GRD Journal for Engineering | Volume 6 | Issue 8 | July 2021

ISSN: 2455-5703

Low Cost Portable Ventilator

Amal Alex Saju Ajayan
UG Student UG Student
Department of Mechanical Engineering Department of Mechanical Engineering
Sree Narayana Institute of Technology, Adoor Sree Narayana Institute of Technology, Adoor

Anandhu Ranganath Vishnu S Nair

UG Student Assistant Professor
Department of Mechanical Engineering Department of Mechanical Engineering
Sree Narayana Institute of Technology, Adoor Sree Narayana Institute of Technology, Adoor

Abstract
Respiratory equipment used in intensive care units is sophisticated equipment. Their design is to ensure proper ventilation.
However, due to their size, weight and the need for external power, these machines are rarely ready to transport patients with
respiratory equipment. A portable ventilator is a composite device designed for mechanical ventilation in an area without wires
and power cords. Ideally, a portable ventilator, including a source of oxygen and a battery, should be light, sturdy, and able to
handle difficult areas with minimal adjustment, and be able to use without gas or electricity available with caution. It should be
cheap, easy to use, and offer a range of effective ventilation methods. This ventilator contains a simple arm and a gear mechanism
that compresses the bag valve mask with the help of a stepper motor that works on specific system inputs. It includes safety
measures to ensure the safety of patients.
Keywords- Bag Valve Mask (BVM), Stepper Motor, Portable Ventilator, Arm and Gear Mechanism, Ventilation
Methods

I. INTRODUCTION
Respiratory infections and respiratory failure caused by injuries reflect moderate social suffering in each of the developed countries
and in other less developed countries. Portable Ventilators are lightweight and can be transported without problems from one place
to another at the hospital. They provide long-term care to patients who are no longer in need of special ventilators. Reiley's Weekes
[1] weeks have designed and outlined for the improvement and validation of open, portable and low-cost airflow that can quickly
be made with minimal detection to bring about chain disruption. This single continuous, compulsory, closed, open, air-conditioned,
emergency protection mode provides strong protection and power that is not present in the air-current response system. Food and
Drug Administration Requirements for Prevention and Efficiency, Emergency Use Authorization is in testing for this device. This
emergency respirator should set air pressure or opposing isolation to benefit a few patients. All the facts of the suspension and
certification are dedicated to assisting the production of wind turbines even in limited resource facilities.
Darwood J [4] performed tests and evaluated a simple, low-pressure ventilation system using single stress detection and
algorithm management system. It is designed to provide efficient air travel at a discounted rate, at the same time as independently
tracking the status of the affected person and important safety precautions. The prototype ventilator was modified and tested for
the use of an anesthetic that looked at the lungs as a contraceptive. Using a consistent view of the lung and virtual stress sensor,
we investigate to detect leaks of air conditioning. During a positive pressure flow that occurs from time to time to look at the lung,
the model device ensures the appropriate waveform parameters: all measured circuit leaks ≥ 6 mm2 length detected; Compliance
adjustments were obtained between 10 ml.cmH2O - 1, 20ml.cmH2O - 1 and 50 ml. cmH2O - 1; and an adjustment to the acquisition
has been found everywhere that would have been the result of a measured variance. These results show that this model generation
has the potential to provide safe airflow without the use of any sophisticated visual sensors or Simultaneous software development
and configuration allow full size and complexity discounts. Experimental exhibitions in addition to drawings are now well suited
to advancing the generation to clinical trials.
Shao Yung Lu [3] describes the design of a high-frequency air conditioner and evaluates its performance in addition to
medical science applications. A microscopic respirator is used with a visual controller and a commentary device for stabilization
and precision handling. The effectiveness of CO2 washout the use of the proposed ventilator was confirmed in animal experiments.
The proposed device achieves a modified DP variant of 5 ~ forty-five psi, and an I: E rating of 10 ~ 70%, oxygen awareness 20%
~ 100%, and 0 charge charges ~ four L / min. All parameters are displayed on the LCD display and are controlled from the pc
interface. The proposed ventilator has a compact length of 20 x 15 x 17 cm3 which is significantly smaller than current HFJVs, and
test results recommend the strength and performance of the proposed metal. With its flexible layout, adjustable features, and prompt
comment management, this HFJV can be medically employed in addition to non-hospital and ambulance arrangements and home
health care, making the scientific solution much easier.

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II. PORTABLE VENTILATOR

Portable ventilators supply oxygen gas to the respiratory circuit, which is then humidified by a humidifier before delivering to the
patient. They provide long-term guidance to patients who now no longer need essential ventilators. They can be used to treat
patients with conditions such as pneumonia or in some cases in cases of multiple injuries. Ventilators are designed to provide
guidance to patients who now no longer need essential ventilators. These breathing apparatus usually includes a bendy breathing
circuit, control system, monitors and alarms. Other facilities may also include special breathing circuits, oxygen accumulators, and
heated humidifiers or heat exchangers (HMEs). Many gadgets use the best type to supply oxygen to the lungs at normal breathing
rates and fluids through an endotracheal tube, tracheostomy cannula, or mask. Power is usually supplied from a power line or from
an internal or external battery (e.g., car battery). These ventilators are used for long-term breathing guidance in long and indoor
care centers; will be used more in emergency care. Here the ventilator uses an arm and gear to compress the bag valve mask with
the purpose of providing oxygen to the patient. This machine is controlled by a microprocessor unit.

III. COMPONENTS

A. Power Source
It contains some of the gas supply to the patient, as well as the energy needed to carry the breathing apparatus. Therefore, this
section includes a gas supply system, batteries and a power adapter for mechanical ventilator. Here it uses a 12V adapter, 2A DC
to supply the existing ventilator.

1) Backup Battery
This ventilator consists of a 12v lithium-ion battery for the backup power source.

B. Mechanical Parts
The components of the ventilator contains calculation of power, bag size and arm and gear mechanism. The arm and gear
compresses the valve bag mask to supply oxygen to the patient.

1) Stepper Motor
A 12-24V, 4.2kg-cm stepper motor is used in this ventilator for the proper working of the two arms.

Fig. 1: Stepper Motor

2) Bag Valve Mask

A 2600ml adult bag valve mask is used in this ventilator and it is made up of liquid silicone rubber (LSR) material.

Fig. 2: Bag Valve Mask

3) Arm and Gear Mechanism

The arm and gear of the ventilator consists of a gear and two arms. When the motor starts its rotation one of the arm act as driven
gear. This gear delivers the work to the other arm, thus compresses the bag valve mask.

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Fig. 3: Arm and Gear Mechanism

C. Controls and Electrical

Controls are one of the ways to control the timing and signals of a gas delivered. These parts have a wide range of components
such as arduino Uno, stepper motor driver, bread board and jump wires.

1) Arduino Uno Rev3

Arduino Uno board microcontroller is primarily based on ATmega328P. It has 14 visible input / output pins, 6 analog input, sixteen
ceramic resonator, USB connection, power jack, ICSP header and reset button. Includes everything that should have been assisted
by a microcontroller.

Fig. 4: Arduino Uno Rev3

2) Stepper Motor Driver

A L298N stepper motor driver is used in this ventilator and has a heatsink for better performance.

Fig. 5: Stepper Motor Driver

3) Inspiratory Flow Regulator

Basically, any device that ensures that the respiratory system receives a fixed gas flow. This is usually a solenoid valve. Obviously
it is an important component.

4) Expiratory Pressure Regulator (Peep Valve)

It is a way of storing and controlling high air pressure. This is a carefully controlled breathing component with pressure control,
usually within the side of the solenoid valve.

D. Monitor
A 16 × 2 LCD display is used in this ventilator to monitor air performance. It can work in 8-bit and 4-bit mode.

Fig. 6: Monitor

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E. Filters and Alarms

Safety features with specific devices and measures to ensure that the patient does not enter into any further danger by inhalation.
This contains filters and alarms.

1) Inspiratory Filters
The inspiratory filter keeps the inhaled gas clean before delivering it to the patient.

2) Expiratory Filters
Expiratory filters are supposed to protect respiratory aids from outdated warm and moist gases, which could damage optimal sensor
values and shorten the life of the device.

3) Alarms
Alarms are usually installed in the ventilator system as protections against unintended adjustments to the oxygen settings and to
identify any malfunction of the ventilator.

IV. DRAWINGS

A. Model Drawings

Fig. 7: Motor Plate and Finger Tip

Fig. 8: Bag Plate and Arm Plate

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Fig. 9: Right Arm and Left Arm

Fig. 10: Spur Gear

B. Cad Drawing

Fig. 11: Cad Drawing of the Ventilator

V. CALCULATIONS

A. Calculations for Standard Spur Gears

Table 1: Calculations for Standard Spur Gears

No. Item Symbol Formula

1 Module m
2 Reference Pressure Angle α Set Value
3 Number of Teeth z
4 Center Distance a (z1 + z2) m / 2NOTE1
5 Reference Diameter d zm
6 Base Diameter db d cos α
7 Addendum ha 1.00m

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8 Tooth Depth h 2.25m

9 Tip Diameter da d + 2m
10 Root Diameter df d – 2.5m
11 Dedendum hf 1.25m
12 Tooth Thickness t 1.5708m
13 Outside Diameter d (Z+2)m

B. Calculations for Number of Teeth

Table 2: Calculations for Number of Teeth
No. Item Symbol Formula

1 Module m
2 Center Distance a Set Value
3 Speed Ratio i
4 Sum of No. of Teeth z1 + z2 2a / m
5 Number of Teeth z z1 + z2 / i + 1 i (z1 + z2) / i + 1

C. Torque Requirement
Finger-bag max contact area: Abag = 90 mm ✕ 115mm
Finger lever arm length: lfinger = 18 cm
Sweep angle: αsweep = 30°
Maximum pressure at airway: Pairway,max = 40 cm H2O
Force of the finger on the bag
Ffinger = 2 Abag Pairway,max = 81.199 N
Maximum torque needed on each finger
𝛕finger = Ffinger lfinger = 14.61 N.m
Total Torque = 29.22 N.m

D. Power Requirement
Maximum respiration rate: RRmax = 40 bpm
Minimum inhale/exhale ratio of 1:4 - IEratio, min = 4
Maximum volume output: Vmax = 800 cm3
Volumetric flow rate
tinhale = 60 sec / RRmax / (1 + IEratio, min)
Qairway = Vmax / tinhale = 0.0027 m3/s
Power output
Power airway = Pairway,max Qairway = 10.46 W
Power required at the gripper
Power gripper = 2 Power airway = 20.92 W
Power output required from the motor
Power motor = 2 Power gripper = 41.84 W

VI. STAGES IN DEVELOPING PROTOTYPE

We have developed this prototype through different stages such as Material selection, Sheet metal cutting, Frame work, Frame
welding, Electrical components, Wood cutting, Selection of ambu bag, Gear cutting, Final assembly, Model testing and review.

Fig. 12: Cut Out Parts Fig. 13: Entire Physical Connection

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Fig. 14: Prototype Base Design Fig. 15: Final Prototype

VII. ANALYSIS AND TESTING

The battery life of a respirator is tested using a respirator in the test lung until the battery capacity drops to a minimum level.
Device is set to high volume and BPM rate (40breaths / minute). The total duration of the test was three hours and thirty-five
minutes during which the battery was reduced. Analysis such as compression, pressure and load was performed on solidworks
software. Air performance and alarm are tested in the lung simulator after its creation and manufacture. Under pressure control,
alarms with high volume, low volume and high pressure are all successfully created when their alarms go off. Microprocessor
systems in the ventilator allow for a more efficient air intake system in addition to pressure-controlled air intake with continuous
feedback. Further investigation is needed.

VIII. CONCLUSIONS
A functional ventilator is developed that can be run in the test lung machine. The model has a breathing rate and volume of water
that is controlled by the user. Provides auxiliary control and over-alarm alarm. It has low power requirements. The display settings
and conditions are shown on the LCD screen. Further development of this ventilator is planned. Future modifications will be used
that are encouraged by the results of our sample testing. It will include a steady range of expiration rate. We will also add features
including PEEP valve, humidifier and pressure valve. A BVM (bag valve mask) can be easily purchased and installed. Weight can
be reduced and also battery life can be increased. Finally, we will test the respirator with a lung model to meet the respiratory
standards and sell the product. Proper model analysis should be performed when modeling a life size model. As the life-size model
is high in cost, appropriate designs and advanced methods should be used to meet customer needs.

REFERENCES
[1] Reiley Weekes, William Connacher, Jeremy Sieker, Mark Stambaugh, Research Gate, “A low‐Cost Ventilator for Patients with COVID‐19”. (2020).
[2] Danny Blacker and Fernando Cruz, Rice University, Apollo BVM pandemic ventilators, “Prototyping of a low cost portable ventilator”, (2020).
[3] Shao-Yung Lu, Hau Lin, Hsu-Tah Kuo, IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society (EMBC), “Design and Study of a Portable High-frequency
Ventilator for Clinical Applications”. (2019).
[4] Darwood J, McCanny R, Kwasnicki, B Martin, P Jones, “The Design And Evaluation Of A Novel Low‐Cost Portable Ventilator” - Young, Anesthesia,
Volume74, Issue11, e101, (2019).
[5] Weiss, C. H., Baker, D., Weiner, S., Bechel, M., Ragland, M., Rademaker, A., Persell, S. D. “Low tidal volume ventilation use in acute respiratory distress
syndrome”,(2016).
[6] Steven R Holets RRT and John D Davies, “Should a Portable Ventilator Be Used in All In-Hospital Transports” Volume 2, Respiratory Care: (2016).
[7] “Continuing Education in Anaesthesia Critical Care & Pain” 8(6), Oxford University. (2011).
[8] Al Husseini, A M Lee, Negrete J, Powelson S, Servi A T, Slocum A H, & Saukkonen J. “Design and prototyping of a low-cost portable mechanical
ventilator”, Transactions of the ASME Journal of Medical Devices (2010).
[9] Stuart Fludger and Andrew Klein, Portable Ventilators, “Continuing Education in Anaesthesia Critical Care & Pain”, Volume 8, Issue 6, December, (2008).
[10] Brill, S. Gurman, G. M, Brill G, “Evaluation of the Versa Med portable ventilator”: clinical trials, Volume 17, Issue 12 - p 737-743, December (2000).

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