SUPPORT SYSTEM AND METHOD

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[01] This patent application claims the priority benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 1 19(e) of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/653,052 filed on May 30, 2012, the contents of which are herein incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1 . Field of the Invention

[02] The present disclosure pertains to a portable handheld pressure support system configured to deliver a blending gas enriched pressurized flow of breathable gas to the airway of a subject.

2. Description of the Related Art

[03] It is well known to apply a positive air pressure (PAP) to a patient's airway to keep the airway open and avoid collapse during breathing. This positive pressure effectively "splints" the airway, thereby maintaining an open passage to the lungs.

Dyspnea, or shortness of breath, is a primary symptom of COPD. COPD patients suffer occurrences of dyspnea when exerting themselves. The forms of exertion may include performing household chores, walking to the local store, or climbing a set of stairs. An onset of dyspnea limits a patient's ability to perform activities and can trigger

apprehension or panic, further reducing the patient's ability to function. Many COPD patients require oxygen when exerting themselves and/or during sleep. COPD patients carry short acting broncho dilators to alleviate their symptoms of dyspnea.

Bronchodilators have drawbacks including that they are steroid based, they are slow acting (4-20 minutes), they are effective for only asthmatic-based symptoms, and they rely on expensive pharmaceuticals.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[04] Accordingly, one or more aspects of the present disclosure relate to a portable handheld pressure support system configured to deliver a blending gas enriched pressurized flow of breathable gas to the airway of a subject. The pressure support system comprises a pressure generator, a subject interface, one or more sensors, a blending gas inlet port, a valve, one or more processors, a portable power source, a housing, and a handle. The pressure generator is configured to generate the pressurized flow of breathable gas. The subject interface is configured to communicate the pressurized flow of breathable gas to the airway of the subject. The one or more sensors are configured to generate output signals conveying information related to one or more gas parameters of the pressurized flow of breathable gas. The blending gas inlet port is configured to couple to a supply of blending gas. The valve is configured to selectively control a flow of blending gas through the blending gas inlet port. The one or more processors are configured to execute computer program modules.

[05] The computer program modules comprise a generator control module, a blending module, and a valve control module. The generator control module is configured to control operation of the pressure generator to generate the pressurized flow of breathable gas based on the output signals from the one or more sensors, according to a positive pressure support therapy regime. The blending module is configured to obtain a blending tidal volume and/or blending tidal flow rate of blending gas for an inhalation of the subject. The valve control module is configured to control the valve to open and close to release the determined blending tidal volume and/or blending tidal flow rate of blending gas into the pressurized flow of breathable gas in the subject interface for inhalation by the subject. The portable power source is configured to power the pressure generator, the one or more sensors, the valve, and the one or more processors. The housing is configured to contain the pressure generator, the subject interface, the one or more sensors, the blending inlet port, the valve, the one or more processors, and the power source. The handle, attached to and/or formed by the housing, is configured to be grasped by the subject to hold the housing in position with respect to the airway of the subject as the pressurized flow of breathable gas is delivered to the airway of the subject.

[06] Yet another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method of

delivering a blending gas enriched pressurized flow of breathable gas to the airway of a subject with a handheld pressure support system that includes a housing. The housing contains a pressure generator, a subject interface, one or more sensors, a blending gas inlet port, a valve, one or more processors, and a power source. The housing forms and/or is attached to a handle. The method comprises generating the pressurized flow of breathable gas with the pressure generator; communicating the pressurized flow of breathable gas to the airway of the subject with the subject interface; generating output signals conveying information related to one or more gas parameters of the pressurized flow of breathable gas with the one or more sensors; coupling the housing to a supply of blending gas with the blending gas inlet port; selectively controlling a flow of blending gas through the blending gas inlet port with the valve; controlling generation of the pressurized flow of breathable gas based on the output signals from the one or more sensors, according to a positive pressure support therapy regime; obtaining a blending tidal volume and/or blending tidal flow rate of blending gas for an inhalation of the subject; controlling the valve to open and close to release the obtained blending tidal volume and/or blending tidal flow rate of blending gas into the pressurized flow of breathable gas for inhalation by the subject; portably powering the pressure generator, the one or more sensors, the valve, and the one or more processors with the power source; and grasping the handle to hold the housing in position with respect to the airway of the subject as the pressurized flow of breathable gas is delivered to the airway of the subject.

Still another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a portable handheld pressure support system configured to deliver a blending gas enriched pressurized flow of breathable gas to the airway of a subject. The pressure support system comprises means for generating the pressurized flow of breathable gas; means for communicating the pressurized flow of breathable gas to the airway of the subject; means for generating output signals conveying information related to one or more gas parameters of the pressurized flow of breathable gas; means for coupling to a supply of blending gas; means for selectively controlling a flow of blending gas through the blending gas inlet port; and means for executing computer program modules. The computer program modules comprise means for controlling operation of the pressure generator to generate the pressurized flow of breathable gas based on the output signals from the one or more sensors, according to a positive pressure support therapy regime; means for obtaining a blending tidal volume and/or blending tidal flow rate of blending gas for an inhalation of the subject; and means for controlling the valve to open and close to release the determined blending tidal volume and/or blending tidal flow rate of blending gas into the pressurized flow of breathable gas in the subject interface for inhalation by the subject. The pressure support system further comprises means for portably powering the pressure generator, the one or more sensors, the valve, and the one or more processors; means for containing the pressure generator, the subject interface, the one or more sensors, the blending inlet port, the valve, the one or more processors, and the power source; and means for engaging the hand of the subject to be grasped by the subject, the means for engaging being connected to and/or formed by the means for containing, the means for engaging being configured to be grasped by the subject to hold the means for containing in position with respect to the airway of the subject as the pressurized flow of breathable gas is delivered to the airway of the subject.

[08] These and other objects, features, and characteristics of the present

disclosure, as well as the methods of operation and functions of the related elements of structure and the combination of parts and economies of manufacture, will become more apparent upon consideration of the following description and the appended claims with reference to the accompanying drawings, all of which form a part of this specification, wherein like reference numerals designate corresponding parts in the various figures. It is to be expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[09] FIG. 1 is a schematic of a portable handheld pressure support system

configured to deliver a blending gas enriched pressurized flow of breathable gas to the airway of a subject;

[10] FIG. 2 is an example embodiment of the portable handheld pressure

support system; [11] FIG. 3 is an example embodiment of the portable handheld pressure support system removably coupled to a supply of blending gas; and

[12] FIG. 4 is a method of delivering a blending gas enriched pressurized flow of breathable gas to the airway of a subject.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

[13] As used herein, the singular form of "a", "an", and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. As used herein, the statement that two or more parts or components are "coupled" shall mean that the parts are joined or operate together either directly or indirectly, i.e., through one or more intermediate parts or components, so long as a link occurs. As used herein, "directly coupled" means that two elements are directly in contact with each other. As used herein, "fixedly coupled" or "fixed" means that two components are coupled so as to move as one while maintaining a constant orientation relative to each other.

[14] As used herein, the word "unitary" means a component is created as a single piece or unit. That is, a component that includes pieces that are created separately and then coupled together as a unit is not a "unitary" component or body. As employed herein, the statement that two or more parts or components "engage" one another shall mean that the parts exert a force against one another either directly or through one or more intermediate parts or components. As employed herein, the term "number" shall mean one or an integer greater than one (i.e., a plurality).

[15] Directional phrases used herein, such as, for example and without

limitation, top, bottom, left, right, upper, lower, front, back, and derivatives thereof, relate to the orientation of the elements shown in the drawings and are not limiting upon the claims unless expressly recited therein.

[16] FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a portable handheld pressure support

system 10 configured to provide blending gas enriched pressure support therapy to a subject 12. Pressure support system 10 is configured to provide the blending gas enriched pressure support therapy in the form of a blending gas enriched pressurized flow of breathable gas that is delivered to the airway of the subject. Pressure support system 10 is configured to treat COPD and/or other patients suffering from dyspnea and/or other conditions. The blending gas enriched pressure support therapy provided to dyspnea patients is configured to be used as needed by subject 12 to rapidly alleviate shortness of breath. Pressure support system 10 is configured to be small and lightweight so that subject 12 may carry system 10 and use system 10 as needed without requiring a device to be worn on the face. The present disclosure contemplates that portable handheld pressure support system 10 may be used to treat symptoms and/or conditions related to dyspnea due to COPD, and/or for other uses. The other uses may include, for example, treating dyspnea related to pulmonary cancer, treating emphysema, treating pneumonia, treating Cheyne-Stokes respiration and/or other disordered breathing, improving the exercise capacity of any patient limited by dyspnea, and/or other uses.

[17] In some embodiments, system 10 comprises one or more of a pressure generator 14, a subject interface 16, a blending gas inlet port 17, one or more sensors 18, a valve 19, one or more processors 20, a user interface 22, electronic storage 24, a portable power source 26, a housing 28, a handle 30, and/or other components.

[18] Pressure generator 14 is configured to generate a flow of gas for delivery to the airway of a subject 12. Pressure generator 14 may control one or more parameters of the flow of gas (e.g., flow rate, pressure, volume, temperature, gas composition, etc.) for therapeutic purposes, and/or for other purposes. By way of a non-limiting example, pressure generator 14 may be configured to control the flow rate and/or pressure of the flow of gas to provide pressure support to the airway of subject 12.

[19] Pressure generator 14 receives a flow of gas from a gas source, such as the ambient atmosphere, and elevates the pressure of that gas for delivery to the airway of a patient. In some embodiments, pressure generator 14 receives a flow of gas from a gas source through inlet 15. Pressure generator 14 is any device, such as, for example, a pump, blower, piston, or bellows, that is capable of elevating the pressure of the received gas for delivery to a patient. Pressure generator 14 may comprise one or more valves for controlling the pressure/flow of gas. The present disclosure also

contemplates controlling the operating speed of the blower, either alone or in combination with such valves, to control the pressure/flow of gas provided to the patient.

[20] In some embodiments, pressure generator 14 may be configured to supply a pressurized flow of breathable gas at pressures up to about 40cm of water. In some embodiments, pressure generator 14 may be configured to supply a pressurized flow of breathable gas at pressures up to about 30cm of water. In some embodiments, pressure generator 14 may be configured to supply a pressurized flow of breathable gas at pressures up to about 20cm of water.

[21] Subject interface 16 is configured to communicate the pressurized flow of breathable gas to the airway of subject 12. As such, subject interface 16 comprises conduit 40, interface appliance 42, filter 43, and/or other components. In some embodiments, filter 43 is configured to filter bacteria and/or other materials. Conduit 40 is configured to convey the pressurized flow of gas to interface appliance 42. Interface appliance 42 is configured to deliver the flow of gas to the airway of subject 12. In some embodiments, interface appliance 42 is configured to be non-invasively engaged by the mouth of subject 12. Non-invasive engagement comprises removably engaging one or more external orifices of the airway of subject 12 (e.g., nostrils and/or mouth) to communicate gas between the airway of subject 12 and interface appliance 42.

[22] In some embodiments, interface appliance 42 is removably coupled to conduit 40. Interface appliance 42 may be removed for cleaning and/or for other purposes. In some embodiments, conduit 40 is configured as a mouthpiece to be engaged by the mouth of subject 12.

[23] In some embodiments, other non-invasive interface appliances may be configured as interface appliance 42. Some examples of non-invasive interface appliance 42 may comprise, for example, a nasal cannula, a nasal mask, a nasal oral mask, a full face mask, a total face mask, or other interface appliances that communicate a flow of gas with an airway of a subject. The present disclosure is not limited to these examples, and contemplates delivery of the flow of gas to the subject using any interface appliance. In some embodiments, system 10 may be connected to a classical respiratory circuit (e.g., a six foot hose) such that the classical respiratory circuit functions as subject interface 16.

[24] Blending gas inlet port 17 is configured to couple system 10 to a supply of blending gas. In some embodiments the blending gas may comprise oxygen, aerosolized medication or other fluid, and/or another blending gas, such as nitrogen or helium or any combination of gasses. Blending gas inlet port 17 couples housing 28 to the supply of blending gas. In some embodiments, coupling may comprise a removable attachment. In some embodiments, coupling may be accomplished through added plumbing and/or additional manufactured parts to couple housing 28 to the supply of blending gas. In some embodiments, the supply of blending gas may be contained in, for example, a canister, an inhaler containing aerosolized medication, a metered dose inhaler (MDI), and/or other portable container separate from system 10. In these embodiments, the additional container may be portable, rechargeable, and/or replaceable. In some embodiments, the portable, rechargeable, and/or replaceable supply of blending gas may be contained within system 10.

[25] One or more sensors 18 are configured to generate output signals

conveying information related to one or more parameters of the gas within system 10. The one or more parameters of the gas within system 10 may comprise gas parameters related to the pressurized flow of breathable gas, breathing parameters related to respiration of subject 12, blending gas parameters related to the flow of blending gas through blending gas inlet port 17, and/or other parameters. Sensors 18 may comprise one or more sensors that measure such parameters directly (e.g., through fluid communication with the flow of gas in interface appliance 42). Sensors 18 may comprise one or more sensors that generate output signals related to the one or more parameters indirectly. For example, sensors 18 may comprise one or more sensors configured to generate an output based on an operating parameter of pressure generator 14 (e.g., patient flow and/or pressure estimations from motor current, voltage, rotational velocity, and/or other operating parameters), and/or other sensors. [26] The one or more gas parameters of the pressurized flow of breathable gas may comprise, for example, one or more of a flow rate, a volume, a pressure, humidity, temperature, acceleration, velocity, concentration of one or more constituents (e.g., the concentration of oxygen), and/or other gas parameters. Breathing parameters related to the respiration of subject 12 may comprise a tidal volume, a timing (e.g., beginning and/or end of inhalation, beginning and/or end of exhalation, etc.), a respiration rate, a duration (e.g., of inhalation, of exhalation, of a single breathing cycle, etc.), respiration frequency, and/or other breathing parameters. Blending gas parameters related to the flow of blending gas through blending gas inlet port 17 may comprise, for example, a blending gas pressure, a blending gas flow rate, a blending gas composition, and/or other blending gas parameters.

[27] In some embodiments, one or more sensors 18 comprise one or more flow rate sensors configured to generate output signals conveying information related to the flow rate of the pressurized flow of breathable gas generated by pressure generator 14 and/or the flow rate of the blending gas flowing through blending gas inlet 17. Flow rate sensors suitable for use as sensors 18 may include, for example, mechanical flow rate sensors, pressure based flow rate sensors, optical flow rate sensors, thermal mass flow rate sensors, magnetic flow rate sensors, and/or other flow rate sensors.

[28] In some embodiments, one or more sensors 18 comprise one or more

pressure sensors configured to generate output signals conveying information related to the pressure of the pressurized flow of breathable gas generated by pressure generator 14 and/or the pressure of the blending gas flowing through blending gas inlet 17. Pressure sensors suitable for use as sensors 18 may include, for example, mechanical sensors, capacitive sensors, electromagnetic sensors, piezoelectric sensors, optical sensors, and/or other pressure sensors.

[29] In some embodiments, sensors 18 may comprise one or more oxygen sensors configured to generate output signals related to the concentration of oxygen in the pressurized flow of breathable gas delivered to subject 12. [30] Although sensors 18 are illustrated in FIG. 1 at a single location in system

10, this is not intended to be limiting. Sensors 18 may comprise sensors disposed in a plurality of locations, such as for example, at various locations within (or in

communication with) conduit 40, within pressure generator 14, within (or in

communication with) interface appliance 42, within (or in communication with) blending gas inlet port 17, and/or other locations.

[31] Valve 19 is configured to selectively control the flow of blending gas

through blending gas inlet port 17. In some embodiments the maximum flow rate of blending gas through blending gas inlet port 17 and valve 19 is about 10 liters per minute (lpm). In some embodiments the maximum flow rate of blending gas through blending gas inlet port 17 and valve 19 is about 8 lpm. In some embodiments the maximum flow rate of blending gas through blending gas inlet port 17 and valve 19 is about 6 lpm. In some embodiments the maximum flow rate of blending gas through blending gas inlet port 17 and valve 19 is about 4 lpm.

[32] In some embodiments, valve 19 may comprise one or more valves in series and/or in parallel. Examples of valves and/or other pressure regulating devices suitable for use as valve 18 comprise, a plug valve, a ball valve, a check valve, a butterfly valve, a solenoid, a pressure switch, and/or other pressure regulating devices The pressure regulating devices mentioned above and/or other pressure regulating devices that may be used as valve 19 may be controlled magnetically, hydraulically, pneumatically, via an electric motor and/or another mode of control configured to open and/or close a valve and/or other pressure control device.

[33] Processor 20 is configured to provide information processing capabilities in system 10. As such, processor 20 may comprise one or more of a digital processor, an analog processor, a digital circuit designed to process information, an analog circuit designed to process information, a state machine, and/or other mechanisms for electronically processing information. Although processor 20 is shown in FIG. 1 as a single entity, this is for illustrative purposes only. In some implementations, processor 20 may comprise a plurality of processing units. These processing units may be physically located within the same device (e.g., pressure generator 14), or processor 20 may represent processing functionality of a plurality of devices operating in

coordination.

[34] As shown in FIG. 1, processor 20 is configured to execute one or more computer program modules. The one or more computer program modules may comprise one or more of a parameter module 50, a transition module 52, a generator control module 54, a blending module 56, a valve control module 58, and/or other modules. Processor 20 may be configured to execute modules 50, 52, 54, 56, and/or 58 by software; hardware; firmware; some combination of software, hardware, and/or firmware; and/or other mechanisms for configuring processing capabilities on processor 20.

[35] It should be appreciated that although modules 50, 52, 54, 56, and 58 are illustrated in FIG. 1 as being co-located within a single processing unit, in implementations in which processor 20 comprises multiple processing units, one or more of modules 50, 52, 54, 56, and/or 58 may be located remotely from the other modules. The description of the functionality provided by the different modules 50, 52, 54, 56, and/or 58 described below is for illustrative purposes, and is not intended to be limiting, as any of modules 50, 52, 54, 56, and/or 58 may provide more or less functionality than is described. For example, one or more of modules 50, 52, 54, 56, and/or 58 may be eliminated, and some or all of its functionality may be provided by other modules 50, 52, 54, 56, and/or 58. As another example, processor 20 may be configured to execute one or more additional modules that may perform some or all of the functionality attributed below to one of modules 50, 52, 54, 56, and/or 58.

[36] Parameter module 50 is configured to determine one or more parameters within system 10. The one or more parameters within system 10 may comprise gas parameters related to the pressurized flow of breathable gas, and/or other parameters. The one or more gas parameters of the pressurized flow of breathable gas may comprise, for example, one or more of a flow rate, a volume, a pressure, humidity, temperature, acceleration, velocity, and/or other gas parameters. Parameter module 50 is configured to determine the one or more parameters based on the output signals of sensors 18. The information determined by parameter module 50 may be used for controlling pressure generator 14, stored in electronic storage 24, and/or used for other uses.

[37] Transition module 52 is configured to determine the respiratory phase

(e.g., inhalation, exhalation) during breathing of subject 12. The respiratory phase determinations made by module 52 are based on the output signals from sensors 18, information determined by parameter module 50, and/or other information. Transition module 52 may be configured to determine additional breathing parameters related to the respiration of subject 12. Additional breathing parameters related to the respiration of subject 12 may comprise a tidal volume, a timing (e.g., beginning and/or end of inhalation, beginning and/or end of exhalation, etc.), a respiration rate, a duration (e.g., of inhalation, of exhalation, of a single breathing cycle, etc.), respiration frequency, and/or other breathing parameters. The determinations made by transition module 52 may be used by generator control module 54 to control pressure generator 14 to control the pressurized flow of breathable gas delivered to subject 12, may be stored in electronic storage 24, and/or used for other uses. In some embodiments, transition module 52 is configured to determine the respiratory phase (e.g., inhalation, exhalation) based on changes in pressure, flow rate, other parameters determined by parameter module 50, and/or other information.

[38] Generator control module 54 is configured to control pressure generator

14 to generate the flow of gas in accordance with a positive pressure support therapy regime. In positive airway pressure support therapy the pressurized flow of gas generated by the pressure generator is controlled to replace and/or compliment a patient's regular breathing. Positive airway pressure support therapy may be used to maintain an open airway in a patient so that oxygen and carbon dioxide may be exchanged more easily, requiring little and/or no effort from the patient. By way of non- limiting example, generator control module 54 may control pressure generator 14 such that the pressure support provided to the subject via the flow of gas comprises continuous positive airway pressure support (CPAP), bi-level positive airway pressure support (BPAP), proportional positive airway pressure support (PPAP), forced oscillation technique, and/or other types of pressure support therapy.

[39] CPAP supplies a fixed positive pressure to maintain a continuous level of positive airway pressure in a patient. BPAP provides a first inspiratory pressure (IPAP) and a second, typically lower, expiratory pressure (EPAP) for easier exhalation during ventilation. In some therapy modes (e.g., PPAP), generator control module 54 may control pressure generator 14 to apply variable pressure support in which the amount of pressure delivered to the patient during inhalation and/or during exhalation is determined and delivered on a breath by breath basis. In some embodiments, generator control module 54 may be configured to control pressure generator 14 to temporarily drop the supplied pressure during exhalation (C-Flex) to reduce exhalation effort required by the patent.

[40] In some embodiments, generator control module 54 is configured to

control pressure generator 14 to deliver staged pressure support. In staged pressure support therapy, the pressure delivered by pressure generator 14 gradually increases over time. In some embodiments, generator control module 54 may control pressure generator 14 to switch therapy modes based on information related to the respiration of subject 12 and/or other information. For example, generator control module 54 may control pressure generator 54 to change from BPAP to CPAP after a certain number of breaths by subject 12.

[41] Generator control module 54 is configured to control pressure generator

14 based on information related to the output signals from sensors 18, information determined by parameter module 50, information determined by transition module 52, information entered by a user to user interface 22, and/or other information.

[42] Blending module 56 is configured to obtain a blending tidal volume and/or blending tidal flow rate of blending gas for an inhalation of subject 12. Blending module 56 is configured to obtain the blending tidal volume and/or the blending tidal flow rate by determining the blending tidal volume and/or the blending tidal flow rate based on the output signals from sensors 18, the therapy regime, information entered by a user to user interface 22, and/or other information. In some embodiments, blending module 56 is configured to determine a blending tidal volume and/or a blending tidal flow rate based on information related to the flow rate and/or pressure of the gas flowing from pressure generator 14, and/or information related to the flow rate and/or pressure of the gas flowing from the blending gas source. In some embodiments, blending module 56 may be configured to make determinations based on a blending algorithm. The blending algorithm may be determined at manufacture, determined by programming the algorithm into processor 20, determined responsive to information entered by a user via user interface 22 (thus allowing user(s) to titrate the composition of gas delivered to subject 12), determined directly based the one or more output signals generated by one or more sensors 18, determined based on previous respiration by subject 12, and/or determined by another method. In some embodiments, blending module 56 is configured to obtain a blending tidal volume and/or a blending tidal flow rate for one or more breaths in a series of consecutive inhalations during a use period.

[43] Valve control module 58 is configured to control valve 19 to open and close to release the determined blending tidal volume and/or blending tidal flow rate of blending gas into the pressurized flow of breathable gas for inhalation by subject 12. Valve control module 58 is further configured, responsive to a determination by respiratory phase transition module 52 that subject 12 has started inhaling, to open and close valve 19 to release the obtained blending tidal volume and/or blending tidal flow rate of blending gas into the pressurized flow of breathable gas for the inhalation.

[44] Valve control module 58 is configured to control valve 19 based on

information related to the output signals from sensors 18, information determined by parameter module 50, information determined by transition module 52, information determined by control module 54, information obtained by blending module 56, information entered by a user to user interface 22, and/or other information.

[45] User interface 22 is configured to provide an interface between system 10 and subject 12 and/or other users through which subject 12 and/or other users may provide information to and receive information from system 10. Other users may comprise, for example, a caregiver, a doctor, and/or other users. This enables data, cues, results, and/or instructions and any other communicable items, collectively referred to as "information," to be communicated between a user (e.g., subject 12) and one or more of pressure generator 14, processor 20, and/or other components of system 10. For example, a user may specify one or more therapy regimes that are to be delivered to subject 12 using user interface 22. Generator control module 54 may then customize the therapy regime delivered to the subject based on the one or more inputs made by the user to the user interface. A user may specify a blending gas dosage to be delivered to subject 12. Blending module 56 and/or valve control module 58 may then customize and/or control the dose delivered to the subject based on the one or more inputs made by the user to the user interface. As another example, an accumulated dose, therapy pressures, the breath rate of subject 12, the portable power source energy level, and/or other information may be displayed to a user (e.g., subject 12) via user interface 22.

[46] Examples of interface devices suitable for inclusion in user interface 22 comprise a keypad, buttons, switches, a keyboard, knobs, levers, a display screen, a touch screen, speakers, a microphone, an indicator light, an audible alarm, a printer, a tactile feedback device, and/or other interface devices. In one embodiment, user interface 22 comprises a plurality of separate interfaces. In one embodiment, user interface 22 comprises at least one interface that is provided integrally with housing 28.

[47] It is to be understood that other communication techniques, either hardwired or wireless, are also contemplated by the present disclosure as user interface 22. For example, the present disclosure contemplates that user interface 22 may be integrated with a removable storage interface provided by electronic storage 24. In this example, information may be loaded into system 10 from removable storage (e.g., a smart card, a flash drive, a removable disk, etc.) that enables the user(s) to customize the implementation of system 10. Other exemplary input devices and techniques adapted for use with system 10 as user interface 22 comprise, but are not limited to, an RS-232 port, RF link, an IR link, modem (telephone, cable or other). In short, any technique for communicating information with system 10 is contemplated by the present disclosure as user interface 22.

[48] In some embodiments, electronic storage 24 comprises electronic storage media that electronically stores information. The electronic storage media of electronic storage 24 may comprise one or both of system storage that is provided integrally (i.e., substantially no n- removable) with system 10 and/or removable storage that is removably connectable to system 10 via, for example, a port (e.g., a USB port, a firewire port, etc.) or a drive (e.g., a disk drive, etc.). Electronic storage 24 may comprise one or more of optically readable storage media (e.g., optical disks, etc.), magnetically readable storage media (e.g., magnetic tape, magnetic hard drive, floppy drive, etc.), electrical charge-based storage media (e.g., EPROM, RAM, etc.), solid-state storage media (e.g., flash drive, etc.), and/or other electronically readable storage media. Electronic storage 24 may store software algorithms, information determined by processor 20, information received via user interface 22, and/or other information that enables system 10 to function properly. Electronic storage 24 may be (in whole or in part) a separate component within system 10, or electronic storage 24 may be provided (in whole or in part) integrally with one or more other components of system 10 (e.g., user interface 22, processor 20, etc.).

[49] Information determined by processor 20 and/or stored by electronic

storage 24 may comprise information related to respiration of subject 12, compliance, use frequency, blending gas dosage, and/or other information. The information stored by electronic storage 24 may be viewed via user interface 22, by connecting (wired and/or wireless) to a separate computer, and/or other via other methods. The information stored by electronic storage 24 may be used, for example, to adjust settings, to make adjustments to power source 26, used by a doctor to make medical decisions, and/or for other uses.

[50] Portable power source 26 is configured to power pressure generator 14, one or more sensors 18, valve 19, one or more processors 20, user interface 22, electronic storage 24, and/or other components of system 10 in a portable manner. Power source 26 may comprise one or more power sources connected in series and/or in parallel. In some embodiments, power source 26 is rechargeable. Power source 26 may be recharged via a home AC power source, a car battery outlet, an airplane power outlet, a USB port, a non- contact charging circuit, and/or other recharging methods. In some embodiments, portable power source 26 may supply up to 10V. In some embodiments, portable power source 26 may supply up to 15V. In some embodiments, portable power source may supply up to 20V. Examples of portable power sources that may be included as portable power source 26 include one or more DC batteries, lithium ion cells, lithium polymer cells, nickel metal hydride, and/or other portable power sources. In some embodiments, portable power source 26 is configured to power system 10 for 10 or more hours of use. In some embodiments, portable power source 26 is configured to power system 10 for up to 10 hours of use. In some embodiments, portable power source 26 is configured to power system 10 for up to 8 hours of use. In some embodiments, portable power source 26 is configured to power system 10 for up to 6 hours of use.

[51] Housing 28 is configured to contain pressure generator 14, subject

interface 16, blending gas inlet port 17, one or more sensors 18, valve 19, one or more processors 20, user interface 22, electronic storage 24, power source 26, flow path 60, exhaust port 62, handle 30, and/or other components of system 10. Housing 28 is configured to contain the components of system 10 in a space small enough to be handheld and portable so pressure support therapy may be delivered at any time during the normal daily activities of subject 12. In some embodiments, the weight of system 10 is up to three pounds. In some embodiments, the weight of system 10 is up to two pounds. In some embodiments, the weight of system 10 is up to one pound. In some embodiments, the volume of housing 28 is up to 135 cubic inches. In some embodiments, the volume of housing 28 is up to 100 cubic inches. In some embodiments, the volume of housing 28 is up to 60 cubic inches.

[52] Flow path 60 is configured to place subject interface 16 in fluid

communication with pressure generator 14, valve 19, and/or exhaust port 62. Exhaust port 62 is configured to direct exhaled gas from flow path 60 and/or pressure generator 14 to the ambient atmosphere. In some embodiments, flow through exhaust port 62 may be controlled by a valve 63. Valve 63 may be controlled by processor 20 to close during inhalation of subject 12 and open during exhalation. By way of a non- limiting example, valve control module 58 may control valve 63 to open and/or close based on one or more parameters determined by parameter module 50, information determined by transition module 52, and/or other information. In some embodiments, housing 28 may contain one or more additional ports (e.g., USB) configured to provide a connection point so that portable power source 26 may be recharged, electronic storage 24 may be accessed, and/or for other purposes.

[53] Handle 30 is configured to be attached to and/or formed by housing 28.

Handle 30 is configured to be grasped by subject 12 to hold the housing in position with respect to the airway of subject 12 as the pressurized blending gas enriched flow of breathable gas is delivered to the airway of subject 12. Handle 30 may be attached to housing 28 by coupling handle 30 to housing 28 at one or more locations with screws and/or another method of fixing handle 30 to housing 28. Handle 30 may be formed in housing 28 by way of a ridged, knurled, and/or other textured surface. Handle 30 formed in housing 28 may comprise finger shaped surface depressions in housing 28 such that a user's fingers may fit into the finger depressions for gripping system 10. The method for mounting, and/or the form factor for handle 30 formed by housing 28 described in the present disclosure are not intended to be limiting. Handle 30 may be attached to and/or formed in housing 28 by any method, in any shape, and/or in any location(s) that allows it to function as described herein.

[54] By way of a non-limiting example, FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a possible embodiment of system 10. In this embodiment, housing 28 has a length 200 running along a first axis 201 from a first side 202 to a second side 204 of less than about 7 inches. Length 200 may be between about 5 inches and about 7 inches. Length 200 may be about 6 inches. In some embodiments, housing 28 may have a width 206 running along a second axis 208 from a third side 210 to a fourth side 212 of greater than about 3 inches. Width 206 may be between about 2 inches and about 3 inches. Width 206 may be about 2.5 inches. Housing 28 has a thickness 214 running along a third axis 216 from a fifth side 218 toward a sixth side 220 of less than about 5 inches. Thickness 214 may be between about 4 inches and about 5 inches. Thickness 214 may be about 4.5 inches. The generally rectangular shape and approximate dimensions of housing 28 shown in FIG. 2 are not intended to be limiting. Housing 28 may take any shape that allows it to function as described in the present disclosure.

[55] User interface 22 is also shown in FIG. 2. In example FIG. 2, user

interface 22 is located on fifth side 218 and includes a power button 222, adjustment buttons 224, and a display 226. In this embodiment, display 226 has a width 230 running along second axis 208 from third side 210 to fourth side 212 of greater than about 2 inches. Width 230 may be between about 1 inch and about 2 inches. Width 230 may be about 1.8 inches. Display 226 has a height 234 running along first axis 201 from first side 202 toward second side 204 of greater than about 0.5 inches. Height 234 may be between about 0.5 inches and about 1 inch. Height 234 may be about 0.6 inches.

[56] Examples of subject interface 16, handle 30, and blending gas inlet port 17 are also shown in FIG. 2. In FIG. 2, handle 30 is formed in housing 28 on sixth side 220 toward second side 204, opposite user interface 22. Subject interface 16 is located on fifth side 218 (the same side as user interface 22) toward first side 202. Subject interface 16 is located in an area where thickness 214 increases along third axis toward fifth side 218 near first side 202. In example FIG. 2, blending gas inlet port 17 is located on third side 210 near first side 202. In some embodiments, blending gas inlet port 17 may have a shape other than round.

[57] The general shapes, locations, and/or approximate dimensions of user interface 22, subject interface 16, handle 30, and/or blending gas inlet port 17 shown in FIG. 2 and described herein are not intended to be limiting. The features described above may be arranged in any way that allows them to function as described in the present disclosure.

[58] FIG. 3 shows system 10 coupled to a source of blending gas 300. The blending gas is held in a canister 302. Canister 302 is removably coupled to blending gas inlet port 17 via plumbing 304. The relative size of blending gas source 300 is similar to that of system 10. Blending gas source 300 is configured to be portable with system 10. Coupling may comprise a removable attachment. In some embodiments, coupling may be accomplished through plumbing 304 and/or additional manufactured parts to couple housing 28 to the supply of blending gas. In some embodiments, the supply of blending gas may be contained in, for example, canister 302, an inhaler containing aerosolized medication, a metered dose inhaler (MDI), and/or other portable container separate from system 10. In these embodiments, canister 302 and/or the other possible containers may be portable, rechargeable, and/or replaceable. The general shape, coupling plumbing 304, and/or coupling location of blending gas source 300 shown in FIG. 3 and described herein are not intended to be limiting. The features described above may be arranged in any way that allows them to function as described in the present disclosure.

[59] FIG. 4 illustrates a method 400 of delivering a blending gas enriched

pressurized flow of breathable gas to the airway of a subject with a handheld pressure support system that includes a housing. The housing contains a pressure generator, a subject interface, one or more sensors, a blending gas inlet port, a valve, one or more processors, and a power source. The housing forms and/or is attached to a handle. The operations of method 400 presented below are intended to be illustrative. In some embodiments, method 400 may be accomplished with one or more additional operations not described, and/or without one or more of the operations discussed. Additionally, the order in which the operations of method 400 are illustrated in FIG. 4 and described below is not intended to be limiting.

[60] In some embodiments, method 400 may be implemented in one or more processing devices (e.g., a digital processor, an analog processor, a digital circuit designed to process information, an analog circuit designed to process information, a state machine, and/or other mechanisms for electronically processing information). The one or more processing devices may include one or more devices executing some or all of the operations of method 400 in response to instructions stored electronically on an electronic storage medium. The one or more processing devices may include one or more devices configured through hardware, firmware, and/or software to be specifically designed for execution of one or more of the operations of method 400. [61] At an operation 402, a pressurized flow of breathable gas is generated with the pressure generator. In some embodiments, operation 402 is performed by a pressure generator the same as or similar to pressure generator 14 (shown in FIG. 1 and described herein).

[62] At an operation 404, the pressurized flow of breathable gas is

communicated to an airway of the subject with the subject interface. In some embodiments, operation 404 is performed by a subject interface the same as or similar to subject interface 16 (shown in FIG. 1 and described herein).

[63] At an operation 406, one or more output signals conveying information related to one or more gas parameters of the pressurized flow of breathable gas are generated with the one or more sensors. In some embodiments, operation 406 is performed by sensors the same as or similar to sensors 18 (shown in FIG. l and described herein.)

[64] At an operation 408, a supply of blending gas is coupled to the housing with the blending gas inlet port. In some embodiments, operation 408 is performed by an inlet port the same as or similar to blending gas inlet port 17 (shown in FIG. 1 and described herein).

[65] At an operation 410, a flow of blending gas through the blending gas inlet port is selectively controlled with the valve. In some embodiments, operation 410 is performed by a valve the same as or similar to valve 19 (shown in FIG. 1 and described herein).

[66] At an operation 412, the generation of the pressurized flow of breathable gas is controlled based on the output signals, according to a positive pressure support therapy regime. In some embodiments, operation 412 is performed by a processor module the same as or similar to generator control module 54 (shown in FIG.l and described herein).

[67] At an operation 414, a blending tidal volume and/or blending tidal flow rate of blending gas is obtained for an inhalation of the subject. In some embodiments, operation 414 is performed by a processor module the same as or similar to blending module 56 (shown in FIG. 1 and described herein).

[68] At an operation 416, the valve is controlled to open and close to release the obtained blending tidal volume and/or blending tidal flow rate of blending gas into the pressurized flow of breathable gas for inhalation by the subject. In some

embodiments, operation 416 is performed by a processor module the same as or similar to valve control module 58 (shown in FIG. 1 and described herein).

[69] At an operation 418, the pressure generator, the one or more sensors, the valve, and the one or more processors are powered with the portable power source. In some embodiments, operation 418 is performed by a portable power source the same as or similar to power source 26 (shown in FIG. l and described herein.).

[70] At an operation 420, the handle is grasped to hold the housing in position with respect to the airway of the subject as the pressurized flow of breathable gas is delivered to the airway of the subject. In some embodiments, operation 420 is performed by a handle the same as or similar to handle 30 (shown in FIG.l and described herein.)

[71] In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim. The word "comprising" or "including" does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those listed in a claim. In a device claim enumerating several means, several of these means may be embodied by one and the same item of hardware. The word "a" or "an" preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements. In any device claim enumerating several means, several of these means may be embodied by one and the same item of hardware. The mere fact that certain elements are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that these elements cannot be used in combination.

[72] Although the description provided above provides detail for the purpose of illustration based on what is currently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that such detail is solely for that purpose and that the disclosure is not limited to the expressly disclosed embodiments, but, on the contrary, is intended to cover modifications and equivalent arrangements that are within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. For example, it is to be understood that the present disclosure contemplates that, to the extent possible, one or more features of any embodiment can be combined with one or more features of any other embodiment.