Patent ID: 7076993
Filing Date: 2006-07-18
Classification: A61H

Abstract:
1. A method for detecting leakage in a pressurized medical appliance prior to normal operation, the system including an air compressor and an inflatable bag or bladder coupled to the air compressor through the intermediary of a fill valve allowing air to pass to the bladder and a vent valve for venting the system, the fill valve and the vent valve being selectively operable during said normal operation to deliver cyclical pulses of air to inflate and deflate the bladder, the detection method comprising; a) opening the fill valve to vent the system to atmospheric pressure, b) closing the vent valve, c) pressurizing the system by means of the air compressor to a predetermined threshold value, d) monitoring the pressure gradient or rise over a period of time to said threshold value, and e) comparing the pressure gradient over said period of time or at intervals of time within said period of time with a pre-specified pressure gradient indicative of system integrity based upon achieving a system pressure of 10 mmHg within 3 seconds of energization of said air compressor whereby to determine the presence or otherwise of air leakage in the system.