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AssigneeScience & Technology Corporation @ UNM
InventorsRobert A. Robergs, Joseph Weir
Estimating the term…
There is provided an improved system for expired gas analysis indirect analysis indirect calorimetry comprising a unique compliant mixing chamber that is directly connected to a mouthpiece that, itself, is unique in providing enhanced saliva and expired moisture trapping capability. The volume of the inspired and expired gas as well as at least the oxygen and carbon dioxide concentrations in the expired gas in the mixing chamber are determined. The metabolic rate of the subject is calculated therefrom taking into account the anatomical dead space in the body of the subject. The mixing chamber is compliant, sized to accommodate a single expiration and partially open to the environment. Preferably, the system also includes means to determine the oxygen and carbon dioxide content of the inspired gas as well.
A system for expired gas analysis indirect calorimetry comprising:
11 A system in accordance with claim 1, wherein said system determines the metabolic rate of a subject between breaths.
A mouthpiece for a breathing apparatus comprising an ovoid body having apertures at the ends thereof for gas to enter and exit, respectively, and a retainer projection to be retained by a subject breathing therethrough, said mouthpiece having a saliva trap extending from said retainer projection from about 50% to about 75% of the circumference of said body in a direction perpendicular to a line bisecting said ends, said saliva trap being from about 10% to about 50% of the width of said body at its widest point and from about 1 to about 3 cm in depth from the inner surface of the body.
A mouthpiece in accordance with Clam 12, wherein said saliva trap extends from said retainer projection from about 66% of the circumference of said body.
A system in accordance with Clam 18, wherein said saliva trap extends from said retainer projection from about 66% of the circumference of said body and said saliva trap is about 50% of the width of said body at its widest point.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.