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In-line HEPA filter bypass adapter: Enhancing ventilator safety and efficiency through innovative circuit management

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Developing an adapter for ICU ventilator tubing that will redirect airflow away from expiratory HEPA filter.

Project Overview

High efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters are on of the most effecting and commonly used filters found in household appliances and hospital environments. Operating most effectively in the range of 0.3 to 10 microns, these filters have an efficiency rating of up to 99.999% based on their success outside the ideal range. Used in the expiratory valve of ICU ventilators, these filters need to be replaced daily at minimum as general heat, moisture, and nebulized medication can occlude them. The current practice for replacing these filters involves a fairly standard out with the old, in with the new procedure. This disconnects the ventilator circuit and can be threatening to patients with respiratory illness or low lung compliance. Per request of Dr. Awni Al-Subu and his associate, Ms. Scarlett Abigail Rainne, the team is working to develop an adapter that will redirect airflow down and alternate pathway in order to evade the HEPA filter during replacing, or administration of aerosol medication.

Team Picture

Left to Right: Alice Hegeman, Charles Fiesel, Calvin Duffy, Nicholas Symons
Left to Right: Alice Hegeman, Charles Fiesel, Calvin Duffy, Nicholas Symons

Contact Information

Team Members

Advisor and Client

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