Connection for a humidification system

Abstract

A connection for a humidification system is disclosed, the humidification system including a heater base, a humidification chamber, and a breathing circuit. A cradle is removably coupled to the heater base. The cradle includes various sensors, probes, sensor wire connectors, heater wire connectors, and / or other features. The cradle can include features configured to mate with corresponding features on the humidification chamber and the heater base. The cradle includes a memory, such as an EEPROM, or other suitable storage device. When the cradle is seated on the heater base, the memory is electrically connected to the processor and / or memory of the heater base. Different cradle models can be produced for use with different humidification chambers, breathing circuits, and / or therapies. A connector can be configured to connect an inspiratory conduit to a gas outlet port of the humidification chamber. The connector can provide a pneumatic connection to the gas outlet port and an electrical connection to the cradle.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of application No. 201810168218.6, filed on February 28, 2018, filed by Fisher & Paykel Healthcare, Inc., entitled "Connection for Humidification Systems". This application is a divisional application of application No. 201480062087.3, filed on September 15, 2014, filed by Fisher & Paykel Healthcare, Inc., entitled "Connection for Humidification Systems".

[0002] By combining citations

[0003] All applications whose foreign or domestic priority claims are identified in the application data page submitted with this application are hereby incorporated by reference in accordance with 37 CFR 1.57.

[0004] This application claims priority to the following: U.S. Provisional Application No. 61 / 877,784, filed September 13, 2013; U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 024,969, filed July 15, 2014; U.S. Provisional Application No. 61 / 919,485, filed December 20, 2013; U.S. Provisional Application No. 61 / 877,566, filed September 13, 2013; U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 032,462, filed August 1, 2014; U.S. Provisional Application No. 61 / 877,622, filed September 13, 2013; and U.S. Provisional Application No. 61 / 877,736, filed September 13, 2013, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Background of the Invention

[0005] field

[0006] This disclosure generally relates to apparatus and methods for providing heated and / or humidified gas to a user. More specifically, certain features, aspects, and advantages of this disclosure relate to devices and techniques for providing or enabling connections between components of a humidification system. Certain features, aspects, and advantages of this disclosure can be used in systems such as positive airway pressure (PAP), ventilators, anesthesia, ventilators, and / or blowing systems to provide gas to a patient and / or remove gas from a patient.

[0007] Related technical specifications

[0008] Gas humidification systems deliver heated and humidified gases for various medical procedures, including respiratory therapy and laparoscopy. These systems can be configured to control temperature and / or humidity. While several such systems have been developed, further improvements are desired.

[0009] Gas humidification systems also include medical circuits that comprise various components for delivering heated and / or humidified gas to or from the patient. For example, in some breathing circuits, such as PAP or assisted breathing circuits, the gas inhaled by the patient is delivered from a heated humidifier through an inhalation tube or catheter. As another example, tubing can deliver humidified gas (typically CO2) into the abdominal cavity in a blowing circuit. This can help prevent the patient's internal organs from drying out or "dehydrating" and can reduce the amount of time required for postoperative recovery. Unheated tubing results in significant heat loss due to ambient cooling. This cooling can lead to unwanted condensation or a "rain-wash effect" along the length of the tubing that delivers warm, humidified air. Heating wires can extend inside at least a portion of the tubing, thus forming a circuit to prevent or at least reduce the likelihood of significant condensation.

[0010] While existing arrangements have provided the desired treatment, there remains a need for further improvements to humidification devices and related methods. Therefore, the objective of certain features, aspects, and advantages disclosed herein is to overcome or improve one or more shortcomings of the prior art or at least to provide the public with useful alternatives. Summary of the Invention

[0011] The first aspect of this disclosure relates to a clamp configured to be removably coupled to a heater base for supplying humidifying gas to a user. The heater base includes a base portion. The base portion includes a heating plate. The heating plate is configured to contact a heat-conducting portion of a removable humidification chamber. The clamp includes a data storage component. The data storage component is configured to communicate with a processor within the heater base when the clamp is coupled to the heater base.

[0012] In some configurations, the data storage component stores at least one of the following: data identifying the model of the clamp, treatment settings, operating parameters, calibration data, or operating algorithms.

[0013] In some configurations, the chamber includes at least one interlocking feature configured to releasably engage at least one corresponding interlocking feature of the humidifying chamber when the humidifying chamber is mounted on the heater base.

[0014] In some such configurations, the clamp includes: a body configured to be coupled to the heater base when the clamp is coupled to the heater base; and sidewalls extending forward from the body. The humidifying chamber is configured to be received between these sidewalls when the humidifying chamber is placed on the heater base. The at least one interlocking feature of the clamp includes two clamps. Each clamp is mounted in or on one of the sidewalls and has a cantilever portion and a portion that at least partially protrudes inward from the inner surface of the sidewall. The at least one corresponding interlocking feature of the humidifying chamber includes two recesses formed in the outer body of the humidifying chamber. Each recess is configured to receive the protrusion of one of the clamps when the humidifying chamber is placed on the heater base. The cantilever portions of the clamps are configured to flex outward when the humidifying chamber is placed on the heater base.

[0015] In some configurations, the clamp includes at least one sensor configured to be received in the humidification chamber when the humidification chamber is positioned on the heater base. The at least one sensor is configured to measure at least one characteristic of the gas flowing through the humidification chamber.

[0016] In some such configurations, the calibration data stored on the data storage component of each clamp includes data that the heater base can use to calibrate the at least one sensor of the clamp. This sensor calibration data can be configured to improve the accuracy of the at least one sensor.

[0017] In some configurations, the receiver is configured to connect to the electrical components of the conduit.

[0018] In some configurations, the receiver includes a component arranged to receive electrical components, such as those of a conduit, in an orientation generally aligned with the direction of movement of the humidifying chamber during the connection process from the humidifying chamber to the heater base.

[0019] The second aspect of this disclosure relates to a method of supporting a humidification chamber, comprising: providing a first clamp configuration configured for connection to a humidifier base; and providing a second clamp configuration configured for connection to the humidifier base, wherein the first clamp configuration and the second clamp configuration have physical characteristics different from each other, and wherein the first clamp configuration must be disconnected from the humidifier base before the second clamp configuration can be connected to the humidifier base.

[0020] In some configurations, the first clamp configuration differs from the second clamp configuration in terms of the information or data stored.

[0021] In some configurations, connecting the first clip configuration and / or the second clip configuration can trigger a software update for the humidifier base.

[0022] In some configurations, the first clamp configuration and the second clamp configuration include a memory. The memory may be an EEPROM. In some such configurations, the EEPROM allows each clamp configuration to have different software configurations. In some configurations, at least one of the first clamp and the second clamp includes at least one sensor. In some such configurations, the memory stores sensor calibration data configured to increase the accuracy of the at least one sensor.

[0023] A third aspect of this disclosure relates to a connector assembly configured to connect an air intake conduit to an air outlet port of a humidification chamber. The humidification chamber is configured to be mounted on a heater base. The heater base includes at least one sensor extending from the heater base and configured to be received in an aperture in the air outlet port when the humidification chamber is mounted on the heater base. The connector assembly includes a keyhole cutout extending from a first end configured to be positioned over the air outlet port into the connector. The keyhole is configured to engage around the sensor. The connector assembly includes an electrical connector configured to be received in a corresponding socket on the heater base.

[0024] In some configurations, the connector assembly includes an elbow connector and a conduit connector. The elbow connector is configured to engage with the outlet port. The elbow connector includes the keyhole. The conduit connector is engaged with the inhalation conduit and configured to engage with the elbow connector. The conduit connector includes the electrical connector.

[0025] In some configurations, the identification component is configured to be measured by the heater base when the electrical connector is received in the socket on the heater base, wherein the processor of the heater base is configured to determine the model of the inhalation duct based on the measurement of the identification component, and the processor is configured to select operating, control and / or treatment parameters based on the determined model.

[0026] In some configurations, the identification component is a resistor having a first resistance value within a first value range, the intake conduit includes at least one heating wire having a second resistance value within a second value range, and the first value range does not overlap with the second value range.

[0027] The fourth aspect of this disclosure relates to a conduit connector for a humidification system, the humidification system including a base unit and a humidification chamber configured to engage with the base unit. The catheter connector includes: an inlet configured to provide a fluid connection to an outlet of the humidification chamber for receiving heated and / or humidified gas from the humidification chamber; an outlet configured to provide a fluid connection to the catheter for guiding the heated and / or humidified gas to or from a patient or other person; and an electrical terminal configured to provide an electrical connection to an electrical terminal associated with the base unit, wherein the catheter connector is configured to make a releasable and lockable connection to the outlet of the humidification chamber, thereby providing the fluid connection from the inlet of the catheter connector to the outlet of the humidification chamber, such that when the humidification chamber is engaged with the base unit and the catheter connector is connected to the outlet of the humidification chamber, the catheter connector also provides the electrical connection from the electrical terminal of the catheter connector to the electrical terminal associated with the base unit.

[0028] In some configurations, the loop connector is configured to provide a releasable and lockable connection in a single direction of movement to the outlet of the humidification chamber and an electrical connection from the electrical terminal of the loop connector to the electrical terminal associated with the base unit.

[0029] In some configurations, the loop connector is configured to connect to the outlet of the humidification chamber before or after engagement of the humidification chamber with the base unit. The loop connector may be pre-assembled and connected to the outlet of the humidification chamber for shipping and / or storage. The humidification chamber may be configured to be removed from the base unit while the duct connector is attached to the air outlet.

[0030] In some configurations, the conduit connector includes an orienter configured to orient the conduit connector relative to the outlet of the humidification chamber and / or to orient the electrical terminals of the conduit connector relative to the electrical terminals associated with the base unit.

[0031] The orienter may include a recess configured to slidably engage a protrusion on the outlet of the humidification chamber, such that the catheter connector can only be slidable onto the outlet of the humidification chamber in a predetermined orientation. Conversely, the orienter may include a protrusion configured to slidably engage a recess in the outlet of the humidification chamber.

[0032] Providing directional features helps ensure that the electrical terminals of the conduit connector align with the electrical terminals associated with the base unit, thereby providing increased ease of assembly. Furthermore, the releasable and lockable connection between the conduit connector and the outlet of the humidification chamber ensures that correct orientation is maintained.

[0033] The outlet of the humidification chamber may include a first portion extending substantially vertically from the humidification chamber and a second portion extending substantially horizontally from the first portion, the second portion being located downstream of the first portion in use, wherein the inlet of the conduit connector is configured to provide a fluid connection to the second portion of the conduit connector. According to this embodiment, the conduit connector may include a cutout for receiving the first portion, the cutout inhibiting or limiting engagement of the conduit connector to the outlet of the humidification chamber when not properly positioned to receive the first portion received in the cutout.

[0034] The profile of the incision can be set to have a wider opening and a narrower end, thereby providing tolerance for the orientation of the catheter connector during initial engagement and correcting the orientation as engagement continues, with the catheter connector being pushed toward the outlet of the humidification chamber.

[0035] The electrical terminal of the conduit connector may include one or more pins or other electrical contact elements configured to contact one or more rails of a printed circuit board in use, the electrical terminal associated with the base unit including the printed circuit board. Alternatively, the electrical terminal of the conduit connector may include a printed circuit board including one or more rails configured to contact one or more pins or other electrical contact elements in use, the electrical terminal of the base unit including the one or more pins or other electrical contact elements.

[0036] The electrical terminal of the conduit connector may alternatively include an edge clip configured to be received in an edge clip socket during use, the electrical terminal associated with the base unit including the edge clip socket.

[0037] The electrical terminal of the conduit connector may alternatively include an edge card socket configured to receive an edge card in use, the electrical terminal associated with the base unit including the edge card.

[0038] In some configurations, the humidification chamber is configured to be inserted into the base unit along a first axis, and the edge clip is configured to be received in the edge clip socket along a second axis, wherein the second axis is parallel to the first axis.

[0039] Those skilled in the art will understand that other forms of electrical terminals are included within the scope of this disclosure.

[0040] The electrical terminal of the conduit connector can be electrically connected to one or more heating wires and / or one or more sensor wires, the conduit including the one or more heating wires and / or the one or more sensor wires, or associated with the heating wires and / or the sensor wires.

[0041] The catheter connector may include a recess or protrusion configured to be engaged by a latch of the humidification chamber (preferably disposed on the wall of the outlet of the humidification chamber), thereby providing the releasable and lockable connection of the catheter connector to the outlet of the humidification chamber.

[0042] The catheter connector may additionally or alternatively include a latch configured to engage a recess or protrusion in the wall of the outlet of the humidification chamber, thereby providing the releasable and lockable connection between the catheter connector and the outlet of the humidification chamber.

[0043] The latch may include one or more buttons projecting outward from the latch and an upper portion of the latch that flexes away from the axial center of the catheter connector when an inward force is applied to the one or more buttons. The upper portion of the latch may be configured to engage a recess or protrusion in the wall of the outlet of the humidification chamber. In some configurations, the upper portion of the latch is configured to disengage from the recess or protrusion in the wall of the outlet of the humidification chamber when an inward force is applied to the one or more buttons. The upper portion of the latch may be configured to disengage from the recess or protrusion in the wall of the outlet of the humidification chamber when the upper portion flexes away from the axial center of the catheter connector.

[0044] The catheter connector preferably includes an activator configured to disengage the latch from the recess or protrusion to allow the catheter connector to be removed from the outlet of the humidification chamber.

[0045] The activator may include at least one manually pressable button or switch.

[0046] At least a portion of the conduit connector may be receivable within the outlet of the humidification chamber. In some configurations, the loop connector includes an internal plug portion. The internal plug portion includes an external recess located near its distal end. The loop connector may also include a sealing member disposed within the external recess. The sealing member is configured to seal against the inside of the outlet of the humidification chamber when the loop connector is connected to the outlet. The sealing member may be generally T-shaped. The sealing member may be generally V-shaped.

[0047] The fifth aspect of this disclosure relates to a catheter connector for a humidification system including a base unit and a humidification chamber. The catheter connector includes: an inlet configured to provide a fluid connection to an outlet of the humidification chamber for receiving heated and / or humidified gas from the humidification chamber; an outlet configured to provide a fluid connection to a catheter for guiding the heated and / or humidified gas to or from a patient or other person; electrical terminals configured to provide an electrical connection to electrical terminals associated with the base unit; and an orienter configured to orient the catheter connector relative to the outlet of the humidification chamber.

[0048] The electrical terminal of the conduit connector is preferably substantially parallel to the inlet of the conduit connector and / or to the engagement direction for electrically connecting the electrical terminal of the conduit connector to the electrical terminal associated with the base unit, thereby enabling both the electrical connection and the fluid connection to be achieved in a single movement.

[0049] The sixth aspect of this disclosure relates to a medical tube comprising a catheter connector as described in the fourth or fifth aspect. The catheter connector may be integral with or connected to the catheter and / or configured to form at least a portion of the inspiratory branch of a breathing circuit.

[0050] The seventh aspect of this disclosure relates to a humidification chamber for a humidification system, the humidification chamber comprising: an outer wall; an upper wall connected to the outer wall, the outer wall and the upper wall at least partially defining a volume for containing liquid; an inlet for receiving gas from a gas source into the humidification chamber; and an outlet configured to connect to a catheter connector for directing heated and / or humidified gas from the humidification chamber to a patient or other person, wherein the outlet is configured to provide a releasable and lockable connection to the catheter connector and / or include an orienter for controlling the orientation of the catheter connector relative to the outlet.

[0051] The orienter may include a recess configured to slidably engage a protrusion on the conduit connector, such that the conduit connector can only be slid into the outlet of the humidification chamber in a predetermined orientation. Conversely, the orienter may include a protrusion configured to slidably engage a recess in the conduit connector, such that the conduit connector can only be slid into the outlet of the humidification chamber in a predetermined orientation.

[0052] The outlet of the humidification chamber preferably includes a first portion extending substantially vertically from the humidification chamber and a second portion extending substantially horizontally from the first portion, the second portion being located downstream of the first portion in use.

[0053] The humidification chamber may include a recess or protrusion configured to be latched by the catheter connector, thereby providing the releasable and lockable connection between the catheter connector and the outlet of the humidification chamber. Alternatively, the humidification chamber may include a latch configured to engage the recess or protrusion of the catheter connector.

[0054] The humidification chamber may include an activator for disengaging the latch from the recess or protrusion to allow the catheter connector to be removed from the outlet of the humidification chamber.

[0055] The activator may include at least one manually pressable button or switch.

[0056] The outlet of the humidification chamber can be configured to receive at least a portion of the conduit connector inside the outlet of the humidification chamber.

[0057] The humidification chamber may include an orienter for controlling the orientation of the humidification chamber relative to the base unit.

[0058] The eighth aspect of this disclosure relates to a humidification chamber for a humidification system, the humidification chamber comprising: an outer wall; an upper wall connected to the outer wall, the outer wall and the upper wall at least partially defining a volume for containing liquid; an inlet for receiving gas from a gas source; an outlet configured to connect to a catheter connector for directing heated and / or humidified gas to a patient or other person; and a directional device for controlling the orientation of the humidification chamber relative to the base unit.

[0059] The orienter may include a recess configured to slidably engage a protrusion on or associated with the base unit, such that the humidifying chamber can only engage with the base unit in a predetermined orientation. Alternatively, the orienter may include a protrusion configured to slidably engage a recess in or associated with the base unit, such that the humidifying chamber can only engage with the base unit in a predetermined orientation.

[0060] The orienter is preferably configured to orient the conduit connector at least partially relative to the outlet of the humidification chamber. Alternatively, the orienter may be configured to orient the electrical terminals of the conduit connector at least partially relative to the electrical terminals associated with the base unit.

[0061] In some preferred configurations, the humidification chamber is configured to be at least partially connected to the base unit via a connection portion of the base unit or associated with the base unit. Alternatively or additionally, at least the electrical terminals of the conduit connector may be configured to connect to the electrical terminals of the connection portion. An additional connection may be provided between the connection portion and the base unit via the conduit connector for exchanging information and / or power therebetween, such as for supplying power to the heating wires in the conduit.

[0062] In some preferred configurations, at least the downstream end of the outlet of the humidification chamber is oriented in a direction substantially parallel to the engagement direction of the humidification chamber and the base unit. Alternatively or additionally, the engagement direction of the electrical terminals of the conduit connector with the electrical terminals of the base unit and / or the connecting portion of the base unit is substantially parallel to: at least the downstream end of the outlet of the humidification chamber, and / or the engagement direction of the humidification chamber and the base unit.

[0063] Preferably, the humidification chamber includes an outlet configured to connect to a conduit connector as described in the fourth or fifth aspect.

[0064] The ninth aspect of this disclosure relates to a connector for a humidification system, the connector comprising: first connections configured to structurally and electrically connect the connector to a base unit of the humidification system, the base unit being configured to operatively engage a humidification chamber; and second connections configured to electrically connect the connector to a catheter connector configured to fluidly connect an outlet of the humidification chamber to a catheter for delivering heated and / or humidified gas to a patient or other person, wherein the connector includes one or more guide portions for orienting the humidification chamber and / or the circuit connector relative to the base unit when the humidification chamber and / or the circuit connector are engaged with the connector.

[0065] These first connections and these second connections are preferably configured to be made by advancing the humidification chamber and / or the catheter connector in substantially the same direction (i.e., preferably parallel).

[0066] In some configurations, one of the one or more guide portions includes a groove configured to slidably engage a guide rail associated with the humidification chamber, such that engagement of the humidification chamber with the connector aligns the humidification chamber with the base unit. The groove may taper from front to back. In some configurations, one of the one or more guide portions includes a guide rail configured to slidably engage a groove in the humidification chamber, such that engagement of the humidification chamber with the connector aligns the humidification chamber with the base unit.

[0067] The tenth aspect of this disclosure relates to a base unit for a humidification system, wherein a humidification chamber is configured to be engageable with the base unit, a conduit connector is configured to be fluidly connected to an outlet of the humidification chamber, and electrical terminals of the conduit connector are configured to be electrically connected to electrical terminals associated with the base unit, the base unit including one or more guide portions for orienting the humidification chamber and / or the conduit connector relative to the base unit when the humidification chamber and / or the conduit connector is engaged with the base unit.

[0068] The eleventh aspect of this disclosure relates to a base unit for a humidification system, in which a humidification chamber is configured to engage with the base unit, the humidification chamber including an air inlet port and an air outlet port, and at least one sensor probe extending from the base unit and configured to be received in at least one aperture in the air inlet port or the air outlet port, the at least one sensor probe being mounted on a flexible mounting member configured to provide a repeatable insertion depth of the at least one sensor probe in the air inlet port or the air outlet port. In some configurations, the at least one sensor extends from a clamp coupled to the base unit.

[0069] The twelfth aspect of this disclosure relates to a base unit for a humidification system in which a humidification chamber is configured to be engageable with the base unit, a conduit connector is configured to be fluidly connected to an outlet of the humidification chamber, and electrical terminals of the conduit connector are configured to be electrically connected to electrical terminals associated with the base unit, wherein the base unit is configured to receive the humidification chamber in an direction substantially the same as or parallel to the direction in which the electrical terminals of the base unit are configured to be electrically connected to the electrical terminals of the conduit connector.

[0070] In some configurations, the base unit further includes a clamp attached to the base unit, the humidification chamber and the circuit connector being configured to engage with the clamp, the clamp including the electrical terminal of the base unit and at least one sensor configured to be received in a port of the humidification chamber, wherein the port of the humidification chamber is configured to receive the at least one sensor in an direction substantially the same as or parallel to the direction in which the electrical terminal of the base unit is configured to be electrically connected to the electrical terminal of the circuit connector.

[0071] The thirteenth aspect of this disclosure relates to a base unit for a humidification system, in which a humidification chamber is configured to engage with the base unit, the humidification chamber including an air inlet port and an air outlet port, and two sensor probes extending from the base unit and configured to be received in an aperture in the air inlet port of the humidification chamber, wherein the two sensor probes are spaced apart by a lateral distance and a vertical distance from each other, the lateral distance and the vertical distance being selected to reduce thermal contamination while maintaining sufficient proximity to the center of the air inlet port and sufficient distance from the wall of the air inlet port, thereby improving accuracy and reducing wall effects and other potential sources of error. In some configurations, the two sensor probes extend from a clamp attached to the base unit.

[0072] The fourteenth aspect of this disclosure relates to a humidification system comprising: a catheter connector as described in the fourth or fifth aspect; and / or a medical tube as described in the sixth aspect; and / or a humidification chamber as described in the seventh or eighth aspect; and / or a connector as described in the ninth aspect; and / or a base unit as described in the tenth or eleventh aspect.

[0073] Electrical and / or fluid and / or structural connections can be made between the different components listed in the twelfth aspect, and the details of these connections are described in detail in the fourth to eleventh aspects.

[0074] The fifteenth aspect of this disclosure relates to a humidification system, comprising: a base unit; a humidification chamber configured to be operatively connected to the base unit, the humidification chamber including: an outer body defining a container; an air inlet including a wall defining a passage into the container; and an air outlet including a wall defining a passage out of the container; and a conduit connector configured to connect the air outlet to a gas delivery conduit, wherein the connection of the conduit connector to the air outlet is made in substantially the same direction as the connection of the humidification chamber to the base unit.

[0075] The conduit connector preferably includes electrical terminals configured to electrically connect the gas delivery conduit and / or the conduit connector to electrical terminals associated with the base unit.

[0076] The electrical terminal of the conduit connector is preferably connected to the electrical terminal associated with the base unit in substantially the same direction as the connection between the conduit connector and the air outlet of the humidification chamber and / or the connection between the humidification chamber and the base unit. Preferably, the direction is substantially horizontal.

[0077] Any one or more of the base unit, the humidification chamber, the conduit connector, or the connector disposed between the humidification chamber and the base unit includes a directional device for controlling the relative orientation of at least one of the other individuals in the base unit, the humidification chamber, the conduit connector, or the connector.

[0078] The sixteenth aspect of this disclosure relates to a humidification system, comprising: a base unit; a humidification chamber configured to be operatively connected to the base unit, the humidification chamber including: an outer body defining a container; an air inlet including a wall defining a passage into the container; and an air outlet including a wall defining a passage out of the container; and a conduit connector configured to connect the air outlet to a gas delivery conduit, the conduit connector including electrical terminals configured to be electrically connected to electrical terminals associated with the base unit, wherein any one or more of the base unit, the humidification chamber, the conduit connector, or a connector disposed between the humidification chamber and the base unit includes an orienter for controlling the relative orientation of at least one of the other individuals of the base unit, the humidification chamber, the conduit connector, or the connector.

[0079] The humidification system preferably includes a pressurized gas source with an outlet, the outlet of which is connected to or can be connected to the inlet port of the humidification chamber, the humidification chamber defining a flow path between the pressurized gas source and the outlet port.

[0080] The conduit connector is preferably configured to provide a releasable and lockable connection to the outlet port of the humidification chamber.

[0081] The humidification chamber is preferably releasably and lockably engageable with the base unit.

[0082] The conduit connector is preferably not fixedly or lockably attached to the base unit, and / or the conduit connector is not fixedly or lockably attached to a connector located between the conduit connector and the base unit.

[0083] The seventeenth aspect of this disclosure relates to a method of attaching a component of a humidification system, the method comprising: slidably engaging a humidification chamber to a base unit in a first direction; and slidably engaging a conduit connector to the humidification chamber in a second direction, wherein the first direction and the second direction are substantially the same.

[0084] Preferably, the slidable engagement of the conduit connector to the outlet of the humidification chamber results in or enables an electrical connection between the conduit connector and the base unit and / or the control module associated with the base unit.

[0085] The eighteenth aspect of this disclosure relates to a method of attaching components of a humidification system, the method comprising: slidably engaging a conduit connector to an outlet of a humidification chamber in a first direction; and slidably engaging the humidification chamber and the conduit connector to a base unit in a second direction, wherein the first direction and the second direction are substantially the same.

[0086] Preferably, the slidable engagement of the humidification chamber and the conduit connector to the base unit results in or enables an electrical connection between the conduit connector and the base unit and / or a control module associated with the base unit. In some configurations, the base unit includes at least one sensor configured to be received in an aperture in the humidification chamber, wherein the slidable engagement of this sub-assembly of the humidification chamber and the loop connector to the base unit results in or enables the insertion of the at least one sensor into the aperture. In some such configurations, the insertion of the at least one sensor into the aperture and the electrical connection between the loop connector and the base unit and / or a control module associated with the base unit occur in a single movement. The first direction and the second direction are preferably substantially horizontal.

[0087] The nineteenth aspect of this disclosure relates to a clamp for a breathing humidifier. The clamp includes: a housing including a rear periphery and at least one fastening member extending upward beyond the uppermost end of the rear periphery of the housing; a compartment and a printed circuit board defined by the housing, the printed circuit board being positioned within the compartment; an electrical connector connected to the printed circuit board and extending rearwardly toward the compartment; and a first rearwardly projecting member and a second rearwardly projecting member extending outwardly beyond the rear periphery of the housing, the first rearwardly projecting member including a first recess and the second rearwardly projecting member including a second recess, a first bolt extending from the first recess and a second bolt extending from the second recess, the exposed electrical connector being inserted between the first rearwardly projecting member and the second rearwardly projecting member.

[0088] In some configurations, the housing includes an upper surface and a rear surface, the upper surface extending forward from the rear surface by a first distance, and an upper portion of the fastening member extending forward from the rear surface by a second distance, the first distance being greater than the second distance. In some configurations, the housing includes at least two fastening members separated from each other by recesses. In some such configurations, the opening in the rear surface is surrounded by ridges on three sides. The ridges may extend along two side edges and one bottom edge of the opening. The first recess and the second recess may extend laterally relative to the rear surface of the housing. The first recess and the second recess may define openings to the first rearwardly projecting member and the second rearwardly projecting member. The first rearwardly projecting member may have a first side surface, and the second rearwardly projecting member may have a second side surface, the first recess defining an opening in the first side surface and the second recess defining an opening in the second side surface. The first recess and the second recess may be generally perpendicularly aligned relative to the rear surface of the housing. The compartment defined by the housing may be generally watertight. In some configurations, a first spring is positioned within the first recess and contacts the first bolt, a second spring is positioned within the second recess and contacts the second bolt, a first control lever is connected to the first bolt, and a second control lever is connected to the second bolt.

[0089] The twentieth aspect of this disclosure relates to a clamp for use with a breathing humidifier, the clamp comprising: a housing including a rear surface and at least one fastening member extending upward beyond the uppermost end of the rear surface of the housing; a compartment defined by the housing; an electrical component positioned within the compartment; an electrical connector connected to the electrical component, the rear surface of the housing defining an opening through which the electrical connector is exposed; and a first outwardly extending pin. The first outwardly extending pin extends laterally outward beyond the adjacent portion of the housing; and the second outwardly extending pin extends laterally beyond the adjacent portion of the housing. The first outwardly extending pin and the second outwardly extending pin are flexible inward toward each other, and the electrical connector is generally inserted between the first outwardly extending pin and the second outwardly extending pin in the lateral direction, and is generally inserted between the first outwardly extending pin and the second outwardly extending pin and the at least one fastening member in the vertical direction.

[0090] In some configurations, the housing includes a laterally extending upper surface, and the at least one fastening member extends upward beyond this laterally extending upper surface. In some configurations, the compartment is watertight, except for the electrical connector. The clamp may further include a washer disposed on the rear surface around the electrical connector. In some configurations, a first biasing member biases the first outwardly extending pin outwardly, and a second biasing member biases the second outwardly extending pin outwardly, such that inward movement of the first outwardly extending pin is resisted by the first biasing member, and inward movement of the second outwardly extending pin is resisted by the second biasing member.

[0091] The twenty-first aspect of this disclosure relates to a clamp for use with a breathing humidifier, the clamp comprising: a housing including a laterally extending upper surface, at least one fastening member extending upward beyond the laterally extending upper surface of the housing, the housing including a rear surface extending downward from the laterally extending upper surface; a first rearwardly projecting element extending rearward beyond an adjacent portion of the housing; and a second rearwardly projecting element extending rearward beyond an adjacent portion of the housing, the first rearwardly projecting element and the second rearwardly projecting element being generally vertically aligned and positioned vertically below the laterally extending upper surface, the first rearwardly projecting element including a first flexible portion and the second rearwardly projecting element including a second flexible portion, such that the first flexible portion and the second flexible portion are laterally inwardly flexible toward each other.

[0092] In some configurations, the housing includes a first overall vertically extending sidewall and a second overall vertically extending sidewall, the first flexible portion extending laterally outward beyond the first overall vertically extending sidewall, and the second flexible portion extending laterally outward beyond the second overall vertically extending sidewall. The first flexible portion may include a first spring-biased sliding bolt member. In some such configurations, the first spring-biased sliding bolt member is coupled to a control rod exposed on the bottom portion of the clamp. In some configurations, an electrical connector extends rearward and is positioned vertically below the at least one fastening member and vertically above the first and second flexible portions.

[0093] The twenty-second aspect of this disclosure relates to a clamp for use with a breathing humidifier, the clamp comprising: a housing including a plurality of walls defining a cavity and including a rear surface; an electrical connector projecting from a lower portion of the housing, the electrical connector including a ridge and an array of pins, the ridge extending along three sides of the pin array, the electrical connector extending further in a rearward direction than any other portion of the housing; and a first laterally flexible member and a second laterally flexible member positioned behind the rear surface, the first laterally flexible member being positioned behind the rear surface, the second laterally flexible member being positioned vertically below the lowest portion of the pin array when the rear surface is positioned to define a generally vertical plane.

[0094] In some configurations, at least a portion of the first laterally flexible member and at least a portion of the second laterally flexible member are positioned between the rear surface and a fictitious plane generally parallel to the rear surface, the fictitious surface being positioned at the ends of the pin array such that the tips of the pins contact the fictitious plane. An extended portion of the rear surface may intersect at least a portion of the first laterally flexible member and at least a portion of the second laterally flexible member. In some configurations, the plurality of walls includes a lower wall to which the first and second flexible members are positioned perpendicularly above. The lower wall may be configured to contact a portion of the humidifier chamber during use.

[0095] The twenty-third aspect of this disclosure relates to a humidification chamber for a humidification system. The humidification chamber includes: an outer wall; an upper wall connected to the outer wall, the outer wall and the upper wall at least partially defining a volume for containing liquid; an inlet for receiving gas from a gas source; an outlet configured to connect to a loop connector for directing heated and / or humidified gas to a patient or other person; and a directional device for controlling the orientation of the humidification chamber relative to the connector.

[0096] In some configurations, the orienter includes a recess configured to slidably engage a protrusion on or associated with the connector, such that the humidifying chamber can only engage with the connector in a predetermined orientation. In some configurations, the orienter includes a protrusion configured to slidably engage a recess in or associated with the connector, such that the humidifying chamber can only engage with the connector in a predetermined orientation. In some configurations, the orienter is configured to orient the loop connector at least partially relative to the outlet of the humidifying chamber. In some configurations, the orienter is configured to orient at least partially relative to the electrical terminals of the loop connector associated with the connector. The humidification chamber may further include: a vertically extending slot along the side of the humidification chamber, the vertically extending slot being configured to face the connector, the slot being formed by a portion extending inward from the outer wall toward the interior of the humidification chamber; and a generally horizontal shelf extending across the slot at or near the top of the slot, the shelf being configured to prevent the slot from engaging a portion of the connector.

[0097] The twenty-fourth aspect of this disclosure relates to a loop connector configured to connect an intake duct to an outlet port of a humidification chamber and to a clamp on a heater base. The loop connector includes: a mounting region; a head region including contact pads; and a body region including electrical tracks extending from these contact pads. The length of the edge clip is selected to maintain electrical contact with the clamp regardless of the movement of the humidification chamber along the Y-axis or in a front-to-back direction, such that the pneumatic connection between the loop connector and the outlet port is established prior to the electrical connection between the edge clip and the clamp.

[0098] In some configurations, the head region includes six contact pads on the top surface, and the body region includes six corresponding electrical tracks on the top surface. In some configurations, the two outer pads are wider than the four inner pads. In some configurations, the two outer pads are longer than the four inner pads.

[0099] The twenty-fifth aspect of this disclosure relates to a clamp for use with a heater base configured to receive a humidification chamber having an inlet port and an outlet port, the outlet port being configured to receive a loop connector including an electrical connector. The clamp includes: a receiver configured to receive the electrical connector of the loop connector; and a shield disposed above and to the side of the receiver and extending forward from the clamp, wherein the shield is configured to cover a portion of the loop connector when it is engaged with the outlet port, and wherein the shield is configured to guide the insertion of the loop connector into the outlet port, thereby guiding the electrical connector into the receiver.

[0100] In some configurations, the shield is configured to reduce the likelihood of spilled liquid coming into contact with the electrical connector. The clamp may further include a sensor extending forward from the clamp, with the shield positioned above and to the side of the sensor, configured to protect the sensor from damage caused by contact with other components during assembly, use, cleaning, etc. The sensor may be positioned below the receiver. The sensor may be configured to be received in an aperture in the outlet port when the humidification chamber is received on the heater base. In some configurations, the lower portion of the shield includes guide rails configured to engage or support the bottom surface of the loop connector, such that when the loop connector is engaged with the outlet port and the clamp, the bottom of the loop connector abuts against the top surface of these rails, thereby helping to inhibit or prevent upward rotation of the loop connector. In some configurations, a protrusion is further included, positioned below the receiver, wherein the protrusion is configured to engage a rod on the outlet port. The protrusion of the clamp may be horseshoe-shaped.

[0101] The twenty-sixth aspect of this disclosure relates to a clamp for use with a heater base, the heater base including a processor and / or a memory. The clamp includes: one or more sensors; and a memory configured to store sensor calibration data, wherein when the clamp is attached to the heater base, the memory of the clamp is positioned to communicate with the processor and / or the memory of the heater base.

[0102] Certain objects and advantages are described herein for the purpose of summarizing this disclosure and the advantages achieved over the prior art. It should be understood that not all such objects or advantages need to be achieved according to any particular embodiment. Therefore, for example, those skilled in the art will recognize that one or more of the disclosed configurations may be embodied or implemented in a manner that achieves or optimizes one or more advantages as taught or suggested herein, without necessarily achieving other objects or advantages as may be taught or suggested herein. All these embodiments are intended to be within the scope of the disclosure herein. From the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art will readily understand that these and other embodiments are not limited to any particular disclosed embodiment. Brief description of the attached figures

[0103] These and other features, aspects and advantages of this disclosure will be illustrated with reference to the following figures, which are illustrative and should not be construed as limiting the disclosure.

[0104] Figure 1A An exemplary embodiment of the humidification system is illustrated schematically.

[0105] Figure 1B Another exemplary embodiment of the humidification system is illustrated schematically.

[0106] Figure 2A-6 A view is shown of a heater base arranged and configured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of this disclosure.

[0107] Figure 7A An embodiment of the clamp is shown.

[0108] Figure 7B It is the axial section of the probe and the elastic component.

[0109] Figure 7C The seal being inserted is shown Figure 7B The probe.

[0110] Figure 7D Another embodiment of the probe is shown in another embodiment of the seal.

[0111] Figure 8-9A Another embodiment of the clamp is shown.

[0112] Figure 9B This is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the clamp.

[0113] Figure 10 This is a front view of the humidification chamber.

[0114] Figure 11 and Figure 12 This is a rear view of the humidification chamber.

[0115] Figure 13 This is a top view of the humidification chamber.

[0116] Figure 14-17 This is a view of the humidification chamber mounted on the heater base.

[0117] Figure 18-20 This is a view of the tubing connector that connects to the humidification chamber.

[0118] Figure 21-24 An alternative catheter connector is shown.

[0119] Figure 25-26 An exemplary embodiment of the conduit connector that connects to the humidification chamber and the heater base is shown.

[0120] Figure 27 It shows Figure 25-26 It is connected to the humidification chamber on the heater base.

[0121] Figure 28-34 It shows Figure 25-27 Different views of the humidification chamber.

[0122] Figures 35-36 It shows Figure 25-27 The heater base.

[0123] Figure 37 It shows Figure 25-26 The conduit connector and heater base.

[0124] Figure 38 An exemplary embodiment of the clamp is shown.

[0125] Figure 39 It shows Figure 25-26 The conduit connector is connected to the humidification chamber.

[0126] Figures 40-41 An exemplary embodiment of the catheter connector is shown.

[0127] Figure 42 The humidification chamber is shown to be configured to receive Figures 40-41 An exemplary embodiment of the air outlet port of the conduit connector.

[0128] Figures 43-44 Another exemplary embodiment of the catheter connector is shown.

[0129] Figure 45 Another exemplary embodiment of the catheter connector is shown.

[0130] Figure 46 The humidification chamber is shown to be configured to receive Figure 45 An exemplary embodiment of the air outlet port of the conduit connector.

[0131] Figures 47-54 Another exemplary embodiment of the catheter connector is shown.

[0132] Figure 55 A cross-sectional view of another exemplary embodiment of the air outlet port of the humidification chamber is shown.

[0133] Figures 56-57 An exemplary embodiment of the catheter connector is shown.

[0134] Figure 58 Another exemplary embodiment of the duct connector attached to the air outlet port is shown.

[0135] Figure 59 Another exemplary embodiment of the duct connector attached to the air outlet port is shown.

[0136] Figure 60 An exemplary embodiment of the clamp is shown.

[0137] Figure 61A and Figure 61B An exemplary embodiment of the humidification chamber is shown.

[0138] Figure 62 A partial disassembly view of the catheter connector is shown.

[0139] Figure 63 It shows Figure 62 Assembly view of the conduit connector.

[0140] Figure 64 The alternative clamps for the heater base are shown schematically.

[0141] Figure 65 It shows Figure 60 Rear perspective view of the clamp.

[0142] Figure 66 It shows Figure 60 and Figure 65 Bottom view of the clamp.

[0143] Figure 67 It shows the configuration to receive Figure 60 and Figures 65-66 An exemplary embodiment of the heater base of the clamp.

[0144] Figure 68 It shows the placement in Figure 60 On the clamp Figures 62-63 The conduit connector.

[0145] Figure 69 An exemplary embodiment of the probe is shown.

[0146] Figure 70 It shows Figures 62-63 Bottom view of the conduit connector.

[0147] Figure 71 It shows the placement in Figure 61A and Figure 61B The humidification chamber and the heater base shown in the figure. Figure 60 and Figures 65-66 On the clamp Figures 62-63 and Figure 70 The conduit connector.

[0148] Figure 72 It shows Figures 62-63 and Figures 70-71 Exploded view of the catheter and catheter connector.

[0149] Figure 73 This is an exploded view of the handle and humidification chamber. Detailed description

[0150] Certain embodiments and examples of humidification systems are described herein. Those skilled in the art will understand that this disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments and / or uses disclosed, as well as obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the scope of this disclosure should not be limited to any particular embodiment described herein.

[0151] Humidification system

[0152] Figure 1A and Figure 1B An exemplary embodiment of the humidification system 100 is illustrated schematically. In some applications, this humidification system can be used for respiratory therapy, positive pressure devices, non-invasive ventilation, and surgical procedures, including but not limited to laparoscopic examinations. It is desirable that the humidification system 100 be adapted to supply moisture or vapor to a given volume of gas. The humidification system 100 can be used in continuous, variable, or bi-level positive airway pressure (PAP) systems or other forms of respiratory therapy. In some configurations, the humidification system 100 can be integrated into systems that deliver any of these types of therapy.

[0153] An exemplary embodiment of the humidification system 100 may include a heater base 102 and a humidification chamber 104. The heater base 102 may include a heating plate 108. The humidification chamber 104 may be configured to hold a volume of liquid, such as water. The heating plate 108 may be configured to heat the volume of liquid held in the humidification chamber 104 to generate steam.

[0154] The humidification chamber 104 is removable from the heater base 102, thereby allowing for easier sterilization or disposal of the humidification chamber 104. The body of the humidification chamber 104 may be formed of non-conductive glass or plastic material, but the humidification chamber 104 may also include conductive components. For example, the humidification chamber 104 may include a highly thermally conductive base (e.g., an aluminum base) that contacts or is associated with the heating plate 108 on the heater base 102.

[0155] The heater base 102 may also include electronic controls. In this example, the heater base 102 includes a main controller 25. The main controller 25 may include an electronic, analog, or digital processor or controller. Preferably, the main controller 25 includes a microprocessor-based controller configured to execute computer software commands stored in associated memory. In response to user-set humidity or temperature values, such as those input via user interface 133, and other inputs, the main controller 25 determines when (or at what level) to power the heating plate 108 to heat the liquid within the humidification chamber 104.

[0156] The humidification system 100 may also include a gas supply 125. In some configurations, the gas supply 125 may include a ventilator, a blower, or any other suitable source of pressurized gas suitable for breathing or use in medical procedures. The gas supply 125 may be separate from or integrated with the heater base 102.

[0157] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1B As shown, dry or relatively dry gas enters the gas supply 125 through vent 119. Fan 121 can improve the airflow into the gas supply by drawing air or other gas through vent 119. For example, fan 121 can be a variable speed fan, in which case controller 23 controls the fan speed. Specifically, the function of controller 23 can be controlled by main controller 25 in response to inputs from main controller 25 and a predetermined desired value (preset value) of pressure or fan speed set by the user via dial 27.

[0158] The humidification system may also include a breathing circuit 123. The breathing circuit 123 may include an inspiratory conduit 120. The chamber end of the inspiratory conduit 120 may be configured to connect to the outlet port 412 of the humidification chamber 104. The patient end of the inspiratory conduit 120 may be configured to connect to a patient, for example, via a patient interface 128. In some configurations, the inspiratory conduit 120 may be directly coupled to the patient interface 128. Any suitable type of patient interface 128 may be used. "Patient interface" is a broad term and is given its general and customary meaning to those skilled in the art (i.e., it is not limited to a specific or custom meaning), and includes, but is not limited to, masks (e.g., endotracheal masks, face masks, and nasal masks), cannulas, and nasal pillows.

[0159] Temperature probe 135 can be connected to the inhalation tube 120 near the patient interface 128, or directly to the patient interface 128. Temperature probe 135 monitors the temperature near or at the patient interface 128.

[0160] A heating filament (not shown) associated with the temperature probe can be used to adjust the temperature of the patient interface 128 and / or the inhalation tube 120 to raise the temperature of the inhalation tube 120 and / or the patient interface 128 above the saturation temperature, thereby reducing the chance of unwanted condensation.

[0161] In some configurations where the gas supply 125 is separated from the heater base 102, the breathing circuit 123 may include a supply conduit 132. The gas supply end of the supply conduit 132 may be configured to connect to the output end of the gas supply 125. The chamber end of the supply conduit 132 may be configured to connect to the air inlet 410 of the humidification chamber 104.

[0162] In some configurations, such as those used with a ventilator, the breathing circuit 123 may also include an exhalation tubing 122. The user end of the exhalation tubing 122 may be configured to connect to the patient interface 128, and the gas supply end of the exhalation tubing 122 may be configured to connect to the return line of the gas supply unit 125. The exhalation tubing 122 may have a temperature probe and / or heating filament integrated therein to reduce the chance of condensation (as described above with respect to the inhalation tubing 120). Furthermore, the exhalation tubing 122 does not need to return exhaled gas to the gas supply unit 125. In some configurations, exhaled gas may be directly vented to the ambient environment or other auxiliary devices, such as an air purifier / filter (not shown). In some embodiments, the exhalation tubing 122 is omitted entirely.

[0163] In some configurations, such as Figure 1AAs shown, the user ends of the inspiratory catheter 120 and the exhalation catheter 122 can be connected to each other via a Y-tube 124. The Y-tube 124 can be connected to the patient supply catheter 126. In some configurations, the patient supply catheter 126 may include, for example, but not limited to, a catheter mount. The patient supply catheter 126 can be connected to the patient interface 128. In some embodiments, the Y-tube 124 is coupled to the patient interface 128 without the intervention of the patient supply catheter 126.

[0164] In use, a humidification chamber 104 is positioned on a heating plate 108. The heating plate 108 heats the liquid, such as water, in the humidification chamber 104 to generate steam. Dry or relatively dry gas flows from a gas supply 125 through a supply conduit 132 and enters the humidification chamber 104 through an inlet port 410. This gas passes over the liquid in the humidification chamber 104 and is humidified by the steam. The humidified gas exits the humidification chamber 104 through an outlet port 412 and flows to the patient 101 through an inhalation conduit 120. In some embodiments, exhaled gas from the patient 101 returns to the gas supply 125 through an exhalation conduit 122. Any or all components of the breathing circuit 123 may include a heating element, such as a heating wire 127, to help maintain these gases at a desired temperature and reduce the likelihood of significant condensation forming within these conduits.

[0165] Before use, operators such as healthcare professionals will connect these different components to assemble the humidification system 100. Due to the diversity of components and the number of connections formed, assembling the humidification system 100 can be a complex process. In some cases, special training is provided to improve the likelihood of correct assembly. The humidification system 100 may include various features to simplify the assembly process and reduce the likelihood of incorrect assembly. For example, in some embodiments, the components of the humidification system 100 may include features for providing easier and safer connections between components, facilitating correct connections, and reducing the number of connections that need to be made manually or individually.

[0166] Chamber to base connection

[0167] Figure 2A-6An exemplary embodiment of a heater base 102 is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the heater base 102 includes a base portion 202. The base portion 202 may include a heating plate 108. The heater base 102 may include a spine 204. The spine 204 may extend upward from a rear portion of the base portion 202. The base portion 202 includes a plurality of side surfaces 206, a top surface 208, and a front surface 210. The spine 204 includes a plurality of side surfaces 212, a front surface 214, and a top surface 216. The top surface 216 may include a display 116 and / or controls. For example, various dials, switches, and other input devices may be used to control the operation of the device. Alternatively or additionally, the display 116 may be a touchscreen display. The display 116 may display parameters of the system, display warnings in case of any errors or malfunctions, or display prompts when user action is required. When the display 116 is a touchscreen display, the display 116 may be at least partially used to present information to the user and receive input from the user.

[0168] refer to Figure 10-13 The humidification chamber 104 may include a body 402 formed of plastic and a base plate 404 sealed to the body, the base plate being thermally conductive. In some embodiments, the base plate 404 of the humidification chamber 104 includes a lip 406 that protrudes beyond the outer periphery of the body 402. In some applications, such as Figure 14-17 As shown, the humidification chamber 104 is configured to be mounted on the heater base 102 such that the bottom plate 404 of the humidification chamber 104 contacts the heating plate 108 of the heater base 102. The humidification chamber 104 is adapted to hold a volume of liquid, such as water, which can be heated by heat conducted from the heating plate 108 through the bottom plate 404. Figure 15 The location of seals or gaskets in the humidification chamber 104 is schematically shown, wherein these seals / gaskets are positioned at the rear of the humidification chamber 104; and Figure 15 The front of the humidification chamber 104 is shown.

[0169] like Figure 2B As shown in the partial front cross-sectional view, the top surface 208 of the base portion 202 of the heater base 102 includes an opening 218. The opening 218 is located above the heating plate 108 and allows the humidification chamber 104 to contact the heating plate 108. The upper surface 208 also includes a peripheral edge 220 along the periphery of the opening 218.

[0170] The heater base 102 includes an inner base frame 222. The inner base frame 222 generally surrounds the heating plate 108. The inner base frame 222 also includes a peripheral edge 224. The peripheral edge 224 of the inner base frame 222 is generally positioned below the peripheral edge 220 of the upper surface 208. A recess 226 is formed between the peripheral edge 220 of the upper surface 208 and the peripheral edge 224 of the inner base frame 222. The recess 226 may have a thickness of, for example, about 4 mm. The thickness of the recess is large enough to accommodate the lip 406 of the humidification chamber 104, and small enough to significantly limit the overall vertical range of movement of the lip 406 (and the associated humidification chamber 104) relative to the heater base 102. In some embodiments, the thickness of the recess is large enough to accommodate chambers with different configurations. In some embodiments, the diameter of the recess is large enough to accommodate chambers with different configurations.

[0171] For use, the operator positions the humidifying chamber 104 on the heater base 102 by sliding it onto the heating plate 108. The lip 406 of the humidifying chamber 104 rests or is trapped within a recess 226. In some configurations, the heating plate 108 may be spring-loaded. Spring loading allows the heating plate 108 to be pressed down when the humidifying chamber 104 is positioned. When the humidifying chamber 104 is positioned, the spring-loaded heating plate 108 presses upward against the humidifying chamber 104, while the peripheral edge 220 of the upper surface 208 resists upward movement of the lip 406. The peripheral edge 220 helps resist upward movement of the humidifying chamber 104, which, when used in conjunction with the spring-biased heating plate 108, promotes contact between the base plate 404 and the heating plate 108.

[0172] The peripheral edge 224 and the recess 226 of the inner base 222 also help to prevent excessive downward movement of the humidification chamber 104. In some configurations, the peripheral edge 224 of the inner base 222 is used to limit the downward movement of the humidification chamber 104 relative to the heater base 102. In some configurations, the heating plate 108, or a structure that may abut at least a portion of the heating plate 108, may be configured to limit the downward movement of the humidification chamber 104 relative to the heater base 102. Limiting the downward movement of the humidification chamber 104 relative to the heater base 102 can help reduce the likelihood of damage to other components of the system. For example, a sensor may be mounted on the heater base 102 as described in more detail herein; without the peripheral edge 224 interacting with the humidification chamber 104, the heating plate 108 may be pressed down if downward pressure is applied to the humidification chamber 104 when the supply conduit 132 and / or the intake conduit 120 are connected. Without the peripheral edge 224 interacting with the humidification chamber 104, the humidification chamber 104 can have a vertical range of motion of about 2 mm to about 5 mm. The peripheral edge 224 can reduce the range of motion to about 0.5 mm. Limiting the vertical travel of the humidification chamber 104 reduces the possibility of damage to the humidification chamber 104 extending from the stationary part of the system to sensors or other components within the humidification chamber 104. The peripheral edge 224 also helps to facilitate more accurate positioning of the humidification chamber 104 on the heater base 102.

[0173] In some embodiments, the protective device 107 extends along the front portion of the base portion 202 of the heater base 102 and the peripheral edge 220. The protective device 107 can be pressed down so that the bottom plate 404 and lip 406 of the humidification chamber 104 can contact the heating plate 108 and the recess 226. Once the humidification chamber 104 has been positioned, the protective device 107 can be allowed to return to an unpressed position. In this unpressed position, the protective device 107 holds the humidification chamber 104 to prevent accidental removal from the heater base 102 or significant movement relative to the heater base (e.g., significant forward movement). Figure 2A As shown, the protective device 107 has a vertical dimension that at least shields the heating plate 108. In other words, when in the non-pressed position, the highest point of the protective device 107 is higher than the top of the heating plate in the vertical direction. Thus, the protective device 107 provides a degree of protection by acting as a shield that limits the possibility of people unintentionally coming into contact with the heating plate 108 or other heating components of the system when the protective device 107 is in the non-pressed position.

[0174] In some embodiments, such as Figure 21-23 and Figure 28-32As shown, the humidification chambers 1004, 1104 include gripping portions 1036, 1436. These gripping portions 1036, 1436 can advantageously allow the user to more easily grip the humidification chambers 1004, 1104 when placing them or removing them from the heater base 102.

[0175] refer to Figure 73 The humidifying chamber 1104 may include a handle 1170. The handle 1170 can be fastened to the humidifying chamber 1104 in any suitable manner. In the illustrated configuration, the humidifying chamber 1104 includes a pair of bridges 1172 and a pair of fins 1174, with one bridge 1172 and one fin 1174 on each side of the humidifying chamber 1104. The handle 1170 may have a body 1180 and a pair of fins 1182 that curve rearward and upward from the body 1180. At the ends of these fins 1182, the handle 1170 has a pair of tabs 1184 and a pair of slots 1186. These tabs 1184 can be received within the passageways defined by the bridges 1172 of the humidifying chamber 1104, while the fins 1174 of the humidifying chamber 1104 can be received within the slots 1186 of the handle 1170. The ends of these tabs 1184 may include protrusions 1188 that lock the tabs 1184 in place within the bridges 1172. Advantageously, by using the shown snap-fit ​​assembly, the handle 1170 can be secured to the humidification chamber 1104 without the use of adhesives, solvents, etc. However, other configurations are possible.

[0176] Chamber to clamp connection

[0177] The heater base 102 may include a coupling portion that attaches to the front surface 214 of the spine 204. In some embodiments, the coupling portion is as follows: Figure 2A-6 The clamp 300 is shown in the diagram. The clamp 300 may include or support various sensors, probes, sensor wire connectors, heating wire connectors, and / or other features. In some embodiments, the clamp 300 includes features configured to mate with corresponding features on the humidification chamber 104.

[0178] Any suitable component can be used as a sensor. For example, thermocouples, resistance temperature detectors, fixed resistors, etc., can be used as sensors. The sensor can be directly mounted onto the clamp 300, or mounted within a probe or other housing mounted on the clamp 300. Such probes or other housings can also accommodate components other than the sensor. The clamp 300 can also be arranged in any suitable configuration or arrangement. Figure 2A-6In one embodiment, the clamp 300 includes a first probe 302 positioned on a first portion of the clamp 300 and a second probe 304 and a third probe 306 positioned on a second portion of the clamp 300. In some configurations, the first and second portions may be separated by a generally vertically extending plane. In some configurations, this generally vertically extending plane substantially bisects the heater base 102. In some configurations, this generally vertically extending plane substantially bisects the humidification chamber 104 when it is positioned on the heater base 102 for use. The probes 302, 304, and 306 extend forward from the clamp 300. The probes 302, 304, and 306 have thermistors mounted at their tips. Other configurations and other types of sensors may be used.

[0179] In some embodiments, the air inlet port 410 and / or the air outlet port 412 include one or more holes extending through the wall of the corresponding port. Figure 11 In the illustrated embodiment, the air inlet port 410 of the humidification chamber 104 includes two holes 414a, 414b extending through the rear wall of the air inlet port 410. The air outlet port 412 includes a hole 416 extending through the rear wall of the air outlet port 412. In the illustrated configuration, at least a portion of each of the air inlet port 410 and the air outlet port 412 may have corresponding flattened regions 470, 472. These holes 414a, 414b, 416 extend through these flattened regions 470, 472. These flattened regions 472, 472 generally surround these holes 414a, 414b, 416.

[0180] The hole 416 in the outlet port 412 is configured to receive the first probe 302 when the humidification chamber 104 is mounted on the heater base 102. Similarly, the holes 414a, 414b in the inlet port 410 are configured to correspondingly receive the second probe 304 and the third probe 306 when the humidification chamber 104 is mounted on the heater base 102. In the illustrated configuration, one or more of these probes 302, 304, 306 extend into the inlet port 410 and the outlet port 412. In some configurations, one or more of these probes 302, 304, 306 extend into a portion of the humidification chamber 104 beyond the inlet port 410 or the outlet port 412. In some configurations, one or more of these probes 302, 304, 306 extend into a portion of the humidification chamber 104 beyond the air inlet port 410 or the air outlet port 412, while simultaneously extending into one or more of the air outlet ports 410 and 412. These probes 302, 304, 306 extend into the air outlet ports 412 and 410 along an axis parallel to the insertion axis, along which the humidification chamber 104 is mounted on the heater base 102. Mounting these probes 302, 304, 306 on the clamp 300 advantageously allows for the reuse of these sensors for multiple instances of the humidification chamber 104.

[0181] In some embodiments, the thermistor of the first probe 302 is configured to sense the temperature of a gas in a gas flow path. In some embodiments, the thermistors of the second probe 304 and the third probe 306 are configured to sense the flow rate of the gas in the gas flow path using a temperature-flow measurement method. In this method, one of the thermistors acts as a reference sensor for measuring the flow temperature at the sensing location, and another thermistor (which may be a heated thermistor) is heated to a temperature difference higher than the flow temperature by a preset temperature difference. In some embodiments, the heated thermistor is heated to a set temperature, for example, at or about 160 degrees Celsius. In some applications, a resistor may be used to heat the thermistor instead of a heated thermistor. In some applications, a resistor may be used instead of a thermistor. In some configurations, all the thermistors may be both heated and unheated thermistors. The flow rate can be determined using the measured flow temperature, the known thermal transfer characteristics of the heated thermistor, and the power consumed to maintain the temperature difference between the second and third thermistors. Other techniques may also be used. For example, but without limitation, a constant power can be supplied to these thermistors, and the flow rate can be determined using the heat conducted into nearby thermistors. However, other types of sensors are also possible.

[0182] Seals

[0183] like Figure 12 As shown, seals or gaskets 418 can be inserted into these holes 414a, 414b, 416. These seals or gaskets 418 can at least substantially pneumatically seal these holes 414a, 414b, 416. These seals or gaskets 418 help to isolate the gas flow path through the humidification chamber 104 from the surrounding environment when using these probes 302, 304, 306. Accordingly, in the illustrated configuration, these seals 418 define a barrier that reduces the likelihood of fluid or gas passing through these holes 414a, 414b, 416. In some applications, at least one of these seals 418, and preferably all of them, can also generally resist the passage of steam. These seals 418 can be configured to receive these probes 302, 304, 306. In some configurations, these seals 418 allow the probes 302, 304, 306 to detect the characteristics of the gas flowing through the humidification system while remaining substantially aerodynamically isolated from the gas flow path. These seals 418 advantageously allow the probes 302, 304, 306 to operate without direct contact with the gas in the gas flow path, thus allowing them to be reused and requiring no cleaning between uses.

[0184] These seals 418 can be formed from any suitable material. In some applications, these seals 418 are formed from elastic or flexible materials. In some applications, one or more of these seals 418 can be formed from a material with a Shore A hardness between about 20 and about 80, and more preferably between about 40 and about 60. In some applications, one or more of these seals 418 can be formed from silicone, polyethylene, or thermoplastic polyurethane.

[0185] In some embodiments, when one of the probes 302, 304, 306 is inserted into one of the seals 418, that seal 418 extends to accommodate that probe 302, 304, 306. In some configurations, when one of the probes 302, 304, 306 is inserted into one of the seals 418, that seal 418 conforms to the shape of that probe 302, 304, 306. As the amount of extension used to accommodate the probes increases, the sealing material becomes thinner. In some configurations, different regions of the seals 418 may have different degrees of extension. In other words, some portions of the seals 418 are more elastic than other portions of the seals 418. This can advantageously improve the responsiveness and accuracy of the sensor, increase the contact area between the sensor and the seal, and / or more securely retain the seal in the orifice.

[0186] probe placement

[0187] The holes 414a, 414b in the intake port 410 and the probes 304, 306 can be configured and positioned to improve the accuracy of these sensors. For example, positioning the probes 304, 306 closer to the center of the gas flow path through the intake port 410 can improve accuracy. Positioning the probes 304, 306 closer to the center of the gas flow path can also help reduce errors that may be introduced when the probes 304, 306 are too close to the wall of the intake port 410. For example, positioning the probes 304, 306 too close to the wall of the intake port 410 may introduce wall effects, boundary layer effects, errors due to thermal coupling, and / or other potential sources of error. However, it has been found that positioning the probes 304, 306 too close to each other may also cause errors due to thermal contamination.

[0188] Therefore, in some applications, it is desirable to maximize the lateral displacement of these probes 304, 306 relative to each other to reduce thermal contamination, while maintaining sufficient proximity to the center of the air intake port 410 and sufficient distance from the wall of the air intake port 410, thereby improving accuracy and reducing wall effects and other potential sources of error. In some embodiments, these probes 304, 306 are positioned such that the centers of these probes 304, 306 are separated by a horizontal distance x of approximately 7 mm, such as... Figure 5 As shown in the figure. In some embodiments, these probes 304, 306 are positioned such that the centers of these probes 304, 306 are separated by a vertical distance y of approximately 7 mm, as shown in the figure. Figure 5 As shown in the figure. In some embodiments, the centers of these probes 304, 306 may be separated by a horizontal and vertical distance of about 5 mm to about 7 mm, or greater than 7 mm. For example, the centers of these probes 304, 306 may be separated by a vertical distance of about 8 mm and a horizontal distance of about 11 mm. Increasing the spacing between these probes 304, 306 may require increasing the size of the flattened region 470, which may result in the need for a larger port or a reduction in the cross-sectional area of ​​the port. Therefore, the spacing between these probes 304, 306 may be selected to maximize the interval between these probes 304, 306 while maintaining the size of the intake port 410 within a desired range. For example, in some embodiments, the intake port 410 has a diameter of about 22 mm. In some embodiments, such as Figure 2A , Figure 3 and Figure 5As shown, when viewed from the front, the heater base 102 and clamp 300 are positioned approximately 7 mm to the left and approximately 7 mm higher in the vertical direction compared to the probe 306. In some embodiments, the probe 304 is positioned approximately 7 mm to the left and approximately 6.35 mm higher in the vertical direction compared to the probe 306. In some such embodiments, the holes 414a, 414b, 416 have a diameter ranging from approximately 3 mm to approximately 12 mm, for example, from approximately 4 mm to approximately 8 mm. In some embodiments, the holes 414a, 414b, 416 have a diameter of approximately 6 mm.

[0189] In some instances, the lengths of these probes 302, 304, and 306 are chosen to allow these thermistors or other sensors to be positioned near the center of the gas flow path passing through the inlet port 410 and the outlet port 412. The axial lengths of these probes 302, 304, and 306 are correlated with the size settings of these seals 418 to help promote more uniform extension of these seals 418.

[0190] In some configurations, the first probe 302 is positioned to increase the proximity of the first probe 302 to the starting point of the heated portion of the inhalation duct. For example, in some embodiments, such as... Figure 18 As shown, the first probe 302 is positioned vertically above the second probe 304. In some embodiments, the first probe 302 is positioned vertically above the third probe 306. In the illustrated embodiment, the first probe 302 is positioned vertically above both the second probe 304 and the third probe 306. In some configurations, the first probe 302 is positioned closer to the outlet of the corresponding port compared to the second probe 304 and the third probe 306. The position of the first probe 302 can advantageously allow sensing the temperature of these gases closer to the starting point of the heated portion of the inhalation duct. In some applications, this can allow for more accurate sensing of the temperature of the gas traveling in the inhalation duct. In other words, the port is not heated, while the inhalation duct can be heated. By sensing as close as possible to the inlet leading to the heated inhalation duct, the gas travels a shorter distance through the unheated area, which allows for more accurate measurement of the gas flowing through the inhalation duct and facilitates improved control of the heaters used in conjunction with the inhalation duct. In some embodiments, the first probe 302 may extend further forward or away from the clamp 300 than the second probe 304 and the third probe 306. In one embodiment, such as Figure 21-23 As shown and described in more detail here, this arrangement can advantageously allow the first probe 302 to be closer to the starting point of the heated portion of the inhalation duct.

[0191] Spring probe assembly

[0192] In some embodiments, one or more of these probes 302, 304, 306 are mounted on a spring or elastic member or a flexible mounting. For example, in Figure 7A In the illustrated embodiment, probe 302 is mounted on elastic member 308, and probes 304, 306 are mounted on elastic member 310. In some configurations, a single elastic member may support one probe. In some configurations, a single elastic member may support two probes. In some configurations, a single elastic member may support two or more probes.

[0193] refer to Figure 7B (This figure shows the axial section of probe 302 and elastic member 308.) Probe 302 may include a flange 312. The flange 312 may be a ring, collar, protrusion, etc., extending outward from the body 313 of probe 302. Figure 7A As shown, each of these probes 302, 304, 306 may correspondingly include flanges 312, 314, 316. These flanges 312, 314, 316 allow these probes 302, 304, 306 to be mounted at least substantially flush with these resilient members 308, 310. These flanges 312, 314, 316 also allow these probes 302, 304, 306 to be at least substantially flush with these seals 418 in these holes 414a, 414b, 416 when the humidification chamber 104 is positioned on the heater base 102. Reference Figure 7C When the probe 302 is inserted into one of these seals 418, the flange 312 may be flush with at least substantially the flat base 419 of the seal in this seal 418.

[0194] In some embodiments, one or more of these flanges 312, 314, 316 may have a tapered configuration. For example, in Figure 7D In one embodiment, the flange 312 may have a portion that tapers towards the end of the probe 302. In other words, the flange surface closest to one of these seals 418 may be angled away from the rod portion of the probe 302. Figure 7DThe flange 312 shown in the configuration includes a substantially flat base that can be configured to be at least substantially flush with the resilient member 308. In some configurations, the tapered surface of the flange 312 can be configured to contact a corresponding tapered base 419 of one of the seals 418, as shown. The tapered surface of the flange 312 and one of the seals 418 can advantageously help center the probe 302 within one of the seals 418. For example, if the humidification chamber 104 is inserted into the heater base 102 at an angle or eccentrically, then when the flange 312 contacts one of the seals 418, the tapered surface of the flange 312 can help guide the probe 302 to be more centrally aligned within the seals 418.

[0195] The elastic member 308 may include a generally hollow body 309. In the illustrated configuration, the body 309 includes a generally tubular arrangement, with a portion of the body 309 folded rearward into its own interior. In other words, the body 309 generally includes an outer portion 311 and an inner portion 315 connected to each other at a flange 312 adjacent to the body 313 of the probe 302. The outer portion 311 and the inner portion 315 may be generally tubular and may be integrally formed.

[0196] The internal portion 315 contacts the probe 302. In the illustrated configuration, the internal portion 315 clamps the body 313 of the probe 302. In some configurations, the connection between the internal portion 315 and the probe 302 reduces the possibility of relative axial movement between the two components. In some configurations, the elastic member 308 and the probe 302 can be secured together using any suitable adhesive or technique.

[0197] The outer portion 311 of the body 309 of the elastic member 308 includes at least one flange 317. In the illustrated configuration, the body 309 includes a pair of flanges 317. These flanges 317 define a recess 319. A portion of the clamp 300 can be received within the recess 319. Thus, the body 309 of the elastic member 308 can be fastened to the clamp 300, while another portion of the body 309 of the elastic member 308 can be fastened to the probe 302. The elastic member can accommodate axial movement of the probe 302 relative to the clamp 300 (e.g., by axially displacing the inner portion 315 relative to the outer portion 311). The elastic member can also accommodate rocking movement of the probe 302 relative to the clamp 300 and displacement of its axial center. Therefore, the elastic member allows multi-axis movement of the probe 302 relative to the clamp 300. If the holes 414a, 414b, 416 in the humidification chamber 104 are not precisely aligned with the probes 302, 304, 306, this allows the elastic members 308, 310 and thus the probes 302, 304, 306 to be adjusted.

[0198] These resilient members 308, 310 may be made of silicone or any other suitable material. In some embodiments, these resilient members 308, 310 are harder or less elastic than these seals 418. For example, these materials may be selected such that these seals 418 can be fully extended by a force less than that required to compress these resilient members 308, 310. In other words, these seals 418 can extend to their full length with a force less than that required to begin compressing or adjusting these resilient members 308, 310. This allows these seals 418 to extend to accommodate these probes 302, 304, 306 before these resilient members 308, 310 are compressed or adjusted. In other words, by allowing these seals 418 to extend before these resilient members are compressed, these seals 418 can extend during the insertion of these probes 302, 304, 306. By allowing these elastic members 308, 310 to compress or buckle in any of several directions, the probes 302, 304, 306 can be better aligned with the holes, and the washers and probes 302, 304, 306 can be more flush after insertion. These elastic members 308, 310 also allow for repeatable insertion depths of the probes 302, 304, 306 within the humidification chamber 104.

[0199] In some embodiments, such as Figure 60 As shown, the clamp 1300 includes probes 1302, 1304, and 1306, wherein the flanges 1301 of these probes 1304 and 1306 are generally D-shaped. These D-shaped flanges 1301 allow the probes 1304 and 1306 to be positioned at a desired distance from each other, while providing sufficient support to prevent them from collapsing or folding toward each other during engagement of the humidification chamber 1104 with the clamp 1300.

[0200] For example, in which a single elastic member supports both probes 304 and 306. Figure 7A In some embodiments, the elastic member provides less support to the face-to-face portions of the probes 304, 306. However, if the flanges 1301 of the probes 1304, 1306 were full circles, the bases would obstruct each other, thus requiring the probes 1304, 1306 to be spaced further apart than desired. Figure 60 and Figure 61AAs shown, the holes 1414a, 1414b, and 1416 in the air inlet port 1410 and air outlet port 1412 have surrounding ridges 1415 and 1417. When the humidification chamber 1104 is mounted on the heater base 102 and the clamp 1300, these flanges 1301 rest against these surrounding ridges 1415 and 1417. If the surface area of ​​these flanges 1301 that can contact these ridges 1415 is too small, then the probes 1304 and 1306 may tend to tilt toward each other.

[0201] like Figure 69 (The figure illustrates an exemplary probe (which could be any of these probes 1302, 1304, 1306)) As shown, both the flange 1301 and the base 1331 of the probe can be generally D-shaped. The D-shaped base 1331 helps reduce or eliminate the possibility of the probe rotating during placement on the clamp 1300. In other words, the D-shaped base 1331 can be configured to be received in a corresponding D-shaped opening or recess in the clamp 1300, and this D-shape helps ensure that the probes 1304, 1306 are properly oriented. In some embodiments, when the probes 1304, 1306 are placed, the straight edges of the probe bases 1331 of the probes 1304, 1306 will contact each other (e.g., these straight edges may be flush with each other). The probe 1302 may also have a D-shaped base 1331, which is configured to be received in a corresponding D-shaped socket to ensure that the probe 1302 is properly oriented in the clamp 1300.

[0202] Alignment and engagement features

[0203] At least a portion of the clamp 300 and the humidification chamber 104 may have a connection configuration. In some configurations, the clamp 300 and the upper portion of the humidification chamber 104 may have a connection configuration. This connection configuration facilitates the correct and easy placement of the humidification chamber 104.

[0204] like Figure 2A-6As shown, the clamp 300 includes outer sidewalls 320. These outer sidewalls 320 extend beyond the tips of the probes 302, 304, 306. The clamp 300 may also include a central channel 322. In the illustrated configuration, the central channel 322 is defined by flaps 324, 326. These flaps 324, 326 extend forward from each side of the central channel 322. These flaps 324, 326 may extend generally parallel to the sidewalls 320. Recessed portions may be formed between each sidewall 320 and the adjacent flaps 324, 326. The probes 302, 304, 306 may be positioned within these recessed portions. In some configurations, at least one of the flaps 324, 326 and the sidewalls 320 extends further outward from the side surface 212 of the spine 204 compared to the most distal ends of the probes 302, 304, 306. In some configurations, the flaps 324 and 326, as well as the sidewalls 320 adjacent to these probes 302, 304, and 306, extend further outward from these side surfaces 212 of the spine 204 compared to the farthest ends of these probes 302, 304, and 306.

[0205] refer to Figure 13 The humidification chamber 104 includes a central protrusion or raised portion 422. In the illustrated embodiment, the humidification chamber 104 includes a groove 424 and a groove 426, wherein the groove 424 is located between the raised portion 420 and the air outlet port 412, and the groove 426 is located between the raised portion 420 and the air inlet port 410.

[0206] The central channel 322 of the clamp 300 is configured to receive the protrusion 422 of the humidification chamber 104. The blades 324, 326 are configured to slide into the grooves 424, 426 of the humidification chamber 104.

[0207] These sidewalls 320 and the vanes 324, 326 serve as introduction features to help guide the user to correctly position the humidification chamber 104 onto the heater base 102. Positioning these sidewalls 320 and vanes 324, 326 also helps protect the sensors from damage that could result from improper contact with the humidification chamber 104. For example, if the user attempts to position the humidification chamber 104 with its front or side facing the clamp 300, such that the holes 414a, 414b, 416 in the inlet port 410 and outlet port 412 are not aligned with the probes 302, 304, 306, then these sidewalls 320 and vanes 324, 326 will contact the surface of the humidification chamber 104 to help reduce the likelihood of contact between the sensors and the relatively hard surface of the humidification chamber 104.

[0208] These fins 324, 326 and the humidification chamber 104 may also include features to help stabilize the humidification chamber 104 relative to the clamp 300 and to suppress rotation, tilting, and / or yaw of the humidification chamber 104. For example, as Figure 8 As shown, the inner surfaces of these vanes 324, 326 may include generally horizontal grooves 330 extending from the leading edges of these vanes 324, 326 toward the rear of the clamp 300. These grooves 330 may be configured to receive corresponding guide rails 430 extending along the sides of these protrusions 422 of the humidification chamber 104, such as... Figure 13 As shown in the diagram. In some configurations, these grooves may be formed on the clamp and these guide rails may be formed on the chamber. In any configuration, when the humidification chamber 104 is mounted on the heater base 102 and coupled to the clamp 300, the guide rails 430 are seated in these grooves 330. The coupling configuration of these guide rails 430 in these grooves 330 helps to prevent excessive tilting of the humidification chamber 104. In the illustrated configuration, these grooves 330 may be defined by protruding ridges that taper in a direction away from the base of the vanes 324, 326 and toward the ends.

[0209] like Figure 9A As shown in the cross-sectional view, in some embodiments, these grooves 330 terminate at a distance g from the rear of the central channel 322. Figure 13 As shown, in some embodiments, these guide rails 430 extend from the base of the protrusion toward the rear of the humidification chamber 104 and terminate at a distance r from the rear end of the protrusion 422. When the humidification chamber 104 is correctly and fully positioned on the heater base 102, the rear ends of these guide rails 430 abut the rear ends of the recesses 330. This signals to the operator that the humidification chamber 104 is fully positioned and helps prevent the humidification chamber 104 from advancing too far. In some embodiments, such as... Figure 9B As shown, these grooves 330 taper from front to back to allow for easier insertion of the humidification chamber 104 into the heater base 102 and the clamp 300. Furthermore, the taper allows these grooves 330 and these guide rails 430 to advance the humidification chamber 104 into the desired position relative to the clamp 300 and the heater base 102. Figure 61A As shown in the embodiment, the guide rail 1430 tapers accordingly to engage the tapered groove 1330.

[0210] In some embodiments, the clamp 300 includes a clamp 340 configured to engage and secure the humidification chamber 104. For example... Figure 2A-5 As shown, these clips 340 can be located on the inner surface 328 of these sidewalls 320. The body 402 of the humidification chamber 104 may include, as shown in the diagram. Figure 13The corresponding recesses 440 are shown. These recesses 440 can be configured to receive the clips 340 when the humidification chamber 104 is placed on the heater base 102. The engagement of the clips 340 with the recesses 440 can provide the operator with a sense of forced engagement, indicating to the operator that the humidification chamber 104 is fully placed on the heater base 102. The clips 340 and recesses 440 can also help facilitate proper placement of the humidification chamber 104, such that the probes 302, 304, 306 are properly inserted into the air inlet port 410 and the air outlet port 412.

[0211] In some embodiments, the sidewalls 320 may allow for a degree of buckling. For example, the sidewalls 320 may buckle outward as the humidification chamber 104 is inserted and the clips 340 slide along the outer wall of the humidification chamber 104. The sidewalls 320 then return to a relaxed state when the clips 340 are received in the recesses 440. In some configurations, the clips 340 buckle only relative to the sidewalls 320. In other words, the clips 340 may be configured as follows: Figure 4B The cantilever members 342 shown are shown. The clips 340 can be attached to or integrally formed with these cantilever members 342. These cantilever members 342 flex outwards as the humidification chamber 104 passes between these clips 340 until the clips 340 are positioned within the recesses 440 of the humidification chamber 104. These cantilever members 342 can be made of, for example... Figure 4A The cover 344 shown is used for covering.

[0212] The catheter connects to the humidification chamber and the clamp.

[0213] In some configurations, the catheter connector 500 is attached to the chamber end of the inspiratory catheter 120, such as... Figure 18-20 As shown in the diagram, the conduit connector 500 is configured to connect the inhalation conduit 120 to the humidification chamber 104 and the clamp 300. In some configurations, the conduit connector 500 provides an electrical connection between the inhalation conduit 120 and the clamp 300. Preferably, the conduit connector 500 provides both a pneumatic seal between the inhalation conduit 120 and the humidification chamber 104 and an electrical connection between the inhalation conduit 120 and the clamp 300. More preferably, the conduit connector 500 facilitates both a pneumatic seal with the humidification chamber 104 and an electrical connection with the clamp 300 through unidirectional movement. In some configurations, the conduit connector 500 is connected to the chamber end of the supply conduit 132 and is configured to provide similar pneumatic and electrical connections between the supply conduit 132 and the humidification chamber 104 and the clamp 300.

[0214] In some configurations, the conduit connector 500 includes a PCB located on or coupled to the PCB connector 502. This PCB can be connected to the heating wire of the conduit and / or the sensor wire of the intake conduit 120. In some configurations, the PCB can be connected to both the heating wire and the sensor wire. Therefore, the conduit connector 500 includes electrical components that can facilitate electrical connections between the heating wire, sensor wire, etc., and electronics of other parts of the humidification system 100.

[0215] In the illustrated configuration, the conduit connector 500 includes an electrical connector 502. The electrical connector 502 is coupled to the PCB of the conduit connector 500 and configured to connect with a mating connector of another component of the humidification system 100. In some configurations, the electrical connector 502 is configured to be received in a corresponding electrical connector coupled to the heater base 102 or positioned to make electrical contact with that corresponding electrical connector. For example, when the conduit connector 500 is coupled to the humidification chamber 104 and the humidification chamber 104 is positioned on the heater base 102, the electrical connector 502 can mate with the electrical connector coupled to the heater base 102. In one configuration, the electrical connector 502 can be configured to be received in a receiver or mating electrical connector 350 disposed on the clamp 300, as shown in Figures 7-8. In another configuration, the conduit connector 500 can be configured to engage with the clamp 300 to position the electrical connector 502 to make electrical contact with the electrical connector 350. In the illustrated embodiment, the catheter connector 500 may include a cover 504 extending from the catheter connector 500 to cover the electrical connector 502. For example, but not limited to, the cover 504 may help protect the electrical connector 502 from condensation that may drip from the suction catheter 120 onto the catheter connector 500.

[0216] like Figure 18-20 As shown, the electrical connector 502 can be located on the same side of the conduit connector 500 as the keyhole 506. This arrangement allows the electrical connector 502 to be coupled to the outlet port 412 via the conduit connector 500, and the keyhole 506 to be coupled to the mating electrical connector 350 simultaneously around the probe. In some configurations, the outlet port 412 may include features such as a collar, with the keyhole 506 designed to mate with such features. In other words, instead of coupling the keyhole 506 around the probe, the keyhole 506 is coupled only around the probe to the features on the outlet port 412.

[0217] exist Figure 18In the configuration shown, the electrical connection 502 of the conduit connector 500 has dual insertion axes. In other words, the electrical connector 502 can be inserted into the mating electrical connector 350 along both the horizontal and vertical axes. By providing dual insertion axes, the conduit connector 500 can be first attached to the outlet port 412 and then the humidification chamber 104 can be slid onto the heater base 102, such that the connector is horizontally inserted into the mating electrical connector 350; or alternatively, the humidification chamber 104 can be first inserted into the heater base 102 and then the conduit connector 500 can be attached to the outlet port 412, such that the connector 502 is vertically inserted into the mating electrical connector 350.

[0218] keyhole

[0219] In some configurations, the conduit connector 500 includes a keyhole 506 located below the electrical connector 502. The keyhole 506 may be a cutout extending from its outermost end, configured to be positioned above the outlet port 412, into the conduit connector 500. When the conduit connector 500 is coupled to the humidification chamber 104 on the heater base 102 and clamp 300, the keyhole 506 allows the conduit connector 500 to receive and engage with a probe 302 extending into the hole 416. In other words, the lock provides sufficient axial length for the sheath portion 503 of the conduit connector 500 to provide a stable connection between the conduit connector 500 and the outlet port 412, while also allowing the probe 302 to be positioned closer to the end of the outlet port 412. This reduces the distance between the probe 302 and the end of the outlet port 412, which improves the accuracy of the sensor output because the probe 302 will be arranged as close as possible to the end of the unheated outlet port 412 and as close as possible to the beginning of the heated inhalation conduit 120.

[0220] In some configurations, the keyhole 506 may also provide a snap-fit ​​engagement between the conduit connector 500 and the outlet port 412. This snap-fit ​​engagement helps indicate when the conduit connector 500 is fully and correctly connected to the outlet port 412. This snap-fit ​​engagement also provides a retaining force sufficient to prevent disengagement due to increased air pressure in the event of a blockage downstream of the conduit connector 500.

[0221] In some configurations, the keyhole 506 can provide a holding force ranging from about 12 N (Newtons) to about 45 N. The neck 510 can be defined as a portion of the keyhole 506 that is narrower than the diameter of the opening of the hole receiving the vent port 412. The width of the neck 510 can affect the holding force provided.

[0222] The provided retaining force helps maintain the electrical connector 502 of the conduit connector 500 with the mating electrical connector 350 on the clamp 300 (see...). Figure 7A Electrical connection between the keyhole body and the electrical connector 502. In some embodiments, the center of the keyhole body and the electrical connector 502 are spaced apart by a vertical distance c, such as... Figure 18 As shown in the image.

[0223] Back slit

[0224] In some configurations, one or more of the inlet port 410 and outlet port 412 may include at least one feature to help a user distinguish between these ports. In some configurations, one or more of the inlet port 410 and outlet port 412 may include features to allow connection of connectors to the supply conduit 132 and / or the inhalation conduit 120. For example, as... Figure 20 As shown, the front of the exhaust port 412 may include a rib 450. In the illustrated configuration, the rib 450 may be opposite in the diametrical direction to the hole on the exhaust port 412. Other locations may also be used.

[0225] In the illustrated configuration, the catheter connector 500 may include a recess or slit 508 opposite to the keyhole 504. This recess receives and engages with a rib 450 on the outlet port 412. The rib 450 advantageously helps prevent the user from attaching a catheter other than the inspiratory tube 120 to the outlet port 412 via the catheter connector 500. This can help reduce potential risks to the patient due to improper catheter use. The recess 508 also allows the catheter connector 500 to bend more easily when the keyhole 506 is bent to receive the probe 302. Furthermore, the recess 508 and the rib 450 facilitate proper rotational alignment of the catheter relative to the port.

[0226] Consumable identification

[0227] Different types and configurations of catheters are available and can be used with humidification systems as described herein. In some applications, different catheters may be designed for or suited to different patients, treatment types, and / or treatment parameters. In some embodiments, the heater base 102 or clamp 300 may be able to detect the type of inspiratory catheter 120 coupled to the system. Based on the detection of the type of inspiratory catheter 120, the heater base 102 and / or clamp 300 may automatically select certain operating, control, and / or treatment parameters based on the identified catheter. For example, different types of inspiratory catheters 120 (e.g., general, single-limb, infant, or adult) may include unique identification components (such as resistors), dual-function components (such as heating wires with identifiable resistance values), RFID components, and / or memory chips (such as EEPROMs). These identification components can be identified by various measurement methods.

[0228] When the inhalation catheter 120 is coupled to the humidification chamber 104 disposed on the heater base 102, one or more processors 114 or one or more other suitable electrical components in the heater base 102 and / or clamp 300 can measure the resistance of a resistor associated with the catheter. The processor 114 can then compare the measured resistance with a table or similar stored in a memory 112 or another suitable component in the heater base 102 and / or clamp 300, and select operating, control, and / or treatment parameters associated with the measured resistance value. These operating, control, and / or treatment parameters can then be set based on the values ​​stored in the memory 112. Other identification mechanisms are also possible, as discussed above. In some embodiments, the clamp 300 identifies the attached catheter and sends identification information and / or operating, control, and / or treatment parameters to the processor 114.

[0229] In some embodiments, an identification resistor or other mechanism may be located on or within the conduit connector 500. In some embodiments, as discussed above, the conduit connector 500 includes a connector for heating elements in the inhalation conduit 120 and supplies power to these heating elements when the conduit connector 500 is coupled to the heater base 102. In some such embodiments, the conduit identification resistor is selected to have a resistance in a specific range (e.g., hundreds of kΩ) so as not to interfere with or disrupt the heating wire, which may have a resistance in the range of, for example, tens of Ω. In other words, in some configurations, the conduit includes a heating wire and an identification resistor. In some embodiments, the heating wire has a resistance in the range of about 1 Ω to about 200 Ω. In some such embodiments, the identification resistor may have a resistance in the range of about 200 Ω to about 200 kΩ.

[0230] Replacement inspiratory duct connector

[0231] Figure 21-24 Alternative embodiments of the inhalation duct chamber end connector are shown. Like the connectors described above, these connectors can provide both a pneumatic connection to the humidification chamber 104 and an electrical connection to the clamp 300. Thus, these connectors provide two different types of connections to two separate components. In some configurations, the connectors can also provide physical connections to both the humidification chamber 104 and the clamp 300.

[0232] like Figure 21As shown, in some configurations, the air outlet port 412 of the humidification chamber 104 may include an elbow connector 460. In some embodiments, the elbow connector 460 is integrally formed with the humidification chamber 104. For example, the elbow connector 460 may form at least a portion of the air outlet port 412. In other embodiments, the elbow connector 460 is attached to the air outlet port 412, for example, by epoxy resin, ultrasonic welding, or other suitable means. In other embodiments, the elbow connector 460 is configured to be removably connected to the air outlet port 412. In some embodiments, the elbow connector 460 is angled toward the front of the humidification chamber 104. In other words, when the humidification chamber 104 is positioned on the heater base 102, the elbow connector 460 is angled away from the heater base 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the elbow connector 460 is bent to an angle of approximately 90°. The portion of the elbow connector 460 extending away from the heater base 102 is configured to receive the intake conduit 120, wherein the conduit connector 500 is along an axis generally parallel to the axis on which the humidification chamber 104 is positioned on the heater base 102. Therefore, in some configurations, the elbow connector 460 extends in a direction generally parallel to the direction in which the humidification chamber 104 is inserted into the heater base 102. In some configurations, the humidification chamber 104 includes features relating to the direction in which the humidification chamber 104 is inserted into the heater base 102 (e.g., the axis of the bore 416 or these guides 430), and the elbow connector 460 may be oriented in a direction relating to such features such that, when the humidification chamber 104 is inserted into the heater base 102, the elbow connector 460 is oriented generally parallel to this insertion direction. The term "generally parallel" is intended to imply a parallelism with some variation, provided that such variation does not make the connection as described above difficult or impossible. Other angles and orientations of the elbow connector 460 are also possible. The air intake port 410 may or may not include an elbow connector.

[0233] refer to Figure 21 The conduit connector 500 includes an electrical connector 512. In the illustrated configuration, the conduit connector 500 includes a USB-type connector 512. In other embodiments, the conduit connector 500 may include a pouch-type connector or any other suitable type of connector. The USB connector 512 or other electrical connector may be configured to be received in a corresponding socket on the clamp 300.

[0234] In some embodiments, the USB connector 512 extends from the periphery or side of the conduit connector 500. In other words, the USB connector 512 may be laterally spaced from the central axis of the inhalation conduit 120 extending into the conduit connector 500. As shown, the USB connector 512 extends from the conduit connector 500 along an axis parallel to but laterally offset from the lumen defined within the inhalation conduit 120. In some configurations, the USB connector 512 has a generally bisected plane that extends through the central axis of the portion of the conduit connector 500 that is coupled to the conduit. The USB connector 512 and the portion of the conduit connector 500 coupled to the inhalation conduit 120 also extend along an axis parallel to the axis of the probe 302 extending into the outlet port 412.

[0235] In the illustrated embodiment, the USB connector 512 extends beyond the end of the conduit connector 500. In other embodiments, the USB connector 512 can be pulled back from the end of the conduit connector 500, such that the end of the conduit connector 500 extends beyond the USB connector 512. The conduit connector 500 can be configured such that the pneumatic connection of the inhalation conduit 120 via the conduit connector 500 to the elbow connector 460 is made prior to the electrical connection of the USB connector 512 to the clamp 300. This configuration creates a uniaxial connection between the electrical connector 512 and the clamp 300.

[0236] In some embodiments, the conduit connector 500 and / or the elbow connector 460 may include mating features, including any of the features described above. These mating features help facilitate proper alignment of the conduit connector 500 and the elbow connector 460, such that the USB connector 512 is properly aligned with the corresponding socket on the clamp 300 to ensure an electrical connection is established. Additionally, in one or more configurations, a locking coupling may be provided to secure the conduit connector 500 to the elbow connector 460.

[0237] In some configurations, such as Figure 22 As shown, the intake conduit 120 can be permanently and directly attached to the elbow connector 460 of the humidification chamber 104. In the illustrated configuration, an electrical connector 512 extends from the elbow connector 460. The electrical connector 512 can extend from the rear or side of the elbow connector 460. The electrical connector 512 and the corresponding socket on the clamp 300 can be configured such that the electrical connection is made when the humidification chamber 104 is placed on the heater base 102. This configuration allows for fewer assembly steps because it is not necessary to separately connect the intake conduit 120 to the humidification chamber 104 before or after it is placed on the heater base 102.

[0238] exist Figure 23In the illustrated embodiment, the elbow connector 460 can be coupled to the inhalation duct 120. The inhalation duct 120 and the elbow connector 460 can be configured to be coupled to the humidification chamber 104 before it is placed on the heater base 102. A USB connector 512 can be received in a corresponding socket on the clamp 300, and electrical connection can be made while the humidification chamber 104 is placed on the heater base 102. Once the humidification chamber 104 is placed on the heater base 102, this configuration inhibits or prevents the inhalation duct 120 from being removed from the humidification chamber 104 without removing the humidification chamber 104 from the heater base 102.

[0239] refer to Figure 24 In some configurations, the air outlet port 412 of the humidification chamber 104 includes two plugs 512a and 512b. These plugs 512a and 512b can be USB connectors, plug-in connectors, or any other suitable connectors. Plug 512a can be generally horizontally oriented and can be configured to be received in a corresponding socket on the clamp 300 when the humidification chamber 104 is positioned on the heater base 102 (e.g., ...). Figure 24 The plug 512a extends along an axis generally parallel to the axis through which the humidification chamber 104 is inserted into the heater base 102. The plug 512b may be generally vertically oriented and may be configured to be received in a corresponding socket 354 on the intake conduit 120 when the intake conduit 120 is physically and pneumatically connected to the humidification chamber 104. In some configurations, these plugs 512a, 512b may be single, integrally formed components, such as... Figure 24 As shown in the diagram. In some configurations, these plugs 512a, 512b may be separate components that can be connected to the vent port 412.

[0240] Replacement horizontal catheter to humidification chamber and clamp connection

[0241] Figure 25-26 Another embodiment of a catheter connector 1500 is shown, which is coupled to the chamber end of the inhalation tubing 120 and to the humidification chamber 1104 and clamp 1300. The catheter connector 1500 pneumatically connects the inhalation tubing 120 to the outlet of the humidification chamber 1104. Figure 28As shown, when the humidification chamber 1104 is mounted on the heater base 102, the outlet port 1412 preferably terminates at an angle to a substantially horizontal portion away from the heater base 102. The inlet port 1410 of the humidification chamber 1104 is configured for fluid connection to a pressurized gas source. This inlet port may be located remotely from the humidification device or form an integral part of the humidification device, although it may be detachable from the humidification device. For example, the inlet port 1410 may be pneumatically coupled to a motorized fan that drives gas through the inlet port 1410, the fan being located in or associated with the heater base 102. In some applications, the humidification system may be used to deliver gas at relatively high flow rates, such as up to or greater than about 100 L / min. In some cases, certain features designed to improve the delivery of humidified gas at higher flow rates may cause liquid to splash out of the chamber 1104 through the outlet port 1412. This is not desirable. The angled vent port 1412 can advantageously help reduce the velocity of the gas flowing through the vent port, thereby suppressing or reducing the likelihood of liquid splashing out through the vent port 1412. The angled vent port 1412 can also help reduce dead angles in the vent port 1412.

[0242] The conduit connector 1500 facilitates an electrical connection to the heater base 102 via the clamp 1300. The clamp 1300 may be integrally formed with the heater base 102 or may be a separate, replaceable module or clamp. The ability to change modules can advantageously enable mating with different models of the humidification chamber 104 and / or conduit connectors. Additionally or alternatively, the module may be modified to alter the operation of the humidification device by including control circuitry. The intake conduit 120 may include one or more resistive heating wires that provide heating to the conduit wall and / or sensor wires that electrically or otherwise facilitate the transmission of signals relating to one or more parameters of the system. Therefore, the term "electrical connection" is used in distinction from the term "pneumatic connection" and should not be used in a limiting manner. For example, optical signals may be transmitted via optical fibers. Thus, the conduit connector 1500 can more generally connect the intake conduit 120 (and any associated peripheral devices, such as sensors) to the heater base 102 in a communicative and / or electrical manner, such as via the clamp 1300.

[0243] The conduit connector 1500 may include at least one button or switch 1510, which can be manually pressed to disconnect the conduit connector 1500 (and the inhalation conduit 120) from the humidification chamber 1104. As will be understood herein, the conduit connector 1500 and the outlet port 1412 of the humidification chamber 1104 are preferably lockably engaged when connected thereto, wherein the at least one button or switch 1510 is subsequently used to allow the conduit connector 1500 to disconnect from the humidification chamber 1104. Any suitable connection may be used.

[0244] like Figure 28-34As shown, the air outlet port 1412 of the humidification chamber 1104 is configured such that, at least at the end of the air outlet port 1412 remote from the humidification chamber 1104, it is substantially parallel to the direction of movement of the humidification chamber 1104 as it slides on or away from the heater base 102. By configuring the device in this way, it is then possible to assemble the conduit connector 1500, the humidification chamber 1104, and the heater base 102 by: engaging the humidification chamber 1104 to the heater base 102 and then attaching the conduit connector 1500 to the air outlet port 1412 of the humidification chamber 1104; or attaching the conduit connector 1500 to the air outlet port 1412 of the humidification chamber 1104 and then engaging the humidification chamber 1104 to the heater base 102. Because the conduit connector 1500 and the outlet port 1412 are configured to engage lockably, the latter assembly option is easier to follow, as this prevents the conduit connector 1500 from separating from the outlet port 1412 when the humidification chamber 1104 is slid onto the heater base 102. Additionally, with this latter assembly, the intake conduit 120 and the humidification chamber 1104 can be pre-assembled for shipment, thus eliminating a step from the assembly process. Regardless of the assembly order, electrical or other connections between the intake conduit 120 and / or the conduit connector 1500 and the clamp 1300 and / or the heater base 102 can be made when the conduit connector 1500 engages the clamp 1300. With this subsequent assembly, probes 302, 304, and 306 can be inserted into holes 416, 414a, and 414b when the chamber is positioned on the heater base 102, and the electrical and / or other connections between the conduit connector 1500 and the clamp 1300 and / or the heater base 102 can be formed in a single action (i.e., the action of inserting the combined conduit connector 1500 and humidification chamber 1104 onto the heater base 102). In the illustrated configuration, an electrical connection is formed between the heater base 102 and the conduit connector 1500, and probes 302, 304, and 306 are inserted into holes 416, 414a, and 414b; both of these connections occur in a single action when the humidification chamber 1104 is positioned on the heater base 102.

[0245] Similarly, disassembly can be performed in a different order. More specifically, the conduit connector 1500 can be removed from the air outlet 1412 of the humidification chamber 1104 first, followed by the removal of the humidification chamber 1104 from the heater base 102. Alternatively, the humidification chamber 1104 can be removed from the heater base 102 while the conduit connector 1500 is still attached to the air outlet 1412 of the humidification chamber 1104. The latter option can advantageously help reduce the possibility of liquid spillage during the disassembly and removal of these consumables from the heater base 102.

[0246] Alignment and engagement features

[0247] To facilitate engagement of the conduit connector 1500, humidification chamber 1104, and heater base 102 during assembly, various guides can be provided to control their orientation and / or position relative to each other. More specifically, to allow the humidification chamber 1104 to slide and engage with the heater base 102 and clamp 1300, different orientation features can be provided on the humidification chamber 1104 and / or clamp 1300, thereby enabling quick and easy alignment of these components, particularly when the conduit connector 1500 is attached to the outlet port 1412. For example, the humidification chamber 1104 can be fully engaged with the heater base 102, thus allowing the conduit connector 1500 to also engage with the clamp 1300. As will be disclosed later, the conduit connector 1500 and / or clamp 1300 may additionally or alternatively include the following orientation features that help ensure the conduit connector 1500 is connected to the humidification chamber 1104 such that: the conduit connector 1500 is properly oriented to allow easy connection of the conduit connector 1500 and the humidification chamber 1104 to the heater base 102 and the clamp 1300.

[0248] Alignment and engagement features for the humidification chamber to the clamp.

[0249] like Figure 28-34 As shown, the humidification chamber 1104 preferably includes a central protrusion, a raised portion or nose-shaped portion 1422, and a guide rail or guide wing 1430. These features are configured to engage correspondingly with the central channel or contoured recess 1322 and the horizontal groove or slot 1330 in the holder 1300, such as Figures 35-38 As shown in the diagram. Further discussion will be conducted with reference to the following coordinate system, in which the Z-axis extends vertically from the heating plate 108, the Y-axis is aligned with the engagement direction of the humidification chamber 1104 and the heater base 102, and the X-axis is perpendicular to both the Z-axis and Y-axis. Furthermore, the width of the nose-shaped portion 1422 is defined along the X-axis, the length of the nose-shaped portion 1422 is defined along the Y-axis, and the height of the nose-shaped portion 1422 is defined along the Z-axis.

[0250] In one embodiment, the nose-shaped portion 1422 has a smaller width at its first end than at its second end, the first end of which is configured to be initially received in the recess 1322. This provides some tolerance regarding the position of the humidifying chamber 1104 along the X-axis (and rotationally about the Z-axis) so that the nose-shaped portion 1422 is initially received in the recess 1322. Furthermore, because the spacing or tolerance between the nose-shaped portion 1422 and the recess 1322 is smaller, thereby reducing the range of relative movement, the wider second end of the nose-shaped portion 1422 can be used to refine the position of the nose-shaped portion 1422 (and therefore the humidifying chamber 1104) along the X-axis (and rotationally about the Z-axis).

[0251] In the illustrated embodiment, the recess 1322 is configured such that the inclined sidewalls of the nose-shaped portion 1422 abut against the corresponding and similarly inclined sidewalls of the recess 1322. This configuration of the sidewalls of the nose-shaped portion 1422 and the recess 1322 controls not only the position of the humidification chamber 1104 along the X-axis but also its rotational position about the Y-axis and / or Z-axis, because movement of the nose-shaped portion 1422 along the X-axis is substantially suppressed in at least two positions along the length of the nose-shaped portion 1422 and also along the height of the nose-shaped portion 1422.

[0252] However, some of these benefits can be achieved when the sidewalls of the nose portion 1422 do not adjoin the sidewalls of the recess 1322. For example, if the nose portion 1422 is configured as shown, but the sidewalls of the recess 1322 are substantially parallel along their length and spaced apart by a distance greater than the maximum width of the nose portion 1422 at its second end, then this configuration will still assist in the initial insertion of the nose portion 1422 into the recess 1322 and at least significantly constrain the movement of the nose portion 1422 along the X-axis at its second end, although some rotational movement about the Z-axis is possible. A similar result is achieved if the sidewalls of the nose portion 1422 are substantially parallel and the recess 1322 narrows along its length along the Y-axis from its opening to a width at least as large as the width of the nose portion 1422.

[0253] The nose-shaped portion 1422, combined with the recess 1322, may additionally or alternatively provide tolerances along at least the Z-axis with respect to the initial placement of the humidification chamber 1104. Furthermore, according to certain embodiments, they may cooperate to refine the position of the humidification chamber 1104 along the Z-axis and / or rotatably about the X-axis and / or Y-axis.

[0254] This tolerance is provided in a manner similar to the tolerance in the X direction. For example... Figure 31As shown, the height of the nose-shaped portion 1422 is lower at the first end than at the second end, where this height is measured from the base plate 404. Figure 36 As shown, the recess 1322 has a similar profile, allowing for easy initial insertion followed by refinement of its position along the Z-axis as the humidification chamber 1104 is further inserted to fully engage with the heater base 102. Similar to the description of tolerances along the width direction of the X-axis, the opposing wall of the generally top-down side of the recess 1322 may not abut against the top-up side of the nose-shaped portion 1422 along its length. For example, one could always be oriented substantially parallel to the heating plate 108, but with similar disadvantages as those previously mentioned. More specifically, while facilitating initial insertion, the degree of refinement of the position of the humidification chamber 1104 along the Z-axis may be reduced, and there may be less control to ensure that the base plate 404 is parallel to the heating plate 108. In some embodiments, the engagement of these guide wings 1430 with other alignment features on the recesses 1330 and / or nose-shaped portions 1422 provides sufficient movement constraint to reduce the need for alignment and engagement of the base plate 404 of the humidification chamber 1104 with the heating plate 108 via the peripheral edge 220 of the top surface 208 of the heater base 102 and / or the peripheral edge 224 of the inner base frame 222. In some configurations, the heater base 102 does not include the peripheral edge 220. In some configurations, at least one of the peripheral edge 220 and the peripheral edge 224 may be omitted.

[0255] The nose-shaped portion 1422 can be provided without these guide wings 1430. However, the use of these guide wings 1430 is preferred, at least in embodiments where the heating plate 108 is spring-mounted to improve control over the positioning of the humidification chamber 1104 along at least the Z-axis and / or to ensure that the heating plate 108 is substantially parallel to the base plate 404. Conversely, these guide wings 1430 can be provided without the nose-shaped portion 1422, but this configuration is not preferred because the nose-shaped portion 1422 can be more easily configured to assist in the initial positioning of the humidification chamber 1104 and also to perform its initial coarse adjustment to refine the position, while these guide wings 1430 can then be used to further refine the position of the humidification chamber 1104 along the Z-axis and control the orientation about at least the X and Y axes. In the case where the nose-shaped portion is omitted, these guide wings 1430 can be mounted, for example, on a substantially rigid mounting extending vertically from the humidification chamber 1104, such that these guide wings 1430 extend laterally from the mounting. The substantially rigid mounting element is preferably substantially planar, thus forming an overall T-shaped cross-section. However, to improve strength and rigidity, the mounting element may include a more robust component with a certain thickness (but this thickness does not generally allow the mounting element to directly contact the clamp 1300).

[0256] For example, such as Figure 30 As shown, these guide wings 1430 do not extend to the first end of the nose-shaped portion 1422. Instead, they are spaced apart from the first end, thereby enabling an initial engagement between the nose-shaped portion 1422 and the recess 1322 without the guide wings 1430 engaging with the recesses 1330, which only occur as the humidification chamber 1104 and the heater base 102 continue to engage after their relative positions have been refined.

[0257] As will be understood, alternative guide devices can be used. For example, the nose-shaped portion 1422 can be in the form of a contoured recess and vice versa, such that the contoured recess of the humidification chamber 1104 receives the nose-shaped portion or protrusion of the receiving clamp 1300. Similarly, these guide wings 1430 can be replaced by recesses in wings or other protrusions on the receiving clamp 1300. Other arrangements that perform the same function can also be used.

[0258] In some embodiments, such as Figure 60As shown, the clamp 1300 includes a protrusion 1390 generally positioned below the first probe 1302. In some configurations, the protrusion 1390 has a generally horseshoe shape. In some configurations, the protrusion 1390 has a generally horseshoe shape defining an opening in its lower portion. In configurations using the protrusion 1390, the air outlet port 1412 may include a corresponding rod 1490 positioned below the hole 1416. The rod 1490 and the protrusion 1390 are configured to engage each other to help suppress, reduce, or prevent rotation of the humidification chamber 1104 about its vertical axis or Z-axis. In some configurations, the engagement of the rod 1490 with the protrusion 1390 helps suppress, reduce, or prevent rotation of the humidification chamber about its X-axis. Although the protrusion 1390 is shown as being formed on the clamp 1300, in other embodiments, the protrusion 1390 may be formed on the chamber 1104 or a combination of the chamber 1104 and the clamp 1300. In some configurations, the protrusion 1390 is formed such that the axial center of the vent port 1412 intersects at least a portion of the protrusion 1390. In some configurations, the protrusion 1390 or the rod 1490, or both, may be formed as a simple flat structure. In some configurations, the rod 1490 or the protrusion 1390 may be absent. The protrusion 1390 or the rod 1490 (if present) may limit how far the vent port 1412 could otherwise translate or travel rearward toward the spine 204. In other words, when the loop connector 1500 is pushed onto the vent port 1412, the chamber 1104 can move easily without any resistive structure. The protrusion 1390 limits how far the vent port 1412 can travel backward, so that the loop connector 1500 can be fastened to the vent port 1412 before the edge card 901 reaches the bottom inside the receiver 1388 (due to the interaction between the ridge 1482 and the latch ring 1540).

[0259] Alternatively, the guiding device may be incorporated into the base plate 404 of the heating plate 108 and / or the humidification chamber 1104. For example, the ridges in the heating plate 108 may be configured to be received in slots in the base plate 404 of the humidification chamber 1104, or vice versa.

[0260] Alignment and engagement features of the catheter connector to the humidification chamber

[0261] In some embodiments, such as Figure 37 As shown, the catheter connector 1500 includes a body 1522 and an extension portion 1524. Figure 72 This is an exploded perspective view of the conduit connector 1500. As shown, the connector includes a body 1522 and an extension 1524. The body 1522 and the extension 1524 can be snap-fitted together or fastened together in any suitable manner. Figure 70As shown, the extension 1524 may be combined with a cut-out region 1571. The shape of the cut-out region 1571 may be generally arc-shaped, such as... Figure 70 As shown in the diagram. Therefore, the extension portion 1524 may not form a complete cylinder. When the conduit connector 1500 is connected to the air outlet port 1412 of the humidification chamber 1104, the cut area 1571 accommodates the air outlet port and extends over the top of at least a portion of the air outlet port 1412.

[0262] When connected, the body 1522 and the extension 1524 generally enclose most of the edge card 901, as well as the internal plug portion 1501 and the locking ring 1540. Thus, the body 1522 and the extension 1524 define the outer casing of the conduit connector 1500.

[0263] The internal plug portion 1501 connects to the inhalation conduit 120 in any suitable manner. In some configurations, the internal plug portion 1501 of the conduit connector 1500 includes a helical ridge 1526. The helical ridge 1526 is designed and configured to receive a helix of the inhalation conduit 120. The helical ridge 1526 allows the internal plug portion 1501 to screw into the end of the inhalation conduit 120.

[0264] The internal plug portion 1501 includes a passage 1542 for receiving the edge card 901. Specifically, the mounting area 911 of the edge card 901 can be inserted through the passage 1542. The mounting area 911 can be supported by, for example, but not limited to, a flap 1544. When the edge card 901 is in place relative to the internal plug portion and the internal plug portion 1501 is inserted into the conduit, the wires of the conduit can be connected to the mounting area 911, and the conduit and the mounting area can be sealed to reduce or eliminate the possibility of leakage and provide electrical insulation.

[0265] The internal plug portion 1501 may include an external recess 1546 located near the distal end of the internal plug portion 1501. The external recess 1546 may receive a sealing member (not shown). The sealing member (not shown) may have any suitable configuration. In some configurations, the sealing member is generally T-shaped with a wide band and a single rib extending radially outward from the wide band. In some configurations, the rib extends radially outward from the axial center of the wide band. Other sealing members, such as O-rings, V-seals, double-lip seals, etc., may also be used. When the conduit connector 1500 is connected to the humidification chamber 1104, the sealing member (not shown) will seal against the inside of the outlet port 1412.

[0266] In the illustrated configuration, the extension 1524 receives the latch ring 1540. Other configurations can be used, and the latch ring 1540 can be positioned within the extension 1524 or the body 1522, or a combination of both. In the illustrated configuration, the latch ring 1540 includes two buttons 1550 projecting outward from the extension 1524 via corresponding openings 1552. These buttons 1550 can be located on opposite sides of the latch ring 1540.

[0267] The latching ring 1540 may include orientation features 1554 to assist in the proper orientation of the latching ring 1540 and its assembly onto the extension 1524. With the orientation features 1554 oriented in the proper direction, the latching ring 1540 can be inserted into the end of the extension 1524. The latching ring 1540 is generally retained within a passageway within the extension 1524, surrounding the sides and bottom of the latching ring 1540, such that compressing the buttons 1550 causes the top of the latching ring 1540 to flex. In other words, simultaneously compressing the buttons 1550 causes the upper portion 1556 to flex upwards away from the axial center of the conduit connector 1500. In other configurations of the system, other portions of the ring may be configured to flex.

[0268] As the edge card 901 extends through the distal end of the extension portion 1524, the extension portion 1524 can be fastened to the internal plug portion 1501. In some configurations, the edge card 901 can be positioned within the extension portion 1524 such that a portion of the edge card 901 is exposed through an opening in the wall of the extension portion 1524. The body 1522 can be fastened to the internal plug portion 1501, thereby securing the extension portion 1524 and the body 1522 together using the internal plug portion 1501. In the illustrated configuration, each of these connectors is constructed using a snap-fit ​​mechanism, but other configurations are also possible.

[0269] When assembled, the latching ring 1540 overlaps the distal end of the inner plug portion 1501. In some configurations, the latching ring 1540 generally overlaps the receiving seal portion of the inner plug portion 1501. Thus, when the conduit connector 1500 is fitted onto the outlet port 1412, the latching ring 1540 is positioned at the ridge 1482 (see [link]). Figure 61A and Figure 61B The latching ring 1540 is secured behind the ridge 1482 when the sealing member seals within the opening of the outlet port 1412, thereby establishing both a mechanical connection and a pneumatic seal between the humidification chamber 1104 and the conduit connector 1500. Figure 70As shown, the lower surface of the extension 1524 may include a groove or gap 1576 for accommodating a ridge 1482 (e.g., when the conduit connector 1500 slides into the appropriate position on the outlet port 1412). Figure 61B (As shown). In Figure 70 In the diagram, the groove 1576 is shown extending along the center of the extension 1524. In some configurations, the groove or gap 1576 approximates the shape of the ridge 1482.

[0270] In the illustrated configuration, the ridge 1482 extends only around a portion of the opening of the exhaust port 1412. Because the ridge 1482 is engaged by a latching ring 1540 that flexes only in the upper portion 1556, the ridge only needs to extend along a portion of the circumference of the exhaust port 1412. In the illustrated configuration, the extension of the ridge 1482 is less than the circumferential span of the flexible portion of the latching ring 1540. Other configurations are possible.

[0271] like Figure 39 and Figure 47 As shown, the conduit connector 1500 preferably includes a notch 1513 configured to receive a substantially vertical portion of the vent port 1412. This also helps ensure that the conduit connector 1500 is correctly oriented at its end inserted into the vent port 1412, as full insertion is only possible with proper alignment. Furthermore, this arrangement provides a stronger connection and allows for electrical connection, as will be described below. Additionally, at least the initial portion of the notch 1513 may be angled or curved, such that the first portion of the vertical portion of the vent port 1412 received by the notch 1513 is wider than the vent port 1412, thus providing some tolerance regarding the required initial alignment. However, this may not be required when the vent port 1412 has a generally circular cross-section, as the circular shape of the vent port 1412 inherently provides some tolerance.

[0272] refer to Figure 40 and Figure 42 The conduit connector 1500 may additionally or alternatively include an angled groove or cutout 1518 that receives a similarly angled protrusion 1428 on the outlet port 1412. The angled groove or cutout serves to obtain and secure the orientation of the conduit connector 1500 and the outlet port 1412 relative to each other. The angled protrusion 1428 also serves to reinforce the outlet port 1412 by increasing the amount of material connecting the outlet port 1412 to the top of the humidification chamber 1104.

[0273] In some embodiments, such as Figure 49 , Figure 70 and Figure 71As shown, the bottom surface of the body 1522 of the conduit connector 1500 includes a ridge 1572, which is configured to engage or mate with a corresponding groove 1472 positioned on the top of the humidification chamber 1104 in front of the outlet port 1412, thereby helping to inhibit or prevent rotation of the conduit connector 1500 and thus the inhalation conduit 120. The groove 1472 and the ridge 1572 together also help to orient the conduit connector 1500 during connection. Figure 70 As shown, the ridge 1572 can be generally rhomboid. In the illustrated embodiment, the ridge 1572 is asymmetrical; Figure 70 The bottom portion of the ridge 1572 shown is longer than the top portion of the ridge 1572, and this bottom portion is the part further away from the heater base 102 when the conduit connector 1500 is attached to the clamp 1300.

[0274] Figures 40-42 An embodiment of a lockable but releasable connection between a conduit connector 1500 and an outlet port 1412 is shown. The conduit connector 1500 includes a button 1510 that can be manually actuated, for example by a thumb and / or finger, to allow removal of the conduit connector 1500 from the outlet port 1412. In the illustrated configuration, the button 1510 is formed of a resilient material and has a portion configured to be received in a recess 1480 formed in the outer wall of the outlet port 1412. Pressing down the button 1510 disengages the engaging portion of the button 1510 from the recess 1480. Figure 43 and Figure 44 An alternative embodiment is shown in which the button 1510 is formed of a substantially rigid material but may be spring-mounted. Pressing down the button 1510 acts on the spring and disengages the engagement portion 1520 of the button 1510 from the recess in the outer wall of the vent port 1412.

[0275] Figures 45-46 An alternative embodiment is shown in which the button 1510 or at least its engagement portion 1520 is spring-loaded, thereby deforming at least a portion of the button 1510 to disengage these engagement portions 1520 from the recess 1480 in the vent port 1412.

[0276] Figures 47-54 An alternative embodiment of the catheter connector 1500 is shown. Figures 52-54In this embodiment, a portion of the conduit connector 1500 is removed to reveal further details. According to this embodiment, the buttons 1510 are positioned on the sides of the conduit connector 1500 because this placement at a natural contact point may be more convenient for the user when attempting to disconnect the conduit connector 1500 from the vent port 1412. These buttons 1510 are integrated with or operatively coupled to a resiliently deformable ring 701. Pressing down these buttons 1510 disengages the ring 701 from a recess formed in at least one of the upper and lower outer surfaces of the vent port 1412, thereby allowing removal of the conduit connector 1500.

[0277] As an alternative to the recess, a ridge 1482 can be used in the air outlet 1412, such as Figure 55 As shown in the cross-section. This applies to this and other embodiments disclosed herein. In some such embodiments, when the conduit connector 1500 is attached to the outlet port 1412, the top of the ring 701 rests behind (or closer to) the ridge 1482 than the ridge. To disengage the conduit connector 1500 from the outlet port 1412, the buttons 1510 are pressed to deform the ring 701, causing the top of the ring 701 to rise above the level of the ridge 1482 and the conduit connector 1500 to be removed from the outlet port 1412.

[0278] Figure 58 This is a cross-sectional view of the conduit connector 1500 that engages with the air outlet port 1412 of the humidification chamber 1104. In this embodiment, the conduit connector 1500 has a convex connection such that at least a portion of the conduit connector 1500 is received within the air outlet port 1412. An O-ring 1005 or other seal is used to seal between these convex parts and the inner wall of the air outlet port 1412.

[0279] Figure 59 It shows the relationship with Figure 58 A similar view is shown, but modified so that the outlet port 1412 is configured as a convex part that mates with the inner wall of the inlet of the conduit connector 1500. Similarly, an O-ring 1005 or other seals may be used to reduce or eliminate the possibility of leakage.

[0280] Electrical connectors

[0281] Figure 40 and Figure 41 An exemplary electrical connector 801 is shown. These electrical connectors may be disposed in the extension portion 1524 of the conduit connector 1500 such that they extend beyond the pneumatic connector and are electrically and / or communicatively coupled to a cooperating connector 802 on the clamp 1300 (e.g., Figure 38(As shown in the diagram). In other embodiments, the pneumatic connector extends beyond these electrical connectors, or the electrical and pneumatic connectors extend by the same amount. Figure 40 and Figure 41 As shown, electrical and other connections can be formed by tab contacts on the conduit connector 1500, which are received in corresponding recesses in the holder 1300, the recesses accommodating contacts for engagement with these tab contacts. In other embodiments, these electrical connections can be formed by tab contacts on the conduit connector 1500, which can be positioned to abut tab contacts located in a cover 1305 forming part of the holder 1300. Other connectors, such as pins, can be used alternatively, but tab contacts are advantageous in that they provide some tolerance in the precise relative positioning of these tabs in these recesses. In the illustrated embodiment, some vertical tolerance is provided.

[0282] exist Figures 47-54 In the embodiment shown, the conduit connector 1500 includes a cavity 702 for receiving electrical connections or other connections. Figures 56-57 Another embodiment is shown, in which the electrical terminals are in the form of an edge card 901.

[0283] According to an alternative embodiment, these electrical contacts include one or more telescopic or spring-loaded pin contacts, each comprising a spring-mounted pin received in passages that allow the spring-loaded pins to vary the degree of their protrusion from the housing, thereby providing tolerances in the relative positions of the conduit connector 1500 and the clamp 1300 along the axes of these pins. Furthermore, the ability of these pins to be depressed makes them easier to insert into holes receiving mating or cooperating connectors.

[0284] According to another alternative embodiment, these electrical connectors include edge card connectors or card edge connectors, wherein a first portion of the connector has one or more conductive tracks disposed on a printed circuit board and configured to contact one or more pins of a second portion of the connector.

[0285] Figure 62 An exemplary embodiment of the edge card 901 is shown. The arrangement of the edge card 901 relative to the pneumatic seal in the connector allows control over the order of electrical contact and pneumatic sealing during connection. In some configurations, the pneumatic connection occurs before the electrical connection. In some configurations, the two connections can occur substantially simultaneously. In some configurations, it may be desirable to allow the electrical connection to occur before the pneumatic connection.

[0286] refer to Figure 62Edge card 901 is a generally planar component. In some configurations, edge card 901 is a printed circuit board. Edge card 901 may have a top surface 903 and a bottom surface 905. Edge card 901 has an enlarged head region 907, a smaller body region 909, and a mounting region 911. In some embodiments, the head region 907 meets the mounting region 911 with minimal insertion into the body region 909. Each of these regions 907, 909, 911 may be separated from the adjacent region by a flared portion (see, for example, flared portion 917), a step, or a shoulder. These flared portions, steps, or shoulders may be used to position edge card 901 during the assembly of conduit connector 1500.

[0287] The head portion 907 may include contact pads 900 for these tracks, as described herein. These contact pads 900 have an extended length that accommodates axial (i.e., in the general direction of these tracks and these pads) deviations in positioning while maintaining electrical contact with the clamp 1300.

[0288] The main body region 909 includes a variety of tracks, which will be described below, and a pair of mounting pads 910 for resistors, which will be described below. In some embodiments, the pair of mounting pads 910 are located on different portions of the edge card 901, such as mounting region 911.

[0289] Mounting area 911 includes a plurality of slots 913 and combs 915. The slots 913 can receive wires to be soldered or otherwise properly attached to edge card 901, while the combs 915 assist in the repeatable positioning of these wires and allow tension to be applied to them during soldering operations. In another embodiment (not shown), the slots 913 are alternately located on either side of mounting area 911 to increase their spacing from each other.

[0290] In the illustrated embodiment, the edge card 901 includes six electrical tracks extending from these contact pads 900. In some configurations, all of these electrical tracks extend along the top surface 903 of the edge card 901. In some configurations, each track extends entirely along the top surface 903 of the edge card 901. In some configurations, portions of these electrical tracks do not extend along the bottom surface 905 of the edge card 901.

[0291] Two outer rails 904 provide electrical connections for one or more heating wires in the intake conduit 120. Two inner rails 908 provide electrical connections for these sensor wires. Two intermediate rails 906 extend to the mounting pad 910 for a resistor. This resistor can be an identification resistor as described above. These intermediate rails 906 thus provide electrical connections between the identification resistor and the clamp 1300 to allow the clamp 1300 and / or the heater base 102 to identify the attached intake conduit 120.

[0292] In the configuration shown, the contact pads 900 associated with the two outer rails 904 extend further toward the leading edge of the PCB compared to the contact pads 900 associated with the four central rails. Additionally, the two outer rails 904 are configured to connect to higher voltage components compared to the four central rails. Therefore, the outer rails 904 are wider than the inner rails 906, 908.

[0293] In some embodiments, the length difference between the contact pads 900 associated with the outer rails 904 and the contact pads 900 associated with the intermediate rails 906 and inner rails 908 allows control over the order in which different connections are made and / or broken. For example, the connection of the contact pads 900 associated with the high-voltage outer rails 904 can be made prior to the connection of the contact pads 900 associated with the intermediate rails 906, which provide connections to the identification resistor 910. In configurations where it is required to identify (e.g., via resistor 910) and / or the presence of these sensor wires (e.g., via the inner rails 908) before applying power to the heating wires connected to the outer rails 904, this configuration advantageously allows the establishment of these higher-voltage connections before power is supplied from the heater base 102. In some configurations, it is possible to terminate power supply to the high-voltage outer rails 904 when the lower-voltage rails are disconnected.

[0294] Alignment and engagement features of the conduit connector to the clamp.

[0295] Clamp 1300 Figure 66The device shown includes a shield 1305 that receives and covers the extension 1524. This helps reduce or eliminate the possibility of any spilled liquid coming into contact with the conduit connector 1500 and also serves to strengthen and secure the connection. Furthermore, the shield 1305 facilitates engagement of the conduit connector 1500 with the outlet port 1412 of the humidification chamber 1104 and / or with the heater base 102. More specifically, the shield 1305 provides a visual indication of where the conduit connector 1500 should be positioned. Additionally, the shield 1305 can provide some physical control over the positioning of the conduit connector 1500. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, at least the portion of the extension 1524 of the conduit connector 1500 abutting against the wall of the shield 1305 opposite the heating plate 108 is received. The shield 1305 can therefore suppress or prevent the edge catch 901 (or other electrical connection components) from disengaging; that is, if the conduit connector 1500 is rotated too much about the X-axis and the front end is higher than the rear end (the end attached to the inhalation conduit 120), the edge catch 901 cannot slide above the corresponding socket 802 because of the obstruction of the shield 1305. This may specifically occur when the heating plate 108 is spring-mounted so that the heating plate 108 is biased toward the shield 1305. Thus, at least the height of the conduit connector 1500 (i.e., along the Z-axis) can be controlled. Providing the shield 1305 with curved opposing walls can assist in positioning the conduit connector 1500 along the X-axis, as the conduit connector 1500 will be pushed toward the center of the arc forming the shield 1305. The physical positioning function of the shield 1305 is further improved by defining a lower wall that at least partially closes the conduit connector 1500, so as to control not only the upper limit of the position of the conduit connector 1500 but also its actual position.

[0296] The protective cover 1305 also protects the first probe 1302. For example, the protective cover 1305 can protect the first probe 1302 from damage that may occur when the first probe 1302 comes into contact with other components or objects during assembly, use, cleaning, etc. Figure 66 As shown, the first probe 1302 can be recessed within the protective cover 1305. In other words, the first probe 1302 is hidden by the protective cover 1305 and cannot be seen from the top. Furthermore, the surrounding surface of the clamp 1300 extends further forward compared to the first probe 1302, thereby providing protection against unintentional contact with the first probe 1302.

[0297] In some embodiments, the shield 1305 includes guide rails 1392. These guide rails 1392 can be positioned within a lower portion of the shield 1305. These guide rails 1392 can be configured to engage or support the bottom of the catheter connector 1500 (that is, when the catheter connector 1500 engages with the clamp 1300, the bottom of the catheter connector 1500 abuts against the top of these guide rails 1392) to help inhibit or prevent upward rotation of the catheter. Figure 68 As shown, when the conduit connector 1500 is coupled to the clamp 1300, the bottom surface 1528 of the extension portion 1524 of the conduit connector 1500 contacts or abuts the top of the guide rails 1392. In some embodiments, such as... Figure 60 and Figure 68 As shown, the guide rails 1392 are sloped upwards towards the rear of the guide rails 1392 and the cover 1305; in other words, the guide rails 1392 taper towards the front of the guide rails 1392 and the cover 1305. The sloped or tapered shape of the guide rails 1392 can help guide the initial alignment of the catheter connector 1500 when it engages with the clamp. The contact between the guide rails 1392 and the catheter connector 1500 and the guide rails can advantageously help reduce or eliminate the possibility of the catheter connector 1500 rotating about the X-axis.

[0298] In some embodiments, the top of the catheter connector 1500 includes a ridge or rib 1574, such as Figure 63 As shown in the diagram, the ridge 1574 is configured to contact the inside of the top of the shield 1305, so that the shield 1305 can apply additional downward pressure to the conduit connector 1500 in order to maintain the correct position of the conduit connector 1500.

[0299] In some embodiments, the humidification chamber 1104 includes a vertically extending slot 1408 along the rear surface or side surface of the humidification chamber 1104, for example as... Figure 61AAs shown in the diagram. The slot 1408 is formed by a portion of the body 1402 of the humidification chamber 1104 extending inward toward the interior of the humidification chamber 1104. This inwardly extending portion can form part of the intended flow path of gas through the interior of the humidification chamber 1104 from the inlet port 1410 to the outlet port 1412. For example, this inwardly extending portion can form a baffle within the humidification chamber 1104 to help guide the gas flow through the humidification chamber 1104. In some cases, if a user attempts to place the humidification chamber 1104 on the heater base 102 with the humidification chamber 1104 tilted or at an angle, the slot 1408 may get stuck on portions of the clamp 1300, such as the vanes 324, 326 or portions of the shroud 1305. To reduce or eliminate the possibility of this happening, in some embodiments, the humidification chamber 1104 includes a generally horizontal shelf 1492 (in Figure 61A As shown in the diagram, the generally horizontal shelf extends across the slot 1408 at or near the top of the slot 1408. In some configurations, the shelf 1492 may be positioned in other locations along the slot 1408. In some configurations, multiple shelves 1492 may be used. In some configurations, the slot 1408 may be removed or otherwise covered. In use, if a user attempts to position the humidification chamber 1104 onto the heater base 102 at an improper angle, the shelf 1492 may contact portions of the clamp 1300 to reduce or eliminate the possibility of the slot 1408 engaging such portions and becoming stuck there.

[0300] Replaceable clamps

[0301] In some embodiments, the clamp 300 is permanently attached to or integrally formed with the spinal support 204 or another portion of the heater base 102. In other embodiments, the clamp 300 may be configured to be removably attached to the spinal support 204 or another portion of the heater base 102. When the clamp 300 is removably attached rather than permanently attached to the heater base 102, different types or models of clamps 300 can be manufactured for use with different models of humidification chambers 104, different models of breathing circuits 123, and / or different therapies. This modular configuration advantageously allows a single model of heater base 102 to be compatible with a variety of consumables and for use with a variety of patients and treatment techniques. Having multiple removable and replaceable clamps also allows a range of functionalities to be obtained using a single model of heater base 102.

[0302] For example, such as Figure 64The diagram schematically illustrates that sensor clip models may include a first clip model 300a (e.g., a bi-limb clip that interacts with both an inspiratory and an exhalation catheter), a second clip model 300b (e.g., a single-limb clip that interacts with only one catheter, such as only an inspiratory catheter), a third clip model 300c (e.g., an infant low-flow clip that interacts only with catheters used for low-flow therapy and / or smaller volume chambers), a fourth clip model 300d (e.g., an adult high-chamber clip that interacts with standard volume and / or high-chamber chambers), and / or a fifth clip model 300e (e.g., a backward-compatible clip that interacts with one or more existing models of chambers, sensors, and / or catheters, or can be used with them without interacting with existing or other models of chambers and / or catheters). Of course, these are merely examples, and other different sensor clip models can be developed. The clamp can interact directly or indirectly (e.g., via electrical leads connected to the clamp) with the chamber, sensor, and / or catheter. In some embodiments, the clamp does not interact with or engage with any system components other than the heater base. In some such embodiments, the clamp may provide only electrical features, such as data storage and transmission as described in more detail below, without providing any sensor or engagement features. By changing the clamp, a single heater base can be used with several different consumable packs, and therefore, the single heater base can be used to perform several different treatment protocols. Thus, the flexibility of the heater base can be greatly increased by providing different clamps compared to existing heater base constructions.

[0303] Structural features

[0304] These different clamp models 300a-300e may include different numbers, types, and / or arrangements of sensors. For example, some of these clamp models 300a-300e may not include any sensors and may be compatible with humidification chambers that do not include orifices for sensors (e.g., backward compatible clamps). Other clamp models 300a-300e may include pressure, humidity, level, and / or other types of sensors. Some of these clamp models 300a-300e may also include a receiver for a corresponding electrical connector on another component of the humidification system. For example... Figure 7A The clamp 300 includes a mating electrical connector 350 corresponding to the inhalation duct chamber end connector.

[0305] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2AAs shown, the clamp 300 may include a socket 348. In the illustrated embodiment, the socket 348 is located on the outer surface of one of the sidewalls 320. However, the socket 348 may be located elsewhere on the clamp 300. The socket 348 may be configured to receive a plug or lead. For example, the socket 348 may receive a lead configured to be coupled to the inhalation conduit 120, or an inhalation conduit connector for powering and / or providing electrical connection to the heating wire in the inhalation conduit 120. In some embodiments, the lead for the heating wire is permanently coupled to the socket 348. In some embodiments, the socket 348 or another socket in the clamp 300 may provide a connection point for the heating wire and / or one or more sensors in the exhalation conduit 122. Other clamp models may not include the socket 348. For example, if the exhalation conduit 122 is not used and / or the inhalation conduit 120 includes a connector providing connection to the heating wire in the conduit, then the socket 348 may not be necessary.

[0306] Different clamp models 300a-300e may also include different introduction and / or engagement features for attachment to different chambers and / or catheters. The operator can select an appropriate clamp model for a specific patient, treatment, and / or consumables to be used (e.g., humidification chamber 104 and / or breathing circuit 123) and attach the selected clamp to the heater base 102.

[0307] Electrical characteristics

[0308] In some embodiments, each of these clamp models 300a-300e includes a memory, such as an EEPROM, or other suitable storage device. When each of these clamps 300a-300e is mounted on the heater base 102, the memory may be electrically connected to the processor and / or memory of the heater base 102.

[0309] The memory of each of these clamp models 300a-300e can store different information or data. For example, the memory of each of these clamp models 300a-300e can store data identifying a specific type or model of the clamp and / or the number and type of sensors mounted on that clamp. In some embodiments, when one of these clamp models 300a-300e is coupled to the heater base 102, the base processor can read the identification data stored in the clamp memory and select from memory 112 operational data applicable to the specific clamp in use, such as treatment parameters, PID coefficients, gas characteristics such as temperature or flow rate thresholds, algorithms, sensor calibration data, and / or executable code. In some embodiments, the memory of each of these clamp models 300a-300e stores appropriate operational data specific to that clamp model or even specific to each individual clamp. This data can be uploaded to the base processor and / or memory when the clamp is coupled to the heater base 102. In some embodiments, the sensor calibration data stored in the clamp memory can allow for improved sensor accuracy. In other words, the system can be calibrated using data from a removable / replaceable clamp, which can be used to correct for changes in the sensor from one clamp to another.

[0310] If an update is desired or required, and the heater base 102 needs to be reprogrammed, new clamp models 300a-300e can be produced. For example, if a new model of the humidification chamber 104, new components of the breathing circuit 123, and / or a new therapy are developed, then new clamp models 300a-300e can be produced. Similarly, clamp models 300a-300e can be manufactured to allow older models of the humidification chamber 104 and / or these catheters to be used with newer models of the heater base 102. The removable and replaceable clamp models 300a-300e thus allow the heater base 102 to have forward and backward compatibility with different consumables, such as the humidification chamber 104 and these catheters. Conversely, if the software version on the clamp models 300a-300e is older than the updated version on the heater base 102, then a software update for the heater base 102 can include a software update for the clamp models 300a-300e.

[0311] In some embodiments, the base processor 114 can identify a specific clamp 300, humidification chamber 104, and / or conduit attached to the heater base 102. If incompatible components are connected to the system, the processor 114 can cause a warning message to be displayed on the display 116 and / or save an error code in the memory 112.

[0312] In some embodiments, each of these clamp models 300a-300e can trigger an assessment of whether new software is available for the base. For example, each of these clamps 300a-300e can cause the display 116 to prompt the user whether new software is available for the base. For example, the clamp's memory can be programmed to store information relating to the latest software version available for the heater base 102 at the time the clamp was manufactured. When the clamp is attached to the heater base 102, the processor 114 can compare the software version information stored on the clamp with the software version used by the processor 114 or stored in the base's memory 112. If the versions do not match, the processor 114 can cause the display 116 to display a message indicating that a software update is available. In some embodiments, the clamp can store the latest available software at the time the clamp was manufactured, and when the clamp is attached, the processor 114 can upload new software from the clamp.

[0313] In some embodiments, each of these clamp models 300a-300e may further include a processor. The clamp processor may be configured to communicate with a base processor when the clamp is attached to the base. The clamp processor and the base processor may cooperate, allowing different functions to be implemented by either or both of these processors. In some embodiments, configuration-specific functionality configured to be implemented by the clamp processor may override general or default functionality implemented by the base processor.

[0314] In some embodiments, each of these clamp models 300a-300e is configured to have a shorter service life or a shorter expected service duration compared to the heater base 102. For example, each of these clamp models 300a-300e may include probes and / or other components that should be periodically replaced to ensure sensor reliability and accuracy. Including these probes and / or other components on these removable and replaceable clamp models 300a-300e advantageously allows for periodic replacement of these components without replacing the heater base 102. Furthermore, by positioning these components on these removable clamp models 300a-300e, the replacement of these sensors can be greatly simplified compared to having to replace these sensors individually. Periodic replacement of these clamp models 300a-300e can also allow for periodic software updates to the base as discussed above. These clamp models 300a-300e can be configured to cause the display 116 to alert the user when the clamp is approaching and has reached the end of its recommended service life.

[0315] As discussed above, each of these clamp models 300a-300e may differ from the others in form and / or function. For example, the form of these clamp models 300a-300e may vary depending on the other components with which the clamp is designed to interact. Furthermore, the function of these clamp models 300a-300e may vary depending on the therapies used with the clamp and these associated components.

[0316] For example, a series of clamps can be configured to support the operation of the humidification system 100 in several configurations, such as by use with a separate clamp configured to provide one or more of the following functional / system configurations: an inhalation conduit only but not an exhalation conduit, both an inhalation and exhalation conduit, an inhalation conduit with a heating wire along its length, and / or an inhalation conduit capable of providing dual-zone heating. These variations can correspond to clamp hardware variations in different clamp types, including: different sensor wire connectors, heating wire connectors, and / or directly mounted probes. These variations can also correspond to clamp software variations in different clamp types, including: measurements of ID resistors or other types of identification components, measurements of different types of sensors, control of different types of heating wires, and control of other components such as the heating plate. These sensors can include sensors that measure: gas flow rate, pressure, temperature, and / or mixing ratio (e.g., O2 concentration), and chamber liquid level, heating plate temperature, and others. Of course, these functional and structural variations are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be limiting or mutually exclusive. By providing a series of clamps, different functionalities and structures can be easily provided to the heater base. Thus, multiple clamps can include configurations designed for use in conjunction with therapies and / or components (e.g., consumable components) currently used in the medical field, and new clamps can be provided including configurations designed for use in conjunction with newly discovered therapies and / or newly developed components.

[0317] Clamp to base connection

[0318] In some embodiments in which the clamps 300, 1300 are removable from the heater base 102, the clamps 300, 1300 and the heater base 102 include different features for attaching the clamps 300, 1300 to the heater base 102.

[0319] refer to Figure 67 The heater base 102 may include a recess 150. The recess 150 may be positioned along the spine 204. In the illustrated configuration, the recess 150 is arranged within the front surface 214 of the spine 204.

[0320] The size and configuration of the recess 150 are set to receive at least a portion of the clamp 1300. The recess 150 has a width, height, and depth sufficient to receive at least a portion of the clamp 1300. Thus, in the illustrated configuration, the recess 150 includes a rear wall 152, an upper wall 154, a pair of side walls 156, and a bottom wall 158. In the illustrated configuration, the upper wall 154, the pair of side walls 156, and the bottom wall 158 together generally define a frame surrounding the rear wall 152. At least the bottom wall 158 and these side walls 156 extend generally perpendicular to the front surface 214 of the spine 204. In the illustrated configuration, the upper wall 154 of the recess 150 extends at an angle to the normal, such that the height of the recess 150 decreases with increasing depth within the recess. Other configurations are possible.

[0321] Still referencing Figure 67 The heater base 102 may include one or more recesses 160. In the illustrated configuration, these recesses 160 are positioned along and extend into the upper wall 154. Preferably, these recesses 160 define closed cavities. In other words, these recesses 160 are not merely openings into the interior of the housing but are closed cavities. By forming these recesses 160 as closed cavities, liquid cannot permeate into the interior of the heater base 102 through these recesses 160.

[0322] The illustrated configuration includes three recesses 160. These recesses 160 are spaced apart from each other. In the illustrated configuration, one of the three recesses 160 is positioned along the central portion of the upper wall 154, such that this central recess 160 is bisected by a vertical plane that bisects the heater base 102. The other two of the three recesses 160 are positioned outside or on each side of the central recess 160. These two outer recesses 160 are positioned closer to the side walls 156 than to the central recess 160. Other configurations are possible; however, the illustrated configuration provides three recesses 160 spaced apart such that proximity to these recesses 160 provides sufficient reinforcement while being sufficiently spaced apart to provide a rigid and secure connection between the heater base 102 and the clamps 300, 1300, as will be explained.

[0323] Continue to refer to Figure 67At least one recess 162 may be formed extending into the rear wall 152 of the recess 150. In the illustrated configuration, two recesses 162 extend into the rear wall 152 of the recess 150. These recesses 162 may be positioned adjacent to the bottom wall 158. Each of these recesses 162 may be arranged adjacent to a corresponding one of the sidewalls 156. In the illustrated configuration, a socket 163 may be positioned in the area defined by these recesses 162 in the sidewall 156. The socket 163 may be a recess leading to the sidewall 156 and / or may include a bulge extending from the sidewall 156 into the area of ​​the recesses 162.

[0324] These recesses 162 may have a width greater than their height. These recesses 162 may be defined by an upper recess wall 166 and a central recess wall 168, as well as side walls 156 and a bottom wall 158. Other configurations are possible. In the illustrated configuration, neither these recesses 162 nor these ports 163 define an opening through the housing. By forming these recesses 162 and these ports 163 as closed components, liquid cannot permeate into the interior of the heater base 102 through these recesses 162 or these ports 163 of the recess 150.

[0325] Continue to refer to Figure 67 Electrical terminals 164 can be arranged within recess 150. In the illustrated configuration, electrical terminals 164 are generally centrally located between the two sidewalls 156 of recess 150. Electrical terminals 164 are positioned closer to the bottom wall 158 of recess 150 than to the upper wall 154. Positioning electrical connector 1364 along the rear surface of clamp 1300 allows for a lower swing angle during connection of electrical connector 1364 to electrical terminals 164 on heater base 102. Therefore, the amount of rotation of clamp 1300 relative to base 102 (in which the electrical connection is formed) can be reduced. Vertically moving electrical connector 1364 upward on the rear surface of clamp 1300 will cause the electrical connection with electrical terminals 164 to occur within a wider range of movement. In the illustrated configuration, shallow recess 170 completely surrounds electrical terminals 164. In some configurations, shallow recess 170 may only partially surround electrical terminals 164. Other configurations are possible.

[0326] like Figure 60 and Figure 65 As shown, the clamp 1300 has a top surface 1308 that generally corresponds to the upper wall 154 of the recess 150. The top surface 1308 is generally inclined downward in a rearward direction. The inclination of the top surface 1308 and the upper wall 154 is generally related to each other, and these inclined surfaces are desired for reasons that will be briefly explained. The clamp 1300 also includes two side surfaces 1310 and a bottom surface 1312 corresponding to the side walls 156 of the recess 150 and the bottom wall 158.

[0327] The top surface 1308 of the clamp 1300 includes one or more tabs 1360. These tabs 1360 extend upward from the top surface 1308. In the illustrated configuration, the tabs 1360 include a cam surface 1314. The cam surface 1314 is arranged on a forward-facing surface. In some configurations, opposite to the cam surface 1314, the tabs 1360 include a pair of ribs 1316 defining a recess. In the illustrated configuration, the uppermost portion of the tabs 1360 is also inclined rearward and downward (i.e., in the same direction as the top surface 1308). Other configurations are also possible.

[0328] Continue to refer to Figure 65 The clamp 1300 includes three tabs 1360. These three tabs 1360 are positioned to correspond to the three upper recesses 160. Like these upper recesses 160, although three tabs spaced across the top surface 1308 are shown in the illustrated embodiment, more or fewer tabs are also possible. These tabs 1360 are configured to be received in the corresponding upper recesses 160 of the heater base 102 (in... Figure 67 (shown in the middle)

[0329] In the illustrated configuration, the clamp 1300 includes at least one slidable bolt 1362. These bolts 1362 are arranged within protrusions 1318. These protrusions 1318 extend behind the rear wall 1320 of the clamp 1300. In the illustrated configuration, these protrusions 1318 are generally related in size and arrangement to these recesses 162 in the recesses 150 of the heater base 102. Therefore, these protrusions 1318 have a height less than the width of these protrusions 1318, such as... Figure 65 As shown in the figure, these protrusions 1318 are generally defined by the associated side surface 1310 and bottom surface 1312. The upper surface 1324 of these protrusions 1318 may be inclined (i.e., not extending perpendicular to the rear wall 1320). As shown, the upper surface 1324 may be inclined such that these protrusions 1318 have a greater height adjacent to the rear wall 1320 and a smaller height further away from the rear wall 1320.

[0330] As described above, the clamp 1300 includes at least one slidable bolt 1362. The bolt 1362 extends laterally outward from the clamp 1300 beyond the side surface 1310. In some configurations, the bolt 1362 does not extend laterally outward beyond the side surface 1310, but rather extends laterally outward beyond these adjacent surfaces.

[0331] Bolt 1362 may include a beveled tip 1326. The beveled tip 1326 is beveled or otherwise shaped such that it can travel along the surface of heater base 102 so that when the beveled tip contacts the surface, it causes bolt 1362 to be pressed down. In other words, the beveled tip 1326 may be sloped such that a force applied by an adjacent surface can cause axial movement of bolt 1362. When bolt 1362 is properly positioned relative to socket 163, a biasing member or spring 1328, which has been pressed during the axial movement of bolt 1362, will return bolt 1362 to its fixed position within socket 163. In some configurations, these bolts 1362 can be moved manually without the biasing member or spring 1328.

[0332] These bolts 1362 can be combined, connected, or integrally formed with grippers, handles, or grips 1332. These grips 1332 are... Figure 66 As shown in the diagram. These handles 1332 provide surfaces that can be used to push the bolts 1362 inward (i.e., toward the vertical bisector of the heater base 102) against the forces of these springs 1328. By moving these bolts 1362 inward, these bolts 1362 can be withdrawn from these sockets 163 to facilitate the removal of 1300 from the recess 150.

[0333] To position the clamp 1300 onto the heater base 102, the user inserts the tabs 1360 upwards into the upper recesses 160. With the tabs 1360 positioned in the upper recesses 160, the top surface 1308 of the clamp 1300 moves toward the upper wall 154 of the recess 150. When the top surface 1308 and the upper wall 154 are generally abutting, the clamp 1300 can pivot downwards about the upper surface 1308 and the upper wall 154 until the beveled tips 1326 of the bolts 1362 contact the sockets 163. While pivoting into place, the sidewalls 156 of the recess 150 interact with the side surfaces 1310 of the clamp 1300 to guide the clamp 1300 into the appropriate position for mating the electrical connector 1364 of the socket with the electrical terminals 164 of the heater base 102. With the beveled tips 1326 in contact with the sockets 163, further rotation will cause the beveled surfaces of the beveled tips 1326 to compress the springs 1328 until the bolts 1362 align with the openings in the sockets 163. At this point, the springs 1328 will move the bolts 1362 outward into a locked position. In this position, the electrical connector 1364 and the electrical terminals 164 are mated for use.

[0334] To remove the clamp 1300 from the heater base 102, the user uses the handles 1332 to slide the bolts 1362 toward each other to release them from the sockets 163. With the bolts 1362 retracted from the sockets 163, the clamp 1300 can be pivoted outward until the tabs 1360 can be withdrawn downward from the recesses 160.

[0335] As described above, the clamp 1300 includes an electrical connector 1364 (in... Figure 65 (As shown in the diagram), the electrical connector 1364 is configured to establish an electrical connection with the heater base 102. The electrical connector 1364 is configured to be received in a corresponding electrical terminal 164 of the heater base 102 (in...). Figure 67 (As shown in the diagram) or connected to the electrical terminal. In the illustrated configuration, the electrical terminal 164 is the only opening in the recess 150 extending into the inner cavity of the heater base 102, which houses electronic equipment and other electrical connections. As described above, these upper recesses 160 and lower recesses 162 are recesses, not openings leading to or communicating with the interior of the heater base 102 where electrical components are housed. This advantageously reduces or eliminates the possibility of liquid entering the interior of the heater base 102. In some embodiments, a ring or gasket 1334 (made of, for example, rubber) is arranged around the electrical connector 1364 to form a seal around the area surrounding the electrical connector 1364 and the electrical terminal 164, thereby inhibiting or preventing liquid from entering the heater base 102. Advantageously, the gasket 1334 may be provided in the area defined by the shallow recess 170 in the recesses 150 described above. Furthermore, by positioning washer 1334 on clamp 1300, washer 1334 will be replaced each time clamp 1300 is changed. Other configurations are possible.

[0336] like Figure 60 As shown, the clamp 1300 includes a receiving edge card 901 (see Figure 1300). Figure 62The receiver 1388 is a humidifier chamber 1104. An edge clip 901 is inserted into the receiver 1388 by translation along the Y-axis (i.e., the direction of chamber insertion). In some embodiments, the receiver 1338 and / or the edge clip 901 are configured or positioned to allow both a pneumatic seal with the humidifier chamber 1104 and an electrical connection with the clamp 1300 by a single movement and / or movement in a single direction. Therefore, the clamp 1300 includes: a receiver 1388 configured to receive a mating component in the Y direction; one or more tabs 1360 extending in the Z direction above a top surface 1308; and one or more bolts 1362 at least partially positioned behind the rear wall 1320 of the clamp 1300 and movable in the X direction. In some configurations, the clamp 1300 includes: one or more tabs 1360 extending in the Z direction above a top surface 1308; and one or more bolts 1362 at least partially positioned behind the adjoining wall and movable in the X direction. In some configurations, the clamp 1300 includes: a tab 1360 extending in the Z direction above the adjoining surface at an upper portion of the clamp 1300; and a bolt 1362 extending and retracting in the X direction, wherein at least a portion of the bolt 1362 is behind the rearmost portion of the tab 1360. In some configurations, the clamp 1300 includes two bolts 1362, defining a recess between the two bolts 1362 and in at least a portion of the region spanning the area between the two bolts 1362. In some configurations, an electrical connector 1364 is positioned within the recess. In some such configurations, the recess spans the entire distance between the two bolts 1362 and the electrical connector 1364 is positioned within the recess. In some configurations, at least a portion of the bolts 1362 is positioned behind at least one of the last surfaces of the tab 1360 in a direction perpendicular to the rear plane defined by the rear wall 1320 of the clamp 1300. In some configurations, at least the portion of the handle 1332 attached to the bolts 1362 is positioned in front of the tab 1360. In some configurations, at least a portion of the handle 1332 is in front of a plane that is in front of the foremost portion of the uppermost portion of the tab 1360 and parallel to the rear wall 152 of the recess 150 of the heater base 102. In some configurations, the electrical connector 1364 extends rearward relative to the remainder of the clamp 1300.

[0337] It should be emphasized that many changes and modifications can be made to the embodiments described herein, and its elements should be understood as existing in other acceptable instances. All such modifications and changes are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure and protected by the following claims. Furthermore, the foregoing disclosure is not intended to imply that any particular component, feature, or process step is required or necessary.

Claims

1. A connector assembly configured to connect an intake conduit to an outlet port of a humidifying chamber, the humidifying chamber being disposed on a heater base, the heater base including at least one sensor probe extending from the heater base and configured to be received in an aperture in the outlet port when the humidifying chamber is disposed on the heater base, the connector assembly comprising: A keyhole cutout extends from a first end configured to be positioned above the vent port into the connector assembly. The keyhole cutout is configured to fit around the at least one sensor probe, and the connector assembly includes an electrical connector configured to be received in a corresponding socket on the heater base.

2. The connector assembly of claim 1, comprising a conduit connector coupled to the inhalation conduit, the conduit connector including the electrical connector.

3. The connector assembly of claim 2, wherein the connector assembly includes an elbow connector configured to be coupled to the vent port, the elbow connector including the keyhole cutout, and the conduit connector configured to be coupled to the elbow connector.

4. The connector assembly of claim 1, further comprising an identification component configured to be measured by the heater base when the electrical connector is received in the socket on the heater base, wherein a processor of the heater base is configured to determine a model of the inhalation duct based on the measurement of the identification component, and the processor is configured to select operating, control, and / or treatment parameters based on the determined model.

5. The connector assembly of claim 4, wherein the identification component is a resistor having a first resistance value within a first value range, the intake conduit includes at least one heating wire having a second resistance value within a second value range, and the first value range does not overlap with the second value range.

6. The connector assembly of any one of claims 1-5, wherein the sensor probe includes a sensor configured to sense the temperature of gas in the gas flow path of the outlet port.

7. The connector assembly of claim 6, wherein the sensor includes a thermistor.

8. The connector assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1-5, wherein the keyhole cutout is located below the electrical connector.

9. The connector assembly of claim 2, comprising a cover extending from the conduit connector for covering the electrical connector, wherein the keyhole cutout is located below the electrical connector.

10. The connector assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1-5, wherein the keyhole cutout is spaced vertically from the electrical connector.

11. The connector assembly of any one of claims 1-5, wherein the keyhole cutout is configured to provide sufficient axial length to the sleeve portion of the connector assembly.

12. The connector assembly of any one of claims 1-5, wherein the keyhole cutout provides a snap-fit ​​engagement with the vent port.

13. The connector assembly of claim 12, wherein the snap-fit ​​is configured to provide a retaining force to resist disengagement.

14. The connector assembly of claim 13, wherein the retaining force is sufficient to resist disengagement due to increased air pressure in the conduit caused by blockage.

15. The connector assembly of claim 14, wherein the retaining force is in the range of 12N to 45N.

16. The connector assembly of claim 13, wherein the keyhole cut includes a neck.

17. The connector assembly of claim 14, wherein the keyhole cut includes a neck.

18. The connector assembly of claim 15, wherein the keyhole cut includes a neck.

19. The connector assembly of claim 16, wherein the neck is narrower than the diameter of the opening of the hole receiving the vent port.

20. The connector assembly of claim 17, wherein the neck is narrower than the diameter of the opening of the hole receiving the vent port.

21. The connector assembly of claim 18, wherein the neck is narrower than the diameter of the opening of the hole receiving the vent port.

22. The connector assembly of claim 19, wherein the width of the neck is configured to control the retaining force.

23. The connector assembly of claim 20, wherein the width of the neck is configured to control the retaining force.

24. The connector assembly of claim 21, wherein the width of the neck is configured to control the retaining force.

25. The connector assembly of claim 22, wherein the connector assembly includes a recess opposite to the keyhole cutout, the recess being configured to allow the connector assembly to bend more easily when the keyhole cutout bends to receive the sensor probe.

26. The connector assembly of claim 23, wherein the connector assembly includes a recess opposite to the keyhole cutout, the recess being configured to allow the connector assembly to bend more easily when the keyhole cutout bends to receive the sensor probe.

27. The connector assembly of claim 24, wherein the connector assembly includes a recess opposite to the keyhole cutout, the recess being configured to allow the connector assembly to bend more easily when the keyhole cutout bends to receive the sensor probe.

28. The connector assembly of any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising a recess configured to engage with a rib of the vent port.

29. The connector assembly of claim 28, wherein the recess is opposite to the keyhole cutout.

30. The connector assembly of claim 28, wherein the recess is a slit.

31. The connector assembly of claim 28, wherein the recess is configured to engage with the rib to align the connector assembly relative to the vent port.

32. The connector assembly of claim 4 or 5, comprising a conduit connector coupled to the inhalation conduit, the conduit connector including the electrical connector, wherein the identification component is located within the conduit connector.

33. The connector assembly of claim 5, wherein the first resistance value is between 200 ohms and 200,000 ohms.

34. The connector assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising a connector for a heating element in the intake conduit.

35. The connector assembly of claim 34, wherein the connector assembly supplies power to the heating element.

36. The connector assembly of claim 4 or 5, wherein the identification component includes an RFID component and / or a memory chip.

37. The connector assembly of any one of claims 1-5, wherein the sensor is disposed at the tip of the at least one sensor probe.

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