| abstract |
An incentive inhalation device which induces respiratory exercise and which is inexpensive, safe and easy to handle and operate. The device includes a container having a plurality of flow measurement chambers which are vertical when the device is in its upright position. In each chamber is housed a flow rate indicator, such as a light-weight article and ball, that normally rests at the bottom thereof. The bottom of each chamber is open to surrounding atmosphere and the top of each chamber is open to a passageway. In operation, the patient or user withdraws air from the air passageway and chambers. When the patient achieves the precalibrated flow rate or rates, the indicators will sequentially rise to the top of each chamber. In one embodiment of the invention the emphasis of the device is on duration by making the precalibrated rate of flow essentially the same for each chamber. In another embodiment of the invention the emphasis of the device is on increased effort and duration by having different precalibrated rates of flow for at least two of the chambers. To prevent disruption of air flow into the passageway and surprise or shock to the user, means are provided in the last chamber of the device to prevent the indicator from closing that chamber to the air passageway. |