Inventors:
Brent Blue - Jackson WY 83014
Steven M. Stokes - Jackson WY 83002
International Classification:
A61M 1600
Abstract:
A method and apparatus for controlling oxygen delivery to a person is disclosed. In one embodiment, the method includes receiving a goal blood-oxygen saturation level, measuring an actual saturation level of the person, determining a breath rate of the person, sensing a period of inhalation by the person, and delivering oxygen during inhalation by moving a valve to an oxygen delivery position for a calculated period of time based upon the actual saturation level as compared to the goal level of the persons blood-oxygen content. One embodiment of an apparatus comprises an open-loop breathing system including a control valve for controlling the flow of oxygen from a source to the person, a pressure sensor for detecting a period of inhalation, an oximeter for measuring actual blood-oxygen saturation, and a processor for calculating the time the valve needs to be maintained in an open position to deliver oxygen.