WO2022221316A1

WO2022221316A1 - Oxygenation cannula with flexible measurement circuit

Info

Publication number: WO2022221316A1
Application number: PCT/US2022/024473
Authority: WO
Inventors: Heikki Anti Mikael HAVERI
Original assignee: Vyaire Medical, Inc.
Priority date: 2021-04-13
Filing date: 2022-04-12
Publication date: 2022-10-20

Abstract

A breathing device includes a hollow frame with a bridge section and two supporting members. The bridge section includes a proximal portion configured to rest on a philtrum of the patient when the two supporting members of the frame are placed over each respective ear of the patient, and a distal portion extending in a lateral direction away from the proximal portion. A gas supply connector provides a gas through an interior of the hollow frame to at least one exit port located in the bridge section. The breathing device includes a control unit coupled to the frame, and a thin-film substrate providing electrical communication capabilities is positioned within the frame, between the control unit and the bridge section, with multiple appendages passing through a wall of the bridge section to provide a sensor to an exterior of the bridge section.

Description

OXYGENATION CANNULA WITH FLEXIBLE MEASUREMENT CIRCUIT

BACKGROUND

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to medical oxygenation and related sensors. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a respiration device with sensors for a continuous, long-term monitoring of an individual or patient, including measuring and analyzing respiratory condition.

[0002] The respiration of a person may be monitored for various reasons. For example, real time respiration measurements may assist in real-time and/or automatic adjustments of oxygen levels. Knowledge about a patient's respiration may also assist a caregiver in assessing the patient's stability during surgery and recovery thereafter, or assist with therapy related to sleeping.

[0003] Many approaches to respiration sensors involve cumbersome devices that can obstruct a patient’s respiratory passages. In many applications, the patient is unconscious or semi conscious and there is a challenge to fix a respiration sensor in place for an extended period of time. Accordingly, in many of the existing systems a nurse is required to frequently check the patient for sensor placement or inadvertent sensor movement. Moreover, due to the physiognomy of the human respiratory passages, many devices tend to produce confused readings relative to either of a patient’s nostrils and mouth, and fail to clearly distinguish and provide differentiated data for inspiration and exhalation steps.

SUMMARY

[0004] In the field of medical care for patients with respiratory dysfunction, it is highly desirable to provide continuous, real-time measurement of the patient’s respiratory cycles. In the measurement of respiratory cycles from patients, one of the challenges is to clearly distinguish between inhalation and exhalation cycles. The complication is compounded by the human physiognomy, which places nasal and oral flows (in and out of the patient) in close proximity to each other, thereby increasing the possibility of flow mix, turbulence, and stagnation in some places.

[0005] A breathing apparatus is disclosed. According to various implementations, the breathing apparatus includes a hollow frame comprising a bridge section and two supporting members, each supporting member configured to extend over an ear of a patient, the bridge section comprising a proximal portion configured to rest on a philtrum of the patient when the two supporting members of the frame are placed over each respective ear of the patient, and a distal portion extending in a lateral direction away from the proximal portion; a gas supply connector configured to provide a gas to an interior of the hollow frame, the hollow frame supplying the gas provided by the gas supply connector to at least one exit port located in the bridge section; a control unit coupled to the hollow frame; and a flexible thin-film substrate having a connector at a first end of the thin-film substrate and multiple appendages along a second end of the thin-film substrate, each appendage including a sensor at an end of the appendage, wherein the first end of the thin-film substrate is positioned within the hollow frame and is connected to the control unit by the connector and traverses a portion of the hollow frame between the control unit and the bridge section, and the second end traverses an interior of the bridge section and each appendage of the multiple appendages passes through an opening in a wall of the bridge section to provide each respective embedded sensor to an exterior of the bridge section, and wherein the thin-film substrate is configured to provide electrical communication between each sensor and the control unit.

[0006] Additional features and advantages of the subject technology will be set forth in the description below, and in part will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the subject technology. The advantages of the subject technology will be realized and attained by the structure particularly pointed out in the written description and embodiments hereof as well as the appended drawings.

[0007] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide further explanation of the subject technology.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Various features of illustrative embodiments of the inventions are described below with reference to the drawings. The illustrated embodiments are intended to illustrate, but not to limit, the inventions. The drawings contain the following figures. [0009] FIGS. 1 A and IB depict a first example breathing device, according to various aspects of the subject technology.

[0010] FIG. 2 depicts an example flexible thin-film electronic substrate, according to various aspects of the subject technology.

[0011] FIG. 3 depicts a second example breathing device with a two-piece bridge section, according to various aspects of the subject technology.

[0012] FIG. 4 depicts a third example breathing device with a two-piece bridge section, according to various aspects of the subject technology.

[0013] FIGS. 5A and 5B depict an example bridge section according to various aspects of the subject technology.

[0014] FIG. 6 depicts an example bridge section that is separable into two sections, according to various aspects of the subject technology.

[0015] FIGS. 7A to 7C depict a fourth example breathing device with a two-piece bridge section, according to various aspects of the subject technology.

[0016] FIGS. 8A and 8B depict an example control unit, according to various aspects of the subject technology.

[0017] FIG. 9 depicts an example control unit charging device, according to various aspects of the subject technology.

[0018] FIG. 10 depicts an example process for constructing a breathing apparatus, according to aspects of the subject technology.

[0019] FIG. 11 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example electronic system for operating a breathing device, according to aspects of the subject technology. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] It is understood that various configurations of the subject technology will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the disclosure, wherein various configurations of the subject technology are shown and described by way of illustration. As will be realized, the subject technology is capable of other and different configurations and its several details are capable of modification in various other respects, all without departing from the scope of the subject technology. Accordingly, the summary, drawings, and detailed description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not as restrictive.

[0021] Moreover, the detailed description set forth below is intended as a description of various configurations of the subject technology and is not intended to represent the only configurations in which the subject technology may be practiced. The appended drawings are incorporated herein and constitute a part of the detailed description. The detailed description includes specific details for the purpose of providing a thorough understanding of the subject technology. It will be apparent, however, to one ordinarily skilled in the art that the embodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced without some of these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and components are shown in block diagram form in order to avoid obscuring the concepts of the subject technology, or have not been shown in detail so as not to obscure the disclosure. Like components are labeled with similar element numbers for ease of understanding.

[0022] According to various aspects, the subject technology includes a breathing device such as an oxygenation cannula with an integrated flexible circuit for oxygenating a patient while obtaining real-time precise measurements of the patient’s breathing. The disclosed breathing device includes a light-weight flexible hollow frame which attaches to the patient by way hooking around the patient's ears to provide oxygenation or other respiratory support to the patient’s airways. In some aspects, the disclosed breathing device may function similar to a nasal cannula in that it provides supplemental oxygenation without the need for an enclosed face mask, and may be disposable. However, the disclosed breathing device includes a framed support that houses a rechargeable and removable microprocessor-based control unit, and various sensors which communicate with the control unit by way of a flexible silicon circuit layer that traverses the frame. [0023] The breathing device is thus capable of oxygenating a patient through the nostrils while simultaneously measures breathing gas flow through the nostrils and/or mouth. The control unit includes a microprocessor, wireless communication equipment, and a rechargeable battery, and is removable from the disposable frame of the breathing device so that it can be reused again with a new frame. The control unit is further configured to communicate with an application installed on a mobile computing device such as a smart phone or tablet or laptop computer. In this regard, data collected by the sensors may be logged by the application, which may also process the data and send instructions to the control unit for controlling the flow of gas to the patient or sensor sensitivities of the breathing device. Reuse of the control unit allows the patient connected portions of the breathing apparatus to be disposed, thereby preventing cross contamination and reducing cleaning time and overall cost of care.

[0024] FIGS. 1A and IB depict a first example of a breathing device, according to various aspects of the subject technology. Breathing device 1 includes a hollow frame 2 configured to rest on a patient’s face and connect to a gas supply line 3, and which functions as a cannula for supplying the gas to a patient via dual nasal passages 4. Hollow cannula frame 2 may connect to gas supply line 3 via a connector 5. Gas supply line 3 may further connect to a gas source 6, which can be for example oxygen concentrator, oxygen bottle, hospital oxygenation system or similar.

[0025] Hollow cannula frame 2 may include a bridge section 7 configured to rest on a philtrum of the patient when frame 2 is on the face of a patient. In some implementations, bridge section 7 includes a proximal portion 8a configured to rest on a philtrum of the patient, and a distal portion 8b extending in a lateral direction away from the proximal portion 8a. In the depicted implementations, when frame 2 is placed on the patient’s face, distal portion 8b curves outward away from the philtrum and lip area, beyond or below the tip of the patient’s nose.

[0026] Hollow cannula frame 2 provides a hollow tube for the transport of gas at least from connection point 5 through bridge section 7. In some implementations, the frame 2 is hollow. With the exception of connection point 5 (when disconnected) and nasal ports 4, however, frame 2 may be hermetically sealed so that the gas flows from the gas source 6 to the patient without loss of pressure. [0027] According to various implementations, breathing device 1 also includes a sensor body 8 which houses one or more sensors. As will be described further, these sensors may include nasal thermistors 9a (also shown in FIG. 3) configured to measure the nasal respiration flow exiting a patient’s nasal cavity, and/or an oral sensor 9b configured to measure the oral respiration flow exiting a patient’s mouth. By providing a sensing element inside of each of the different flow passages, a connected application or control unit (described below) of breathing device 1 may accurately determine a respiration flow before the nasal flow and the oral flows are mixed together adjacent the patient’s upper lip.

[0028] In some implementations, sensors 9a and 9b include thermistors for sensing inhalation and exhalation flows. The resistance of each thermistor changes proportionally to flowing gas heating or cooling down the thermistor, e.g., during inspiration and expiration. Moreover, the nasal flow passages are separated from each other such that each nasal thermistor 9 may separately identify and measure the respiration flow associated with each of the patient’s nostrils. By separately identifying respiration flow associated with each of the patient’s nostrils, potential respiratory conditions or patient’s positions can be determined. For example, a blockage of a nasal passage or the respiration device can be identified and corrected. In various implementations, an oral thermistor 9b is placed on a plane that is transverse or substantially perpendicular to nasal thermistors 9a.

[0029] According to various implementations, sensors 9a and 9b are controlled by, and provide measurements to, a control unit 10 housed in a housing 11 attached to frame 2. Control unit 10 may be removably connected to housing 11 such that is replaceable, or reusable with another cannula frame 2 when the present frame is disposed. Although not shown in FIGS. 1A and IB, control unit 10 connects to sensors 9a and 9b through a hollow arm 12 of frame 2.

[0030] As depicted in FIGS. 1 A and IB, frame 2 may be constructed such that respective end portions of frame 2 are molded to function as rigid or semi-rigid temple pieces 13 that rest over the patient’s ears. In some implementations, temple pieces 13 may extend to hook behind the patient’s ears, keeping the breathing device 1 in place between the nose and mouth on patient’s upper lip, when placed on the patient’s face. [0031] FIG. 2 depicts an example flexible thin-film electronic substrate 15, according to various aspects of the subject technology. Flexible thin-film electronic substrate 15 provides an electroconductive pathway for the transmission of electronic communication between various locations along the substrate. Substrate 15 is flexible (e.g. stretchable, bendable and/or compressible). As such, the substrate 15 can be made of one or more flexible electrically conductive layers, including a flexible elastomer or elastomeric material, a plastic, or a combination thereof. For example, to substrate material may include a silicon or may include, for example, polymers not limited to polyimide polymer (e.g. KAPTON), polyethylene, polyether ether ketones (PEEK), polyurethanes, silicones/siloxanes, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyamic acid, polymethyl acrylate, and copolymers or combinations thereof. Further, composite materials comprising at least one polymer or copolymer are also envisioned.

[0032] While substrate 15 is depicted as a long flat strip, it may take on a different profile. For example, substrate 15 may have a square or rectangular profile, or may be round or ovoid, or the like. Substrate 15 (also termed a “conduit” or “circuit” herein), as described herein, may include wires or traces or other means for the transfer of electricity or electrical signals, but is not itself a traditionally gauged wire. In some implementations, one or more wires may supplement or replace substrate 15 or a portion of substrate 15.

[0033] Various electronic components (collectively referred to as “circuitry”), such as a laminated battery, a set of microchips, a sensor 9, a sensor hub, antenna, and an assortment of integrated passive devices (IPD) may be applied, secured, embedded or otherwise affixed to substrate 15. Substrate 15 may be electroplated or filled through sputtering or other known technique to create electrical connections, pads, and/or traces. One or more conductive layers can be patterned and an overlay (e.g. non-conductive polymer) can be applied to the outer surface of each conductive layer.

[0034] The depicted flexible thin-film electronic substrate 15 includes a longer portion 16 extending from a first end 17 to a second end 18 that includes multiple appendages 19 disposed along the second end 18. In some implementations, each appendage 19 may terminate at a sensor 9. In some implementations, a sensor may be embedded on an appendage 19. In some implementations, the chemical characteristics of the appendage 19 itself, or of the substrate 15, or a portion of substrate 15, may operate as a sensor. For example, each sensor 9 may be a thermistor, and the appendage or portion thereof may be a thermally conductive material that changes its impedance responsive to a change in temperature.

[0035] FIG. 3 depicts a second example breathing device with a two-piece bridge section, according to various aspects of the subject technology. In some implementations, proximal portion 8a of bridge 7 may be separable from frame 2, but configured to interconnect with frame 2 to form a single unit. In the depicted example, the second end 18 of flexible thin-film substrate 15 is routed through proximal portion 8a and each appendage 19 passes through an opening in a wall of the bridge section 7 to provide each respective embedded sensor to an exterior of the bridge section.

[0036] First end 17 of the electronic flex circuit is passed through an opening of frame 2 located at an interconnection point between bridge section 7 and frame 2 (not shown), and is routed through supporting member to connect to control unit 11. After insertion of the electronic flex circuit, proximal portion 8a of bridge section 7 may be attached to distal portion 8b, as shown (20).

[0037] FIG. 4 depicts a third example breathing device with a two-piece bridge section, according to various aspects of the subject technology. In the depicted example, breathing device 1 includes two continuous hollow frame sections 2a, 2b, which connect together (e.g. snap together or magnetically lock together). Each frame section includes a hollow supporting member 12 configured to be placed over a respective ear of a patient. A first of the frame sections may include or may be contiguous with the proximal portion 8a of bridge section 7, and the other section may include the distal portion 8b of bridge section 7. In this regard, a hollow chamber or cavity traverses each frame section through the corresponding portion of the bridge. The hollow chamber or cavity of the frame section connected to gas supply connector is configured to supply the gas to ports 4. The hollow chamber or cavity of the frame section connected to control unit 11 is configured to support flexible thin-film substrate 15. In some implementations, a hollow chamber may both support the substrate 15 (or portion thereof) and be a conduit for the gas supply.

[0038] FIGS. 5A and 5B depict an example bridge section according to various aspects of the subject technology. FIG. 5 A depicts flow of gases relative to bridge section 7, a patient’s nares, and the ambient environment. Arrows 22 illustrate a portion of nasal respiration flow expelled from bridge portion 7 to a patient’s nares. Proximal portion 8a and distal portion 8b collectively form a contiguous cavity 24 (dotted line) so that the openings of nasal passages 4 are enclosed within the cavity. In the depicted example, proximal portion 8a also contain thermistors 9, or similar means, placed by the nasal passages 4, also enclosed inside cavity 24, to measure breathing gas air flow between the nostrils and the ambient flowing through the cavity 24. Thermistor 9b is placed in the middle of the opening to measure breathing gas flow between the mouth and ambient air. Circles 26 and their corresponding arrows illustrate a portion and flow of ambient gas directed from the ambient environment toward each nasal thermistor 9 during inspiration.

[0039] FIG. 5B depicts an example bridge section, including a pulse oximetry sensor, according to various aspects of the subject technology. Bridge section 7 may include a pulse oximetry sensor 28 configured to measure oxygen level (oxygen saturation) of the blood by passing wavelengths of light through the skin proximate to the philtrum or lip of the patient to a photodetector. For example, sensor 28 may include two LEDs that emit light at different wavelengths. The light traverses through the tissue and is reflected from the bone. Reflected light traverses through the tissue again, and the detectors detect the reflected light. The depicted sensor 28 may be coupled to a side of the proximal portion 8a nearest the patient’s face so that sensor 8a may read the patient’s oxygen saturation (Sa02) directly from the philtrum area of the patient.

[0040] FIG. 6 depicts an example bridge section that is separable into two sections, according to various aspects of the subject technology. Bridge section 7 includes a proximal portion 8a configured to rest on a philtrum of the patient when the two supporting members 12a, 12b, of the breathing device 1 are placed over each respective ear of the patient, and a distal portion 8b extending in a lateral direction away from the proximal portion 8a. As described previously (with regard to FIG. 4), in various implementations, breathing device 1 may include two sections: a first frame section which includes or may be contiguous with the proximal portion 8a of bridge section 7, and the other section which includes the distal portion 8b of bridge section 7. In this regard, first section 8a and second section 8b are configured to interconnect with each other to form a single bridge section 7.

[0041] As shown in the example of FIG. 6, the first frame section 2a comprises a first single contiguous chamber extending through a supporting member 12a of the two supporting members and through the proximal portion 8 of the bridge section 7, and the second frame section 2b comprises a second single contiguous chamber extending through a second supporting member 12b of the two supporting members and through the distal portion 8b of the bridge section 7.

[0042] The gas supply connector 5 is connected to an end of the second supporting member 12b and the gas provided by the gas supply connector is provided to the at least one exit port 4. Similarly, thin-fdm substrate 15 traverses the first supporting member 12a to the proximal portion 8a of the bridge section 7 via a single contiguous chamber. As shown in the example of FIG. 6, flexible substrate 15 traverses inside a cavity within the supporting member 12 extending through the proximal portion 8a and through nasal guides 30 to cavity 24. As described previously, an end of flexible substrate 15 passes through an opening in a wall of the bridge section. In the depicted example, nasal guides 30 form the opening through the wall and extend out away from the wall of the bridge section to provide the sensors embedded within or affixed to the substrate at a position near the exit ports 4 and thus at a desirable position near a patient’s nostrils to sense a characteristic of the patient’s respiration.

[0043] Supporting member 12b forms single a conduit to tubular nasal ducts 4 to deliver oxygen to patient’s airways. Section 2a connects with section 2b at respective connection points 31 by way of respective male-female connectors 32 and 33.

[0044] Thermistors 40, 41 (and 10) may be located into the ends of an electronic flex circuit 40. Electronic flex circuit 40 can also contain thermistor 42 to measure the skin temperature from the patient’s upper lip and detector chip 28 to measure oxygen saturation and pulse rate through the patient’s upper lip or philtrum area. Electronic flex circuit 15 may include electrical wires or traces (not shown in figure) that electrically connect the thermistors with the electrical contacts of a connector at the end 17 of flexible circuit 15. The electronic flex circuit is located inside the cavity in the supporting member 12a extending through the proximal portion 8 a and through the nasal guides 30 to cavity 24. Flexible circuit and the corresponding thermistors are electrically connected with the control unit 10 (e.g. a central processing unit 10 connected to connector housing 11). Control unit 10 receives electrical signals from the thermistors and the detector chip 28 or any other similar sensors connected on the electronic flex circuit 15.

[0045] FIGS. 7A to 7B depict a fourth example breathing device with a two-piece bridge section, according to various aspects of the subject technology. In the depicted example, exit ports 4 are located in the proximal portion 8a of the bridge section 7 such that the gas provided by the gas supply connector is provided to at least one exit port 4 via a single contiguous chamber from connector 5 (not shown) to the exit port(s) 4. In some implementations, the section 35 of breathing device 1 that includes flexible substrate 15 may be coupled to the first section, as depicted in FIG. 7C. Substrate 15 may be embedded within the sensor section 35 or be part of sensor section 35. For example, the outer wall of sensor section 35 may be constructed of materials which implement substrate 15.

[0046] FIGS. 8A and 8B depict an example control unit 10, according to various aspects of the subject technology. FIG. 8 A depicts a control unit housing 11 affixed to the end of a support arm 12. In some implementations, housing 11 may be adjacent to a respective temple piece 13 which, as depicted, may be configured to hook behind the patient’s ears. FIG. 8B depicts a printed circuit board (PCB) 36 with a microprocessor and related circuitry for operating control unit 10. Control unit 10 may include a microprocessor, a communication device, and a battery. A connector port 37 may be configured to allow flexible circuit 15 to removably plug-in to and communicate with control unit 10.

[0047] In some implementations, control unit 10 can contain accelerometer and/or position sensor (not shown in figures) to measure patient’s head posture, movement, activity, position, walking, falling etc. The processor of control unit 10 may process and calculate respiration measurement values. The battery may be a rechargeable battery. Communication device may be a radio frequency transceiver to enable patient mobility and wireless operation, data transfer wirelessly to the host monitor to show the measured values for the care giver. The battery may power the microprocessor, communication device, and each sensor 9 of the flexible thin-film substrate 15. Radio frequency transceiver, such as Bluetooth or WLAN, also enable measuring the location of the patient.

[0048] Control unit 10 measures patient’s breathing gas flow and calculates respiration rate, and may also detect the time of inspiration and expiration from the breathing waveform. Control unit 10 may connect to a remote application and provide to that application respiration data measured from sensors 9 in real time. In some implementations, control unit may pair with or communicate with an oxygen delivery device to control the oxygen delivery in real time. For example, control unit 10 may instruct the delivery device to deliver oxygen to a patient’s airways during inspiration only. Control unit 10 may increase or decrease oxygenation flow and concentration remotely by controlling the valve depending on the need of oxygenation.

[0049] Control unit 10 may detect and communicate all patient actions back to a remove application. Control unit 10 (or the remote application) may record breathing measurements, and may correlate breath actions by the patient (e.g. a respiration rate) with a stored treatment plan. A caregiver may connect to the control unit 10 to view the log fde when patient visits the caregiver’s office and determine whether the patient has followed the treatment plan or what were the deviations to the plan.

[0050] FIG. 9 depicts an example control unit charging device, according to various aspects of the subject technology. According to various aspects, control unit 10 may be replaced by a caregiver or the patient according to a treatment plan, or when a currently used control unit 10 experiences a failure or is required to be removed to upload data or to recharge the battery. Charging device 38 is provided to charge more than one control unit 10 at a time. Charging device 38 may be powered by a power adapter or may be powered by USB power. In some implementations, charging device 38 may upload or download data to and from a remote system using a USB or similar data cable. In some implementation, data transfer may be wireless.

[0051] FIG. 10 depicts an examplary process for constructing a breathing apparatus 1, according to aspects of the subject technology. For explanatory purposes, the various blocks of example process 100 are described herein with reference to FIGS. 1-9, and the components and/or processes described herein. In some implementations, one or more of the blocks may be implemented apart from other blocks, and by one or more different processors or devices. Further for explanatory purposes, the blocks of example process 100 are described as occurring in serial, or linearly. However, multiple blocks of example process 100 may occur in parallel. In addition, the blocks of example process 100 need not be performed in the order shown and/or one or more of the blocks of example process 100 need not be performed.

[0052] Starting with step 101, a hollow frame comprising abridge section and two supporting members is constructed with each supporting member configured to extend over an ear of a patient. The bridge section is divided into a proximal portion configured to rest on a philtrum of the patient when the two supporting members of the frame are placed over each respective ear of the patient, and a distal portion extending in a lateral direction away from the proximal portion. For example, as depicted in the corresponding figures the bridge section divides (or splits) the hollow frame into to two bridge segments at location corresponding to the philtrum of the wearer of the frame. In some implementations, the proximal portion and the distal portion start on each side connected to a respective supporting member, and then diverge further from each other and become the most spaced apart at a location corresponding to the wearer’s nose. In some implementations, the distal portion is curved (e.g. an arc) with the space between the distal portion and the proximal portion becoming largest at the apex of the curve (or arc) at the location corresponding to the wearer’s nose. According to various implementations, one or both of the distal and proximal portions are hollow, as are the supporting members, and one or both of the distal and proximal portions may form a contiguous hollow chamber with a corresponding supporting member, as depicted in the various figures.

[0053] In step 102, a gas supply connector is coupled to the hollow frame. The gas supply connector configured to provide a gas to an interior of the hollow frame, and the hollow frame is configured to supply the gas provided by the gas supply connector to at least one exit port located in the bridge section. According to various implementations there are two exit ports, one for each nostril of a patient.

[0054] In step 103, a control unit is coupled to the hollow frame.

[0055] In step 104, a flexible thin-film substrate having a connector at a first end of the thin- film substrate and multiple appendages along a second end of the thin-film substrate is inserted within at least a portion of the hollow frame. Each appendage includes a sensor at an end of the appendage.

[0056] In step 105, the first end of the thin-film substrate is connected to the control unit by the connector. In this regard, the thin-film substrate traverses a portion of the hollow frame between the control unit and the bridge section, and the second end traverses an interior of the bridge section and each appendage of the multiple appendages passes through an opening in a wall of the bridge section to provide each respective embedded sensor to an exterior of the bridge section. The thin-film substrate is configured to provide electrical communication between each sensor and the control unit.

[0057] FIG. 11 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example electronic system 800 for operating a breathing device, according to aspects of the subject technology. Electronic system 800 may be a computing device for execution of software associated with one or more portions or steps of process 700, or components and processes provided by FIGS. 1-10. Electronic system 800 may be representative, in combination with the disclosure regarding FIGS. 1-10, of the control unit 10. According to some implementations, electronic system 800 may represent a computing device connected to control unit 10. In this regard, electronic system may be a personal computer or a mobile device such as a smartphone, tablet computer, laptop, PDA, an augmented reality device, a wearable such as a watch or band or glasses, or combination thereof, or other touch screen or television with one or more processors embedded therein or coupled thereto, or any other sort of computer-related electronic device having network connectivity.

[0058] Electronic system 800 may include various types of computer readable media and interfaces for various other types of computer readable media. In the depicted example, electronic system 800 includes a bus 808, processing unit(s) 812, a system memory 804, a read-only memory (ROM) 810, a permanent storage device 802, an input device interface 814, an output device interface 806, and one or more network interfaces 816. In some implementations, electronic system 800 may include or be integrated with other computing devices or circuitry for operation of the various components and processes previously described.

[0059] Bus 808 collectively represents all system, peripheral, and chipset buses that communicatively connect the numerous internal devices of electronic system 800. For instance, bus 808 communicatively connects processing unit(s) 812 with ROM 810, system memory 804, and permanent storage device 802.

[0060] From these various memory units, processing unit(s) 812 retrieves instructions to execute and data to process in order to execute the processes of the subject disclosure. The processing unit(s) can be a single processor or a multi-core processor in different implementations. [0061] ROM 810 stores static data and instructions that are needed by processing unit(s) 812 and other modules of the electronic system. Permanent storage device 802, on the other hand, is a read-and-write memory device. This device is a non-volatile memory unit that stores instructions and data even when electronic system 800 is off. Some implementations of the subject disclosure use a mass-storage device (such as a magnetic or optical disk and its corresponding disk drive) as permanent storage device 802.

[0062] Other implementations use a removable storage device (such as a floppy disk, flash drive, and its corresponding disk drive) as permanent storage device 802. Like permanent storage device 802, system memory 804 is a read-and-write memory device. However, unlike storage device 802, system memory 804 is a volatile read-and-write memory, such a random access memory. System memory 804 stores some of the instructions and data that the processor needs at runtime. In some implementations, the processes of the subject disclosure are stored in system memory 804, permanent storage device 802, and/or ROM 810. From these various memory units, processing unit(s) 812 retrieves instructions to execute and data to process in order to execute the processes of some implementations.

[0063] Bus 808 also connects to input and output device interfaces 814 and 806. Input device interface 814 enables the user to communicate information and select commands to the electronic system. Input devices used with input device interface 814 include, e.g., alphanumeric keyboards and pointing devices (also called “cursor control devices”). Output device interfaces 806 enables, e.g., the display of images generated by the electronic system 800. Output devices used with output device interface 806 include, e.g., printers and display devices, such as cathode ray tubes (CRT) or liquid crystal displays (LCD). Some implementations include devices such as a touchscreen that functions as both input and output devices.

[0064] Also, as shown in FIG. 11, bus 808 also couples electronic system 800 to a network (not shown) through network interfaces 816. Network interfaces 816 may include, e.g., a wireless access point (e.g., Bluetooth or WiFi) or radio circuitry for connecting to a wireless access point. Network interfaces 816 may also include hardware (e.g., Ethernet hardware) for connecting the computer to a part of a network of computers such as a local area network (“LAN”), a wide area network (“WAN”), wireless LAN, or an Intranet, or a network of networks, such as the Internet. Any or all components of electronic system 800 can be used in conjunction with the subject disclosure.

[0065] These functions described above can be implemented in computer software, firmware or hardware. The techniques can be implemented using one or more computer program products. Programmable processors and computers can be included in or packaged as mobile devices. The processes and logic flows can be performed by one or more programmable processors and by one or more programmable logic circuitry. General and special purpose computing devices and storage devices can be interconnected through communication networks.

[0066] Some implementations include electronic components, such as microprocessors, storage and memory that store computer program instructions in a machine-readable or computer- readable medium (alternatively referred to as computer-readable storage media, machine-readable media, or machine-readable storage media). Some examples of such computer-readable media include RAM, ROM, read-only compact discs (CD-ROM), recordable compact discs (CD-R), rewritable compact discs (CD-RW), read-only digital versatile discs (e.g., DVD-ROM, dual-layer DVD-ROM), a variety of recordable/rewritable DVDs (e g., DVD-RAM, DVD-RW, DVD+RW, etc.), flash memory (e.g., SD cards, mini-SD cards, micro-SD cards, etc.), magnetic and/or solid state hard drives, read-only and recordable Blu-Ray® discs, ultra density optical discs, any other optical or magnetic media, and floppy disks. The computer-readable media can store a computer program that is executable by at least one processing unit and includes sets of instructions for performing various operations. Examples of computer programs or computer code include machine code, such as is produced by a compiler, and files including higher-level code that are executed by a computer, an electronic component, or a microprocessor using an interpreter.

[0067] While the above discussion primarily refers to microprocessor or multi-core processors that execute software, some implementations are performed by one or more integrated circuits, such as application specific integrated circuits (ASICs) or field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs). In some implementations, such integrated circuits execute instructions that are stored on the circuit itself.

[0068] As used in this specification and any claims of this application, the terms “computer,” “server,” “processor,” and “memory” all refer to electronic or other technological devices. These terms exclude people or groups of people. For the purposes of the specification, the terms display or displaying means displaying on an electronic device. As used in this specification and any claims of this application, the terms “computer readable medium” and “computer readable media” are entirely restricted to tangible, physical objects that store information in a form that is readable by a computer. These terms exclude any wireless signals, wired download signals, and any other ephemeral signals.

[0069] To provide for interaction with a user, implementations of the subject matter described in this specification can be implemented on a computer having a display device, e.g., a CRT (cathode ray tube) or LCD (liquid crystal display) monitor, for displaying information to the user and a keyboard and a pointing device, e.g., a mouse or a trackball, by which the user can provide input to the computer. Other kinds of devices can be used to provide for interaction with a user as well; e.g., feedback provided to the user can be any form of sensory feedback, e.g., visual feedback, auditory feedback, or tactile feedback; and input from the user can be received in any form, including acoustic, speech, or tactile input. In addition, a computer can interact with a user by sending documents to and receiving documents from a device that is used by the user; e.g., by sending web pages to a web browser on a user’s client device in response to requests received from the web browser.

[0070] Implementations of the subject matter described in this specification can be implemented in a computing system that includes a back end component, e.g., as a data server, or that includes a middleware component, e.g., an application server, or that includes a front end component, e.g., a client computer having a graphical user interface or a Web browser through which a user can interact with an implementation of the subject matter described in this specification, or any combination of one or more such back end, middleware, or front end components. The components of the system can be interconnected by any form or medium of digital data communication, e.g., a communication network. Examples of communication networks include a local area network (“LAN”) and a wide area network (“WAN”), an inter network (e.g., the Internet), and peer-to-peer networks (e.g., ad hoc peer-to-peer networks).

[0071] The computing system can include clients and servers. A client and server are generally remote from each other and may interact through a communication network. The relationship of client and server arises by virtue of computer programs running on the respective computers and having a client-server relationship to each other. In some implementations, a server transmits data (e.g., an HTML page) to a client device (e.g., for purposes of displaying data to and receiving user input from a user interacting with the client device). Data generated at the client device (e.g., a result of the user interaction) can be received from the client device at the server.

[0072] Those of skill in the art would appreciate that the various illustrative blocks, modules, elements, components, methods, and algorithms described herein may be implemented as electronic hardware, computer software, or combinations of both. To illustrate this interchangeability of hardware and software, various illustrative blocks, modules, elements, components, methods, and algorithms have been described above generally in terms of their functionality. Whether such functionality is implemented as hardware or software depends upon the particular application and design constraints imposed on the overall system. Skilled artisans may implement the described functionality in varying ways for each particular application. Various components and blocks may be arranged differently (e.g., arranged in a different order, or partitioned in a different way) all without departing from the scope of the subject technology.

[0073] It is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the processes disclosed is an illustration of example approaches. Based upon design preferences, it is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the processes may be rearranged. Some of the steps may be performed simultaneously. The accompanying method claims present elements of the various steps in a sample order, and are not meant to be limited to the specific order or hierarchy presented.

[0074] Illustration of Subject Technology as Clauses:

[0075] Various examples of aspects of the disclosure are described as numbered clauses (1, 2, 3, etc.) for convenience. These are provided as examples, and do not limit the subject technology. Identifications of the figures and reference numbers are provided below merely as examples and for illustrative purposes, and the clauses are not limited by those identification.

[0076] Clause 1. A breathing apparatus, comprising: a hollow frame comprising a bridge section and two supporting members, each supporting member configured to extend over an ear of a patient, the bridge section dividing into a proximal portion configured to rest on a philtrum of the patient when the two supporting members of the frame are placed over each respective ear of the patient, and a distal portion extending in a lateral direction away from the proximal portion; a gas supply connector configured to provide a gas to an interior of the hollow frame, the hollow frame supplying the gas provided by the gas supply connector to at least one exit port located in the bridge section; a control unit coupled to the hollow frame; and a flexible thin-film substrate having a connector at a first end of the thin-film substrate and multiple appendages along a second end of the thin-film substrate, each appendage including a sensor at an end of the appendage, wherein the thin-film substrate is configured to provide electrical communication between each sensor and the control unit.

[0077] Clause 2. The breathing apparatus of Clause 1, wherein the first end of the thin-film substrate is positioned within the hollow frame and is connected to the control unit by the connector and traverses a portion of the hollow frame between the control unit and the bridge section, and the second end traverses an interior of the bridge section and each appendage of the multiple appendages passes through an opening in a wall of the bridge section to provide each respective embedded sensor to an exterior of the bridge section.

[0078] Clause 3. The breathing apparatus of Clause 2, wherein the proximal portion of the bridge section is separable from the distal portion of the bridge section.

[0079] Clause 4. The breathing apparatus of Clause 3, wherein the hollow frame comprises a first frame section and a separable second frame section configured to interconnect with each other to form a single unit, and wherein the first frame section comprises a first single contiguous chamber extending through a first supporting member of the two supporting members and through the proximal portion of the bridge section, and wherein the second frame section comprises a second single contiguous chamber extending through a second supporting member of the two supporting members and through the distal portion of the bridge section.

[0080] Clause 5. The breathing apparatus of Clause 4, wherein the gas supply connector is connected to an end of the second supporting member, and the at least one exit port is located in the distal portion of the bridge section such that the gas provided by the gas supply connector is provided to the at least one exit port via the second single contiguous chamber. [0081] Clause 6. The breathing apparatus of Clause 4 or Clause 5, wherein the control unit is coupled to the first supporting member, and thin-film substrate traverses the first supporting member to the proximal portion of the bridge section via the first single contiguous chamber, wherein the wall through which each of the multiple appendages passes is a wall of the proximal portion of the bridge section.

[0082] Clause 7. The breathing apparatus of Clause 6, wherein the control unit is removably coupled to the hollow frame, and wherein the control unit comprises a control housing being coupled to the first supporting member and the control unit being removably coupled to the control housing such that, when the control unit is coupled to the control housing the control unit is secured to the first supporting member and electrically coupled to the flexible thin-film substrate, and wherein the control unit comprises a microprocessor, a communication device, and a battery configured to power the microprocessor, communication device, and each sensor of the flexible thin-film substrate.

[0083] Clause 8. The breathing apparatus of any one of Clauses 4 through 7, wherein the at least one exit port is located in the proximal portion of the bridge section such that the gas provided by the gas supply connector is provided to the at least one exit port via the first single contiguous chamber, and wherein the wall through which each of the multiple appendages passes is a wall of the distal portion of the bridge section.

[0084] Clause 9. The breathing apparatus of any one of Clauses 1 through 8, wherein each sensor measures a characteristic of a patient respiration, and wherein the control unit is configured to process measured characteristics of the patient respiration over time and develop a breathing pattern for a patient and to store the breathing pattern in a memory device.

[0085] Clause 10. The breathing apparatus of Clause 9, wherein each sensor is a thermistor embedded within an end of or affixed to a respective appendage of the thin-film substrate, and wherein the at least one exit port comprises two tubular nasal ducts configured to fit within a patient’s nostrils, and wherein the proximal portion and the distal portion of the bridge section form a contiguous cavity about the two tubular nasal ducts and each thermistor passing through an opening in the wall of the bridge section. [0086] Clause 11. A method for constructing a breathing apparatus, comprising: providing a hollow frame comprising a bridge section and two supporting members, each supporting member configured to extend over an ear of a patient, the bridge section dividing into a proximal portion configured to rest on a philtrum of the patient when the two supporting members of the frame are placed over each respective ear of the patient, and a distal portion extending in a lateral direction away from the proximal portion; coupling a gas supply connector to the hollow frame, the gas supply connector configured to provide a gas to an interior of the hollow frame, the hollow frame supplying the gas provided by the gas supply connector to at least one exit port located in the bridge section; attaching a control unit coupled to the hollow frame; and inserting, within at least a portion of the hollow frame, a flexible thin-film substrate having a connector at a first end of the thin-film substrate and multiple appendages along a second end of the thin-film substrate, each appendage including a sensor at an end of the appendage; connecting the first end of the thin-film substrate to the control unit by the connector, wherein the thin-film substrate traverses a portion of the hollow frame between the control unit and the bridge section, and the second end traverses an interior of the bridge section and each appendage of the multiple appendages passes through an opening in a wall of the bridge section to provide each respective embedded sensor to an exterior of the bridge section, wherein the thin-film substrate is configured to provide electrical communication between each sensor and the control unit.

[0087] Clause 12. The method of Clause 11, wherein the proximal portion of the bridge section is separable from the distal portion of the bridge section, wherein providing the hollow frame comprises: connecting a first frame section and a separable second frame section configured to interconnect with each other to form a single unit.

[0088] Clause 13. The method of Clause 12, wherein the first frame section comprises a first single contiguous chamber extending through a first supporting member of the two supporting members and through the proximal portion of the bridge section, and wherein the second frame section comprises a second single contiguous chamber extending through a second supporting member of the two supporting members and through the distal portion of the bridge section.

[0089] Clause 14. The method of Clause 13, wherein the gas supply connector is connected to an end of the second supporting member, and the at least one exit port is located in the distal portion of the bridge section such that the gas provided by the gas supply connector is provided to the at least one exit port via the second single contiguous chamber.

[0090] Clause 15. The method of Clause 13 or Clause 14, wherein the control unit is coupled to the first supporting member, and thin-film substrate traverses the first supporting member to the proximal portion of the bridge section via the first single contiguous chamber, wherein the wall through which each of the multiple appendages passes is a wall of the proximal portion of the bridge section.

[0091] Clause 16. The method of Clause 15, wherein the control unit is removably coupled to the hollow frame, and wherein the control unit comprises a control housing being coupled to the first supporting member and the control unit being removably coupled to the control housing such that, when the control unit is coupled to the control housing the control unit is secured to the first supporting member and electrically coupled to the flexible thin-film substrate, and wherein the control unit comprises a microprocessor, a communication device, and a battery configured to power the microprocessor, communication device, and each sensor of the flexible thin-film substrate.

[0092] Clause 17. The method of any one of Clauses 13 through 16, wherein the at least one exit port is located in the proximal portion of the bridge section such that the gas provided by the gas supply connector is provided to the at least one exit port via the first single contiguous chamber, and wherein the wall through which each of the multiple appendages passes is a wall of the distal portion of the bridge section.

[0093] Clause 18. The method of any one of Clauses 11 through 17, wherein each sensor measures a characteristic of a patient respiration, and wherein the control unit is configured to process measured characteristics of the patient respiration over time and develop a breathing pattern for a patient and to store the breathing pattern in a memory device.

[0094] Clause 19. The method of Clause 18, wherein each sensor is a thermistor embedded within an end of or affixed to a respective appendage of the thin-film substrate.

[0095] Clause 20. The method of Clause 19, wherein the at least one exit port comprises two tubular nasal ducts configured to fit within a patient’s nostrils, and wherein the proximal portion and the distal portion of the bridge section form a contiguous cavity about the two tubular nasal ducts and each thermistor passing through an opening in the wall of the bridge section.

[0096] Clause 21. A method of treating a patient, comprising: providing a breathing apparatus, the breathing apparatus comprising: a hollow frame comprising a bridge section and two supporting members, each supporting member configured to extend over an ear of a patient, the bridge section dividing into a proximal portion configured to rest on a philtrum of the patient when the two supporting members of the frame are placed over each respective ear of the patient, and a distal portion extending in a lateral direction away from the proximal portion; a gas supply connector configured to provide a breathable gas to an interior of the hollow frame, the hollow frame supplying the breathable gas provided by the gas supply connector to at least one exit port located in the bridge section; a removable control unit coupled to the hollow frame; and a flexible thin-film substrate having a connector at a first end of the thin-film substrate and multiple appendages along a second end of the thin-film substrate, each appendage including a sensor at an end of the appendage, wherein the thin-film substrate is configured to provide electrical communication between each sensor and the removable control unit; and providing the breathable gas to the gas supply connector so that the breathable gas is passes to the interior of the hollow frame and to the patient through the at least one exit port; and measuring one or parameters of respiration from a nose and mouth of the patient using the sensors at the end of each appendage.

[0097] Clause 22. The method of Clause 21, further comprising: electronically communicating the one or more parameters of respiration, over the flexible thin-film substrate, to the removable control unit.

[0098] Clause 23. The method of Clause 21 or Clause 22, further comprising: electronically storing the one or more parameters of respiration in a memory of the removable control unit.

[0099] Further Consideration:

[00100] It is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the processes disclosed is an illustration of example approaches. Based upon design preferences, it is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the processes may be rearranged. Some of the steps may be performed simultaneously. The accompanying method claims present elements of the various steps in a sample order, and are not meant to be limited to the specific order or hierarchy presented.

[00101] The previous description is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the various aspects described herein. The previous description provides various examples of the subject technology, and the subject technology is not limited to these examples. Various modifications to these aspects will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other aspects. Thus, the claims are not intended to be limited to the aspects shown herein, but is to be accorded the full scope consistent with the language claims, wherein reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean “one and only one” unless specifically so stated, but rather “one or more.” Unless specifically stated otherwise, the term “some” refers to one or more. Pronouns in the masculine (e.g., his) include the feminine and neuter gender (e.g., her and its) and vice versa. Headings and subheadings, if any, are used for convenience only and do not limit this disclosure.

[00102] The predicate words “configured to,” “operable to,” and “programmed to” do not imply any particular tangible or intangible modification of a subject, but, rather, are intended to be used interchangeably. For example, a processor configured to monitor and control an operation or a component may also mean the processor being programmed to monitor and control the operation or the processor being operable to monitor and control the operation. Likewise, a processor configured to execute code can be construed as a processor programmed to execute code or operable to execute code.

[00103] The term automatic, as used herein, may include performance by a computer or machine without user intervention; for example, by instructions responsive to a predicate action by the computer or machine or other initiation mechanism. The word “example” is used herein to mean “serving as an example or illustration.” Any aspect or design described herein as “example” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs.

[00104] A phrase such as an “aspect” does not imply that such aspect is essential to the subject technology or that such aspect applies to all configurations of the subject technology. A disclosure relating to an aspect may apply to all configurations, or one or more configurations. An aspect may provide one or more examples. A phrase such as an aspect may refer to one or more aspects and vice versa. A phrase such as an “implementation” does not imply that such implementation is essential to the subject technology or that such implementation applies to all configurations of the subject technology. A disclosure relating to an implementation may apply to all implementations, or one or more implementations. An implementation may provide one or more examples. A phrase such as an “implementation” may refer to one or more implementations and vice versa. A phrase such as a “configuration” does not imply that such configuration is essential to the subject technology or that such configuration applies to all configurations of the subject technology. A disclosure relating to a configuration may apply to all configurations, or one or more configurations. A configuration may provide one or more examples. A phrase such as a “configuration” may refer to one or more configurations and vice versa.

[00105] All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the various aspects described throughout this disclosure that are known or later come to be known to those of ordinary skill in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be encompassed by the claims. Moreover, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether such disclosure is explicitly recited in the claims. No claim element is to be construed under the provisions of 35 U.S.C. §112, sixth paragraph, unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase “means for” or, in the case of a method claim, the element is recited using the phrase “step for.” Furthermore, to the extent that the term “include,” “have,” or the like is used in the description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprise” as “comprise” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A breathing apparatus, comprising: a hollow frame comprising a bridge section and two supporting members, each supporting member configured to extend over an ear of a patient, the bridge section dividing into a proximal portion configured to rest on a philtrum of the patient when the two supporting members of the frame are placed over each respective ear of the patient, and a distal portion extending in a lateral direction away from the proximal portion; a gas supply connector configured to provide a gas to an interior of the hollow frame, the hollow frame supplying the gas provided by the gas supply connector to at least one exit port located in the bridge section; a control unit coupled to the hollow frame; and a flexible thin-film substrate having a connector at a first end of the thin-film substrate and multiple appendages along a second end of the thin-film substrate, each appendage including a sensor at an end of the appendage, wherein the thin-film substrate is configured to provide electrical communication between each sensor and the control unit.

2. The breathing apparatus of Claim 1, wherein the first end of the thin-film substrate is positioned within the hollow frame and is connected to the control unit by the connector and traverses a portion of the hollow frame between the control unit and the bridge section, and the second end traverses an interior of the bridge section and each appendage of the multiple appendages passes through an opening in a wall of the bridge section to provide each respective embedded sensor to an exterior of the bridge section.

3. The breathing apparatus of Claim 2, wherein the proximal portion of the bridge section is separable from the distal portion of the bridge section.

4. The breathing apparatus of Claim 3, wherein the hollow frame comprises a first frame section and a separable second frame section configured to interconnect with each other to form a single unit, and wherein the first frame section comprises a first single contiguous chamber extending through a first supporting member of the two supporting members and through the proximal portion of the bridge section, and wherein the second frame section comprises a second single contiguous chamber extending through a second supporting member of the two supporting members and through the distal portion of the bridge section.

5. The breathing apparatus of Claim 4, wherein the gas supply connector is connected to an end of the second supporting member, and the at least one exit port is located in the distal portion of the bridge section such that the gas provided by the gas supply connector is provided to the at least one exit port via the second single contiguous chamber.

6. The breathing apparatus of Claim 4, wherein the control unit is coupled to the first supporting member, and thin-film substrate traverses the first supporting member to the proximal portion of the bridge section via the first single contiguous chamber, wherein the wall through which each of the multiple appendages passes is a wall of the proximal portion of the bridge section.

7. The breathing apparatus of Claim 6, wherein the control unit is removably coupled to the hollow frame, and wherein the control unit comprises a control housing being coupled to the first supporting member and the control unit being removably coupled to the control housing such that, when the control unit is coupled to the control housing the control unit is secured to the first supporting member and electrically coupled to the flexible thin-film substrate, and wherein the control unit comprises a microprocessor, a communication device, and a battery configured to power the microprocessor, communication device, and each sensor of the flexible thin-film substrate.

8. The breathing apparatus of Claim 4, wherein the at least one exit port is located in the proximal portion of the bridge section such that the gas provided by the gas supply connector is provided to the at least one exit port via the first single contiguous chamber, and wherein the wall through which each of the multiple appendages passes is a wall of the distal portion of the bridge section.

9. The breathing apparatus of Claim 1, wherein each sensor measures a characteristic of a patient respiration, and wherein the control unit is configured to process measured characteristics of the patient respiration over time and develop a breathing pattern for a patient and to store the breathing pattern in a memory device.

10. The breathing apparatus of Claim 9, wherein each sensor is a thermistor embedded within an end of or affixed to a respective appendage of the thin-film substrate, and wherein the at least one exit port comprises two tubular nasal ducts configured to fit within a patient’s nostrils, and wherein the proximal portion and the distal portion of the bridge section form a contiguous cavity about the two tubular nasal ducts and each thermistor passing through an opening in the wall of the bridge section.

11. A method for constructing a breathing apparatus, comprising: providing a hollow frame comprising a bridge section and two supporting members, each supporting member configured to extend over an ear of a patient, the bridge section dividing into a proximal portion configured to rest on a philtrum of the patient when the two supporting members of the frame are placed over each respective ear of the patient, and a distal portion extending in a lateral direction away from the proximal portion; coupling a gas supply connector to the hollow frame, the gas supply connector configured to provide a gas to an interior of the hollow frame, the hollow frame supplying the gas provided by the gas supply connector to at least one exit port located in the bridge section; attaching a control unit coupled to the hollow frame; and inserting, within at least a portion of the hollow frame, a flexible thin- film substrate having a connector at a first end of the thin-film substrate and multiple appendages along a second end of the thin-film substrate, each appendage including a sensor at an end of the appendage; connecting the first end of the thin-film substrate to the control unit by the connector, wherein the thin-film substrate traverses a portion of the hollow frame between the control unit and the bridge section, and the second end traverses an interior of the bridge section and each appendage of the multiple appendages passes through an opening in a wall of the bridge section to provide each respective embedded sensor to an exterior of the bridge section, wherein the thin-film substrate is configured to provide electrical communication between each sensor and the control unit.

12. The method of Claim 11, wherein the proximal portion of the bridge section is separable from the distal portion of the bridge section, wherein providing the hollow frame comprises: connecting a first frame section and a separable second frame section configured to interconnect with each other to form a single unit.

13. The method of Claim 12, wherein the first frame section comprises a first single contiguous chamber extending through a first supporting member of the two supporting members and through the proximal portion of the bridge section, and wherein the second frame section comprises a second single contiguous chamber extending through a second supporting member of the two supporting members and through the distal portion of the bridge section.

14. The method of Claim 13, wherein the gas supply connector is connected to an end of the second supporting member, and the at least one exit port is located in the distal portion of the bridge section such that the gas provided by the gas supply connector is provided to the at least one exit port via the second single contiguous chamber.

15. The method of Claim 13, wherein the control unit is coupled to the first supporting member, and thin-film substrate traverses the first supporting member to the proximal portion of the bridge section via the first single contiguous chamber, wherein the wall through which each of the multiple appendages passes is a wall of the proximal portion of the bridge section.

16. The method of Claim 15, wherein the control unit is removably coupled to the hollow frame, and wherein the control unit comprises a control housing being coupled to the first supporting member and the control unit being removably coupled to the control housing such that, when the control unit is coupled to the control housing the control unit is secured to the first supporting member and electrically coupled to the flexible thin-film substrate, and wherein the control unit comprises a microprocessor, a communication device, and a battery configured to power the microprocessor, communication device, and each sensor of the flexible thin-film substrate.

17. The method of Claim 13, wherein the at least one exit port is located in the proximal portion of the bridge section such that the gas provided by the gas supply connector is provided to the at least one exit port via the first single contiguous chamber, and wherein the wall through which each of the multiple appendages passes is a wall of the distal portion of the bridge section.

18. The method of Claim 11, wherein each sensor measures a characteristic of a patient respiration, and wherein the control unit is configured to process measured characteristics of the patient respiration over time and develop a breathing pattern for a patient and to store the breathing pattern in a memory device.

19. The method of Claim 18, wherein each sensor is a thermistor embedded within an end of or affixed to a respective appendage of the thin-film substrate.

20. The method of Claim 19, wherein the at least one exit port comprises two tubular nasal ducts configured to fit within a patient’s nostrils, and wherein the proximal portion and the distal portion of the bridge section form a contiguous cavity about the two tubular nasal ducts and each thermistor passing through an opening in the wall of the bridge section.

21. A method of treating a patient, comprising: providing a breathing apparatus, the breathing apparatus comprising: a hollow frame comprising a bridge section and two supporting members, each supporting member configured to extend over an ear of a patient, the bridge section dividing into a proximal portion configured to rest on a philtrum of the patient when the two supporting members of the frame are placed over each respective ear of the patient, and a distal portion extending in a lateral direction away from the proximal portion; a gas supply connector configured to provide a breathable gas to an interior of the hollow frame, the hollow frame supplying the breathable gas provided by the gas supply connector to at least one exit port located in the bridge section; a removable control unit coupled to the hollow frame; and a flexible thin-film substrate having a connector at a first end of the thin-film substrate and multiple appendages along a second end of the thin-film substrate, each appendage including a sensor at an end of the appendage, wherein the thin-film substrate is configured to provide electrical communication between each sensor and the removable control unit; and providing the breathable gas to the gas supply connector so that the breathable gas is passes to the interior of the hollow frame and to the patient through the at least one exit port; and measuring one or parameters of respiration from a nose and mouth of the patient using the sensors at the end of each appendage.

22. The method of Claim 21, further comprising: electronically communicating the one or more parameters of respiration, over the flexible thin-film substrate, to the removable control unit.

23. The method of Claim 21, further comprising: electronically storing the one or more parameters of respiration in a memory of the removable control unit.