Modular pneumatic development toolbox
Modular pneumatic toolbox for medtech development
Starting situation
IMT faced the challenge of accelerating and streamlining the development process for medical pneumatic devices, e.g. patient ventilators. The primary objectives were to reduce development time, facilitate the setup, testing, and presentation of pneumatic concepts, and quickly test ideas. Existing tools were insufficient as they were repurposed from other devices and lacked data protocols and control systems compatibility. Synchronizing data and controlling actuators proved difficult, and specialized hardware was often required. Hence, there was a demand for a new pneumatic development tool tailored to these specific needs, so we created a novel modular pneumatic toolbox.
Project objectives
The main goal was to create a modular pneumatic toolbox accessible to all IMT developers. This system needed to be versatile, allowing new modules to be added and arranged as required. Specific requirements included:
- Communication: Utilizing the CAN protocol, which is used for signal processing via Speedgoat and is also compatible with PC via a USB to CAN adapter.
- Integration: Seamless integration of gas flow measurement devices (e.g. PF300 Pro, IMT Analytics) and key components of medical pneumatic systems (pressure sensors, blower, valves).
- Independence: Each module operates independently, allowing any combination of modules to be used.
- Ease of use: Low-power modules are connected by only one D-SUB cable, carrying power and data-powered, which results in a cleaner and simpler setup.
The expected benefits were reduced development time and cost for future projects.
Technical implementation
Key technologies and components used in the project:
- CAN Bus: The primary communication bus for module interaction. The main device (e.g., Speedgoat or PC with USB to CAN adapter) collects data and sends commands via CAN Bus to the modules.
- Electronic Development: Focused on creating reusable modules, such as valve controllers and blower modules. Standard parts were used wherever possible to reduce costs.
- Modular Design: Each module comprises two or more PCBs designed by IMT – a mainboard for power conversion and CAN transceiver functions and an adapter board to integrate the specialized functionality of the module. Nucleo board was used to integrate the microcontroller.
- 3D Printing: Module cases were printed using IMT's SLS printer.
- Software: A Python library was provided for easy interaction with the system, and a Simulink library was developed for signal processing in Simulink real-time.
Modules Developed:
- Blower (Turbine)
- Proportional Valve (Current controller)
- Voltage Controller
- Piezo Pump Module
- Stepper Module
- Sensor Module (Pressure Sensor, Mass Flow Sensor, Temperature Sensor)
- UART Module for IMT Analytic devices
- ADC/DAC Module
These components and technologies ensured modularity, flexibility, and ease of use.
Results
The project resulted in the availability of the pneumatic toolbox for IMT developers, facilitating faster testing and development of new devices. The modules were integrated into test benches and used in development projects, allowing for early testing of pneumatic concepts. The electronic design knowledge gained was also applied to customer projects, indirectly benefiting clients. The project started in October 2022, and the first working set of modules was completed one year later.
The new tool significantly reduced development time and costs, enabling IMT to deliver high-quality, innovative solutions more efficiently.
If you are interested in similar projects or want to speed up your project’s time to market, IMT is ready to assist. For more information about our offerings and how we can help you achieve your development goals, contact us directly.
