Introduction

The Portable Low-Cost Patient Ventilator System is designed as an educational prototype to demonstrate the basic principles of respiratory support. The system aims to provide controlled airflow using an electronically operated mechanism while monitoring selected operating parameters. Its focus is on portability, affordability, and simple control, with potential applications in biomedical engineering research and medical device development.

Objectives

• To develop a compact and low-cost ventilator prototype.

• To demonstrate controlled airflow delivery.

• To monitor airflow pressure and operating parameters.

• To explore electronic control in respiratory support systems.

• To promote affordable biomedical engineering innovation.

Methodology

• Develop a compact mechanical structure for airflow generation.

• Integrate a motorized airflow mechanism and control circuit.

• Use a microcontroller to manage the system's operating cycle.

• Add pressure and airflow sensors for monitoring.

• Display operating parameters on an LCD.

• Evaluate the prototype using a test lung or suitable laboratory setup.

Instrument List

• Microcontroller

• DC Motor or Actuator

• Airflow Generation Mechanism

• Pressure Sensor

• Airflow Sensor

• Motor Driver Module

• LCD Display

• Control Switches

• Battery

• Power Regulation Circuit

• Tubing and Connectors

• Protective Enclosure

Working Principle

The system uses an electronically controlled mechanism to generate airflow and deliver it through a breathing circuit. A microcontroller manages the operating cycle, while pressure and airflow sensors provide feedback about system performance. The readings can be displayed for monitoring, and protective controls can stop operation when predefined limits are exceeded. The design requires clinical-grade validation before any patient use.

Advantages

• Portable prototype design

• Focus on affordability

• Electronic airflow control

• Real-time parameter monitoring

• Useful for biomedical engineering education

• Potential for further research

Conclusion

The Portable Low-Cost Patient Ventilator System demonstrates the integration of mechanical airflow generation, electronic control, and sensor-based monitoring. It provides a foundation for studying respiratory-support technology and affordable medical device design. However, a prototype is not a substitute for a certified ventilator. Any device intended for human use requires rigorous engineering validation, alarm and fail-safe testing, infection-control measures, and regulatory approval under qualified medical supervision.