The TWorks ventilator took a big step towards deployment after it successfully underwent technical evaluation at the Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences (NIMS) in Hyderabad. During the evaluation, the performance of the device was compared to corresponding parameters of a sophisticated ventilator currently used, under the standard conditions.

Dr. Padmaja, HoD Anaesthesiology at NIMS has said that “The ventilator will be especially useful in peripheral centres like district and area hospitals. The additional provision to use the ventilator with an oxygen cylinder that’s ubiquitously available also allows it to be used as a transport ventilator in ambulances. It has the potential to save several lives”

Sujai Karampuri, CEO TWorks, said, “We thank NIMS, who have been collaborators for this device from its inception. Detailed feedback from doctors of NIMS during the design and development phase was vital in ensuring that it can be safely used with confidence.”

Along with being able to set basic parameters, the TWorks ventilator measures actually delivered parameters such as inspired and expired tidal volume, peak airway pressure and FiO2. The option of using either a high-pressure hospital line or a cylinder for oxygen supply allows the device to be used in locations with scarce resources and no central supply of medical gases.

“We will continue to develop the device’s software which allows us to add features and improve its performance significantly while using indigenously developed hardware keeping the cost to a minimum,” Sujai said.

Work on the ventilator began at TWorks in March, a week before the first lockdown was announced, in collaboration with several startups, MSMEs, and corporates. The first version was developed in 32 days using in-house equipment including advanced 3D printers and laser cutters. The team has since been refining the design based on inputs from medical professionals as well as manufacturing partners.