Flow sensing apparatus
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.
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.