This month we were able to take several important steps in the development of the ventilator kits.
Some highlights include:
- Fixing some tricky bugs to better stabilize the communication between the mobile app and the kit's microprocessor.
- Conducting a stress test over a 5-day period under normal use conditions. This test showed a great level of stability in terms of both hardware and software.
- Testing the kit with medical professionals who were able to offer feedback about the kit's usability. We will use this information to make adjustments so that the device is specifically tailored to meet the needs of those who will be operating it.
- Designing a 3-D printed case that will protect the equipment during use.
- Adding the ability for the device to connect to a hospital's Wi-Fi network, drastically expanding the range of connection within the mobile app.
The kit is getting better and simpler!
The next steps are to:
1) Include visual and audible alarms that can indicate when certain thresholds are exceeded.
2) Code the mobile app in iOS so that it is compatible with more devices (currently it is exclusively for Androids).
3) Include a QR code on the kit display and a QR scanner in the app to allow for easier connection between devices.
4) Develop and test the adjustable PEEP valve which will allow for more control of the conditions of each patient.
5) Add the option to save measurements and other data in the kit's internal memory for research purposes.
Thank you for the support!
After conducting several tests with a first mechanical prototype (Version 1.0) ISF-Argentina interacted with specialists from different hospitals who are treating COVID cases. Taking into consideration their feedback, it was decided to rethink the project with the aim of developing the minimum functionalities required by those medical teams and to facilitate the use of the equipment for the team that will operate it in intensive care and in a demanding context.
By expanding the capacity of a ventilator for two patients instead of four, design costs were reduced. It also facilitates the adoption of the equipment by medical personnel.
The new proposal significantly improves the accuracy in measuring the volume of air entering the lungs of patients by incorporating electronic sensors. It also includes five one-way valves to avoid cross contamination and adjustable PEEP (Positive End Expiratory Pressure) valves which are essential for treating COVID patients.
The new compressed design allows all the electronics, flow sensor and display to be grouped in a smaller device.
The developed app (available for Android) can be connected to the device by reading a QR code included in the display where the tidal volume of the patients can also be read. This allows medical personnel to remotely monitor the patients via a cell phone, reducing the risk of contagion.
Furthermore, the equipment is able to save all the historical measurement data in an internal memory to analyze its operation and develop future improvements.
Next steps:
Links:
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