Comparison of a micro-electro-mechanical system airflow sensor with the pneumotach in the forced oscillation technique

PURPOSE: This study supports the use of thin-film micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) airflow sensors in the forced oscillation technique. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study employed static testing using air flow standards and computer-controlled sound attenuations at 8 Hz. Human feasibility studies were conducted with a testing apparatus consisting of a pneumotach and thin-film MEMS air flow sensors in series. Short-time Fourier transform spectra were obtained using SIGVIEW software. RESULTS: Three tests were performed, and excellent correlations were observed between the probes. The thin-film MEMS probe showed superior sensitivity to higher frequencies up to 200 Hz. CONCLUSION: The results suggest that lower-cost thin-film MEMS can be used for forced oscillation technique applications (including home care devices) that will benefit patients suffering from pulmonary diseases such as asthma, COPD, and cystic fibrosis.