Components for transferring fluid from a breathing device

Abstract

A device is provided to prevent water from entering a medical device having a housing. Such water ingress can originate from, for example, a connected humidifier. The device comprises an end cap including at least one orifice for selective connection with a compatible accessory. The end cap is composed of panels that cooperate to provide an internal fluid passage for diverting water from the point of ingress to the outside of the housing.

Description

[0001] 2 CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority from Australian provisional application No. 2020903918 filed on 29 October 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. BACKGROUND 3.1 TECHNICAL FIELD

[0004] The present technology relates to one or more of the screening, diagnosis, monitoring, treatment, prevention and amelioration of a respiratory-related disorder. The present technology also relates to medical devices or apparatuses, and their use. The present technology also relates to a component for preventing liquid ingress into a medical device, in particular a respiratory treatment device.

[0005] 3.2 DESCRIPTION OF RELATED ART

[0006] 3.2.1 The human respiratory system and its disorders

[0007] The respiratory system of the body facilitates gas exchange. The nose and mouth form entry points to the respiratory tract.

[0008] The respiratory tract includes a series of branching tubes leading to the lungs. The lungs are the primary sites of gas exchange and allow oxygen to enter the bloodstream and carbon dioxide to leave the bloodstream. The trachea divides into the left and right main bronchus which in turn divide into the bronchial tubes, which become narrower and shorter as they branch further into the lungs. The bronchial tubes end in the respiratory bronchioles, which lead to the alveolar sacs. The alveoli are the sites of gas exchange, with oxygen entering the bloodstream and carbon dioxide leaving the bloodstream. See West, John B. Respiratory Physiology—The Essentials, 9th Ed. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2012.

[0009] There is a range of respiratory disorders. Certain disorders can be characterised by particular events, such as apneas, hypopneas, and hyperpneas.

[0010] Examples of respiratory disorders include obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), Cheyne-Stokes Respiration (CSR), respiratory insufficiency, Obesity Hypoventilation Syndrome (OHS), Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Neuromuscular Disease (NMD), and Chest Wall Disorder.

[0011] 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 the affected patient 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).

[0012] Cheyne-Stokes respiration (CSR) is another form of sleep-disordered breathing. CSR is a disorder of the patient's respiratory controller, characterized by rhythmic alternations of waxing and waning ventilation known as the CSR cycle. 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).

[0013] Respiratory failure is a term for a respiratory disorder in which the lungs are unable to inhale enough oxygen or exhale enough CO2 to meet the patient's needs. Respiratory failure can encompass some or all of the following disorders.

[0014] Patients with respiratory insufficiency (a form of respiratory failure) may experience unusual shortness of breath during exercise.

[0015] 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.

[0016] 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.

[0017] Neuromuscular disease (NMD) is a broad term encompassing many conditions 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.

[0018] Chest wall disorders are a group of chest wall deformities that result in inefficient coupling 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.

[0019] 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.

[0020] 3.2.2 Treatment

[0021] Various respiratory therapies, such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), non-invasive ventilation (NIV), invasive ventilation (IV), and high-flow therapy (HFT), have been used to treat one or more of the aforementioned respiratory disorders.

[0022] 3.2.2.1 Respiratory pressure therapy

[0023] Respiratory pressure therapy involves supplying air to the airway inlet at a controlled target pressure that is nominally positive relative to the atmosphere throughout the patient’s respiratory cycle (as opposed to negative pressure therapy, such as that of a canister ventilator or endotracheal ventilator).

[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, or if so, in any of these ways.

[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 disease (NMD), and chest wall disorders. In some forms, it can improve the comfort and effectiveness of these treatments.

[0026] Non-invasive ventilation (IV) provides ventilatory support for 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] 3.2.2.2 Flow Therapy

[0028] Not all respiratory therapies are designed to deliver a prescribed therapeutic pressure. Some respiratory therapies are designed to deliver a prescribed respiratory volume by delivering an inspiratory flow rate profile (possibly superimposed on a positive baseline pressure) over a target duration. In other cases, the interface to the patient's airway is "open" (unsealed), and the respiratory therapy may supplement only the patient's own spontaneous breathing with a regulated or enriched flow of gas. In one example, high-flow therapy (HFT) can be a continuous, heated, humidified flow of air to the airway inlet through an unsealed or open patient interface at a "therapeutic flow rate" that remains approximately constant throughout the respiratory cycle. This therapeutic flow rate is nominally set to exceed the patient's peak inspiratory flow rate. HFT has been used to treat OSA, CSR, respiratory failure, COPD, and other respiratory disorders. One mechanism of action is that the high flow rate of air at the airway inlet improves ventilation efficiency by flushing or washing out exhaled CO2 from the patient's anatomical dead space. Therefore, HFT is sometimes referred to as deadspace therapy (DST). Other benefits may include increased warmth and humidity (which may be beneficial in secretion management) and the possibility of appropriately increasing airway pressure. As an alternative to a constant flow rate, a therapeutic flow rate can follow a curve that varies throughout the respiratory cycle.

[0029] Another form of flow therapy is long-term oxygen therapy (LTOT), or supplemental oxygen therapy. Doctors can prescribe a continuous flow of oxygen-enriched gas to the patient's airway at a specified oxygen concentration (from 21%, the oxygen fraction in ambient air, to 100%) and a specified flow rate (e.g., 1 liter per minute (LPM), 2 LPM, 3 LPM, etc.).

[0030] 3.2.2.3 Supplementing oxygen

[0031] For some patients, oxygen therapy can be combined with respiratory pressure therapy or HFT by adding supplemental oxygen to the pressurized airflow. When oxygen is added to respiratory pressure therapy, this is called RPT with supplemental oxygen. When oxygen is added to HFT, the resulting therapy is called HFT with supplemental oxygen.

[0032] 3.2.3 Respiratory Therapy System

[0033] These respiratory therapies can be provided by respiratory therapy systems or devices. Such systems and devices can also be used to screen, diagnose, or monitor a condition without treating it.

[0034] A respiratory therapy system may include a respiratory pressure therapy device (RPT device), an air circuit, a humidifier, a patient interface, an oxygen source, and data management.

[0035] Another form of therapeutic system is the mandibular repositioning device.

[0036] 3.2.3.1 Respiratory Pressure Therapy (RPT) Device

[0037] 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 pressure-controlled (for respiratory pressure therapy) or flow-controlled (for flow therapy such as HFT). Therefore, RPT devices can also be used as flow therapy devices. Examples of RPT devices include CPAP devices and ventilators.

[0038] Air pressure generators are known in 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 suffer from drawbacks related to one or more of the following: comfort, noise, ease of use, efficiency, size, weight, manufacturability, cost, and reliability.

[0039] One example of a specific requirement for certain RPT devices is noise.

[0040] Noise output level table for existing RPT devices (only one sample, measured in CPAP mode at 10 cm H2O using the test method specified in ISO 3744).

[0041] RPT device name A-weighted sound pressure level dB(A) Year (approx.) C series Tango TM 31.9 2007 C series with humidifier Tango TM]] 33.1 2007 [S8 Escape TM II]] 30.5 2005 S8 with H4i™ humidifier EscapeTM II]] 31.1 2005 [S9 AutoSet TM]]> 26.5 2010 H5i TM S9 AutoSet TM]]> 28.6 2010

[0042] One known RPT device for treating sleep-disordered breathing is the ResMed S9 Sleep Therapy System. Another example of an RPT device is a ventilator. Ventilators, such as the ResMed Stellar ventilator for adults and children, are also mentioned. TM The series can provide invasive and non-invasive non-dependent ventilation support for a range of patients to treat a variety of conditions, such as, but not limited to, NMD, OHS and COPD.

[0043] ResMed Elisée TM 150 ventilators and ResMed VS III TM Ventilators provide support for invasive and non-invasive dependent ventilation for adult or pediatric patients, treating a variety of conditions. These ventilators offer volume-based and pressure-based ventilation modes with single-limb or dual-limb circuits. RPT devices typically include a pressure generator, such as a motor-driven blower or compressed gas reservoir, and are configured to supply airflow to the patient's airway. In some cases, the airflow can be supplied to the patient's airway at positive pressure. The RPT device's outlet is connected via an air circuit to a patient interface such as those described above.

[0044] RPT devices can include, for example, high-flow-rate therapy devices configured to provide high-flow-rate treatment. In this regard, some respiratory therapies are designed to deliver a prescribed respiratory volume by delivering an inspiratory flow rate profile (possibly superimposed on a positive baseline pressure) over a target duration. In other cases, the interface to the patient's airway is "open" (unsealed), and the respiratory therapy may supplement only the patient's own spontaneous breathing with a regulated or enriched flow of gas. In one example, high-flow-rate therapy (HFT) delivers a continuous, heated, humidified flow of air to the airway inlet through an unsealed or open patient interface at a "treatment flow rate" that remains substantially constant throughout the respiratory cycle. This treatment flow rate is nominally set to exceed the patient's peak inspiratory flow rate. HFT has been used to treat OSA, CSR, respiratory failure, COPD, and other respiratory disorders. One mechanism of action is that the high flow rate of air at the airway inlet improves ventilation efficiency by flushing or washing out exhaled CO2 from the patient's anatomical dead space. Therefore, HFT is sometimes referred to as deadspace therapy (DST). Other benefits may include increased warmth and humidity (which may be beneficial in secretion management) and the possibility of appropriately increasing airway pressure. As an alternative to a constant flow rate, a therapeutic flow rate can follow a curve that varies throughout the respiratory cycle.

[0045] This provides designers with an almost limitless number of options. Design standards often conflict, meaning that some design choices are unconventional or unavoidable. Furthermore, certain aspects of comfort and efficiency may be highly sensitive to minute variations in one or more parameters.

[0046] 3.2.3.2 Air Circuit

[0047] An air circuit is a conduit or tube constructed and arranged to allow airflow between two components of a respiratory therapy system, such as an RPT device and a patient interface, during use. In some cases, there may be separate branches of the air circuit for inspiratory and expiratory breathing. In other cases, a single-branch air circuit is used for both inspiratory and expiratory breathing.

[0048] 3.2.3.3 Humidifier

[0049] Delivering an unhumidified airflow can lead to airway dryness. Using a humidifier with an RPT device and patient interface to generate humidified air 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. Therefore, humidifiers typically have the ability to both heat and humidify the airflow.

[0050] Many artificial humidification devices and systems are known, however, they do not meet the specific requirements of medical humidifiers.

[0051] Medical humidifiers are used to increase the humidity, temperature (or both) of an airflow relative to ambient air, typically when the patient is asleep or resting (e.g., in a hospital). Bedside medical humidifiers can be 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, evaporative coolers, etc.) can also humidify the air inhaled by the patient; however, these systems also humidify and / or heat the entire room, which can make the occupant uncomfortable. Furthermore, medical humidifiers may have stricter safety constraints than industrial humidifiers.

[0052] While many medical humidifiers are known, they may have one or more drawbacks. Some medical humidifiers may provide insufficient humidification, and some may be difficult or inconvenient for patients to use. Additionally, patient error or accidents may cause liquid to spill from the tank of a conventional humidifier, which could then come into contact with the electrical or delicate mechanical components of the RPT device. This could lead to patient injury and / or device malfunction. Therefore, it is necessary to protect the electrical and mechanical components of the RPT device from water ingress, especially when connected to a humidifier.

[0053] 3.2.3.4 Oxygen Source

[0054] Experts in this field have recognized the long-term benefits of exercise for patients with respiratory failure, slowing disease progression, improving quality of life, and extending lifespan. However, most stationary forms of exercise, such as treadmills and stationary bikes, are too strenuous for these patients. Consequently, the need for mobility has long been recognized. Until recently, this mobility was facilitated by using small compressed oxygen canisters or cylinders mounted on trolleys with small wheels. The disadvantages of these canisters are that they contain a limited amount of oxygen and are heavy, weighing approximately 50 pounds when mounted.

[0055] Oxygen concentrators have been used for approximately 50 years to provide oxygen for respiratory therapy. Traditional oxygen concentrators are large and bulky, making ordinary mobile operations difficult and impractical. Recently, companies that manufacture large stationary oxygen concentrators have begun developing portable oxygen concentrators (POCs). The advantage of POCs is that they can produce a theoretically unlimited supply of oxygen. To make these devices highly mobile, various systems used to produce oxygen-enriched gas need to be condensed. POCs seek to utilize the oxygen they produce as efficiently as possible, minimizing weight, size, and power consumption. This can be achieved by delivering oxygen in a series of pulses, or “boli,” each boli timed to coincide with the start of inspiration. This mode of treatment is called pulsed or on-demand (oxygen) delivery (POD), in contrast to the traditional continuous flow delivery more suited to stationary oxygen concentrators. Summary of the Invention

[0056] 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.

[0057] The first aspect of this technology relates to devices for screening, diagnosing, monitoring, improving, treating or preventing respiratory disorders.

[0058] Another aspect of this technology relates to methods for screening, diagnosing, monitoring, improving, treating, or preventing respiratory disorders.

[0059] One aspect of certain forms of this technology is for providing methods and / or devices to improve patient adherence to respiratory therapy.

[0060] Another aspect of this technology is to provide a liquid guiding assembly comprising multiple panels suitable for use between, for example, an RPT device and a humidifier. These panels are configured to form one or more internal channels when connected. These channels are configured to redirect liquid from the humidifier away from the internal components of the RPT device and into the surrounding environment through the RPT device housing. The channels can be formed in various configurations around any inlet / outlet, coupling component, or electrical connector.

[0061] One aspect of this technology is a liquid diversion assembly for a medical device including a housing. The liquid diversion assembly includes an end cap associated with the housing, the end cap having at least one orifice for selective coupling with a compatible accessory, wherein the end cap includes at least one internal fluid channel in fluid communication with the at least one orifice to divert liquid to the outside of the housing.

[0062] In the example, the end cap may include multiple panels, each panel having an inner surface and an outer surface, wherein the multiple panels are connected together to form the end cap and define at least one internal fluid channel therebetween. In the example, the multiple panels include: a proximal panel, which is close to the medical device during use, and includes a first inner surface and a first outer surface; and a distal panel, which is distant from the medical device during use, and includes a second inner surface and a second outer surface. In the example, the flow guiding assembly includes at least one wall extending between the first and second inner surfaces, wherein the internal fluid channel is at least partially defined by at least one wall, the first inner surface, and the second inner surface.

[0063] In the example, the proximal panel includes at least one recess in the first inner surface, wherein at least one orifice is located between the second outer surface and the second inner surface of the distal panel, and wherein the at least one recess is substantially aligned with the at least one orifice. In the example, at least one wall extends along the first and second inner surfaces to substantially surround the at least one recess, wherein the at least one wall includes a gap at a location below the at least one recess, the gap being configured to allow liquid to flow from an internal fluid passage to the exterior of the end cap. In the example, the lower surface of the at least one recess slopes from an upper location on the first inner surface to a lower location.

[0064] In the example, the proximal panel may include a guide protrusion surrounding each of at least one recess, wherein the guide protrusion projects from a first inner surface toward a second inner surface, and an air gap is maintained between the guide protrusion and the second inner surface. In the example, the guide protrusion may include a radially outward-facing surface and a radially inward-facing surface meeting at its apex. In the example, each guide protrusion may include a raised base surrounding the recess and a guide protrusion extending from the raised base. In the example, a platform portion may be provided between the radially outward edge of the raised base and the guide protrusion.

[0065] In the example, at least one wall may include a first wall extending from a first inner surface and a second wall extending from a second inner surface, wherein the proximal panel and the distal panel are configured such that, when joined, the first wall and the second wall cooperate to form an internal fluid channel.

[0066] In the example, the panels can be joined to form a single integral part. In the example, these panels can be joined by mechanical means (e.g., using fasteners, and / or engineering fits) and / or by bonding (e.g., thermal bonding, such as thermal riveting, or ultrasonic welding).

[0067] In the example, a compatible accessory could be a humidifier. In the example, a medical device could be a ventilator.

[0068] One aspect of this technology is a device for supplying a breathable gas flow under positive pressure for respiratory therapy, wherein the device comprises: a pressure generator for generating and supplying the breathable gas flow to an outlet; a housing that at least accommodates the pressure generator; and a liquid guide assembly substantially as described herein, wherein an end cap of the liquid guide assembly is configured to be fixed relative to the housing containing at least the pressure generator.

[0069] One aspect of this technology is a respiratory therapy system comprising, substantially as described herein, a device for supplying a breathable airflow under positive pressure for respiratory therapy, and a humidifier device that alters the absolute humidity of the airflow delivered to the patient's airway inlet by comparison with the absolute humidity of ambient air, wherein the humidifier device is configured to be selectively coupled to the device for supplying the breathable airflow via at least one orifice of an end cap.

[0070] In the example, the device includes an end cap associated with the housing. In the example, the end cap is configured to selectively couple with a chamber and a reservoir. In the example, the end cap is positioned such that it forms a seal with the housing. In the example, the end cap forms a physical barrier between the pneumatic block and the optional chamber and reservoir.

[0071] 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.

[0072] Other features of the present technology will become apparent from the information contained in the following detailed description, abstract, drawings and claims. Attached Figure Description

[0073] 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:

[0074] 5.1 Respiratory Therapy System

[0075] 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 conditioned 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.

[0076] 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.

[0077] Figure 1CA 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.

[0078] 5.2 RPT device

[0079] Figure 2A An RPT device of one form according to the present technology is shown.

[0080] Figure 2B This is a schematic diagram of the pneumatic path of one form of RPT device according to this technology. 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 within the pneumatic path between the blower and the patient interface are located downstream of the blower and upstream of the patient interface.

[0081] Figure 2C A schematic diagram of the electrical components of one form of RPT device according to the present technology is shown.

[0082] Figure 2D A schematic diagram of an algorithm implemented in one form of RPT device according to the present technology is shown.

[0083] Figure 2E This is an illustration of one form of the present technology. Figure 2D The flowchart shows the method performed by the treatment engine module.

[0084] 5.3 Humidifier

[0085] Figure 3A An isometric view of one form of humidifier according to the present technology is shown.

[0086] Figure 3B An isometric view of one form of humidifier according to the present technology is shown, which shows the humidifier reservoir 5110 removed from the humidifier reservoir base 5130.

[0087] Figure 3C A schematic diagram of one type of humidifier according to the present technology is shown.

[0088] Figure 3D An isometric view of one form of humidifier according to the present technology is shown.

[0089] 5.4 Liquid flow guiding components

[0090] Figure 4AAn exploded isometric view of one form of RPT device according to the present technology is shown, which is associated with a liquid guide assembly and further coupled to a humidifier.

[0091] Figure 4B One form according to the present technology is shown. Figure 4A An exploded isometric view of the liquid guiding assembly shown.

[0092] Figure 4C It shows Figure 4B An isometric view of the liquid guiding assembly, showing the inner surface of the distal panel.

[0093] Figure 4D It shows Figure 4B An isometric view of the liquid guiding assembly, showing the outer surface of the distal panel.

[0094] Figure 4E It shows Figure 4B An isometric view of the liquid guiding assembly, showing the inner surface of the proximal panel.

[0095] Figure 4F It shows Figure 4B An isometric view of the liquid flow guide assembly, showing the outer surface of the proximal panel.

[0096] Figure 4G It shows Figure 4B An isometric view of the liquid guiding assembly, showing the inner surface of the proximal panel.

[0097] Figure 4H It shows Figure 4B An isometric view of the liquid guiding assembly, showing the inner surface of the distal panel.

[0098] Figure 4I It shows Figure 4B A cross-sectional view of the liquid guiding component.

[0099] Figure 5A An exploded isometric view of another example of a liquid guiding assembly according to the present technology is shown.

[0100] Figure 5B An isometric view of the inner surface of the distal panel of the liquid guiding assembly is shown.

[0101] Figure 5C An end view of the inner surface of the distal panel of the liquid guiding assembly is shown.

[0102] Figure 5D An isometric view of the inner surface of the proximal panel of the liquid guiding assembly is shown.

[0103] Figure 5EAn end view of the outer surface of the proximal panel of the liquid guiding assembly is shown.

[0104] Figure 5F An isometric view of a recess in the inner surface of the proximal panel of a liquid guiding assembly is shown.

[0105] Figure 5G A cross-sectional view of a recess in the inner surface of the proximal panel of the liquid guiding assembly is shown.

[0106] Figure 5H A cross-sectional view of the liquid guiding assembly is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0107] 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 invention is for the purpose of describing the specific examples described herein only and is not intended to be limiting.

[0108] 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 can 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 can form another example.

[0109] 6.1 Humidifier

[0110] 6.1.1 Humidifier Overview

[0111] Breathing humidifiers are available in various forms and can be standalone devices coupled to an RPT device via an air circuit, integrated with an RPT device, or configured to be directly coupled to an associated RPT device. While known passive humidifiers can provide some relief, heated humidifiers are typically used to provide sufficient humidity and temperature to the air for patient comfort. In an example, the humidifier includes: a water reservoir or tank with a capacity of several hundred milliliters (ml), a heating element for heating the water in the reservoir, a controller capable of changing the humidification level, a gas inlet for receiving gas from an airflow generator or RPT device, and a gas outlet adapted to connect to an air circuit that delivers humidified gas to the patient interface.

[0112] Heated passive humidification is a common form of humidification used in conjunction with RPT (Regenerative Thermal Phosphating) units. In this type of humidifier, the heating element is integrated into a heating plate located below and in thermal contact with the water tank. Therefore, heat is primarily transferred from the heating plate to the water reservoir via conduction. Airflow from the RPT unit passes over the hot water in the tank, causing water vapor to be absorbed by the airflow. (ResMed H4i) TM and H5i TMThe humidifier is an example of this type of heated passive humidifier, which is used in conjunction with ResMed S8 and S9 CPAP units respectively.

[0113] Other humidifiers can also be used, such as bubble or diffuser humidifiers, jet humidifiers, or wicking humidifiers. In bubble or diffuser humidifiers, air is guided below the surface of the water, allowing the bubbles to return to the top. Jet humidifiers produce an aerosol of water and can use baffles or filters to remove or evaporate particles before they leave the humidifier. Wicking humidifiers use absorbent materials, such as sponges or paper, to absorb water through capillary action. The absorbent material is positioned within or adjacent to at least a portion of the airflow path to allow water in the absorbent material to evaporate into the airflow.

[0114] By using reverse flow TM (CounterStream TM ResMed HumiCare technology TM The D900 humidifier provides an alternative form of humidification, the CounterStream. TM The technology directs airflow over a large surface area in a first direction while simultaneously supplying hot water to the same area in a second, opposite direction. (ResMed HumiCare) TM The D900 humidifier can be used with a range of invasive and non-invasive ventilators.

[0115] In one form of this technology, a humidifier 5000 is provided (e.g., such as...). Figure 3A (As shown), to change the absolute humidity of the air or gas used to deliver to the patient relative to 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 ambient air) before it is delivered to the patient's airway.

[0116] The humidifier 5000 may include a humidifier reservoir 5110, a humidifier inlet 5002 for receiving an airflow, and a humidifier outlet 5004 for delivering the humidified airflow. In some forms, such as Figure 3A and Figure 3B As shown, the inlet and outlet of the humidifier reservoir 5110 can be a humidifier inlet 5002 and a humidifier outlet 5004, respectively. The humidifier 5000 may also include a humidifier base 5006, which may be adapted to receive the humidifier reservoir 5110 and include a heating element 5240.

[0117] 6.1.2 Humidifier Components

[0118] 6.1.2.1 Water Storage Tank

[0119] According to one arrangement, the humidifier 5000 may include a water reservoir 5110 configured to maintain or retain a liquid (e.g., water) capacity for evaporation to humidify the airflow. The water reservoir 5110 may be configured to maintain a predetermined maximum water capacity to provide adequate humidification for at least the duration of a respiratory therapy session, such as one night's sleep. Typically, the reservoir 5110 is configured to hold several hundred milliliters of water, for example, 300 milliliters (ml), 325 ml, 350 ml, or 400 ml. In other forms, the humidifier 5000 may be configured to receive a water supply from an external water source, such as a building's water supply system.

[0120] According to one aspect, the water reservoir 5110 is configured to increase the humidity of an airflow from the RPT device 4000 as airflow passes through it. In one form, the water reservoir 5110 may be configured to facilitate the airflow's travel in a curved path through the reservoir 5110 while in contact with the water volume therein.

[0121] According to one form, the storage 5110 can, for example, be along such a path. Figure 3A and Figure 3B The lateral direction shown is removed from the humidifier 5000.

[0122] The reservoir 5110 may also be configured to prevent liquid from flowing out of it, such as through any orifice and / or between its sub-components, when the reservoir 5110 is displaced and / or rotated from its normal operating direction. Since the airflow to be humidified by the humidifier 5000 is typically pressurized, the reservoir 5110 may also be configured to prevent loss of pneumatic pressure due to leakage and / or flow resistance.

[0123] 6.1.2.2 Conducting section

[0124] According to one arrangement, the reservoir 5110 includes a conductive portion 5120 configured to allow efficient heat transfer from the heating element 5240 to the liquid volume within the reservoir 5110. In one form, the conductive portion 5120 may be arranged as a plate, but other shapes are equally applicable. All or part of the conductive portion 5120 may be made of a thermally conductive material, such as aluminum (e.g., with a thickness of approximately 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 thermal conductivity.

[0125] 6.1.2.3 Humidifier storage base

[0126] In one form, the humidifier 5000 may include a humidifier reservoir base 5130 (e.g., Figure 3BAs shown), it is configured to receive a humidifier reservoir 5110. In some arrangements, the humidifier reservoir base 5130 may include a locking mechanism, such as a locking lever 5135 configured to hold the reservoir 5110 in the humidifier reservoir base 5130.

[0127] 6.1.2.4 Water level indicator

[0128] The humidifier storage unit 5110 may include, for example: Figures 3A-3B The water level indicator 5150 is shown. In some forms, the water level indicator 5150 may provide a user (such as a patient 1000 or a caregiver) with one or more indications regarding the amount of water in the humidifier reservoir 5110. The one or more indications provided by the water level indicator 5150 may include an indication of the maximum predetermined volume of water, any portion thereof, such as 25%, 50%, 75%, or a volume such as 200 ml, 300 ml, or 400 ml.

[0129] 6.1.2.5 Humidifier Transducer

[0130] The humidifier 5000 may include one or more humidifier transducers (sensors) 5210, other than or in addition to the transducer 4270 described above. For example... Figure 3C As shown, the humidifier transducer 5210 may include one or more of an air pressure sensor 5212, an air flow transducer 5214, a temperature sensor 5216, or a humidity sensor 5218. The humidifier transducer 5210 may generate one or more output signals that can communicate with a controller (such as a central controller 4230 and / or a humidifier controller 5250). In some forms, the humidifier transducer may be externally located to the humidifier 5000 (such as in the air circuit 4170) when communicating the output signal to the controller.

[0131] 6.1.2.5.1 Pressure Transducer

[0132] In addition to or in addition to the pressure sensor 4272 provided in the RPT device 4000, one or more pressure transducers 5212 may be provided to the humidifier 5000.

[0133] 6.1.2.5.2 Flow Transducer

[0134] In addition to or in addition to the flow sensor 4274 provided in the RPT device 4000, one or more flow transducers 5214 may be provided to the humidifier 5000.

[0135] 6.1.2.5.3 Temperature transducer

[0136] 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 5004. In some forms, the humidifier 5000 may further include a temperature sensor 5216 for detecting the ambient air temperature.

[0137] 6.1.2.5.4 Humidifier Transducer

[0138] In some forms, the humidifier 5000 may include one or more humidity sensors 5218 for detecting the humidity of a gas, such as ambient air. In some forms, the humidity sensor 5218 may be positioned toward the humidifier outlet 5004 to measure the humidity of the gas delivered from the humidifier 5000. The humidity sensor may be an absolute humidity sensor or a relative humidity sensor.

[0139] 6.1.2.6 Heating element

[0140] In some cases, heating element 5240 may be provided to humidifier 5000 to provide heat input to one or more of the water capacity in humidifier reservoir 5110 and / or to airflow. Heating element 5240 may include heating components, such as resistive electric heating rails. A suitable example of heating element 5240 is a layered heating element, such as the layered heating element described in PCT patent application publication number WO 2012 / 171072, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0141] In some configurations, the heating element 5240 may be housed within the humidifier base 5006, such as... Figure 3B The heat shown can be supplied to the humidifier reservoir 5110 mainly through conduction.

[0142] 6.1.2.7 Humidifier Controller

[0143] According to one arrangement of this technology, such as Figure 3C The humidifier 5000 shown 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.

[0144] In one configuration, the humidifier controller 5250 may receive, for example, measurements of characteristics of airflow and waterflow (such as temperature, humidity, pressure, and / or flow rate) in the storage unit 5110 and / or the 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.

[0145] like Figure 3C As shown, the humidifier controller 5250 may include one or more controllers, such as a central humidifier controller 5251, a heated air circuit controller 5254 configured to control the temperature of the heated air circuit 4171, and / or a heating element controller 5252 configured to control the temperature of the heating element 5240.

[0146] 6.1.3 Humidifier liquid entry

[0147] According to one aspect of the present technology, the humidifier 5000 may have a body including a housing 5300. The housing 5300 may be formed in two parts, an upper part 5302 and a lower part 5304. The body of the humidifier 5000 also includes a chassis 5310.

[0148] The chassis mentioned herein should be understood as a structural support frame, i.e., a structural element configured to support one or more other components, more specifically one or more internal components, of the humidifier 5000. The housing should be understood as an element that covers or protects other components of the structure. In one example, the housing 5300 is configured to at least partially cover or protect the chassis 5310. In an alternative example, the humidifier 5000 may include a housing 5310 configured to function as the chassis 5310. In an alternative example, the humidifier 5000 may include a chassis 5310 that does not itself have a separate housing.

[0149] In the example, the humidifier 5000 includes a removable container in the form of a water reservoir 5110. A chassis 5310 is configured to position and support the removable reservoir 5110 during use. Figure 3D In the example shown, the reservoir 5110 is inserted into one end of the humidifier and removed from the other end. In an alternative example, the reservoir 5110 may be removed from one side (i.e., laterally) or from above or below (i.e., vertically) of the humidifier 5000. PCT Patent Application Publication No. WO 2018 / 094452A1 describes an exemplary arrangement for a humidifier having a removable water reservoir, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0150] In an alternative example, chassis 5310 may include a chamber that serves as a water reservoir 5110, i.e., integrated with chassis 5310 rather than being removable.

[0151] There are various circumstances under which water can flow from the water reservoir 5110 through the chamber inlet 5314, including tapping the humidifier 5000 or its mounting bracket to create a shaking effect, or tilting the humidifier 5000 when it is moved or reoriented.

[0152] According to one aspect of this technology, such as Figure 3DAs shown, the humidifier 5000 includes a sealing element in the form of a chassis cap 5330. In this example, the chassis cap 5330 is configured to seal the humidifier housing 5300 and the humidifier chassis 5310, as further described below.

[0153] In the example, chassis cap 5330 includes air inlet 5334, which is configured to connect to a positive pressure airflow source, such as RPT device 4000.

[0154] In the example, a gas flow path is provided between air inlet 5334 and chamber inlet 5314, which in some configurations forms a liquid trap 5380 for retaining a certain volume of water overflowing through chamber inlet port 5314.

[0155] There are various circumstances under which water can flow from the water reservoir 5110 through the chamber inlet 5314, including impacts to the humidifier 5000 or its mounting bracket to create a shaking effect, or tilting the humidifier 5000 when it is moved or reoriented. A liquid trap 5380 is provided to retain the volume of this overflow water, thereby reducing the likelihood of water reaching other components upstream of the system, more specifically the RPT device 4000.

[0156] One advantage of the liquid flow assembly embodiments described herein is that they provide a simple, cost-effective, and user-friendly mechanism to prevent damage to the RPT device that could be caused by such “shaking” or “tilting” of the humidifier, which causes liquid to flow from the reservoir 5110 via the chamber inlet port 5314 and into the pneumatic block 4020, which houses the motor 4144 and various sensors and power supply. This liquid flow can occur through direct shaking, or through leakage in a non-waterproof connection in the air inlet path 5334, or both.

[0157] 6.2 Treatment

[0158] In one form, the technology includes a method for treating respiratory disorders, the method comprising applying positive pressure to the airway inlet of a patient 1000.

[0159] In some examples of this technique, positive pressure air is supplied to the patient's nasal passages through one or both nostrils.

[0160] In some examples of this technique, mouth breathing is limited, restricted, or prevented.

[0161] 6.3 Respiratory Therapy System

[0162] In one form, the technology includes a respiratory therapy system for treating respiratory disorders. The respiratory therapy system may include an RPT device 4000 for supplying an airflow to a patient 1000 via an air circuit 4170 and a patient interface 3000.

[0163] 6.4RPT device

[0164] An RPT device 4000 according to one aspect of the present technology includes mechanical, pneumatic and / or electrical components and is configured to execute one or more algorithms 4300, such as any of the methods described herein in whole or in part. The RPT device 4000 may be configured to generate an airflow for delivery to a patient's airway, for example, for treating one or more respiratory conditions described elsewhere in this document.

[0165] 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.

[0166] The RPT device may have an outer housing 4010, which is composed of two parts: an upper part 4012 and a lower part 4014. Furthermore, the outer housing 4010 may include one or more panels 4015. The RPT device 4000 includes a chassis 4016 that supports one or more internal components of the RPT device 4000. The RPT device 4000 may include a handle 4018.

[0167] The pneumatic path of the RPT device 4000 may include one or more air path objects, such as an inlet air filter 4112, an inlet silencer 4122, a pressure generator 4140 (e.g., a blower 4142) capable of supplying positive pressure air, an outlet silencer 4124, and one or more converters 4270, such as a pressure sensor 4272 and a flow sensor 4274.

[0168] One or more air path components may be housed within a detachable, separate structure, referred to as pneumatic block 4020. Pneumatic block 4020 may be housed within an outer housing 4010. In one embodiment, pneumatic block 4020 is supported by, or forms part of, a chassis 4016.

[0169] 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, a pressure generator 4140, one or more protection circuits 4250, a memory 4260, a 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. In an alternative embodiment, the RPT device 4000 may include more than one PCBA 4202.

[0170] 6.4.1 Mechanical and pneumatic components of the RPT device

[0171] 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 configured as separate units.

[0172] 6.4.1.1 Air Filter

[0173] One form of RPT device according to the present technology may include an air filter 4110, or a plurality of air filters 4110.

[0174] In one configuration, the inlet air filter 4112 is positioned at the beginning of the pneumatic path upstream of the pressure generator 4140.

[0175] In one configuration, an outlet air filter 4114, such as an antibacterial filter, is positioned between the outlet of the pneumatic block 4020 and the patient interface 3000.

[0176] 6.4.1.2 Muffler

[0177] One form of RPT device according to the present technology may include one or more mufflers 4120.

[0178] In one embodiment of this technology, the inlet silencer 4122 is positioned in the pneumatic path upstream of the pressure generator 4140.

[0179] In one embodiment of this technology, the outlet silencer 4124 is positioned in the pneumatic path between the pressure generator 4140 and the patient interface 3000.

[0180] 6.4.1.3 Pressure Generator

[0181] 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 an air supply, for example, at a rate up to about 120 liters per minute and at a positive pressure ranging from about 4 cm H2O to about 20 cm H2O, or in other forms up to about 30 cm H2O, for example, when delivering respiratory pressure therapy. 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.

[0182] The pressure generator 4140 is controlled by the treatment device controller 4240.

[0183] In other words, the pressure generator 4140 can be a piston-driven pump, a pressure regulator (e.g., a compressed air reservoir) connected to a high-pressure source, or a bellows.

[0184] 6.4.1.4 Transducer

[0185] The transducer can be inside or outside the RPT device. An external transducer can be located, for example, on or form part of an air circuit such as a patient interface. The external transducer can be in the form of a non-contact sensor, such as a Doppler radar motion sensor that transmits or transfers data to the RPT device.

[0186] In one embodiment of this technology, one or more transducers 4270 may be positioned upstream and / or downstream of pressure generator 4140. One or more transducers 4270 may be configured and arranged to generate a signal representing airflow characteristics such as flow rate, pressure, or temperature at that point in the pneumatic path.

[0187] In one form of this technology, one or more converters 4270 may be positioned proximal to the patient interface 3000.

[0188] In one embodiment, the signal from transducer 4270 may be filtered, for example, by low-pass filtering, high-pass filtering, or band-pass filtering.

[0189] 6.4.1.4.1 Flow Sensor

[0190] The flow sensor 4274 according to this technology can be based on a differential pressure transducer, such as the SDP600 series differential pressure transducer from SENSIRION.

[0191] In one configuration, a signal generated by flow sensor 4274 and representing flow rate is received by central controller 4230.

[0192] 6.4.1.4.2 Pressure Sensor

[0193] The pressure sensor 4272 according to this technology is positioned in fluid communication with the pneumatic path. A suitable example of a pressure sensor is a transducer from the HONEYWELL ASDX series. A suitable alternative is a transducer from the GENERALELECTRIC NPA series.

[0194] In one configuration, a signal generated from a pressure sensor 4272 can be received by a central controller 4230.

[0195] 6.4.1.4.3 Motor speed transducer

[0196] In one embodiment of this technology, a motor speed transducer 4276 is used to determine the rotational speed of a motor 4144 and / or a blower 4142. The motor speed signal from the motor speed transducer 4276 can be provided to a treatment device controller 4240. The motor speed transducer 4276 can be, for example, a speed sensor, such as a Hall effect sensor.

[0197] 6.4.1.5 Backflow Valve

[0198] In one embodiment of this technology, a backflow valve 4160 is positioned between the humidifier 5000 and the pneumatic block 4020. The backflow valve is constructed and arranged to reduce the risk of water flowing upstream from the humidifier 5000 to, for example, the motor 4144.

[0199] 6.4.1.6 Liquid flow guiding assembly

[0200] According to one form of this technology, such as Figure 4A As shown, housing 4010 includes a closure element in the form of an end cap 6012. In this example, the end cap 6012 is configured to seal against housing 4010 and can be selectively coupled to a compatible medical device, such as a humidifier 5000, as further described below.

[0201] exist Figure 4BIn one of the best-illustrated forms, the end cap 6012 includes at least one coupling member 6038, which includes: a gas orifice 6035 configured to be in fluid communication with the outlet of the pneumatic block 4020 during use; at least one orifice 6034; and at least one recess 6036, wherein the at least one orifice 6034, the recess 6036, and the coupling member 6038 are configured such that they can facilitate selective connection to the humidifier 5000. In other forms of the present technology, there are several possible embodiments of the external portion that include the orifice 6034, the coupling member 6038, and / or the recess 6036 (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 5A Different configurations of one or more of the exemplary end caps (shown in the example end cap 6012).

[0202] In one embodiment of this technology, the end cap 6012 includes at least one internal channel (also referred to herein as an internal fluid channel) in fluid communication with at least one orifice 6034 to transfer liquid that has “overflowed” from the selectively connected humidifier 5000, or alternatively, liquid that has been accidentally spilled onto the RPT device by the user, to the outside of the housing 4010. In another embodiment, the end cap 6012 may include multiple internal channels to divert liquid from multiple orifices, coupling elements, or recesses, and may be configured in various forms depending on the nature of the selectively compatible accessory or medical device. Therefore, the end cap 6012 is referred to herein as a liquid diversion assembly.

[0203] In one form, the end cap 6012 may be composed of multiple panels, such as a proximal panel 6016 and a distal panel 6024. Each panel will be described as having an inner surface (e.g., surfaces 6018 and 6026, respectively) and an outer surface (e.g., surfaces 6022 and 6030, respectively). These panels 6016, 6024 may be assembled such that, during operational orientation, the proximal panel 6016 is located proximal to the electrical components of the medical device 4000, and the distal panel 6024 is located distal to the electrical components of the medical device 4000 (i.e., closer to the humidifier 5000 when selectively coupled to a humidifier). These panels 6016, 6024 may be mechanically, thermally, or ultrasonically bonded to form the end cap 6012. In an alternative form, the end cap 6012 may include one or more additional panels. In another alternative form, a single panel may be configured to have an internal structure similar to the internal structure described herein (i.e., providing one or more internal channels), for example, by molding or 3D printing methods.

[0204] In one form of this technology, a proximal panel 6016 is provided comprising an inner surface 6018 configured to include at least one protrusion forming a guide wall 6020. The guide wall 6020 may project from the inner surface 6018 of the panel 6016 at a substantially perpendicular angle; however, other projection angles may also be suitable. The proximal panel 6016 may further include at least one recess 6036. In use, such a recess 6036 may receive a fastening element of the humidifier 5000 (e.g., a barbed latch configured to be inserted through an aperture 6034 and captured on the inner surface 6026 of the distal panel 6024), or a component of an electrical connector (e.g., a PCB assembly connected to a wiring loom, to which a complementary electrical connector may be coupled). In such an example, the at least one protrusion forming the guide wall 6020 may extend from a location associated with the area defined by the at least one recess 6036. In some forms, when the end cap 6012 is in the operating or use orientation, at least one guide wall 6020 may be included in one or more upper portions extending along the inner surface 6018 in a position above at least one recess 6036. In some forms, at least one guide wall 6020 may be included in one or more lateral portions extending along the inner surface 6018 in a position on the side of at least one recess 6036. In, for example Figure 4E In the example shown, the lateral portion may be connected between the two upper portions. In some forms, the at least one guide wall 6020 may substantially surround the at least one recess 6036. In some forms, the at least one guide wall 6020 extends beyond the periphery of the at least one recess 6036, for example, to connect with the periphery of the panel 6016.

[0205] In some forms of the present technology, at least one guide wall 6020 may be molded from the same material as the proximal panel 6016; however, it is also conceivable that the guide wall 6020 may be formed from a flexible material such as silicone, or alternatively from a hydrophobic film.

[0206] In one embodiment, the end cap 6012 may include a distal panel 6024 remote from the medical device 4000. The distal panel 6024 may include a coupling aperture 6040 configured to receive a coupling member 6038, for example, shaped to be bonded to the periphery of the coupling member 6038. The distal panel 6024 may include an inner surface 6026 configured to include at least one protrusion providing a positioning feature 6028. The at least one positioning feature 6028 may extend at an angle substantially perpendicular to the inner surface 6026 of the panel 6024. The distal panel 6024 may also include at least one aperture 6034 between the inner surface 6026 and the outer surface 6030. The at least one positioning feature 6028 may extend from a location associated with the area defined by the at least one aperture 6034. In some embodiments, the positioning feature 6028 may substantially surround the at least one aperture 6034.

[0207] In the example, the distal panel 6024 may further include a peripheral wall 6029. The peripheral wall 6029 may extend along at least a portion of the periphery of the panel 6024 at an angle substantially perpendicular to the inner surface 6026 of the panel 6024. In the example, the peripheral wall 6029 may extend along the inner surface 6026 of the panel 6024 at a position radially outward from the aperture 6034. In the example, the peripheral wall 6029 may extend along the inner surface 6026 of the panel 6024 at a position radially outward from at least one guide wall 6034. In the example, a portion of the peripheral wall 6029 may extend along the inner surface 6026 of the panel 6024 at a position above at least one guide wall 6020. In the example, a portion of the peripheral wall 6029 may extend along the inner surface 6026 of the panel 6024 at a position laterally offset from at least one guide wall 6020 (i.e., toward one side of that or these guide walls 6020).

[0208] During operation, liquid can penetrate the RPT device 4000 in several ways. In the event of accidental spillage or splashing of liquid onto the device by the user, liquid entry can occur at the periphery of the end cap 6012, or, if used without a coupled humidifier, via one of the plurality of orifices 6034 and recesses 6036. When coupled to the humidifier 5000, liquid can flow out from the reservoir 5110 (e.g., via a non-waterproof connector cooperating with one or more orifices 6034). In cases where liquid penetrates the device from the humidifier 5000 at the periphery of the end cap 6012 or via a non-waterproof connector, some forms of the present technology provide an end cap 6012 comprising a plurality of panels 6016, 6024. Panels 6016 and 6024 are configured such that when the proximal panel 6016 and the distal panel 6024 are attached to the end cap 6012, the inner surfaces 6018 and 6026 and at least one guide wall 6020 cooperate to form at least one internal fluid channel 6041 within the end cap 6012, as... Figure 4I The cross-sectional view is shown. In the example, one or more positioning features 6028 may cooperate with at least one guide wall 6020 to provide a waterproof seal. In an alternative example, the positioning feature 6028 may be used to interact with the guide wall 6020 to position panels 6016 and 6024 relative to each other, wherein the seal occurs between the guide wall 6020 and the inner surface 6026 of the distal panel 6024.

[0209] exist Figures 4B to 4I In the example, the internal fluid channel 6041 has a watertight periphery that restricts the entry of liquid from the orifice 6034 and the recess 6036, and serves as a channel to deflect any incoming liquid toward the underside or lower portion of the end cap 6012, wherein a gap 6039 exists in the watertight periphery through which liquid can escape to the outer surface of the RPT device housing 4010 due to gravity, capillary action, or other natural forces. The incoming liquid is thus diverted from the sensitive electrical components of the RPT device 4000 described below. The lower surface of one or more recesses 6036 may also be arcuate (or more generally angled from the upper to the lower position at the inner surface 6018), as... Figure 4I As shown, any incoming liquid does not accumulate in the recess 6036, but flows out of the recess by gravity and flows through the internal fluid channel 6041 to the lower part of the end cap 6012.

[0210] In some examples, one or more surfaces forming the fluid channels are coated with a hydrophobic material to facilitate faster transfer of liquid to the outside of the housing 4010.

[0211] Although the guide wall 6020 provided on the inner surface 6018 of the proximal panel 6016 and the positioning feature 6028 and peripheral wall 6029 provided on the inner surface 6026 of the distal panel 6024 have been described with reference to the guide wall 6020 provided on the inner surface 6018 of the proximal panel 6016 and the positioning feature 6028 and peripheral wall 6029 provided on the inner surface 602 Figures 4B to 4I The exemplary end cap 6012 is provided, but it should be understood that in alternative examples, the opposite arrangement or a combination thereof may be used to provide internal fluid passages.

[0212] Figure 5A Another example of a closure element in the form of an end cap 6012 according to one aspect of the present technology is shown. In this example, the end cap 6012 is configured to be selectively coupled to a compatible medical device, such as a humidifier 5000, to seal its housing 4010. As described above, the end cap 6012 is configured to facilitate selective connection to the humidifier 5000.

[0213] In this example, end cap 6012 includes a proximal panel 6016 having an inner surface 6018 and an outer surface 6022, and a distal panel 6024 having an inner surface 6026 and an outer surface 6030. In this example, the distal panel 6024 includes an electrical connector recess 6042 in the outer surface 6030 (i.e., protruding from the inner surface 6026). The proximal panel 6016 includes an electrical connector aperture 6044 through which the electrical connector recess 6042 protrudes, and an electrical connector PCB assembly 6046 is mounted on the outer side of the proximal panel 6016 onto a support of the electrical connector recess 6042. In use, the electrical connector is inserted into the electrical connector recess 6042 and mats with a corresponding connector connected to the PCB assembly 6046.

[0214] In this example, the distal panel 6024 includes a plurality of apertures 6034. On the inner surface 6026 of the distal panel 6024, a plurality of positioning features 6028 are disposed around each aperture 6034, extending at an angle substantially perpendicular to the inner surface 6026 of the panel 6024. In this example, the positioning features 6028 may be positioned above and / or below each aperture 6034. In this example, the length of the positioning features 6028 across the inner surface 6026 (i.e., in the lateral direction) in the above and / or below positions may be less than the width of the associated aperture 6034. In this example, the positioning features 6028 may be provided in one or more lateral positions relative to each aperture 6034 (i.e., relative to one or more sides of the aperture 6034). In the illustrated example (see, for example, [reference needed]). Figure 5C The location feature 6028 is discrete, meaning it is not connected to each other and has gaps between it.

[0215] In the example, the distal panel 6024 may further include a peripheral wall 6029. The peripheral wall 6029 may extend along at least a portion of the periphery of the panel 6024 at an angle substantially perpendicular to the inner surface 6026 of the panel 6024. In the illustrated example (see, for example, [reference needed]). Figure 5C The peripheral wall 6029 extends around the periphery of the panel 6024 and has a peripheral wall gap 6048 at a position below the orifice 6034.

[0216] In this example (see, for example) Figure 5D The proximal panel 6016 includes a guide protrusion 6050 projecting from the inner surface 6018 of the panel 6016. In this example, the guide protrusion 6050 surrounds each recess 6036. (See reference...) Figure 5F In this example, the guide protrusion 6050 includes a raised base 6052 and a guide protrusion 6054 extending from the raised base 6052. In this example, the guide protrusion 6054 has radially outward and radially inward surfaces that taper towards each other, meeting at a sharp apex; however, it should be understood that in alternative examples, the apex may be rounded or flat. In this example, a raised portion is provided between the radially outward edge of the raised base 6052 and the guide protrusion 6054. In alternative examples, the guide protrusion 6054 may extend directly from the inner surface 6018 (i.e., the guide protrusion 6050 may not include a raised base 6052).

[0217] Reference Figure 5D In this example, the proximal panel 6016 includes a positioning wall 6056 projecting from the inner surface 6018 of the panel 6016. The positioning wall 6056 extends along the inner surface 6018 at a radially outward position relative to the recess 6036, aligning with the peripheral wall 6029 of the distal panel 6024 when the end cap 6012 is formed. The positioning wall 6056 also includes a positioning wall gap 6058 that is substantially aligned with the peripheral wall gap 6048 of the distal panel 6024.

[0218] Reference Figure 5G and Figure 5H When the end cap 6012 is formed by joining the proximal panel 6016 and the distal panel 6024, an internal fluid passage 6041 is formed therebetween. A peripheral wall 6029 and a positioning wall 6056 cooperate to form a seal around the periphery of the internal fluid passage 6041, more specifically extending around a surface that commonly includes an orifice 6034 and a recess 6036, except for a gap 6039 created by the positioning wall gap 6058 and the peripheral wall gap 6048 in the lower position. In this example, the seal extends around the periphery of the coupling member 6038 and the coupling orifice 6040. Liquid allowed to enter the internal fluid passage 6041 flows through the gap 6039 to the outside of the end cap 6012. See details. Figure 5GIn this example, liquid moving downward toward or flowing from the recess 6036 is directed to the shaped surface of the protrusion 6050, causing it to move toward the inner surface 6026 and flow along the internal fluid passage 6041 toward the gap 6039.

[0219] 6.4.2 Electrical components of the RPT device

[0220] 6.4.2.1 Power Supply

[0221] The power supply 4210 can be located inside or outside the outer housing 4010 of the RPT device 4000.

[0222] 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.

[0223] 6.4.2.2 Input Device

[0224] 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 personnel to interact 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 an external housing 4010, or in another form, they can communicate wirelessly with a receiver electrically connected to a central controller 4230.

[0225] In one form, the input device 4220 may be configured or arranged to allow a person to select values ​​and / or menu options.

[0226] 6.4.2.3 Central Controller

[0227] In one form of this technology, the central controller 4230 is one or more processors adapted to control the RPT device 4000.

[0228] Suitable processors may include x86 Intel processors, based on those from ARM Holdings. Processors with an M-bit RISC CPU, such as the STM32 series microcontrollers from ST Microelectronics, are also suitable. In some alternative forms of this technology, processors with a 32-bit RISC CPU, such as the STR9 series microcontrollers from ST Microelectronics, or a 16-bit RISC CPU, such as the MSP430 series microcontrollers from Texas Instruments, are equally applicable.

[0229] In one form of this technology, the central controller 4230 is a dedicated electronic circuit.

[0230] 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.

[0231] The central controller 4230 can be configured to receive input signals from one or more transducers 4270, one or more input devices 4220, and humidifier 5000.

[0232] The central controller 4230 can be configured to provide output signals to one or more output devices 4290, treatment device controller 4240, data communication interface 4280 and humidifier 5000.

[0233] 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, the remote positioning device may determine ventilator control settings or detect respiratory-related events by analyzing stored data such as from any of the sensors described herein.

[0234] 6.4.2.4 Clock

[0235] RPT device 4000 may include a clock 4232 connected to central controller 4230.

[0236] 6.4.2.5 Treatment device controller

[0237] 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.

[0238] 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.

[0239] 6.4.2.6 Protection Circuit

[0240] One or more protection circuits 4250 according to the present technology may include electrical protection circuits, temperature and / or pressure safety circuits.

[0241] 6.4.2.7 Memory

[0242] 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.

[0243] The memory 4260 may be located on PCBA 4202. The memory 4260 may be in the form of EEPROM or NAND flash memory.

[0244] 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.

[0245] In one form of this technology, memory 4260 is used as a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing computer program instructions representing one or more methods described herein, such as one or more algorithms 4300.

[0246] 6.4.2.8 Data Communication System

[0247] 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.

[0248] 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.

[0249] 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).

[0250] In one form, the local external communication network 4284 utilizes one or more communication standards, such as Bluetooth or consumer infrared protocols.

[0251] In one form, the remote external device 4286 can be one or more computers, such as a cluster of networked computers. In another form, the remote external device 4286 can 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.

[0252] The local external device 4288 can be a personal computer, mobile phone, tablet, or remote control device.

[0253] 6.4.2.9 Includes optional display and alarm output devices.

[0254] 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.

[0255] 6.4.2.9.1 Display Driver

[0256] 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.

[0257] 6.4.2.9.2 Monitor

[0258] 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 indicating whether the eight corresponding segments will be activated to display a specific character or symbol.

[0259] 6.4.3 RPT Device Algorithm

[0260] As described above, in some forms of this technology, the central controller 4230 may be configured to implement one or more algorithms 4300 represented as computer programs stored in a non-transient computer-readable storage medium (such as memory 4260). The algorithms 4300 are generally grouped into groups called modules.

[0261] In other forms of this technology, some or all of the algorithm 4300 may be implemented by the controller of an external device, such as a local external device 4288 or a remote external device 4286. In this form, the input signals and / or intermediate algorithm outputs required to represent the portion of the algorithm 4300 to be executed at the external device may be transmitted to the external device via a local external communication network 4284 or a remote external communication network 4282. In this form, the portion of the algorithm 4300 to be executed at the external device may be represented as a computer program stored in a non-transient computer-readable storage medium accessible to the controller of the external device. Such a program configures the controller of the external device to execute portions of the algorithm 4300.

[0262] In this configuration, treatment parameters generated by an external device via the treatment engine module 4320 (if thus forming part of the algorithm 4300 executed by the external device) can be transmitted to the central controller 4230 for transfer to the treatment control module 4330.

[0263] 6.5 Air Circuit

[0264] 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.

[0265] 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.

[0266] In some forms, the air circuit 4170 may include one or more heating elements configured to heat air in the air circuit, for example, to maintain or raise the temperature of the air. The heating element may be in 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 the 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.

[0267] 6.5.1 Supplemental Gas Delivery

[0268] In one form of this technology, supplemental gas, namely 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.

[0269] 6.6 Glossary

[0270] For the purposes of this technical disclosure, one or more of the following definitions may be applied in certain forms of this technology. Alternative definitions may be applied in other forms of this technology.

[0271] 6.6.1 General Rules

[0272] Air: In some forms of this technology, air may be considered to mean atmospheric air, and in other forms of this technology, air may be considered to mean some other combination of breathable gases, such as oxygen-rich atmospheric air.

[0273] Environment: In some forms of this technology, the term environment may have the following meanings: (i) outside the treatment system or the patient, and (ii) directly surrounding the treatment system or the patient.

[0274] For example, the environment relative to a humidifier Humidity This could be the humidity of the air directly surrounding the humidifier, such as the humidity in the room where the patient sleeps. This type of ambient humidity can differ from the humidity outside the patient's room.

[0275] In another example, environmental stress can be stress that is directly around the body or outside the body.

[0276] In some forms, ambient (e.g., acoustic) noise can be considered as the background noise level in the patient's room, excluding noise generated by, for example, the RPT device or from the mask or patient interface. Ambient noise can be generated by sound sources outside the room.

[0277] Automated positive airway pressure (APAP) therapy: CPAP therapy in which the treatment pressure is automatically adjusted between a minimum and a maximum, for example, varying with each breath, depending on the presence of an indication of an SBD event.

[0278] Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy: In this therapy, the treatment pressure can be approximately constant throughout the patient's respiratory cycle. In some forms, the pressure at the airway inlet will be slightly higher during expiration and slightly lower during inspiration. In other forms, the pressure will vary between the patient's different respiratory cycles, for example, increasing in response to an indication of partial upper airway obstruction and decreasing in response to the absence of an indication of partial upper airway obstruction.

[0279] Humidifier: The term humidifier will be considered to refer to a humidifying device that is constructed and arranged or configured with a physical structure that provides a therapeutically beneficial amount of water (H2O) vapor to an airflow to improve the patient’s medical respiratory condition.

[0280] Leakage: The word "leakage" refers to undesirable airflow.

[0281] Patient: A person, regardless of whether they have a respiratory illness.

[0282] Pressure: Force per unit area. Pressure can be expressed in units of area, including cmH2O and gf / cm². 2 1000 Pascals. 1 cmH2O equals 1 g-f / cm³ 2 And it is approximately 0.98 hectopascals (1 hectopascal = 100 Pa = 100N / m 2= 1 millibar to 0.001 atmospheres (atm). In this specification, unless otherwise stated, pressure is given in cmH2O.

[0283] The pressure in the patient interface is given by the symbol Pm, while the treatment pressure is given by the symbol Pt, which represents the target value obtained through the interface pressure Pm at the current moment.

[0284] Respiratory pressure therapy (RPT): Applying air supply to the airway inlet at a therapeutic pressure that is typically positive relative to the atmosphere.

[0285] Ventilator: A mechanical device that provides pressure support to a patient to perform some or all of the breathing work.

[0286] 6.6.1.1 Materials

[0287] Silicone or silicone elastomer: Synthetic rubber. In this specification, reference to silicone refers to liquid silicone (LSR) or molding silicone (CMSR). One commercially available form of LSR is SILASTIC (included in the range of products sold under this trademark), manufactured by Dow Corning. Another manufacturer of LSR is Wacker Chemie. Unless otherwise specified, exemplary forms of LSR have a Shore A (or Type A) indentation hardness in the range of about 35 to about 45 as measured using ASTM D2240.

[0288] Polycarbonate: a transparent thermoplastic polymer of bisphenol A carbonate.

[0289] 6.6.1.2 Mechanical Properties

[0290] Resilience: The ability of a material to absorb energy during elastic deformation and release energy during unloading.

[0291] Elasticity: Releases virtually all of the energy upon unloading. Examples include certain siloxanes and thermoplastic elastomers.

[0292] Hardness: The ability of a material to resist deformation (e.g., described by Young's modulus or an indentation hardness scale measured on a standardized sample size).

[0293] • "Soft" materials may include silicone or thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) and can be easily deformed, for example, under finger pressure.

[0294] • "Hard" materials can include polycarbonate, polypropylene, steel or aluminum, and are not easily deformed, for example, under finger pressure.

[0295] Stiffness (or rigidity) of a structure or component: the ability of a structure or component to resist deformation in response to an applied load. The load can be a force or moment, such as compression, tension, bending, or torsion. A structure or component can provide different resistance in different directions. The reciprocal of stiffness is flexibility.

[0296] Flexible structures or components: structures or components that will change shape (e.g., bend) when subjected to a relatively short period of time, such as 1 second, to support their own weight.

[0297] Rigid structures or components: Structures or components that do not substantially change shape when subjected to the loads typically encountered in use. An example of such use could be, for instance, setting and maintaining a sealed relationship between the patient interface and the inlet of the patient's airway at a pressure of approximately 20 to 30 cmH2O.

[0298] As an example, an I-beam may include a different bending stiffness (resistance to bending loads) in the first direction compared to the second orthogonal direction. In another example, the structure or component may be flexible in the first direction and rigid in the second direction.

[0299] 6.6.2 Structural Shape

[0300] Products according to this technology may include one or more three-dimensional mechanical structures, such as face mask pads or thrusters. Three-dimensional structures can be combined using two-dimensional surfaces. These surfaces can be distinguished using markings to describe the orientation, location, function, or other characteristics of the associated surfaces. For example, a structure may include one or more of a front surface, a rear surface, an inner surface, and an outer surface. In another example, a seal-forming structure may include a surface that contacts the face (e.g., the outer surface) and separate surfaces that do not contact the face (e.g., the underside or inner surface). In another example, a structure may include a first surface and a second surface.

[0301] To facilitate the description of the shape of the three-dimensional structure and surface, we first consider a cross-section through the surface of the structure at point p. The outward normal vector at p points away from the surface. In some examples, the surface is described from the viewpoint of an imaginary little person standing upright on the surface.

[0302] 6.6.2.1 One-dimensional curvature

[0303] The curvature of a plane curve at p can be described with a sign (e.g., positive, negative) and a quantity (e.g., the reciprocal of the radius of the circle that only touches the curve at p).

[0304] Positive curvature: If the curve at point p turns outward toward the normal, then the curvature at that point will be positive (if you imagine little people leaving point p, they must walk uphill). Such curves are often called concave.

[0305] Zero curvature: If the curve at point p is a straight line, then the curvature will be zero (if you imagine the little people leaving point p, they can walk horizontally without going up or down).

[0306] Negative curvature: If the curve at point p turns away from the outward normal, then the curvature in that direction at that point will be negative (if you imagine little people leaving point p, they must go downhill).

[0307] 6.6.2.2 Curvature of Two-Dimensional Surfaces

[0308] A description of the shape at a given point on a two-dimensional surface according to the present invention may include multiple normal sections. These sections may cut through the surface in a plane including an outward normal (“normal plane”), and each section may be cut in a different direction. Each cross section produces a planar curve with a corresponding curvature. The different curvatures at that point may have the same sign or different signs. Each curvature at that point has a quantity, for example, a relatively small quantity.

[0309] Principal curvature and principal direction: The direction of the normal plane where the curvature of the curve reaches its maximum and minimum values ​​is called the principal direction.

[0310] A region of a surface: a connected set of points on the surface. This set of points in a region can have similar characteristics, such as curvature or sign.

[0311] Saddle-shaped region: a region in which the principal curvature has opposite signs at each point, i.e., one sign is positive and the other sign is negative (which may be going up or down depending on the direction the imagined individual is turning).

[0312] Dome region: A region in which the principal curvature has the same sign at each point, such as two positive ("concave dome") or two negative ("convex dome").

[0313] Cylindrical region: A region in which one principal curvature is zero (or, for example, zero within manufacturing tolerances) and the other principal curvature is not zero.

[0314] Planar region: A surface region in which both principal curvatures are zero (or, for example, zero within manufacturing tolerances).

[0315] Edge of a surface: the boundary or limit of a surface or region.

[0316] Path: In some forms of this technique, 'path' will be considered to mean a path in a mathematical-topological sense, such as a continuous spatial curve from f(0) to f(1) on a surface. In some forms of this technique, 'path' can be described as a route or distance, including, for example, a set of points on a surface. (The path of an imaginary person is the place where they walk on the surface, and is similar to a garden path).

[0317] Path length: In some forms of this technique, 'path length' will be considered as the distance along the surface from f(0) to f(1), i.e., the distance along the path on the surface. There can be more than one path between two points on the surface, and such paths can have different path lengths. (The path length of a hypothetical person would be the distance they must walk along the path on the surface.)

[0318] Straight-line distance: Straight-line distance is the distance between two points on a surface, but without considering the surface itself. On a planar region, there will exist paths on the surface with the same path length as the straight-line distance between the two points. On a non-planar surface, there may not be paths with the same path length as the straight-line distance between the two points. (For an imaginary individual, straight-line distance will correspond to the distance as a 'straight line'.)

[0319] 6.6.2.3 Hole

[0320] Surfaces may have one-dimensional pores, such as pores defined by planar curves or spatial curves. Thin structures with pores (e.g., membranes) can be described as having one-dimensional pores. Thin structures with pores (e.g., diaphragms) can be described as having one-dimensional pores.

[0321] The structure can have two-dimensional pores, such as pores defined by a surface. For example, an inflatable tire has two-dimensional pores defined by the inner surface of the tire. In another example, a bladder having a cavity for air or gel can have two-dimensional pores. In yet another example, a conduit can include a one-dimensional pore (e.g., at its inlet or outlet) and a two-dimensional pore defined by the inner surface of the conduit.

[0322] 6.7 Other Remarks

[0323] This patent document contains a portion of copyrighted material. The copyright holder does not object to the reproduction of these patent documents or patent disclosures by any person in the form they appear in the patent office documents or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights.

[0324] Unless explicitly stated in the context and a numerical range is provided, it should be understood that every intermediate value between the upper and lower limits of the range, up to one-tenth of the lower limit unit, and any other value or intermediate value within the range are broadly included within this technique. The upper and lower limits of these intermediate ranges may be included independently within the intermediate range and also within the scope of this technique, but are subject to any explicitly excluded boundaries within the range. Where a range includes one or both of the limit values, this technique also includes ranges that exclude any one or both of those included limit values.

[0325] Furthermore, where one or more values ​​described herein are implemented as part of this technique, it should be understood that such values ​​may be approximate unless otherwise stated, and such values ​​may be used to the extent permitted or required by the practical implementation of the technique for any appropriate valid digits.

[0326] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. While any methods and materials similar to or equivalent to those described herein may also be used in the practice or testing of this technology, a limited number of exemplary methods and materials are described herein.

[0327] When a particular material is determined to be used for constructing a component, obvious alternative materials with similar properties may be used as substitutes. Furthermore, unless otherwise stated, any and all components described herein are to be understood as being capable of being manufactured and therefore can be manufactured together or separately.

[0328] It must be noted that, unless the context clearly specifies otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” used herein and in the appended claims include their plural equivalents.

[0329] All publications mentioned herein are incorporated herein in their entirety by reference to disclose and describe the methods and / or materials that are the subject of those publications. The publications discussed herein are provided solely for their disclosure prior to the filing date of this application. This document should not be construed as an admission that the present technology is not entitled to any prior disclosure by virtue of a prior invention. Furthermore, the publication dates provided may differ from the actual publication dates, which may require independent verification.

[0330] The terms “comprises” and “comprising” should be understood as referring to each element, component, or step in a non-exclusive manner, indicating the marked element, component, or step that may be present or utilized, or a combination with other unmarked elements, components, or steps.

[0331] The headings used in the detailed description are for convenience of the reader only and should not be used to limit the subjects that can be found throughout the invention or the claims. These headings should not be used to interpret or limit the scope of the claims.

[0332] Although the present technology has been described herein with reference to specific embodiments, it should be understood that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles and applications of the technology. In some cases, terms and symbols may imply specific details not required by the practical art. For example, although the terms "first" and "second" may be used, unless otherwise stated, they are not intended to indicate any order but rather to distinguish different elements. Furthermore, although process steps in a method may be described or illustrated in sequence, such order is not required. Those skilled in the art will recognize that such order can be modified and / or aspects may be performed simultaneously or even concurrently.

[0333] Therefore, it should be understood that numerous modifications can be made to the exemplary embodiments described herein, and that other arrangements can be designed without departing from the spirit and scope of the present technology.

[0334] 6.8 List of Appendix Labels

[0335]

[0336]

[0337]

Claims

1. A liquid diversion assembly for a medical device comprising a housing, the liquid diversion assembly comprising: an end cap associated with the housing, the end cap comprising: a proximal panel comprising a first inner surface and a first outer surface proximal to the medical device in use; a distal panel comprising a second inner surface and a second outer surface distal to the medical device in use; at least one wall extending between the first inner surface and the second inner surface; at least one aperture for selectively coupling with a compatible accessory, wherein the at least one aperture is located between the second outer surface and the second inner surface of the distal panel, wherein the end cap comprises at least one internal fluidic channel in fluid communication with the at least one aperture for diverting liquid to an exterior of the housing, wherein the internal fluidic channel is at least partially defined by the at least one wall, the first inner surface, and the second inner surface.

2. The liquid diversion assembly of claim 1, wherein the proximal panel comprises at least one recess in the first inner surface, wherein the at least one recess is substantially aligned with the at least one aperture.

3. The liquid diversion assembly of claim 2, wherein the at least one wall extends along the first inner surface and the second inner surface to substantially surround the at least one recess, wherein the at least one wall comprises a gap at a location below the at least one recess, the gap configured to allow liquid to flow from the internal fluidic channel to an exterior of the end cap.

4. The liquid diversion assembly of claim 2, wherein a lower surface of the at least one recess is sloped from an upper location on the first inner surface to a lower location.

5. The liquid diversion assembly of claim 2, wherein the proximal panel comprises a guide protrusion around each of the at least one recess, wherein the guide protrusion protrudes from the first inner surface toward the second inner surface, wherein an air gap is maintained between the guide protrusion and the second inner surface.

6. The liquid diversion assembly of claim 5, wherein the guide protrusion comprises a radially outward facing surface and a radially inward facing surface that meet at an apex.

7. The liquid diversion assembly of claim 5, wherein each guide protrusion comprises a raised base around the recess, and a guide protrusion extending from the raised base.

8. The liquid diversion assembly of claim 7, wherein a plateau is provided between a radially outer edge of the raised base and the guide protrusion.

9. The liquid diversion assembly of any one of claims 1-8, wherein the at least one wall comprises a first wall extending from the first inner surface and a second wall extending from the second inner surface, wherein the proximal panel and the distal panel are configured such that, when connected, the first wall and the second wall cooperate to form the internal fluidic channel.

10. The liquid diversion assembly of any one of claims 1-8, wherein the proximal panel and distal panel are formed as a unitary component.

11. The liquid conducting assembly of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the proximal panel is mechanically, thermally, or ultrasonically bonded with the distal panel.

12. The liquid conducting assembly of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the compatible accessory is a humidifier.

13. The liquid conducting assembly of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the medical device is a breathing machine.

14. An apparatus for supplying a flow of breathable gas at positive pressure for respiratory therapy, wherein the apparatus comprises: a pressure generator for generating and supplying a flow of breathable gas to an outlet; a housing accommodating at least the pressure generator; the liquid conducting assembly of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein an end cap of the liquid conducting assembly is configured to be fixed relative to the housing accommodating at least the pressure generator.

15. A respiratory therapy system comprising: the apparatus for supplying a flow of breathable gas at positive pressure for respiratory therapy of claim 14; a humidifier apparatus that changes the absolute humidity of a flow of gas delivered to an entrance of a patient's airways, the change being compared to the absolute humidity of ambient air, wherein the humidifier apparatus is configured to be selectively coupled to the apparatus for supplying a flow of breathable gas via the at least one orifice of the end cap.

Images