Breath sensing apparatus
US5311875A · kind A · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 17, 1992 |
| Grant date | May 17, 1994 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 17, 2012 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B5/0878
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A breathing sensor comprising a thin flexible compliant film transducer exhibiting piezoelectric and pyroelectric properties. The transducer preferably comprises a thin film of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) having a pattern of metallization on the opposed surfaces thereof defining electrodes. The transducer is designed to be affixed proximate a person's airway such that the tidal flow of inspired and expired air will impinge upon the transducer. It is adapted to be coupled to electronic circuitry for indicating normal breathing, for providing an alarm in the event of sleep apnea and for providing an indication when sound related to respiratory distress is present.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.