APPARATUS AND METHOD COMPRISING ADJUSTABLE STEPPED MOUTHPIECE FOR AEROSOL DRUG DELIVERY

An apparatus () and method to aid in administering inhaled pharmaceutical aerosol to a patient is configured to maintain a tongue in proper position and offset the patients upper and lower jaws during aerosol delivery. An adjustable member () is provided adjacent a mouthpiece and at least partially surrounds and moves with respect to the body of the apparatus. The adjustable member has a step structured () to impart a selected amount of mandibular advancement to a patient during aerosol delivery. A tongue depressor () which may be integrally formed with the adjustable member configured to prevent a tongue from occluding a flow of aerosol is also provided. 1. A mouthpiece for an apparatus to aid aerosol delivery to a patient , the mouthpiece comprising:a body;a bore extending through the body;an upper step on a top side of the mouthpiece;a lower step on a bottom side of the mouthpiece; anda tongue depressor extending from the bottom side and configured to prevent a tongue from occluding a flow of aerosol through the mouthpiece.2. A mouthpiece according to claim 1 , wherein the mouthpiece includes a body and a movable member claim 1 , wherein the body has thereon either the upper step or the lower step claim 1 , and the movable member has the other of the upper step or the lower step so that a distance between the upper step and the lower step is adjustable.3. A mouthpiece according to claim 1 , wherein the body comprises an inlet port adapted to attach to an inhaled pharmaceutical aerosol delivery device.4. A mouthpiece according to claim 3 , wherein the inlet port is adapted to attach to an inhaler.5. A mouthpiece according to claim 2 , wherein the upper step is formed on the body and the lower step is formed on the movable member.6. A mouthpiece according to claim 2 , wherein the tongue depressor is formed on the movable member.7. A mouthpiece for an apparatus to aid aerosol delivery to a patient claim 2 , the mouthpiece comprising:a body;a bore extending through ...

VIBRATORY POSITIVE EXPIRATORY PRESSURE DEVICE

A method of providing airway clearance therapy to a patient includes receiving an expiratory airstream from the patient in a chamber, causing a back pressure to be created in the chamber () in response to receiving the expiratory airstream, causing a one-way valve, such as a magnetic duckbill valve (), located downstream of the chamber to open only in response to the back pressure being at least equal to a certain predetermined level, causing a vibratory effect to be generated downstream of the one-way valve, for example using a vibratory ball check valve (), when the one-way valve is open and in response to the expiratory air-stream passing therethrough, and delivering a percussive sensation to the patient through the chamber responsive to the vibratory effect. 12. A positive expiratory pressure device () , comprising:{'b': 10', '14, 'a chamber () structured to receive an expiratory airstream of a patient, the chamber having a fluid pathway () passing therethrough;'}{'b': 26', '26', '30', '28', '30', '28', '28', '28', '10, 'a magnetic duckbill valve () provided along the fluid pathway, the magnetic duckbill valve () having a first wall (A) supporting a number of first magnets () having a first polarity and a second wall (B) supporting a number of second magnets () having a second polarity opposite the first polarity, the first magnets () and the second magnets () being configured to create a resistive cracking force in the magnetic duckbill valve wherein the magnetic duckbill valve is structured to open only in response to at least a certain back pressure being created in the chamber (); and'}{'b': '32', 'a vibratory ball check valve () provided along the fluid pathway downstream of the magnetic duckbill valve.'}22101814181618. The positive expiratory pressure device () according to claim 1 , wherein the chamber comprises an air intake chamber () having an air intake port () oriented perpendicular to the fluid pathway () claim 1 , the air intake port () having a ...

Valved holding chamber including valve retention system

A valved holding chamber ( 2 ) includes a main chamber housing ( 49 and a mouthpiece assembly ( 6 ) removeably coupled to a first end of the main chamber housing, the mouthpiece assembly including a mouthpiece housing ( 24 ) having a mouthpiece portion ( 32 ) and a valve housing portion ( 30 ), a retaining ring ( 28 ) provided within and coupled to the valve housing portion, and a one-way inhalation valve ( 26 ) having an annular valve seat member ( 52 ), wherein the valve seat member is held between the retaining ring and an engagement surface of the valve housing portion. In one particular embodiment, a portion of the first end of the main chamber housing engages the bottom of the valve seat member and creates a seal between the main chamber housing and the one-way inhalation valve and between the one -way inhalation valve and the mouthpiece housing.

AEROSOL GENERATOR DEVICE AND NEBULIZER SYSTEM WITH SUCH A DEVICE

The present invention relates to aerosol generation. In order to provide an improved way of protecting and sealing of a vibrating element, an aerosol generator device () for a nebulizer is provided. The aerosol generator device comprises a base structure (), a mesh () with a plurality of apertures, and a vibrating element (). The vibrating element is a piezo-element arranged to generate an oscillating movement. The piezo-element is connected to the base structure to transfer the oscillating movement as vibrational movement to the base structure. Further, the mesh is mounted to the base structure, and the vibrational movement is transferred to the mesh in order to generate a plurality of small droplets to form an aerosol when supplied by a fluid. An encapsulation () of the piezo-element is provided to provide a sealing of the piezo-element. The encapsulation is provided as a three-dimensional casing structure rigidly connected to the base structure while leaving a distance space () between an inner side of the casing structure and the piezo-element. 1. An aerosol generator device for a nebulizer , the aerosol generator device comprising:a base structure;a mesh with a plurality of apertures; anda vibrating element;wherein the vibrating element is a piezo-element arranged to generate an oscillating movement;wherein the piezo-element is connected to the base structure to transfer the oscillating movement as vibrational movement to the base structure;wherein the mesh is mounted to or integrated as part of the base structure, and the vibrational movement is transferred to the mesh in order to generate a plurality of small droplets to form an aerosol;wherein an encapsulation of the piezo-element is provided to provide a sealing of the piezo-element;wherein the encapsulation is provided as a three-dimensional casing structure rigidly connected to the base structure while leaving a distance space between an inner side of the casing structure and the piezo-element.2. Aerosol ...

Method and system to optimize pharmacotherapy

A method of optimizing pharmacotherapy includes monitoring one or more characteristics of a patient associated with a condition of the patient and evaluating a baseline severity of the condition of the patient, recommending a selected therapy to the patient based on a therapy efficacy-risk map, evaluating an actual severity of the condition of the patient, evaluating an efficacy of the selected therapy, evaluating a risk score of the selected therapy, and updating the therapy efficacy-risk map based on the evaluated efficacy and risk score of the selected therapy.

TRAINING DEVICE FOR AN INHALER, AND AN INHALER

According to an aspect, there is provided a training device for use in an inhaler, the training device comprising a body that is configured to be received at a first position in a housing of an inhaler, wherein the body comprises an interface arranged to connect to a canister interface in the housing of the inhaler; an electrical circuit configured to perform one or more functions; and a circuit triggering mechanism that comprises a switch for enabling the electrical circuit to perform the one or more functions when the switch is closed, wherein the circuit triggering mechanism is configured such that the switch is closed when the body is pressed from the first position towards the canister interface and into a second position in the housing of the inhaler. 1. A training device for use in an inhaler in place of a medication canister , the training device comprising:a canister-shaped body that is configured to be received at a first position in a housing of an inhaler, wherein the body comprises an interface arranged to connect to a canister interface in the housing of the inhaler;an electrical circuit configured to perform one or more functions; anda circuit triggering mechanism that comprises a switch for enabling the electrical circuit to perform the one or more functions when the switch is closed, wherein the circuit triggering mechanism is configured such that the switch is closed when the body is pressed from the first position towards the canister interface and into a second position in the housing of the inhaler; wherein the electrical circuit and circuit triggering mechanism are contained within the body.2. A training device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the circuit triggering mechanism comprises a resilient component configured to provide a force that resists the pressing of the body into the housing of the inhaler.3. A training device as claimed in claim 2 , wherein the resilient component is configured to return the body to the first position in the ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MONITORING USAGE OF A RESPIRATORY MEDICATION DELIVERY DEVICE

The present disclosure pertains to a system and method for monitoring usage of a respiratory medicament delivery device. Regular use of a respiratory medicament delivery device at intervals prescribed by a doctor may be critical to a subject's health. The system described herein is configured to monitor usage of a respiratory medicament delivery device such that manual tracking of a patient's adherence to a dosage plan by a doctor, for example, is not required. Monitoring usage of the medicament device delivery device may allow the doctor to judge the adherence of the subject to the dosage plan and encourage increased adherence. Improved adherence by the subject may result in improvement in the condition of the subject and economic benefits including reducing costs associated with re-hospitalization after discharge. In some embodiments, the system comprises a medicament delivery device and a usage event monitoring device. 1. A system configured to monitor usage of a respiratory medicament delivery device , the medicament delivery device configured to deliver medicament to an airway of a subject , the medicament delivery device comprising an opening through which medicament is delivered to the subject and a cover configured to be removably installed at the opening in the medicament delivery device to cover the opening , the system comprising:a power supply;a processor; anda switch configured to selectively connect and disconnect the power supply with the processor such that, responsive to the cover being removed from the opening, the switch connects the power supply with the processor to power up the processor, and wherein the processor is configured such that responsive to a power up, the processor causes information related to the power up to be recorded to non-transient electronic storage media.2. The system of claim 1 , further comprising a cover holder configured to removably couple to the cover claim 1 , wherein the cover holder is connected to the switch by ...

Mouthpiece and method for delivering nebulized medicament to the airway of a subject

A mouthpiece ( 10 ) is configured to be removably coupled with a nebulizer ( 12 ) to deliver nebulized medicament to the airway of a subject. The mouthpiece is configured to connect to the nebulizer in a swappable manner with another mouthpiece that is configured to operate in a continuous use mode. By contrast, the mouthpiece is configured to operate in a breath assist mode, a breath activated or dosimetric mode, and/or in other modes that reduce medicament waste caused, for example, by exhalation of the subject back into the mouthpiece. This may be advantageous during the delivery some medicaments (e.g., steroids, antibiotics, and/or other medicaments). The mouthpiece is configured to maintain the double venturi effect that would be provided by the continuous use mouthpiece.

MONITORING OF NEBULIZER USAGE

Systems and methods for monitoring and/or data-logging nebulizer usage and/or other parameters pertinent to a patient use a conduit that is fluidly coupled between a pressure source, such as a compressor, and a nebulizer, such as a jet nebulizer. During use of the nebulizer by a patient, a compressed medium such as air is transferred through the conduit, thereby altering the pressure level within the conduit. Changes in pressure level may be measured and/or detected, and subsequently used to determine one or more nebulizer usage parameters. These nebulizer usage parameters may in turn be recorded and/or analyzed. 1. A system configured to monitor nebulizer usage , the system comprising:a conduit configured to fluidly couple a pressure source and a nebulizer such that a compressed medium is transferred from the pressure source through the conduit to the nebulizer, wherein the conduit includes a portion configured to mechanically displace responsive to application of pressure, wherein such displacement does not substantially interfere with transfer through the conduit;a pressure transduction sub system configured to generate an output signal, wherein the pressure transduction subsystem is configured to transduce pressure transferred through the conduit, wherein the pressure transduction subsystem includes a micro-switch positioned along the portion included in the conduit such that displacement of the portion actuates the micro-switch, wherein the pressure transduction subsystem is further configured to adjust the output signal responsive to actuation of the micro-switch; and a parameter determination module configured to determine one or more nebulizer usage parameters based on the output signal; and', 'a data logging module configured to store the one or more nebulizer usage parameters., 'one or more processors configured to execute computer program modules, the computer program modules comprising2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the pressure transduction subsystem ...

Monitoring respiratory parameters through ultrasonic measurements indicating flow changes in respiratory drug delivery devices

Systems and methods for delivering medicament to a subject use one or more sensors to generate signals that represent characteristics of the ultrasonic energy emitted into or by a respiratory medicament delivery device. Parameters based on these signals indicate energy amplitude in one or more frequency ranges. Such parameters can be used to determine respiratory parameters, patient adherence, and/or other parameters.

Ultrasonic measurements for monitoring patients using respiratory therapy delivery devices

Systems and methods for delivering therapy and/or medicament to a subject use one or more sensors to generate signals that represent characteristics of ultrasonic energy emitted during the use of respiratory medicament delivery devices. Parameters based on these signals indicate energy amplitude in one or more frequency ranges. Such parameters can be used to characterize the emitted ultrasonic energy and control and/or monitor device operation and/or patient adherence.

CONTROLLING A MEDICATION NEBULIZER THROUGH A SMARTPHONE

Systems and methods for delivering medicament using a nebulizer to a subject are controlled and/or powered by a computing device such as a smartphone. Connections may use a USB port, docking connector, and/or headphone jack. 1. A system configured to deliver medicament to a subject , the system comprising:a power subsystem configured to receive an input signal and provide power based on the received input signal;a respiratory medicament delivery device that includes a vibrating element that is driven by power provided by the power subsystem, wherein the respiratory medicament delivery device is configured to deliver medicament, responsive to nebulization of the medicament by the vibrating element, to an airway of a subject; anda sound input conversion subsystem, configured to receive an audio input signal having a first frequency, wherein the sound input conversion subsystem is configured to convert the audio input signal to an ultrasonic output signal having a second frequency in dependence of the first frequency, wherein the vibrating element is controlled based on the ultrasonic output signal.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the input signal includes the audio input signal.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein mechanical movement of the vibrating element causes emission of ultrasonic energy during operation of the respiratory medicament delivery device claim 1 , the system further comprising:a sensor configured to generate output signals representing one or more characteristics of the ultrasonic energy emitted during operation of the respiratory medicament delivery device; anda sound output conversion subsystem configured to receive the generated output signals, wherein the sound output conversion subsystem is configured to convert the generated output signals into an audio output signal, and wherein the sound output conversion subsystem is further configured to provide the audio output signal to a computing device.4. The system of claim 3 , wherein the audio ...

FEATURE ASSIGNED INHALATION AID

The present invention relates to a feedback for inhalation. In order to further improve feedback and instructions to further support the correct use of an inhaler, a feedback apparatus () for inhalation is provided that comprises an inhaler interface (), a processor (), a feedback device (), and a feature assigner (). The inhaler interface is configured to temporarily attach the feedback apparatus to an inhalation apparatus. The feedback device is configured to provide a feedback to the user to aid in inhalation with the inhalation apparatus. The feature assigner is configured to identify a type of a predetermined feature of the attached inhalation apparatus, and the feedback device is configured to provide the feedback in dependency of the identified type of feature to instruct the user to adjust inhalation maneuver adapted to the attached inhalation apparatus. In an example, the predetermined feature is a device type of the inhalation apparatus, and the feature assigner is configured as an inhalation device type assigner () to identify the type of a currently used inhalation device. In another example, the predetermined feature is an accessory type of the inhalation apparatus, and the feature assigner is configured as an accessory type assigner () to identify the type of a currently used accessory. 1. A feedback apparatus for inhalation , comprising:an inhaler interface;a processor;a feedback device; anda feature assigner;wherein the inhaler interface is configured to temporarily attach the feedback apparatus to an inhalation apparatus;wherein the feedback device is configured to provide a feedback to the user to aid in inhalation with the inhalation apparatus;wherein the feature assigner is configured to identify a type of a predetermined feature of the attached inhalation apparatus;wherein the feedback device is configured to provide the feedback in dependency of the identified type of feature to instruct the user to adjust inhalation maneuver adapted to the ...

RECOVERY PROFILE CLUSTERING TO DETERMINE TREATMENT PROTOCOL AND PREDICT RESOURCING NEEDS

An apparatus and method involve not just comparing a patient's recovery but improving predications by grouping the patient into a phenotype to trend the patient's rate of progress compared to existing phenotype clusters to predict, based on a comparison of rate of progress of decline, and assess in order to benefit in the improvement of allocation and timing of future resource needs, including the economic impact. 1. A method of prescribing a treatment protocol for each of a plurality of patients , comprising: [ detecting a number of risk factors of the patient;', 'determining a triage risk index of the patient based at least in part upon an at least partial summation of at least a subset of the number of risk factors of the patient; and', 'determining a recovery rate of the patient based at least in part upon a rate of change in the triage risk index of the patient;, 'for each patient of the plurality of patients, 'grouping together each patient from among the plurality of patients into a subset from among a plurality of subsets, each subset of the plurality of subsets corresponding with a phenotype from among a plurality of phenotypes, each phenotype from among the plurality of phenotypes corresponding with a treatment protocol from among a plurality of treatment protocols, the grouping being based at least in part upon a recovery profile of each patient in the subset; and', 'prescribing for each patient the treatment protocol that corresponds with the phenotype that corresponds with the subset to which the patient is assigned., 'at each of a plurality of times2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the grouping further comprises:making a determination, for a particular patient of the plurality of patients who is in a particular subset of the plurality of subsets, and based at least in part upon the recovery profile of the particular patient, that the particular patient does not belong in the particular subset;assigning the particular patient to another subset of the ...

Oxygen separator with rapid diagnostic

The invention relates to an oxygen separator for generating a flow of oxygen-enriched gas, said oxygen separator comprising at least two oxygen separation devices arranged to separate oxygen from an oxygen comprising gas, said at least two oxygen separation devices each comprising a first end for receiving the oxygen comprising gas and a second end for delivering an oxygen-enriched gas. The oxygen separator further comprising an equalization duct fluidically coupled to the respective second end of said at least two oxygen separation devices, a first gas sensor is provided in the equalization duct such that the first gas sensor is arranged to monitor at least one component of the oxygen-enriched gas in the equalization duct; and control device arranged to control the oxygen separator based on the monitoring by the first gas sensor.

LIQUID DROPLET APPARATUS

Apparatus for producing liquid droplets (for example an aerosol) is described. The apparatus comprises a vibratory element () arranged, in use of the apparatus, to vibrate an aperture plate () having at least one aperture therein. Also provided is a sealing element (), which is arranged to provide a liquid tight seal over at least a portion of the vibratory element (). The sealing element () comprises a closed cell foam material. In some embodiments, sealing element () may be molded over other elements of the apparatus, including the vibratory element (). 1. Apparatus for generating liquid droplets comprisinga vibratory element arranged, in use of the apparatus, to vibrate an aperture plate;a sealing element arranged to provide a liquid tight seal over at least a portion of the vibratory element, wherein the sealing element comprises a closed cell foam material.2. Apparatus according to claim 1 , comprising an aperture plate having at least one aperture therein claim 1 , and having a first and second side; and the arrangement being such that claim 1 , in use claim 1 , liquid is supplied to the first side of the aperture plate claim 1 , and the vibratory element vibrates the aperture plate to cause the liquid to be dispensed from the second side of the aperture plate as droplets.3. Apparatus according to claim 2 , in which the sealing element is in contact with claim 2 , or directly bonded to claim 2 , the aperture plate.4. Apparatus according to claim 1 , in which the sealing element comprises at least one of the following: an elastomer claim 1 , rubber claim 1 , silicone claim 1 , plastic claim 1 , cellular polymeric material.5. Apparatus according to claim 1 , in which the sealing element is arranged to provide a liquid tight seal without substantially damping the motion of the vibratory element.6. Apparatus according to claim 1 , in which adhesive is provided between at least a portion of the vibratory element and the sealing element.7. Apparatus according to ...

AN ASSEMBLY FOR USE IN A LIQUID DROPLET APPARATUS

An assembly for use in a liquid droplet apparatus comprises a vibrating element (), an aperture plate () and a vibrating platform (). The vibrating platform is positioned between the vibrating element and the aperture plate for conveying vibrations from the vibrating element to the aperture plate. The vibrating platform () is structured such that the aperture plate () is located within a cavity () formed in the vibrating platform. 2. An assembly as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the vibrating element comprises an annular piezoelectric device claim 1 , wherein during use the annular piezoelectric device is radially expandable and contractable upon actuation thereof.3. (canceled)4. An assembly as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the Sidewall claim 1 , of the vibrating platform is angled with respect to the first and second planes of the vibrating platform claim 1 , and configured such that any expansion of the vibrating element during use in a radially outward direction causes the sidewall of the vibrating platform to become less orthogonal with respect to the first and second planes of the vibrating element claim 1 , thereby causing the aperture plate to move claim 1 , during use claim 1 , in a direction corresponding to a direction of spray.5. An assembly as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the first annular portion of the vibrating platform is fixedly coupled to an annular portion of the vibrating element claim 1 , and the second annular portion fixedly coupled to the aperture plate.6. An assembly as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the vibrating platform is configured such that the sidewall of the vibrating platform passes through an aperture in the vibrating element.7. An assembly as claimed in claim 5 , wherein the aperture plate is located within the cavity such that the aperture plate is coupled to a side of the second annular portion which is inward facing to the cavity.8. An assembly as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the vibrating platform is structured such that the ...

AN ASSEMBLY FOR USE IN A LIQUID DROPLET APPARATUS

An assembly for use in a liquid droplet apparatus comprises a vibrating element (), an aperture plate () and a vibrating platform (). The vibrating platform () is positioned between the vibrating element () and the aperture plate () for conveying vibrations from the vibrating element () to the aperture plate (). The vibrating platform comprises a first portion () coupled to the vibrating element, a second portion () coupled to the aperture plate, and wherein the first and second portions of the vibrating platform are detachably connected to one another. 1. An assembly for use in a liquid droplet apparatus , the assembly comprising:a vibrating element;an aperture plate; anda vibrating platform;wherein the vibrating platform is positioned between the vibrating element and the aperture plate for conveying vibrations from the vibrating element to the aperture plate, and wherein the vibrating platform comprises a first portion coupled to the vibrating element, a second portion coupled to the aperture plate, and wherein the first and second portions of the vibrating platform are detachably connected to one another.2. An assembly as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the first portion of the vibrating platform is fixedly coupled to the vibrating element claim 1 , and the second portion of the vibrating platform is fixedly coupled to the aperture plate.3. An assembly as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the first portion of the vibrating platform is formed from a polymer material.4. An assembly as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the first portion of the vibrating platform is formed from a metal.5. An assembly as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the second portion of the vibrating platform is formed from a polymer material.6. An assembly as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the second portion of the vibrating platform is formed from a metal.7. An assembly as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the first portion and the second portions are of similar thicknesses.8. An assembly as claimed in claim 1 , ...

Color identification for drug delivery system

A monitoring device includes a housing that is constructed and arranged to be removably attached to a drug delivery device for an inhaled drug. A color detector is operatively associated with the housing and constructed and arranged to detect an identifying color of at least a portion of the drug delivery device when the housing is attached to the drug delivery device and to output color information for use by a processor to, based on the detected color, identify information about the inhaled drug.

Training device for an inhaler, and an inhaler

According to an aspect, there is provided a training device for use in an inhaler, the training device comprising a body that is configured to be received at a first position in a housing of an inhaler, wherein the body comprises an interface arranged to connect to a canister interface in the housing of the inhaler; an electrical circuit configured to perform one or more functions; and a circuit triggering mechanism that comprises a switch for enabling the electrical circuit to perform the one or more functions when the switch is closed, wherein the circuit triggering mechanism is configured such that the switch is closed when the body is pressed from the first position towards the canister interface and into a second position in the housing of the inhaler.

Control unit for use with a respiratory assist device

There is provided a control unit (100) for use with a respiratory assist device (102) that assists a subject (104) with respiration. The control unit (100) configured to detect a time at which delivery of an inhalable therapy to the subject (104) is manually triggered on an inhalable therapy device (106). The control unit (100) is also configured to detect whether the subject (104) has fallen asleep and, on detecting that the subject (104) has fallen asleep, control the inhalable therapy device (106) to automatically trigger delivery of the inhalable therapy to the subject (104) at least a predefined length of time following the detected time at which delivery of the inhalable therapy to the subject (104) is manually triggered.

POSITIVE EXPIRATORY PRESSURE DEVICE AND METHOD OF PROVISION OF A PATIENT'S AIRWAY CLEARING THERAPY

dispositivo de pressão expiratória positiva e método de provisão terapia de desobstrução das vias aéreas de um paciente um método de provisão terapia de desobstrução das vias aéreas de um paciente inclui a recepção de uma corrente de ar expirado do paciente em uma câmara, a criação de uma pressão de retorno na câmara (10) em resposta à recepção da corrente de ar expirado, a abertura de uma válvula unidirecional, tal como uma válvula bico de pato magnética 926), localizada a jusante da câmara somente em resposta à pressão de retorno que é pelo menos igual a certo nível predeterminado, a geração de um efeito vibratório a jusante da válvula unidirecional, por exemplo, com a utilização de uma válvula de retenção de esfera vibratória (32), quando a válvula unidirecional é aberta em resposta à corrente de ar expirado que passa através dela, e a distribuição de uma sensação de percussão para o paciente através da câmara em resposta ao efeito vibratório. positive expiratory pressure device and method of providing airway clearance therapy for a patient a method of providing airway clearance therapy for a patient includes receiving a current of expired air from the patient in a chamber, creating a return pressure in the chamber (10) in response to the reception of the exhaled air flow, the opening of a one-way valve, such as a 926 magnetic duckbill valve, located downstream of the chamber only in response to the return pressure that is at least equal to a certain predetermined level, the generation of a vibratory effect downstream of the unidirectional valve, for example, with the use of a vibrating ball check valve (32), when the unidirectional valve is opened in response to the air flow expired that passes through it, and the distribution of a percussion sensation to the patient through the chamber in response to the vibratory effect.

Control unit for use with a respiratory assist device

Method and system to optimize therapy efficacy

A method of optimizing treatment of a condition includes monitoring one or more characteristics of a patient associated with a condition of the patient, predicting a severity of the condition of the patient, recommending a selected therapy to the patient based on a therapy-severity map, evaluating an actual severity of the condition of the patient, evaluating an efficacy of the selected therapy, and updating the therapy-severity map based on the evaluated efficacy of the therapy.

Liquid droplet apparatus

Apparatus for producing liquid droplets (for example an aerosol) is described. The apparatus comprises a vibratory element (106) arranged, in use of the apparatus, to vibrate an aperture plate (102) having at least one aperture therein. Also provided is a sealing element (202), which is arranged to provide a liquid tight seal over at least a portion of the vibratory element (106). The sealing element (202) comprises a closed cell foam material. In some embodiments, sealing element (202) may be molded over other elements of the apparatus, including the vibratory element (106).

A system for generating a droplet output and a method of monitoring cleaning

Control unit for use with a respiratory assist device

There is provided a control unit ( 100 ) for use with a respiratory assist device ( 102 ) that assists a subject ( 104 ) with respiration. The control unit ( 100 ) configured to detect a time at which delivery of an inhalable therapy to the subject ( 104 ) is manually triggered on an inhalable therapy device ( 106 ). The control unit ( 100 ) is also configured to detect whether the subject ( 104 ) has fallen asleep and, on detecting that the subject ( 104 ) has fallen asleep, control the inhalable therapy device ( 106 ) to automatically trigger delivery of the inhalable therapy to the subject ( 104 ) at least a predefined length of time following the detected time at which delivery of the inhalable therapy to the subject ( 104 ) is manually triggered.

Color identification for drug delivery system

A monitoring device includes a housing that is constructed and arranged to be removably attached to a drug delivery device for an inhaled drug. A color detector is operatively associated with the housing and constructed and arranged to detect an identifying color of at least a portion of the drug delivery device when the housing is attached to the drug delivery device and to output color information for use by a processor to, based on the detected color, identify information about the inhaled drug.

Method and system to optimize pharmacotherapy for restless legs syndrome (rls)

A method of optimizing pharmacotherapy includes monitoring one or more characteristics of a patient associated with a Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) condition of the patient and evaluating a baseline severity of the condition of the patient, recommending a selected therapy to the patient based on a therapy efficacy-risk map, evaluating an actual severity of the condition of the patient, evaluating an efficacy of the selected therapy, evaluating a risk score of the selected therapy, and updating the therapy efficacy-risk map based on the evaluated efficacy and risk score of the selected therapy.

Air-flow in a nebulizer head

The present invention relates to air-flow in a nebulizer head. In order to provide a nebulizer head with an improved air-flow guidance, a nebulizer head (10) comprises a housing structure (12) providing an air-flow path (16) with two opposite air-flow openings (18a, 18b), and a fluid reservoir (14) provided to accommodate a liquid from which small droplets are to be generated in order to form an aerosol, and an aerosol generator (20) with an aperture member (22) that comprises an aperture surface (24) with a plurality of apertures to provide the small droplets from the liquid. The fluid reservoir is arranged adjacent the aerosol generator such that the aperture member is in contact with the fluid. The aerosol generator is arranged within the air-flow path. At least one by-pass flow path (26) is provided between the aerosol generator and the housing structure. The air-flow path is a bidirectional path that provides a first air-flow direction (28) for inhaling, and a second air¬ flow direction (38) for exhaling. The air enters the air-flow path and leaves the air-flow path via the air-flow openings. The aperture surface is arranged transverse to the first and second air-flow direction.

Ultrasonic measurements for monitoring patients using respiratory therapy delivery devices

Systems and methods for delivering therapy and/or medicament to a subject use one or more sensors to generate signals that represent characteristics of ultrasonic energy emitted during the use of respiratory medicament delivery devices. Parameters based on these signals indicate energy amplitude in one or more frequency ranges. Such parameters can be used to characterize the emitted ultrasonic energy and control and/or monitor device operation and/or patient adherence.

system integrated with a respiratory treatment device and configured to measure airway impedance, and method for measuring an individual's airway impedance using a respiratory treatment device

resumo sistema integrado a um dispositivo de tratamento respiratório e configurado para medir a impedância da via respiratória, e método para medir a impedância da via respiratória de um indivíduo usando um dispositivo de tratamento respiratório a impedância da via respiratória de um indivíduo usando um dispositivo de tratamento respiratório pode ser medida, de acordo com uma ou mais realizações. um conduíte é configurado para comunicar um fluxo de gás inspirado e um fluxo de gás expirado para e a partir de uma via respiratória do indivíduo usando o dispositivo de tratamento respiratório. uma primeira válvula é disposta dentro do conduíte e configurada para alterar o fluxo de gás expirado. um ou mais sensores são dispostos dentro do conduíte e são configurados para prover um sinal transmitindo informação associada a uma ou mais características do gás expirado pelo indivíduo enquanto o fluxo de gás exalado é alterado ou não aletrado pela primeira válvula. um módulo de monitoramento da impedância da via respiratória pode ser executado por um processador para determinar uma métrica de impedância da via respiratória do indivíduo com base na informação transmitida pelo sinal provida pelo um ou mais sensores. summary system integrated with a respiratory treatment device and configured to measure airway impedance, and method for measuring an individual's airway impedance using a respiratory tract an individual's airway impedance using a treatment device Respiratory pressure can be measured according to one or more achievements. A conduit is configured to communicate an inspired gas flow and an expired gas flow to and from an individual's airway using the respiratory treatment device. A first valve is disposed within the conduit and configured to alter the exhaled gas flow. one or more sensors are disposed within the conduit and are configured to provide a signal transmitting information associated with one or more characteristics of the gas exhaled by the ...

Monitoring respiratory parameters through ultrasonic measurements indicating flow changes in respiratory drug delivery devices

Systems and methods for delivering medicament to a subject use one or more sensors to generate signals that represent characteristics of the ultrasonic energy emitted into or by a respiratory medicament delivery device. Parameters based on these signals indicate energy amplitude in one or more frequency ranges. Such parameters can be used to determine respiratory parameters, patient adherence, and/or other parameters.

Valved holding chamber including valve retention system

A valved holding chamber (2) includes a main chamber housing (49 and a mouthpiece assembly (6) removeably coupled to a first end of the main chamber housing, the mouthpiece assembly including a mouthpiece housing (24) having a mouthpiece portion (32) and a valve housing portion (30), a retaining ring (28) provided within and coupled to the valve housing portion, and a one-way inhalation valve (26) having an annular valve seat member (52), wherein the valve seat member is held between the retaining ring and an engagement surface of the valve housing portion. In one particular embodiment, a portion of the first end of the main chamber housing engages the bottom of the valve seat member and creates a seal between the main chamber housing and the one-way inhalation valve and between the one -way inhalation valve and the mouthpiece housing.

Breath actuated inhalers

An accessory (50,80) adapted to be used with a breath actuated inhaler (10), the breath actuated inhaler (10) comprising an air inlet (19), an outlet (20) for delivering medicament and a trigger mechanism (30) for triggering the delivery of a dose of the medicament in response to a flow (40) between the air inlet (19) and the outlet (20), wherein the accessory comprises: a pressure assist unit (52, 54) for application to the air inlet, comprising an assist chamber (52) for holding a volume of air and a mechanical release system (54, 70) for expelling air from the assist chamber to the air inlet, at a rate sufficient to trigger the trigger mechanism. Hence, it has an assist chamber for holding a volume of air and a mechanical release system for expelling air from the assist chamber to the air inlet, at a rate sufficient to trigger a dose trigger mechanism of the breath actuated inhaler. In this way, a user may use a breath actuated inhaler even if they do not have the ability to generate an inhalation suitable for activating the inhaler.

Controlling a medication nebulizer through a smartphone

Systems and methods for delivering medicament using a nebulizer to a subject are controlled and/or powered by a computing device such as a smartphone. Connections may use a USB port, docking connector, and/or headphone jack.

A system and method for interactive oral appliance to open and close mouth periodically to prevent discomfort and mouth breathing

An intelligent oral appliance (100) comprises maxillary and mandibular appliances (102, 104), an electromagnetic clamp (106, 108), first and second sensors (110, 112), a timer (114), and a controller (116). The electromagnetic clamp (106, 108) couples between the maxillary (102) and mandibular (104) appliances and operates according to engaged and disengaged clamping actions. The first sensor (110) detects a body/head position/orientation. The second sensor (112) detects a characteristic of sleep disordered breathing, snoring intensity, or combination thereof. The timer (114) provides preset time intervals. The controller (116) controls activation and deactivation of the electromagnetic clamp (i) to activate the electromagnetic clamp (106, 108) and electromagnetically lock the maxillary appliance (102) and mandibular appliance (104) together for air flow prevention cycles in response to an initial powering ON of the intelligent oral appliance or detection of an engagement triggering event and (ii) to de-activate the electromagnetic clamp (106, 108) and unlock the maxillary appliance (102) from the mandibular appliance (104) for periodic relaxation cycles in response to detection of a disengagement triggering event.

Controlling a medication nebulizer through a smartphone

Systems and methods for delivering medicament using a nebulizer to a subject are controlled and/or powered by a computing device such as a smartphone. Connections may use a USB port, docking connector, and/or headphone jack.

Breath actuated inhalers

An accessory (50,80) adapted to be used with a breath actuated inhaler (10), the breath actuated inhaler (10) comprising an air inlet (19), an outlet (20) for delivering medicament and a trigger mechanism (30) for triggering the delivery of a dose of the medicament in response to a flow (40) between the air inlet (19) and the outlet (20), wherein the accessory comprises: a pressure assist unit (52, 54) for application to the air inlet, comprising an assist chamber (52) for holding a volume of air and a mechanical release system (54, 70) for expelling air from the assist chamber to the air inlet, at a rate sufficient to trigger the trigger mechanism. Hence, it has an assist chamber for holding a volume of air and a mechanical release system for expelling air from the assist chamber to the air inlet, at a rate sufficient to trigger a dose trigger mechanism of the breath actuated inhaler. In this way, a user may use a breath actuated inhaler even if they do not have the ability to generate an inhalation suitable for activating the inhaler.

Breath actuated inhalers

Airway impedance measurement integrated with respiratory treatment devices

Aerosol generator device and nebulizer system with such a device

The present invention relates to aerosol generation. In order to provide an improved way of protecting and sealing of a vibrating element, an aerosol generator device (10) for a nebulizer is provided. The aerosol generator device comprises a base structure (12), a mesh (14) with a plurality of apertures, and a vibrating element (16). The vibrating element is a piezo-element arranged to generate an oscillating movement. The piezo-element is connected to the base structure to transfer the oscillating movement as vibrational movement to the base structure. Further, the mesh is mounted to the base structure, and the vibrational movement is transferred to the mesh in order to generate a plurality of small droplets to form an aerosol when supplied by a fluid. An encapsulation (18) of the piezo- element is provided to provide a sealing of the piezo-element. The encapsulation is provided as a three-dimensional casing structure rigidly connected to the base structure while leaving a distance space (20) between an inner side of the casing structure and the piezo- element.

System and method for interactive oral appliance to open and close mouth periodically to prevent discomfort and mouth breathing

An intelligent oral appliance (100) comprises maxillary and mandibular appliances (102, 104), an electromagnetic clamp (106, 108), first and second sensors (110, 112), a timer (114), and a controller (116). The electromagnetic clamp (106, 108) couples between the maxillary (102) and mandibular (104) appliances and operates according to engaged and disengaged clamping actions. The first sensor (110) detects a body/head position/orientation. The second sensor (112) detects a characteristic of sleep disordered breathing, snoring intensity, or combination thereof. The timer (114) provides preset time intervals. The controller (116) controls activation and deactivation of the electromagnetic clamp (i) to activate the electromagnetic clamp (106, 108) and electromagnetically lock the maxillary appliance (102) and mandibular appliance (104) together for air flow prevention cycles in response to an initial powering ON of the intelligent oral appliance or detection of an engagement triggering event and (ii) to de-activate the electromagnetic clamp (106, 108) and unlock the maxillary appliance (102) from the mandibular appliance (104) for periodic relaxation cycles in response to detection of a disengagement triggering event.

Method and system to manage and reduce recall frequency of disturbing dreams

A method of managing and reducing the recall frequency of disturbing dreams comprises monitoring ( 100; 200; 300 ) electroencephalography (EEG) activity of a subject, detecting ( 102; 206; 302 ) an indicator of a disturbing dream of the subject based on power in a theta or alpha band of the EEG activity of the subject, and providing stimulation ( 104; 212; 308 ) to the subject at a frequency lower than the theta band in response to detecting the indicator of the disturbing dream.

Feature assigned inhalation aid

The present invention relates to a feedback for inhalation. In order to further improve feedback and instructions to further support the correct use of an inhaler, a feedback apparatus (10) for inhalation is provided that comprises an inhaler interface (11), a processor (14), a feedback device (16), and a feature assigner (13). The inhaler interface is configured to temporarily attach the feedback apparatus to an inhalation apparatus. The feedback device is configured to provide a feedback to the user to aid in inhalation with the inhalation apparatus. The feature assigner is configured to identify a type of a predetermined feature of the attached inhalation apparatus, and the feedback device is configured to provide the feedback in dependency of the identified type of feature to instruct the user to adjust inhalation maneuver adapted to the attached inhalation apparatus. In an example, the predetermined feature is a device type of the inhalation apparatus, and the feature assigner is configured as an inhalation device type assigner (70) to identify the type of a currently used inhalation device. In another example, the predetermined feature is an accessory type of the inhalation apparatus, and the feature assigner is configured as an accessory type assigner (72) to identify the type of a currently used accessory.