OUTSOURCING NEWS

Mission-critical medical devices, such as defibrillators, infusion pumps, and ventilators, require reliable, portable power. Traditionally, OEMs have struggled to design power systems that can meet the stringent needs of such devices.

Micro Power has designed a battery system that addresses these concerns. The Portland, OR–based company has designed a portable power system for Viasys Healthcare's portable ventilators. The power system consists of two high-capacity batteries that are charged using a microcontrolled power management system.

The batteries' run time is nearly 50% greater than the previous generation of batteries, yet they are smaller and lighter. “One of the most interesting features of this power management system is that the batteries can be charged from either an ac or dc power supply,” says Robin Tichy, PhD, product marketing engineer at Micro Power. “That means you can charge the batteries from a standard ac wall outlet or from a car or wheelchair outlet.” In addition, the battery and charger system supports all Viasys LTV series ventilators, making it easy for patients to switch to the new system.

Viasys's LTV ventilators were designed for home use. “They are designed to be mobile, easy-to-use, and flexible,” says Tichy, “so a lightweight and portable power system is definitely a plus.” The battery and charger were designed specifically for these ventilators, so they can accommodate the challenges that Viasys encounters in designing portable ventilators. For example, the batteries must be able to adapt to changing respiratory needs, and they need to have highly accurate monitoring capabilities. The power system has two batteries, and one battery can be replaced while the ventilator is in use without losing functionality. The system also includes a light-emitting diode (LED) display that shows data including remaining run time, charge time, and low power. In addition, there is a backup battery housed inside the ventilator itself.

The ventilators are part of the Pulmonetic Systems brand, which Viasys acquired in June 2005. Cardinal Health bought Viasys in May 2007 for $1.5 billion.

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