摘要 |
Embodiments of the present invention described and shown in the specification and drawings include a respiratory system for automatically and variably controlling the supply of a pressurized breathing gas to a patient via a breathing circuit that is in fluid communication with the lungs of the patient. The respiratory system has a demand valve in fluid communication with a source of pressurized gas. The demand valve is switchable between a open position, in which an inhalation conduit of the breathing circuit is in fluid communication with the source of pressurized gas, and a closed position, in which the inhalation conduit is not in fluid communication with the source of pressurized gas. The demand valve is proportionally moveable between the open and closed positions in response to a pressure within a reference chamber which is in fluid communication with the trachea of the patient. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that is will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. 37 C.F.R. § 1.72(b). |