Acoustic detection and / or analysis in respiratory therapy devices

Abstract

An apparatus for treating a respiratory disorder includes a pressure generator configured to generate a flow of breathable gas, an intermediate component pneumatically connected to an air delivery tube, the intermediate component including a port configured to facilitate propagation of sound outside the intermediate component, a sensor externally attached to the intermediate component and located proximate the port of the intermediate component, the sensor configured to sense sound propagated through the air delivery tube, and a controller. The controller can be configured to receive a sound signal generated by the sensor as a result of sensing sound during operation of the apparatus, analyze the received sound signal, and implement a response based at least in part on the analysis.

Description

[0001] This patent document disclosure contains copyrighted material. The copyright holder does not object to the reproduction of this patent document or patent disclosure by any person in the form it appears in the patent office documents or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights.

[0002] 1. Cross-referencing of relevant patent applications

[0003] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 011,052, filed April 16, 2020, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 048,535, filed July 6, 2020, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference. 2 Background Technology 2.1 Technical Field

[0006] This technology relates to one or more of the following: screening, diagnosis, monitoring, treatment, prevention, and improvement of respiratory-related diseases. This technology also relates to medical devices or equipment and their uses.

[0007] 2.2 Description of relevant technologies

[0008] 2.2.1 The Human Respiratory System and Its Disorders

[0009] The human respiratory system facilitates gas exchange. The nose and mouth form the airway entrance for the patient.

[0010] The airways consist of a series of branching ducts, which become narrower, shorter, and more numerous as they penetrate deeper into the lungs. The primary function of the lungs is gas exchange, allowing oxygen to enter the venous blood from inhaled air and carbon dioxide to be expelled in the opposite direction. The trachea divides into the left and right main bronchioles, which eventually further divide into terminal bronchioles. The bronchi form the conduction airways but do not participate in gas exchange. Further branches of the airways lead to the respiratory bronchioles and ultimately to the alveoli. The alveolar region of the lungs is where gas exchange occurs and is called the respiratory zone. See *Physiology of the Respiratory System*, published in 2012 by John B. West, Lippincott Williams, and Wilkins. Respiratory Physiology ( ), 9th edition.

[0011] A range of breathing disorders exist. Some disorders may be characterized by specific events, such as apnea, hypoventilation, and hyperventilation.

[0012] Examples of breathing disorders include obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), Cheyne-Stokes respiration (CSR), respiratory insufficiency, obesity hyperventilation syndrome (OHS), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), neuromuscular disease (NMD), and chest wall disorders.

[0013] Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a form of sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) characterized by events involving closure or obstruction of the upper airway during sleep. It arises from a combination of abnormally small upper airway size and normal loss of muscle tone in the areas of the tongue, soft palate, and posterior oropharyngeal walls during sleep. The condition causes affected individuals to stop breathing, typically for periods ranging from 30 to 120 seconds, sometimes 200 to 300 times per night. This often leads to excessive daytime sleepiness and can contribute to cardiovascular disease and brain damage. Concomitant symptoms are common, especially in middle-aged overweight men, but those affected may not be aware of the problem. See U.S. Patent No. 4,944,310 (Sullivan).

[0014] Cheyne-Stokes respiration (CSR) is another form of sleep-disordered breathing. CSR is a dysregulation of the patient's respiratory controller, characterized by rhythmic alternations of waxing and waning ventilation known as CSR cycles. CSR is characterized by repetitive hypoxia and reoxygenation of arterial blood. Due to the repetitive hypoxia, CSR can be harmful. In some patients, CSR is associated with repetitive awakenings from sleep, leading to severe sleep disruption, increased sympathetic activity, and increased afterload. See U.S. Patent No. 6,532,959 (Berthon-Jones).

[0015] Respiratory failure is a broad term encompassing respiratory disorders in which the lungs are unable to inhale enough oxygen or exhale enough CO2 to meet the patient's needs. Respiratory failure may cover some or all of the following disorders.

[0016] Patients with respiratory insufficiency (a form of respiratory failure) may experience abnormal shortness of breath during exercise.

[0017] Obesity hyperventilation syndrome (OHS) is defined as a combination of severe obesity and chronic hypercapnia at wakefulness, without other known causes of hypoventilation. Symptoms include dyspnea, morning headache, and excessive daytime sleepiness.

[0018] Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) encompasses any of a group of lower airway diseases that share certain common characteristics. These diseases include increased airflow resistance, prolonged expiratory phase of breathing, and loss of normal lung elasticity. Examples of COPD include emphysema and chronic bronchitis. COPD is caused by chronic smoking (a major risk factor), occupational exposure, air pollution, and genetic factors. Symptoms include exertional dyspnea, chronic cough, and sputum production.

[0019] Neuromuscular disease (NMD) is a broad term encompassing many diseases and ailments that impair muscle function directly through intrinsic muscle pathology or indirectly through neuropathology. Some NMD patients are characterized by progressive muscle damage that leads to loss of mobility, wheelchair use, dysphagia, respiratory muscle weakness, and ultimately death from respiratory failure. Neuromuscular disorders can be classified as rapidly progressive or slowly progressive: (i) rapidly progressive disorders: characterized by muscle damage that worsens over months and leads to death within years (e.g., amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) in adolescents); (ii) variable or slowly progressive disorders: characterized by muscle damage that worsens over years and only slightly shortens life expectancy (e.g., limb-girdle type, facioscapulohumeral type, and ankylosing spondylitis). Symptoms of respiratory failure in NMD include: progressive general weakness, dysphagia, shortness of breath during and at rest, fatigue, somnolence, morning headache, difficulty concentrating, and mood swings.

[0020] The chest wall is a group of chest wall deformities that result in inefficient connection between the respiratory muscles and the thoracic cavity. These disorders are typically characterized by restrictive defects and have the potential to cause chronic hypercapnia-related respiratory failure. Scoliosis and / or kyphosis can cause severe respiratory failure. Symptoms of respiratory failure include: dyspnea during exercise, peripheral edema, orthopnea, recurrent chest infections, morning headache, fatigue, poor sleep quality, and loss of appetite.

[0021] A range of treatments have been used to treat or improve these symptoms. Furthermore, other healthy individuals may utilize these treatments to prevent respiratory distress. However, these treatments have many drawbacks.

[0022] 2.2.2 Treatment

[0023] Various treatments, such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), non-invasive ventilation (NIV), and invasive ventilation (IV), have been used to treat one or more of the above-mentioned respiratory disorders.

[0024] Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy has been used to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The mechanism of action is that CPAP acts as an air splint and can prevent upper airway obstruction by pushing the soft palate and tongue forward and away from the posterior oropharyngeal wall. Treatment for OSA with CPAP can be voluntary; therefore, patients may choose not to adhere to treatment if they find the device used to provide such treatment to be uncomfortable, difficult to use, expensive, or unsightly, among other things.

[0025] Noninvasive ventilation (NIV) provides ventilatory support to patients through the upper airway to help them breathe and / or maintain adequate oxygen levels in the body by performing some or all of the work of breathing. Ventilatory support is delivered via a noninvasive patient interface. NIV has been used to treat chronic respiratory failure (CSR) and respiratory failure in forms such as orthostatic hypoxia (OHS), chronic respiratory disease (COPD), non-invasive respiratory disease (NMD), and chest wall disorders. In some forms, it can improve the comfort and effectiveness of these treatments.

[0026] Invasive ventilation (IV) provides ventilatory support to patients who are unable to breathe effectively on their own and can be delivered using a tracheostomy tube. In some forms, the comfort and effectiveness of these treatments can be improved.

[0027] 2.2.3 Treatment System

[0028] These treatments can be provided by treatment systems or devices. Such systems and devices can also be used to screen, diagnose, or monitor a condition without treating it.

[0029] The treatment system may include a respiratory pressure therapy device (RPT device), an air circuit, a humidifier, a patient interface, and data management.

[0030] Another form of treatment system is the mandibular repositioning device.

[0031] 2.2.3.1 Patient Interface

[0032] A patient interface can be used to attach a breathing device to its wearer, for example, by providing an airflow into the airway. The airflow can be provided to the patient's nose and / or mouth via a mask, to the mouth via a tube, or to the patient's trachea via a tracheostomy tube. Depending on the treatment to be applied, the patient interface can form a seal with an area such as the patient's face, thereby facilitating the delivery of gas at a pressure sufficiently different from ambient pressure (e.g., a positive pressure of approximately 10 cmH2O relative to ambient pressure) to achieve the treatment. For other forms of treatment, such as oxygen delivery, the patient interface may not include a seal sufficient to facilitate the delivery of a gas supply at a positive pressure of approximately 10 cmH2O to the airway.

[0033] Some other mask systems may not be functionally suitable for this field. For example, a purely decorative mask may not be able to maintain adequate pressure. Mask systems for underwater swimming or diving may be configured to prevent water from flowing in from external high pressure, rather than maintaining air at a pressure higher than the environment inside.

[0034] Some masks may be clinically disadvantageous for this technology, such as when they block airflow through the nose and only allow it through the mouth.

[0035] If some masks require patients to insert a portion of the mask structure into their mouths to create and maintain a seal through their lips, this may be uncomfortable or impractical for this technology.

[0036] Some face masks may not be suitable for use while sleeping, such as when sleeping on your side with your head on the pillow.

[0037] The design of the patient interface presents several challenges. The face has a complex three-dimensional shape. The size and shape of the nose vary significantly from person to person. Because the head comprises bones, cartilage, and soft tissues, different areas of the face respond differently to mechanical forces. The jaw or mandible can move relative to the other bones of the skull. The entire head can move during the duration of respiratory therapy.

[0038] Due to these challenges, some face shields suffer from one or more of the following problems: obtrusive, unattractive, expensive, mismatched, difficult to use, and uncomfortable, especially when worn for extended periods or when the patient is unfamiliar with the system. An incorrectly sized face shield can lead to reduced compliance, decreased comfort, and poorer patient outcomes. Face shields designed solely for pilots, those designed as part of personal protective equipment (e.g., filtering face shields), SCUBA face shields, or those designed for administering anesthetics may be acceptable for their original application, but are not ideally comfortable for prolonged wear (e.g., several hours). This discomfort can lead to decreased patient adherence to treatment, especially if the face shield is worn during sleep.

[0039] Assuming patient adherence, CPAP therapy is highly effective in treating certain breathing difficulties. However, if the mask is uncomfortable or difficult to use, patient adherence may be compromised. Since patients are often advised to clean their masks regularly, if the mask is difficult to clean (e.g., difficult to assemble or disassemble), patients may not clean it, which could affect adherence.

[0040] While masks designed for other applications (such as pilots) may not be suitable for treating sleep apnea, masks designed for treating sleep apnea may be suitable for other applications.

[0041] For these reasons, different fields have emerged for patient interfaces used to deliver CPAP during sleep.

[0042] 2.2.3.2 Respiratory Pressure Therapy (RPT) Device

[0043] Respiratory pressure therapy (RPT) devices can be used alone or as part of a system to deliver one or more of the aforementioned treatments, for example, by operating the device to generate an airflow for delivery to an airway interface. The airflow can be pressurized. Examples of RPT devices include CPAP devices and ventilators.

[0044] Air pressure generators are known in a range of applications, such as industrial-scale ventilation systems. However, air pressure generators for medical applications have specific requirements that are not met by more general air pressure generators, such as the reliability, size, and weight requirements of medical devices. Furthermore, even devices designed for medical use may have disadvantages related to one or more of the following: comfort, noise, ease of use, efficiency, size, weight, manufacturability, cost, and reliability.

[0045] One example of a specific requirement for certain RPT devices is noise.

[0046] Noise output level table for existing RPT devices (only one sample, measured in CPAP mode using the test method specified in ISO 3744 at 10 cmH2O).

[0047]

[0048] One known RPT device for treating sleep-disordered breathing is the S9 Sleep Therapy System manufactured by ResMed Limited. Another example of an RPT device is a ventilator. Ventilators such as the ResMed Stellar™ series of adult and pediatric ventilators can support a range of patients with invasive and non-invasive non-dependent ventilation for the treatment of a variety of conditions, such as, but not limited to, NMD, OHS, and COPD.

[0049] The ResMed Elisée™ 150 and ResMed VS III™ ventilators provide support for invasive and non-invasive dependent ventilation suitable for adult or pediatric patients to treat a variety of conditions. These ventilators offer volumetric and pressure ventilation modes with single- or dual-branch circuits. RPT devices typically include a pressure generator, such as an electric motor-driven blower or a compressed gas reservoir, and are configured to supply airflow to the patient's airway. In some cases, airflow to the patient's airway can be supplied under positive pressure. The RPT device outlet is connected via an air circuit to a patient interface such as those described above.

[0050] The designer of a device may be presented with an almost infinite number of options. Design standards often conflict, meaning that some design choices are far from unconventional or unavoidable. Furthermore, certain aspects of comfort and efficiency may be highly sensitive to small and subtle changes in one or more parameters.

[0051] 2.2.3.3 Humidifier

[0052] Delivering an unhumidified airflow can lead to airway dryness. Using a humidifier with an RPT device and patient interface to generate humidified gas minimizes dryness of the nasal mucosa and increases patient airway comfort. Furthermore, in colder climates, warm air applied to the patient interface and the facial area around the patient interface is generally more comfortable than cold air.

[0053] A range of artificial humidification devices and systems are known, however they may not meet the specific requirements of medical humidifiers.

[0054] When needed, typically in areas where patients may sleep or rest (e.g., in hospitals), medical humidifiers are used to increase the humidity and / or temperature of an airflow relative to ambient air. Medical humidifiers for bedside placement can be very small. Medical humidifiers can be configured to humidify and / or heat only the airflow delivered to the patient, without humidifying and / or heating the patient's surrounding environment. Room-based systems (e.g., saunas, air conditioners, or evaporative coolers) may also humidify the air breathed by the patient; however, these systems also humidify and / or heat the entire room, which can cause discomfort to the occupant. Furthermore, medical humidifiers may have stricter safety restrictions than industrial humidifiers.

[0055] 2.2.3.4 Acoustic Analysis

[0056] Patients, caregivers, clinicians, insurance companies, or technicians may wish to collect data related to respiratory therapy, whether this data relates to the patient, a single component used in the treatment, or the entire treatment system. In many situations involving the provision of respiratory therapy to patients, one or more parties may benefit from collecting and utilizing treatment-related data.

[0057] In particular, for effective treatment, some components of a respiratory therapy system require replacement more frequently than others. For example, some patients may have their patient interfaces, including the silicone sealant, replaced every few months (e.g., 3 months), while the treatment device itself may be replaced or upgraded every few years (e.g., 3 years). For components that require replacement at relatively frequent intervals (e.g., patient interfaces), a common challenge for patients or caregivers is receiving reliable and accurate notification, at low cost, when their component needs replacement. When a new component is replaced, patients or caregivers may need to change one or more settings in the treatment system (e.g., software settings in an RT device) to ensure the system makes the most of the new component. The ability to identify respiratory therapy system components is therefore crucial for optimizing treatment and informing patients and caregivers of replacement schedules.

[0058] One solution is to acoustically configure devices to identify components of a respiratory therapy system that are part of it. In particular, such devices include structures and processes configured to analyze acoustic reflections from system components to identify those components from their “acoustic marker maps” in a more accurate manner than previously known.

[0059] In such devices, a microphone is positioned and configured to sense sound in an air loop. The sound from the microphone is analyzed to generate an acoustic mapping of system components, thereby identifying them.

[0060] Over time, three issues can affect the consistency of sound quality and the device: changes in the relative position of the microphone and air circuit due to manufacturing tolerances; sound escaping into the surrounding environment; and vibrations transmitted to the microphone during device use. Therefore, an improved method for connecting the microphone to the air circuit is needed. 3. Summary of the Invention

[0062] This technology aims to provide medical devices for screening, diagnosing, monitoring, improving, treating or preventing respiratory disorders, which have one or more of the following: improved comfort, cost, efficacy, ease of use and manufacturability.

[0063] The first aspect of this technology relates to devices for screening, diagnosing, monitoring, improving, treating or preventing respiratory disorders.

[0064] Another aspect of this technology relates to methods for screening, diagnosing, monitoring, improving, treating, or preventing respiratory disorders.

[0065] One aspect of this technology is to provide methods and / or devices for improving patient adherence to respiratory therapy.

[0066] One aspect of this technology is a method for manufacturing equipment.

[0067] One aspect of this technology is an easy-to-use medical device, for example, for use by people who have not received medical training, by people with limited agility and vision, or by people with limited experience in using this type of medical device.

[0068] One aspect of this technology is a portable RPT device that can be carried by a person, for example, in a person's home.

[0069] One aspect of this technology is a patient interface that can be cleaned in a patient's home, for example, with soapy water, without requiring specialized cleaning equipment. Another aspect of this technology is a humidifier tank that can be cleaned in a patient's home, for example, with soapy water, without requiring specialized cleaning equipment.

[0070] One aspect of this technology relates to an intermediate component for connecting an air delivery tube to a respiratory therapy device. The respiratory therapy device may include a pressure generator and / or a water reservoir, to which the air delivery tube is connected via the intermediate component. More broadly, the intermediate component may include any separate component or part of a component located in or in fluid communication with an airflow path (air path) to receive sound from the air path. The intermediate component may be removable, replaceable, and / or cleanable. In a particular aspect, where the intermediate component connects a water reservoir to the air delivery tube, the term "intermediate" in the expression "intermediate component" may refer to this connection. However, it may also refer to the fact that, at least in some specific aspects of the described technology, the component is located between a sound source and a sound sensor, providing a link between them.

[0071] In the examples of the foregoing aspects, the water reservoir may include a cavity configured to hold a volume of water and receive a breathable gas stream, the air delivery tube may be configured to deliver a breathable gas stream already humidified in the water reservoir to a patient interface, and the intermediate component may include: (a) an outlet end configured to connect the air delivery tube to the intermediate component; (b) an inlet end configured to connect the water reservoir to the intermediate component, the central axis of the inlet end forming a greater than zero angle with the central axis of the outlet end; (c) a sound port configured to facilitate sound propagation on the outer side of the intermediate component; (d) a port seal disposed around the sound port, configured to provide a peripheral seal formation on the outer surface of the intermediate component, and including an acoustic membrane configured to cover the port; (e) the membrane being coplanar with the inner surface of the intermediate component; (f) the membrane being impermeable to liquids and / or gases; (g) the peripheral seal formation including a ridge configured as a base into which the intermediate component is inserted; and (h) the ridge being 0.4 to 0.8 mm above the outer surface of the intermediate component. (i) The peripheral seal forming includes a lip extending from the periphery of the port toward the central axis of the port; (j) The lip extends between 0.4 and 0.8 mm above the outer surface of the intermediate member; and / or (k) The lip extends at an angle above the port from the periphery of the port.

[0072] One aspect of this technology relates to an intermediate component for connecting an air delivery tube to a respiratory therapy device, the air delivery tube being configured to deliver breathable gas provided by the respiratory therapy device to a patient interface. The intermediate component includes: an outlet end configured to connect the air delivery tube to the intermediate component; an inlet end configured to connect the respiratory therapy device to the intermediate component, wherein the central axis of the inlet end forms a greater than zero angle with the central axis of the outlet end; a sound port configured to facilitate sound propagation on the outer side of the intermediate component; and a port seal disposed around the sound port, configured to provide a peripheral sealing formation on the outer surface of the intermediate component, and including an acoustically permeable diaphragm configured to cover the port.

[0073] In the examples of the foregoing aspects: (a) the membrane is coplanar with the inner surface of the intermediate component; (b) the membrane is impermeable to liquids and / or gases; (c) the outer peripheral seal formation includes a ridge configured as a base into which the intermediate component is inserted; (d) the ridge extends between 0.4 mm and 0.8 mm above the outer surface of the intermediate component; (e) the outer peripheral seal formation includes a lip extending from the periphery of the port toward the central axis of the port; (f) the lip extends between 0.4 and 0.8 mm above the outer surface of the intermediate component; (g) the lip extends at an angle above the port from the periphery of the port; and / or (h) the inlet end is configured to connect to a water reservoir housed in a respiratory therapy device, and the water reservoir includes a cavity configured to hold a volume of water and to provide a humidified breathable gas flow to an air delivery tube via the intermediate component.

[0074] One aspect of this technology relates to a device for treating respiratory conditions, the device comprising: a pressure generator configured to generate a breathable gas flow; an air delivery tube configured to deliver the breathable gas flow from the pressure generator to a patient interface; an intermediate component configured to pneumatically connect the air delivery tube to the pressure generator, the intermediate component including a port configured to facilitate sound propagation outside the intermediate component; a sound sensor disposed outside the intermediate component and adjacent to the port of the intermediate component, the sound sensor being configured to sense sound propagating outside the intermediate component; and a controller. The controller is configured to: receive a sound signal generated by the sound sensor due to sound sensed during device operation, analyze the received sound signal, and implement a response at least in part based on the analysis.

[0075] In the examples of the foregoing aspects: (a) the response includes at least one of the following: recording the results of the analysis, displaying the results of the analysis, forwarding the results of the analysis, and controlling the operation of the pressure generator at least in part based on the analysis; (b) it further includes: a water reservoir comprising a cavity configured to hold a volume of water and receive a breathable gas stream such that the breathable gas stream is humidified before being delivered to the patient interface; and a water reservoir base configured and arranged to receive the water reservoir in an operating position, wherein: an intermediate component is removably coupled to the water reservoir base to receive the humidified breathable gas. (c) The device includes a base frame with a base frame opening, wherein a port in the intermediate component is located on a first side of the base frame opening, and a sound sensor is positioned on a second side of the base frame opening; (d) at least one of the sensor and the port is aligned relative to the base frame opening; (e) the device includes at least one of a membrane and a port seal, the membrane being configured to cover the port and transmit sound from the inside of the intermediate component to the outside of the intermediate component, and the port seal being positioned to provide a sealing engagement between the port and the base frame opening; (f) the membrane and the port seal include a permanent attachment. (g) The intermediate component is generally tubular in shape, and the water reservoir base includes a generally tubular opening for receiving the intermediate component, the intermediate component and the generally tubular opening being configured for the intermediate component to be inserted into the opening substantially without friction; (h) at least one of the intermediate component and the tubular opening includes one or more engagement forming members arranged such that, during the insertion of the intermediate component into the opening, proximal to the end of the insertion path, engagement of at least one of the engagement forming members allows the intermediate component to enter its operating configuration, in which a port seal seals both the port and the base opening, and Furthermore, at least one of the port seal sealing engagement with the port and the base frame, and the support engagement achieved by at least one engagement forming member, is configured to prevent the intermediate component from being removed from its operating configuration without significant external force; (i) one or more engagement forming members include a lifting feature; (j) it further includes a port seal configured to surround the port, wherein the port seal includes a peripheral sealing forming member including a ridge configured to abut the surface of the base frame surrounding the base frame opening when the intermediate component is coupled to the humidifier; (k) the ridge extends between 0.4 and 0.8 mm above the outer surface of the intermediate component; (l) it further includes a port seal configured to include the port, wherein the port seal includes a peripheral sealing forming member including a lip configured to abut the surface of the base frame surrounding the base frame opening when the intermediate component is coupled to the humidifier; (m) the lip extends between 0.4 and 0.8 mm above the outer surface of the intermediate component.(n) The lip extends at an angle from the periphery of the port and toward the central axis of the port above the port; (o) The port seal covers the inner surface of the port and includes a membrane; (p) The membrane is at least coplanar with the inner or outer surface of the intermediate component; (q) The membrane is impermeable to liquids and / or gases; (r) The controller is configured to determine the characteristics of the air delivery tube or patient interface based on analysis; (s) The controller is also configured to determine the type or size of the air delivery tube, or the type or size of the patient interface connected to the air delivery tube, based on analysis; (t) The intermediate component includes an outlet end configured to connect the air delivery tube to the intermediate component and an inlet end configured to connect a water reservoir to the intermediate component, wherein the central axis of the inlet end is substantially transverse to the central axis of the outlet end; (u) The interior angle at the inlet end of the intermediate component is rounded; (v) The interior angle includes a bellows comprising a span between opposite sides of the bellows, the span being equal to or less than twice the radius of the interior angle; (w) The interior angle includes a radius of 0.2-5 (x) The water reservoir includes an outlet pipe with an outlet for conveying a stream of humidified breathable gas to an air delivery pipe, and the intermediate component includes an inlet seal adapted to form a seal with the outlet pipe of the water reservoir; (y) The intermediate component includes an outlet end, and the air delivery pipe includes a base connector with a radial lip seal adapted to form a seal with the outlet end of the intermediate component to pneumatically connect the air delivery pipe to the intermediate component; (z) The device wherein the central axis of the port in the intermediate component is substantially aligned with the central axis of the base opening on a first side of the base opening, and the sound sensor is positioned on a second side of the base opening at a distance of less than 2 mm from the base opening. At mm; (aa) the sensor is approximately aligned with the central axis of the port and the base; (ab) the intermediate component is configured to pneumatically connect the air delivery pipe to the water reservoir and mechanically connect the air delivery pipe to the water reservoir base; (ac) the air delivery pipe is configured to be electrically connected to the reservoir base; (ad) the air delivery pipe is configured to form both a mechanical and electrical connection when connected to the intermediate component; (ae) the air delivery pipe includes a base connector including a retaining protrusion adapted to engage in a corresponding hole provided to the intermediate component to mechanically connect the air delivery pipe to the intermediate component; and / or (af) the device also includes a converter configured to generate a flow signal representing the properties of the airflow, wherein the controller is configured to: control the operation of the pressure generator; and during the operation of the pressure generator; receive the flow signal from the converter and an acoustic signal sensed by a sound sensor; analyze the received acoustic signal; and modify the operation of the pressure generator at least in part based on the analysis and the flow signal.

[0076] One aspect of this technology relates to an intermediate component for connecting an air delivery tube to a respiratory therapy device, the air delivery tube being configured to deliver breathable gas provided by the respiratory therapy device to a patient interface, the intermediate component comprising: an outlet end configured to connect the air delivery tube to the intermediate component; an inlet end configured to connect the respiratory therapy device to the intermediate component; and a sound port configured to facilitate sound propagation outside the intermediate component.

[0077] In the examples of the foregoing aspects: (a) it further includes at least one of the following: an acoustic membrane configured to cover the port, and a port seal disposed around the acoustic port, the port seal being configured to provide a peripheral seal formation on the outer surface of the intermediate component; (b) the central axis of the inlet end forms an angle greater than zero with the central axis of the outlet; (c) the membrane is coplanar with the inner surface of the intermediate component; (d) the membrane is impermeable to liquids and / or gases; (e) the peripheral seal formation includes a ridge configured to seal the acoustic port against an opening in the wall of the water reservoir base, into which the intermediate component is inserted; (f) the ridge extends between 0.4 and 0.8 mm above the outer surface of the intermediate component; (g) the peripheral seal formation includes a lip extending from the periphery of the port toward the central axis of the port; (h) the lip extends between 0.4 and 0.8 mm above the outer surface of the intermediate component. (i) The lip extends at an angle from the periphery of the port above the port; (j) The inlet end is configured to connect to a water reservoir placed in a respiratory therapy device, and the water reservoir includes a cavity configured to hold a volume of water and provide a humidified breathable gas flow to the air delivery tube via the intermediate component; and / or (k) wherein at least two of the following are transverse to each other: the central axis of the inlet end of the intermediate component, the central axis of the outlet end of the intermediate component, and the central axis of the port.

[0078] One aspect of this technology relates to a device comprising: a pressure generator configured to generate a breathable gas flow; a water reservoir including a cavity configured to hold a volume of water and receive the breathable gas flow; a water reservoir base configured and arranged to receive the water reservoir in an operating position; an air delivery tube configured to deliver a breathable gas flow, already humidified in the water reservoir, to a patient interface; an intermediate component removably coupled to the water reservoir base, configured to connect the air delivery tube to the water reservoir, and including a port configured to facilitate sound propagation outside the intermediate component; a sound sensor disposed adjacent to the port of the intermediate component, configured to receive sound propagating from the air delivery tube and the water reservoir into the intermediate component; and circuitry configured to receive sound signals sensed by the sound sensor during operation of the pressure generator, analyze the received sound signals, and control the operation of the pressure generator at least in part based on the analysis.

[0079] In the example of the foregoing aspects: (a) the intermediate component is configured to pneumatically connect an air delivery pipe to a water reservoir and mechanically connect the air delivery pipe to a water reservoir base; (b) it also includes a base frame connected to the water reservoir base and including a base frame opening, wherein a port in the intermediate component is aligned with the base frame opening on a first side of the base frame opening, and a sound sensor is positioned on a second side of the base frame opening; (c) it also includes a port seal disposed around the port, the port seal being configured to provide a peripheral seal formation on the outer surface of the intermediate component; (d) the peripheral seal formation includes a ridge configured to abut a surface of the base frame surrounding the base frame opening, the base frame being coupled to the water reservoir base; (e) the ridge is 0.4 to 0.8 mm above the outer surface of the intermediate component. (f) When the intermediate component is in the operating position, the ridge is compressed against the surface of the base frame and is configured to prevent the intermediate component from being disassembled without sufficient force; (g) The peripheral seal forming includes a lip configured to abut a surface of the base frame surrounding an opening in the base frame, which is connected to the water reservoir base; (h) The lip extends between 0.4 and 0.8 mm above the outer surface of the intermediate component; (i) The lip extends from the side of the port and above at least a portion of the port, and when the intermediate component is in the operating position, the portion of the lip extending above the port is deflected downward and is configured to prevent the intermediate component from being disassembled without sufficient force; (j) The lip extends at an angle from the periphery of the port above the port and toward the central axis of the port; (k) The port seal covers the inner surface of the port and includes a membrane configured to cover the port and transmit sound from the inside of the intermediate component to the outside of the intermediate component; (l) The membrane is coplanar with the inner surface of the intermediate component; (m) The membrane is impermeable to liquids and / or gases; (n) The circuit is also configured to determine the air connected to the water reservoir based on analysis. The type of delivery tube; (o) the circuit is also configured to determine the type of patient interface connected to the air delivery tube based on analysis; (p) the circuit is also configured to determine the type of patient interface connected to the air delivery tube based on analysis; (q) the intermediate component includes an outlet end configured to connect the air delivery tube to the intermediate component and an inlet end configured to connect the water reservoir to the intermediate component, wherein the central axis of the inlet end forms an angle of 90° or greater with the central axis of the outlet end; (r) the interior angle formed by the angle is rounded; (s) the interior angle formed by the angle includes a bellows, which includes a span between opposite sides of the bellows, the span being equal to or less than twice the radius of the interior angle; (t) the interior angle is formed by a radius of 0.A 2-5 mm curvature is formed; (u) the air delivery pipe is configured to be electrically connected to the water reservoir base; (v) the air delivery pipe is configured to form both a mechanical and electrical connection when connected to the intermediate component; (w) the water reservoir includes an outlet pipe that provides a flow of humidified breathable gas to the outlet of the air delivery pipe, and the intermediate component includes an inlet seal adapted to form a seal with the outlet pipe of the water reservoir; (x) the intermediate component includes a tubular body including an outlet end, and the air delivery pipe includes a base connector including a suitable... (y) A radial lip seal forming a seal with the outlet end to pneumatically connect the air delivery pipe to the intermediate component; (y) the air delivery pipe including a base connector having a retaining protrusion adapted to engage within a corresponding hole provided to the intermediate component to mechanically connect the air delivery pipe to the intermediate component; and / or (z) a base frame coupled to a water reservoir base and including a base frame opening, wherein the central axis of a port in the intermediate component is aligned with the central axis of a base frame opening on a first side of the base frame opening, and a sound sensor is positioned on a second side of the base frame opening at a distance of less than 2 mm from the base frame opening.

[0080] One aspect of this technology relates to a respiratory therapy device comprising: a pressure generator configured to generate an airflow for treating respiratory disorders; a converter configured to generate a flow signal representing properties of the airflow; an air delivery tube configured to deliver the airflow to a patient interface; an intermediate component removably coupled to the respiratory therapy device, configured to connect the air delivery tube to the pressure generator, and including a sound port configured to facilitate sound propagation outside the intermediate component; a sound sensor disposed adjacent to the port of the intermediate component, configured to receive sound propagating from the air delivery tube and the pressure generator into the intermediate component; and a controller configured to: control the operation of the pressure generator; receive the flow signal from the sensor and the sound signal sensed by the sound sensor during operation of the pressure generator; analyze the received sound signal; and modify the operation of the pressure generator at least in part based on the analysis and the flow signal.

[0081] In the example of the foregoing aspects: (a) the intermediate component is configured to pneumatically connect an air delivery tube to a respiratory therapy device and mechanically connect the air delivery tube to the respiratory therapy device; (b) it also includes a base frame having a base opening, wherein a port in the intermediate component is aligned with the base opening on a first side of the base opening, and a sound sensor is positioned on a second side of the base opening; (c) it also includes a port seal disposed around the port, the port seal being configured to provide a peripheral seal formation on the outer surface of the intermediate component; (d) the peripheral seal formation includes a ridge configured to abut a surface of the base frame; (e) the ridge extends between 0.4 and 0.8 mm above the outer surface of the intermediate component; (f) when the intermediate component is in the operating position, the ridge is pressed down against the surface of the base frame and is configured to prevent the intermediate component from being disassembled without sufficient force; (g) the peripheral seal formation includes a lip configured to abut a surface of the base frame; (h) the lip extends between 0.4 and 0.8 mm above the outer surface of the intermediate component. (i) A lip extends from the side of the port and over at least a portion of the port, wherein the portion of the lip extending over the port is angled toward the port when the intermediate component is in the operating position, and is configured to prevent the intermediate component from being disassembled without sufficient force; (j) A lip extends at an angle from the periphery of the port and toward the central axis of the port over the port; (k) A port seal covers the inner surface of the port and includes a membrane configured to cover the port and transmit sound from the inside of the intermediate component to the outside of the intermediate component; (l) The membrane is impermeable to liquids and / or gases; (m) The controller is also configured to be based on The analysis determines the type of air delivery pipe connected to the water reservoir, the analysis determines the type of patient interface connected to the air delivery pipe, and / or the analysis determines the type of patient interface connected to the air delivery pipe. (n) The intermediate component includes an outlet end configured to connect the air delivery pipe to the intermediate component and an inlet end configured to connect to the pressure generator, wherein the central axis of the inlet end forms an angle of 90° or greater with the central axis of the outlet end; (o) The interior angle formed by this angle includes a bellows, the bellows including a span between opposite sides of the bellows, the span being equal to or less than twice the radius of the interior angle; the interior angle is formed by a radius of 0.(p) A 2-5 mm curvature is formed; (q) the air delivery tube is configured to form both a mechanical and electrical connection when connected to the intermediate component; (r) the intermediate component includes a tubular body with an outlet end, and the air delivery tube includes a base connector with a radial lip seal adapted to form a seal with the outlet end to pneumatically connect the air delivery tube to the intermediate component; (r) the air delivery tube includes a base connector with a retaining protrusion adapted to engage within a corresponding hole provided to the intermediate component to mechanically connect the air delivery tube to the intermediate component; and / or (s) a base frame includes a base opening, wherein the central axis of a port in the intermediate component is aligned with the central axis of a base opening on a first side of the base opening, and a sound sensor is positioned on a second side of the base opening at a distance of less than 2 mm from the base opening.

[0082] One aspect of the invention relates to a respiratory therapy device comprising: an airflow source exerting positive pressure on the surrounding environment; a base or housing configured and arranged to be fixedly positioned relative to the source during use; an inlet pneumatic connection for connection to the source to hermetically receive the positive pressure airflow from the source during use; a container holding a body of water during use, the container being configured to guide the airflow such that the airflow contacts the surface of the water body during use, thereby allowing water vapor to be transferred from the water body to the airflow during use to increase the absolute humidity of the airflow; the container including walls at least partially made of a material having relatively high thermal conductivity; a heating element; a temperature sensor; a controller for controlling the heating element; and an outlet pneumatic connection for receiving the airflow with increased absolute humidity. The base or housing is configured to hold the container close to the heating element such that thermal energy can be transferred from the heating element to the water body to increase the absolute humidity of the airflow. The controller is configured and arranged to power the heating element to heat the water without boiling it. The respiratory therapy device includes a sealed arrangement such that, during use, the airflow with increased absolute humidity received at the outlet pneumatic connection structure has positive pressure relative to the surrounding environment.

[0083] Another aspect of this technology relates to a CPAP system including a humidifier, a patient interface, and an air delivery tube for delivering humidified air to the patient interface. In one example, the humidifier integrates an RPT device configured to generate a positive pressure airflow.

[0084] Another aspect of this technology relates to a humidifier comprising a water reservoir and a water reservoir base, the water reservoir including a cavity configured to hold a volume of water, and the water reservoir base being configured and arranged to receive the water reservoir in an operating position.

[0085] Another aspect of this technology relates to a device for humidifying a breathable gas stream. The device includes a water reservoir comprising: a cavity configured to hold a volume of water; a water reservoir base configured and arranged to receive the water reservoir in an operating position; and an air delivery conduit configured to deliver a breathable gas stream, already humidified in the water reservoir, to a patient interface. The air delivery conduit is configured and arranged to form a direct pneumatic seal with the water reservoir. The air delivery conduit may include a sound port and a port seal, the sound port being configured to facilitate sound propagation on the outer side of the air delivery conduit, the port seal being disposed around the sound port and configured to provide a peripheral seal formation on the outer surface of the air delivery conduit, and including an acoustic membrane configured to cover the port.

[0086] Another aspect of this technology relates to a device for humidifying a breathable gas stream, the device comprising a water reservoir including: a cavity configured to hold a volume of water; a water reservoir base configured and arranged to receive the water reservoir in an operating position; an air delivery conduit configured to deliver a breathable gas stream, already humidified in the water reservoir, to a patient interface; and an intermediate component removably and non-rotatably coupled to the water reservoir base. The intermediate component is configured to pneumatically connect the water reservoir to the air delivery conduit. The intermediate component includes a one-piece construction made of a relatively rigid material, the one-piece construction including an inlet end adapted to mate with the water reservoir and an outlet end adapted to mate with the air delivery conduit. The air delivery conduit includes a base connector configured and arranged to form a bayonet connection with the water reservoir base, the bayonet connection mechanically and electrically connecting the air delivery conduit to the water reservoir base. The intermediate component includes a sound port and a port seal. The sound port is configured to facilitate the propagation of sound on the outside of the air delivery tube. The port seal is positioned around the sound port and is configured to provide a peripheral sealing formation on the outer surface of the intermediate component. It also includes an acoustic membrane configured to cover the port.

[0087] Another aspect of this technology relates to a device for humidifying a breathable gas stream. The device includes a water reservoir comprising: a cavity configured to hold a volume of water; a water reservoir base configured and arranged to receive the water reservoir in an operating position; an air delivery tube configured to deliver a breathable gas stream, already humidified in the water reservoir, to a patient interface; and an intermediate component removably and non-rotatably coupled to the water reservoir base. The intermediate component is configured to pneumatically connect the air delivery tube to the water reservoir and to mechanically connect the air delivery tube to the water reservoir base. The intermediate component includes a sound port and a port seal. The sound port is configured to facilitate sound propagation outside the air delivery tube. The port seal is disposed around the sound port and configured to provide a peripheral sealing formation on the outer surface of the intermediate component, and includes an acoustic membrane configured to cover the port.

[0088] One aspect of this technology is a magnetic connector that flexibly links a microphone to an air circuit to improve sound quality and consistency in acoustic component recognition respiratory therapy systems. The magnetic connector is self-aligning to ensure consistent horizontal and vertical positioning of the microphone relative to the air circuit. The connector also serves as a completely sealed path to minimize sound escape into the surrounding environment. The flexibility of the connector dampens some vibrations of the device. The connector can be a "bellows" type connector to increase vertical flexibility. Alternatively, to reduce vibration transmission from the PCBA to the microphone, the microphone can be mounted on a rubber foot on a tab of the PCBA, which is partially surrounded by a slit groove.

[0089] According to one aspect of the present technology, a connector is disclosed that is configured to connect to a sensor and transmit sound from a port in the air circuit of an RPT device to the sensor. In some aspects of the present technology, the sensor may be coupled to a circuit board positioned above the port; the circuit board includes a channel cutout that at least partially surrounds a portion of the circuit board supporting the sensor, the connector includes a bellows, and / or the connector provides a magnetic connection to the air circuit.

[0090] One aspect of this technology relates to a device for treating respiratory conditions, the device comprising: a pressure generator configured to generate a breathable gas flow; an air delivery tube configured to deliver the breathable gas flow from the pressure generator to a patient interface; an intermediate component configured to pneumatically connect the air delivery tube to the pressure generator, the intermediate component including a port configured to facilitate sound propagation outside the intermediate component; a sensor disposed adjacent to the port of the intermediate component, the sensor being configured to sense sound propagating through the port; a flexible connector configured to connect to the sensor and transmit sound from the port to the sensor; and a controller. The controller is configured to: receive an sound signal generated by the sensor due to sound sensed during device operation, analyze the received sound signal, and implement a response at least in part based on the analysis.

[0091] In the examples of the foregoing aspects: (a) the response includes at least one of the following: recording the results of the analysis, displaying the results of the analysis, forwarding the results of the analysis, and controlling the operation of the pressure generator at least in part based on the analysis; (b) the device includes a base frame with a base frame opening, wherein a port in the intermediate component is located on a first side of the base frame opening, and a sensor is positioned on a second side of the base frame opening; (c) the device includes a circuit board located on the second side of the base frame opening, wherein the sensor is coupled to the circuit board; (d) the device includes a circuit board to which the sensor is coupled, wherein the connector includes an outlet end configured to be directly coupled to the sensor. (e) an inlet end configured to be removably coupled to an intermediate component; (f) at least a portion of an outlet end coupled to a circuit board; (g) an outlet end including a rubber foot configured to connect a connector to the circuit board; (h) a circuit board including a channel extending through the circuit board, the channel being at least partially disposed around a portion of the circuit board coupled to the sensor for isolating vibrations from the circuit board to the sensor; (i) the channel forming a tab configured to be obliquely offset from the surface of the circuit board in a vertical direction; and (j) an inlet end including a first connecting element configured to be removably coupled to an intermediate component. The first connecting element is connected to a second connecting element, which is connected to an intermediate component; (k) the first connecting element includes a magnet and / or the second connecting element includes a magnet; (l) one of the first or second connecting elements includes a metal ring; (m) the first connecting element has an annular shape and / or the second connecting element has an annular shape; (n) the inner diameter of the first connecting element is the same as the inner diameter of the second connecting element; (o) the second connecting element is positioned below the surface of the intermediate component surrounding the port; (p) a membrane is also included, which is configured to cover the port and transmit sound from the inside of the intermediate component to the outside of the intermediate component; (q) the membrane is configured to cover the adjacent intermediate portion of the connector. (r) A membrane is disposed below the outer surface of the intermediate component; (s) A connector includes an outlet end configured to be coupled to the sensor and an inlet end configured to be coupled to the intermediate component, and the connector includes one or more bellows disposed between the outlet end and the inlet end; (t) The one or more bellows are adapted to allow displacement of the inlet end relative to the outlet end in the horizontal direction and / or in the vertical direction; (u) It also includes a circuit board to which the sensor is coupled, wherein the connector is configured to directly engage the sensor without directly connecting to the circuit board; and / or (v) An air delivery tube is configured to flow breathable gas from a pressure generator to the patient interface.

[0092] One aspect of this technology relates to a device for treating respiratory conditions, the device comprising: a pressure generator configured to generate a breathable gas flow; an air delivery tube configured to deliver the breathable gas flow from the pressure generator to a patient interface; an intermediate component configured to pneumatically connect the air delivery tube to the pressure generator, the intermediate component including a port configured to facilitate sound propagation outside the intermediate component; a circuit board located adjacent to the port; a sensor assembly disposed between the circuit board and the port of the intermediate component, the sensor assembly including a sensor coupled to the circuit board and configured to sense sound propagating outside the intermediate component, and a first connecting element configured to be removably coupled to a second connecting element, the second connecting element being disposed at least partially around the port in the intermediate component; and a controller. The controller is configured to: receive an acoustic signal generated by the sensor due to sound sensed during device operation, analyze the received acoustic signal, and implement a response at least in part based on the analysis.

[0093] In the examples of the foregoing aspects: (a) the sensor is directly coupled to the circuit board; (b) the sensor is housed in a flexible housing including a plurality of rubber feet configured to couple the flexible housing to the circuit board; (c) when the intermediate component is in the assembled position, the end of the sensor assembly adjacent to the port is configured to shift in the vertical and / or horizontal direction when the end of the sensor assembly adjacent to the port is not aligned with the port; (d) the first connecting element is a magnetic ring, and the second connecting element is a magnetic ring or metal ring configured to be removably coupled to the magnetic ring in the first connecting element; (e) the circuit board includes a channel through the circuit board, and the channel... (f) The channel is configured to at least partially surround a portion of a circuit board connected to the sensor assembly for isolating vibrations from the circuit board to the sensor; (g) The channel is configured to at least partially surround a through-hole on the circuit board electrically connected to the sensor; (h) The channel forms a tab including the through-hole, the tab being configured to be deflected vertically from the surface of the circuit board; (i) The channel also includes a membrane configured to cover the port on the inner surface of the intermediate component or on the outer surface of the intermediate component and to transmit sound from the inside of the intermediate component to the outside of the intermediate component; and / or (j) The membrane is impermeable to liquids and / or gases.

[0094] One aspect of this technology relates to a device for treating respiratory conditions, the device comprising: a pressure generator configured to generate a breathable gas flow, the pressure generator being pneumatically connected to an air delivery tube configured to deliver the breathable gas flow from the pressure generator to a patient interface, the air delivery tube including a port configured to facilitate sound propagation outside the air delivery tube; a sensor configured to sense sound propagating through the port when the pressure generator is connected to the air delivery tube; a flexible connector configured to connect to the sensor and transmit sound from the port to the sensor; and a controller. The controller is configured to: receive an acoustic signal generated by the sensor due to sound sensed during device operation, analyze the received acoustic signal, and implement a response at least in part based on the analysis.

[0095] In the examples of the foregoing aspects: (a) the response includes at least one of the following: recording the results of the analysis, displaying the results of the analysis, forwarding the results of the analysis, and controlling the operation of the pressure generator at least in part based on the analysis; (b) the device includes a base frame with a base opening, wherein a port is located on a first side of the base opening and a sensor is positioned on a second side of the base opening; (c) the device includes a circuit board located on the second side of the base opening, wherein the sensor is coupled to the circuit board; (d) the device includes a circuit board to which the sensor is coupled, wherein the connector includes an outlet end configured to be directly coupled to the sensor and (e) The outlet end is configured to be removably coupled to an inlet end of an air delivery tube; (f) At least a portion of the outlet end is directly coupled to a circuit board; (g) The outlet end includes a plurality of rubber feet configured to connect a connector to the circuit board; (h) The circuit board includes a channel extending through the circuit board, the channel being at least partially disposed around a portion of the circuit board coupled to the sensor for isolating vibrations from the circuit board to the sensor; (i) The channel is at least partially disposed around a through-hole on the circuit board electrically connected to the sensor; (j) The channel forms a tab, the tab being configured to be obliquely offset from the surface of the circuit board in a vertical direction; (e) The inlet end includes a first connecting element, the first connecting element being The device is configured to be removably coupled to a second connecting element, which is connected to an air delivery tube; (k) the first connecting element includes a magnet and / or the second connecting element includes a magnet; (l) one of the first or second connecting elements includes a metal ring; (m) the first connecting element has an annular shape and / or the second connecting element has an annular shape; (n) the inner diameter of the first connecting element is the same as the inner diameter of the second connecting element; (o) the second connecting element is positioned below the surface of the air delivery tube surrounding the port; (p) the device also includes a membrane configured to cover the port and transmit sound from the inside of the delivery tube to the outside of the delivery tube; (q) the membrane is... The device is configured to cover one end of the adjacent delivery tube of the connector; (r) a membrane is disposed below the outer surface of the delivery tube; (s) the connector includes an outlet end configured to be coupled to a sensor and an inlet end configured to be coupled to the delivery tube, and the connector includes one or more bellows disposed between the outlet end and the inlet end; (t) the one or more bellows are adapted to allow displacement of the inlet end relative to the outlet end in the horizontal direction and / or in the vertical direction; (u) the device also includes a circuit board to which the sensor is coupled, wherein the connector is configured to directly engage the sensor without directly connecting to the circuit board; and / or (v) the device also includes an air delivery tube.

[0096] One aspect of this technology relates to a device for treating respiratory conditions, the device comprising: a pressure generator configured to generate a breathable gas flow; an intermediate component pneumatically connected to an air delivery tube, the intermediate component including a port configured to facilitate the propagation of sound outside the intermediate component; a sensor externally attached to the intermediate component and located adjacent to the port of the intermediate component, the sensor being configured to sense sound propagating through the air delivery tube; and a controller configured to: receive an acoustic signal generated by the sensor due to sound sensed during device operation, analyze the received acoustic signal, and implement a response at least in part based on the analysis.

[0097] In the example of the foregoing aspects: (a) the intermediate component is configured to pneumatically connect an air delivery tube to a pressure generator; (b) the response includes at least one of the following: recording the results of the analysis, displaying the results of the analysis, forwarding the results of the analysis, and controlling the operation of the pressure generator at least in part based on the analysis; (c) the device includes a base frame with a base frame opening, wherein a port in the intermediate component is located on a first side of the base frame opening, and a sensor is positioned on a second side of the base frame opening; (d) the device includes a circuit board located on the second side of the base frame opening, wherein the sensor is coupled to the circuit board; (e) the device further includes a flexible connector configured to transmit sound from the port to the sensor. (f) The device further includes a circuit board to which the sensor is coupled, wherein the connector includes an outlet end configured to directly engage the sensor and an inlet end configured to removably engage an intermediate component; (g) one end of the connector is removably engaged with (or at least in contact with) the intermediate component and / or the other end is engaged with (or at least in contact with) the sensor; (h) at least a portion of the outlet end contacts the circuit board; (i) the outlet end includes an end cap; (j) the end cap includes one or more feet configured to contact the circuit board and / or one or more connection ports for connecting the sensor to the circuit board; (k) the circuit board includes a channel through the circuit board, and the channel at least partially surrounds the connector. A portion of the circuit board to the sensor is provided for isolating vibrations from the circuit board to the sensor; (l) a channel is provided at least partially around a through-hole electrically connected to the sensor on the circuit board; (m) the channel forms a tab configured to be obliquely directed toward the surface of the circuit board in a lateral direction; (n) the inlet end includes a first connecting element configured to be removably coupled to a second connecting element connected to an intermediate component; (o) the first connecting element includes a magnet and / or the second connecting element includes a magnet; (p) one of the first or second connecting elements includes a metal ring; (q) the first connecting element has an annular shape and / or the second connecting element has an annular shape. (r) A second connecting element is disposed below the surface of the intermediate component surrounding the port; (s) The connector includes one or more bellows disposed between the outlet end and the inlet end; (t) The one or more bellows are adapted to allow displacement of the inlet end relative to the outlet end in the horizontal and / or vertical directions; (u) The connector is configured to directly contact the sensor without directly connecting to the circuit board; (v) The device also includes an air delivery tube configured to transmit a breathable gas flow from the pressure generator to the patient interface; (w) The device also includes a membrane configured to cover the port and transmit sound from the inside of the intermediate component to the outside of the intermediate component; (x) The membrane is disposed below the outer surface of the intermediate component.(y) The device includes at least one of a membrane and a port seal, the membrane being configured to cover the port and transmit sound from inside the intermediate component to outside the intermediate component, and the port seal being positioned to provide a sealing engagement between the port and the base opening; (z) The device also includes a water reservoir comprising a cavity configured to hold a volume of water and receive a breathable gas stream such that the breathable gas stream is humidified before being delivered to the patient interface; and includes a water reservoir base configured and arranged to receive the water reservoir in an operating position, wherein the intermediate component is removably coupled to the water reservoir base to receive the humidified breathable gas stream and deliver it to an air delivery tube; (aa) the intermediate component is generally tubular in shape, and the water reservoir base includes a... A generally tubular opening for receiving an intermediate component, the intermediate component and the generally tubular opening being configured for the intermediate component to be inserted into the opening substantially without friction; (ab) at least one of the intermediate component and the generally tubular opening includes at least one engagement forming member arranged such that, during the insertion of the intermediate component into the opening, engagement of at least one of the engagement forming members allows the intermediate component to enter its operating configuration, in which at least one of the following is achieved: a sealing engagement of a port seal with a base frame opening; and a support engagement achieved by at least one engagement forming member, the support engagement being configured to prevent the intermediate component from being removed from its operating configuration without significant external force; (ac) engagement of at least one of the engagement forming members occurs at a later point in the insertion path. (a) at point); (b) one or more engagement forming members include a lifting feature that causes at least a portion of the intermediate member to move upward; (c) the lifting feature is disposed on the bottom of the tubular opening and, after the intermediate member has been inserted into the tubular opening a predetermined distance, pushes the intermediate member upward to reduce the gap between the top of the tubular opening and the intermediate member; (d) each of the intermediate member and at least one of the generally tubular opening includes a plurality of engagement forming members, each engagement forming member being arranged to engage approximately simultaneously during the insertion of the intermediate member into the opening; (a) the device further includes a port seal configured to surround the port, wherein the port seal includes a peripheral sealing forming member having a ridge. The ridge is configured to abut the surface of the base frame surrounding the base frame opening when the intermediate component is coupled to the water reservoir base; (ah) the device also includes a port seal configured to surround the port, wherein the port seal includes a peripheral seal forming member, the peripheral seal forming member including a lip, the lip being configured to abut the surface of the base frame surrounding the base frame opening when the intermediate component is coupled to the humidifier; (ai) wherein the lip extends at an angle from the periphery of the port above the port and toward the central axis of the port; (aj) wherein the port seal covers the inner surface of the port and includes a membrane; (ak) wherein the membrane is at least coplanar with the inner or outer surface of the intermediate component; (al) wherein the membrane is impermeable to liquids and / or gases;(am) wherein the controller is configured to determine the characteristics of the air delivery tube or patient interface based on analysis; (an) wherein the controller is further configured to determine the type or size of the air delivery tube, or the type or size of the patient interface connected to the air delivery tube, based on analysis; (ao) wherein the intermediate component includes an outlet end configured to connect the air delivery tube to the intermediate component and an inlet end configured to connect the water reservoir to the intermediate component, wherein the air path between the inlet and outlet ends is non-linear and includes at least one loop, wherein at least the loop closest to the port is curved; (ap) the central axis of the inlet end is substantially transverse to the central axis of the outlet end, thereby defining a corresponding transverse air path, an outer angle, and an inner angle, each angle including a rounded inner surface; (aq) the transverse air path between the inlet ends intersects adjacent to the inlet end, the inlet end including an inlet seal adapted to abut with the water reservoir; (ar) the inner angle includes a bellows including a span between opposite sides of the bellows, the span being equal to or less than twice the radius of the inner angle, and / or the inner surface of the inner angle including a radius of 0.2-5. The device includes a curvature of mm; (as) the intermediate component is configured to pneumatically connect the air delivery pipe to the water reservoir and mechanically connect the air delivery pipe to the water reservoir base; (at) the air delivery pipe is configured to form both a mechanical and electrical connection when connected to the intermediate component; (au) the device also includes a converter configured to generate a flow signal representing the properties of the airflow, wherein the controller is configured to: control the operation of the pressure generator; and during the operation of the pressure generator: receive the flow signal from the sensor and the acoustic signal sensed by the sensor; analyze the received acoustic signal; and modify the operation of the pressure generator at least in part based on the analysis and the flow signal; (av) it also includes: a base frame including a base frame opening extending through the base frame, wherein the port in the intermediate component The device includes a first end adjacent to a base frame opening; and a second end adjacent to a base frame opening, wherein a sensor is positioned on the circuit board and aligned with the base frame opening; (aw) the second end of the base frame opening includes an opening larger than the opening at the first end; (ax) the second end of the base frame opening is provided by a sidewall extending from a surface of the base frame facing the circuit board; (ay) wherein the sensor is at least partially positioned inside the base frame opening; (az) a seal is also included, disposed between the base frame and the circuit board and adjacent to the second end of the base frame opening; (aaa) the seal includes a peripheral seal forming having a lip or ridge configured to abut the surface of the circuit board adjacent to the sensor; the peripheral seal forming may extend from the surface of the seal facing the circuit board and surround the second end of the base frame opening;(aab) also includes a generally tubular opening in the base of the device for receiving a generally tubular intermediate component, and the intermediate component includes: an inlet end adapted for insertion into the opening, an outlet end adapted for mating with an air delivery pipe, a flange disposed between the inlet end and the outlet end, and one or more flexible dampers disposed on the side of the flange facing the inlet end (e.g., for softening the contact with the wall of the tubular opening during insertion and for absorbing vibrations during use); (aac) the intermediate component also includes a barbed tab at the end of the intermediate component opposite the outlet end. (tab) wherein the barbed tab is configured to provide a snap-fit ​​connection with a locking member of the underframe, and during the snap-fit ​​connection, one or more buffers are pressed down by a flange against a portion of the underframe, and without significant external force, the barbed tab is forced against the locking member to prevent the barbed tab from disengaging from the locking member; (aad) during the initial insertion of the intermediate component into the generally tubular opening, minimal resistance is provided between the intermediate component and the generally tubular opening, and in the later stages of insertion, at the location where one or more engagement features of the intermediate component engage with the corresponding engagement features in the generally tubular opening of the underframe, the resistance increases, and the engagement between the corresponding engagement features of the intermediate component and the underframe opening guides the intermediate component into its operating engagement configuration with the opening; (aae) also includes a port seal positioned to provide a sealing engagement between the port and the underframe opening in the operating position, wherein in the later stages of the insertion of the intermediate component into the generally tubular opening... The interaction between the corresponding engagement features of the intermediate component and the base frame opening positions the intermediate component to ensure a sealing engagement between the port seal and the surface of the base frame surrounding the base frame opening (e.g., when the intermediate component is in its operating position); (aaf) also includes a water reservoir comprising a cavity configured to hold a volume of water and receive a breathable gas stream such that the breathable gas stream is humidified before being delivered to the patient interface; and also includes a water reservoir base configured and arranged to receive the water reservoir in the operating position, wherein the inlet end of the intermediate component is removably coupled to the water reservoir base to receive and deliver the humidified breathable gas stream to the air delivery tube, the inlet end including an inlet seal, and in the operating position, the inlet seal provides a sealing engagement between the port and the base frame opening, and the inlet seal provides a sealing engagement between the inlet end and the water reservoir base; (aag) the intermediate component also includes a guide flange on the outer surface of the intermediate component. (rib) and / or guide rails on the outer surface of the intermediate component, the guide flanges and guide rails being constructed and arranged to assist the intermediate component in aligning and inserting into the generally tubular opening in the base frame by engaging with corresponding guide grooves in the generally tubular opening extending into the base frame; (aah) guide flanges are provided on the front and upper sides of the intermediate component, and guide rails are provided on the lower side of the intermediate component.(aai) The base frame includes a generally tubular opening for receiving a generally tubular intermediate component, the intermediate component including an inlet end adapted to be inserted into the opening and an outlet end adapted to be mated with an air delivery pipe, wherein, during the insertion of the intermediate component into the opening, a gap is provided between a port seal and the base frame adjacent to the base frame opening, and during the insertion of the intermediate component into the opening, after the edge of the port has passed the edge of the central shaft or the base frame opening, the port seal begins to engage the base frame; (aaj) after the port seal begins to engage the base frame, the intermediate component is further inserted a predetermined distance to allow the intermediate component to enter its operating configuration; (aak) also includes a flexible housing overmolded on the sensor, the housing being displaced from the circuit board, at least partially through the base frame opening; and / or (aal) the pressure generator, intermediate component, controller, and sensor are generally housed within the housing of the device.

[0098] One aspect of this technology relates to a device for treating respiratory conditions, the device comprising: a pressure generator configured to generate a breathable gas flow; an air delivery tube configured to be connected to the pressure generator and including a port configured to facilitate the propagation of sound outside the air delivery tube; a sensor disposed outside the air delivery tube and adjacent to the port of the air delivery tube, the sensor being configured to sense sound propagating through the port; and a controller configured to: receive an acoustic signal generated by the sensor due to sound sensed during device operation, analyze the received acoustic signal, and implement a response at least in part based on the analysis.

[0099] In the examples of the foregoing aspects: (a) the response includes at least one of the following: recording the results of the analysis, displaying the results of the analysis, forwarding the results of the analysis, and controlling the operation of the pressure generator at least in part based on the analysis; (b) the device includes a chassis with a chassis opening, wherein a port is located on a first side of the chassis opening and a sensor is positioned on a second side of the chassis opening; (c) the device includes a circuit board located on the second side of the chassis opening, wherein the sensor is coupled to the circuit board; (d) the device further includes a flexible connector configured to transmit sound from the port to the sensor; (e) the device further includes a circuit board to which the sensor is coupled, wherein the connector includes a component configured to directly engage the sensor. (f) An outlet end of the sensor and an inlet end configured to removably engage an air delivery tube; (f) One end of the connector is removably connected to the air delivery tube and / or the other end is connected to the sensor; (f) At least a portion of the outlet end contacts a circuit board; (g) The outlet end includes an end cap; (g) The end cap includes one or more feet configured to contact the circuit board and / or one or more connection ports for connecting the sensor to the circuit board; (h) The circuit board includes a channel through the circuit board, and the channel is at least partially disposed around a portion of the circuit board connected to the sensor for isolating vibrations from the circuit board to the sensor; (i) The channel is at least partially disposed around a through-hole on the circuit board electrically connected to the sensor; (j) The channel forms a tab. The tab is configured to be angled laterally toward the surface of the circuit board; (k) the inlet end includes a first connecting element configured to be removably coupled to a second connecting element connected to an air delivery conduit; (l) the first connecting element includes a magnet and / or the second connecting element includes a magnet; (m) one of the first or second connecting elements includes a metal ring; (n) the first connecting element has an annular shape and / or the second connecting element has an annular shape; (o) the second connecting element is disposed below the surface of the air delivery conduit surrounding the port; (p) the connector includes one or more bellows disposed between the outlet end and the inlet end; (q) the one or more bellows are adapted to allow the inlet end... (r) The connector is configured to directly contact the sensor rather than directly connect to the circuit board; (s) The device also includes an air delivery tube configured to deliver a breathable gas flow from the pressure generator to the patient interface; (t) The device also includes a membrane configured to cover the port and transmit sound from the inside of the intermediate component to the outside of the intermediate component; (u) The membrane is disposed below the outer surface of the air delivery tube; (v) The device includes at least one of a membrane and a port seal, the membrane being configured to cover the port and transmit sound from the inside of the intermediate component to the outside of the intermediate component, and the port seal being positioned to provide a sealing engagement between the port and the base opening;(w) The device also includes a water reservoir comprising a cavity configured to hold a volume of water and receive a breathable gas stream, such that the breathable gas stream is humidified before being delivered to the patient interface; and a water reservoir base configured and arranged to receive the water reservoir in an operating position, wherein an air delivery tube is removably coupled to the water reservoir base to receive and deliver the humidified breathable gas stream to the air delivery tube; (y) the air delivery tube includes at least one engagement forming arranged such that, during insertion of the air delivery tube into the opening, proximal to an end of the insertion path, engagement of at least one of the engagement formings causes... An air delivery pipe enters its operating configuration in which a port seal seals both the port and the base opening, and wherein at least one of the following is configured to prevent the air delivery pipe from being removed from its operating configuration without significant external force: (z) one or more engagement forming members include a lifting feature; (aa) the device further includes a port seal configured to surround the port, wherein the port seal includes a peripheral sealing forming member including a ridge configured to abut against the water reservoir base when the air delivery pipe is coupled to the water reservoir base. The device further includes a port seal configured to surround a port, wherein the port seal includes a peripheral seal forming having a lip configured to abut the surface of the base frame surrounding the base frame opening when an air delivery conduit is connected to the humidifier; (ac) wherein the lip extends at an angle from the periphery of the port above the port and toward the central axis of the port; (ad) wherein the port seal covers the inner surface of the port and includes a membrane; (ae) wherein the membrane is at least coplanar with the inner or outer surface of the air delivery conduit; (af) wherein the membrane is impermeable to liquids and / or gases; (ag) wherein the control The controller is configured to determine the characteristics of an air delivery tube or patient interface based on analysis; (ah) wherein the controller is further configured to determine the type or size of the air delivery tube, or the type or size of the patient interface connected to the air delivery tube, based on analysis; and / or (ai) the device also includes a converter configured to generate a flow signal representing the properties of the airflow, wherein the controller is configured to: control the operation of a pressure generator; and during the operation of the pressure generator: receive the flow signal from the converter and an acoustic signal sensed by a sensor; analyze the received acoustic signal; and modify the operation of the pressure generator at least in part based on the analysis and the flow signal;

[0100] The described methods, systems, apparatus, and devices can be implemented to improve the functionality of a processor, such as a processor in a dedicated computer, a respiratory monitor, and / or a respiratory therapy device. Furthermore, the described methods, systems, apparatus, and devices can provide improvements in the technical field of automated management, monitoring, and / or treatment of respiratory conditions, including, for example, sleep-disordered breathing.

[0101] Of course, some of these aspects can form sub-aspects of this technology. Sub-aspects and / or aspects of the aspects can be combined in various ways and also constitute other aspects or sub-aspects of this technology.

[0102] Other features of the present technology will become apparent from the information contained in the following detailed description, abstract, drawings and claims. 4. Attached Figure Descriptions

[0104] This technology is illustrated by way of example and not limitation in the figures, and similar reference numerals in the figures refer to similar elements, including:

[0105] 4.1 Treatment System

[0106] Figure 1A A system is shown in which a patient 1000 wearing a patient interface 3000 via a nose pillow receives a positive-pressure air supply from an RPT device 4000. The air from the RPT device 4000 is humidified in a humidifier 5000 and delivered to the patient 1000 along an air circuit 4170. A bed companion 1100 is also shown. The patient sleeps in a supine position.

[0107] Figure 1B A system is shown in which a patient 1000 wearing a patient interface 3000 in the form of a nasal mask receives a positive pressure air supply from an RPT device 4000. The air from the RPT device is humidified in a humidifier 5000 and delivered to the patient 1000 along an air circuit 4170.

[0108] Figure 1C A system is shown in which a patient 1000 wearing a patient interface 3000 in a full-face mask receives a positive-pressure air supply from an RPT device 4000. The air from the RPT device is humidified in a humidifier 5000 and delivered to the patient 1000 along an air circuit 4170. The patient sleeps in a side-lying position.

[0109] 4.2 Respiratory System and Facial Anatomy

[0110] Figure 2A A schematic diagram of the human respiratory system is shown, including the nasal cavity and oral cavity, larynx, vocal cords, esophagus, trachea, bronchi, lungs, alveolar sacs, heart, and diaphragm.

[0111] Figure 2B This diagram shows a view of the human upper airway, including the nasal cavity, nasal bones, external nasal cartilages, greater alar cartilages, nostrils, upper lip, lower lip, larynx, hard palate, soft palate, oropharynx, tongue, epiglottis, vocal cords, esophagus, and trachea.

[0112] 4.3 Patient Interface

[0113] Figure 3A A patient interface in the form of a nasal mask according to the present technology is shown.

[0114] Figure 3B A schematic diagram of a cross-section of the structure at a point is shown. The outward normal at that point is indicated. The curvature at that point has a positive sign, and when... Figure 3C The curvature amplitude shown has a relatively large amplitude compared to that shown.

[0115] Figure 3C A schematic diagram of a cross-section of the structure at a point is shown. The outward normal at that point is indicated. The curvature at that point has a positive sign, and when... Figure 3B The curvature amplitude shown has a relatively small amplitude compared to that shown.

[0116] Figure 3D A schematic diagram of a cross-section of the structure at a single point is shown. The outward normal at that point is indicated. The curvature at that point has a zero value.

[0117] Figure 3E A schematic diagram of a cross-section of the structure at a point is shown. The outward normal at that point is indicated. The curvature at that point has a negative sign, and when... Figure 3F The curvature amplitude shown has a relatively small amplitude compared to that shown.

[0118] Figure 3F A schematic diagram of a cross-section of the structure at a point is shown. The outward normal at that point is indicated. The curvature at that point has a negative sign, and when... Figure 3E The curvature amplitude shown has a relatively large amplitude compared to that shown.

[0119] Figure 3G The diagram shows a surface with a structure having a one-dimensional hole. The planar curves shown form the boundary of the one-dimensional hole.

[0120] Figure 3H It shows crossing Figure 3G The cross-section of the structure. The surface shown in the diagram is... Figure 3G The structure defines a two-dimensional hole.

[0121] Figure 3I It shows Figure 3G A perspective view of the structure, including two-dimensional and one-dimensional holes. Also shown is...Figure 3G The surface of the two-dimensional hole is defined in the structure.

[0122] 4.4 Respiratory waveform

[0123] Figure 4 The diagram shows a typical breathing waveform of a person during sleep.

[0124] 4.5 RPT Unit and Humidifier

[0125] Figure 5A An exploded perspective view of one form of RPT device 4000 according to the present technology is shown.

[0126] Figure 5B A perspective view of one form of RPT device 4000 according to the present technology is shown, which includes an outlet cover with a muffler 4124.

[0127] Figure 5C A perspective view of one form of RPT device 4000 according to the present technology is shown, which has an integrated humidifier 5000 including a water reservoir 5110.

[0128] Figure 5D A schematic diagram of the pneumatic path of one form of RPT device according to the present technology is shown. The upstream and downstream directions are indicated by reference to a blower and a patient interface. The blower is defined as upstream of the patient interface and the patient interface as downstream of the blower, regardless of the actual flow direction at any given moment. Articles located within the pneumatic path between the blower and the patient interface are downstream of the blower and upstream of the patient interface.

[0129] Figure 5E A schematic diagram of the electrical components of one form of RPT device according to the present technology is shown.

[0130] Figure 5F A schematic diagram of an algorithm implemented in an RPT device according to one form of the present technology is shown.

[0131] Figure 5G A schematic diagram of one form of humidifier according to the present technology is shown.

[0132] Figure 6A This is a perspective view of an integrated RPT device including a water storage tank and a humidifier, according to an example of the present technology.

[0133] Figure 6B yes Figure 6A A perspective view of the integrated RPT unit and humidifier, with the water reservoir removed from the reservoir base.

[0134] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of a pneumatic block according to an example of the present technology.

[0135] Figure 8 This is an exploded view of a circular metal plate water storage device according to an example of the present technology.

[0136] Figure 9 This is a perspective view showing a reservoir base, intermediate component, and air delivery pipe according to an example of the present technology, the air delivery pipe being oriented for engagement with the intermediate component, and a locking and contact assembly being provided on the reservoir base.

[0137] Figure 10 It shows Figure 9 A perspective view of the reservoir base and the air supply pipe, wherein the air supply pipe engages with a locking and contact assembly located on the reservoir base in the unlocked engagement position.

[0138] Figure 11 It shows Figure 9 A perspective view of the reservoir base and the air delivery pipe, wherein the air delivery pipe engages with a locking and contact assembly located on the reservoir base in the locked position.

[0139] Figure 12 It shows Figure 9 A perspective view of the reservoir base, intermediate components, and air delivery pipes.

[0140] Figure 13 It shows Figure 9 Exploded view of the reservoir base, intermediate components, air delivery pipe, and locking and contact components of the reservoir base.

[0141] Figure 14 It shows Figure 9 Another exploded view of the reservoir base, intermediate components, air delivery pipe, and locking and contact assembly of the reservoir base.

[0142] Figure 15 It shows Figure 9 A perspective view of the reservoir base and its locking and contact components, intermediate parts, and air delivery pipes.

[0143] Figure 16 yes Figure 9 An enlarged top perspective view of the storage base, which includes the base outlet and locking and contact components.

[0144] Figure 17 It shows the setting in Figure 9 An enlarged perspective view of the locking and contact components of the storage base without intermediate parts.

[0145] Figure 18 It shows the setting in Figure 9 Another enlarged perspective view of the locking and contact components of the storage base without intermediate parts.

[0146] Figure 19 This is a rear perspective view showing an example of an intermediate component according to the present technology.

[0147] Figure 20 yes Figure 19 Front view of the middle component.

[0148] Figure 21 yes Figure 19 Top view of the middle component.

[0149] Figure 22 yes Figure 19 An exploded view of the intermediate components.

[0150] Figure 23 This is a perspective view showing a reservoir base, intermediate component, and air delivery pipe according to an example of the present technology, the air delivery pipe being oriented for engagement with the intermediate component, and a contact assembly being disposed on the reservoir base.

[0151] Figure 24 It shows Figure 23 A perspective view of the reservoir base, intermediate component, and air delivery pipe, wherein the air delivery pipe engages with the intermediate component and a contact assembly located on the reservoir base in the locked position.

[0152] Figure 25 It shows Figure 23 A perspective view of the storage base and the joined intermediate components.

[0153] Figure 26 It shows Figure 23 Exploded view of the reservoir base, intermediate components, and air delivery pipes.

[0154] Figure 27 It shows Figure 23 A perspective view of the base outlet of the storage base, with the intermediate component removed.

[0155] Figure 28A It shows the intermediate components and the setting. Figure 23 A perspective view of the contact components of the storage base.

[0156] Figure 28B It is along Figure 25 The cross-sectional view taken by the indicated line shows the connection of an intermediate component to a reservoir base according to an example of the present technology.

[0157] Figure 28C It is an example of the intermediate component (without the lower tab 9795) along the edge of the present technology. Figure 26 A cross-sectional view taken from the indicated line.

[0158] Figure 28D It is along Figure 25 Another cross-sectional view taken by the indicated line shows the connection of an intermediate component to a reservoir base according to an example of the present technology.

[0159] Figure 28E It is along Figure 28D Another cross-sectional view taken by the indicated line shows the connection of an intermediate component to a reservoir base according to an example of the present technology.

[0160] Figure 28F It is along Figure 28D Another cross-sectional view taken by the indicated line shows an example of the connection between the intermediate component and the reservoir base, and the connection between the clamping arm and the base frame, according to the present technology.

[0161] Figure 28G It is along Figure 28F Another cross-sectional view taken by the indicated line shows an example of the connection between the clamping arm and the base frame according to the present technology.

[0162] Figure 29 This is a top perspective view of an intermediate component according to an example of this technology.

[0163] Figure 30 yes Figure 29 A bottom-view perspective view of the middle component.

[0164] Figure 31 yes Figure 29 Front view of the middle component.

[0165] Figure 32 yes Figure 29 Top view of the intermediate component.

[0166] Figure 33 yes Figure 29 An exploded view of the intermediate components.

[0167] Figure 34A This is a perspective view of an intermediate component including a ridge seal forming element on a sound port, according to an example of the present technology.

[0168] Figure 34B The intermediate component according to the example of this technology includes an alignment with the corresponding base frame sound opening. Figure 34A When forming the ridge seal, along Figure 23 A partial cross-sectional view taken from the indicated line AA.

[0169] Figure 34C An example of a ridge seal forming element according to this technology is along... Figure 34A A side cross-section view taken from the indicated line.

[0170] Figure 34DThis is an example of a pressing base frame according to this technology. Figure 34C A side cross-sectional view of the ridge seal forming element.

[0171] Figure 35A This is a perspective view of an intermediate component including a lip seal forming element on a sound port, according to an example of the present technology.

[0172] Figure 35B An example of the intermediate component according to this technology includes an alignment with the corresponding base frame sound opening. Figure 35A When forming the lip seal, along Figure 23 A partial cross-sectional view taken from the indicated line AA.

[0173] Figure 35C An example of a lip seal forming element according to this technology is along... Figure 35A A side cross-section view taken from the indicated line.

[0174] Figure 35D This is an example of a pressing base frame according to this technology. Figure 35C A side cross-sectional view of the lip seal forming part.

[0175] Figure 36A An example of an intermediate component according to the present technology is shown inserted into the receiving base opening before the port seal engages the base, along... Figure 23 The side section view taken from the indicated line AA.

[0176] Figure 36B An example according to the present technology is shown. Figure 36A A side cross-sectional view of the intermediate component as it is further inserted into the receiving base opening, causing the port seal to begin engaging the base.

[0177] Figure 36C An example according to the present technology is shown. Figure 36A A side cross-sectional view of the intermediate component when it is fully inserted into the receiving base opening, while the port seal is engaged with the base.

[0178] Figure 36D An example according to the present technology is shown. Figure 29 A side cross-sectional view of the intermediate component when it is fully inserted into the receiving base opening, while the port seal is engaged with the base.

[0179] Figure 37 An example component of a system for detecting sound signals according to the present technology is illustrated.

[0180] Figure 38A The illustration shows a perspective view of a connector between a circuit board and an intermediate component, according to an example of the present technology.

[0181] Figure 38BAn example according to the present technology is illustrated. Figure 38A The diagram shown is an exploded view of the connector between the circuit board and the intermediate component.

[0182] Figure 38C An example according to the present technology is illustrated. Figure 38A The connector shown is connected to the intermediate component.

[0183] Figure 38D The illustration shows a second connecting element connected to an intermediate component according to an example of the present technology.

[0184] Figure 39A The illustration shows a cross-sectional view of a connector between a circuit board and an intermediate component according to an example of the present technology.

[0185] Figure 39B An example according to the present technology is illustrated. Figure 38A The diagram shown is an exploded view of the connector between the circuit board and the intermediate components.

[0186] Figure 39C Another exploded view of a circuit board, sensor, connector, and first connecting element according to an example of the present technology is shown.

[0187] Figure 39D The diagram shows... Figure 39C Side view of the circuit board, sensor, connector, and first connecting element shown.

[0188] Figure 40A The illustration shows the possible sound escape that may occur when there is no connector between the sensor and the intermediate component.

[0189] Figure 40B The illustration shows a possible sound escape in a system that includes a connector between a sensor and an intermediate component, according to an example of the present technology.

[0190] Figure 41A The illustration shows an example of a rubber interface for connecting a sensor to a circuit board according to the present technology.

[0191] Figure 41B An example according to the present technology is illustrated. Figure 41A Another view of the rubber interface used to connect the sensor to the circuit board is shown.

[0192] Figure 41C The illustration shows an example of components according to the present technology, which includes a circuit board, an intermediate component, and a rubber interface for removably connecting a sensor to the intermediate component.

[0193] Figure 42A The illustration shows an example of a circuit board including a notched groove according to the present technology.

[0194] Figure 42B The figure illustrates an exploded view of a component according to an example of the present technology, which includes Figure 42A The diagram shows the circuit board, sensor, connecting elements, and intermediate components.

[0195] Figure 42C An example according to the present technology is illustrated. Figure 42B The assembled circuit board, sensor, connectors, and intermediate components are shown.

[0196] Figure 43 An example of a sensor placed in a flexible housing according to the present technology is shown.

[0197] Figure 44 An example method for acoustic detection and analysis according to this technology is illustrated. 5 Specific Implementation Examples

[0199] Before describing this technology in further detail, it should be understood that this technology is not limited to the specific examples described herein, and the specific examples described herein may be modified. It should also be understood that the terminology used in this disclosure is for the purpose of describing the specific examples described herein only and is not intended to be limiting.

[0200] The following description is provided in relation to various examples that may share one or more common features and / or characteristics. It should be understood that one or more features of any example may be combined with one or more features of another example or other examples. In addition, in any example, any single feature or combination of features may constitute another example.

[0201] 5.1 Treatment

[0202] In one form, the technology includes a method for treating respiratory distress, the method comprising the step of applying positive pressure to the airway inlet of a patient 1000.

[0203] In some instances of this technique, positive pressure air is supplied to the patient’s nasal passages through one or both nostrils.

[0204] In some instances of this technology, mouth breathing is limited, restricted, or prevented.

[0205] 5.2 Treatment System

[0206] In one form, the technology includes a device or apparatus for treating respiratory disorders. This device or apparatus may include an RPT device 4000 for supplying pressurized air to a patient 1000 via an air circuit 4170 to a patient interface 3000, for example, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figures 1A to 1C .

[0207] 5.3 Patient Interface

[0208] Figure 3A A noninvasive patient interface 3000 according to one aspect of the present technology is shown, comprising the following functional aspects: a seal-forming structure 3100, an inflation chamber 3200, a positioning and stabilizing structure 3300, an air vent 3400, a connection port 3600 for connection to an air circuit 4170, and a forehead support 3700. In some forms, the functional aspects may be provided by one or more physical components. In some forms, a single physical component may provide one or more functional aspects. In use, the seal-forming structure 3100 is arranged around an inlet to the patient's airway to facilitate the supply of positive pressure air to the airway.

[0209] If the patient interface cannot comfortably deliver a minimum level of positive pressure to the airway, the patient interface may not be suitable for respiratory pressure therapy.

[0210] According to one form of the present technology, a patient interface 3000 is constructed and arranged to supply air at a positive pressure of at least 6 cmH2O relative to the surrounding environment.

[0211] According to one form of the present technology, a patient interface 3000 is constructed and arranged to supply air at a positive pressure of at least 10 cmH2O relative to the surrounding environment.

[0212] According to one form of the present technology, a patient interface 3000 is constructed and arranged to supply air at a positive pressure of at least 20 cmH2O relative to the surrounding environment.

[0213] 5.4 RPT device

[0214] exist Figure 5A An exploded view of an RPT device 4000 according to one aspect of the present technology is shown. The RPT device 4000 may include mechanical, pneumatic and / or electrical components and is configured to execute one or more algorithms. The RPT device 4000 may be configured to generate an airflow for delivery to a patient's airway, such as for treating one or more respiratory conditions described in other parts of this document.

[0215] In one embodiment, the RPT device 4000 is configured and arranged to deliver an airflow in the range of -20 L / min to +150 L / min while maintaining a positive pressure of at least 6 cmH2O, or at least 10 cmH2O, or at least 20 cmH2O.

[0216] The RPT device 4000 may include a housing having one or more panels, such as a main panel (e.g., housing 4010), a front panel 4012, and a side panel 4014. The RPT device 4000 may also include an outlet cover with a silencer 4124, such as... Figure 5A andFigure 5B As shown. The outlet cover with silencer 4124 can be removable and can be replaced by water reservoir 5110 (see...). Figure 5C In this form, the RPT device 4000 can be considered to include an integrated humidifier 5000. Therefore, depending on whether the water reservoir 5110 or the outlet cap with silencer 4124 is attached, the RPT device 4000 can be used with or without humidification. The structure and operation of the silencer 4124 are similar to the structure and operation of the end cap silencer described in patent WO 2015 / 089582, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Preferably, the RPT device 4000 includes a base frame 4016 that supports one or more internal components of the RPT device 4000. In one form, the RPT device 4000 includes a pressure generator 4140 that can be housed in a pneumatic block 4020 coupled to the base frame 4016.

[0217] Further examples and details of an exemplary RPT device are described in PCT Publication No. WO 2015 / 089582.

[0218] The pneumatic path of the RPT device 4000 (e.g., Figure 5D The device (shown) may include an inlet air filter 4112, an inlet silencer 4122, a pressure generator 4140 (preferably a blower 4142) capable of supplying air under positive pressure, and an outlet silencer 4124 (or a water reservoir 5110 if humidification is required). The pneumatic path may include one or more sensors or converters 4270, such as pressure sensors and flow sensors. The pneumatic path may also include an anti-backflow valve 4160 to prevent water from overflowing from the humidifier 5000 back into the electrical components of the RPT device 4000.

[0219] like Figure 5E As shown, the RPT device 4000 may include a power supply 4210, one or more input devices 4220, a central controller 4230, a treatment device controller 4240, one or more protection circuits 4250, a memory 4260, a sensor / converter 4270, a data communication interface 4280, and one or more output devices 4290. Electrical components 4200 may be mounted on a single printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) 4202 (e.g., see...). Figure 5A In an alternative form, the RPT device 4000 may include more than one PCBA 4202.

[0220] 5.4.1 Mechanical and pneumatic components of the RPT device

[0221] The RPT device may include one or more of the following components in an integral unit. In an alternative form, one or more of the following components may be positioned as separate units.

[0222] 5.4.1.1 Air Filter

[0223] One form of RPT device according to the present technology may include one air filter 4110 or multiple air filters 4110.

[0224] In one configuration, the inlet air filter 4112 is located at the beginning of the pneumatic path upstream of the pressure generator 4140.

[0225] In one configuration, an outlet air filter 4114, such as an antibacterial filter, is located between the outlet of the pneumatic block 4020 and the patient interface 3000.

[0226] 5.4.1.2 Muffler

[0227] One form of RPT device according to the present technology may include one or more mufflers 4120.

[0228] In one embodiment of this technology, the inlet silencer 4122 is located in the pneumatic path upstream of the pressure generator 4140.

[0229] In one embodiment of this technology, the outlet silencer 4124 is located in the pneumatic path between the pressure generator 4140 and the patient interface 3000.

[0230] 5.4.1.3 Pressure Generator

[0231] In one form of this technology, the pressure generator 4140 for generating a positive pressure airflow or air supply is a controllable blower 4142. For example, the blower 4142 may include a brushless DC motor 4144 having one or more impellers. These impellers may be located in a volute. The blower may deliver the air supply, for example, at a rate up to about 120 liters per minute and at a positive pressure ranging from about 4 cmH2O to about 20 cmH2O, or in other forms up to about 30 cmH2O. The blower may be as described in any of the following patents or patent applications, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety: U.S. Patent No. 7,866,944; U.S. Patent No. 8,638,014; U.S. Patent No. 8,636,479; and PCT Patent Application No. WO 2013 / 020167.

[0232] The pressure generator 4140 is controlled by the treatment device controller 4240.

[0233] In other forms, the pressure generator 4140 may be a piston-driven pump, a pressure regulator (e.g., a compressed air reservoir) connected to a high-pressure source, or a bellows.

[0234] 5.4.1.4 Converter

[0235] The transducer can be located inside or outside the RPT device. An external transducer can be located on, for example, an air circuit such as a patient interface, or be part of it. An external transducer can be in the form of a non-contact sensor, such as a Doppler radar motion sensor that sends or transfers data to the RPT device.

[0236] In one form of this technology, one or more converters 4270 are located upstream and / or downstream of pressure generator 4140. The one or more converters 4270 may be configured and arranged to generate signals representing sound in the RPT device or airflow properties such as flow rate, pressure, or temperature at that point in the pneumatic path.

[0237] In one form of this technology, one or more converters 4270 may be located proximal to the patient interface 3000.

[0238] In one form of this technology, one or more converters 4270 may be located in an RPT device.

[0239] In one embodiment, the signal from converter 4270 can be filtered, for example, by low-pass filtering, high-pass filtering, or band-pass filtering.

[0240] 5.4.1.4.1 Flow sensor

[0241] The flow sensor 4274 according to this technology can be based on a differential pressure converter, such as the SDP600 series differential pressure converter from SENSIRION.

[0242] In one configuration, a signal representing flow rate from flow sensor 4274 is received by central controller 4230.

[0243] 5.4.1.4.2 Pressure sensor

[0244] The pressure sensor 4272 according to this technology is located in a path that is in fluid communication with the pneumatic path. A suitable example of a pressure sensor is the converter from the HONEYWELL ASDX series. An alternative suitable pressure sensor is the converter from the GENERAL ELECTRIC NPA series.

[0245] In one configuration, the signal from pressure sensor 4272 is received by central controller 4230.

[0246] 5.4.1.4.3 Motor speed transducer

[0247] In one embodiment of this technology, a motor speed converter 4276 is used to determine the rotational speed of the motor 4144 and / or the blower 4142. The motor speed signal from the motor speed converter 4276 can be provided to the treatment device controller 4240. The motor speed converter 4276 can be, for example, a speed sensor, such as a Hall effect sensor.

[0248] 5.4.1.4.4 Ambient light sensor 4278

[0249] Since the RPT device 4000 is often used in bedroom environments, such as when the patient is about to fall asleep or is sleeping, it may be important to ensure that any luminous features of the RPT device 4000 are not excessively bright.

[0250] In one form of this technology, ambient light sensor 4278 is used to determine the light level of the ambient area surrounding RPT device 4000. The ambient light signal from ambient light sensor 4278 can be provided as input to central controller 4230, for example, to adjust the brightness of the display or any other luminous feature, such as the backlight of input device 4220 or any notification light.

[0251] The display 4294 can be configured to operate at one of a variety of predetermined brightness settings. The brightness setting can be selected based on the signal output of the ambient light sensor 4278.

[0252] 5.4.1.4.5 Sound sensor

[0253] In one form of this technology, the converter 4270 may include a sound sensor, which may be a microphone, configured to generate a signal representing sound in the RPT device. The sound sensor may be configured to convert sounds within the patient's audible range and / or inaudible range into electrical signals. The sound sensor may generate analog or digital signals.

[0254] 5.4.1.5 Anti-overflow valve

[0255] In one embodiment of this technology, an anti-backflow valve 4160 is located between the humidifier 5000 and the pneumatic block 4020. The anti-backflow valve is constructed and arranged to reduce the risk of water flowing upstream from the humidifier 5000 to, for example, the motor 4144.

[0256] 5.4.2 Electrical components of RPT device

[0257] 5.4.2.1 Power Supply

[0258] The power supply 4210 can be located inside or outside the housing 4010 of the RPT device 4000.

[0259] In one embodiment of this technology, power supply 4210 supplies power only to RPT device 4000. In another embodiment of the invention, power supply 4210 supplies power to both RPT device 4000 and humidifier 5000.

[0260] 5.4.2.2 Input Device

[0261] In one form of this technology, the RPT device 4000 includes one or more input devices 4220 in the form of buttons, switches, or dials to allow human interaction with the device. The buttons, switches, or dials can be physical devices or software devices accessed via a touchscreen. In one form, the buttons, switches, or dials can be physically connected to a housing 4010, or in another form, they can communicate wirelessly with a receiver electrically connected to a central controller 4230.

[0262] In one form, the input device 4220 may be constructed and arranged to allow a person to select values ​​and / or menu options.

[0263] 5.4.2.3 Central Controller

[0264] In one form of this technology, the central controller 4230 is one or more processors adapted to control the RPT device 4000.

[0265] Suitable processors may include x86 Intel processors, processors based on ARM® Cortex®-M processors from ARM Holdings, such as the STM32 series microcontrollers from ST Microelectronics. In some alternative forms of this technology, 32-bit RISC CPUs such as the STR9 series microcontrollers from ST Microelectronics, or 16-bit RISC CPUs such as the MSP430 series microcontrollers from Texas Instruments, may also be applicable.

[0266] In one form of this technology, the central controller 4230 is a dedicated electronic circuit.

[0267] In one form, the central controller 4230 is an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC). In another form, the central controller 4230 includes discrete electronic components.

[0268] The central controller 4230 can be configured to receive input signals from one or more converters 4270, one or more input devices 4220, and humidifier 5000.

[0269] The central controller 4230 can be configured to provide input signals to one or more of the output device 4290, the treatment device controller 4240, the data communication interface 4280, and the humidifier 5000.

[0270] In some forms of this technology, the central controller 4230 is configured to implement one or more methods described herein, such as one or more algorithms 4300 represented as computer programs, which are stored in a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium such as memory 4260. In some forms of this technology, the central controller 4230 may be integrated with the RPT device 4000. However, in some forms of this technology, some methods may be performed by a remote positioning device. For example, a remote positioning device may determine control settings for the ventilator or detect respiratory-related events by analyzing stored data from sensors such as those described herein.

[0271] 5.4.2.4 Clock

[0272] RPT device 4000 may include a clock 4232 connected to central controller 4230.

[0273] 5.4.2.5 Treatment device controller

[0274] In one form of this technology, the treatment device controller 4240 is a treatment control module 4330, which constitutes part of the algorithm 4300 executed by the central controller 4230.

[0275] In one embodiment of this technology, the treatment device controller 4240 is a dedicated motor control integrated circuit. For example, in one embodiment, an MC33035 brushless DC motor controller manufactured by ONSEMI is used.

[0276] 5.4.2.6 Protection Circuit

[0277] One or more protection circuits 4250 according to the present technology may include electrical protection circuits, temperature and / or pressure safety circuits.

[0278] 5.4.2.7 Memory

[0279] According to one embodiment of the present technology, the RPT device 4000 includes a memory 4260, such as non-volatile memory. In some embodiments, the memory 4260 may include battery-powered static RAM. In some embodiments, the memory 4260 may include volatile RAM.

[0280] The memory 4260 can be located on PCBA 4202. The memory 4260 can be in the form of EEPROM or NAND flash memory.

[0281] Alternatively or alternatively, the RPT device 4000 includes a removable memory 4260, such as a memory card made according to the Secure Digital (SD) standard.

[0282] In one form of this technology, memory 4260 is used as a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing computer program instructions, such as one or more algorithms 4300, representing one or more methods described herein.

[0283] 5.4.2.8 Data Communication System

[0284] In one embodiment of this technology, a data communication interface 4280 is provided and connected to a central controller 4230. The data communication interface 4280 can be connected to a remote external communication network 4282 and / or a local external communication network 4284. The remote external communication network 4282 can be connected to a remote external device 4286. The local external communication network 4284 can be connected to a local external device 4288.

[0285] In one embodiment, the data communication interface 4280 is part of the central controller 4230. In another embodiment, the data communication interface 4280 is separate from the central controller 4230 and may include an integrated circuit or a processor.

[0286] In one embodiment, the remote external communication network 4282 is the Internet. The data communication interface 4280 can connect to the Internet using wired communication (e.g., via Ethernet or fiber optic) or wireless protocols (e.g., CDMA, GSM, LTE).

[0287] In one form, the local external communication network 4284 utilizes one or more communication standards, such as Bluetooth or consumer infrared protocols.

[0288] In one form, the remote external device 4286 is one or more computers, such as a cluster of networked computers. In another form, the remote external device 4286 may be a virtual computer rather than a physical computer. In either case, this remote external device 4286 can be accessed by appropriately authorized personnel, such as clinicians.

[0289] The local external device 4288 can be a personal computer, mobile phone, tablet, or remote control device.

[0290] 5.4.2.9 Includes optional display and alarm output devices.

[0291] The output device 4290 according to this technology can take the form of one or more of visual, audio, and tactile units. The visual display can be a liquid crystal display (LCD) or a light-emitting diode (LED) display.

[0292] 5.4.2.9.1 Display driver

[0293] The display driver 4292 receives characters, symbols, or images as input for display on the display 4294 and converts them into commands that cause the display 4294 to display those characters, symbols, or images.

[0294] 5.4.2.9.2 Display

[0295] Display 4294 is configured to visually display characters, symbols, or images in response to commands received from display driver 4292. For example, display 4294 may be an eight-segment display, in which case display driver 4292 converts each character or symbol (such as the number "0") into eight logic signals that indicate whether the eight corresponding segments will be activated to display a specific character or symbol.

[0296] 5.4.3 RPT device algorithm

[0297] As mentioned above, in some forms of this technology, the central controller 4230 is configured to implement one or more algorithms 4300, which are represented as computer programs stored in a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium (such as memory 4260). Algorithms 4300 are typically grouped into groups referred to as modules, for example, see... Figure 5F .

[0298] 5.4.3.1 Preprocessing Module

[0299] According to one form of the present technology, a preprocessing module 4310 receives a signal from a converter 4270 (e.g., a flow sensor 4274 or a pressure sensor 4272) as input and performs one or more processing steps to calculate one or more output values ​​that will be used as input to another module (e.g., a treatment engine module 4320).

[0300] In one form of this technology, the output value includes the interface or mask pressure. Pm respiratory flow Qr and leaked flow Ql .

[0301] In various forms of this technology, the preprocessing module 4310 includes one or more of the following algorithms: pressure compensation 4312, ventilation flow estimation 4314, leakage flow estimation 4316, and respiratory flow estimation 4318.

[0302] 5.4.3.1.1 Pressure compensation

[0303] In one embodiment of this technology, the pressure compensation algorithm 4312 receives as input a signal indicating the pressure in the pneumatic path proximal to the pneumatic block outlet. The pressure compensation algorithm 4312 estimates the pressure drop through the air circuit 4170 and provides the estimated pressure in the patient interface 3000. Pm As output.

[0304] 5.4.3.1.2 Ventilation flow estimation

[0305] In one embodiment of this technology, the ventilation flow estimation algorithm 4314 receives estimated pressure from the patient interface 3000. Pm As input, and to estimate the air ventilation flow rate from the air vent 3400 in the patient interface 3000. Qv .

[0306] 5.4.3.1.3 Leak flow estimation

[0307] In one form of this technology, the leakage flow estimation algorithm 4316 receives the total flow. Qt and ventilation flow Qv As input, and provides an estimated leakage flow rate. Ql As output. In one form, the leakage flow estimation algorithm calculates the total flow. Qt and ventilation flow Qv The difference between the values ​​is averaged over a sufficiently long period, including several breathing cycles (e.g., approximately 10 seconds), to estimate the leakage flow rate. Ql .

[0308] In one form, the leakage flow rate estimation algorithm 4316 receives the total flow in the patient interface 3000. Qt Ventilation flow rate Qv and estimate pressure Pm As input, the leakage flow rate is determined as a function of the leakage conductance by calculating the leakage conductance. Ql and pressure Pm To provide leaked traffic Ql As an output, leakage conductance is calculated as equal to the total flow rate. Qt With ventilation flow Qv The difference between the non-ventilation flow rate of the low-pass filter and the pressure of the low-pass filter Pm The quotient of the square root of the value, where the low-pass filter time constant has a value long enough to include several breathing cycles (e.g., approximately 10 seconds). Leakage flow rate. Ql Leakage conductivity and pressure can be estimated. Pm The product of functions.

[0309] 5.4.3.1.4 Respiratory flow estimation

[0310] In one form of this technology, the respiratory flow estimation algorithm 4318 receives the total flow rate. Qt Ventilation flow rate Qv and leaked flow Ql as input And by from the total flow Qt Reduce ventilation flow Qv and leaked flow Ql To estimate the patient's airflow rate Qr .

[0311] 5.4.3.2 Healing Engine Module

[0312] In one embodiment of this technology, the treatment engine module 4320 receives pressure from the patient interface 3000. Pm and the patient's airflow Qr One or more of the parameters are taken as input, and one or more treatment parameters are provided as output.

[0313] In one form of this technology, the treatment parameter is treatment pressure. Pt .

[0314] In one form of this technique, the treatment parameters are one or more of the following: pressure variation range, baseline pressure, and target ventilation.

[0315] In various forms, the treatment engine module 4320 includes one or more of the following algorithms: phase determination 4321, waveform determination 4322, ventilation determination 4323, inspiratory flow restriction determination 4324, apnea / insufficiency determination 4325, snoring determination 4326, airway patency determination 4327, target ventilation determination 4328, and treatment parameter determination 4329.

[0316] 5.4.3.2.1 Phase determination

[0317] In one form of this technology, the RPT device has an uncertain phase of 4000.

[0318] In one form of this technology, the phase determination algorithm 4321 receives the indicated respiratory flow rate. Qr The signal is taken as input, and the phase Φ of the patient's current respiratory cycle is provided as output.

[0319] In some forms, this is called discrete phase determination, where the phase output Φ is a discrete variable. One implementation of discrete phase determination provides a dual-value phase output Φ with either an inspiratory or expiratory value, for example, represented as 0 revolutions and 0.5 revolutions respectively at the start of spontaneous inspiration and expiration. The "trigger" and "cycle" RPT device 4000 effectively performs discrete phase determination because the trigger point and cycle point are the moments when the phase changes from expiration to inspiration and from inspiration to expiration, respectively. In one implementation of dual-value phase determination, the phase output Φ, when the respiratory flow rate... Qr When a value exceeds a positive threshold, it is determined to have a discrete value of 0 (thus "triggering" the RPT device 4000), when the respiratory flow... Qr When a negative value is larger than the negative threshold, it is determined to have a discrete value of 0.5 revolutions (thus "circulating" the RPT device 4000). Inspiratory time Ti and exhalation time Te It can be estimated as a typical value of the time spent in many respiratory cycles with phases Φ equal to 0 (indicating inspiration) and 0.5 (indicating expiration), respectively.

[0320] Another implementation of discrete phase determination provides a three-valued phase output Φ, the value of which is one of inhalation, a pause in the middle of inhalation, and exhalation.

[0321] In other forms, referred to as continuous phase determination, the phase output Φ is a continuous variable, such as changing from 0 to 1 revolution or from 0 to 2π radians. The continuous phase determination RPT device 4000 can be triggered and cyclically executed when the phase reaches 0 revolutions and 0.5 revolutions, respectively. In one embodiment of continuous phase determination, respiratory flow is used. Qr Fuzzy logic analysis is used to determine the continuous value of phase Φ. The continuous value of the phase determined in this embodiment is typically referred to as the "fuzzy phase". In one embodiment of the fuzzy phase determination algorithm 4321, the following rules apply to respiratory flow. Qr :

[0322] 1. If the respiratory flow is 0 and increases rapidly, the phase is 0 revolutions.

[0323] 2. If the respiratory flow is a large positive number and stable, the phase is 0.25 revolutions.

[0324] 3. If the respiratory flow is 0 and decreases rapidly, the phase is 0.5 revolutions.

[0325] 4. If the respiratory flow is a large negative number and stable, the phase is 0.75 revolutions.

[0326] 5. If the respiratory flow is 0 and stable, and the absolute value of the 5-second low-pass filter for the respiratory flow is large, then the phase is 0.9 revolutions.

[0327] 6. If the respiratory flow is positive and the phase is expiration, then the phase is 0 revolutions.

[0328] 7. If the respiratory flow rate is negative and the phase is inspiration, then the phase is 0.5 revolutions.

[0329] 8. If the absolute value of the 5-second low-pass filter for respiratory flow is large, and the phase increases at a steady rate equal to the patient's respiratory rate, then the time constant of the low-pass filter is 20 seconds.

[0330] The output of each rule can be represented as a vector, with its phase being the result of the rule and its magnitude being the degree of ambiguity of the rule being true. The degree of ambiguity for respiratory flow such as "large" or "stable" is determined by an appropriate membership function. The results of the rules, represented as vectors, are then combined by functions such as centroids. In such combinations, the rules can be equally weighted or disparately weighted.

[0331] In another implementation of continuous phase determination, as described above, it is first based on respiratory flow rate. Qr Discretely estimate phase Φ and inhalation time Ti and exhalation time Te Similarly, the continuous phase Φ at any given moment can be determined as the inspiratory time that has elapsed since the previous trigger moment. Ti Half of that, or 0.5 revolutions plus the exhalation time that has elapsed since the previous cycle. Te Half of the total (regardless of which moment is closer).

[0332] 5.4.3.2.2 Waveform determination

[0333] In one form of this technology, the treatment parameter determination algorithm 4329 provides an approximately constant treatment pressure throughout the patient's respiratory cycle.

[0334] In other forms of this technology, the treatment control module 4330 controls the pressure generator 4140 to adjust the waveform template Π. ( Φ ) To provide therapeutic pressure that varies according to the patient's respiratory cycle phase Φ Pt .

[0335] In one form of this technology, waveform determination algorithm 4322 provides waveform template Π(Φ) with values ​​in the range [0, 1] of phase Φ provided by phase determination algorithm 4321 for use by treatment parameter determination algorithm 4329.

[0336] In one form, the waveform template Π(Φ) applicable to discrete or continuous phase values ​​is a square wave template, with a value of 1 for phase values ​​of 0.5 revolutions or less and a value of 0 for phase values ​​greater than 0.5 revolutions. In another form, the waveform template Π(Φ) applicable to continuous phase values ​​includes two smoothed portions: for phase values ​​less than 0.5 revolutions, the smoothed portion (e.g., raised cosine) rises from 0 to 1, and for phase values ​​greater than 0.5 revolutions, the smoothed portion (e.g., exponential) falls from 1 to 0. In yet another form, the waveform template Π(Φ) applicable to continuous phase values ​​is based on a square wave, but for phase values ​​less than 0.5 revolutions (below the "rise time"), the smoothed portion rises from 0 to 1, and for phase values ​​within the "fall time" (less than 0.5 revolutions) after 0.5 revolutions, the smoothed portion falls from 1 to 0.

[0337] In some forms of this technology, the waveform determination algorithm 4322 selects a waveform template Π(Φ) from a waveform template library based on the settings of the RPT device. Each waveform template Π(Φ) in the library can be provided as a lookup table of values ​​Π relative to the phase value Φ. In other forms, the waveform determination algorithm 4322 calculates the waveform template Π(Φ) "dynamically (on the fly)" using a predetermined function form, which may be parameterized by one or more parameters (e.g., the time constant of the exponential curve portion). The parameters of the function form can be predetermined or depend on the current state of the patient 1000.

[0338] In some forms of this technique, applicable to discrete dual-phase inhalation (Φ=0 rpm) or exhalation (Φ=0.5 rpm), waveform determination algorithm 4322 calculates "dynamically" based on the discrete phase Φ and time measured since the most recent trigger moment. t The waveform templates Π for both. In one form, the waveform determination algorithm 4322 calculates the waveform template Π(Φ) in the following two parts (inhalation and exhalation). t ):

[0339]

[0340] Among them, Π i ( t ) and Π e ( t ) is the waveform template Π(Φ, t The inhalation and exhalation portions of the waveform template. In one such form, the inhalation portion Π of the waveform template... i ( t The waveform template is a smooth rise from 0 to 1, parameterized by rise time, representing the expiratory portion Π. e ( t ) is a smooth descent from 1 to 0 parameterized by the descent time.

[0341] 5.4.3.2.3 Ventilation determination

[0342] In some forms of this technology, the ventilation determination algorithm 4323 receives the respiratory flow rate. Qr As input, determine the metric indicating the current patient ventilation. Vent .

[0343] In some implementations, ventilation rate determination algorithm 4323 determines the measure of ventilation rate. Vent This measurement is an estimate of the actual patient's ventilation. One way to implement this is to take the respiratory flow rate. Qr Half of the absolute value can be filtered by a low-pass filter, such as a second-order Bessel low-pass filter with an angular frequency of 0.11 Hz.

[0344] In other embodiments, ventilation rate determination algorithm 4323 determines the measure of ventilation rate. Vent This measurement is roughly proportional to the actual patient ventilation. One implementation estimates the peak respiratory flow during the inspiratory portion of the cycle. Qpeak Assuming that the shape of the flow waveform does not change significantly (here, the shapes of two breaths are considered similar when the flow waveforms of breaths normalized in time and amplitude are similar), this, along with many other factors involving respiratory flow... Qr The sampling procedure produces measures that are generally proportional to the ventilation volume. Some simple examples include the median of positive respiratory flow, the median of the absolute values ​​of respiratory flow, and the standard deviation of the flow. Any linear combination of statistics of any order of absolute values ​​of respiratory flow with positive coefficients, and even some combinations using both positive and negative coefficients, approximates proportionality to the ventilation volume. Another example is the median of the inspiratory portion. K The average respiratory flow rate in the proportion (by time), where 0 < K <1. If the flow pattern remains constant, then there are arbitrarily large quantities that are directly proportional to the ventilation volume.

[0345] 5.4.3.2.4 Determination of inspiratory flow limitation

[0346] In one embodiment of this technology, the central controller 4230 executes an intake airflow limitation determination algorithm 4324 to determine the degree of intake airflow limitation.

[0347] In one form, the inspiratory flow limitation determination algorithm 4324 receives the respiratory flow signal. Qr As input, and as output, a measure of the degree of inspiratory airflow restriction is provided for the inspiratory portion of the breath.

[0348] In one form of this technique, the inspiratory portion of each breath is identified by a zero-crossing detector. Several evenly spaced points (e.g., 65) representing time points are interpolated by an interpolator along a time-varying curve of the inspiratory flow rate for each breath. The curve described by the points is then scaled by a scalar to have unit length (duration / cycle) and unit area, thereby eliminating the effects of variations in respiratory rate and depth. The scaled breath is then compared in a comparator to a pre-stored template representing normal, unobstructed breathing, similar to... Figure 6A The diagram shows the inspiratory portion of the breathing process. At any point during the inspiratory process according to this template, breaths deviating more than a specified threshold (typically 1 scale unit), such as those caused by coughing, sighing, swallowing, and hiccups as determined by the test element, are rejected. For the non-rejected data, the central controller 4230 calculates a moving average of the first such scaled point for the preceding few inspiratory events. For the second such point, this calculation is repeated on the same inspiratory event, and so on. Thus, for example, the central controller 4230 generates 65 scaled data points and represents the moving average of the preceding few inspiratory events, such as three events. The moving average of the continuously updated values ​​of (e.g., 65) points is referred to below as the "scale flow" and is specified as... Qs(t) Alternatively, a single inspiratory event can be used instead of a moving average.

[0349] Based on the proportional flow rate, two shape factors related to a defined partial blockage can be calculated.

[0350] The shape factor 1 is the ratio of the average of the intermediate (e.g., 32) proportional flow points to the average of the total (e.g., 65) proportional flow points. When this ratio exceeds the unity value, breathing is considered normal. When the ratio is equal to or less than the unity value, breathing is considered obstructed. A ratio of approximately 1.17 is considered the threshold between partially obstructed breathing and unobstructed breathing, and is equivalent to the degree of obstruction that allows for adequate oxygenation in a typical patient.

[0351] The shape factor 2 is calculated as the RMS deviation from the midpoint (e.g., 32) of the flow rate. An RMS deviation of approximately 0.2 units is considered normal. An RMS deviation of 0 is considered fully flow-restricted breathing. The closer the RMS deviation is to zero, the more flow-restricted the breathing.

[0352] Shape factors 1 and 2 can be used as alternative forms, or in combination in other forms of this technique, and the number of sampling points, breaths, and intermediate points may differ from those described above. Furthermore, the thresholds may also differ from those described.

[0353] 5.4.3.2.5 Determination of apnea and hypopnea

[0354] In one form of this technology, the central controller 4230 executes an apnea / hypoventricular dysfunction determination algorithm 4325 to determine the presence of apnea and / or hypoventricular dysfunction.

[0355] In one form, the apnea / insufficiency determination algorithm 4325 receives the respiratory flow signal. Qr As input, it provides a flag indicating that apnea or insufficiency of breathing has been detected as output.

[0356] In one form, when respiratory flow Qr A function can be said to detect apnea when the flow rate drops below a predetermined threshold within a predetermined time period. This function can determine peak flow, relatively short-term average flow, or flow between relatively short-term average and peak flow, such as RMS flow. The flow threshold can be a relatively long-term measure of flow.

[0357] In one form, when respiratory flow Qr The function can be said to detect insufficient breathing when the flow rate drops below a second flow threshold within a predetermined time period. This function can determine peak flow, relatively short-term average flow, or flow between relatively short-term average and peak flow, such as RMS flow. The second flow threshold can be a relatively long-term flow measure. The second flow threshold is greater than the flow threshold used to detect apnea.

[0358] 5.4.3.2.6 Determination of snoring

[0359] In one form of this technology, the central controller 4230 executes one or more snoring determination algorithms 4326 to determine the degree of snoring.

[0360] In one form, the snoring determination algorithm 4326 receives the respiratory flow signal. Qr As input, it provides a measure of the degree to which snoring is present as output.

[0361] The snoring determination algorithm 4326 may include the step of determining the flow signal strength in the range of 30-300 Hz. Further, the snoring determination algorithm 4326 may include the step of determining the respiratory flow signal strength. Qr The filtering step is performed to reduce background noise, such as the sound of airflow from the blower in the system.

[0362] 5.4.3.2.7 Determination of airway patency

[0363] In one form of this technology, the central controller 4230 executes one or more airway occlusion determination algorithms 4327 to determine the degree of airway occlusion.

[0364] In one form, the airway occupancy determination algorithm 4327 receives a respiratory flow signal Qr as input and determines the power of the signal in a frequency range of approximately 0.75 Hz and approximately 3 Hz. The presence of a peak within this frequency range is considered an indication of airway openness. The absence of a peak is considered an indication of airway closure.

[0365] In one form, finding the frequency range of peaks is therapeutic pressure. Pt The frequency of the forced oscillation is small. In one embodiment, the forced oscillation frequency is 2 Hz and the amplitude is about 1 cmH2O.

[0366] In one form, the airway occupancy determination algorithm 4327 receives the respiratory flow signal Qr as input and determines whether a cardiac signal is present. The absence of a cardiac signal is considered an indication of airway closure.

[0367] 5.4.3.2.8 Determination of target ventilation

[0368] In one form of this technology, the central controller 4230 measures the current ventilation volume. Vent As input, one or more target ventilation determination algorithms 4328 are executed to determine the target value for the ventilation measure. Vtgt .

[0369] In some forms of this technology, there is no target ventilation determination algorithm 4328, and the target value Vtgt It is predetermined, for example, by hard-coding during the configuration process of the RPT device 4000 or by manual input via the input device 4220.

[0370] In some forms of this technology, such as adaptive servo ventilation (ASV), the target ventilation volume determination algorithm 4328 is based on a value indicating the patient's typical recent ventilation volume. Vtyp To calculate the target value Vtgt .

[0371] In some forms of adaptive servo ventilation, the target ventilation rate Vtgt It was calculated as a high proportion, but lower than typical recent ventilation. Vtyp This high proportion may be in the range of (80%, 100%), (85%, 95%), or (87%, 92%).

[0372] In other forms of adaptive servo ventilation, the target ventilation volume Vtgt Calculated as slightly greater than typical recent ventilation Vtyp 1 times.

[0373] Typical recent ventilation Vtyp It is a value that measures the current ventilation volume. VentThe distribution at multiple points in time on a predetermined time scale tends to cluster around that value; that is, the measure of the central tendency of the current ventilation volume in recent history. In one implementation of the target ventilation volume determination algorithm 4328, recent history is approximately a few minutes, but should in any case be longer than the time scale of the Cheyne-Stokes cycle. The target ventilation volume determination algorithm 4328 can use any of a variety of well-known measures of central tendency to determine typical recent ventilation volumes based on the measure of the current ventilation volume. Vtyp One such metric is the measure of the current ventilation rate by the low-pass filter. Vent The output has a time constant of 100 seconds.

[0374] 5.4.3.2.9 Determination of therapy parameters

[0375] In some forms of this technology, the central controller 4230 executes one or more treatment parameter determination algorithms 4329 to determine one or more treatment parameters using values ​​returned by one or more other algorithms in the treatment engine module 4320.

[0376] In one form of this technology, the treatment parameter is the instantaneous treatment pressure. Pt In one implementation of this form, the treatment parameter determination algorithm 4329 uses the following equation to determine the treatment pressure. Pt :

[0377] (1)

[0378] in:

[0379] ● A It is the amplitude.

[0380] ● Π(Φ, t () represents the current phase value Φ and time. t The waveform template value at that time (in the range of 0 to 1), and

[0381] ● P 0 represents the basic pressure.

[0382] If waveform determination algorithm 4322 provides waveform template Π(Φ, t As a lookup table for the value Π indexed by phase Φ, the treatment parameter determination algorithm 4329 applies equation (1) by locating the nearest lookup table entry to the current value Φ of the phase returned by the phase determination algorithm 4321, or by interpolation between two entries spanning the current value Φ of the phase.

[0383] amplitude A and basic pressure PThe value of 0 can be determined by the treatment parameters. Algorithm 4329 sets the value according to the selected respiratory pressure treatment mode as described below.

[0384] 5.4.3.3 Treatment Control Module

[0385] According to one aspect of the present technology, the treatment control module 4330 receives treatment parameters from the treatment parameter determination algorithm 4329 of the treatment engine module 4320 as input, and controls the pressure generator 4140 to deliver an airflow according to the treatment parameters.

[0386] In one form of this technology, the treatment parameter is treatment pressure. Pt Furthermore, the treatment control module 4330 controls the pressure generator 4140 to deliver its mask pressure at the patient interface 3000. Pm Equal to treatment stress Pt The airflow.

[0387] 5.4.3.4 Fault Detection

[0388] In one form of this technology, the central controller 4230 executes one or more methods 4340 (fault detection algorithm 4340) for detecting fault conditions. The fault conditions detected by the one or more methods may include at least one of the following:

[0389] ● Power failure (no power or insufficient power)

[0390] ● Converter fault detection

[0391] ● Failed to detect the presence of the component

[0392] ● Operating parameters outside the recommended range (such as pressure, flow rate, temperature, PaO2)

[0393] ● The test alarm failed to generate a detectable alarm signal.

[0394] When a fault condition is detected, the corresponding fault condition detection algorithm 4340 signals the presence of a fault by one or more of the following:

[0395] ● Activate auditory, visual, and / or dynamic (e.g., vibration) alarms.

[0396] ● Send messages to external devices

[0397] ● Event Log

[0398] 5.5 Air Circuit

[0399] According to one aspect of the present technology, the air circuit 4170 is a conduit or tube that is constructed and arranged in use to allow airflow to travel between two components, such as the RPT device 4000 and the patient interface 3000.

[0400] Specifically, the air circuit 4170 can be fluidly connected to the outlet and patient interface of the pneumatic block 4020. The air circuit may be referred to as an air delivery tube. In some cases, it may have separate branches for the inspiratory and expiratory circuits. In other cases, a single branch is used.

[0401] In some forms, the air circuit 4170 may include one or more heating elements configured to heat the air in the air circuit, for example, to maintain or raise the temperature of the air. The heating element may be in the form of a heating wire circuit and may include one or more transducers, such as temperature sensors. In one form, the heating wire circuit may be helically wound around an axis of the air circuit 4170. The heating element may be connected to a controller, such as a central controller 4230. An example of an air circuit 4170 including a heating wire circuit is described in U.S. Patent 8,733,349, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0402] 5.6 Oxygen Delivery

[0403] In one form of this technology, supplemental oxygen 4180 is delivered to one or more points in the pneumatic path (such as upstream of pneumatic block 4020), air circuit 4170, and / or patient interface 3000.

[0404] 5.7 Humidifier

[0405] 5.7.1 Humidifier Overview

[0406] In one form of this technology, a humidifier 5000 is provided (e.g., as...). Figure 5C As shown), it changes the absolute humidity of the air or gas delivered to the patient relative to the ambient air. Typically, the humidifier 5000 is used to increase the absolute humidity of the airflow and increase the temperature of the airflow (relative to the ambient air) before it is delivered to the patient's airway.

[0407] 5.7.2 RPT Unit and Humidifier

[0408] Figure 6A , Figure 6B and Figure 7An integrated RPT device and humidifier 6000 according to an example of the present technology is illustrated. As illustrated, the integrated RPT device and humidifier 6000 includes a reservoir base 6050, which is configured and arranged to receive a water reservoir 6100 (also referred to as a humidifier tank or humidifier reservoir). In the illustrated example, the integrated RPT device and humidifier 6000 includes a humidifier integrated with the RPT device, such that the pneumatic block 7100 of the RPT device includes components that perform the functions of the RPT device and components that perform the functions of the humidifier. For example, as Figure 7 As shown, the reservoir base 6050 is integrated with the pneumatic block 7100 of the RPT device to provide an integral unit. The reservoir base 6050 is constructed and arranged to receive the water reservoir 6100.

[0409] It should be recognized that, in alternative arrangements, the humidifier (e.g., reservoir base 6050) can be installed independently of the RPT device (e.g., pneumatic block 7100). In such an arrangement, additional interfaces can be used to connect the humidifier (e.g., reservoir base 6050) to the RPT device (e.g., pneumatic block 7100).

[0410] The RPT device includes a blower supported within a pneumatic block 7100. The blower is constructed and arranged to generate an airflow or air supply under positive pressure (e.g., in the range of 2-50 cmH2O). In one example, the blower may include a single-stage or multi-stage design, such as a two-stage or more-stage design. The blower can operate to draw the air supply into the pneumatic block 7100, for example through one or more inlet openings in the pneumatic block, and into its inlet (blower inlet), and provide a pressurized air supply at its outlet (blower outlet). Examples and details of an exemplary blower are described in PCT patent application publication number WO 2013 / 020167, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The blower outlet communicates with a humidifier, such as the inlet of a water reservoir 6100.

[0411] The pneumatic block 7100 includes a base assembly 7300, for example, including a top base and a bottom base. The base assembly 7300 includes a base inlet (not shown) and a base outlet 7320 (e.g., see...). Figure 25 and Figure 27 In one example, the housing includes one or more panels and / or one or more user inputs / displays that may enclose the pneumatic block 7100, for example, see Figure 6A and Figure 6BThe base assembly 7300 supports and / or houses internal components of the pneumatic block 7100, such as a blower. The base assembly 7300 also supports a printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) 7600, which may include one or more components and features described with reference to PCBA 4202. The base assembly 7300 and the internal components of the pneumatic block cooperate to form a pneumatic airflow path extending from the base inlet to the blower inlet of the blower and from the blower outlet of the blower to the base outlet 7320. When the water reservoir is received in the reservoir base 6050, the base outlet 7320 is adapted to communicate with the reservoir base 6050 and the inlet of the water reservoir 6100. The reservoir base 6050 is also configured and arranged to allow communication between the outlet of the water reservoir 6100 and the air circuit 4170, as described in more detail below.

[0412] 5.7.3 Humidifier Components

[0413] 5.7.3.1 Water Storage Tank

[0414] Figure 6A , Figure 6B and Figure 8 An example of a water reservoir 6100 according to the present technology is shown. The water reservoir 6100 is configured to contain or hold a volume of liquid (e.g., water) that will be evaporated for humidifying an airflow. The water reservoir 6100 can be configured to hold a predetermined maximum volume of water to provide adequate humidification for at least the duration of a respiratory therapy session, such as one night of sleep. Typically, the water reservoir is configured to hold several hundred milliliters of water, for example, 300 milliliters (ml), 325 ml, 350 ml, or 400 ml, although it is understood that other volumes of liquid, such as at least 100 ml, can be utilized. In other forms, the humidifier can be configured to receive a water supply from an external water source, such as a building's water supply system.

[0415] In the illustrated example, the water reservoir 6100 includes a reservoir base 6112 (also referred to as a reservoir body, humidifier tank base, or humidifier tank body) and a reservoir cap 6114 (also referred to as a humidifier tank cap) removably coupled to the reservoir base 6112. A deformable seal may be provided on the reservoir cap and / or the reservoir base. When the reservoir cap 6114 is coupled to the reservoir base 6112, the seal is configured and arranged to engage between the reservoir cap 6114 and the reservoir base 6112 to seal the cap and base and prevent water from flowing out of the water reservoir. The reservoir cap 6114 may be configured to be completely removable from the reservoir base 6112, for example, to facilitate cleaning of the interior of the reservoir base and / or the reservoir cap by a patient. In an alternative example, the reservoir cap 6114 may be permanently attached to the reservoir base 6112.

[0416] According to one aspect, the water reservoir 6100 is configured to increase the humidity of an airflow from the RPT device as airflow passes through it. In one form, the water reservoir 6100 may be configured to encourage the airflow to travel in a tortuous path through the reservoir while in contact with a certain volume of water therein. For example, the water reservoir 6100 may include one or more flow elements, such as deflectors, to encourage a tortuous flow path.

[0417] As described in more detail below, the water reservoir 6100 can be removably coupled to the reservoir base 6050. In one example, insertion / removal of the water reservoir can be arranged along a path extending in a front-to-back direction. In an alternative example, at least a portion of the path for inserting / removing the water reservoir can extend in a vertical direction; for example, at least a portion of the path for insertion includes a ramp or descent to the operating position.

[0418] The water reservoir 6100 can also be configured to prevent liquid from flowing out therefrom, such as when the reservoir is displaced and / or rotated from its normal operating position, such as through any holes and / or between its sub-components. Since the airflow to be humidified by the humidifier is usually pressurized, the reservoir can also be configured to prevent pneumatic pressure loss due to leakage and / or flow resistance.

[0419] Reservoir base

[0420] like Figure 8 As shown, the reservoir base 6112 includes a body 6140, which includes multiple walls and a conductive portion 6150, which is typically disposed at the bottom of one of the walls to form a chamber or cavity for holding a certain volume of water.

[0421] The reservoir base 6112 is constructed and arranged to engage or dock with the reservoir cover 6114.

[0422] The reservoir base 6112 can be configured and arranged to retain the reservoir cover 6114 to the reservoir base 6112, for example, with a hinge arrangement and / or a snap-fit ​​locking tab to releasably retain the reservoir cover to the reservoir base.

[0423] Conductive portion

[0424] The conductive portion 6150 is configured to allow heat to escape from the heating element (e.g., Figure 6BThe heater plate 6080 of the reservoir base 6050 shown is used for the efficient transfer of a certain volume of liquid into the reservoir. In one form, the conductive portion can be arranged as a plate, but other shapes are equally applicable. All or part of the conductive portion can be made of a thermally conductive material, such as aluminum (e.g., with a thickness of about 2 mm, such as 1 mm, 1.5 mm, 2.5 mm, or 3 mm), another thermally conductive metal, or some plastics. In some cases, suitable thermal conductivity can be achieved using materials with appropriate geometries and lower conductivity.

[0425] Conductive portion comprising a metal plate and / or a thin film

[0426] In one example, the conductive portion 6150 may include a metal plate, a non-metallic film (also referred to as a film plate or film substrate), or a combination of metal plates and non-metallic films arranged in layers. As described below, the conductive portion 6150 is configured to be thermally coupled to the heater plate 6080 of the reservoir base 6050 to allow heat to be transferred from the heater plate 6080 to a volume of liquid in the water reservoir 6100.

[0427] 5.7.3.2 Storage container base

[0428] The reservoir base 6050 may be disposed on the base assembly 7300 of the RPT device and configured and arranged to receive the water reservoir 6100. In some arrangements, the reservoir base 6050 may include locking features, such as locking levers or tabs, configured to retain the water reservoir 6100 in the reservoir base 6050.

[0429] The reservoir base 6050 includes a body forming a cavity to receive the water reservoir 6100. (As...) Figure 27 As best shown, the rear wall of the reservoir base 6050 includes a base outlet 7320 (also referred to as a base inlet), which is configured and arranged to receive a pressurized airflow from the outlet of the RPT device for delivery to the water reservoir 6100. The reservoir base 6050 may also include a base outlet configured and arranged to connect to or otherwise interface with an air delivery conduit 4170 or an intermediate component (e.g., intermediate component 6700, intermediate component 8700, or intermediate component 9700), which is then connected to the air delivery conduit 4170. In one example of the present technology, the reservoir base 6050 may allow the air delivery conduit 4170 to form a direct pneumatic connection with the water reservoir 6100, such that a pressurized airflow already humidified in the water reservoir 6100 is delivered directly from the water reservoir 6100 to the air delivery conduit 4170.

[0430] The main body of the reservoir base 6050 includes multiple walls and a heating element (e.g., heater plate 6080) disposed at the bottom of one of the walls to form a cavity for receiving water reservoir 6100.

[0431] 5.7.3.3 Connection from water storage tank to storage tank base

[0432] In use, the water reservoir 6100 is removably connected to the reservoir base 6050 by inserting it into the reservoir base 6050. When the water reservoir is arranged to directly engage with the air delivery conduit 4170, the inlet seal of the inlet pipe 6120 (or inlet) of the water reservoir 6100 is configured and arranged to provide a face seal with the base outlet 7320 (base inlet) of the reservoir base 6050 when the water reservoir 6100 is connected to the reservoir base 6050. Similarly, the outlet seal 6132 of the outlet pipe 6130 (or outlet) of the water reservoir 6100 is configured to provide a face seal with the air circuit or air delivery conduit 4170, for example, to prevent pneumatic pressure loss due to leakage. In an alternative example, the water reservoir 6100 is configured and arranged to form a direct pneumatic seal with the air delivery conduit 4170, thereby completely bypassing the RPT device and the reservoir base 6050. The storage base 6050 facilitates this direct connection, rather than being part of it.

[0433] Removing the RPT unit and reservoir base 6050 from the air delivery path eliminates the presence of an internal connecting component between the water reservoir 6100 and the air delivery duct 4170. This eliminates the need to disassemble and sterilize such a connecting component, making sterilization much easier. In this way, when preparing the unit for different users, the water reservoir 6100 is the only component in the RPT unit that needs to be replaced or sterilized.

[0434] When the water reservoir 6100 is inserted into the reservoir base 6050 and reaches the operating position, the conductive portion 6150 of the water reservoir 6100 aligns and thermally contacts the heater plate 6080 of the reservoir base 6050 to allow heat to be transferred from the heater plate 6080 to the water in the water reservoir 6100. For example, the surface of the conductive portion 6150 engages with or contacts the surface of the heater plate 6080. A biasing mechanism can be introduced that presses the water reservoir and the heater plate against each other, thereby altering the level of thermal contact between the conductive portion and the heater plate. In one example, spring elements provided to the water reservoir, the reservoir base, and / or the heater plate can be arranged to bias the water reservoir and the heater plate against each other to increase contact pressure and improve thermal contact.

[0435] The base outlet 7320 (base inlet) is configured to receive a pressurized airflow from the blower of the RPT device and direct the airflow into the water reservoir 6100 via the inlet pipe 6120. As the air travels through the water reservoir 6100, moisture (i.e., water vapor) is added to the airflow, and the humidified airflow exits the water reservoir through the outlet pipe 6130. Air flows directly from the outlet pipe 6130 into the air delivery pipe 4170 to deliver the humidified airflow to the patient.

[0436] 5.7.3.4 Guiding Structure for Insertion / Removal

[0437] In one example, the outer portion of the water reservoir 6100 provides a base engagement portion configured and arranged to mate and engage with a reservoir engagement portion of the reservoir base 6050. In one example, the water reservoir 6100 and the reservoir base 6050 may include guide structures to facilitate insertion, removal, and alignment of the water reservoir 6100 with the reservoir base 6050.

[0438] For example, such as Figure 6B As shown, the opposite side of the water reservoir 6100 along the base engagement portion may include a guide surface (e.g., provided by a guide rail 6200) arranged to engage a corresponding guide surface (e.g., provided by a guide groove 6060) along the reservoir engagement portion of the reservoir base 6050 to guide the water reservoir 6100 into the reservoir base 6050.

[0439] In one example, such as Figure 6B As shown, the water reservoir 6100 can be inserted into (e.g., by sliding or pushing / pulling only) the cavity of the reservoir base 6050 and removed from it along a path extending laterally (i.e., in the front-to-back direction).

[0440] In an alternative example, at least a portion of the path for inserting / removing the water reservoir may extend in a vertical direction. For example, at least a portion of the path for inserting the water reservoir into the base may include a ramp, such as raising or lowering it to the operating position.

[0441] For example, the guide structure of the water reservoir 6100 and reservoir base 6050 can be constructed and arranged to provide an initial horizontal or inclined insertion of the water reservoir, followed by a final descent to the operating position. In one example, the reservoir base may provide an inclined surface with an inner edge located on the bottom surface of the base, which must be cleaned by the water reservoir before it can be lowered to its operating position. The cleaned edge and / or descent itself can effectively lock the water reservoir in the operating position. Additional locking features may also be used. This “push-down” configuration involves the movement of the water reservoir with components in both horizontal and vertical directions. Optionally including an edge ensures that the base of the water reservoir engages a single edge or small surface during insertion into the reservoir base, rather than being dragged across a much larger surface. This reduces any wear and potential damage to the heater plate. Spring elements (e.g., between the reservoir base and the water reservoir) can be arranged to increase the contact pressure between the water reservoir and the heater plate, thereby improving the thermal contact between the base plate of the water reservoir and the heater plate of the base.

[0442] 5.7.3.5 Retaining Features

[0443] In one example, such as Figure 6B As shown, the water reservoir 6100 may include a latch 6400 configured to releasably engage with a recess 6055 in the reservoir base 6050 to releasably retain the water reservoir 6100 in an operating position within the reservoir base 6050. This locking arrangement prevents the water reservoir from detaching from the base, which, in some arrangements, may be dislodged by relatively high operating pressures within the base during device operation.

[0444] In the illustrated example, latch 6400 is configured as a separate and distinct structure from and distinct from water reservoir 6100, and is then secured or otherwise disposed to water reservoir 6100 in its operating position. For example, latch 6400 includes a prefabricated structure secured to reservoir cover 6114 or other parts of water reservoir 6100. In one example, latch 6400 comprises a plastic or thermoplastic polymer material.

[0445] 5.7.3.6 Connection of air delivery pipe to reservoir base

[0446] In one example, for example, such as Figures 9 to 15 As shown, the air delivery tube 4170 includes a tube portion 4500, a base connector / cuff 4600 (outlet connector) connecting the air delivery tube 4170 to the reservoir base 6050 and / or the water reservoir 6100, and a patient interface connector / cuff connecting the air delivery tube 4170 to the patient interface 3000. Figures 1A to 1C (The inlet connector is shown in the image).

[0447] In one example, the base connector 4600 is configured and arranged to form a mechanical and / or electrical connection to the reservoir base 6050 and a pneumatic connection to the water reservoir 6100 and / or the reservoir base 6050. These connections position and secure the air delivery conduit 4170 to the reservoir base 6050 or the water reservoir 6100, provide electrical, information, and control signals to the heating element and converter associated with the air delivery conduit 4170, and / or allow pressurized humidified gas to flow from the water reservoir 6100 to the patient interface 3000. During the engagement of the air delivery conduit 4170 with the water reservoir 6100 and the reservoir base 6050, the connections can be formed simultaneously or in series; for example, one of the mechanical, pneumatic, or electrical connections can be completed before the other connections.

[0448] The base connector 4600 of the air delivery pipe 4170 includes a retaining feature that provides a fixed, non-rotatable connection to the base outlet 6090 of the reservoir base 6050.

[0449] In one example, the air delivery conduit 4170 may include multiple wires spirally wound around the axis of the air delivery conduit 4170 (e.g., along the tube portion 4500 of the air delivery conduit 4170), for example, configured to heat the air in the air delivery conduit and / or send signals from one or more converters (e.g., temperature sensors, flow sensors) to the controller of the RPT device.

[0450] In one example, the air delivery conduit 4170 may include four wires, for example, two wires for powering one or more heating elements and two wires for connecting a temperature sensor / converter. However, it should be recognized that other numbers of wires may be used, such as two, three, or five or more wires.

[0451] In one example, the base connector 4600 of the air delivery tube 4170 includes a contact assembly comprising contacts that, in use, engage with corresponding contacts provided to the reservoir base 6050 to form an electrical connection with the reservoir base at the base outlet, thereby providing power and / or control signal transmission. In one example, the contacts of the base connector 4600 may be coupled to corresponding wires extending along the air delivery tube 4170. In an alternative example, at least some contacts are independent of the wires extending along the air delivery tube 4170, but are characterized by their own independent and / or unique electrical characteristics (e.g., resistance, conductivity, etc.). Such independent and / or unique electrical characteristics may be used to identify one or more components of the tube / patient interface system, or characteristics of these components.

[0452] In one example, the base outlet 6090 of the memory base 6050 includes a contact assembly, such as a PCBA 7600, that communicates with power and electrical signals within the memory base. In one example, the contact assembly includes contacts that correspond to several contacts, such as four contacts, of the base connector 4600 provided to the air delivery conduit 4170.

[0453] Because each contact or combination of contacts in the contact assembly of the air delivery tube 4170 can have unique electrical characteristics, in one example, the contact assembly of the air delivery tube 4170 can be used as an identifier for various parameters of the air delivery tube 4170 and / or the patient interface. For example, the contact assembly can be configured to provide identification of the type of the air delivery tube 4170 (e.g., non-heated tube, heated tube, tube with heat and moisture exchanger (HME), unknown tube), the size of the air delivery tube (e.g., 15 mm, 19 mm), the presence and type of the HME, the type of patient interface connected to the tube, etc. The data from the identification can be transmitted and used by the controller, for example, to optimize the operation of the RPT device, the humidifier, thereby facilitating data collection, etc. For example, the controller can be configured to recognize the unique identification features provided by the contact assembly, so that the controller can identify the specific characteristics of the air delivery tube 4170 connected to the reservoir base 6050, and thus the controller can automatically configure the RPT device and / or the humidifier for optimized operation.

[0454] 5.7.3.6.1 Bayonet connection and intermediate part

[0455] Figures 9 to 22 An alternative example for connecting the air delivery conduit 4170 to the reservoir base 6050 and the water reservoir 6100 is illustrated. In this example, an intermediate component 6700 is removably coupled to the reservoir base 6050. The intermediate component 6700 is configured to pneumatically connect the water reservoir 6100 to the air delivery conduit 4170, such that a flow of pressurized air already humidified in the water reservoir 6100 can be delivered from the water reservoir 6100 to the air delivery conduit 4170 via the intermediate component 6700. Similarly, in this example, the base connector 4600 of the air delivery conduit 4170 is constructed and arranged to form a bayonet connection with the reservoir base 6050, which mechanically and / or electrically connects the air delivery conduit 4170 to the reservoir base 6050. In other words, the bayonet connection positions and secures the air delivery pipe 4170 to the reservoir base 6050 and / or provides power, information, and control signals to the heating element and converter associated with the air delivery pipe 4170.

[0456] 5.7.4 Humidifier Converter

[0457] The humidifier 5000 may include one or more humidifier converters (sensors) 5210, in addition to or replacing the converter 4270 described above. For example... Figure 5G As shown, the humidifier converter 5210 may include one or more of an air pressure sensor 5212, an air flow converter 5214, a temperature sensor 5216, or a humidity sensor 5218. The humidifier converter 5210 may generate one or more output signals that can be transmitted to a controller, such as a central controller 4230 and / or a humidifier controller 5250. In some forms, the humidifier converter may be located outside the humidifier 5000 (e.g., in the air circuit 4170) when transmitting the output signal to the controller.

[0458] 5.7.4.1 Pressure Transmitter

[0459] In addition to the pressure sensor 4272 provided in the RPT device 4000, one or more pressure converters 5212 may be provided in the humidifier 5000.

[0460] 5.7.4.2 Flow Converter

[0461] In addition to the flow sensor 4274 located in the RPT device, one or more air flow converters 5214 may be located in the humidifier 5000.

[0462] 5.7.4.3 Temperature Converter

[0463] The humidifier 5000 may include one or more temperature transducers 5216. The one or more temperature transducers 5216 may be configured to measure one or more temperatures, such as the temperature of the heating element 5240 and / or the temperature of the airflow downstream of the humidifier outlet. In some forms, the humidifier 5000 may also include a temperature sensor 5216 for detecting the ambient air temperature.

[0464] 5.7.4.4 Humidity Converter

[0465] In one embodiment, the humidifier 5000 may include one or more humidity sensors 5218 for detecting the humidity of a gas, such as ambient air. In some embodiments, the humidity sensor 5218 may be positioned toward the humidifier outlet to measure the humidity of the gas supplied from the humidifier 5000. The humidity sensor may be an absolute humidity sensor or a relative humidity sensor.

[0466] 5.7.5 Heating element

[0467] like Figure 6BAs shown in other figures, heater plate 6080 is used to transfer heat to a water reservoir. In the illustrated example, the heater plate may form part of reservoir base 6050 and may be located on or near the base of the reservoir base. At least the top layer of the heater plate includes a hard, scratch-resistant surface, which may be made of, for example, nickel-chromium alloy, stainless steel, or anodized aluminum. The heater plate may transfer heat from a heating element. The heating element may include heat-generating components, such as resistive electric heating rails. A suitable example of a heating element is a layered heating element, such as the layered heating element described in PCT patent application publication number WO2012 / 171072, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0468] 5.7.6 Humidifier Controller

[0469] According to one arrangement of this technology, such as Figure 5G As shown, the humidifier 5000 may include a humidifier controller 5250. In one embodiment, the humidifier controller 5250 may be part of a central controller 4230. In another embodiment, the humidifier controller 5250 may be a standalone controller that can communicate with the central controller 4230.

[0470] In one configuration, the humidifier controller 5250 may receive, for example, measurements of properties of airflow and waterflow (such as temperature, humidity, pressure, and / or flow rate) in the water reservoir 5110 and / or humidifier 5000 as input. The humidifier controller 5250 may also be configured to execute or implement humidifier algorithms and / or deliver one or more output signals.

[0471] like Figure 5G As shown, the humidifier controller 5250 may include one or more controllers, such as a central humidifier controller 5251, a heating air circuit controller 5254 configured to control the temperature of the heating air circuit 4171, and / or a heating element controller 5252 configured to control the temperature of the heating element 5240.

[0472] 5.8 Intermediate Components

[0473] like Figures 9 to 22 As shown, an intermediate component 6700 is disposed at the base outlet 6090 of the reservoir base 6050 to pneumatically connect the water reservoir 6100 to the air delivery tube 4170. In the illustrated example, the intermediate component 6700 is removably coupled to the reservoir base 6050, allowing the intermediate component 6700 to be disassembled for cleaning, disinfection, and / or replacement, for example, in multi-patient multi-purpose (MPMU) applications.

[0474] like Figures 9 to 22As shown, the intermediate component 6700 includes a tubular body 6705, which includes an inlet end 6710 adapted to mate with a water reservoir 6100 and an outlet end 6720 adapted to mate with an air delivery pipe 4170. The intermediate component 6700 also includes retaining and aligning features configured and arranged to align the intermediate component 6700 with the reservoir base 6050 and provide a removable, non-rotatable connection to the reservoir base 6050. Additionally, the intermediate component 6700 includes a port 6730, such as a pressure port for inserting a sensor for measuring air pressure at the base outlet 6090, or a sound port for transmitting sound from within the intermediate component 6700 to the outside of the intermediate component 6700. The port 6730 includes a port seal 6735 to provide a sealed interface between the sensor (e.g., a pressure sensor or a sound sensor) and the intermediate component 6700. As will be discussed later herein, a sound-permeable cover, for example in the form of a membrane covering port 6730, may also be included in this arrangement. The body of the cover may be integral with at least one of port 6730 and port seal 6735.

[0475] In the illustrated example, for example, see Figure 22 The tubular body 6705 (including an inlet end 6710 and an outlet end 6720), along with retaining and aligning features, includes a first portion or base mold made of a relatively rigid material (e.g., a thermoplastic polymer, such as PC or ABS). The port seal 6735 includes a second portion or overmolded part made of a relatively soft material (e.g., a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or silicone), which is disposed on the first portion (e.g., by overmolding). Therefore, the intermediate part 6700 provides a substantially rigid construction, for example, durability for MPMU applications.

[0476] In the illustrated example, the inlet end 6710 and the outlet end 6720 are arranged at an angle, for example, the axis of the inlet end is arranged at approximately 90° relative to the axis of the outlet end. However, it should be recognized that other suitable angles are also possible, for example, the axis of the inlet end is arranged at approximately 45° relative to the axis of the outlet end.

[0477] The free end of the inlet end 6710 includes a flange or lip 6712 surrounding the pipe opening. The flange or lip 6712 provides a contact surface 6715. When the water reservoir 6100 is coupled to the reservoir base 6050, the outlet seal 6132 of the outlet pipe 6130 (or outlet) of the water reservoir 6100 is configured to engage with the contact surface 6715 of the inlet end 6710 and provide a face seal. In an alternative embodiment, the seal between the outlet pipe 6130 (or outlet) of the water reservoir 6100 and the contact surface 6715 of the inlet end 6710 can be an integral part of the inlet end 6710, or it can be a seal portion independent of the outlet pipe 6130 or the inlet end 6710. In the illustrated example, the contact surface 6715 includes a tapered section that enters the pipe opening, for example, to enhance the seal and prevent leakage.

[0478] The outlet end 6720 may include an ISO tapered section, such as a 22 mm outer diameter ISO tapered section, for connection to the air delivery duct 4170.

[0479] Regarding the holding and alignment features, the intermediate component 6700 includes a pair of resilient clamping arms 6740, i.e., cantilevered spring arms. For example... Figure 12 As shown, each of the springs or clamping arms 6740 may include a barb end or tab 6745 configured to provide a snap-fit ​​connection with a corresponding locking member (e.g., a protrusion 6750) disposed within a cavity of the reservoir base 6050. Figure 12 , Figure 16 and Figure 18 As shown, the intermediate component 6700 also includes a guide rail 6760, which is configured and arranged to assist in the proper alignment and insertion of the intermediate component 6700 into the reservoir base 6050 by engaging with a corresponding guide groove 6755 extending into the cavity of the reservoir base 6050. Further, the intermediate component 6700 includes a flange 6770 disposed between the inlet end 6710 and the outlet end 6720 to assist in positioning the intermediate component 6700 in the reservoir base 6050 by abutting against a flange or wall disposed in the reservoir base 6050; for example, the flange acts as a stop during insertion. The flange 6770 of the intermediate component 6700 may include one or more cutouts or grooves 6772, for example, to accommodate fasteners or protrusions along the flange or wall disposed in the reservoir base 6050.

[0480] When the intermediate component 6700 is inserted into the base opening 6091 of the reservoir base 6050, the intermediate component 6700 is oriented such that its guide rail 6760 engages with the guide groove 6755, which correctly aligns and guides the intermediate component 6700 to the operating position. Similarly, the base opening 6091 and / or the opening provided at the base opening 6091 by the locking and contact assembly 6900 include a non-circular profile to facilitate proper orientation of the intermediate component 6700 during insertion. When the intermediate component 6700 reaches the operating position, the barbed end or tab 6745 of the spring or clamping arm 6740 is configured and arranged to engage on and / or behind the corresponding protrusion 6750, for example, see Figure 12 Each barb end 6745 and / or each protrusion 6750 may include a tapered shape to facilitate engagement into an operating position. In one example, engagement of the spring or clamping arm 6740 with the protrusion 6750 may provide tactile feedback, such as an audible click, to indicate correct connection. This snap-fit ​​connection releasably secures the intermediate component 6700 to the reservoir base 6050. To disengage the intermediate component 6700, the spring or clamping arm 6740 may be manually pressed down toward each other (e.g., with or without tools) to resiliently bend the spring or clamping arm 6740 and its barb end 6745, thereby preventing biasing to the unlocked position, i.e., the barb end 6745 moving out of engagement with the protrusion 6750 to allow the intermediate component 6700 to be removed from the reservoir base 6050.

[0481] Once the connection is established, the cooperative holding and alignment features provided by the intermediate component 6700 / reservoir base 6050 provide a removable, non-rotatable connection between the intermediate component 6700 and the base outlet 6090 of the reservoir base 6050. Similarly, once connected, the spring or clamping arm 6740 of the intermediate component 6700 is locked into the cavity of the reservoir base 6050, for example, to prevent removal of the intermediate component 6700 when the water reservoir 6100 is received in the reservoir base 6050.

[0482] When the intermediate component 6700 is connected to the base outlet 6090 of the reservoir base 6050, its inlet end 6710 and contact surface 6715 protrude into the cavity of the reservoir base 6050 to allow engagement with the outlet seal of the outlet pipe 6130 (or outlet) of the water reservoir 6100, for example, see Figure 12 Similarly, the outlet end 6720 of the intermediate component 6700 extends within and / or protrudes from the cavity of the reservoir base 6050 to allow engagement with the air delivery pipe 4170, for example, see Figure 9Furthermore, the port 6730 of the intermediate component 6700 is oriented upwards, for example, to interface with a sensor associated with a PCBA mounted on the intermediate component 6700 of the RPT device in an operational configuration.

[0483] 5.8.1 Bayonet-type locking and contact components

[0484] like Figures 9 to 18 As shown, a locking and contact assembly 6900 is disposed at the base outlet 6090 of the reservoir base 6050 to mechanically and electrically connect the reservoir base 6050 to the air delivery pipe 4170. In the illustrated example, the locking and contact assembly 6900 includes a bayonet connection configured and arranged to position and secure the air delivery pipe 4170 to the reservoir base 6050, forming a mechanical, pneumatic, and electrical (both power and control signal) connection. The locking and contact assembly 6900 may be separate from or integrated with the RPT device 6000.

[0485] like Figure 13 and Figure 18 As shown, the locking and contact assembly 6900 includes a base 6910, an (electric) contact assembly 6950 disposed on the base, and a cover 6970 disposed on the base 6910 to enclose at least a portion of the electrical contact assembly 6950.

[0486] The base 6910 of the locking and contact assembly 6900 includes a rear wall 6912, which is secured, for example, to one or more walls surrounding the base opening 6091 via one or more fasteners, to secure the base 6910 to the base outlet 6090 of the reservoir base 6050. Figure 17 and Figure 18 As shown, the rear wall 6912 includes, for example, a non-circular opening 6915 that aligns with the base opening 6091 to allow insertion and connection of the aforementioned intermediate component 6700. For example, the non-circular opening 6915 is adapted to receive the non-circular profile of the intermediate component 6700. During insertion, the non-circular profile assists the user in orienting and aligning the intermediate component 6700 and the locking and contact assembly 6900. Further, as mentioned above, the rear wall 6912 provides a stop for the intermediate component 6700 during assembly; for example, at least a portion of the flange 6770 of the intermediate component 6700 may abut the rear wall 6912.

[0487] The base 6910 of the locking and contact assembly 6900 includes an annular sidewall 6920 that projects axially outward from the rear wall 6912. When the intermediate member 6700 is connected to the reservoir base 6050, the outlet end 6720 of the intermediate member 6700 and the annular sidewall 6920 cooperate to form a channel 6780 for receiving the air delivery tube 4170. A retaining wall 6930 projects radially outward from the annular sidewall 6920 along a portion of the periphery of the annular sidewall, for example, along a portion of the upper side of the annular sidewall. A gap is provided in the annular sidewall 6920 along a portion of the periphery of the annular sidewall, forming a groove 6940 leading to the channel 6780 (see...). Figure 9 and Figure 18 The recess 6940 is adjacent to and counterclockwise positioned from the retaining wall 6930. As described below, the recess 6940 and the retaining wall 6930 are configured and arranged such that a portion of the base connector 4600 of the air delivery pipe 4170 can be inserted into the recess 6940 and then rotated clockwise to move behind the retaining wall 6930, thereby achieving a locking engagement between the air delivery pipe and the base.

[0488] Additional retaining and alignment features (such as grooves and / or slots) are provided along the periphery of the annular sidewall 6920, the periphery of which is constructed and arranged to interact with corresponding features on the base connector 4600 of the air delivery pipe 4170 during engagement, as described below.

[0489] like Figure 17 As shown, the electrical contact assembly 6950 is supported by a base 6910 adjacent to the retaining wall 6930. The contact assembly 6950 communicates with components (e.g., PCBA 7600) within the storage base 6050 that provide power and electrical signals. As illustrated, the contact assembly 6950 includes a support member 6952 and a plurality of contacts, for example, four contacts. The arrangement is such that when the air delivery conduit 4170 is rotated clockwise to lock into the base, the contact assembly of the conduit moves to contact the assembly 6950 to allow power exchange and control of the RPT device (e.g., PCBA 7600).

[0490] 5.8.2 Base connector

[0491] like Figures 9 to 11 As shown, the base connector 4600 of the air delivery pipe 4170 is configured to form a pneumatic connection with the intermediate component 6700 and a mechanical and electrical connection with the locking and contact assembly 6900 provided on the reservoir base 6050.

[0492] In the illustrated example, the base connector 4600 includes a tubular base portion 4640 and a locking and contact assembly 4660 disposed on the base portion 4640.

[0493] 5.8.3 Through-hole connection and intermediate components

[0494] Figures 23 to 36C An alternative example of an intermediate component 9700 according to the present technology is illustrated for connecting an air delivery conduit 4170 to a reservoir base 6050 and a water reservoir 6100. In this example, the intermediate component 9700 is removably coupled to the reservoir base 6050. The intermediate component 9700 is configured to pneumatically connect the water reservoir 6100 to the air delivery conduit 4170, such that a flow of pressurized air already humidified in the water reservoir 6100 can be delivered from the water reservoir 6100 to the air delivery conduit 4170 via the intermediate component 9700. Similarly, in this example, the intermediate component 9700 is configured to mechanically connect to the air delivery conduit 4170, thereby positioning and releasably retaining the air delivery conduit 4170 to the reservoir base 6050. Furthermore, in this example, the air delivery pipe 4170 is constructed and arranged to form an electrical connection with the reservoir base 6050, which provides power and control signals to the heating element and provides sensing data from the converter associated with the air delivery pipe 4170 to the reservoir base 6050.

[0495] Accordingly, regarding the above... Figures 9 to 22 The described example (where the base connector 4600 is pneumatically sealed to the intermediate component 6700 and mechanically connected to the reservoir base 6050) contrasts with the example where the base connector 4600 of the air delivery pipe 4170 is... Figures 23 to 26 In the example, the intermediate component 9700 forms both a pneumatic seal and a mechanical (locking) connection. By combining the pneumatic and mechanical connections into one component, dimensional tolerances can be improved, which makes the base connector 4600 more reliable and easier to manufacture, and also allows for a reduction in the size of the base connector 4600.

[0496] intermediate components

[0497] like Figure 23 , Figure 25 , Figure 26 and Figure 28A As shown, intermediate component 9700 is a separate component located at the base outlet 6090 of reservoir 6050 to pneumatically connect water reservoir 6100 to air delivery conduit 4170 and mechanically connect air delivery conduit 4170 to water reservoir base 6050. In the illustrated example, intermediate component 9700 is removably coupled to reservoir base 6050, allowing intermediate component 9700 to be disassembled for cleaning, disinfection, and / or replacement, for example, in multi-patient multi-purpose (MPMU) applications.

[0498] like Figure 26 andFigures 29 to 33 As shown, the intermediate component 9700 includes a generally tubular body 9705, which includes an inlet end 9710 and an outlet end 9720. The inlet end 9710 ( Figure 33 The tubular body 9705 includes an inlet seal 9715 adapted to mate with the water reservoir 6100, and an outlet end 9720 adapted to mate with the air delivery pipe 4170. The tubular body 9705 also includes retaining and aligning features configured and arranged to align the intermediate component 9700 with the reservoir base 6050 and provide a removable, non-rotatable connection to the reservoir base 6050.

[0499] Additionally, the tubular body 9705 includes an open port 9730, for example, for communication with a sensor or converter. This sensor or converter measures sound propagating through port 9730 and can be a microphone for any type of pressure sensor (including resistive, capacitive, piezoelectric, optical, or other technology-based types). Port 9730 is provided with a port seal 9735 surrounding the opening to connect with the base opening 7380 (which is associated with the sensor) in the intermediate part 9700 (see...). Figures 32-36C A sealed interface is provided between them. Further, the intermediate component 9700 includes a retaining feature configured and arranged to provide a lockable but removable connection with the base connector 4600 of the air delivery pipe 4170.

[0500] In the illustrated example (for example, see...) Figure 33 The tubular body 9705 (including an inlet end 9710, an outlet end 9720, and retaining and aligning features) includes a first part or base mold made of a relatively rigid material (e.g., a thermoplastic polymer (e.g., PC, ABS)), and the inlet seal 9715 and the port seal 9735 include a second part or overmolded part made of a relatively soft material (e.g., a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or silicone resin), which is disposed on the first part (e.g., by overmolding).

[0501] In the illustrated example, the inlet seal 9715 is arranged at an angle to the outlet end 9720; for example, the axis of the opening at the inlet seal 9715 is arranged at approximately 90° relative to the axis of the opening at the outlet end 9720 (see...). Figure 32 However, it should be recognized that other suitable angles are also possible, for example, the axis of the inlet seal 9715 is arranged at approximately 45° relative to the axis of the outlet end 9720.

[0502] When the water reservoir 6100 is coupled to the reservoir base 6050, the inlet seal 9715 of the intermediate component 9700 is constructed and arranged to engage with a contact surface along the outlet end of the outlet pipe 6130 (or outlet) of the water reservoir 6100 and provide a face seal. This engagement seals the outlet flow path that allows humidified air to flow out of the water reservoir 6100 and into the intermediate component 9700 for delivery to the air delivery pipe 4170. As illustrated, the inlet seal 9715 may include a resiliently compressible bellows arrangement to provide a degree of separation between the intermediate component 9700 and the water reservoir 6100. When using the outlet cover silencer 4124 ( Figure 5B When replacing the water reservoir, a similar sealing engagement exists between the inlet seal 9715 of the intermediate component 9700 and the opening of the outlet cover silencer.

[0503] In an alternative embodiment, the seal between the outlet pipe 6130 (or outlet) of the water reservoir 6100 and the intermediate component 9700 may be an integral part of the outlet pipe 6130 or a seal independent of the outlet pipe 6130 or the intermediate component 9700.

[0504] The outlet end 9720 may include an ISO tapered part, such as a 22 mm outer diameter ISO tapered part, for connection to the air delivery duct 4170.

[0505] Regarding the holding and alignment features for aligning and holding the intermediate component 9700 to the reservoir base 6050, the intermediate component 9700 includes a resilient clamping arm 9740, i.e., a cantilevered spring arm. The spring or clamping arm 9740 may include a barbed end or tab 9745 configured to provide a snap-fit ​​connection with a locking member (e.g., a crossbar 9750) disposed within a cavity of the reservoir base 6050 (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 27 and 36C The intermediate component 9700 also includes a guide rail 9760 (along the lower side of the intermediate component 9700) and a guide flange 9761 (along the front-upward side of the intermediate component 9700). The guide flange 9761 is configured and arranged to assist the intermediate component 9700 in proper alignment and insertion into the reservoir base 6050 by engaging with a corresponding guide groove 9755 extending into the cavity of the reservoir base 6050 (see [link to documentation]). Figure 27 , Figure 28B and Figure 30 ).

[0506] Furthermore, the intermediate component 9700 includes a flange 9770 disposed between the inlet end 9710 and the outlet end 9720 to assist in positioning the intermediate component 9700 within the reservoir base 6050 by abutting against a wall disposed on the reservoir base 6050. For example, the flange serves as a stop during insertion. Figure 28E As shown. Figure 28D , Figure 28E and Figure 33 As shown, one or more buffers 9775 (e.g., made of thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or silicone) are disposed on flange 9770 to soften the abutment against the reservoir base opening during insertion and to absorb vibrations during use. In addition to minimizing vibrations of the intermediate member 9700, the flexibility of the bumps ensures that once they are depressed, a combined spring force pushes the barbed tabs 9745 backward, and ensures a constant locking engagement between the tabs and crossbar 9750. This minimizes any vibrations and the possibility of disengagement in the locking engagement between the barbed tabs 9745 and crossbar 9750. In the illustrated example, a first buffer 9775 is disposed on the upper side of the intermediate member 9700, and a second buffer 9775 is disposed on the lower side of the intermediate member 9700 (see Figure 1). Figure 28D In one example, the buffer 9775 may be overmolded together with the inlet seal 9715 and the port seal 9735 into the tubular body 9705 (see [link to example]). Figure 33 The buffer 9775 may be partly due to the fact that, during the later stages of insertion of the intermediate component 9700 into the tubular opening in the reservoir base 6050, the intermediate component encounters increased resistance at the point where the buffer engages with the corresponding portion of the reservoir base opening.

[0507] Regarding the retaining feature for holding the base connector 4600 of the air delivery pipe 4170 to the intermediate component 9700, the intermediate component 9700 includes a portion of annular sidewall 9790 that protrudes outward from the flange 9770 along the outlet end 9720 (see...). Figure 30 ).like Figure 30 As illustrated, the outlet end 9720 and the partial annular sidewall 9790 cooperate to form an annular channel 9780 for receiving the air delivery tube 4170. Each of the two opposite sides of the partial annular sidewall 9790 includes a hole or groove 9792. Figure 30 The hole or groove 9792 is adapted to receive, during engagement, a corresponding retaining protrusion 4644 of the base connector 4600 of the air delivery pipe 4170. Figure 26 In the illustrated example, a gap is provided in the partial annular sidewall 9790 (along its upper side) to accommodate and facilitate the electrical connection of the base connector 4600 of the air delivery pipe 4170.

[0508] Similarly, intermediate component 9700 includes lower tab 9795 ( Figure 30 The lower tab 9795 protrudes outward and downward from the partial annular sidewall 9790 along a portion of its periphery (along its lower side). The lower tab 9795 can function as a finger or push tab to facilitate insertion or removal of the intermediate component 9700 from the reservoir base 6050. Additionally, the lower tab 9795 can be configured and arranged to cover or conceal one or more fasteners (e.g., screws) or the edge between the outer casing of the integrated RPT device and humidifier 6000 and the base frame component (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 23 and Figure 26 ).

[0509] When the intermediate component 9700 is inserted into the base opening 6091 of the storage base 6050, the intermediate component 9700 is oriented to engage its guide rail 9760 and guide flange 9761 with the corresponding guide groove 9755, which correctly aligns and guides the intermediate component 9700 to the operating position (see...). Figure 26 Similarly, the base opening 6091 and the partial annular sidewall 9790 of the intermediate component 9700 include a non-circular profile to facilitate proper orientation of the intermediate component 9700 during insertion. When the intermediate component 9700 reaches the operating position, the barbed end or tab 9745 of the spring or clamping arm 9740 is configured and arranged to engage below and / or behind the crossbar 9750, for example, see Figure 25 , Figure 28F and Figure 28G The barb end 9745 and / or crossbar 9750 may include a tapered shape to facilitate engagement with the running position, for example, see Figure 28F In one example, the engagement of the spring or clamping arm 9740 with the crossbar 9750 (e.g., see...) Figure 25 , Figure 28F and Figure 28G It can provide sensory feedback, such as an audible click, to indicate a corrected connection. This snap-fit ​​connection releasably secures the intermediate component 9700 to the reservoir base 6050. Figure 28C and Figure 28FAs shown, one side surface 9746 of the barb end 9745 may be angled relative to the opposite side surface of the barb end 9745. When the base frame (e.g., crossbar 9750) abuts against the angled surface 9746 of the barb end 9745, the barb end 9745 may be forced to bend during insertion of the intermediate component 9700 until a portion of the engaging side surface 9746 of the base frame extends past the side surface 9746. To disengage the intermediate component 9700, the spring or clamping arm 9740 can be manually pressed down toward the rear of the reservoir base 6050 (e.g., with or without tools). This pressure can resiliently bend the spring or clamping arm 9740 and its barb end 9745 to an unlocked position, i.e., the barb end 9745 moves out of engagement with the crossbar 9750 to allow the intermediate component 9700 to be removed from the reservoir base 6050. In some examples, the barb end 9745 may include a slot 9747 (e.g., see...). Figure 28G and Figure 29 This allows tools (such as flathead screwdrivers) to grip the barbed end 9745 for disengaging the barbed end 9745 from the reservoir base 6050.

[0510] like Figure 28C and Figure 28G As shown, the clamping arm 9740 can be angled relative to the central axis of the tubular body 9705. The clamping arm 9740 can be angled such that the angle between the axis of the opening at the inlet end 9710 and the clamping arm 9740 is less than 90°. Compared to a clamping arm 9740 that is not angled relative to the central axis of the tubular body 9705, an angled clamping arm 9740 can provide increased holding force.

[0511] Once the intermediate component 9700 is inserted and locked into the base opening 6091 of the reservoir base 6050, the cooperative holding and alignment features provided by the intermediate component 9700 / reservoir base 6050 provide a removable, non-rotatable connection between the intermediate component 9700 and the base outlet 6090 of the reservoir base 6050. Similarly, once connected, the spring or clamping arm 9740 of the intermediate component 9700 is locked into the cavity of the reservoir base 6050, for example, to prevent removal of the intermediate component 9700 when the water reservoir 6100 is received in the reservoir base 6050.

[0512] When the intermediate component 9700 is connected to the base outlet 6090 of the reservoir base 6050, its inlet seal 9715 protrudes into the cavity of the reservoir base 6050 to allow engagement with the outlet pipe 6130 (or outlet) of the water reservoir 6100 (see...). Figure 25Similarly, the outlet end 9720, together with the partial annular sidewall 9790 and its hole 9792, extends and / or protrudes within the cavity of the reservoir base 6050 to allow engagement with the air delivery pipe 4170, for example, see Figure 23 and Figure 28A Furthermore, port 9730 and its port seal 9735 are oriented to mate with the base opening 7380 associated with the sensor, for example, as... Figure 34B and Figure 35B As shown, upwards.

[0513] 5.8.4 Sound propagation in intermediate components

[0514] As described above, the intermediate component 9700 facilitates the connection between the conduit in the air circuit 4170 and the RPT device (e.g., reservoir base 6050 and / or water reservoir 6100). According to one aspect of the present technology, the intermediate component 9700 includes a port 9730 (e.g., an audio port) to facilitate the transmission of sound from the intermediate component 9700 to a sensor 4270 (e.g., a microphone) housed within the RPT device. The sensor 4270 is externally attached to the intermediate component 9700. When externally attached, the sensor 4270 can be positioned outside the intermediate component 9700 and / or port 9730, or inside the intermediate component 9700 and / or port 9730 (e.g., fully or partially inserted). Therefore, sound from any part of the patient interface 300, the RPT device 400, the humidifier 500, and / or the air circuit 4170 that can reach the intermediate component 9700 can be transmitted to the sensor 4270 (e.g., the microphone) housed within the RPT device. As will be described in more detail below, the sensed sound can be analyzed to determine the characteristics of the corresponding part of the sound source (e.g., air circuit 4170) and / or the characteristics within that corresponding part. The structure and dimensions of the intermediate component 9700 are configured to improve sound propagation within the intermediate component 9700 and to port 9730. Two variations of the intermediate component (6700 and 9700) have been described herein. For example, Figures 19 to 22 Intermediate component 6700 is depicted, which includes electrical connections via a secondary component (e.g., locking and contact assembly 6900) and a non-circular diaphragm. However, for the design intent of sound propagation, both the 6700 and 9700 variants of the intermediate component are represented in the same manner.

[0515] like Figure 28C , Figure 29 and Figures 31 to 36CAs shown, the intermediate component 9700 includes a port 9730 to facilitate the transmission of a portion of sound propagating in the airflow path to the sensor 4270. Specifically, port 9730 allows a portion of the sound in the airflow path to be transmitted from the intermediate component 9700 through port 9730, via a corresponding base opening 7380 in the base frame to the sensor 4270 (e.g., a microphone located inside the base frame, see...). Figure 37 The base opening 7380 may be provided in a portion of the base to form a water reservoir base (e.g., reservoir base 6050) for receiving the humidifying water tank. Accordingly, the base opening 7380 may correspond to an opening in the water reservoir base. In other examples, the base opening 7380 may be provided in another portion of the base. For example, the base opening 7380 may be provided in a portion of the base 7300 that is different from the water reservoir base. Figure 32 and Figure 33 As shown, port 9730 includes an opening in the wall of intermediate member 9700 and is located near inlet end 9710. The shaft associated with port 9730 (assuming this shaft is generally transverse to the plane in which the port opening extends) may be arranged at approximately 90° relative to the shaft of the opening at outlet end 9720 and / or at approximately 90° relative to the shaft of the opening at inlet end 9710 (see...). Figure 26 , Figure 28C and Figure 36C ).

[0516] The size of the port can be selected based on parameters of the acoustic signal being detected. These acoustic signals can be directly generated by any component of the RPT system (including the RPT device, humidifier, air circuit, and patient interface), and / or generated at a location but then propagated to a specific target component and reflected back. The size of the cavity from the intermediate component 9700 through port 9730 is also important. In one example, such as... Figure 37 As schematically shown, this cavity can be formed by the walls of the intermediate component 9700 and the PCBA 7600 supporting the sensor 4270. A larger port 9730 may introduce spatial averaging and reduce spatial resolution, but it can allow more acoustic signal to reach the sensor and improve the signal-to-noise ratio. Where the signal-to-noise ratio is sufficiently high, a smaller port size may be preferred to preserve higher resolution signal information, such as information related to sound reflected from smaller geometric features. A larger port 9730 and the larger adjacent cavity formed by this port may cause discontinuities in the cross-sectional area or acoustic impedance of the flow path within the intermediate component and interfere with signal propagation. Reducing external noise (e.g., noise from vibrations of the PCBA 7600 supporting the sensor 4270) can allow for a smaller port aperture, providing better spatial resolution and reduced signal interference.

[0517] According to one embodiment of the present technology, the port size can be configured to be large enough to allow an appropriate target signal level to reach the sensor 4270 positioned outside the intermediate component 9700, but not so large that the spatial resolution and / or waveguide characteristics of the signal path through the intermediate component 9700 are compromised to an unacceptable level. According to one embodiment of the present technology, port 9730 can have a size of 0.75 mm. 2 and 180 mm 2 The cross-section between them. For example, in one form of this technology, port 9730 may be circular and may have a diameter ranging from 1 mm to 15 mm.

[0518] according to Figures 34A to 35D In one form of the present technology shown, port 9730 is covered by a thin silicone membrane 9732. Membrane 9732 is intended to allow the sensor to be outside the airflow while still transmitting sound to the sensor along the air path (airflow). This is why the membrane can be acoustically permeable, but preferably impermeable to liquids and / or gases. Due to this arrangement, when we remove and clean the intermediate component 9700 (or any other component in the air path or fluidly connected to the air path, but arranged so that sound can be transmitted to the shielded sensor located outside the air path), the sensor itself does not need to be removed and cleaned, as it is not in the air path and is not exposed to contaminants. In some examples, membrane 9732 has the largest possible diameter (or other cross-sectional dimensions) and is as thin as possible. This size increases the amount of target signal (directly generated or reflected noise) transferred through the membrane. In some examples, membrane 9732 may have a thickness between 0.05 mm and 3 mm, or between 0.1 mm and 1 mm, or between 0.1 mm and 0.3 mm, and a diameter ranging from 1 mm to 15 mm. In some examples, membrane 9732 may have a thickness between 0.1 mm and 0.2 mm, and a diameter ranging from 1 mm to 15 mm. In some examples, membrane 9732 may have a thickness of about 0.2 mm and a diameter ranging from 1 mm to 15 mm, and in one example, the diameter is about 8 mm. The example dimensions provide the membrane with sufficiently good performance to transmit sound through membrane 9732 while limiting leakage of sound signals through the wall of the intermediate component 9700 to which the membrane is attached. In some examples, the membrane may be configured such that it is flush with the inner surface of the intermediate component 9700. Membrane 9732 may be formed as an integral part with port seal 9735, or it may be disposed separately from port seal 9735. Membrane 9732 may be in mechanical contact with port seal 9735 or may not be in mechanical contact. Figures 34A to 35DIn the embodiment shown, the membrane 9732 and the port seal 9735 are formed as an integral component.

[0519] According to one form of this technology, port 9730 may be without membrane 9732 and / or port seal 9737. As explained above, one advantage of having membrane 9732 is that it prevents air from the intermediate component from entering the chassis, thereby separating the electronic components on the PCBA from the airflow. This prevents humidified and / or contaminated air from entering the microphone chamber and protects the electronics from moisture or contaminated air (e.g., containing bodily fluids such as mucus). From a therapeutic benefit perspective, leakage control is desirable when providing PAP therapy. The presence of the membrane reduces unintentional leakage from the system. Port 9730 may also be arranged without membrane 9732. In this case, a high-pressure vent can be introduced inside the chassis to prevent air from entering the chassis from the intermediate component 9700. Alternatively, an encapsulated sensor can be introduced into the air path. In this case, the sensor can be encapsulated (e.g., a thin film made of silicone, rubber, or another material that can transmit sound vibrations while also being decontaminated (e.g., it is washable)). This sensor can be made as a fixed part of the intermediate component 9700, or it can be in the air path or fluidly connected to the air path, and the sensor can be attached to any other component. Because the sensor is encapsulated, it can be removed and cleaned using the corresponding intermediate component. In this case, the sensor's electrical terminals must be disconnected and reconnected during the disassembly / reassembly process.

[0520] However, besides restricting air movement, the use of membrane 9732 offers other benefits, such as influencing control and preventing damage to the circuitry of the PCBA 7600. When using membrane 9732, it is advantageous to provide a membrane that is as flexible and lightweight as possible to transmit a wide range of signal frequencies. According to one form of the technology, the preferred mass and stiffness can be determined by the density and dimensions of membrane 9732, as well as the pressure gradient across the membrane. According to one form of the technology, for a port 9730 with a diameter of 5 mm and a thickness ranging from 0.1 mm to 0.4 mm, or approximately 0.3 mm, a reasonable compromise can be made between being thick enough to avoid structural failure and thin enough to allow for proper sound transmission.

[0521] Figures 34A to 35DExamples of ports 9730 provided with port seals 9735 according to various examples of the present technology are shown. Port seal 9735 provides peripheral sealing formations (ridges or lips), which may be part of or separate from membrane 9732. The peripheral sealing formations may include radial seals configured to engage (e.g., as a face seal) above and around the base surface of the intermediate member 9700 and surrounding the base opening 7380, and elastically deform against the base surface.

[0522] Port seal 9735 may surround port 9730 and protrude beyond port 9730. For example... Figures 34A to 35D As shown, port seal 9735 protrudes from port 9730 and above the outer surface of intermediate component 9700. In use, when intermediate component 9700 is inserted into the operating position, port 9730 can be aligned with base opening 7380, thereby providing a sealed path for the acoustic signal (from intermediate component 9700, through port 9730 and diaphragm 9732, and through base opening 7380), with sensor 4270 positioned on the opposite side of base opening 7380.

[0523] The central axis of port 9730 in intermediate component 9700 can be approximately aligned with the central axis of base opening 7380 on the first side of base opening 7380 (see...). Figures 35A-36C Furthermore, sensor 4270 can be disposed on the second side of base frame opening 7380. Sensor 4270 can be substantially aligned with the central axis of port 9730 and / or base frame opening 7380. The axis of port 9730, the axis of base frame opening 7380, and sensor 4270 can be substantially aligned such that, in the operating configuration, the distance between any two of them is less than: 5 mm, preferably 4 mm, even more preferably 3 mm, further preferably 2 mm, and most preferably less than 1 mm.

[0524] As described above, during the assembly of intermediate component 9700 (by inserting intermediate component 9700 into the base opening 6091 of the storage base 6050), port seal 9735 contacts the periphery of base opening 7380. Because port seal 9735 contacts the periphery of both intermediate component 9700 and base opening 7380, it seals the periphery of both port 9730 and base opening 7380 during intermediate component 9700 assembly. This minimizes the lateral escape of sound signals transferred via membrane 9732 into the space between intermediate component wall and base wall. In addition to preventing sound from leaking laterally from the sealed sound path into the space 9743 between intermediate component 9700 wall and base wall, the peripheral lip of port seal 9735 also prevents external noise from entering the sealed signal path.

[0525] Figures 34A to 34D An example of a port seal 9735 according to the present technology is shown, which provides a compression seal against the underframe wall by using a ridge. Figure 34B and Figure 34C A cross-sectional view of an example ridge without compression is shown. Figure 34D A ridge compressed by the wall of the base 7300 is shown. A port seal 9735 providing a compression seal comprises an overmolded member of a relatively soft material (e.g., thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or silicone) disposed on the intermediate part 9700 (e.g., by overmolding). The port seal 9735 may extend from and / or include a membrane 9732 disposed at or near the inner surface of the intermediate part 9700, along the inner wall of the port 9730, and protruding from the port 9730 above the outer surface 9707 of the intermediate part 9700 (e.g., near the edge of the port 9730). The portion of the port seal 9735 protruding above the outer surface of the intermediate part 9700 may include a ridge seal 9737 that provides a spherical sealing contact between the port seal 9735 and the base during use. In some examples, one or more additional ridge seals (e.g., concentric placement) are arranged around ridge seal 9737.

[0526] The cross-section of the ridge seal 9737 above the outer surface of the intermediate component 9700 may be circular, and it extends a predetermined distance D4 outward from the periphery of the port 9730 before merging with the upper surface of the wall of the intermediate component or an extension of the upper surface of the wall of the intermediate component (see...). Figure 34C D4 can be between 1.2 mm and 2.8 mm, between 1.8 mm and 2.2 mm, or approximately 2 mm. The sides of the ridge seal 9737 can be slopes away from the top of the circle on either side. The slope towards the center of port 9730 can be greater than the slope leading away from port 9730. The portion of the ridge seal 9737 extending outward from the periphery of port 9730 can be set at an angle A1 of 10-35 degrees relative to the outer surface of intermediate member 9700, at an angle of 20-25 degrees in some examples, and at an angle of 22 degrees in some examples. The portion of the ridge seal 9737 extending outward can extend outward at an angle and terminate on the upper surface of intermediate member 9700, which can correspond to the surface near the edge of port 9730 or another outer surface of intermediate member 9700.

[0527] In some examples, the port seal 9735 may include one or more connection portions 9739 (see...). Figure 34CThe connecting portion 9739 is adjacent to the ridge seal 9737 and extends in one or more directions and / or connects to other features (e.g., buffer 9775 and / or inlet seal 9715, see...). Figure 34A One or more connecting portions 9739 may have their top surfaces at the same height as a portion of the outer surface of the intermediate member 9700. In one example, the connecting portion 9739 may extend around the entire periphery of the ridge seal 9737. The ridge seal 9737 may extend a predetermined distance D1 in the direction on the surface of the connecting portion 9739 (see...). Figure 34C The predetermined distance D1 can be between 0.4 mm and 0.8 mm, or approximately 0.6 mm.

[0528] In use, a portion of the ridge seal 9737 above the outer surface of the intermediate component 9700 may press against the base frame by a predetermined distance D2 before bottoming out. In some examples, the material of the port seal 9735 above the outer surface 9707 of the intermediate component 9700 (e.g., near the edge of port 9730) may be configured to compress approximately 20%-40% of its height, and in some examples approximately 30% of its height. In some examples, the port seal 9735 may extend upward from the outer surface 9707 of the intermediate component 9700 (e.g., near the edge of port 9730) by a predetermined distance D3 (see...). Figure 34C The distance D3 can be between 1 mm and 1.5 mm, between 1.2 mm and 1.3 mm, or approximately 1.24 mm. In some examples, the nominal seal interference (a measure of seal deformation under compression that can be equivalent to D2) can be between 0.09 mm and 0.59 mm, between 0.15 mm and 0.5 mm, or approximately 0.34 mm.

[0529] The compression-type and ball-shaped sealing contact of the ridge seal 9737 can snap the intermediate part 9700 into place and / or prevent the intermediate part 9700 from being disassembled without significant external force when it reaches the operating position during assembly. In some examples, the compression of the port seal 9735 can hold the intermediate part 9700 in place even when the barb end 9745 moves out of engagement with the crossbar 9750, allowing for easy operation when the intermediate part 9700 is removed from the reservoir base 6050.

[0530] Figures 35A to 35D An example of a port seal 9735 providing a lip seal according to this technology is shown as another example. Figure 35B and Figure 35C An example of a lip seal without compression (e.g., without being pressed against the base 7300) is shown, and Figure 34DA lip seal compressed by the base frame 7300 is shown. The port seal 9735 providing the lip seal may include an overmolded member made of a relatively soft material (e.g., thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or silicone) disposed in the intermediate part 9700 (e.g., by overmolding). Figures 35A to 35D As shown, a port seal 9735 may extend from and / or include a membrane 9732 disposed at or near the inner surface of the intermediate member 9700, along the inner wall of the port 9730 to line the inner surface of the port 9730, and protruding from the port 9730 above the outer surface 9707 of the intermediate member 9700 (e.g., near the edge of the port 9730). The portion of the port seal 9735 protruding above the outer surface of the intermediate member 9700 may include a lip seal 9742 that provides a spherical sealing contact between the port seal 9735 and the base during use. In some examples, one or more additional lip seals may be disposed around the lip seal 9742.

[0531] The cross-section of the lip seal 9742 above the outer surface of the intermediate component 9700 may be aligned with the inner surface of the port 9730, and / or provide a lip that extends concentrically around the periphery of the port 9730 toward the center of the port 9730. In some examples, the lip may be at a predetermined angle A2 relative to the upper outer surface of the intermediate component 9700 (see...). Figure 35C The angle A2 can be between 10-35 degrees, between 15-25 degrees, and / or approximately 20 degrees. The lip seal 9742 can extend upwards from the underside surface of the intermediate part 9700 by a predetermined distance D5 (see...). Figure 35C The distance D5 can be approximately 1.3 mm to 1.7 mm, 1.4 mm to 1.6 mm, or 1.56 mm. The thickness T1 of the lip seal 9742 (see...) Figure 35C The lip is approximately between 0.2 mm and 0.6 mm, between 0.35 and 0.45 mm, or 0.4 mm. In some examples, the end of the lip seal 9742 extending above the port 9730 may be rounded. The size of the lip seal 9742 and / or the angle at which the lip seal 9742 is set can be selected to improve the acoustic seal and / or reduce lip seal expansion during use. In some examples, the lip may extend directly upwards or at an angle to the center of the port 9730.

[0532] The lip seal 9742 can extend a predetermined distance D8 from the edge of port 9730 at a predetermined angle A2 (see...) Figure 35CThe predetermined distance D8 can be limited by the edge where the upper surface of the lip seal 9742 merges with the surface of the intermediate part 9700 or an extension thereof. The distance D8 can be in the range of 0.1 mm to 3.5 mm, 0.15 mm to 3 mm, or approximately 2 mm.

[0533] In some examples, the port seal 9735 may include one or more connecting portions 9739 adjacent to the lip seal 9742 and extending in one or more directions and / or connected to other features (e.g., buffer 9775 and / or inlet seal 9715, see...). Figure 35A One or more connecting portions 9739 may have their top surfaces at the same height as a portion of the outer surface of the intermediate member 9700. In one example, the connecting portions may extend around the entire circular periphery of the lip seal 9742. The lip seal 9742 may extend upward from the upper surface of the intermediate member 9700 by a predetermined distance D6 (see...). Figure 35C The distance D6 is between 0.4 mm and 0.8 mm or approximately 0.66 mm above the surface of the connecting portion 9739.

[0534] In use, a portion of the lip seal 9742 above the outer surface of the intermediate part 9700 may be directed toward the port 9730 and compressed and / or deflected against the base. In some examples, the lip seal 9742 may be positioned at a predetermined distance D7 (see [reference needed]) before bottoming out. Figure 35C The skew between the predetermined distance D7 and the lip seal 9742 is between 0.1 mm and 0.6 mm, or between 0.15 mm and 0.41 mm. In some examples, the nominal sealing interference of the lip seal 9742 can be approximately 0.41 mm, the minimum sealing interference can be approximately 0.15 mm, and / or the maximum sealing interference can be approximately 0.66 mm.

[0535] During assembly, when the intermediate component 9700 reaches the operating position, the lip seal 9742 can help hold the intermediate component 9700 in place and / or prevent the intermediate component 9700 from being disassembled without significant external force.

[0536] Two types of seal forming elements have been disclosed above. In the port seal 9735, which provides a compression seal using a ridge seal 9737 (see...),... Figures 34A to 34D The cross-section of the seal forming element protruding above the surface of the intermediate component 9700 is more robust and more spherical than that of the lip seal 9742. Due to the mass of the ridge seal 9737, it can be more easily compressed and provides less friction when the intermediate component 9700 is inserted into the base. In an example of an alternative lip seal (see...), Figures 34A to 34DThe portion of the lip seal 9742 protruding above the surface of the intermediate member 9700 is a thin lip that can exhibit limited bending and flexibility when compressed. When the intermediate member 9700 is inserted into the base frame 7300, the lip seal 9742 can generate significant friction between the intermediate member 9700 and the surrounding base frame wall.

[0537] As described above, the ridge seal 9737 or lip seal 9742 provides acoustic isolation for the signal path after the seal is formed from the remaining space 9743 between the intermediate component 9700 and the base frame 7300. When the intermediate component 9700 is positioned in the base frame 7300 for use, the distance between the base frame 7300 and the surface or connecting portion 9739 of the intermediate component 9700 defines the space 9743 (see...). Figure 35C The distance can be between 0.15 mm and 0.4 mm, between 0.2 mm and 0.3 mm, or 0.25 mm.

[0538] In some examples of this technology, the port seal 9735 may be disposed on the surface of the base 7300. In this example, the port seal 9735 may be disposed on the base 7300, rather than on the intermediate member 9700. The port seal 9735 may be configured such that it is disposed in the base opening 7380. The port seal 9735 in the base opening 7380 may include a peripheral sealing formation (ridge or lip) configured to engage (e.g., as a face seal) a surface below the base opening 7380 and surrounding the intermediate member of the port 9730, and elastically deform against that surface.

[0539] Features inside the intermediate component 9700 affect the propagation of sound waves inside the intermediate component 9700 and to port 9730 (e.g., reflection, refraction, and / or attenuation). Examples of this technology provide features inside the intermediate component 9700 that facilitate the carrying of useful reflected signals from air circuit 4170 (e.g., tubes and / or masks) via port 9730 to sensor 4270.

[0540] As shown in the figure, the air path between the inlet and outlet ends of the intermediate component 9700 is non-linear and includes at least one loop. According to one form of the present technology, the corners on the inner side of the intermediate component 9700 are curved to provide suitable propagation within the intermediate component 9700. In some examples, at least one loop closest to the port may be curved. In one example of the present technology, all corners on the inner side of the intermediate component 9700 are curved. If the corners are sharp (e.g., 90°), the level and quality of the sound signal may deteriorate, even if the overall sound level is higher due to turbulence generated by the sharp corners. Setting corners with curvature (e.g., outer angle 9714, and especially inner angle 9712) can improve the quality of the sound signal.

[0541] Figure 28C A cross-section of an intermediate component 9700 according to an example of the present technology is shown. Figure 28C As shown, the outer angle 9714 and / or inner angle 9712 formed between the body of the intermediate component 9700 and the inlet seal 9715 are curved. In some examples, the inlet seal 9715 at the inlet end 9710 (see...) Figure 32 It can be arranged at an angle relative to the main body of the outlet end 9720 and / or the intermediate component 9700. This angle can be approximately 90° or greater.

[0542] In some examples, the curvature formed by the interior angle 9712 can have radii of 0.2 mm-6.5 mm, 0.3 mm-4 mm, 0.4 mm-3 mm (such as 0.4 mm or 2 mm), however, the range can also be 1.5-6.5 mm, 2.5-5 mm, etc.

[0543] The bend angle (e.g., interior angle 9712) can be set as part of one or more sealing bellows of the inlet seal 9715. For example... Figure 28C As shown, the sealing bellows of the inlet seal 9715 may include an inner surface 9712B and an outer surface 9712C. The curvature of the inner surface 9712B determines how sound propagates inside the intermediate component 9700. The outer surface 9712C may include a radius of approximately 0.2-0.6 mm or 0.4 mm. The inner surface 9712B may include a radius of approximately 1.5-6.5 mm, 2.5-5 mm, or 2 mm. In some examples, the outer surface radius may be 0.4 mm and the inner surface radius may be 2 mm. In some examples of this technology, the outer surface radius may be less than half the inner surface radius. In some examples, the span 9712D between opposite sides of the sealing bellows in the intermediate component 9700 may be equal to or less than twice the inner surface radius.

[0544] Although the port 9730 and port seal 9735 are described above with reference to intermediate component 9700, one or more features of port 9730 and port seal 9735 may be provided in intermediate component 6700 (e.g., instead of...). Figure 22 Port 6730 shown), part of the conduit in the air circuit 4170 or in the base connector 4600.

[0545] 5.8.5 Features that reduce friction during the sealing insertion of intermediate components

[0546] The intermediate component 9700 and base outlet 6090 of the RPT device 6000 are arranged such that the path is slightly wider than the diameter of the intermediate component 9700 during most of the length of the path through which the intermediate component 9700 is inserted into the base outlet 6090, and the port seal 9735 (e.g., a silicone ridge or lip of the port seal 9735) does not interact with the path wall. This ensures that the intermediate component 9700 is inserted into the base outlet 6090 relatively frictionlessly. In some examples of this art, the lifting of the bottom of the base path and / or the downward extension of the lower portion of the intermediate component can be configured to push the intermediate component 9700 upward (referring to the initial direction of movement of the intermediate component 9700). In this example, this is accomplished shortly before the intermediate component 9700 is locked in its operating position (e.g., via clamping arm 9740). Due to the upward pressure, the port seal 9735 (e.g., a silicone peripheral lip) moves to engage with the base and seals the periphery of the base opening 7380.

[0547] In some examples, only at the very end of the path, shortly before the intermediate component 9700 is fully locked into its operating position, the lifting at the bottom of the path can push the intermediate component 9700 upwards and into its operating configuration. In this example, due to the specific construction of the port seal 9735, the intermediate component 9700, and the chassis opening 7380, the user encounters increased resistance at the very end of the insertion path when inserting the intermediate component 9700 into the chassis opening 7380. Resistance may also be encountered where the intermediate component 9700 (or one or more features of the intermediate component, such as a buffer) encounters an opening of a smaller diameter, resulting in additional friction between the ridge or lip of the port seal 9735 and the chassis wall.

[0548] Figures 36A to 36C This illustration shows a specific sequence of events when an intermediate component 9700 is inserted into a receiving reservoir base 6050 (e.g., the base outlet 6090 of the reservoir base 6050) according to an example of the present technology. As shown, in the specifically illustrated example, both the intermediate component and the receiving opening are generally tubular in shape. The intermediate component 9700 also includes a guide rail 9760 ( Figure 36B (along the lower side of the intermediate component 9700) and guide flange 9761 (Figure 36B (Along the front-upward side of the intermediate component 9700), the guide rail 9761 is constructed and arranged to assist the intermediate component 9700 in proper alignment and insertion into the reservoir base 6050 by engaging with a corresponding guide groove 9755 extending into the cavity of the reservoir base 6050. When the intermediate component 9700 is inserted into the reservoir base 6050, the guide rail 9760 and / or the guide rail 9761 move along the base guide groove 9755 (as shown in the image). Figure 28B , 28D (as shown in 28E). Figure 36A As shown and as mentioned above, when the intermediate component 9700 is initially inserted into the reservoir base 6050, a gap is provided between the port seal 9735 (e.g., the silicone ridge or lip of the port seal 9735) and the base frame. The gap between the port seal 9735 and the base frame 7300 reduces the assembly force of the intermediate component 9700 and / or reduces and / or prevents excessive deformation of the port seal 9735.

[0549] Figure 36B The diagram shows one or more (in this case, three) joint formation points L1, L2, and L3 (see... Figure 36C At engagement points L1-L3, the engagement between the intermediate component 9700 and the corresponding opening of the receiving reservoir base 6050 begins. Each of these points marks a position where, during the progressive movement of the intermediate component 9700 toward full engagement with the base opening, structural features of the intermediate component 9700 (e.g., guide rails, flanges, or buffers) engage with corresponding engagement features of the base opening (e.g., the lower edge of the arm 9740 engages with the inclined ridge 9757 at L1, the edge of the guide rail 9760 engages with the raised section of the guide groove 9755 at L2, etc.). The engagement at these points can be simultaneous or sequential, and its purpose is to guide the intermediate component 9700 into its fully engaged configuration, wherein the barbed end 9745 is securely locked to the corresponding flange on the base / base opening, and wherein the port seal 9735 has reliably sealed the port 9730. As a result, according to one example of this technology, the port seal 9735 (e.g., the silicone ridge or lip of the port seal 9735) also begins to engage the base 7300. For example... Figure 36A and 35BAs shown, after the edge of port 9730 passes the edge of the central axis and / or the base opening 7380, port seal 9735 can begin to engage base 7300. The snap-fit ​​connection of intermediate component 9700 (e.g., provided by a barb end or tab 9745, spring, or clamping arm 9740) can slide upward along an inclined ridge 9757 located on the lower portion of the base before the snap-fit ​​connection is formed. Port seal 9735 begins to engage the base near base opening 7380 as the snap-fit ​​connection slides upward along a lifting path located at one or more of the three engagement points L1 to L3. After sliding upward along the inclined ridge 9757, the snap-fit ​​connection can travel a further predetermined distance (e.g., 1 mm) before fully engaging the snap. The inclined ridge 9757 can be angled between 15 and 25 degrees, between 18 and 22 degrees, or 20 degrees. In one example, the inclined ridge 9757 can be at an angle of approximately 20 degrees and the span can be set at a predetermined distance D9, which is between 1.5 and 2.5 mm, between 1.8 and 2.2 mm, or 2 mm.

[0550] Figure 36C An example of a port seal 9735 (e.g., a silicone ridge or lip of the port seal 9735) engaging the chassis in a fully assembled position is shown according to the present technology. One or more features in the intermediate component 9700 and / or the chassis opening can be configured to achieve engagement of the two components by pushing the intermediate component 9700 upward toward the chassis opening 7380 and / or by ensuring reliable engagement and acoustic sealing in a fully assembled configuration. For example, the compression engagement of the port seal 9735 can be achieved and / or controlled by one or more of the following: a step in one or both of the inclined ridges 9757 in the lower edge of the arm 9740 and / or the cantilever snap-fit ​​position (L1); the edge of the guide rail 9760 engaging the raised section of the guide groove 9755 (L2) (to lift the intermediate component and minimize swaying movement); and / or the interaction of outward / downward extending tabs or flanges on the lower tab 9795; and / or the engagement of the lower tab 9795 at position (L3) with inward (upward) extending tabs or flanges on the corresponding section of the base. The engagement of the various elements in positions L1, L2, and L3 can occur substantially simultaneously or sequentially. No particular order is preferred as long as a valid final engagement is achieved.

[0551] In addition to or in place of any of the previously described buffers 9775 (which may also be considered engagement forming elements or engagement features), one or more of the aforementioned engagements at positions L1 to L3 may form portions of increased resistance later in insertion. However, these engagement forming elements may be portions of the arrangement that guides the intermediate component to the opening seal engagement of the water reservoir and into its final operating configuration.

[0552] like Figure 36C As shown, the position of the widened section of the guide rail 9760 at the base frame position (L2) can correspond to the edge of the port 9730, the edge of the port seal 9735, and / or the position of the ridge or lip of the port seal 9735 in the vertical direction. The engagement of the guide rail 9760 with the corresponding engagement member at point L2 raises the intermediate member vertically toward the base frame opening 7380 to provide a seal between the port seal 9735 and the surface of the base frame surrounding the base frame opening. In other examples, the engagement point L2 can be positioned closer to the base frame opening and correspond to the central axis of the base frame opening 7380 ( Figure 36C (Not shown in the image).

[0553] When combined with the support engagement provided by the port seal between the intermediate component 9700 and the reservoir base 6050, the combination of support engagements at at least one of the aforementioned engagement points is configured such that displacement of the intermediate component 9700 is prevented without significant external force, and thus damage to the port seal arrangement is prevented. Although a single engagement point (such as Figure 36C L1 or L2 in the middle is sufficient to achieve a stable connection, but because a large force may be applied to the middle component during use (by the user pulling the tube), it is advisable to use more than one connection point (such as L1 or L2 in the middle). Figure 36C All three points (L1, L2, and L3) shown are advantageous for increasing the mechanical stability of the arrangement. Including multiple joints (in this case, at least some of which raise the intermediate component or at least a portion thereof) helps ensure a strong and consistent seal at 9730, even if the patient may exert pressure on this arrangement by pulling the tube during treatment, and thus on the intermediate component 9700. Additionally, the robust support of the intermediate component facilitates the attachment and removal of the attached tube from the intermediate component.

[0554] Due to the specific structure of the sealing configuration, intermediate component 9700, and receiving opening, the user encounters only some resistance at the very end of the insertion path when inserting the intermediate component 9700 into the base opening. This is the position at the end of the insertion path where the intermediate component 9700 encounters a smaller diameter opening (affected by the lifting engagement points L1 to L3). This minimized friction facilitates easier insertion of the intermediate component into the base outlet 6090 of the reservoir base 6050. Furthermore, the described process of guiding insertion and the flexible port seal provides relatively high mechanical tolerances for insertion and sealing, and a low likelihood of damage to the membrane 9732 and / or port seal 9735.

[0555] exist Figures 36A to 36CIn this context, the joints (raised forming members in the illustrated example) at points L1 to L3 are typically part of the reservoir base opening that receives the intermediate component. However, one or more of these can be formed as part of the intermediate component or a third element.

[0556] exist Figures 36A to 36C In the illustrated example, the intermediate component 9700 is raised at the end of its insertion path and moves to seal engagement with the base frame opening via the port seal 9735. Examples of this technology include implementing a similar acoustic transmission engagement without the aid of the port seal 9735 and / or the membrane 9732. In these examples, variations in the height of the intermediate component 9700 can bring the port 9730 of the intermediate component 9700 and the base frame opening 7380 closest to each other, or even in an abutment engagement. In some examples of this technology, the surface of the intermediate component 9700 near the port 9730 and / or the surface of the base frame 7300 near the base frame opening 7380 can be raised to provide this closest state or abutment engagement.

[0557] As described above, the functions of the three engagement points L1 to L3 include: (a) raising and moving the intermediate component 9700 to a sealing engagement with the base frame opening 7380; and / or (b) reliably locking the intermediate component 9700 in the engagement configuration. Examples of this technology include a configuration in which the base frame opening 7380 is not positioned above the intermediate component 9700 (e.g., Figures 36A to 36C (as shown), while other orientations / locations surrounding the intermediate component 9700, such as on the side or below the intermediate component 9700. In these examples, the port 9730 will be located on the intermediate component 9700 such that it corresponds to the location of the base frame opening 7380.

[0558] The engagement points L1 to L3 can also be moved, such that one or more of them are positioned on the side of the intermediate component 9700 opposite the location of the port 9730. In these examples, the engagement points L1 to L3 will not be “lifting” points, as they will cause the intermediate component 9700 to move in other directions (e.g., laterally). When the base opening 7380 is positioned on one side, particularly below the intermediate component 9700, the function of the engagement points L1 to L3 remains to push the intermediate component 9700 in a specific direction and to lock the intermediate component 9700 in the engagement configuration. Depending on the location of the base opening 7380, the function of the engagement points L1 to L3 in pushing the intermediate component 9700 toward the base opening 7380 can be provided at least partially by gravity.

[0559] In an example where port 9730 of intermediate component 9700 includes an associated port seal (i.e., port seal 6735 or port seal 9735), one or more engagement points L1 to L3 can still be used to provide a stable sealing engagement between intermediate component port 9730, chassis opening 7380, and port seal. Examples of this technology include port seals (e.g., port seal 6735 or port seal 9735) that are part of intermediate component 9700, part of membrane 9732, part of chassis opening 7380, and / or independent elements.

[0560] The base opening 7380 may have an opening smaller than that formed by port 9730 and / or port seal 9735. In some examples, the base opening 7380 may include an inner surface that provides a varying cross-sectional profile. Figure 36D The outline of the inner surface is shown, wherein a first end of the base opening 7380 adjacent to port 9730 is provided with an opening smaller than a second end of the base opening 7380 opposite to the first end. The base opening 7380 may have a circular shape formed at the first end with a first diameter, and a circular opening formed at the second end with a second diameter larger than the first diameter. In some examples, the second diameter may be equal to the diameter of port 9730 and / or the diameter of the opening formed by the port seal 9735. A larger opening may be needed to accommodate the sensor, which may be larger than the opening at the first end. The opening at the first end may be smaller to reduce the possibility of allowing contaminants to enter the sensor and / or other components on the circuit board.

[0561] Specific cross-sectional profile features (in this case, the two openings discussed in the preceding paragraphs) can be formed in the underframe wall. However, a second (or additional) opening can also be formed by providing a flange to the upper surface of the underframe, thereby forming a sidewall 7390 surrounding the underframe opening 7380 formed on the underframe wall. Figure 36D The illustration shows an optional sidewall 7390 extending from the surface of the chassis 7300 toward the PCBA 7600 to provide a second end with a second diameter. The sidewall 7390 can improve the acoustic seal between the PCBA 7600 and the first end of the chassis opening 7380 and provide audio integrity for microphone reception. The inner wall of the chassis opening 7380 can include different profiles between the first and second ends with different diameters. Figure 36D The outline of the base frame opening 7380, which opens at its outer surface, is shown, defining two different diameters at two opposing surfaces of the base frame wall.

[0562] like Figure 36DAs shown, the sensor can be positioned at the second end adjacent to and / or at least partially inside the base frame opening 7380. In some examples, the sensor 4270 can be spaced apart from or away from the PCBA 7600, such that the sensor 4270 is positioned almost entirely inside the base frame opening 7380. A seal made of silicone, thermoplastic, or another flexible material can be included at the interface between the base frame wall opening and the PCB and / or between the base frame wall opening and the detector.

[0563] 5.9 Acoustic Analysis and Testing

[0564] An RPT device (4000 or 6000) according to one aspect of the present technology can be configured to identify the physical characteristics of the air circuit 4170 of the RPT system (including the catheter and / or mask) and / or physical characteristics within it based on the detection of acoustic signals propagating along at least a portion of the air circuit 4170 (e.g., the catheter and / or mask). An example of acoustic detection of a respiratory therapy device is described in PCT patent application publication number WO2010 / 091462, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0565] The RPT device can be configured to use sounds generated by the RPT device (e.g., noise from the impeller and / or motor of a blower, or other mechanical sounds activated by device assembly, such as the insertion of a humidifier reservoir) to identify physical characteristics of the air circuit 4170 and / or within it, which travel downwards, for example, along a duct and to the face mask. Similarly, the system can utilize ambient noise in the air path entering the RPT device. Some sounds generated by the device can be reflected along various physical features of the air circuit 4170, including the duct and the face mask, and return along the duct to the RPT device, thus forming an “echo” signal. The “echo” signal can be considered as a filtered reflection of a signal incident on a particular feature, and the filter can be considered as a reflection frequency response function of the particular feature. Those skilled in the art will understand that a frequency response function is the complex spectrum of an impulse response function, and any one of them can be used to define the response of a physical feature, such as the reflection response to an incident excitation signal.

[0566] Sensor 4270 (e.g., microphone) (see) Figure 37The sensor 4270 can be configured to detect an acoustic signal. In some examples, the sensor 4270 can be configured to detect a combination of the original signal and the returned signal (“echo” signal). The sensor 4270 can be located within the internal space of the RPT device 4000. Circuitry (e.g., an integrated circuit and / or a processor) coupled to the sensor 4270 can be configured to determine the physical characteristics of the air circuit 4170 and / or physical characteristics within it based on the detected sound. In some examples, the circuitry can be configured to send a signal to the processor, where signal processing can be used to estimate the reflected impulse response function of one or more physical features of interest, and further, a classification system can be used to classify one or more impulse response functions. In some examples, the circuitry can be configured to compare the detected returned sound with the initially generated sound and, based on the difference between the two, infer one or more parameters of the downstream system. For example, the circuitry can be configured to determine the type of duct and / or mask used in the system, the presence of obstructions in the air circuit 4170, leaks in the air circuit 4170, etc. In some examples, signal processing can be distributed; for instance, an integrated digital sensor can convert the acoustic signal into a digital signal before passing it to a separate processor for estimating the impulse response function. The impulse response function estimation can then be passed to another processor for classification of physical features. In another example, the RPT device can connect to a network of other devices, either locally or remotely, and can perform any combination of processing on those other devices.

[0567] According to one aspect of the present technology, sensor 4270 may be located within the internal space of RPT device 4000, near a conduit of air circuit 4170 or a feature connecting the conduit to a humidifier and / or pressure generator. Port 6730 (9730) is configured to facilitate the propagation of incident and / or reflected sound to sensor 4270. In some examples of the present technology, an intermediate component 9700 for connecting air circuit 4170 to RPT device 4000 (e.g., via connection to reservoir base 6050 and / or water reservoir 6100) may include sound port 9730, which facilitates the propagation of sound (initially generated and / or reflected) to sensor 4270.

[0568] Figure 37 The illustration shows example components of a system for detecting sound signals according to the present technology. The generated sound (GS) can be produced by one or more components of the integrated RPT device and humidifier 6000 (or RPT device 4000). The sound can be generated by the operation of blower 4142. The generated sound can be propagated directly or via one or more other components to air circuit 4170. For example... Figure 37As shown, sound propagates through the water reservoir 6100 and intermediate component 9700 to the air circuit 4170. A portion of the sound GS generated in the air circuit 4170 can be reflected along various physical features of the air circuit 4170 and / or patient interface 3000. The reflected sound can travel back along the catheter to return to the RPT device 6000. A portion of the generated sound can be reflected at different locations within the signal propagation path, including the catheter, mask, and / or patient.

[0569] A sensor 4270 (e.g., a microphone) is disposed in the RPT device to sense the generated sound GS and the reflected sound RS. Figure 37 As shown, sensor 4270 is positioned closest to port 9730 of intermediate component 9700. Sensor 4270 can be coupled to PCBA 7600 such that sensor 4270 is positioned at a predetermined distance above port 9730. Sensor 4270 can also be coupled to other circuitry on PCBA 7600 or another PCBA, including processing circuitry configured to infer one or more parameters of air circuit 4170 based on sensed sound. Vibrations in PCBA 7600 can be picked up by sensor 4270, which may cause degradation of the detected “echo” signal. To reduce the generation of such vibrations, one or more mass / spring / damping elements (such as rubber and / or silicone washers) can be used to secure PCBA 7600 to the base, which can suppress some vibrations of PCBA 7600 and improve the reception of the “echo” signal.

[0570] According to one form of this technology, sensor 4270 (e.g., a microphone) is positioned at a predetermined distance from port 9730. In one example, sensor 4270 (e.g., a microphone) is positioned as close as possible to port 9730. The predetermined distance can be measured from the surface defined by the exit of the base opening 7380 to sensor 4270. In some examples, the predetermined distance can be measured from sensor 4270 to the inner surface of intermediate component 9700, on which membrane 9732 may extend. However, these distances are not particularly critical to the design because resonance has the same effect on incident and reflected waves.

[0571] The predetermined distance can be determined based on the wavelength of the highest frequency that the system is configured to resolve. In some examples, sensor 4270 may be positioned at approximately one-quarter of the wavelength of the signal that the system will resolve. For example, if the system is configured to sense and process a highest frequency of approximately 10 kHz (wavelength 3.5 cm), the coupling of sensor 4270 may be positioned at a distance of one-quarter of the wavelength (e.g., less than approximately 1 cm or slightly less than 1 cm) to avoid resonance in the coupling guide between the intermediate component and the microphone. While the distance defined above is generally less than 1 cm, in some examples, sensor 4270 may be positioned at a distance of up to 2 cm from the opening in intermediate component 9700.

[0572] If sensor 4270 is located near a discontinuity in the signal propagation path, strong reflections will occur, potentially masking reflections from various features that would otherwise be detectable in the catheter and / or patient interface based on the reflected signals. In some examples of this technology, sensor 4270 may be located further away from the nearest discontinuity in the signal propagation path than the maximum distance between any two target physical features (such as in the detected patient interface or catheter). In this configuration, a clearer time interval is provided between the component of the impulse response function (IRF) associated with the catheter and / or patient interface and the component associated with the pressure generator in the RPT device. The IRF is the system's response to a unit pulse input. In this configuration, the system can detect features smaller than this distance independently of the properties of the pressure generator's IRF.

[0573] An approximation of the maximum distance between physical features in a patient interface (or catheter) is the maximum size of the patient interface or its components (or catheters) when the components are connected via waveguides. Generally, the end of the intermediate component 9700 is continuously connected to other components. The outlet of the intermediate component is typically connected to the air circuit, while the inlet end of the intermediate component is connected to the inlet end of the outlet pipe of the water reservoir. Due to these connections, the signal propagation path discontinuity may shift—in the case of the inlet end of the intermediate component, the discontinuity now shifts to the inlet end of the outlet pipe of the water reservoir 6100. For detecting small masks, the distance between the sensor 4270 and the inlet end of the outlet pipe of the water reservoir 6100 should be approximately at least 2-6 cm. For detecting larger masks, the distance between the sensor 4270 and the inlet end of the outlet pipe of the water reservoir 6100 should be approximately at least 4-15 cm. When using such a silencer instead of a water reservoir, similar considerations apply to the dimensions of the outlet pipe of the silencer 4124 on the outlet cap (e.g., the length of the outlet pipe, which determines the distance between the sensor 4270 and the inlet end of the outlet pipe). In alternative embodiments of this technology, the IRF of the RPT device can be characterized and filtered out from the recorded microphone signal to reduce the impact of the aforementioned dimensions.

[0574] According to one form of this technology, in order to completely separate the IRF of the mask from the IRF of the pressure generator, the distance between the sensor 4270 and the inlet end of the outlet pipe of the water reservoir 6100 should be greater than the maximum size of the mask. For example, for a mask with a 40 cm connecting pipe and a sleeve, the size for attaching the mask and connecting pipe to a standard length pipe should be greater than 40 cm plus the length of other mask components. However, alternative arrangements are also possible. When the distance between the sensor 4270 and the nearest discontinuity is not greater than the maximum size of the mask, the mask signature can be superimposed on its own reflected and attenuated version (i.e., the secondary reflection of the mask signature away from the discontinuity of the device). This composite signature may also be useful for mask identification. For example, when the distance between the sensor and the nearest discontinuity is significantly smaller, and the IRF of the pressure generator is consistent or deterministic, the superposition of IRFs can be considered algorithmically. An example of detecting acoustic features based on IRF in a system is described in PCT patent application publication number WO 2010 / 091462, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0575] In some examples of this technology, the seal 9800 (e.g., made of thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or silicone) can be positioned between the PCBA 7600 and the base frame 7300 (e.g., see...). Figure 36DThe main portion of seal 9800 may form a sealing wall adjacent to and at least partially surrounding sidewall 7390. The wall portion of seal 9800 may partially or completely surround the sidewall 7390 extending from the base frame and providing an opening facing PCBA 7600. Sensor 4270 may be aligned with and / or at least partially disposed inside the opening facing the base frame of PCBA 7600.

[0576] In one example, the seal may also include a "ceiling" portion facing the PCBA 7600 and extending over and into the area surrounded by the sealing wall and adjacent sidewalls 7390, effectively forming a ceiling above the sealing wall and sidewalls 7390. An opening may be provided in this ceiling portion to allow sound to be transmitted from the base frame opening 7380 to the sensor. Alternatively, such as Figure 36D As shown, the surface of the ceiling portion of the seal 9800 facing the PCBA 7600 may include an opening corresponding to the opening formed by the sidewall 7390. The opening in the seal 9800 allows a sensor 4270 mounted on the PCBA 7600 to be at least partially placed in the base frame opening formed by the sidewall 7390. The seal 9800 may include a peripheral seal forming 9805 surrounding the periphery of the opening in the seal 9800. Figure 36D As shown, a peripheral seal forming member 9805 can be disposed at the outer edge of the sidewall 7390. When the PCBA 7600 and the base frame 7300 are assembled, the peripheral seal forming member 9805 can provide a compression seal against the PCBA 7600. A portion of the sidewall 7390 adjacent to the base frame 7300 can press the seal 9800 against the PCBA 7600 during assembly.

[0577] Seal 9800 and / or peripheral seal formation 9805 prevent external noise from entering the chassis opening and / or reduce vibration transmission between PCBA 7600 and chassis 7300. Seal 9800 and / or port seal 9735 provide an acoustic seal to direct sound to the sensor. Peripheral seal formation 9805 may include a reference... Figures 34A to 34D The described ridge seal forming element or reference Figures 35A to 35D The described lip seal forming element.

[0578] The seal 9800 can be attached to the PCBA 7600 and / or the base frame 7300 using adhesives or mechanical means (such as screws or bolts). In some examples, the seal 9800 can be secured by pushing the base frame 7300 against the PCBA 7600 without using adhesives or mechanical means.

[0579] 5.9.1 Connection between sensor and intermediate components

[0580] As referenced above Figure 37 As discussed, sensor 4270 (e.g., a microphone) is mounted on PCBA 7600 to sense sound in an air path. Sound reaches sensor 4270 via port 9730 in intermediate component 9700 or another portion of air circuit 4170 (e.g., a duct). Port 9730 may include a diaphragm and / or port seal. Sound can be transmitted from the diaphragm via the port seal to an opening 7380 in base frame 7300, where sensor 4270, mounted on PCBA 7600, is located after and / or within base frame 7300. The sound from sensor 4270 is analyzed to determine one or more characteristics of the RPT device and / or one or more characteristics of air circuit 4170.

[0581] Over time, various issues can affect the consistency of analysis between the sound quality transmitted to sensor 4270 and sensed by sensor 4270, and / or the RPT device. For example, manufacturing tolerances and / or wear of components can affect the relative position of sensor 4270 and the characteristics of air circuit 4170 (e.g., intermediate component 9700, port 9730, port seal 9735, and / or the above references). Figures 34A to 36C Changes in the membrane 9732 discussed; the escape of sound into the surrounding environment once sound passes through port 9730 and / or base opening 7380; and / or vibrations of components of the RPT device (e.g., PCBA 7600) and / or air circuit 4170 transmitted to sensor 4270 during use.

[0582] Examples of this technology (see) Figures 38A to 39DA connector 8750 is provided, configured to flexibly connect sensor 4270 to features of air circuit 4170 (e.g., ports and / or diaphragms located in an intermediate component or another part of the air circuit) to improve sound quality and consistency. Connector 8750 is configured for self-alignment to ensure consistent relative positioning (e.g., horizontal and / or vertical) of sensor 4270 relative to port 8830 and / or diaphragm 8732. Connector 8750 may be a magnetic connector including one or more magnets to align and hold connector 8750 in place. Connector 8750 also serves as a completely sealed path to minimize sound escape into the surrounding environment. In this sense, the connector guides sound, at least to some extent, along its path to the sensor. The flexibility of connector 8750 suppresses at least some vibration of components of air circuit 4170 (e.g., intermediate component 8700 and / or PCBA 7600). To reduce vibration transmission from PCBA 7600 to sensor 4270, sensor 4270 can be mounted on a tab on PCBA 7600 using one or more damping features (e.g., rubber feet), which may be partially surrounded by a slit groove. Connector 8750 can be a "bellows" type connector to increase vertical flexibility.

[0583] While features relating to the connection of sensor 4270 to air circuit 4170 are described with reference to the connection of sensor 4270 to an intermediate component, features relating to the connection of sensor 4270 to air circuit 4170 may be included in embodiments where sensor 4270 is directly or indirectly connected to another part of air circuit 4170 (e.g., a duct or mask). For example, features relating to the connection of sensor 4270 to air circuit 4170 may be applied to examples where sensor 4270 is connected to a port (e.g., a membrane-covered opening) in a duct of air circuit 4170. Sensor 4270 may be mounted independently, or mounted on PCBA 7600 inside the RPT device housing, or mounted on another PCBA 7600 outside the RPT device housing.

[0584] In the preceding paragraphs, the term "intermediate component" (e.g., intermediate component 6700, intermediate component 8700, or intermediate component 9700) can be considered to actually encompass any component that links the sound source to the air circuit and the detector. In this sense, "intermediate" can be considered used in the context of providing an acoustic link between the sound source and the sensor, and is not necessarily limited to components located between the duct and the blower. Therefore, in some examples of this technology, the intermediate component may not be in the path between the blower and the duct of the air circuit 4170 (e.g., see...). Figure 37However, it can be pneumatically connected to that path. In one such example, the intermediate component can be connected to an opening in the pipe of the air circuit and connected to the sensor via a port and a seal disposed in the intermediate component.

[0585] In other examples, the intermediate component may be housed inside the housing of the RPT device, which has other components such as a pressure generator, humidifier, circuit board, and / or sensor.

[0586] 5.9.1.1 Sensor positioning and sound path alignment

[0587] As described above, in some examples of this technology, sensor 4270 (e.g., microphone) is positioned in intermediate component 8700 at a predetermined distance from port 8830. In some examples, sensor 4270 is positioned at a specific location and as close as possible to the port (e.g., port 8830). However, due to variations in component manufacturing tolerances, wear, and characteristics of the positioning air circuit 4170 (e.g., its position when intermediate component 8700 is inserted into the receiving base opening), the relative positioning (e.g., horizontal and / or vertical) of sensor 4270 relative to port 8830 and / or diaphragm 8732 may differ for the same component used in different RPT devices, or may change over time, or when the component is replaced or reassembled for use (e.g., after cleaning).

[0588] Figures 38A to 39D The illustration shows a connector 8750 for connecting a sensor 4270 to an intermediate component 8700 according to an example of the present technology. The connector 8750 is configured to connect the intermediate component 8700 to an RPT device (e.g., ...). Figures 11 to 13 The base outlet 6090 of the storage base 6050 shown aligns the sensor 4270 with the port 8830 in the intermediate component 8700.

[0589] In some examples, intermediate component 8700 may include reference intermediate component 6700 (see Figures 13 to 15 and Figures 19 to 22 ) and / or intermediate components 9700 (pieces) Figures 23 to 36C The features described herein may correspond to intermediate component 6700 or intermediate component 9700. Similarly, intermediate component 6700 or intermediate component 9700 may include one or more features described with reference to intermediate component 8700.

[0590] The connector 8750 is positioned between and connected to the PCBA 7600 and the intermediate component 8700. The connector 8750 is removably connected to the intermediate component 8700. Although Figures 38A to 39DThe figure shows a connector 8750 connected to the intermediate component 8700, but in some examples of this art, the connector 8750 may be removably connected to another component (e.g., a duct) of the air circuit 4170, which includes an opening to allow sound to reach a sensor 4270 located outside the air circuit 4170.

[0591] The connector 8750 includes a body 8752, which may be a tubular body including an inlet end 8756 adapted to mate with an intermediate component 8700 and an outlet end 8758 adapted to mate with a sensor 4270 and / or a PCBA 7600. The connector 8750 may be made of a relatively flexible material, such as thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or silicone. The body 8752 may include one or more bellows 8754 disposed between the inlet end 8756 and the outlet end 8758. The one or more bellows 8754 are adapted to allow the inlet end 8756 to shift relative to the outlet end 8758 in a horizontal and / or vertical direction, and the outlet end 8758 may be fixed to the sensor 4270 and / or PCBA 7600 without interfering with the connection.

[0592] In one form of this technology, the flexibility of the material of the connector 8750 allows the inlet end 8756 to be displaced in the horizontal and / or vertical directions relative to the outlet end 8758 without interfering with the connection. In this example, in addition to, or in place of, one or more bellows 8754, the horizontal and / or vertical displacement due to the flexibility of the material can be provided.

[0593] The outlet end 8758 includes an opening 8764 configured to engage a sensor 4270 disposed on the PCBA 7600. The opening 8764 in the outlet end 8758 may correspond to the shape and size of the sensor 4270 (e.g., sensor housing 4271). The sensor 4270 may be press-fitted into the opening 8764 in the outlet end 8758 and / or may be glued or cold-welded to secure the sensor 4270 to the connector 8750. The sensor 4270 may be removably coupled in the opening 8764.

[0594] The outlet end 8758 may include a flange 8759 adapted to abut a portion of the sensor 4270 and / or a portion of the PCBA 7600 surrounding the sensor. The flange 8759 may extend from the body 8752 and outward from and / or toward the central axis of the body 8752. In one example, the outlet end 8758 may be coupled to the sensor 4270 without directly contacting the PCBA 7600. In another example, at least a portion of the outlet end of the connector 8750 may contact the PCBA 7600. In yet another example, the outlet end 8758 may contact (and / or attach to) the PCBA 7600, but the body of the sensor 4270 is offset from the PCBA 7600 by a predetermined distance, such that the sensor is not directly located on the PCBA 7600, but remains attached to it. In this example, the outlet end may be closed, with one or more rubber feet (see...). Figures 41A to 41C The rubber foot 8788 can be provided on the outlet end 8758 for connecting the connector 8750 to the PCBA 7600, and one or more ports 8786 can be used to transmit the wires connecting the sensor to the PCBA 7600.

[0595] The inlet end 8756 includes a coupling portion 8760 adapted to receive a first connecting element 8762. The coupling portion 8760 may include a flange having a complementary shape corresponding to the shape of the first connecting element 8762. In some examples, the first connecting element 8762 may be a ring adapted to press-fit against and press-fit onto a portion of a body 8752 extending through the flange. The first connecting element 8762 may be glued or cold-welded to the inlet end 8756. In some examples, the inlet end 8756 may be overmolded to the first connecting element 8762 such that the inlet end 8756 surrounds the first connecting element 8762.

[0596] The first connecting element 8762 is adapted to be removably connected to a second connecting element 8766 disposed on or within the intermediate component 8700. The first connecting element 8762 and / or the second connecting element 8766 may include magnets adapted to be connected to each other. In some examples, one of the first connecting element 8762 and the second connecting element 8766 includes a magnet, and the other of the first connecting element 8762 and the second connecting element 8766 includes a metallic material adapted to be connected to a magnet. The shape of the first connecting element 8762 may correspond to the shape of the second connecting element 8766. In one example, the shape and size of the first connecting element 8762 may be the same as the shape and size of the second connecting element 8766. In another example, the shape of the first connecting element 8762 may be the same as the shape of the second connecting element 8766, and the size of the second connecting element 8766 may be larger than the first connecting element 8762.

[0597] The second connecting element 8766 is disposed on the surface of the intermediate component 8700 (see, for example, see...). Figure 39B ), or placed below at least a portion of the surface of the intermediate component 8700 (e.g., see Figure 39A A second connecting element 8766 is attached to the intermediate component 8700. The second connecting element 8766 may be a ring positioned around a port 8830 in the surface of the intermediate component 8700. The second connecting element 8766 may be positioned such that its central axis is common to the central axis of the port 8830. In some examples, the opening of the port 8830 may correspond in shape and / or size to the opening in the second connecting element 8766 and / or the opening in the first connecting element 8762.

[0598] In some examples, the second connecting element 8766 may be disposed beneath the membrane 8732 or beneath another element (e.g., a silicone ring element) adapted to cover at least a portion of the second connecting element 8766 (e.g., along the periphery of the ring). The membrane 8732 or other element may be coupled to a surface of the intermediate member 8700 adjacent to the outer periphery of the second connecting element 8766. The membrane may be a thin silicone membrane that is sound-permeable but impermeable to liquids and / or gases. The membrane 8732 may have a shape and / or size corresponding to the profile and / or size of the first connecting element 8762 and / or the second connecting element 8766. Figure 38B , Figure 39A and Figure 39B As shown, in some examples of this technology, the membrane 8732 may be circular and extend beyond the second connecting element 8766.

[0599] In some examples of this technology, membrane 8732 may include one or more features of membrane 9732 described above (e.g., see...). Figures 34A to 36C In some examples of this technology, membrane 8732 may be disposed on the inner surface of intermediate component 8700 (e.g., see...). Figures 34A to 36C Membrane 9732 shown).

[0600] In some examples of this technology, membrane 8732 may be configured to cover one end of connector 8750 adjacent to intermediate component 8700. For example, the membrane may be disposed between one end of connector 8750 and first connecting element 8762.

[0601] In some examples of this technology, the second connecting element 8766 can be configured as part of the inner side of the port seal (see...). Figures 34A to 36C(Port seal 9735). In this example, the second connecting element 8766 may be included in or beneath a portion of the port seal 9735. For example, the second connecting element 8766 may be included in or beneath the ridge seal 9737, the lip seal 9742, the connecting portion 9739, or the connecting portion 9739.

[0602] In some examples of this technology, other mechanical connections such as mechanical locking, temporary adhesive, or suction methods may be used to removably connect the connector 8750 to the intermediate component 8700.

[0603] like Figure 39A As illustrated, connector 8750 can extend from PCBA 7600 and through chassis opening 7380 in chassis 7300 toward port 8830. In some examples, at least a portion of sensor 4270 can extend into or through chassis opening 7380. Figure 36D A PCBA 7600 is shown positioned above a base frame opening 7380, and a sensor 4270 is shown supported by the PCBA 7600, which extends at least partially into the base frame opening 7380. In some examples, the center of the sensor may be aligned with the central axis of the base frame opening 7380. In alternative arrangements, the intermediate component may not directly connect the pressure generator to the air delivery line, but may still be pneumatically connected to both. Similarly, in alternative arrangements, the space between the opening of the intermediate component and the sensor may not be a base frame wall. In this case, all the above descriptions still apply, but the space between the opening of the intermediate component and the PCBA 7600 (e.g., see...) will be different. Figure 37 The acoustic sensor may be located in the content directly connected to another component on it.

[0604] When the intermediate component 8700 is inserted into the receiver storage base 6050 and positioned in place (for example, see...), Figures 36A to 36CThe inlet end 8756 of connector 8750 may not be aligned with port 8830 in the horizontal and / or vertical directions. The attraction and connection properties between the first connecting element 8762 and the second connecting element 8766, as well as one or more bellows 8754, allow the inlet end 8756 to shift in the horizontal and / or vertical directions, thereby allowing the first connecting element 8762 to align and connect to the second connecting element 8766 when they are closest to each other. The alignment of the first connecting element 8762 and the second connecting element 8766 (e.g., by having a common axis), and any additional elements that may be included in the connection arrangement, can provide a path for sound to travel directly from intermediate component 8700 to sensor 4270 without requiring any element to mechanically contact the base 7300 or PCBA 7600. When aligned, port 8830, the first connecting element 8762, and the second connecting element 8766 may have a common vertical axis.

[0605] The alignment of the inlet 8756 with the port 8830 provides an aligned path for sound to travel from the intermediate component 8700 to the sensor 4270 via the port 8830. This path remains consistent even if the final position of the intermediate component 8700 changes relative to the fixed position of the sensor 4270.

[0606] 5.9.1.2 Characteristics of mitigating sound escape

[0607] The connector 8750 also serves as a completely sealed path to minimize the escape of sound into the surrounding environment. Figure 40A The illustration shows potential sound escape when the connector 8750 is not present between the sensor 4270 and the intermediate component 8700. (As shown) Figure 40A As shown, after sound passes through diaphragm 8732, it is directed to sensor 4270. However, horizontal misalignment between sensor 4270 and diaphragm 8732 and / or port 8830 may cause some sound to be directed to the sides of sensor 4270, thus reducing the amount of sound captured by sensor 4270 and affecting the quality of the captured sound. Variations in vertical alignment can increase or decrease the amount of sound directed to the sides of sensor 4270.

[0608] Figure 40B The illustration depicts a possible sound escape in a system including a connector 8750 between sensor 4270 and intermediate component 8700, according to an example of the present technology. The self-alignment of connector 8750 with port 8830 in intermediate component 8700 provides a sealed path for sound to propagate from intermediate component 8700 to sensor 4270. Figure 40BAs shown, there is no vertical and / or horizontal misalignment, and little or no sound escapes to the sides of sensor 4270. Accordingly, connector 8750 serves as a completely sealed path to minimize sound escape into the surrounding environment.

[0609] 5.9.1.3 Vibration Reduction Features

[0610] Vibrations in the RPT device and / or components of the air circuit 4170 may reduce the quality of the sound captured by the sensor 4270. The flexibility of the connector 8750, provided by the material of the connector 8750 and / or the bellows 8754, suppresses at least some of the vibrations generated in and / or transmitted to the sensor 4270 via the air circuit 4170.

[0611] Vibrations that could degrade the detected "echo" signal can also be transmitted from the PCBA 7600 to the sensor 4270. The PCBA 7600 is connected to a base frame, which picks up vibrations caused by components of the RPT unit, such as the blower motor. As described above, to reduce such vibrations generated in the PCBA 7600, one or more damping elements, such as rubber and / or silicone gaskets, can be used to secure the PCBA 7600 to the base frame. This can suppress any vibrations of the PCBA 7600 and improve the reception of the "echo" signal.

[0612] 5.9.1.3.1 Rubber interface

[0613] Other examples disclosed in this specification may include another feature of providing one or more damping elements when the sensor 4270 is fastened to the PCBA 7600 to dampen vibrations transmitted from the PCBA 7600 to the sensor 4270. Figures 41A to 41C A rubber interface 8780 is shown for connecting sensor 4270 to PCBA 7600. Rubber interface 8780 is disposed between sensor 4270 and PCBA 7600. Rubber interface 8780 can function as a vibration damper. Rubber interface 8780 provides a flexible housing for supporting sensor 4270 and for isolating vibrations from PCBA 7600. Rubber interface 8780 can also reduce vibrations transmitted from intermediate component 8700 to sensor 4270.

[0614] The rubber connector 8780 may include a tubular body 8782, one end of which includes an interface opening 8784, and the opposite end 8785 is closed. Although Figures 41A to 41C A rubber interface 8780 including tubular inner and outer shapes is shown, but this is not an example of the technology and may include other shapes (e.g., square or rectangular inner or outer shapes).

[0615] The interface opening 8784 can be configured to receive and retain the sensor 4270 at least partially inside the rubber interface 8780. Figures 41A to 41C (Not shown in the image). In some examples, at least a portion of the sensor 4270 may extend beyond the tubular body 8782. In some examples, the sensor 4270 may be located inside the rubber interface 8780 without extending outside the tubular body 8782.

[0616] One or more connection ports 8786 may be located on the closed end 8785 of the rubber interface 8780 adjacent to the PCBA 7600. One or more connections between the circuit elements on the PCBA 7600 and the electrical connections on the sensor 4270 (…) Figures 41A to 41C (Not shown in the image) can be routed via one or more connection ports 8786.

[0617] The rubber interface 8780 may include a plurality of rubber feet 8788 on the closed end 8785, which are configured to offset the closed end of the rubber interface 8780 from the PCBA 7600 and to connect the rubber interface 8780 to the PCBA 7600. The rubber feet 8788 can reduce the contact area between the PCBA 7600 and the rubber interface 8780, thereby reducing the amount of vibration transmitted from the PCBA 7600 to the sensor 4270.

[0618] In one example of this technology, the rubber interface 8780 can be configured to engage. Figures 38A to 39D The connector 8750 shown has an outlet end 8758. In this example, the rubber interface 8780 can correspond to... Figure 39A The sensor housing 4271 shown is shown.

[0619] In another example of this technology, the rubber interface 8780 may correspond to a connector 8750, which is configured to connect the sensor 4270 to the intermediate component 8700 (see [link to technical document]). Figure 41C In this example, the rubber interface 8780 may include a first connecting element 8762 (in) inside the rubber interface 8780 or attached to the interface opening 8784. Figure 41C (Not shown). The first connecting element 8762 is configured to be coupled to a second connecting element 8766 disposed in or on the surface of the intermediate component 8700 (in Figure 41C (Not shown). In this example, the rubber interface 8780 provides a connection to the intermediate component 8700 while providing vibration damping for vibrations from the intermediate component 8700 and the PCBA 7600.

[0620] 5.9.1.3.2 Channel cuts in circuit boards

[0621] Another feature for mitigating vibrations transmitted to sensor 4270 may include, in other examples disclosed in this specification, providing one or more channels 8900 cut out in PCBA 7600 to reduce / suppress vibrations from PCBA 7600 in sensor 4270. The channels 8900 are cut through the thickness of PCBA 7600. Figures 42A to 42C An example of a channel 8900 cut out in a PCBA 7600 is shown. The cut width of the channel 8900 can correspond to the thickness of the PCBA 7600.

[0622] PCBA 7600 includes a conductive track 7602 configured to connect to a sensor 4270 and transmit signals to other components disposed on and / or outside the PCBA 7600. PCBA 7600 includes a through-hole 7604 configured to connect leads of the sensor 4270 to the conductive track 7602. A channel 8900 is provided at least partially around the through-hole 7604, which is disposed on a suspension tab 8910 of the PCBA 7600 formed by the channel 8900. The conductive track 7602 extends from the through-hole 7604 to other components via a connected portion 8920 of the tab 8910.

[0623] The channel 8900 reduces the amount of vibration transmitted to the sensor 4270. Although vibration to the sensor 4270 can still be transmitted via the connected portion 8920, the amount of vibration transmitted to the suspension tab 8910 is greatly reduced.

[0624] In some examples, in addition to reducing vibration, the tab 8910 can be tilted vertically to align with the sensor 4270 coupled to the tab 8910 due to the attraction caused by the connection of the first connecting element 8762 and the second connecting element 8766. For example, the attraction between the first connecting element 8762 and the second connecting element 8766 can cause the tab 8910 to tilt downward to position the sensor 4270 closer to the port 8830 than it would be without the channel 8900. Figure 42B and Figure 42C The sensor 4270 shown may include a first connecting element 8762, or it may be provided with a connector 8750 for connecting to a second connecting element 8766.

[0625] In some examples of this technology, the slotted channels providing the tabs can be located at each of the positions where the PCBA 7600 connects to the chassis. In this example, the tabs provided by the slotted channels can reduce vibrations transmitted from the chassis to the PCBA 7600.

[0626] 5.9.1.4 Flexible sensor housing

[0627] Another feature that can improve sensor positioning and mitigate sound escape and / or vibration is the provision of sensor 4270 in a flexible housing 8800. Figure 43 A sensor 4270, which is placed in a flexible housing 8800 according to an example of the present technology, is shown. Figure 43 One or more features illustrated in the figure may be provided in other examples of the technology disclosed in this specification.

[0628] like Figure 43 As illustrated, sensor 4270 is housed within a flexible housing 8800, which includes sensor 4270 at one end. One end of housing 8800 includes a connection portion 8810 configured to connect the flexible housing 8800 to a PCBA 7600. Connection portion 8810 may include a plurality of posts 8814 adapted to engage through-holes in PCBA 7600 and secure the flexible housing 8800 to a surface of PCBA 7600. Flexible wire 8820 is coupled to sensor 4270 within the flexible housing 8800 and extends inside the flexible housing 8800 and along its length to one end of the flexible housing 8800 including the connection portion 8810. Flexible wire 8820 provides connection between sensor 4270 and components on and / or outside PCBA 7600.

[0629] The flexible housing 8800 may comprise molded silicone or rubber, which may be overmolded onto the sensor 4270 and / or the flexible wire 8820. The flexible housing 8800 is adapted to bend when a force is applied, such as when applied to an end of the flexible housing 8800 including the sensor 4270.

[0630] In use, when the intermediate component 8700 (or another air circuit component including port 8830) is...

Claims

1. A device for treating respiratory symptoms, the device comprising: A pressure generator, configured to produce an airflow; An intermediate component configured to pneumatically connect an air delivery tube to the pressure generator, the intermediate component including an outlet end and an inlet end, the outlet end being configured to be pneumatically connected to the air delivery tube, the intermediate component including a port disposed between the inlet end and the outlet end and configured to facilitate sound propagation outside the intermediate component; A sensor, located adjacent to and at a predetermined distance from the port of the intermediate component, is configured to sense sound propagating through the port; A base frame includes a generally tubular opening and a base frame opening, the generally tubular opening being used to receive the inlet end of the intermediate component, wherein when the intermediate component is inserted into the generally tubular opening of the base frame, the port in the intermediate component is located on a first side of the base frame opening and aligned with the base frame opening, and the sensor is positioned on a second side of the base frame opening; as well as The controller is configured as follows: Receives sound signals generated by the sensor due to sound sensed during operation of the device. Analyze the received audio signals, and The response is based at least in part on the analysis described above.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein, In use, the base frame opening is arranged to allow sound to propagate from the port to the sensor via the base frame opening.

3. The device of claim 1, wherein the response comprises at least one of the following: Record the results of the analysis. The results of the analysis are shown. Forward the results of the analysis, and The operation of the pressure generator is controlled at least in part based on the analysis.

4. The device according to claim 1, wherein the sensor is positioned outside the opening in the base frame.

5. The device according to claim 4, further comprising a circuit board located on the second side of the base frame opening, wherein, The sensor is connected to the circuit board.

6. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a flexible connector configured to transmit sound from the port to the sensor.

7. The device of claim 6 further includes a circuit board, wherein the sensor is coupled to the circuit board, wherein, The connector includes an outlet end configured to directly engage the sensor and an inlet end configured to removably engage the intermediate component.

8. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The air delivery tube is configured to transmit the airflow from the pressure generator to the patient interface.

9. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a membrane configured to cover the port and transmit sound from the inside of the intermediate component to the outside of the intermediate component.

10. The device according to claim 9, wherein, The membrane is disposed below the outer surface of the intermediate component.

11. The device of claim 1, further comprising at least one of a membrane and a port seal. When the device includes at least the membrane, the membrane is configured to cover the port and transmit sound from the inside of the intermediate component to the outside of the intermediate component. Where the device includes at least the port seal, the port seal is positioned to provide a sealing engagement between the port and the base frame opening when the intermediate component is in its operating configuration.

12. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising: A water reservoir comprising a cavity configured to hold a volume of water and receive the airflow, such that the airflow is humidified before being delivered to the patient interface. as well as A water storage tank base, configured and arranged to receive the water storage tank in an operating position, wherein... The intermediate component is removably connected to the water reservoir base to receive the humidified airflow and transmit it to the air delivery pipe.

13. The device according to claim 12, wherein, The intermediate component is generally tubular in shape, and the water reservoir base includes a generally tubular base opening for receiving the intermediate component, the intermediate component and the base opening being configured for the intermediate component to be inserted into the base opening substantially without friction.

14. The device of claim 13, further comprising a port seal disposed to provide a sealing engagement between the port and the base frame opening when the intermediate component is in its operating configuration. in, The intermediate component and the base opening include at least one pair of engaging members arranged such that, during insertion of the intermediate component into the base opening, engagement of the at least one pair of engaging members allows the intermediate component to enter its operating configuration, wherein at least one of the following is achieved: a sealing engagement between the port seal and the base opening; and a support engagement achieved by the at least one pair of engaging members, the support engagement being configured to prevent the intermediate component from being removed from its operating configuration without significant external force.

15. The device according to claim 14, wherein, The engagement of the at least one pair of engagement members occurs at a point downstream of the insertion path.

16. The device according to claim 15, wherein, The at least one pair of engagement forming members includes two or more pairs of engagement forming members, wherein one or more pairs of engagement forming members include a lifting feature that moves at least a portion of the intermediate member upward.

17. The device according to claim 16, wherein, The lifting feature is located at the bottom of the base opening and pushes the intermediate component upward to reduce the gap between the top of the base opening and the intermediate component after the intermediate component has been inserted into the base opening by a predetermined distance.

18. The device according to claim 14, wherein, The at least one pair of engagement forming members includes two or more pairs of engagement forming members, wherein each pair of engagement forming members is arranged to engage nearly simultaneously during the insertion of the intermediate member into the base opening.

19. The device of claim 1, further comprising a port seal configured to surround the port, wherein, The port seal includes a peripheral seal forming member, the peripheral seal forming member including a ridge, the ridge being configured to abut the surface of the base frame surrounding the base frame opening when the intermediate component is coupled to the water reservoir base.

20. The device according to claim 11, wherein, The device includes at least the port seal configured to surround the port, wherein the port seal includes a peripheral seal forming member, the peripheral seal forming member including a lip configured to abut a surface of the base frame surrounding the base frame opening when the intermediate component is coupled to the humidifier.

21. The device according to claim 20, wherein, The lip extends at an angle from the periphery of the port above the port and toward the central axis of the port.

22. The device according to claim 20, wherein, The port seal covers the inner surface of the port and includes the membrane.

23. The device according to claim 20, wherein, The membrane is at least coplanar with the inner or outer surface of the intermediate component.

24. The device according to claim 23, wherein, The membrane is impermeable to liquids and / or gases.

25. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The controller is configured to determine the characteristics of the air delivery tube or patient interface based on the analysis.

26. The device according to claim 25, wherein, The controller is also configured to determine the type or size of the air delivery tube, or the type or size of the patient interface connected to the air delivery tube, based on the analysis.

27. The device according to claim 12, wherein, The inlet end is configured to connect the water reservoir to the intermediate component, wherein the air path between the inlet end and the outlet end is non-linear and includes at least one loop, wherein at least the loop closest to the port is curved.

28. The device of claim 27, wherein the central axis of the inlet end is substantially transverse to the central axis of the outlet end, thereby defining corresponding transverse air paths, outer angles, and inner angles, each angle comprising the inner surface of a circle.

29. The device according to claim 28, wherein, The lateral air path is adjacent to the inlet end, which includes an inlet seal adapted to dock with the water reservoir.

30. The device according to claim 28, wherein, The interior angle includes a bellows, the bellows including the span between opposite sides of the bellows, the span being equal to or less than twice the radius of the interior angle.

31. The device according to claim 28, wherein, The inner surface of the inner angle includes a curved surface with a radius of curvature of 0.2-5 mm.

32. The device according to claim 12, wherein, The intermediate component is configured to pneumatically connect the air delivery pipe to the water reservoir and mechanically connect the air delivery pipe to the water reservoir base.

33. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The air delivery pipe is configured to form both a mechanical and electrical connection when it is connected to the intermediate component.

34. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a converter configured to generate a flow signal representing an attribute of the airflow, wherein, The controller is configured to: Controlling the operation of the pressure generator; and During the operation of the pressure generator: Receives the streaming signal from the converter and the sound signal generated by the sensor; The received audio signal is analyzed as described above; as well as The operation of the pressure generator is modified at least in part based on the received stream signal and the analysis of the sound signal.

35. The device according to claim 34, further comprising: A circuit board is located at the second end adjacent to the base frame opening, wherein the sensor is positioned on the circuit board and aligned with the base frame opening.

36. The device according to claim 35, wherein, The second end of the base frame opening includes an opening larger than the opening at the first end opposite to the second end.

37. The device according to claim 35, wherein, The second end of the base frame opening is provided by a sidewall extending from the surface of the base frame facing the circuit board.

38. The device according to claim 37, wherein, The sensor is located at least partially inside the base frame opening and / or the side wall.

39. The device of claim 35, further comprising a seal disposed between the base frame and the circuit board and adjacent to a second end of the opening in the base frame.

40. The device according to claim 39, wherein, The seal includes a peripheral seal forming member, the peripheral seal forming member including a lip or ridge configured to adjoin the surface of the circuit board adjacent to the sensor.

41. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The intermediate component is generally tubular in shape and includes a flange disposed between the inlet end and the outlet end, and one or more buffers disposed on the side of the flange facing the inlet end.

42. The device according to claim 41, wherein, The intermediate component also includes a barbed tab at one end of the intermediate component relative to the outlet end, wherein the barbed tab is configured to provide a snap-fit ​​connection with a locking member of the base frame, and the one or more buffers are pressed down by the flange against a portion of the base frame during the snap-fit ​​connection, and the barbed tab is forced against the locking member without significant external force to prevent the barbed tab from disengaging from the locking member.

43. The device of claim 42, wherein during the initial insertion of the intermediate component into the generally tubular opening, minimal resistance is provided between the intermediate component and the generally tubular opening, and in the later stages of the insertion, resistance increases at locations where one or more engagement features of the intermediate component engage with corresponding engagement features in the generally tubular opening of the base frame, the engagement between the corresponding engagement features of the intermediate component and the base frame opening guiding the intermediate component into its operating configuration.

44. The device of claim 42, further comprising a port seal, the port seal being positioned to provide a sealing engagement between the port and the base frame opening in the operating position, wherein, Later in the process of inserting the intermediate component into the generally tubular opening, the interaction between the corresponding engagement features of the intermediate component and the base frame opening positions the intermediate component to ensure a sealing engagement between the port seal and the surface of the base frame surrounding the base frame opening.

45. The device of claim 44, further comprising a water reservoir including a cavity configured to hold a volume of water and receive the airflow such that the airflow is humidified before being delivered to the patient interface; and further comprising a water reservoir base configured and arranged to receive the water reservoir in the operating position, wherein, The inlet end of the intermediate component is removably connected to the water reservoir base to receive the humidified airflow and transmit it to the air delivery pipe. The inlet end includes an inlet seal, and In the operating position, the port seal provides a sealing engagement between the port and the base opening, and the inlet seal provides a sealing engagement between the inlet end and the water reservoir base.

46. ​​The device according to claim 41, wherein, The intermediate component also includes guide flanges on the outer surface of the intermediate component and / or guide rails on the outer surface of the intermediate component, the guide flanges and the guide rails being configured and arranged to assist the intermediate component in aligning and inserting into the generally tubular opening in the base frame by engaging with corresponding guide slots extending into the generally tubular opening in the base frame.

47. The device according to claim 46, wherein, The guide flange is disposed on the front and upper sides of the intermediate component, and the guide rail is disposed on the lower side of the intermediate component.

48. The device according to any one of claims 11 and 19 to 24, wherein, The intermediate component is generally tubular in shape, and wherein, during the insertion of the intermediate component into the opening, a gap is provided between the port seal and the base frame adjacent to the base frame, and during the insertion of the intermediate component into the opening, after the edge of the port passes the central axis or the edge of the base frame opening, the port seal begins to engage the base frame.

49. The device according to claim 48, wherein, After the port seal begins to engage the base frame, the intermediate component is inserted further by a predetermined distance to allow the intermediate component to enter its operating configuration.

50. The device of claim 5 further includes a flexible housing overmolded on the sensor, which is at least partially displaced from the circuit board through the base frame opening.

Images