Design and Construction of a Microcontroller-Based Ventilator Synchronized with Pulse Oximeter

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Respiratory Medicine
• Control Systems

Background:

• Mechanical ventilation requires precise oxygen (FiO2) and Positive End-Expiratory Pressure (PEEP) settings.
• Current methods often rely on intermittent arterial blood gas analysis, which can be invasive and delayed.
• Real-time physiological monitoring can optimize ventilator settings for individual patient needs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a novel integrated system for synchronized mechanical ventilation and pulse oximetry.
• To develop a fuzzy-logic-based software for automated adjustment of FiO2 and PEEP.
• To eliminate the need for arterial blood gas analysis in routine ventilator management.

Main Methods:

• Implemented serial communication between a pulse oximeter and a mechanical ventilator.
• Utilized transmitter (Tx) and receiver (Rx) lines for data transfer.
• Developed a fuzzy-logic algorithm to interpret SpO2 and pulse rate, calculating optimal FiO2 and PEEP.

Main Results:

• The system successfully synchronized ventilator and pulse oximeter functions.
• Fuzzy-logic software accurately calculated and adjusted FiO2 and PEEP based on real-time patient data.
• Physician feedback and experimental results indicated improved outcomes compared to conventional methods.

Conclusions:

• The novel device provides a non-invasive, automated approach to mechanical ventilation management.
• Synchronized monitoring and control enhance respiratory support efficacy.
• This technology offers a promising alternative to traditional methods, improving patient outcomes and clinical workflow.