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Low-cost CPAP device for patients with COVID-19

Abstract:

The increase in COVID-19 infections due to the appearance of new variants causes serious health problems in the population. Although the majority of those infected have no symptoms, approximately 19% will require oxygen therapy for respiratory support, either by invasive or non-invasive ventilation. The high costs of this equipment mean that hospitals in developing countries have a limited supply of such equipment. Therefore, this paper presents the redesign, simulation, fabrication, and evaluation of a CPAP device that was developed in Europe but has now been replicated in Latin America. It starts with the analysis of the device’s original design and through exploratory techniques and computer simulation the materials, parts, and assembly are determined. Functional tests validate that a prototype similar to the original was obtained that will provide noninvasive positive air pressure that keeps patients' airways open.