US20150231354A1 - Contamination removal from sensors placed in an airway - Google Patents
Contamination removal from sensors placed in an airway Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20150231354A1 US20150231354A1 US14/703,584 US201514703584A US2015231354A1 US 20150231354 A1 US20150231354 A1 US 20150231354A1 US 201514703584 A US201514703584 A US 201514703584A US 2015231354 A1 US2015231354 A1 US 2015231354A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- sensing element
- layer
- actuator
- sensor assembly
- airway
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M16/00—Devices for influencing the respiratory system of patients by gas treatment, e.g. mouth-to-mouth respiration; Tracheal tubes
- A61M16/08—Bellows; Connecting tubes ; Water traps; Patient circuits
- A61M16/0816—Joints or connectors
- A61M16/0833—T- or Y-type connectors, e.g. Y-piece
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M16/00—Devices for influencing the respiratory system of patients by gas treatment, e.g. mouth-to-mouth respiration; Tracheal tubes
- A61M16/04—Tracheal tubes
- A61M16/0488—Mouthpieces; Means for guiding, securing or introducing the tubes
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M16/00—Devices for influencing the respiratory system of patients by gas treatment, e.g. mouth-to-mouth respiration; Tracheal tubes
- A61M16/0003—Accessories therefor, e.g. sensors, vibrators, negative pressure
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M16/00—Devices for influencing the respiratory system of patients by gas treatment, e.g. mouth-to-mouth respiration; Tracheal tubes
- A61M16/021—Devices for influencing the respiratory system of patients by gas treatment, e.g. mouth-to-mouth respiration; Tracheal tubes operated by electrical means
- A61M16/022—Control means therefor
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M16/00—Devices for influencing the respiratory system of patients by gas treatment, e.g. mouth-to-mouth respiration; Tracheal tubes
- A61M16/10—Preparation of respiratory gases or vapours
- A61M16/14—Preparation of respiratory gases or vapours by mixing different fluids, one of them being in a liquid phase
- A61M16/16—Devices to humidify the respiration air
- A61M16/161—Devices to humidify the respiration air with means for measuring the humidity
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
- A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
- A61B5/08—Detecting, measuring or recording devices for evaluating the respiratory organs
- A61B5/082—Evaluation by breath analysis, e.g. determination of the chemical composition of exhaled breath
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M16/00—Devices for influencing the respiratory system of patients by gas treatment, e.g. mouth-to-mouth respiration; Tracheal tubes
- A61M16/10—Preparation of respiratory gases or vapours
- A61M16/14—Preparation of respiratory gases or vapours by mixing different fluids, one of them being in a liquid phase
- A61M16/16—Devices to humidify the respiration air
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M2205/00—General characteristics of the apparatus
- A61M2205/02—General characteristics of the apparatus characterised by a particular materials
- A61M2205/0272—Electro-active or magneto-active materials
- A61M2205/0294—Piezoelectric materials
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M2205/00—General characteristics of the apparatus
- A61M2205/10—General characteristics of the apparatus with powered movement mechanisms
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M2205/00—General characteristics of the apparatus
- A61M2205/11—General characteristics of the apparatus with means for preventing cross-contamination when used for multiple patients
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M2205/00—General characteristics of the apparatus
- A61M2205/33—Controlling, regulating or measuring
- A61M2205/3317—Electromagnetic, inductive or dielectric measuring means
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M2205/00—General characteristics of the apparatus
- A61M2205/33—Controlling, regulating or measuring
- A61M2205/3368—Temperature
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M2205/00—General characteristics of the apparatus
- A61M2205/50—General characteristics of the apparatus with microprocessors or computers
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M2209/00—Ancillary equipment
- A61M2209/10—Equipment for cleaning
Definitions
- Respiratory therapy systems are designed to assist a patient who has difficulty breathing or is unable to breath.
- respiratory therapy systems include a ventilator, an optional humidifier including a heater plate, and a patient circuit.
- the ventilator supplies gases to a humidification chamber coupled with the humidifier. Water within the humidification chamber is heated by the humidifier heater plate, which produces water vapor that humidifies gases passing through the chamber. From the chamber, humidified gases are then delivered to the patient through the breathing circuit.
- One or more breathing tubes of the patient circuit may be heated to maintain a desired temperature of gas (as used herein, the term “gas” can comprise a single type of gas (e.g., oxygen) or a mixture of multiple types of gases (e.g., a mixture of helium and oxygen) within the one or more breathing tubes.
- gas can comprise a single type of gas (e.g., oxygen) or a mixture of multiple types of gases (e.g., a mixture of helium and oxygen) within the one or more breathing tubes.
- Current respiratory therapy systems utilize one or more sensors to measure various parameters associated with gas in the systems. Quantitative measurement of parameters acquired from one or more sensors are used to control the systems output to a desirable set point. Example parameters may include relative humidity, temperature, flow, pressure, etc.
- the one or more sensors are positioned within an airway of the patient circuit and are integrated with a sensing element to measure parameters. During the coarse of delivering the humidified gases, within the airway of the breathing tubes, the integrated sensing element of the sensor(s) can be subjected to contamination due to introduction of various particles (e.g., water, salt, aerosolized medicine).
- a safety critical feedback sensor once subjected to contamination, can produce a signal that is drastically higher or lower in relation to a controlled system output set point, resulting in potentially unsafe output of the system (e.g., incorrect medication dosage, elevated temperature, lower temperature, etc.).
- contamination accumulation may occur from residual water and particulates that forms a film on the sensor/sensing element surface for the inter and/or intra respiratory therapy session.
- residual water on the sensor after a therapy session, dries off, leaving a film of water marks, salt residue, etc. on a sensor surface.
- This film can impede the sensing capability of the sensor.
- a capacitive membrane sensor absorbs and releases water relative to an environmental humidity. The change in capacitance produces electrical signals proportional to a calibrated voltage (or current) threshold.
- the accumulation of residual contamination can shift the signal threshold and could result in erroneous and/or erratic operation of a control system output.
- aspects of the present disclosure relate to a sensor assembly for positioning in an airway of a patient circuit to measure at least one parameter associated with gas (e.g., comprised of a single gas or a mixture of multiple gases) in the airway.
- the sensor assembly includes a sensing element mechanically coupled to an actuator. During use, the actuator actuates the sensing element.
- the sensor assembly is part of a respiratory therapy system, including the sensing element and actuator.
- the sensor assembly is positioned within an airway of the respiratory therapy system to measure a parameter.
- a method for improving reliability, repeatability and accuracy of dosage during a respiratory therapy session to a patient is disclosed. The method includes positioning a sensor assembly within an airway and actuating the sensor assembly.
- FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a respiratory humidification system employing a sensor assembly.
- FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a sensor assembly positioned within a patient airway.
- FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a respiratory humidification system 10 including a ventilator 12 , humidifier 14 having a humidification chamber 16 and a patient circuit 18 .
- system 10 is one exemplary environment for concepts presented herein.
- other forms of respiratory therapy can be used with concepts presented herein such as a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) system, invasive system, non-invasive system or other system that may add or remove one or more of the components of system 10 .
- CPAP Continuous Positive Airway Pressure
- ventilator 12 supplies gases to humidification chamber 16 through an initial tube 20 .
- Humidifier 14 heats water within the chamber 16 which is then output to patient circuit 18 .
- Patient circuit 18 includes an inspiratory breathing tube (or limb) 22 , a Y-connector 24 and an expiratory breathing tube (or limb) 26 .
- the Y-connector 24 and/or expiratory conduit 26 can be eliminated.
- humidification chamber 16 can be eliminated.
- inspiratory tube 22 transmits humidified gases from chamber 16 to a patient through a Y-connector 24 .
- the Y-connector 24 can be selectively coupled to a patient interface such as an endotracheal tube.
- a patient interfaces can include masks, nasal prongs, etc.
- the patient can exhale, transmitting exhaled gases through expiratory tube 26 back to ventilator 12 .
- Liquid solution is supplied to the chamber 16 from a source 28 , which, in one embodiment comprises a bag of liquid solution (e.g., water) coupled to chamber 16 .
- Inspiratory tube 22 and expiratory tube 26 include heating elements (e.g. wires) 30 and 32 , respectively, positioned therein that, when heated, maintains a temperature of gas in the inspiratory tube 22 and/or expiratory tube 26 .
- Humidifier 14 supplies electrical power to elements 30 and 32 through electrical connectors 34 and 36 , respectively.
- Elements 30 and 32 are generally helically shaped and selected with a desired resistance in order to heat humidified gas within tubes 22 and 26 , respectively, to a desired level.
- humidifier 14 receives electrical signals from a sensor input connector 38 , interfaced with sensor assemblies 40 and 42 .
- Sensor assembly 40 is positioned within Y-connector 24 (and proximate the patient) whereas sensor assembly 42 is positioned within inspiratory tube 22 (and proximate humidification chamber 16 ).
- a second sensor input connector 44 can provide further electrical signals to humidifier 14 .
- Connector 44 is coupled to a sensor assembly 46 positioned within expiratory tube 26 , proximate ventilator 12 .
- Other sensor assemblies in various positions can further be provided.
- Sensor assemblies 40 , 42 , and 46 provide one or more measurements to humidifier 14 , such as, temperature, relative humidity and/or flow information of gases within the patient circuit 18 .
- Humidifier 14 uses this information to control power provided to elements 30 and 32 as well as control the temperature of fluid within chamber 16 .
- sensor assemblies 40 , 42 , and 46 are identical and measure relative humidity and temperature in order to provide feedback to humidifier 14 indicative of relative humidity and temperature within system 10 .
- information from sensor assemblies 40 , 42 and 46 can also be provided to ventilator 12 for controlling the output of the system 10 .
- Sensor assemblies 40 , 42 , and 46 are sterilized before each use and may be single use (i.e., disposable) or multi-use. In the case of reusable sensor assemblies, it is desirable to utilize reliable and efficient cleaning approaches to maintain safe and sterilized components so as to prevent contamination of patient circuit 18 .
- autoclaving which includes high temperature sterilization with pressurized steam cleaning
- some components within the assemblies 40 , 42 , and 46 can not be sterilized using autoclaves as the process can damage components. Thus, other reliable cleaning methods are employed in particular situations.
- relative humidity and temperature sensing integrated within the patient circuit 18 and in particular proximate Y-connector 24 can be beneficial to patient safety and for precise control of humidifier 14 .
- hazard conditions such as thermal overshoots, over the limits enthalpy, energy vapor dosage over extended periods, dry chamber protection, no flow due to blockage or to excessive rainout can be monitored and controlled in a timely fashion.
- the percentage relative humidity information to the humidifier 14 also serves a critical feedback path for humidification dosage optimization in various therapy modes such as manual and standard modes.
- Other benefits include data logging of percent relative humidity vs. temperature over time, thermal overshoot tracking and direct real time polling of miscellaneous measurements within the close proximity to the patient.
- the sensor assemblies 40 , 42 , and 46 of system 10 apply high frequency oscillations to a sensing element therein so as to break away particles that contact a sensor surface.
- the sensing element is mounted to a cantilever vane capable of producing short rapid oscillations that produce shockwaves to dislodge particulates and water droplets from the sensor surface, leaving it clean to maintain reliable, accurate and repeatable sensing levels within calibrated response limits.
- the oscillations can be utilized in a cleaning cycle to dry and/or remove contaminants from the sensor assemblies, for example post therapy session in an idle mode.
- FIG. 2 is a schematic, sectional view of a sensor assembly 100 positioned within an airway 102 configured to actuate for reduction of contamination build-up thereon.
- Sensor assembly 100 can be used in FIG. 1 as one or more of sensor assemblies 40 , 42 and 46 , wherein airway 102 can be inspiratory tube 22 , Y-connector 24 and/or expiratory tube 26 .
- Sensor assembly 100 includes an assembly housing 104 , a flexible seal 106 coupled to the assembly housing 104 and a sensing element housing 108 maintaining a sensing element 110 .
- Assembly housing 104 is positioned outside the airway 102
- seal 106 , sensing element housing 108 and sensing element 110 are positioned within the airway 102 to receive airflow, indicated by arrow ‘A’.
- Assembly housing 104 maintains a plurality of electrical connectors 112 (including connectors 112 a - e ) and a mounting element comprising a beam 114 configured to couple an actuator 116 (e.g., a piezoelectric actuator) and a printed circuit board (PCB) 118 to assembly housing 104 .
- Connectors 112 are electrically coupled to a controller 119 that is configured to provide signals to and/or from the connectors 112 .
- controller 119 is part of humidifier 14 , electrically coupled to connectors 112 through a cable (e.g., electrical connectors 38 and 44 ).
- Seal 106 in one embodiment, is a duckbill-type seal (e.g., as used on a trocar) configured to seal the actuator 116 and PCB 118 as well as provide flexibility to deflect upon operation of actuator 116 .
- Sensing element 110 can be formed of a capacitive or resistive membrane to sense relative humidity of gas within airway 102 and may further include a thermal sensing element such as a resistive temperature detector (RTD) or thermistor. Suitable sensing elements can be obtained from vendors such as Honeywell and Sensirion.
- PCB 118 is coupled to sensing element housing 108 (e.g., through a mechanical bond) and is further electrically coupled to sensing element 110 through an electrical connector 120 (e.g., solder, pins).
- PCB 118 also includes a liquid resistant coating 122 (e.g., formed of paralyne) to protect the PCB 118 .
- Connectors 112 a and 112 e are electrically coupled to actuator 116 . As discussed below, connectors 112 a and 112 e provide drive signals to actuator 116 , ultimately causing PCB 118 , sensing element housing 108 and sensing element 110 to oscillate within airway 102 . Connectors 112 b, 112 c and 112 d are electrically coupled to PCB 118 and sensing element 110 . Collectively, connectors 112 b - d provide power to components on PCB 118 and sensing element 110 . Moreover, connectors 112 b - d provide signals (e.g, to controller 119 ) indicative of measurements made by sensing element 110 .
- sensor assembly 100 includes at least a first connector (e.g., connectors 112 b - d ) electrically coupled to sensing element 110 and at least a second connector (e.g., connectors 112 a and 112 e ) electrically coupled to actuator 116 .
- Controller 119 can include an oscillator to provide driving forces to actuator 116 , for example a voltage to generate a force within actuator 116 .
- Actuator 116 is configured to oscillate sensing element housing 108 so as to prevent build up of contamination on the housing 108 and/or sensing element 110 .
- actuator 116 is an electro-mechanical transducer that possesses high motion and voltage sensitivity.
- actuator 116 is a sandwich-like structure in which two thin piezoelectric ceramic elements 124 and 126 are bonded to a cantilevered center support vane 128 and positioned on the top and bottom of PCB 118 .
- Vane 128 provides mechanical integrity and built-in leverage to amplify the motion and electrical output of the piezoelectric elements 124 and 126 .
- vane 128 forms a U-shaped channel so as to accommodate PCB 118 therein and surround PCB 118 on opposite sides.
- Vane 128 can be formed of various suitable materials such as brass, stainless steel, and/or an alloy, for example.
- Elements 124 and 126 are electrically coupled to electrical connectors 112 a and 112 e, respectively.
- an electric drive signal is applied via connectors 112 a and 112 e to elements 124 and 126 , one ceramic element (e.g., element 124 ) expands laterally and the other element (e.g., element 126 ) contracts laterally.
- This opposing strain results in a bending or deflection of actuator 116 (thus providing deflection of sensing element 110 ) that is proportional to the voltage applied using electrical connectors 112 a and 112 e.
- Actuator 116 can generate large displacements and moderate forces at low levels of electrical drive.
- the resonant frequency to drive the actuator 116 is proportional to the dimensional characteristics of the piezoelectric elements 124 and 126 and serves to provide mechanical movement to PCB 118 , sensing element housing 108 and sensing element 110 .
- particulate contamination can cause sensor failures and performance degradation.
- actuator 116 to eliminate particle accumulation on sensing element 110 , particulate contamination can be reduced.
- the sensor assembly 100 can be subject to high frequency oscillations introduced through actuator 116 that creates a continuous reversing potential energy, inducing an accelerated moment of inertia and kinetic energy within the particulates, thus breaking away their adhesion from the sensing element 110 .
- the sensor assembly 100 is left clean and clearly exposed for repeatability and accuracy of sensing desired parameters.
Landscapes
- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Pulmonology (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Public Health (AREA)
- Anesthesiology (AREA)
- Biomedical Technology (AREA)
- Heart & Thoracic Surgery (AREA)
- Hematology (AREA)
- Emergency Medicine (AREA)
- Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
- Otolaryngology (AREA)
- Measurement Of The Respiration, Hearing Ability, Form, And Blood Characteristics Of Living Organisms (AREA)
- Investigating Or Analyzing Materials By The Use Of Electric Means (AREA)
- Investigating Or Analysing Materials By Optical Means (AREA)
- Sampling And Sample Adjustment (AREA)
- Optical Measuring Cells (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- Respiratory therapy systems are designed to assist a patient who has difficulty breathing or is unable to breath. In general terms, respiratory therapy systems include a ventilator, an optional humidifier including a heater plate, and a patient circuit. When a humidifier is used, the ventilator supplies gases to a humidification chamber coupled with the humidifier. Water within the humidification chamber is heated by the humidifier heater plate, which produces water vapor that humidifies gases passing through the chamber. From the chamber, humidified gases are then delivered to the patient through the breathing circuit. One or more breathing tubes of the patient circuit may be heated to maintain a desired temperature of gas (as used herein, the term “gas” can comprise a single type of gas (e.g., oxygen) or a mixture of multiple types of gases (e.g., a mixture of helium and oxygen) within the one or more breathing tubes.
- Current respiratory therapy systems (either with or without a humidifier), utilize one or more sensors to measure various parameters associated with gas in the systems. Quantitative measurement of parameters acquired from one or more sensors are used to control the systems output to a desirable set point. Example parameters may include relative humidity, temperature, flow, pressure, etc. The one or more sensors are positioned within an airway of the patient circuit and are integrated with a sensing element to measure parameters. During the coarse of delivering the humidified gases, within the airway of the breathing tubes, the integrated sensing element of the sensor(s) can be subjected to contamination due to introduction of various particles (e.g., water, salt, aerosolized medicine). The accumulation of contamination on the sensing element over time can cause incorrect measurements, ultimately resulting in improper operation and/or failure of the respiratory therapy system. For example, a safety critical feedback sensor, once subjected to contamination, can produce a signal that is drastically higher or lower in relation to a controlled system output set point, resulting in potentially unsafe output of the system (e.g., incorrect medication dosage, elevated temperature, lower temperature, etc.).
- In general, contamination accumulation may occur from residual water and particulates that forms a film on the sensor/sensing element surface for the inter and/or intra respiratory therapy session. For example, residual water on the sensor, after a therapy session, dries off, leaving a film of water marks, salt residue, etc. on a sensor surface. This film can impede the sensing capability of the sensor. For example, a capacitive membrane sensor absorbs and releases water relative to an environmental humidity. The change in capacitance produces electrical signals proportional to a calibrated voltage (or current) threshold. The accumulation of residual contamination can shift the signal threshold and could result in erroneous and/or erratic operation of a control system output.
- When using an integrated relative humidity/temperature sensor, failure of the sensor can be especially prevalent when exposed to residual contamination accumulated over time, either intra-therapy (during use) or post therapy session (after use or many uses). In particular, residual contamination can cause output of a sensing element to shift (or fail) from calibrated values resulting in dangerously high outputs, which can compromise patient safety. For example, contamination on a surface of the sensor (e.g., a capacitive or resistive membrane) can result in incorrect delivery of elevated gas temperatures for an extended period of time to the patient. This situation can be undesirable and potentially cause damage to epidermal cells of the patient.
- Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a sensor assembly for positioning in an airway of a patient circuit to measure at least one parameter associated with gas (e.g., comprised of a single gas or a mixture of multiple gases) in the airway. The sensor assembly includes a sensing element mechanically coupled to an actuator. During use, the actuator actuates the sensing element. In one aspect, the sensor assembly is part of a respiratory therapy system, including the sensing element and actuator. The sensor assembly is positioned within an airway of the respiratory therapy system to measure a parameter. In yet another aspect, a method for improving reliability, repeatability and accuracy of dosage during a respiratory therapy session to a patient is disclosed. The method includes positioning a sensor assembly within an airway and actuating the sensor assembly.
-
FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a respiratory humidification system employing a sensor assembly. -
FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a sensor assembly positioned within a patient airway. -
FIG. 1 is a schematic view of arespiratory humidification system 10 including aventilator 12,humidifier 14 having ahumidification chamber 16 and apatient circuit 18. It is worth noting thatsystem 10 is one exemplary environment for concepts presented herein. For example, other forms of respiratory therapy can be used with concepts presented herein such as a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) system, invasive system, non-invasive system or other system that may add or remove one or more of the components ofsystem 10. - In the embodiment illustrated,
ventilator 12 supplies gases tohumidification chamber 16 through aninitial tube 20. Humidifier 14 heats water within thechamber 16 which is then output topatient circuit 18.Patient circuit 18 includes an inspiratory breathing tube (or limb) 22, a Y-connector 24 and an expiratory breathing tube (or limb) 26. In alternative embodiments, for example in a CPAP system, the Y-connector 24 and/orexpiratory conduit 26 can be eliminated. In other embodiments,humidification chamber 16 can be eliminated. During use,inspiratory tube 22 transmits humidified gases fromchamber 16 to a patient through a Y-connector 24. The Y-connector 24 can be selectively coupled to a patient interface such as an endotracheal tube. Other patient interfaces can include masks, nasal prongs, etc. After breathing in the humidified gases, the patient can exhale, transmitting exhaled gases throughexpiratory tube 26 back toventilator 12. Liquid solution is supplied to thechamber 16 from asource 28, which, in one embodiment comprises a bag of liquid solution (e.g., water) coupled tochamber 16. -
Inspiratory tube 22 andexpiratory tube 26 include heating elements (e.g. wires) 30 and 32, respectively, positioned therein that, when heated, maintains a temperature of gas in theinspiratory tube 22 and/orexpiratory tube 26.Humidifier 14 supplies electrical power toelements electrical connectors Elements tubes - Additionally,
humidifier 14 receives electrical signals from asensor input connector 38, interfaced withsensor assemblies Sensor assembly 40 is positioned within Y-connector 24 (and proximate the patient) whereassensor assembly 42 is positioned within inspiratory tube 22 (and proximate humidification chamber 16). If desired, a secondsensor input connector 44 can provide further electrical signals to humidifier 14.Connector 44 is coupled to asensor assembly 46 positioned withinexpiratory tube 26,proximate ventilator 12. Other sensor assemblies in various positions can further be provided. Sensor assemblies 40, 42, and 46 provide one or more measurements to humidifier 14, such as, temperature, relative humidity and/or flow information of gases within thepatient circuit 18.Humidifier 14 uses this information to control power provided toelements chamber 16. In one example, sensor assemblies 40, 42, and 46 are identical and measure relative humidity and temperature in order to provide feedback to humidifier 14 indicative of relative humidity and temperature withinsystem 10. In a further embodiment, information fromsensor assemblies ventilator 12 for controlling the output of thesystem 10. - Sensor assemblies 40, 42, and 46 are sterilized before each use and may be single use (i.e., disposable) or multi-use. In the case of reusable sensor assemblies, it is desirable to utilize reliable and efficient cleaning approaches to maintain safe and sterilized components so as to prevent contamination of
patient circuit 18. In some examples, autoclaving (which includes high temperature sterilization with pressurized steam cleaning) is one method commonly used to sterilizesensor assemblies assemblies - Independent of utilizing a single use or multiple use sensor assembly, relative humidity and temperature sensing integrated within the
patient circuit 18 and in particular proximate Y-connector 24 can be beneficial to patient safety and for precise control ofhumidifier 14. For example, hazard conditions such as thermal overshoots, over the limits enthalpy, energy vapor dosage over extended periods, dry chamber protection, no flow due to blockage or to excessive rainout can be monitored and controlled in a timely fashion. The percentage relative humidity information to thehumidifier 14 also serves a critical feedback path for humidification dosage optimization in various therapy modes such as manual and standard modes. Other benefits include data logging of percent relative humidity vs. temperature over time, thermal overshoot tracking and direct real time polling of miscellaneous measurements within the close proximity to the patient. - As provided below, the
sensor assemblies system 10 apply high frequency oscillations to a sensing element therein so as to break away particles that contact a sensor surface. To achieve a high frequency oscillatory cycle, the sensing element is mounted to a cantilever vane capable of producing short rapid oscillations that produce shockwaves to dislodge particulates and water droplets from the sensor surface, leaving it clean to maintain reliable, accurate and repeatable sensing levels within calibrated response limits. Moreover, the oscillations can be utilized in a cleaning cycle to dry and/or remove contaminants from the sensor assemblies, for example post therapy session in an idle mode. Mechanical shockwave energy induced onto the sensor surface through oscillatory motion transforms rapidly reversing potential energy into kinetic energy creating moment of inertia to break away particulates before they become a permanent adhesion on a surface of thesensor assemblies -
FIG. 2 is a schematic, sectional view of asensor assembly 100 positioned within anairway 102 configured to actuate for reduction of contamination build-up thereon.Sensor assembly 100 can be used inFIG. 1 as one or more ofsensor assemblies airway 102 can beinspiratory tube 22, Y-connector 24 and/orexpiratory tube 26.Sensor assembly 100 includes anassembly housing 104, aflexible seal 106 coupled to theassembly housing 104 and asensing element housing 108 maintaining asensing element 110.Assembly housing 104 is positioned outside theairway 102, whereasseal 106, sensingelement housing 108 andsensing element 110 are positioned within theairway 102 to receive airflow, indicated by arrow ‘A’. -
Assembly housing 104 maintains a plurality of electrical connectors 112 (includingconnectors 112 a-e) and a mounting element comprising abeam 114 configured to couple an actuator 116 (e.g., a piezoelectric actuator) and a printed circuit board (PCB) 118 toassembly housing 104.Connectors 112 are electrically coupled to acontroller 119 that is configured to provide signals to and/or from theconnectors 112. In one embodiment,controller 119 is part ofhumidifier 14, electrically coupled toconnectors 112 through a cable (e.g.,electrical connectors 38 and 44).Seal 106, in one embodiment, is a duckbill-type seal (e.g., as used on a trocar) configured to seal theactuator 116 andPCB 118 as well as provide flexibility to deflect upon operation ofactuator 116. -
Sensing element 110 can be formed of a capacitive or resistive membrane to sense relative humidity of gas withinairway 102 and may further include a thermal sensing element such as a resistive temperature detector (RTD) or thermistor. Suitable sensing elements can be obtained from vendors such as Honeywell and Sensirion.PCB 118 is coupled to sensing element housing 108 (e.g., through a mechanical bond) and is further electrically coupled tosensing element 110 through an electrical connector 120 (e.g., solder, pins). In one embodiment,PCB 118 also includes a liquid resistant coating 122 (e.g., formed of paralyne) to protect thePCB 118. -
Connectors actuator 116. As discussed below,connectors actuator 116, ultimately causingPCB 118, sensingelement housing 108 andsensing element 110 to oscillate withinairway 102.Connectors PCB 118 andsensing element 110. Collectively,connectors 112 b-d provide power to components onPCB 118 andsensing element 110. Moreover,connectors 112 b-d provide signals (e.g, to controller 119) indicative of measurements made by sensingelement 110. Thus,sensor assembly 100 includes at least a first connector (e.g.,connectors 112 b-d) electrically coupled tosensing element 110 and at least a second connector (e.g.,connectors actuator 116.Controller 119 can include an oscillator to provide driving forces toactuator 116, for example a voltage to generate a force withinactuator 116. -
Actuator 116 is configured to oscillate sensingelement housing 108 so as to prevent build up of contamination on thehousing 108 and/orsensing element 110. In one embodiment,actuator 116 is an electro-mechanical transducer that possesses high motion and voltage sensitivity. As illustrated inFIG. 2 ,actuator 116 is a sandwich-like structure in which two thin piezoelectricceramic elements PCB 118. Vane 128 provides mechanical integrity and built-in leverage to amplify the motion and electrical output of thepiezoelectric elements PCB 118 therein and surroundPCB 118 on opposite sides. Vane 128 can be formed of various suitable materials such as brass, stainless steel, and/or an alloy, for example. -
Elements electrical connectors connectors elements electrical connectors Actuator 116 can generate large displacements and moderate forces at low levels of electrical drive. The resonant frequency to drive theactuator 116 is proportional to the dimensional characteristics of thepiezoelectric elements PCB 118, sensingelement housing 108 andsensing element 110. - As discussed above, particulate contamination can cause sensor failures and performance degradation. By employing
actuator 116 to eliminate particle accumulation onsensing element 110, particulate contamination can be reduced. In particular, thesensor assembly 100 can be subject to high frequency oscillations introduced throughactuator 116 that creates a continuous reversing potential energy, inducing an accelerated moment of inertia and kinetic energy within the particulates, thus breaking away their adhesion from thesensing element 110. Thus, thesensor assembly 100 is left clean and clearly exposed for repeatability and accuracy of sensing desired parameters. - Although the present disclosure has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, workers skilled in the art will recognize that changes can be made in form and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.
Claims (19)
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US14/703,584 US20150231354A1 (en) | 2010-05-20 | 2015-05-04 | Contamination removal from sensors placed in an airway |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/783,867 US9022946B2 (en) | 2010-05-20 | 2010-05-20 | Contamination removal from sensors placed in an airway |
US14/703,584 US20150231354A1 (en) | 2010-05-20 | 2015-05-04 | Contamination removal from sensors placed in an airway |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/783,867 Continuation US9022946B2 (en) | 2010-05-20 | 2010-05-20 | Contamination removal from sensors placed in an airway |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20150231354A1 true US20150231354A1 (en) | 2015-08-20 |
Family
ID=44973047
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/783,867 Active 2032-10-17 US9022946B2 (en) | 2010-05-20 | 2010-05-20 | Contamination removal from sensors placed in an airway |
US14/703,584 Abandoned US20150231354A1 (en) | 2010-05-20 | 2015-05-04 | Contamination removal from sensors placed in an airway |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/783,867 Active 2032-10-17 US9022946B2 (en) | 2010-05-20 | 2010-05-20 | Contamination removal from sensors placed in an airway |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US9022946B2 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2011146465A2 (en) |
Families Citing this family (14)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
CN108036837B (en) | 2012-03-15 | 2020-06-16 | 费雪派克医疗保健有限公司 | Respiratory gas humidification system |
JP6388574B2 (en) | 2012-04-27 | 2018-09-12 | フィッシャー アンド ペイケル ヘルスケア リミテッド | Usability characteristics of respiratory humidification system |
GB2587754B8 (en) | 2013-09-13 | 2021-08-04 | Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Ltd | Humidification Chamber |
EP3043854B1 (en) | 2013-09-13 | 2019-11-06 | Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Limited | Humidification system |
PT3082926T (en) | 2013-12-20 | 2023-08-18 | Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Ltd | Humidification system connections |
US10449319B2 (en) | 2014-02-07 | 2019-10-22 | Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Limited | Respiratory humidification system |
WO2015167347A1 (en) | 2014-05-02 | 2015-11-05 | Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Limited | Gas humidification arrangement |
WO2015174859A2 (en) | 2014-05-13 | 2015-11-19 | Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Limited | Usability features for respiratory humidification system |
EP3151894B1 (en) | 2014-06-03 | 2019-08-28 | Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Limited | Flow mixers for respiratory therapy systems |
EP3925654B1 (en) | 2014-11-17 | 2024-04-17 | Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Limited | Humidification of respiratory gases |
EP4063811A1 (en) | 2016-12-07 | 2022-09-28 | Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Limited | Seal/cover for use with a sensing arrangement of a medical device |
WO2020029469A1 (en) | 2018-08-07 | 2020-02-13 | 华健 | Icu-special portable atomizing device enabling autonomously breathing according to airflow |
US11752277B2 (en) | 2018-12-19 | 2023-09-12 | Jian Hua | Nebulization device having dual modules |
US11874271B1 (en) * | 2022-10-04 | 2024-01-16 | Gmeci, Llc | Apparatus and method for human performance exhalation sensing |
Citations (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4092858A (en) * | 1975-11-26 | 1978-06-06 | The United States Of America As Represented By The Secretary Of The Navy | Oceanographic sensor with in-situ cleaning and bio-fouling prevention system |
US6039696A (en) * | 1997-10-31 | 2000-03-21 | Medcare Medical Group, Inc. | Method and apparatus for sensing humidity in a patient with an artificial airway |
US20020028999A1 (en) * | 2000-07-22 | 2002-03-07 | Biotronik Mess-Und Therapiegeraete Gmbh & Co. | Implantable measuring device, particularly a pressure measuring device for determining the intracardial or intraluminal blood pressure |
US20100042389A1 (en) * | 2008-08-14 | 2010-02-18 | Farruggia Guy J | Self-cleaning submerged instrumentation |
US20100235107A1 (en) * | 2008-03-26 | 2010-09-16 | Denso Corporation | Concentration sensor device and concentration detecting method |
US20110132398A1 (en) * | 2009-10-09 | 2011-06-09 | University Of Kansas | Method and apparatus for anti-fouling an anemometer |
Family Cites Families (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
CA2617553C (en) | 1997-06-17 | 2011-12-13 | Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Limited | Respiratory humidification system |
AU2001259424A1 (en) * | 2000-05-03 | 2001-11-12 | Cybersonics, Inc. | Smart-ultrasonic/sonic driller/corer |
JP4282226B2 (en) * | 2000-12-28 | 2009-06-17 | オリンパス株式会社 | camera |
US8381729B2 (en) | 2003-06-18 | 2013-02-26 | Breathe Technologies, Inc. | Methods and devices for minimally invasive respiratory support |
US7861716B2 (en) | 2006-03-15 | 2011-01-04 | Carefusion 207, Inc. | Closed loop control system for a high frequency oscillation ventilator |
WO2008144589A1 (en) | 2007-05-18 | 2008-11-27 | Breathe Technologies, Inc. | Methods and devices for sensing respiration and providing ventilation therapy |
US10918308B2 (en) | 2007-05-18 | 2021-02-16 | Koninklijke Philips N.V. | Respiratory component measurement system including a sensor for detecting orientation or motion |
-
2010
- 2010-05-20 US US12/783,867 patent/US9022946B2/en active Active
-
2011
- 2011-05-17 WO PCT/US2011/036785 patent/WO2011146465A2/en active Application Filing
-
2015
- 2015-05-04 US US14/703,584 patent/US20150231354A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4092858A (en) * | 1975-11-26 | 1978-06-06 | The United States Of America As Represented By The Secretary Of The Navy | Oceanographic sensor with in-situ cleaning and bio-fouling prevention system |
US6039696A (en) * | 1997-10-31 | 2000-03-21 | Medcare Medical Group, Inc. | Method and apparatus for sensing humidity in a patient with an artificial airway |
US20020028999A1 (en) * | 2000-07-22 | 2002-03-07 | Biotronik Mess-Und Therapiegeraete Gmbh & Co. | Implantable measuring device, particularly a pressure measuring device for determining the intracardial or intraluminal blood pressure |
US20100235107A1 (en) * | 2008-03-26 | 2010-09-16 | Denso Corporation | Concentration sensor device and concentration detecting method |
US20100042389A1 (en) * | 2008-08-14 | 2010-02-18 | Farruggia Guy J | Self-cleaning submerged instrumentation |
US20110132398A1 (en) * | 2009-10-09 | 2011-06-09 | University Of Kansas | Method and apparatus for anti-fouling an anemometer |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2011146465A2 (en) | 2011-11-24 |
WO2011146465A3 (en) | 2012-04-05 |
US9022946B2 (en) | 2015-05-05 |
US20110288429A1 (en) | 2011-11-24 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US9022946B2 (en) | Contamination removal from sensors placed in an airway | |
US10695523B2 (en) | Systems and methods for generating nitric oxide | |
CA2554057C (en) | Sensor for detecting air flow | |
JP6356107B2 (en) | Device for measuring the characteristics of the gas supplied to the patient | |
US6039696A (en) | Method and apparatus for sensing humidity in a patient with an artificial airway | |
US8347731B2 (en) | Flow rate meter incorporating reusable device | |
US20220339391A1 (en) | Systems and Methods for Generating Nitric Oxide | |
US20080066751A1 (en) | System and method for humidifying a breathing gas | |
JPH09234247A (en) | Artificial respiratory apparatus and improved heating/ humidifying device | |
JP2013517082A (en) | Temperature-based aerosol detection | |
US8371290B2 (en) | Device for delivery and regulation of volatile fluids into inspiratory gas | |
JP2013517493A (en) | Flow sensor and aerosol delivery device | |
US20160166785A1 (en) | Monitoring of nebulizer usage | |
US20150014874A1 (en) | Method and apparatus for determining a liquid level in a humidified pressure support device | |
CA3230777A1 (en) | Ventilation system with improved valving | |
CN113939203A (en) | Evaporator device | |
JP2005058709A (en) | Humidifier for artificial respirator | |
WO2002036181A2 (en) | Piezoelectric polymer flow sensor and methods | |
Jachowicz et al. | Fast dew-point hygrometer for laryngology applications | |
Paczesny et al. | A new construction of measurement system based on specialized microsystem design for laryngological application | |
Larsson et al. | Befuktning av inandningsgas i en ventilator |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: CAREFUSION 207, INC., CALIFORNIA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:HAQUE, KAMRAN;REEL/FRAME:036042/0001 Effective date: 20150626 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., AS COLLATERAL AGENT, NORTH Free format text: FIRST LIEN SECURITY AGREEMENT;ASSIGNOR:CAREFUSION 207, INC.;REEL/FRAME:045968/0497 Effective date: 20180416 Owner name: WILMINGTON TRUST, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS COLLATE Free format text: SECOND LIEN SECURITY AGREEMENT;ASSIGNOR:CAREFUSION 207, INC.;REEL/FRAME:045969/0482 Effective date: 20180416 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: VYAIRE MEDICAL 207, INC., ILLINOIS Free format text: CHANGE OF NAME;ASSIGNOR:CAREFUSION 207, INC.;REEL/FRAME:059852/0577 Effective date: 20210401 |