Design optimisation of passive humidification device for intensive care medical applications

Abstract

This paper presents the design optimisation of passive heat and moisture exchange (HME) humidification device for intensive care medical applications. Investigation into the state of the art of the technology in use concludes that there are two main artificial HME humidification devices: active and passive device. The passive HME device is the preferred one, due to the ease of use and low cost. However it is not suitable for more than 24 hour use. This is due to a number of challenges such as: device cavity design, limitations of HME materials performance and overall efficiency. This paper presents the outcomes of the research work carried out to overcome these teething issues and presents an optimised cavity design that could improve the HME material, airflow structure and patterns and HME device overall efficiency.