System, method and device for intelligent humidification

Abstract

Disclosed are methods, systems, and apparatus for providing personalized humidification levels. A control system receives one or more environmental parameters regarding a condition of an environment from a first sensor. The control system receives one or more physiological parameters associated with a user within the environment from a second sensor. The control system determines an action associated with a desired change in humidity within the environment based at least in part on the one or more environmental parameters and the one or more physiological parameters. The control system causes, at least in part, performance of the action associated with the change in humidity within the environment based at least in part on humidity output by a humidifier module. The methods and apparatus perform the same functions as the control system.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 928,911, filed October 31, 2019, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to systems, methods, and apparatus for providing intelligent humidification. Background Art

[0004] Conventional humidifier devices—which may be stand-alone humidifier devices or humidifier modules integrated into another device or system, such as a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system (HVAC)—simply include a humidity sensor and adjust humidification to achieve a target humidity set point. However, simply attempting to adjust humidity based on a set point may not be sufficient to provide benefit to the user because the set point is incorrect for the environment of the humidifier device, the location of the humidifier device in the environment is incorrect, or the humidifier device does not take into account the user's specific circumstances, such as if the user is ill and / or suffers from a respiratory disease or condition.

[0005] Therefore, there exists a need to provide methods, systems, and apparatus for intelligent humidification that alleviate or correct the above-mentioned problems. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for providing personalized humidification levels is disclosed. Aspects of the method include receiving one or more environmental parameters about the conditions of an environment from a first sensor. Aspects of the method also include receiving one or more physiological parameters associated with a user in the environment from a second sensor. Aspects of the method also include: determining an action associated with a desired change in humidity in the environment based at least in part on the one or more environmental parameters and the one or more physiological parameters. Aspects of the method also include: at least in part causing the execution of an action associated with a change in humidity in the environment based at least in part on moisture output by a humidifier module. The humidifier module is configured to output moisture for changing the humidity in the environment.

[0007] Other aspects of this embodiment include: the action is a change in position of the humidifier module within the environment. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the action is indicating a suggestion to the user regarding where to move the humidifier module based on the change in position. Other aspects of this embodiment include a method comprising processing the one or more environmental parameters and the one or more physiological parameters to determine a position of the humidifier module relative to the user within the environment. The change in position is based on the position of the humidifier module relative to the user. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the one or more environmental parameters include audio information associated with the environment. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the one or more physiological parameters include audio information associated with the user. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the environment includes one or more other users. In this aspect, the method includes determining that the user is a more vulnerable individual relative to the one or more other users within the environment. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the user is a more vulnerable individual based at least in part on having an asthma attack, a coughing attack, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or other respiratory condition. Other aspects of this embodiment include: receiving one or more meteorological parameters indicative of conditions outside the user's environment, and determining one or more optimal conditions for the humidifier module based on the one or more environmental parameters and the one or more meteorological parameters. The determined action associated with the desired change in humidity is based at least in part on the optimal condition.Other aspects of this embodiment include one or more physiological parameters including heart rate, body temperature, activity level, hydration level, one or more sounds produced by the user, or a combination thereof.

[0008] Other aspects of this embodiment include an electronic device associated with the user. The method then includes receiving one or more other physiological parameters from the electronic device. Determining an action associated with a desired change in humidity within the environment based on the one or more environmental parameters, physiological parameters, other physiological parameters, or a combination thereof. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the one or more other physiological parameters from the electronic device are age, gender, body mass index, one or more medical conditions, one or more pre-existing conditions, self-reported current of a previous comfort level, or a combination thereof. Other aspects of this embodiment include: integrating one or more of the first sensor and the second sensor into the electronic device. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the one or more sounds are associated with breathing rate, breathing depth, breathing quality, coughing, wheezing, whistling, snoring, or a combination thereof. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the one or more environmental parameters include temperature, atmospheric pressure, air quality, wind chill, location, or a combination thereof. Other aspects of this embodiment include: identifying the impact of a change in humidity based on the one or more physiological parameters of the user. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the humidifier module is integrated into a respiratory therapy system. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the respiratory therapy system is a positive airway pressure device. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the humidifier module is integrated into a heating, ventilation, and / or air conditioning system. Further aspects of this embodiment include: the second sensor is one of the following: a passive acoustic sensor, an active acoustic sensor, a passive radio frequency sensor, an active radio frequency sensor, a passive infrared sensor, an active infrared sensor, an optical sensor, or a video sensor. Further aspects of this embodiment include: the first sensor, the second sensor, or a combination thereof are integrated into a watch, a ring, a bracelet, a necklace, a patch, a garment, a mattress, a car seat, or a combination thereof. Further aspects of this embodiment include: the system is a standalone device.

[0009] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for providing intelligent humidification includes controlling a humidifier module configured to output moisture to change the humidity in an environment of the humidifier module under a first set of conditions. The method also includes monitoring a change in the humidity in the environment in response to the first set of conditions. The method also includes causing an alarm to reposition the humidifier module within the environment based at least in part on monitoring the change in humidity.

[0010] Other aspects of this embodiment include: monitoring the change in humidity includes receiving information indicating the change in humidity from one or more sensors. Other aspects of this embodiment include the step of receiving position information indicating the position of the humidifier module relative to the one or more sensors or relative to a user from at least one of the one or more sensors. Other aspects of this embodiment include the step of determining a new position to reposition the humidifier module relative to the one or more sensors or the user within the environment based at least in part on the position information. Other aspects of this embodiment include the step of receiving sound information from one or more sound sensors configured to detect sound within the environment. This embodiment also includes the step of processing the sound information to determine the position of the humidifier module within the environment. This embodiment also includes the step of determining a new position to reposition the humidifier module based at least in part on the sound information. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the sound information includes information indicating the position of the user within the environment. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the new position is relative to the user.

[0011] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for optimizing personalized humidification includes: receiving a first set of one or more physiological parameters associated with a user in an environment from one or more sensors. The method also includes: adjusting one or more operating conditions of a humidifier module, the humidifier module being configured to output moisture to achieve a change in the humidity of the environment. The method also includes: receiving a second set of one or more physiological parameters associated with the user in the environment from one or more sensors. The method also includes: determining an impact on the user in response to the change in humidity based at least in part on a comparison of the first set of one or more physiological parameters and the second set of one or more physiological parameters.

[0012] Other aspects of this embodiment include: one or more of the first or second sets of physiological parameters include respiratory parameters. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the change in ambient humidity is within a predetermined range. Other aspects of this embodiment include the steps of: at least in part causing a change in one or more operating conditions of an air purifier configured to remove particles from air within the environment based at least in part on the first set of one or more physiological parameters, the second set of one or more physiological parameters, in response to an effect of the change in humidity on the user, or a combination thereof.

[0013] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method includes the step of receiving information regarding the operation of a humidifier unit from a respiratory therapy system, the respiratory therapy system being configured to provide an airflow to the airway of the user for respiratory therapy via a user interface, the respiratory therapy system including the humidifier unit, the humidifier unit being configured to output humidified gas into the airflow. The method also includes the step of receiving one or more environmental parameters regarding a condition of an environment of the respiratory therapy system from a first sensor. The method also includes the step of adjusting one or more operating parameters of the humidifier unit or a humidifier module based at least in part on the information regarding the operation of the humidifier unit and the one or more environmental parameters, the humidifier module being configured to output humidified gas to change the humidity in the environment of the humidifier unit.

[0014] Other aspects of this embodiment include the step of receiving one or more physiological parameters associated with a user within the device environment from a second sensor. Adjustment of one or more operating parameters is based at least in part on the one or more physiological parameters. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the one or more physiological parameters are associated with a leak at the user interface, and the adjustment of the one or more operating parameters is based on minimizing drying of the user's airway based on the leak. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the humidifier unit is a waterless humidifier unit.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for providing personalized environmental conditions is disclosed. The method includes the step of receiving one or more environmental parameters regarding the conditions of the environment from a first sensor. The method includes the step of receiving one or more physiological parameters associated with a user within the environment from a second sensor. The method includes the step of determining an action associated with a desired change in the conditions within the environment based at least in part on the one or more environmental parameters and the one or more physiological parameters. The method includes the step of causing, at least in part, the execution of an action associated with the change in the conditions in the environment based at least in part on the operation of an environment modification module. The environment modification module is configured to modify the conditions of the system environment.

[0016] Other aspects of this embodiment include: the action is to instruct the user to move the environment modification module. Other aspects of this embodiment include the step of processing the one or more environmental parameters and the one or more physiological parameters to determine the position of the environment modification module relative to the user within the environment. The desired position change is based at least in part on the current position of the environment modification module relative to the user. Other aspects of this embodiment include the step of receiving one or more meteorological parameters indicating conditions outside the user's environment. The method also includes the step of determining one or more optimal conditions for the environment modification module based on the one or more environmental parameters and the one or more meteorological parameters. The action includes: changing an operational output based at least in part on the operation of the environment modification module, wherein the operational output is at least one of humidification, dehumidification, heating, cooling, and air quality modification. Other aspects of this embodiment include the step of receiving one or more other physiological parameters from an electronic device associated with the user. Determining an action associated with the desired change in the conditions within the environment based on the one or more environmental parameters, physiological parameters, other physiological parameters, or a combination thereof.

[0017] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a system for providing personalized humidification levels is disclosed. The system includes a control system comprising one or more processors; and a memory having machine-readable instructions stored therein. The control system is coupled to the memory, and when the machine-executable instructions in the memory are executed by at least one of the one or more processors of the control system, any one or more of the above-described embodiments are performed.

[0018] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a system for providing personalized humidification levels is disclosed. The system includes a control system configured to implement the method of any one or more of the above embodiments.

[0019] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a computer program product is disclosed, the computer program product including instructions, which, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform any one or more methods of the above embodiments. The computer program product may be a non-transitory computer-readable medium.

[0020] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a system is configured to provide personalized humidification levels. The system includes a humidifier module configured to output moisture for changing the humidity in the environment of the system. The system also includes a memory storing machine-readable instructions and a control system having one or more processors. The one or more processors are configured to execute the machine-readable instructions to receive one or more environmental parameters regarding the conditions of the environment from a first sensor. The one or more processors are also configured to execute the machine-readable instructions to receive one or more physiological parameters associated with a user in the environment from a second sensor. The one or more processors are also configured to execute the machine-readable instructions to determine an action associated with a desired change in humidity in the environment based at least in part on the one or more environmental parameters and the one or more physiological parameters. The one or more processors are further configured to execute these machine-readable instructions to at least partially cause the execution of an action associated with a change in humidity in the environment based at least in part on the moisture output by the humidifier module.

[0021] Other aspects of this embodiment include: the action is a change in position of the humidifier module within the environment. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the action is an instruction to the user to move the humidifier module based on the change in position caused by the recommendation output by the one or more processors. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the one or more processors are configured to execute the machine-readable instructions to process the one or more environmental parameters and the one or more physiological parameters to determine the position of the humidifier module relative to the user within the environment. The change in position is based on the position of the humidifier module relative to the user. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the one or more environmental parameters and the one or more physiological parameters include audio information associated with the user and the environment. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the environment includes one or more other users. The one or more processors are configured to execute the machine-readable instructions to determine that the user is a more vulnerable person relative to the one or more other users within the environment. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the user is a more vulnerable person based at least in part on having an asthma attack, a cough attack, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or other respiratory condition. Other aspects of this embodiment include one or more processors configured to execute machine-readable instructions to receive one or more meteorological parameters indicative of conditions outside a user's environment; and determine one or more optimal conditions for the humidifier module based on the one or more environmental parameters and the one or more meteorological parameters. The action includes varying the humidification output based at least in part on the optimal conditions. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the one or more physiological parameters include heart rate, body temperature, activity level, hydration level, one or more sounds produced by the user, or a combination thereof. Other aspects of this embodiment include a system comprising an electronic device associated with the user. The one or more processors configured to execute the machine-readable instructions to receive the one or more physiological parameters from the electronic device. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the one or more physiological parameters from the electronic device include age, gender, body mass index, one or more medical conditions, one or more pre-existing conditions, self-reported quality of sleep, self-reported current at a previous comfort level, or a combination thereof. Other aspects of this embodiment include: one or more of the first sensor and the second sensor being integrated into the electronic device. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the one or more sounds are associated with breathing rate, breathing depth, breathing quality, coughing, wheezing, whistling, snoring, or a combination thereof. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the one or more environmental parameters include temperature, atmospheric pressure, air quality, wind chill, location, or a combination thereof. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the one or more processors are configured to execute machine-readable instructions to identify the effect of changes in humidity based on one or more physiological parameters of the user.Other aspects of this embodiment include: the humidifier module is integrated into the respiratory therapy system. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the respiratory therapy system is a continuous positive airway pressure device. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the humidifier module is integrated into the HVAC system. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the second sensor is one of the following: a passive acoustic sensor, an active acoustic sensor, a passive radio frequency sensor, an active radio frequency sensor, a passive infrared sensor, an active infrared sensor, an optical sensor, or a video sensor. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the first sensor, the second sensor, or a combination thereof are integrated into a watch, a ring, a bracelet, a necklace, a patch, a garment, a mattress, a car seat, or a combination thereof. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the system is a stand-alone device.

[0022] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, a system configured to provide intelligent humidification is disclosed. The system includes a humidifier module configured to output moisture for changing the humidity in the environment of the humidifier module. The system also includes a memory storing machine-readable instructions; and a control system having one or more processors. The one or more processors are configured to execute the machine-readable instructions to control the humidifier module under a first set of conditions. The one or more processors are also configured to execute the machine-readable instructions to monitor changes in humidity in the environment in response to the first set of conditions. The one or more processors are further configured to execute these machine-readable instructions, which, based at least in part on monitoring changes in humidity, at least in part cause an alarm to reposition the humidifier module within the environment.

[0023] Other aspects of this embodiment include: one or more sensors are located within the environment. In this case, monitoring a change in humidity includes receiving information indicative of a change in humidity from at least one of the one or more sensors. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the one or more processors are configured to execute machine-readable instructions for receiving position information from at least one of the one or more sensors indicating a position of the humidifier module relative to the one or more sensors or relative to a user. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the one or more processors are configured to execute machine-readable instructions to determine a new position within the environment to reposition the humidifier module relative to the one or more sensors or the user based at least in part on the position information. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the one or more processors are configured to execute machine-readable instructions to receive sound information from one or more sound sensors configured to detect sound within the environment; process the sound information to determine a position of the humidifier module within the environment; and determine a new position to reposition the humidifier module based at least in part on the sound information. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the sound information includes information indicative of a user's position within the environment. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the new position is relative to the user.

[0024] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a system is configured to optimize personalized humidification levels. The system includes a humidifier module configured to output moisture to change the humidity in the device environment. The system also includes a memory storing machine-readable instructions and a control system having one or more processors. The one or more processors are configured to execute the machine-readable instructions to receive a first set of one or more physiological parameters associated with a user in the environment from one or more sensors. The one or more processors are further configured to execute these machine-readable instructions to adjust one or more operating conditions of the humidifier module to achieve a change in the ambient humidity. The one or more processors are also configured to execute the machine-readable instructions to receive a second set of one or more physiological parameters associated with a user in the environment from the one or more sensors. The one or more processors are also configured to execute the machine-readable instructions to determine the impact of the change in humidity on the user based at least in part on a comparison of the first set of one or more physiological parameters and the second set of one or more physiological parameters.

[0025] Other aspects of this embodiment include: the one or more physiological parameters are respiratory parameters. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the change in ambient humidity is within a predetermined range. Other aspects of this embodiment include a system comprising an air purifier configured to remove particles from air within an environment. In this case, the one or more processors are configured to execute the machine-readable instructions to at least partially cause a change in one or more operating conditions of the air purifier based at least in part on the first set of one or more physiological parameters, the second set of one or more physiological parameters, the effect of the change in humidity on the user, or a combination thereof.

[0026] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a humidifier device is configured to operate in conjunction with a respiratory therapy system configured to provide an airflow for respiratory therapy to a user, the respiratory therapy system including a humidifier unit configured to output humidified gas into the airflow. The humidifier device includes a humidifier module configured to output humidified gas to change the humidity in the environment of the humidifier unit. The humidifier device also includes a memory storing machine-readable instructions and a control system having one or more processors. The one or more processors are configured to execute the machine-readable instructions to receive information about the operation of the humidifier unit from the respiratory therapy system. The one or more processors are further configured to execute the machine-readable instructions to receive one or more environmental parameters related to the conditions of the environment of the respiratory therapy system from a first sensor. The one or more processors are further configured to execute the machine-readable instructions to adjust one or more operating parameters of the humidifier unit or the humidifier device based at least in part on the information about the operation of the humidifier unit and the one or more environmental parameters.

[0027] Other aspects of this embodiment include one or more processors configured to execute machine-readable instructions to receive one or more physiological parameters associated with a user within the environment of the device from a second sensor. Adjustment of one or more operating parameters can be based at least in part on the one or more physiological parameters. Other aspects of this embodiment include one or more physiological parameters associated with a leak at the user interface, and adjusting the one or more operating parameters is based on minimizing drying of the user's airway based on the leak. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the humidifier unit is a waterless humidifier unit.

[0028] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a system configured to provide personalized environmental conditions is provided. The system includes an environment modification module configured to modify the conditions of the system environment. The system also includes a memory storing machine-readable instructions and a control system having one or more processors. The one or more processors are configured to execute the machine-readable instructions to receive one or more environmental parameters about the conditions of the environment from a first sensor. The one or more processors are also configured to execute the machine-readable instructions to receive one or more physiological parameters associated with a user within the environment from a second sensor. The one or more processors are also configured to execute the machine-readable instructions to determine an action associated with a desired change in the conditions within the environment based at least in part on the one or more environmental parameters and the one or more physiological parameters. The one or more processors are also configured to execute the machine-readable instructions based at least in part on the operation of the environment modification module to at least partially cause the execution of an action associated with the change in the conditions in the environment.

[0029] Other aspects of this embodiment include: the action instructing the user to move the environment modification module based on a change in position resulting from a recommendation output by the one or more processors. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the one or more processors configured to execute machine-readable instructions to process one or more environmental parameters and one or more physiological parameters to determine a position of the environment modification module relative to the user within the environment. The desired position change may be based at least in part on the current position of the environment modification module relative to the user. Other aspects of this embodiment include: the one or more processors configured to execute machine-readable instructions to receive one or more meteorological parameters indicative of conditions outside the user's environment, and to determine one or more optimal conditions for the environment modification module based on the one or more environmental parameters and the one or more meteorological parameters. The action may be changing an operational output based at least in part on the operation of the environment modification module. The operational output may be at least one of humidification, dehumidification, heating, cooling, and improved air quality. Other aspects of this embodiment include an electronic device associated with the user. The one or more processors may be configured to execute machine-readable instructions to receive one or more other physiological parameters from the electronic device. The action associated with determining the desired change in conditions within the environment may be based on one or more environmental parameters, physiological parameters, other physiological parameters, or a combination thereof.

[0030] The above summary is not intended to represent each embodiment or every aspect of the present invention. Additional features and advantages of the present invention are apparent from the detailed description of the present invention and the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] Figure 1is a functional block diagram of a system for providing personalized humidification according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0032] Figure 2 According to some embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 1 a perspective view of an environment of a system having a user of the system and a bed partner of the user;

[0033] Figure 3 shows an exemplary timeline of sleep periods according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0034] Figure 4 Shows some embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 3 An exemplary hypnogram associated with a sleep period;

[0035] Figure 5 is a process flow diagram of a method for providing personalized humidification levels according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0036] Figure 6 is a process flow chart of a method for providing intelligent humidification according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0037] Figure 7 is a process flow diagram of a method for optimizing personalized humidification levels according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0038] Figure 8 is a process flow diagram of a method for providing personalized humidification in conjunction with a respiratory therapy system, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0039] While the present disclosure is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments and examples thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that there is no intention to limit the disclosure to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the disclosure is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0040] To simplify the discussion, singular forms will be used for all components disclosed herein, where appropriate, but the use of the singular does not limit the discussion to only one of each component.

[0041] The methods, systems and devices of the present disclosure provide personalized humidification based on the individual needs of the user (or multiple users). For example, for the general population, dry air (relative humidity (RH) less than 40%) can cause problems that are triggered at different levels. One person may not suffer adverse effects at 30% RH (e.g., may only have dry skin), while another person may have an increased likelihood of experiencing respiratory exacerbations (especially if combined with low temperatures) due to dry nasal passages and worsening airway inflammation. Therefore, personalized humidification of the present methods, systems and devices can alleviate or prevent respiratory exacerbations. Personalized humidification may include, for example, adapting the humidification level to optimally combat uncomfortable symptoms or respiratory problems, such as respiratory problems associated with allergies, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), sleep-disordered breathing (SDB), etc. The methods, systems and devices of the present disclosure can provide automated personalized control of humidity, where the ultimate goal is better breathing. For example, better breathing can be associated with improved comfort and reduced frequency or severity of a disease or condition.

[0042] The methods, systems, and devices of the present disclosure can measure physiological parameters of a user and control the humidity of the user's environment. In one or more embodiments, room or area or building management sensors and / or systems can be used to detect physiological parameters and / or physiological parameters can be input by the user, for example, through an electronic device.

[0043] In one or more embodiments, these methods, systems, and devices can learn changes in humidity based on physiological and / or environmental parameters related to the user's breathing quality. The physiological parameters can be based on audible sounds, motion detected due to breathing, etc. In one or more embodiments, breathing quality can be based on breathing rate, breathing depth; alone or compared to population norms based on age, gender, location (related to air quality, temperature, weather, climate, etc.) or personalized target "good" breathing curves and parameters. Physiological parameters can also be heart rate, body temperature, body mass index (BMI), activity level, hydration level, medical conditions, pre-existing conditions, ongoing treatments, etc.

[0044] In one or more embodiments, breathing quality can be determined by detecting inspiration, pauses, and expiration, and estimating breathing rate and other metrics including breathing depth (e.g., to detect shallow breathing, gasping breathing, or normal breathing). This can be achieved using multiple contact or non-contact sensors, as described below. Other markers can be detected, such as coughing, wheezing, whistling, snoring during sleep, etc.

[0045] In one or more embodiments, personalized humidification can be provided to a user to adjust the humidity in the user's environment, such as by adjusting the operation of a humidifier module to achieve a desired physiological state for the user. For example, the user may have a cold or other condition that affects the user's breathing. The desired physiological state may relate to, for example, a comfort level for the user's breathing. The humidity in the environment can be controlled by the action of the humidifier module to achieve a desired humidity level that, for example, improves the user's breathing, reduces the user's cough, or improves some other breathing-related condition. Aspects of the present disclosure allow the process to be automated so that the user does not need to know what humidity level will improve the physiological state. Instead, the process can independently detect user conditions related to the physiological state and then control the humidity in the environment to improve the physiological state.

[0046] Other physiological states can be improved by the methods of the present disclosure. For example, in one or more embodiments, the user's physiological state can be a desired sleep state (e.g., wakefulness or sleep) or a desired sleep stage (e.g., N1, N2, REM, etc.), both of which are discussed further below. The humidity within the environment, such as the ambient humidity in the air, and / or the humidity generated by a humidifier of a respiratory therapy system, can be controlled to achieve the desired sleep state and / or sleep stage during one or more sleep periods. A physiological parameter of the user associated with detecting the user's sleep state and / or sleep stage can be detected. Embodiments of the present disclosure can then adjust one or more operating conditions of a humidifier module and / or humidifier of a respiratory therapy device to achieve a change in ambient humidity, which in turn achieves the desired sleep state (e.g., sleep) and / or desired sleep stage (e.g., REM or N3) or a desired sleep stage pattern during a portion or the entire sleep period. The effect on the sleep state and / or sleep stage can be dependent on the user having a specific physiological state, such as a user with a cold, or independent of the user having a specific physiological state, such as a normal, healthy user, simply to achieve a better night's rest.

[0047] In one or more embodiments, these methods, systems, and devices can include making recommendations based on the location of a humidifier module or humidifier in an environment and adapting a humidity target range. For example, there may be a correct target humidity level, but there may not be a correct target location for a humidifier module or humidifier device in an environment, such as a room. The location of the humidifier module or humidifier device can be sensed based on the same sound detection used to detect audible sounds generated by a user or the user's breathing that are associated with changes in humidity.

[0048] Reference Figure 1, shows a system 100 for providing personalized humidification levels according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The system 100 includes a humidifier module 102, a control system 110, a memory device 114, and an electronic interface 119. The system 100 also includes one or more sensors 130. The system 100 is located in an environment 108. Within the environment 108 are one or more users 109.

[0049] The humidifier module 102 can be a humidifier module for a room or a specific area, such as an evaporator using a filter cartridge and a fan, an impeller humidifier using a rotating disk, a steam evaporator that heats water to produce steam, an ultrasonic humidifier that uses vibration to produce steam, or a central humidifier integrated into a home or commercial heating, ventilation and / or air conditioning unit (HVAC unit).

[0050] In one or more embodiments, the humidifier module 102 can be included in a respiratory therapy system 120 (e.g., a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device) within the system 100. Alternatively or additionally, the humidifier module 102 can be separate from the respiratory therapy system 120. Alternatively, the humidifier module 102 can be within a heating, ventilation, and / or air conditioning system, a local humidifier, or a separate device that affects humidity. Thus, the humidifier module 102 can be standalone or within a standalone device. The standalone device (also referred to as a humidifier device) can also include one or more of a control system 110, a memory device 114, one or more sensors 130 (e.g., a first sensor and / or a second sensor, as described below), and an electronic device and / or user device 116 (described below). Such a standalone device can be configured to operate in conjunction with the respiratory therapy system 120 used by the user 109, particularly if the respiratory therapy system 120 does have humidification capabilities.

[0051] In the case of higher humidity (e.g., over 60% RH), a dehumidifier function can be employed to reduce the possibility of mold accumulation, dust mites, etc. in the environment 108 (e.g., room), which could potentially worsen respiratory conditions (if not managed). In one or more embodiments, the humidifier module 102 may also include a unit (not shown) that performs dehumidification. Such a dehumidification unit may include a fan that cools a metal plate and captures condensed moisture from the air; a desiccant that absorbs water from the air using a desiccant on wheels, which is then warmed to drive off the collected moisture; and / or a central dehumidifier integrated into a home or commercial heating and ventilation system.

[0052] Although disclosed throughout as a humidifier module 102, in one or more embodiments, the humidifier module 102 can be any type of environment-modifying device or module within a device. For example, the humidifier module 102 can alternatively be a humidifier; a dehumidifier; a heater with or without a humidifier; an air conditioning unit with or without a humidifier; an air purifier; and thus, the humidifier module 102 can alternatively be any unit capable of modifying an environmental parameter of an environment. Furthermore, any discussion regarding changes or control of humidity can alternatively refer to changes in the operating conditions of an environment-modifying device. Changes in the operating conditions can be based on changes in the output of at least one of humidification, dehumidification, heating, cooling, air quality modification, and the like.

[0053] The environment 108 may be any enclosed or partially enclosed area, such as a room (e.g., a room in a house, a room in an office, a room in a hotel, etc.), a building, a vehicle (e.g., a car, a truck, a train car, an airplane cabin, etc.), etc. For example, the environment 108 may be an entire house, an apartment, etc., or a specific room (e.g., in the case where HVAC covers many areas).

[0054] The environment 108 is surrounded by an exterior zone 118. The exterior zone is generally considered to have no humidity that is controlled or affected by the humidifier module 102. Thus, for example, the exterior zone 118 may be outside a room or outside a house.

[0055] The control system 110 includes one or more processors 112 (hereinafter referred to as processors 112). The control system 110 is generally used to control the various components of the system 100 and / or analyze data obtained and / or generated by the components of the system 100. The processor 112 can be a general or special purpose processor or microprocessor. Although in Figure 1 1 , the control system 110 may include any suitable number of processors (e.g., one processor, two processors, five processors, ten processors, etc.), which may be in a single housing or located remotely from one another. The control system 110 may be coupled to and / or located within, for example, a housing of the user device 116 and / or within a housing of one or more sensors 130. The control system 110 may be centralized (within one such housing) or decentralized (within two or more such housings that are physically distinct). In such embodiments including two or more housings containing the control system 110, such housings may be located proximate to and / or remotely from one another.

[0056] The control system 110 generally controls the various components of the system 100 and / or analyzes data obtained and / or generated by the components of the system 100. The control system 110 executes machine-readable instructions stored in the memory device 114 or a different memory device. The control system 110 may implement one or more engines of the system 100. An engine is a combination of hardware and software configured to perform a specific function. The one or more processors of the control system 110 may be general-purpose or special-purpose processors and / or microprocessors.

[0057] Although the control system 110 Figure 1 100 as a separate and distinct component of the system 100, in some embodiments, the control system 110 is integrated into and / or directly coupled to the humidifier module 102. For example, the control system 110 can be coupled to and / or positioned within the housing of the humidifier module 102, or any combination thereof.

[0058] The memory device 114 stores machine-readable instructions that can be executed by the processor 112 of the control system 110. The memory device 114 can be any suitable computer-readable storage device or medium, such as a random or serial access memory device, a hard drive, a solid-state drive, a flash memory device, etc. Although the system 100 is shown as including a single memory device 114, it is contemplated that the system 100 can include any suitable number of memory devices (e.g., one memory device, two memory devices, five memory devices, ten memory devices, etc.). The memory device 114 can be any suitable computer-readable storage device or medium, such as a random or serial access memory device, a hard drive, a solid-state drive, a flash memory device, etc. The memory device 114 can be coupled to the housing of the humidifier module 102 and / or positioned within the housing of the humidifier module 102 and / or positioned within the housing of any one or more sensors 130. Similar to the control system 110, the memory device 114 can be centralized (within one such housing) or distributed (within two or more physically distinct such housings).

[0059] In some embodiments, the memory device 114 ( Figure 1) stores a user profile associated with a user. The user profile may include, for example, demographic information associated with the user, biometric information associated with the user, medical information associated with the user, self-reported user feedback, sleep parameters associated with the user (e.g., sleep-related parameters recorded from one or more earlier sleep sessions), or any combination thereof. Demographic information may include, for example, information indicating the user's age, the user's gender, the user's race, family medical history, the user's employment status, the user's educational status, the user's socioeconomic status, or any combination thereof. Medical information may include, for example, information indicating one or more medical conditions associated with the user, the user's medication use, or both. Medical information data may also include Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT) test results or scores and / or Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) scores or values. Self-reported user feedback may include information indicating a self-reported subjective sleep score (e.g., poor, average, excellent), a user's self-reported subjective stress level, a user's self-reported subjective fatigue level, a user's self-reported subjective health status, a user's recently experienced life event, or any combination thereof.

[0060] The electronic interface 119 is configured to receive data (e.g., physiological and / or audio data) from one or more sensors 130 so that the data can be stored in the memory device 114 and / or analyzed by the processor 112 of the control system 110. The electronic interface 119 can communicate with the one or more sensors 130 using a wired connection or a wireless connection (e.g., using an RF communication protocol, a WiFi communication protocol, a Bluetooth communication protocol, an IR communication protocol, over a cellular network, over any other optical communication protocol, etc.). The electronic interface 119 may include an antenna, a receiver (e.g., an RF receiver), a transmitter (e.g., an RF transmitter), a transceiver, or any combination thereof. The electronic interface 119 may also include one or more processors and / or one or more memory devices that are the same or similar to the processor 112 and memory device 114 described herein. In some embodiments, the electronic interface 119 is coupled to or integrated into the user device 116 and / or the humidifier module 102. In other embodiments, the electronic interface 119 is coupled to or integrated with the control system 110 and / or the memory device 114 (eg, in a housing).

[0061] As described above, in some embodiments, system 100 optionally includes a respiratory system 120 (also referred to as a respiratory therapy system). Respiratory system 120 can include device 122 (also referred to as a respiratory pressure therapy device), user interface 124, conduit 126 (also referred to as tubing or air circuit), display device 128, humidification canister and / or humidifier 129, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, control system 110, memory device 114, display device 128, one or more sensors 130, and humidifier 129 are part of respiratory device 122.

[0062] Respiratory pressure therapy is the application of air to the airway entrance at a controlled target pressure that is nominally positive relative to atmosphere throughout the patient's respiratory cycle (as opposed to negative pressure therapy such as a tank ventilator or chest plate). The respiratory system 120 is typically used to treat individuals with one or more sleep-related breathing disorders (e.g., obstructive sleep apnea, central sleep apnea, or mixed sleep apnea), other breathing disorders (e.g., COPD), or other disorders that result in respiratory insufficiency that may manifest during sleep or wakefulness.

[0063] The breathing apparatus 122 is typically used to generate pressurized air that is delivered to the user (e.g., using one or more motors driving one or more compressors). In some embodiments, the breathing apparatus 122 generates a continuous, constant air pressure that is delivered to the user. In other embodiments, the breathing apparatus 122 generates two or more predetermined pressures (e.g., a first predetermined air pressure and a second predetermined air pressure). In other embodiments, the breathing apparatus 122 is configured to generate a plurality of different air pressures within a predetermined range. For example, the breathing apparatus 122 can deliver at least approximately 6 cmH2O, at least approximately 10 cmH2O, at least approximately 20 cmH2O, between approximately 6 cmH2O and approximately 10 cmH2O, between approximately 7 cmH2O and approximately 12 cmH2O, and the like. The breathing apparatus 122 can also deliver pressurized air at a predetermined flow rate, e.g., between approximately -20 L / min and approximately 150 L / min, while maintaining a positive pressure (relative to ambient pressure). In some embodiments, control system 110 , memory device 114 , electronic interface 119 , or any combination thereof may be coupled to and / or positioned within the housing of respiratory device 122 .

[0064] The user interface 124 engages a portion of the user's 109 face and delivers pressurized air from the respiratory device 122 to the user's 109 airway to help prevent the airway from narrowing and / or collapsing during sleep. This can also increase the user's 109 oxygen intake during sleep. Depending on the treatment to be applied, the user interface 124 can, for example, form a seal with an area or portion of the user's 109 face to facilitate delivery of gas at a pressure that is sufficiently different from the ambient pressure, such as at a positive pressure of approximately 10 cmH2O relative to the ambient pressure to achieve treatment. For other forms of treatment, such as oxygen delivery, the user interface may not include a seal sufficient to facilitate delivery of a gas supply at a positive pressure of approximately 10 cmH2O to the airway.

[0065] like Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, the user interface 124 is or includes a mask covering the nose and mouth of the user. Alternatively, the user interface 124 is or includes a nasal mask that provides air to the user's nose or a nasal pillow mask that delivers air directly to the user's nostrils. The user interface 124 may include a belt assembly having a plurality of strips (e.g., including hook and loop fasteners) on a portion of the user interface 124 for positioning and / or stabilizing the user interface 124 in the desired position (e.g., face) of the user, and a conformable pad (e.g., silicone, plastic, foam, etc.) that helps provide an airtight seal between the user interface 124 and the user. The user interface 124 may also include one or more vents for allowing carbon dioxide and other gases exhaled by the user 210 to escape. In other embodiments, the user interface 124 includes a nozzle (e.g., a night guard nozzle molded to conform to the user's teeth, a mandibular repositioning device, etc.).

[0066] The conduit 126 allows air to flow between two components of the respiratory system 120, such as the respiratory device 122 and the user interface 124. In some embodiments, there may be separate branches of the conduit 126 for inspiration and expiration. In other embodiments, a single branch conduit is used for inspiration and expiration.

[0067] One or more of the respiratory device 122, user interface 124, conduit 126, display device 128, and humidification canister and / or humidifier 129 may include one or more sensors (e.g., a pressure sensor, a flow rate sensor, or more generally any other sensor 130 described herein). These one or more sensors may be used, for example, to measure the air pressure and / or flow rate of the pressurized air supplied by the respiratory device 122.

[0068] The display device 128 is generally used to display images, including still images, video images, or both, and / or information about the respiratory device 122. For example, the display device 128 may provide information about the status of the respiratory device 122 (e.g., whether the respiratory device 122 is on / off, the pressure of the air delivered by the respiratory device 122, the temperature of the air delivered by the respiratory device 122, etc.) and / or other information (e.g., a sleep score or a therapy score (also referred to as myAir TM In some embodiments, the display device 128 functions as a human-machine interface (HMI) including a graphical user interface (GUI) configured to display images as an input interface. The display device 128 may be an LED display, an OLED display, an LCD display, or the like. The input interface may be, for example, a touch screen or touch-sensitive substrate, a mouse, a keyboard, or any sensor system configured to sense input from a human user interacting with the respiratory device 122.

[0069] A humidification canister and / or humidifier 129 is coupled to or integrated into respiratory device 122 and includes a water reservoir that can be used to humidify the pressurized air delivered from respiratory device 122. Respiratory device 122 can include a heater to heat the water in humidification canister 129 to humidify the pressurized air delivered to the user. Additionally, in some embodiments, conduit 126 can also include a heating element (e.g., coupled to and / or embedded in conduit 126) that heats the pressurized air delivered to the user. In other embodiments, respiratory device 122 or conduit 126 can include a waterless humidifier 129 (e.g., a humidifier without a water tank). Waterless humidifier 129 can incorporate sensors that interface with other sensors located elsewhere in system 100.

[0070] The respiratory system 120 can be used as, for example, a ventilator or a positive airway pressure (PAP) system, such as a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) system, an automatic positive airway pressure system (APAP), a bi-level or variable positive airway pressure system (BPAP or VPAP), or any combination thereof. A CPAP system delivers a predetermined air pressure (e.g., determined by a sleep physician) to a user. An APAP system automatically changes the air pressure delivered to a user based, at least in part, on respiratory data associated with the user. A BPAP or VPAP system is configured to deliver a first predetermined pressure (e.g., inspiratory positive airway pressure or IPAP) and a second predetermined pressure (e.g., expiratory positive airway pressure or EPAP) that is lower than the first predetermined pressure.

[0071] Reference Figure 2 , showing a system 100 ( Figure 1 ) part. A user 210 of the respiratory system 120 (e.g., Figure 1of the user 109) and a bed partner 220 (e.g., Figure 1 10) is positioned in bed 230 and lies on mattress 232. User interface 124 (e.g., a full face mask) can be worn by user 210 during sleep. User interface 124 is fluidly coupled and / or connected to breathing apparatus 122 via conduit 126. Breathing apparatus 122, in turn, delivers pressurized air to user 210 through conduit 126 and user interface 124 to increase air pressure in the throat of user 210, thereby helping to prevent the airway from closing and / or narrowing during sleep. Breathing apparatus 122 may be positioned such as Figure 2 The bedside table 240 is shown directly adjacent to the bed 230 , or more generally, positioned on any surface or structure generally adjacent to the bed 230 and / or the user 210 .

[0072] Return Reference Figure 1 As discussed in more detail below, the sensors 130 may include a first sensor 130a and a second sensor 130b. The first sensor 130a may be any one or more of the sensors 130 that are capable of detecting environmental parameters regarding the conditions of the environment 108. The environmental parameters may be audio-based, light-based, touch-based, motion-based, etc. In one or more embodiments, the first sensor 130a may be a temperature and / or humidity sensor. Humidity sensors may include capacitance sensors (humidity-dependent condensers), resistance sensors (measuring electrical changes in conductive polymers / treated substrates), and thermal conductivity sensors (the difference between the thermal conductivity of dry air and humid air). In one or more embodiments, the first sensor 130a may be a standalone sensor provided with the system 100, built into the environment 108 (e.g., the wall / ceiling of a smart building), or integrated into another electronic device in the environment 108 (such as a smart speaker or a TV with a microphone) to detect the location of the user 109 and the humidifier module 102.

[0073] The second sensor 130b can be any one or more sensors 130 capable of detecting one or more physiological parameters of the user 109. For example, the second sensor 130b can be an acoustic sensor, a resistive sensor, a capacitive sensor, a piezoelectric sensor, a MEMS accelerometer sensor, an optical sensor, a pressure sensor, a temperature sensor, a charged thin film sensor, or other types of sensors. The physiological parameters can be, for example, heart rate, body temperature, activity level, hydration level, one or more sounds generated by the user, or a combination thereof, or any other physiological parameters.

[0074] In one or more embodiments, the second sensor 130b may include and provide information corresponding to one or more physiological parameters input by the user 109. For example, the user 109 may input information regarding their comfort level, such as breathing comfort, including subjective information related to breathing, into the second sensor 130b. Self-reported information input to the second sensor 130b may also include data regarding the severity / progression of a medical condition.

[0075] The second sensor 130 b may also be a standalone sensor provided with the system 100, built into the environment 108 (e.g., a wall / ceiling of a smart building), or integrated into another electronic device in the environment 108. Thus, the second sensor 130 b may be one or more of a passive acoustic sensor, an active acoustic sensor, a passive radio frequency sensor, an active radio frequency sensor, a passive infrared sensor, an active infrared sensor, an optical sensor, or a video sensor. For example, the second sensor 130b can be one or more passive audio sensors that monitor breathing sounds, one or more active acoustic sensors that process reflected audio and / or ultrasound signals from objects, one or more passive RF sensors that process reflections from electromagnetic signals (e.g., Wi-Fi, cellular, satellite, digital TV, or other signals), one or more active RF sensors, such as (e.g., RFRADAR, such as CW, pulsed CW, FSKCW, PSKCW, FMCW, UWB, RF imaging, etc., using time of flight, phase change, Doppler shift, etc.), one or more passive infrared and / or active infrared that process echoes, one or more optical sensors such as video photoplethysmography (PPG). The active and / or passive acoustic sensors can be, for example, a smartphone, tablet, smart speaker, car stereo, radio, television, etc. The second sensor 130b can also, alternatively, be one or more contact sensors that can perform the above or alternative sensing functions / modalities.

[0076] In one or more embodiments, the first sensor 130a, the second sensor 130b, or both can be separate or integrated into a wearable device, such as a watch, ring, earrings, headphones, bracelet, necklace, patch, clothing, mattress, car seat, or a combination thereof, as further discussed below.

[0077] In more detail, the one or more sensors 130 (e.g., first sensor 130a and second sensor 130b) of system 100 may include a pressure sensor 132, a flow rate sensor 134, a temperature sensor 136, a motion sensor 138, a microphone 140, a speaker 142, a radio frequency (RF) receiver 146, an RF transmitter 148, a camera 150, an infrared (IR) sensor 152, a photoplethysmogram (PPG) sensor 154, an electrocardiogram (ECG) sensor 156, an electroencephalogram (EEG) sensor 158, a capacitance sensor 160, a force sensor 162, a strain gauge sensor 164, an electromyogram (EMG) sensor 166, an oxygen sensor 168, an analyte sensor 174, a humidity sensor 176, a light detection and ranging (LiDAR) sensor 178, or any combination thereof. Typically, each of the one or more sensors 130 is configured to output sensor data that is received and stored in the memory device 114 or one or more other memory devices. The sensor 130 may also include an electro-oculogram (EOG) sensor, a peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2) sensor, a galvanic skin response (GSR) sensor, a carbon dioxide (CO2) sensor, or any combination thereof.

[0078] Although the one or more sensors 130 are shown and described as including each of the pressure sensor 132, flow rate sensor 134, temperature sensor 136, motion sensor 138, microphone 140, speaker 142, RF receiver 146, RF transmitter 148, camera 150, IR sensor 152, PPG sensor 154, ECG sensor 156, EEG sensor 158, capacitance sensor 160, force sensor 162, strain gauge sensor 164, EMG sensor 166, oxygen sensor 168, analyte sensor 174, humidity sensor 176, and lidar sensor 178, more generally, the one or more sensors 130 may include any combination and any number of each sensor described and / or shown herein, including one or more sensors being omitted.

[0079] The one or more sensors 130 may be used to generate, for example, physiological data, audio data, or both. The control system 110 may use the physiological data generated by the one or more sensors 130 to determine a sleep-wake signal and one or more sleep-related parameters associated with the user during a sleep period. The sleep-wake signal may indicate one or more sleep stages, including sleep, wakefulness, relaxed wakefulness, micro-arousals, or different sleep stages, such as a rapid eye movement (REM) stage, a first non-REM stage (commonly referred to as "N1"), a second non-REM stage (commonly referred to as "N2"), a third non-REM stage (commonly referred to as "N3"), or any combination thereof.

[0080] The sleep-wake signal may also be time-stamped to indicate the time the user entered the bed, the time the user left the bed, the time the user attempted to fall asleep, etc. The sleep-wake signal may measure one or more of the sensors 130 at a predetermined sampling rate (e.g., one sample per second, one sample per 30 seconds, one sample per minute) during the sleep period. Examples of one or more sleep-related parameters that may be determined for the user during the sleep period based at least in part on the sleep-wake signal include total time in bed, total sleep time, total wake time, sleep onset latency, wake parameter after sleep onset, sleep efficiency, segmentation index, amount of time asleep, consistency of breathing rate, time to fall asleep, wake time, sleep disturbance rate, number of movements, or any combination thereof.

[0081] Physiological data and / or audio data generated by one or more sensors 130 can also be used to determine a respiratory signal associated with the user during a sleep period. The respiratory signal generally represents the user's breathing during sleep. The respiratory signal can indicate, for example, respiratory rate, respiratory rate variability, inspiratory amplitude, expiratory amplitude, inspiratory-expiratory amplitude ratio, inspiratory-expiratory duration ratio, number of events per hour, event pattern, pressure setting of the respiratory device 122, or any combination thereof. Events can include snoring, apnea, central apnea, obstructive apnea, mixed apnea, hypopnea, mask leak (e.g., from user interface 124), restless legs, sleep disorder, apnea, increased heart rate, heart rate change, difficulty breathing, asthma attack, epileptic seizure, epileptic seizure, fever, coughing, sneezing, snoring, wheezing, the presence of an illness such as the common cold or flu, increased stress level, etc.

[0082] Pressure sensor 132 outputs pressure data that can be stored in memory device 114 and / or analyzed by processor 112 of control system 110. In some embodiments, pressure sensor 132 is an air pressure sensor (e.g., a barometric pressure sensor) that generates sensor data indicative of the user's respiration (e.g., inhalation and / or exhalation) and / or ambient pressure (e.g., the pressure of environment 108) of breathing system 120. In such embodiments, pressure sensor 132 can be coupled to or integrated into breathing device 122. Pressure sensor 132 can be, for example, a capacitive sensor, an electromagnetic sensor, an inductive sensor, a resistive sensor, a piezoelectric sensor, a strain gauge sensor, an optical sensor, or a potentiometric sensor, any combination thereof. In one example, pressure sensor 132 can be used to determine the user's blood pressure.

[0083] Flow rate sensor 134 outputs flow rate data that can be stored in memory device 114 and / or analyzed by processor 112 of control system 110. In some embodiments, flow rate sensor 134 is used to determine the flow rate of air from respiratory device 122, the flow rate of air through conduit 126, the flow rate of air through user interface 124, or any combination thereof. In such embodiments, flow rate sensor 134 can be coupled to or integrated into respiratory device 122, user interface 124, or conduit 126. Flow rate sensor 134 can be a mass flow rate sensor, such as a rotameter (e.g., a Hall effect flowmeter), a turbine flowmeter, an orifice flowmeter, an ultrasonic flowmeter, a hot wire sensor, a vortex sensor, a membrane sensor, or any combination thereof.

[0084] Temperature sensor 136 outputs temperature data that can be stored in memory device 114 and / or analyzed by processor 112 of control system 110. In some embodiments, temperature sensor 136 generates temperature data indicative of the core body temperature of user 109, the skin temperature of user 109, the temperature of air flowing from breathing device 122 and / or through conduit 126, the temperature within user interface 124, the ambient temperature, or any combination thereof. Temperature sensor 136 can be, for example, a thermocouple sensor, a thermistor sensor, a silicon bandgap temperature sensor or semiconductor-based sensor, a resistance temperature detector, or any combination thereof.

[0085] Motion sensor 138 outputs motion data that can be stored in memory device 114 and / or analyzed by processor 112 of control system 110. Motion sensor 138 can be used to detect movement of user 109 during sleep and / or detect movement of any component of respiratory system 120, such as respiratory device 122, user interface 124, or catheter 126. Motion sensor 138 can include one or more inertial sensors, such as accelerometers, gyroscopes, and magnetometers. Motion sensor 138 can be used to detect motion or acceleration associated with an arterial pulse, such as a pulse in or around the face of user 109 and proximate to user interface 124, and can be configured to detect characteristics of pulse shape, velocity, amplitude, or volume.

[0086] The microphone 140 outputs sound data that can be stored in the memory device 114 and / or analyzed by the processor 112 of the control system 110. The audio data generated by the microphone 140 can be reproduced as one or more sounds (e.g., sounds from the user 109) during the sleep period to determine (e.g., using the control system 110) one or more sleep-related parameters, as described in further detail herein. The audio data from the microphone 140 can also be used to identify (e.g., using the control system 110) events experienced by the user during the sleep period, as described in further detail herein. The microphone 140 can be coupled to or integrated into the respiratory device 122, the user interface 124, the conduit 126, or the user device 116.

[0087] Speaker 142 outputs sound waves audible to user 109 of system 100. Speaker 142 can be used, for example, as an alarm clock or to play alerts or messages (e.g., in response to an event) to user 109. In some embodiments, speaker 142 can be used to transmit audio data generated by microphone 140 to user 109. Speaker 142 can be coupled to or integrated into respiratory device 122, user interface 124, conduit 126, or user device 116.

[0088] The microphone 140 and the speaker 142 can be used as separate devices. In some embodiments, the microphone 140 and the speaker 142 can be combined into the acoustic sensor 141, as described, for example, in WO 2018 / 050913, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. In such an embodiment, the speaker 142 generates or emits sound waves at predetermined intervals, and the microphone 140 detects reflections of the emitted sound waves from the speaker 142. The sound waves generated or emitted by the speaker 142 have a frequency that is inaudible to the human ear (e.g., below 20 Hz or above about 18 kHz) so as not to disturb the user 109 (or Figure 2 140 ) is an acoustic sensor 141; and (ii) a second microphone is an acoustic sensor 141. The second microphone is an acoustic sensor 141. The second microphone is an acoustic sensor 141. The second microphone is an acoustic sensor 141. The second microphone is an acoustic sensor 141. The second microphone is an acoustic sensor 141. The second microphone is an acoustic sensor 141. The second microphone is an acoustic sensor 141.

[0089] The RF transmitter 148 generates and / or transmits radio waves having a predetermined frequency and / or predetermined amplitude (e.g., within a high frequency band, within a low frequency band, a long wave signal, a short wave signal, etc.). The RF receiver 146 detects reflections of the radio waves transmitted from the RF transmitter 148, and this data may be analyzed by the control system 110 to determine the position of the user 109 and / or one or more sleep-related parameters described herein. The RF receiver (RF receiver 146 and RF transmitter 148 or another RF pair) may also be used for wireless communication between the control system 110, the respiratory device 122, one or more sensors 130, the user device 116, or any combination thereof. Although the RF receiver 146 and RF transmitter 148 may be used in Figure 1 146 and 148 are shown as separate and distinct elements, but in some embodiments, the RF receiver 146 and the RF transmitter 148 are combined as part of the RF sensor 147. In some such embodiments, the RF sensor 147 includes control circuitry. The specific format of RF communication can be WiFi, Bluetooth, etc.

[0090] In some embodiments, the RF sensor 147 is part of a mesh system. An example of a mesh system is a WiFi mesh system, which may include mesh nodes, mesh routers, and mesh gateways, each of which may be mobile / movable or fixed. In such an embodiment, the WiFi mesh system includes a WiFi router and / or WiFi controller and one or more satellites (e.g., access points), each satellite including an RF sensor that is the same or similar to the RF sensor 147. The WiFi router and satellites continuously communicate with each other using WiFi signals. The WiFi mesh system can be used to generate motion data based at least in part on changes in the WiFi signal between the router and the satellite (e.g., differences in received signal strength) due to a moving object or person partially blocking the signal. The motion data can indicate movement, respiration, heart rate, gait, falls, behavior, etc., or any combination thereof.

[0091] The camera 150 outputs image data that can be reproduced as one or more images (e.g., still images, video images, thermal images, or a combination thereof) that can be stored in the memory device 114. The image data from the camera 150 can be used by the control system 110 to determine one or more of the sleep-related parameters described herein. For example, the image data from the camera 150 can be used to identify the user's position, determine whether the user 109 is in bed 230 ( Figure 2), and determine when the user 109 leaves the bed 230. The camera 150 can also be used to track eye movement, pupil dilation (if one or both eyes of the user 109 are open), blink rate, or any changes during REM sleep. The camera 150 can also be used to track the position of the user 109, which can affect the duration and / or severity of apnea events for users 109 with positional obstructive sleep apnea.

[0092] IR sensor 152 outputs infrared image data that can be reproduced as one or more infrared images (e.g., still images, video images, or both) that can be stored in memory device 114. Infrared data from IR sensor 152 can be used to determine one or more sleep-related parameters during a sleep period, including the temperature of user 109 and / or the movement of user 109. IR sensor 152 can also be used in conjunction with camera 150 when measuring the presence, position, and / or movement of user 109. For example, IR sensor 152 can detect infrared light having wavelengths between approximately 700 nm and approximately 1 mm, while camera 150 can detect visible light having wavelengths between approximately 380 nm and approximately 740 nm.

[0093] The PPG sensor 154 outputs physiological data associated with the user 109, which can be used to determine one or more sleep-related parameters, such as heart rate, heart rate pattern, heart rate variability, cardiac cycle, respiratory rate, inspiratory amplitude, expiratory amplitude, inspiratory-expiratory ratio, estimated blood pressure parameters, or any combination thereof. The PPG sensor 154 can be worn by the user 109, embedded in clothing and / or fabric worn by the user 109, embedded in and / or coupled to the user interface 124 and / or its associated headgear (e.g., a band, etc.), etc.

[0094] The ECG sensor 156 outputs physiological data associated with the electrical activity of the heart of the user 109. In some embodiments, the ECG sensor 156 includes one or more electrodes positioned on or around a portion of the user 109 during a sleep period. The physiological data from the ECG sensor 156 can be used, for example, to determine one or more of the sleep-related parameters described herein.

[0095] The EEG sensor 158 outputs physiological data associated with the electrical activity of the brain of the user 109. In some embodiments, the EEG sensor 158 includes one or more electrodes that are positioned on or around the scalp of the user 109 during sleep. The physiological data from the EEG sensor 158 can be used, for example, to determine the sleep stage of the user 109 at any given time during sleep. In some embodiments, the EEG sensor 158 can be integrated into the user interface 124 and / or associated headgear (e.g., a band, etc.).

[0096] The capacitive sensor 160, the force sensor 162, and the strain gauge sensor 164 output data that can be stored in the memory device 114 and used by the control system 110 to determine one or more of the sleep-related parameters described herein. The EMG sensor 166 outputs physiological data related to the electrical activity generated by one or more muscles. The oxygen sensor 168 outputs oxygen data indicating the oxygen concentration of the gas (e.g., in the conduit 126 or at the user interface 124). The oxygen sensor 168 can be, for example, an ultrasonic oxygen sensor, an electrical oxygen sensor, a chemical oxygen sensor, an optical oxygen sensor, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors 130 further include a galvanic skin response (GSR) sensor, a blood flow sensor, a respiration sensor, a pulse sensor, a blood pressure sensor, a blood oximeter sensor, or any combination thereof.

[0097] Analyte sensor 174 can be used to detect the presence of analytes in the exhaled breath of user 109. Data output by analyte sensor 174 can be stored in memory device 114 and used by control system 110 to determine the identity and concentration of any analytes in the breath of user 109. In some embodiments, analyte sensor 174 is located near the mouth of user 109 to detect analytes in breath exhaled from the mouth of user 109. For example, when user interface 124 is a facial mask that covers the nose and mouth of user 109, analyte sensor 174 can be located within the facial mask to monitor mouth breathing of user 109. In other embodiments, such as when user interface 124 is a nasal mask or a nasal pillow mask, analyte sensor 174 can be positioned near the nose of user 109 to detect analytes in breath exhaled through the nose of user 109. In other embodiments, when user interface 124 is a nasal mask or a nasal pillow mask, analyte sensor 174 can be located near the mouth of user 109. In this embodiment, the analyte sensor 174 can be used to detect whether any air is inadvertently leaking from the mouth of the user 109. In some embodiments, the analyte sensor 174 is a volatile organic compound (VOC) sensor, which can be used to detect carbon-based chemicals or compounds, such as carbon dioxide. In some embodiments, the analyte sensor 174 can also be used to detect whether the user 109 is breathing through their nose or mouth. For example, if the data output by the analyte sensor 174 located near the mouth of the user 109 or within the mask (in embodiments where the user interface 124 is a mask) detects the presence of an analyte, the control system 110 can use this data as an indication that the user 109 is breathing through their mouth.

[0098] Humidity sensor 176 outputs data that can be stored in memory device 114 and used by control system 110. Humidity sensor 176 can be used to detect humidity in various areas around user 109 (e.g., inside conduit 126 or user interface 124, near user 109's face, near the connection between conduit 126 and user interface 124, near the connection between conduit 126 and respiratory device 122, etc.). Thus, in some embodiments, humidity sensor 176 can be coupled to or integrated into user interface 124 or conduit 126 to monitor the humidity of pressurized air from respiratory device 122. In other embodiments, humidity sensor 176 is placed near any area where humidity levels need to be monitored. Humidity sensor 176 can also be used to monitor the humidity of the ambient environment around user 109, such as the air inside user 109's bedroom. Humidity sensor 176 can also be used to track user 109's biometric response to environmental changes.

[0099] One or more lidar sensors 178 can be used for depth sensing. This type of optical sensor (e.g., a laser sensor) can be used to detect objects and construct a three-dimensional (3D) map of the surrounding environment (e.g., a living space). Lidar typically utilizes pulsed lasers to perform time-of-flight measurements. Lidar is also known as 3D laser scanning. In an example using this sensor, a fixed or mobile device (such as a smartphone) equipped with a lidar sensor 178 can measure and map an area extending 5 meters or more from the sensor. For example, lidar data can be fused with point cloud data estimated by an electromagnetic radar sensor. Lidar sensors 178 can also use artificial intelligence (AI) to automatically geo-fence radar systems by detecting and classifying features in a space that may cause problems for the radar system, such as glass windows (which can be highly reflective to radar). For example, lidar can also be used to provide an estimate of a person's height and how that height changes when a person sits down or falls. Lidar can be used to form a 3D mesh representation of the environment. In a further application, lidar can reflect off solid surfaces (e.g., radio-transmissive materials) that radio waves pass through, allowing classification of different types of obstacles.

[0100] Although Figure 110. Although not shown individually in FIG. 10, any combination of the one or more sensors 130 may be integrated into and / or coupled to any one or more components of the system 100, including the respiratory apparatus 122, the user interface 124, the conduit 126, the humidification canister / humidifier 129, the control system 110, the user device 116, or any combination thereof. For example, the acoustic sensor 141 and / or the RF sensor 147 may be integrated into and / or coupled to the user device 116. In such embodiments, the user device 116 may be considered an auxiliary device that generates additional or auxiliary data for use by the system 100 (e.g., the control system 110), in accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the pressure sensor 132 and / or the flow rate sensor 134 are integrated into and / or coupled to the respiratory apparatus 122. In some embodiments, at least one of the one or more sensors 130 is not coupled to the respiratory device 122, the control system 110, or the user device 116 and is generally positioned proximate to the user 109 during sleep periods (e.g., positioned on or in contact with a portion of the user 109, worn by the user 109, coupled to or positioned on a nightstand 240). Figure 2 ) and connected to the mattress 232 ( Figure 2 ), coupled to a ceiling (e.g., environment 108), etc.). More generally, the one or more sensors 130 may be positioned at any suitable location relative to the user 109 such that the one or more sensors 130 may generate data related to the user 109 (e.g., Figure 2 Physiological data associated with the user 210 and / or bed partner 220).

[0101] Data from one or more sensors 130 can be analyzed to determine one or more sleep-related parameters, which can include a respiratory signal, a respiratory rate, a respiratory pattern, an inspiratory amplitude, an expiratory amplitude, an inspiratory-expiratory ratio, the occurrence of one or more events, the number of events per hour, an event pattern, an average duration of an event, a range of event durations, a ratio between different numbers of events, a sleep stage, an apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), or any combination thereof. The one or more events can include snoring, apnea, central apnea, obstructive apnea, mixed apnea, hypopnea, intentional user interface leakage, unintentional user interface leakage, mouth leakage, coughing, restless legs, sleep disorders, choking, increased heart rate, dyspnea, asthma attack, seizure, epileptic seizure, increased blood pressure, or any combination thereof. Many of these sleep-related parameters are physiological parameters, although some sleep-related parameters can be considered non-physiological parameters. Other types of physiological and non-physiological parameters can also be determined based on data from one or more sensors 130 or based on other types of data.

[0102] User device 116 ( Figure 1 ) includes a display device 172. User device 116 can be, for example, a mobile device such as a smartphone, tablet, laptop, etc. Alternatively, user device 116 can be an external sensing system, a television (e.g., a smart TV), or another smart home device (e.g., a smart speaker such as Google Home, Amazon Echo, Alexa, etc.). In some embodiments, the user device is a wearable device (e.g., a smart watch). Display device 172 is typically used to display images including still images, video images, or both. In some embodiments, display device 172 acts as a human-machine interface (HMI) including a graphical user interface (GUI) configured to display images and an input interface. Display device 172 can be an LED display, an OLED display, an LCD display, etc. The input interface can be, for example, a touch screen or touch-sensitive substrate, a mouse, a keyboard, or any sensor system configured to sense input made by a human user interacting with user device 116. In some embodiments, one or more user devices can be used by system 100 and / or included in system 100.

[0103] Blood pressure device 180 is generally used to help generate physiological data used to determine one or more blood pressure measurements associated with a user. Blood pressure device 180 may include at least one of one or more sensors 130 to measure, for example, a systolic blood pressure component and / or a diastolic blood pressure component.

[0104] In some embodiments, the blood pressure device 180 is a sphygmomanometer that includes an inflatable cuff and a pressure sensor (e.g., the pressure sensor 132 described herein) that can be worn by a user. Figure 2 As shown in the example of , the blood pressure device 180 can be worn on the upper arm of the user 210. In such embodiments where the blood pressure device 180 is a sphygmomanometer, the blood pressure device 180 also includes a pump (e.g., a manually operated bulb) for inflating the cuff. In some embodiments, the blood pressure device 180 is coupled to the breathing device 122 of the breathing system 120, which in turn delivers pressurized air to inflate the cuff. More generally, the blood pressure device 180 can be communicatively coupled to and / or physically integrated therein (e.g., within a housing) with the control system 110, the memory device 114, the breathing system 120, the user device 116, and / or the activity tracker 190.

[0105] The activity tracker 190 is generally used to help generate physiological data for determining activity measurements associated with the user. The activity measurements may include, for example, the number of steps, the distance traveled, the number of steps climbed, the duration of physical activity, the type of physical activity, the intensity of physical activity, the time spent standing, breathing rate, average breathing rate, resting breathing rate, maximum breathing rate, breathing rate variability, heart rate, average heart rate, resting heart rate, maximum heart rate, heart rate variability, calories burned, blood oxygen saturation, electrodermal activity (also known as skin conductance or galvanic skin response), or any combination thereof. The activity tracker 190 includes one or more sensors 130 described herein, such as a motion sensor 138 (e.g., one or more accelerometers and / or gyroscopes), a PPG sensor 154, and / or an ECG sensor 156.

[0106] In some embodiments, the activity tracker 190 is a wearable device such as a smartwatch, wristband, ring, or patch that can be worn by the user 109. For example, Figure 2 , the activity tracker 190 is worn on the wrist of the user 210. The activity tracker 190 can also be coupled to or integrated into a garment or clothing worn by the user 109. Alternatively, the activity tracker 190 can also be coupled to or integrated into the user device 116 (e.g., within the same housing). More generally, the activity tracker 190 can be communicatively coupled to or physically integrated into (e.g., within a housing) the control system 110, the memory device 114, the respiratory system 120, the user device 116, and / or the blood pressure device 180.

[0107] Although the control system 110 and the memory device 114 are Figure 1 100 as separate and distinct components of system 100, but in some embodiments, control system 110 and / or memory device 114 are integrated into user device 116 and / or respiratory device 122. Alternatively, in some embodiments, control system 110 or a portion thereof (e.g., processor 112) may be located in the cloud (e.g., integrated in a server, integrated in an Internet of Things (IoT) device, connected to the cloud, subject to edge cloud processing, etc.), located in one or more servers (e.g., remote servers, local servers, etc., or any combination thereof).

[0108] Although system 100 is shown as including all of the components described above, according to embodiments of the present disclosure, more or fewer components may be included in system 100 for providing personalized humidification. For example, a first alternative system includes humidifier module 102, control system 110, memory device 114, and at least one of one or more sensors 130. As another example, a second alternative system includes humidifier module 102, control system 110, memory device 114, at least one of one or more sensors 130, and user device 116. As yet another example, a third alternative system includes humidifier module 102, control system 110, memory device 114, respiratory system 120, at least one of one or more sensors 130, and user device 116. As another example, a fourth alternative system includes humidifier module 102, control system 110, memory device 114, respiratory system 120, at least one of one or more sensors 130, user device 116, and blood pressure device 180 and / or activity tracker 190. In further examples, microphone 140 included in one or more sensors 130 may include microphone 242, a feedback microphone, or both. Thus, various systems for analyzing data associated with a user's use of respiratory system 120 may be formed using any one or more portions of the components shown and described herein for system 100 and / or in combination with one or more other components.

[0109] As described above, one or more user devices 116 may also be within the environment. The one or more user devices 116 may be any electronic device, such as a user device, that allows a user to provide information to one or more of the humidifier module 102, the memory device 114, the control system 110, the first sensor 130a, or the second sensor 130b. For example, the one or more electronic devices 116 may be a mobile (smart) phone, a personal digital assistant, a tablet, a laptop computer, a smart TV, a monitor, a terminal, a health tracker, a fitness tracker, a smart speaker, a smart sound bar, or any combination thereof. Although the user device 116 is shown as being separate from the first sensor 130a and the second sensor 130b, in one or more embodiments, the first sensor 130a, the second sensor 130b, or both may be integrated into the user device 116. For example, the user device 116 may again be a smart phone or an activity tracker 190 that can detect the humidity of the environment 108 and an electrocardiogram (ECG) signal and / or a respiration signal and / or the hydration level of the user 109 wearing the health tracker (e.g., using infrared). In one or more embodiments, the one or more sensors within the user device 116 may be one or more of the sensors 130a and 130b. For example, in one or more embodiments, a microphone and / or speaker within a smartphone may measure the breathing of the user 109, as disclosed in International Patent Application Publication No. WO 2018 / 050913, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0110] The user device 116 may provide additional physiological parameters that may not be sensed itself but may be provided from the user 109, such as by using a user interface of the user device 116. Such additional subjective parameters may include one or more of age, gender, body mass index, one or more medical conditions, one or more pre-existing conditions, or a combination thereof. These parameters may be stored in the user 109 profile on the user device 116. Physiological parameters may also include subjective information reported from the user 109 via the user device 116, including reported runny nose, difficulty breathing, dry skin, chest tightness, throat clearing, mucus / sputum volume and color, lack of energy, respiratory infections, self-reported sleep quality, self-reported current comfort level, and the like.

[0111] In one or more embodiments, the user device 116 may include information input by the user 109 corresponding to one or more physiological parameters, one or more environmental sensors, or a combination thereof and provide it to the control system 110. In such embodiments, the user device 116 may be considered a sensor. Similar to the above discussion, the user 109 may input information about their comfort level, such as their comfort level with breathing, including subjective information about breathing, into the user device 116. The user 109 may also input certain parameters about the environment. The self-reported information input into the user device 116 may also include data about the severity / progression of a medical condition, such as data read from an electronic health record.

[0112] Although only one humidifier module 102 is shown in one environment 108, in one or more embodiments, there may be multiple humidifier modules 102 in the environment 108, or there may be multiple separate environments 108 with separate humidifier modules 102. In one or more embodiments, there may be multiple environments 108, each with a humidifier module 102. Figure 1 For example, each separate environment 108 may include its own system 100 with a humidifier module 102, a control system 110, and a memory device 114. Processing between multiple control systems 110 may be centralized (locally or remotely, such as in the cloud). Thus, in one or more embodiments, Figure 1 Each element of can be stand-alone or networked device, or part of a home system. Each individual environment 108 can be controlled differently by one or more control systems 106. The differences can be based on what the user 109 expects to happen within a particular environment. Alternatively, the humidifier module 102 can cover several different environments 108, such as different rooms in a building or different compartments in a vehicle (car, train, airplane, ship, etc.). In this case, the change in output (humidification, dehumidification, warm or hot air) can be based on parameters measured by sensors (e.g., sensors 130 (130a and 130b)) that are local to the corresponding environment in which the target user 109 is located. Changing the output of the humidifier module 102 in this case can be achieved by redirecting the airflow carrying the output of the humidifier module 102 from one room / compartment to another, by closing and opening different groups of vents.

[0113] As used herein, a sleep period can be defined in a variety of ways based, for example, at least in part on an initial start time and end time. In some embodiments, a sleep period is the duration of time a user sleeps, i.e., the sleep period has a start time and an end time, and during the sleep period, the user does not wake up until the end time. That is, any period during which the user is awake is not included in a sleep period. According to this first definition of a sleep period, if a user wakes up and falls asleep multiple times in the same night, each sleep interval separated by the wake-up interval is a sleep period.

[0114] Alternatively, in some embodiments, a sleep session has a start time and an end time, and during a sleep session, as long as the user is awake for a continuous duration below a wake duration threshold, the user can remain awake without the sleep session ending. The wake duration threshold can be defined as a percentage of the sleep session. The wake duration threshold can be, for example, approximately 20% of the sleep session, approximately 15% of the sleep session duration, approximately 10% of the sleep session duration, approximately 5% of the sleep session duration, approximately 2% of the sleep session duration, or any other threshold percentage. In some embodiments, the wake duration threshold is defined as a fixed amount of time, such as approximately one hour, approximately thirty minutes, approximately fifteen minutes, approximately ten minutes, approximately five minutes, approximately two minutes, or any other amount of time.

[0115] In some embodiments, a sleep period is defined as the entire time between the time the user first gets into bed in the evening and the time the user last gets out of bed the next morning. In other words, a sleep period can be defined as a time period that begins at a first time (e.g., 10:00 p.m.) on a first date (e.g., Monday, January 6, 2020), which can be referred to as the current evening, when the user first gets into bed with the intention of falling asleep (e.g., if the user does not intend to watch TV or play music on a smartphone before falling asleep), and ends at a second time (e.g., 7:00 a.m.) on a second date (e.g., Tuesday, January 7, 2020), which can be referred to as the next morning, when the user first gets out of bed with the intention of not returning to sleep the next morning.

[0116] In some embodiments, the user can manually define the start of a sleep period and / or manually terminate a sleep period. For example, the user can select (e.g., by clicking or tapping) a sleep timer on the user device 116 ( Figure 1 ) to manually initiate or terminate a sleep period by displaying one or more user-selectable elements on the display device 172.

[0117] refer to Figure 3 , shows an exemplary timeline 300 of a sleep period. The timeline 300 includes the time to go to bed (t 入床), time to sleep (t GTS ), initial sleep time (t 睡眠 ), first micro-awakening MA1, second micro-awakening MA2, awakening A, awakening time (t 醒来 ) and wake-up time (t 起床 ).

[0118] Time to bed 入床 The user's initial entry into bed (e.g., before falling asleep) Figure 2 The bed entry time t can be identified based at least in part on the bed threshold duration. 入床 , to distinguish between the time when the user enters the bed for sleep and the time when the user enters the bed for other reasons (e.g., watching TV). For example, the bed threshold duration may be at least about 10 minutes, at least about 20 minutes, at least about 30 minutes, at least about 45 minutes, at least about 1 hour, at least about 2 hours, etc. Although the bed entry time t is described herein with respect to a bed 入床 , but more generally, bed time t 入床 May refer to the time when a user initially enters any position used for sleeping (eg, couch, chair, sleeping bag, etc.).

[0119] Time to sleep (GTS) and the time it takes for the user to get into bed (t 入床 ) is associated with the time of the initial attempt to fall asleep after falling asleep. For example, after getting into bed, the user may engage in one or more activities to cool down before attempting sleep (e.g., reading, watching television, listening to music, using user device 116, etc.). The initial sleep time (t 睡眠 ) is the time when the user initially falls asleep. For example, the initial sleep time (t 睡眠 ) may be the time when the user initially enters the first non-REM sleep stage.

[0120] Wake up time t 醒来 is the time associated with the time the user wakes up without returning to sleep (e.g., as opposed to the user waking up during the night and returning to sleep). A user may experience one of a number of involuntary arousals (e.g., MA1 and MA2) with short durations (e.g., 5 seconds, 10 seconds, 30 seconds, 1 minute, etc.) after initially falling asleep. 醒来Instead, the user returns to sleep after each of the micro-awakenings MA1 and MA2. Similarly, the user may have one or more conscious awakenings (e.g., awakening A) after initially falling asleep (e.g., getting up to go to the bathroom, caring for a child or pet, sleep walking, etc.). However, the user returns to sleep after awakening A. Thus, the awakening time t can be defined, for example, based at least in part on a wake threshold duration (e.g., the user is awake for at least 15 minutes, at least 20 minutes, at least 30 minutes, at least 1 hour, etc.). 醒来 .

[0121] Similarly, the wake-up time t 起床 is associated with the time when the user leaves the bed and leaves the bed to end the sleep period (e.g., as opposed to the user getting up during the night to go to the bathroom, care for children or pets, sleep walk, etc.). In other words, the wake-up time t 起床 is the time when the user last left the bed and did not return to the bed until the next sleep period (e.g., the next night). 起床 The bed entry time t of the second subsequent sleep period may be defined, for example, based at least in part on a wake-up threshold duration (e.g., the user has been out of bed for at least 15 minutes, at least 20 minutes, at least 30 minutes, at least 1 hour, etc.). The bed entry time t of the second subsequent sleep period may also be defined based at least in part on a wake-up threshold duration (e.g., the user has been out of bed for at least 4 hours, at least 6 hours, at least 8 hours, at least 12 hours, etc.). 入床 time.

[0122] As mentioned above, at the initial t 入床 and the last t 起床 In some embodiments, the final wake-up time t is identified or determined based at least in part on a predetermined threshold duration after an event (e.g., falling asleep or leaving the bed). 醒来 and / or final wake-up time t 起床 This threshold duration can be customized for the user. For a typical user who goes to bed at night and then wakes up and leaves the bed in the morning, any period between about 12 and about 18 hours (at the time the user wakes up (t 醒来 ) or get up (t 起床 ) and between the time when the user enters the bed (t 入床 ), enter sleep (t GTS ) or fall asleep (t 睡眠 For users who spend longer periods in bed, a shorter threshold period (e.g., between about 8 hours and about 14 hours) may be used. The threshold period may be initially selected and / or later adjusted based at least in part on a system monitoring a user's sleep behavior.

[0123] Total time in bed (TIB) is the time to bed入床 and wake-up time t 起床 The total sleep time (TST) is associated with the duration between the initial sleep time and the wake time, excluding any conscious or unconscious awakenings and / or micro-awakenings in between. Typically, the total sleep time (TST) will be shorter than the total time in bed (TIB) (e.g., one minute shorter, ten minutes shorter, one hour shorter, etc.). For example, refer to Figure 3 The timeline 300 shows the total sleep time (TST) spanning the initial sleep time t 睡眠 and wake-up time t 醒来 The durations of the first and second micro-arousals MA1 and MA2 are not included, and the durations of the awakening A are not included. As shown in the figure, in this example, the total sleep time (TST) is shorter than the total time in bed (TIB).

[0124] In some embodiments, total sleep time (TST) can be defined as persistent total sleep time (PTST). In such embodiments, persistent total sleep time does not include a predetermined initial portion or period of the first non-REM stage (e.g., a light sleep stage). For example, the predetermined initial portion can be between about 30 seconds and about 20 minutes, between about 1 minute and about 10 minutes, between about 3 minutes and about 5 minutes, etc. Persistent total sleep time is a measure of sustained sleep and smoothes the sleep-wake hypnogram. For example, when a user initially falls asleep, the user may be in the first non-REM stage for a very short time (e.g., about 30 seconds), then return to the wake stage for a very short time (e.g., one minute), and then return to the first non-REM stage. In this example, persistent total sleep time excludes the first instance of the first non-REM stage (e.g., about 30 seconds).

[0125] In some embodiments, a sleep period is defined as the time between bedtime (t 入床 ) starts and starts at the wake-up time (t 起床 ) ends, i.e., the sleep period is defined as the total time in bed (TIB). In some embodiments, the sleep period is defined as the time between the initial sleep time (t 睡眠 ) starts and starts at the wake-up time (t 醒来 ) ends. In some embodiments, a sleep period is defined as total sleep time (TST). In some embodiments, a sleep period is defined as the time between the time of falling asleep (t GTS ) starts and starts at the wake-up time (t 醒来 In some embodiments, the sleep period is defined as the time between the time of falling asleep (t GTS ) starts and starts at the wake-up time (t 起床 In some embodiments, the sleep period is defined as the time between bedtime (t 入床 ) starts and starts at the wake-up time (t醒来 ) ends. In some embodiments, the sleep period is defined as the period between the initial sleep time (t 睡眠 ) starts and starts at the wake-up time (t 起床 )Finish.

[0126] Reference Figure 4 , showing a timeline 300 ( Figure 3 ). As shown, hypnogram 400 includes a sleep-wake signal 401, a wake stage axis 410, a REM stage axis 420, a light sleep stage axis 430, and a deep sleep stage axis 440. An intersection between sleep-wake signal 401 and one of axes 410-440 indicates the sleep stage at a given time during a sleep session.

[0127] The sleep-wake signal 401 may be generated based at least in part on physiological data associated with the user (e.g., generated by one or more of the sensors 130 described herein). The sleep-wake signal may indicate one or more sleep stages, including wakefulness, relaxed wakefulness, micro-arousal, REM stage, first non-REM stage, second non-REM stage, third non-REM stage, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, one or more of the first non-REM stage, the second non-REM stage, and the third non-REM stage may be grouped together and classified as a light sleep stage or a deep sleep stage. For example, a light sleep stage may include the first non-REM stage, while a deep sleep stage may include the second non-REM stage and the third non-REM stage. Although in Figure 4 The hypnogram 400 shown in FIG. 4 includes a light sleep stage axis 430 and a deep sleep stage axis 440, but in some embodiments, the hypnogram 400 may include an axis for each of the first non-REM stage, the second non-REM stage, and the third non-REM stage. In other embodiments, the sleep-wake signal may further indicate a breathing signal, a breathing rate, an inspiratory amplitude, an expiratory amplitude, an inspiratory-expiratory amplitude ratio, an inspiratory-expiratory duration ratio, a number of events per hour, a pattern of events, or any combination thereof. Information describing the sleep-wake signal may be stored in the memory device 114.

[0128] The hypnogram 400 may be used to determine one or more sleep-related parameters, such as sleep onset latency (SOL), wake after sleep onset (WASO), sleep efficiency (SE), sleep segmentation index, sleep obstruction, or any combination thereof.

[0129] Sleep onset latency (SOL) is defined as the time to fall asleep (t GTS ) and initial sleep time (t 睡眠). In other words, the sleep onset wait time represents the time it takes a user to actually fall asleep after an initial sleep attempt. In some embodiments, the sleep onset wait time is defined as the sustained sleep onset wait time (PSOL). The sustained sleep onset wait time differs from the sleep onset wait time in that the sustained sleep onset wait time is defined as the duration between the time of falling asleep and a predetermined amount of sustained sleep. In some embodiments, the predetermined amount of sustained sleep may include, for example, at least 10 minutes of sleep within the second non-REM stage, the third non-REM stage, and / or the REM stage, with no more than 2 minutes of awakenings, the first non-REM stage, and / or movement therebetween. In other words, the sustained sleep onset wait time requires up to, for example, 8 minutes of sustained sleep within the second non-REM stage, the third non-REM stage, and / or the REM stage. In other embodiments, the predetermined amount of sustained sleep may include at least 10 minutes of sleep within the first non-REM stage, the second non-REM stage, the third non-REM stage, and / or the REM stage after the initial sleep time. In such embodiments, the predetermined amount of sustained sleep may exclude any micro-arousals (e.g., a ten-second micro-arousal does not restart the 10-minute period).

[0130] Awakenings after sleep onset (WASO) is associated with the total duration of a user's awakenings between the initial sleep time and the wake-up time. Thus, WASO includes brief and micro-awakenings during sleep (e.g., Figure 4 In some embodiments, a wakefulness after sleep onset (WASO) is defined as a persistent wakefulness after sleep onset (PWASO) that includes only wakefulness with a total duration of a predetermined length (e.g., greater than 10 seconds, greater than 30 seconds, greater than 60 seconds, greater than about 5 minutes, greater than about 10 minutes, etc.).

[0131] Sleep efficiency (SE) is determined as the ratio of total time in bed (TIB) to total sleep time (TST). For example, if the total time in bed is 8 hours and the total sleep time is 7.5 hours, the sleep efficiency for that sleep period is 93.75%. Sleep efficiency represents the user's sleep hygiene. For example, if the user gets into bed before going to sleep and spends time engaging in other activities (e.g., watching TV), sleep efficiency will be reduced (e.g., a user penalty). In some embodiments, sleep efficiency (SE) can be calculated based at least in part on the total time in bed (TIB) and the total time the user attempted sleep. In such embodiments, the total time the user attempted sleep is defined as the duration between the Go To Sleep (GTS) time and the Wake-Up Time described herein. For example, if the total sleep time is 8 hours (e.g., between 11 PM and 7 AM), the Go To Sleep time is 10:45 PM, and the Wake-Up Time is 7:15 AM, then in such embodiments, the sleep efficiency parameter is calculated to be approximately 94%.

[0132] The segment index is determined based at least in part on the number of awakenings during the sleep period. For example, if a user has two micro-awakenings (e.g., Figure 4 The segment index can be expressed as 2. In some embodiments, the segment index is scaled between a predetermined range of integers (eg, between 0 and 10).

[0133] A sleep block is associated with a transition between any sleep stage (eg, first non-REM stage, second non-REM stage, third non-REM stage, and / or REM) and a wake stage. A sleep block may be calculated at a resolution of, for example, 30 seconds.

[0134] In some embodiments, the systems and methods described herein may include generating or analyzing a hypnogram including a sleep-wake signal to determine or identify a bed entry time (t 入床 ), time to sleep (t GTS ), initial sleep time (t 睡眠 ), one or more first micro-awakenings (e.g., MA1 and MA2), waking time (t 醒来 ), wake-up time (t 起床 ), or any combination thereof.

[0135] In other embodiments, one or more of the sensors 130 may be used to determine or identify the time to bed (t 入床 ), time to sleep (t GTS ), initial sleep time (t 睡眠 ), one or more first micro-awakenings (e.g., MA1 and MA2), waking time (t 醒来 ), wake-up time (t起床 ), or any combination thereof, which in turn defines a sleep period. For example, the bed time t may be determined based at least in part on data generated, for example, by motion sensor 138, microphone 140, camera 150, or any combination thereof. 入床 The time to fall asleep may be determined based at least in part on, for example, data from motion sensor 138 (e.g., data indicating that the user is not moving), data from camera 150 (e.g., data indicating that the user is not moving and / or that the user has turned off the lights), data from microphone 140 (e.g., data indicating that the TV is being turned off), data from user device 116 (e.g., data indicating that the user is no longer using user device 116), data from pressure sensor 132 and / or flow rate sensor 134 (e.g., data indicating that the user has turned on breathing device 122, data indicating that the user is wearing user interface 124, etc.), or any combination thereof.

[0136] Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) systems are commonly used to treat individuals suffering from sleep-related breathing disorders. Typically, users of CPAP systems wear a user interface (e.g., a mask) that delivers pressurized air from a respiratory device to the user's throat to help prevent the airway from narrowing and / or collapsing during sleep, thereby increasing the user's oxygen intake. Many CPAP systems produce audible noise during use that can interfere with or interrupt the user's sleep. This noise is typically caused by the operation of a motor that produces compressed air in the respiratory device. In addition, the noise may be caused by air leaks in the CPAP system (e.g., from the mask of the CPAP system). Detecting and eliminating this noise during operation of the CPAP system is useful for helping users and their bed partners have high-quality sleep that is not interrupted by this noise.

[0137] As described above, the respiratory therapy system 120 may include a humidifier 129 that is configured to output moisture into the airflow flowing to the user 210, for example, via a conduit 126 connected to a user interface 128, which is coupled to the airway (e.g., mouth and / or nose) of the user 210. As further described below, the humidifier module 102 and the humidifier 129 may work in conjunction to alleviate the use of the humidifier 129. In one or more embodiments, the respiratory therapy system 120 may be entirely devoid of a humidifier 129. In one or more embodiments, the respiratory therapy system 120 may be configured to provide positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy for sleep disordered breathing (SDB) conditions, or to provide non-invasive ventilation (NIV). When NIV humidification is not provided, the control system 110 may adjust the humidity level to maximize the comfort and efficacy of the NIV.

[0138] refer to Figure 5, a method 500 for providing personalized humidification levels is shown. One or more steps of the method 500 described herein may be used Figure 1 The system may be implemented as one or more components of the humidifier module 102, the control system 110, the memory device 114, and one or more sensors 130 (eg, a first sensor 130a and a second sensor 130b).

[0139] At step 502, the control system 110 receives one or more environmental parameters regarding a condition of the environment 108 from the first sensor 130a. The one or more environmental parameters may include temperature, atmospheric pressure, air quality, wind chill, location, or any other environmental parameter disclosed herein, as well as combinations thereof. In one or more embodiments, the one or more environmental parameters may be audio information associated with the environment 108.

[0140] In step 504, the control system 110 receives one or more physiological parameters associated with the user 109 within the environment 108 from the second sensor 130b. The physiological parameters can be any physiological parameters disclosed herein and / or combinations thereof. In one or more embodiments, the one or more physiological parameters can be audio information associated with the user. The audio information can be information about one or more sounds related to breathing rate, breathing depth, breathing quality, coughing, wheezing, whistling, snoring, or a combination thereof. In one or more embodiments, the detection of breathing can occur as described in International Patent Application Publication Nos. WO 2007 / 143535 and WO 2018 / 050913, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference.

[0141] Additionally, or alternatively, the one or more physiological parameters may include heart rate, body temperature, activity level, hydration level, one or more sounds produced by the user, or combinations thereof, including any other physiological condition that may be correlated to the breathing condition of user 109 .

[0142] In one or more embodiments, the environment 108 may include one or more other users in addition to the user 109. The control system 110 may be configured to determine that the user 109 is a more vulnerable person relative to the one or more other users within the environment 108. For example, the user 109 may be a more vulnerable person based at least in part on having an asthma attack, a coughing attack, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or other respiratory condition. Thus, the control system 110 may configure itself to match the requirements of the most vulnerable person with respect to respiratory problems, i.e., the setting (e.g., target RH) will be optimized for people who already have or are most likely to have a respiratory problem (e.g., an asthma attack, a coughing attack, a COPD exacerbation, or other respiratory disease).

[0143] In one or more embodiments, the system 100 may include a user device 116 associated with the user 109. The control system 110 may receive one or more physiological parameters of the user 109 from the user device 116. The one or more physiological parameters from the user device 116 may include the age, gender, body mass index, one or more medical conditions, one or more pre-existing conditions, or a combination thereof of the user 109. For example, the "most likely to have a breathing problem" estimate discussed previously herein may be based on one or more physiological parameters provided by the user as subjective information provided via a user interface of the user device 116.

[0144] At step 504, the control system 110 may optionally receive one or more other physiological parameters associated with the user 109 within the environment 108 from the user device 116. The other physiological parameters may be any other physiological parameters discussed above with respect to the user device 116, such as age, weight, and how the user feels. In one or more embodiments, all available parameters may be made available to the control system 110 and input into the classifier for making the following determination at step 506.

[0145] At step 506, the control system 110 determines an action associated with the desired change in humidity within the environment 108 based at least in part on the one or more environmental parameters and the one or more physiological parameters. In one or more embodiments, the action may be a change in the position of the humidifier module 102 within the environment 108. In such embodiments, the control system 110 may process the one or more environmental parameters and the one or more physiological parameters to determine the position of the humidifier module 102 relative to the user 109 within the environment 108. The position change may be based on the position of the humidifier module 102 relative to the user 109. In one or more embodiments, the action may be an instruction to the user to move the humidifier module based on the position change resulting from the suggestion output by the control system 110. The output may be visual, such as on a display associated with the control system 110 and / or the humidifier module 102. The output may be audible, such as from a speaker associated with the control system 110 and / or the humidifier module 102.

[0146] In one or more embodiments, the humidifier module 102 may include one or more fans that guide the outputted moisture to change the humidity. The determined action may include determining to change the speed and / or direction of one or more fans to guide the humidified air flow in a specific direction. The specific direction may be determined relative to the user 109, relative to the boundaries of the environment 108, or a combination thereof. In one or more embodiments, the one or more fans may be controlled to provide ventilation to the environment 108, with or without humidity. In the case where the humidifier module 102 is part of a commercial heating, ventilation, and / or air conditioning system, the above-mentioned repositioning of the humidifier module 102 may be equivalently achieved by redirecting moisture / cold or heat from one area (a portion of a passenger compartment in a vehicle, a portion of a room or building, etc.) to another area, for example, by opening and closing different groups of vents that guide hot / cold / dry / humid air.

[0147] At step 508, the control system 110 causes execution of an action associated with a change in humidity in the environment based at least in part on the moisture output by the humidifier module 102. The action may be adjusting a set point of the humidifier module 102 to change the humidity in the environment according to an optimal humidity for the user. Based on physiological parameters, the optimal humidity may be beneficial for the current condition of the user 109, for example, if the user 109 currently suffers from a cold or other respiratory ailment.

[0148] In one or more embodiments, the control system 110 can further identify the effect of changes in humidity based on one or more physiological parameters of the user. The control system 110 can create a feedback loop in which steps 504, 506, and 508 can be repeated to find optimal conditions based on changes in physiological conditions, as described below with respect to Figure 7 Further discussion.

[0149] In one or more embodiments, control system 110 may receive one or more meteorological parameters indicative of conditions in area 118 outside user 109's environment 108 (e.g., outside user 109's home). Control system 110 may also determine one or more optimal conditions for humidifier module 102 based on the one or more environmental parameters and the one or more meteorological parameters. In this case, the action may be to change the humidification output based at least in part on the optimal conditions. If control system 110 determines that user 109 is likely to go outside (or to another area not under the control of humidifier module 102), this allows the humidity value to be targeted somewhere between user 109's ideal level and the external environment 118. Thus, control system 110 can use an adaptive approach for both the environment and area 118 outside environment 108 to target a personalized ideal level. For example, the optimal level for user 109's respiratory health may be 45% RH, while the outside may be 80% RH. Control system 110 may gradually change (e.g., increase) the humidification output to bring the humidity to the outside level, thereby reducing the shock of the change. This may be accompanied by a change in temperature (heating or cooling), or a reduction in the level of air purification (eg, reducing fan speed).

[0150] In one or more implementations, the determination that the user is leaving environment 108 may be done based on a statistical model, or interfacing with an electronic diary / calendar of user 109 , or based on input from user 109 .

[0151] In one or more embodiments, when the user 109 is about to enter or exit the environment 108, the control system 110 can communicate a set of personally preferred settings to the humidifier module 102 within the environment 108. For example, the humidifier module 102 can be within a car air conditioning system having humidification control functionality and a wired or wireless interface connected to a network for communicating with the control system 110. Alternatively, the humidifier module 102 can be a standalone unit connected to a power source in a vehicle with communication capabilities. This allows the user 109 to have settings that minimize the risk of exacerbating the disease at home and on the move. In one or more embodiments, the control system 110 can activate the humidification function before the user 109 enters the vehicle (e.g., in an electric car that allows the system to run before the user enters the vehicle).

[0152] In one or more embodiments, the action of step 508 can include adjusting the humidity in environment 108 (e.g., via humidifier module 102) and / or the humidity generated by humidifier 129 of respiratory therapy system 120 to achieve a desired physiological state for user 109. The physiological state of user 109 can relate to a desired comfort level related to and / or affected by humidity. The desired comfort level can be a general or default comfort level associated with user 109. Alternatively, the comfort level can be associated with a specific condition of user 109 or a specific time period. For example, a specific condition of user 109 can include when the user has a cold, allergies, a fever, etc. The humidity in environment 108 or generated by humidifier 129 can be controlled via the actions of step 508 to achieve a desired physiological state related to, for example, respiratory status, such as respiratory rate, coughing, or other respiratory distress; stress response, such as galvanic skin response or heart rate variability; airway dryness, such as nasal congestion (e.g., provided via user feedback); sleep status; sleep stage; etc. For example, user 109 may have a cold, and the action of step 508 may be to control the humidity in environment 108 to increase the breathing rate of user 109 and / or reduce the coughing rate or amount of user 109. The user may then be in a more comfortable state by having less respiratory distress.

[0153] refer to Figure 6 , provides a method for providing intelligent humidification. One or more steps of the method 600 described herein may be used Figure 1 The system may be implemented as one or more components of the humidifier module 102, the control system 110, the memory device 114, and one or more sensors 130 (eg, a first sensor 130a and a second sensor 130b).

[0154] At step 602, the control system 110 controls the humidifier module 102 under a first set of conditions. The first set of conditions may be based on, for example, a set point for humidity in the environment 108. The set point may be based on detected humidity and temperature and / or a predetermined humidification setting provided by a user.

[0155] At step 604, the control system 110 monitors changes in humidity in the environment 108 in response to operation of the humidifier module 102 based on the first set of conditions. This monitoring may result in a determination of whether the humidifier module 102 is located in a position within the environment 108 to effect a change in humidity. The effect on the change in humidity may be affected by a number of variables that may depend on the location of the humidifier module 102 in the environment 108.

[0156] In one or more embodiments, there are one or more sensors 130 located in the environment, such as a first sensor 130a and a second sensor 130b. Monitoring can include receiving information indicating a change in humidity from at least one of the one or more sensors 130. The control system 110 can also receive location information indicating a location of the humidifier module 102 relative to the one or more sensors 130 or the user 109 from at least one of the one or more sensors 130 (e.g., sensors 130a and 130b). The location information can also be based on the location of the humidifier module 102 relative to a boundary of the environment 108 (e.g., a wall of a room).

[0157] In one or more embodiments, the control system 110 may receive sound information from one or more sound sensors 130 within the environment 108 that are configured to detect sound. The sound information may include information indicating the location of the user 109 within the environment 108, such as the breathing described above. In response, the control system 110 may process the sound information to determine the location of the humidifier module 102 relative to the user 109 within the environment 108. In addition, the control system 110 may determine a new location to reposition the humidifier module 102 based at least in part on the sound information. In one or more embodiments, the new location may be relative to the user. The decision to reposition the humidifier module 102 may be based on the user 109 spending at least a predetermined amount of time at an alternative location. Repositioning the humidifier module 102 may be achieved by, for example, sending a message to the user 109 to move the humidifier module 102, or, in the case of moving the humidifier, sending instructions to a system responsible for moving the humidifier module 102 around. In the case of a multi-room or multi-compartment environment, "repositioning" of the output of the humidifier module 102 can be achieved by redirecting the airflow carrying the output of the humidifier module 102 from one room / compartment to another room / compartment by closing and opening different groups of vents.

[0158] At step 606, the control system 110 raises an alarm to reposition the humidifier module 102 within the environment 108 based at least in part on monitoring the change in humidity. In one or more embodiments, the alarm may simply be to move the humidifier module 102 without specifying where within the environment 108. In this case, Figure 6 The method may stop or repeat until no alarms are generated.

[0159] In one or more embodiments, the alert may include instructions to move the location of the humidifier module 102. The location may be relative to the environment 108, such as based on information received by the control system 110 that is processed to determine the location of the humidifier module 102 within the environment 108. Alternatively, the location may be relative to the user 109, such as based on information processed by the control system 110 to determine the location of the humidifier module 102 relative to the user 109. The information processed to determine the location relative to the user may be determined by the above-described Figure 5 For example, the control system 110 may determine whether the humidifier module 102 is too close to the user 109 or too far away based on the sounds produced by the user 109 and the humidifier module 102. Figure 6 The method allows the user 109 to position the humidifier module 102 at a more ideal location within the environment 108 to better control or influence the humidity within the environment 108. International Patent Application Publication No. WO 2018 / 050913 discloses more details of determining the distance to an object based on sound, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0160] In one or more embodiments, similar to step 508 discussed above, the determination of the effect on the user can be to achieve a desired physiological state for user 109. The specific condition of user 109 can be when the user has a cold, allergies, a fever, etc. One or more operating conditions of humidifier module 102 and / or humidifier 129 can be adjusted to achieve a change in the humidity of environment 108, where the change in environment 108 is intended to improve the physiological state of user 109. For example, the humidity in environment 108 or the humidity generated by humidifier 129 can be controlled to increase the user's breathing rate, cough, or other respiratory distress condition.

[0161] In one or more embodiments, Figure 6 In the context of the method of, or in the context of any method disclosed herein, the desired physiological state of the user 109 may be a desired sleep state (e.g., wakefulness or sleep) or a desired sleep stage (e.g., N1, N2, REM, etc.), as described above for Figure 3 and Figure 4As discussed above, humidity within the environment 108 and / or produced by the humidifier 129 can be controlled to achieve a desired sleep state and / or sleep stage during one or more sleep sessions. In steps 602 and 606, a first set of one or more physiological parameters of the user and a second set of one or more physiological parameters of the user can be associated with detecting a sleep state and / or sleep stage of the user 109. Adjustment of one or more operating conditions of the humidifier module 102 and / or the humidifier 129 can effect a change in the humidity of the environment to achieve a desired sleep state (e.g., sleep) and / or a desired sleep stage (e.g., REM or N3) or a desired sleep stage pattern during a portion or the entire sleep session.

[0162] See also Figure 7 , provides a method for optimizing personalized humidification levels. One or more steps of the method 700 described herein may be used Figure 1 The system may be implemented as one or more components of the humidifier module 102, the control system 110, the memory device 114, and one or more sensors 130 (eg, a first sensor 130a and a second sensor 130b).

[0163] At step 702, the control system 110 receives a first set of one or more physiological parameters associated with the user 109 within the environment 108 from one or more sensors 130, such as the second sensor 130b. In one or more embodiments, the one or more physiological parameters may include one or more respiratory parameters from the respiratory therapy system 120. The first set of one or more physiological parameters may be used to define a baseline or starting point for optimizing the personalized humidification level.

[0164] At step 704, control system 110 adjusts one or more operating conditions of humidifier module 102 to achieve a change in the humidity of environment 108. The change in the humidity of environment 108 is within a predetermined range. The one or more operating conditions are adjusted to make the humidity in environment 108 more optimal for user 109 based on the received first set of one or more physiological parameters.

[0165] At step 706, control system 110 receives a second set of one or more physiological parameters associated with user 109 in environment 108 from one or more sensors 130. The one or more physiological parameters may be the same as in step 702, such as a detected breathing rate and depth of breathing of the person.

[0166] At step 708, control system 110 determines an impact on user 109 in response to the change in humidity based at least in part on the comparison of the first and second sets of one or more physiological parameters. Steps 702-708 may be repeated until the physiological parameters are optimized, e.g., the user displays an optimized breathing pattern.

[0167] In one or more embodiments, the control system 110 causes a change in one or more operating conditions of the user device 116 configured as an air purifier based at least in part on the first set of one or more physiological parameters, the second set of one or more physiological parameters, the effect of a change in humidity on the user, or a combination thereof. The combination of air purifier control and humidity can further help find the optimal breathing condition for the user 109. Figure 7 The feedback loop provides feedback to accelerate the ultimate goal of making the user breathe better.

[0168] If one of the users 109 in the environment 108 who is using a smart humidifier is also using a respiratory therapy system 120 with a humidifier 129 at night, the humidity settings can be synchronized so that common settings are used to maximize the comfort of the user 109 and minimize the chance of worsening respiratory conditions. If there is a single user with the respiratory therapy system 120, the control system 110 can receive operating information of the respiratory therapy system 120. As a result, the control system 110 can change the humidifier module 102 to a low power or standby mode when the user 109 is on the respiratory therapy system 120, and switch back to a higher power mode when the user 109 is closer to their wake-up time (i.e., saving water and energy while the user 109 is receiving humidified air via PAP therapy, but preparing the environment 108 toward the target personalized humidity level before the user ends their PAP therapy so that the user does not experience a large step change in humidity).

[0169] A key benefit of personalized humidification in conjunction with the methods, systems, and devices for respiratory therapy is the reduction of mouth leakage, as well as combating congestion or dry nose or sore throat. In the absence of a humidifier 129, the airflow of the respiratory therapy system 120 can overwhelm the body's ability to heat and humidify the air entering the user's 109 lungs and cause irritation to the nasal passages, which in turn can cause mouth breathing and worsen mouth leakage. Where personalized humidification is provided by the methods and systems of the present disclosure, humidification of the respiratory therapy system 120 can be omitted or reduced to avoid frequently filling the reservoir of the humidifier 129 of the respiratory therapy system 120 while still giving the user 109 the desired level of comfort (e.g., avoiding dry nasal congestion). The control system 110 can also help people avoid or minimize mouth breathing by increasing breathing comfort, by avoiding nasal congestion, etc., even when they are not using the respiratory therapy system.

[0170] refer to Figure 8 , provides a method for providing personalized humidification in conjunction with a respiratory therapy system. One or more steps of the method 800 described herein may be used Figure 1The system 100 is implemented with one or more elements of the system 100, such as the humidifier module 102, the control system 110, the memory device 114, the respiratory therapy system 120, and one or more sensors 130 (eg, a first sensor 130a and a second sensor 130b).

[0171] At step 802, the control system 110 receives information regarding the operation of the humidifier 129 from the respiratory therapy system 120. This information may include, for example, whether the humidifier 129 is present, whether it is on, set points, operating conditions, and the like.

[0172] At step 804, control system 110 receives one or more environmental parameters regarding the condition of environment 108 of respiratory therapy system 120 from a first sensor, such as first sensor 130a. The environmental parameters may be any of the parameters described above, such as humidity, temperature, pressure, etc.

[0173] At step 806 , the control system 110 adjusts one or more operating parameters of the humidifier 129 or the humidifier module 102 based at least in part on the information regarding the operation of the humidifier 129 and the one or more environmental parameters.

[0174] In one or more embodiments, the control system 110 receives one or more physiological parameters associated with the user 109 within the environment 108 from a second sensor, such as sensor 130b. Adjustment of one or more operating parameters can be based, at least in part, on the one or more physiological parameters. The one or more physiological parameters are associated with a leak at the user interface 124, and the one or more operating parameters are based on minimizing drying of the airway of the user 109 due to the leak. In one or more embodiments, the humidifier 129 can be a waterless humidifier. Leaks can be detected based on one or more sensors 130 on the respiratory therapy system 120 or noise generated by a leak at the user interface 124.

[0175] Although the present disclosure has been described with reference to one or more specific embodiments and implementations, those skilled in the art will recognize that many changes may be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Each of these implementations and obvious variations thereof are considered to fall within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. It is also contemplated that additional implementations according to various aspects of the present disclosure may combine any number of features from any implementation described herein.

Claims

1. A system configured to optimize personalized humidification levels, the system comprising: a humidifier module configured to output moisture for changing the humidity in an environment of the system; an air cleaner configured to remove particulates from the air within the environment; a memory storing machine-readable instructions; as well as A control system having one or more processors configured to execute the machine-readable instructions to: receiving, from one or more sensors, a first set of one or more physiological parameters associated with a user within the environment; adjusting one or more operating conditions of the humidifier module to effect a change in ambient humidity; receiving, from the one or more sensors, a second set of one or more physiological parameters associated with the user in the environment; determining an impact on the user in response to the change in humidity based at least in part on a comparison of the first set of one or more physiological parameters and the second set of one or more physiological parameters; as well as At least partially causing a change in one or more operating conditions of the air purifier based at least in part on the first set of one or more physiological parameters, the second set of one or more physiological parameters, an effect on a user in response to a change in humidity, or a combination thereof. 2 . The system of claim 1 , wherein one or more of the first or second sets of physiological parameters include respiratory parameters. The system according to claim 1 , wherein the change in humidity of the environment is within a predetermined range.

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