Two Rubens type valves, used on ventilators as a one-way valve and also used on manual ventilation reuscitation bags, 1960s.

Air and gases can only flow one way through this valve as there is a bobbin moving against a spring. The valve is named after its developer Henning Moritz Ruben (1914-2004), a Danish anaesthetist. In 1950, he was attempting to re-create a non-rebreathing valve from an American medical journal. Despite mis-interpreting the drawing, he came up with something new, with the help of a watchmaker. Early designs made a clicking noise when used.

After qualifying as a dentist, Ruben’s medical studies were interrupted by the Nazi occupation of Denmark. His Jewish faith led him to flee to Sweden with his family. He worked as dentist and magician for 2 years before returning home and completing his studies. Ruben was also a professional dancer, and fencer and is also well known for inventing a foot-operated sucker, a constant rate syringe pump and a self-inflating breathing bag, still used today.