WO2012045560A2

WO2012045560A2 - Apparatus for collecting expiratory air

Info

Publication number: WO2012045560A2
Application number: PCT/EP2011/066005
Authority: WO
Inventors: Rüdiger EICHLER
Original assignee: Aerocrine Ab
Priority date: 2010-10-08
Filing date: 2011-09-15
Publication date: 2012-04-12
Also published as: WO2012045560A3

Abstract

An apparatus for collecting expiratory air is provided, the apparatus comprising at least one adapter housing (101;201), with at least connections to: a mouthpiece (105;205), an inlet valve (102;202) for inhalation air, a PEEP valve (103;203), a collector container (106;206) for expiratory air, and a pressure regulator (104;204) with an inlet-and outlet valve (107;207), wherein the inlet- and outlet valve (107;207) blocks the pressure regulator (104;204) during inhalation through the mouthpiece and releases the influx of expiratory air into the pressure regulator (104;204) during exhalation and blocks an outlet from the pressure regulator (104;204).

Description

APPARATUS FOR COLLECTING EXPIRATORY AIR

Technical field

[0001 ] The invention relates to an apparatus for collecting expiratory air that is then subjected to an analysis for the presence of gases and chemical substances, in particular also NO.

Background

[0002] Paredi et al. describe in the article "Exhalation flow and pressure-controlled reservoir collection of exhaled nitric oxide for remote and delayed analysis" (Thorax 1998: 53; 775-779) the schematic construction of a transportable respiratory air collector in which the expiratory air is blown via a mouthpiece into a tube. The reduction of a cross section brings it about that the mouth pressure is raised to a level at which the velum is closed, so that a falsification of measured values by nasal air is prevented. Furthermore, a 3-way valve is arranged in the pipe with the aid of which a first part of the expiratory air is let out into the atmosphere, since this part of the expiratory air still contains nasal components, thus also nasal NO. The time until the valve is switched to give the respiratory air passage to the collector bag is indicated with t = 1 -2 s. This time (t) is determined from

[0003] t = dead space volume/expiratory flow, [0004] whereby the dead space volume was determined from the weight (1 b) plus the age in years and the expiratory flow was taken as base with 10-1 1 l/min.

[0005] At the end of the expiratory manoeuvre the gas flow is again conducted into the atmosphere in order to exclude nasal air possibly entering into the respiratory flow in this phase. [0006] This arrangement has the disadvantage that the patient must exhale with a constant flow, which necessitates a corresponding measuring arrangement and display. A further disadvantage consists in the fact that the switching of the 3-way valve takes place in a time-dependent manner.

[0007] Furthermore, an apparatus for taking sample air from the expiratory air is known from DE 1 029 525 C in which a three-way pipe is used that can be connected to the mouth, is connected to a folded-together bag, and that in the third place comprises a sampling connection piece in which an overpressure valve is arranged. It is

disadvantageous that the inhalation cannot be influenced.

[0008] Finally, reference should also be made to DE 1 034 321 A, that describes an arrangement for measuring human expiratory air in which a valve connecting piece is used that comprises an adjustable non-return valve for the expiratory opening in addition to a connection line for the gas analysis device which line is connected to the

mouthpiece, and in addition to a non-return valve for the inhalation opening.

[0009] It would be desirable to make available a compact, universally applicable device for collecting expiratory air, and in particular a device which functions without having to incorporate a display. Additionally, it would be desirable if the device was capable of rejecting expiratory air and also capable of influencing different parameters of the inhalation air.

Summary

[0001 0] This objective is met by the features of Claim 1 and advantageous

embodiments are subject matter of the subclaims.

[0001 1 ] According to the embodiments herein an apparatus for collecting expiratory air is suggested comprising at least one adapter housing with at least connections to a mouthpiece and to an inlet valve for inhalation air.

[0001 2] According to one embodiment, the apparatus further comprises a PEEP (positive end expiratory pressure) valve followed by at least one collector container for expiratory air, and to a pressure regulator with an inlet- and outlet valve, whereby the inlet- and outlet valve blocks the pressure regulator opposite the adapter housing during inhalation and releases the influx of expiratory air into the pressure regulator during exhalation and blocks the outlet from the pressure regulator.

[0001 3] According to one embodiment, the apparatus further comprises a PEEP valve which valve is followed on the output side on a common distributor by a collector container for expiratory air that can be closed by an inlet valve and by a pressure regulator parallel to the collector container and with an inlet and with an outlet valve, whereby the PEEP valve blocks the adapter housing during inhalation and frees the flowthrough in the direction of the pressure regulator and of the collector container during exhalation at a given pressure in the adapter housing, and the inlet valve into the collector container is adjusted in such a manner that it does not open until at an adjustable presssure in the pressure regulator.

[0001 4] The inlet into the pressure regulator can preferably be closed by an inlet valve that is preferably an inlet and outlet valve of the pressure regulator, whereby the inlet valve into the collector container and the inlet valve into the pressure regulator are coordinated with one another in such a manner that at first the inlet valve into the pressure regulator opens when the outlet from the pressure regulator is closed and the inlet valve into the collector container opens only upon a settable pressure in the pressure regulator for filling the collector container. [0001 5] The PEEP valve is designed and can be adjusted in such a manner that it does not open until upon a settable pressure in the adapter housing. A PEEP valve is preferably used like the one known from DE 10 2007 012 285 and with which a substantially constant flow of a certain magnitude can be adjusted independently of fluctuations during the exhalation. This allows conditions to be adjusted that correspond to the ATS/ERS guidelines for the measuring of exhalation air.

[0001 6] The collector container is advantageously designed to be closable and is detachably connected to the PEEP valve.

[0001 7] An advantageous embodiment provides that the pressure regulator comprises a reservoir or is such a reservoir that can be limited in its take-up volume for exhalation air. The reservoir is preferably provided with means that bring about a self-emptying after conclusion of an exhalation.

[0001 8] An apparatus for collecting expiratory air is provided, the apparatus comprising at least one adapter housing, with at least connections to: a mouthpiece, an inlet valve for inhalation air, a PEEP valve, a collector container for expiratory air, and a pressure regulator with an inlet- and outlet valve, wherein the inlet- and outlet valve blocks the pressure regulator during inhalation through the mouthpiece and releases the influx of expiratory air into the pressure regulator during exhalation and blocks an outlet from the pressure regulator. [0001 9] According to one embodiment, the pressure regulator is connected to the adaptor housing via the PEEP valve.

[00020] According to one embodiment, the PEEP valve is used with which a

substantially constant flow of a certain magnitude can be adjusted independently of fluctuations during the exhalation. [00021 ] According to one embodiment, the collector container for expiratory air can be closed by an inlet valve, and wherein the inlet valve is configured such that it opens at an preset pressure in the pressure regulator. [00022] According to one embodiment, the inlet valve into the collector container and the in- and outlet valve are coordinated with one another in such a manner that at first the inlet valve is open when the outlet from the pressure regulator is closed and the inlet valve opens only upon a settable pressure in the pressure regulator for filling the collector container.

[00023] According to one embodiment, the collector container can be closed and is detachably connected to the PEEP valve.

[00024] According to one embodiment, the inlet valve is a 1 -way valve preceded by a filter for filtering out substances from the inhalation air or by a gas meter for determining components of the inhalation air.

[00025] According to one embodiment, the pressure regulator comprises a reservoir or is one that can be limited in its take-up volume for expiratory air.

[00026] According to one embodiment, the reservoir comprises at least one air- impermeable bag that can be changeably connected to the pressure regulator. [00027] According to one embodiment, the pressure regulator comprises a carrier part for the reservoir with a connection sleeve to the adapter housing.

[00028] According to one embodiment, the reservoir is detachably connected to the carrier part, and wherein the connection sleeve corresponds to an air inlet opening into the reservoir. [00029] According to one embodiment, the reservoir is a hose-like, air-impermeable bag that tapers in the fastening area toward the carrier part, wherein the air inlet and air outlet openings in reservoir are arranged laterally and opposingly in the tapering area, and wherein the inlet- and outlet valve in the form of a foil flap is located between the air inlet opening and the air outlet opening which flap alternately closes either the air inlet opening or the air outlet opening as a function of the pressure conditions and

correspondingly opens the particular other one. [00030] According to one embodiment, the reservoir has the property of self-emptying in that a surface tension develops during filling which is degraded with the opening of the air outlet opening as a result of which a contraction of the reservoir can be brought about, as a result of which at least the greatest part of the stored expiratory air escapes. [00031 ] According to one embodiment, in order to form the surface tension for the emptying, the reservoir is provided with foil strips or the reservoir itself can be inflated.

[00032] According to one embodiment, the volume of the reservoir can be adjusted.

[00033] According to one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a clamp that compresses the reservoir in a changeable section for adjusting the reservoir volume. [00034] According to one embodiment, the reservoir comprises markings that define the particular reservoir volume.

[00035] According to one embodiment, the opening of the PEEP valve and/or the PEEP valve being open can be indicated to the exhaling patient by an acoustic and/or optical signal. [00036] According to one embodiment, the pressure regulator comprising a collapsible reservoir and a clamp configured to changeably clamp the collapsible reservoir such that the clamp can be used to adjust the reservoir volume.

[00037] According to one embodiment, the reservoir comprises markings that define the volume of the reservoir. [00038] Further possible features and benefits of this solution will become apparent from the detailed description below. Please note that any embodiment or part of embodiment as well as any method or part of method could be combined in any way.

Short description of the drawings

[00039] The apparatus for collecting expiratory air will be explained using the drawings, in which: [00040] Fig. 1 shows the apparatus in the inhalation phase,

[00041 ] Fig. 2 shows the apparatus in a 1 st phase of the exhalation,

[00042] Fig. 3 shows the apparatus during the collection of expiratory air, [00043] Fig. 4 shows the apparatus in the inhalation phase,

[00044] Fig. 5 shows the apparatus in a 1 st phase of the exhalation.

[00045] Fig. 6 shows the apparatus during the collection of expiratory air, and [00046] Fig. 7 shows a pressure regulator with self-emptying reservoir.

Detailed description

[00047] In the following a detailed description of embodiments of the invention will be given with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be appreciated that the drawings are for illustration only and are not in any way restricting the scope. Thus, any references to direction, such as "up" or "down", are only referring to the directions shown in the figures. It should be noted that the features in the different embodiments having the same last two digits are similar i.e. 102, 202. A feature in one embodiment could thus be exchanged for a feature from another embodiment having the same last two digits; the descriptions of the similar features having the same last two digits should thus be seen as complementing each other in describing the fundamental idea of the feature and thereby showing the features versatility.

[00048] Definitions:

[00049] The term "sample" encompasses all types of samples that can be extracted from exhaled breath, such as gaseous components such as carbon monoxide and nitric oxide to mention only two non-limiting examples, particulate matter such as for example cells, microbes, and macromolecules; and volatile organic compounds.

[00050] The terms "test" and "diagnosis" are intended to include clinical and veterinary applications such as the diagnosis and monitoring of pathologies in humans and other mammals, as well as in non-clinical research, preventive health care and exercise. [00051 ] The term "infant" is intended to include human children ranging from newborn, including prematurely born babies, to children of about 24 months.

[00052] The term "small children" is intended to include human children ranging from the age of about 2 years to about 5 years.

[00053] The term "mouthpiece" is used to denote the element through which the mammal exhales into the device, creating an airtight seal between airways of the mammal and the device, and can include a short tube that goes in between the lips, and may include a flange that fits between the lips and the teeth and gums, and/or a soft flange that fits over the lips, or a mask, such as a half-mask or full face mask.

[00054] The term "system" is intended to include combinations of apparatuses and devices, including such known at the priority date, but assembled in combinations and performing functions disclosed for the first time in this application.

[00055] The term "pre-determined" as in "pre-determined value" means a numerical value assigned to a parameter, either as entered by the user or operator, e.g. a patient in an out-patient setting, a nurse or a physician in a clinical setting. The term however encompasses values that follow from another value, for example entering the age, sex and weight of a patient may generate a "pre-determined" value for another parameter.

[00056] An embodiment of the apparatus in accordance with the invention is shown in fig. 1 - fig. 3 in different respiration phases.

[00057] The apparatus consists in the embodiment shown of an adapter housing 101 with connections to an inlet valve 102 for inhalation air, to a PEEP (positive end expiratory pressure) valve 103, which is followed by the collector container 106, to a pressure regulator 104 and to a mouthpiece 105 for the patient. The pressure regulator 104 comprises a reservoir 108 or is such a reservoir that can be limited in its take-up volume for exhalation air and is connected via its inlet- and outlet valve 107 to the adapter housing 101 . [00058] Inhalation air is not limited to atmospheric air but includes, e.g., even filtered gases as well as gases from an inhalation reservoir with conditioned gases.

[00059] Instead of the mouthpiece 105 a face mask or a half mask can also be connected.

[00060] The mode of operation in the respiratory phases shown is as follows: [00061 ] Fig. 1 Inhalation: The patient breathes via the mouthpiece 105. As a result of the vacuum in the adapter housing produced during the inhalation the inhalation valve 102, a 1 -way valve, opens whereas the PEEP valve 103 and the inlet- and outlet valve 107 to the pressure regulator 104 are closed. If the patient stops inhaling, the inlet valve 102 closes.

[00062] Fig. 2 Exhalation 1 st phase: The patient exhales via the mouthpiece 105 whereby a pressure builds up in the adapter housing 101 . This pressure has the result that inhalation valve 102 closes. If inhalation valve 102 is spring-loaded, as shown, it closes already with the closure of the inhalation process.

[00063] At the beginning of the exhalation the inlet valve 107 of pressure regulator 104 opens and its outlet is closed. [00064] The valve fulfils both functions here, for which reason it is also designated as inlet- and outlet valve 107. Of course, even other valve combinations are possible that guarantee the cited mode of operation.

[00065] The reservoir 108 of pressure regulator 104, which is preferably empty or almost empty, which is readily possible in an airtight plastic bag with an open outlet by compression, fills up with expiratory air.

[00066] Fig. 3 Exhalation 2nd phase: If the reservoir 108 is full, the pressure rises exponentially in the pressure regulator 104 and adapter housing 101 now filled with expiratory air and attains a value that results in the opening of the PEEP valve 103. The air which is further exhaled flows through the PEEP valve 103 into the respiratory gas collector container 106 and fills it up.

[00067] If the expiratory process is concluded, the PEEP valve 103 closes under its spring loading. The respiratory gas collector container 106 can now be closed and removed from the PEEP valve 103. It is available for an evaluation. At the same time the inlet- and outlet valve 107 switches over and frees the outlet from the reservoir 108 of the pressure regulator 104. The latter is now emptied. [00068] If the reservoir 108 comprises an emptying mechanism, as is described in the following by way of example, the emptying of the reservoir 108 takes place

automatically.

[00069] Alternatively to the removal of the respiratory gas collector container 106, a further respiratory procedure can follow. The inhalation valve 102 opens during the inhalation while the pressure regulator 104 is closed relative to the adapter housing 101 by the inlet- and outlet valve 107.

[00070] The procedure can be repeated until the desired amount of fractionated expiratory air is present in respiratory collector container 106. [00071 ] An embodiment of the apparatus in accordance with the invention is shown in the fig. 4 - fig. 6 in different respiration phases.

[00072] The apparatus consists in the embodiment shown of an adapter housing 201 with connections to an inlet valve 202 for inhalation air, to a PEEP valve 203, and to a mouthpiece 205 for the patient. [00073] The PEEP valve 203 is followed on the output side by a distributor 215 to the collector container 206 and, parallel to it, to pressure regulator 204. The distributor 215 is a Y fitting or a Y channel in a housing in the embodiment shown.

[00074] The pressure regulator 204 comprises a reservoir 208 that can be limited in its take-up volume for exhalation air or is such a reservoir and is connected via its inlet, here the inlet and outlet valve 207 of the pressure regulator 204, to the distributor 215.

[00075] The valve shown fulfills both functions here, for which reason it is also designated as inlet and outlet valve 207. Of course, even other valve combinations are possible that guarantee the cited mode of operation, or only an outlet valve and a constantly open inlet. [00076] Inhalation air is not limited to atmospheric air but includes, e.g., even filtered gases as well as gases from an inhalation reservoir with conditioned gases. [00077] Instead of the mouthpiece 205 a face mask or a half mask can also be connected.

[00078] The mode of operation in the respiratory phases shown is as follows:

[00079] Fig. 4 Inhalation: The patient breathes via the mouthpiece 205. As a result of the vacuum in the adapter housing 201 produced during the inhalation the inhalation valve 202, a 1 -way valve, opens whereas the PEEP valve 203 is closed. If the patient stops inhaling, the inlet valve 202 closes.

[00080] Fig. 5 exhalation 1 st phase: The patient exhales via the mouthpiece 205 whereby a pressure builds up in the adapter housing 201 . This pressure has the result that inlet valve 202 closes. If inlet valve 202 is spring-loaded, as shown, it closes already with the closure of the inhalation process.

[00081 ] If a given pressure has built up in the adapter housing 201 , the PEEP valve 203 opens and a constant pressure and flow conditioned by the mode of operation of the PEEP valve 203 are adjusted that leave the PEEP valve 203 in the direction of distributor 215. The distributor has connections to the collector container 206, that is closed by the inlet valve 216, and to the pressure regulator 204, whose input is open and whose output is closed by the output valve 207.

[00082] The reservoir 208 of pressure regulator 204, which is preferably empty or almost empty, which is readily possible in an airtight plastic bag with an open outlet by compression, fills up with expiratory air.

[00083] Fig. 6 exhalation 2nd phase: If the reservoir 208 is full, the pressure rises exponentially in the pressure regulator 204 and distributor 215 now filled with exhalation air and attains a value that results in the opening of the inlet valve 216 into the respiratory collector container 206. The collector container 206 fills up with exhalation air.

[00084] If the expiratory process is concluded, the PEEP valve 203 closes under its spring loading as well as the inlet valve 216. The respiratory gas collector container 206 can now be closed and removed from the distributor 215. Depending on the embodiment the inlet valve 216 or a separate closure can serve as closure.

[00085] The collected exhalation gas is now available for an evaluation. At the same time the inlet- and outlet valve 207 switches over and frees the outlet from the reservoir 208 of the pressure regulator 204. The latter is now emptied.

[00086] If the reservoir 208 comprises an emptying mechanism, as is described in the following by way of example, the emptying of the reservoir 208 takes place

automatically.

[00087] Alternatively to the removal of the respiratory gas collector container 206, a further respiratory procedure can follow.

[00088] The procedure can be repeated until the desired amount of fractionated expiratory air is present in respiratory collector container 206.

[00089] Fig. 7 shows an advantageously constructed pressure regulator 104;204 with a reservoir 108;208 that has the property of self-emptying in that a surface tension develops during filling which is degraded with the opening of the outlet opening and brings about a contraction of the reservoir 108;208, as a result of which at least the greatest part of the stored expiratory air escapes.

[00090] The pressure regulator 104;204 shown consists of a carrier part 109;209 for the reservoir 108;208 with a connection sleeve 1 10;210 to the adapter housing 101 ;201 . The reservoir 108;208 is preferably connected to the carrier part 109;209 in a

detachable manner, whereby the connection sleeve 1 10;210 corresponds to the air inlet opening 1 1 1 ;21 1 in the reservoir 108;208.

[00091 ] The reservoir 108;208 is a hose-like, air-impermeable bag of plastic that is designed closed on both sides and that preferably tapers in the fastening area toward the carrier part 109;209. The air inlet and air outlet openings 1 1 1 ;21 1 , 1 12;212 in reservoir 108;208 are arranged laterally and opposingly in an end area, here in the tapering area. [00092] In the reservoir 108;208 the inlet- and outlet valve 107;207 in the form of a foil flap is arranged between the air inlet opening 1 1 1 ;21 1 and the air outlet opening

1 12;212 and alternately closes either the air inlet opening 1 1 1 ;21 1 or the air outlet opening 1 12;212 as a function of the pressure conditions and correspondingly opens the particular other one. The foil valve flap is supported in an area inside reservoir 108;208 and at a distance from the air inlet- and air outlet openings 1 1 1 ;21 1 , 1 12;212. This can take place by welding in or adhering.

[00093] In order to form the surface tension for the emptying, the hose-shaped reservoir 108;208 is provided, e.g., on the outside with foil strips or the reservoir itself is constructed so that it can be readily inflated, similar to an air balloon.

[00094] It is furthermore shown that the reservoir volume can be readily adjusted by a clamp 1 13;213 in such a hose-like reservoir 108;208. The hose-like reservoir can be adjusted at defined positions by the clamp 1 13;213 by being compressed in its take-up volume. Appropriate markings 1 14;214 on the reservoir 108;208 are a suitable aid here. [00095] The suggested apparatus has a number of advantages. On the one hand the air coming from the mouth or the upper respiratory passages or the nose that falsifies the measured value is rejected, i.e., supplied to a pressure regulator 104;204. The amount is variable by the take-up volume of the reservoir 108;208 of the pressure regulator 104;204. [00096] Since the pressure exponentially rises after the filling of the reservoir 108;208, the time of the opening of the PEEP valve 103;203 can be predetermined, namely, shortly after the attaining of the maximum take-up volume of the reservoir 108;208.

Thus, it is also possible to adjust from which area of the respiratory passages exhalation air is to pass into the expiratory air collector container (collector container 106;206 for exhalation air) via the selection of the reservoir 108;208. The exhalation air can be fractionated.

[00097] Fractionated expiratory air in conformity with ATS/ERS guidelines is achieved with the PEEP valve used. As a result of the fact that even the inhalation takes place via the adapter housing 101 ;201 the apparatus obtains a very compact form. Furthermore, even filters or measuring apparatuses can be arranged in front of the entrance valve 102;202 in order to filter out substances or to determine their amount in the inhalation air. [00098] The apparatus can be produced in a very compact form. Furthermore, even filters or measuring apparatuses can be arranged in front of the entrance valve 102;202 in order to filter out substances or to determine their amount in the inhalation air.

[00099] In summary, an apparatus for collecting expiratory air with at least one adapter housing is provided, the apparatus has at least connections to a mouthpiece, to an inlet valve for inhalation air, to a PEEP valve which valve is followed on the output side on a common distributor by a collector container for expiratory air that can be closed by an inlet valve and by a pressure regulator parallel to the collector container and with an inlet and with an outlet valve, whereby the PEEP valve blocks the adapter housing during inhalation and frees the flowthrough in the direction of the pressure regulator and of the collector container during exhalation at a given pressure in the adapter housing, and the inlet valve is adjusted in such a manner that it does not open until at an adjustable presssure in the pressure regulator.

[0001 00] According to one embodiment, the apparatus is characterized in that a PEEP valve is used with which a substantially constant flow of a certain magnitude can be adjusted independently of fluctuations during the exhalation.

[0001 01 ] According to one embodiment, the apparatus is characterized in that the inlet into the pressure regulator can be closed by an inlet valve that is preferably an inlet and outlet valve of the pressure regulator, whereby the inlet valve into the collector container and the in- and outlet valve are coordinated with one another in such a manner that at first the inlet valve is open when the outlet from the pressure regulator is closed and the inlet valve opens only upon a settable pressure in the pressure regulator for filling the collector container. [0001 02] According to one embodiment, the apparatus is characterized in that the collector container can be closed and is detachably connected to the distributor.

[0001 03] According to one embodiment, the apparatus is characterized in that the inlet valve is a 1 -way valve with a filter for filtering out substances from the inhalation air or with a gas meter for determining components of the inhalation air preferably connected in front of it.

[0001 04] According to one embodiment, the apparatus is characterized in that the pressure regulator comprises a reservoir that can be limited in its take-up volume for expiratory air or is such a reservoir. [0001 05] According to one embodiment, the apparatus is characterized in that the reservoir consists of at least one air-impermeable plastic bag that can be changeably connected to the pressure regulator.

[0001 06] According to one embodiment, the apparatus is characterized in that the pressure regulator consists of a carrier part for the reservoir with a connection sleeve to the distributor and that the reservoir is preferably connected to the carrier part in a detachable manner, whereby the connection sleeve corresponds to the air inlet opening in the reservoir.

[0001 07] According to one embodiment, the apparatus is characterized in that the reservoir is a hose-like, air-impermeable bag of plastic that is designed closed on both sides and that preferably tapers in the fastening area toward the carrier part, whereby the air inlet and air outlet openings in the reservoir are arranged laterally and opposingly in the tapering area and the inlet- and outlet valve in the form of a foil flap is located between the air inlet opening and the air outlet opening which flap alternately closes either the air inlet opening or the air outlet opening and correspondingly opens the particular other one as a function of the pressure conditions.

[0001 08] According to one embodiment, the apparatus is characterized in that the reservoir has the property of self-emptying in that a surface tension develops during filling which is degraded with the opening of the air outlet opening as a result of which a contraction of the reservoir can be brought about, as a result of which at least the greatest part of the stored expiratory air escapes.

[000109] According to one embodiment, the apparatus is characterized in that in order to form the surface tension for the emptying, the reservoir is provided with foil strips or the reservoir itself can be inflated.

[0001 10] According to one embodiment, the apparatus is characterized in that the reservoir can be adjusted in its reservoir volume,

[0001 1 1 ] According to one embodiment, the apparatus is characterized in that in a hose-like reservoir a clamp that compresses the reservoir in a changeable section is used to adjust the reservoir volume.

[0001 12] According to one embodiment, the apparatus is characterized in that the reservoir comprises markings that define the particular reservoir volume.

[0001 1 3] According to one embodiment, the apparatus is characterized in that the opening of the PEEP valve and it's being open can be indicated to the exhaling patient by an acoustic and/or optical signal.

[0001 14] An apparatus for collecting expiratory air is provided. The apparatus has at least one adapter housing with at least connections to a mouthpiece, to an inlet valve for inhalation air, to a PEEP valve followed by at least one collector container for expiratory air, and to a pressure regulator with an inlet- and outlet valve, whereby the inlet- and outlet valve blocks the pressure regulator opposite the adapter housing during inhalation and releases the influx of expiratory air into the pressure regulator during exhalation and blocks the outlet from the pressure regulator.

[0001 15] According to one embodiment, the apparatus is characterized in that the collector container can be closed and is detachably connected to the PEEP valve. [0001 1 6] According to one embodiment, the apparatus is characterized in that the inlet valve is a 1 -way valve preceded preferably by a filter for filtering out substances from the inhalation air or by a gas meter for determining components of the inhalation air. [0001 1 7] According to one embodiment, the apparatus is characterized in that the pressure regulator comprises a reservoir or is one that can be limited in its take-up volume for expiratory air.

[0001 1 8] According to one embodiment, the apparatus is characterized in that the reservoir consists of at least one air-impermeable plastic bag that can be changeably connected to the pressure regulator.

[0001 1 9] According to one embodiment, the apparatus is characterized in that the pressure regulator consists of a carrier part for the reservoir with a connection sleeve to the adapter housing and that the reservoir is preferably detachably connected to the carrier part, whereby the connection sleeve corresponds to the air inlet opening into the reservoir.

[0001 20] According to one embodiment, the apparatus is characterized in that the reservoir is a hose-like, air-impermeable bag of plastic that is designed closed on both sides and that preferably tapers in the fastening area toward the carrier part, whereby the air inlet and air outlet openings in reservoir are arranged laterally and opposingly in the tapering area, and the inlet- and outlet valve in the form of a foil flap is located between the air inlet opening and the air outlet opening which flap alternately closes either the air inlet opening or the air outlet opening as a function of the pressure conditions and correspondingly opens the particular other one.

[0001 21 ] According to one embodiment, the apparatus is characterized in that the reservoir has the property of self-emptying in that a surface tension develops during filling which is degraded with the opening of the air outlet opening as a result of which a contraction of the reservoir can be brought about, as a result of which at least the greatest part of the stored expiratory air escapes. [0001 22] According to one embodiment, the apparatus is characterized in that in order to form the surface tension for the emptying, the reservoir is provided with foil strips or the reservoir itself can be inflated.

[0001 23] According to one embodiment, the apparatus is characterized in that the reservoir can be adjusted in its reservoir volume.

[0001 24] According to one embodiment, the apparatus is characterized in that a clamp that compresses the reservoir in a changeable section is used to adjust the reservoir volume.

[0001 25] According to one embodiment, the apparatus is characterized in that the reservoir comprises markings that define the particular reservoir volume.

[0001 26] According to one embodiment, the apparatus is characterized in that the opening of the PEEP valve and it's being open can be indicated to the exhaling patient by an acoustic and/or optical signal.

[0001 27] Please note that any embodiment or part of embodiment as well as any method or part of method could be combined in any way. All examples herein should be seen as part of the general description and therefore possible to combine in any way in general terms.

List of reference numerals

101 adapter housing

102 inhalation valve

103 PEEP valve

104 pressure regulator

105 mouthpiece/mask

106 respiratory collector container

107 flutter valve

108 reservoir

109 carrier part

1 10 connection sleeve

1 1 1 air inlet opening into the reservoir

1 12 exit opening out of the reservoir

1 13 clamp for adjusting the take-up volume 1 14 markings

201 adapter housing

202 inlet valve for inhalation air

203 PEEP valve

204 pressure regulator

205 mouthpiece/mask 206 collector container for exhalation air

207 flutter valve

208 reservoir

209 carrier part

210 connection sleeve

21 1 air inlet opening into the reservoir

212 exit opening out of the reservoir

213 clamp for adjusting the take-up volume

214 markings

215 distributor

216 inlet valve into the respiratory collector container

Claims

An apparatus for collecting expiratory air, the apparatus comprising at least one adapter housing (101 ;201 ), with at least connections to:

• a mouthpiece (105;205),

• an inlet valve (102;202) for inhalation air,

• a PEEP valve (103;203),

• a collector container (106;206) for exhalation air, and

• a pressure regulator (104;204) with an inlet- and outlet valve (107;207), wherein the inlet- and outlet valve (107;207) is adapted to block the pressure regulator (104;204) during inhalation through the mouthpiece and adapted to release the influx of expiratory air into the pressure regulator (104;204) during exhalation, and to block an outlet from the pressure regulator (104;204).

The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the pressure regulator (104;204) is connected to the adaptor housing (104;204) via the PEEP valve (103;203).

The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 and 2, comprising a PEEP valve (103; 203) configured to maintain a substantially constant flow independent of fluctuation during the exhalation.

The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the collector container (206) for expiratory air is adapted to being closed by an inlet valve (216), and wherein said inlet valve (216) is configured to open when a pre-determined pressure in the pressure regulator (204) is reached.

The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the inlet valve (216) into the collector container (206) and the in- and outlet valve (207) are coordinated with one another in such a manner that at first the inlet valve (207) is open when the outlet from the pressure regulator (204) is closed and the inlet valve (216) opens only upon a settable pressure in the pressure regulator (204) for filling the collector container (206).

6. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 - 5, wherein the collector container (106;206) can be closed and is detachably connected to the PEEP valve (103;203).

7. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 - 6, wherein the inlet valve (102;202) is a 1 -way valve preceded by a filter for filtering out substances from the inhalation air or by a gas meter for determining components of the inhalation air.

8. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 - 7, wherein the pressure regulator (104;204) comprises a reservoir (108;208) or is one that can be limited in its take-up volume for expiratory air.

9. The apparatus according to any one of the claims 1 - 8, wherein the reservoir (108;208) comprises at least one air-impermeable bag that can be changeably connected to the pressure regulator (104;204).

10. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 - 9, wherein the pressure regulator (104;204) comprises a carrier part (109;209) for the reservoir (108;208) with a connection sleeve (1 10;210) to the adapter housing (101 ;201 ).

1 1 . The apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the reservoir (108;208) is detachably connected to the carrier part (109;209), and wherein the connection sleeve (1 10;210) corresponds to an air inlet opening (1 1 1 ;21 1 ) into the reservoir (108;208).

12. The apparatus according to any one of claims 9 - 1 1 , wherein the reservoir (108;208) is a hose-like, air-impermeable bag that tapers in the fastening area toward the carrier part (109;209), wherein the air inlet (1 1 1 ;21 1 ) and air outlet (1 12; 212) openings in reservoir (108;208) are arranged laterally and opposingly in the tapering area, and wherein the inlet- and outlet valve (107;207) in the form of a foil flap is located between the air inlet opening (1 1 1 ;21 1 ) and the air outlet opening (1 12;212) which flap alternately closes either the air inlet opening (1 1 1 ;21 1 ) or the air outlet opening (1 12;212) as a function of the pressure conditions and correspondingly opens the particular other one.

13. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 - 12, wherein the reservoir (108;208) has the property of self-emptying in that a surface tension develops during filling which is degraded with the opening of the air outlet opening (1 12;212) as a result of which a contraction of the reservoir (108;208) can be brought about, as a result of which at least the greatest part of the stored expiratory air escapes.

14. The apparatus according to claim 13, wherein in order to form the surface tension for the emptying, the reservoir (108;208) is provided with foil strips or the reservoir (108;208) itself can be inflated.

15. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 - 14, wherein the volume of the reservoir (108;208) can be adjusted.

16. The apparatus according to any claim 15, further comprising a clamp (1 13;213) that compresses the reservoir (108;208) in a changeable section for adjusting the reservoir volume.

17. The apparatus according to any one of claims 15 and 16, wherein the reservoir (108;208) comprises markings (1 14;214) that define the particular reservoir volume.

18. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 - 17, wherein the opening of the PEEP valve (103;203) and/or the PEEP valve (103;203) being open can be indicated to the exhaling patient by an acoustic and/or optical signal.

19. A pressure regulator for regulating a pressure in a diagnostic exhalation system, the pressure regulator comprising a collapsible reservoir (108;208) and a clamp (1 13;213) configured to clamp the collapsible reservoir (108;208) such that the clamp (1 13;213) can be used to adjust the reservoir volume.

20. The pressure regulator according to claim 19, wherein the reservoir (108;208) comprises markings (1 14;214) that define the volume of the reservoir.