A vent assembly

Abstract

Disclosed are compact vent assemblies which include a bore which provides a longitudinal flow path for the delivery of breathable gas to a patient interface, and at least one venting flow path extending from the bore, through at radial least one radial vent aperture to at least one exterior vent aperture. In some examples, a plurality of venting flow paths are provided, at least one of the venting flow paths bypassing a diffuser, in other examples the venting flow path is configured to include at least one turn of at least 80 degrees.

Description

A VENT ASSEMBLY1 BACKGROUND OF THE TECHNOLOGY1.1 FIELD OF THE TECHNOLOGY

[0001] The present technology relates to one or more of the screening, diagnosis, monitoring, treatment, prevention and amelioration of respiratory-related disorders. The present technology also relates to medical devices or apparatus, and their use.1.2 DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART1.2.1 Human Respiratory System and its Disorders

[0002] The respiratory system of the body facilitates gas exchange. The nose and mouth form the entrance to the airways of a patient.

[0003] The airways include a series of branching tubes, which become narrower, shorter and more numerous as they penetrate deeper into the lung. The prime function of the lung is gas exchange, allowing oxygen to move from the inhaled air into the venous blood and carbon dioxide to move in the opposite direction. The trachea divides into right and left main bronchi, which further divide eventually into terminal bronchioles. The bronchi make up the conducting airways, and do not take part in gas exchange. Further divisions of the airways lead to the respiratory bronchioles, and eventually to the alveoli. The alveolated region of the lung is where the gas exchange takes place, and is referred to as the respiratory zone. See “ Respiratory Physiology” , by John B. West, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 9th edition published 2012.

[0004] A range of respiratory disorders exist. Certain disorders may be characterised by particular events, e.g. apneas, hypopneas, and hyperpneas.

[0005] Examples of respiratory disorders include Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), Cheyne-Stokes Respiration (CSR), respiratory insufficiency, Obesity Hypoventilation Syndrome (OHS), Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Neuromuscular Disease (NMD) and Chest wall disorders.

[0006] Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), a form of Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB), is characterised by events including occlusion or obstruction of the upper air passage during sleep. It results from a combination of an abnormally small upper airway and the normal loss of muscle tone in the region of the tongue, soft palate and posterior oropharyngeal wall during sleep. The condition causes the affected patient tostop breathing for periods typically of 30 to 120 seconds in duration, sometimes 200 to 300 times per night. It often causes excessive daytime somnolence, and it may cause cardiovascular disease and brain damage. The syndrome is a common disorder, particularly in middle aged overweight males, although a person affected may have no awareness of the problem, e.g. see US Patent No. 4,944,310 (Sullivan).

[0007] Cheyne-Stokes Respiration (CSR) is another form of sleep disordered breathing. CSR is a disorder of a patient's respiratory controller in which there are rhythmic alternating periods of waxing and waning ventilation known as CSR cycles. CSR is characterised by repetitive de-oxygenation and re-oxygenation of the arterial blood. It is possible that CSR is harmful because of the repetitive hypoxia. In some patients CSR is associated with repetitive arousal from sleep, which causes severe sleep disruption, increased sympathetic activity, and increased afterload, e.g. see US Patent No. 6,532,959 (Berthon-Jones).

[0008] Respiratory failure is an umbrella term for respiratory disorders in which the lungs are unable to inspire sufficient oxygen or exhale sufficient CO2 to meet the patient’s needs. Respiratory failure may encompass some or all of the following disorders.

[0009] A patient with respiratory insufficiency (a form of respiratory failure) may experience abnormal shortness of breath on exercise.

[0010] Obesity Hypoventilation Syndrome (OHS) is defined as the combination of severe obesity and awake chronic hypercapnia, in the absence of other known causes for hypoventilation. Symptoms include dyspnea, morning headache and excessive daytime sleepiness.

[0011] Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) encompasses any of a group of lower airway diseases that have certain characteristics in common. These include increased resistance to air movement, extended expiratory phase of respiration, and loss of the normal elasticity of the lung. Examples of COPD are emphysema and chronic bronchitis. COPD is caused by chronic tobacco smoking (primary risk factor), occupational exposures, air pollution and genetic factors. Symptoms include: dyspnea on exertion, chronic cough and sputum production.

[0012] Neuromuscular Disease (NMD) is a broad term that encompasses many diseases and ailments that impair the functioning of the muscles either directly via intrinsic muscle pathology, or indirectly via nerve pathology. Some NMD patients are characterised by progressive muscular impairment leading to loss of ambulation,being wheelchair-bound, swallowing difficulties, respiratory muscle weakness and, eventually, death from respiratory failure. Neuromuscular disorders can be divided into rapidly progressive and slowly progressive: (i) Rapidly progressive disorders: Characterised by muscle impairment that worsens over months and results in death within a few years (e.g. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) in teenagers); (ii) Variable or slowly progressive disorders: Characterised by muscle impairment that worsens over years and only mildly reduces life expectancy (e.g. Limb girdle, Facioscapulohumeral and Myotonic muscular dystrophy). Symptoms of respiratory failure in NMD include: increasing generalised weakness, dysphagia, dyspnea on exertion and at rest, fatigue, sleepiness, morning headache, and difficulties with concentration and mood changes.

[0013] Chest wall disorders are a group of thoracic deformities that result in inefficient coupling between the respiratory muscles and the thoracic cage. The disorders are usually characterised by a restrictive defect and share the potential of long term hypercapnic respiratory failure. Scoliosis and / or kyphoscoliosis may cause severe respiratory failure. Symptoms of respiratory failure include: dyspnea on exertion, peripheral oedema, orthopnea, repeated chest infections, morning headaches, fatigue, poor sleep quality and loss of appetite.

[0014] A range of therapies have been used to treat or ameliorate such conditions. Furthermore, otherwise healthy individuals may take advantage of such therapies to prevent respiratory disorders from arising. However, these have a number of shortcomings.1.2.2 Therapies

[0015] Various respiratory therapies, such as Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy, Non-invasive ventilation (NIV), Invasive ventilation (IV), and High Flow Therapy (HFT) have been used to treat one or more of the above respiratory disorders.1.2.2.1 Respiratory pressure therapies

[0016] Respiratory pressure therapy is the application of a supply of air to an entrance to the airways at a controlled target pressure that is nominally positive with respect to atmosphere throughout the patient’s breathing cycle (in contrast to negative pressure therapies such as the tank ventilator or cuirass).

[0017] Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy has been used to treat Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). The mechanism of action is that continuous positive airway pressure acts as a pneumatic splint and may prevent upper airway occlusion, such as by pushing the soft palate and tongue forward and away from the posterior oropharyngeal wall. Treatment of OSA by CPAP therapy may be voluntary, and hence patients may elect not to comply with therapy if they find devices used to provide such therapy one or more of: uncomfortable, difficult to use, expensive and aesthetically unappealing.

[0018] Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) provides ventilatory support to a patient through the upper airways to assist the patient breathing and / or maintain adequate oxygen levels in the body by doing some or all of the work of breathing. The ventilatory support is provided via a non-invasive patient interface. NIV has been used to treat CSR and respiratory failure, in forms such as OHS, COPD, NMD and Chest Wall disorders. In some forms, the comfort and effectiveness of these therapies may be improved.

[0019] Invasive ventilation (IV) provides ventilatory support to patients that are no longer able to effectively breathe themselves and may be provided using a tracheostomy tube or endotracheal tube. In some forms, the comfort and effectiveness of these therapies may be improved.1.2.2.2 Flow therapies

[0020] Not all respiratory therapies aim to deliver a prescribed therapeutic pressure. Some respiratory therapies aim to deliver a prescribed respiratory volume, by delivering an inspiratory flow rate profile over a targeted duration, possibly superimposed on a positive baseline pressure. In other cases, the interface to the patient’s airways is ‘open’ (unsealed) and the respiratory therapy may only supplement the patient’s own spontaneous breathing with a flow of conditioned or enriched gas. In one example, High Flow therapy (HFT) is the provision of a continuous, heated, humidified flow of air to an entrance to the airway through an unsealed or open patient interface at a “treatment flow rate” that may be held approximately constant throughout the respiratory cycle. The treatment flow rate is nominally set to exceed the patient’s peak inspiratory flow rate. HFT has been used to treat OSA, CSR, respiratory failure, COPD, and other respiratory disorders. One mechanism of action is that the high flow rate of air at the airway entrance improvesventilation efficiency by flushing, or washing out, expired CO2 from the patient’s anatomical deadspace. Hence, HFT is thus sometimes referred to as a deadspace therapy (DST). Other benefits may include the elevated warmth and humidification (possibly of benefit in secretion management) and the potential for modest elevation of airway pressures. As an alternative to constant flow rate, the treatment flow rate may follow a profile that varies over the respiratory cycle.

[0021] Another form of flow therapy is long-term oxygen therapy (LTOT) or supplemental oxygen therapy. Doctors may prescribe a continuous flow of oxygen enriched air at a specified oxygen concentration (from 21%, the oxygen fraction in ambient air, to 100%) at a specified flow rate (e.g., 1 litre per minute (LPM), 2 LPM, 3 LPM, etc.) to be delivered to the patient’s airway.1.2.3 Respiratory Therapy Systems

[0022] These respiratory therapies may be provided by a respiratory therapy system or device. Such systems and devices may also be used to screen, diagnose, or monitor a condition without treating it.

[0023] A respiratory therapy system may comprise a Respiratory Pressure Therapy Device (RPT device), an air circuit, a humidifier, a patient interface, an oxygen source, and data management.1.2.3.1 Patient Interface

[0024] A patient interface may be used to interface respiratory equipment to its wearer, for example by providing a flow of air to an entrance to the airways. The flow of air may be provided via a mask to the nose and / or mouth, a tube to the mouth or a tracheostomy tube to the trachea of a patient. Depending upon the therapy to be applied, the patient interface may form a seal, e.g., with a region of the patient's face, to facilitate the delivery of gas at a pressure at sufficient variance with ambient pressure to effect therapy, e.g., at a positive pressure of about 10 cmH20 relative to ambient pressure. For other forms of therapy, such as the delivery of oxygen, the patient interface may not include a seal sufficient to facilitate delivery to the airways of a supply of gas at a positive pressure of about 10 cmH20. For flow therapies such as nasal HFT, the patient interface is configured to insufflate the nares but specifically to avoid a complete seal. One example of such a patient interface is a nasal cannula.

[0025] Certain mask systems may be functionally unsuitable for the present field. For example, purely ornamental masks may be unable to maintain a suitable pressure. Mask systems used for underwater swimming or diving may be configured to guard against ingress of water from an external higher pressure, but not to maintain air internally at a higher pressure than ambient.

[0026] Certain masks may be clinically unfavourable for the present technology e.g. if they block airflow via the nose and only allow it via the mouth.

[0027] Certain masks may be uncomfortable or impractical for the present technology if they require a patient to insert a portion of a mask structure in their mouth to create and maintain a seal via their lips.

[0028] Certain masks may be impractical for use while sleeping, e.g. for sleeping while lying on one’s side in bed with a head on a pillow.

[0029] Certain masks may cause some patients a feeling of claustrophobia, unease and / or may feel overly obtrusive.

[0030] The design of a patient interface presents a number of challenges. The face has a complex three-dimensional shape. The size and shape of noses and heads varies considerably between individuals. Since the head includes bone, cartilage and soft tissue, different regions of the face respond differently to mechanical forces. The jaw or mandible may move relative to other bones of the skull. The whole head may move during the course of a period of respiratory therapy.

[0031] Consequently, some masks suffer from being obtrusive, aesthetically undesirable, costly, poorly fitting, difficult to use, and / or uncomfortable especially when worn for long or when a patient is unfamiliar with a system. Wrongly sized masks can give rise to reduced compliance, reduced comfort and poorer patient outcomes. Masks designed solely for aviators, masks designed as part of personal protection equipment (e.g. filter masks), SCUBA masks, or for the administration of anaesthetics may be tolerable for their original application, but nevertheless such masks may be undesirably uncomfortable to be worn for extended periods of time, e.g., several hours. This discomfort may lead to a reduction in patient compliance with therapy, especially if the mask is to be worn during sleep.

[0032] CPAP therapy is highly effective to treat certain respiratory disorders, provided patients comply with therapy. If a mask is uncomfortable, or difficult to use a patient may not comply with therapy. Since it is often recommended that a patient regularly wash their mask, if a mask is difficult to clean (e.g., difficult to assemble ordisassemble), patients may not clean their mask and this may impact on patient compliance.

[0033] While a mask for other applications (e.g. aviators) may not be suitable for use in treating sleep disordered breathing, a mask designed for use in treating sleep disordered breathing may be suitable for other applications.

[0034] For these reasons, patient interfaces for delivery of CPAP during sleep form a distinct field.1.2.3.1.1 Seal-forming structure

[0035] Patient interfaces may include a seal-forming structure. Since it is in direct contact with the patient’s face, the shape and configuration of the seal-forming structure can have a direct impact the effectiveness and comfort of the patient interface.

[0036] A patient interface may be partly characterised according to the design intent of where the seal-forming structure is to engage with the face in use. In one form of patient interface, a seal-forming structure may comprise a first sub-portion to form a seal around the left naris and a second sub-portion to form a seal around the right naris. In one form of patient interface, a seal-forming structure may comprise a single element that surrounds both nares in use. Such single element may be designed to for example overlay an upper lip region and a nasal bridge region of a face. In one form of patient interface a seal-forming structure may comprise an element that surrounds a mouth region in use, e.g. by forming a seal on a lower lip region of a face. In one form of patient interface, a seal-forming structure may comprise a single element that surrounds both nares and a mouth region in use. These different types of patient interfaces may be known by a variety of names by their manufacturer including nasal masks, full-face masks, nasal pillows, nasal puffs and oro-nasal masks.

[0037] A seal-forming structure that may be effective in one region of a patient’s face may be inappropriate in another region, e.g. because of the different shape, structure, variability and sensitivity regions of the patient’s face. For example, a seal on swimming goggles that overlays a patient’s forehead may not be appropriate to use on a patient’s nose.

[0038] Certain seal-forming structures may be designed for mass manufacture such that one design is able to fit and be comfortable and effective for a wide range ofdifferent face shapes and sizes. To the extent to which there is a mismatch between the shape of the patient’s face, and the seal-forming structure of the mass- manufactured patient interface, one or both must adapt in order for a seal to form.

[0039] One type of seal-forming structure extends around the periphery of the patient interface, and is intended to seal against the patient's face when force is applied to the patient interface with the seal-forming structure in confronting engagement with the patient's face. The seal-forming structure may include an air or fluid filled cushion, or a moulded or formed surface of a resilient seal element made of an elastomer such as a rubber. With this type of seal-forming structure, if the fit is not adequate, there will be gaps between the seal-forming structure and the face, and additional force will be required to force the patient interface against the face in order to achieve a seal.

[0040] Another type of seal-forming structure incorporates a flap seal of thin material positioned about the periphery of the mask so as to provide a self-sealing action against the face of the patient when positive pressure is applied within the mask. Like the previous style of seal forming portion, if the match between the face and the mask is not good, additional force may be required to achieve a seal, or the mask may leak. Furthermore, if the shape of the seal-forming structure does not match that of the patient, it may crease or buckle in use, giving rise to leaks.

[0041] Another type of seal-forming structure may comprise a friction-fit element, e.g. for insertion into a naris, however some patients find these uncomfortable.

[0042] Another form of seal-forming structure may use adhesive to achieve a seal. Some patients may find it inconvenient to constantly apply and remove an adhesive to their face.

[0043] A range of patient interface seal-forming structure technologies are disclosed in the following patent applications: WO 1998 / 004310; WO 2006 / 074513; WO 2010 / 135785.

[0044] One form of nasal pillow is found in the Adam Circuit manufactured by Puritan Bennett. Another nasal pillow, or nasal puff is the subject of US Patent 4,782,832 (Trimble et al.), assigned to Puritan-Bennett Corporation.

[0045] ResMed Inc. has manufactured the following products that incorporate nasal pillows: SWIFTTM nasal pillows mask, SWIFTTM II nasal pillows mask, SWIFTTM LT nasal pillows mask, SWIFTTM FX nasal pillows mask and MIRAGELIBERTYTM full-face mask. The following patent applications describe examples of nasal pillows masks: International Patent Application WO 2004 / 073778 (describing amongst other things aspects of the SWIFTTM nasal pillows mask), US Patent Application 2009 / 0044808 (describing amongst other things aspects of the SWIFTTM LT nasal pillows mask); International Patent Applications WO 2005 / 063328 and WO 2006 / 130903 (describing amongst other things aspects of the MIRAGE LIBERTYTM full-face mask); International Patent Application WO 2009 / 052560 (describing amongst other things aspects of the SWIFTTM FX nasal pillows mask).1.2.3.1.2 Positioning and Stabilising Structure

[0046] A seal-forming structure of a patient interface used for positive air pressure therapy is subject to the corresponding force of the air pressure to disrupt a seal. Thus a variety of techniques have been used to position the seal-forming structure, and to maintain it in sealing relation with the appropriate portion of the face. Several factors may be considered when comparing different positioning and stabilising techniques. These include: how effective the technique is at maintaining the seal-forming structure in the desired position and in sealed engagement with the face during use of the patient interface; how comfortable the interface is for the patient; whether the patient feels intrusiveness and / or claustrophobia when wearing the patient interface; and aesthetic appeal.

[0047] One technique is the use of adhesives, e.g. see US Patent Application Publication No. US 2010 / 0000534. However, the use of adhesives may be uncomfortable for some.

[0048] Another technique is the use of one or more straps and / or stabilising harnesses. Many such harnesses suffer from being one or more of ill-fitting, bulky, uncomfortable and awkward to use.1.2.3.1.3 Pressurised Air Conduit

[0049] In one type of treatment system, a flow of pressurised air is provided to a patient interface through a conduit in an air circuit that fluidly connects to the patient interface at a location that is in front of the patient’s face when the patient interface is positioned on the patient’s face during use. The conduit may extend from the patient interface forwards away from the patient’s face.1.2.3.1.4 Pressurised Air Conduit used for Positioning / Stabilising the Seal- Forming Structure

[0050] Another type of treatment system comprises a patient interface in which a tube that delivers pressurised air to the patient’s airways also functions as part of the headgear to position and stabilise the seal-forming portion of the patient interface at the appropriate part of the patient’s face. This type of patient interface may be referred to as having “conduit headgear” or “headgear tubing”. Such patient interfaces allow the conduit in the air circuit providing the flow of pressurised air from a respiratory pressure therapy (RPT) device to connect to the patient interface in a position other than in front of the patient’s face. One example of such a treatment system is disclosed in US Patent Publication No. US 2007 / 0246043, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference, in which the conduit connects to a tube in the patient interface through a port positioned in use on top of the patient’s head.

[0051] It is desirable for patient interfaces incorporating headgear tubing to be comfortable for a patient to wear over a prolonged duration when the patient is asleep, form an air-tight and stable seal with the patient’s face, while also able to fit a range of patient head shapes and sizes.1.2.3.2 Respiratory Pressure Therapy (RPT) Device

[0052] A respiratory pressure therapy (RPT) device may be used individually or as part of a system to deliver one or more of a number of therapies described above, such as by operating the device to generate a flow of air for delivery to an interface to the airways. The flow of air may be pressure-controlled (for respiratory pressure therapies) or flow-controlled (for flow therapies such as HFT). Thus RPT devices may also act as flow therapy devices. Examples of RPT devices include a CPAP device and a ventilator.1.2.3.3 Air circuit

[0053] An air circuit is a conduit or a tube constructed and arranged to allow, in use, a flow of air to travel between two components of a respiratory therapy system such as the RPT device and the patient interface. In some cases, there may be separate limbs of the air circuit for inhalation and exhalation. In other cases, a single limb air circuit is used for both inhalation and exhalation.1.2.3.4 Humidifier

[0054] Delivery of a flow of air without humidification may cause drying of airways. The use of a humidifier with an RPT device and the patient interface produces humidified gas that minimizes drying of the nasal mucosa and increases patient airway comfort. In addition, in cooler climates, warm air applied generally to the face area in and about the patient interface is more comfortable than cold air.1.2.3.5 Data Management

[0055] There may be clinical reasons to obtain data to determine whether the patient prescribed with respiratory therapy has been “compliant”, e.g. that the patient has used their RPT device according to one or more “compliance rules”. One example of a compliance rule for CPAP therapy is that a patient, in order to be deemed compliant, is required to use the RPT device for at least four hours a night for at least 21 of 30 consecutive days. In order to determine a patient's compliance, a provider of the RPT device, such as a health care provider, may manually obtain data describing the patient's therapy using the RPT device, calculate the usage over a predetermined time period, and compare with the compliance rule. Once the health care provider has determined that the patient has used their RPT device according to the compliance rule, the health care provider may notify a third party that the patient is compliant.

[0056] There may be other aspects of a patient’s therapy that would benefit from communication of therapy data to a third party or external system.

[0057] Existing processes to communicate and manage such data can be one or more of costly, time-consuming, and error-prone.1.2.3.6 Vent technologies

[0058] Some forms of treatment systems may include a vent to allow the washout of exhaled carbon dioxide. The vent may allow a flow of gas from an interior space of a patient interface, e.g., the plenum chamber, to an exterior of the patient interface, e.g., to ambient.

[0059] The vent may comprise an orifice and gas may flow through the orifice in use of the mask. Many such vents are noisy. Others may become blocked in use and thus provide insufficient washout. Some vents may be disruptive of the sleep of a bed partner 1100 of the patient 1000, e.g. through noise or focussed airflow.

[0060] ResMed Inc. has developed a number of improved mask vent technologies, e.g. see International Patent Application Publication No. WO 1998 / 034665; International Patent Application Publication No. WO 2000 / 078381; US Patent No. 6,581,594; US Patent Application Publication No. US 2009 / 0050156; US Patent Application Publication No. 2009 / 0044808.

[0061] Table of noise of prior masks (ISO 17510-2:2007, 10 cmH20 pressure at Im)

[0062] (* one specimen only, measured using test method specified in ISO 3744 in CPAP mode at 10 cmH20)

[0063] Sound pressure values of a variety of objects are listed below

[0064] There are a number of important considerations which can factor into the design of vent technologies, such as ensuring that there is effective venting of CO2 from the patient interface to minimise rebreathing of CO2 by the patient in use.

[0065] In addition, in some applications it may be advantageous for the design of the vent to minimise the amount of noise generated by the vent. For example, low noise venting systems may improve compliance with respiratory pressure therapy, and / or reduce disturbance to bed partners in use.

[0066] In some applications, it may be advantageous to reduce the velocity of the air vented from the RPT system, otherwise known as ‘jetting’ of the airflow. For example, it may be advantageous to reduce the flow rate of the air flow to prevent the high velocity air from disturbing the skin of the patient or their bed partner.

[0067] Other factors influencing the design of vent technologies include manufacturability, assembly, size, weight, costs and aesthetics.

[0068] Examples of the present technology aim to provide venting solutions which take into consideration the above factors, to thereby address one or more issues with existing venting systems, or at the very least provide the public with a useful choice.1.2.4 Screening, Diagnosis, and Monitoring Systems

[0069] Polysomnography (PSG) is a conventional system for diagnosis and monitoring of cardio-pulmonary disorders, and typically involves expert clinical staff to apply the system. PSG typically involves the placement of 15 to 20 contact sensors on a patient in order to record various bodily signals such as electroencephalography (EEG), electrocardiography (ECG), electrooculograpy (EOG), electromyography (EMG), etc. PSG for sleep disordered breathing has involved two nights ofobservation of a patient in a clinic, one night of pure diagnosis and a second night of titration of treatment parameters by a clinician. PSG is therefore expensive and inconvenient. In particular, it is unsuitable for home screening / diagnosis / monitoring of sleep disordered breathing.

[0070] Screening and diagnosis generally describe the identification of a condition from its signs and symptoms. Screening typically gives a true / false result indicating whether or not a patient’s SDB is severe enough to warrant further investigation, while diagnosis may result in clinically actionable information.Screening and diagnosis tend to be one-off processes, whereas monitoring the progress of a condition can continue indefinitely. Some screening / diagnosis systems are suitable only for screening / diagnosis, whereas some may also be used for monitoring.

[0071] Clinical experts may be able to screen, diagnose, or monitor patients adequately based on visual observation of PSG signals. However, there are circumstances where a clinical expert may not be available, or a clinical expert may not be affordable. Different clinical experts may disagree on a patient’s condition. In addition, a given clinical expert may apply a different standard at different times.2 BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE TECHNOLOGY

[0072] The present technology is directed towards providing medical devices used in the screening, diagnosis, monitoring, amelioration, treatment, or prevention of respiratory disorders having one or more of improved comfort, cost, efficacy, ease of use and manufacturability.

[0073] A first aspect of the present technology relates to apparatus used in the screening, diagnosis, monitoring, amelioration, treatment or prevention of a respiratory disorder.

[0074] Another aspect of the present technology relates to methods used in the screening, diagnosis, monitoring, amelioration, treatment or prevention of a respiratory disorder.

[0075] An aspect of certain forms of the present technology is to provide methods and / or apparatus that improve the compliance of patients with respiratory therapy.

[0076] One form of the present technology comprises a positioning and stabilising structure configured to provide a force to hold the seal-forming structure ina therapeutically effective position on the patient’s head. The positioning and stabilising structure includes at least one strap.

[0077] One form of the present technology comprises a patient interface comprising a plenum chamber, a seal-forming structure, and a positioning and stabilising structure.

[0078] One form of the present technology comprises patient interface comprising a plenum chamber pressurisable to a therapeutic pressure of at least 4 cmH20 above ambient air pressure. The plenum chamber includes at least one plenum chamber inlet port sized and structured to receive a flow of air at the therapeutic pressure for breathing by a patient. The patient interface also comprises a seal-forming structure that is constructed and arranged to form a seal with a region of the patient’s face surrounding an entrance to the patient’s airways. The seal-forming structure has a hole therein such that the flow of air at said therapeutic pressure is delivered to at least an entrance to the patient’s nares. The seal-forming structure is constructed and arranged to maintain said therapeutic pressure in the plenum chamber throughout the patient’s respiratory cycle in use. The patient interface also comprises a positioning and stabilising structure to provide a force to hold the seal-forming structure in a therapeutically effective position on the patient’s head.

[0079] Another aspect of one form of the present technology is a series of modular elements that may be interconnected in order to form different styles of patient interfaces.

[0080] In one form, there are at least two versions or styles of each modular element. The versions or styles may be interchangeably used with one another in order to form different modular assemblies.

[0081] One form of the present technology is a vent assembly for use with a patient interface.

[0082] Another aspect of one form of the present technology is a vent assembly configured for use with a patient interface, the patient interface being configured to deliver a flow of breathable gas at a positive pressure of at least 4 cmH20, or at least 10cmH2O, or at least 20 cmH20 to the airway of a patient for treatment of a respiratory illness.

[0083] Another aspect of one form of the present technology is a vent assembly comprising at least one body portion, the at least one body portion comprising a bore.

[0084] In examples the bore may be configured to provide a longitudinal flow path through the vent assembly for delivery of a flow of breathable gas to the airways of a patient, the flow of breathable gas having a positive pressure of at least 4 cmH20, or at least 10cmH2O, or at least 20 cmH20.

[0085] In examples the vent assembly may be configured to provide at least one vent flow path between the bore and an exterior of the vent assembly.

[0086] In examples the vent assembly may comprise at least one radial vent aperture which provides a radial component to the at least one vent flow path. In examples the at least one radial vent aperture opens into the bore.

[0087] In examples the vent flow path may comprise at least one exterior vent flow aperture opening the at least one vent flow path to an exterior of the vent assembly.

[0088] In examples the vent flow path may comprise at least one longitudinal vent aperture between the radial vent aperture and the exterior of the vent assembly.

[0089] In examples a longitudinal cross section of the at least one longitudinal vent aperture may be tapered. In examples a longitudinal cross section of the at least one longitudinal vent aperture may approximate a right trapezoid. In examples the at least one longitudinal vent aperture comprises a radially inward side surface tapering radially outwardly, and a radially outward side surface that is substantially parallel with a longitudinal axis of the vent assembly.

[0090] In examples a first body portion comprises a radial flange having an inner surface, and a second body portion comprises a first longitudinal facing surface facing the inner surface of the radial flange, wherein a space between the inner surface and the first longitudinal facing surface provides the at least one radial vent aperture.

[0091] In examples, the vent assembly may be configured to provide a tortuous vent flow path component between the at least one radial vent aperture and the at least one exterior vent flow aperture. In examples the tortuous vent flow path component provides a non-linear flow path component to the at least one vent flow path between the at least one radial vent aperture and the at least one exterior vent flow aperture.

[0092] In examples the vent assembly may comprise a diffuser. In examples the diffuser may be structured as an annular ring. In examples the diffuser may be configured to surround the bore.

[0093] In examples the vent assembly may comprise a first vent flow path between the at least one radial vent aperture and the at least one exterior flow aperture, wherein the first vent flow path passes through the diffuser.

[0094] In examples the vent assembly may comprise a second vent flow path between the at least one radial vent aperture and the at least one exterior flow aperture, wherein the second vent flow path does not pass through the diffuser.

[0095] In examples the vent assembly may comprise a first body portion and a second body portion, and wherein the first and second body portions co-operate to provide the bore.

[0096] In examples the vent assembly may comprise a third body portion wherein the third body portion co-operates with the first and second body portions to provide the bore.

[0097] In examples the vent assembly may comprise a diffuser locator, configured to position or retain the diffuser in the vent assembly in use. In examples, at least one of the body portions may function as a diffuser locator.

[0098] In examples the at least one radial vent aperture may be provided in the diffuser locator.

[0099] Another aspect of one form of the present technology is a vent assembly comprising at least one body portion, the at least one body portion comprising a bore configured to provide a longitudinal flow path for delivery of a flow of breathable gas to the airways of a patient, the flow of breathable gas having a positive pressure of at least 4 cmH20, or at least 10cmH2O, or at least 20 cmH20. The vent assembly further comprising at least one vent flow path between the bore and an exterior of the vent assembly, wherein the vent assembly comprises: at least one radial vent aperture which provides a radial component to the at least one vent flow path, and at least one exterior vent flow aperture opening the at least one vent flow path to an exterior of the vent assembly.

[0100] Another aspect of one form of the present technology is a vent assembly for use in a respiratory pressure treatment system, the vent assembly comprising at least one body component, the at least one body component comprising a bore configured to provide a longitudinal flow path for delivery of a flow of breathable gas to the airways of a patient, the flow of breathable gas having a positive pressure of at least 4 cmH20, wherein the vent assembly comprises: a diffuser configured to diffuse a flow of air vented from the vent assembly, a first vent flow path between the boreand an exterior vent flow aperture, and a second vent flow path between the bore and an exterior vent flow aperture, wherein the first vent flow path is configured to direct the flow of vented air through the diffuser, and wherein the second vent flow path is configured to direct the flow of vented around the diffuser.

[0101] In examples the bore may comprise at least one radial vent aperture, which provides a radial component to the first vent flow path and / or second vent flow path.

[0102] In examples, a vent assembly substantially as described herein may be configured for use with a patient interface configured to adhere to the patient’s skin in or around the region of the nose.

[0103] In examples of the technology the patient interface comprises a sealforming structure configured to adhere to regions of the patient’s face immediately surrounding the nares.

[0104] In examples the regions may comprise one or more of an alar rim region (i.e. regions of the ala that are immediately adjacent the nares and may be generally inferiorly facing); the superior-most region of the lip superior, which may comprise the subnasale and / or the region immediately inferior of the subnasale; and an anterior region of the nose that is inferior, e.g. immediately inferior, to the pronasale.

[0105] In examples, the seal forming structure may further extend to a region slightly inferior to the alar crest point, for example a region immediately medial to the junction between the alar crest point and the nasolabial sulcus.

[0106] In examples the patient interface may be configured to deliver a flow of breathable gas to the nasal airways of the patient.

[0107] In examples, the vent assembly may be configured to magnetically attach to the patient interface.

[0108] Another aspect of one form of the present technology is a respiratory pressure system comprising: a patient interface configured to receive a flow of breathable gas having a positive pressure of at least 4 cmH20, or at least 10cmH2O, or at least 20 cmH20; a flow generator configured to generate the flow of breathable gas; an air circuit configured to fluidly connect the patient interface to the flow generator; and a vent assembly substantially as herein described configured to vent air from the respiratory pressure system to ambient.

[0109] Another aspect of one form of the present technology is a patient interface that is moulded or otherwise constructed with a perimeter shape which is complementary to that of an intended wearer.

[0110] An aspect of one form of the present technology is a method of manufacturing apparatus.

[0111] Another aspect of one form of the present technology is a method of assembling a modular system comprising selecting a positioning and stabilising structure, and connecting the positioning and stabilising structure to either a first cushion or a second cushion.

[0112] An aspect of certain forms of the present technology is a medical device that is easy to use, e.g. by a person who does not have medical training, by a person who has limited dexterity, vision or by a person with limited experience in using this type of medical device.

[0113] An aspect of one form of the present technology is a portable RPT device that may be carried by a person, e.g., around the home of the person.

[0114] An aspect of one form of the present technology is a patient interface that may be washed in a home of a patient, e.g., in soapy water, without requiring specialised cleaning equipment. An aspect of one form of the present technology is a humidifier tank that may be washed in a home of a patient, e.g., in soapy water, without requiring specialised cleaning equipment.

[0115] The methods, systems, devices and apparatus described may be implemented so as to improve the functionality of a processor, such as a processor of a specific purpose computer, respiratory monitor and / or a respiratory therapy apparatus. Moreover, the described methods, systems, devices and apparatus can provide improvements in the technological field of automated management, monitoring and / or treatment of respiratory conditions, including, for example, sleep disordered breathing.

[0116] Of course, portions of the aspects may form sub-aspects of the present technology. Also, various ones of the sub-aspects and / or aspects may be combined in various manners and also constitute additional aspects or sub-aspects of the present technology.

[0117] Other features of the technology will be apparent from consideration of the information contained in the following detailed description, abstract, drawings and claims.3 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0118] The present technology is illustrated by way of example, and not by way of limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to similar elements including:3.1 RESPIRATORY THERAPY SYSTEMS

[0119] Fig. 1A shows a system including a patient 1000 wearing a patient interface 3000, in the form of nasal pillows, receiving a supply of air at positive pressure from an RPT device 4000. Air from the RPT device 4000 is humidified in a humidifier 5000, and passes along an air circuit 4170 to the patient 1000. A bed partner 1100 is also shown. The patient is sleeping in a supine sleeping position.

[0120] Fig. IB shows a system including a patient 1000 wearing a patient interface 3000, in the form of a nasal mask, receiving a supply of air at positive pressure from an RPT device 4000. Air from the RPT device is humidified in a humidifier 5000, and passes along an air circuit 4170 to the patient 1000.

[0121] Fig. 1C shows a system including a patient 1000 wearing a patient interface 3000, in the form of a full-face mask, receiving a supply of air at positive pressure from an RPT device 4000. Air from the RPT device is humidified in a humidifier 5000, and passes along an air circuit 4170 to the patient 1000. The patient is sleeping in a side sleeping position.3.2 RESPIRATORY SYSTEM AND FACIAL ANATOMY

[0122] Fig. 2A shows an overview of a human respiratory system including the nasal and oral cavities, the larynx, vocal folds, oesophagus, trachea, bronchus, lung, alveolar sacs, heart and diaphragm.

[0123] Fig. 2B shows a view of a human upper airway including the nasal cavity, nasal bone, lateral nasal cartilage, greater alar cartilage, nostril, lip superior, lip inferior, larynx, hard palate, soft palate, oropharynx, tongue, epiglottis, vocal folds, oesophagus and trachea.

[0124] Fig. 2C is a front view of a face with several features of surface anatomy identified including the lip superior, upper vermilion, lower vermilion, lip inferior, mouth width, endocanthion, a nasal ala, nasolabial sulcus and cheilion. Also indicated are the directions superior, inferior, radially inward and radially outward.3.3 PATIENT INTERFACE

[0125] Fig. 3A shows a patient interface in the form of a nasal mask, and forces acting on the patient interface while in use, in accordance with one form of the present technology.

[0126] Fig. 3B shows a patient interface in the form of a nasal cannula in accordance with one form of the present technology.

[0127] Fig. 3C shows a patient interface having conduit headgear, and forces acting on the patient interface while in use, in accordance with one form of the present technology.3.4 RPT DEVICE

[0128] Fig. 4A shows an RPT device in accordance with one form of the present technology.

[0129] Fig. 4B is a schematic diagram of the pneumatic path of an RPT device in accordance with one form of the present technology. The directions of upstream and downstream are indicated with reference to the blower and the patient interface. The blower is defined to be upstream of the patient interface and the patient interface is defined to be downstream of the blower, regardless of the actual flow direction at any particular moment. Items which are located within the pneumatic path between the blower and the patient interface are downstream of the blower and upstream of the patient interface.3.5 HUMIDIFIER

[0130] Fig. 5 A shows an isometric view of a humidifier in accordance with one form of the present technology.

[0131] Fig. 5B shows an isometric view of a humidifier in accordance with one form of the present technology, showing a humidifier reservoir 5110 removed from the humidifier reservoir dock 5130.

[0132] Fig. 5C shows a schematic of a humidifier in accordance with one form of the present technology.3.6 BREATHING WAVEFORMS

[0133] Fig. 6 shows a model typical breath waveform of a person while sleeping.3.7 MODULARITY

[0134]

[0135] Fig. 7 is a schematic view illustrating the possible combinations of patient interfaces according to one form of the present technology.3.8 VENT ASSEMBILES

[0136] Fig. 8A is a front view of a vent assembly according to one form of the technology.

[0137] Fig. 8B is a rear view of the vent assembly of Fig. 8A.

[0138] Fig. 8C is a perspective view of the vent assembly of Fig. 8A.

[0139] Fig. 8D is a partial cross-sectional view of the vent assembly of Fig. 8A taken through the section lines A-A shown in Fig. 8C.

[0140] Fig. 8E is a perspective view of a first body portion of a vent assembly according to Fig. 8A.

[0141] Fig. 8F is a perspective view of a second body portion of a vent assembly according to Fig. 8A.

[0142] Fig. 8G is a perspective view of an optional diffuser locator of the vent assembly of Fig. 8A.

[0143] Fig. 9A and 9B show side cross-sectional views of a further example of a vent assembly in accordance with the present technology, together with perspective views of a third body portion of same.

[0144] Fig. 9C and 9D show a side cross-sectional views of a further example of a vent assembly in accordance with the present technology, together with perspective views of a third body portion of same.

[0145] Fig. 9E shows a side cross-sectional view of a further example of a vent assembly in accordance with the present technology.

[0146] Fig. 9F is an exploded perspective view of a further example of a vent assembly in accordance with the present technology.

[0147] Fig. 9G is a perspective view of the vent assembly of Fig. 9F.

[0148] Fig. 9H is a first side cross-sectional view of the vent assembly of Fig. 9F.

[0149] Fig. 91 is a second side cross-sectional view of the vent assembly of Fig. 9F.

[0150] Fig. 9J is a side cross-sectional view of a further example of a vent assembly in accordance with the present technology.

[0151] Fig. 9K is a side cross-sectional view of a further example of a vent assembly in accordance with the present technology.3.9 DIFFUSER CONSTRUCTION

[0152] Fig. 10A shows a top-down view of an example of a sheet of planar material used in the production of diffusers in accordance with one example of the technology.

[0153] Fig. 10B shows a perspective view of a diffuser in accordance with one example of the technology.

[0154] Fig. 10C shows a top-down view of a further example of a sheet of planar material used in the production of diffusers in accordance with one example of the technology.

[0155] Fig. 10D shows a perspective view of an alternative diffuser in accordance with one example of the technology.

[0156] Fig. 10E shows a perspective view of the diffuser of Fig. 10D in a diffuser locator in accordance with the present technology.3.10 ADHESIVE PATIENT INTERFACES

[0157] Fig. 11A shows one example of a system including a vent assembly, and adhesive patient interface in accordance with one example of the present technology.

[0158] Fig 1 IB. shows an exploded view of a short tube in accordance with one examples of the present technology.

[0159] Fig. 11C shows an assembled view of the short tube of Fig. 1 IB.

[0160] Fig. 1 ID shows a side view of a patient interface with an adhesive surface in use.

[0161] Fig. 1 IE shows a perspective view of a patient interface with an adhesive surface.

[0162] Fig. 1 IF shows examples of an adhesive surface in contact with the subnasal regions of a patient.

[0163] Fig. 12 shows exploded views of a further example of a vent assembly according to the present technology.4 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLES OF THETECHNOLOGY

[0164] Before the present technology is described in further detail, it is to be understood that the technology is not limited to the particular examples described herein, which may vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used in this disclosure is for the purpose of describing only the particular examples discussed herein, and is not intended to be limiting.

[0165] The following description is provided in relation to various examples which may share one or more common characteristics and / or features. It is to be understood that one or more features of any one example may be combinable with one or more features of another example or other examples. In addition, any single feature or combination of features in any of the examples may constitute a further example.4.1 THERAPY

[0166] In one form, the present technology comprises a method for treating a respiratory disorder comprising applying positive pressure to the entrance of the airways of a patient 1000.

[0167] In certain examples of the present technology, a supply of air at positive pressure is provided to the nasal passages of the patient via one or both nares.

[0168] In certain examples of the present technology, mouth breathing is limited, restricted or prevented.4.2 RESPIRATORY THERAPY SYSTEMS

[0169] In one form, the present technology comprises a respiratory therapy system for treating a respiratory disorder. The respiratory therapy system may comprise an RPT device 4000 for supplying a flow of air to the patient 1000 via an air circuit 4170 and a patient interface 3000 or 3800.4.3 PATIENT INTERFACE

[0170] A non-invasive patient interface 3000, such as that shown in Fig. 3A, in accordance with one aspect of the present technology comprises the following functional aspects: a seal-forming structure 3100, a plenum chamber 3200, a positioning and stabilising structure 3300, a vent 3400, one form of connection port3600 for connection to air circuit 4170, and a forehead support 3700. In some forms a functional aspect may be provided by one or more physical components. In some forms, one physical component may provide one or more functional aspects. In use the seal-forming structure 3100 is arranged to surround an entrance to the airways of the patient so as to maintain positive pressure at the entrance(s) to the airways of the patient 1000. The sealed patient interface 3000 is therefore suitable for delivery of positive pressure therapy.

[0171] As shown in Fig. 3C, a non-invasive patient interface 3000 in accordance with another aspect of the present technology comprises the following functional aspects: a seal-forming structure 3100, a plenum chamber 3200, a positioning and stabilising structure 3300, a vent 3400 and one form of connection port 3600 for connection to an air circuit (such as the air circuit 4170 shown in Figs. 1A-1C). The plenum chamber 3200 may be formed of one or more modular components (e.g., a cushion module 3150 together with the seal-forming structure 3100) in the sense that it or they can be replaced with different components, for example components of a different size.

[0172] An unsealed patient interface 3800, in the form of a nasal cannula, includes nasal prongs 3810a, 3810b which can deliver air to respective nares of the patient 1000 via respective orifices in their tips. Such nasal prongs do not generally form a seal with the inner or outer skin surface of the nares. The air to the nasal prongs may be delivered by one or more air supply lumens 3820a, 3820b that are coupled with the nasal cannula-type unsealed patient interface 3800. The lumens 3820a, 3820b lead from the nasal cannula-type unsealed patient interface 3800 to a respiratory therapy device via an air circuit. The “vent” or gap at the unsealed patient interface 3800, through which excess airflow escapes to ambient, is the passage between the end of the prongs 3810a and 3810b of the nasal cannula-type unsealed patient interface 3800 via the patient’s nares to atmosphere.

[0173] The patient interface 3000 in accordance with one form of the present technology is constructed and arranged to be able to provide a supply of air at a positive pressure above the ambient, for example at least 2, 4, 6, 10, or 20 cmH20 with respect to ambient.4.3.1 Seal-forming structure

[0174] In one form of the present technology, a seal-forming structure 3100 provides a target seal-forming region, and may additionally provide a cushioning function. The target seal-forming region is a region on the seal-forming structure 3100 where sealing may occur. The region where sealing actually occurs- the actual sealing surface- may change within a given treatment session, from day to day, and from patient to patient, depending on a range of factors including for example, where the patient interface was placed on the face, tension in the positioning and stabilising structure and the shape of a patient’s face.

[0175] In one form the target seal-forming region is located on an outside surface of the seal-forming structure 3100.

[0176] In certain forms of the present technology, the seal-forming structure 3100 is constructed from a biocompatible material, e.g. silicone rubber.

[0177] A seal-forming structure 3100 in accordance with the present technology may be constructed from a soft, flexible, resilient material such as silicone.

[0178] In certain forms of the present technology, a system is provided comprising more than one a seal-forming structure 3100, each being configured to correspond to a different size and / or shape range. For example the system may comprise one form of a seal-forming structure 3100 suitable for a large sized head, but not a small sized head and another suitable for a small sized head, but not a large sized head.4.3.1.1 Adhesive Surface

[0179] The seal-forming structure 3100 is configured to be secured in a therapeutically effective position against the patient’s face through an adhesive as is illustrated in Figs. 11 A to 1 IF, and described in more detail herein.

[0180] In one form, the seal-forming structure 3100 comprises a region having at least one adhesive surface 3102. In use, the adhesive surface 3102 contacts the patient’s face, so that the adhesive adheres the adhesive surface 3102 of the sealforming structure 3100 to the patient’s face.

[0181] In certain forms of the present technology, the seal-forming structure 3100 is configured so that the shape of the adhesive surface 3102 substantially matches or resembles the shape of the region of the patient’s face to which the seal-forming structure 3100 is in use attached. In certain forms the seal-forming structure 3100 maybe configured to substantially match / resemble the shape of a region of a particular patient’s face, i.e. the seal-forming structure 3100 may be customised for an individual patient. Customising the seal-forming structure 3100 in patient interfaces 3000 of the types described herein may be more commercially viable than is the case with other types of patient interface because the small footprint of the seal-forming structure 3100 makes them a relatively small component and the seal-forming structure 3100 may be able to be cut out of a flat piece of material, such as adhesive tape, reducing the relative costs of manufacture for an individual patient. Alternatively, the seal-forming structure 3100 may be configured with a shape that substantially complements the shape of the appropriate target region of a generic face, or a generic face of a sub-group of the population (e.g. based on size, or type of facial shape). Alternatively, the seal-forming structure 3100 may be formed of a material and in a form that makes the seal-forming structure 3100 sufficiently flexible that it can adopt the shape of the region of the patient’s face to which it is attached in use.

[0182] One advantage of the seal-forming structure 3100 and / or the adhesive surface 3102 being shaped to substantially match / resemble the region of the patient’s face to which the seal-forming structure 3100 adheres, or to be sufficiently flexible that it is able to deform to do so, is that this avoids the adhesive surface 3102 pulling on the underlying skin when the patient interface 3000 is in use. This improves patient comfort significantly by eliminating uneven stresses developed by the adhesive exerting shear stresses on the skin.

[0183] Further, it may also allow a smaller amount of adhesive to provide the adhesive force required to secure the seal-forming structure 3100 against the patient’s face than would otherwise be necessary because the adhesive does not exert force on pulling the skin laterally across the face.

[0184] The region of the seal-forming structure 3100 to which the adhesive is applied may be considered to be the target seal-forming region. In one form the adhesive is located on a ring-shaped region around an outer edge of the seal-forming structure 3100 with the ring-shaped region entirely surrounding the opening 3110. This may minimize the footprint of the seal-forming structure 3100 on the patient’s face, thereby reducing the bulk of the patient interface 3000 and its inconvenience to the patient 1000.

[0185] The close proximity of the seal-forming structure 3100 and the presence of the adhesive on the surface of the skin may cause sweat from the underlying skin toaccumulate and / or interact with the adhesive. The accumulation of sweat may be inconvenient when the patient interface 3000 is to be worn over an extended period of time, such as during sleep. Therefore, the smaller the area of the target seal-forming region and / or the area covered by the seal-forming structure 3100, the lesser is the inconvenience caused to a patient 1000.

[0186] Other examples of patient interfaces comprising an adhesive coated sealforming structure 3100 are described in detail in PCT publication No.W02023015340A1, and PCT Application No. PCT / AU2025 / 050023, the entire contents of which are herein incorporated by reference.4.3.1.2 Region of Patient’s Face

[0187] The seal-forming structure forms a seal in use with a region of the patient’s face surrounding an entrance of the patient’s airways, for example surrounding the nares and / or the mouth.

[0188] There are several considerations in determining which region of the patient’s face the seal-forming structure 3100 according to certain forms of the technology may be configured to attach to in use.

[0189] One factor is that it may be desirable for the seal-forming structure 3100 to have a small footprint on the patient’s face. The larger the footprint, the more obtrusive the patient interface 3000. A patient interface 3000 occupying a large footprint may lead to feelings of claustrophobia and discomfort. A small footprint also typically means a smaller patient interface 3000, which uses less materials and is consequently cheaper to manufacture.

[0190] Similarly, the smaller the area of attachment between the adhesive surface 3102 and the underlying skin, the better it is for patient comfort since there is less area of skin that may react to having the seal-forming structure 3100 attached to it and less area of skin that can be pulled in different directions by the adhesive.

[0191] Moreover, since a smaller footprint of the seal-forming structure 3100 typically means a smaller patient interface, and consequently a smaller plenum chamber, this corresponds to a smaller area against which the pressure of the air in the plenum chamber 3200 acts. For any given pressure, a smaller area therefore leads to a reduced force which acts to push the patient interface 3000 off the patient’s face. Consequently, a smaller footprint means that the adhesive does not need to be so strong to retain the patient interface 3000 on the patient’s face.

[0192] Another advantage to having a seal-forming structure 3100 with a relatively small footprint is that, again since this typically means a smaller patient interface 3000, the patient interface 3000 does not tend to protrude too far away from the patient’s face. This eliminates or reduces the likelihood of frictional interaction between the patient interface 3000 and surrounding objects such as pillowcases, counterpanes, etc. Certain regions of the patient’s face are more likely to contact surrounding objects when a patient 1000 is asleep. Such regions include the cheeks, the chin, the pronasale and other such prominent features of the patient’s face. If the patient interface 3000 protrudes out significantly from those regions of the patient’s face, then the likelihood of the seal-forming structure 3100 peeling away from the skin slightly or completely is high. This is particularly so when the patient interface 3000 is worn for prolonged periods of sleep.

[0193] Certain areas of the face are prone to greater change in shape when a patient 1000 changes their body position, for example from sitting upright to lying down or between any of the following lying down positions: supine; prone; lying on the side. This is because, in the different positions, the force of gravity acts on the patient’s skin and flesh differently, which causes them to move in different ways relative to the underlying bone structure. A seal-forming structure 3100 which avoids areas of greater variation in shape with change in a patient’s body position provides greater comfort because variation in shape of the underlying facial regions while the patient interface 3000 is being worn will cause the adhesive surface 3102 to either stretch to accommodate change in shape or disengage with the underlying skin. If the adhesive surface 3102 and / or the seal-forming structure stretches, then a restorative force is exerted on the underlying skin, thereby causing discomfort to the patient 1000. If the seal-forming structure 3100 disengages from the patient’s face, it could lead to ineffective sealing, and consequently ineffective respiratory therapy.

[0194] Some facial areas tend to have more facial hair than others, particularly in men. A seal-forming structure 3100 whose adhesive surface 3102 is configured to be attached to predominantly non-hairy portions allows application and removal of the seal-forming structure without causing pain due to hair removal. Pain caused by the yanking of facial hairs may discourage patients from adhering to respiratory therapy. Therefore, a seal-forming structure that adheres to non-hairy or less hairy regions of the patient’s face is advantageous.

[0195] In addition to the above factors, the region of the patient’s face to which the seal-forming structure 3100 attaches is also a factor when considering the shape of a seal-forming structure 3100 which is able to fit a number of members of a population, as opposed to being custom-made for an individual patient. Forming patient interfaces that are able to be used effectively by multiple members of the population may reduce manufacturing costs by enabling economies of scale.

[0196] Based on this consideration, extensive analysis has been undertaken to understand the extent of variation of different regions of the face across members of the population. In particular, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) of 3D facial scans of the regions around the airways of many members of the population was conducted. This analysis identified that certain regions of the face around the airways were found to vary to a lesser degree across a population as opposed to other regions.

[0197] In certain forms of the technology, the shape of the seal-forming structure 3100 is configured in such a way that it may be attached in use to these facial areas of lesser relative variation of shape. The following sections describe the regions of the face that have been identified as being suitable in this analysis, and shapes of sealforming structures according to certain forms of the technology that are particularly suited to sealing with these regions.

[0198] In general, the regions of the face identified as being suitable for sealforming structure 3100 of certain forms of the technology to adhere to, based on consideration of the factors described above, are regions adjacent to the nares, for example regions immediately adjacent to the nares. Such regions are the generally inferiorly facing surfaces of the nasal alar and a superior region of the lip superior, for example the superior-most region of the lip superior.

[0199] In one form of the technology, as shown in Figs. 11A to 1 IF, the sealforming structure 3100 is configured to adhere to regions of the patient’s face immediately surrounding the nares. These regions are indicated by the non-hashed region in the right-hand side of Fig. 1 IF and comprise: the alar rim region 3141 (i.e. regions of the ala that are immediately adjacent the nares and may be generally inferiorly facing); the superior-most region of the lip superior 3142, which may comprise the subnasale and / or the region immediately inferior of the subnasale; and an anterior region of the nose that is inferior, e.g. immediately inferior, to the pronasale 3143. In the lateral direction, the seal-forming structure 3100 extends to a region 3144 slightly inferior to the alar crest point, for example a region immediatelymedial to the junction between the alar crest point and the nasolabial sulcus. In the form of the technology shown, the seal-forming structure 3100 does not adhere to a significant part of the side regions of the nasal alar, although in some forms, or for some faces, it may adhere to the inferior regions of the side regions of the nasal alar. Furthermore, the seal-forming structure 3100 of Figs. 11A to 11F does not adhere to the pronasale.

[0200] In the form of the technology shown in Figs. 11 A to 1 IF, the region of the patient’s face to which the seal-forming structure 3100 adheres is a band entirely surrounding both the patient’s nares. The band may be approximately constant in width around the perimeter of the band.

[0201] The region of the face covered by the seal-forming structure 3100 in the form of the technology shown in Figs. 11 A to 1 IF has been found not to change shape substantially when a patient 1000 changes their position because this facial region predominantly comprises of cartilage and bone and has relatively little adipose tissue, as compared to the cheek or chin areas. This facial region is also typically free of facial hair or has very little facial hair (for example, some facial hair may be present on the superior-most region of the lip superior 3142). A seal-forming structure 3100 that adheres to this region may be particularly advantageous for a patient 1000 with upper lip hair.

[0202] The region of the face covered by the seal-forming structure 3100 in the form of the technology shown in Figs. 11 A to 1 IF has also been found to have relatively little variation in shape across patients in representative population samples, including patients of a variety of races.

[0203] In certain forms of the technology, the seal-forming structure 3100 may be configured to adhere to the columella. For example, the seal-forming structure 3100 may comprise a septum region extending between two diametrically opposing regions of the seal-forming structure 3100, the septum region being configured to adhere in use to the columella.4.3.1.3 Sealing mechanisms

[0204] In one form, the seal-forming structure includes a sealing flange utilizing a pressure assisted sealing mechanism. In use, the sealing flange can readily respond to a system positive pressure in the interior of the plenum chamber 3200 acting on its underside to urge it into tight sealing engagement with the face. The pressure assistedmechanism may act in conjunction with elastic tension in the positioning and stabilising structure.

[0205] In one form, the seal-forming structure 3100 comprises a sealing flange and a support flange. The sealing flange comprises a relatively thin member with a thickness of less than about 1mm, for example about 0.25mm to about 0.45mm, which extends around the perimeter of the plenum chamber 3200. Support flange may be relatively thicker than the sealing flange. The support flange is disposed between the sealing flange and the marginal edge of the plenum chamber 3200, and extends at least part of the way around the perimeter. The support flange is or includes a springlike element and functions to support the sealing flange from buckling in use.

[0206] In one form, the seal-forming structure may comprise a compression sealing portion or a gasket sealing portion. In use the compression sealing portion, or the gasket sealing portion is constructed and arranged to be in compression, e.g. as a result of elastic tension in the positioning and stabilising structure.

[0207] In one form, the seal-forming structure comprises a tension portion. In use, the tension portion is held in tension, e.g. by adjacent regions of the sealing flange.

[0208] In one form, the seal-forming structure comprises a region having a tacky or adhesive surface.

[0209] In certain forms of the present technology, a seal-forming structure may comprise one or more of a pressure-assisted sealing flange, a compression sealing portion, a gasket sealing portion, a tension portion, and a portion having a tacky or adhesive surface.4.3.1.4 Nose bridge or nose ridge region

[0210] In one form, the non-invasive patient interface 3000 comprises a sealforming structure that forms a seal in use on a nose bridge region or on a nose-ridge region of the patient's face.

[0211] In one form, the seal-forming structure includes a saddle-shaped region constructed to form a seal in use on a nose bridge region or on a nose-ridge region of the patient's face.4.3.1.5 Upper lip region

[0212] In one form, the non-invasive patient interface 3000 comprises a sealforming structure that forms a seal in use on an upper lip region (that is, the lip superior) of the patient's face.

[0213] In one form, the seal-forming structure includes a saddle-shaped region constructed to form a seal in use on an upper lip region of the patient's face.4.3.1.6 Chin-region

[0214] In one form the non-invasive patient interface 3000 comprises a sealforming structure that forms a seal in use on a chin-region of the patient's face.

[0215] In one form, the seal-forming structure includes a saddle-shaped region constructed to form a seal in use on a chin-region of the patient's face.4.3.1.7 Forehead region

[0216] In one form, the seal-forming structure that forms a seal in use on a forehead region of the patient's face. In such a form, the plenum chamber may cover the eyes in use.4.3.1.8 Nasal pillows

[0217] In one form the seal-forming structure of the non-invasive patient interface 3000 comprises a pair of nasal puffs, or nasal pillows, each nasal puff or nasal pillow being constructed and arranged to form a seal with a respective naris of the nose of a patient.

[0218] Nasal pillows in accordance with an aspect of the present technology include: a frusto-cone, at least a portion of which forms a seal on an underside of the patient's nose, a stalk, a flexible region on the underside of the frusto-cone and connecting the frusto-cone to the stalk. In addition, the structure to which the nasal pillow of the present technology is connected includes a flexible region adjacent the base of the stalk. The flexible regions can act in concert to facilitate a universal joint structure that is accommodating of relative movement both displacement and angular of the frusto-cone and the structure to which the nasal pillow is connected. For example, the frusto-cone may be axially displaced towards the structure to which the stalk is connected.4.3.1.9 Nose-only Masks

[0219] In one form, the patient interface 3000 comprises a seal-forming structure 3100 configured to seal around an entrance to the patient’s nasal airways but not around the patient’s mouth. The seal-forming structure 3100 may be configured to seal to the patient’s lip superior. The patient interface 3000 may leave the patient’s mouth uncovered. This patient interface 3000 may deliver a supply of air or breathable gas to both nares of patient 1000 and not to the mouth. This type of patient interface may be identified as a nose-only mask.

[0220] One form of nose-only mask according to the present technology is what has traditionally been identified as a “nasal mask”, having a seal-forming structure 3100 configured to seal on the patient’s face around the nose and over the bridge of the nose. A nasal mask may be generally triangular in shape. In one form, the non- invasive patient interface 3000 comprises a seal-forming structure 3100 that forms a seal in use to an upper lip region (e.g. the lip superior), to the patient’s nose bridge or at least a portion of the nose ridge above the pronasale, and to the patient's face on each lateral side of the patient’s nose, for example proximate the patient’s nasolabial sulci. The patient interface 3000 shown in Fig. IB has this type of seal-forming structure 3100. This patient interface 3000 may deliver a supply of air or breathable gas to both nares of patient 1000 through a single orifice.

[0221] Another form of nose-only mask may seal around an inferior periphery of the patient’s nose without engaging the user’s nasal ridge. This type of patient interface 3000 may be identified as a “nasal cradle” mask and the seal-forming structure 3100 may be identified as a “nasal cradle cushion”, for example. In one form, for example as shown in Fig. 3C, the seal-forming structure 3100 is configured to form a seal in use with inferior surfaces of the nose around the nares. The sealforming structure 3100 may be configured to seal around the patient’s nares at an inferior periphery of the patient’s nose including to an inferior and / or anterior surface of a pronasale region of the patient’s nose and to the patient’s nasal alae. The sealforming structure 3100 may seal to the patient’s lip superior. The shape of the sealforming structure 3100 may be configured to match or closely follow the underside of the patient’s nose and may not contact a nasal bridge region of the patient’s nose or any portion of the patient’s nose superior to the pronasale. In one form of nasal cradle cushion, the seal-forming structure 3100 comprises a bridge portion dividing theopening into two orifices, each of which, in use, supplies air or breathable gas to a respective one of the patient’s nares. The bridge portion may be configured to contact or seal against the patient’s columella in use. Alternatively, the seal-forming structure 3100 may comprise a single opening to provide a flow or air or breathable gas to both of the patient’s nares.

[0222] In some forms, a nose-only mask may comprise nasal pillows, described above.4.3.1.10 Nose and Mouth Masks

[0223] In one form, the patient interface 3000 comprises a seal-forming structure 3100 configured to seal around an entrance to the patient’s nasal airways and also around the patient’s mouth. The seal -forming structure 3100 may be configured to seal to the patient’s face proximate a chin region. This patient interface 3000 may deliver a supply of air or breathable gas to both nares and to the mouth of patient 1000. This type of patient interface may be identified as a nose and mouth mask.

[0224] One form of nose-and-mouth mask according to the present technology is what has traditionally been identified as a “full-face mask”, having a seal-forming structure 3100 configured to seal on the patient’s face around the nose, below the mouth and over the bridge of the nose. A nose-and-mouth mask may be generally triangular in shape. In one form the patient interface 3000 comprises a seal-forming structure 3100 that forms a seal in use to a patient’s chin-region (which may include the patient’s lip inferior and / or a region directly inferior to the lip inferior), to the patient’s nose bridge or at least a portion of the nose ridge superior to the pronasale, and to cheek regions of the patient's face. The patient interface 3000 shown in Fig. 1C is of this type. This patient interface 3000 may deliver a supply of air or breathable gas to both nares and mouth of patient 1000 through a single orifice. This type of sealforming structure 3100 may be referred to as a “nose-and-mouth cushion”.

[0225] In another form the patient interface 3000 comprises a seal-forming structure 3100 that forms a seal in use on a patient’s chin region (which may include the patient’s lip inferior and / or a region directly inferior to the lip inferior), to an inferior and / or an anterior surface of a pronasale portion of the patient’s nose, to the alae of the patient’s nose and to the patient’s face on each lateral side of the patient’s nose, for example proximate the nasolabial sulci. The seal-forming structure 3100 may also form a seal against a patient’s lip superior. A patient interface 3000 havingthis type of seal-forming structure may have a single opening configured to deliver a flow of air or breathable gas to both nares and mouth of a patient, may have an oral hole configured to provide air or breathable gas to the mouth and a nasal hole configured to provide air or breathable gas to the nares, or may have an oral hole for delivering air to the patient’s mouth and two nasal holes for delivering air to respective nares. This type of patient interface 3000 may have a nasal portion and an oral portion, the nasal portion sealing to the patient’s face at similar locations to a nasal cradle mask.

[0226] In a further form of nose and mouth mask, the patient interface 3000 may comprise a seal-forming structure 3100 having a nasal portion comprising nasal pillows and an oral portion configured to form a seal to the patient’s face around the patient’s mouth.

[0227] In some forms, the seal-forming structure 3100 may have a nasal portion that is separate and distinct from an oral portion. In other forms, a seal-forming structure 3100 may form a contiguous seal around the patient’s nose and mouth.

[0228] It is to be understood that the above examples of different forms of patient interface 3000 do not constitute an exhaustive list of possible configurations. In some forms a patient interface 3000 may comprise a combination of different features of the above described examples of nose-only and nose and mouth masks.4.3.2 Plenum chamber

[0229] The plenum chamber 3200 has a perimeter that is shaped to be complementary to the surface contour of the face of an average person in the region where a seal will form in use. In use, a marginal edge of the plenum chamber 3200 is positioned in close proximity to an adjacent surface of the face. Actual contact with the face is provided by the seal-forming structure 3100. The seal-forming structure 3100 may extend in use about the entire perimeter of the plenum chamber 3200. In some forms, the plenum chamber 3200 and the seal-forming structure 3100 are formed from a single homogeneous piece of material.

[0230] In certain forms of the present technology, the plenum chamber 3200 does not cover the eyes of the patient in use.

[0231] In certain forms of the present technology, the plenum chamber 3200 is constructed from a transparent material, e.g. a transparent polycarbonate. In certainforms of the present technology, the plenum chamber 3200 is constructed from a translucent material.

[0232] In some forms, the plenum chamber 3200 is constructed from a rigid material such as polycarbonate. The rigid material may provide support to the sealforming structure.

[0233] In some forms, the plenum chamber 3200 is constructed from a flexible material (e.g., constructed from a soft, flexible, resilient material like silicone, textile, foam, etc.). For example, in examples then may be formed from a material which has a Young's modulus of 0.4 GPa or lower, for example foam. In some forms of the technology the plenum chamber 3200 may be made from a material having Young's modulus of 0.1 GPa or lower, for example rubber. In other forms of the technology the plenum chamber 3200 may be made from a material having a Young's modulus of 0.7MPa or less, for example between 0.7MPa and 0.3MPa. An example of such a material is silicone.4.3.2.1 Multiple Openings

[0234] Different plenum chambers may be formed as part of a multi-opening cushion. In examples, the cushions each include three openings, although an alternate cushion may be formed with greater or fewer openings.

[0235] In some forms, the different openings may serve different functions. For example, some openings may be exclusively inlet openings, while other openings may be exclusively outlet openings.

[0236] In other forms, at least one opening may serve two different functions. For example, one opening may operate as both an inlet and an outlet during the same breathing cycle.

[0237] The plurality of openings may allow for a variety of configurations of air delivery to the plenum chamber. For example, depending on patient need and / or patient comfort, the patient may use a given cushion 3050-1, 3050-2 in a “tube-up” configuration (e.g., using conduit headgear - described below) or a “tube-down” configuration (e.g., using a single conduit in front of the patient’s face).4.3.2.1.1 Nose and Mouth Mask

[0238] The plenum chamber 3200 may include a pair of plenum chamber inlet ports, which may be used to convey gas into and / or out of the plenum chamber 3200.The plenum chamber inlet ports may be disposed on opposite sides (e.g., left and right sides) of the plenum chamber.

[0239] In some forms, the plenum chamber 3200 may also include at least one vent opening. The vent opening may be disposed in a centre of the plenum chamber 3200. For example, the vent opening may be disposed between the plenum chamber inlet ports.

[0240] In some forms, the plenum chamber 3200 may include a pair of grooves. Each groove may be disposed proximate to one of the plenum chamber inlet ports. Each groove may form a partially recessed surface.4.3.2.1.2 Nose-only Mask

[0241] The plenum chamber 3200 of a nasal only cushion 3050-2 may be similar to the plenum chamber 3200 of the mouth and nose cushion 3050-1. Only some similarities and differences between the plenum chambers 3200 may be described below.

[0242] The plenum chamber 3200 may include a pair of plenum chamber inlet ports, which may be used to convey gas into and / or out of the plenum chamber 3200. The plenum chamber inlet ports may be disposed on opposite sides (e.g., left and right sides) of the plenum chamber 3200.

[0243] In some forms, the plenum chamber 3200 may also include at least one vent opening. The vent opening may be disposed in a centre of the plenum chamber 3200. For example, the vent opening may be disposed between the plenum chamber inlet ports.

[0244] In some forms, the plenum chamber 3200 may include a pair of grooves. Each groove may be disposed proximate to one of the plenum chamber inlet ports. Each groove may form a partially recessed surface.4.3.3 Positioning and stabilising structure

[0245] The seal-forming structure 3100 of the patient interface 3000 of the present technology may be held in sealing position in use by the positioning and stabilising structure 3300. The positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may comprise and function as “headgear” since it engages the patient’s head in order to hold the patient interface 3000 in a sealing position. Examples of a positioning and stabilising structure may be shown in Fig. 3A.

[0246] In one form the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 provides a retention force at least sufficient to overcome the effect of the positive pressure in the plenum chamber 3200 to lift off the face (i.e., Fplenum).

[0247] In one form the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 provides a retention force to overcome the effect of the gravitational force on the patient interface 3000.

[0248] With continued reference to Fig. 3A, the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 provides a force FPSS that assists in maintaining the plenum chamber 3200 in the sealing position on the patient’s face. The positioning and stabilising force FPSS may be the resultant force from the various forces of the different elements of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300. For example, headgear straps may individually provide a strap force Fstrap in order to hold the seal-forming structure 3100 against the patient’s face. The force Fstrap may also be directed at least partially in the superior direction in order to overcome the gravitational force Fg. The gravitational force Fg may be specifically shown for the seal-forming structure 3100 and the plenum chamber 3200, but gravity would act on the entirely of the patient interface 3000 (i.e., in the same direction as the illustrated gravitational force Fg).

[0249] The gravitational force Fg may be opposed by a frictional force Ff, which may act in a direction directly opposite of the gravitational force Fg. As gravity pulls the seal-forming structure 3100 and the plenum chamber 3200 in the inferior direction (as viewed in Fig. 3A), the frictional force Ff would act in the superior direction (e.g., against a patient’s face). For example, the patient may experience the frictional force Ff against his lip superior (and / or other surfaces of the patient’s face in contact with the seal-forming structure 3100) in order to oppose the motion in the inferior direction (which may help to stabilising the cushion in place). Although the frictional force Ff is shown specifically opposing the gravitational force Fg of the seal-forming structure 3100 and the plenum chamber 3200, components of an overall frictional force (not shown) would also oppose the gravitational force Fg associated with the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 and any other portions of the patient interface 3000. A force of friction can act along any place where the patient interface 3000 contacts the patient’s skin (or hair). The frictional force Ff extends in the opposite direction of the gravitational force Fg and along the patient’s skin (or hair). In some forms the gravitational force Fg may also be countered by vertical components of the reactionforce from the patient’s face acting on the seal-forming structure 3100, for example at the nose ridge and chin regions of the patient’s face, for example.

[0250] In some forms, the sum of the various forces may equal zero so that the patient interface 3000 is at equilibrium (e.g., not moving along the patient’s face while in use). Specifically, the gravitational force Fg and the blowout force Fplenum tend to move the seal-forming structure 3100 away from the desired sealing position. The positioning and stabilising force FPSS is applied in order to counteract the gravitational force Fg and the blowout force Fplenum (as well as any frictional forces Ff) and keep the seal-forming structure 3100 properly situated. Although the positioning and stabilising force FPSS may exceed the sum of the gravitational force Fg and the blowout force Fplenum (with any additional positioning and stabilising force FPSS being balanced by reaction force from the patient’s head acting on the portions of patient interface 3000) and still maintain the seal-forming structure 3100 in an appropriate sealing position, patient comfort may be sacrificed. Maximum patient comfort may be achieved when the net force on the patient interface 3000 is zero and the positioning and stabilising force FPSS is exactly strong enough to achieve this. In some examples the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may be adjustable such that when fitted the positioning and stabilising force FPSS is greater than required to exactly balance the gravitational force Fg and the blowout force Fplenum to hold the patient interface 3000 against the patient’s head tightly enough that disruptive forces which may be experienced in use (such as tube drag or lateral shunting of the plenum chamber 3200 during side sleeping) do not disrupt the seal. As described below, various positions of the patient’s head while using the patient interface 3000 may determine the positioning and stabilising force FPSS necessary to achieve equilibrium.

[0251] In one form the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 provides a retention force as a safety margin to overcome the potential effect of disrupting forces on the patient interface 3000, such as from tube drag, or accidental interference with the patient interface.

[0252] In one form of the present technology, a positioning and stabilising structure 3300 is provided that is configured in a manner consistent with being worn by a patient while sleeping. In one example the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 has a low profile, or cross-sectional thickness, to reduce the perceived or actual bulk of the apparatus. In one example, the positioning and stabilising structure 3300comprises at least one strap having a rectangular cross-section. In one example the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 comprises at least one flat strap.

[0253] In one form of the present technology, a positioning and stabilising structure 3300 is provided that is configured so as not to be too large and bulky to prevent the patient from lying in a supine sleeping position with a back region of the patient’s head on a pillow.

[0254] In one form of the present technology, a positioning and stabilising structure 3300 is provided that is configured so as not to be too large and bulky to prevent the patient from lying in a side sleeping position with a side region of the patient’s head on a pillow.

[0255] In one form of the present technology, a positioning and stabilising structure 3300 is provided with a decoupling portion located between an anterior portion of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300, and a posterior portion of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300. The decoupling portion does not resist compression and may be, e.g. a flexible or floppy strap. The decoupling portion is constructed and arranged so that when the patient lies with their head on a pillow, the presence of the decoupling portion prevents a force on the posterior portion from being transmitted along the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 and disrupting the seal.

[0256] In one form of the present technology, a positioning and stabilising structure 3300 comprises a strap constructed from a laminate of a fabric patientcontacting layer, a foam inner layer and a fabric outer layer. In one form, the foam is porous to allow moisture, (e.g., sweat), to pass through the strap. In one form, the fabric outer layer comprises loop material to engage with a hook material portion.

[0257] In certain forms of the present technology, a positioning and stabilising structure 3300 comprises a strap that is extensible, e.g. resiliently extensible. For example the strap may be configured in use to be in tension, and to direct a force to draw a seal-forming structure into sealing contact with a portion of a patient’s face. In an example the strap may be configured as a tie.

[0258] In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure comprises a first tie, the first tie being constructed and arranged so that in use at least a portion of an inferior edge thereof passes superior to an otobasion superior of the patient’s head and overlays a portion of a parietal bone without overlaying the occipital bone.

[0259] In one form of the present technology suitable for a nasal-only mask or for a full-face mask, the positioning and stabilising structure includes a second tie, the second tie being constructed and arranged so that in use at least a portion of a superior edge thereof passes inferior to an otobasion inferior of the patient’s head and overlays or lies inferior to the occipital bone of the patient’s head.

[0260] In one form of the present technology suitable for a nasal-only mask or for a full-face mask, the positioning and stabilising structure includes a third tie that is constructed and arranged to interconnect the first tie and the second tie to reduce a tendency of the first tie and the second tie to move apart from one another.4.3.3.1 Conduit headgear4.3.3.1.1 Conduit headgear tubes

[0261] In some forms of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 comprises one or more headgear tubes 3350 that deliver pressurised air received from a conduit forming part of the air circuit 4170 from the RPT device to the patient’s airways, for example through the plenum chamber 3200 and sealforming structure 3100. In the form of the present technology illustrated in Fig. 3C, the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 comprises two tubes 3350 that deliver air to the plenum chamber 3200 from the air circuit 4170. The tubes 3350 are configured to position and stabilise the seal-forming structure 3100 of the patient interface 3000 at the appropriate part of the patient’s face (for example, the nose and / or mouth) in use. This allows the conduit of air circuit 4170 providing the flow of pressurised air to connect to a connection port 3600 of the patient interface in a position other than in front of the patient’s face, for example on top of the patient’s head.

[0262] In the form of the present technology illustrated in Fig. 3C, the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 comprises two tubes 3350, each tube 3350 being positioned in use on a different side of the patient’s head and extending across the respective cheek region, above the respective ear (superior to the otobasion superior on the patient’s head) to the elbow 3610 on top of the head of the patient 1000. This form of technology may be advantageous because, if a patient sleeps with their head on its side and one of the tubes 3350 is compressed to block or partially block the flow of gas along the tube 3350, the other tube 3350 remains open to supplypressurised gas to the patient. In other examples of the technology, the patient interface 3000 may comprise a different number of tubes, for example one tube, or two or more tubes.

[0263] In one example in which the patient interface has one tube 3350, the single tube 3350 is positioned on one side of the patient’s head in use (e.g. across one cheek region) and a strap forms part of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 and is positioned on the other side of the patient’s head in use (e.g. across the other region) to assist in securing the patient interface 3000 on the patient’s head. For example, the tube 3350 and the strap may each be under tension in use in order to assist in maintaining the seal-forming structure 3100 in a sealing position.

[0264] In one form, the tube 3350 may be at least partially extensible so that the tube 3350 and the strap may adjust substantially equal lengths when worn by a patient. This may allow for substantially symmetrical adjustments between the tube 3350 and the strap so that the seal-forming structure remains substantially in the middle.

[0265] In the form of the technology shown in Fig. 3C, the two tubes 3350 are fluidly connected at superior ends to each other and to the connection port 3600. In some examples, the two tubes 3350 are integrally formed while in other examples the tubes 3350 are formed separately but are connected in use and may be disconnected, for example for cleaning or storage. Where separate tubes are used, they may be indirectly connected together, for example each may be connected to a T-shaped connector. The T-shaped connector may have two arms / branches each fluidly connectable to a respective one of the tubes 3350. Additionally, the T-shaped connector may have a third arm or opening providing the connection port 3600 for fluid connection to the air circuit 4170 in use. The opening may be an inlet for receiving the flow of pressurized air.

[0266] In some forms, the third arm of the T-shaped connector may be substantially perpendicular to each of the first two arms.

[0267] In some forms, the third arm of the T-shaped connector may be obliquely formed with respect to each of the first two arms.

[0268] In some forms, a Y-shaped connector may be used instead of the T-shaped connector. The first two arms may be oblique with respect to one another, and the third arm may be oblique with respect to the first two arms. The angled formation ofthe first two arms may be similar to the shape of the patient’s head in order to conform to the shape.

[0269] In some forms, at least one of the arms of the T-shaped connector (or Y- shaped connector) may be flexible. This may allow the connector to bend based on the shape of the patient’s head and / or a force in the positioning and stabilising structure 3300.

[0270] In some forms, at least one of the arms of the T-shaped connector (or Y- shaped connector) may be at least partially rigidised. This may assist in maintaining the shape of the connector so that bending of the connector does not close the airflow path.

[0271] The tubes 3350 may be formed from a flexible material, such as an elastomer, e.g. silicone or TPE, and / or from one or more textile and / or foam materials. The tubes 3350 may have a preformed shape and may be able to be bent or moved into another shape upon application of a force but may return to the original preformed shape in the absence of said force. The tubes 3350 may be generally arcuate or curved in a shape approximating the contours of a patient’s head between the top of the head and the nasal or oral region.

[0272] In some examples, the one or more tubes 3350 are crush resistant to resist being blocked if crushed during use, for example if squashed between a patient’s head and pillow, especially if there is only one tube 3350. The tubes 3350 may be formed with a sufficient structural stiffness to resist crushing or may be as described in US Patent No. 6,044,844, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0273] Each tube 3350 may be configured to receive a flow of air from the connection port 3600 on top of the patient’s head and to deliver the flow of air to the seal-forming structure 3100 at the entrance of the patient’s airways. In the example shown in Fig. 3C, each tube 3350 lies in use on a path extending from the plenum chamber 3200 across the patient’s cheek region and superior to the patient’s ear to the elbow 3610. For example, a portion of each tube 3350 proximate the plenum chamber 3200 may overlie a maxilla region of the patient’s head in use. Another portion of each tube 3350 may overlie a region of the patient’s head superior to an otobasion superior of the patient’s head. Each of the tubes 3350 may also lie over the patient’s sphenoid bone and / or temporal bone and either or both of the patient’s frontal bone and parietal bone. The elbow 3610 may be located in use over the patient’s parietalbone, over the frontal bone and / or over the junction therebetween (e.g. the coronal suture).

[0274] In certain forms of the present technology the patient interface 3000 is configured such that the connection port 3600 can be positioned in a range of positions across the top of the patient’s head so that the patient interface 3000 can be positioned as appropriate for the comfort or fit of an individual patient. In some examples, the headgear tubes 3350 are configured to allow movement of an upper portion of the patient interface 3000 (e.g. a connection port 3600) with respect to a lower portion of the patient interface 3000 (e.g. a plenum chamber 3200). That is, the connection port 3600 may be at least partially decoupled from the plenum chamber 3200. In this way, the seal-forming structure 3100 may form an effective seal with the patient’s face irrespective of the position of the connection port 3600 (at least within a predetermined range of positions) on the patient’s head.

[0275] As described above, in some examples of the present technology the patient interface 3000 comprises a seal-forming structure 3100 in the form of a cradle cushion which lies generally under the nose and seals to an inferior periphery of the nose (e.g. an under-the-nose cushion). The positioning and stabilising structure 3300, including the tubes 3350 may be structured and arranged to pull the seal-forming structure 3100 into the patient’s face under the nose with a sealing force in a posterior and superior direction (e.g. a posterosuperior direction). A sealing force with a postero superior direction may cause the seal-forming structure 3100 to form a good seal to both the inferior periphery of the patient’s nose and anterior-facing surfaces of the patient’s face, for example on either side of the patient’s nose and the patient’s lip superior.

[0276] Conduits forming part of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300, like headgear straps, may provide a force that contributes to the positioning and stabilising force FPSS. As illustrated in Fig. 3C, the positioning and stabilising force FPSS may be the resultant force from the various forces of the different elements of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300. For example, each conduit may provide a force Fconduit directed in the posterior and respective lateral direction in order to hold the seal-forming structure 3100 against the patient’s face (into the upper lip and sealing under the nose) and oppose the effect of the positive pressure in the plenum chamber 3200 to lift off the face (i.e., Fplenum). The force Fconduit directed may alsobe directed at least partially in the superior direction in order to overcome the gravitational force Fg.

[0277] In some forms, the conduits may provide a force directed into the patient’s head when the conduits are filled with pressurized air. The force may assist in gripping the patient’s head. The force may be caused by the inflation of the conduits during normal use. In some forms, the force may provide a cushioning effect to the patient’s head. The conduits may be designed in order to limit expansion in order to prevent over-gripping the patient’s head.

[0278] The position of the patient’s head may also change the gripping force of the conduits. For example, if the patient is sleeping on his side, the weight of the patient’s head may compress one conduit, and the other conduit (e.g., the lateral portion not between the patient’s head and a sleeping surface, like a pillow) may additionally expand in order to keep substantially the same flow rate of pressurized air.

[0279] The gravitational force Fg may be opposed by a frictional force Ff, which may act in a direction directly opposite of the gravitational force Fg. As gravity pulls the seal-forming structure 3100 and the plenum chamber 3200 in the inferior direction (as viewed in Fig. 3A), the frictional force Ff would act in the superior direction (e.g., against a patient’s face). For example, the patient may experience the frictional force Ff against his lip superior (and / or other surfaces of the patient’s face in contact with the seal-forming structure 3100) in order to oppose the motion in the inferior direction (which may help to stabilising the cushion in place). Although the frictional force Ff is shown specifically opposing the gravitational force Fg of the seal-forming structure 3100 and the plenum chamber 3200, components of an overall frictional force (not shown) would also oppose the gravitational force Fg associated with the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 and any other portions of the patient interface 3000. A force of friction can act along any place where the patient interface 3000 contacts the patient’s skin (or hair). The frictional force Ff extends in the opposite direction of the gravitational force Fg and along the patient’s skin (or hair).

[0280] In some forms, the sum of the various forces may equal zero so that the patient interface 3000 is at equilibrium (e.g., not moving along the patient’s face while in use). Specifically, the gravitational force Fg and the blowout force Fplenum tend to move the seal-forming structure 3100 away from the desired sealing position. The positioning and stabilising force FPSS is applied in order to counteract thegravitational force Fg and the blowout force Fplenum (as well as any frictional forces Ff) and keep the seal-forming structure 3100 properly situated. Although the positioning and stabilising force FPSS may exceed the sum of the gravitational force Fg and the blowout force Fplenum (with any additional positioning and stabilising force FPSS being balanced by reaction force from the patient’s head acting on the portions of patient interface 3000) and still maintain the seal-forming structure 3100 in an appropriate sealing position, patient comfort may be sacrificed. Maximum patient comfort may be achieved when the net force on the patient interface 3000 is zero and the positioning and stabilising force FPSS is exactly strong enough to achieve this. In some examples the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may be adjustable such that when fitted the positioning and stabilising force FPSS is greater than required to exactly balance the gravitational force Fg and the blowout force Fplenum to hold the patient interface 3000 against the patient’s head tightly enough that disruptive forces which may be experienced in use (such as tube drag or lateral shunting of the plenum chamber 3200 during side sleeping) do not disrupt the seal. As described below, various positions of the patient’s head while using the patient interface 3000 may determine the positioning and stabilising force FPSS necessary to achieve equilibrium4.3.3.1.2 Extendable and non-extendable tube portions

[0281] In some examples of the present technology, one or both of the tubes 3350 are not extendable in length. However, in some forms, the tubes 3350 may comprise one or more extendable tube sections, for example formed by an extendable concertina structure. In some forms, the patient interface 3000 may comprise a positioning and stabilising structure 3300 including at least one gas delivery tube comprising a tube wall having an extendable concertina structure. The patient interface 3000 shown in Fig. 3C comprises tubes 3350, the superior portions of which comprise extendable tube sections each in the form of an extendable concertina structure 3362.

[0282] In some forms, the extendable concertina structure 3328 may be formed as a series of ridges and grooves on the surface of the tubes 3350. The concertina structure 3328 may be biased toward a retracted position, and may move to an expanded position when the patient dons the positioning and stabilising structure 3300. Because portions of the tubes 3350 may be substantially inextensible (e.g., non-extendable tube sections 3363), the concertina structures 3328 permit the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 to stretch in order to fit different sized heads. This may allow a single sized tube 3350 to be used with multiple sized heads. For example, the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may be “one-size-fits-all” as a result of the concertina structure 3328. Alternatively, the tubes 3350 may be manufactured in multiple sizes (e.g., small, medium, large). The patient may select a length that most closely conforms to their head, and the concertina structures 3328 may make small adjustments in order to tailor the fit to the individual patient.

[0283] In some forms, the inlet 3332 may be disposed in the middle of the conduit 6320. For example, the tubes 3350 may be symmetric about the inlet 3332 through at least one axis.

[0284] The cross-sectional shape of the non-extendable tube sections 3363 of the tubes 3350 may be circular, elliptical, oval, D-shaped or a rounded rectangle, for example as described in US Patent No. 6,044,844. A cross-sectional shape that presents a flattened surface of tube on the side that faces and contacts the patient’s face or other part of the head may be more comfortable to wear than, for example a tube with a circular cross-section.

[0285] In some examples of the present technology, the non-extendable tube sections 3363 connects to the plenum chamber 3200 from a low angle. The headgear tubes 3350 may extend inferiorly down the sides of the patient’s head and then curve anteriorly and medially to connect to the plenum chamber 3200 in front of the patient’s face. The tubes 3350, before connecting to the plenum chamber 3200, may extend to a location at the same vertical position as (or, in some examples, inferior to) the connection with the plenum chamber 3200. That is, the tubes 3350 may project in an at least partially superior direction before connecting with the plenum chamber 3200. A portion of the tubes 3350 may be located inferior to the plenum chamber 3200 and / or the seal forming structure 3100. The tubes 3350 may contact the patient’s face below the patient’s cheekbones, which may be more comfortable than contact on the patient’s cheekbones and may avoid excessively obscuring the patient’s peripheral vision.4.3.3.1.3 Conduit headgear connection port

[0286] In certain forms of the present technology, the patient interface 3000 may comprise a connection port 3600 located proximal to a superior, lateral or posteriorportion of a patient’s head. For example, in the form of the present technology illustrated in Fig 3C, the connection port 3600 is located on top of the patient’s head (e.g. at a superior location with respect to the patient’s head). In this example the patient interface 3000 comprises an elbow 3610 forming the connection port 3600. The elbow 3610 may be configured to fluidly connect with a conduit of an air circuit 4170. The elbow 3610 may be configured to swivel with respect to the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 to at least partially decouple the conduit from the positioning and stabilising structure 3300. In some examples the elbow 3610 may be configured to swivel by rotation about a substantially vertical axis and, in some particular examples, by rotation about two or more axes. In some examples the elbow may comprise or be connected to the tubes 3350 by a ball-and-socket joint. The connection portion 3600 may be located in the sagittal plane of the patient’s head in use.4.3.3.1.4 Headgear Tube Fluid Connections

[0287] The two tubes 3350 are fluidly connected at their inferior ends to the plenum chamber 3200. In certain forms of the technology, the connection between the tubes 3350 and the plenum chamber 3200 is achieved by connection of two rigid connectors. The tubes 3350 and plenum chamber 3200 may be configured to enable the patient to easily connect the two components together in a reliable manner. The tubes 3350 and plenum chamber 3200 may be configured to provide tactile and / or audible feedback in the form of a ‘re-assuring click’ or a similar sound, so that the patient may easily know that each tube 3350 has been correctly connected to the plenum chamber 3200. In one form, the tubes 3350 are formed from a silicone or textile material and the inferior end of each of the silicone tubes 3350 is overmolded to a rigid connector made, for example, from polypropylene, polycarbonate, nylon or the like. The rigid connector on each tube 3350 may comprise a female mating feature configured to connect with a male mating feature on the plenum chamber 3200. Alternatively, the rigid connector on each tube 3350 may comprise a male mating feature configured to connect to a female mating feature on the plenum chamber 3200. In other examples the tubes 3350 may each comprise a male or female connector formed from a flexible material, such as silicone or TPE, for example the same material from which the tubes 3350 are formed.

[0288] In other examples a compression seal is used to connect each tube 3350 to the plenum chamber 3200. For example, a resiliently flexible (e.g. silicone) tube 3350 without a rigid connector may be configured to be squeezed to reduce its diameter so that it can be compressed into a port in the plenum chamber 3200 and the inherent resilience of the silicone pushes the tube 3350 outwards to seal the tube 3350 in the port in an air-tight manner. Alternatively, in a hard-to-hard type engagement between the tube 3350 and the plenum chamber 3200, each tube 3350 and / or plenum chamber 3200 may comprise a pressure activated seal, for example a peripheral sealing flange. When pressurised gas is supplied through the tubes 3350 the sealing flange may be urged against the join between the tubes and a circumferential surface around a port or connector of the plenum chamber 3200 to form or enhance a seal between the tube 3350 and plenum chamber 3200.4.3.3 2 Headgear straps

[0289] In some forms, the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may include headgear 3302 with at least one strap which may be worn by the patient in order to assist in properly orienting the seal-forming structure 3100 against the patient’s face (e.g., in order to limit or prevent leaks).

[0290] As described above, some forms of the headgear 3302 may be constructed from a textile material, which may be comfortable against the patient’s skin. The textile may be flexible in order to conform to a variety of facial contours. Although the textile may include rigidisers along a selected length, which may limit bending, flexing, and / or stretching of the headgear 3302.

[0291] In certain forms, the headgear 3302 may be at least partially extensible. For example, the headgear 3302 may include elastic, or a similar extensible material. For example, the entire headgear 3302 may be extensible or selected portions may be extensible (or more extensible than surrounding portions). This may allow the headgear 3302 to stretch while under tension, which may assist in providing a sealing force for the seal-forming structure 3100.

[0292] Two forms of the headgear, four-point headgear 3302-1 and two-point headgear 3302-2, are discussed in more detail below as illustrative examples.4.3.3.2.1 Four-point connection

[0293] Some forms of the headgear 3302-1 may be a four-point connection headgear. This means that the headgear 3302-1 may connect to four separate places on the plenum chamber 3200, on a frame connected to the plenum chamber 3200, and / or on arms connected to the plenum chamber 3200. The headgear 3302-1 may include four different straps providing a tensile force to help maintain the sealforming structure 3100 in a sealing position. The positioning and stabilising structure 3300 of Fig. 3A may also be considered a four-point connection headgear.

[0294] In some forms, the headgear 3302-1 may include inferior straps, which may connect to an inferior portion of the cushion 3050-1. The inferior straps may extend along the patient’s cheek toward a posterior region of the patient’s head. For example, the inferior straps may overlay the masseter muscle on either side of the patient’s face. The inferior straps may therefore contact the patient’s head below the patient’s ears. The inferior straps may meet at the posterior of the patient’s head, and may overlay the occipital bone and / or the trapezius muscle.

[0295] The headgear 3302-1 may also include superior straps, which may overlay the temporal bones, parietal bone, and / or occipital bone. The superior straps may also connect to the tubes 3350 (e.g., by interfacing with the tabs 3320).

[0296] A rear strap may extend between the superior straps and between the inferior straps. The inferior and superior straps on a given side (e.g., left or right) may also be connected to the rear strap adjacent to one another. The height of the rear strap may therefore be approximately the combined height of the inferior and superior strap. The rear strap may overlay the occipital bone and / or the pariental bone in use. This may allow the rear strap to assist in anchoring the headgear to the patient’s head.

[0297] In the illustrated example, the headgear 3302-1 may be formed with a substantially X-shape. The inferior and superior straps may be connected to a rear strap using stitching, ultrasonic welding, or any similar process.

[0298] In some forms, the headgear 3302-1 may be used only with the nose and mouth cushion 3050-1 (e.g., because the nose-only cushion 3050-1 does not have four connection points). However, the headgear 3302-1 may be used interchangeably with the tubes 3350 and the rigidiser arms 3340.4.3.3.2.2 Two-point connection

[0299] Some forms of the headgear 3302-2 may be a two-point connection headgear. This means that the headgear 3302-2 may connect to two separate places.

[0300] In certain forms of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 comprises at least one headgear strap acting in addition to the tubes 3350 to position and stabilise the seal-forming structure 3100 at the entrance to the patient’s airways. As shown in Fig. 3C, the patient interface 3000 comprises a strap 3310 forming part of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300. The strap 3310 may be known as a back strap or a rear headgear strap, for example. The rear strap 3310 may overlay the temporal bones, parietal bone, and / or occipital bone. In other examples of the present technology, one or more further straps may be provided. For example, patient interfaces 3000 according to examples of the present technology having a nose-and-mouth cushion may have a second, lower, strap configured to lie against the patient’s head proximate the patient’s neck and / or against posterior surfaces of the patient’s neck.

[0301] With reference to Fig. 3C, the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 comprises a pair of tabs 3320. In use a strap 3310 may be connected between the tabs 3320. The strap 3310 may be sufficiently flexible to pass around the back of the patient’s head and lie comfortably against the patient’s head, even when under tension in use.4.3.3.3 Rigidiser Arm

[0302] A rigidiser arm 3340 may be an elongated, rigid member that assists in maintaining the cushion (e.g., the nose and mouth cushion 3050-1 or the nasal cushion 3050-2) in an operating position. The rigidiser arm 3340 may contact a side of the patient’s head and provide a force to limit slipping of the seal-forming structure 3100 from the patient’s nose and / or mouth.4.3.4 Vent

[0303] In one form, the patient interface 3000 includes a vent 3400 constructed and arranged to allow for the washout of exhaled gases, e.g. carbon dioxide.

[0304] In certain forms the vent 3400 is configured to allow a continuous vent flow from an interior of the plenum chamber 3200 to ambient whilst the pressure within the plenum chamber is positive with respect to ambient. The vent 3400 isconfigured such that the vent flow rate has a magnitude sufficient to reduce rebreathing of exhaled CO2 by the patient while maintaining the therapeutic pressure in the plenum chamber in use.

[0305] The vent 3400 is preferably located proximal to the patient interface to assist with the washout of carbon dioxide to prevent or otherwise limit CO2 rebreathing by the patient 1000 in use. For example, the vent 3400 may be located in the plenum chamber 3200. Alternatively, the vent 3400 is located in a decoupling structure, e.g., a swivel.

[0306] One form of vent 3400 comprises a plurality of holes, for example, about 20 to about 80 holes, or about 40 to about 60 holes, or about 45 to about 55 holes.

[0307] As shown in Fig. 11 A, a vent assembly 8002 may be used which includes a vent 3400 for washout of CO2 gasses. The vent assembly 8002 may include housing 3404 which is separate to, and in use configured to attach to the patient interface 3000 or air circuit 4170. The use of a vent assembly 8002 may be advantageous in RPT systems that use a compact patient interface 3000, such as patient interfaces, configured to attach to the face of a user using adhesives, as the vent 3400 may be provided externally to the patient interface, such as in the air circuit 4170, elbow 3610 or a connector between the air circuit 4170 and patient interface 3000.

[0308] The vent 3400 and vent assemblies 8002 described herein may be used with either the mouth and nose plenum chamber 3200-1 or the nose-only plenum chamber 3200-2, or a patient interface 3000 comprising an adhesive surface as described with reference to Fig. 11 A. .

[0309] The vent assembly 8002 may include a vent housing, which may be configured to engage with a vent opening. The vent housing may be constructed from a rigid material or a semi-rigid material. For example, the vent housing may be constructed from plastic, metal, or any similar material. The vent housing may add rigidity to the patient interface 3000 (e.g., to limit unwanted bending that may affect the position of the seal-forming structure 3100 on the patient’s face).

[0310] The vent housing may include an anterior surface, a posterior surface, and a groove. The anterior surface faces away from the patient’s face in use, and may be positioned outside the pressurized volume of the plenum chamber 3200. The posterior surface is disposed opposite to the anterior surface. In use, the posterior surface may face the patient and may be disposed within the pressurized volume of the plenum chamber 3200. The groove may be formed between the anterior and posteriorsurfaces. A portion of the plenum chamber 3200 may be received within the groove in order to retain the vent 3400 in position.4.3.4.1 Diffusers

[0311] In some forms, a diffuser 3448 may be used with the vent housing 3404. The diffuser 3448 may assist with limiting the decibel output from any of the patient interface 3000 (or any other patient interface). Specifically, the diffuser 3448 may assist in limiting the decibel level associated with air output from the patient interface 3000 (e.g., exhaled air), although the diffuser 3448 may limit the decibel level of at any point in the patient interface.

[0312] In certain forms, the diffuser 3448 may diffuse, and therefore slow, the exhaust gas exiting the plenum chamber 3200 and passing through the vent housing 3404. The diffuser 3448 may assist in avoiding jetting and associated discomfort to the patient and / or bed partner (e.g., noise caused by jetting against a pillow, sheets, bedclothes, etc.).

[0313] In some forms, the diffuser 3448 may include an anterior surface that faces away from the patient in use. An outer diameter of the anterior surface may be less than an inner diameter of the vent housing proximate to the anterior surface. This may form a gap through which air may travel.

[0314] A diffuser may be constructed from any suitable material familiar to those skilled in the art such as an open-celled foam, fabric, wool, polymers or felts. For example the diffuser may be constructed of a silicone or polyurethane foam. In some examples of the technology, it is important for the diffuser material to meet certain bio-compatibility requirements, to ensure that it is safe to breathe through, and there is a low risk of harm if any particles were to enter the airways of the patient in use.4.3.4.2 Vent Assemblies

[0315] One aspect of the present technology relates to a vent assembly 8002 which is configured to connect to a patient interface 3400 in use.

[0316] With reference to Figs. 8A to 8G, a vent assembly 8002 is provided which includes at least one body portion 8004 that includes a bore 8006 through which the flow of breathable gas is provided to the airways of the patient 1000 in use. For example, in use, air may flow from an RPT Device 4000 through an air circuit 4170,through the bore 8006 of the vent assembly 8002 to a patient interface as described herein.

[0317] In the illustrated example, the vent assembly 8002 includes a first body portion 8002 A, and a second body portion 8002B, the first 8002 A and second 8002B body portions co-operate to provide the bore 8006 through which the flow of breathable gas is provided to the airways of the patient 1000 in use. The use of two body portions 8002 is not limiting on the scope of the technology, for example any number of body portions may be used including a singular integrally formed body portion, or more than two body portions 8002 such as three or more.

[0318] The first body portion 8004A, and / or the second body portion 8004B may comprise locating features 8008 configured to aid in locating and / or attachment of the first body portion 8004A to the second body portion 8004B in use. In the illustrated example these locating features include radial protrusions 8OO8A on the second body portion 8004B, which are configured to engage with corresponding channels 8OO8B in the first body portion 8004A.

[0319] The vent assembly 8002 includes at least one vent flow path 8010, which is provided between the bore 8006, and an exterior 8012 of the vent assembly 8002.

[0320] In the illustrated example the vent flow path 8010 comprises at least one radial vent aperture 8014, which provides a vent flow from the bore 8006 in a radially outward direction, and at least one exterior vent aperture 8016 configured to vent the air exiting the vent flow path 8010 to the surrounding environment.

[0321] The at least one exterior vent aperture 8016 in the illustrated example is provided between an inner surface 8018 of the first body portion 8004 A and an outer surface 8020 of the second body portion 8004B, such that the locating features 8008 allow a spaced relationship between the inner surface 8018 of the first body portion 8004 A and the outer surface 8020 of the second body portion 8004B.

[0322] It should be appreciated that the radial vent aperture(s) may be provided at any angle with respect to a longitudinal axis ‘L’ of the bore 8006, that is to say, that in some examples the radial vent aperture(s) may be angled between approximately 10 degrees, and approximately 170 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis ‘L’ of the bore, such as between approximately 70 degrees and 110 degrees. In other examples the radial vent aperture(s) may be substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis ‘L’, such as at an angle of approximately 90 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis ‘L’.

[0323] Accordingly, the radial vent aperture 8014 may be configured to provide a flow of air from the bore 8006, in a direction which has at least a radial component.

[0324] In examples of the technology, the vent flow path 8010 may be configured to be tortuous. In other words, the vent flow path 8010 may be configured to include a non-direct flow path between the radial vent aperture 8014 and the at least one exterior vent aperture 8016. For example, the vent flow path may be configured to provide at least one change in the airflow direction of approximately 80 degrees or greater.

[0325] The use of the term tortuous should be understood to mean a structure that exhibits a complex non-direct flow path, such as a flow path configured to restrict, or otherwise introduce turbulence or diffusion of the airflow. In some examples this may be characterized twists, turns, changes in cross sectional area and / or bends in the flow path thereby creating an irregular path.

[0326] In some examples of the technology, the vent assembly 8002 may comprise a diffuser 3448, configured to interact with a flow of air in the vent flow path 8010. For example, the diffuser 3448 may be configured to diffuse, and therefore slow, the exhaust gas exiting the vent assembly 8002 as described herein.

[0327] In some examples of the technology the vent assembly 8002 may comprise a diffuser locator 8022, which is configured to locate and in some examples retain the diffuser 3448 in use. This will be discussed in greater detail herein.

[0328] Another example of a vent assembly 8002 is illustrated in Fig. 12. In this example, the vent assembly 8002 comprises a single body portion 8004A, comprising an internal bore 8006 through which the flow of breathable gas passes in use.

[0329] The vent assembly 8002 includes at least one radial vent aperture 8014, which in the illustrated example is a series of slots provided around the circumference of the bore 8006.

[0330] The vent assembly 8002 further comprises a diffuser 3488, and a magnetic element 9004, both of which are contained by a retaining cover 9006.

[0331] The vent assembly provides a first vent flow path 8010, which is substantially radially outward of the bore 8006, through the diffuser 3488, and a secondary vent flow path 8024 which is follows a tortuous path from the radial vent aperture 8014, out through an exterior vent aperture 8016, which is shown as being inferior to, or otherwise longitudinally spaced with respect to the diffuser 3488.4.3.4.3 Secondary Vent Flow Paths

[0332] In order to ensure that a vent 3400 is able to effectively remove exhaled CO2 from the air, the design of the vent flow path 8010 needs to be able to account for potential obstructions which may occur in use, and could reduce the efficacy of the vent 3400. For example, in vent assemblies 8002 comprising a diffuser 3448, it may be possible for the diffuser to become blocked over time, for example due to the collection of dirt, or build-up of moisture from the patient’s exhaled breath.

[0333] In other examples, a positive-pressure respiratory pressure treatment therapy is provided to a patient 1000 via a patient interface 3000 which includes a vent 3400 or vent assembly 8002 as described herein. These systems are configured to generate a positive pressure to assist in keeping the airways of the patient 1000 open during use. However, in some applications the patient 1000 may generate a negative pressure within the patient interface 3000 during inhalation, which can result in a reverse flow within the vent 3400 or vent assembly 8002, i.e., by drawing air in through the at least one exterior vent aperture 8016, and into the bore 8006 via one or more radial vent aperture 8014. Where diffusers 3448 are used in the vent assembly 8002, this reverse flow of air may travel through the diffuser 3448 and into the airways of the patient 1000.

[0334] As a result, it has been necessary to ensure that the diffuser 3448 is constructed from a bio-compatible material. However, as this can add cost and complexity to the design of the vent assembly, and therefore in some examples of the technology, as illustrated in Fig. 9A a secondary vent flow path 8024 is provided, in which the airflow does not pass through the diffuser 3348. For clarity the first vent flow path 8010 is shown on the left-hand side of the vent assembly 8002 of Fig. 9A, and the secondary vent flow path is shown on the right-hand side of the vent assembly 8002 of Fig. 9A. It should be appreciated however that these vent flow paths may be provided around the full circumference of the vent assembly, and that the first vent flow path 8010 and secondary vent flow path may share a common radial vent aperture 8014, and exterior vent aperture 8016.

[0335] In the example of Fig. 9A and 9B, a vent assembly 8002 is provided which comprises a first body portion 8004A and a second body portion 8004B which co-operate to provide a bore through which a flow of breathable gas is provided to the airways of a patient 1000. A third body portion 8004C is also provided whichconnects the first body portion 8004A to the second body portion 8004B in a spaced arrangement. This spaced arrangement provides a radial vent aperture 8014 through which airflow is able to vent from the vent assembly 8002.

[0336] For example, the third body portion 8004C may be configured to releasably attach to the first body portion 8004A, and releasably attach to the second body portion 8004B, such that the third body portion 8004C releasably connects the first and second body portions.

[0337] In some examples of the technology the radial vent aperture 8014 may be provided by a gap between the first body portion and second body portion of between approximately 0.5mm and approximately 2mm such as approximately 1mm. The radial vent aperture 8014 may be a single continuous aperture which extends around a circumference of the bore 8006 (e.g., as shown in Fig. 9A and 9B), however this should not be seen as limiting and in some examples such as the example of Fig. 8A, the vent assembly 8002 may comprise a plurality of radial vent apertures 8014.

[0338] The third body portion 8004C is configured with a plurality of longitudinal vent apertures 8026, which are oriented substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis ‘L’ of the vent assembly. The longitudinal vent apertures 8026 receive the air from the radial vent apertures 8014 and pass the flow of air through to the exterior vent apertures 8016, such that the longitudinal vent apertures 8026 are positioned in one or more of the first vent flow path 8010, and / or secondary vent flow path 8024.

[0339] The longitudinal vent apertures 8026 are further configured to direct the flow of gas toward a diffuser 3448. In the illustrated example, the diffuser 3448 extends radially around a circumference of the first body portion 8004A, in a spaced relationship with respect to the second body portion 8004B. For example, the diffuser 3448 may have a separation from the second body portion of between approximately 0.5mm and approximately 2mm such as approximately 1mm.

[0340] In some examples of the technology the longitudinal vent apertures 8026 may have a longitudinal length of between approximately 0.5mm and approximately 2mm such as approximately 1mm. In addition the longitudinal vent apertures 8026 may be provided with a tapered profile which may assist with directional control of the airflow, encouraging vented airflow to pass through the diffuser 3348, while allowing the reverse airflow to travel through the secondary vent flow path 8024, with minimal interaction with the diffuser 3348. In some examples, the use of taperedlongitudinal vent apertures 8026 may further assist with manufacturing, as it may allow the third body portion 8004C to be more easily removed from injection moulding tooling.

[0341] The diffuser 3448 may be constructed from any suitable material as described herein, and in the illustrated example is structured as an annular ring, which has a height, and width of between approximately 1mm and approximately 3 mm such as approximately 3mm.

[0342] The diffuser 3448 is positioned in a spaced relationship with respect to the longitudinal vent apertures 8026, such as between approximately 1mm and approximately 2mm, such as approximately 1.5mm.

[0343] In some examples of the technology the third body portion 8004C may further comprise one or more protrusions 8028 configured to act as a diffuser locator 8030 which in use can assist with positioning and / or retaining the diffuser 3348 in the vent assembly 8002. In the illustrated example of Fig. 9A and 9B, the protrusions 8028 comprise flanges extending radially outward, and toward the diffuser 3348.

[0344] In another example of the technology shown in Fig. 9C and 9D, a vent assembly 8002 is provided which includes a first body portion 8004A, second body portion 8004B, and third body portion 8004C, each of which co-operate to provide the bore 8006 through which the flow of breathable gas is delivered to the patient’s airways in use.

[0345] In this example, the radial vent apertures 8014 are provided in the third body portion 8004C, and are provided as a series of distinct apertures, as opposed to a single continuous gap between the first 8004A and second body portions 8004B.

[0346] A further difference between the example of Fig. 9C and 9D and the example of Fig. 9A and 9B is that the diffuser in Fig. 9C and 9D is positioned radially outwardly of the third body portion 8004C. In this example the radial vent apertures 8014 encourage the flow of vented gas into the diffuser, while allowing a secondary flow path 8024 that bypasses the diffuser 3348.

[0347] In a yet further example of the technology illustrated in Fig. 9E the vent assembly 8002 may comprise a first body portion 8004A and second body portion 8004B, wherein the radial flow apertures 8014 are provided in the first body portion 8004A. In this example, the diffuser 3348 is positioned radially outwardly of the radial flow apertures 8014 and a secondary flow path 8024 is provided which bypasses the diffuser 3348.

[0348] A further feature illustrated in Fig. 9E is an attachment means 9002 for connecting the vent assembly 8002 to a patient interface 3000. In this example, the attachment means 9002 comprises at least one magnetic element 9004, and a retaining cover 9006. In examples the magnetic element 9004 is configured to attract or be attracted to a corresponding magnetic element in a patient interface 3000. For example the magnetic element 9004 in the vent assembly may be a magnet, and the magnetic element in the patient interface may be a ferromagnetic material, such as steel or vice versa.

[0349] The retaining cover is configured to, in use attach and retain the first magnetic element 9004 in engagement with the vent assembly 8002. For example the magnetic element 9004 may be an annular magnetic element, or a series of magnetic elements positioned on an outer surface of the first body portion 8004A. These magnetic element(s) 9004 may be held in place by a retaining cover 9006 which has a similar annular shape, and which is configured to engage with or otherwise attach to the first body portion 8004A. For example the retaining cover 9006 may be configured to engage with an interference fit, or snap fit over a lip 9008 in the first body portion 8004A.

[0350] In examples of the technology the retaining cover 9006 may be provided with a relatively thin piece of material, to thereby reduce the separation between the magnetic element 9004 in the vent assembly 8002, and the magnetic element in the patient interface 3000. For example the retaining cover 9006 may have a thickness which is less than approximately 2mm, such as 1mm or less, such as approximately 0.5mm.

[0351] In other examples of the technology, the retaining cover 9006 may be constructed of a ferromagnetic material, such as a steel material, which may aid with transfer of the electromagnetic field between the magnetic element 9004 in the vent assembly 8002, and the magnetic element in the patient interface 3000.

[0352] In the example of Fig. 9E the air circuit 4170 is permanently attached to the second body portion 8004B, i.e., by an adhesive or moulding process. However this should not be seen as limiting, and in some examples the air circuit 4170 may be releasably attached, for example using an interference fit, or fasteners.

[0353] In a yet further example of the technology illustrated in Figs. 9F to 91, a vent assembly 8002 is provided which includes a first body portion 8004 A, second body portion 8004B, third body portion 8004C, and fourth body portion 8004D eachof which co-operate to provide the bore 8006 through which the flow of breathable gas is delivered to the patient’s airways in use.

[0354] In example, the radial vent apertures 8014 are provided in the third body portion 8004C in cooperation with the first body portion 8004A (see, e.g., Fig. 9H).

[0355] In this example, the third body portion 8004C is configured with a plurality of longitudinal vent apertures 8026.

[0356] In examples the third body portion 8004C may further comprise one or more protrusions 8028 configured to act as a diffuser locator 8030 which in use can assist with positioning and / or retaining the diffuser 3348 in the vent assembly 8002. In the illustrated example of Figs. 9F to 91, the protrusions 8028 comprise cylindrical protrusions extending toward the diffuser 3348.

[0357] In examples, the second body portion 8004B comprises first exterior vent apertures 8016-1 and second exterior vent apertures 8016-2. The first exterior vent apertures 8016-1 are covered by diffuser 3348, providing a flow path 8010 through the diffuser 3348 to the exterior of the vent assembly 8002 (see, e.g., Fig. 9H). The second exterior vent apertures 8016-1 are provided radially outward of the first exterior vent apertures 8016-1, providing a secondary flow path 8024 bypassing the diffuser 3348 to the exterior of the vent assembly 8002 (see, e.g., Fig. 91).

[0358] In the illustrated example of Figs. 9F to 91 the air circuit 4170 is permanently attached to the fourth body portion 8004D, i.e., by an adhesive or moulding process. However this should not be seen as limiting, and in some examples the air circuit 4170 may be releasably attached, for example using an interference fit, or fasteners.

[0359] In a further example of the technology, illustrated in Fig. 9J, a vent assembly 8002 comprises a third body portion 8004C having a flared flange 8040 with a curved radially inward facing surface 8042. Ribs 8044 are distributed around the curved radially inward facing surface 8042, spaced apart from neighbouring ribs 8044 and extending in a longitudinal direction (i.e., along the bore 8006). In the illustrated example, the ribs 8044 have a crescent shaped side profile.

[0360] The flared flange 8040 comprises a first longitudinal facing surface 8046 and a second longitudinal facing surface 8048. Longitudinal vent apertures 8026 are provided in the flared flange 8040, opening at the first longitudinal facing surface 8046 and the second longitudinal facing surface 8048. Referring to FIG. 9K, in examples the longitudinal cross section of the longitudinal vent apertures 8026 mayapproximate a right trapezoid, having a radially inward side surface 8060 tapering radially outwardly from the first longitudinal facing surface 8046 to the second longitudinal facing surface 8048, and a radially outward side surface 8062 that is substantially parallel with the longitudinal axis of the vent assembly 8002.

[0361] Returning to Fig. 9J, first body portion 8004A comprises radial flange 8050 having inner surface 8052 facing the first longitudinal facing surface 8056 of the third body portion 8004C. A shroud portion 8054 extends longitudinally from the radial flange 8050, beyond the flared flange 8040, covering the diffuser 3348. The space between the inner surface 8052 and the first longitudinal facing surface 8056 forms an annular radial vent aperture 8014 leading to the longitudinal vent apertures 8026.

[0362] Fig. 9K illustrates an exemplary vent assembly 8002 generally configured as per the example of Fig. 9J, without provision of a diffuser 3348.4.3.4.4 Diffuser Locators

[0363] As noted above, it is important to ensure that a diffuser 3348 is correctly and accurately positioned within a vent assembly 8002 to help prevent the vent flow path 8010 / 8024 from being blocked or otherwise partially obscured in use.

[0364] In some examples of the technology, the diffuser 3348 may be cut from a planar sheet 10002 of diffuser material as shown in Fig. 10A. This process may involve cutting a material, such as a foam or fabric, for example using a CNC cutting process, such as a knife, or a die-cutting process such as a stamped or roll cutting process. In examples where the diffuser 3348 has an annular or ring shape such as is shown in Fig. 10B, this can result in reduced yield from the planar sheet 10002 of material, as there is wastage, both in the material in the centre of the annulus or ring, together with the material between each of the cut diffusers due to issues tessellating circular shapes. This can add cost, particularly where expensive bio-compatible materials are used, as well as having negative environmental impacts.

[0365] A further consideration is that during the manufacture of some diffuser materials, the outer surfaces of the sheet can be provided with a substantially impermeable outer skin or layer 10004. For example, this skin or layer 10004 may be formed due to contact of the foaming agent with the inner walls of a moulding tool. Accordingly, in some examples it can be necessary to process the material to remove this outer skin or layer to allow for consistent, effective airflow through the diffuser.For example, the outer skin or layer 10004 may be removed using an abrasive, cutting or sanding process.

[0366] Accordingly, one aspect of the present technology is a new method of providing a diffuser 3348, by cutting strips of diffuser material from a planar sheet, and forming these strips into diffusers having an annular ring structure as shown in Figures 10C, and 10D. By forming the diffuser 3348 from strips of material, the yield may be increased, and additionally, the outer skin or layer 10004, may instead be provided on the inner and outer surfaces of the diffuser, as opposed to the upper and lower surfaces. Accordingly, selective use of this technique allows diffusers to be created which have an outer layer or skin positioned appropriately, depending on the direction of airflow within the vent assembly 8002.

[0367] However, this approach requires that the diffusers 3348 are maintained in an annular configuration, either using adhesives, or by appropriately manipulating the diffuser 3348 during insertion into the vent assembly 8002. This can be a fiddly process, adding to manufacturing cost and complexity.

[0368] Accordingly, one aspect of the present technology is to provide a diffuser locator 8030, to assist in retaining and positioning the diffuser 3348 within the vent assembly 8002.

[0369] Fig. 10E shows an example of a diffuser locator 8030 which contains a diffuser 3348. The diffuser locator 8030 allows a user to position a strip of cut diffuser material into the diffuser locator 8030, prior to assembly into a vent assembly 8002. Accordingly, this can aid in the assembly of the product while maintaining the correct positioning of the diffuser 3348 and removing the need for adhesives to retain the diffuser 3348 in the annular configuration.4.3.5 Adhesive Patient Interfaces

[0370] In examples of the present technology, the vent assemblies 8002 described herein may be particularly well suited for use with a patient interface 3000 comprising an adhesive surface as described herein and as shown in Fig. 11 A. For example, the compact vent assembly 8002 configuration, may advantageously provide a reduced weight or pulling force on the adhesive, and therefore skin of the patient 1000 in use.

[0371] Accordingly, one example of the technology provides a patient interface 3000 which comprises an adhesive surface 3102, which is configured in use to adhere to, and seal against the skin of a patient 1000 in use.

[0372] In examples the patient interface comprises a magnetic element 9004B which is configured to be attracted to a corresponding magnetic element 9004A in the vent assembly 8002. In use the magnetic elements 9004A, 9004B are configured to releasably connect the vent assembly 8002 to the patient interface 3000. In the illustrated example, the magnetic elements 9004A, 9004B have an annular construction which allows rotation of the vent assembly 8002 with respect to the patient interface 3000 while maintaining the delivery of a flow of breathable gases to the airways of the patient 1000.

[0373] In some examples of the technology, particularly where the patient interface 3000 comprises an adhesive surface 3102, it may be advantageous to connect a low weight section of air circuit 4170 to the patient interface 3000, this section is commonly known as a ‘short-tube’ and as illustrated in Figs. 11B, and 11C, the short tube may comprise a vent assembly 8002 at a first end and a connector 10006 at the second end, wherein the connector 10006 is configured to releasably connect to a further length of air circuit 4170 in use, and may comprise a secondary vent. Examples of connectors 10006 and secondary vents are described in detail in PCT publication No. WO 2022 / 204762, the entire contents of which are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety.4.3.6 Decoupling structure(s)

[0374] In one form the patient interface 3000 includes at least one decoupling structure, for example, a swivel or a ball and socket.

[0375] In other examples of the technology, the decoupling structure is provided by the magnetic elements 9004 described herein. For example via the magnetic attraction between a first magnetic element 9004 in the patient interface 3000, and a second magnetic element 9004 in the vent assembly 8002.4.3.7 Connection port

[0376] Connection port 3600 allows for connection to the air circuit 4170.4.3.8 Forehead support

[0377] In one form, the patient interface 3000 includes a forehead support 3700.4.3.9 Anti-asphyxia valve

[0378] In one form, the patient interface 3000 includes an anti-asphyxia valve.4.3.10 Ports

[0379] In one form of the present technology, a patient interface 3000 includes one or more ports that allow access to the volume within the plenum chamber 3200. In one form this allows a clinician to supply supplementary oxygen. In one form, this allows for the direct measurement of a property of gases within the plenum chamber 3200, such as the pressure.4.3.11 Modularity

[0380] As described above, the cushion, headgear, and sleeves may come in different styles, which may correspond to different uses (e.g., mouth breathing, nasal breathing, etc.). A patient or clinician may select certain combinations of cushions, headgear, and sleeves in order to optimize the effectiveness of the therapy and / or the individual patient’s comfort. An example of this sort of modular design is described in PCT / SG2022 / 050777 filed 28 October 2022, incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0381] In some forms, the different styles of cushions, headgear, and sleeves may be used interchangeably with one another in order to form different combinations of patient interfaces. This may be beneficial from a manufacturing prospective because wider variety of patient interfaces may be created using fewer parts. Additionally or alternatively, the various combinations may allow a patient to change styles of patient interface without changing the every component.

[0382] Air may be delivered to the patient in one of two main ways. In one example, the patient may receive the flow of pressurized air through headgear tubes 3350 (see e.g., Fig. 3C). This may be referred to as a “tube up” configuration and may position a connection port at the top of the patient’s head. In other example, the patient may receive the flow of pressurized air through a conduit connected to the plenum chamber 3200, for example through the connection port 3600 (see e.g., Fig. 3A). This may be referred to a “tube down” configuration where the airflow conduit is positioned in front of the patient’s face. Different patients may be more comfortable with one style of air delivery over the other (e.g., because of the patient’s sleep style).Therefore, it may be beneficial to allow a single style of patient interface to be used in either the “tube up” or “tube down” configuration.

[0383] The patient interface may be part of a modular assembly with a variety of interchangeable components that may be swapped out by a patient and / or clinician for one or more components for a different style. The following description describes the various combinations that may be created by assembling the different components together.

[0384] Fig. 7 illustrates how the different elements can be combined in order to form the different patient interfaces described below. As illustrated, the different components may be reused for different styles of patient interfaces. This may allow for easier manufacturing and assembly, because a large number of the same components may be produced and used in a variety of styles. The only components not used in multiple styles may be the sleeves. However, the sleeves may be easier to manufacture.4.3.11.1 Sleeve

[0385] In some forms, to allow for modularity, a sleeve may be used with the tubes 3350 and / or the rigidisier arms 3340. The sleeve may at least partially surround the tubes 3350 and / or the rigidiser arms 3340. different shapes of sleeves may be used, which may correspond to different types of positioning and stabilising structures 3300. In some forms, the configuration of the sleeve may be customized to fit a particular user’s face. For instance, the sleeves may be configured in a relatively more posterior region of the patient’s head.

[0386] In some forms, the sleeve may be constructed from a comfortable material. For example, the sleeve may be constructed from a textile material, a foam material, or a combination of the two. The comfortable material may contact the patient in use, and may feel soft against the patient’s skin in order to improve patient compliance.

[0387] The material may also be flexible in order to assist in donning or doffing the sleeve from the tube 3350 or the rigidiser arms 3340. For example, the material may allow the sleeve to bend in order to conform to the shape of the tubes or conduit headgear 3350 or the rigidiser arms 3340, which may change depending on the shape of an individual patient’s head.

[0388] In some forms, the sleeve may also be at least partially elastic (e.g., the material may allow the sleeve to stretch). The elastic material may help the sleeve stretch in order to fit around the tubes 3350 or the rigidiser arms 3340. The elastic material may then return to an initial position that is snug against the tubes 3350 or the rigidiser arms 3340 in order to limit the sleeve from sliding while in use.

[0389] As described in more detail below, some forms of the sleeves may be specific to a rigidising element (e.g., tubes 3350 and / or rigidiser arms 3340).However, the sleeves may assist the rigidising elements in connecting interchangeably with the version or styles of cushions (e.g., the mouth and nose cushion 3050-1, the nose-only cushion 3050-2, etc.).4.3.11.1.1 Conduit Sleeve

[0390] One example of a sleeve is a conduit sleeve 3351, which may be usable with the tubes 3350 described above. The conduit sleeve 3351 may include a curved shape that may be similar to the shape of the tubes 3350. The flexible material used to construct the conduit sleeve 3351 may allow the conduit sleeve 3351 to further curve in order to correspond to the shape of the tubes 3350 (e.g., when worn by the patient).

[0391] In some forms, the conduit sleeve 3351 may include a first or superior opening 3352. The superior opening 3352 may be disposed at one end of the conduit sleeve 3351. The superior opening 3352 may be an opening to a passage that extends along at least a portion of the conduit sleeve 3351.

[0392] As shown in Fig. 7G, some forms of the conduit sleeve 3351 may also include an inferior extension 3354. The inferior extension 3354 may be positioned on an opposite end of the conduit sleeve 3351 from the superior opening 3352. The conduit sleeve 3351 may be customized to fit a particular user’s face. For instance, the inferior extension 3354 of the conduit sleeve 3351 may be configured in a relatively more posterior region or anterior region of the patient’s head.

[0393] Some forms of the inferior extension 3354 may include a rigid or semirigid piece (e.g., within the sleeve 3351). The rigid or semi-rigid piece may be constructed from a plastic material, or a similar material. Alternatively, the inferior extension 3354 may be stiffened using a manufacturing process (e.g., stitching rigidised thread, flat knitting, using thicker material).

[0394] As shown in Fig. 7G, some forms of the inferior extension 3354 may include a connection member 3356. In the illustrated example, the connectionmember 3356 may be a magnet, although in other examples, the connection member 3356 may be a different type of connector (e.g., a mechanical fastener, an adhesive, hook and loop material, etc.). The connection member 3356 may also be positioned at an end of the inferior extension 3354, although the connection member 3356 could alternatively be positioned anywhere along the inferior extension 3354.

[0395] In some forms, the connection member 3356 (e.g., a magnet) may be removably connected to the magnets 3370-1 of the headgear 3302-1. For example, when the conduit sleeves 3351 are connected to the tubes 3350 (see e.g., Fig. 7J), the magnets 3370-1 connected to the inferior straps 3304-1 may be removably connected to the connection member 3356 in order to provide the tensile force.4.3.11.1.2 Four-point arm sleeve

[0396] Another example of a sleeve is a four-point arm sleeve 3380, which may be usable with the rigidiser arms 3340 described above.

[0397] The four-point arm sleeve 3380 may include a curved shape that may be similar to the shape of the rigidiser arm 3340. The flexible material used to construct the four-point arm sleeve 3380 may allow the four-point arm sleeve 3380 to further curve in order to correspond to the shape of the rigidiser arm 3340 (e.g., when worn by the patient and / or went bent by the patient).

[0398] Some forms of the four-point arm sleeve 3380 may include an inferior extension. The inferior extension may be positioned at an end of the four-point arm sleeve 3380.

[0399] In examples, the shape and / or structure of the inferior extension is substantially the same as the shape of the inferior extension 3354. For example, the inferior extension 3384 may be more rigid as compared to the rest of the four-point arm sleeve 3380 (e.g., as a result of rigidising thread or rigid material).

[0400] As shown in Fig. 7H, some forms of the inferior extension 3384 may include a connection member 3386. In the illustrated example, the connection member 3386 may be a magnet, although in other examples, the connection member 3386 may be a different type of connector (e.g., a mechanical fastener, an adhesive, hook and loop material, etc.). The connection member 3386 may also be positioned at an end of the inferior extension 3384, although the connection member 3386 could alternatively be positioned anywhere along the inferior extension 3384.

[0401] In some forms, the connection member 3386 (e.g., a magnet) may be removably connected to the magnets 3370-1 of the headgear 3302-1. For example, when the four-point arm sleeves 3380 are connected to the rigidiser arm 3340 (see e.g., Fig. 7K), the magnets 3370-1 connected to the inferior straps 3304-1 may be removably connected to the connection member 3386 in order to provide the tensile force.

[0402] As shown in Fig. 7H, the four-point arm sleeve 3380 may include a pair of tabs 3394, which may be similar to the tab 3320 on the tubes 3350. When the four- point arm sleeve 3380 is worn by the patient, the tabs 3394 may be positioned in substantially the same place on the patient’s head as where the tabs 3320 are positioned when the patient wears the tubes 3350.4.3.11.1.3 Two-point arm sleeve

[0403] Yet another example of a sleeve is a two-point arm sleeve 3380-1, which may be usable with the rigidiser arms 3340.

[0404] In some forms, the two-point arm sleeve 3380-1 may be similar to the four-point arm sleeve 3380 described above. Only some similarities and differences may be described below.

[0405] The two-point arm sleeve 3380-1 may include an inferior opening that is positioned at an end of the two-point arm sleeve 3380-1. The inferior opening may form an opening to a passageway through the two-point arm sleeve 3380-1. The inferior opening may open into a surface of the conduit sleeve 3380-1.

[0406] The two-point arm sleeve 3380-1 may include a pair of tabs, which may be similar to the tab 3320 on the tubes 3350. When the two-point arm sleeve 3380-1 is worn by the patient, the tabs may be positioned in substantially the same place on the patient’s head as where the tabs 3320 are positioned when the patient wears the tubes 3350.4.3.11.1.4 Nose andMouth Mask Tube Up Configuration

[0407] The patient may wear the cushion 3050-1 in a tube-up configuration with the tubes 3350 and the four-point headgear 3302-1. This assembly may form a tube up nose and mouth patient interface 3000-1.

[0408] In some forms, a conduit sleeve may be used with the tubes 3350 in order to enable a patient to experience the “tube up” air delivery style with the mouth andnose cushion 3050-1. The conduit sleeve provides additional connection locations for connecting the four-point headgear 3302-1. However, other forms of connectors aside from or in addition to the conduit sleeve may be used.4.3.11.1.5 Nose and Mouth Mask Tube Down Configuration

[0409] The patient may wear the cushion 3050-1 in a tube-down configuration with the rigidiser arms 3340 and the four-point headgear 3302-1. This assembly may form a tube down nose and mouth patient interface 3000-2.

[0410] In some forms, a conduit sleeve may be used with the rigidiser arms 3340 in order to enable a patient to experience the “tube down” air delivery style with the mouth and nose cushion 3050-1. The conduit sleeve provides additional connection locations for connecting the four-point headgear 3302-1. However, other forms of connectors aside from or in addition to the conduit sleeve may be used.4.3.11.1.6 Nose Mask Tube Up Configuration

[0411] The patient may wear the cushion 3050-2 in a tube-up configuration with the tubes 3350 and the two-point headgear 3302-2. This assembly may form a tube up nose only patient interface 3000-3.

[0412] A conduit sleeve may be used with the tubes 3350, and may provide additional comfort to the patient. The sleeve may not add additional connection points to connect the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 on the cushion 3050-2. In the illustrated example, the tubes 3350 of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may be connected directly to the cushion 3050-2.

[0413] The two-point headgear 3302-2 may connect to the tabs 3320 on the tubes 3350 in order to provide a tensile force that maintains the cushion 3050-2 in a sealing position on the patient’s head.4.3.11.1.7 Nose Mask Tube Down Configuration

[0414] The patient may wear the cushion 3050-2 in a tube-up configuration with the rigidiser arms 3340 and the two-point headgear 3302-2. This assembly may form a tube down nose only patient interface 3000-4.

[0415] A conduit sleeve may be used with the rigidiser arms 3340, and may provide additional comfort to the patient. The sleeve may not add additional connection points to connect the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 on thecushion 3050-2. In examples, the rigidiser arms 3340 of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may be connected directly to the cushion 3050-2.

[0416] The two-point headgear 3302-2 may connect to the tabs 3320 on the sleeve in order to provide a tensile force that maintains the cushion 3050-2 in a sealing position on the patient’s head.

[0417] 4.4 RPT DEVICE

[0418] An RPT device 4000 in accordance with one aspect of the present technology comprises mechanical, pneumatic, and / or electrical components and is configured to execute one or more algorithms 4300, such as any of the methods, in whole or in part, described herein. The RPT device 4000 may be configured to generate a flow of air for delivery to a patient’s airways, such as to treat one or more of the respiratory conditions described elsewhere in the present document.

[0419] In one form, the RPT device 4000 is constructed and arranged to be capable of delivering a flow of air in a range of -20 L / min to +150 L / min while maintaining a positive pressure of at least 4 cmH20, or at least 10cmH2O, or at least 20 cmH20.4.4.1 RPT device algorithms

[0420] As mentioned above, in some forms of the present technology, the central controller 4230 may be configured to implement one or more algorithms 4300 expressed as computer programs stored in a non-transitory computer readable storage medium, such as memory 4260. The algorithms 4300 are generally grouped into groups referred to as modules.

[0421] In other forms of the present technology, some portion or all of the algorithms 4300 may be implemented by a controller of an external device such as the local external device 4288 or the remote external device 4286. In such forms, data representing the input signals and / or intermediate algorithm outputs necessary for the portion of the algorithms 4300 to be executed at the external device may be communicated to the external device via the local external communication network 4284 or the remote external communication network 4282. In such forms, the portion of the algorithms 4300 to be executed at the external device may be expressed as computer programs, such as with processor control instructions to be executed by oneor more processor(s), stored in a non-transitory computer readable storage medium accessible to the controller of the external device. Such programs configure the controller of the external device to execute the portion of the algorithms 4300.

[0422] In such forms, the therapy parameters generated by the external device via the therapy engine module 4320 (if such forms part of the portion of the algorithms 4300 executed by the external device) may be communicated to the central controller 4230 to be passed to the therapy control module 4330.4.5 AIR CIRCUIT

[0423] An air circuit 4170 in accordance with an aspect of the present technology is a conduit or a tube constructed and arranged to allow, in use, a flow of air to travel between two components such as RPT device 4000 and the patient interface 3000 or 3800.

[0424] In particular, the air circuit 4170 may be in fluid connection with the outlet of the pneumatic block 4020 and the patient interface. The air circuit may be referred to as an air delivery tube. In some cases there may be separate limbs of the circuit for inhalation and exhalation. In other cases a single limb is used.

[0425] In some forms, the air circuit 4170 may comprise one or more heating elements configured to heat air in the air circuit, for example to maintain or raise the temperature of the air. The heating element may be in a form of a heated wire circuit, and may comprise one or more transducers, such as temperature sensors. In one form, the heated wire circuit may be helically wound around the axis of the air circuit 4170. The heating element may be in communication with a controller such as a central controller 4230. One example of an air circuit 4170 comprising a heated wire circuit is described in United States Patent 8,733,349, which is incorporated in its entirety by reference.4.6 HUMIDIFIER4.6.1 Humidifier overview

[0426] In one form of the present technology there is provided a humidifier 5000 (e.g. as shown in Fig. 5A) to change the absolute humidity of air or gas for delivery to a patient relative to ambient air. Typically, the humidifier 5000 is used to increase theabsolute humidity and increase the temperature of the flow of air (relative to ambient air) before delivery to the patient’s airways.

[0427] The humidifier 5000 may comprise a humidifier reservoir 5110, a humidifier inlet 5002 to receive a flow of air, and a humidifier outlet 5004 to deliver a humidified flow of air. In some forms, as shown in Fig. 5A and Fig. 5B, an inlet and an outlet of the humidifier reservoir 5110 may be the humidifier inlet 5002 and the humidifier outlet 5004 respectively. The humidifier 5000 may further comprise a humidifier base 5006, which may be adapted to receive the humidifier reservoir 5110 and comprise a heating element 5240.4.7 BREATHING WAVEFORMS

[0428] Fig. 6 shows a model typical breath waveform of a person while sleeping. The horizontal axis is time, and the vertical axis is respiratory flow rate. While the parameter values may vary, a typical breath may have the following approximate values: tidal volume Vt 0.5L, inhalation time Ti 1.6s, peak inspiratory flow rate Qpeak 0.4 L / s, exhalation time Te 2.4s, peak expiratory flow rate Qpeak -0.5 L / s. The total duration of the breath, Ttot, is about 4s. The person typically breathes at a rate of about 15 breaths per minute (BPM), with Ventilation Vent about 7.5 L / min. A typical duty cycle, the ratio of Ti to Ttot, is about 40%.4.8 RESPIRATORY THERAPY MODES

[0429] Various respiratory therapy modes may be implemented by the disclosed respiratory therapy system.4.9 GLOSSARY

[0430] For the purposes of the present technology disclosure, in certain forms of the present technology, one or more of the following definitions may apply. In other forms of the present technology, alternative definitions may apply.4.9.1 General

[0431] Air: In certain forms of the present technology, air may be taken to mean atmospheric air, and in other forms of the present technology air may be taken to mean some other combination of breathable gases, e.g. oxygen enriched air.

[0432] Ambient'. In certain forms of the present technology, the term ambient will be taken to mean (i) external of the treatment system or patient, and (ii) immediately surrounding the treatment system or patient.

[0433] For example, ambient humidity with respect to a humidifier may be the humidity of air immediately surrounding the humidifier, e.g. the humidity in the room where a patient is sleeping. Such ambient humidity may be different to the humidity outside the room where a patient is sleeping.

[0434] In another example, ambient pressure may be the pressure immediately surrounding or external to the body.

[0435] In certain forms, ambient (e.g., acoustic) noise may be considered to be the background noise level in the room where a patient is located, other than for example, noise generated by an RPT device or emanating from a mask or patient interface. Ambient noise may be generated by sources outside the room.

[0436] Automatic Positive Airway Pressure (APAP) therapy. CPAP therapy in which the treatment pressure is automatically adjustable, e.g. from breath to breath, between minimum and maximum limits, depending on the presence or absence of indications of SDB events.

[0437] Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy. Respiratory pressure therapy in which the treatment pressure is approximately constant through a respiratory cycle of a patient. In some forms, the pressure at the entrance to the airways will be slightly higher during exhalation, and slightly lower during inhalation. In some forms, the pressure will vary between different respiratory cycles of the patient, for example, being increased in response to detection of indications of partial upper airway obstruction, and decreased in the absence of indications of partial upper airway obstruction.

[0438] Flow rate'. The volume (or mass) of air delivered per unit time. Flow rate may refer to an instantaneous quantity. In some cases, a reference to flow rate will be a reference to a scalar quantity, namely a quantity having magnitude only. In other cases, a reference to flow rate will be a reference to a vector quantity, namely a quantity having both magnitude and direction. Flow rate may be given the symbol Q. ‘Flow rate’ is sometimes shortened to simply ‘flow’ or ‘airflow’.

[0439] In the example of patient respiration, a flow rate may be nominally positive for the inspiratory portion of a breathing cycle of a patient, and hence negative for the expiratory portion of the breathing cycle of a patient. Device flowrate, Qd, is the flow rate of air leaving the RPT device. Total flow rate, Qt, is the flow rate of air and any supplementary gas reaching the patient interface via the air circuit. Vent flow rate, Qv, is the flow rate of air leaving a vent to allow washout of exhaled gases. Leak flow rate, QI, is the flow rate of leak from a patient interface system or elsewhere. Respiratory flow rate, Qr, is the flow rate of air that is received into the patient's respiratory system.

[0440] Flow therapy. Respiratory therapy comprising the delivery of a flow of air to an entrance to the airways at a controlled flow rate referred to as the treatment flow rate that is typically positive throughout the patient’s breathing cycle.

[0441] Humidifier. The word humidifier will be taken to mean a humidifying apparatus constructed and arranged, or configured with a physical structure to be capable of providing a therapeutically beneficial amount of water (H2O) vapour to a flow of air to ameliorate a medical respiratory condition of a patient.

[0442] Leak'. The word leak will be taken to be an unintended flow of air. In one example, leak may occur as the result of an incomplete seal between a mask and a patient's face. In another example leak may occur in a swivel elbow to the ambient.

[0443] Noise, conducted (acoustic)'. Conducted noise in the present document refers to noise which is carried to the patient by the pneumatic path, such as the air circuit and the patient interface as well as the air therein. In one form, conducted noise may be quantified by measuring sound pressure levels at the end of an air circuit.

[0444] Noise, radiated (acoustic): Radiated noise in the present document refers to noise which is carried to the patient by the ambient air. In one form, radiated noise may be quantified by measuring sound power / pressure levels of the object in question according to ISO 3744.

[0445] Noise, vent (acoustic): Vent noise in the present document refers to noise which is generated by the flow of air through any vents such as vent holes of the patient interface.

[0446] Oxygen enriched air: Air with a concentration of oxygen greater than that of atmospheric air (21%), for example at least about 50% oxygen, at least about 60% oxygen, at least about 70% oxygen, at least about 80% oxygen, at least about 90% oxygen, at least about 95% oxygen, at least about 98% oxygen, or at least about 99% oxygen. “Oxygen enriched air” is sometimes shortened to “oxygen”.

[0447] Medical Oxygen: Medical oxygen is defined as oxygen enriched air with an oxygen concentration of 80% or greater.

[0448] Patient'. A person, whether or not they are suffering from a respiratory condition.

[0449] Pressure: Force per unit area. Pressure may be expressed in a range of units, including cmHiO, g-f / cm2and hectopascal. 1 cmlUO is equal to 1 g-f / cm2and is approximately 0.98 hectopascal (1 hectopascal = 100 Pa = 100 N / m2= 1 millibar ~ 0.001 atm). In this specification, unless otherwise stated, pressure is given in units of cmHiO.

[0450] The pressure in the patient interface is given the symbol Pm, while the treatment pressure, which represents a target value to be achieved by the interface pressure Pm at the current instant of time, is given the symbol Pt.

[0451] Respiratory Pressure Therapy. The application of a supply of air to an entrance to the airways at a treatment pressure that is typically positive with respect to atmosphere.

[0452] Ventilator: A mechanical device that provides pressure support to a patient to perform some or all of the work of breathing.4.9.1.1 Materials & their properties

[0453] Hardness: Refers to durometer or indentation hardness, which is a material property measured by indentation of an indentor (e.g., as measured in accordance with ASTM D2240).• ‘Soft’ materials may include silicone or thermo-plastic elastomer (TPE), and may, e.g. readily deform under finger pressure.• ‘Hard’ materials may include polycarbonate, polypropylene, and may not e.g. readily deform under finger pressure.

[0454] Silicone or Silicone Elastomer: A synthetic rubber. In this specification, a reference to silicone is a reference to liquid silicone rubber (LSR) or a compression moulded silicone rubber (CMSR). One form of commercially available LSR is SILASTIC (included in the range of products sold under this trademark), manufactured by Dow Corning. Another manufacturer of LSR is Wacker. Unless otherwise specified to the contrary, an exemplary form of LSR has a Shore A (or Type A) indentation hardness in the range of about 35 to about 45 as measured using ASTM D2240.

[0455] Polycarbonate: a thermoplastic polymer of Bisphenol-A Carbonate.4.9.1.2 Mechanics

[0456] Axes: a. Neutral axis: An axis in the cross-section of a beam or plate along which there are no longitudinal stresses or strains. b. Longitudinal axis: An axis extending along the length of a shape. The axis generally passes through a centre of the shape. c. Circumferential axis: An axis oriented perpendicularly with respect to the longitudinal axis. The axis may be specifically present in pipes, tubes, cylinders, or similar shapes with a circular and / or elliptical cross section.

[0457] Deformation: The process where the original geometry of a member changes when subjected to forces, e.g. a force in a direction with respect to an axis. The process may include stretching or compressing, bending and, twisting.

[0458] Elasticity: The ability of a material to return to its original geometry after deformation.

[0459] Floppy structure or component: A structure or component that will change shape, e.g. bend, when caused to support its own weight, within a relatively short period of time such as 1 second.

[0460] Resilience: Ability of a material to absorb energy when deformed elastically and to release the energy upon unloading.

[0461] Resilient: Will release substantially all of the energy when unloaded. Includes e.g. certain silicones, and thermoplastic elastomers.

[0462] Rigid structure or component: A structure or component that will not substantially change shape when subject to the loads typically encountered in use. An example of such a use may be setting up and maintaining a patient interface in sealing relationship with an entrance to a patient's airways, e.g. at a load of approximately 20 to 30 cmH20 pressure.

[0463] As an example, an I-beam may comprise a different bending stiffness (resistance to a bending load) in a first direction in comparison to a second, orthogonal direction. In another example, a structure or component may be floppy in a first direction and rigid in a second direction.

[0464] Stiffness (or rigidity) of a structure or component: The ability of the structure or component to resist deformation in response to an applied load. The loadmay be a force or a moment, e.g. compression, tension, bending or torsion. The structure or component may offer different resistances in different directions. The inverse of stiffness is flexibility.

[0465] Viscous: The ability of a material to resist flow.

[0466] Visco-elasticity: The ability of a material to display both elastic and viscous behaviour in deformation.

[0467] Yield: The situation when a material can no longer return back to its original geometry after deformation.4.9.1.3 Structural Elements

[0468] Compression member: A structural element that resists compression forces.

[0469] Elbow: An elbow is an example of a structure that directs an axis of flow of air travelling therethrough to change direction through an angle. In one form, the angle may be approximately 90 degrees. In another form, the angle may be more, or less than 90 degrees. The elbow may have an approximately circular cross-section. In another form the elbow may have an oval or a rectangular cross-section. In certain forms an elbow may be rotatable with respect to a mating component, e.g. about 360 degrees. In certain forms an elbow may be removable from a mating component, e.g. via a snap connection. In certain forms, an elbow may be assembled to a mating component via a one-time snap during manufacture, but not removable by a patient.

[0470] Frame: Frame will be taken to mean a mask structure that bears the load of tension between two or more points of connection with a headgear. A mask frame may be a non-airtight load bearing structure in the mask. However, some forms of mask frame may also be air-tight.

[0471] Membrane: Membrane will be taken to mean a typically thin element that has, preferably, substantially no resistance to bending, but has resistance to being stretched.

[0472] Tie (noun): A structure designed to resist tension.

[0473] Thin structures: a. Beams: A beam may be relatively long in one dimension compared to the other two dimensions such that the smaller dimensions are comparatively thin compared to the long dimensionb. Membranes: Relatively long in two dimensions, with one thin dimension. Readily deforms in response to bending forces. Resists being stretched, (might also resist compression). c. Plates & Shells:These may be relatively long in two directions, with one thin dimension. They may have bending, tensile, and / or compressive stiffness.

[0474] Thick structures: Solids

[0475] Seal: May be a noun form ("a seal") which refers to a structure, or a verb form (“to seal”) which refers to the effect. Two elements may be constructed and / or arranged to ‘seal’ or to effect ‘sealing’ therebetween without requiring a separate ‘seal’ element per se.

[0476] Shell: A shell will be taken to mean a curved, relatively thin structure having bending, tensile and compressive stiffness. For example, a curved structural wall of a mask may be a shell. In some forms, a shell may be faceted. In some forms a shell may be airtight. In some forms a shell may not be airtight.

[0477] Stiffener: A stiffener will be taken to mean a structural component designed to increase the bending resistance of another component in at least one direction.

[0478] Strut: A strut will be taken to be a structural component designed to increase the compression resistance of another component in at least one direction.

[0479] Swivel (noun): A subassembly of components configured to rotate about a common axis, preferably independently, preferably under low torque. In one form, the swivel may be constructed to rotate through an angle of at least 360 degrees. In another form, the swivel may be constructed to rotate through an angle less than 360 degrees. When used in the context of an air delivery conduit, the sub-assembly of components preferably comprises a matched pair of cylindrical conduits. There may be little or no leak flow of air from the swivel in use.4.9.2 Respiratory cycle

[0480] Apnea: According to some definitions, an apnea is said to have occurred when flow falls below a predetermined threshold for a duration, e.g. 10 seconds. An obstructive apnea will be said to have occurred when, despite patient effort, some obstruction of the airway does not allow air to flow. A central apnea will be said to have occurred when an apnea is detected that is due to a reduction in breathing effort,or the absence of breathing effort, despite the airway being patent. A mixed apnea occurs when a reduction or absence of breathing effort coincides with an obstructed airway.

[0481] Breathing rate: The rate of spontaneous respiration of a patient, usually measured in breaths per minute.

[0482] Duty cycle: The ratio of inhalation time, Ti to total breath time, Ttot.

[0483] Effort (breathing): The work done by a spontaneously breathing person attempting to breathe.

[0484] Expiratory portion of a breathing cycle: The period from the start of expiratory flow to the start of inspiratory flow.

[0485] Flow limitation: Flow limitation will be taken to be the state of affairs in a patient's respiration where an increase in effort by the patient does not give rise to a corresponding increase in flow. Where flow limitation occurs during an inspiratory portion of the breathing cycle it may be described as inspiratory flow limitation.Where flow limitation occurs during an expiratory portion of the breathing cycle it may be described as expiratory flow limitation.

[0486] Types of flow limited inspiratory waveforms:(i) Flattened: Having a rise followed by a relatively flat portion, followed by a fall.(ii) M-shaped: Having two local peaks, one at the leading edge, and one at the trailing edge, and a relatively flat portion between the two peaks.(iii) Chair-shaped: Having a single local peak, the peak being at the leading edge, followed by a relatively flat portion.(iv) Reverse-chair shaped: Having a relatively flat portion followed by single local peak, the peak being at the trailing edge.

[0487] Hypopnea: According to some definitions, a hypopnea is taken to be a reduction in flow, but not a cessation of flow. In one form, a hypopnea may be said to have occurred when there is a reduction in flow below a threshold rate for a duration. A central hypopnea will be said to have occurred when a hypopnea is detected that is due to a reduction in breathing effort. In one form in adults, either of the following may be regarded as being hypopneas:(i) a 30% reduction in patient breathing for at least 10 seconds plus an associated 4% desaturation; or(ii) a reduction in patient breathing (but less than 50%) for at least 10 seconds, with an associated desaturation of at least 3% or an arousal.

[0488] Hyperpnea: An increase in flow to a level higher than normal.

[0489] Inspiratory portion of a breathing cycle: The period from the start of inspiratory flow to the start of expiratory flow will be taken to be the inspiratory portion of a breathing cycle.

[0490] Patency (airway): The degree of the airway being open, or the extent to which the airway is open. A patent airway is open. Airway patency may be quantified, for example with a value of one (1) being patent, and a value of zero (0), being closed (obstructed).

[0491] Positive End-Expiratory Pressure (PEEP): The pressure above atmosphere in the lungs that exists at the end of expiration.

[0492] Peak flow rate (Qpeak): The maximum value of flow rate during the inspiratory portion of the respiratory flow waveform.

[0493] Respiratory flow rate, patient airflow rate, respiratory airflow rate (Qr): These terms may be understood to refer to the RPT device’s estimate of respiratory flow rate, as opposed to “true respiratory flow rate” or “true respiratory flow rate”, which is the actual respiratory flow rate experienced by the patient, usually expressed in litres per minute.

[0494] Tidal volume (Vt): The volume of air inhaled or exhaled during normal breathing, when extra effort is not applied. In principle the inspiratory volume Vi (the volume of air inhaled) is equal to the expiratory volume Ve (the volume of air exhaled), and therefore a single tidal volume Vt may be defined as equal to either quantity. In practice the tidal volume Vt is estimated as some combination, e.g. the mean, of the inspiratory volume Vi and the expiratory volume Ve.

[0495] Inhalation Time (Ti): The duration of the inspiratory portion of the respiratory flow rate waveform.

[0496] Exhalation Time (Te): The duration of the expiratory portion of the respiratory flow rate waveform.

[0497] Total Time (Ttot): The total duration between the start of one inspiratory portion of a respiratory flow rate waveform and the start of the following inspiratory portion of the respiratory flow rate waveform.

[0498] Typical recent ventilation: The value of ventilation around which recent values of ventilation Vent over some predetermined timescale tend to cluster, that is, a measure of the central tendency of the recent values of ventilation.

[0499] Upper airway obstruction (UAO): includes both partial and total upper airway obstruction. This may be associated with a state of flow limitation, in which the flow rate increases only slightly or may even decrease as the pressure difference across the upper airway increases (Starling resistor behaviour).

[0500] Ventilation (Vent): A measure of a rate of gas being exchanged by the patient’s respiratory system. Measures of ventilation may include one or both of inspiratory and expiratory flow, per unit time. When expressed as a volume per minute, this quantity is often referred to as “minute ventilation”. Minute ventilation is sometimes given simply as a volume, understood to be the volume per minute.4.9.3 Anatomy4.9.3.1 Anatomy of the face

[0501] Ala: the external outer wall or "wing" of each nostril (plural: alar)

[0502] Alar angle: An angle formed between the ala of each nostril.

[0503] Alare: The most lateral point on the nasal ala.

[0504] Alar curvature (or alar crest) point: The most posterior point in the curved base line of each ala, found in the crease formed by the union of the ala with the cheek.

[0505] Auricle: The whole external visible part of the ear.

[0506] (nose) Bony framework: The bony framework of the nose comprises the nasal bones, the frontal process of the maxillae and the nasal part of the frontal bone.

[0507] (nose) Cartilaginous framework: The cartilaginous framework of the nose comprises the septal, lateral, major and minor cartilages.

[0508] Columella: the strip of skin that separates the nares and which runs from the pronasale to the upper lip.

[0509] Columella angle: The angle between the line drawn through the midpoint of the nostril aperture and a line drawn perpendicular to the Frankfort horizontal while intersecting subnasale.

[0510] Frankfort horizontal plane: A line extending from the most inferior point of the orbital margin to the left tragion. The tragion is the deepest point in the notch superior to the tragus of the auricle.

[0511] Glabella: Located on the soft tissue, the most prominent point in the midsagittal plane of the forehead.

[0512] Lateral nasal cartilage: A generally triangular plate of cartilage. Its superior margin is attached to the nasal bone and frontal process of the maxilla, and its inferior margin is connected to the greater alar cartilage.

[0513] Lip, lower (labrale inferius): The lip extending between the subnasale and the mouth.

[0514] Lip, upper (labrale superius): The lip extending between the mouth and the supramenton.

[0515] Greater alar cartilage: A plate of cartilage lying below the lateral nasal cartilage. It is curved around the anterior part of the naris. Its posterior end is connected to the frontal process of the maxilla by a tough fibrous membrane containing three or four minor cartilages of the ala.

[0516] Nares (Nostrils): Approximately ellipsoidal apertures forming the entrance to the nasal cavity. The singular form of nares is naris (nostril). The nares are separated by the nasal septum.

[0517] Naso-labial sulcus or Naso-labial fold: The skin fold or groove that runs from each side of the nose to the comers of the mouth, separating the cheeks from the upper lip.

[0518] Naso-labial angle: The angle between the columella and the upper lip, while intersecting subnasale.

[0519] Otobasion inferior: The lowest point of attachment of the auricle to the skin of the face.

[0520] Otobasion superior: The highest point of attachment of the auricle to the skin of the face.

[0521] Pronasale: the most protruded point or tip of the nose, which can be identified in lateral view of the rest of the portion of the head.

[0522] Philtrum: the midline groove that runs from lower border of the nasal septum to the top of the lip in the upper lip region.

[0523] Pogonion: Located on the soft tissue, the most anterior midpoint of the chin.

[0524] Ridge (nasal): The nasal ridge is the midline prominence of the nose, extending from the Sellion to the Pronasale.

[0525] Sagittal plane: A vertical plane that passes from anterior (front) to posterior (rear). The midsagittal plane is a sagittal plane that divides the body into right and left halves.

[0526] Sellion: Located on the soft tissue, the most concave point overlying the area of the frontonasal suture.

[0527] Septal cartilage (nasal): The nasal septal cartilage forms part of the septum and divides the front part of the nasal cavity.

[0528] Subalare: The point at the lower margin of the alar base, where the alar base joins with the skin of the superior (upper) lip.

[0529] Subnasal point: Located on the soft tissue, the point at which the columella merges with the upper lip in the midsagittal plane.

[0530] Supramenton: The point of greatest concavity in the midline of the lower lip between labrale inferius and soft tissue pogonion

[0531] Anatomy of the skull

[0532] Frontal bone: The frontal bone includes a large vertical portion, the squama frontalis, corresponding to the region known as the forehead.

[0533] Mandible: The mandible forms the lower jaw. The mental protuberance is the bony protuberance of the jaw that forms the chin.

[0534] Maxilla: The maxilla forms the upper jaw and is located above the mandible and below the orbits. The frontal process of the maxilla projects upwards by the side of the nose, and forms part of its lateral boundary.

[0535] Nasal bones: The nasal bones are two small oblong bones, varying in size and form in different individuals; they are placed side by side at the middle and upper part of the face, and form, by their junction, the "bridge" of the nose.

[0536] Nasion: The intersection of the frontal bone and the two nasal bones, a depressed area directly between the eyes and superior to the bridge of the nose.

[0537] Occipital bone: The occipital bone is situated at the back and lower part of the cranium. It includes an oval aperture, the foramen magnum, through which the cranial cavity communicates with the vertebral canal. The curved plate behind the foramen magnum is the squama occipitalis.

[0538] Orbit: The bony cavity in the skull to contain the eyeball.

[0539] Parietal bones: The parietal bones are the bones that, when joined together, form the roof and sides of the cranium.

[0540] Temporal bones: The temporal bones are situated on the bases and sides of the skull, and support that part of the face known as the temple.

[0541] Zygomatic bones: The face includes two zygomatic bones, located in the upper and lateral parts of the face and forming the prominence of the cheek.

[0542] Nasal cavity: The nasal cavity (or nasal fossa) is a large air filled space above and behind the nose in the middle of the face. The nasal cavity is divided in two by a vertical fin called the nasal septum. On the sides of the nasal cavity are three horizontal outgrowths called nasal conchae (singular "concha") or turbinates. To the front of the nasal cavity is the nose, while the back blends, via the choanae, into the nasopharynx.4.9.4 Patient interface

[0543] Anti-asphyxia valve (AAV): The component or sub-assembly of a mask system that, by opening to atmosphere in a failsafe manner, reduces the risk of excessive CO2 rebreathing by a patient.

[0544] Headgear: Headgear will be taken to mean a form of positioning and stabilising structure designed to hold a device, e.g., a mask, on a head.

[0545] Plenum chamber: a mask plenum chamber will be taken to mean a portion of a patient interface having walls at least partially enclosing a volume of space, the volume having air therein pressurised above atmospheric pressure in use. A shell may form part of the walls of a mask plenum chamber.

[0546] Seal: May be a noun form ("a seal") which refers to a structure, or a verb form (“to seal”) which refers to the effect. Two elements may be constructed and / or arranged to ‘seal’ or to effect ‘sealing’ therebetween without requiring a separate ‘seal’ element per se.

[0547] Vent: (noun): A structure that allows a flow of air from an interior of the mask system, such as the plenum chamber, conduit, or a connector to ambient air for clinically effective washout of exhaled gases. For example, a clinically effective washout may involve a flow rate of about 10 litres per minute to about 100 litres per minute, depending on the mask design and treatment pressure.4.9.5 Shape of structures

[0548] Products in accordance with the present technology may comprise one or more three-dimensional mechanical structures, for example a mask cushion or an impeller. The three-dimensional structures may be bounded by two-dimensional surfaces. These surfaces may be distinguished using a label to describe an associated surface orientation, location, function, or some other characteristic. For example a structure may comprise one or more of an anterior surface, a posterior surface, an interior surface and an exterior surface. In another example, a seal-forming structure may comprise a face-contacting (e.g. outer) surface, and a separate non-facecontacting (e.g. underside or inner) surface. In another example, a structure may comprise a first surface and a second surface.

[0549] To facilitate describing the shape of the three-dimensional structures and the surfaces, we first consider a cross-section through a surface of the structure at a point, p. An outward normal vector at p points away from the surface. In some examples we describe the surface from the point of view of an imaginary small person standing upright on the surface.4.9.5.1 Curvature in one dimension

[0550] The curvature of a plane curve at p may be described as having a sign (e.g. positive, negative) and a magnitude (e.g. 1 / radius of a circle that just touches the curve at p).

[0551] Positive curvature: If the curve at p turns towards the outward normal, the curvature at that point will be taken to be positive (if the imaginary small person leaves the point p they must walk uphill). Such curves are often referred to as concave.

[0552] Zero curvature: If the curve at p is a straight line, the curvature will be taken to be zero (if the imaginary small person leaves the point p, they can walk on a level, neither up nor down).

[0553] Negative curvature: If the curve at p turns away from the outward normal, the curvature in that direction at that point will be taken to be negative (if the imaginary small person leaves the point p they must walk downhill). Such curves are often referred to as convex.4.9.5.2 Curvature of two dimensional surfaces

[0554] A description of the shape at a given point on a two-dimensional surface in accordance with the present technology may include multiple normal crosssections. The multiple cross-sections may cut the surface in a plane that includes the outward normal (a “normal plane”), and each cross-section may be taken in a different direction. Each cross-section results in a plane curve with a corresponding curvature. The different curvatures at that point may have the same sign, or a different sign.Each of the curvatures at that point has a magnitude, e.g. relatively small.

[0555] Principal curvatures and directions: The directions of the normal planes where the curvature of the curve takes its maximum and minimum values are called the principal directions. The principal curvatures at p are the curvatures in the principal directions.

[0556] Region of a surface: A connected set of points on a surface. The set of points in a region may have similar characteristics, e.g. curvatures or signs.

[0557] Saddle region: A region where at each point, the principal curvatures have opposite signs, that is, one is positive, and the other is negative (depending on the direction to which the imaginary person turns, they may walk uphill or downhill).

[0558] Dome region: A region where at each point the principal curvatures have the same sign, e.g. both positive (a “concave dome”) or both negative (a “convex dome”).

[0559] Cylindrical region: A region where one principal curvature is zero (or, for example, zero within manufacturing tolerances) and the other principal curvature is non-zero.

[0560] Planar region: A region of a surface where both of the principal curvatures are zero (or, for example, zero within manufacturing tolerances).

[0561] Edge of a surface: A boundary or limit of a surface or region.

[0562] Path: In certain forms of the present technology, ‘path’ will be taken to mean a path in the mathematical - topological sense, e.g. a continuous space curve from f(0) to f(l) on a surface. In certain forms of the present technology, a ‘path’ may be described as a route or course, including e.g. a set of points on a surface. (The path for the imaginary person is where they walk on the surface, and is analogous to a garden path).

[0563] Path length: In certain forms of the present technology, ‘path length’ will be taken to mean the distance along the surface from f(0) to f( 1 ), that is, the distance along the path on the surface. There may be more than one path between two points on a surface and such paths may have different path lengths. (The path length for the imaginary person would be the distance they have to walk on the surface along the path).

[0564] Straight-line distance: The straight-line distance is the distance between two points on a surface, but without regard to the surface. On planar regions, there would be a path on the surface having the same path length as the straight-line distance between two points on the surface. On non-planar surfaces, there may be no paths having the same path length as the straight-line distance between two points. (For the imaginary person, the straight-line distance would correspond to the distance ‘as the crow flies’.)4.9.5.3 Space curves

[0565] Space curves: Unlike a plane curve, a space curve does not necessarily lie in any particular plane. A space curve may be closed, that is, having no endpoints. A space curve may be considered to be a one-dimensional piece of three-dimensional space. An imaginary person walking on a strand of the DNA helix walks along a space curve. A typical human left ear comprises a helix, which is a left-hand helix. A typical human right ear comprises a helix, which is a right-hand helix. The edge of a structure, e.g. the edge of a membrane or impeller, may follow a space curve. In general, a space curve may be described by a curvature and a torsion at each point on the space curve. Torsion is a measure of how the curve turns out of a plane. Torsion has a sign and a magnitude. The torsion at a point on a space curve may be characterised with reference to the tangent, normal and binormal vectors at that point.

[0566] Tangent unit vector (or unit tangent vector): For each point on a curve, a vector at the point specifies a direction from that point, as well as a magnitude. A tangent unit vector is a unit vector pointing in the same direction as the curve at that point. If an imaginary person were flying along the curve and fell off her vehicle at a particular point, the direction of the tangent vector is the direction she would be travelling.

[0567] Unit normal vector: As the imaginary person moves along the curve, this tangent vector itself changes. The unit vector pointing in the same direction that thetangent vector is changing is called the unit principal normal vector. It is perpendicular to the tangent vector.

[0568] Binormal unit vector: The binormal unit vector is perpendicular to both the tangent vector and the principal normal vector. Its direction may be determined by a right-hand rule, or alternatively by a left-hand rule.

[0569] Osculating plane: The plane containing the unit tangent vector and the unit principal normal vector.

[0570] Torsion of a space curve: The torsion at a point of a space curve is the magnitude of the rate of change of the binormal unit vector at that point. It measures how much the curve deviates from the osculating plane. A space curve which lies in a plane has zero torsion. A space curve which deviates a relatively small amount from the osculating plane will have a relatively small magnitude of torsion (e.g. a gently sloping helical path). A space curve which deviates a relatively large amount from the osculating plane will have a relatively large magnitude of torsion (e.g. a steeply sloping helical path).

[0571] A space curve turning towards the direction of the right-hand binormal may be considered as having a right-hand positive torsion. A space curve turning away from the direction of the right-hand binormal may be considered as having a right-hand negative torsion (e.g. a left-hand helix).

[0572] Equivalently, and with reference to a left-hand rule, a space curve turning towards the direction of the left-hand binormal may be considered as having a lefthand positive torsion (e.g. a left-hand helix). Hence left-hand positive is equivalent to right-hand negative.4.9.5.4 Holes

[0573] A surface may have a one-dimensional hole, e.g. a hole bounded by a plane curve or by a space curve. Thin structures (e.g. a membrane) with a hole, may be described as having a one-dimensional hole.

[0574] A structure may have a two-dimensional hole, e.g. a hole bounded by a surface. For example, an inflatable tyre has a two dimensional hole bounded by the interior surface of the tyre. In another example, a bladder with a cavity for air or gel could have a two-dimensional hole. In a yet another example, a conduit may comprise a one-dimension hole (e.g. at its entrance or at its exit), and a two-dimension hole bounded by the inside surface of the conduit.4.10 OTHER REMARKS

[0575] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material which is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in Patent Office patent files or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.

[0576] Unless the context clearly dictates otherwise and where a range of values is provided, it is understood that each intervening value, to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit, between the upper and lower limit of that range, and any other stated or intervening value in that stated range is encompassed within the technology. The upper and lower limits of these intervening ranges, which may be independently included in the intervening ranges, are also encompassed within the technology, subject to any specifically excluded limit in the stated range. Where the stated range includes one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either or both of those included limits are also included in the technology.

[0577] Furthermore, where a value or values are stated herein as being implemented as part of the technology, it is understood that such values may be approximated, unless otherwise stated, and such values may be utilized to any suitable significant digit to the extent that a practical technical implementation may permit or require it.

[0578] Furthermore, “approximately”, “substantially”, “about”, or any similar term used herein means + / - 5-10% of the recited value.

[0579] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this technology belongs. Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can also be used in the practice or testing of the present technology, a limited number of the exemplary methods and materials are described herein.

[0580] When a particular material is identified as being used to construct a component, obvious alternative materials with similar properties may be used as a substitute. Furthermore, unless specified to the contrary, any and all components herein described are understood to be capable of being manufactured and, as such, may be manufactured together or separately.

[0581] It must be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include their plural equivalents, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0582] All publications mentioned herein are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety to disclose and describe the methods and / or materials which are the subject of those publications. The publications discussed herein are provided solely for their disclosure prior to the filing date of the present application. Nothing herein is to be construed as an admission that the present technology is not entitled to antedate such publication by virtue of prior invention. Further, the dates of publication provided may be different from the actual publication dates, which may need to be independently confirmed.

[0583] The terms "comprises" and "comprising" should be interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized, or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are not expressly referenced.

[0584] The subject headings used in the detailed description are included only for the ease of reference of the reader and should not be used to limit the subject matter found throughout the disclosure or the claims. The subject headings should not be used in construing the scope of the claims or the claim limitations.

[0585] Although the technology herein has been described with reference to particular examples, it is to be understood that these examples are merely illustrative of the principles and applications of the technology. In some instances, the terminology and symbols may imply specific details that are not required to practice the technology. For example, although the terms "first" and "second" may be used, unless otherwise specified, they are not intended to indicate any order but may be utilised to distinguish between distinct elements. Furthermore, although process steps in the methodologies may be described or illustrated in an order, such an ordering is not required. Those skilled in the art will recognize that such ordering may be modified and / or aspects thereof may be conducted concurrently or even synchronously.

[0586] It is therefore to be understood that numerous modifications may be made to the illustrative examples and that other arrangements may be devised without departing from the spirit and scope of the technology..11 REFERENCE SIGNS LIST

Claims

5 CLAIMS1. A vent assembly for use in a respiratory pressure treatment system, the vent assembly comprising at least one body component, the at least one body component comprising a bore configured to provide a longitudinal flow path for delivery of a flow of breathable gas to the airways of a patient, the flow of breathable gas having a positive pressure of at least 4 cmH20, wherein the vent assembly comprises: at least one vent flow path between the bore and an exterior of the vent assembly, and at least one radial vent aperture which provides a radial component to the vent flow path, and at least one exterior vent flow aperture configured to open the at least one vent flow path to an exterior of the vent assembly, wherein the vent flow path comprises a tortuous vent flow path component between the at least one radial vent aperture and the exterior vent flow aperture.

2. The vent assembly of claim 1, wherein the tortuous vent flow path component provides a non-linear flow path component to the at least one vent flow path between the at least one radial vent aperture and the at least one exterior vent flow aperture.

3. The vent assembly of claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one radial vent aperture opens into the bore.

4. The vent assembly of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a diffuser.

5. The vent assembly of claim 4, wherein the diffuser is structured as an annular ring.

6. The vent assembly of claim 3 or 4, wherein the diffuser is configured to surround the bore.

7. The vent assembly of any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the vent assembly comprises a first vent flow path between the at least one radial vent aperture and the at least one exterior flow aperture, wherein the first vent flow path passes through the diffuser.

8. The vent assembly of claim 7, wherein the vent assembly comprises a second vent flow path between the at least one radial vent aperture and the at least one exterior flow aperture, wherein the second vent flow path does not pass through the diffuser.

9. The vent assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the vent assembly comprises a first body portion and a second body portion, and wherein the first and second body portions co-operate to provide the bore.

10. The vent assembly of claim 9, wherein the first body portion comprises a radial flange having an inner surface, and the second body portion comprises a first longitudinal facing surface facing the inner surface of the radial flange, wherein a space between the inner surface and the first longitudinal facing surface provides the at least one radial vent aperture.

11. The vent assembly of claim 9, further comprising a third body portion wherein the third body portion co-operates with the first and second body portions to provide the bore.

12. The vent assembly of any one of claims 2 to 11, further comprising a diffuser locator, configured to position or retain the diffuser in the vent assembly in use.

13. The vent assembly of claim 12, wherein the at least one radial vent aperture is provided in the diffuser locator.

14. The vent assembly of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the tortuous vent flow path component comprises at least one longitudinal vent aperture between the radial vent aperture and the exterior of the vent assembly.

15. The vent assembly of claim 14, wherein a longitudinal cross section of the at least one longitudinal vent aperture is tapered.

16. The vent assembly of claim 15, wherein the at least one longitudinal vent aperture comprises a radially inward side surface tapering radially outwardly, and a radially outward side surface that is substantially parallel with a longitudinal axis of the vent assembly.

17. A vent assembly for use in a respiratory pressure treatment system, the vent assembly comprising at least one body component, the at least one body component comprising a bore configured to provide a longitudinal flow path for delivery of a flow of breathable gas to the airways of a patient, the flow of breathable gas having a positive pressure of at least 4 cmH20, wherein the vent assembly comprises: a diffuser configured to diffuse a flow of air vented from the vent assembly, a first vent flow path between the bore and an exterior vent flow aperture, and a second vent flow path between the bore and an exterior vent flow aperture, wherein the first vent flow path is configured to direct the flow of vented air through the diffuser, and wherein the second vent flow path is configured to direct the flow of vented air around the diffuser.

18. The vent assembly of claim 17, wherein the bore comprises at least one radial vent aperture, which provides a radial component to the first vent flow path and / or second vent flow path.

19. The vent assembly of claim 17 or 18, further comprising a tortuous vent flow path component between the at least one radial vent aperture and the at least one exterior vent flow aperture.

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