2. Further, the product tank 111 that stores the generated oxygen is disposed above the soundproof chamber 3.

  An operation state lamp (not shown) having a built-in light emitting LED, for example, that lights in green and red is provided at a position corresponding to the ON position of the power switch 6. There is also a model in which a battery remaining amount monitor is provided.

  The central oxygen outlet 7 is provided so that all the enclosed portions are retracted from the operation surface of the operation panel 5 to the back side (the back side in the drawing) as illustrated. On some oxygen outlets 7, there is also a model provided with an alarm display unit in which a character “inspection” or a character display corresponding thereto is printed horizontally. Further, there is a model in which an oxygen lamp having a built-in light emitting LED, for example, which is lit in green, red and yellow is provided below the alarm display section.

  The upper and lower oxygen flow rate setting buttons 8 and 8 are provided as flat switches so as to be substantially flush with the operation surface of the operation panel 5. Each time the oxygen flow setting button 8 is operated to push oxygen concentrated to about 90% or more from 0.25 L (liter) per minute to 5 L at the 0.25 L step or 0.01 L step, the oxygen flow rate Can be set, and is displayed on the upper oxygen flow rate display unit 9.

  As described above, it is possible to operate by changing the oxygen generation capacity. In addition, there is a model provided with a tuning lamp provided to notify the patient by lighting or blinking that the concentrated oxygen is being operated in an intermittent supply state by breathing synchronization. There is also a model provided with an operation indicator provided for informing a patient by blinking in synchronization with respiration.

  As described above, each operation unit arranged on the operation panel 5 is configured to be able to operate all main functions with a minimum necessary operation on the premise of safety in use and use by the elderly.

  Specifically, the remaining battery capacity display section of the display section 204 is fully lit for about 2 seconds when the power is turned on. After that, if the remaining amount of the internal battery 228 or the external rechargeable battery is 100%, the lamp with the built-in light-emitting LED lights in green (continuously shines) and displays in multiple levels (for example, 5 levels) All the parts are lit up. In addition, each time the remaining battery level is reduced by a predetermined percentage (for example, 20%) with respect to full charge, the lights are turned off sequentially and the number of lights is gradually reduced. And can be alerted with a built-in buzzer or voice guide.

  Then, when the remaining amount of the rechargeable battery becomes 10% or less of a predetermined ratio with respect to the full charge, the lamp incorporating the light emitting LED blinks so as to shine intermittently in an alarm color such as red, and at a predetermined interval, for example, A warning is provided with a built-in buzzer or voice guide every 5 minutes, ensuring safety in use in the battery drive mode especially when going out or during a power failure. Note that the remaining battery capacity display portions of the internal battery 228 and the external rechargeable battery may be displayed separately so as to correspond to the internal battery 228 and the external rechargeable battery, respectively, so that they can be easily viewed. In addition, “inspection” may be printed on the alarm display unit so that a built-in lamp is turned on when the oxygen concentration is lowered. Further, when an abnormality occurs on the apparatus side, a buzzer may sound and be notified with a voice guide. In addition, when the apparatus stops due to a power failure, while blinking and informing, it may be possible to be surely informed to a visually handicapped person with a buzzer and a voice guide. In the oxygen lamp, the built-in LED is lit in green when oxygen is normally inhaled. Further, the light is turned off when oxygen is not emitted or when the oxygen concentration is lowered. Then, in the synchronization mode (breathing synchronization mode), when the respiratory state cannot be detected for a certain time, for example, about 30 seconds, it may be lit in red as an alarm color, and a buzzer may be sounded and notified by a voice guide.

  In addition, when driving in a synchronized mode in which concentrated oxygen is supplied in synchronization with inspiration, the indicator lights up or blinks in green substantially in synchronization with the breathing pattern (oxygen output) in order to make the patient visually recognize that fact. As a notification, the patient may be able to confirm that concentrated oxygen is being supplied normally.

  On the other hand, when the power switch 6 is turned on, an initial self-check is performed in which a buzzer sounds and all the lamps are lit green for 2 seconds. It may be lit. When the patient performs an increase / decrease operation of the oxygen flow rate setting button 8 according to the doctor's prescription and sets the flow rate to a predetermined flow rate, the oxygen supply is started. When the small oxygen concentrator 1 is normally stopped, the previous operating conditions (oxygen flow rate, presence / absence of the tuning mode) are stored in the temporary storage device. For this reason, when the oxygen flow rate setting button 8 is not pressed after the initial self-check, the concentrated oxygen is automatically supplied under the previous operating conditions. Note that the fact (the same operating condition as the previous time) may be notified by voice guidance.

  When the power switch 6 is turned off at the time of stopping, the oxygen lamp is also turned off, and it may be automatically terminated after the operation lamp blinks for a while.

<Description of piping and block diagram of oxygen concentrator 1>
FIG. 4 is a piping diagram that also serves as a block diagram of the oxygen concentrator 1. In this figure, components that have already been described are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted, and the double line in the figure is a pipe 24 serving as a flow path for air, oxygen, and nitrogen gas, and generally pipes 24a to 24a- 24g. A thin solid line indicates power supply or electric signal wiring.

  Here, in the following description, a case will be described in which a compressor 10 in which a compressed air generating unit and a filter assembly 22 are integrated is used. In addition, the main housing 2 that introduces outside air into the inside through the air inlet 2a and discharges it to the outside through the air outlet 2b is shown as a hermetic container in the figure by a broken line.

In FIG. 4, it will be described in order along the flow of the introduced air. Raw material air (outside air) is introduced into the filter assembly 22 in the direction of arrow F through the pipe 24. The raw air filtered by the filter assembly 22 enters the compressor 10 located in the soundproof chamber 3 shown by a broken line.
The compressor 10 integrally configured with the filter assembly 22 is fixed in a vibration-proof state as described above.

  Next, the filtered raw material air is pressurized by a compression mechanism, which will be described later, of the compressor 10 to become compressed air. At this time, the temperature rises and is sent to the pipe 24c, so that the pipe 24c has an excellent heat dissipation effect. Further, it is provided so as to be connected to the heat radiating pipe 25 and to be cooled by blowing air from the blower fan 30. As a result of cooling the compressed air in this way, the zeolite, which is an adsorbent whose function deteriorates at high temperatures, can sufficiently function as an adsorbent for generating oxygen by adsorption of nitrogen, resulting in 90% oxygen. It becomes possible to concentrate to a degree or more.

  The compressed air is alternately supplied to the first adsorption cylinder 108a and the second adsorption cylinder 108b, which are arranged in parallel as described above via the pipe 24d. For this reason, the three-way switching valves 109a and 109b, which are switching valves, are connected as shown in the figure. In order to perform a purification process for desorbing unnecessary gases from these three-way switching valves 109a and 109b and the first and second adsorption cylinders 108a and 108b, the three-way switching valves 109a and 109b A pipe 24f is connected as shown. Further, a silencer 31 is connected to the downstream side of the pipe 24f to silence the exhaust and exhaust from the exhaust port 2b to the outside.

Zeolite, which is a catalyst adsorbent stored in the first adsorption cylinder 108a and the second adsorption cylinder 108b, has a Si ₂ O ₃ / Al ₂ O ₃ ratio of 2.0 to 3.0. The amount of nitrogen adsorbed per unit weight can be increased by using X-type zeolite and at least 88% of the Al ₂ O ₃ tetrahedral unit combined with lithium cations. In particular, a granule measurement value of less than 1 mm and a fusion of at least 88% or more of tetrahedral units with a lithium cation are preferred.

  By using such a zeolite, it becomes possible to reduce the amount of raw material air required to produce the same oxygen. As a result, the compressor 10 for generating compressed air can be of a smaller type, and further noise reduction can be achieved.

  On the other hand, an equal pressure valve 107 including a check valve, a throttle valve, and an on-off valve is branched and connected to the outlet side above the first adsorption cylinder 108a and the second adsorption cylinder 108b as shown in the figure. Further, a pipe 24d to be joined is connected to the downstream side of the equal pressure valve 107, and a product tank 111 serving as a container for storing separated and produced oxygen having a concentration of about 90% or more is shown in the figure. It is piped with respect to the pipe 24d. Further, a pressure sensor (not shown) for detecting the pressure in each adsorption cylinder is provided.

  On the downstream side of the product tank 111, a pressure regulator 112, which is a so-called regulator that automatically adjusts the pressure of oxygen on the outlet side to be constant, is piped. A zirconia-type or ultrasonic-type oxygen concentration sensor 114 is connected to the downstream side of the pressure regulator 112 via a pipe 24e, and the oxygen concentration is detected intermittently (every 10 to 30 minutes) or continuously. I am doing so. A proportional opening valve 115 that opens and closes in conjunction with the oxygen flow rate setting button 8 is connected to the downstream side via a pipe 24g, and an oxygen flow rate sensor 116 is further connected to the downstream side. A demand valve 117 is connected downstream of the sensor 116 via a negative pressure circuit board for breathing synchronization control, and is connected to the oxygen outlet 7 of the small oxygen concentrator 1 through the sterilization filter 119. ing. With the above configuration, it is possible to inhale oxygen concentrated to about 90% or more through the nasal cannula 14 and the like at a maximum flow rate of 5 L / min.

  Next, the power supply system includes an AC adapter 19 connected via an AC power connector 130 connected to a switching regulator type AC adapter 19 that rectifies AC (commercial AC) power to a predetermined DC voltage, and a main housing. The built-in battery 228 is built in the bottom of the body 2, the external battery 227 is detachably provided via the connector 131, and the power control circuit 226. The internal battery 228 and the external battery 227 are rechargeable secondary batteries, and the internal battery 228 is charged by receiving power from the power supply control circuit 226. Note that at least the built-in battery 228 can be repeatedly charged and discharged at least about 500 times (several hundred times), and has a management function such as the remaining battery capacity, the number of charge / discharge cycles used, the degree of deterioration, and the output voltage. It is preferable to have a management function capable of confirming the remaining battery capacity, remaining charge capacity, and the number of charge / discharge cycles with an external portable terminal or the like. In addition, the external battery 227 can be charged by receiving power from the power supply control circuit 226 in a connected state via the connector 131, but is normally repeatedly charged using a separately prepared battery charger. It will be. Or you may prepare as the external battery 227 which integrated the battery charger designed exclusively.

  In the configuration of the power supply system described above, the oxygen concentrator 1 is operated in response to power supply from the AC adapter 19, and in second power supply state that operates in response to power supply from the internal battery 228. The power supply state is automatically switched to one of three power supply states, ie, a third power supply state that operates by receiving power supply from an external battery.

  The power supply control circuit 226 is controlled by the central controller 200 so that the priority for this automatic switching is automatically determined in the order of the first power supply state, the third power supply state, and the second power supply state.

  In addition, an ID tag code identification circuit 230 may be further connected to the power supply control circuit 226 to prevent a situation where the rechargeable battery runs out when being carried, as will be described later. That is, in order to prevent a situation where the rechargeable battery runs out when being carried, it is preferable to connect a plurality of rechargeable batteries 228. However, connecting a plurality of batteries in this way complicates the means for switching the power source. It becomes impossible to monitor the power consumption individually.

  Therefore, among a plurality of rechargeable batteries 228,... 228, an identification ID tag code and a charge state detection are individually performed to enable control to automatically switch from a discharged battery to a fully charged rechargeable battery. Means are provided so that a discharged battery can be confirmed and switched to a fully charged battery. Furthermore, the number of batteries to be connected is freely selected according to the time when the battery is desired to be used, thereby improving convenience.

  Further, the built-in built-in battery 228 is disposed on the bottom surface as described later in order to lower the center of gravity of the oxygen concentrator 1. On the other hand, the external battery 227 is housed in, for example, a pocket of a patient's clothing, and can be used when going out by connecting it appropriately. Since the external battery 227 is provided with the remaining charge display section, the remaining usage time can be known together with the voice guide.

  The AC adapter 19 is preferably a switching regulator type that can generate a predetermined DC voltage without being affected by the difference in frequency and voltage fluctuation, and can be configured to be small and light, but may also be a normal series type. . In addition, the internal battery 228 and the external battery 227 are preferably lithium ion or lithium hydrogen ion secondary batteries that have little memory effect during charging and can be fully charged even during recharging, but may be conventional nickel cadmium batteries or nickel metal hydride batteries. Further, in preparation for an emergency, the external battery may be configured as a box of AA dry batteries available anywhere.

  The central control unit 200 stores a program for switching to an optimal operation mode according to the amount of oxygen to be generated. When generating a large amount of oxygen, the central control unit 200 automatically drives the compressor 10 and the blower fan 30 at high speed. In the case of generating a small amount of oxygen, the built-in battery 228 is particularly conserved by performing the control through the motor control unit 201 and the fan motor control unit 203 that perform the rotation drive at a low speed. As a result, even when the external battery 227 is forgotten to be charged, it is possible to cope with sudden outings or power outages.

  The central control unit 200 incorporates a ROM that stores a predetermined operation program, and is further connected to an external storage device 210, a circuit 207 including a volatile memory, a temporary storage device, and a real-time clock. The stored contents can be accessed by connecting to a communication line or the like via the communication line.

  In addition, a control circuit that controls to desorb unnecessary gas in the first adsorption cylinder body 108a and the second adsorption cylinder body 108b by performing on / off control of the three-way switching valves 109a and 109b and the equal pressure valve 107. 208, a flow rate control unit 202 that drives and controls the oxygen concentration sensor 114, the proportional opening valve 115, the flow rate sensor 116, and the demand valve 117 is connected to the central control unit 200.

  The compressor 10 having a total weight of about 500 g is driven by a variable speed control unit built in the motor control unit 201 so that the driving sound of the DC motor including the outer rotor type electric motor is controlled with a sinusoidal drive waveform. doing. The compressor 10 can be operated at various speeds, can generate a necessary positive pressure level and flow rate, generates only a little noise and vibration, generates only a little heat, is small and light, and has a small amount. It is configured so that it can be operated with sufficient power consumption.

  By providing the motor controller 201 with a variable speed controller, which is a variable speed control means, the speed of the compressor 10 can be freely changed based on the activity level and environmental conditions of the patient. As a result, when the demand valve 117 determines that the patient's oxygen demand is relatively low, such as when the patient is sitting or sleeping, based on respiratory synchronization, the drive rotational speed of the compressor 10 is automatically reduced. Can do. Also, the patient's oxygen demand is relatively high and the oxygen demand is increased, such as when the patient is standing, active, or when GPS determines that the patient is at a high altitude with a low oxygen concentration, as will be described later. When configured, the speed can be increased automatically.

  With the motor control described above, the power consumption of the entire apparatus 1 is reduced, it is possible to extend the life when driven by a rechargeable battery, the weight and size of the rechargeable battery are reduced, and the degree of wear of the compressor 10 is reduced. It is also possible to obtain a secondary effect that can improve the reliability by lowering the lifetime.

The compressor 10 has a function only for generating compressed air as described above, and the rotation speed is automatically controlled according to the oxygen flow rate taken out, and the rotation speed is controlled between 500 rpm and 3000 rpm. Further, the compressor 10 has a performance of compressing air to about 60 to 150 kPa.

  The operating temperature surrounding the compressor 10 is 0 ° C. to 40 ° C., and the driving voltage of the compressor 10 is DC 12V or 24V, which is a power source obtained from a cigarette lighter adapter such as an automobile or truck, and the power consumption is , About 30W. For this reason, in the worst case, the power can be supplied by connecting to the connector 131.

  The blower fan 30 has a power consumption of about 3 W, and its rotational speed varies according to the concentrated oxygen flow rate, contributing to a reduction in noise and a reduction in power.

  As the three-way switching valves 109a and 109b, electromagnetic valves that perform a valve operation generally called a direct acting type by a magnetic force during energization can be used. This type of solenoid valve has a problem of high power consumption because the main valve is operated only by electric power. Therefore, a pilot-type three-way switching valve can be used as the three-way switching valves 109a and 109b. According to this pilot-type three-way selector valve, since it can be operated by using a little power consumption and the air pressure from the compressor, it is reduced from the conventional 8W to 0.5W, so the power consumption is greatly reduced. It will be planned.

  Each of the above-described components is mounted mainly on the main housing 2 from one direction as shown in FIG. 3 in consideration of improvement in assembly workability and serviceability of the small oxygen concentrator 1 with reduced noise. Designed to be fixed as a part. That is, various control boards, the pressure regulator 112 that automatically adjusts the oxygen pressure to be constant as described above, the oxygen concentration sensor 114, the proportional opening valve 115 on the downstream side of the pressure regulator 112, and the oxygen flow rate sensor 116. The demand valves 117 connected to the negative pressure circuit board 118 for breathing synchronization control can all be fixed from one direction. In particular, components that generate vibration or noise are provided in the soundproof room 3 in a soundproof and vibration-proof state, so that the supply sound of compressed air, the introduction sound of external air, and the filtered air for producing raw air Noise is reduced by preventing the introduction sound and the periodically generated exhaust sound from leaking outside. Further, the operation sound of the three-way switching valve is soundproofed by covering with the soundproof sheet 11 as described above. Further, the main housing 2 is configured as a hermetic cover having a minimum necessary opening that is introduced into the inside through the air inlet 2a and discharged to the outside through the air outlet 2b, thereby further reducing noise. It becomes possible to plan.

<Integrated Configuration of Filter Assembly 22 and Compressor 10>
FIG. 5 is an external perspective view showing a state after the mounting plate 20 and the filter assembly 22 are fixed to the compressor 10.

  In this figure, since the compressor 10 is the type which obtains only compressed air from raw material air as mentioned above, it is provided with the one cylinder part 35. FIG. Further, a head member 36 to which a joint 47 for connecting a pipe 24c for sending out compressed air is connected to the upper portion of the cylinder portion 35 is fixed using four long bolts. By fixing the four corners of the head member 36 as described above, it is possible to receive a large pressure generated inside the cylinder portion 35 and to be disassembled and repaired.

  As shown in FIG. 5, a filter assembly 22 for filtering the raw air is fixed. L-shaped joints 37 connected to the pipe 24 are fixed to both side surfaces of the filter assembly 22. Further, the mounting plate 20 is fixed as shown in the figure in a co-tightened state by fixing the anti-vibration rubber 21 to the female screw hole formed in the bottom surface of the compressor 10.

  Next, FIG. 6 is a front view of the essential part cut away to illustrate the internal configuration of the compressor 10 and the filter assembly 22 of FIG. In FIG. 6, components and components that have already been described are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted. The compressor 10 is a cylinder chamber that guides the piston 33 reciprocally driven by a crank motion by the electric motor 39 in a sealed state. A main housing 32 having a main opening 32P serving as an air introduction port 35a is provided. The main housing 32 can be reduced in weight by being made of aluminum die cast. The filter assembly 22 is press-fitted into the main opening 32P and fixed as shown in the figure. Since the temperature of the cylinder portion 35 rises, heat radiation may be achieved by providing heat radiation fins shown by broken lines.

  A piston rod 34 is integrally formed from the center of the piston 33, and a radial bearing 43 is built in the end of the piston rod 34. The radial bearing 43 is rotatably provided by a crankshaft 42 fixed at an eccentric position deviated from the center of rotation of a disk 41 fixed to the motor output shaft 40.

  On the other hand, a piston seal body 44 shown by a broken line in the drawing is fixed to the outer peripheral edge of the piston 33. The piston seal body 44 is in sliding contact with the inner peripheral surface of the cylinder chamber 35a without any gap, so that the cylinder chamber 35a is reciprocated between the top dead center and the bottom dead center in the direction of the white arrow. It is configured so that the inside can be maintained in an airtight state.

  The piston 33 is provided with a hole 33 a, and a first reed valve 45 that generates a spring force that always closes the hole 33 a is fixed to the upper surface of the piston 33. The head member 36 closes the ceiling of the cylinder chamber 35a in an airtight state, and forms a flow path 36g having one end communicating with the joint 47. Between the flow path 36g and the cylinder chamber, The second reed valve 46 having a spring force that opens when the cylinder chamber reaches a predetermined pressure and closes at a lower pressure is fixed.

  Next, referring further to the three-dimensional exploded view of the filter assembly 22 of FIG. 7 in FIG. 6, the filter assembly 22 includes a bottomed cylindrical housing member 50. The housing member 50 has an air introduction port (opening) 50p for fitting an O-ring 49 incorporated in a groove 38a formed in the outer peripheral surface of the lid member 38 in a compressed state at one end thereof, A volume H is formed. A through hole 50b is formed in the bottomed portion 50d of the housing member 50, and the O-ring 49 built in the groove 50a formed on the outer peripheral surface of the housing member 50 is compressed in the main opening. It is configured to be press-fitted to 32P. In addition, an L-shaped joint 37 shown by a broken line serving as an air introduction pipe fixed to the outer peripheral surface of the housing member 50 in order to introduce air into the volume H of the housing member 50 is connected.

  A first tubular filter member 51 for performing primary filtration of air introduced from the L-shaped joint 37 is incorporated so as to form a space around its outer peripheral surface as shown in the figure. The second cylindrical filter member 52 for performing secondary filtration of the air after primary filtration by the first cylindrical filter member 51 and sending it out to the through-hole portion 50b is the first cylindrical filter member 51. It is arranged to be coaxial. Each cylindrical filter member 51, 52 is maintained in an immovable state by having both ends abut against the inner wall portion of the lid member 38 and the bottomed portion 50d as shown in the figure. Further, a sintered filter member 53 obtained by sintering a metal net is fixed so as to close the through hole 50b. The first and second cylindrical filters are made of phenol resin-impregnated cellulose and have a filtration performance with a standard filtration accuracy of 40 microns.

  Here, only the 1st cylindrical filter member 51 may be sufficient, and the normal filtration filter comprised by bend | folding the cellulose body which is a filtration medium in the shape of a pleat may be sufficient.

FIG. 8A is an external perspective view showing the phenol sheet 55 which is spirally laminated to form the tubular filter members 51 and 52, and FIG. 8B is an enlarged view of the phenol sheet 55. FIG. is there. In FIG. 8 (a), at least one of the first tubular filter member 51 and the second tubular filter member 52, a spiral so as to laminate the cellulose scan body 55 impregnated with phenolic resin to the strip tubular It is obtained by winding and thermosetting a phenolic resin. The cellulose body 55 has a width dimension W, and as shown in FIG. 8B, ridges 55b and valleys 55a perpendicular to the longitudinal direction are alternately formed at a pitch of about 1 mm.

  Next, FIG. 9A is an enlarged view of the sintered filter member 53, and FIG. 9B is an enlarged view of a cross section of the sintered filter member 53. In this figure, the sintered filter member 53 is formed by sintering a plurality of metal nets having different counts. In this way, a sintered filter having a filtration accuracy of 20 microns can be obtained. Specifically, the sintered filter member 53 can be composed of five layers, and is the most count for performing filtration after the secondary filtration following the protective layer 56 having a normal count exposed on the cylinder chamber 35 side. The fine filtration control layer 57, the coarse dispersion support layer 58 of the count following the filtration control layer 57, the first reinforcement layer 59 of the coarser count following this, and the second reinforcement layer of the predetermined count subsequent thereto. 60 is integrated by a baking process.

  The metal mesh of the sintered filter member 53 configured as described above is preferably made of stainless steel for rust prevention. Here, sintering refers to a state in which the temperature is around the melting point of the metal for a certain period of time, whereby an atomic diffusion phenomenon occurs between the intersecting contacts in the metal structure, and a crystal is formed across the contacts. To be integrated into The sintered product obtained in this way can obtain excellent mechanical strength and corrosion resistance, and also has a filtering action for removing impurities and an aeration action for removing while passing fine particles in the air. Is provided. Further, it is possible to exhibit a silencing action that absorbs sound energy. By providing the sintered filter member 53 having the above characteristics so as to block the through-hole portion 50b with a large area portion, particularly, the silencing effect can be realized to the maximum.

  FIG. 10 (a) is an external perspective view showing the principal part in a cutaway manner in order to illustrate the flow of the raw air supplied to the compressor 10 and the compressed air. FIG. 10B is an external perspective view showing the main part in a cutaway manner in order to illustrate how the noise generated by the vertical movement of the piston is blocked and absorbed by the sintered filter member 53.

  Referring further to FIG. 6 in FIG. 10, the crankshaft 42 is moved downward by energization of the motor 39, and the piston 33 is lowered to the bottom dead center. At this time, the inside of the cylinder chamber 35a is in a negative pressure state, and the first reed valve 45 of the piston 33 is opened, so that the first cylindrical filter member 52 and the first cylindrical filter member 52 that have passed through the through hole 50b inside the cylinder chamber 35a. The raw material air filtered by the cylindrical filter member 51 is filled.

  Thereafter, the crankshaft 42 is moved upward by energization of the motor 39 and the piston 33 is raised to the top dead center, so that the inside of the cylinder chamber 35a is in a positive pressure state. Closes. After moving to the top dead center, when a predetermined internal pressure is reached, the second reed valve 46 is opened to send compressed air to the pipe 24c. By repeating the above piston movement, compressed air can be sent to the two adsorption cylinders.

  The noise generated when the above piston movement is performed is blocked and absorbed by the sintered filter member 53. Further, even if part of the noise passes through the through-hole 50b, the noise is not leaked to the outside because the sound is blocked by each of the cylindrical filter members 51 and 52 that are disposed twice.

  Next, two female screw portions 32 h for fixing the mounting plate 20 are formed on the bottom surface of the main housing 32. The mounting plate 20 is fixed using a screw that is screwed into the female screw portion 32h. As described above, the filter assembly 22 integrated with the compressor 10 is fixed in the vibration-proof state through the two vibration-proof rubbers 21 inside the soundproof chamber 3.

  FIG. 11A is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state in which the compressor 10 is fixed to the main housing 2 of the oxygen concentrator 1. FIG. 11B is an external perspective view illustrating the vibration generation state and vibration absorption state of the compressor 10.

  In FIG. 11, the same reference numerals are given to the components or parts already described in the figure, and the description is omitted. The filter assembly 22 and the compressor 10 integrated as described above are combined with each other in the filter assembly 22. Is disposed in the soundproof room 3 with the electric motor 39 positioned below the vertical direction and the electric motor 39 positioned below the vertical direction. The mounting plate 20 is attached to the front and rear wall surfaces of the main housing 2 via a braking member 48 such as a soft foamed urethane material.

As described above, by being provided vertically between the main housing 2 and the mounting surface of the soundproof room 3 along the vertical direction (Z-axis direction), vibration in the vertical direction along the Z-axis direction and in the X-axis direction are provided. Therefore, the vibration in the left-right direction, the vibration in the front-rear direction along the Y-axis direction, and the combined vibration thereof can be effectively suppressed. The anti-vibration effect can also be obtained from a pipe 24 having one end fixed to the compressor 10 and the other end fixed to the opening of the soundproof chamber 3 so as to be elastically deformed moderately.
On the other hand, the noise leaked to the outside is absorbed by the soundproof sheet 11 made of the above-mentioned nonwoven fabric. Further, the operation sound of each electromagnetic valve is absorbed by a soundproof sheet laid at an appropriate position on the inner wall surface of the main housing 2 in addition to the soundproof sheet placed thereon.

  With the above configuration, when the power switch 6 of the small oxygen concentrator 1 is turned on, supply of a predetermined voltage is started and a self-check is performed. Subsequently, the compressor 10, the blower fan 30, and the three-way switching valves 109a and 109b are energized to introduce external air. At the same time, the compressor 10 vibrates and vibrates. However, noise and vibration leaking to the outside can be made very small because of the vibration and sound insulation as described above.

  Following this, the introduced air is introduced into the first adsorption cylinder 108a through the one-way switching valve 109a, and the generated oxygen flows into the product tank 111 through the check valve, and the pressure gradually increases. . When the predetermined pressure is reached, the equal pressure valve 107 is in the “open state” for a predetermined time.

  A portion of oxygen concentrated in the first adsorption cylinder 108a is used to clean the second adsorption cylinder 108b, and preparations for the next pressurization in which the pressure equalizing step is performed are performed. .

  Next, the three-way switching valve 109b operates to perform a desorption process (discharge of nitrogen and moisture) of the first adsorption cylinder 108a and intake of compressed air into the second adsorption cylinder 108b. Oxygen generated by being separated from the compressed air flowing into the second adsorption cylinder 108b flows into the product tank 111 via a check valve (not shown). Thereafter, when it is detected by a pressure sensor (not shown) that the predetermined pressure is reached, the equal pressure valve 107 is “open” for a predetermined time. Thereafter, a cleaning and pressure equalizing process of the second adsorption cylinder 108a is performed. As described above, since the equal pressure valve 107 is opened, oxygen generated in the second adsorption cylinder 108b is sent to the outlet of the first adsorption cylinder 108a, so that the built-in zeolite is cleaned. . By repeating the above switching operation at a predetermined timing, it is possible to stably supply oxygen continuously.

  The flow rate sensor 116 reads the set value set in the flow rate setting to determine the oxygen flow rate to be used, and can measure the actual flow rate in case the flow rate drops due to disturbance factors such as tube breakage. I have to.

<Explanation of predictive respiratory synchronization>
Referring to FIG. 4 again, in the product tank 111, the pressure fluctuates in synchronization with the pressure in the adsorption cylinder, so that the pressure regulator 112 functions to be a constant pressure and incorporates a filter (not shown). . This filter uses a type with an average pore diameter of 100 microns or less, thereby protecting the fine pressure sensor connected to the demand valve 117 used when detecting the intake of each downstream component after the pressure regulator 112. Like to do.

  An oxygen concentration sensor 114 for detecting the oxygen concentration is connected to the downstream side of the pressure regulator 112 via a pipe 24e. Further, a proportional opening degree valve 115 whose opening degree is variably opened and closed is connected via a pipe 24g. The proportional opening valve 115 is connected to the flow rate control board 202 and is configured to be opened and closed by changing the opening degree in proportion to the oxygen supply amount set by the oxygen flow rate setting means. Specifically, it is designed exclusively so that the amount of oxygen supply can be controlled linearly by simply increasing the valve opening of the solenoid valve that performs the opening / closing operation in proportion to the drive voltage value.

  Further, an oxygen flow rate sensor 116 that detects the oxygen flow rate by piping to the downstream side of the proportional opening valve 115 and a piping to the downstream side of the oxygen flow rate sensor 116 send out oxygen according to the intake state. A demand valve 117, a filter 119 piped downstream of the demand valve 117, and the oxygen inhaler connected to the nasal cannula 14 used when performing oxygen inhalation are provided. The demand valve 117 is further connected with a fine pressure sensor that is controlled by the flow control board 202 while detecting the negative pressure during breathing to detect the timing of sending oxygen to the user.

  In the above configuration, when the set flow rate is input and the tuning mode is set after the power is turned on, the opening according to the set flow rate is maintained. Next, the negative pressure of the intake air is detected by a fine pressure sensor connected to the demand valve 117. Following this, oxygen can be supplied by operating the demand valve 117. Subsequently, the actual flow rate is detected by the flow rate sensor 116, and the opening degree of the proportional valve 115 is automatically adjusted so that the set flow rate is obtained by comparing the actual flow rate with the set flow rate. .

  When the inhalation state is detected by the above-described fine pressure sensor, the proportional opening valve 115 is driven to open by changing its opening degree in proportion to the oxygen supply amount set by the oxygen flow rate setting means, so that breathing synchronization is achieved. It is configured to perform an optimal oxygen supply by performing oxygen inhalation.

  According to the above breath synchronization control, when the entire oxygen concentrator 1 is driven by a rechargeable battery, it is synchronized with respiration so that the patient can use the concentrated oxygen more efficiently. Control can be performed. During normal breathing, the patient has an inspiration / expiration cycle of 1: 2, and the concentrated oxygen produced during exhalation is unnecessary for the patient. As a result, additional battery power that efficiently provides this excess concentrated oxygen flow is wasted. Therefore, by supplying the concentrated oxygen generated during the exhalation during inspiration, if the inspiration / expiration cycle is 1: 2, it is possible to supply up to three times the flow rate during inspiration. Thus, performing respiratory synchronization control has the advantage that the oxygen concentrator can be reduced in size and power consumption can be reduced.

  FIG. 12 is a correlation diagram between the continuously generated oxygen flow rate in the predictive respiratory synchronization, the control pattern, the motor rotation speed of the compressor 10, the consumed power, and the supply oxygen amount that can be handled for each inhalation expiration rate. In this figure, in the control pattern A, the power consumption is 127 watts, and the rotation speed of the motor 39 is set to 2700 rpm, so that the continuously generated oxygen flow rate can be 3 liters. The ratio is 1: 1, and up to 6 liters per minute can be accommodated when oxygen is inhaled 30 times per minute.

  In the control pattern B, since the power consumption is 116 watts and the motor rotation speed is set to 2500 rotations per minute, the continuously generated oxygen flow rate can be reduced to 2.5 liters. : At the time of oxygen inhalation 20 times per minute in 2, it is possible to deal with up to 7.5 liters per minute

  In the control pattern C, since the power consumption is 76 watts and the motor rotation speed is set to 1750 rotations per minute, the continuously generated oxygen flow rate can be reduced to 2 liters, so that the inhalation: expiration ratio is 1: 3 every time. A maximum of 8 liters per minute can be handled during 15 minutes of oxygen inhalation.

  In the control pattern D, the power consumption is 64 watts and the motor rotation speed is set to 1500 rotations per minute, so that the continuously generated oxygen flow rate can be 1.5 liters, which can be handled as shown in the figure. Hereinafter, the power consumption and the motor rotation speed are set as shown in the control patterns E and F, and the control pattern A is stored in the table by the inhalation: expiration ratio and the supplied concentrated oxygen flow rate. By performing increase / decrease control of the motor rotation speed based on any of -F, waste of power consumption can be eliminated. In this way, selecting any one of the control patterns A to F is automatically detected on the apparatus side.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart for explaining the operation in predictive respiratory synchronization.

  In this figure, when oxygen inhalation is started, in step S1, it is detected by the sensor built in the demand valve 117 that inhalation and exhalation of N times per unit time has been performed, and the controller 200 is connected. Temporarily stored in the RAM 207. Subsequently, the process proceeds to step S2, where it is determined whether or not there are any changes or fluctuations in the N inspirations and expirations per unit time. If it is determined that there are no fluctuations, the process proceeds to the normal mode in step S3. The process proceeds to step S6 without changing the number of revolutions, and the process ends.

  If it is determined in step S2 that there is a change in N inspirations and expirations per unit time, the process proceeds to step S4, where it is determined whether inspiration is increasing or not, and it is determined that it is not increasing. Then, since oxygen supply can be sufficiently performed in the operation in the normal mode, the process proceeds to step S3 and returns to finish the process.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S4 that the intake air tends to increase, the process proceeds to step S5, and the control patterns B to F in FIG. 12 are increased by one rank or more and automatically set up to the highest control pattern A. Return in preparation for the oxygen supply of the minute and finish.

  As described above, the oxygen supply amount period to be supplied is predicted based on the oxygen inhalation frequency obtained from inspiration and expiration, and the motor drive speed is changed according to the predicted oxygen supply amount period, thereby reducing the power consumption. As a result, the consumption of the built-in or external rechargeable battery can be reduced. Needless to say, such labor saving is the most important requirement for portable devices.

  As described above, the situation in which the optimal control patterns A to F are automatically set may be automatically set from the altitude at which the apparatus 1 is used, in addition to reflecting the oxygen inhalation state of the patient. That is, since oxygen is thin at a high altitude, the patient can use it without being aware of environmental changes by increasing the oxygen supply amount according to the altitude.

<Automatic setting of oxygen supply by global positioning system (GPS)>
When the control device 200 is connected to the global positioning system device 221, the rotation speed of the compressor 10 is increased / decreased according to the altitude of the place of use of the device 1 measured by the global positioning system 221, and the amount of compressed air is changed. Can be made. Further, the oxygen supply amount can be changed by automatically setting the optimum control patterns A to F.

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of measuring the altitude of the place where the apparatus is used by the global positioning system 221 to increase the oxygen supply amount.

  In this figure, when the apparatus 1 is activated, the process proceeds to step S10 and surveying of the global positioning system is performed. In this global positioning system, the altitude is calculated by comparing the coordinates obtained from the four-point survey conducted between the four population sanitations and the three-point survey conducted between the three population sanitations and the built-in altitude map. Since measurement is possible, in step S11, 4-point survey or 3-point survey is selected. If 4-point surveying is selected in step S11, it will progress to step S12 and altitude calculation will be performed. As a result of the altitude calculation, when the altitude is high, the rotation speed of the compressor 10 is increased to improve the oxygen concentration. Thereafter, motor drive control is performed in step S14, and the process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if a three-point survey is selected in step S11, the process proceeds to step S15. If it is determined that it is not a three-point survey, the process returns to step S10 for re-surveying and starts again from the above step S10. If it is determined in step S15 that it is a three-point survey, the altitude is determined in step S16 with reference to the built-in altitude map. Therefore, the rotation speed of the compressor 10 corresponding to this altitude is set and a stable oxygen concentration is supplied. To do. Thereafter, motor drive control is performed in step S14, and the process is terminated.

<Description of Modular Battery 228>
4, the ID tag code identification circuit 230 is further connected to the power control circuit 226 to prevent a situation where the rechargeable battery runs out when being carried, and the rechargeable battery 228 is disposed below the main housing 2. It has been stated that the center of gravity can be lowered by setting it so that it can be exchanged in a stacked state.
In order to prevent such a situation that the rechargeable battery runs out when being carried, it is conceivable to connect a plurality of rechargeable batteries 228,. However, when a plurality of batteries are connected, the power source switching becomes complicated and the power consumption cannot be monitored individually.

  FIG. 15A is a schematic diagram of a modular power supply device, and FIG. 15B is a circuit diagram of the modular power supply device. In this figure, among the plurality of rechargeable batteries 228,... 228, a unique ID code is individually provided to enable control to automatically switch from a discharged battery to a fully charged rechargeable battery. (Identification codes) 228a, 228b, 228c, 228d, 228e and a charge state detection device 230 are provided so that a discharged battery can be confirmed and switched to a fully charged battery. Furthermore, the number of batteries to be connected is freely selected according to the time when the battery is desired to be used, thereby improving convenience.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the modular power supply device. In this figure, after activation of the apparatus 1, in step S31, ID codes 228a, 228b, 228c, 228d and 228e specific to each rechargeable battery are individually confirmed. Following this, in step S32, the state of charge or discharge of each rechargeable battery is confirmed. By confirming the battery in which the voltage battery has been discharged in the above steps S31 and S32, the battery is stored together with the ID code. After that, power is supplied through the power supply terminal by switching to the rechargeable battery before discharging in step S34. The above steps 31 to 34 are repeatedly executed, and when it is confirmed in step S35 that all the batteries have been discharged, the process proceeds to step S36 to notify that it cannot be used due to an alarm.

  In addition, said battery is a lithium ion laminated structure, Comprising: The secondary battery whose output voltage is 3.7-29.0V is contained. The weight is about 500 g, and when performing synchronized breathing control, the operation can be performed for up to 2 hours when the concentrated oxygen flow rate of 88 to 94% is 2 L / min. In addition to this lithium ion battery, supply from other portable energy sources can also be received. For example, a rechargeable or replaceable fuel cell can be used. This system is powered by a built-in battery and an external battery as secondary batteries, but may be driven by a number of batteries.

  In addition, since the patient always has an additional freshly charged external battery, the patient can go out for a longer time and the QOL at that time is greatly improved. Moreover, you may provide the humidification means (not shown) for adding moisture to the flow of concentrated oxygen through a suitable connection part.

(a) is a piping diagram explaining the principle of oxygen generation, and (b) shows pressure fluctuations in positive pressure fluctuation adsorption (PSA) by positive pressure and positive and negative pressure fluctuation adsorption (VPSA) by positive pressure and negative pressure over time. (C) is a chart illustrating the amount of nitrogen adsorption in pressure fluctuation adsorption (PSA) and positive / negative pressure fluctuation adsorption (VPSA) over time. (a) is the external perspective view which illustrated the small oxygen concentrator 1 which is one Embodiment of this invention seeing from the front left diagonal upper side with a nose cannula, (b) is a portable for exclusive use of the small oxygen concentrator 1 2 is an external perspective view of a bag 4. FIG. FIG. 2 is a front view showing a principal part in a cutaway manner in order to illustrate the internal configuration of the small oxygen concentrator 1 shown in FIG. 1. These are the block diagrams which served as the piping diagram of the small oxygen concentrator 1. FIG. FIG. 3 is an external perspective view of the compressor 10, and is an external perspective view showing a state after the mounting plate 20 and the filter assembly 22 are fixed to the compressor 10. [FIG. 6] is a front view showing the essential parts in a cutaway manner in order to illustrate the internal configuration of the compressor 10 and the filter assembly 22 of FIG. 5 (b). FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the filter assembly 22. (a) is the external appearance perspective view which peeled and showed the phenol sheet 55 laminated | stacked helically in order to comprise the cylindrical filters 51 and 52, (b) is an enlarged view of the phenol sheet 55. FIG. . (a) is an enlarged view of the sintered filter member 53, and (b) is an enlarged view of a cross section of the sintered filter member 53. (a) is a perspective view of the appearance of the material air supplied to the compressor 10 and the compressed air in order to illustrate the flow of compressed air, and (b) is generated as the piston moves up and down. FIG. 6 is an external perspective view showing a main part in a cutaway manner in order to illustrate a state in which noise to be cut off and absorbed by a sintered filter member 53. (a) is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state in which the compressor 10 is fixed to the casing 2 of the small oxygen concentrator 1, and (b) is an external perspective view illustrating the vibration generation state and vibration absorption state of the compressor 10. . FIG. 4 is a correlation diagram of the continuously generated oxygen flow rate in the predictive breath synchronization, the control pattern, the rotation speed of the motor of the compressor 10, the consumed power, and the supply oxygen amount that can be handled for each exhalation inspiration rate. These are operation | movement explanatory flowcharts in predictive respiration synchronization. These are operation | movement description flowcharts which measure the altitude of the place of use of an apparatus with a global positioning system, and increase oxygen supply amount. (a) is a schematic diagram of a modular power supply device, (b) is a circuit diagram of a modular power supply device. These are operation | movement description flowcharts of a modular power supply device.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Small oxygen concentrator 2 Main housing 3 Soundproof room 4 Portable bag 5 Operation panel 10 Compressor 20 Mounting plate 21 Anti-vibration rubber 22 Filter assembly 24 Pipe 25 Radiation pipe 30 Axial fan 31 Silencer 32 Main housing 33 Piston 35 Cylinder portion 38 Lid member 39 Motor 45 First reed valve 46 Second reed valve 50 Housing 51 First tubular filter member 52 Second tubular filter member 53 Sintered filter

Claims (3)

A pair of adsorption cylinders that allow compressed air to pass through an adsorbent of zeolite stored in a cylinder and selectively adsorb nitrogen by the adsorbent to generate oxygen, and a filter that filters the raw air that becomes the compressed air Means, compressor means driven by a motor to obtain the compressed air from the air filtered by the filter means, rechargeable batteries for supplying power including the motor drive, and the pair of adsorption cylinders alternately An oxygen inhaler comprising: a switching valve that is switched to supply compressed air; a container that stores the generated oxygen; and an oxygen flow rate setting unit that sets an oxygen supply amount,
The oxygen flow rate setting means is connected to a prediction means for predicting an oxygen supply amount cycle to be supplied based on an oxygen inhalation frequency,
A calculating means for calculating a required oxygen supply amount per hour from the oxygen supply amount set by the oxygen flow rate setting means and the oxygen supply cycle measured by the prediction means;
Based on the required oxygen supply amount, the control pattern of the power consumption and the motor rotation speed stored in the table in advance is read, and the oxygen generated during the exhalation is supplied at the time of inspiration with respect to the inhalation-to-expiration ratio. Control means for performing control,
The oxygen concentration apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control means performs increase / decrease control of the motor rotation speed based on any of the control patterns . The compressor means includes
A cylinder housing that guides a piston that is driven back and forth by a crank motion by an electric motor in a sealed state and a main housing that forms an air inlet,
The oxygen concentrator according to claim 1, wherein the filter means and the compressor means are integrated through the air inlet. A pressure regulator that maintains a constant supply pressure of oxygen supplied from the container by being connected to the container;
An oxygen concentration sensor that detects the oxygen concentration by being connected to the downstream side of the pressure regulator; a proportional opening valve connected to the downstream side of the oxygen concentration sensor;
An oxygen flow sensor for detecting the oxygen flow rate by being connected to the downstream side of the proportional opening degree valve, a pressure sensor for detecting an intake air condition by being connected to the downstream side of the oxygen flow rate sensor,
An oxygen inhaler that performs oxygen inhalation by being piped downstream of the pressure sensor ;
When the pressure sensor detects the intake state , the control means opens the proportional opening valve by changing the opening in proportion to the oxygen supply amount set by the oxygen flow rate setting means. It is not oxygen concentrator according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in the TURMERIC row oxygen inhalation by the respiratory tuning control.

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