Low cost CPAP flow generator and humidifier assembly

摘要

A CPAP device wherein humidification detection and/or control is performed by a microprocessor of the CPAP device without requiring a separate humidification control chip. The microprocessor may also control the flow generator motor and the flow generator display. Further, the microprocessor may include code to prevent ‘brown-out’, and/or to detect the availability (connection and/or operability) of the humidifier. Humidifier detection may be carried out using power consumption or temperature sensor signal analysis, e.g., facilitated by use of a pull-up resistor.

主权项

1. A continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device comprising:
a flow generator including a microprocessor; a humidifier detachably coupled to the flow generator; and a temperature sensor in communication with the humidifier and adapted to produce a voltage signal provided to the flow generator microprocessor, wherein the microprocessor is programmed with a humidifier control program adapted to control power supply to the humidifier in accordance with output of the temperature sensor, and adapted to detect when the humidifier is substantially empty of water based on the output of the temperature sensor.