A hyperbaric chamber has been designed to achieve the goals of maximizing safety, minimizing complexity, and minimizing cost of hyperbaric chamber therapy. This design minimizes the volume of compressed gas in the chamber, and eliminates the need for complex gas mixing, carbon dioxide scrubbing, thermal management, and fire suppression systems. The simple pressurization system affords safe operation by minimally trained personnel. It requires only clean water and small volumes of compressed oxygen, and uses no electrical power. These features allow the chamber to be used in remote, undeveloped locations where hyperbaric oxygen therapy is currently not feasible.
The innovation consists of a small, single-occupant, upright chamber made of either metal or composite (Kevlar-like portable chamber). A child or an adult has the ability to sit while the chamber is filled with water. The seat of the chamber is mounted to the base, and can be raised or lowered to accommodate different occupant sizes. The lid of the chamber incorporates a transparent acrylic helmet/headpiece that provides the occupant with a large field of external vision. The lid is attached to the body with an elliptical ring that is tilted and connected for insertion, creating a stable, pressureresistant seal. This lid has a valve through which oxygen can be supplied.
Usage parameters for the unit include: pressurization only to a single depth [30 feet (≈9 m) of seawater], pressure maintained by a single regular valve, oxygen supply regulated to 5 liters per minute, gas volume in the helmet constantly purged of CO2, treatment period limited to 60 minutes, treatment completed by shutting off oxygen and opening the pressure relief valve, pressure relief valve sets ascent rate, and the emergency relief valve is available for faster depressurization.
This work was done by James P. Locke of Johnson Space Center. MSC-24749-1
This Brief includes a Technical Support Package (TSP).
Hydrostatic Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment Chamber
(reference MSC-24749-1) is currently available for download from the TSP library.
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Overview
The document is a Technical Support Package for the Hydrostatic Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment Chamber, identified as MSC-24749-1, developed by NASA's Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center. It outlines the technology and its potential applications, particularly in providing affordable hyperbaric therapy for the developing world.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) involves the administration of oxygen at pressures greater than atmospheric pressure, which can enhance healing and treat various medical conditions. Traditional hyperbaric chambers utilize compressed gas, which presents several disadvantages, including high operational costs and safety hazards due to the explosive potential of stored compressed gas.
The hydrostatic hyperbaric chamber represents a more cost-effective alternative, designed to reduce the energy requirements associated with gas compression. This innovation aims to make hyperbaric therapy more accessible, especially in regions where resources are limited. The document emphasizes the importance of this technology in expanding the availability of medical treatments that can significantly improve patient outcomes.
The Technical Support Package includes information on the chamber's design, operational principles, and potential benefits. It is part of NASA's broader initiative to transfer aerospace-related technologies to commercial applications, thereby fostering advancements in various fields, including healthcare.
Additionally, the document provides contact information for further inquiries, including the Technology Transfer Office at NASA Johnson Space Center, which can assist with additional information regarding research and technology in this area.
Overall, the Hydrostatic Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment Chamber represents a significant step forward in making hyperbaric therapy more practical and affordable, particularly for underserved populations. By leveraging aerospace technology, NASA aims to address critical healthcare challenges and improve access to effective medical treatments worldwide.
