Mechanical Ventilator Milano (MVM): A Novel Mechanical Ventilator Designed for Mass Scale Production in Response to the COVID-19 Pandemics

Presented here is the design of the Mechanical Ventilator Milano (MVM), a novel mechanical ventilator designed for rapid mass production in response to the COVID-19 pandemic to address the urgent shortage of ventilators in many countries, and the growing difficulty in procuring these devices through normal supply chains across borders. This ventilator is an electro-mechanical equivalent of the old, reliable Manley Ventilator, able to operate in both independent and patient-assisted modes. The design is optimized to permit large-sale production in a short amount of time and at a limited cost, relying on off-the-shelf components, readily available worldwide. Operation of the MVM requires only a source of compressed oxygen (or compressed medical air) and electrical power. The MVM control and monitoring unit can be connected and networked via WiFi so that no additional electrical connections are necessary other than the connection to the electrical power. Initial tests of a prototype device with a silicon test bag lung are also presented. Further tests and developments are underway. At this stage the MVM is not yet a certified medical device but certification work is in progress.

To view article, please visit: https://arxiv.org/abs/2003.10405