Gas flow indicator

Abstract

A gas flow indicator ( 12 ) for medical equipment is described which is configured to provide an audible indication of gas flow. The medical equipment may be in form of a respiratory care device, an airway management device, a heat moisture exchanger ( 10 ), an oxygen enrichment device ( 92,112 ) or a breathing mask ( 132 ).

1 . A gas flow indicator for use with a breathing mask configured to provide an audible indication of gas flow. 
     
     
         2 . The gas flow indicator according to  claim 1  configured such that the presence of an audible sound signals correct gas flow and the absence of an audible sound signals incorrect gas flow. 
     
     
         3 . The gas flow indicator according to  claim 1  configured such that the absence of an audible sound signals correct gas flow and the presence of an audible sound signals incorrect gas flow. 
     
     
         4 . The gas flow indicator according to  claim 1  wherein the breathing mask is configured for respiratory care and/or airway management. 
     
     
         5 . The gas flow indicator according to  claim 1 , provided in the breathing mask disposed close to a patient's air inlet so as to indicate if there is a problem with the gases getting to the patient. 
     
     
         6 . The gas flow indicator according to  claim 1  configured as a disposable device. 
     
     
         7 . The gas flow indicator according to  claim 1  configured for retrofitting to an existing breathing mask. 
     
     
         8 . The gas flow indicator according to  claim 1  integrally formed with the breathing mask. 
     
     
         9 . The gas flow indicator according to  claim 1  wherein the audible indication is provided by a mechanism for whistling. 
     
     
         10 . The gas flow indicator according to  claim 9  wherein the mechanism for whistling comprises an occlusion arranged to force gas through a narrow opening to create an audible sound. 
     
     
         11 . The gas flow indicator according to  claim 9  wherein the mechanism for whistling comprises a blade configured to bisect a flow of gas, thereby creating a turbulent vortex which causes the gas to vibrate to make an audible sound. 
     
     
         12 . The gas flow indicator according to  claim 9  wherein the mechanism for whistling further comprises a chamber in which gas may resonate. 
     
     
         13 . The gas flow indicator according to  claim 12  wherein the chamber is configured such that gas resonates therein at a pre-determined frequency. 
     
     
         14 . The gas flow indicator according to  claim 9  wherein the mechanism for whistling further comprises a ball or other structure arranged to rattle upon gas flow. 
     
     
         15 .- 47 . (canceled)