WO2024059782A2

WO2024059782A2 - Automated external defibrillator systems with deep sleep mode

Info

Publication number: WO2024059782A2
Application number: PCT/US2023/074286
Authority: WO
Inventors: Gary Montague; Randolph Kerry Armstrong; Satyajit Ketkar
Original assignee: Hearthero, Inc.
Priority date: 2022-09-16
Filing date: 2023-09-15
Publication date: 2024-03-21
Also published as: WO2024059782A3

Abstract

A method of operating an AED system includes providing an AED with a shock-generating electronics module and a control module in configured to operate the shock-generating electronics. The method further includes providing a power source in electrical communication with the control module and the shock-generating electronics, and providing a deep-sleep mode, wherein the control module limits current draw from the power source to a first rate. Still further, the method includes providing a low-power mode, wherein the control module limits current draw from the power source to a second rate greater than the first rate, and providing a charging power mode, wherein the control module allows current draw from the power source by the shock-generating electronics at a third rate greater than the second rate.

Description

AUTOMATED EXTERNAL DEFIBRILLATOR SYSTEMS WITH DEEP SLEEP MODE

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0001] Aspects of the present disclosure generally relate to automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and, more particularly, to compact AED systems and methods of operating the AED.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] 86 million Americans have risk factors for sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), while 12 million are at high risk. Cardiac events represent more deaths in America than breast, lung, colon and prostate cancer combined. More than 360,000 sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) occur outside of the hospital each year. According to the American Heart Association, nearly 70 percent of these SCAs occur at home, out of reach of the lifesaving shock of an AED.

[0003] As each minute passes following a sudden cardiac arrest, the chances of survival decrease significantly. If an AED is not applied within 10 minutes of a SCA event, chances of survival decrease to less than 1%.

[0004] One approach to increasing the chance of survival for SCA sufferers is to make AEDs more readily available and accessible for more people. However, the AEDs currently available on the market tend to be heavy, not portable, expensive, and intimidating to use for people without medical training. For example, US Pat. Pub. No. US 2018/0169426, entitled “Automatic External Defibrillator Device and Methods of Use,” which disclosure is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference, provides a possible solution to overcome the availability and accessibility problem by providing a compact AED device suitable for portability. [0005] Aspects of the present disclosure provide structures and modes of AED operation that improve intervention readiness.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0006] The following presents a simplified summary of one or more aspects in order to provide a basic understanding of such aspects. This summary is not an extensive overview of all contemplated aspects and is intended to neither identify key or critical elements of all aspects nor delineate the scope of any or all aspects. Its purpose is to present some concepts of one or more aspects in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

[0007] In an embodiment, a method of operating an AED system includes providing an AED with a shock-generating electronics module and a control module in configured to operate the shock-generating electronics. The method further includes providing a power source in electrical communication with the control module and the shock-generating electronics, and providing a deep-sleep mode, wherein the control module limits current draw from the power source to a first rate. Still further, the method includes providing a low-power mode, wherein the control module limits current draw from the power source to a second rate greater than the first rate, and providing a charging power mode, wherein the control module allows current draw from the power source by the shock-generating electronics at a third rate greater than the second rate.

[0008] In a further embodiment, the AED operates in the deep-sleep mode when the power source is initially electrically coupled with the control module.

[0009] In a still further embodiment, the method further includes receiving a first input, and entering the low-power mode in response to receiving the first input. Receiving the first input may include receiving a first input from a user through a user interface module on the AED. The method may also include performing AED self-check processes in the low-power mode. The method may further include receiving a second input, and entering the charging power mode in response to receiving the second input, in certain embodiments. Additionally the method may further include performing shock-generating processes in the charging power mode.

[0010] In another embodiment, an automated electronic defibrillator (AED) system includes a shock-generating electronics module, a power module configured to electrically couple with the shock-generating electronics module, and a controller module operatively coupled with the shockgenerating electronics module. In an embodiment, the controller module is configured to receive user inputs and includes instructions for operating the AED system in a selected mode, the selected mode being one of a deep sleep mode, a low power mode, and a charging power mode. Further, the selected mode may be determined based on the user inputs, in certain embodiments.

[0011] In certain embodiments, the controller is configured to operate the AED system in a deep-sleep mode by default. In an embodiment, the controller is further configured to operate the AED system in a low-power mode in response to a first user input. In an embodiment, the controller is configured to operate the AED system in a charging power mode in response to a second user input. In a further embodiment, the power source is configured to provide at a first amperage in deep-sleep mode, wherein the power source is configured to provide a second amperage in low-power mode, and wherein the power source is configured to provide a third amperage in charging power mode. The power source includes a household consumer battery based on technology such as, but not limited to, NiMH, NiCd, lithium ion, alkaline, silver-oxide, and silver-zinc, such as a 9V battery, one or more coin cell batteries, AA-, C-, or D-format battery, one or more CR123 batteries, or a combination thereof. [0012] In a further embodiment, an automated electronic defibrillator (AED) system includes a shock-generating electronics module, a controller module operatively coupled with the shockgenerating electronics module, a power module configured to selectively electrically couple with the shock-generating electronics module, and a housing including a main body and a power module cover. In certain embodiments, the housing is configured to enclose the power module and the shock-generating electronics module, and the power module cover is coupled with the power module such that the power module cover and the power module are movable between a first position, wherein the power module is electrically uncoupled from the shock-generating electronics module, and a second position, wherein the power module is electrically coupled with the shock-generating electronics module.

[0013] In an embodiment, the power module cover is coupled with the main body of the AED system in the first position and in the second position. The AED system may further include a threaded connection between the power module cover and the main body, in certain embodiments. In an embodiment, the power module cover is configured to selectively rotate along the threaded connection between the first position and the second position. In certain embodiments, the power module includes at least one household consumer battery including a 9V battery, a coin cell battery, AA-format battery, a C-format battery, a D-format battery, a CR123 battery, and a combination thereof. The household consumer battery may be based on a technology including

NiMH, NiCd, lithium ion, alkaline, silver-oxide, silver zinc, and a combination thereof. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] The appended drawings illustrate only some implementation and are therefore not to be considered limiting of scope.

[0015] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary AED, including an AED operations block and a communications block, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 2 illustrates a simplified block diagram of an exemplary AED, including an AED operations block and a communications block, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 3 illustrates a process flow diagram for operating an AED, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 4A illustrates a side view of an AED having a power source in a first position, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 4B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the AED of FIG. 4A, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 5A illustrates a side view of an AED having a power source in a second position, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 5B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the AED of FIG. 5 A, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 6 is a process flow diagram for assembling and shipping an AED, in accordance with an embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] The present invention is described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which embodiments of the invention are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. In the drawings, the size and relative sizes of layers and regions may be exaggerated for clarity. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout.

[0024] It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, third etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the present invention

[0025] Spatially relative terms, such as “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “under,” “above,” “upper,” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” or “under” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary terms “below” and “under” can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly. In addition, it will also be understood that when a layer is referred to as being “between” two layers, it can be the only layer between the two layers, or one or more intervening layers may also be present.

[0026] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items, and may be abbreviated as “/”

[0027] It will be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being “on,” “connected to,” “coupled to,” or “adjacent to” another element or layer, it can be directly on, connected, coupled, or adjacent to the other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on,” “directly connected to,” “directly coupled to,” or “immediately adjacent to” another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or layers present. Likewise, when light is received or provided “from” one element, it can be received or provided directly from that element or from an intervening element. On the other hand, when light is received or provided “directly from” one element, there are no intervening elements present.

[0028] Embodiments of the invention are described herein with reference to cross-section illustrations that are schematic illustrations of idealized embodiments (and intermediate structures) of the invention. As such, variations from the shapes of the illustrations as a result, for example, of manufacturing techniques and/or tolerances, are to be expected. Thus, embodiments of the invention should not be construed as limited to the particular shapes of regions illustrated herein but are to include deviations in shapes that result, for example, from manufacturing. Accordingly, the regions illustrated in the figures are schematic in nature and their shapes are not intended to illustrate the actual shape of a region of a device and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0029] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and/or the present specification and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

[0030] There exists a need to improve accessibility and useability of portable AEDs. One particularly difficult challenge is ensuring that an AED is sufficiently powered and ready to use when an urgent SCA situation arises. Embodiments disclosed herein include user-friendly power management features in both the AED system hardware and in methods of operating the AED. Novel power management strategies are also implemented in the assembling and shipping of the portable AEDs.

[0031] Referring now to FIG. 1, an exemplary AED 100 includes an AED operations block 102 and a communication block 170. Operations block 102 includes various components that enable AED 100 to generate and deliver, within regulatory guidelines, an electric shock to a person experiencing SCA. AED operations block 102 includes a controller 110, which regulates a variety of components including an electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring circuitry 120, which is in turn connected with pads 122. Pads 122 are configured for attachment to specific locations on the SC A patient for both obtaining ECG signals and administering the electric shock generated by shock generating electronics 124, which is also controlled by controller 110. Controller 110 also monitors the condition of the pads, for example by measuring a face-to-face pads impedance.

[0032] AED operations block 102 includes a power management block 130, which is also controlled by controller 110 in an embodiment. Power management block 130 is configured for managing the power consumption by various components within AED operations block 102. For instance, power management block 130 monitors a charge status of a battery 132, which provides power to shock generating electronics 124. As such, controller 110 can alert the AED user if a low battery level is detected by power management block 130. Similarly, controller 110 can also regulate power management block 130 to control the on/off status of other components within AED 100 so as to minimize the power consumption by these other components while the AED is not being used. In an embodiment, for example, power management block 130 is configured to completely power down ECG monitoring circuitry 120 and shock generating electronics 124 when the AED is not being used. Controller 110 may include, for example, non-transitoiy memory for storing software instructions. The non-transitory memory may be communicatively coupled with a processor (e.g., microprocessor) for executing software instructions stored on the non-transitory memory. Software instructions may include, for instance, workflow information for operating the AED, as described herein.

[0033] Continuing to refer to FIG. 1, controller 1 10 is also connected with a memory 140, which stores information regarding AED 100, such as use history, battery status, shock administration and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) protocols, and other information (e.g., stored in look-up tables) used in the operation of AED 100. Controller 110 further controls a user- interface (UI) block 150. UI block 150 includes, for example, voice and/or visual prompts for instructing the AED user on the use of AED 100 as delivered by a user interface, such as a haptic display such as a touch screen, light emitting diode (LED) indicators, liquid crystal display, speakers, switches, buttons, and other ways to display information to the user and/or for a user to control the AED. In an embodiment, UI block 150 can optionally include a microphone to receive voice inputs from the AED user. In an alternative embodiment, UI block 150 can optionally include an interface with an external application, such as a native or web app on a mobile device configured for communicating with AED 100.

[0034] AED Operations Block 102 may further include optional features such as wireless charging circuitry 160 and accelerometer 162. For example, if a portion of battery 132 includes a rechargeable battery configured for wireless charging, then wireless charging circuitry 160 is used to charge the rechargeable battery. Optionally, power management block 130 can be used to control wireless charging circuitry 160 to trigger the battery charging process when the charge level of the rechargeable battery within battery 132 is detected to have fallen below a preset threshold. Alternatively, power management block 130 may trigger the battery charging process using a wired connection with an external power source (e.g., an electrical wall socket, car charger, or a power generator - not shown), when the charge level has fallen below a preset threshold. Additionally, an environmental sensor block 164 can be used to monitor the environmental conditions in which AED 100 is placed. For instance, environmental sensor block 164 can include one or more of a temperature sensor, a hygrometer, an altimeter, and other sensors for monitoring the environments around AED 100. As an example, environmental sensor block 164 monitors the temperature of battery 132 and/or pads 122, or the relative humidity of the environment in which the AED is placed. [0035] Still referring to FIG. 1, AED 100 includes a communications block 170, also controlled by controller 110. Communications block 170 provides connections to external systems and entities outside of the AED, such as emergency medical services, hospital emergency rooms, physicians, electronic health record systems, as well as other medical equipment, such as ventilators and an external ECG. In an embodiment, communications block 170 includes a cellular modem 172 and a Bluetooth® modem 174. Optionally, communications block 170 also includes additional communications components, for example, a Wi-Fi modem 176 for providing wireless connection to and from an external device, one or more wired connections 178 for providing direct wired connection to AED 100 such as via a local area network (LAN), cable, phone line, or optical fiber. Communications block 170 may also optionally include a satellite modem 180 for providing remote communications via satellite.

[0036] Referring to FIG. 2, a schematic of AED 200 is shown having an operations block 202. The operations block 202 includes a shock generating electronics module 124, a controller module 110 operatively coupled with the shock generating electronics module, and a power module 204. The power module includes a battery 132 and may further include a power management module 130 electrically coupled with the battery. The power module 204 may be selectively electrically coupled with the shock generating electronics module 124, as illustrated by the dashed line connecting the two modules. In some embodiments, the battery 132 within the power module 204 is selectively electrically coupled with the shock generating electronics module 124, with a capacitor 234 within power module 204 being configured for storing and delivering an electric shock when power module 204 is electronically coupled with shock generating electronics 124. For example, the battery may be connected during AED assembly or may be installed by a user upon receipt of the AED. In some embodiments, a physical mechanism for electrically coupling the battery with the shock generating electronics module is provided and will be described in further detail herein below with respect to Figures 4A-5B. In some embodiments, the AED 200 includes only a household consumer battery 132 configured to provide power to all electronics on board the AED 200. In such an embodiment, the AED 200 does not include a secondary or supplemental battery. The household consumer battery may be, for example, a commercially available battery for a variety of household uses, such as a 9V, CR123, coin cell, and AA, C, or D format battery based on technology such as, but not limited to, NiMH, NiCd, lithium ion, alkaline, silver-oxide, silver zinc, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, AED 200 includes a combination of two or more commercially available household batteries, as opposed to a specialized battery pack compatible only with specific AED systems.

[0037] The controller 110 may be operatively coupled with a user interface module 150 configured to receive inputs from a user as will be described in further detail herein below. The AED 200 may further include a communications block 170 that is in electrical communication with the controller 110. The communications block 170 may include one or more of a cellular modem, a Bluetooth modem, a Wi-Fi modem, a wired communications connection port, and a satellite modem. Using one or more of these communications modules, the communications block 170 may send and/or receive information to networks outside of the AED 200. Additionally, while not specifically shown in FIG. 2, the communications block 170 and/or operations block 202 of AED 200 may include one or more other components similar to those described with respect to AED 100 in FIG. 1.

[0038] The AED 200 and controller 110 may be configured to operate according to a process

300 described with respect to Figure 3. The process 300 begins with optional step 302 of installing a power source in a first position within an AED. The first position may be a position in which the power source is housed within the AED but is not in electrical communication with other circuitry or modules of the AED. This first position may be used to maintain battery life while the AED is being assembled, shipped, or stored. Optional step 304 includes moving the power source into a second position within the AED. The second position may be a position in which the power source is housed within the AED and is in electrical communication with other circuitry (e.g., shock generating electronics, control modules, etc.) or modules of the AED. The second position may be used any time other than when the AED is being assembled, shipped, or stored so that the AED is fully operable and is ready to be used.

[0039] Because the second position electrically couples the power source to circuitry and electrical components within the AED, power may begin to drain from the power source. In systems wherein the power source is only a single battery, it is especially important to moderate the amount power drawn from the battery so that the AED is ready to generate life-saving shocks at a moment’s notice. Process 300 includes a variety of power modes that may be used to extend battery life within an AED.

[0040] Once the power source (e.g., a single battery) is electrically coupled to circuitry within the AED, a control module may instruct the AED to operate in a deep-sleep mode (step 306). In the deep-sleep mode, the AED may turn off or otherwise reduce functionality of certain modules or components within the system. For example, when operating in deep-sleep mode, various communications modules or sensors may be turned off or may operate at reduced frequency to preserve as much battery life as possible. User-input functions may be supported in deep-sleep mode so that a user may provide a first input (step 308) to the AED to change the mode of operation. [0041 ] By providing an input to an AED that is operating in deep-sleep mode, auser may cause the AED to switch into a low power operation mode (step 310). While operating in low power mode, the AED may provide more power to more circuitry/modules on the AED than in deepsleep mode. In the low power mode, sensors, communications modules, and/or additional UI functionality may be supported by the power source. However, while in low power mode, not all components of the AED are powered or are operating at full functionality. In some embodiments, various sensors and/or the shock generating electronics are not powered while the AED is operating in low power mode. This may allow users to perform low power processes (e.g., performing maintenance, checking AED status, sending or receiving information to/from the AED, installing updates, or using various other functions on the AED at step 312 that do not require the significant power draw associated with generating a shock. Thus, the life of the power source on the AED may be extended.

[0042] When the AED needs to generate shocks, operate components at full function, or perform other tasks that require significant power from the power source, the user may provide a second input (step 314) to the AED. The second input triggers the AED to operate in a charging power mode (step 316). While in charging power mode, the power source supports high-powered operations, such as generating a shock (step 318). Thus, the high-powered shock generating functionality of an AED is quickly and easily accessible by a user when needed. In some embodiments, the power source is more likely to have sufficient capacity to perform the high- powered shock generating functions without requiring additional charging time because battery life has been conserved using the deep-sleep and low-power modes. Use of deep-sleep and low- power modes may increase time duration between charging the AED system and thus may increase the time during which the AED is available for use. [0043] In process 300, the deep-sleep, low-power, and charging power modes may be configured in different ways. For example, the modes may be limited by a maximum allowable power draw of the overall system. The deep-sleep mode may allow a current draw from the power source at a first amperage. The low-power mode may allow power draw from the power source at a second amperage that is greater than the first amperage and the charging mode may allow power draw from the power source at a third amperage that is greater than the second amperage. In other embodiments, the modes may be defined by particular components or modules that are supported. For example, in the deep-sleep mode, only certain UI functionality is supported, while in low- power mode additional communications modules or sensors are powered. In the charging mode, processes related to generating a shock and monitoring a patient are powered. While these particular examples are provided to convey concepts, one of skill in the art will appreciate that specific functionalities of the AED system may be associated with one or more modes of AED operation as a matter of design choice and system optimization.

[0044] While not illustrated in Figure 3, the operation process of an AED may include additional optional steps. For example, a control module may automatically cause the AED to move from a charging mode to a low-power mode after a shock generating event has occurred or after a certain amount of time has passed since a shock generating event occurred. Similarly, the control module may automatically cause the AED to move from a low-power mode to a deep-sleep mode after the AED has not received a user input for a certain amount of time. The particular time thresholds between changing modes may be pre-selected or may be set by a user. In some embodiments, instead of automatically changing modes, the AED may prompt a user to switch the AED into a reduced power mode when it is determined that there is a lack of activity. [0045] Referring to Figures 4A and 4B, side and cross-sectional views, respectively, of an AED 400 are illustrated. The AED 400 includes an AED body 402 having an opening 404 therein. Within the body 402 is a chamber 406 configured to house various electronic components 408 described with respect to Figures 1 and 2. The opening 404 may be closed using a cover 410 that is configured to engage the AED body 402 by mechanical means. For example, the cover 410 and the AED body 402 may include corresponding threads 412a, 412b configured to engage with each other by rotating the cover 410 relative to the AED body 402. A power source 414, such as a battery, may be coupled to or mounted on the cover 410. In Figures 4A and 4B, the cover and the power source 414 coupled thereto are in a first position (indicated arbitrarily by the tick mark 416 on the cover 410). While in the first position, the power source 414 is not in electrical communication with electronic components 408 within the AED body 402. This is represented by the gap between power source 414 and electronic components 408 in Figure 4B.

[0046] Figures 5A and 5B illustrate side and cross-sectional views, respectively, of an AED 400’ having the cover 410’ and the power source 414’ moved into a second position (indicated arbitrarily by the tick mark 416’). In this embodiment, cover 410’ has been rotated, as indicated by arrow 418, relative to the AED body 402. As a result of the rotation, cover 410’ has advanced along threads 412a, 412b such that the power source 414 coupled to the cover 410’ is moved into electrical communication with the electronic components 408. While a threaded connection is shown, other splines, slots, tabs, detents, or other mechanical features may be used as a matter of design choice to selectively hold the cover and the power source in first and second positions.

[0047] In some embodiments, the AED assembly and shipping process is carried out according to the process flow 600 illustrated in Figure 6. The process flow 600 includes providing an AED that has a control module operatively coupled with shock-generating electronics (step 602). A power source is then installed in the AED (step 604). Installing the power source may include coupling the power source to a a cover (e.g., attaching power source 414 to cover 410 in Figures 4A, 4B) and then coupling the cover with an AED body. Alternatively, the power source may be placed within the AED and the cover may then be separately installed in the AED body over the power source to close the opening in the AED body. Upon initial install, the power source is in a first position such that the power source is electrically uncoupled from the control module (e.g., the control module located within electrical components 408 of Figures 4A-5B). This corresponds to step 606 in process flow 600. There is zero or negligible power drain from the power source when the power source is in the first position because no electronics are electrically coupled thereto. However, in order to perform various quality checks, maintenance, updates, or other AED processes prior to shipping the AED to a user, various modules and components within the AED must be operational and require a connected power source.

[0048] In step 608, the power module cover is moved to a second position which corresponds to moving the power source to a second position. In the second position, the power source is in electrical contact with electronics on board the AED. For example, in the second position, the power source is electrically coupled with the control module, shock-generating electronics, user interface modules, and other components as described with respect to Figures 1 and 2 above. Upon receiving power, and optionally upon receiving an input from a user to turn on the system, the control module may automatically operate in a deep-sleep mode as discussed with respect to process 300 in Figure 3. Optional self-diagnostic processes may be performed by the AED at the direction of the control module, either automatically or as prompted by a user input. These optional quality check processes may be performed at step 610. [0049] Once optional quality checks are complete, the AED may be shipped or otherwise stored in preparation for shipment. During the shipping or storage time, the power module cover in a second position with the power source electrically coupled to electronics on board the AED. The control module operates in deep-sleep mode (step 612). Thus, in this state, the AED is fully assembled with all electronics on board and does not require any assembly or installation to be performed by the user once the AED is received. Rather, the AED waits for an input from a user (e.g., first input at step 308 in Figure 3) to begin operating the AED in higher powered modes to facilitate various other AED functions.

[0050] While not specifically described above, many different embodiments stem from the above description and the drawings. For example, while the control module is described as supporting three different power modes, more or fewer power modes may be selectable by the control module. Additionally, specific power thresholds or ranges for each mode may be selected based on desired functionality of the AED. Furthermore, while certain modules, sensors, and other components of the AED are described, this is not intended to limit the arrangement or configuration of componentry of the AED.

[0051] It will be understood that it would be unduly repetitious and obfuscating to literally describe and illustrate every combination and subcombination of these embodiments. As such, the present specification, including the drawings, shall be construed to constitute a complete written description of all combinations and subcombinations of the embodiments described herein, and of the manner and process of making and using them, and shall support claims to any such combination or subcombination.

Claims

CLAIMS A method of operating an AED system, the method comprising: providing an AED with a shock-generating electronics module and a control module in configured to operate the shock-generating electronics; providing a power source in electrical communication with the control module and the shock-generating electronics; providing a deep-sleep mode, wherein the control module limits current draw from the power source to a first rate; providing a low-power mode, wherein the control module limits current draw from the power source to a second rate greater than the first rate; and providing a charging power mode, wherein the control module allows current draw from the power source by the shock-generating electronics at a third rate greater than the second rate. The method of claim 1, wherein the AED operates in the deep-sleep mode when the power source is initially electrically coupled with the control module. The method of claim 1, further comprising: receiving a first input; and entering the low-power mode in response to receiving the first input. The method of claim 3, wherein receiving the first input comprises receiving a first input from a user through a user interface module on the AED. The method of claim 3, further comprising performing AED self-check processes in the low-power mode. The method of claim 3, further comprising: receiving a second input; and entering the charging power mode in response to receiving the second input. The method of claim 6, further comprising performing shock-generating processes in the charging power mode. An automated electronic defibrillator (AED) system comprising: a shock-generating electronics module; a power module configured to electrically couple with the shock-generating electronics module; and a controller module operatively coupled with the shock-generating electronics module, wherein the controller module is configured to receive user inputs, wherein the controller module comprises instructions for operating the AED system in a selected mode, the selected mode being one of a deep sleep mode, a low power mode, and a charging power mode, and wherein the selected mode is determined based on the user inputs. The AED system of claim 8, wherein the controller is configured to operate the AED system in a deep-sleep mode by default. The AED system of claim 9, wherein the controller is configured to operate the AED system in a low-power mode in response to a first user input. The AED system of claim 10, wherein the controller is configured to operate the AED system in a charging power mode in response to a second user input. The AED system of claim 8, wherein the power module is configured to provide at a first amperage in deep-sleep mode, wherein the power module is configured to provide a second amperage in low-power mode, and wherein the power module is configured to provide a third amperage in charging power mode. The AED system of claim 8, wherein the power module comprises at least one household consumer battery including a 9V battery, a coin cell battery, AA-format battery, a C- format battery, a D-format battery, a CR123 battery, and a combination thereof. The AED system of claim 13, wherein the household consumer battery is based on a technology including NiMH, NiCd, lithium ion, alkaline, silver-oxide, silver zinc, and a combination thereof. An automated electronic defibrillator (AED) system comprising: a shock-generating electronics module; a controller module operatively coupled with the shock-generating electronics module; a power module configured to selectively electrically couple with the shock-generating electronics module; and a housing comprising a main body and a power module cover, wherein the housing is configured to enclose the power module and the shock-generating electronics module, and wherein the power module cover is coupled with the power module such that the power module cover and the power module are movable between a first position, wherein the power module is electrically uncoupled from the shock-generating electronics module, and a second position, wherein the power module is electrically coupled with the shock-generating electronics module. The AED system of claim 15, wherein the power module cover is coupled with the main body in the first position and in the second position. The AED system of claim 15, further comprising a threaded connection between the power module cover and the main body. The AED system of claim 17, wherein the power module cover is configured to selectively rotate along the threaded connection between the first position and the second position. The AED system of claim 15, wherein the power module comprises at least one household consumer battery including a 9V battery, a coin cell battery, AA-format battery, a C-format battery, a D-format battery, a CR123 battery, and a combination thereof. The AED system of claim 19, wherein the household consumer battery is based on a technology including NiMH, NiCd, lithium ion, alkaline, silver-oxide, silver zinc, and a combination thereof.