Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 28, 2025
Use of an Integrated Low-Flow Anesthetic Vaporizer, Ventilator, and Physiological Monitoring System for Rodents
Published on: July 9, 2020
Affordable, Compact and Infection-Free BiPAP Machine
Gaurav Pal Singh1, Neha Sardana1
1Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Ropar, Rupnagar, 140001 India.
Insights
This study presents an affordable Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP) ventilation system designed for less critical COVID-19 patients. The low-cost BiPAP device and 3D-printed mask offer an infection-free solution, potentially supporting multiple patients from a single unit.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Respiratory Care
- Medical Device Design
Background:
- Critical COVID-19 cases necessitate mechanical ventilators, which are expensive and limited in number.
- A significant number of COVID-19 patients require respiratory support, straining existing resources.
- Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP) offers an alternative for less critical cases, reducing the need for intubation and specialized staff.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design and present an inexpensive BiPAP ventilation system with an infection-free exhaust.
- To develop a 3D-printed mask for efficient air intake and exhalation, suitable for adult patients.
- To adapt the BiPAP design for emergency use, enabling support for multiple patients from one device.
Main Methods:
- An air blower controlled by an Arduino system programmed for BiPAP functionality was utilized.
- A novel 3D-printed mask with a unique intake and exhalation design was developed in two adult sizes.
- The system was modified to allow a single BiPAP unit to support up to four patients.
Main Results:
- The designed BiPAP system is inexpensive, with mass production estimated at approximately 85 USD (INR 6500).
- The 3D-printed mask ensures a leak-free fit for adult patients.
- The system is adaptable for emergency scenarios, offering a cost-effective solution for increased patient demand.
Conclusions:
- The developed low-cost BiPAP system provides a viable respiratory support option for less critical COVID-19 patients.
- The infection-free exhaust and adaptable design address key challenges in resource-limited settings.
- This innovation has the potential to significantly increase the availability of respiratory support during pandemics.
Abstract:
Critical cases of COVID-19 require respiratory support provided primarily by mechanical ventilators. But, as per the current trend, about 15% of the cases require hospitalization and less than 5% cases are critical. Due to the massive number of COVID-19 cases all over the world, the ventilator requirement is increasing, and these traditional ventilators are quite expensive and are occupied for the critical cases, thus available in limited numbers. In this regard, BiPAP (Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure) ventilation support can be used for the less critical cases where patients do not require intubation by specialized staff and also minimizing the risk of infection during the procedure. The current article aims to deliver a design of an inexpensive BiPAP with an infection-free exhaust. BiPAP is a mode of ventilation which maintains positive pressure for air intake, and a low or zero pressure is created for expiration. The BiPAP suggested in the current article uses an air blower connected to an Arduino via a speed controller, the level of pressure and breathing rate are programmed in the Arduino, thus, the blower functions in BiPAP mode. The 3D printed mask proposed here comprises of a unique design for the intake and exhalation of air; and comprises of two sizes to fit all adults while avoiding any leakage. The design suggested is further tweaked for emergency use to support up to four patients using a single BiPAP. The mass production of the same would cost approx. INR 6500 or 85 USD.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
01:23Mechanical Ventilation III: Noninvasive Ventilation
Noninvasive Positive-Pressure Ventilation...
01:23Mechanical Ventilation II: Invasive Ventilation
Negative-Pressure Ventilators
Negative-pressure ventilators create a vacuum around the chest or body to draw air into the lungs, simulating breathing. This method does not require an...
01:16Oxygen Delivering System II: Venturi Mask and Transtracheal Oxygen
Venturi Mask
The Venturi mask, named after the Venturi effect, is designed to deliver precise oxygen concentrations. It consists of a large tube with an oxygen inlet that narrows down, causing a pressure drop that pulls air in through adjustable side ports. The mask is a lightweight,...
01:26Oxygen Delivering System I: Nasal Cannula and Face Mask
Nasal Cannula
A nasal cannula is a lightweight tube split at one end into two prongs and placed in the nostrils. It is typically used to deliver low to medium levels of oxygen.
Suggested flow rate: The suggested flow rate for a nasal cannula typically ranges between 1 and 6 L/min.
Oxygen percentage setting:...
01:30Administering Oxygen by Mask
Administering oxygen by mask is a common nursing intervention that provides supplemental oxygen to patients with respiratory distress or chronic lung conditions. This procedure involves delivering oxygen at a specified rate through a face mask connected to an oxygen source.
Equipment
The equipment necessary for this procedure includes:
01:29Mechanical Ventilation I: Indication and Settings