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Inverse Pneumatic Artificial Muscles for Application in Low-Cost Ventilators
Seyed M Mirvakili1, Douglas Sim2, Robert Langer1,3,4,5
1Koch Institute Massachusetts Institute of Technology Cambridge MA 02139 USA.
Advanced Intelligent Systems (Weinheim an Der Bergstrasse, Germany)
|November 11, 2020
Summary
A low-cost, portable mechanical ventilator was developed using pneumatic artificial muscles. This high-performance device offers essential ventilation modes for emergency situations at a fraction of the cost of traditional ventilators.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Medical Devices
- Emergency Medicine Technology
Background:
- High-end ventilators are expensive and difficult to stockpile for mass emergencies.
- There is a critical need for affordable and accessible mechanical ventilation solutions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design and demonstrate a low-cost, portable, high-performance mechanical ventilator.
- To address the demand for ventilators in mass emergency situations.
Main Methods:
- Utilized pneumatic artificial muscles (air cylinders) in inverse mode for mechanical ventilation.
- Demonstrated controlled and assisted modes of operation.
- Designed a device independent of high-pressure air pipelines.
Main Results:
- Achieved a respiration rate of 10-30 breaths/min, tidal volume (VT) of 150-1000 mL, and I:E ratio of 1:1-1:5.
- The prototype cost is under $400 USD, with potential production costs below $250 USD.
Conclusions:
- The proposed low-cost ventilator design is a viable solution for emergency preparedness.
- This portable device offers high performance and accessibility, overcoming cost barriers of traditional ventilators.
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