U.S. patent application number 11/390998 was filed with the patent office on 2006-10-12 for method and system for reducing body weight in an enclosed atmospheric environment.
Invention is credited to Joseph Boatman, Mark Jellison, Lawrence M. Kutt.
Application Number | 20060225572 11/390998 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 22867182 |
Filed Date | 2006-10-12 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060225572 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kutt; Lawrence M. ; et
al. |
October 12, 2006 |
Method and system for reducing body weight in an enclosed
atmospheric environment
Abstract
A system and method for passive hypoxic training provides a
person with a low oxygen (hypoxic) environment. Oxygen sensors
automatically monitor and control oxygen levels to maintain the
altitude desired. CO.sub.2 levels are monitored and CO.sub.2 is
eliminated so that the air a person breathes is substantially clean
and fresh. Exposure to a high altitude environment produces
physiological changes in a person's body, which becomes more
efficient at absorbing and transporting oxygen. Using the present
method and system, athletes obtain the benefits of sleeping at a
simulated altitude in the user's own home for six to twelve hours,
rather than traditional altitude therapies in which athletes spend
two to three weeks at high altitude before an athletic competition
to obtain similar benefits. This system allows for "live high train
low" altitude training that has been shown in controlled studies to
provide superior benefits to "live high train high" training.
Inventors: |
Kutt; Lawrence M.; (Boulder,
CO) ; Jellison; Mark; (Boulder, CO) ; Boatman;
Joseph; (Boulder, CO) |
Correspondence
Address: |
SHERIDAN ROSS PC
1560 BROADWAY
SUITE 1200
DENVER
CO
80202
US
|
Family ID: |
22867182 |
Appl. No.: |
11/390998 |
Filed: |
March 27, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
10806886 |
Mar 22, 2004 |
7018443 |
|
|
11390998 |
Mar 27, 2006 |
|
|
|
10423692 |
Apr 25, 2003 |
6827760 |
|
|
10806886 |
Mar 22, 2004 |
|
|
|
09948410 |
Sep 6, 2001 |
6565624 |
|
|
10423692 |
Apr 25, 2003 |
|
|
|
60230946 |
Sep 6, 2000 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
95/273 ;
55/385.2 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B01D 2251/404 20130101;
F24F 11/30 20180101; F24F 2110/76 20180101; F24F 8/60 20210101;
A61G 10/02 20130101; B01D 2251/304 20130101; F24F 2110/70 20180101;
Y02B 30/70 20130101; B01D 53/62 20130101; A63B 2208/053 20130101;
A61G 2203/46 20130101; B01D 2257/102 20130101; A63B 2213/005
20130101; A63B 2213/006 20130101; A63B 23/18 20130101; Y02A 50/20
20180101; A61G 10/023 20130101; B01D 2251/604 20130101; B01D
2257/504 20130101; Y02C 20/40 20200801; F24F 2110/50 20180101 |
Class at
Publication: |
095/273 ;
055/385.2 |
International
Class: |
B01D 46/00 20060101
B01D046/00 |
Claims
1. A method for providing a desired enclosed atmospheric
environment within an enclosure for changing a physical
characteristic of a user who periodically resides in the enclosed
atmospheric environment and breathes the same, comprising: first
obtaining predictive data indicative of a future composition of
constituent gases of said enclosed atmospheric environment, said
predictive data being dependent upon at least two of (a) through
(c) following: (a) data indicative of an expected gas exchange rate
between said enclosed atmospheric environment and an atmospheric
environment external to said enclosure, wherein said enclosure is
expected to have a first predetermined state related to a gas
permeability therethrough; (b) data indicative of an approximate
volume of said enclosure; and (c) data indicative of an expected
rate at which one or more devices, operably associated with said
enclosure for changing said enclosed atmospheric environment,
changes a relative amount of at least one of the gases of said
enclosed atmospheric environment, said one or more devices
including one or more of: an oxygen concentrator, a CO.sub.2
scrubber and a nitrogen generator; said predictive data selected
from the group consisting of: (a) data indicative of an oxygen
volume in said enclosed environment; (b) data indicative of an
oxygen consumption by one or more users in said enclosed
environment; (c) data indicative of a rate of oxygen removal; (d)
data indicative of an amount of air exiting said enclosed
environment through said enclosure; (e) data indicative of an
amount of air entering said enclosed environment through said
enclosure; (f) data indicative of a volume of CO.sub.2 in said
enclosed environment; (g) data indicative of a volume of CO.sub.2
being produced by one or more users; (h) data indicative of a
CO.sub.2 production from one or more users of said enclosed
environment; (i) data indicative of a CO.sub.2 portion of said air
exchange rate exiting said enclosed environment; (j) data
indicative of a CO.sub.2 portion of said air exchange rate entering
said enclosed environment; (k) data indicative of an amount of
CO.sub.2 removed from said enclosed environment by said CO.sub.2
scrubber; (l) data indicative of a relative amount of oxygen in
said enclosed environment; (m) data indicative of a simulated
altitude in said enclosed environment; and (n) data indicative of a
concentration of CO.sub.2 in said enclosed environment; using said
predictive data to provide an interior of said enclosure with a
desired simulated altitude; providing control information for
controlling a composition of constituent gases of said enclosed
atmospheric environment for simulating said desired simulated
altitude which is different from that of the atmospheric
environment external to said enclosure; wherein said control
information is used for changing a composition of said constituent
gases of said enclosed atmospheric environment.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is a continuation of prior pending
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/806,886, filed Mar. 22, 2004,
entitled "METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR REDUCING BODY WEIGHT IN AN ENCLOSED
ATMOSPHERIC ENVIRONMENT", which is a continuation application of
Ser. No. 10/423,692, filed Apr. 24, 2003, entitled "METHOD AND
SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING A DESIRED ATMOSPHERE WITHIN AN ENCLOSURE," now
U.S. Pat. No. 6,827,760, which is a continuation application of
issued U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/948,410, filed Sep. 6,
2001, entitled "ALTITUDE SIMULATION METHOD AND SYSTEM," now U.S.
Pat. No. 6,565,624, which claims priority from U.S. Provisional
Patent Application No. 60/230,946, filed Sep. 6, 2000. The entire
disclosures of the above-identified applications are considered to
be part of the disclosure of the present application and are fully
incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention is directed to a method and system for
reducing the body weight of a person in an enclosed atmospheric
environment, and particularly, is directed to a method and system
in which ambient oxygen and carbon dioxide levels are monitored and
adjusted to provide desired physiological benefits derived from a
person or animal spending time in an altitude environment to
enhance weight reduction, improve athletic performance and/or to
relieve altitude sickness symptoms for other individuals. High and
low oxygen environments affect the physiology in different ways
providing health and athletic benefits.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Going to a higher altitude or reduced oxygen environments is
safe when done properly. Millions of air travelers experience high
altitude when they fly in aircraft pressurized to 6-8,000 feet.
Hundreds of thousands of tourists visit Colorado's high country and
stay at altitudes ranging from 8,000 feet (Vail or Aspen, Colo.,
USA) to 11,000 feet (Leadville, Colo., USA). These same tourists
enjoy shorter stays at 12,000 feet (top of Loveland Pass) to 14,000
feet (top of Pikes Peak).
[0004] However, medical problems due to high altitude include a
number of uncomfortable symptoms and some potentially dangerous
conditions, all resulting from the decrease in the oxygen
concentration in the blood. Altitude sickness is not a specific
disease but is a term applied to a group of rather widely varying
symptoms caused by altitude. The primary cause is decreased oxygen.
People react differently to altitude at different times and
different people react differently to altitude. Physical fitness
does not confer any protection against acute mountain sickness and
does not facilitate acclimatization. Altitude effects result from
the lower oxygen content of the air--not from the lower barometric
pressure. At 18,000 feet the amount of oxygen molecules per cubic
foot of air is approximately one half that of sea level.
[0005] Additionally, going too high too fast causes altitude
sickness. When a person is exposed to a higher altitude for longer
periods, he/she acclimatizes to the higher altitude. By
acclimatizing slowly, a person can usually avoid the symptoms of
altitude sickness. Symptoms of altitude sickness may include:
nausea, headaches, sleeplessness, weakness, malaise, difficulty
breathing, feeling "hung over", lethargy, a loss of appetite,
altered thinking, and/or feeling "intoxicated".
[0006] During acclimatization there is an increase the body's
efficiency in absorbing, transporting, delivering and utilizing
oxygen. The most important processes in acclimatization are: [0007]
(a) An increase in respiratory rate and volume. This change usually
begins at around 3,000 feet and may not reach a constant value
until several days after arrival at high altitude. [0008] (b)
Changes in the pulmonary circulation. During exposure to any kind
of low oxygen environment, including high altitude, the pressure in
the pulmonary arteries is elevated and the capillaries of the lung
are more fully infused with blood increasing the capacity of the
circulatory bed of the lung to absorb oxygen. [0009] (c) An
increase in the number of red blood cells. Shortly after arrival at
high altitude an increase in the number of red blood cells in the
blood occurs. Later red blood cell production by the bone marrow is
increased so that the blood contains more red cells than at sea
level. Since the red cells carry oxygen the increased number of red
cells permits each unit of blood to carry more oxygen. This process
reaches its maximum in about six weeks. [0010] (d) Increased
cardiac output. During the first few days at high altitude, the
volume of blood pumped by the heart per minute is increased, which
increases the rate of oxygen delivery to the tissues. [0011] (e)
Changes in the tissues of the body. Prolonged exposure to altitude
is accompanied by the changes in the tissues that use oxygen,
particularly muscle, which permit normal function at very low
oxygen pressures.
[0012] These changes include an increase in the number of
capillaries within the tissue, and an increase in the concentration
of enzymes, which extract oxygen from hemoglobin, as well as an
increase in the volume of mitochondria, which are the cellular
structures within which these enzymes are located.
[0013] The physiological effects of altitude acclimatization have
been documented for many years. These effects include: [0014] (a)
An increase in total blood volume [0015] (b) An increase in red
blood cell mass [0016] (c) An increase in VO2 max-the maximum
amount of oxygen the body can convert to work [0017] (d) An
increase in hematocrit, the ratio of red blood cells to total blood
volume [0018] (e) An increase in the lungs ability to exchange
gases efficiently
[0019] Together these changes produce an increase in the oxygen
carrying capacity of the blood and the body's ability to use the
oxygen transported resulting in a major difference in the body's
ability to perform work both at altitude and at sea level. The net
result of such changes is an improvement in athletic
performance.
[0020] The time required for the different adaptive processes is
variable. The respiratory and biochemical changes are typically
complete in six to eight days. The increase in the number of red
blood cells is about 90 percent of maximum at three weeks. In
general, about 80% of adaptation is completed by 10 days and 95% is
completed in six weeks. Longer periods of acclimatization result in
only minor increases in high altitude performance. However,
continued exposure to altitude does maintain the physiological
acclimatization. After return to sea level, acclimatization starts
to be lost after 10-15 days. Red blood cell counts remain higher
for up to 6 weeks.
[0021] Living at a high altitude is essential to maximize the
oxygen carrying capacity of the blood and improving athletic
performance. In their landmark study published in the July 1997
issue of the Journal of Applied Physiology, Dr Benjamin Levine and
Dr. James Strey-Gundersen of the University of Texas Southwestern
Medical Center demonstrated convincingly that athletes perform best
when living (including sleeping) at high altitude and training at
low altitude. Their study of 39 elite runners showed a marked
increase in performance (at sea level as well as at altitude) among
the group that lived at high altitude and drove down to low
altitude for training. There was no performance improvement in any
of the other groups (living high and training high, living low
training low, or living low and training high.).
[0022] Further studies have also shown that training at low
altitude is critical to getting the best quality training. At high
altitude the blood is not fully saturated with oxygen. While the
athlete's blood would be 97-98% saturated with oxygen at sea level
it may be only 80% saturated at 14,000 feet. As a result the
athlete at altitude is unable to work or train as hard. U.S.
Olympic Team cyclists at their high altitude training camp found
they could work harder by riding cycling ergometers while wearing
oxygen masks to simulate sea level. A rider that could put out 400
watts at altitude could put out 480 watts at sea level with the
same perceived exertion. In short, athletes benefit more from their
training at sea level than from training at high altitude. This
study and others show that the optimal training program includes
living high and training low.
[0023] Research shows that the body's production of erythropoietin
(the natural glycoprotein produced by the kidneys that signals the
bone marrow to make more red blood cells) goes up dramatically as
altitude increases from 6,000 feet (30% increase over sea level) to
14,500 feet (300% increase over sea level.) Most training regimens
simply do not train the athlete at low enough elevations while
allowing them to sleep at high enough elevations to gain the
maximum benefit from training. In a preferred embodiment, it is
recommended that a person sleep at an altitude of 8,000-13,000 feet
for the maximum acclimatization effect, after a period of
acclimatization at lower altitudes.
[0024] What limits exercise at high altitude is the lack of oxygen
concentration. Mountain air contains less oxygen than air at sea
level. By reducing the amount of oxygen in the room the equipment
simulates high altitude.
[0025] The amount of exercise that can be performed at high
altitude is less than at sea level and the heart rate reached
during maximal exercise is less. This indicates less cardiac work.
Maximal exercise capacity decreases progressively with higher
altitudes. So it would be desirable to sleep high and train
low.
[0026] The beneficial effect of sleeping high and training low is
that the oxygen processing capacity of the body is increased. This
allows the body to do more work (run, swim, ski, or cycle faster)
at the same level of physical exertion and heart rate. The body can
also perform the same amount of work as it did prior to living high
and training low at lower exertion rates and lower heart rates. The
athlete can remain in an aerobic state longer and work harder
without becoming anaerobic. The athlete can perform at higher
levels while still using fat as a fuel instead of sugars. This
allows for greater performance levels and faster times while
decreasing lactic acid production.
[0027] Research has also shown that athletes who train at low
altitude but live at high altitude perform better in endurance, and
running speed, than athletes who train and live at high altitude or
who live and train at low altitude. "High-low" athletes also
recover faster and increase their VO2 max. Moreover, when people
plan to participate in an athletic event at high altitude it is
desirable to train at high altitude before the event to acclimatize
to the conditions. Therefore, there is a need to simulate both high
altitudes and low altitudes.
[0028] There have been various attempts at providing systems for
simulating a different altitude from the altitude that a person
resides in order to presumably address the debilitating effects of
increased altitude, and/or to obtain some of the advantages of
purposely simulating different altitudes for, e.g., athletic
training. Some of these are discussed immediately below.
[0029] Heiki Rusko in Finland introduced nitrogen into an enclosed
house using bottled nitrogen to reduce oxygen levels in an altitude
house. This approach suffered from high cost, low convenience and
an inability to control CO.sub.2. Only high altitude was simulated,
not low altitude.
[0030] Nils Ottestad in Norway improved upon this concept by using
an oxygen concentrator, a magnetic gate, a fan, a CO.sub.2
scrubber, oxygen sensors, and CO.sub.2 sensors. In his invention,
the oxygen concentrator was running at all times. A user activated
the CO.sub.2 scrubber. Oxygen sensors measured oxygen levels and
sent data to a control panel that only controlled the alarm, the
magnetic gate, and a fan. This approach suffered from requiring the
user to control the CO.sub.2 scrubber and a general lack of
sophistication. The control panel did not control the oxygen
concentrator, the CO.sub.2 scrubber, or the high CO.sub.2 alarm.
Fans were not employed in high CO.sub.2 situations. Only high
altitude was simulated, not low altitude.
[0031] Additionally, U.S. Pat. No. 5,964,222 filed Dec. 3, 1997,
U.S. Pat. No. 5,799,652 filed Jul. 21, 1995, U.S. Pat. No.
5,924,419 filed Feb. 8, 1997, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,850,833 filed May
22, 1995, all of which have Kotliar as the inventor, describe the
use of an oxygen concentrator to introduce nitrogen into an
environment to thereby provide oxygen depleted air. This approach
suffers from a limited ability to control altitude and CO.sub.2
levels. Moreover, Kotliar's systems are only capable of simulating
high, rather than low altitudes.
[0032] Accordingly, it would be desirable to have a more cost
effective method and apparatus that could better simulate variable
altitudes, and in particular, easily simulate both lower and higher
altitudes than the current altitude of a person.
Definition of Terms
[0033] Simulated altitude, or physiological altitude is defined to
be the partial pressure of oxygen that corresponds to a particular
actual altitude. The partial pressure of oxygen is influenced by
the oxygen concentration and the atmospheric pressure.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0034] The present invention is referred to herein as a "Colorado
Mountain Room" (also denoted as CMR herein) and encompasses both a
method and a system for adjusting O.sub.2 and CO.sub.2 levels to
provide benefits to, e.g., the reduction of body weight, the
training of athletes, the treating or preventing altitude of
sickness as well as other altitude or altitude change related
conditions. For example, high oxygen environments relieve symptoms
of altitude sickness and allow for people to sleep more easily. In
one embodiment the Colorado Mountain Room controls oxygen levels in
a room, for both allowing the user to simulate high altitudes (low
oxygen) for purposes of altitude acclimatization and athletic
training, and to simulate low altitude (high oxygen levels) for
athletic training. In one embodiment, the Colorado Mountain Room
requires a reasonably well sealed environment (a room or enclosure
such as a tent). However, alternative embodiments that are "leaky"
can be provided.
[0035] The Colorado Mountain Room may have penetrations through the
walls to allow for the passage of hoses, and to allow for the
controlled passage of air through a gated penetration. In one
embodiment, the present invention includes the following components
(i.e., the "equipment"): [0036] (a) A oxygen concentrator--This may
be a molecular sieve to separate oxygen and nitrogen molecules.
Such a molecular sieve removes approximately 5 liters of oxygen
from the room per minute. [0037] (b) A CO.sub.2 sensor this
measures the amount of CO.sub.2 in the room. CO.sub.2 is produced
by breathing. [0038] (c) A CO.sub.2 scrubber--This eliminates
CO.sub.2 to keep the air fresh and clean within the CMR. [0039] (d)
An oxygen sensor--This measures the amount of oxygen in the room
within the CMR. [0040] (e) A temperature sensor--This sensor
measures the temperature within the Colorado Mountain Room. [0041]
(f) An ambient pressure sensor--This sensor measures the ambient
air pressure in the Colorado Mountain Room. [0042] (g) A
ventilation fan, a vent, a gate, blower, etc.--This brings in fresh
air into CMR when oxygen levels therein fall below desired levels,
or carbon dioxide levels rise above desired levels, and if either
oxygen or CO.sub.2 are outside of their safe range. [0043] (h) A
controller--This controller controls the oxygen concentrator, a
CO.sub.2 scrubber, and the ventilation fan for altering the
percentage of oxygen in the room, removing carbon dioxide, and
bringing in fresh air and monitoring oxygen and carbon dioxide
levels. If either oxygen or carbon dioxide levels are out of their
safe ranges an alarm of the present invention is triggered and the
ventilation fan is turned on to bring fresh air into the room. The
oxygen sensor, the CO.sub.2 sensor, the temperature sensor, and the
ambient pressure sensor are also connected to the controller. The
computerized controller includes a computer, an analog-to-digital
converter module, a relay output module, a viewing panel, and
appropriate power supplies. The controller's computer: (i)
activates and deactivates the attached above-identified oxygen
concentrator, CO.sub.2 scrubber, and ventilation fan, and (ii)
displays information on a digital control panel (also denoted a
visual display panel herein) using the signals received from the
above-identified sensors. [0044] (i) An uninterruptible power
source--This power source powers the sensors, the control panel and
the ventilation fan in case of a power outage.
[0045] In one embodiment, the equipment identified above is sized
to operate within a tightly sealed room of about 1,000 cubic feet.
The ability of the equipment to create an altitude simulation space
is dependent on the room's air infiltration rate and oxygen removal
rate, or nitrogen introduction rate of the equipment.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0046] The drawings constitute a part of this specification and
include an exemplary embodiment of the invention, which may be
embodied in various forms. It is to be understood that in some
instances various aspects of the invention may be shown exaggerated
or enlarged to facilitate an understanding of the invention.
[0047] FIG. 1 illustrates the information to be input in at least
one embodiment of the CMR.
[0048] FIG. 2 shows the various components of an embodiment of the
present invention when installed in a user's bedroom.
[0049] FIG. 3 shows an example of these predictions obtained from
the prediction model of the present invention when using the
initial conditions given in FIG. 1.
[0050] FIG. 4 shows an embodiment of the present invention
configured to simulate a low altitude enclosure.
[0051] FIG. 5 shows an embodiment of the present invention
configured to provide a higher than normal atmospheric content of
CO.sub.2.
[0052] FIG. 6 shows an embodiment of the present invention that is
portable and configured to simulate a higher altitude than the
ambient exterior altitude.
[0053] FIG. 7 shows another embodiment of the present invention
that is portable and configured to simulate a higher altitude than
the ambient exterior altitude and wherein the control thereof is
substantially manual.
[0054] FIG. 8 shows another embodiment of the present invention
that is portable and configured to simulate a higher altitude than
the ambient exterior altitude, and wherein the enclose is not
tightly sealed (i.e., it is "leaky").
[0055] FIG. 9 shows another embodiment of the present invention
that is portable and configured to simulate a higher altitude than
the ambient exterior altitude, and wherein the enclose is not
tightly sealed and instead has a substantially constant air
infiltration rate. Note that a nitrogen filled container may be
used to decrease the oxygen content of the CMR 50.
[0056] FIG. 10 shows another embodiment of the present invention
that is portable and configured to simulate a higher altitude than
the ambient exterior altitude, and wherein the enclosure is not
tightly sealed and instead has a substantially constant air
infiltration rate.
[0057] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating the steps for the
calibration and compensation for drift in the oxygen sensors.
[0058] FIG. 12 shows one embodiment of an oxygen concentrator for
the present invention.
[0059] FIG. 13 shows a perspective view of three filters that may
be provided in an oxygen concentrator for the present
invention.
[0060] FIG. 14 shows a high level flowchart of the steps performed
by the controller in determining (in response to a user's input)
the altitude simulation technique (i.e., mode) which the controller
is to use in controlling the CMR.
[0061] FIG. 15 shows a high level flowchart of the steps performed
by the controller when the controller is performing a high altitude
(i.e., higher than the actual altitude) simulation via a reduction
in oxygen and an increase in a gas such as nitrogen, helium, or
other gas that is typically non-reactive with a user.
[0062] FIG. 16 shows a high level flowchart of the steps performed
by the controller when the controller is performing a low altitude
(i.e., lower than the actual altitude) simulation via an increase
in oxygen within the CMR.
[0063] FIG. 17 shows a high level flowchart of the steps performed
by the controller when the controller is performing a high altitude
(i.e., higher than the actual altitude) simulation via a reduction
in oxygen and an increase in CO.sub.2.
[0064] FIG. 18 shows a high level flowchart of the steps performed
by the predictive computer model of the present invention.
[0065] FIG. 19 shows another set of input or initialization data
for the predictive computer model.
[0066] FIG. 20 shows a graph of the predicted percentage of oxygen
from initial operation of the enclosure of the CMR 50 when the
input data of FIG. 19 is input to the predictive computer
model.
[0067] FIG. 21 shows a graph of the predicted concentration of
CO.sub.2 in the enclosure of the CMR 50 when the input data of FIG.
19 is input to the predictive computer model.
[0068] FIG. 22 shows a graph of the predicted simulated altitude in
the enclosure of the CMR 50 when the input data of FIG. 19 is input
to the predictive computer model.
[0069] FIG. 23 shows a graph of the predicted oxygen consumption by
user(s) in the enclosure of the CMR 50 when the input data of FIG.
19 is input to the predictive computer model.
[0070] FIG. 24 shows a graph of the predicted concentration of
CO.sub.2 (in days) in the enclosure of the CMR 50 when the input
data of FIG. 19 is input to the predictive computer model.
[0071] FIG. 25 shows a graph of the predicted simulated altitude
(in days) in the enclosure of the CMR 50 when the input data of
FIG. 19 is input to the predictive computer model.
[0072] FIG. 26 shows a graph of the predicted percentage of oxygen
(in days) in the enclosure of the CMR 50 when the input data of
FIG. 19 is input to the predictive computer model.
[0073] FIG. 27 shows another graph of the predicted concentration
of CO.sub.2 (in days) in the enclosure of the CMR 50 when the input
data of FIG. 19 is input to the predictive computer model.
[0074] FIG. 28 shows another graph of the predicted simulated
altitude (in days) in the enclosure of the CMR 50 when the input
data of FIG. 19 is input to the predictive computer model.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0075] The features of the present invention are set forth above in
the Summary of the Invention and are depicted generally in the
embodiments in the accompanying figures. To supplement the
description of the present invention and to provide general
background relating thereto, Applicant incorporates by reference in
their entirety the following issued U.S. patents for further
clarification of the present invention: U.S. Pat. No. 5,964,222
entitled "Hypoxic Tent System" filed Dec. 3, 1997; U.S. Pat. No.
5,924,419 entitled "Apparatus for Passive Hypoxic Training and
Therapy" filed Feb. 8, 1997; U.S. Pat. No. 5,850,833 entitled
"Apparatus for Hypoxic Training and Therapy" filed May 22, 1995;
U.S. Pat. No. 5,799,652 entitled "Hypoxic Room System and Equipment
for Hypoxic Training and Therapy at Standard Atmospheric Pressure",
filed Jul. 21, 1995; and U.S. Pat. No. 5,467,764 entitled
"Hypobaric Sleeping Chamber" filed May 13, 1993. It is to be
understood, that the present invention may be embodied in various
forms. Therefore, specific details disclosed herein are not to be
interpreted as limiting, but rather as a basis for the claims and
as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to
employ the present invention in virtually any appropriately
detailed system, structure or manner.
[0076] At least some of the above-identified components of the
present invention will now be described in further detail. The
essential features of the present invention are set forth above in
the Summary of the Invention and are depicted generally in FIGS. 3
10. In one embodiment, the Colorado Mountain Room 50 includes an
enclosed space 54 where the altitude or carbon dioxide
concentration is controlled.
Computerized Controller 58
[0077] The computerized controller 58 allows a user to choose one
of the following operational modes: high altitude, low altitude, or
high CO.sub.2. Once the operational mode is selected, the computer
may require the user to enter the actual altitude of the CMR. Since
actual altitude affects how the desired altitude is simulated, in
one embodiment, the user must enter the actual altitude where the
equipment is installed. Note that at sea level (e.g. Los Angeles) a
13.4% oxygen concentration simulates 12,500 feet. But at 8,000 feet
(e.g. Vail), a 13.4% oxygen concentration simulates 19,750 feet.
Thus, for embodiments of the invention that use a relative amount
of O.sub.2 to simulate a desired altitude, an accurate
determination of the actual altitude is important. In one
embodiment the controller utilizes a barometric pressure transducer
to measure atmospheric pressure, and thus determine the users
"physiological" or simulated altitude. This reading may be compared
to the user's input of true elevation above sea level. This feature
makes user error less likely and serves as a safety feature keeping
oxygen levels appropriate to the elevation above sea level. In
addition it serves as a mechanism to disallow improper use by the
user (i.e. entering false low altitude readings to increase the
upper limit of altitude simulation of the device.). Accordingly,
the computerized controller 58 compares the user input altitude of
the site with the `pressure altitude` derived from the ambient
pressure sensor. If the two altitudes are significantly different,
the computerized controller 58 requires the user to enter the
actual altitude again and warns that the ambient pressure sensor
may be faulty.
[0078] After comparing the user-entered altitude with the pressure
altitude at the site, the computerized controller 58 adjusts the
oxygen sensor to the known ambient oxygen percentage of 20.94%. The
Colorado Mountain Room 50 must be at the ambient oxygen partial
pressure (open to the external environment) during this procedure.
In one embodiment of the invention, sensors are calibrated to a
known oxygen level provided by another device such as an oxygen
analyzer, allowing the user to recalibrate the sensors without
opening the Colorado Mountain Room to the external environment and
thus losing the high or low oxygen level already attained by the
device.
[0079] If the present invention is in the high altitude mode or the
low altitude mode, the computerized controller 58 permits the user
to select a simulated altitude for the Colorado Mountain Room 50
that is, respectively, higher or lower than the actual altitude. In
one embodiment, the simulated altitude can be any value between sea
level and 12,500 feet. The simulated altitude must be above the
actual altitude when the present invention is in high altitude mode
or below the actual altitude when the present invention is in low
altitude mode.
[0080] If the CMR 50 is in the High Altitude mode, the computerized
controller 58 tests to see whether the Simulated Altitude is more
than 250 ft above the Desired Altitude. If the answer is no, the
O.sub.2 concentrator is activated. If the answer is yes, the
computerized controller 58 tests to see whether the Simulated
Altitude is more than 750 ft above the Desired Altitude. If the
answer is no, the Fan Gate is deactivated. If the answer is yes,
the Fan Gate is activated and the computerized controller 58 tests
to see whether the Simulated Altitude is greater than 16500 feet.
If the Simulated Altitude is greater than 16500 ft, the Alarm is
activated as a safety feature. The computerized controller 58
continues to monitor the Simulated Altitude. It activates and
deactivates the Oxygen Concentrator and the Fan Gate as needed to
keep the Simulated Altitude within 250 ft of the Desired Altitude.
In this way, the computerized controller 58 maintains the Colorado
Mountain Room 50 near the simulated altitude.
[0081] If the system is in the Low Altitude mode, the computerized
controller 58 tests to see whether the Simulated Altitude is
greater than the Desired Altitude. If the answer is no, the Oxygen
Concentrator is deactivated. If the answer is yes, the Oxygen
Concentrator is activated and the computerized controller 58 tests
to see whether the Simulated Altitude is greater than 16500 feet.
If the answer is yes, the Alarm is activated as a safety feature.
The computerized controller continues to monitor the Simulated
Altitude. It activates and deactivates the Oxygen Concentrator as
needed to keep the Simulated Altitude within 250 ft of the Desired
Altitude.
[0082] If the system is in either the Low Altitude or the High
Altitude mode, the computerized controller 58 checks the CO.sub.2
concentration. If the CO.sub.2 concentration is greater than 1000
ppm, the computerized controller 58 activates the CO.sub.2
scrubber. If the CO.sub.2 concentration is greater than 7000 ppm,
the computerized controller 58 activates the Fan Gate and the
Alarm. The Fan Gate ventilates the CMR 50 to decrease the CO.sub.2
concentration. The Alarm warns the user that the CO.sub.2
concentration is out of range. If the CO.sub.2 concentration is
less than or equal to 1000 ppm, the computerized controller 58
deactivates the CO.sub.2 Scrubber. The computerized controller 58
continues to monitor the CO.sub.2 concentration. It activates and
deactivates the CO.sub.2 Scrubber and the Fan Gate to keep the
CO.sub.2 concentration in the CMR 50 below 7000 ppm.
[0083] If the system is in any of the three modes, the computerized
controller checks the Temperature and the Pressure. If the
Temperature is not in the range between 40 F and 104 F, the
computerized controller 58 activates the Alarm as a warning. If the
Pressure is not in the range between 600 mb and 1100 mb, the
computerized controller activates the Alarm as a warning.
[0084] If the present invention is in the High CO.sub.2 mode, the
computerized controller 58 checks to see whether the Simulated
Altitude is greater than 6,000-9,000 feet. If the answer is yes,
the Fan Gate is activated and the computerized controller 58 checks
to see whether the Simulated Altitude is greater than 12,500 feet.
If the answer is yes, the computerized controller 58 activates the
Alarm as a safety feature. If the Simulated Altitude is below 6,000
ft, the computerized controller 58 deactivates the Fan Gate. The
computerized controller 58 continues to monitor the Simulated
Altitude to assure that it does not exceed 12,500 feet.
[0085] When the CMR 50 is closed and occupied by one or more
people, the CO.sub.2 concentration will rise and the oxygen partial
pressure will drop. The Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) for
CO.sub.2 is 5,000 parts per million (OSHA) over an 8-hour interval.
If the system is in the High CO.sub.2 mode, the computerized
controller 58 checks to see whether the CO.sub.2 concentration is
greater than 3250 ppm. If the answer is no, the CO.sub.2 Scrubber
is deactivated. If the answer is yes, the CO.sub.2 scrubber is
activated and the computerized controller 58 checks to see whether
the CO.sub.2 concentration is greater than 5000-10,000 ppm. If the
answer is yes, the Computerized Controller activates the Fan Gate
and the Alarm. The Computerized Controller continues to monitor the
CO.sub.2 concentration and maintain it near 3250 ppm for safe and
restful sleep.
[0086] Note that FIGS. 14 through 17 show the high level steps
performed by the controller 58 in controlling the simulated
altitude of the CMR 50. In particular, FIG. 14 shows a high level
flowchart of the steps performed by the controller in determining
(in response to a user's input) the altitude simulation technique
(i.e., mode) that the controller is to use in controlling the CMR.
Additionally, FIG. 15 shows a high level flowchart of the steps
performed by the controller when the controller is performing a
high altitude (i.e., higher than the actual altitude) simulation
via a reduction in oxygen and/or an increase in a gas such as
nitrogen, helium, or other gas that is typically non-reactive with
a user. Additionally, FIG. 16 shows a high level flowchart of the
steps performed by the controller when the controller is performing
a low altitude (i.e., lower than the actual altitude) simulation
via an increase in oxygen within the CMR. Finally, FIG. 17 shows a
high level flowchart of the steps performed by the controller when
the controller is performing a high altitude (i.e., higher than the
actual altitude) simulation via a reduction in oxygen and an
increase in CO.sub.2.
Oxygen Concentrator
[0087] The oxygen concentrator is a device that provides a flow of
oxygen rich air and a separate flow of oxygen depleted air. Oxygen
concentrators are available commercially (Nidek, Incorporated,
Sequal, Incorporated). Oxygen concentrators separate oxygen from
ambient air by, e.g., passing the air through a molecular sieve at
high pressure or by a technique of pressure swing absorption. The
oxygen concentrator draws air either from the interior of the CMR,
or in another embodiment from the exterior of the CMR. In the high
altitude mode (i.e., low oxygen mode), the oxygen concentrator
removes oxygen from the Colorado Mountain Room 50 or alternatively
introduces nitrogen to the Colorado Mountain Room. In the low
altitude (i.e., high oxygen) mode, the oxygen concentrator supplies
oxygen to the Colorado Mountain Room 50 or alternatively removes
nitrogen.
[0088] As a mechanical safety device, in at least one embodiment,
the oxygen concentrator is equipped with a flow restrictor that
prevents the simulated altitude from rising above 15,000 feet. The
size of the flow restrictor is determined by the size of the
Colorado Mountain Room 50, its actual altitude, the flow rate of
the oxygen concentrator(s), and the number of people expected to
use it at a time and the air infiltration rate.
[0089] One or more O.sub.2 concentrators are connected to the
computerized controller 58. The number and size of oxygen
concentrators required for an embodiment of the invention is
determined by the size of the Colorado Mountain Room 50, its actual
altitude, the air infiltration rate and the number of people
expected to use it at a time. The computerized controller 58
activates the oxygen concentrator(s), based on the oxygen and
carbon dioxide concentrations.
Carbon Dioxide Scrubber
[0090] In one embodiment, the CO.sub.2 scrubber is a device that
uses a mixture of Calcium and Sodium Hydroxide (NaOh) pellets to
remove CO.sub.2 from the air. When exposed to an acidic gas like
CO.sub.2, a strong, exothermic (heat producing) reaction takes
place, which gives off water vapor and binds the CO.sub.2 by
forming Calcium Carbonate. Water is an important part of the
reaction that takes place to bind the CO.sub.2 in that first, the
gaseous CO.sub.2 reacts with water to form carbonic acid
(H.sub.2CO.sub.3). Then, the NaOH reacts with the carbonic acid to
produce Na.sub.2CO.sub.2 and H.sub.2O. The Na.sub.2CO.sub.2 reacts
with the Ca(OH).sub.2 which has been disassociated into Calcium and
Hydroxide Ions. (Ca++ and OH-) to produce CaCO.sub.2 (calcium
carbonate, otherwise known as limestone.) The CO.sub.2 remains in a
stable state. There is a net production of three H.sub.2O molecules
for every molecule of CO.sub.2 that is removed.
[0091] In one embodiment, the CO.sub.2 scrubber is a commercial air
cleaner (DustFree, Inc., Royse City, Tex., USA--Model 250),
modified to accept the CO.sub.2 scrubbing pellets. The scrubbing
pellets are commercially available (Northwood Designs, Inc.,
Antwerp, N.Y., USA) in 44-pound kegs. The pellets are scooped into
polyester sacks. The polyester sacks hold the pellets and trap the
dust emitted by them. In one embodiment, the CO.sub.2 scrubber
requires four sacks, one on each side of the CO.sub.2 scrubber.
Ambient air in the CMR is drawn through the sacks by a fan and then
the CO.sub.2 cleansed air is returned to the Colorado Mountain Room
50. The pellets inside the sacks remove CO.sub.2 from the air as it
passes over them.
[0092] One or more CO.sub.2 scrubbers are connected to the
computerized controller 58. The number and size of CO.sub.2
scrubbers required for an application is determined by the size of
the Colorado Mountain Room 50, the number of people or animals
expected to use it at a time and their activity level. The
computerized controller 58 activates the scrubber(s), based on the
carbon dioxide concentration as described hereinabove.
Ventilation Mechanism
[0093] In one embodiment, the ventilation mechanism includes a
vent, fan, blower, gate, or a moveable disc, and a solenoid switch
encased in an enclosure. The ventilation fan or other such
mechanism is installed through the wall of the Colorado Mountain
Room 50. The solenoid switch acts to either open or close an air
passage into the room. When the air passage into the CMR is open,
the ventilation fan engages to push ambient exterior air into the
Colorado Mountain Room 50.
[0094] One or more ventilation fans may be connected to the
computerized controller 58. The computerized controller 58
activates the ventilation fans, based on the oxygen partial
pressure and the CO.sub.2 concentration in the room. The
ventilation fan is a safety device that prevents the altitude in
the room from rising above 15,000 feet and keeps the CO.sub.2
concentration below 7,000 parts per million. In one embodiment of
the invention, the oxygen concentrator runs constantly. The
computerized controller activates the fan when desired altitude is
exceeded. The fan brings in outside air thus limiting the simulated
altitude to the desired altitude. In addition this embodiment
maximizes ventilation through the enclosed space.
Oxygen Sensor
[0095] In one embodiment, the oxygen sensor detects oxygen in the
air by means of a fuel cell detector that generates an electrical
voltage proportional to the oxygen partial pressure. The oxygen
sensor consists of a diffusion barrier, a sensing electrode made of
a noble metal such as gold or platinum, and a working electrode
(anode) made of lead or zinc immersed in a basic electrolyte.
Oxygen, which diffuses into the sensor, undergoes an
electrochemical reaction that converts the oxygen into lead-oxide
(PbO.sub.2). This electrochemical reaction also produces a net
electrical voltage.
[0096] In one embodiment, the oxygen sensor is commercially
available (Figaro USA, Incorporated Glenview, Ill., USA). The
sensor produces a voltage in the range between 0-50 mv. This
corresponds to an oxygen partial pressure between 0 and 1013 mb at
sea level.
[0097] The present invention improves the accuracy of the oxygen
sensor by a factor of 55 (square root of the number of samples) by
averaging approximately 3,000 samples each 30-seconds. The drift of
the oxygen sensor with changing ambient atmospheric pressure was
removed by means of measuring the ambient atmospheric pressure and
compensating for it. In at least some embodiments of the invention,
the drift of the oxygen sensor with temperature was found to be
insignificant in the temperature range between 15 C and 27 C.
[0098] FIG. 11 shows a flowchart for the calibration, averaging,
and pressure compensation of the oxygen sensor. When the
computerized controller is started, samples of the oxygen partial
pressure (S.sub.0) and the ambient pressure (P) are taken. Next,
the percent oxygen is defined to be 20.94% at the initial ambient
pressure (P). Then, samples of O.sub.2 and atmospheric pressure
within CMR 50 are collected until a total of 3,000 are reached.
When 3,000 samples are collected the O.sub.2 is averaged (SAVG),
and subsequently an oxygen concentration for the CMR 50 is
determined according to the following formula:
20.94%*(S.sub.AVG/S.sub.0)*(P/P.sub.NXT). Note that the term
P/P.sub.NXT is an important aspect of the present invention in that
this term compensates for CMR 50 ambient pressure variations to
more precisely determine oxygen concentration levels therein.
Additionally, note that for one skilled in the art, numerous other
variations in the flowchart of FIG. 11 will become readily
apparent, such as: 1000 samples per minute, 3000 samples in 30
seconds, and 10,000 samples per second.
[0099] The oxygen sensor is connected to the computerized
controller 58 and the oxygen percentage is displayed on the visual
display panel. The oxygen partial pressure, as derived from the
oxygen sensor voltage, is used to determine the simulated altitude
of the Colorado Mountain Room 50 regardless of the mode of
operation.
CO.sub.2 Sensor
[0100] In one embodiment, the CO.sub.2 sensor detects carbon
dioxide in the air of the CMR by means of an active infrared
sensing system that generates a voltage proportional to the
concentration of CO.sub.2. The CO.sub.2 sensor is available
commercially (Telaire, Incorporated, Goleta, Calif., USA--Model
8001). The infrared CO.sub.2 sensor includes of an infrared source
(emitting broadband radiation, including the wavelength absorbed by
CO.sub.2) and an infrared detector that are separated by a gas
cell. Absorption increases with: (a) increasing gas concentration,
and (b) increasing optical path length between the detector and the
source. Knowing the dependence of absorption on the CO.sub.2
concentration for a given path length, the sensor measures the
CO.sub.2 concentration, based on the reduction in infrared light
intensity measured by the detector.
[0101] Outside ambient concentrations of CO.sub.2 tend to be in the
range between 370 and 425 parts per million. Heavily industrialized
or polluted areas may have periodic CO.sub.2 concentration peaks
that can be as high as 800 ppmv in the outside air. The
concentration of CO.sub.2 in exhaled breath is typically around
3.8% (38,000 ppmv). Indoor concentrations of CO.sub.2 in occupied
spaces typically range between 500 ppmv and 2,000 ppmv.
[0102] Various organizations have established recommended levels
for CO.sub.2 concentrations in indoor spaces. The American Society
of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)
recommend that the indoor CO.sub.2 concentration not exceed 1,000
ppmv. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
requires that the CO.sub.2 concentration not exceed 5,000 ppmv over
an 8-hour workday.
[0103] The CO.sub.2 sensor of the present invention is connected to
the computerized controller 58 and the CO.sub.2 concentration is
displayed on the visual display panel. The computerized controller
58 activates the CO.sub.2 scrubber and the ventilation fan to
maintain the CO.sub.2 concentration at safe levels in the Colorado
Mountain Room 50.
Temperature Sensor
[0104] In at least one embodiment of the present invention, the
temperature sensor detects the temperature of the air by means of a
type J or a type T thermocouple as one skilled in the art will
understand. The thermocouple terminates in a stainless steel ring
that is bolted to the housing of the computerized controller 58.
The temperature sensor is available commercially (Thermo-Electron,
Incorporated, Waltham, Mass., USA Type J or T). The temperature
sensor is operatively connected to the computerized controller 58
and the temperature is displayed on the visual display panel. The
computerized controller 58 activates the ventilation fan and the
audible alarm, if the temperature in the Colorado Mountain Room 50
becomes colder than 40 F or warmer than 104 F. This is done to
assure that the Colorado Mountain Room 50 is not used under
conditions where the oxygen partial pressure (simulated altitude)
is not accurately measured.
Ambient Pressure Sensor
[0105] In at least one embodiment of the invention, the ambient
pressure sensor detects the atmospheric pressure by means of a
pressure transducer. It produces a 0.1-5.1 volt signal over a
pressure range of 600-1100 mb. The ambient pressure sensor is
available commercially (Setra, Systems, Inc., Boxborough, Mass.,
USA--Model 276). The pressure transducer contains two closely
spaced, parallel, electrically isolated metallic surfaces, one of
which is a diaphragm capable of slight flexing under applied
pressure. The diaphragm is constructed of a low-hysteresis
material. These firmly secured surfaces (or plates) are mounted so
that a slight mechanical flexing of the assembly, caused by a
minute change in applied pressure, alters the gap between them
(creating, in effect, a variable capacitor). The resulting change
in capacitance is detected and converted to a proportional analog
signal.
[0106] The ambient pressure sensor is connected to the computerized
controller 58 and the ambient pressure is displayed on the visual
display panel. The computerized controller 58 corrects the oxygen
partial pressure measured by the oxygen sensor for variations in
ambient pressure. Accordingly, it is an aspect of at least some
embodiments of the present invention to compensate for natural
fluctuations in the atmospheric pressure when simulating a desired
altitude in the CMR 50. Moreover, the controller 58 activates the
ventilation fan and the audible alarm, if the ambient oxygen
partial pressure in the Colorado Mountain Room 50 becomes smaller
than 600 mb or larger than 1100 mb. This is done to assure that the
Colorado Mountain Room 50 is not used under conditions where the
oxygen partial pressure (simulated altitude) is not accurately
measured.
Colorado Mountain Room 50 in Operation.
[0107] The user enters the desired altitude (i.e. the desired
simulated altitude.) This is digitally displayed on the controller
58. A magnetic gate seals one or more penetrations into the sealed
environment when power is supplied to the gate. A solenoid actuator
or a small motor holds the gate closed when power is on and opens
the gate when power is off.
[0108] One or more fans located within the port are connected to
the controller 58 in some embodiments. The controller 58 turns the
fans off and on based on oxygen and carbon dioxide levels. One or
more O.sub.2 concentrators are connected to the controller 58. The
controller 58 turns the oxygen concentrators off or on based on
oxygen and carbon dioxide levels. An oxygen concentrator is a
device that provides a flow of oxygen rich air and a separate flow
of oxygen depleted air. The oxygen concentrator draws air either
from the interior of the enclosed space, or in another embodiment
from the exterior of the enclosed space.
[0109] One or more CO.sub.2 scrubbers are connected to the
controller 58. The controller 58 turns the scrubber off or on based
on oxygen and carbon dioxide levels. The controller 58 can also
increase flow through the CO.sub.2 scrubber by a rheostat or
similar device. A CO.sub.2 scrubber is a device that uses CO.sub.2
absorbent materials to remove CO.sub.2 from the air.
[0110] One or more alarms are connected to the controller 58. The
controller 58 turns the alarm off or on based on oxygen and carbon
dioxide levels. The controller 58 calculates the simulated altitude
based on the real altitude setting and the oxygen level in the room
(as reported by the oxygen sensor.) The controller 58 also
calculates the oxygen level required to simulate the desired
altitude based on the real altitude setting and the desired
altitude input by the user.
[0111] In alternative embodiments of the invention, the following
compounds may also be provided: [0112] (i) An activated charcoal or
carbon filter reduces odors. [0113] (ii) Closed loop or split
system air conditioning provides cooling. [0114] (iii) A humidifier
increases humidity. [0115] (iv) A dehumidifier reduces humidity.
[0116] (v) A HEPA filter or similar device reduces allergens and
air impurities. [0117] (vi) Battery back up for oxygen sensor,
CO.sub.2 sensor, and fan.
[0118] The controller 58 displays: the desired altitude in feet
above sea level or the required oxygen level for the desired
altitude; the actual oxygen level measured by each sensor as a
percentage of air or as a calculation of simulated altitude in feet
above sea level; the actual CO.sub.2 level measured by the sensor;
and the input altitude provided by a user.
Predictive Computer Model
[0119] The Colorado Mountain Room is an enclosed space where the
altitude or carbon dioxide concentration is controlled. A
mathematical model was created to predict the altitude, the
concentration of oxygen, and the concentration of CO.sub.2 in the
room as a function of time. The mathematical model is a
mass-balance simulation over time. It requires the following
information to establish its initial conditions: [0120] (1) The
length, width, and height of the Colorado Mountain Room. [0121] (2)
The altitude of the site. [0122] (3) The number of people expected
to occupy the Colorado Mountain Room. [0123] (4) The oxygen removal
or supply rate of the oxygen concentrator. [0124] (5) The number of
oxygen concentrators to be used. [0125] (6) The per-person heat
generation rate. This determines the activity level in the Colorado
Mountain Room. It is converted to the per-person oxygen consumption
rate and carbon dioxide production rate. [0126] (7) The initial
oxygen concentration in the Colorado Mountain Room. [0127] (8) The
concentration of CO.sub.2 in the ambient atmosphere. [0128] (9) The
initial CO.sub.2 concentration in the Colorado Mountain Room.
[0129] (10) The airflow rate through the CO.sub.2 scrubber. [0130]
(11) The efficiency (%) of the CO.sub.2 scrubber at removing
CO.sub.2 from the air. [0131] (12) The air exchange rate in the
Colorado Mountain Room.
[0132] FIG. 1 shows an example of the data to be input into the
predictive computer model for initialization. Accordingly, the
Colorado Mountain Room Computer Model predicts the CO.sub.2
concentration and the altitude in the Colorado Mountain Room as a
function of time. FIG. 3 shows an example of these predictions
using the initial conditions given in FIG. 1. Using the
initialization data of FIG. 1, FIG. 3 shows the CO.sub.2
concentration in the Colorado Mountain Room 50 rises to about 3,000
ppm in 12 hours and to 3,850 ppm in 48 hours. As well, the Colorado
Mountain Room is predicted to reach a simulated altitude of about
14,000 ft. above sea level in 12 hours and about 15,000 ft. above
sea level in 48 hours. The Colorado Mountain Room Computer Model is
used as follows: [0133] 1. It permits the designer of the Colorado
Mountain Room to specify the appropriate system for each client and
site. [0134] 2. It permits the user of the Colorado Mountain Room
to choose an appropriate size for the enclosed space. Smaller rooms
achieve a simulated altitude more quickly and require a smaller
oxygen removal rate (fewer oxygen concentrators, and less cost).
[0135] 3. By predicting the CO.sub.2 concentration in the Colorado
Mountain Room, the model assures that sufficient CO.sub.2 scrubbing
capacity will be available to keep the room safe and healthy.
[0136] 4. By predicting the highest simulated altitude achieved in
the Colorado Mountain Room, it assures that the room will not
become unsafe for the occupants. And allows the designer to select
appropriate flows for the oxygen concentrator(s).
[0137] The Colorado Mountain Room Computer Model computes selected
variables, beginning at a time of zero and ending at a time of 7
days. The Model computes each selected variable in time steps until
7 days is reached. The time steps must be short enough to make the
simulation accurate and long enough to make the simulation execute
quickly. Our experience suggests that the time steps should be less
than or equal to 15-minutes in duration.
[0138] The CMR Computer Model computes the following variables at
each time step: [0139] 1. The volume of O.sub.2 in the CMR at the
beginning of the time step. [0140] 2. The volume of O.sub.2
consumed by the occupants of the CMR during the time step. [0141]
3. The volume of O.sub.2 removed from the CMR by the Oxygen
Concentrator during the time step. [0142] 4. The volume of O.sub.2
removed from the CMR by air exchange during the time step. [0143]
5. The volume of O.sub.2 added to the CMR by air exchange during
the time step. [0144] 6. The volume of CO.sub.2 in the CMR at the
beginning of the time step. [0145] 7. The volume of CO.sub.2
produced by the occupants of the CMR during the time step. [0146]
8. The volume of CO.sub.2 removed from the CMR by the CO.sub.2
Scrubber during the time step. [0147] 9. The volume of CO.sub.2
removed from the CMR by air exchange during the time step. [0148]
10. The volume of CO.sub.2 added to the CMR by air exchange during
the time step. [0149] 11. The concentration of O.sub.2 inside the
CMR at the end of the time step. [0150] 12. The Simulated Altitude
inside the CMR at the end of the time step. [0151] 13. The
concentration of CO.sub.2 inside the CMR at the end of the time
step.
[0152] High level steps performed by the predictive computer model
of the CMR 50 are shown in FIG. 18. Additionally, FIG. 19 shows
another set of input or initialization data for the predictive
computer model and FIGS. 20 through 28 show graphs of various
predicted environmental conditions within the enclosure of the CMR
50 as a function of time that the CMR 50 is
operating/installed.
[0153] The following variables and equations are used in the
predictive computer model of the present invention:
[0154] Variables
[0155] t=time
[0156] delta t=one time interval, 15-minutes O.sub.2 Volume at t
(liters)=(Percent O.sub.2 at t-1)/100)*Room Volume (liters)
Equation 1. O.sub.2 Consumption by People at t (liters)=[delta t
(min)*People in Room*O.sub.2 consumption rate (liters/min)]*[Actual
Pressure (mb)/Sea Level Pressure (mb)] Equation 2. O.sub.2
Concentrator Removal at t (liters)=[delta t (min)*[1013.25/Actual
Pressure (mb)]*[0.9*[Percent O.sub.2 at t-1/20.94]]*[O.sub.2
Removal Rate per System (liters/min)*Number of O.sub.2
Concentrators]*[Percent O.sub.2 at t-1/20.94] Equation 3. O.sub.2
Exchange out of CMR at t (liters)=[delta t (min)]*[Air Change Rate
(hr.sup.-1)/60]*[Room Volume (liters)*Percent O.sub.2 at t-1/100]
Equation 4. O.sub.2 Exchange into CMR at t (liters)=[delta t
(min)]*[Air Change Rate (hr.sup.-1)/60]*[Room Volume
(liters)*20.94/100] Equation 5. CO.sub.2 Volume at t
(liters)=[CO.sub.2 Concentration at t-1 (ppm)/1,000,000]*Room
Volume (liters) Equation 6. CO.sub.2 Production from People at t
(liters)=[delta t (min)*People in Room*CO.sub.2 Production rate
(liters/min)]*[Actual Pressure (mb)/Sea Level Pressure (mb)]
Equation 7. CO.sub.2 Exchange out of CMR at t (liters)=[delta t
(min)]*[Air Change Rate (hr.sup.-1)/60]*[Room Volume
(liters)*CO.sub.2 Concentration at t-1 (ppm)/1,000,000] Equation 8.
CO.sub.2 Exchange into CMR at t (liters)=[delta t (min)]*[Air
Change Rate (hr.sup.-1)/60]*[Room Volume (liters)*Outdoor CO.sub.2
Concentration (ppm)/1,000,000] Equation 9. CO.sub.2 Scrubber
Removal at t (liters)=[delta t (min)]*CO.sub.2 Scrubber Airflow
Rate (liters/min)*[CO.sub.2 Scrubber Efficiency (%)/100]*[CO.sub.2
Concentration at t-1 (ppm)/1,000,000] Equation 10. Percent O.sub.2
at t=100*[Equation 1-Equation 2-Equation 3-Equation 4+Equation
5]/Room Volume (liters) Equation 11. Simulated Altitude at t
(feet)=[3.28084*1000]*[-0.1112+[[-0.1112.sup.2]+[4*0.00149]*[6.63268-Ln
[[Equation 11*Actual Pressure (mb)/Initial Percent
O.sub.2]*[760/1013.25]]]].sup.0.5]/[2*0.00149] Equation 12.
CO.sub.2 Concentration at t (ppm)=[Equation 6+Equation 7-Equation
8+Equation 9-Equation 10)*[1,000,000/Room Volume (liters)] Equation
13.
[0157] Further detail of the oxygen concentrator is provided in
FIG. 12. The concentrator has three ports. One port is an intake
air line for air from in or out of the simulated altitude space.
The second port exhausts oxygen out of the simulated altitude
space. The third port delivers nitrogen into the simulated altitude
space.
[0158] Plug the concentrator into the carbon dioxide scrubber and
connect the oxygen hose to oxygen outlet on the front of the
concentrator. Drill a hole in an outside wall and either run the
oxygen hose directly outside or install brass tubing through the
wall and attach the hose to the brass tubing. Seal the hose or
tubing on both sides of the wall, inside and outside the room, with
caulking.
[0159] The O.sub.2 concentrator may be placed in a space adjacent
to the altitude simulation room and as close as possible to the
CO.sub.2Scrubber, which is in the enclosure of the CMR.
[0160] When the oxygen concentrator is installed outside the
enclosure of the CMR, several holes need to be drilled. One hose
will deliver nitrogen into the room, one hose exhausts oxygen
outside, and the last hose will provide intake air from the room.
The intake air hose should be 4 to 6 inches above the floor. Both
the nitrogen and intake air hoses may be placed in a wall or
door.
Installation Equipment
[0161] Connect the intake air hose to the filter hole of the
concentrator behind the door panel. The HEPA filter is inside the
hole when it is provided. Take the HEPA filter out of the
concentrator. Place the HEPA filter on the end of the hose. Seal
both sides of the wall around the hose, inside and outside the
room, with caulking. Attach the intake air hose to the wall with
the filter in an upright position.
[0162] As shown in FIG. 12, nitrogen may be delivered into the room
through a hose that connects to the brass barb fitting at the
bottom left of the concentrator. The nitrogen hose should be placed
in the wall above eye level. Seal both sides of the wall around the
hose, inside and outside the room, with caulking.
[0163] The ventilator fan supplies fresh air into the enclosure of
the CMR 50 and accordingly provides oxygen to the enclosure. In one
embodiment, even when the desired simulated altitude is reached,
the O.sub.2 concentrator continues to operate, decreasing the
oxygen concentration in the room, and continuing to raise the
simulated altitude. When the simulated altitude reaches
approximately 100 to 300 feet over the desired altitude, the fan
turns on bringing in fresh air until the level is approximately 100
to 300 feet below the desired level. This process for achieving the
desired simulated altitude can take over an hour and does not
affect altitude acclimatization by a user. Moreover, this process
provides the altitude simulation enclosure with a substantial
volume of fresh air while maintaining the desired oxygen
concentration.
[0164] The fan can be installed numerous ways. It can be installed
on any interior wall that has access to an adjacent open space i.e.
another room or hallway. It can also be installed on a door.
[0165] To mount the fan on the door it is recommended that the fan
should be mounted around eye level.
[0166] With all the wires attached to the wall seal around the
assembly with caulk. Attach the grill to cover the hole opposite
the ventilator fan.
[0167] In one embodiment, the oxygen sensor and CO.sub.2 sensor can
be mounted to the wall. The sensors can also be set on a piece of
furniture. To mount the sensors to the wall preferably choose a
spot on the wall 4 to 6 feet from the bed. Note that in an
alternative embodiment, the oxygen sensor and CO.sub.2 sensors may
be contained within the control panel. Moreover, if the CMR 50 is
of sufficient size, more than one oxygen sensor and/or CO.sub.2
sensor can be provided therein.
[0168] The CO.sub.2 Scrubber needs to be placed in the CMR
enclosure within close proximity of the oxygen concentrator so that
they can be operatively connected. The O.sub.2 concentrator
includes three filters: the intake filter, the extended life inlet
pre-filter, and the HEPA filter as shown in FIG. 13.
Low Altitude Simulation.
[0169] A detailed description of this embodiment is provided herein
and shown in FIG. 4.
[0170] In low altitude mode the oxygen concentrator provides oxygen
rich air to the enclosed environment and vents nitrogen outside the
room. The following conditions and actions are performed by various
embodiments of the invention. [0171] (1) Fans--off [0172] (2)
Gate--closed [0173] (3) O.sub.2 concentrator--running [0174] (4)
CO.sub.2 scrubber--on if CO.sub.2 levels are higher than 500 PPM
[0175] (5) Alarm--silent [0176] (6) Fans--open and blowing for 20
seconds [0177] (7) Gate--open [0178] (8) O.sub.2
concentrator--running [0179] (9) CO.sub.2 scrubber--on if CO.sub.2
levels are higher than 500 PPM [0180] (10) Alarm--silent [0181]
(11) Fans--open and blowing until safe levels are reached [0182]
(12) Gate--open [0183] (13) O.sub.2 concentrator--off until safe
levels are reached [0184] (14) CO.sub.2 scrubber--on if CO.sub.2
levels are higher than 500 PPM [0185] (15) Alarm--sounds [0186]
(16) Fans--open or closed depending on O.sub.2 levels as above
[0187] (17) Gate--open or closed depending on O.sub.2 levels as
above [0188] (18) O.sub.2 concentrator--on or off depending on
O.sub.2 levels as above [0189] (19) CO.sub.2 scrubber--off [0190]
(20) Alarm--on or off depending on O.sub.2 levels as above [0191]
(21) Fans--open or closed depending on O.sub.2 levels as above
[0192] (22) Gate--open or closed depending on O.sub.2 levels as
above [0193] (23) O.sub.2 concentrator--on or off depending on
O.sub.2 levels as above [0194] (24) CO.sub.2 scrubber--on [0195]
(25) Alarm--on or off depending on O.sub.2 levels as above [0196]
(26) Fans--open or closed depending on O.sub.2 levels as above
[0197] (27) Gate--open or closed depending on O.sub.2 levels as
above [0198] (28) O.sub.2 concentrator--on or off depending on
O.sub.2 levels as above [0199] (29) CO.sub.2 scrubber--on [0200]
(30) Alarm--on or off depending on O.sub.2 levels as above [0201]
(31) Fans--open and running [0202] (32) Gate--open [0203] (33)
O.sub.2 concentrator--on or off depending on O.sub.2 levels as
above [0204] (34) CO.sub.2 scrubber--on [0205] (35) Alarm--sounds
[0206] (36) Fans--on or off depending on O.sub.2 and CO.sub.2
levels as above (battery back up) [0207] (37) Gate--open (power
required to keep closed) [0208] (38) O.sub.2 concentrator--failed
[0209] (39) CO.sub.2 scrubber--failed [0210] (40) Alarm--on or off
depending on O.sub.2 and CO.sub.2 levels as above (battery back up
is provided for the alarm)
[0211] O.sub.2 and CO.sub.2 levels are monitored constantly. The
decision whether to turn on the fan occurs every 5 minutes.
[0212] There is no need for the CO.sub.2 scrubber to operate when
CO.sub.2 levels are near ambient levels.
[0213] Since real altitude effects simulated altitude, the
controller 58 must limit O.sub.2 to 25% in high oxygen mode (i.e.,
low altitude simulations).
High CO.sub.2 Simulation.
[0214] The Colorado Mountain Room 50 creates a controlled carbon
dioxide environment, and in particular, can provide a high CO.sub.2
environment. Using the present method and system, individuals
derive the benefits of restful sleep, using elevated carbon dioxide
concentrations as a sleep-aid. There are no adverse health effects
or side effects known for this treatment. Many traditional
therapies involve the use of chemical sleep aids with a variety of
side effects.
[0215] FIG. 5 shows an embodiment of the CMR for high CO.sub.2
simulation.
[0216] High concentrations of Carbon Dioxide (>1,000 parts per
million) are known to cause drowsiness without adverse health
effects.
[0217] The CO.sub.2 sensor in the Control Panel monitors the
CO.sub.2 concentration in the room. When occupied, the CO.sub.2
concentration in the room slowly increases. When the concentration
exceeds user-selected set point (e.g., approximately 3,000 to 4,500
ppm, and more preferably approximately 3250 ppm), the Control Panel
activates the CO.sub.2 scrubber to reduce the concentration. Should
the CO.sub.2 concentration become unhealthy, the Control Panel
activates the ventilation fan and sounds a warning alarm until the
concentration lowers to a healthy one (e.g., approximately 5000 to
10,000 ppm).
[0218] In this embodiment, the Colorado Mountain Room 50 controller
58 also monitors the oxygen partial pressure. Should the oxygen
partial pressure in the room decrease to an unhealthy level (e.g.
approximately 13,000 to 15,000 feet), the Control Panel activates
the ventilation fan and sounds a warning alarm until the
concentration becomes acceptable again (e.g., approximately 6,000
to 9,000 feet).
Portable Altitude Simulation.
[0219] FIG. 6 shows an embodiment of the CMR that is portable. In
some embodiments, it is preferable that the Colorado Mountain Room
50 have an air infiltration rate of less than 0.1 Air Changes per
Hour (ACH) to be effective. However, higher air infiltration rates
can be accommodated by incorporating additional oxygen
concentrators and/or reducing the size of the CMR 50.
[0220] The portable CMR embodiment at FIG. 6 encloses the Colorado
Mountain Room 50 system in a tent or other portable structure. The
tent or portable structure has a fixed volume and a fixed air
infiltration rate. The present embodiment functions in the same
ways as a stationary CMR.
The present embodiment has the following features:
[0221] 1. It is portable. The user can assemble it, use it,
disassemble it, transport it, and store it at will. [0222] 2. It
has a fixed volume regardless of its operating location. Therefore,
the altitude simulation system will be identical for each time it
is used. [0223] 3. It has a fixed and permanent air infiltration
rate. Therefore, no trained personnel or extra costs are required
to assemble or use the present portable embodiment. [0224] 4. It
can be assembled and used inside an existing room. This eliminates
the need to permanently alter the interior of the room to provide a
CMR. Furthermore, if the existing room is air-conditioned or cooled
by other means, no supplemental cooling is required inside the
embodiment of the invention.
[0225] As with other embodiments, the user enters the actual
altitude and the desired altitude using the keypad on the front of
the panel. Once the panel is set, the system starts and the oxygen
concentrator is activated by the panel. The oxygen concentrator
runs intermittently under normal operating conditions. When the
oxygen partial pressure reaches the desired level (desired
altitude), the panel turns the concentrator off. Should the oxygen
partial pressure decrease significantly below the desired level
(desired altitude), the panel activates the ventilation fan. The
ventilation fan provides ambient air from outside the enclosure.
This air contains ambient levels of oxygen. It increases the oxygen
partial pressure in the enclosure (lowers the altitude) as a safety
feature.
[0226] When the carbon dioxide level exceeds 1,000 ppm, the
scrubber is activated and runs until the carbon dioxide
concentrations falls below 1,000 ppm again. If the carbon dioxide
concentration exceeds 7,000 ppm, due to increased activity or old
absorbent material, the ventilation fan is activated and an alarm
sounds.
[0227] An alternative portable embodiment of the invention is shown
in FIG. 7. This alternative embodiment also provides a tent or
other portable structure as the enclosure. The tent or portable
structure has a fixed volume and a fixed air infiltration rate.
[0228] This alternative embodiment has the same features as
identified above for the initial portable embodiment use thereof.
However, whereas the above initial portable embodiment is
controlled by the controller, the present alternative portable
embodiments has its equipment manually controlled by the user.
[0229] Thus, the user adjusts the flow rate of the Oxygen
Concentrator to maintain a simulated altitude according to displays
providing the CO.sub.2 concentration and the O.sub.2 percentage
inside the enclosure provided to the Carbon Dioxide sensor and an
Oxygen sensor. Note that the flow rate and the O.sub.2 percentage
necessary to achieve the simulated altitude are determined using
the Colorado Mountain Room 50 Computer Model previously
discussed.
[0230] Moreover, the user also manually adjusts the flow rate of
the Carbon Dioxide Scrubber to control the CO.sub.2 concentration
inside the enclosure. If the CO.sub.2 concentration exceeds 7,000
ppm, an alarm sounds.
[0231] FIG. 8 shows a third embodiment of the invention that is
portable. This third portable embodiment also provides a tent or
other portable structure as the enclosure. The tent or portable
structure has a fixed volume and is breathable (e.g., leaky)
instead of substantially non-leaky as in the above two
embodiments.
This third portable embodiment has the following features:
[0232] 1. It is portable. The user can assemble it, use it,
disassemble it, transport it, and store it at will. [0233] 2. It
has a fixed volume. [0234] 3. It is leaky. Therefore, no trained
personnel or extra costs are required to assemble or use the
Colorado Moveable Mountain Room. [0235] 4. It can be assembled and
used inside an existing room. This eliminates the need to
permanently alter the interior of the room to create a Colorado
Mountain Room 50. Furthermore, if the existing room is
air-conditioned or cooled by other means, no supplemental cooling
is required inside the Colorado Moveable Mountain Room.
[0236] As in the above alternative embodiment, this third
embodiment may be manually controlled by the user. A carbon dioxide
sensor and an oxygen sensor monitor and display the CO.sub.2
concentration and the O.sub.2 percentage inside the enclosure.
[0237] The oxygen concentrator injects Oxygen-depleted
(Nitrogen-enriched) air into the enclosure. The user adjusts the
flow rate of the Oxygen Concentrator to maintain a simulated
altitude. The flow rate and the O.sub.2 percentage necessary to
achieve the simulated altitude are determined using the Colorado
Mountain Room 50 Computer Model previously discussed. As in the
other embodiments, if the simulated altitude exceeds 15,000 feet,
an alarm sounds.
[0238] Note that in this third portable embodiment, the carbon
dioxide concentration is not elevated because the enclosure is
breathable (leaky). The flow rate of the oxygen concentrator is
sufficiently powerful to overcome the leakiness of the enclosure.
The CO.sub.2 sensor displays the CO.sub.2 concentration inside the
enclosure. If the CO.sub.2 concentration exceeds 7,000 ppm, an
alarm sounds.
[0239] A fourth portable embodiment of the invention is shown in
FIG. 9. This fourth embodiment also includes a tent or other
portable structure as the enclosure. The tent or portable structure
has a fixed volume and a fixed air infiltration rate. The present
embodiment has the following features: [0240] 1. It is portable.
The user can assemble it, use it, disassemble it, transport it, and
store it at will. [0241] 2. It has a fixed volume. Therefore, the
altitude simulation system will be identical for each use. [0242]
3. It has a fixed and permanent air infiltration rate. Therefore,
no trained personnel or extra costs are required to assemble or
use. [0243] 4. It can be assembled and used inside an existing
room. This eliminates the need to permanently alter the interior of
the room to create a Colorado Mountain Room 50. Furthermore, if the
existing room is air-conditioned or cooled by other means, no
supplemental cooling is required inside the enclosure.
[0244] The present fourth embodiment may be manually controlled by
a user or controlled by a computerized controller. Note that FIG. 9
shows the manually controlled embodiment in that no controller is
shown. A carbon dioxide sensor and an oxygen sensor monitor and
display the CO.sub.2 concentration and the O.sub.2 percentage
inside the enclosure.
[0245] The controller or the user adjusts the flow rate of the
nitrogen cylinder (label?) to maintain a simulated altitude. The
flow rate and the O.sub.2 percentage necessary to achieve the
simulated altitude are determined using the Colorado Mountain Room
50 Computer Model previously discussed. If the altitude exceeds
15,000 feet, an alarm sounds.
[0246] The controller or the user also adjusts the flow rate of the
Carbon Dioxide Scrubber to control the CO.sub.2 concentration
inside the enclosure. The CO.sub.2 sensor displays the CO.sub.2
concentration inside the enclosure. If the CO.sub.2 concentration
exceeds 7,000 ppm, an alarm sounds.
[0247] A fifth portable embodiment of the invention is shown in
FIG. 10. The present embodiment includes a tent or other portable
structure as its enclosure. The tent or portable structure has a
fixed volume and a fixed air infiltration rate.
[0248] The present embodiment has the following features: [0249] 1.
It is portable. The user can assemble it, use it, disassemble it,
transport it, and store it at will. [0250] 2. It has a fixed
volume. Therefore, the altitude simulation system will be identical
for each use. [0251] 3. It has a fixed and permanent air
infiltration rate. Therefore, no trained personnel or extra costs
are required to assemble or use. [0252] 4. It can be assembled and
used inside an existing room. This eliminates the need to
permanently alter the interior of the room to create a Colorado
Mountain Room 50. Furthermore, if the existing room is
air-conditioned or cooled by other means, no supplemental cooling
is required inside the enclosure. This fifth embodiment may be
manually controlled by the user controlling the infiltration rate
of air from outside the CMR 50. For example, it has been discovered
by the Applicants that if the enclosure material has a know air
permeability (e.g., substantially zero or otherwise), then
predetermined closable vents (as shown in FIG. 10) may be provided
in the material, wherein by opening a certain combination of one or
more of the vents, the CMR 50 will obtain a corresponding
predetermined air infiltration rate (e.g., the air exchange per
hour) into the enclosure. Accordingly, by also knowing the size of
the enclosure, the number of occupants, and their activity levels
within the enclosure, the prediction model for the present
invention (via the prediction model) is able to accurately predict
the O.sub.2 concentration of the enclosure at a maximum simulated
altitude equilibrium state. Accordingly, the present embodiment of
the invention does not require a controller for controlling the
altitude simulation. Thus, a user of the present embodiment may
lookup on a chart, generated from the prediction model (for his/her
particular instance of the CMR 50), to determine the combination of
vents to be open for his/her current altitude and the desired
simulated altitude.
[0253] Moreover, note that the present embodiment does not include
an oxygen concentrator. However, a carbon dioxide sensor and an
oxygen sensor monitor and display the CO.sub.2 concentration and
the O.sub.2 percentage may be provided inside the enclosure
although such devices are not necessary in some embodiments.
[0254] The user occupies the enclosure and consumes oxygen. This
causes the simulated altitude inside the enclosure to increase. The
desired altitude is achieved by adjusting the Infiltration Control
Valves. The air infiltration rate and the O.sub.2 percentage
necessary to achieve the simulated altitude are determined using
the Colorado Mountain Room 50 Computer Model previously discussed.
If the altitude exceeds 15,000 feet, an alarm sounds.
[0255] The user may manually adjust the flow rate of the carbon
dioxide scrubber to control the CO.sub.2 concentration inside the
enclosure. The CO.sub.2 sensor displays the CO.sub.2 concentration
inside the enclosure. If the CO.sub.2 concentration exceeds 7,000
ppm, an alarm sounds.
Hybrid Simulation of Altitude.
[0256] Because some people find it difficult to sleep at high
altitudes or in low oxygen environments, the Colorado Mountain Room
can be configured in an embodiment that incorporates the high
CO.sub.2 embodiment with the low altitude/high oxygen embodiment
thus producing a stimulus to sleep--high CO.sub.2 and removing an
obstacle to sleep--high altitude or low oxygen.
Air Exchange Rate in the Colorado Mountain Room 50
[0257] In all but the "leaky" third embodiment of the invention,
the Colorado Mountain Room 50 preferably must have a low air
exchange rate to function cost effectively. An air exchange rate of
0.1 air changes per hour or lower is recommended. There are two
challenges that must be overcome to achieve the desired air
exchange rate. First, one must be able to locate very small leaks
in the room in order to seal them. Second, one must determine the
actual air exchange rate in the room.
[0258] Very small air leaks may prevent the Colorado Mountain Room
50 from achieving the 0.1 air change per hour air exchange rate
that is recommended. These leaks are found as follows: [0259] 1.
Pressurize the Colorado Mountain Room 50 by blowing air into it
using a vacuum with a hose attachment. The hose attachment must
penetrate into the closed room through a temporary hole that is
sealed against leakage. The hole where the ventilation fan is
installed works well for this purpose. [0260] 2. While the room is
pressurized, use a thermal anemometer (hot-wire anemometer)
attached to a sensing wand to search for small airflows. Any
airflow above 0 feet per minute suggests a leak. Leaks typically
occur around door seals, window seals, wall joints, ceiling joints,
floor joints, light penetrations, and switch penetrations. The air
exchange rate in a home is typically measured using a large fan and
a differential pressure sensor. All the doors and windows in the
home are closed and the fan is installed in one of the doors. The
fan blows a large amount of air into the home, pressurizing it.
When the fan is stopped, a stopwatch and the differential pressure
sensor are used to determine how long the home remains pressurized.
The air exchange rate can then be computed. This method works for
air exchange rates as small as 0.5 air changes per hour. The air
exchange rate in the Colorado Mountain Room 50 may be as small as
0.01 air changes per hour and must be less than 0.1 air changes per
hour. The present invention includes a CO.sub.2 leakage method and
system for determining the air exchange rate in an embodiment of
the Colorado Mountain Room 50.
[0261] The CO.sub.2 leakage method and system performs the
following steps to determine the air exchange rate in the Colorado
Mountain Room 50: [0262] 1. Seal the Colorado Mountain Room 50.
[0263] 2. Close the entrance to the Colorado Mountain Room 50.
[0264] 3. Raise the CO.sub.2 concentration in the Colorado Mountain
Room 50 to about 5,000 ppm. This may be done by either vigorously
exercising in the room or by releasing CO.sub.2 into the room from
a gas cylinder. [0265] 4. Terminate the release of CO.sub.2 in the
room. [0266] 5. Note the peak CO.sub.2 concentration achieved and
the time of occurrence. [0267] 6. Wait for several hours. The
longer one waits, the more accurate the method becomes. [0268] 7.
Note the CO.sub.2 concentration and the time of occurrence again.
[0269] 8. Set the appropriate initial conditions in the Colorado
Mountain Room 50 Computer Model. [0270] 9. Obtain a prediction of
the CO.sub.2 concentration in the Colorado Mountain Room 50 at the
time noted in Step 7. [0271] 10. If the predicted CO.sub.2
concentration is lower than the concentration observed in Step 7,
reduce the air change rate in the Computer Model. [Need to clearly
describe this model, probably in detail.] [0272] 11. If the
predicted CO.sub.2 concentration is higher than the concentration
observed in Step 7, increase the air change rate in the Computer
Model. [0273] 12. Repeat Steps 9-11 until the predicted CO.sub.2
concentration matches the observed one.
[0274] Once the air exchange rate is determined and is less than
0.1 air changes per hour, the Colorado Mountain Room 50 can be used
to simulate either high and/or low altitudes. The Colorado Mountain
Room 50 Computer Model should accurately predict the time necessary
to achieve the simulated altitude, using the air exchange rate
determined in Steps 1-12 immediately above.
[0275] When a user of the invention enters the actual altitude and
the desired altitude using the keypad on the front of the input and
display panel, the CMR 50 starts and the oxygen concentrator is
turned on by the controller (if used). The oxygen concentrator runs
continuously under normal operating conditions in at least some
embodiments. When oxygen levels reach the desired level in the
enclosure, the controller turns on the fan to provide external air
to the enclosure. This intake air has a different oxygen
concentration than the air in the enclosure. The fan is turned on
and off to maintain the desired oxygen concentration. When the
carbon dioxide level reaches 1,000 PPM the scrubber is turned on
low and runs until the carbon dioxide level is reduced to about 750
PPM. If carbon dioxide levels continue to rise, due to increased
activity or old absorbent material, the scrubber speed is increased
to medium at 3,000 PPM and high speed at 5,000 PPM. Scrubber speed
is reduced as the carbon dioxide level is reduced.
[0276] Starting the CRM is simple. On the control panel there is a
digital readout and a set of buttons to use to enter actual
altitude and desired altitude. [0277] (a) When the control panel is
plugged in the starting screen will come up with "Colorado Altitude
Training" displayed. [0278] (b) Select high altitude mode for
decreased oxygen. (An alternative low altitude mode can also be
used if the equipment is used correctly). [0279] (c) Within a few
seconds a screen asking for the Actual Altitude of the user will
display. [0280] (d) Using the + button to go up in 100 ft
increments and - button to go down in 100 ft increments set the
altitude that you live at and then push the Set button. [0281] (e)
The following screen shows the user what the Actual Altitude has
been set to. [0282] (f) If this actual altitude is correct press
the Next button. If not press the reset button [0283] (g) The
following screen asks the user to enter the Desired Altitude.
[0284] (h) Using the + and - buttons the can set the altitude
desired and then pushes the Set button. [0285] (i) The display will
show the Desired Altitude. [0286] (j) If the desired altitude is
correct the user presses the "Next" button. The CRM 50 will then
start operating. However, if the altitude shown is not the desired
altitude then press the reset button [0287] (k) To reprogram the
system for a new altitude press the reset button and begin the
process over. [0288] (l) The final screen shows the current
simulated altitude (the altitude being simulated at the moment) and
the current oxygen concentration in the room. It also shows the
desired altitude that was selected. CO.sub.2 levels are also shown.
[0289] (m) The simulated altitude reading displayed immediately
after starting the CMR 50 should read within 500 feet plus or minus
the actual altitude.
[0290] This is important to establish the accuracy of the oxygen
sensor, and the resulting simulated altitudes. If the display
reading is off more than 500 feet recalibration and/or sensor
malfunction may be necessary.
[0291] The response to altitude varies tremendously from person to
person. What may be too high for one person may be easily tolerated
by another. Even an individual's response may vary from time to
time. What cannot be tolerated today may be tolerated at a later
date. To reduce the likelihood of altitude sickness when using the
present invention to simulate a higher altitude, a user should
start off using the following protocol and monitor you're his/her
reaction to simulated altitude increases. If there are any of the
symptoms of altitude sickness, a user should preferably discontinue
use of the present invention for approximately 24 hours and back
off to a lower altitude setting (higher oxygen setting) in the next
use of the equipment thereby giving more time to acclimatize. A
good rule of thumb is to allow at least one day of acclimatization
for every 1,000 feet of elevation gain above 7,000 feet.
[0292] Studies show that 6-12 hours exposure to altitude per day is
sufficient to produce the acclimatization effect in the COLORADO
MOUNTAIN ROOM 50. However, there is no harm in extending that time
per day. The present invention may be used any time of day for any
activity such as reading, watching TV, talking on the telephone,
lap top computer work etc.
[0293] The following protocols are suggested for using the present
invention to simulate a higher altitude.
[0294] For users at a location less than 5,000 feet above sea
level: [0295] Phase 1--Spend 3-5 days at approximately 7,000 feet.
Do not exceed 9,000. [0296] Phase 2--Spend at least 4-5 days at
approximately 9,500 feet. Do not exceed 11,500 feet. [0297] Phase
3--Spend at least 5-7 days at approximately 12,000 feet. Do not
exceed 13,500 feet. [0298] Phase 4--Sleep at 14,000-15,000 feet
from then on. But the user should have had at least 12 consecutive
days of acclimatization where he/she is exposed to altitude at
least 6-8 hours per day. Do not exceed 15,000 feet at any time.
[0299] Note that the simulated altitude may be increased with the
control panel in increments as small as 100 feet.
[0300] After a 2-3 day interruption go back one phase (e.g., after
four days at phase 3 and then three days at sea level; go back to
phase 2 for further use of the CMR 50.) After a 4-7 day
interruption go back two phases (e.g., after 5 days at phase 4 you
spend 7 days at sea level; go back to phase 2). After an
interruption of more than 7 days or more go back to phase 1.
[0301] For users at a location that is between 5,000 and 7,000 feet
above sea level:
Phase 1--Spend 3-5 days at approximately 9,000 feet. Do not exceed
11,000.
Phase 2--Spend at least 4-5 days at approximately 11,500 feet. Do
not exceed 12,500 feet.
Phase 3--Spend at least 5-7 days at approximately 13,000 feet. Do
not exceed 14,000 feet.
Phase 4--Sleep at 14,000-15,000 feet from then on. But the user
should have had at least 12 consecutive days of acclimatization
where he/she is exposed to altitude at least 6-8 hours per day. Do
not exceed 15,000 feet at any time.
[0302] After a 2-3 day interruption go back one phase (e.g., if
after four days at phase 3 and then three days at sea level; go
back to phase 2.). After a 4-7 day interruption go back two phases
(e.g., if after 5 days at phase 4 7 days are spent at sea level; go
back to phase 2). After an interruption of more than 7 days or more
go back to phase 1.
[0303] There are definite limits to how high an individual should
go. There are no permanent human habitations above 17,500 feet.
Among mountain climbers the altitudes above 18,000 feet are known
as the deterioration zone and altitudes above 26,000 feet are
called the death zone. Above this later altitude, there is simply
inadequate oxygen for a normal healthy life. While humans can
survive above 18,000 feet for a short time, fitness will definitely
decrease above this elevation whatever else you may do.
Accordingly, it is an aspect of the present invention that a user
is alerted and/or one or more fans are activated when the simulated
altitude rises above 15,000 feet.
[0304] In some embodiments, the Colorado Mountain Room 50 control
panel is equipped with an alarm that sounds when the oxygen or
carbon dioxide levels are outside their desired ranges. The alarm
signals the user that the CMR 50 needs to be turned off and/or is
malfunctioning.
[0305] In one embodiment the alarm is triggered at a simulated
altitude of 16,500 feet. Additionally, the oxygen concentrator is
turned off and the air intake fan is turned on. The fan will turn
off at 14,800 feet.
[0306] In some embodiments of the invention, the alarm is triggered
at CO.sub.2 concentration of approximately 9,500 ppm. Additionally,
the scrubber is set to high speed and the air intake fan is
activated.
[0307] High carbon dioxide levels indicate either the absorbent
material needs to be replaced or the scrubber is not running. If
the scrubber is running and the carbon dioxide level does not drop
change the absorbent and restart the CMR 50.
[0308] It is preferred that the present invention be used in
conjunction with periodic tests of hematocrit or hemoglobin. Also
recommended is the monitoring of O.sub.2 saturation in the blood,
and nucleated red cells/reticulocyte counts.
[0309] Since a Colorado Mountain Room 50 works by reducing the
oxygen content of the air, it is important for implementing a
substantially air tight stationary embodiment of the invention to
select a room that can be made as air tight as possible. One
preferred installation is an enclosure of 1,000 cubic feet with no
more than two occupants; however, larger rooms with a larger number
of occupants can be provided, e.g., for rooms of 30,000 cubic feet.
The room should be sealed with paint and air sealing techniques as
one skilled in the art will understand.
[0310] In one embodiment, the maximum size for a Colorado Mountain
Room 50 is about 10 feet by 12 feet 6 inches with an 8-foot ceiling
height or about 1,000 cubic feet. Of course, larger rooms can be
accommodated with additional oxygen concentrators. Rooms with no
exterior walls are easier to seal, control humidity levels, and
provide with cooling and heating if necessary. Rooms and outside
walls are affected by temperature and humidity differences between
inside and outside the space and wind speeds, which affect the
infiltration rates of the conditioned space. As the number of doors
and windows increase the number of pathways for air infiltration
increases. The number of penetrations for electrical outlets,
lights, and plumbing fixtures also increases the number of pathways
for air infiltration. Open floor plans that include large closets
and or bathrooms increase the size of the room and the equipment
requirements, and increase the difficulty of sealing the
conditioned space.
[0311] The Colorado Mountain Room 50 works by reducing oxygen
content in the air. To be effective you need a reasonably air tight
room to avoid outside air from entering the room. Macklanburg
Duncan (MD) manufactures weather stripping and sealing products
that can be used to seal rooms effectively. Their website address
is www.mdteam.com and is a very informative site. MD produces a
wide variety of products that are available at most home centers,
hardware stores, and lumber companies.
[0312] Newer buildings tend to be constructed using materials and
methods that reduce air infiltration to minimize heating and
cooling needs. Buildings built before the 1970's may be more
difficult to seal effectively due to the different construction
materials and methods used at the time the building was built. Most
air leaks in rooms are from the following building components.
Recommendations are included for each component. [0313] 1. Doors--A
good quality door that closes easily and tightly is all that is
necessary. A special door is not required. Use an adjustable door
jam kit (weather-stripping, we recommend MD Flat Profile Door Jamb
Weather-strip) to make the door as leak proof as possible. Install
a wooden threshold and a "door sweep" or "bottom" (weather
stripping that attaches to the bottom of the door, we recommend MD
L-Shaped Door Bottom) to provide a seal at the bottom of the door.
Single doors are easier to seal than double doors. Older French
doors are difficult to seal effectively. Hinged doors are easier to
seal than sliding doors. [0314] 2. Windows--Make sure the windows
are shut tightly. No special windows are required, however the
windows need to seal effectively, which may require installing new
weather stripping to reduce air exchange from the outside. Older
windows can be more difficult to seal, and older double hung
windows are particularly difficult to seal. Windows need to be
sealed between the window frame and the wall framing. The window
trim should be caulked on the inside and outside of the room. On
the inside of the room, caulk the edge of the trim where it meets
the drywall and where it meets the window jamb. On the outside of
the house caulk the edges of the window trim where it meets the
siding and where it meets the window jamb. MD manufactures a
product Shrink & Seal Indoor Kit for windows that will be
difficult to seal. The product is a clear plastic film that tapes
to the wall or trim around the window and completely seals the
window. [0315] 3. Plumbing--Where pipes enter or exit the room
(under sinks, behind toilets, in showers, and tubs) use caulk or
plumbers putty to seal the area around the pipes. Modern plumbing
codes require traps in drains. Consequently, drains are generally
not a problem. Showers, tubs and sinks can be used normally without
losing altitude. No special plumbing fixtures are required. [0316]
4. Ducts and Vents--These need to be blocked completely. Close the
registers and seal the duct or vent opening using duct tape
(available at any hardware store, K-mart, Target, etc.). It will
look better and be more effective to remove the register or grille,
seal the duct or vent several inches below the opening and then
replace the register or grille in the opening. If the vent is
large, you can tape a heavy-duty vinyl or urethane plastic sheet to
the duct or vent. Seal off cold air returns and ventilation fans in
the same way. When fan ducts are closed off, be sure to remove the
electrical power to the fan so it is not turned on. A fan blowing
against a closed duct could cause the fan to overheat. [0317] 5.
Electrical Outlets, Phone Jacks, Cable Jacks and Light
Fixtures--Block unused electrical outlets with outlet plugs or
covers, which are available at any hardware store. Seal the edges
of switch, jack, outlet and light boxes with caulk where the box
meets the drywall. Place foam seals under switch and outlet cover
plates. [0318] 6. Walls and Ceilings--The materials used in the
construction of the room impact the infiltration rate of the room.
Drywall on the walls and ceiling is ideal. Repair any cracks with
spackling compound, or caulk. We recommend that the walls and
ceiling be painted with one coat of a high quality latex primer
sealer, and two coats of a high quality latex paint. Paint
requirements for walls that may be difficult to seal are listed
under the Trouble shooting section. [0319] 7. Floor--Most modern
flooring is sufficiently airtight. However, if there are obvious
cracks in wooden flooring these should be filled or repaired to
reduce outside airflow. Urethane coating of a leaky wooden floor
may be sufficient to solve the problem. Even the worst floor can be
made airtight with a heavy-duty plastic sheet placed over the
floor, and sealed at the edges of the room with tape. You may then
cover the plastic with ordinary carpeting or an appropriate sub
floor and the flooring material of your choice. [0320] 8. Testing
for Leakage--Once the Mountain Room equipment is installed turn it
on and monitor the control panel display for the percentage of
oxygen in the room. In a well-sealed room the percentage of oxygen
will decrease to desired levels over a period of 8-10 hours (longer
in large rooms). [0321] 9. Heat--Ordinary baseboard heating,
available for about $75, or space heaters available for even less
are sufficient to heat most rooms. No special heating is required.
[0322] 10. Air Conditioning--Air conditioning is recommended to
cool and dehumidify the air in the room. Split system air
conditioners are required and are available through Carrier,
General Electric and several other manufacturers. Split systems
consist of two components, an indoor unit placed in the room to be
cooled and an outdoor unit that houses the compressor and exhausts
heat. These systems provide more cooling capacity, are easier to
seal and are architecturally more attractive than window air
conditioners. An air conditioner that does not bring in outside
air, or exhaust indoor air is necessary to avoid interfering with
the lowering of the oxygen concentration in the room. Window air
conditioners often bring in outside air, which precludes their use
in altitude simulation rooms. Single unit portable air conditioning
systems will not work in an altitude room because they exhaust
indoor air. Contact a local mechanical contractor for more
information on split system air conditioners available in your
area. The local contractor provides design and installation
services and can assist you in choosing a system that cools and
dehumidifies the room. Be sure to inform the contractor that the
Mountain Room equipment produces heat so they can calculate the
cooling load of the room including the heat generated by the
concentrator and the scrubber (400 watts for the concentrator and
200 watts for the scrubber). Be certain that the air conditioner is
sealed effectively when it is installed. [0323] 11. Humidifiers and
Dehumidifiers--If air conditioning is not used a dehumidifier is
recommended. Ordinary off the shelf units are fine. In some cases,
a humidifier may be desired to increase humidity in rooms that are
air-conditioned. Again, ordinary off the shelf units are fine.
[0324] Move the oxygen sensor around the room to locate areas in
the room where the oxygen content is higher than the ambient level
in the room. Find the point of entry and seal it. Doors, windows
and electrical penetrations should be checked carefully. Continue
locating and sealing leaks until the room remains at the desired
oxygen concentration.
[0325] When oxygen levels at the wall are higher than the rest of
the room and all penetrations are sealed use the following paint
recommendations. Paint the walls, if you have not all ready done
so, with one coat of a high quality latex primer sealer, and two
coats of a high quality latex paint. If the walls are more air
permeable than drywall in good condition the following paints or
similar products are recommended. 1 coat Sherwin-Williams Preprite
200 Latex Primer (B28W200.) 2 Coats Sherwin-Williams Epolon II
Multi-Mil Epoxy paint (B62-800 series.) If the walls are concrete,
the following is recommended. 1 coat Sherwin-Williams Heavy Duty
Block Filler (B42W46.) 2 coats Sherwin-Williams Epolon II Multi-Mil
Epoxy (B62.) Any of the Epoxies come in any color you choose.
Exposed wood ceilings and wood paneling without finished drywall
underneath may be very difficult to seal effectively. An additional
oxygen concentrator can be used to overpower the leaks in the
room.
[0326] The Colorado Mountain Room 50 equipment can be placed in
many different configurations. Placing the oxygen concentrator,
control panel, and intake air assembly in the closet of the
altitude simulation space provides an installation that maximizes
useable floor space and minimizes the visual impact of the
equipment.
[0327] Sensors should be placed close to the occupants in the
enclosure but not so close that artificially high carbon dioxide
readings occur. It is recommended that the sensors be placed about
four to six feet away from the occupants. Sensors should be placed
to monitor air from the room at large and not from inside the
closet or behind furniture or drapes.
[0328] The carbon dioxide scrubber needs to be in the altitude
simulation space and for best performance needs three feet of
unobstructed air space around the outlet at the bottom of the
scrubber. The scrubber can be placed in the closet next to or above
the concentrator if there is enough air space around the scrubber.
The scrubber weighs about forty-five pounds when the canister is
full of absorbent material. The scrubber should be placed so it is
easy to remove the canister for emptying and refilling. Try
removing the empty canister from the scrubber at the desired
location before filling the canister. It is much easier to remove
the canister from the scrubber than to unplug and remove the entire
scrubber every time the canister is refilled. Place the scrubber up
off the floor to prevent water from contacting the base of the
unit. Standing water around the base of the scrubber could contact
electrical components in the base of the unit. If placed on light
colored carpet place the scrubber on a small mat or rug to avoid
discoloring the carpet.
[0329] The intake fan is the control mechanism for the invention in
many embodiments. The fan has to be installed correctly and in good
working order for the system to operate safely. The intake air fan
should be installed about eye level, and should be placed as
inconspicuously as possible. The fan needs to be positioned so it
will not be obstructed or covered by furniture or items on closet
shelves. The closet is a very good choice for locating the fan
provided the closet wall adjoins an inside space that allows good
airflow. Placing the fan in a closet will probably require leaving
the closet door open even if the closet door is louvered. The fan
requires a four-inch hole drilled through the walls of adjoining
rooms.
[0330] Because the oxygen concentrator creates some heat, in one
embodiment the oxygen concentrator is placed in an air-conditioned
room. The concentrator of the present invention only requires
plugging it into the scrubber, installing one hose to an outdoor
space and turning it on.
[0331] In one embodiment the present invention can also include a
carbon monoxide detector for detecting carbon monoxide in the
enclosure. Uses For The Colorado Mountain Room 50:
[0332] The Colorado Mountain Room 50 may be used for providing the
following conditions: [0333] (a) High Altitude and Diabetes. The
Colorado Mountain Room 50 system creates a low oxygen (hypoxic) or
high oxygen (hyperoxic) environment. An oxygen sensor and a
computerized controller 58 automatically monitor and control the
oxygen partial pressure to maintain the desired altitude. Carbon
Dioxide concentrations are automatically monitored and controlled
by a CO.sub.2 sensor, a computerized controller 58, a CO.sub.2
scrubber, and a ventilation fan. Studies with animals suffering
from Type-II Diabetes suggest that exposure to a high altitude
environment produces metabolic changes that lead to a remission or
cure of the disease. Although not bound by theory, the inventors
believe that using the present method and system may lead to a
remission or cure of Type-II Diabetes. The traditional therapies
for Type-II Diabetes involve regular monitoring of blood glucose
levels and the injection or ingestion of insulin. There is
presently no cure for Type-II Diabetes. [0334] (b) High Altitude
and Coronary Heart Disease. The Colorado Mountain Room 50 system
creates a low oxygen (hypoxic) or high oxygen (hyperoxic)
environment. An oxygen sensor and a computerized controller 58
automatically monitor and control the oxygen partial pressure to
maintain the desired altitude. Carbon Dioxide concentrations are
automatically monitored and controlled by a CO.sub.2 sensor, a
computerized controller 58, a CO.sub.2 scrubber, and a ventilation
fan. Although not bound by theory, use of the present method and
system may slow the progress of coronary heart disease or aid in
the rehabilitation of those that suffer from it. The traditional
preventative therapies for coronary heart disease include changes
to the diet, increased exercise, and the cessation of risky
behaviors (e.g. smoking and alcohol consumption). The traditional
treatments for coronary heart disease include prescription
medications and surgery. [0335] (c) High Altitude and Stroke. The
Colorado Mountain Room 50 system creates a low oxygen (hypoxic) or
high oxygen (hyperoxic) environment. An oxygen sensor and a
computerized controller 58 automatically monitor and control the
oxygen partial pressure to maintain the desired altitude. Carbon
Dioxide concentrations are automatically monitored and controlled
by a CO.sub.2 sensor, a computerized controller 58, a CO.sub.2
scrubber, and a ventilation fan. Although not bound by theory, use
of the present method and system may lessen the likelihood of
stroke or aid in the rehabilitation of those that suffer a stroke.
The traditional preventative therapies for stroke include changes
to the diet, increased exercise, prescription medications, and the
cessation of risky behaviors (e.g. smoking and alcohol
consumption). The traditional treatments for stroke include
prescription medications and surgery. [0336] (d) High Altitude and
Obesity. The Colorado Mountain Room 50 system creates a low oxygen
(hypoxic) or high oxygen (hyperoxic) environment. An oxygen sensor
and a computerized controller 58 automatically monitor and control
the oxygen partial pressure to maintain the desired altitude.
Carbon Dioxide concentrations are automatically monitored and
controlled by a CO.sub.2 sensor, a computerized controller 58, a
CO.sub.2 scrubber, and a ventilation fan. Although not bound by
theory, use of the present method and system may act to control
obesity. Prolonged exposure to high altitude is known to reduce the
appetite and to produce changes in metabolism that may lead to
weight loss. The traditional therapies for obesity include reducing
the intake of calories, increasing exercise, prescription
medications, and surgery. [0337] (e) High Altitude and Cancer. The
Colorado Mountain Room 50 system creates a low oxygen (hypoxic) or
high oxygen (hyperoxic) environment. An oxygen sensor and a
computerized controller 58 automatically monitor and control the
oxygen partial pressure to maintain the desired altitude. Carbon
Dioxide concentrations are automatically monitored and controlled
by a CO.sub.2 sensor, a computerized controller 58, a CO.sub.2
scrubber, and a ventilation fan. Although not bound by theory, use
of the present method and system may slow the progress of some
types of cancer or aid in the rehabilitation of those that suffer
from them. The traditional preventative therapies for cancer
include changes to the diet, and the cessation of risky behaviors
(e.g. smoking, sun exposure, and alcohol consumption). The
traditional treatments for cancer include prescription medications,
naturopathic remedies, surgery, radiation therapy, and chemical
therapy. [0338] (f) High Altitude and Smoking Cessation. The
Colorado Mountain Room 50 system creates a low oxygen (hypoxic) or
high oxygen (hyperoxic) environment. An oxygen sensor and a
computerized controller 58 automatically monitor and control the
oxygen partial pressure to maintain the desired altitude. Carbon
Dioxide concentrations are automatically monitored and controlled
by a CO.sub.2 sensor, a computerized controller 58, a CO.sub.2
scrubber, and a ventilation fan. Although not bound by theory, use
of the present method and system may allow smokers to overcome
their habit more easily. The traditional therapies for smoking
cessation include willpower, medications, acupuncture, and
hypnosis.
[0339] While various embodiments of the present invention have been
described in detail, it will be apparent that further modifications
and adaptations of the invention will occur to those skilled in the
art. It is to be expressly understood that such modifications and
adaptations are within the spirit and scope of the present
invention.
* * * * *
References