Servo respirator constructed from a positive-pressure ventilator

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Respiratory Physiology

Background:

• Mechanical ventilation is crucial in animal research.
• Existing ventilators may lack precise control over respiratory parameters.

Purpose of the Study:

• To construct and evaluate an electronically controlled servo respirator.
• To provide precise tracheal pressure control for animal ventilation.

Main Methods:

• Assembled a servo respirator using a positive-pressure ventilator, recorder pen motor, and differential amplifier.
• Implemented negative feedback using a tracheal pressure signal for precise control.
• Tested the system's suitability for anesthetized cats and dogs.

Main Results:

• The servo respirator achieved precise control of tracheal pressure.
• The system demonstrated suitable power and response for animal ventilation.
• The device offered flexibility in ventilatory cycle parameter selection.

Conclusions:

• The developed servo respirator is a versatile and effective tool for animal research ventilation.
• It can function as a controlled pump or a demand-driven respirator.