U.S. patent application number 14/677967 was filed with the patent office on 2015-07-30 for fluid drying mechanism.
The applicant listed for this patent is ORIDION MEDICAL 1987 LTD.. Invention is credited to Joshua Lewis Colman, Gershon Levitsky.
Application Number | 20150208953 14/677967 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37396971 |
Filed Date | 2015-07-30 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150208953 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Levitsky; Gershon ; et
al. |
July 30, 2015 |
FLUID DRYING MECHANISM
Abstract
There is provided an exhaled breath moisture reduction system
including a dryer mechanism and a connector adapted to connect the
dryer mechanism proximate to a respiratory output device. There is
also provided an exhaled breath sampling assembly including an
airway adaptor and a moisture reduction sleeve comprising a
material adapted to reduce moisture and a connector adapted to
connect said sleeve substantially adjacent to a breath sampling
inlet within the adaptor. Also provided, a method of sampling
breath which includes attaching an exhaled breath moisture
reduction sleeve substantially adjacent to a breath sampling
inlet.
Inventors: |
Levitsky; Gershon;
(Jerusalem, IL) ; Colman; Joshua Lewis;
(Jerusalem, IL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
ORIDION MEDICAL 1987 LTD. |
Jerusalem |
|
IL |
|
|
Family ID: |
37396971 |
Appl. No.: |
14/677967 |
Filed: |
April 2, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14191394 |
Feb 26, 2014 |
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14677967 |
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11914135 |
May 19, 2008 |
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PCT/IL2006/000554 |
May 10, 2006 |
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14191394 |
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60679890 |
May 10, 2005 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
600/543 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61M 16/085 20140204;
A61M 16/0816 20130101; A61M 16/08 20130101; A61M 2205/3633
20130101; A61M 2230/432 20130101; A61B 5/097 20130101; A61M 16/0808
20130101; A61M 16/1065 20140204 |
International
Class: |
A61B 5/097 20060101
A61B005/097 |
Claims
1-10. (canceled)
11. A gas sampling assembly, comprising: a dryer tube comprising: a
first material adapted to absorb moisture from exhaled breath; a
second material adapted to pass moisture, present in exhaled
breath, out of said dryer tube, the second material comprising a
polymer, the second material being impermeable to gases; a breath
sampling inlet adapted to receive exhaled breath; an outlet; and an
interior surface defining a channel through the dryer tube from the
breath sampling inlet to the outlet; and a connector coupled to the
outlet of the dryer tube, the connector comprising a male coupler
that allows connection of the sampling assembly to a
capnograph.
12. The gas sampling assembly of claim 11, wherein the breath
sampling inlet comprises an opening.
13. The gas sampling assembly of claim 11, wherein the breath
sampling inlet comprises a cannula.
14. The gas sampling assembly of claim 11, wherein the breath
sampling inlet comprises an airway tube.
15. The gas sampling assembly of claim 11, wherein the breath
sampling inlet comprises a sampling tube.
16. The gas sampling assembly of claim 11, wherein the breath
sampling inlet comprises an opening adapted to receive a sampling
tube.
17. The gas sampling assembly of claim 16, wherein the sampling
tube is connected to a second connector.
18. The gas sampling assembly of claim 11, wherein the breath
sampling inlet is adapted to connect to a respiratory output
device.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a Continuation of U.S. application Ser.
No. 14/191,394, filed Feb. 26, 2014 (published as US 2014/0180157),
which is a Continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/914,135,
filed Nov. 11, 2007 (published as US 2009/0088656), which is the
U.S. National Stage of International Application No.
PCT/IL2006/000554, filed May 10, 2006, which claims the benefit of
U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/679,890, filed May 10, 2005,
the contents of each of which are hereby incorporated by reference
in their entireties.
FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to fluid drying
tube(s), particularity for use in the field of breath sampling and
analysis.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Breath gas analysis is commonly performed to provide
information related to a patient's condition. An example of a gas
analysis often performed is capnography using an analyzer called a
capnograph. Capnography is the monitoring of the time dependent
respiratory carbon dioxide (CO.sub.2) concentration, which may be
used to directly monitor the inhaled and exhaled concentration of
CO.sub.2, and indirectly monitor the CO.sub.2 concentration in a
patient's blood. Capnography may provide information about CO.sub.2
production, pulmonary (lung) perfusion, alveolar ventilation
(alveoli are hollow cavities in the lungs in which gas exchange is
being performed) and respiratory patterns. Capnography may also
provide information related to a patient's condition during
anaesthesia, for example by monitoring the elimination of CO.sub.2
from anaesthesia breathing circuit and ventilator.
[0004] In breath analysis systems, for example capnography, breath
gas can be sampled either by a mainstream or a sidestream analyzer.
In mainstream analyzers the sample chamber is positioned within the
patient's gas stream near the patient's end of the breathing
system. This arrangement is normally heavier and more
cumbersome.
[0005] In sidestream analysers gas is drawn from the breathing
system by a tube. The tube, which may be connected to an adaptor
near the patient's end of the breathing system, delivers the gas to
a sampling place (such as a sampling chamber). There are several
elements that are generally common to sidestream breath analysis
systems (such as capnographs) including, a monitor that
continuously samples and monitors the CO.sub.2 in a patients
breath, airway tube(s) and sampling line(s) which may be flexible
tube(s) having narrower diameter(s) than the airway tube(s), and
are adapted used to connect between the patient airway tube(s) and
the distant analyzer, such as the capnograph monitor. Along this
tube, the patient's breath is continuously sampled.
[0006] It is usually preferable that the sampling line is clear of
liquids in the fluid sample at all times, in order to permit
continuous, non-interfered monitoring. Such liquids are common in
patient sampling systems, and have several origins, for example:
[0007] condensed out liquids from the highly humidified air
provided to and exhaled from the patient. These liquids typically
accumulate both in the patient airway and in the sampling line
tubing; [0008] secretions from the patient, typically found in the
patient airway; and [0009] medications or saline solution provided
to the patient during Lavage, suction and nebulization
procedures.
[0010] Condensed out liquids generally refer to water that
condenses out from the humidity (the water vapor in a air or in
other gas) in the sampling tubes. Condensed out liquids is a major
problem commonly hindering breath analyses, particularly sidestream
capnography. The internal humidity levels in the tubes are high
especially in proximity to the breath collection area since the
exhaled and inhaled breath is humid and relatively warm. This is
also the case in intubated patients who are generally artificially
ventilated with gas (for example, air) having up to 100% humidity
at a temperature normally above ambient temperature (for example,
about 34.degree. C.), depending on the airway humidification system
and patient needs. The humidity (water vapors) often condenses on
the tube particularly as the tube is extended farther from the
breath collection area due to the temperature decreases.
[0011] Several methods have been developed in order to keep the
sampling line free of liquids such as those mentioned above,
particularly moisture. Some methods are designed to prevent liquids
from entering the sampling line (for example, as described in U.S.
Pat. No. 5,857,461) and some are designed to remove such liquids if
they entered the sampling line or were created in it.
[0012] In addition to the aforementioned preventive steps, it is
common practice in sidestream capnography to use tubes that are
made of or include drying materials. The internal humidity levels
in the tubes, especially in proximity to the breath collection
area, are high, and since airway temperature, dictated by the
airway humidification system and patient needs, is relatively high,
there is a clear need for a material which will bring down the
internal humidity of the sampled breath before the humid gas would
condense out when flowing towards the gas analyzer (for example
capnograph), cooled by the ambient air. One such suitable material
is Nafion.RTM..
[0013] Nafion.RTM. is a copolymer of tetrafluoroethylene
(Teflon.RTM.) and perfluoro-3,6-dioxa-4-methyl-7-octene-sulfonic
acid. Like Teflon, Nafion.RTM. is highly resistant to chemical
attack, but the presence of its exposed sulfonic acid groups
confers unusual properties. Sulfonic acid has a very high
water-of-hydration, absorbing 13 molecules of water for every
sulfonic acid group in the polymer; consequently, Nafion.RTM.
absorbs 22% by weight of water. Since the Nafion.RTM. specifically
reacts with water, gases being dried or processed are usually
entirely unaffected. Nafion.RTM. tubing, which comprises an ion
exchanger, has the ability to equate internal humidity levels with
the external ambient humidity.
[0014] The efficiency of drying materials such as Nafion.RTM. in
dehumidifying a gas sample is dependant mainly on the following
parameters: [0015] the rate of flow of gas passing through the
drying tube (a tube that include a drying material such as
Nafion.RTM.), wherein the slower the flow rate, the more efficient
is the dehumidifying process; [0016] the tube diameter, wherein the
smaller the diameter, the more efficient is the dehumidifying
process; [0017] the wall thickness, wherein the thinner the wall,
the more efficient is the dehumidifying process; [0018] the
humidity gradient inside and outside of the tube, wherein the
greater the difference in humidity inside and outside, the more
efficient is the dehumidifying process; [0019] the temperature of
the humid gas, wherein the higher the temperature, the more
efficient is the dehumidifying process; and [0020] The movement of
air around the drying tube (such as Nafion.RTM. tube); wherein the
faster the movement, the more efficient is the dehumidifying
process.
[0021] Materials like Nafion.RTM. tend to be expensive and their
cost is dependant on the length of material required. Since gas
sampling lines (for example in a capnograph) are disposable in
nature, one must design the sample line including the Nafion.RTM.
tube in the most effective way so as to use the least amount of
drying material such as Nafion.RTM. necessary for the purpose
required. Hence one must use the above listed parameters in order
to provide the optimal solution.
[0022] Further, the patient airway tubes are typically furnished
with large diameters, to address large flows of gas, typically up
to about 30 liters per minute. Such patient airway tubes may use
heating systems to keep the humidified air from condensing out. On
the other hand, gas sampling lines (for example in a capnograph)
often use small (internal and external) diameter bore tubings to
enable the undisturbed flow of the sampled breath at low flow
rates, such as about 50 ml/min. The substantial change in diameters
between the patient airway tubes and the sampling tubes may create
rapid drop in temperatures when passing from the patient airway,
through the sampling port to the sample line. This temperature drop
results in rapid condensation of the humidified breath before
reaching the drying tube (which may include for example,
Nafion.RTM.), and hence before the internal humidity can be equated
with the lower ambient humidity. Since the temperature generally
drops significantly before the gas reaches the drying material
(while as aforementioned, drying materials such as Nafion.RTM.
operate more efficiently at higher temperatures) and since water
may have already condensed out in the sampling line before the gas
reaches the drying material (while drying materials such as
Nafion.RTM. are more efficient in removing humidity than water),
drying material such as Nafion.RTM. are often used in an
ineffective manner. Prior art refers to the problem of moisture in
gas sampling tubes. U.S. Pat. No. 6,783,573, for example, refers to
the "moisture problem" and teaches away from placing a dryer
mechanism in the connector adjacent to, or proximate to, the
respiratory output device (e.g., the mask, cannula, or etc.). U.S.
Pat. No. 6,783,573 specifically states that this approach has
drawbacks. Moreover, U.S. Pat. No. 6,783,573 states "the dryer
mechanism disposed proximate the patient is ineffective, . . . "
(column 1, lines 64-65). U.S. Pat. No. 6,783,573.
[0023] There is thus a need for sampling systems that are adapted
to reduce the amount of liquids, particularly moisture, that form
along the sampling tubes.
SUMMARY
[0024] The following embodiments and aspects thereof are described
and illustrated in conjunction with systems, tools and methods,
which are meant to be exemplary and illustrative, not limiting in
scope. In various embodiments, one or more of the above-described
problems have been reduced or eliminated, while other embodiments
are directed to other advantages or improvements.
[0025] In accordance with some embodiments, there is provided an
exhaled breath moisture reduction system including a dryer
mechanism and a connector adapted to connect the dryer mechanism
proximate to a respiratory output device.
[0026] The connector may be adapted to connect between a dryer
mechanism and a respiratory output device in such way that
substantially retains the gas sample characteristics (for example,
humidity and temperature) until it reaches the dryer mechanism.
[0027] In accordance with some embodiments, there is provided an
exhaled breath moisture reduction system including a dryer
mechanism adjacent to a connector adapted to connect the dryer
mechanism to a respiratory output device, wherein the dryer
mechanism comprises a reinforcing element.
[0028] In accordance with additional embodiments, there is provided
an exhaled breath moisture reduction sleeve including a material
adapted to reduce moisture and a connector adapted to connect the
sleeve substantially adjacent to a breath sampling inlet.
[0029] In accordance with additional embodiments, there is provided
an exhaled breath sampling assembly including an airway adaptor and
a moisture reduction sleeve comprising a material adapted to reduce
moisture and a connector adapted to connect the sleeve
substantially adjacent to a breath sampling inlet within the
adaptor.
[0030] In accordance with some embodiments of the present
disclosure, there is provided an exhaled breath sampling assembly
including a cannula, a moisture reduction sleeve including a
material adapted to reduce moisture, and a connector adapted to
connect the sleeve substantially adjacent to a breath sampling
inlet within the cannula, wherein the sleeve is adapted to be
placed on a subject's face.
[0031] In accordance with additional embodiments, there is provided
a breath analyzer including a moisture reduction sleeve comprising
a material adapted to reduce moisture and a connector adapted to
connect the sleeve substantially adjacent to a breath sampling
inlet.
[0032] In accordance with additional embodiments, there is provided
a method of sampling breath including attaching an exhaled breath
moisture reduction sleeve substantially adjacent to a breath
sampling inlet.
[0033] In accordance with other embodiments, there is provided a
method of sampling breath including attaching an exhaled breath
moisture reduction sleeve substantially adjacent to a breath
sampling inlet of a cannula, wherein the moisture reduction sleeve
is placed on a subject's face.
[0034] In addition to the exemplary aspects and embodiments
described above, further aspects and embodiments will become
apparent by reference to the figures and by study of the following
detailed description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0035] Exemplary embodiments are illustrated in referenced figures.
It is intended that the embodiments and figures disclosed herein
are to be considered illustrative, rather than restrictive. The
disclosure, however, both as to organization and method of
operation, together with objects, features, and advantages thereof,
may best be understood by reference to the following detailed
description when read with the accompanying figures, in which:
[0036] FIG. 1 schematically illustrates an exploded view of a
sampling system constructed and operative in accordance with some
embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0037] FIG. 2 schematically illustrates an assembled view of the
sampling system of FIG. 1;
[0038] FIG. 3 shows a sectional illustration taken along section
lines III-III in FIG. 2;
[0039] FIG. 4 schematically illustrates an exploded view of a
sampling system constructed and operative in accordance with other
embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0040] FIG. 5 schematically illustrates an assembled view of the
sampling system of FIG. 4;
[0041] FIG. 6 schematically illustrates a sampling system
constructed and operative in accordance with additional embodiments
of the present disclosure;
[0042] FIG. 7 shows a sectional illustration taken along section
lines V-V in FIG. 4; and
[0043] FIG. 8 shows a schematic illustration of a sampling system
constructed and operative in accordance with some embodiment of the
present disclosure.
[0044] It will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of
illustration, elements shown in the figures have not necessarily
been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the
elements may be exaggerated relative to other elements for clarity.
Further, where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be
repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous
elements.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0045] While a number of exemplary aspects and embodiments have
been discussed above, those of skill in the art will recognize
certain modifications, permutations, additions and sub-combinations
thereof. It is therefore intended that the following appended
claims and claims hereafter introduced be interpreted to include
all such modifications, permutations, additions and
sub-combinations as are within their true spirit and scope.
[0046] As discussed hereinabove there is a need for sampling
systems that are adapted to reduce the amount of liquids,
particularly moisture, that are formed along and/or within the
sampling tubes. It was found that implanting a dryer mechanism
(such as but not limited to a dryer tube that may include, for
example, Nafion.RTM.) within (in such way that the drying material
is not in direct contact with the highly humid ambient environment)
or otherwise associated with the airway adaptor or as close to the
airway adaptor as possible reduces the amount of liquids,
particularly moisture in the sampling system.
[0047] The airway adaptor, which may be a part of a respiratory
output device or may be adapted to fit into a respiratory output
device, is adapted to allow the transfer of the warmed air of the
patient's airway flow (from either natural breathing or artificial
ventilation) and is generally disposed near the patient.
Particularly, the airway adaptor may be a part of or fit into a
respiratory output device, which is adapted for use in intubated
patients, for example patients being artificially ventilated. A
respiratory output device may be for example, a mask, airway tube,
endotracheal tube, intubation tube and the like.
[0048] The dryer mechanism may preferably be disposed adjacent to,
or proximate to, the airway adaptor and/or the respiratory output
device (for example, a mask, cannula, an airway tube, endotracheal
tube, intubation tube and the like) in such a way that the warmed
air in the patient's airway flow (from either natural breathing or
artificial ventilation) heats the dryer mechanism (such as but not
limited to, a dryer tube that may include for example,
Nafion.RTM.), thus maintaining a higher temperature of the humid
gas, increasing the efficiency of the dryer mechanism and reducing
humidity in the sampled gas. Additionally, an isolator, for
example, formed of a foamy material, may be placed around the
region connecting between the dryer mechanism and the breath
sampling inlet, in order to maintain the temperature of the humid
gas when reaching the dryer mechanism.
[0049] It is noted that in the drying material of the dryer
mechanism (for example, Nafion.RTM. tube) may be preferably placed
adjacent to, or proximate to, the airway adaptor and/or the
respiratory output device in such way were it is not in the direct
stream of the patients exhaled breath, since this would create a
high ambient humidity environment to the drying material, and as
mentioned hereinabove, the dryer material is more efficient when
the gradient between inside and outside is large.
[0050] Provided herein, according to embodiments of the disclosure,
configurations in which the warmed air of the patient's airway flow
(from either natural breathing or artificial ventilation) heats the
dryer mechanism and thus maintain a higher temperature of the humid
gas. These configurations increase the efficiency of the dryer
mechanism and reduce humidity and/or moisture in the sampled gas as
well as to prevent any liquids condensing out prior to reaching the
dryer mechanism, for example, dryer tube, (as mentioned herein,
condensed out liquids reaching the, render the dryer mechanism, for
example, dryer tube, less efficient by a cooling effect, in other
words, the dryer mechanism should preferably be used to dehumidify
rather than to remove water). The dryer mechanism, for example, may
be wound around the airway adaptor to increase its temperature (and
the temperature of the gas flowing through it) and thus the dryer
mechanism's efficiency.
[0051] In accordance with some embodiments of the present
disclosure, particularly when used with a cannula, for example with
non-intubated patients that are anyway wearing a cannula that is
secured upon the patients face, the dryer mechanism, for example,
Nafion.RTM. tube, may be placed on or near the patient's face, as
close as possible to the cannula so as to gain heat from the
patient. There is thus provided, in accordance with some
embodiments of the present disclosure, an exhaled breath sampling
assembly including a cannula, a moisture reduction sleeve including
a material adapted to reduce moisture, and a connector adapted to
connect the sleeve substantially adjacent to a breath sampling
inlet within the cannula, wherein the sleeve is adapted to be
placed on a subject's face.
[0052] In accordance with some embodiments, there is provided an
exhaled breath moisture reduction system including a dryer
mechanism and a connector adapted to connect the dryer mechanism
proximate to a respiratory output device. The connector may be
adapted to connect between a dryer mechanism and a respiratory
output device in such way that substantially retains the gas sample
characteristics (for example, humidity and temperature) until it
reaches the dryer mechanism. The connector may be molded on the
dryer mechanism and/or a separate element. The dryer mechanism may
include a material adapted to absorb moisture. The dryer mechanism
may include a material adapted to pass moisture.
[0053] When used, the respiratory output device is generally
maintained at a temperature higher than ambient temperature,
because it passes the exhaled breath of a subject. The proximity
between the dryer mechanism and the respiratory output device may
allow maintaining the dryer mechanism at a relatively high
temperature and thus increase the efficiency of the moisture
(and/or humidity) reduction. The system may further include a
gripper adapted to cover or partially cover the connector. In
addition to being a grabbing point, the gripper may include an
insulating material. The insulating material may be a thermal
insulator and may be adapted to maintain the relatively high
temperature of the gas passing from the respiratory output device
to the dryer mechanism.
[0054] The term "proximate to" may refer to 3 cm (centimeters) or
less, for example, 1 cm or less, 0.5 cm or less). The closer the
dryer mechanism to the respiratory output device, the less heat is
lost.
[0055] In accordance with some embodiments, there is provided an
exhaled breath moisture reduction system including a dryer
mechanism adjacent to a connector adapted to connect the dryer
mechanism to a respiratory output device, wherein the dryer
mechanism comprises a reinforcing element.
[0056] The connector may be adapted to connect between a dryer
mechanism and a respiratory output device in such way that
substantially retains the gas sample characteristics (for example,
humidity and temperature) until it reaches the dryer mechanism.
[0057] The dryer mechanism may include a material adapted to absorb
moisture. The dryer mechanism may include a material adapted to
pass moisture.
[0058] The proximity between the dryer mechanism and the connector
to the respiratory output device may allow maintaining the dryer
mechanism at a relatively high temperature and thus increase the
efficiency of the moisture (and/or humidity) reduction.
[0059] The term "adjacent to" may refer to 3 cm (centimeters) or
less, for example, 1 cm or less, 0.5 cm or less). "Adjacent to" may
also include a connector that is molded on the dryer mechanism.
[0060] In accordance with additional embodiments, there is provided
an exhaled breath moisture reduction sleeve including material(s)
adapted to reduce moisture and a connector adapted to connect the
sleeve substantially adjacent to a breath sampling inlet.
[0061] In accordance with additional embodiments, there is provided
an exhaled breath sampling assembly including an airway adaptor and
a moisture reduction sleeve comprising a material adapted to reduce
moisture and a connector adapted to connect the sleeve
substantially adjacent to a breath sampling inlet within the
adaptor.
[0062] In accordance with additional embodiments, there is provided
a breath analyzer including a moisture reduction sleeve comprising
a material adapted to reduce moisture and a connector adapted to
connect the sleeve substantially adjacent to a breath sampling
inlet.
[0063] The connector may be adapted to connect between a dryer
mechanism and a respiratory output device in such way that
substantially retains the gas sample characteristics (for example,
humidity and temperature) until it reaches the dryer mechanism.
[0064] The dryer mechanism may include a material adapted to absorb
moisture. The dryer mechanism may include a material adapted to
pass moisture.
[0065] In accordance with additional embodiments, there is provided
a method of sampling breath including attaching an exhaled breath
moisture reduction sleeve substantially adjacent to a breath
sampling inlet (which may be within an airway adaptor). Attaching
an exhaled breath moisture reduction sleeve substantially adjacent
to a breath sampling inlet may be performed in such way as to
substantially retains the gas sample characteristics (for example,
high temperature) until it reaches the dryer mechanism and thus
increase the efficiency of the dryer mechanism.
[0066] In accordance with other embodiments, there is provided a
method of sampling breath including attaching an exhaled breath
moisture reduction sleeve substantially adjacent to a breath
sampling inlet of a cannula, wherein the moisture reduction sleeve
is placed on a subject's face. Attaching an exhaled breath moisture
reduction sleeve substantially adjacent to a breath sampling inlet
of a cannula and placing the moisture reduction sleeve on a
subject's face may allow substantial retaining of the gas sample
characteristics (for example, high temperature) until it reaches
the dryer mechanism and thus increase the efficiency of the dryer
mechanism.
[0067] A "connector" as referred to herein may include any element
that is adapted to bring to objects close to each other. A
connector may refer to a molded-on connector, which may be a part
of the drying mechanism and/or a separate element.
[0068] A "dryer mechanism" (or a drying mechanism) as referred to
herein may include a dryer tube, a dryer sleeve that include
material(s) capable of absorbing or passing moisture and/or
humidity from a fluid such as exhaled breath. The dryer mechanism
may have any other form, for example a sheet that allows reduction
of humidity in sampled exhaled breath while maintaining the spacial
resolution (and/or special integrity) of the collected breath
samples. The dryer mechanism may include for example, Nafion.RTM..
The dryer mechanism (such as the dryer tube) may include a
reinforcing element.
[0069] A "reinforcing element" as referred to herein may include
any element adapted to provide mechanical protection to the dryer
mechanism, for example, prevent fluid flow interruption, damaging,
(partially) blocking, bending and/or collapsing of the drying tube.
The reinforcing element may cover essentially or a portion of a
dryer mechanism. The reinforcing element may include, for example,
a braiding net or any other form of mechanical support, such as
rigids, rods or the like.
[0070] A "respiratory output device" as referred to herein may
include, a mask, cannula, airway tube, endotracheal tube,
intubation tube and the like.
[0071] A "breath sampling inlet" as referred to herein may include
an opening, aperture, orifice, valve or the like that is adapted
for collection of fluid (such as breath exhale) from a subject's
airway (such as an airway adaptor, cannula, airway tube or the
like).
[0072] A "sleeve" as referred to herein may include a replaceable
cylinder or a jacket that may include or be embodied by a drying
material. A "sleeve" may also refer to a cylindrically shaped or
otherwise tubular piece that sits over or under a rod, joint, shaft
or tube.
[0073] A "cannula" as referred to herein may include different
types of oral/nasal cannula(s), which may be used to deliver oxygen
to patients who require assistance to breath properly and/or to
collect breath samples from patients to monitor respiration, or to
perform both functions. Such cannula(s) may be used when direct
ventilation is not provided. The term "oral/nasal" may refer to the
adaptable configuration of such cannula(s) which are designed to be
in close proximity to the oral cavity and/or nasal cavity and may
also be at least partially inserted into the nasal cavity.
[0074] Reference is now made to FIG. 1, which schematically
illustrates an exploded view of a sampling system constructed and
operative in accordance with some embodiment of the present
disclosure and to FIG. 2, which schematically illustrates an
assembled view of the sampling system of FIG. 1. The sampling
system 100 is adapted for sampling and analysis of exhaled breath,
while reducing the exhaled breath moisture using a moisture
reduction system 102 adapted to position a dryer mechanism
proximate to a respiratory output device (such as a mask, cannula,
oral and/or nasal breath collectors, endotracheal tube intubation
tube and the like). The respiratory output device is generally
located near the patient.
[0075] The sampling system 100 includes a moisture reduction system
102, which includes a dryer mechanism, particularly a dryer tube
104 and a reinforcing element 106. The moisture reduction system
102 further includes a connector 108 that is adapted to connect the
dryer tube 104 substantially adjacent to a breath sampling inlet
110. The breath sampling inlet 110 is adapted to connect between
the connector 108 and the airway adaptor 120 which may be a part of
the respiratory output device (particularly, endotracheal tube,
intubation tube and the like). The breath sampling inlet 110 may be
integrally formed with the airway adaptor 120 (as shown) or may be
attached to the airway adaptor 120. The airway adaptor 120 is
adapted to connect to a patient respiratory gas output mechanism
such as an endotracheal tube or intubating tube. The breath
sampling inlet 110 is shown (partially) within an airway adaptor
120. The breath sampling inlet 110 further includes a sampler 112
having sampling prongs 114, 116 and 118 which are adapted to
collect exhaled (and also inhaled) breath. Of course, sampler 112
may be structured differently, for example in deferent length,
position within the airway adaptor 120, angle, number and position
of sampling prongs and the like. The sampler 112 may include
openings and/or funnel shaped collectors instead of one or more
prongs and/or may include, for example one or more (for example 1,
2, 3 or more) prongs in each one of the sampling sides.
[0076] The moisture reduction system 102 further includes a gripper
122, which is adapted to (at least partially) cover the connector
108 (as shown in FIG. 2) and may allow the attendant (technician,
nurse and the like) to handle the sampling system 100 without
touching and possibly damaging the dryer tube 104.
[0077] The moisture reduction system 102 further includes a
molded-on connector 126 having a male adaptor 124, which is adapted
to connect to the sampling tubing (not shown). The molded-on
connector 126 also provides a mechanical protection to the dryer
tube 104 (which is often of a frail nature).
[0078] It is noted that other appropriate connectors and/or
adaptors, which may have different shapes and/or operative
mechanisms, may be used. The sampling tubing may further include
another moisture reduction system (not shown), which may be the
same or different from moisture reduction system 102 and a coupler
that allows the connection of the sampling system 100 to a gas
analyzer such as a capnograph (not shown).
[0079] The dryer tube 104 may include any drying mechanism and/or
material that is capable of reducing the moisture level in the
sampling system 100 and the sampling tubes. For example, the dryer
tube 104 may include Nafion.RTM. as referred to herein. In another
example, the dryer tube 104 may include filters such as microporous
filters or molecular sieves (material containing tiny pores of a
precise and uniform size that may be used to absorb moisture). The
dryer tube 104 may vary in length and/or in diameter. It is
generally preferable that the dryer tube is adapted to absorb
moisture and is essentially impermeable to gases. A filter of
molecular sieve into which certain materials are impregnated may be
included in the drying tube. The reinforcing element 106 is adapted
to provide mechanical protection to the drying tube 104, for
example prevent flow interruption, damaging, (partially) blocking,
bending and/or collapsing of the drying tube 104. The reinforcing
element 106 may cover a portion of the drying tube 104. The
reinforcing element 106 may include, for example, a braiding net
(as shown in FIG. 1) or any other form of mechanical support, such
as rigid bars.
[0080] The connector 108 that is adapted to connect the dryer tube
104 substantially adjacent to the breath sampling inlet 110 may
vary in shape and or size, for example in a way that would allow
minimizing the distance between the dryer tube 104 and the breath
sampling inlet 110.
[0081] The gripper 122 may include an insulating material. The
insulating material may be a thermal insulator (made for example
from a foamy material) that allows maintaining relatively high
temperature of the sampled breath prior to reaching the dryer tube
104. Maintaining relatively high temperature of the sampled breath
will in turn reduce the condensing out of water and thus increase
the efficiency of the dryer tube 104.
[0082] Reference is now made to FIG. 3, which shows a sectional
illustration taken along section lines III-III in FIG. 2. The
sampling system 100 includes a moisture reduction system 102, which
includes a dryer tube 104 and a reinforcing element 106. The
moisture reduction system 102 further includes a connector 108 that
is adapted to connect the dryer tube 104 substantially adjacent to
a breath sampling inlet 110. FIG. 3 particularly demonstrates an
example of an essentially proximate connection between the dryer
tube 104, which has a reinforcing element 106, and the airway
adaptor 120 which is adapted to fit into the respiratory output
device (particularly, endotracheal tube, intubation tube and the
like). This essentially proximate connection is done using the
connector 108, which has an inner structure that is adapted to fit
the outer structure of the breath sampling inlet 110 integrally
formed with the airway adaptor 120. It is noted that other
appropriate connectors, inlets and/or adaptors, which may have
different shapes and/or operative mechanisms, and are adapted to
maintain an essentially proximate connection between a drying
mechanism, such as the dryer tube 104, and a respiratory output
device (such as mask, cannula, oral and/or nasal breath collectors,
an endotracheal tube, intubation tube and the like) may be used.
Also shown is the gripper 122, which partially covers the connector
108 and may allow grabbing the sampling system 100 without touching
and possibly damaging the dryer tube 104.
[0083] Reference is now made to FIG. 4, which schematically
illustrates an exploded view of a sampling system constructed and
operative in accordance with another embodiment of the present
disclosure and to FIG. 5, which schematically illustrates an
assembled view of the sampling system of FIG. 4. The sampling
system 200 is adapted for sampling and analysis of exhaled breath,
while reducing the exhaled breath moisture using a moisture
reduction system 202 adapted to position a dryer mechanism adjacent
to a connector 208 wherein the connector 208 is adapted to connect
the dryer mechanism to a respiratory output device (such as a mask,
cannula, oral and/or nasal breath collectors, endotracheal tube
intubation tube and the like).
[0084] The sampling system 200 includes a moisture reduction system
202, which includes a dryer mechanism, particularly a dryer tube
204 and a reinforcing element 206. The dryer tube 204 is adjacent
to a connector 208 that is adapted to connect the dryer tube 204
substantially adjacent to a breath sampling inlet 210. The breath
sampling inlet 210 is adapted to connect between the connector 208
(which has knurls or ridges (211)) and the airway adaptor 220 which
is adapted to fit into the respiratory output device (particularly,
endotracheal tube, intubation tube and the like). The breath
sampling inlet 210 may be integrally formed with the airway adaptor
220 (as shown) or may be attached to the airway adaptor 220. The
breath sampling inlet 210 is shown (partially) within an airway
adaptor 220. The breath sampling inlet 210 further includes a
sampler 212 having sampling prongs 214 and 216 (shown as an open
ended box, having a rectangular cross section) which are adapted to
collect exhaled (and also inhaled) breath. Of course, sampler 212
may be structured differently, for example in deferent length,
position within the airway adaptor 220, angle, number and position
of sampling prongs and the like. The sampler 212 may include
openings and/or funnel shaped collectors instead of one or more
prongs and/or may include, for example one or more (for example 1,
2, 3 or more) prongs in each one of the sampling sides.
[0085] The moisture reduction system 202 further includes a gripper
222, which is adapted to (at least partially) cover the connector
208 (as shown in FIG. 5) and may allow the attendant (technician,
nurse and the like) to handle the sampling system 200 without
touching and possibly damaging the dryer tube 204. The moisture
reduction system 202 further includes a molded-on connector 209
which may cover the end of the dryer tube 204 (adjacent to the
connector 208). The molded-on connector 209 also provides a
mechanical protection to the dryer tube 204 (which is often of a
frail nature).
[0086] The moisture reduction system 202 further includes a
molded-on connector 226 having a male adaptor 224, which is adapted
to connect to the sampling tubing (not shown). The molded-on
connector 226 may also cover the end of the dryer tube 204 (the
opposite end from the end adjacent to the connector 208). The
molded-on connector 226 also provides a mechanical protection to
the dryer tube 104 (which is often of a frail nature).
[0087] It is noted that other appropriate connectors and/or
adaptors, which may have different shapes and/or operative
mechanisms, may be used. The sampling tubing may further include
another moisture reduction system (not shown), which may be the
same or different from moisture reduction system 202 and a coupler
that allows the connection of the sampling system 200 to a gas
analyzer such as a capnograph (not shown).
[0088] The dryer tube 204 may include any drying mechanism and/or
material that is capable of reducing the moisture level in the
sampling system 200 and the sampling tubes. For example, the dryer
tube 204 may include Nafion.RTM. as referred to herein. In another
example, the dryer tube 204 may include filters such as microporous
filters or molecular sieves (material containing tiny pores of a
precise and uniform size that may be used to absorb moisture). The
dryer tube 204 may vary in length and/or in diameter.
[0089] The reinforcing element 206 is adapted to provide mechanical
protection to the drying tube 204, for example prevent flow
interruption, damaging, (partially) blocking, bending and/or
collapsing of the drying tube 204. The reinforcing element 206 may
cover a portion of the drying tube 204. The reinforcing element 206
may include, for example, rigid bars (207) with spaces (207a)
therebetween (as shown in FIG. 4) or any other form of mechanical
support, such as a rigid braided net (similar to that shown in FIG.
1 at 106). The connector 208 that is adapted to connect the dryer
tube 204 substantially adjacent to the breath sampling inlet 210
may vary in shape and or size, for example in a way that would
allow minimizing the distance between the dryer tube 104 and the
breath sampling inlet 210.
[0090] The gripper 222 may also include an insulating material. The
insulating material may be a thermal insulator (made for example
from a foamy material) that allows maintaining relatively high
temperature of the sampled breath prior to reaching the dryer tube
204. Maintaining relatively high temperature of the sampled breath
will in turn reduce the condensing out of water and thus increase
the efficiency of the dryer tube 204.
[0091] Reference is now made to FIG. 6, which schematically
illustrates a view of a sampling system constructed and operative
in accordance with an additional embodiment of the present
disclosure.
[0092] The sampling system 300 is adapted for sampling and analysis
of exhaled breath, while reducing the exhaled breath moisture using
a moisture reduction system 302 adapted to position a dryer
mechanism proximate to a respiratory output device (such as a mask,
cannula, oral and/or nasal breath collectors, endotracheal tube
intubation tube and the like). The respiratory output device is
generally located on or near the patient.
[0093] The sampling system 300 includes a moisture reduction system
302, which includes a dryer mechanism, particularly a dryer tube
304 and a reinforcing element 306.
[0094] The moisture reduction system 302 further includes a
molded-on connector 309 which may cover the end of the dryer tube
304 and also provide a mechanical protection to the dryer tube 304
(which is often of a frail nature). The system 300 further includes
a breath sampling inlet 310. The breath sampling inlet 310 is
adapted to connect the moisture reduction system 302 (by the
molded-on connector 309) substantially adjacent to the airway
adaptor 320 which is adapted to fit into the respiratory output
device (particularly, endotracheal tube, intubation tube and the
like). FIG. 6 demonstrates a configuration in which the dryer
mechanism (particularly, the moisture reduction system 302 is
connected directly to the airway adaptor 320.
[0095] The breath sampling inlet 310 is integrally formed with the
airway adaptor 320. The breath sampling inlet 310 may also be
attached to the airway adaptor 320. The breath sampling inlet 310
is shown (partially) within an airway adaptor 320. The breath
sampling inlet 310 further includes a sampler 312 having sampling
prongs 314, 316 and 318 which are adapted to collect exhaled (and
also inhaled) breath. Of course, sampler 312 may be structured
differently, for example in deferent length, position within the
airway adaptor 320, angle, number and position of sampling prongs
and the like. The sampler 312 may include openings and/or funnel
shaped collectors instead of one or more prongs and/or may include,
for example one or more (for example 1, 2, 3 or more)
prongs/openings in each one of the sampling sides.
[0096] The moisture reduction system 302 further includes a gripper
(not shown), which is adapted to (at least partially) cover the
breath sampling inlet 310 and may allow the attendant (technician,
nurse and the like) to handle the sampling system 300 without
touching and possibly damaging the dryer tube 304. The gripper may
include an insulating material. The insulating material may be a
thermal insulator (made for example from a foamy material) that
allows maintaining relatively high temperature of the sampled
breath prior to reaching the dryer tube 304.
[0097] The moisture reduction system 302 further includes a
molded-on connector 326 having a male adaptor 324, which is adapted
to connect to the sampling tubing (not shown). The molded-on
connector 326 also provides a mechanical protection to the dryer
tube 304 (which is often of a frail nature).
[0098] It is noted that other appropriate connectors and/or
adaptors, which may have different shapes and/or operative
mechanisms, may be used. The sampling tubing may further include
another moisture reduction system (not shown), for example, a
filter of molecular sieve into which certain materials are
impregnated such as to form drying system which is adapted to
absorb moisture and is essentially impermeable to gases. The
moisture reduction system may be the same or different from
moisture reduction system 102 and a coupler that allows the
connection of the sampling system 100 to a gas analyzer such as a
capnograph (not shown).
[0099] The dryer tube 304 may include any drying mechanism and/or
material that is capable of reducing the moisture level in the
sampling system 300 and the sampling tubes. For example, the dryer
tube 304 may include Nafion.RTM. as referred to herein. In another
example, the dryer tube 304 may include filters such as microporous
filters or molecular sieves (material containing tiny pores of a
precise and uniform size that may be used to absorb moisture). The
dryer tube 304 may vary in length and/or in diameter.
[0100] The reinforcing element 306 is adapted to provide mechanical
protection to the drying tube 304, for example prevent flow
interruption, damaging, (partially) blocking, bending and/or
collapsing of the drying tube 304. The reinforcing element 306 may
cover a portion of the drying tube 304. The reinforcing element 306
may include, for example, a braiding net or any other form of
mechanical support, such as rigid bars.
[0101] Reference is now made to FIG. 7, which shows a sectional
illustration taken along section lines V-V in FIG. 6. The sampling
system 300 includes a moisture reduction system 302, which includes
a dryer tube 304 and a reinforcing element 306. The moisture
reduction system 302 further includes a molded-on connector 309
which may cover the end of the dryer tube 304 and a breath sampling
inlet 310. The breath sampling inlet 310 is adapted to connect the
dryer tube 304 (with or without the molded-on connector 309)
substantially adjacent to the airway adaptor 320 which is adapted
to fit into the respiratory output device (particularly,
endotracheal tube, intubation tube and the like). FIG. 3
particularly demonstrates an example of an essentially proximate
connection between the dryer tube 304, which has a reinforcing
element 306, and the airway adaptor 320 which is a part of the
respiratory output device (particularly, endotracheal tube,
intubation tube and the like). It is noted that other appropriate,
inlets (which may also have the functionality of connectors) and/or
adaptors, having different shapes and/or operative mechanisms, and
are adapted to maintain an essentially proximate connection between
a drying mechanism, such as the dryer tube 304, and a respiratory
output device (such as mask, cannula, oral and/or nasal breath
collectors, an endotracheal tube, intubation tube and the like) may
be used.
[0102] Reference is now made to FIG. 8, which shows a schematic
illustration of a sampling system constructed and operative in
accordance with some embodiment of the present disclosure. The
sampling system 400 is adapted for sampling and analysis of exhaled
breath, while reducing the exhaled breath moisture using a moisture
reduction system 402 (shown as a dryer tube) adapted to position a
dryer mechanism proximate to a respiratory output device (such as a
mask, cannula, oral and/or nasal breath collectors, endotracheal
tube intubation tube and the like). The respiratory output device
is generally located near the patient.
[0103] The sampling system 400 includes a moisture reduction system
402, which includes a dryer mechanism. The moisture reduction
system 402 further includes a molded-on connector 409 which may
cover the end of the dryer tube and also provide a mechanical
protection to the dryer tube (which is often of a frail nature).
The system 400 further includes a breath sampling inlet 410. The
breath sampling inlet 410 is adapted to connect the moisture
reduction system 402 (by the molded-on connector 409) substantially
adjacent to the airway adaptor 420 which is adapted to fit into the
respiratory output device (particularly, endotracheal tube,
intubation tube and the like). FIG. 8 demonstrates a configuration
in which the dryer mechanism (particularly, the moisture reduction
system 402 is connected directly to the airway adaptor 420, similar
to the moisture reduction system 302 shows in FIG. 6, however the
moisture reduction system 402 is wound around the airway adaptor
420). This configuration is adapted to increase the efficiency of
the dryer mechanism and reduce humidity and/or moisture in the
sampled gas as by winding the moisture reduction system 402 around
the airway adaptor 420, the warmed air of the patient's airway flow
(from either natural breathing or artificial ventilation) heats the
dryer mechanism and thus maintain a higher temperature of the humid
gas.
[0104] The breath sampling inlet 410 is integrally formed with the
airway adaptor 420. The breath sampling inlet 410 may also be
attached to the airway adaptor 420. The breath sampling inlet 410
is shown (partially) within an airway adaptor 420. The breath
sampling inlet 410 further includes a sampler 412 having sampling
prong(s) 414 (only one shown, but there may be more) which is (are)
adapted to collect exhaled breath. Of course, sampler 412 may be
structured differently, for example in deferent length, position
within the airway adaptor 420, angle, number and position of
sampling prongs and the like. The sampler 412 may include openings
and/or funnel shaped collectors instead of one or more prongs
and/or may include, for example one or more (for example 1, 2, 3 or
more) prongs/openings in each one of the sampling sides.
[0105] The moisture reduction system 402 further includes a gripper
422, which is adapted to (at least partially) cover the breath
sampling inlet 410 and may allow the attendant (technician, nurse
and the like) to handle the sampling system 400 without touching
and possibly damaging the dryer tube. The gripper may include an
insulating material. The insulating material may be a thermal
insulator (made for example from a foamy material) that allows
maintaining relatively high temperature of the sampled breath prior
to reaching the dryer tube.
[0106] The moisture reduction system 402 further includes a
molded-on connector 426 having a male adaptor 424, which is adapted
to connect to the sampling tubing (not shown). The molded-on
connector 426 also provides a mechanical protection to the dryer
tube (which is often of a frail nature).
[0107] While certain features of the disclosure have been
illustrated and described herein, many modifications,
substitutions, changes, and equivalents will now occur to those
skilled in the art. It is, therefore, to be understood that the
appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and
changes as fall within the true spirit of the disclosure.
* * * * *