Apnea analysis system and method

US9848820B2 · kind B2 · utility

Inventors

• Bo Chen · Guilford, US
• Michael Mestek · Superior, US
• Ron J. Kadlec · Longmont, US
• Niranjan Maharajh · Broomfield, US
• Mark Kolnsberg · Beverly, US
• Corinne H. Johnson · Seattle, US
• James Ochs · Palo Alto, US
• Paul Stanley Addison · Edinburgh, GB
• James N. Watson · Dunfermline, GB

Key dates

• Filing date: Jan 6, 2015
• Grant date: Dec 26, 2017
• Expiry date: Feb 7, 2035

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61B5/7264
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

An apnea analysis system may include a photoplethysmographic (PPG) sub-system, a breath detection sub-system, and an apnea analysis module. An apnea analysis system includes a photoplethysmographic (PPG) sub-system, a breath detection sub-system, and an apnea analysis module. The PPG sub-system is configured to be operatively connected to an individual and output a PPG signal from the individual. The breath detection sub-system is configured to be operatively connected to the individual and output a breath signal from the individual. The apnea analysis module is in communication with the PPG sub-system and the breath detection sub-system. The apnea analysis module analyzes the breath signal and a respiratory component of the PPG signal and, based on the analysis, identifies a presence of apnea, differentiates between obstructive apnea and central apnea, and provides an indication of the identified apnea.