Method and apparatus for improving the comfort of CPAP

摘要

A low-cost CPAP apparatus in which, upon detection of the transition from inhalation to exhalation, the blower motor is de-energized to allow it to freewheel. When the pressure in the patient mask (or whatever interface is utilized) reaches a minimum pressure level during exhalation, the motor is re-energized and its speed is controlled so to maintain the pressure at a level suitable for exhalation. Upon detection of the transition from exhalation to inhalation, the motor speed is increased to provide higher pressures in the patient mask suitable for inhalation.

主权项

1. A method of controlling a pressure of air delivery by a CPAP apparatus; wherein said CPAP apparatus includes an electric motor, an impeller driven by the motor for delivering air to a patient interface, a sensor for determining the pressure in the patient interface, and a controller (1) to control the pressure of air delivery to the patient interface and (2) to detect transitions between inhalation and exhalation of a respiratory cycle of a patient, comprising the steps of:
(i) operating said electric motor, thereby driving said impeller for delivering air to said patient interface at a pressure above atmospheric; (ii) upon detection of the transition from inhalation to exhalation, ceasing driving said impeller and causing said impeller to freewheel; (iii) upon the sensor sensing that the pressure in the patient interface reaches a minimum pressure level during exhalation, re-starting driving said impeller to maintain the pressure at a level suitable for exhalation; and (iv) upon detection of the transition from exhalation to inhalation, increasing driving said impeller to provide an increased pressure in the patient interface suitable for inhalation.