Patent Description:
Therapeutic breathing techniques and devices, such as exercise with oxygen therapy (EWOT) are often prescribed by physicians to patients requiring aerobic physical therapy. Athletes have also found EWOT to be helpful for altitude training or extending the duration of an aerobic exercise activity. EWOT has been found to increase recovery time from muscle fatigue during exercise, as well as treating stress conditions that cause inflammation of cell tissue, for example, by reducing arterial inflammation associated with reduced oxygen levels which can occur during extensive physical activity.

Currently, most EWOT devices are crude and cumbersome devices that occupy a significant amount of floor and wall space. Although some EWOT devices could be made with a smaller footprint, many of these devices are not easily transportable and/or storable. Once these EWOT devices are assembled and in place, it can be difficult to transport the devices without completely dismantling them. Additionally, the prior art EWOT devices do not maintain a positive air pressure upon the air bladders that store and provide oxygen or other similar gases to the user during a therapeutic exercise routine. Also, most EWOT devices only supply a single air source (e.g., higher purity oxygen or lower purity hypoxic oxygen), without ability for multiple air sources to be used with the same EWOT device. Other EWOT devices which operate with multiple air sources have other notable deficiencies and are of need for improvement.

For example, <CIT> discloses a dual compartment air-reservoir that selectively provides, via a mechanical control switch, high or low levels of oxygenated air to a user while exercising and wearing a breathing mask. More specifically, the '<NUM> patent discloses a first air-reservoir that stores a first concentration of inhalation-air at ambient pressure (e.g., <NUM>% oxygen), a second air-reservoir that stores a second concentration of inhalation-air at ambient pressure (e.g., <NUM>% oxygen). The '<NUM> patent discloses a single rectangular-shaped plastic bag which is hung directly from a wall or from a stand-alone frame. The bag is partitioned by stitching of the plastic material to form two separate air-reservoirs or bladders. The '<NUM> patent includes air reservoirs or bladders which are not airtight or protected internally with a medical grade coating to prevent contamination of the air inside. The reservoirs cannot hold air for more than a few minutes without deflating. A commercially available oxygen concentrator is connected to both bladders by separate air hoses connected to inlets of the first and second bladders. The oxygen concentrator pumps each bladder with the predetermined highly oxygenated and low (hypoxic level) percentage of oxygen at ambient pressure. A single control switch is coupled to inlets of each bladder via separate air tubing. The control switch includes a manually operated actuator which allows the user to select and pass through the oxygenated air flow from one of the bladders at a time to the breathing mask as the user exercises (e.g., riding a stationary bicycle, running on a treadmill, etc.).

During an aerobic exercise routine, such as pedaling a stationary bicycle or running on a treadmill, the user will eventually diminish the oxygen levels in the tissue cells as lactic acid increases. As the user's demand for oxygen increases and the user will experience heavier breathing and increased heart rate, which result from trying to provide more oxygen from the lungs and through the vascular system to the tissue cells demanding greater amounts of oxygen to reduce the lactic acid. As well, when the cell tissue oxygen levels are low or depleted for prolonged periods, temporary inflammation can occur in the linings of the blood vessels, which further deprives oxygen to the oxygen-depleted cell tissues.

EWOT can help address such physical distress conditions associated with reduced levels of oxygen while exercising by receiving high concentrations of oxygen for a predetermined time, e.g., <NUM> minutes. Exercise training while breathing a high concentration of oxygen has been found to help prolong the exercise activity by diminishing lactic acid buildup and, over time, can increase the user's endurance because sufficient amounts of oxygen are constantly being supplied to the user while exercising. It has also been known to improve or help numerous medical conditions or ailments including, for example, Lyme disease, dementia/Alzheimer and blood clots.

EWOT can also be used to train for physical stress conditions associated with physical activities occurring at high altitudes (e.g., greater than <NUM> meters above sea level). Generally, a user training with EWOT can improve his/her endurance while exercising by breathing alternative air flows, i.e., switching back and forth for predetermined durations, between a lower (hypoxic) level of oxygen to simulate high altitude conditions and a highly oxygenated air to replenish oxygen depleted cell tissue. The low concentration of oxygen (e.g., <NUM>% to <NUM>% oxygen) stored in the other bladder can be used to breathe while exercising for a predetermined time to thereby simulate and train the user's body to adapt to low oxygen conditions which naturally occur at high altitudes. When a person is physically active while subjected to high altitude conditions, cell tissue can quickly burn through the low levels of oxygen breathed through the air. Extended periods of low levels of oxygen can lead to well-known hypoxic conditions in which the person can exhibit symptoms such as, for example, shortness of breath, nausea, light-headedness or dizziness, headaches, fatigue, etc. To help address these undesirable medical conditions, prescribed training with EWOT can help cause vasodilation of the micro vessels and capillaries in the body of a user. In particular, exercising with EWOT can help reduce inflammation of the inner cell wall linings of the vessels, thereby allowing the blood vessels to expand so that the muscles, organs and other cell tissues can quickly be refreshed with new and a plentiful flow of red blood cells that is enriched with higher-than-normal levels of oxygen purity during and after completion of an EWOT exercise routine.

The EWOT apparatus and system described in the '<NUM> patent and other prior art has a number of drawbacks. For example, the bladder that stores the high concentration of oxygenated air at ambient pressure will require the user to breathe harder to draw the oxygen enriched air through the air tubes and the control switch, and eventually to the breathing mask. That is, the lack of positive pressure in the air results in a slower delivery of oxygen to the user's oxygen-depleted cell tissue. Another drawback is that the user must manually initiate the switching of the control switch to deliver either the high or low concentration of oxygen through the mask for breathing. Manual switching between oxygen sources can be considered an interruption in the exercise routine for some users. Yet another drawback is that the air-reservoir bag is large and generally flat and is hung from a wall or a stand which requires a large footprint (e.g., having a width of at least <NUM> feet and a height of at least <NUM> feet) during use. Still another drawback is that the bladder of the '<NUM> patent is not leak-proof, which means that the exerciser must use the system immediately or very soon after filling the bladder with the desired oxygen, thereby making it difficult, if not impossible to set-up the system beforehand. In addition to higher concentrated oxygen constantly escaping the bladder via leakage, ambient air can also enter the bladder, thereby diluting the desired/predetermined purer levels of oxygen. As well, because the inside of the '<NUM> bladder is not medically treated or coated, it is possible that the air can become contaminated, tainted and/or diluted of its purity.

Further oxygen systems are disclosed for example in <CIT>, which relates to an apparatus for providing inhalation-air from dual compartment air-reservoir to a mask, and more particularly relates to an apparatus for switching in between a high concentration of oxygen and a contrasting low concentration of oxygen to provide selected concentration of oxygen to a user. <CIT> is directed to a ventilator which includes a bellows having an upper cover plate with a weight sufficient for automatic compression of the bellows. <CIT> is directed to a continuous positive airway pressure device having bellows which are weighted, e.g., by an upper moving plate. <CIT> is directed to a method and device for supplying modified air during sports training and exercise. The device includes a bag which is pressurized in the absence of any weights providing a constant pressure on the bag.

Therefore, it is desirable to provide an exercise with oxygen therapy apparatus which is capable of providing a selected concentration of oxygenated air at a positive pressure to the user. It is further desirable to provide an EWOT system having a leak-proof bladder that does not allow the contents to randomly and uncontrollably escape, as well as provide a medical grade coating in the interior of the bladder to prevent contaminants from mixing with the desired concentration of oxygen. It is also desirable to provide an EWOT system with an airflow controller which includes programming for selecting various modes of automated operation, as well receive feedback from one or more electronic sensors to provide automated adjustments during selected training routines. Moreover, is desirable to provide an EWOT system that has a reduced footprint to free up wall/floor space and enable use in smaller or confined spaces.

The novel features of the present invention, which are considered as characteristic of the invention, are set forth in the appended claims. The invention itself, however, both as to its construction and its mode(s) of operation, together with additional advantages and objects, will be best understood from the following detailed description of a preferred embodiment, when read with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Subject-matter referred as embodiments, disclosures and/or aspects, which does not fall under the scope of the claims, is not part of the invention.

In accordance with the technology described herein, the deficiencies of the prior art are overcome by an exercise with oxygen therapy apparatus for selectively providing positive pressure inhalation-air to a user during and after exercising from first and second inflatable bladders having oxygen levels above and below ambient oxygen at sea level.

The various embodiments of the present technology have been shown to increase energy, aid recovery, boost stamina and build immunity for both professional and amateur athletes alike. It has also been reported to have helped aid patients with a variety of health conditions and ailments.

In one embodiment, a therapeutic oxygen breathing apparatus comprises: an air reservoir having a first bladder and a second bladder, the first and second bladders being configured for storing air having different percentages of oxygen therein; a frame structure configured to support at least the first bladder in a vertical direction; a weighted member attached to and positioned proximate an upper portion of the first bladder, the weighted member having sufficient weight to apply a downward force on the first bladder when filled with air, such that a constant, predetermined positive pressure is applied to the air stored within the first bladder; wherein the first bladder includes a first inlet for receiving a first quantity of air having a first concentration of oxygen and the second bladder includes a second inlet for receiving a second quantity of air having a second concentration of oxygen; and wherein the first bladder includes a first outlet for releasing a first portion of stored air having the first concentration of oxygen and the second bladder includes a second outlet for releasing a second portion of stored air having the second concentration of oxygen.

In one aspect, the first and second bladders are physically separated. In another aspect, the second bladder is attached to the first bladder.

In one aspect, the first concentration of oxygen is greater than ambient air concentration of oxygen. In another aspect, the first concentration of oxygen is greater than ninety percent. In yet another aspect, the second concentration of oxygen is less than ambient air concentration of oxygen. In still another aspect, the second concentration of oxygen is between <NUM>% to <NUM>%.

In one aspect, the first container is cylindrical. In another aspect, the frame includes a plurality of vertical and horizontal frame members collectively arranged in a rectangular shape, wherein the frame has a height-to-width ratio greater than one. In yet another aspect, the first bladder is positioned within the rectangular frame in a vertical direction and slidably attached to the vertical frame members. In still another aspect, the first bladder is attached to the vertical frame members via a plurality of rings.

In one aspect, the weighted member is attached to an exterior portion of the first bladder and slidably moves along one of the vertical frame members. In another aspect, the weighted member is positioned on an upper surface portion of the first bladder.

In one aspect, the first outlet is in fluid communication with a first airflow directional valve that permits unidirectional airflow out of the second bladder. In another aspect, the second outlet is in fluid communication with a second airflow directional valve that permits unidirectional airflow of air out of the second bladder. In still another aspect, the second bladder is attached to the frame.

In one aspect, the therapeutic oxygen breathing apparatus further comprises a breathing mask having an inlet which is coupled to the first and second bladders via a control switch. In another aspect, the control switch is in fluid communication with the first and second outlets of the first and second bladders. In yet another aspect, the control switch includes a valve and actuator for manually selecting airflow from at least one of the first and second bladders to the breathing mask. In still another aspect, the control switch incudes a programmable microcontroller for executing routines which automatically control a valve to selectively permit air to flow from at least one of the first and second bladders to the breathing mask. In another aspect, the control switch is configured to receive electronic signals from one or more biometric sensors in communication with a user wearing the breathing mask. In yet another aspect, the control switch includes programming that sends electronic signals to actuate the valve which adjusts, in real time, air flow from at least one of the first and second bladders, in response to the electronic signals from the one or more sensors. In a further aspect, the control switch includes a first control switch for receiving airflow from the first bladder and a second control switch for receiving airflow from the second bladder. In still another aspect, the first and second control switches are in electronic communication with each other.

In another embodiment, a dual bladder system for supplying gasses while exercising, comprises: a cylindrical inflatable and collapsible first bladder dimensioned and configured to receive a first gas; a second bladder dimensioned and configured to receive a second gas; and a mixer coupled to the first and second bladders, the mixer having an actuator for selectively providing at least one of the first and second gases to a user.

In one aspect, the first gas and the second gas contain different percentages of oxygen. In another aspect, the dual bladder system further comprises a frame structure configured to support at least the first bladder in a vertical direction.

In one aspect, the first bladder is pleated such that the pleats unfold to permit the first bladder to expand during receipt of the first gas. In another aspect, the pleats are biased to return to a folded state and collapse the first bladder in a vertical direction as the first gas is depleted from the first bladder.

The technology will be further described below with reference to the drawings in which:.

To facilitate an understanding of the technology, identical numerals have been used, when appropriate, to designate the same or similar elements that are common to all of the figures. Further, unless stated otherwise, the features shown in the figures are not drawn to scale, but are shown for illustrative purposes only.

Referring now to <FIG>, a first embodiment of an exercise with oxygen therapy (EWOT) apparatus <NUM> is illustratively shown. The EWOT apparatus <NUM> includes an air reservoir <NUM> having a first bladder <NUM>, a second bladder <NUM>, an air supply <NUM> for providing a plurality of predetermined concentrations of air e.g., a high level of oxygen to the first bladder <NUM> and a low (hypoxic) adjustable level of oxygen to the second bladder <NUM>, a support structure or frame <NUM> for securing the first and second bladders <NUM>, <NUM>, a breathing mask <NUM> which is worn by a user when exercising on exercise equipment, such as a stationary bicycle, treadmill, and the like, and a control switch <NUM> for switching between and passing the high and/or low airflow concentrations from each bladder <NUM>, <NUM> to the mask <NUM> so the user can selectively breathe the oxygen-enriched air or the hypoxic air while exercising. Although the present embodiments are discussed in terms of a breathing mask <NUM>, such breathing apparatus is not considered limiting as other well-known breathing devices can be used such as, for example, a nasal cannula, a breathing tube and/or other well-known breathing devices that enable a user to breathe through the nose and/or mouth. Preferably, the predetermined concentration of air being delivered to the first bladder <NUM>, via the air supply <NUM>, includes oxygen that is above <NUM>% oxygen at sea level, although such high oxygen concentration and simulated altitude levels are not considered limiting. Preferably, the predetermined concentration of air being delivered to the second bladder <NUM>, via the air supply <NUM>, includes an adjustable low level of oxygen that is illustratively between <NUM>% and <NUM>% at sea level, which can simulate altitude levels up to <NUM>,<NUM> feet, although such low oxygen concentration and simulated altitude levels are not considered limiting. The oxygen enriched air helps to quickly supply oxygen to the oxygen-depleted cell tissues and thereby allows the user to exercise for longer periods of time. Alternatively, the user can breathe the hypoxic air while exercising to simulate and train for high altitude breathing conditions. Breathing the hypoxic air causes the body's micro vessels and capillaries to open even wider, or vasodilate even more so, thereby increasing the exerciser's body need and reception of even more healthy red blood cells than when the user is breathing the highly oxygenated air. It has been reported that breathing hypoxic air over long periods of time without replenishing the body with fresh or high purity oxygen can cause inflammation in the inner wall linings of the microvessels and capillaries, thereby making the microvessels shrink in diameter, i.e., constrict and reducing blood flow to the cell tissue. However, it has also been found that inhaling hypoxic air for shorter periods such as while training with an EWOT system has an opposite effect on the body. In particular, when participating in EWOT, the hypoxic air is used solely as a way to "starve" the body of oxygen for a very limited time (e.g., seconds or a few minutes) so that the body's micro-vessels and capillaries dilate. Once the blood vessels are dilated from the hypoxic air, the user switches over to and breathes the highly oxygenated air, which quickly delivers the oxygen enriched air to the oxygen deprived cell tissues, thereby enhancing quick recovery of the cell tissues during the exercise routine. A pioneer in the study of EWOT was Dr. Manfred Von Ardenne, who spent years conducting studies on how the body functions with and responds to increased levels of oxygen, also known as oxygen saturation. For a detailed understanding of the theories and analysis of how cell tissue responds to different oxygen levels and the benefits of EWOT, the reader is directed to <NPL>), which is considered a leading authority on the subject.

Through his research, Dr. Von Ardenne found that higher levels of oxygen in the body can contribute to the recovery of various ailments and diseases and help to achieve optimum overall health and longevity. For example, in some studies, Von Ardenne found that test subjects using EWOT improved their memory an average of <NUM>%, and reaction times in certain activities an average of <NUM>%.

The air reservoir <NUM> preferably includes physically separate first and second bladders <NUM>, <NUM>, although such quantity and configuration is not considered limiting as a single container can be provided which is partitioned by stitching, welding, a divider member and the like to form adjacent bladder sections (e.g., two bladders) in the container. In the present invention, the first bladder <NUM> includes one or more weighted members <NUM> which apply a downward pressure on the first bladder <NUM> to help provide a positive pressure to the oxygen-enriched air that the user breathes when exercising, as discussed below in further detail. In an alternative embodiment, the first bladder <NUM> incudes a plurality of folded pleats that unfold during the expansion of the first bladder <NUM>, and then return to the biased, folded state as the air therein is depleted, such that the return of the pleats to their normal folded state causes a downward and positive pressure on the air content therein. Further details of the pleated bladder are discussed below with respect to <FIG>.

Returning again to <FIG>, the first bladder <NUM> includes an inlet port <NUM> which is coupled to an outlet port <NUM> of the air supply <NUM> via a first inlet air hose <NUM>. Similarly, the second bladder <NUM> includes a second inlet port <NUM> which is coupled to a second outlet port <NUM> of the air supply <NUM> via a second inlet air hose <NUM>. The first bladder <NUM> also includes an outlet port <NUM> which is coupled to a first inlet port <NUM> of the control switch <NUM> via a first outlet air hose <NUM>. Similarly, the second bladder <NUM> includes a second outlet port <NUM> which is coupled to a second inlet port <NUM> of the control switch <NUM> via a second outlet air hose <NUM>. The first inlet/outlet ports <NUM>, <NUM> of the first bladder <NUM> are illustratively shown positioned at the top portion of the bladder <NUM>, although such location is not considered limiting, as the first inlet/outlet ports <NUM>, <NUM> can be positioned on the bottom, sidewall and/or other location depending on the shape of the first bladder <NUM>. Similarly, the second inlet/outlet ports <NUM>, <NUM> of the second bladder <NUM> are shown at opposing ends of the second bladder <NUM>, although such positioning is not considered limiting, as the second inlet/outlet ports115, <NUM> can be positioned on a sidewall and/or other location depending on the shape of the second bladder <NUM>.

A person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that air flow directional-control devices <NUM>, such as relief valves, check valves, flap valves/gates, and the like, can optionally be provided along the various air hoses, such as the first and second outlet air hoses <NUM>, <NUM> to prevent backflow. The control switch <NUM> includes an outlet port <NUM> which is coupled to an inlet <NUM> of the breathing mask <NUM> via a third outlet air hose <NUM>. The control switch <NUM> includes a actuator <NUM> that is either manually operated or programmed to operate automatically (as discussed below in further detail) to permit flow of the high or low (hypoxic) oxygenated air from the first bladder <NUM> or second bladder <NUM> to the breathing mask <NUM> so the user can breathe such selected air for a predetermined time.

The first and second bladders <NUM>, <NUM> are preferably fabricated from a non-porous, durable material such as, for example, nylon fabric and the like, although such exterior surface materials are not considered limiting. The interior of the first and second bladders <NUM>, <NUM> is preferably coated or lined with a non-toxic, medical-grade material or film which does not discharge or release chemical contaminants or pollutants into the stored air, such as thermoplastic polyurethane, Teflon, and the like. The bladder fabrication material(s) are selected to allow the bladders to easily expand and contract when the air is delivered into or released from the bladders, respectively, and a person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the materials used to fabricate the first and second bladders <NUM>, <NUM> are not considered limiting. Preferably, the seams of the bladders <NUM>, <NUM> are joined together by RF welding or otherwise bonded together to ensure that the bladder seams will not leak.

The shape of the first bladder <NUM> is preferably cylindrical, although such shape is not considered limiting, as rectangular, triangular, octagonal, square or other shapes can be implemented. The cylindrical first bladder has circular top and bottom surfaces which are substantially planar, and a circular sidewall extending along a longitudinal axis "L" (e.g., see <FIG>) between the top and bottom surfaces in a well-known manner. Preferably, the height-to-diameter ratio of the first cylindrical shaped bladder <NUM> is approximately <NUM>:<NUM>, although such ratio is not considered limiting. The cylindrical shape of the first bladder <NUM> is advantageous for reducing the footprint of the EWOT apparatus, since the first bladder <NUM> can be positioned with its longitudinal axis oriented upward and remain vertically in a stable manner, i.e., without tilting or falling over. The cylindrical shape is also advantageous when the air is released from the first bladder <NUM>, since the first bladder will collapse downwardly and uniformly from top to bottom, as discussed below in further detail with respect to <FIG> and <FIG>. The first bladder <NUM> is sized and dimensioned to retain a sufficient quantity of oxygen-enriched air (e.g., <NUM>% oxygen) to last for a predetermined time, (e.g., fifteen minutes) when a user exercises and breathes through the mask <NUM> while using the portable oxygen supply <NUM>. In one embodiment, the first bladder <NUM> has a volume of approximately <NUM> liters, although such volume is not considered limiting. The dimensions of the first and second bladder <NUM>, <NUM> are generally determined in part by the type of the air supply <NUM> used in the EWOT system <NUM>, but by no means are limited to just a cylindrical shape.

Commercially-available, portable air supplies <NUM> generally produce one concentration type of oxygen or the other, i.e., either the highly oxygenated air or the low (hypoxic) oxygenated air. In one embodiment, a first portable air supply <NUM> that is capable of producing oxygen-enriched air having <NUM>% oxygen at a flow rate of <NUM> liters/min is provided for use in the EWOT system <NUM>. As well, The EWOT system <NUM> can include a second portable hypoxic oxygen air supply which can produce a fixed low level of oxygen (hypoxic), e.g., an average <NUM>% at a flow rate of <NUM> liters/min.

Referring to <FIG>, preferably, a portable air supply that can produce both the high concentration and a variable low concentration of oxygen (hypoxic) (e.g., from <NUM>% to <NUM>%) is implemented in the EWOT system <NUM>, thereby eliminating the need and costs for two separate air supply units. The illustrative portable air supply <NUM> includes a housing <NUM> with one or more handles <NUM> and rollers (e.g., casters) to assist with transport of the air supply. The air supply <NUM> also includes an electric power switch <NUM> to turn the air supply on and off, a micro-interval altitude gauge <NUM> to indicate and finely adjust the simulated altitude level being produced, a macro-interval altitude gauge (e.g., rotatable handle) <NUM> to adjust the altitude simulated altitude range by, for example, thousands of feet, and a display panel <NUM> to display oxygen levels, simulated altitudes, directions, warnings, and other information to a user. A first outlet port <NUM> is provided, (e.g., extends from the housing <NUM>) and configured such that a breathing tube <NUM> can be attached for coupling to and delivering highly oxygenated air to the first bladder <NUM>. Similarly, a second outlet port <NUM> is also provided, (e.g., extends from the housing <NUM>) and configured such that a second breathing tube <NUM> can be attached for coupling to and delivering hypoxic air the second bladder <NUM>, as discussed below in further detail with respect to <FIG> and <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, a single portable air supply <NUM> is preferably connected to both the first and second bladders <NUM>, <NUM> to separately and simultaneously pump the desired oxygen-enriched air and the hypoxic level air (e.g., <NUM>% to <NUM>%% oxygen) to the individual bladders. Although the use of a portable air supply <NUM> is desirable for a number of considerations, e.g., smaller footprint, mobility and purchasing cost outlays, there are presently limits with respect to the amount of high-level oxygen airflow rates that can be provided. Generally, it takes longer to produce and deliver the highly enriched oxygenated oxygen to fill the first bladder <NUM>, as compared to the time to generate the lower hypoxic level oxygen. Because the high altitude hypoxic oxygen has a substantially lower concentration of oxygen as compared to the high concentrated oxygen, as well as the bladder size difference, the time to fill the smaller second bladder <NUM> is much less than the time required to fill the larger first bladder <NUM>. Further, the portable air supplies do not have the oxygen generation capacity as compared to larger, stand-alone non-portable air supplies, or when configuring with other portable air supplies to operate in parallel to fill a bladder.

The manufacture-rated air flow rates of the air supply <NUM> and the desired time a user will exercise/breathe the high oxygenated air with the EWOT apparatus <NUM> are variables used to determine the required volume of the first bladder <NUM>. In one embodiment where a commercially available portable air supply <NUM> is used in the EWOT system <NUM>, the volume of the first bladder <NUM> is preferably approximately <NUM>-<NUM> liters, and more preferably <NUM> liters to sustain a rigorous exercise routine for approximately fifteen minutes, as discussed below in further detail with respect to implementing a programmable controller for automatically controlling the exercise routines. Illustratively, the cylindrical-shaped first bladder <NUM> shown in <FIG> preferably has a diameter and height of approximately seventy-three (<NUM>) centimeters (cm) and two-hundred and thirteen (<NUM>) cm, respectively, which is approximately <NUM> liters. A person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the volume of the first bladder <NUM> is not considered limiting as flow rates from other air supply manufacturers/models will influence the volume and dimensions of the first bladder <NUM>.

The second bladder <NUM> has a volume that is significantly smaller than the first bladder <NUM>, since a much lower concentration of hypoxic oxygen has to be generated and pumped into the second bladder. Thus, the second bladder <NUM> can be filled at a quicker flow rate. In the illustrative embodiment shown in <FIG>, the second bladder <NUM> can have a volume in the range of <NUM>-<NUM> liters, and preferably a volume of approximately <NUM> liters. In one embodiment, the second bladder <NUM> is pillow-shaped having dimensions of approximately <NUM> x <NUM>, although such volume size, shape and dimensions are not considered limiting for similar reasons discussed above with respect to the first bladder <NUM>. Accordingly, it can take up to approximately <NUM> hours to fill the first bladder <NUM> with the high-level oxygenated air, and up to approximately <NUM> minute to fill the second bladder <NUM> with hypoxic air.

The frame <NUM> is preferably fabricated from a plurality of horizontal and vertical frame members <NUM> connected together in a rectangular shape to house and slidably support the first bladder <NUM>. More specifically, the frame <NUM> illustratively includes four vertical frame members that are joined at opposing top and bottom ends by four horizontal frame members, although such configuration is not considered limiting. The frame members <NUM> are preferably tubular and can be formed from one or more durable and lightweight materials that are substantially rigid and can be easily assembled and transported without disassembly such as, for example, a metal/metal alloy (e.g., aluminum), polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, and/or wood materials and the like. The horizontal and vertical frame members <NUM> can be secured together by fasteners (screws, spring loaded fasteners, etc.), snap-fit, adhesive, welding, bonding, among any other well-known fasteners.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the height and width of the frame <NUM> are greater than the height and width (diameter) of the cylindrical-shaped first bladder <NUM> when inflated to avoid interference and/or kinking therewith. The first bladder <NUM> includes a plurality of tabs <NUM> each having an aperture that is preferably formed by a grommet <NUM> (e.g., brass or plastic grommet) for attachment to the vertical frame members <NUM> via a ring <NUM>. The rings <NUM> are sized to easily slide up and down the vertical frame members <NUM> and in one embodiment, the rings <NUM> have a diameter of two inches, although such dimension is not considered limiting. The first bladder <NUM> illustratively includes four sets (three sets shown in <FIG>) of three vertically-aligned tabs/grommets <NUM>,<NUM> that are spaced apart along the top, middle and bottom length of the cylindrical first bladder <NUM>. The four sets of vertically-aligned tabs/grommets <NUM>, <NUM> are evenly spaced around the outer circumference of the cylindrical first bladder <NUM> and are aligned adjacent to one of the four vertical frame members <NUM>. The tabs/grommets/ring <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> arrangement slidably secures the first bladder <NUM> to the vertical frame members <NUM> in opposing horizontal directions so that the width or diameter of the first bladder <NUM> is always maintained in a generally expanded state. When the first bladder <NUM> is devoid of air, the top portion of the first bladder <NUM> is collapsed and the top of the bladder and the aligned sets of tabs/grommets/rings are positioned proximate the bottom of the frame <NUM>. When the oxygen-enriched air is supplied to the first bladder <NUM> by the air supply <NUM>, the incoming air pressure (ambient air pressure) expands and fills the first bladder <NUM> in an upward vertical direction. The tabs and rings <NUM>/<NUM> slidably guide the expanding first bladder <NUM> upwardly within the frame <NUM> until fully expanded. The arrangement of tabs <NUM> and rings <NUM> prevent the first bladder <NUM> from twisting or getting kinked in the frame <NUM> while rising when being inflated with air or descending along the vertical frame members when air is depleted during use.

As noted above, one or more weighted members <NUM> can be attached to the first bladder <NUM>. The weighted member(s) have sufficient weight to apply a downward positive pressure force on the first bladder <NUM> when filled with air, such that a constant, positive pressure is applied to the air stored within the first bladder <NUM> so as to provide steady and sufficient airflow to the user while breathing through the mask <NUM> when exercising. That is, the positive pressure applied to the air within the first bladder <NUM> provides an increased flow rate of the oxygen-enriched air to the mask <NUM>, to thereby deliver an uninterrupted and plentiful supply of air to the user while exercising, as compared to the prior art systems which utilize ambient-pressure oxygen levels.

Preferably, a plurality of weighted members <NUM> are attached to an upper portion of the first bladder <NUM> via the rings <NUM> and/or grommets <NUM>, and thereby hang downward to help collapse the first bladder <NUM> in a vertical direction when the user breathes the stored air during use. The weighted members <NUM> are preferably uniform in shape and weight so as not to interfere with the slidable vertical movement of the rings <NUM> as the first bladder <NUM> moves up and down the along the frame <NUM>. The weighted members <NUM> can be fabricated from a durable material such as metal (e.g., stainless steel), ceramic (e.g., plastic filled with sand) or any other well-known durable material or combination thereof. Illustratively, the total weight of the weighted members <NUM> for a <NUM> liter cylindrical bladder is approximately <NUM>, although such weight is not considered limiting, as a person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the volume of the first bladder <NUM> and the flow rate of high oxygenated air from the air supply <NUM> are determining factors of the total weight to be implemented. The plurality of weights <NUM> are preferably evenly distributed around the upper tabs <NUM> of the first bladder <NUM>, although such positioning is not considered limiting. For example, two sets of weights <NUM> can be provided along each vertical frame member at the upper and middle tabs. Alternatively, all three vertically aligned tabs can include a weighted member <NUM> at each vertical frame member <NUM>. A person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the type, arrangement, sizes, quantity, weighting and positioning of the weight members <NUM> as discussed herein and shown in <FIG> is not considered limiting. For example, a single or set of weighted members <NUM> can be attached (e.g., bonded, stitched, welded and the like) to the upper top surface of the first bladder <NUM>. Alternatively, the weighted members <NUM> can be attached to the sidewall(s) of the first bladder <NUM> instead of being hung from the tabs <NUM>. In any of the embodiments for providing one or more weighted members <NUM>, the weighted member(s) <NUM> apply a downward pressure on the first bladder <NUM>, thereby providing a positive pressure on the stored air. The positive pressure from the first bladder <NUM> is beneficial to the user during an exercise routine, since the user will receive an increased and unencumbered steady flow of the oxygen-enriched air when breathing harder and faster through the mask <NUM>.

Referring again to <FIG>, the second bladder <NUM> is much smaller than the first bladder <NUM>, since the production of the low concentration of oxygen takes much less time than the production of highly oxygenated air. The smaller second bladder <NUM> is illustratively mounted on the top horizontal members <NUM> of the frame <NUM>. Alternatively, the second bladder <NUM> can be hung with a fastener such as an S-hook, carabiner or other clip/fastener from one of the horizontal members <NUM>. The second bladder <NUM> can also be positioned and secured beneath the first bladder <NUM>. The first and second bladders <NUM>, <NUM> preferably include a relief valve <NUM> or <NUM> (e.g., flap valve, bleeder valve and the like) to prevent overfilling of air from the air supply <NUM>. Each relief valve <NUM> is normally in a closed state and will open when the pressure inside a bladder exceeds a predetermined pressure to thereby allow excess air to escape into the surrounding environment. In one embodiment, the relief valves <NUM> or <NUM> associated with the second bladder <NUM> will open when, for example, the hypoxic oxygen inside the second bladder <NUM> exceeds full capacity, e.g., <NUM> liters. Similarly, air from the first bladder <NUM> can be released via the corresponding relief valves if the air capacity of the first bladder <NUM> is exceeded. The breathing mask <NUM> can also include a relief valve (not shown) in a well-known manner.

Referring now to <FIG>, another embodiment of the EWOT system <NUM> is shown. The illustrative embodiment of <FIG> is similar to the previous embodiment shown in <FIG>, except that the first bladder <NUM> includes a plurality of pleats (i.e., creases and folds) <NUM> formed concentrically on and orientated horizontally around the sidewall of the first bladder <NUM> to thereby enable the bladder <NUM> expand and collapse in a vertical direction in a similar manner as a bellows or accordion expands/contracts when the air is respectively pumped into or released therefrom. The pleats <NUM> are preferably biased in folded state and unfold and expand when air is injected into the first bladder <NUM>, and collapse (i.e., fold up) to return to their normally-biased, folded state when air is released from the first bladder <NUM>. Although the pleated first bladder <NUM> is shown as a cylindrical shaped bladder in <FIG>, such shape is not considered limiting, as other shapes, such as rectangular, triangular, square, octagonal, frusto-conical, among other well-known or customized shapes can be implemented.

In one embodiment, the pleated sidewall <NUM> of the first bladder <NUM> is sufficiently rigid enough to enable the bladder to retain a stable, upright position when filled with air such that the EWOT system <NUM> can be used without the inclusion of the frame <NUM>. That is, the pleated sidewall <NUM> supports the first bladder <NUM> in an expanded and vertical orientation without tilting or falling over, even during the expansion or the downward collapse of the bladder while increasing/decreasing the internal air volume. In lieu of the frame <NUM> (i.e., the absence thereof), additional stability can be provided by including a weighted member <NUM> at the bottom portion of the pleated bladder <NUM> to help maintain the bladder <NUM> in a stable, upright position. The weighted member <NUM> can be a mixture of sand, metal/metal alloys and/or other weighted material that will assist in maintaining bladder <NUM> in a vertical orientation relative to the floor surface when expanding or collapsing. For example, in one embodiment the weighted member <NUM> is a layer of sand that is dispersed substantially over the interior bottom surface of the bladder. Alternatively, the weighed member <NUM> is ring that is positioned along the periphery of the bottom surface. The pleated sidewall(s) <NUM> is preferably configured or fabricated such that a downward pressure is always exhibited on the air volume therein, such that a positive pressure is created on the high-level oxygen when the user is exercising. In this manner, the weights <NUM> can optionally be provided or preferably eliminated completely from the EWOT system <NUM>. The second bladder <NUM> can be hung from a grommet <NUM> in a similar manner as discussed above with respect to <FIG> (i.e., in place of or adjacent to a weight <NUM>), or rest on the floor adjacent to the first bladder <NUM>, the pump <NUM> or in a non-intrusive location elsewhere.

The control switch <NUM> controls the airflow from the first and second bladders <NUM>, <NUM> to the breathing mask <NUM> so that the user can selectively breathe the oxygen-enriched or lower purity hypoxic air for predetermined periods of time while exercising. Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, a manually operated control switch <NUM> includes a housing <NUM> having a first inlet <NUM>, a second inlet <NUM>, an outlet <NUM>, a control valve <NUM>, and an actuator <NUM>. Preferably, the control valve <NUM> is a ball valve with a handle (actuator) that can be manually rotated to allow the selected air to flow from first bladder <NUM> or the second bladder <NUM> to the mask <NUM> when desired by the user or at predetermined times. The control switch <NUM> is preferably mounted to the users' exercise equipment at a convenient location so that the user can easily access and activate/deactivate the control switch <NUM>, although such location is not considered limiting. Although a ball valve having two inlets and a single outlet is illustratively shown in <FIG>, a person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that other electro-mechanical airflow controllers can be utilized, such as slidable control valves, solenoid- controlled valves, or any other commercially available valve that can quickly change airflow supplied from either or both of the first and second bladders <NUM>, <NUM>. In another embodiment, the control switch <NUM> is programmable to automatically switch airflow delivered from the first and second bladders <NUM>, <NUM> to the mask <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, a functional block diagram of a programmable controller <NUM> that is suitable for automatically controlling air flow in an EWOT training device <NUM> such as the EWOT devices of <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG> is illustratively shown. The controller <NUM> illustratively comprises a processor <NUM> as well as memory <NUM> for storing various control programs <NUM> and data <NUM>. The processor <NUM> is preferably a microcontroller, but can be any conventional processor, such as one or more central processing units, e.g., an Intel microprocessor(s). The memory <NUM> can illustratively be partitioned to store control programs <NUM> apart from data content and information <NUM>, although such memory arrangement is not considered limiting. The memory <NUM> can comprise volatile memory (e.g., erasable Flash memory, RAM, etc.), non-volatile memory (e.g., solid state drives) and/or a combination thereof. The microprocessor <NUM> cooperates with the memory <NUM> and support circuitry <NUM>, such as power supplies, clock circuits, cache memory, memory controllers, graphic controllers, bus controllers, input/output (I/O) controllers, GPS circuitry, among other conventional support circuitry via electronic communication paths (buses) <NUM>, to assist in transferring data <NUM> and executing software routines (e.g., exercise routines <NUM>) stored in the memory <NUM>.

As such, it is contemplated that some of the process steps discussed herein as software processes can be implemented within hardware, for example, as circuitry that cooperates with the microcontroller/processor <NUM> to perform various steps. It is noted that an operating system (not shown) and optionally other various application programs <NUM> can be stored in the memory <NUM> to run specific tasks and enable user interaction. The controller <NUM> also comprises input/output (I/O) circuitry <NUM> that forms an interface between various functional elements communicating with the controller <NUM>. For example, one or more sensors can be in electronic communication with the I/O interface <NUM> to provide biometric readings from a user that is exercising with the EWOT apparatus <NUM>. The biometric readings such as oxygen levels, temperature, blood pressure and heartrate from the sensors received by the controller <NUM> can be compared by the processor <NUM> with biometric information <NUM> of the user and/or other data <NUM> (e.g., biometric norms and statistics) that are stored in the memory <NUM> to maintain, terminate or deviate from the current running exercise routine <NUM>.

Although the controller <NUM> of <FIG> is depicted as a general-purpose computer that is programmed to perform various defined and/or control functions for specific purposes in accordance with the present invention, the invention can be implemented in hardware such as, for example, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC). As such, it is intended that the processes described herein be broadly interpreted as being equivalently performed by software, hardware, or a combination thereof. Furthermore, although the exemplary controller <NUM> is shown as a single controller unit, a person or ordinary skill in the art for which the present invention pertains will appreciate that a plurality of controllers can be implemented in the EWOT apparatus <NUM> to control the air flow and exercise routines, as illustratively discussed below with respect to <FIG>. In such embodiment, the plurality of controllers can be organized as a network of controllers, including wireless and Bluetooth devices, to provide alternative and/or shared control of the EWOT training apparatus <NUM> during an exercise routine.

Illustratively, one or more exercise training routines <NUM>(e.g., interval training routines) can be programmed into the microcontroller <NUM> to provide automatic switching of the high and low (hypoxic) oxygen levels of airflow from the first and second bladders <NUM>, <NUM>. In one embodiment, the microcontroller <NUM> is preprogrammed to monitor/store in its memory <NUM> the current time, an exercise start time, a predetermined duration of exercise, a number of and duration for interval or random air flow switching times to occur during the exercise routine. Accordingly, the user can select a suitable program <NUM> that will result in the delivery of either the highly oxygenated and/or variable low (hypoxic) oxygenated air to breathe for predetermined times during the exercise routine. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that other metrics and programming (e.g., alarms) can be included, that further assist the user during the exercise routine. For example, in another embodiment, biometric information <NUM> about the user (height, weight, age and the like) can also be stored in memory <NUM> and provided to the microcontroller <NUM> when running one of the exercise routines <NUM>. Although the present embodiment is discussed using a microcontroller for controlling the controller(s) <NUM>, a person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that other control circuits, such as a microprocessor with external memory, programmable logic circuitry (PLC) and the like can be utilized.

In one illustrative embodiment, the controller <NUM> is pre-programmed by the manufacturer to execute or run a variety of exercise programs <NUM> having different levels of endurance strengthening including, for example, "Beginner" <NUM>, "Advanced Beginner" <NUM>, "Intermediate" <NUM>, "Advanced" <NUM>, and "Professional" <NUM> levels. Alternatively, the controller <NUM> can have manual settings or be custom programmed by the user. Examples of the pre-programmed endurance strengthening routines include, but are not limited to:.

Beginner Level <NUM> - <NUM> minutes of High Purity <NUM>% Oxygen.

Advanced Beginner <NUM> - <NUM> minutes of High Purity <NUM>% Oxygen; <NUM> minute of Low Purity Hypoxic that can be user adjusted between <NUM>% to <NUM>% Oxygen; <NUM> minutes of High Purity <NUM>% Oxygen; <NUM> minute of Low Purity Hypoxic that can be user adjusted between <NUM>% to <NUM>% Oxygen; <NUM> minutes of High Purity <NUM>% Oxygen; <NUM> minute of Low Purity Hypoxic that can be user adjusted between <NUM>% to <NUM>% Oxygen; and <NUM> minutes of High Purity <NUM>% Oxygen.

Intermediate Level <NUM> - <NUM> minutes of High Purity <NUM>% Oxygen; <NUM> minute of Low Purity Hypoxic that can be user adjusted between <NUM>% to <NUM>% Oxygen; <NUM> minute of High Purity <NUM>% Oxygen; <NUM> minute of Low Purity Hypoxic that can be user adjusted between <NUM>% to <NUM>% Oxygen; <NUM> minute of High Purity <NUM>% Oxygen; <NUM> minute of Low Purity Hypoxic that can be user adjusted between <NUM>% to <NUM>% Oxygen; <NUM> minute of High Purity <NUM>% Oxygen; <NUM> minutes of Low Purity Hypoxic that can be user adjusted between <NUM>% to <NUM>% Oxygen; and <NUM> minutes of High Purity <NUM>% Oxygen.

Advanced Level <NUM> - <NUM> minutes of High Purity <NUM>% Oxygen; <NUM> minutes of Low Purity Hypoxic that can be user adjusted between <NUM>% to <NUM>% Oxygen; <NUM> minutes of High Purity <NUM>% Oxygen; <NUM> minutes of Low Purity Hypoxic that can be user adjusted between <NUM>% to <NUM>% Oxygen; <NUM> minutes of High Purity <NUM>% Oxygen; <NUM> minutes of Low Purity Hypoxic that can be user adjusted between <NUM>% to <NUM>% Oxygen; and <NUM> minutes of High Purity <NUM>% Oxygen.

Professional Level <NUM> - <NUM> minutes of High Purity <NUM>% Oxygen; <NUM> minutes of Low Purity Hypoxic that can be user adjusted between <NUM>% to <NUM>% Oxygen; <NUM> minute of High Purity <NUM>% Oxygen; <NUM> minutes of Low Purity Hypoxic that can be user adjusted between <NUM>% to <NUM>% Oxygen; <NUM> minute of High Purity <NUM>% Oxygen; <NUM> minutes of Low Purity Hypoxic that can be user adjusted between <NUM>% to <NUM>% Oxygen; and <NUM> minutes of High Purity <NUM>% Oxygen.

A person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the types of programs and routines discussed herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not considered limiting.

As noted above, one or more biometric sensors can be placed in contact with the user while engaged in an exercise routine <NUM> to provide electronic signals to the microcontroller <NUM> to record the effects on, for example, pulse, heart rate, body temperature and the like. The microcontroller <NUM> can use the information from the sensor(s) as feedback and is preferably programmed to execute one or more commands that adjust the selected training routine program as required. For example, if the microcontroller <NUM> receives electronic signals indicating higher than normal blood pressure, temperature levels, oxygen levels, heartrate, and respiratory levels before a predetermined time lapses during a high altitude training routine in which hypoxic air is being delivered to the user, the airflow control switch <NUM> can illustratively change the duration that the user receives the lower purity (hypoxic) air to a shorter period and/or provide the oxygen-enriched air to help the user complete the exercise routine.

Referring now to <FIG>, a second embodiment of the EWOT training device <NUM> is illustratively shown. The EWOT training device <NUM> is the same as the EWOT training device <NUM> as discussed with respect to <FIG>, except that two electronic control switches <NUM> and <NUM> are provided to separately deliver the retained air from the first and second bladders <NUM>, <NUM>. In particular, the EWOT training device <NUM> includes the first and second bladders <NUM>, <NUM> supported by the frame <NUM>, the air supply <NUM>, and the mask <NUM> as discussed above. The first control switch <NUM> is coupled between the outlet port <NUM> of the first bladder <NUM> and a first inlet <NUM> of a T-shaped connector <NUM> via air hose <NUM>. Similarly, the second control switch <NUM> is coupled between the outlet port <NUM> of the second bladder <NUM> and a second inlet <NUM> of the T-shaped connector <NUM> via air hose <NUM>. An outlet <NUM> of the T-shaped connector <NUM> is coupled to the inlet <NUM> of the breathing mask <NUM> via air hose <NUM>. Air flow directional-control devices <NUM> can be provided along the air hoses <NUM>, <NUM> to prevent backflow as discussed above with respect to <FIG>. The control switches <NUM> and <NUM> are in electronic communication with each other via a wireless network and/or by hardwire. One of the control switches (e.g., switch <NUM>) is normally in an open state, while the other control switch (e.g., switch <NUM>) is normally in a closed state. In this manner, air from only one of the bladders <NUM>, <NUM> can be delivered to the breathing mask <NUM> during an exercise routine. Alternatively, both of the electronic airflow controllers <NUM>, <NUM> can be in and open state, i.e., fully or partially opened, to provide a predetermined mixture of air from the bladders to the user.

In yet another embodiment, a third control switch (not shown) can be coupled to the T-connector <NUM> and be in electronic communications with the other control switches <NUM>, <NUM> to allow one or more auxiliary gasses such as, e.g., ambient air, nitrogen and the like to be delivered directly to the breathing mask <NUM> or mixed with one or both airflows from the bladders <NUM>, <NUM> or an additionally added bladder prior to passage to the breathing mask <NUM>.

The present embodiments of the EWOT apparatus <NUM> advantageously overcome the deficiencies of the prior art in numerous and beneficial manners. The various embodiments of the exercise with oxygen therapy (EWOT) apparatus <NUM>, <NUM> of the present invention provide a high concentration of oxygen and a low concentration of oxygen relative to ambient air at sea level, and enables the user to selectively control the high and low oxygen air flows to breathe while exercising. The EWOT apparatus includes a pair of bladders, a first bladder for storing and delivering the high level of oxygen (e.g., <NUM>%) and a second bladder for storing and delivering the low pressure adjustable oxygen air flow (e.g., <NUM>% - <NUM>%) to the user. Breathing the low (hypoxic) oxygen level for a predetermined duration(s) while exercising can simulate training at high altitudes, and help the user better adapt to such conditions. This happens because the body's microvessels and capillaries open wide, or vasodilate, as the body starves itself of oxygen. By then breathing the high oxygen level air immediately while still exercising enables a user to replenish oxygen-deprived cell tissues and thereby permit the user to exercise longer, build higher immunity, gain energy and/or expediate recovery.

In one embodiment, a cylindrical-shaped first bladder is preferably used to provide a constant flow of the oxygen-enriched air to the user. The cylindrical shape bladder is oriented upright to thereby reduce the footprint of the EWOT apparatus as compared to other prior art EWOT systems. The cylindrical shape advantageously prevents undesirable twisting and kinking of the bladder when descending from a full upright position to an air-depleted, collapsed position at the bottom of the frame. The frame <NUM> in combination with one or more rings <NUM> advantageously helps guide the first bladder <NUM> up and down, and also prevents the bladder from falling laterally and out of the frame in what could become a potentially hazardous situation. In another beneficial aspect, the lightweight frame and inflatable/deflatable bladders, along with the single, portable air supply afford enhanced portability/mobility, thereby allowing the EWOT apparatus to be easily moved and transported.

A further enhancement can be seen by applying a positive pressure to the ambient air in the bladder with the assistance of one or more weighted members that help force the air out of the bladder. In one embodiment, one or more weights are positioned on or about the first bladder to produce a downwardly directed force on the air therein, which in turn provides a positive pressure as the oxygen-enriched air is being delivered from the bladder to the breathing mask of the user. Alternatively, the first bladder can include a plurality of folded pleats which expand when the first bladder is filled with air from the air supply. Preferably, the pleats are biased to return to their folded state as the air is depleted from the bladder, thereby applying a positive pressure to the air contained therein. Additionally, the cylindrical pleated bladder expands upwardly and contracts downwardly in a vertical direction without being prone to tilt or fall over, thereby optionally eliminating the need for the frame. In any of the embodiments, a positive pressure that is provided to the oxygen-enriched air enables the user to receive a steady and plentiful flow of the oxygenated air from the first bladder.

Additional embodiments and advantages include applying a coating of medical grade thermoplastic polyurethane, Teflon and the like to the interior walls of the first and second bladders to prevent oxygen contamination. The first and second bladders are carefully RF welded to prevent leakage. A single portable air supply can fill both bladders with the desired oxygen levels, for example, the first bladder can be filled with air that is <NUM>% oxygen and the second bladder can be filled with air having a variable low range of oxygen such as, for example, between <NUM>-<NUM>% oxygen. In this manner, the apparatus is capable of simulating oxygen levels of altitudes up to <NUM>,<NUM> feet to satisfy users who which to conduct intensive athletic training or health benefits.

Other advantages include a control switch (controller) which can include a microcontroller to store and execute programs which, when executed, enable the user to automatically switch between the oxygen-enriched air and low hypoxic oxygen level air stored in the bladders to better maximize breathing and performance while exercising and training. Further enhancements during exercise and training can be realized by using electronic biometric sensors that provide biometric feedback to the control switch, which can then make adjustments to the current training routine in response to the sensor information received.

Claim 1:
A therapeutic oxygen breathing apparatus (<NUM>) for supplying gasses while exercising, comprising: an inflatable and collapsible first bladder (<NUM>) dimensioned and configured to receive and store a first gas having a first concentration of oxygen via a first inlet (<NUM>), the first bladder (<NUM>) being biased with one or more weighted members (<NUM>) towards a collapsed state and positioned in an external ambient pressure environment, wherein the first concentration of oxygen is supplied from an external source (<NUM>) and is greater than ambient air concentration of oxygen; a second bladder (<NUM>) dimensioned and configured to receive and store a second gas having a second concentration of oxygen via a second inlet (<NUM>); a control switch (<NUM>) coupled to the first and second bladders (<NUM>, <NUM>), the control switch (<NUM>) having an actuator (<NUM>) for selectively providing at least one of the first and second gases to a user; wherein the first bladder (<NUM>) includes a first outlet (<NUM>) for releasing a first portion of the stored first gas and the second bladder (<NUM>) includes a second outlet (<NUM>) for releasing a second portion of stored air; and wherein the first and second outlets are coupled to one or more airflow paths (<NUM>, <NUM>) to a user, said one or more airflow paths being configured to occlude (<NUM>) backflow of air from the user to the first and second bladders (<NUM>, <NUM>); characterized by the one or more weighted members (<NUM>) being attached to and positioned proximate an upper portion of the first bladder, the one or more weighted members having sufficient weight to apply a downward force on the first bladder (<NUM>) when filled with air, such that a constant, predetermined positive pressure is applied to the air stored within the first bladder (<NUM>).