Microcomputer-based system to measure, record and process flow-volume curves, respiratory questionnaire data and environmental exposure

A microcomputer-based system was developed to measure flow-volume curve parameters, record respiratory questionnaire data and analyse the collected data. The hardware of the system consists of two parts which operate independently and are linked together for data transfer. The first part is a microprocessor-based unit to accurately measure flow-volume curve parameters. The second part is a microcomputer unit used to receive flow-volume curve parameters from the first part, to record responses to questionnaires stored in the unit and to perform all statistical analysis. The software included a monitor program controlling system operations, a data base and a powerful statistical package. Two sets of questionnaires are stored in the system, one for adults and the other for children. The user is only required to enter to the system answers to questions displayed on the screen. Flow-volume data can be entered via the keyboard of the microcomputer unit or transmitted from the flow-volume test unit. The developed system is compact, easy to operate and moderately priced.