A process and device for determining mechanical properties of a respiratory system of a patient connected to a respirator, wherein a short-term occlusion of the patient's airways is performed during an inspiration phase and/or an expiration phase. Initiating of the occlusion is at different points in time within the breathing cycle and during a plurality of breaths. The respiratory flow and the inhaled or exhaled volume of the patient is determined at the beginning of this occlusion. The airway pressure is also measured during this occlusion. The change occurring over time in the airway pressure during a measurement time falling within the occlusion time is determined. Also determined is the course over time of the change occurring over time of the muscle pressure of the patient from the measured values. The course over time of the muscle pressure is calculated by integrating this course over time.