Compact Airflow Measurement System for Biomedical Applications

With the latest COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a notable rise in cases involving patients with respiratory issues. This surge has provoked advancements in pulmonary rehabilitation systems, aimed at preventing the need for intubation. Recent studies also emphasize a growing concern over the probability of future pandemics, primarily targeting the respiratory system. In the current context, while several commercial devices exist, they often lack precise measurements of the volume of air delivered to patients, potentially leading to complications by overlooking crucial aspects of the patient's lung mechanics. Moreover, the high costs associated with these devices further hinder accessibility. Therefore, we propose a validated airflow measurement system to enhance the accuracy of flow measurements provided by such devices. This system is portable, easy to develop, and constructed using accessible components, with most materials feasible for fabrication via 3D printing, machining, and resin molding. Following calibration with an Alharad syringe, the system demonstrated commendable reliability, with over 95% of samples falling within the region of interest. Additionally, the proposed system exhibited remarkable performance, yielding measurement errors of less than 4% for both positive and negative flows.