US20020036601A1 - CPAP apparatus for switching between operational modes of the CPAP apparatus and a controller and method for doing the same - Google Patents

CPAP apparatus for switching between operational modes of the CPAP apparatus and a controller and method for doing the same Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US20020036601A1
US20020036601A1 US09/985,691 US98569101A US2002036601A1 US 20020036601 A1 US20020036601 A1 US 20020036601A1 US 98569101 A US98569101 A US 98569101A US 2002036601 A1 US2002036601 A1 US 2002036601A1
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
electrically operated
graphical display
display according
display
operated apparatus
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Abandoned
Application number
US09/985,691
Inventor
Larry Puckeridge
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Resmed Pty Ltd
Original Assignee
Resmed Pty Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Resmed Pty Ltd filed Critical Resmed Pty Ltd
Priority to US09/985,691 priority Critical patent/US20020036601A1/en
Assigned to RESMED LIMITED reassignment RESMED LIMITED ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: PUCKERIDGE, LARRY
Publication of US20020036601A1 publication Critical patent/US20020036601A1/en
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M16/00—Devices for influencing the respiratory system of patients by gas treatment, e.g. mouth-to-mouth respiration; Tracheal tubes
    • A61M16/021—Devices for influencing the respiratory system of patients by gas treatment, e.g. mouth-to-mouth respiration; Tracheal tubes operated by electrical means
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M16/00—Devices for influencing the respiratory system of patients by gas treatment, e.g. mouth-to-mouth respiration; Tracheal tubes
    • A61M16/0051—Devices for influencing the respiratory system of patients by gas treatment, e.g. mouth-to-mouth respiration; Tracheal tubes with alarm devices
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H9/00—Details of switching devices, not covered by groups H01H1/00 - H01H7/00
    • H01H9/18—Distinguishing marks on switches, e.g. for indicating switch location in the dark; Adaptation of switches to receive distinguishing marks
    • H01H9/181—Distinguishing marks on switches, e.g. for indicating switch location in the dark; Adaptation of switches to receive distinguishing marks using a programmable display, e.g. LED or LCD
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G09—EDUCATION; CRYPTOGRAPHY; DISPLAY; ADVERTISING; SEALS
    • G09G—ARRANGEMENTS OR CIRCUITS FOR CONTROL OF INDICATING DEVICES USING STATIC MEANS TO PRESENT VARIABLE INFORMATION
    • G09G3/00—Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes
    • G09G3/20—Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes for presentation of an assembly of a number of characters, e.g. a page, by composing the assembly by combination of individual elements arranged in a matrix no fixed position being assigned to or needed to be assigned to the individual characters or partial characters
    • G09G3/22—Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes for presentation of an assembly of a number of characters, e.g. a page, by composing the assembly by combination of individual elements arranged in a matrix no fixed position being assigned to or needed to be assigned to the individual characters or partial characters using controlled light sources
    • G09G3/30—Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes for presentation of an assembly of a number of characters, e.g. a page, by composing the assembly by combination of individual elements arranged in a matrix no fixed position being assigned to or needed to be assigned to the individual characters or partial characters using controlled light sources using electroluminescent panels
    • G09G3/32—Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes for presentation of an assembly of a number of characters, e.g. a page, by composing the assembly by combination of individual elements arranged in a matrix no fixed position being assigned to or needed to be assigned to the individual characters or partial characters using controlled light sources using electroluminescent panels semiconductive, e.g. using light-emitting diodes [LED]

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to graphical displays for apparatus, for example control units for medical equipment such as units for administration of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) to a patient, having means for display of information generated by operation of the apparatus.
  • CPAP continuous positive airway pressure
  • LCD liquid crystal display
  • Known types of graphical displays include LCDs, multi-segment LEDs and surface-mounted LEDs, the latter having a matrix of LEDs mounted directly to the surface of a printed circuit board (PCB).
  • PCB printed circuit board
  • the surface-mounted LEDs have advantages over LCDs and multi-segment LEDs both in terms of lower component costs and facility for automated assembly, and thus, for large scale manufacture, lowest assembly cost.
  • surface-mounted LEDs have the disadvantage of being difficult to read unless mounted close to the surface of the apparatus housing. An example of this may be seen in U.S. Pat. No. 5,703,625 to Snider et al.
  • Snider et al provides translucent buttons and an adjacent display lens in front of a graphical display device such as an LCD or LED array.
  • the common graphical display device is employed to provide both fixed images displayed through the buttons to indicate their function and variable information indicating the status of the system through the lens.
  • the present invention seeks to provide a low-cost alternative to the prior art.
  • the present invention provides, in electrically operated apparatus, a graphical display capable of displaying information generated by operation of the apparatus, including a printed circuit board, a plurality of surface-mounted light emitting diodes arranged in a matrix on the surface of the printed circuit board, means for selectively illuminating said light emitting diodes in response to information generated by operation of the apparatus, display means including a light transmitting display surface and a plurality of elongate light conduit means for transmitting light from a respective portion of said matrix of light emitting diodes to a portion of said display surface, such that said information generated by operation of the apparatus is displayed graphically by said display surface.
  • the display means includes a respective light conduit means for each of the light emitting diodes.
  • the graphical display on the display surface is arranged in a like matrix to the matrix of light emitting diodes.
  • the light conduit means are integrally formed with the display means and, most preferably, are integrally moulded with the display surface.
  • the display surface is included in a switch operating member of an electrical switch of the apparatus.
  • the apparatus further includes means responding to switch operation to cause display of said information by said switch.
  • the apparatus includes a plurality of such switches, and the results of the operation of one or more such switches are displayed by another such switch or switches.
  • the graphical display means for each switch includes a plurality of said light emitting diodes individually controllable for the generation of images such as letters, numerals or symbols or combinations thereof.
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic elevational cross-section of a switch incorporating a graphical display according to a first embodiment of the invention
  • FIG. 2 shows the arrangement of the LEDs
  • FIG. 3 is a schematic elevational cross-section of a display according to a second embodiment
  • FIG. 4 is a plan view of the display of FIG. 3.
  • FIG. 5 is a schematic elevational cross-section of a third embodiment.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates in schematic cross-section a switch 10 incorporating one form of the present invention.
  • the switch is mounted on a printed circuit board 11 located within the body of the apparatus, the circuit board providing both the connections between the switch contacts 12 , and the remainder of the circuitry of the apparatus in which the switch is employed, and also the signals by which a pattern of surface-mounted light-emitting diodes (LEDs) 13 are illuminated.
  • LEDs surface-mounted light-emitting diodes
  • the LEDs 13 are arranged, in this embodiment, in the seven-segment configuration commonly used to enable the reproduction of letters and numerals by selective illumination of the diodes as determined by display components not shown here.
  • the switch includes a body 14 fixed to the printed circuit board 11 .
  • a push button member 15 which is attached to the body by means of a flexible diaphragm 18 , enabling the button member to move towards the printed circuit board when pressed by the operator.
  • the switch contacts 12 mounted at the foot of the button member, are thus pressed against stationary contacts provided on the printed circuit board.
  • the button member Between the LEDs 13 and the opposite end of the button member the latter is provided with light conduits, which may be cavities in the button member or other forms of light conduits such as fibre optic cables, and the upper face of the button member is closed by a light transmitting display surface, such as a transparent or translucent layer 16 .
  • This layer is sufficiently light transmissive that images generated by selective illumination of the LEDs 13 will be visible at the switch surface. For example, the value of an operating parameter of the apparatus may be displayed, subsequently changed and the new parameter value displayed on the same switch.
  • the light conduits may be, for example, a series of holes 17 through the length of the switch, each of the holes aligned with a respective one of the LEDs.
  • the interior walls of the light conduit may be coated with a reflective material to reduce light losses.
  • light from the LEDs may be visible on the front surface of the switch, or on the side surface of the switch.
  • the display may be hooded to prevent viewing from certain angles.
  • the LEDs may be arranged in a matrixsuitable for displaying characters (letters, numbers or punctuation marks) in the Roman script.
  • characters letters, numbers or punctuation marks
  • other combinations of LEDs may be used for displaying characters from other scripts, for example, the letters or numbers in Greek, Cyrillic, Japanese or Chinese.
  • the LEDs may also be arranged so that they are capable of representing other symbols, or a plurality of symbols, such as characters from one or more scripts.
  • the button may be constructed from a single piece of an injected moulded plastic material, such as silicone.
  • the switch may consist of several pieces.
  • One possible construction would be for the majority of the switch to be dark plastic but with the top layer to be a light coloured or clear plastic.
  • the switch may operate as a push button, lever or toggle switch, for example, or may have no moving parts and operate, for example, by touch.
  • CPAP continuous positive airway pressure
  • CPAP device a medical instrument for the administration of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) to a patient, used in the treatment of sleep apnea.
  • CPAP apparatus such as the ResMed Sullivan V flow generator and ventilatory assist apparatus such as the ResMed VPAP II variable pressure flow generator.
  • References herein to a “CPAP device” are to be understood as including a reference to any of the abovementioned devices, or similar devices.
  • buttons B 1 and B 2 would be required to control a basic CPAP device. Each button would be capable of displaying a single letter or number.
  • the CPAP device may have several modes, for example: (1) normal mode, (2) patient hours mode, (3) pressure set mode and (4) pressure calibrate mode. By pressing the buttons in a specified way, the user may switch between modes, read parameters, set parameters and calibrate the device. No other display would be required.
  • Normal mode is the default mode when turning on the CPAP device.
  • the buttons will display no information. Pressing B 1 once will start the CPAP device and pressing it again will stop it. Pressing B 2 will start the CPAP device at a low flow, building up to the maximum pressure over 10 minutes (a so-called “delay timer”, as described in Sullivan et al. U.S. Pat. No. 5,199,424).
  • Patient hours mode will be entered by pressing B 2 for at least four seconds.
  • button B 1 will display patient hours, by cycling through a series of numbers, each series separated by the letter “H”. Each character may be displayed for the appropriate length of time, for example one second, before changing to the next character. For example, “123” hours would be depicted by first displaying “1”, then “2”, then “3” and finally “H”, before repeating the pattern.
  • pressing B 2 will do nothing. Pressing B 1 will cause the device to switch to the normal mode.
  • the pressure set-point of the CPAP device is the maximum therapeutic operating pressure of the device. This pressure may range from 4 to 16 cm H 2 O and hence up to 2 digits needs to be displayed, the tens (the “high” digit) and the ones (the “low” digit). Pressure set mode will be entered by pressing B 1 for at least four seconds. B 1 will then display the high digit of the pressure set-point, and B 2 will then display the low digit of the pressure set-point. Whilst in pressure set mode, pressing B 1 will cause the device to increment the pressure point by 1 cm H 2 O, and pressing B 2 will cause the device to decrement the pressure set-point by 1 cm H 2 O. Pressing B 1 and B 2 simultaneously will save the current set-point and return the device to the normal mode.
  • Pressure calibrate mode will be entered by pressing B 1 and B 2 simultaneously for at least four seconds.
  • the buttons will display the calibration pressure.
  • the button B 1 will then display “1” and the button B 2 will display “0”.
  • a manometer is required to measure the actual output pressure.
  • the intended output pressure of the CPAP device may, for example, be 10 cm H 2 O—the calibration pressure—whilst in this mode. If the output pressure is not at the required calibration pressure, the output pressure needs to be adjusted. Pressing B 1 will cause the CPAP device to increment pressure and pressing B 2 will cause the CPAP device to decrement pressure. To save this calibration and exit to the normal mode B 1 and B 2 are pressed simultaneously again.
  • FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate a graphical display adapted for incorporation in the housing of an electrically operated device, separate from the control switches.
  • the display incorporates an integrally moulded body of light transmissive plastics material, such as polycarbonate or acrylic resin, having a display panel 19 adapted to form part of the exterior of the device and a matrix of seven light conduits 20 , formed as elongate rectangular—section projections, extending from the rear of the display panel.
  • the light conduits 20 are arranged in the same seven-segment pattern (see FIG. 4) as are the surface-mounted LEDs 13 on the printed circuit board. Light from each LED 13 travels along the respective light conduit 20 by internal reflection to the corresponding portion of the display panel 19 , so that the pattern formed by selectively illuminating the LEDs is replicated on the display surface of the display panel.
  • the exterior of each light conduit 20 may be coated and/or polished to assist the internal reflection, thus reducing light losses.
  • FIG. 5 shows a modification of FIGS. 3 and 4, in which the display surface of display panel is masked with an opaque, screen printed layer 21 with seven rectangular portions non-printed portions corresponding to the positions of the seven LEDs, thus concentrating light transmission at the required portions of the display.

Abstract

A continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) apparatus having at least two operational modes is provided. The at least two operational modes are selected from the group including a normal mode, a patient hours mode, a pressure set mode and a pressure calibrate mode. The CPAP apparatus includes a controller and a first and second input device being associated with corresponding first and second character displays, respectively. The controller is configured to control illumination of the first character display when the first input device is activated and to control illumination of the second character display when the second input device is activated. Activation of the first and second input devices controls the at least two operational modes of the CPAP apparatus. A method of selecting at least one of the operational modes of a CPAP apparatus and a controller for use with a CPAP apparatus to select at least one of the operational modes of the CPAP apparatus are also provided.

Description

    BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
  • The present invention relates to graphical displays for apparatus, for example control units for medical equipment such as units for administration of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) to a patient, having means for display of information generated by operation of the apparatus. [0001]
  • In electrically operated apparatus, it may be desired to display status information on the housing of the apparatus in order to facilitate user operation. In its simplest form, such information may be displayed by a single light emitting diode (LED) which lights up or flashes in a particular sequence to convey the information. An example of this is flashing of an LED to indicate the number of messages on a telephone answering machine. Using a single LED limits the amount of information which may be conveyed or, to increase the amount of information, the manufacturer must resort to cryptic codes which are difficult for the user to remember. [0002]
  • More information can be displayed by use of an array of LEDs or a liquid crystal display (LCD), which may be arranged in the familiar 7-segment display commonly used to reproduce alphanumeric characters in Roman script. [0003]
  • Known types of graphical displays include LCDs, multi-segment LEDs and surface-mounted LEDs, the latter having a matrix of LEDs mounted directly to the surface of a printed circuit board (PCB). [0004]
  • The surface-mounted LEDs have advantages over LCDs and multi-segment LEDs both in terms of lower component costs and facility for automated assembly, and thus, for large scale manufacture, lowest assembly cost. However, surface-mounted LEDs have the disadvantage of being difficult to read unless mounted close to the surface of the apparatus housing. An example of this may be seen in U.S. Pat. No. 5,703,625 to Snider et al. [0005]
  • Snider et al provides translucent buttons and an adjacent display lens in front of a graphical display device such as an LCD or LED array. The common graphical display device is employed to provide both fixed images displayed through the buttons to indicate their function and variable information indicating the status of the system through the lens. [0006]
    • SUMMARY OF INVENTION
  • The present invention seeks to provide a low-cost alternative to the prior art. [0007]
  • In a first form, the present invention provides, in electrically operated apparatus, a graphical display capable of displaying information generated by operation of the apparatus, including a printed circuit board, a plurality of surface-mounted light emitting diodes arranged in a matrix on the surface of the printed circuit board, means for selectively illuminating said light emitting diodes in response to information generated by operation of the apparatus, display means including a light transmitting display surface and a plurality of elongate light conduit means for transmitting light from a respective portion of said matrix of light emitting diodes to a portion of said display surface, such that said information generated by operation of the apparatus is displayed graphically by said display surface. [0008]
  • Preferably, the display means includes a respective light conduit means for each of the light emitting diodes. Preferably also, the graphical display on the display surface is arranged in a like matrix to the matrix of light emitting diodes. [0009]
  • Preferably, the light conduit means are integrally formed with the display means and, most preferably, are integrally moulded with the display surface. [0010]
  • In a further form of the invention, the display surface is included in a switch operating member of an electrical switch of the apparatus. Preferably, the apparatus further includes means responding to switch operation to cause display of said information by said switch. [0011]
  • Preferably the apparatus includes a plurality of such switches, and the results of the operation of one or more such switches are displayed by another such switch or switches. [0012]
  • Preferably the graphical display means for each switch includes a plurality of said light emitting diodes individually controllable for the generation of images such as letters, numerals or symbols or combinations thereof.[0013]
    • BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
  • Further preferred embodiments of the invention are described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [0014]
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic elevational cross-section of a switch incorporating a graphical display according to a first embodiment of the invention; [0015]
  • FIG. 2 shows the arrangement of the LEDs; [0016]
  • FIG. 3 is a schematic elevational cross-section of a display according to a second embodiment; [0017]
  • FIG. 4 is a plan view of the display of FIG. 3; and [0018]
  • FIG. 5 is a schematic elevational cross-section of a third embodiment.[0019]
    • DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
  • FIG. 1 illustrates in schematic cross-section a [0020] switch 10 incorporating one form of the present invention. The switch is mounted on a printed circuit board 11 located within the body of the apparatus, the circuit board providing both the connections between the switch contacts 12, and the remainder of the circuitry of the apparatus in which the switch is employed, and also the signals by which a pattern of surface-mounted light-emitting diodes (LEDs) 13 are illuminated.
  • As shown in FIG. 2, the [0021] LEDs 13 are arranged, in this embodiment, in the seven-segment configuration commonly used to enable the reproduction of letters and numerals by selective illumination of the diodes as determined by display components not shown here.
  • The switch includes a [0022] body 14 fixed to the printed circuit board 11. Within the body 14 there is provided a push button member 15 which is attached to the body by means of a flexible diaphragm 18, enabling the button member to move towards the printed circuit board when pressed by the operator. The switch contacts 12, mounted at the foot of the button member, are thus pressed against stationary contacts provided on the printed circuit board.
  • Between the [0023] LEDs 13 and the opposite end of the button member the latter is provided with light conduits, which may be cavities in the button member or other forms of light conduits such as fibre optic cables, and the upper face of the button member is closed by a light transmitting display surface, such as a transparent or translucent layer 16. This layer is sufficiently light transmissive that images generated by selective illumination of the LEDs 13 will be visible at the switch surface. For example, the value of an operating parameter of the apparatus may be displayed, subsequently changed and the new parameter value displayed on the same switch.
  • Many arrangements of the LEDs and light conduits are possible. The light conduits may be, for example, a series of [0024] holes 17 through the length of the switch, each of the holes aligned with a respective one of the LEDs. The interior walls of the light conduit may be coated with a reflective material to reduce light losses.
  • Depending on the ultimate shape of the switch, light from the LEDs may be visible on the front surface of the switch, or on the side surface of the switch. The display may be hooded to prevent viewing from certain angles. [0025]
  • The LEDs may be arranged in a matrixsuitable for displaying characters (letters, numbers or punctuation marks) in the Roman script. In other embodiments of the invention, other combinations of LEDs may be used for displaying characters from other scripts, for example, the letters or numbers in Greek, Cyrillic, Japanese or Chinese. The LEDs may also be arranged so that they are capable of representing other symbols, or a plurality of symbols, such as characters from one or more scripts. [0026]
  • The button may be constructed from a single piece of an injected moulded plastic material, such as silicone. Alternatively, the switch may consist of several pieces. One possible construction would be for the majority of the switch to be dark plastic but with the top layer to be a light coloured or clear plastic. [0027]
  • It will be understood that the invention is not limited to any particular switch mechanism or mode of actuation. The switch may operate as a push button, lever or toggle switch, for example, or may have no moving parts and operate, for example, by touch. [0028]
  • An example of the manner of use of a switch in accordance with the FIGS. 1 and 2 will now be described, in the form of a medical instrument for the administration of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) to a patient, used in the treatment of sleep apnea. Such a device is described, for example, in Sullivan et al. U.S. Pat. No. 5,245,995. The switch would be suitable for use in CPAP apparatus such as the ResMed Sullivan V flow generator and ventilatory assist apparatus such as the ResMed VPAP II variable pressure flow generator. References herein to a “CPAP device” are to be understood as including a reference to any of the abovementioned devices, or similar devices. [0029]
  • Mode of Operation for Controlling a CPAP Device [0030]
  • Two buttons, B[0031] 1 and B2, would be required to control a basic CPAP device. Each button would be capable of displaying a single letter or number. The CPAP device may have several modes, for example: (1) normal mode, (2) patient hours mode, (3) pressure set mode and (4) pressure calibrate mode. By pressing the buttons in a specified way, the user may switch between modes, read parameters, set parameters and calibrate the device. No other display would be required.
  • Normal Mode [0032]
  • Normal mode is the default mode when turning on the CPAP device. The buttons will display no information. Pressing B[0033] 1 once will start the CPAP device and pressing it again will stop it. Pressing B2 will start the CPAP device at a low flow, building up to the maximum pressure over 10 minutes (a so-called “delay timer”, as described in Sullivan et al. U.S. Pat. No. 5,199,424).
  • Patient Hours Mode [0034]
  • Patient hours mode will be entered by pressing B[0035] 2 for at least four seconds. At that point, button B1 will display patient hours, by cycling through a series of numbers, each series separated by the letter “H”. Each character may be displayed for the appropriate length of time, for example one second, before changing to the next character. For example, “123” hours would be depicted by first displaying “1”, then “2”, then “3” and finally “H”, before repeating the pattern. When the CPAP device is in patient hours mode, pressing B2 will do nothing. Pressing B1 will cause the device to switch to the normal mode.
  • Pressure Set Mode [0036]
  • The pressure set-point of the CPAP device is the maximum therapeutic operating pressure of the device. This pressure may range from 4 to 16 cm H[0037] 2O and hence up to 2 digits needs to be displayed, the tens (the “high” digit) and the ones (the “low” digit). Pressure set mode will be entered by pressing B1 for at least four seconds. B1 will then display the high digit of the pressure set-point, and B2 will then display the low digit of the pressure set-point. Whilst in pressure set mode, pressing B1 will cause the device to increment the pressure point by 1 cm H2O, and pressing B2 will cause the device to decrement the pressure set-point by 1 cm H2O. Pressing B1 and B2 simultaneously will save the current set-point and return the device to the normal mode.
  • Pressure Calibrate Mode [0038]
  • It may periodically be necessary to calibrate the pressure output of the CPAP device. Pressure calibrate mode will be entered by pressing B[0039] 1 and B2 simultaneously for at least four seconds. The buttons will display the calibration pressure. For example, the button B1 will then display “1” and the button B2 will display “0”. A manometer is required to measure the actual output pressure. The intended output pressure of the CPAP device may, for example, be 10 cm H2O—the calibration pressure—whilst in this mode. If the output pressure is not at the required calibration pressure, the output pressure needs to be adjusted. Pressing B1 will cause the CPAP device to increment pressure and pressing B2 will cause the CPAP device to decrement pressure. To save this calibration and exit to the normal mode B1 and B2 are pressed simultaneously again.
  • FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate a graphical display adapted for incorporation in the housing of an electrically operated device, separate from the control switches. [0040]
  • The display incorporates an integrally moulded body of light transmissive plastics material, such as polycarbonate or acrylic resin, having a [0041] display panel 19 adapted to form part of the exterior of the device and a matrix of seven light conduits 20, formed as elongate rectangular—section projections, extending from the rear of the display panel. The light conduits 20 are arranged in the same seven-segment pattern (see FIG. 4) as are the surface-mounted LEDs 13 on the printed circuit board. Light from each LED 13 travels along the respective light conduit 20 by internal reflection to the corresponding portion of the display panel 19, so that the pattern formed by selectively illuminating the LEDs is replicated on the display surface of the display panel. The exterior of each light conduit 20 may be coated and/or polished to assist the internal reflection, thus reducing light losses.
  • FIG. 5 shows a modification of FIGS. 3 and 4, in which the display surface of display panel is masked with an opaque, screen printed [0042] layer 21 with seven rectangular portions non-printed portions corresponding to the positions of the seven LEDs, thus concentrating light transmission at the required portions of the display. Overlying the printed layer is a top layer 22 of clear plastics, such as polycarbonate, forming a laminated construction.
  • While particular embodiments of this invention have been described, it will be evident to those skilled in the art that the present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the essential characteristics thereof. The present embodiments and examples are therefore to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, the scope of the invention being indicated by the appended claims rather than the foregoing description, and all changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are therefore intended to be embraced therein. [0043]

Claims (14)

1. In electrically operated apparatus, a graphical display capable of displaying information generated by operation of the apparatus, including a printed circuit board, a plurality of surface-mounted light emitting diodes arranged in a matrix on the surface of the printed circuit board, means for selectively illuminating said light emitting diodes in response to information generated by operation of the apparatus, display means including a light transmitting display surface and a plurality of elongate light conduit means for transmitting light from a respective portion of said matrix of light emitting diodes to a portion of said display surface, such that said information generated by operation of the apparatus is displayed graphically by said display surface.
2. In electrically operated apparatus, a graphical display according to claim 1 wherein the display means includes a respective light conduit means for each of the light emitting diodes.
3. In electrically operated apparatus, a graphical display according to claim 2 wherein the graphical display on the display surface is arranged in a like matrix to said matrix of light emitting diodes.
4. In electrically operated apparatus, a graphical display according to claim 3 wherein said matrix of light emitting diodes includes seven light emitting diodes arranged so as to reproduce alphanumeric characters upon selective illumination of the light emitting diodes.
5. In electrically operated apparatus, a graphical display according to claim 1 wherein the light conduit means is integrally formed with the display means.
6. In electrically operated apparatus, a graphical display according to claim 5 wherein each light conduit means includes an elongate projection extending from the rear of the display means.
7. In electrically operated apparatus, a graphical display according to claim 5 wherein each light conduit means includes an elongate hole extending within a moulded body of the display means.
8. In electrically operated apparatus, a graphical display according to claim 5 wherein the display surface is partially masked by an opaque layer.
9. In electrically operated apparatus, a graphical display according to claim 8 wherein a layer of light transmissive material overlies said opaque layer.
10. In electrically operated apparatus, a graphical display according to claim 1 wherein the display surface is included in a switch operating member of an electrical switch of the apparatus.
11. In electrically operated apparatus, a graphical display according to claim 10 wherein the apparatus further includes means responding to switch operation to cause display of said information by said switch.
12. In electrically operated apparatus, a graphical display according to claim 10 wherein the apparatus includes a plurality of such switches, further including means responding to operation of one or more such switches to cause display of said information by another such switch or switches.
13. In electrically operated apparatus, a graphical display according to claim 1 wherein said apparatus is a device for administering continuous positive airway pressure treatment to a patient.
14. In electrically operated apparatus, a graphical display according to claim 13 wherein said information includes information on patient usage time, or pressure settings of the apparatus.
US09/985,691 1998-07-31 2001-11-05 CPAP apparatus for switching between operational modes of the CPAP apparatus and a controller and method for doing the same Abandoned US20020036601A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US09/985,691 US20020036601A1 (en) 1998-07-31 2001-11-05 CPAP apparatus for switching between operational modes of the CPAP apparatus and a controller and method for doing the same

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AUPP4961A AUPP496198A0 (en) 1998-07-31 1998-07-31 Switches with graphical display
AUPP4961 1998-07-31
US09/364,742 US6339421B1 (en) 1998-07-31 1999-07-30 Graphical display
US09/985,691 US20020036601A1 (en) 1998-07-31 2001-11-05 CPAP apparatus for switching between operational modes of the CPAP apparatus and a controller and method for doing the same

Related Parent Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US09/364,742 Division US6339421B1 (en) 1998-07-31 1999-07-30 Graphical display

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US20020036601A1 true US20020036601A1 (en) 2002-03-28

Family

ID=3809195

Family Applications (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US09/364,742 Expired - Lifetime US6339421B1 (en) 1998-07-31 1999-07-30 Graphical display
US09/985,691 Abandoned US20020036601A1 (en) 1998-07-31 2001-11-05 CPAP apparatus for switching between operational modes of the CPAP apparatus and a controller and method for doing the same

Family Applications Before (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US09/364,742 Expired - Lifetime US6339421B1 (en) 1998-07-31 1999-07-30 Graphical display

Country Status (2)

Country Link
US (2) US6339421B1 (en)
AU (1) AUPP496198A0 (en)

Cited By (17)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20030150445A1 (en) * 2001-11-01 2003-08-14 Aerogen, Inc. Apparatus and methods for delivery of medicament to a respiratory system
US20040035490A1 (en) * 2000-05-05 2004-02-26 Aerogen, Inc. Apparatus and methods for the delivery of medicaments to the respiratory system
US20050011514A1 (en) * 2003-07-18 2005-01-20 Aerogen, Inc. Nebuliser for the production of aerosolized medication
US20050088521A1 (en) * 2003-10-22 2005-04-28 Mobile-Vision Inc. In-car video system using flash memory as a recording medium
US20050172954A1 (en) * 2000-05-05 2005-08-11 Aerogen Inc. Methods and systems for operating an aerosol generator
US20050199236A1 (en) * 2002-01-07 2005-09-15 Aerogen, Inc. Methods and devices for aerosolizing medicament
US20050217666A1 (en) * 2000-05-05 2005-10-06 Aerogen, Inc. Methods and systems for operating an aerosol generator
US20050229926A1 (en) * 2004-04-20 2005-10-20 Aerogen, Inc. Method and composition for the treatment of lung surfactant deficiency or dysfunction
US20060174065A1 (en) * 2003-06-10 2006-08-03 Kuzara David J System and method for annotating an ultrasound image
US20070267010A1 (en) * 2000-05-05 2007-11-22 Fink James B Methods and systems for operating an aerosol generator
US20080017198A1 (en) * 2004-04-20 2008-01-24 Aerogen, Inc. Aerosol delivery apparatus and method for pressure-assisted breathing systems
US7469698B1 (en) 2004-09-14 2008-12-30 Winthrop De Childers Parameter optimization in sleep apnea treatment apparatus
US20090134235A1 (en) * 2005-05-25 2009-05-28 Aerogen, Inc. Vibration Systems and Methods
US7946291B2 (en) 2004-04-20 2011-05-24 Novartis Ag Ventilation systems and methods employing aerosol generators
US8539944B2 (en) 2002-01-07 2013-09-24 Novartis Ag Devices and methods for nebulizing fluids for inhalation
US20140102455A1 (en) * 2011-06-15 2014-04-17 Koninklijke Philips N.V. Unlocking a respiratory therapy mode
US11406778B2 (en) * 2011-06-15 2022-08-09 Koninklijke Philips N.V. Unlocking a respiratory mode

Families Citing this family (17)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
AUPP496198A0 (en) * 1998-07-31 1998-08-20 Resmed Limited Switches with graphical display
JP5963089B2 (en) 2009-11-30 2016-08-03 ゾール メディカル コーポレイションＺＯＬＬ Ｍｅｄｉｃａｌ Ｃｏｒｐｏｒａｔｉｏｎ Display for dual-mode medical devices
US10701349B2 (en) 2015-01-20 2020-06-30 Misapplied Sciences, Inc. Method for calibrating a multi-view display
US11099798B2 (en) 2015-01-20 2021-08-24 Misapplied Sciences, Inc. Differentiated content delivery system and method therefor
US10955924B2 (en) 2015-01-29 2021-03-23 Misapplied Sciences, Inc. Individually interactive multi-view display system and methods therefor
US10928914B2 (en) 2015-01-29 2021-02-23 Misapplied Sciences, Inc. Individually interactive multi-view display system for non-stationary viewing locations and methods therefor
US10264247B2 (en) * 2015-02-03 2019-04-16 Misapplied Sciences, Inc. Multi-view displays
ES2873927T3 (en) 2015-03-03 2021-11-04 Misapplied Sciences Inc System and method for displaying location-dependent content
US10362301B2 (en) 2015-03-05 2019-07-23 Misapplied Sciences, Inc. Designing content for multi-view display
CN107926095B (en) 2015-06-11 2019-10-18 米斯厄普莱德科学股份有限公司 Multiple view architectural lighting system
US9792712B2 (en) 2015-06-16 2017-10-17 Misapplied Sciences, Inc. Computational pipeline and architecture for multi-view displays
US10602131B2 (en) 2016-10-20 2020-03-24 Misapplied Sciences, Inc. System and methods for wayfinding and navigation via multi-view displays, signage, and lights
US10269279B2 (en) 2017-03-24 2019-04-23 Misapplied Sciences, Inc. Display system and method for delivering multi-view content
US10427045B2 (en) 2017-07-12 2019-10-01 Misapplied Sciences, Inc. Multi-view (MV) display systems and methods for quest experiences, challenges, scavenger hunts, treasure hunts and alternate reality games
US10565616B2 (en) 2017-07-13 2020-02-18 Misapplied Sciences, Inc. Multi-view advertising system and method
US10404974B2 (en) 2017-07-21 2019-09-03 Misapplied Sciences, Inc. Personalized audio-visual systems
US10778962B2 (en) 2017-11-10 2020-09-15 Misapplied Sciences, Inc. Precision multi-view display

Citations (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4022993A (en) * 1975-06-09 1977-05-10 Litton Systems, Inc. Switch assembly having electrically illuminated character display devices between transparent actuators and switch arrays
US4488020A (en) * 1983-02-23 1984-12-11 Eaton Corporation Miniature multi-pole double-throw snap-action pushbutton switch with alpha-numeric display
US4501937A (en) * 1983-03-14 1985-02-26 Eaton Corporation Integral multiswitch display panel
US5245995A (en) * 1987-06-26 1993-09-21 Rescare Limited Device and method for monitoring breathing during sleep, control of CPAP treatment, and preventing of apnea
US5598838A (en) * 1995-04-07 1997-02-04 Healthdyne Technologies, Inc. Pressure support ventilatory assist system
US5634590A (en) * 1993-06-16 1997-06-03 Landis & Staefa, Inc. Direct digital control thermostat
US6000396A (en) * 1995-08-17 1999-12-14 University Of Florida Hybrid microprocessor controlled ventilator unit
US6264111B1 (en) * 1993-06-16 2001-07-24 Siemens Building Technologies, Inc. Proportional-integral-derivative controller having adaptive control capability
US6339421B1 (en) * 1998-07-31 2002-01-15 Resmed Limited Graphical display
US20020005197A1 (en) * 1994-10-14 2002-01-17 Devries Douglas F. Portable drag compressor powered mechanical ventilator
US6543449B1 (en) * 1997-09-19 2003-04-08 Respironics, Inc. Medical ventilator

Family Cites Families (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE2616298C2 (en) * 1976-04-13 1982-05-27 Siemens AG, 1000 Berlin und 8000 München Arrangement for the directed emission of light in character display devices
US4254453A (en) * 1978-08-25 1981-03-03 General Instrument Corporation Alpha-numeric display array and method of manufacture
US4306716A (en) * 1980-01-21 1981-12-22 Mattel, Inc. Electronic game having light guide array display
US4504716A (en) 1981-01-13 1985-03-12 Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. Electronic digital timer
DD200295A1 (en) * 1981-08-12 1983-04-06 Guenter Claus LED DISPLAY WITH HIGH INFORMATION CONTENT
US4551717A (en) * 1982-11-10 1985-11-05 Recognition Equipment Incorporated Intelligent key display
US4603496A (en) * 1985-02-04 1986-08-05 Adaptive Micro Systems, Inc. Electronic display with lens matrix
US4804890A (en) * 1986-07-07 1989-02-14 Karel Havel Variable color complementary display device
US5043716A (en) * 1988-07-14 1991-08-27 Adaptive Micro Systems, Inc. Electronic display with lens matrix
US5034602A (en) * 1989-07-21 1991-07-23 Texas Instruments Incorporated Optically activated keyboard for digital system having character back lighting
US5760754A (en) * 1995-12-04 1998-06-02 Motorola, Inc. Light pipe assembly and electrical device using same

Patent Citations (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4022993A (en) * 1975-06-09 1977-05-10 Litton Systems, Inc. Switch assembly having electrically illuminated character display devices between transparent actuators and switch arrays
US4488020A (en) * 1983-02-23 1984-12-11 Eaton Corporation Miniature multi-pole double-throw snap-action pushbutton switch with alpha-numeric display
US4501937A (en) * 1983-03-14 1985-02-26 Eaton Corporation Integral multiswitch display panel
US5245995A (en) * 1987-06-26 1993-09-21 Rescare Limited Device and method for monitoring breathing during sleep, control of CPAP treatment, and preventing of apnea
US5634590A (en) * 1993-06-16 1997-06-03 Landis & Staefa, Inc. Direct digital control thermostat
US6264111B1 (en) * 1993-06-16 2001-07-24 Siemens Building Technologies, Inc. Proportional-integral-derivative controller having adaptive control capability
US20020005197A1 (en) * 1994-10-14 2002-01-17 Devries Douglas F. Portable drag compressor powered mechanical ventilator
US5598838A (en) * 1995-04-07 1997-02-04 Healthdyne Technologies, Inc. Pressure support ventilatory assist system
US6000396A (en) * 1995-08-17 1999-12-14 University Of Florida Hybrid microprocessor controlled ventilator unit
US6543449B1 (en) * 1997-09-19 2003-04-08 Respironics, Inc. Medical ventilator
US6339421B1 (en) * 1998-07-31 2002-01-15 Resmed Limited Graphical display

Cited By (29)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20080149096A1 (en) * 2000-05-05 2008-06-26 Aerogen, Inc. Apparatus and Methods for the Delivery of Medicaments to the Respiratory System
US20040035490A1 (en) * 2000-05-05 2004-02-26 Aerogen, Inc. Apparatus and methods for the delivery of medicaments to the respiratory system
US7971588B2 (en) 2000-05-05 2011-07-05 Novartis Ag Methods and systems for operating an aerosol generator
US20050172954A1 (en) * 2000-05-05 2005-08-11 Aerogen Inc. Methods and systems for operating an aerosol generator
US8336545B2 (en) 2000-05-05 2012-12-25 Novartis Pharma Ag Methods and systems for operating an aerosol generator
US20050217666A1 (en) * 2000-05-05 2005-10-06 Aerogen, Inc. Methods and systems for operating an aerosol generator
US7748377B2 (en) 2000-05-05 2010-07-06 Novartis Ag Methods and systems for operating an aerosol generator
US20070267010A1 (en) * 2000-05-05 2007-11-22 Fink James B Methods and systems for operating an aerosol generator
US8196573B2 (en) 2001-03-20 2012-06-12 Novartis Ag Methods and systems for operating an aerosol generator
US20030150445A1 (en) * 2001-11-01 2003-08-14 Aerogen, Inc. Apparatus and methods for delivery of medicament to a respiratory system
US8539944B2 (en) 2002-01-07 2013-09-24 Novartis Ag Devices and methods for nebulizing fluids for inhalation
US20050199236A1 (en) * 2002-01-07 2005-09-15 Aerogen, Inc. Methods and devices for aerosolizing medicament
US7677467B2 (en) 2002-01-07 2010-03-16 Novartis Pharma Ag Methods and devices for aerosolizing medicament
US20060174065A1 (en) * 2003-06-10 2006-08-03 Kuzara David J System and method for annotating an ultrasound image
US8616195B2 (en) 2003-07-18 2013-12-31 Novartis Ag Nebuliser for the production of aerosolized medication
US20050011514A1 (en) * 2003-07-18 2005-01-20 Aerogen, Inc. Nebuliser for the production of aerosolized medication
US20050088521A1 (en) * 2003-10-22 2005-04-28 Mobile-Vision Inc. In-car video system using flash memory as a recording medium
US20050229926A1 (en) * 2004-04-20 2005-10-20 Aerogen, Inc. Method and composition for the treatment of lung surfactant deficiency or dysfunction
US7946291B2 (en) 2004-04-20 2011-05-24 Novartis Ag Ventilation systems and methods employing aerosol generators
US20080017198A1 (en) * 2004-04-20 2008-01-24 Aerogen, Inc. Aerosol delivery apparatus and method for pressure-assisted breathing systems
US7926486B2 (en) 2004-09-14 2011-04-19 Childers Winthrop D Parameter optimization in sleep apnea treatment apparatus
US20090151725A1 (en) * 2004-09-14 2009-06-18 Childers Winthrop D Parameter Optimization in Sleep Apnea Treatment Apparatus
US20090065004A1 (en) * 2004-09-14 2009-03-12 Childers Winthrop D Parameter Optimization in Sleep Apnea Treatment Apparatus
US7469698B1 (en) 2004-09-14 2008-12-30 Winthrop De Childers Parameter optimization in sleep apnea treatment apparatus
US20090134235A1 (en) * 2005-05-25 2009-05-28 Aerogen, Inc. Vibration Systems and Methods
US9108211B2 (en) 2005-05-25 2015-08-18 Nektar Therapeutics Vibration systems and methods
US20140102455A1 (en) * 2011-06-15 2014-04-17 Koninklijke Philips N.V. Unlocking a respiratory therapy mode
US10576223B2 (en) * 2011-06-15 2020-03-03 Koninklijke Phlips N.V. Unlocking a respiratory therapy mode
US11406778B2 (en) * 2011-06-15 2022-08-09 Koninklijke Philips N.V. Unlocking a respiratory mode

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US6339421B1 (en) 2002-01-15
AUPP496198A0 (en) 1998-08-20

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US6339421B1 (en) Graphical display
US6011961A (en) Keypad apparatus with integral display indicators
US7071433B2 (en) Illuminated membrane switch
JP2004500682A (en) Back lighting for computer keyboard
US5703625A (en) Illuminated push button display
US7193536B2 (en) Illuminated keyboard
JP2005063962A (en) Operation face
US7193535B2 (en) Illuminated keyboard
JPH09265862A (en) Switch knob
EP0697132B1 (en) Push-button switches
JP2009524964A (en) Device for entering control commands
AU747488B2 (en) Graphical display
JP2005091218A (en) Display for vehicle
CN212225969U (en) Shifting handle for vehicle and vehicle
KR20190071983A (en) 7-segment display apparatus
JP2006059565A (en) Illuminating structure
JP5123631B2 (en) Operation device for vehicle air conditioner
JPS6486911A (en) Keying means in electric cooker
KR200341598Y1 (en) Calendar type a day information display
CN212965912U (en) Electronic device
CN217955392U (en) Marker lamp capable of adjusting digital patterns
JP3365604B2 (en) Instrument equipment
CN220420482U (en) Single live wire switch
JP2003005891A (en) Input display device and input display method for electronic unit
JP2001086576A (en) Remote controller

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AS Assignment

Owner name: RESMED LIMITED, AUSTRALIA

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:PUCKERIDGE, LARRY;REEL/FRAME:012296/0597

Effective date: 19991111

STCB Information on status: application discontinuation

Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION