India builds first power-free CPAP device for COVID-19 patients

Indian Institute of Technology, Ropar has developed a device ‘Jivan Vayu’ which can be used as a substitute for continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine. The device functions even without electricity and is adapted to both kinds of oxygen generation units like O2 cylinders and oxygen pipelines in hospitals. These provisions are not available in otherwise existing CPAP machines. Fulfilling all the medically required parameters, this leak-proof, low-cost CPAP delivery system, Jivan Vayu is designed for a 22mm CPAP closed-circuit tube. It can even be customised as per the size of the tube. Since it can run during power failures, this can be used to safely transport a patient. It has an inbuilt viral filter at the air entrainment end which has a viral efficacy of 99.99 per cent. The viral filter ensures that the air does not bring in any pathogens from the environment. The device has been manufactured using 3D printing and has also been tested mechanically.