Portable continuous positive airway pressure system

Abstract

A portable, wearable vest supports an air supply tube to a patient mask or interface in a continuous positive air pressure system. In one embodiment, the vest contains and supports motor and battery components. In another embodiment, the vest couples a remote CPAP unit to a patient interface.

1 . A portable wearable continuous positive air-pressure system of the type used for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea and other disorders by a patient comprising: 
 a blower unit housing having an air inlet and having an outlet to provide output air at a pressure of between 5 and 15 cm water;    brushless DC motor elements coupled to an impeller wheel located within said blower unit housing supplying air to an outlet from an inlet;    said brushless DC motor elements coupled to a motor control unit;    a battery pack coupled to the control unit, the control unit having motor control functions; and    a compliant hose coupled to an interface positioned on the face of the patient, said hose coupled to said outlet, whereby air is transferred from said blower to the patient;    said blower unit, motor and battery pack being disposed within a wearable vest.