DESIGN AND PROTOTYPE OF AN AUTOMATED POSITIVE SUCTION MECHANICAL VENTILATOR UNDER AN ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL PROJECT ANALYSIS IN LOW-INCOME PATIENTS

Abstract

The design and prototype of a low-cost portable positive pressure mechanical ventilator for use in cases of mass disasters and resource-limited environments are described. The ventilator provides breaths by compressing a conventional valve bag mask (AMBU) using a pivoting lever, eliminating the need for a human operator for the AMBU. An initial prototype was constructed using acrylic, with measurements of 285 x 350 x 250 mm and a weight of 4.1 kg (9 lb). It is powered by a 12V DC battery-operated electric motor and features an adjustable air volume of up to a maximum of 750 ml. Control is achieved through a human-machine interface using a 16x2 LCD screen displaying RPM and percentage speed data, which are adjusted using an easy-to-use potentiometer. The prototype also includes an overvoltage safety control mode and pilot lights to indicate the equipment's status. Iterations of the device will include a controllable inspiration-to-expiration time ratio, a pressure relief valve, and a battery bank system that allows for 4 hours of autonomy. The prototype manufacturing cost is only $820. Through this ventilator prototype, it is demonstrated that the lever-driven AMBU compression strategy is a viable option to achieve a low-cost, low-consumption portable technology that provides essential ventilator features at a fraction of the cost of existing technology