Integrated humidifier water inlet protection

Abstract

A humidifier for a CPAP pressurized air generator includes a water tank with a port device protruding into the interior of the tank. The port device includes an inlet, a chimney surrounding the inlet, an outlet, and a discharge passage. The inlet receives pressurized air output from the CPAP generator and outputs pressurized air at an opening positioned above the maximum fill height of the water tank. The chimney guides the pressurized air output through the inlet through a plurality of outlet slots into the water tank, the outlet slots being positioned below the output height of the inlet. The pressurized air is humidified within the water tank and subsequently flows from the exhaust port into a duct for delivery to the patient's airway. Once the maximum fill height is reached, the discharge passage draws water out of the water tank.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a humidifier for delivering a humidified gas flow to a patient's airway in an airway pressure support system, and particularly to a water tank for such a humidifier and means for preventing water from flowing back from the water tank into the pressure generating unit of the airway pressure support system. Background Technology

[0002] Patient interfaces are used to deliver a flow of breathing gases to users in various settings. In particular, pressurized breathing gases are frequently used to treat medical conditions. For example, positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy is known to be used to treat conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or sleep apnea syndrome, especially obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Known PAP therapies include continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), in which a constant positive pressure is provided to the patient's airway to open the airway with splinting, and adjustable airway pressure, in which the pressure provided to the patient's airway varies with the patient's respiratory cycle.

[0003] Humidifiers are frequently included in CPAP devices because delivering humidified air to the patient's airway increases comfort and improves adherence to CPAP therapy. In CPAP devices that include a humidifier, the humidifier comprises a water tank and a device for heating the water. Pressurized air generated by the CPAP generator is blown across the surface of the heated water to capture humidified air and deliver it to the patient's airway. In these devices, the water chamber itself is typically much larger than the volume of water it is intended to contain. This is to allow the humidifier to operate under abnormal conditions. Abnormal conditions include tilting 20° in each direction and rotating 360° in each direction (including inversion) to comply with certain applicable ISO standards and ensure that any misuse scenarios encountered are described. Under these test conditions, no water can flow from the water chamber into the CPAP generator to which the humidifier is attached, as the CPAP generator contains electrical and mechanical components (hereinafter referred to as "electromechanical components"). To prevent this ingress, some CPAP devices include a "dry chamber" (a chamber between the water chamber and the electromechanical CPAP equipment components to capture any water that might leak from the water chamber) and / or a valve system that can prevent water from leaving the water chamber. Both of these standard solutions are designed to protect the electromechanical components of the CPAP generator from water.

[0004] When used with a humidifier, water ingress into the CPAP generator can cause catastrophic damage to the device's electronics and the blower. More importantly, the presence of electricity within the CPAP generator poses potential safety risks. When the CPAP generator and humidifier are operated in the normally recommended orientation (i.e., flat on a surface such as a bedside table), the water contained in the humidifier will not pose any operational or safety issues, provided the user adheres to the manufacturer-specified fill volume when adding water to the humidifier. Problems with water ingress into the CPAP generator primarily occur during normal misuse, such as when the humidifier is filled beyond its maximum fill volume or when the user fails to drain the water from the humidifier before moving or carrying the device.

[0005] Currently, the most common method for water ingress protection in CPAP humidifier systems is volumetric water ingress protection. This method requires a water tank volume much larger than the required water volume to allow for water movement under conditions such as equipment tilting or rotation, preventing water from the humidification chamber from flowing back into the CPAP pressure generating unit. While this method is very effective in providing water ingress protection for the pressure generating unit, the large water tank volume is a drawback because it necessitates a larger overall unit size and typically requires supplementary protection such as a drying chamber or valves. Therefore, there is room for improvement in the design of water ingress protection devices for CPAP humidifiers.

[0006] European patent application EP 1 055 431 A2 discloses a water chamber having a horizontally oriented gas inlet with an elongated flow tube extending from the inner periphery of the gas inlet into the water chamber. The inlet end of the elongated flow tube covers the inlet, and the outlet end of the flow tube is spaced apart from the wall of the chamber. In use, the flow tube receives gas supplied to the gas inlet, passes through the flow tube, and exits the flow tube at the outlet end remote from the wall. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Therefore, in one embodiment, the present invention aims to provide a water tank configured to contain a volume of water and humidifying air output from a pressurized air generator. The water tank includes a port device extending inwardly from a wall of the tank into the interior of the tank, and the port device includes: an inlet including a channel having a first end configured to receive pressurized air output from the pressurized air generator and a second end positioned opposite the first end at a height above the maximum filling height of the water tank; a chimney surrounding the second end of the inlet and including a plurality of outlet slots positioned below the height of the inlet and in fluid communication with the interior of the water tank; and an outlet including a channel having a first end in fluid communication with the interior of the water tank and a second end positioned opposite the first end and in fluid communication with the exterior of the water tank. The lowest edges of the plurality of outlet slots are positioned above the maximum filling height of the water tank, and the portion of the water tank excluding the port device and water includes a steam zone of the water tank.

[0008] In another embodiment, the humidifier is configured to humidify air output from a pressurized air generator. The humidifier includes a water tank and a lid. The water tank is configured to contain a volume of water, and the lid is selectively attached to the water tank to enclose its interior. The water tank includes port devices extending inward from the tank wall into its interior. The port devices include: an inlet including a channel having a first end configured to receive pressurized air output from the pressurized air generator and a second end positioned opposite the first end at a height above the maximum fill height of the water tank; a chimney surrounding the second end of the inlet and including a plurality of outlet slots positioned below the second end of the inlet and in fluid communication with the interior of the water tank; and an outlet including a channel having a first end in fluid communication with the interior of the water tank and a second end positioned opposite the first end and in fluid communication with the exterior of the water tank. The lowest edges of the plurality of outlet slots are positioned above the maximum fill height of the water tank, and a portion of the water tank excluding the port devices and water includes a vapor zone of the water tank.

[0009] In another embodiment, a respiratory therapy device for providing humidified and pressurized air to a patient's airway includes a pressurized air generator configured to output pressurized air; a humidifier configured to humidify and pressurize the air; and a heat source. The humidifier includes a water tank and a lid, the water tank being configured to contain a volume of water, the lid being selectively coupled to the water tank to enclose the interior of the water tank. The heat source is configured to heat the volume of water and is selectively energized. The water tank includes a port device extending inwardly from a wall of the water tank into the interior of the water tank, and the port device includes: an inlet including a channel having a first end configured to receive pressurized air output from the pressurized air generator and a second end configured opposite the first end, the second end being positioned at a height above the maximum fill height of the water tank; a chimney surrounding the second end of the inlet and including a plurality of outlet slots positioned below the second end of the inlet and in fluid communication with the interior of the water tank; and an outlet including a channel having a first end in fluid communication with the interior of the water tank and a second end configured opposite the first end and in fluid communication with the exterior of the water tank. The lowest edge of several outlet troughs is set at a height higher than the maximum filling height of the water tank, and the volume of the water tank without port devices and without water includes the steam zone of the water tank.

[0010] These and other objects, features, characteristics, as well as the functions of the methods of operation and related structural elements, the combinations of components, and the economics of manufacture of the present invention, will become clearer upon consideration of the following description and the appended claims with reference to the accompanying drawings, all of which form part of the specification, wherein similar reference numerals indicate corresponding components in the various figures. However, it should be clearly understood that the drawings are for illustrative and descriptive purposes only and are not intended to define the scope of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1 This is a simplified diagram of a respiratory therapy system, together with a patient interface device disposed on the patient's face, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0012] Figure 2A This is for use according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 An isometric view of the respiratory therapy machine shown in the respiratory therapy system, which includes a pressurized air generator and a humidifier;

[0013] Figure 2B yes Figure 2A An isometric view of the respiratory therapy machine shown, in which the humidifier is separated from the rest of the respiratory therapy machine;

[0014] Figure 2C yes Figure 2A An alternative isometric view of the respiratory therapy machine shown, in which the humidifier is separated from the rest of the respiratory therapy machine;

[0015] Figure 3A This is according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2A-2C The humidifier shown is a partial top isometric view with the cover removed, revealing the humidifier's inlet, outlet, and overfill channel;

[0016] Figure 3B This is according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3A The centerline 3B-3B is shown Figure 3A A cross-sectional view of a humidifier, where the arrows indicate the paths of pressurized airflow through the humidifier;

[0017] Figure 3C This is according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3A The midline 3C-3C is shown Figure 3A A cross-sectional view of a humidifier, where the arrows indicate the paths of pressurized airflow through the humidifier;

[0018] Figure 4A This is an isometric view of the internal seal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, designed for use in Figure 2A-2C An airtight seal is provided between the humidifier's lid and the water tank;

[0019] Figure 4B This is according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2A-2C The isometric view of the humidifier shown, with the lid removed, depicts the surface of the water tank and the port assembly of the humidifier when the lid is closed. Figure 4A The internal sealing joint is shown;

[0020] Figure 5 yes Figure 2A-2C The image shows a detailed isometric view of a portion of the humidifier, with the lid removed.

[0021] Figure 6 yes Figure 2A-2C Another section of the humidifier is shown in a detailed isometric view, with the lid removed;

[0022] Figure 7 This is according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4B The center line shown in 7-7 Figure 4B A cross-sectional view of the humidifier along a non-central plane, which shows how the humidifier's discharge channel system guides excess water out of the tank when it is overfilled.

[0023] Figure 8 This is according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2A-2C The isometric view of the humidifier's port device shows how water flowing from the water tank into the port device during physical disturbances to the humidifier is drawn out of the port device through the water trough and returned to the water tank.

[0024] Figure 9A As shown Figure 2A-2C The diagram shows a partial top isometric view of the humidifier, with the lid removed. Solid lines indicate the humidifier's exhaust channel, while dashed lines show other features of the humidifier to demonstrate the entire length of the exhaust channel.

[0025] Figure 9B This is according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3A The centerline 9B-9B is shown Figure 3A The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the humidifier, with solid lines indicating the exhaust channel and port devices, and dashed lines indicating other features of the humidifier to show how the exhaust channel extends from the inlet port inside the water tank to the outlet port located on the front of the humidifier. Detailed Implementation

[0026] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include references to the plural unless the context clearly specifies otherwise.

[0027] As used herein, the description of two or more parts or components as “connected” means that these parts are directly or indirectly connected together or operate together, i.e., through one or more intermediate parts or components, as long as a link occurs. As used herein, “direct connection” means that two elements are connected in a manner that is in direct contact with each other. As used herein, “fixed coupling” or “fixed” means that two components are connected so as to move as a whole while maintaining a constant orientation relative to each other. As used herein, “movable connection” means that two components are connected so as to allow at least one component to move in such a manner that the orientation of at least one component relative to the other component can be changed without separation.

[0028] As used in this article, the description of two or more parts or components as "integrated" means that the parts or components are manufactured separately and then joined together to create a larger whole.

[0029] As used in this article, the term “number” should be understood as an integer of one or more (i.e., multiple).

[0030] As used in this article, the word "single" means an assembly created as a single part or unit. That is, an assembly that includes parts created separately and then joined together as units is not a "single" assembly or a whole.

[0031] As used herein, directional phrases such as, for example, and but not limited to, up, down, left, right, high, low, front, back, and their derivatives, relate to the orientation of the elements shown in the figures and do not limit the claims unless expressly enumerated therein.

[0032] The present invention is described in more detail herein in conjunction with various specific exemplary embodiments. The present invention relates to improvements for respiratory therapy machines used with respiratory therapy systems to provide a pressurized flow of breathable gas to a patient's airway. In particular, the present invention relates to positive airway pressure (PAP) respiratory therapy machines, such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices including a humidifier and bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP) devices. Figure 1 This is a simplified diagram of a respiratory therapy system 1, showing a patient interface 2 positioned on the face of the patient P. For example, a CPAP machine's respiratory therapy device 4 generates a pressurized flow of breathable gas, which is delivered to the patient P's airway via a delivery conduit 6 effectively connected to the patient interface 2. While the patient interface 2 is described as a full-face mask, it should be understood that the patient interface device may include a nose / mask, a nose pad, or any other type of interface without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0033] refer to Figure 2A-2C In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the respiratory therapy device 4 includes a pressure generator 10 and a humidifier 100. The pressure generator 10 draws air from the surrounding environment and outputs it through an output port 12 (e.g., ...). Figure 2B (As shown) pressurized air is output to the humidifier 100. According to an exemplary embodiment, the humidifier 100 includes a water tank 102 and a movable cover 104 selectively coupled thereto. When the cover 104 is coupled to the water tank 102, the water tank 102 and the cover 104 define a water tank interior 106 therein, configured to contain a volume of water 108 therein and a steam zone 110 therein (the volume of water 108 and the steam zone 110 are in the following configuration...). Figure 3B and 3C (As shown in the diagram). Steam zone 110 is the area inside water tank 106, excluding port device 120 discussed below, and the volume of water 108 does not occupy this steam zone. Therefore, it should be understood that the volume of water 108 is not fixed, because the volume of steam zone 110 is equal to the difference between the volume of water inside water tank 106 and the volume of water 108 contained in water tank 102. It can be further understood that the volume of steam zone 110 is inversely proportional to the volume of water 108 contained in water tank 102.

[0034] Humidifier 100 is referred to below as: when the lid 104 is as Figure 2A-2C The shown configuration is closed, and it should be understood that the lid 104 can be opened to add water to the water tank 102. The lid 104 and the water tank 102 can, for example, but not limited to, be constructed such that the lid 104 can be opened via hinge 112 (e.g., ...). Figure 2C (As shown) is connected to the water tank 102, and allows the cover 104 to be connected via the latch 114 (as shown). Figure 2BThe cap 104 (shown) is selectively opened and closed, and the pin 114 can engage with the protrusion 116 mounted on the water tank 102 to close the water tank 102. It should be understood that any method suitable for attaching the cap to the container so that the cap can be selectively opened can be used to attach the cap 104 to the water tank 102 without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0035] refer to Figure 2B and 2C The volume of water 108 in the humidifier 100 can be heated by a heat source, which can be part of the humidifier 100 or constructed independently of it. In the embodiments described herein, the heat source 14 is provided in the form of a heating plate with accompanying circuitry and power connections (not shown), allowing the heat source 14 to be selectively powered on and off by the user. Figure 2A-2C In the embodiment of the respiratory therapy device 4 shown, the heat source 14 is a component connected to the pressure generator 10 and the bottom of the humidifier 100 (relative to the pressure generator 100). Figure 2A-2C The view shown is manufactured to form a slot into which the heat source 14 can be inserted, so as to connect the pressure generator 10 and the humidifier 100 together. It should be understood that, as Figure 2B-2C The illustrated respiratory therapy device 4 assembly represents only one possible way in which a heat source can be included in the respiratory therapy device 4, and without departing from the scope of the invention, the heat source 14 can be included as part of the humidifier, rather than the pressure generator 10 or any other suitable device. It should be further understood that when the humidifier 100 and the pressure generator 10 are used as... Figure 2A-2C When arranged as shown, they can be considered to be in a vertical position, that is, connected to the top of the water tank 102 with the humidifier cover 104, and positioned with the bottom of the humidifier 102 so that the heat source 14 can be placed below the water tank 102.

[0036] exist Figure 2A-2C In the illustrated embodiment, the bottom portion of the water tank 102 is formed of a metal plate 118, such that when the pressure generator 10 and the humidifier 100... Figure 2A When connected as shown, heat source 14 is positioned below and in contact with metal plate 118. Turning on heat source 14 heats the metal plate to a sufficiently high temperature to heat the volume of water 108, thereby increasing humidity and steam zone 110 (e.g., Figure 3B-3C The air temperature within the indicated number.

[0037] Continue to refer to Figure 2B and 2C as well as Figures 3A-3C 5 and 6, the gas enters and exits the steam zone 110 of the water tank 102 through the port device 120 (e.g., Figures 3A-3CAs indicated by the number shown, port device 120 extends inward from the wall of tank 102 and is therefore configured as part of tank 102. Port device 120 includes inlet channel 122, outlet channel 124, and several discharge channels 126 (as described in this document). Figure 6 Detailed description). Inlet channel 122 from the first end 128 (e.g.) Figure 2C and 3C (As shown) extends, and is configured to receive output from the output port 12 of the pressure generator 10 to the second end 130 opposite the first end 128 (as shown). Figure 3A and 3C The pressurized air (shown) exits from the inlet channel and enters the chimney 132. It should be understood that each of the first end 128 and the second end 130 forms an opening at the inlet channel 122, and therefore, in the subsequent description of various aspects of the invention, the first end 128 may alternatively be referred to as the first opening 128, and similarly, the second end 130 may alternatively be referred to as the second opening 130, depending on the context of the description. According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the airflow path taken by the pressurized air output from the pressurization generator output port 12 after entering the inlet channel 122 is as follows: Figure 3B and 3C Arrows 201, 203, and 205 are shown.

[0038] When the humidifier 100 and the pressure generator 10 are as Figure 2A When connected as shown, the humidifier 100 is positioned on the side adjacent to the pressure generator 10, hereinafter referred to as the "front" or "rear" side of the humidifier 100, and the side of the humidifier 100 opposite to the front side, hereinafter referred to as the "rear" or "back" side of the humidifier 100. Figure 3B As shown Figure 3A The cross-sectional view of the water tank 102 and the port device 120 shown in lines 3B-3B is shown. Figure 3C As shown Figure 3A The image shows a side cross-sectional view of the water tank 102 and port device 120, as shown in lines 3C-3C. It should be understood that the front of the humidifier 100 is... Figure 3C On the left side, and on the back of the humidifier 100, is Figure 3C On the right side.

[0039] refer to Figure 3B and 3C When the pressure generator 10 delivers pressurized air into the inlet channel 122, the pressurized air initially flows from the first end 128 on the front of the humidifier 100 to the back of the humidifier 100, as indicated by arrow 201. Figure 3CAs shown, the inlet channel 122 is manufactured with an elbow bend (unnumbered), and once pressurized air encounters the elbow bend, it continues to move upward toward the second end 130 of the inlet channel 122 (relative to...). Figure 3B and 3C (The view shown is in the orientation of the direction). The port device 120 further includes a chimney 132, which is a tubular structure surrounding a portion of the inlet channel 122, extending from an elbow bend in the inlet channel 122 to a second end 130 of the inlet channel 122. (Reference) Figure 3C It should be noted that the top of chimney 132 (relative to) Figure 3C The view shown extends above the second end 130 of the inlet channel 122, so that the top edge 134 of the chimney 132 is positioned above the second end 130 of the inlet channel 122.

[0040] refer to Figure 4A The humidifier 100 includes a sealing device 170, as indicated by the dashed line in the figure, which is coupled to the top edge 136 of the water tank 102 and the top edge of the port device 120 (including the top edge 134 of the chimney 132). The sealing device 170 can be formed, for example, but not limited to, from secondary-molded silicone on a plastic substrate. In the embodiment shown, the sealing device 170 is formed in this way and thereby includes a plastic substrate 172 and a plurality of silicone portions 172A-172C. Although in Figure 3A , 5 In Figures 6, 7, and 8, water tank 102 is shown and sealing device 170 is removed to better show the details of port device 120. However, it should be noted that sealing device 170 is coupled to water tank 102 during production (e.g., via external sealing portion 172A) so that when cover 104 is opened or closed, sealing device 170 remains fixed in position, i.e., coupled to the top edge of water tank 102 and port device 120 (e.g., via internal sealing portion 172B). It should be further understood that when sealing device 170 is coupled to water tank 102 and port device 120, a portion of internal sealing device 170 forms a cap 174 for chimney 132, so that the top of chimney 132 (relative to...) Figure 4A (As shown in the view) seals the interior 106 of the water tank 102. The sealing device 170 is designed to seal the top of both the water tank 102 and the port device 120 (relative to the top of the water tank 102 and the port device 120). Figure 3B and 3C(See the view shown) The surfaces are joined so that when the lid 104 is closed, the sealing device 170 forms an airtight seal between the inner surface of the lid 104 and the top portion of the tank 102. To form a seal between the lid 104 and the sealing device 170 (and thus the tank 102), the sealing device further includes an upwardly inclined sealing portion 172C, which seals against the underside of the lid 104 when the lid 104 is attached to the tank 102.

[0041] Refer again Figure 3B and 3C As previously described, the cap 174 seals the top of the chimney 132 from inside the water tank 106, preventing pressurized air leaving the second end 130 of the inlet passage 122 from flowing over the top edge 134 of the chimney 132 and directly into the water tank, while also preventing water from entering the chimney 132 on the top edge 134. Conversely, the pressurized air leaving the second end 130 of the inlet passage 122 is forced to flow downwards, such as... Figure 3B The middle arrow 203 indicates (rather than above the top edge 134 of the chimney 132) and exits from several outlet slots 138 of the chimney 132 (such as...). Figure 5 and 8 (as shown more clearly), as Figure 3B The middle arrow 205 further indicates that the outlet sluice 138 is in fluid communication with the interior 106 of the water tank, and it should be understood that pressurized air flows into the steam zone 110 of the water tank 102 after exiting the chimney 132 through the outlet sluice 138.

[0042] refer to Figure 3A and 5 The port device 120 includes two sidewalls 140, which are arranged generally parallel to each other and perpendicular to the front and back of the humidifier 100. Figure 3A and 5 As shown, the first of two such sidewalls 140 can be clearly seen. For Figure 3A The plane shown includes line 3C-3C, which is orthogonal to the plane containing the front of the humidifier 100. The port device 120 is reflectively symmetrical about line 3C-3C in this plane, and therefore, a second sidewall 140, reflectively symmetrical about the plane and the first sidewall 140, is disposed above the first sidewall. The outlet channel 124 includes a top edge 142, and recesses 144 in each sidewall 140 between the top edge 142 and the top edge 134 of the chimney 132 provide openings in each sidewall 140 so that the steam zone 110 is in fluid communication with a first end 146 of the outlet channel 124.

[0043] refer to Figure 3CAccording to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the pressurized air passing through the passage of the steam zone 110 results in the pressurized air becoming humidified. It should be understood that activating the heat source 14 heats the volume of water 108 and the pressurized air in the steam zone 110, thus increasing the humidity of the pressurized air. The humidified pressurized air within the steam zone 110 then enters the outlet passage 124 (as is) through the opening created by the recess 144 in the sidewall 140. Figure 2C As indicated). Figure 3B and 3C Arrow 207 indicates that humidified and pressurized air is supplied at the first end 146 (as shown in the image). Figure 3A (As shown) enters the exit channel 124 and enters at the second end 148, which is located opposite the first end 146 (also as shown) Figure 2C (As shown) exits through outlet channel 124. By preventing humidifying and pressurizing air from flowing over the top edge 136 of the water tank 102 through the position where the cover 104 is attached to the water tank 102, the internal seal 170 ensures that the humidifying and pressurizing air flows out of the humidifier 100 through channel 124.

[0044] refer to Figure 2B After exiting the outlet channel 124 at the second end 148, the humidified and pressurized air re-enters the pressure generator 10 through the humidification input port 16. (Reference) Figure 2B and 2C The humidified and pressurized air then exits the pressure generator 10 via connector 18, which is configured to connect to the delivery conduit 6 (e.g., Figure 1 and 2A (as shown), so that humidified and pressurized air can be delivered to the patient's P airway via interface 2. Figure 1 and 2A A connector 18 is described that is attached to catheter 6, and it should be understood that connector 18 is not visible in the embodiments described in those figures because catheter 18 is inserted into connector (unnumbered) of catheter 6.

[0045] The elbow-shaped shape of the inlet channel 122 and the vent pipe device of the inlet channel 122 within the chimney 132 ensure that the pressurized air input into the humidifier 100 is higher than the volume of the water 108 in the water tank 102. The above-mentioned configuration and related information in this document... Figure 6 , 7The channel and discharge channel system described in further detail in section 8 provides an advantageous device for preventing water in tank 102 from flowing into pressure generator 10 without the use of volume ingress protection (i.e., without requiring the volume of the water tank 106 to be significantly greater than the volume of water 108), so as to allow for water displacement under conditions such as tilting, rotation, or other physical disturbances to the device. Therefore, the present invention generally has a smaller footprint or smaller volume (if not both) than other respiratory therapy humidifiers and does not require supplementary protections such as drying chambers or valves, which are typically necessary to make the volume ingress protection device effective.

[0046] To explain how the inlet channel tubular device and the channel and discharge channel system prevent water from entering the electromechanical components of the pressure generator 10, it is necessary to first define the internal and external regions of both the inlet channel 122 and the chimney 132. Hereinafter, the region enclosed by the structure forming the inlet channel 122 will be referred to as the “inner” of the inlet channel 122, and the surface forming the structure adjacent to the inner interior of the inlet channel 122 will be referred to as the “inner surface” of the inlet channel 122. Any region not located within the inner interior of the inlet channel 122 will be referred to as the “outer” of the inlet channel 122, and the surface forming the structure adjacent to the outer interior of the inlet channel 122 will be referred to as the “outer surface” of the inlet channel. Similarly, the region enclosed by the chimney 132 will be referred to as the “inner” of the chimney 132, and the surface of the chimney 132 adjacent to the inner interior will be referred to as the “inner surface” of the chimney 132. Any area not inside chimney 132 will be referred to hereinafter as the “exterior” of chimney 132, and the surface of chimney 132 adjacent to the exterior of chimney 132 will be referred to as the “exterior surface” of chimney 132. In a non-limiting embodiment, the pressurized air output from pressure generator 10 initially travels in the area (e.g., the area where the pressurized air is output from inlet passage 122 after being output to the inlet passage 122) Figure 3B and 3C The middle arrow 201 indicates the interior of the inlet channel 122. In other non-limiting embodiments, the inlet channel 122 is referred to as being disposed inside the chimney 132, and Figure 3B The area indicated by the middle arrow 203 is called the exterior of the inlet channel 122 and the interior of the chimney 132.

[0047] Figure 6 A detailed isometric view of the front of the humidifier 100, with the cover 104 removed, is shown, where the water tank 102 and port device 120 appear to be viewed from the front to the back of the humidifier 100. Figure 6As shown, the cross-section of the portion of the inlet channel 122 including the first opening 128 is elliptical, making the first opening 128 elliptical. The first opening 128 is positioned on a plane perpendicular to the base plane of the water tank 102. The base of the water tank 102 includes a metal plate 118 (metal plate 118 as shown in the image). Figure 2C , 3B (and numbered as shown in Figure 5). Except Figure 6 In addition, refer to Figure 5 It should be noted that the plane of the first opening 128 is perpendicular to the plane of the second opening 130 of the inlet 122, and the plane of the second opening 130 is parallel to the plane of the base / metal plate 118 of the water tank 102. Furthermore, the cross-section of the inlet channel 122, including a portion of the second opening 130, is rectangular, thus making the second opening 130 rectangular.

[0048] Still referencing Figure 6 A mark 150 is provided on the water tank 102 to indicate the maximum water filling height of the water tank 102, so as to indicate to the user the recommended maximum water filling height when filling or refilling the water tank 102. In addition... Figure 6 In addition, refer to Figure 3A , 7 9A and 9B, each sidewall 140 of port device 120 includes a discharge passage 126 disposed outside chimney 132 and adjacent to outlet trough 138. Discharge passage 126 prevents water tank 102 from being overfilled to the level indicated by mark 150, which could cause water to flow back from inlet passage 122 to the pressure generator 10. Each discharge passage 126 is disposed at an inlet port 151 adjacent to the associated outlet trough 138 (e.g., ...). Figure 7 and 9B Extending between (as shown), and exit port 152 (as shown) Figure 6 , 7 The outlet port 152 (as shown in 9A and 9B) is located opposite the inlet port 151, and the outlet port 152 is located in the plane containing the front of the water tank 102. It should be understood that each inlet port 151 and outlet port 152 forms an opening for each discharge channel 126, and the discharge channel 126 is otherwise a closed space.

[0049] Figure 7 It shows the result of Figure 4B Line 7-7 indicates the direction along the non-central plane. Figure 4BA cross-sectional view of the humidifier is provided to illustrate how the discharge channel 126 diverts excess water leaving the water tank 102 when the maximum fill height is exceeded. The lid 103 must be open so that the user can fill the water tank 102, and the interface between the lid 104, the water tank 102, and the pressure generator 10 is designed such that the lid 104 can only be opened when the humidifier 100 is not connected to the pressure generator 10. That is, only when the humidifier 100 and the pressure generator 10 are separated (e.g., Figure 2B and 2C (As shown) The lid 104 can only be opened, and if the humidifier 100 is connected to the pressure generator 10 (as shown) Figure 2A (As shown), then cover 104 cannot be opened.

[0050] exist Figure 7 In the middle, the dashed line 209 indicates that... Figure 6 The maximum fill height mark 150 indicates the water level. When the water tank 102 is upright and the user fills it with water, the water rising above the dashed line 209 flows into each discharge channel 126 at the inlet port 151 and flows through each discharge channel 126 in the direction shown by arrow 211, discharging excess water away from the front of the water tank 102 via the outlet port 152. Because the humidifier 100 must be disconnected from the pressure generator 10 to open the cover 104 so that the user can fill the water tank 102 with water, the discharge channel 126 provides a clear indication of whether the humidifier 100 can be connected to the pressure generator 10 for safe operation of the respiratory therapy device 4. If no water is discharged from the front of the water tank 102 via the discharge channel 126, the humidifier 100 can be safely connected to the pressure generator 10, and if water is discharged from the discharge channel 126, the user should wait until the water stops flowing from the discharge channel before connecting the humidifier 100 to the pressure generator 10.

[0051] refer to Figure 8 While the discharge channel 126 prevents water from entering the inlet channel 122 due to accidental overflow of the water tank 102, the channel 154 of the chimney 132 prevents any water from the volume of water 108 that enters the chimney 132 through the outlet channel 138 from entering the discharge channel 122 during tilting, rotation, or other misuse of the respiratory therapy device 4 (such water from the volume of water 108 entering the chimney 132 is referred to below as "intrusion water"), and transfers the intrusion water back to the volume of water 108. Brief Reference Figure 3B The channel 154 is the bottom of the chimney 132 (relative to the bottom of the channel 132). Figure 3B (As shown) in the part, Figure 3B In this context, the channel 154 is located outside the inlet channel 122, inside the chimney 132, and below the lowest edge of the outlet channel 138. Figure 8In the diagram, the intrusion water 300 is represented by several line segments with arrows. The intrusion water 300 enters the chimney 132 through an outlet channel 138, flows through the channel 154, and is discharged from the channel 154 through other outlet channels 138 and returns to the volume of water 108.

[0052] exist Figure 8 The arrows used to describe the intrusion water 300 are intended to illustrate, and not to imply, that the intrusion water 300 flows in only one direction after entering channel 154. For example, but not limited to, if the respiratory therapy device 4 is rapidly tilted back and forth, the intrusion water 300 may exit through it into the same outlet slot 138 of the chimney 132, or some of the intrusion water 300 may exit from one outlet slot 138 while the remaining intrusion water 300 exits from the other outlet slots 138, or water may enter alternately through each outlet slot 138. Since the second end 130 is positioned sufficiently above the bottom surface of channel 154 such that channel 154 forms a channel of minimum resistance for the flow of intrusion water 300 during any rotation, tilting, or other physical disturbance of the respiratory therapy device 4, channel 154 effectively prevents intrusion water 300 from entering the second end 130 of inlet channel 122. Furthermore, it should be understood that tank 102 is designed such that maximum fill height mark 150 falls below the lowest edge of outlet slot 138.

[0053] In the claims, any reference numerals placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claims. The words “comprising” or “including” do not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those listed in the claims. In a device claim enumerating several modes, these modes may be embodied by one and the same hardware item. The word “a” or “an” preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements. In any device claim enumerating several modes, these modes may be embodied by one and the same hardware item. In fact, the reference of certain elements in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that these elements cannot be used in combination.

[0054] Although the invention has been described in detail based on embodiments now considered to be the most practical and preferred, it should be understood that this detailed description is for that purpose only, and the invention does not limit the embodiments disclosed herein, but rather is intended to cover modifications and equivalents within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. For example, it should be understood that the invention is contemplated that, to the extent possible, one or more features of any embodiment may be combined with one or more features of any other embodiment.

Claims

1. A water tank (102) configured to contain a volume of water (108) and humidify air output from a pressurized air generator (10), said water tank comprising: Port device (120), extending inward from the wall of the water tank into the interior (106) of the water tank, the port device comprising: The inlet includes a channel (122) having a first end (128) and a second end (130), the first end being configured to receive pressurized air output from the pressurized air generator, the second end being configured to be opposite the first end (128), and the second end (130) being positioned at a height above the maximum filling height (150) of the water tank. A chimney (132) surrounds the second end (130) of the inlet and includes a plurality of outlet channels disposed at a height below the second end (130) of the inlet and in fluid communication with the interior (106) of the water tank; and The outlet includes a channel (124) having a first end (146) and a second end (148), the first end of the outlet being in fluid communication with the interior (106) of the water tank, and the second end of the outlet being configured to be opposite to the first end (146) of the outlet and in fluid communication with the exterior of the water tank. The lowest edge of the plurality of outlet troughs (138) is positioned at a height higher than the maximum filling height (150) of the water tank, and The portion of the water tank excluding the port device (120) and the volume of the water (108) includes the steam zone (110) of the water tank. The water tank (102) further includes a sealing device (170) connected to the top edge (136) of the water tank and to the top edge (134) of the chimney (132) such that the top edge of the chimney is sealed to the interior (106) of the water tank. The sealing device (170) is configured to engage the lid (104) when the lid is attached to the water tank, thereby sealing the interior of the water tank. The sealing device (170) is configured to prevent pressurized air from flowing over the top edge of the chimney after pressurized air flows out of the second end (130) of the inlet, and to seal the outside of the water tank from the inside of the water tank and close the water tank when the cover is attached to the water tank.

2. The water tank (102) according to claim 1, wherein the port device (120) further comprises a plurality of discharge channels (126) fluidly connecting the interior (106) of the water tank to the exterior of the water tank, and configured to discharge water exceeding the maximum fill height (150) from the interior of the water tank to the exterior of the water tank, and The plurality of discharge channels correspond in number to the plurality of outlet slots (138).

3. The water tank (102) according to claim 1. The bottom surface of the chimney (132) is positioned at a height lower than the lowest edge of the plurality of outlet slots (138). The chimney (132) includes a channel (154) which is a region of the chimney located between the bottom surface of the chimney and the lowest edges of the plurality of outlet slots (138), and is located between the outside of the inlet channel (122) and the inside of the chimney (132). The second end (130) of the inlet is positioned sufficiently higher than the channel (154) so ​​that, in the event of physical disturbance to the tank (102), any water (300) entering the channel (154) is diverted by the channel to flow back into the volume of water (108) instead of into the second end (130) of the inlet.

4. The water tank (102) according to claim 1, wherein the base of the water tank comprises a metal plate (118) configured to be disposed near a heat source (14).

5. The water tank (102) according to claim 1. The port device (120) includes a plurality of sidewalls (140), the number of which corresponds to the plurality of outlet slots (138). Each of the plurality of sidewalls (140) is connected to the top edge (142) of the outlet and the top edge (134) of the chimney (132). Each of the plurality of sidewalls has a top edge including a recess (144) disposed between the top edge (142) of the outlet and the top edge (134) of the chimney (132), and The recess (144) in the top edge of each of the plurality of sidewalls (140) provides an opening through which the first end (146) of the outlet is in fluid communication with the interior (106) of the tank.

6. A humidifier (100) configured to humidify air output from a pressurized air generator (10), said humidifier comprising: A water tank (102), configured to contain the volume of water (108), the water tank comprising: Port device (120), extending inward from the wall of the water tank into the interior (106) of the water tank, the port device comprising: The inlet includes a channel (122) having a first end (128) and a second end (130), the first end being configured to receive pressurized air output from the pressurized air generator, the second end being configured to be opposite the first end (128), and the second end (130) being positioned at a height above the maximum filling height (150) of the water tank. A chimney (132) surrounds the second end (130) of the inlet and includes a plurality of outlet channels disposed at a height below the second end (130) of the inlet and in fluid communication with the interior (106) of the water tank; and An outlet, including a channel (124) having a first end (146) and a second end (148), the first end of the outlet being in fluid communication with the interior (106) of the water tank (102), and the second end of the outlet being configured to be opposite to the first end (146) of the outlet and in fluid communication with the exterior of the water tank; and A lid (104) is selectively attached to the water tank (102) to enclose the interior (106) of the water tank. The lowest edge of the plurality of outlet troughs (138) is positioned at a height higher than the maximum filling height (150) of the water tank (102), and The portion of the water tank (102) excluding the port device (120) and the volume of the water (108) includes the steam zone (110) of the water tank. The water tank (102) further includes a sealing device (170) connected to the top edge (136) of the water tank and to the top edge (134) of the chimney (132) such that the top edge of the chimney is sealed to the interior (106) of the water tank. The sealing device (170) is configured to engage the lid (104) when the lid is attached to the water tank, thereby sealing the interior of the water tank. The sealing device (170) is configured to prevent pressurized air from flowing over the top edge of the chimney after pressurized air flows out of the second end (130) of the inlet, and to seal the outside of the water tank from the inside of the water tank and close the water tank when the cover is attached to the water tank.

7. The humidifier (100) according to claim 6. The water tank (102) further includes a plurality of discharge channels (126) that fluidly connect the interior (106) of the water tank to the exterior of the water tank and are configured to discharge water exceeding the maximum fill height (150) from the interior (106) of the water tank to the exterior of the water tank. The number of discharge channels (126) therein corresponds to the number of outlet slots (138).

8. The humidifier (100) according to claim 6. The bottom surface of the chimney (132) is positioned at a height lower than the lowest edge of the plurality of outlet slots (138). The chimney (132) includes a channel (154) which is a region of the chimney located between the bottom surface of the chimney and the lowest edge of the plurality of outlet slots (138), and is located between the outside of the inlet channel (122) and the inside of the chimney. The second end (130) of the inlet is positioned sufficiently higher than the channel (154) so ​​that, in the event of physical disturbance to the water tank (102), any water entering the channel is redirected by the channel to flow back into the volume of the water (108) instead of into the second end (130) of the inlet.

9. The humidifier (100) according to claim 6, wherein the base of the water tank (102) comprises a metal plate (118) modified to be positioned near a heat source (14).

10. The humidifier (100) of claim 6 further includes a heat source (14), wherein the heat source is configured to heat the volume of water (108), and wherein the heat source is configured to be selectively energized.

11. The humidifier (100) according to claim 6. The port device (120) includes a plurality of sidewalls (140), the number of which corresponds to the plurality of outlet slots (138). Each of the plurality of sidewalls is connected to the top edge (142) of the outlet and the top edge (134) of the chimney (132). Each of the plurality of sidewalls has a top edge including a recess (144) disposed between the top edge (142) of the outlet and the top edge (134) of the chimney (132), and The recess (144) within the top edge of each of the plurality of sidewalls provides an opening through which the first end (146) of the outlet is in fluid communication with the interior (106) of the water tank (102).

12. A respiratory therapy device (4) for providing humidified and pressurized air to a patient's airway, the respiratory therapy device comprising: A pressurized air generator (10) is configured to output pressurized air; A humidifier (100) is configured to humidify the pressurized air, the humidifier comprising: A water tank (102), configured to contain the volume of water (108), the water tank comprising: Port device (120), extending inward from the wall of the water tank into the interior (106) of the water tank, the port device comprising: The inlet includes a channel (122) having a first end (128) and a second end (130), the first end being configured to receive pressurized air output by the pressurized air generator (10), the second end being configured to be opposite the first end (128), and the second end (130) being positioned at a height above the maximum filling height (150) of the water tank. A chimney (132) surrounds the second end of the inlet and includes a plurality of outlet channels disposed at a height below the second end (130) of the inlet and in fluid communication with the interior (106) of the water tank; and An outlet, including a channel (124) having a first end (146) and a second end (148), the first end of the outlet being in fluid communication with the interior (106) of the water tank, and the second end of the outlet being configured opposite to the first end (146) of the outlet and in fluid communication with a catheter (6) in fluid communication with the patient's airway; and A lid (104) is selectively attached to the water tank to enclose the interior (106) of the water tank (102); and The heat source (14) is configured to heat the volume of water (108) and can be selectively energized. The lowest edge of the plurality of outlet troughs (138) is positioned at a height higher than the maximum filling height (150) of the water tank (102), and The portion of the water tank (102) excluding the port device (120) and the volume of the water (108) includes the steam zone (110) of the water tank. The water tank (102) further includes a sealing device (170) connected to the top edge (136) of the water tank and to the top edge (134) of the chimney (132) such that the top edge of the chimney is sealed to the interior (106) of the water tank. The sealing device (170) is configured to engage the lid (104) when the lid is attached to the water tank, thereby sealing the interior of the water tank. The sealing device (170) is configured to prevent pressurized air from flowing over the top edge of the chimney after pressurized air flows out of the second end (130) of the inlet, and to seal the outside of the water tank from the inside of the water tank and close the water tank when the cover is attached to the water tank.

13. The respiratory therapy device (4) according to claim 12. The water tank (102) further includes a plurality of discharge channels (126) that fluidly connect the interior (106) of the water tank to the exterior of the water tank and are configured to discharge water exceeding the maximum fill height (150) from the interior (106) of the water tank to the exterior of the water tank. The number of discharge channels (126) therein corresponds to the number of outlet slots (138).

14. The respiratory therapy device (4) according to claim 12. The bottom surface of the chimney (132) is positioned at a height lower than the lowest edge of the plurality of outlet slots (138). The chimney includes a channel (154) which is a region of the chimney located between the bottom surface of the chimney and the lowest edge of the plurality of outlet slots (138), and is located between the outside of the inlet channel (122) and the inside of the chimney (132). The second end (130) of the inlet is positioned sufficiently higher than the channel (154) so ​​that, in the event of physical disturbance to the water tank (102), any water 300 entering the channel is redirected by the channel to flow back into the volume of water (108) instead of into the second end (130) of the inlet.

15. The respiratory therapy device (4) according to claim 12. The heat source (14) is fixedly connected to the pressurized air generator (10), and The humidifier (100) is selectively connected to the pressurized air generator (10).

16. The respiratory therapy device (4) according to claim 12. The port device (120) includes a plurality of sidewalls (140), the number of which corresponds to the plurality of outlet slots (138). Each of the plurality of sidewalls (140) is connected to the top edge (142) of the outlet (124) and the top edge of the chimney (132). Each of the plurality of sidewalls (140) has a recess (144) at its top edge, the recess being disposed between the top edge (142) of the outlet and the top edge (134) of the chimney, and The recess (144) within the top edge of each of the plurality of sidewalls (140) provides an opening through which the first end (146) of the outlet is in fluid communication with the interior (106) of the water tank (102).

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