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Abstract
A prototype device was developed capable of controlling the operation of a portable personal air sampling pump proportional to the rate of inspiration of the wearer. The device was based on the relationship between thoracic impedance and pulmonary volume. A respiratory signal was detected using an impedance bridge, demodulated, filtered, amplified, and converted into digital form for input into a microcomputer. The signal was processed by a microcomputer, outputted, and then converted to an analog signal used to drive the pump. Operational evaluation of the impedance pneumographic controller showed variation in sensitivity and baseline from subject to subject, but for all subjects the linearity was acceptable.