Patent ID: 6203502
Filing Date: 2001-03-20
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
A respiratory function monitoring device comprising:a flow sensing device in fluidic communication with a first and a second pressure transducer, the first pressure transducer arranged to measure a differential pressure corresponding to a gas flow rate, the second pressure transducer arranged to measure a static pressure;amplifying means electrically connected to the first and second pressure transducers, the amplifying means for amplifying voltage signals output by the pressure transducers;an analog to digital converter for translating the analog voltage valves derived from the first and second pressure transducers;a central processing unit arranged to communicate with the analog to digital converter, the central processing unit being capable of executing a program, the program being designed to convert the digital voltage values from the first pressure transducer into flow rate data and the voltage values from the second pressure transducer into pressure data; andan input/output means for communicating the flow rate and pressure data to a host system wherein the flow sensing device comprises a hollow cylindrical body having a bore with a first end and a second end, the first and second ends arranged for connection between a ventilator and a patient;a strut disposed within the bore of the body across the entire diameter of the bore and parallel to the axis of symmetry of the bore, the strut having symmetrical end portions flowing aerodynamically from a center portion, the symmetrical end portions each having a leading edge with a groove formed therein.