Design and Construction of a Prototype Mechanical Ventilator for Rural Communities in Poor Countries

Odunlami, et al., Volume 5 Issue 2, December 2024 Pages 1-11, Published: 2024-09-25

Abstract

To mitigate the problem of managing patients with COVID-19 and others having difficulty breathing and needing artificial respiration, a low-cost (Nigeria Naira N160,000.00 or British Pound Sterling £320.00 or United States Dollar $415.00) portable mechanical ventilator was designed and constructed for use in rural communities in poor countries. Mass production would half the production cost. The design adopted the cam and follower mechanisms to actuate an Ambu BVM (600ml-size) for the supply of variable pressure tidal volume to the lungs. It delivered 6.2ml and 9.9ml tidal volumes, per Kg of Ideal Body Weight (IBW) for man and woman, respectively. The device was constructed using locally sourced materials for ease of maintenance and repairs. Its power rating and noise levels were 30W (maximum) and 37dB, respectively. Powered by AC/DC, the device would serve healthcare centers in poor rural communities where electricity supply is unavailable. Also, it would serve in emergencies and on the go while transporting patients in an ambulance to the hospital for more intensive care.