Keysight Technologies, Inc.
AUTOMATED BAG-VALVE-MASK (BVM)

Abstract:

To supplement the global shortage of mechanical ventilators caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, a cost-effective automated bag-valve-mask (BVM) device capable of producing regular repeatable ventilation to assist patient breathing is provided. The operation of compressing and decompressing a manual BVM device is automated using an automated compression fixture controlled by a digital programmable electronic control unit. The BVM airbag mounted to the automated compression fixture is placed between two finger levers that can perform cyclical compression and decompression to the BVM airbag, which is realized through a motor-driven gear mechanism. The automated BVM device allows different settings of ventilation parameters and is also associated with necessary safety measures. The automated BVM device may be built based on commercially available authority approved manual BVM devices such as the Ambu.RTM. resuscitators to reduce development cost. The simplified design and market availability of the components also enable its rapid manufacture in large quantities.