SR develops prototype of low-cost ventilator

Developed by Golden Rock Workshop in Tiruchy, the project was assisted by a team comprising of engineers and doctors of Railway hospitals in Perambur, Tiruchy and Madurai, along with Government Medical College, Kottayam and AIIMS, Delhi.

The workshop went to the drawing board after finalising the technical requirements in consultation with the engineers and doctors through WhatsApp meetings during the lockdown. The prototype produced using components available inhouse and medical kits procured through trade at a cost of Rs 25,000 has a feature called pendant which allows a patient to alert the medical professional by means of a buzzer and an emergency stop.

The prototype, which operates on 230v AC power supply, also has a battery backup for 24 hours and LCD display units for real-time monitoring of control parameters.

A statement released by SR said further improvement was being made by incorporating pressure & flow sensor which would accurately monitor the Peak Inspiratory Pressure (PIP) and Positive Pak expiratory Pressure (PEEP) and Inspired volume based on the feedback of Pulmonologist from railway hospital. GOC workshop in Tiruchy would start bulk manufacture of the ventilator based on demand once the prototype gets the approval of competent authority, the statement added.