초록 ▼

A flow sensing apparatus for detecting fluid flow rate and direction is described. The flow sensing apparatus includes a flow-responsive element projecting into the fluid flow path, and a position sensor which detects the degree and direction of any change in position of the flow responsive element

A flow sensing apparatus for detecting fluid flow rate and direction is described. The flow sensing apparatus includes a flow-responsive element projecting into the fluid flow path, and a position sensor which detects the degree and direction of any change in position of the flow responsive element in response to the fluid flow.

대표청구항 ▼

What is claimed is: 1. A fluid flow sensing apparatus comprising: a flow-responsive element projecting into a fluid flow path, the flow-responsive element including a paddle section and a torsion strip section a magnet coupled to the flow-responsive element and adapted to be displaced in response t

What is claimed is: 1. A fluid flow sensing apparatus comprising: a flow-responsive element projecting into a fluid flow path, the flow-responsive element including a paddle section and a torsion strip section a magnet coupled to the flow-responsive element and adapted to be displaced in response to the torque level generated by the flow-responsive element; and a sensor for detecting a change in position of the magnet. 2. The flow sensing apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus has a sensitivity that is generally inversely related to a pressure generated by the fluid flow. 3. A flow sensing apparatus comprising: a mask portion; a hose, the hose cooperating with the mask portion to define an air pathway; a deformable element projecting into the air pathway; a magnet coupled to the deformable element; and a sensor adapted to detect a position change of the magnet. 4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the sensor includes a Hall effect sensor. 5. A flow sensing apparatus comprising: a mask portion; a hose, the hose cooperating with the mask portion to define an air pathway; a deformable element projecting into the air pathway, wherein the deformable element includes a paddle section and a torsion strip; a magnet coupled to the deformable element; and a sensor adapted to detect a position change of the magnet. 6. A flow sensing apparatus comprising: a fluid pathway; a deformable element projecting into the fluid pathway, the deformable element including a paddle section and a torsion strip section; a magnet coupled to the torsion strip section; and a sensor adapted to detect movement of the magnet. 7. The apparatus of claim 6 wherein the sensor includes a Hall effect sensor. 8. The apparatus of claim 6 wherein the sensor is adapted to communicate with a gas delivery device.