Design and Development of a Low-Cost Pi-Duino Ventilator: An Affordable Respiratory Support in Resource-Limited Settings

Breathing support, particularly mechanical ventilation, is a critical component of healthcare, especially for patients experiencing severe respiratory distress. The global shortage of mechanical ventilators, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has highlighted the need for affordable alternatives, particularly in developing regions. This research focuses on designing and developing a low-cost ventilator utilizing a bag-valve-mask (Ambu-bag) automated by microcontrollers (Raspberry Pi and Arduino Mega). The prototype operates in two ventilation modes: Volume Control-Assist Control Ventilation (VC-ACV) and Volume Control-Continuous Mandatory Ventilation (VC-CMV). The system contains a set of sensors that estimate and deliver oxygen with the actual quantity. It has a graphical user interface to control it easily. The developed ventilator system delivers oxygen at a maximum inaccuracy of 11.11%, and the readings taken from the sensors are $\pm \mathbf{3 L} / \mathbf{m i n}$, off from normal expectations of flow rates. Its cost is drastically low compared to normal ventilators. Not too expensive, it is thus conceivable for use in developing countries. Other suggestions are to enhance the ventilator functionality by including more modes and sensors, resizing to increase volume range, and having a backup power supply to make the operations more reliable.