Ventilator flow valve.

(54) Title: FAN FLOW VALVE.

(54) Title: VENTILATOR FLOW VALVE.

(57) Summary

Described herein is a flow control valve for a ventilator that controls gas flow through a patient line in response to a target pressure in the line. The valve controls the gas flow (i) providing a high frequency signal and a low frequency signal through a coil positioned in a fixed magnetic field, (i) determining a position of the coil by detecting the signal high frequency, and (iii) controlling a position of the coil by adjusting the low frequency signal based on the determined position and / or speed of the coil.

(57) Abstract

Described herein is a flow control valve for a ventilator that Controls gas flow through a patient line in response to a target pressure within the Une. The valve Controls gas flow by (i) providing both a high frequency signal and a low frequency signal through a coil positioned in a fixed magnetic field, (¡i) determining a position of the coil by detecting the high frequency signal, and (¡ ¡I) controlling a position of the coil by adjusting the low frequency signal based on the determined position and / or velocity of the coil.

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PATENT TITLE No. 349592

Owner (s): CAREFUSION 303, INC.

Address: 3750 Torrey View Court, San Diego, California, 92130, USA

<td>Denomination:</td><td>FAN FLOW VALVE.</td>

<td>Classification:</td><td>CIP: F16K31 / 02; A61M16 / 00; F16K31 / 06 CPC: F16K31 / 02; A61M16 / 0003; A61M16 / 04; A61M16 / 06; A61M16 / 0051; Α6ΤΜ16 / 0057; A61M16 / 0066; A61M16 / 204; A61M16 / 205; A61M16 / 0875; F16K31 / 0675; F16K31 / 0679; A61M2016 / 0O3; A61M2016 / 0027; A61M2016 / 0039; A61M2016 / 0042; A61M2205 / 125; A61M2205 / 128; A61M2205 / 505; A61M2205 / 581; A61M2205 / 3317; A61M2205 / 3331</td>

<td>Inventor (s):</td><td>MALCOLM R. WILLIAMS; ADRIAN D. DESILVA; HUY THANH VU</td>

Number: MX / a / 2015/016912

REQUEST

International Presentation Date:

June 2014

<td colspan="3">PRIORITY</td>

<td>Country:</td><td>Date:</td><td>Number:</td>

<td>US</td><td>June 28, 2013</td><td> 13/931,418</td>

Validity: Twenty years

Expiration Date: June 27, 2034

Issue Date: August 4, 2017

The reference patent is granted based on articles 1^or. 2nd fraction V. 6^C fraction lll. and 59 of the Industrial Property Law.

In accordance with article 23 of the Industrial Property Law, this patent has a validity of twenty years, non-extendable, counted from the filing date of the international application and will be subject to the payment of the fee to keep the rights in force.

Whoever signs this title does so based on the provisions of articles 6 ° fractions lll and 7 ° bis 2 of the Industrial Property Law (Official Gazette of the Federation (D: O; F.) 27/0671991, amended 08/02/1994, 10/25/1996, 12/26/1997, 05/17/1999, 01/26/2004, 06/16/2005, 01/25/2006, 05/06/2009,06 / 01/2010, 06/18/2010, 06/28/2010, 01/27/2012 and 04/09/2012); Articles 1, 3^or Section V subsection a), 4 »and 12th sections I and III of the Regulations of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (DOF 12/14/1999, amended on 01/072002 07/15/2004. 07/28/2004 and 7 / 09/2007); items 1^or, 3^or, 4^or. 5^or Section V subsection a), 16 sections I and til and 30 of the Organic Statute of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (DOF 12/27/1999, amended on 10/10/2002, 07/29/2004, 08/04 @ 004 : and 09/13/2007); one^or. 3 'and 5' subsection a) of the Agreement that delegates powers to the Deputy General Directors, Coordinator, Divisional Directors, Heads of Regional Offices, Divisional Deputy Directors, Departmental Coordinators and other subordinates of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property. (DOF 12/15/1999, amended on 02/04/2000, 07/29/2004, 08/04/2004 and 09/13/2007).

This document is signed with an advanced electronic signature (FIEL), based on articles 7 BIS 2 of the Industrial Property Law; 3 of its Regulations, and 1 fraction lll, 2 fraction V. 26 BIS and 26 TER of the Agreement establishing the guidelines for the use of the Electronic Payment and Services Portal (PASE) of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property, in the procedures indicated.

THE DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OF PATENTS

NAHANNY CANAL REYES

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Original string:

NAHANNY MARISOL CANAL REYES | 00001000000403252793 | Administration Service

Tax | 1695 || MX / 2017/62556 | MX / a / 2015/016912 | PCT patent title | 1027 | RGZ | Page (s) 1 | Si6Ku + DFMv2uj / krwSgwxceex5s =

Digital stamp:

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FAN FLOW VALVE

Field of Invention

The present description relates generally to ventilation systems and, in particular, to a fan flow valve.

Background of the Invention

Patients with respiratory injury, such as chronic respiratory failure, may be provided with a ventilator to help them with their breathing or, in severe cases, take full charge of respiratory function. Ventilators typically provide a flow of air, or other breathing gases, at elevated pressure during an inhalation interval, followed by an expiration interval where the pressurized air is diverted such that the air in the patient's lungs can expel itself naturally. The inhalation interval can be started by detecting a natural inhalation from the patient or via the ventilator.

Fans are available in a variety of sizes with different flow ranges and pressures that can be provided. For example, a neonatal patient will require much lower pressure and air volume per breath than an adult.

Brief Description of the Invention

Here we describe fans that have a

Ref .: 262513

NSTITUTC MEXICAN INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY valve which is a software controlled valve used to adjust the flow of gas that passes through a fan port. The valve is controlled by a software control signal and works in conjunction with a ventilator's gas supply subsystems to maintain user-set pressure control levels. In continuous positive airway pressure therapy (CPAP), the valve preferentially helps to adjust the pressure.

Described herein are ventilators that have an exhalation valve which is a software controlled valve used to adjust the flow of gas through an exhalation port of the ventilator to the outside environment. The exhalation valve is controlled by a software control signal and works in conjunction with the ventilator gas supply subsystems to maintain user-set pressure control levels. In CPAP therapy, the expiration valve preferably maintains a set pressure, an outflow is controlled at a specified target bypass flow rate. Additional flow (demand) is provided to maintain pressure in the event that the patient's inspiration flow exceeds the bypass flow.

Some implementations described herein relate to a flow control device that

INSTITUTO MEXICANO DE LA PROPERTY comprises a high-frequency source conf i ^ ñ ^ títá pcrrsr generating a high-frequency signal, a 'fU &amp; ñté ¹ of the¹ ha¹frequency set to generate a low frequency signal, and a fixed magnetic field. The flow control device further comprises a drive coil configured to move within the fixed magnetic field in response to the low frequency signal and configured to receive the high frequency signal, and a sense coil adjacent to the drive coil and configured to detect the high frequency signal on the drive coil. The detected high frequency signal corresponds to a position of the drive coil. The flow control device further comprises a processor coupled to the high frequency source and the low frequency source and configured to receive the detected high frequency signal from the sense coil. The flow control device further comprises a seal configured to move based on the position of the drive coil, and a valve orifice that defines a valve seat and a variable opening. The variable opening is adjustable based on a position of the seal in relation to the valve seat.

Described herein are fan systems that include, for example, a first valve connected to a supply channel. The first valve comprises a first

<img file="MX349592B_D0006.tif" />

IMPI INSTITUTE MtXKANi 'DE LA FROP1EL&gt; At&gt; INDUSTUAL high-frequency source configured to generate a first high-frequency signal, a first low-frequency source configured to generate a first low-frequency signal, and a first fixed magnetic field. The first valve further comprises a first drive coil configured to move the first fixed magnetic field in response to the first low frequency signal and configured to receive the first high frequency signal, and a first sense coil adjacent to the first drive coil and configured to detect the first high frequency signal on the drive coil. The first detected high frequency signal corresponds to a position of the first drive coil. The first valve further comprises a first processor coupled to the first high frequency source and the first low frequency source and configured to receive the first detected high frequency signal from the first sense coil. The first valve further comprises a first seal configured to move based on the position of the first drive coil, and a first variable valve orifice that defines a first valve seat. The first valve hole is adjustable based on a position of the first seal relative to the first valve seat.

Methods for adjusting pressure in a fan line are also described herein. Some methods

IMPI

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The properties include sending a high frequency signal and a low frequency signal to a drive coil. The low frequency signal causes the drive coil to move within a fixed magnetic field, and the drive coil causes a seal to fit a variable valve orifice of the valve. The methods also include detecting the high-frequency signal at the drive coil, determining a drive coil speed on the detected high-frequency signal, and modifying the low-frequency signal based on the determined speed of the drive coil.

Some embodiments described herein relate to a valve that includes a valve port with an adjustable opening; a fixed magnetic field; a force coil coupled to move within the fixed magnetic field in response to a low frequency current; a current amplifier configured to direct a summed low frequency current and a high frequency current to the force coil; A feedback coil configured to sense the high-frequency current in the force coil, the detected high-frequency current has a magnitude that is proportional to a position of the force coil within the fixed magnetic field. The valve may also include a processor configured (i) to receive data relating to the position of the force coil and (ii) to send instructions to the current amplifier; and a diaphragm configured to adjust the valve orifice opening based on the position of the force coil.

Described herein are ventilator systems that include, for example, a gas source for providing a gas to a patient through a delivery channel; an exhaust channel configured to direct exhaust gas from the patient; and an exhaust valve. The exhaust valve may include a force coil configured to move within a fixed magnetic field in response to a low frequency current; a current amplifier configured to direct a summed low frequency current and a high frequency current to the force coil; a feedback coil configured to sense the high frequency current in the force coil; a processor configured (i) to receive data that relates to the position of the force coil, (ii) to receive data that relates to the pressure within the exhaust channel, and (iii) to send instructions to the current amplifier based on coil position and pressure; and a diaphragm configured to adjust the opening of a valve orifice based on the instructions of the processor.

Methods for adjusting pressure in a fan line are also described herein. The methods include

-------------------------

IMPI the following steps: direct an i - ^^ h summed frequency and a high frequency current from a current amplifier to a force coil that is configured (i) to move within a fixed magnetic field in response to the current of low frequency and (ii) controlling a diaphragm to adjust the valve orifice opening; detecting the high-frequency current in the force coil, the detected high-frequency current has a magnitude that is proportional to a position of the force coil within the fixed magnetic field; detect the pressure in the fan line; and changing the low-frequency current to move the force coil within the fixed magnetic field, thereby adjusting the valve orifice opening, in response to the sensed pressure.

For purposes of summarizing the description, certain aspects, advantages, and novel features of the description have been described. It will be understood that not necessarily all of these advantages can be achieved in accordance with some particular embodiment of the description. Therefore, the description may be conformed or carried out in a way that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other advantages taught or suggested.

Brief Description of Figures

The accompanying figures, which are included to

4- J 'J' · 1 INSTITUTE *** &lt;&lt;&gt; * provide additional understanding and oaerygB ^ oy constitute a part of this Hpgrri peí ón ^ ______ iippt-ran. described modalities and together with the description serve to explain the principles of the described modalities. In the figures:

Figure 1 illustrates a patient using an exemplary ventilation system in accordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure.

Figures 2A and 2B are front and rear views of an exemplary fan in accordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure.

Figure 3 is a schematic representation of a fan in accordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure.

Figure 4A is a schematic illustration of a feedback system in accordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure.

Figure 4B is a schematic illustration of a feedback system in accordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure.

Figure 5 illustrates an example schematic arrangement of a control system in accordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure.

Figure 6A is a cross-sectional view of a flow valve in accordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure. i JlVÍ wsrrrvwM!, ^

Dt LA PRONfOaí 'AL Uf / íí _T_ £. _ __ __ ^ _______. ¿_ X .___ industrial

Figure 6B is a cross-sectional view of ^ a flow valve in accordance with certain aspects^- 'tte · the — present description.

Figure 7 is a schematic representation of a fan in accordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure.

Figure 8 is a flow diagram of a process for controlling a flow valve in accordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure.

Figure 9 illustrates high frequency signals in accordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure.

Detailed description of the invention

In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are presented to provide a complete understanding of the present disclosure. However, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments of the present disclosure can be practiced without some of the specific details. In other examples, well known structures and techniques have not been shown in detail so as not to obscure the description. In the cited figures, the similarly numbered elements are the same or essentially similar. Reference numbers may have letter suffixes added to indicate separate examples of a common element while a generic reference is made to the same number without the suffix letter.

Although the present discussion is directed to a ventilator for use in a hospital, the concepts and methods described can be applied to settings, such as a home or long-term care facility, and other fields, such as deep sea diving, that could benefit from accurate flow measurement of a variety of gas mixtures. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that these same features and aspects can also be applied to the detection and control of fluids other than medical gases.

In this document, the term gas should be interpreted to mean both a single material in gaseous form, eg oxygen, and a mixture of two or more gases, eg air or heliox (a mixture of oxygen and helium). A gas can include water or other liquids in the form of vapor or suspended droplets. A gas can also include solid particles suspended in the gas.

In this document, the term pure, when used in reference to a gas, means that the gas meets commonly accepted medical standards for purity and content.

In this document, the term temperature sensor means a device configured to measure temperature and

<img file="MX349592B_D0007.tif" />

provide a signal that is related to temperature * ii, wi wr ir ni'T ιι · 'μ ^ · measure. A temperature sensor can include electronics to provide a driving current or voltage or and / or measure a current or voltage. The electronics may further include conditioning and conversion circuitry and / or a processor to convert the measured value to a signal that may be in analog or digital form.

In this document, the term pressure sensor means a device configured to measure the pressure of a gas and provide a signal that is related to the measured pressure. A pressure sensor may include electronics to provide a driving current or voltage or and / or to measure a current or voltage. The electronics may further include conditioning and conversion circuitry and / or a processor to convert the measured value to a signal that may be in analog or digital form. The pressure can be given in absolute terms or gauge pressure, ie relative to ambient atmospheric pressure.

Described herein are fans that have one or more valves that are software controlled valves. These valves can be used to adjust the flow of gas through a ventilator port and can be configured to be positioned on the exhalation side of a ventilator system (which means in connection with the

L * PROPERTY system components that receive exhaled air οε-Τιη patient) or from the inhalation side of a ventilation system (which means in connection with system components that provide air to a patient). The valves can be controlled by a software control signal and work in conjunction with a fan's gas supply subsystems to maintain user-set pressure control levels. In CPAP therapy, an expiratory valve preferably maintains a set pressure, an outflow is controlled at a specified target bypass flow rate. Additional flow (demand) can be supplied through an inhalation valve to control pressure.

An exhalation subsystem of a ventilator comprises an exhalation valve, an exhalation flow sensor, and a heated filter and a water trap. As explained herein, the exhalation valve is a software controlled valve that is used to adjust the flow of gas through the ventilator's exhalation port to the outside environment. The exhalation valve is controlled by a software control signal and works in conjunction with the ventilator gas supply subsystems to maintain user-set pressure control levels.

As explained herein, the exhalation valve operates according to the principle of a balance of forces

<img file="MX349592B_D0008.tif" />

through a control diaphragm, which can be a disposable valve membrane. In some embodiments, a magneto-mechanical actuator controls a force on the diaphragm, which in turn controls the pressure of the circuit or fan line. The force generated by the actuator is based on a command from the software's closed-loop controller.

Figure 1 illustrates a patient 10 using an example ventilation system with a ventilator 100 in accordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure. Ventilator 100 operates as a gas source to provide gas to a patient (eg, for respiration). In this example, the fan system includes a supply channel, a tube, or a branch 104, a return or exhaust channel, tube or branch 106, a conditioning module 108 that can, for example, heat or humidify the air which passes through the delivery leg 104. The delivery and exhaust legs 104, 106 are both coupled to a user interface device 102 which, in this example, is a mask that is placed over the patient's mouth 10. In other embodiments (not shown in FIG. 1), the patient interface device 102 may include a nasal mask, an intubation device, or any other patient interface device.

1HSTIT '»TO M tX N«. 'breathing as those with technique know it.

Figures 2A and 2B are front and rear views of fan 100 in accordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure. The fan 100 has a housing 110 with an attached user interface 115 which, in certain embodiments, comprises a display and a touch screen. In Figure 2A, it can be seen that the front of housing 110 includes a supply port 155 for a supply branch 104, such as the supply branch 104 of Figure 1, and a return port 150 for an exhaust, such as such as the exhaust branch 106 of Figure 1. The return port 150 may be mounted on an access door 152 that gives access to a filter (not visible in Figure 2A) that filters and absorbs moisture from the exhaled breath of the patient 10. In certain embodiments, there may also be a front patch panel 160 for connection to external instruments or a network interface cable.

Figure 2B shows a rear view of the fan 100 with a 12 0 gas inlet adapter, an air intake port 140, and a power interface 130 which may include a power plug connector and a circuit breaker reset switch. . There may also be a rear patch panel 165 for connection to external instruments or a network interface cable.

. . . . iHSTmrro mexicanu

Figure 3 illustrates an illustration 1¾¾ ° ^^ fan 100 having a control system 305, a system hardware 310, a user input 315, an output 320, and feedback 325. The control system 305 includes a control system fan 330 receiving user input 315. Control system 305 includes hardware control systems that control respective hardware components of fan 100. For example, hardware control systems may include a 335 blower control system, a 340 flow cassette control system, and an exhalation valve control system 345. The 335 blower control system controls a blower. respective flow cassette 350, flow cassette control system 340 controls a respective flow cassette 355, and expiration valve control system 345 controls a respective expiration valve 360.

The system hardware 310 includes sensors 365 that detect information from the system hardware 310, for example, the blower 350, the flow cassette 355, and the exhalation valve 360. The sensors 365 produce one or more feedback signals 325 that are received by the ventilation control system 330. The ventilation control system 330 receives the feedback control signals 325 and the user input 315 sends information to an output 320. Output 320 may include, for example,

........ IMPI information on monitoring and alarrnft «wTOMUicAN &lt;

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<img file="MX349592B_D0009.tif" />

An example of feedback and control of the ventilator 100 is illustrated in Figure 4A, which illustrates a schematic illustration of an exhalation control feedback system 400 that determines an amount of gas flow 405 that is allowed to pass through a valve. exhalation 410. The illustrated embodiment of feedback system 400 is based on a target pressure 420 and an actual circuit pressure 425 (or a pressure in a fan line 100).

As illustrated in Figure 4A, a processor 430 receives an input signal that is related to the actual circuit pressure 425 and compares the actual circuit pressure 425 with the target pressure 420. Based on this comparison, the processor 430 sends a command signal 435 to an exhalation valve driver 440. The exhalation valve driver 440 is configured to control a position of the exhalation valve 410 to regulate the flow of gas 405 through the exhalation valve 410. In the illustrated embodiment, the exhalation valve driver 440 sends a current control 445 to expiration valve 410 to maintain or adjust expiration valve 410 to modify or adjust the pressure in the ventilator line.

For example, if the circuit pressure was found to

INSTITUTO MEXICANO DE LA PROPERTY INDUSTRIAL real 425 was very high, processor 430 sends a command 435 to exhalation valve driver 440 to open exhalation valve 410 to reduce pressure within the fan line. Expiration valve driver 440, upon receiving command 435 to relieve pressure, adjusts control current 445 to exhalation valve 410 to increase the opening of exhalation valve 410 and relieve pressure in the ventilator line. When the control current 445 increases the opening of the expiration valve 410, the processor 430 receives position feedback 450 from the expiration valve 410 through the expiration valve driver 44 0, such that the processor 43 0 is capable of determining the degree to which exhalation valve 410 opens.

If the actual circuit pressure input 425 to processor 430 was found to be too low, processor 430 directs impeller 440 to adjust control current 445 to exhalation valve 410 to reduce the opening of exhalation valve 410. in such a way that the pressure inside the fan line increases. If the actual circuit pressure input 425 to processor 430 was found to be at an acceptable level or within an acceptable range, processor 430 directs impeller 440 to maintain control current 445 to exhalation valve 410 to maintain the position of the exhalation valve 410.

Another example of feedback and control of the ventilator 100 is illustrated in Figure 4B, which illustrates a schematic illustration of an expiration control feedback system 401 that determines an amount of gas flow 406 that is allowed to pass through a valve. inhalation 411. The illustrated embodiment of feedback system 401 is based on a target flow 421 and an actual flow 426 (or a flow in a fan line 100). Position feedback can be used to determine flow, using the valve's orifice characteristics and generally understanding the principles of fluid flow. Multiple types of gas can be controlled based on the identified gas type (or gas identification). The main advantage of this flow measurement method is that the need for a flow sensor is eliminated and the resulting package provides a compact flow delivery system.

As illustrated in Figure 4B, a processor 431 receives an input signal that is related to the actual stream 426 and compares the actual stream 426 to the target stream 421. Based on this comparison, the processor 431 sends a command signal 43 6 to an inhalation valve driver 441. The inhalation valve driver 441 is configured to control a position of the inhalation valve.

IMPI INSTITUTO MEXICANO inhalation 411 to regulate the gas flow (SKYES'ae the inhalation valve 411. In the mode — Guat-radaa! The inhalation valve driver 441 sends a control current 446 to the inhalation valve 411 to maintain or adjust inhalation valve 411 to modify or adjust flow rate through ventilator line.

For example, if the actual flow 426 was found to be very high, the processor 431 sends a command 436 to the inhalation valve driver 441 to open the inhalation valve 411 to reduce the flow rate through the fan line. Inhalation valve driver 441, upon receiving command 436 to reduce flow rate, adjusts control current 446 to inhalation valve 411 to reduce the opening of inhalation valve 411 and reduce flow rate in the fan line. When the control current 446 decreases the opening of the inhalation valve 411, the processor 431 receives position feedback 451 from the inhalation valve 411 through the inhalation valve driver 441, such that the processor 431 is capable of determine the degree to which the inhalation valve 411 opens.

If the actual flow input 426 to the processor 431 was found to be very low, the processor 431 directs the inhalation driver 441 to adjust the control current 446 to the inhalation valve 411 to increase the opening of the inhalation valve 411. in such a way as to increase the flow rate through the fan line. If the actual flow input 426 to processor 431 was found to be at an acceptable level or within an acceptable range, processor 431 directs driver 441 to maintain control current 446 to inhalation valve 411 to maintain position. inhalation valve 411.

Figure 5 illustrates an exemplary schematic layout of a control system 500 illustrating some embodiments of an impeller (eg, exhalation valve impeller 440 of FIG. 4A or inhalation valve impeller 441 of FIG. 4B ) which operates to adjust a valve 503 (eg, exhalation valve 410 or inhalation valve 411). In the illustrated system 500, a high frequency source 505 generates a signal that has a high frequency, and a low frequency source 510 generates a signal that has a low frequency. The high-frequency signal and the low-frequency signal are summed, and the signal is amplified by means of a current amplifier 515. In some embodiments, amplifier 515 is a linear current output amplifier. The signal is then directed to a coil 520 (eg, a force coil) that is configured to move at least

<img file="MX349592B_D0010.tif" />

partially within a fixed magnetic field 525. The fixed magnetic field 52 is produced by a magnetic field generator, for example, at least one permanent magnet 530 or a separate coil (not shown).

The natural frequency of coil 52 0 is such that coil 520 responds to the low-frequency component of the combined signal by movement within or relative to the magnetic field, as illustrated by arrows 535. In some embodiments, the low frequency component is less than about 90% of coil 520 natural frequency. In some embodiments, the low frequency component is less than about 80% of the natural frequency of coil 520, and in still further embodiments, the low frequency component is less than about 50% of the natural frequency of coil 520.

The high frequency component of the combined signal preferably has an imperceptible effect on the position of the coil 520 such that the position of the coil 520 within the magnetic field is controlled by means of the low frequency component. For example, in some embodiments, the high frequency component is more than 50% greater than the natural frequency of coil 520. In some embodiments, the high frequency component may be between 50% and about 200% greater than the natural frequency of coil 520. In still further embodiments, the

IMPI ^ high frequency can be more than 200 f^ANDcoil natural frequency 520. .. - -

A 54 0 sense coil, or feedback coil, detects the high-frequency component of the signal passing through the 52 0 coil, and the 540 sense coil sends a signal to a 545 high-frequency feedback processor. which determines, based on the signal from the sense coil 540, a position of the coil 520 within the magnetic field 525. In some embodiments, a magnitude of the high frequency signal sensed by sensing coil 540 is used to determine the position of coil 520 within magnetic field 525. In some cases, the high-frequency feedback processor 545 also determines a coil speed 520 within the magnetic field 525 and the high-frequency feedback processor 545 sends a signal to the low-frequency source 510 to provide feedback about the position and / or speed to coil 520. In some embodiments, the high frequency feedback processor 545 includes a position circuit 547 and a speed circuit 548.

The low-frequency source 510 also receives input from a sensor (not shown) on a fan line that relates to how an actual condition 550

<img file="MX349592B_D0011.tif" />

(eg pressure or flow rate) in the fan line is compared to a 555 target condition of the fan line. Based on (i) the input that relates to the comparison of the actual condition 550 and the target condition 555 and (ii) the input of the high-frequency feedback processor 545 that relates to the position of the coil 520 in relation With magnetic field 525, low-frequency source 510 determines whether the low-frequency signal must be modified to change the position of coil 520 relative to magnetic field 525.

For example, if actual condition 550 was determined to be outside of an acceptable range of set of values ​​established by target condition 555, low-frequency source 510 switches the low-frequency signal to move coil 520 within magnetic field 525 Coil 520 is preferably coupled directly (eg, mechanically) or indirectly (eg, magnetically) to a portion of valve 503 that regulates flow through valve 503. Consequently, the movement of the coil 520 moves the valve portion 503 and changes an amount of gas passing through the valve 503. When the amount of gas passing through the valve 503 changes, the condition detected in the fan line changes, and actual condition 550 is detected and compared to

IMPIAS

-,,. . , INSTITUTO MEXICANU Λ real condition 555. di industrial property X, Ta * 3y

In some embodiments, it is advantageous to maintain a positive pressure within the fan line. For example, when the ventilator line is an expiration line, or expiration path, of a patient, and it is desirable to maintain a positive pressure in the patient's lungs relative to a local atmospheric pressure (or ambient pressure), the target condition 555 may include a minimum threshold pressure. When the actual condition 550 is determined to fall below the threshold pressure, the low frequency source 510 may be configured to close the valve 503 such that substantially no gas from the expiratory line passes through valve 503. Valve 503, in such cases, may remain closed until actual condition 550 within the expiratory line rises above threshold pressure, at which time, low-frequency source 510 receives inputs reflecting valve 503 must open, and source 510 changes the low frequency signal to move coil 520 to a position relative to magnetic field 525 that corresponds to an opening of valve 503. In some cases, upon receiving a signal that actual condition 550 is above threshold pressure, low-frequency source 510 may produce a signal that maintains the position of coil 520,

IMPIc ^ INSTITUTO MEX1O.NI&gt; rYSfe OF THE TRONE DAD and therefore of the valve 503, to increase ^{, l}W^r^ actual res'torr in the expiration line. ¹¹¹

In some embodiments, it is advantageous to regulate a flow rate within the fan line. For example, when the ventilator line is an inhalation line, or an inhalation path, towards a patient, and it is desirable to regulate the flow rate to achieve a target gas volume, target condition 555 may include a threshold time flow velocity. When the actual condition 550 is determined to reach the flow rate threshold time, the low frequency source 510 may be configured to close the valve 503, such that substantially no gas from the inhalation line passes through. valve 503. Valve 503, in such cases, may remain closed until the next cycle, at which time, low-frequency source 510 receives inputs reflecting that valve 503 must open, and source 510 changes the low-frequency signal to move the coil 520 to a position relative to the magnetic field 525 that corresponds to an opening of valve 503. In some cases, upon receiving a signal that the actual condition 550 has not reached the flow rate threshold time, the low-frequency source 510 may produce a signal that maintains the position of the coil 520, and thus valve 503, to keep the flow rate at

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i nha1a tio on.

Figure 6A is an exemplary cross-sectional view of a valve 600A, which may be the expiration valve 410 or the expiration valve 411, and operates under the same or similar principles described above with respect to the illustrated valve 503. in Figure 5. The illustrated valve 600A includes a housing 605 that defines an internal chamber 610. Disposed within internal chamber 610 is a coil 615 that is positioned and axially movable within or relative to a fixed magnetic field generator 620. An armature 650 has a post piece and may include or be attached to coil 615 Around at least a portion of the magnetic field generator 620 is positioned a sensor 625. In some embodiments, sensor 625 is a sense coil that is configured to detect high-frequency signals passing through coil 615. High-frequency signals detected by sensor 625 are used to determine a position of coil 615 within or in relation to the magnetic field generator 620.

A signal is communicated from sensor 625 with respect to a position of coil 615, and signals are directed to coil 615 through flexible communication cable 630. As signals directed to coil 615 cause coil 615 to move into inner chamber 610 in ____ _{L Ll} n ---— relative to the magnetic field, the movement of coil 615 affects the positioning of a convoluted diaphragm 635 and stem 647 or seal. Stem 647 operates as a variable orifice of valve 600. The positioning of stem 647 with respect to seat 645 affects the amount of fluid that passes through a valve having an aperture 640.

Movement of coil 615 can change a position of sensor 625 by directly engaging stem 64 7 and moving stem 64 7 toward or away from a seat 645, which defines the valve orifice as the gap between stem 647 and the seat 645. For example, armature 650 can be directly connected to diaphragm 635 and / or stem 647. In some embodiments, the movement of coil 615 can change a position of stem 647 by directly engaging stem 647. For example, a portion of coil 615 and a portion of stem 647 may be magnetically opposed or attracted to each other. In such embodiments, movement of coil 615 thereby opposes or attracts stem portion 647. In a configuration similar to direct coupling, this indirect coupling will affect the positioning of stem 647 in connection with valve seat 645 without contact between coil 615 and stem 647.

<img file="MX349592B_D0013.tif" />

IMPI

ΙΝίΤΓΠΓΓΟ MEXICAN

OF INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY

Although a diaphragm with a stem is illustrated in Figure 6A, other types of valve configurations may be used in connection with the embodiments described. For example, other valves that can be used include, but are not limited to, a butterfly valve, a rotary disk valve, a duckbill valve, etc.

Valve 600A can also provide increased stability by damping the moving components of valve 600A. As explained above, a speed of the coil 615 can be determined by means of a processor (for example, the 430 or 431 processor or a 545 high frequency feedback processor), which can include a speed circuit that calculates a change of position with respect to time. The speed can then be used to determine the desired damping. With the assumption that the 600A valve operates as a second order system, the damped frequency response is greater than or equal to about 40 Hz, and the damping coefficient that an underdamped or critically damped valve assembly produces. In other embodiments, additional damping such as pneumatic viscous damping can be incorporated into valve 600A to further fine-tune valve 600A to the specific application.

Valve 600A may include an open feature

IMPI LMSTin 'TU MU ICANO Üt LA PKUPttUAD C_W »jdÍ ^« í ¡NDUSTUAL —— free from faults in case of loss of electrical power, software control or loss of all incoming gases. Valve 600A can also be configured to switch to the fail-safe open configuration when fan 100 is turned off. Upon successful completion of the power check, fan 100 will close valve 600A and normal ventilation will begin. During a fault-free open condition of ventilator 100, valve 6 00A, and other valves or ports will work together to (i) relieve circuit pressure to ambient pressure conditions, (ii) allow the patient to have ambient air to breathe , and (ii) minimize the action of breathing the gases again.

Figure 6B illustrates a valve 600B, which may be another implementation of valve 600A. Valve 600B may comprise similar components as valve 600A. In addition, valve 600B comprises a front leaf spring 652, a rear leaf spring 654. The front leaf spring 652 and the rear leaf spring 654 provide mechanical or structural support for the armature 650. In other implementations, the armature 650 can be supported by means of other structures, such as bearings.

Figure 7 illustrates a schematic illustration of another implementation of the fan 100 having a control system 705, a system hardware 710, an inlet of

<img file="MX349592B_D0014.tif" />

IMPI

INSTITUTO MEXICANO DE LA MOHEDAL · INDUSTRIAL user 715, one output 720, and feedback 725. Control system 705 includes a ventilation control system 730 that receives input from user 715. Control system 705 includes hardware control systems that control respective hardware components of fan 100. For example, hardware control systems may include a blower control system

735, an inlet valve control system 74 0, and an exhalation valve control system 745. The blower control system 735 controls a respective blower 750, the inlet valve control system 740 controls a blower valve. respective inlet 755, and expiration valve control system 745 controls a respective expiration valve 760.

System hardware 710 includes sensors 765 that detect information from system hardware 710, for example, blower 750, inlet valve 755, and exhalation valve 760. Sensors 765 produce one or more feedback signals 725 that are received by the ventilation control system 730. The ventilation control system 730 receives the feedback control signals 725 and the user input 715 sends information to an output 720. Output 720 may include, for example, monitoring and alarm information.

The 74 0 inlet valve control system can

MEXICAN INSTITUTE

1M THE PRÜÍliTY C ^ -J ^ g be similar to the valve control system of ^ e ^^ 'racToru

745 and operate in a similar way to this, which is ptléCte · ¹correspond to the feedback system 400 of Figure 4 or the current control system 500 of Figure 5. The inlet valve system 755 may also be similar to the exhalation valve 760 and operate similarly to it, which It may correspond to exhalation valve 410 of Figures 4 and 6, or to valve 503 of Figure 5. Although labeled inlet valve 755, inflow valve 755 can be any front end valve in front of the patient in a gas flow. The expiration valve 760 can be any front end valve behind the patient in a gas flow.

In Figure 3 a flow cassette is used, while in Figure 7 a valve control system is used instead. A flow cassette may include a pressure measurement device for an inlet gas, which measures the pressure differential to determine the flow measurement. The flow cassette may also include another valve tracer that drives the flow control valve of the flow cassette. Therefore, a flow cassette provides flow measurement and flow control.

The valve control systems described herein provide flow control through variable valve opening, but also provide

IMPI flow measurement. INDUSTRY flow measurement!

position of the force coil or drive coil. Therefore, valve control systems also provide flow measurement and flow control, similar to flow cassettes. However flow cassettes can be cost prohibitive for certain applications. For example, in certain applications, a fan system with valve control systems may be less expensive to produce than a fan system with one or more flow cassettes. Valve control systems can be of different sizes, for example one quarter the size of the other, depending on need. The two valve control systems can work together, with one for inspiration and one for expiration. For example, inlet valve 755 can be opened and regulated until an appropriate volume of gas has flowed to the patient. The inlet valve 755 may then be closed, and the expiration valve 760 will open and regulate until the patient has exhaled an appropriate volume of gas.

More particularly, gas is connected to an inlet valve 755 that begins closed, building high pressure. The inlet valve control system 740 commands the inlet valve 755 to open, allowing flow to pass to the patient. When inspiration begins, expiration valve 760 closes. The valve control system

IΜ ΡI ΙΝ $ ΤΓΤ'.ΓΓΌ MtXKANO Dt THE PROFIBUITY input 74 0 determines when to close the valve 'SflWmda * ^^²based on flow control or pressure control · When the inlet valve 755 is closed, the expiration valve control system 745 commands the expiration valve 760 to open, allowing the patient to breathe. Inlet valve 755 is commanded to open, and the cycle repeats. Flow control can be calculated by sampling, for example, pressure every millisecond to make adjustments. Based on the position of the drive coil, the pressure can be calculated. The pressure is continuously monitored to adjust the position of the drive coil until a target flow is reached. Calculations can be factored into ambient pressure, gas composition, gas temperature changes, downstream pressure changes, inlet pressure changes, etc. The calculations can also be corrected for standard conditions. By continually monitoring pressure and adjusting the position of the drive coil, the 760 Expiration Valve allows the patient to exhale without difficulty.

Although the flow control devices described herein can be used in connection with CPAP therapy, other modalities, particularly modalities used at the front end of the ventilator, are not limited to CPAP therapy. The flow control devices described herein can be used at any point along the

<img file="MX349592B_D0015.tif" />

a flow path from a ventilator, respirator, or other similar device. In addition, flow control devices can be used in other fluid devices, particularly fluid devices that measure and / or regulate fluid flow, and are not limited to respiration.

Figure 8 shows a flow chart 800 of control of a flow valve, such as valve 503. In block 810, a high frequency signal and a low frequency signal are sent to a drive coil, such as the coil. 615. The low frequency signal causes the drive coil to move within a fixed magnetic field, such as the fixed magnetic field generator 620. The driven drive coil causes a moving part, such as stem 647 or seal, to fit a valve orifice of the valve, such as aperture 640. At block 820, the high frequency signal is detected in the drive coil. . At block 83 0, a drive coil speed is determined based on the detected high frequency signal. At block 840, the low frequency signal is modified based on the determined speed of the drive coil. For example, the speed signal can be injected into the low-frequency source for the purpose of damping.

Block 830 can be expanded in several steps, denoted by the dotted lines in Figure 8. In block 832, a delay between the signal signal can be determined

<img file="MX349592B_D0016.tif" />

high frequency and high frequency signal detected. Figure 9 shows a sample space 90CmJa high-frequency signal 910, which can be a high-frequency current from the high-frequency source 505, is compared with a detected high-frequency signal 920, which can be a high-frequency current detected in the drive coil after the drive coil moves. A delay 930 between the signals can be proportional to the position of the drive coil. Therefore, at block 834, the position of the drive coil is determined based on the delay signal. At block 83 6, the drive coil speed is determined based on the position of the drive coil. With the speed determined in block 836, in block 840, the low frequency signal can be modified based on the determined speed of the drive coil to, for example, control the damping of the drive coil.

The foregoing description is provided to enable anyone of skill in the art to practice the various aspects described herein. Although the foregoing has described what is considered to be the best mode and / or other examples, it is understood that 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. Therefore, the claims are not intended to be limited

IMPI ¡N ST1TUTO U EX icx »E CVríí PROPERTY _to aS ^ Bc shown herein, but accrrderr ^ - scope is consistent with the language of the claims, where mention of an element in the singular is not intended to mean one and only one unless specifically stated, but rather one or more.

Unless specifically stated otherwise, the terms a set and some refer to one or more. The masculine pronouns include the feminine and the neuter gender and vice versa. Titles and subtitles, if any, are used for convenience only and do not limit the invention.

The specific order or hierarchy of stages in the processes described is understood to be an illustration of exemplary approaches. Based on design preferences, it is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of stages in the described processes can be changed. Some of the stages can be done simultaneously. The accompanying method claims present elements of the various steps in sample order, and is not meant to be limited to the specific order or hierarchy presented.

It will be understood that terms such as upper, lower, front, back and the like as used in the present description refer to an arbitrary reference frame, rather than an ordinary gravitational reference frame. Therefore, a surface

INSTITUTO MEXICANO DE LA FROPIf.UAD INDUSTRIAL top, a bottom surface, a front surface, and a back surface can be magnified up, down, diagonally, or horizontally in a gravitational reference frame.

A phrase such as an aspect does not imply that the aspect is essential to the technology in question, or that the aspect applies to all configurations of the technology in question. A description that relates to an aspect can apply to all configurations, or to one or more configurations. A phrase such as an aspect can refer to one or more aspects and vice versa. A phrase such as a modality does not imply that the modality is essential to the technology in question, or that the modality applies to all configurations of the technology in question. A description that relates to one mode may apply to all modes, or to one or more modes. A phrase such as a modality can refer to one or more modalities and vice versa.

The word example is used to mean serving as an example or illustration. Any aspect or design described herein as exemplary should not necessarily be regarded as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs.

All the structural and functional equivalents of the elements of the various aspects described throughout

IMPI INSTITUTO MUK3ANV CE LA h ^ OPIEUaD INDUSTRIAL the description that they know or will later know lmi ll - »• Λ.ΛϋβΛβϊΜβΜϊβΙ IfRll · ·» · 1 those with normal experience in the art are expressly incorporated here by reference and are intended to be included in the claims. Furthermore, nothing described herein is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether the description is explicitly mentioned in the claims. No item of claim should be deemed to conform to the provisions of 35 USC section 112, sixth paragraph, unless the item is explicitly referenced using the phrase means for or, in the case of a method claim, the item is referenced using the stage phrase for. Additionally, to the extent that the term includes, has, or the like is used in the description or in the claims, the term is intended to be inclusive in a similar way to the term comprise because comprise is interpreted when used as a transition word in a claim.

This description describes exemplary aspects of the technology in question, which may include at least the following concepts:

Concept 1. A flow control device comprising: a high frequency source configured to generate a high frequency signal; a low frequency source configured to generate a low frequency signal; a fixed magnetic field; a drive coil

<img file="MX349592B_D0017.tif" />

INSTITUTO MEXICANO DE LA PROPIEDAl _ INDUSTRIAL configured to move within the fixed magnetic field in response to the low frequency signal and configured to receive the high frequency signal; a sense coil adjacent to the drive coil and configured to detect the high frequency signal in the drive coil, the detected high frequency signal corresponds to a position of the drive coil; a processor coupled to the high frequency source and the low frequency source and configured to receive the detected high frequency signal from the sense coil; a seal configured to move based on the position of the drive coil; and a valve orifice defining a valve seat and a variable opening, the variable opening is adjustable based on a position of the seal relative to the valve seat.

Concept 2. The concept 1 flow control device, wherein the processor is further configured to calculate the position of the drive coil based on a delay between the high frequency signal and the detected high frequency signal, and where the delay is proportional to the position of the drive coil.

Concept 3. The flow control device of Concept 2, wherein the processor is further configured to calculate a drive coil speed based on the calculated position of the drive coil.

Concept 4. The flow control device of the

IMPI iNSrrnrro mlxicahv DS LA mOP! £ i) AC 'INDUSTRIAL

<img file="MX349592B_D0018.tif" />

Concept 3, wherein the processor is further configured to modify the low frequency signal based on the calculated speed of the drive coil.

Concept 5. The flow control device of Concept 1, wherein the seal is mechanically coupled to the drive coil.

Concept 6. The flow control device of concept 1, wherein the seal is configured to engage the valve seat to close the variable opening.

Concept 7. The concept 1 flow control device, where the sense coil surrounds the drive coil.

Concept 8. The flow control device of concept 1 additionally comprises a chamber, wherein the fixed magnetic field, the drive coil, and the sensing coil are positioned within the chamber.

Concept 9. A fan system comprising: a first valve connected to a supply channel and comprising: a first high frequency source configured to generate a first high frequency signal; a first low frequency source configured to generate a first low frequency signal; a first fixed magnetic field; a first drive coil configured to move within the first fixed magnetic field in response to the first low frequency signal and configured to

IMPI institi rro mexicana DE LA MONEDAD (NIXISTRIAL receive the first high frequency signal; a first detection coil adjacent to the first driving coil and configured to detect the first high frequency signal in the driving coil, the first detected high frequency signal corresponds to a position of the first drive coil; a first processor coupled to the first high-frequency source and the first low-frequency source and

<img file="MX349592B_D0019.tif" />

configured to receive the first detected high frequency signal from the first sense coil; a first seal configured to move based on the position of the first drive coil; and a first variable valve port defining a first valve seat, the first valve port being adjustable based on a position of the first seal relative to the first valve seat.

Concept 10. The concept 9 fan system, wherein the first processor additionally comprises a first position circuit configured to calculate the position of the first drive coil based on a delay between the first high frequency signal and the first drive signal. high frequency detected, and where the delay is proportional to the position of the first drive coil.

Concept 11. The fan system of concept 10, wherein the first processor additionally comprises a first speed circuit configured to calculate a speed of the first drive coil based on the

------------------ ΙΜΡΙ ^^ position of the first drive coil.

Concept 12. The concept 11 fan system, wherein the first processor is further configured to modify the first low frequency signal based on the calculated speed of the first drive coil.

Concept 13. The concept 12 fan system, wherein the first processor is further configured to continuously modify the first low frequency signal.

Concept 14. The concept 9 fan system additionally comprises a second valve connected to an exhaust channel, the second valve comprises: a second high-frequency source configured to generate a second high-frequency signal; a second low frequency source configured to generate a second low frequency signal; a second fixed magnetic field; a second drive coil configured to move within the second fixed magnetic field in response to the second low frequency signal and configured to receive the second high frequency signal; a second sense coil adjacent to the second drive coil and configured to detect the second high frequency signal in the second drive coil, the second detected high frequency signal corresponds to a position of the second drive coil; a second processor coupled to the second high frequency source and the second low frequency source and —----- I Μ. ΡΙ configured to receive the second detected signal from the second sense coil. A second saUu configured to move based on the position of the second drive coil; and a second valve hole defining a second valve seat, the second valve hole is adjustable based on a position of the second seal relative to the first valve seat.

Concept 15. The fan system of concept 14, wherein the second processor additionally comprises a second position circuit configured to calculate the position of the second drive coil based on a delay between the second high frequency signal and the second drive signal. high frequency detected, and where the delay is proportional to the position of the second drive coil.

Concept 16. The fan system of concept 15, wherein the second processor further comprises a second speed circuit configured to calculate a speed of the second drive coil based on the position of the second drive coil.

Concept 17. The fan system of Concept 16, wherein the second processor is further configured to modify the second low frequency signal based on the calculated speed of the second drive coil.

Concept 18. The fan system of Concept 14,

IMPI

J, _ · _ ____J _, MtXICANp INSTITUTE where the first processor and the second pMoae®áotC * ®e®Mr configured to alternate in opening the first valve hole and the second valve hole, respectively.

Concept 19. A method of adjusting a valve, the method comprises: sending a high-frequency signal and a low-frequency signal to a drive coil, the low-frequency signal causes the drive coil to move within a fixed magnetic field, and the coil impeller causes a seal to fit a variable valve orifice of the valve; detect the high frequency signal on the drive coil; determining a drive coil speed based on the detected high frequency signal; and modifying the low frequency signal based on the determined speed of the drive coil.

Concept 20. The method of concept 19, wherein determining speed further comprises: determining a delay between the high frequency signal and the detected high frequency signal. Determine a drive coil position based on delay; and determining a change in position of the drive coil with respect to a change in time.

It is noted that in relation to this date, the best method known to the applicant for putting the aforementioned invention into practice is the one that is clear from the present description of the invention.